"The past is not just history; it is the key to the future."
— Elira Sunshadow, Keeper of Zepharan Lore

Description

The Zepharan Seekers are scholars, explorers, and guardians of history, consumed by the mysteries of the ancient Zephara civilization. Obliterated by the comet Suthakhet’s Tear, Zephara left behind ruins, artifacts, and whispers of incredible knowledge. As a Seeker, you delve into these remnants, uncovering lost wisdom, magical artifacts, and the legacy of a once-great empire. Your pursuits often place you in peril, but the allure of discovery compels you forward.

Driven by academic curiosity, personal ambition, or a spiritual connection to Zephara’s history, Zepharan Seekers are relentless in their quest to preserve and protect the past from exploitation or destruction.

Attribute Bonuses:

• Two ability scores of your choice increase by +1.

Trinkets Table

Roll a d8 or choose one:

d8	Trinket
1	A shard of comet glass that hums faintly when held.
2	A piece of etched stone with an incomplete inscription.
3	A small vial of glowing blue sand from an ancient ruin.
4	A coin bearing the sigil of a long-lost Zepharan dynasty.
5	A weathered map depicting ruins no one has explored.
6	A carved figurine of a Zepharan deity or hero.
7	A scroll fragment containing a forgotten spell or incantation.
8	A set of runestones used by Zepharan oracles.

Using the Zepharan Seeker Background

This background is ideal for Wizards, Bards, or Rangers who excel in exploration, research, and arcane discovery. Zepharan Seekers thrive in campaigns centered on ancient mysteries, lost civilizations, and magical artifacts. Whether safeguarding sacred relics, unraveling ancient texts, or facing the perils of forgotten ruins, Seekers bring an aura of curiosity and determination to any adventure.

Skill Proficiencies:

• Arcana: For understanding magical phenomena tied to ancient artifacts.
• History: To interpret ruins, texts, and the legacy of Zephara.

Tool Proficiencies:

• Cartographer’s Tools: For mapping ruins and charting unexplored areas.
• Alchemist’s Supplies: To craft potions, powders, or tools needed in explorations.

Languages:

• Common
• One additional language, often tied to ancient or forgotten cultures.

Equipment:

• A journal filled with notes, sketches, and translations of Zepharan ruins or texts.
• A set of Cartographer’s Tools or Alchemist’s Supplies (your choice).
• A small artifact or fragment from Zephara (e.g., a shard of comet glass, a piece of etched stone, or an ancient coin).
• A hooded lantern and a flask of oil.
• A pouch containing 10 gold pieces.

Suggested Characteristics

d8	Personality Trait
1	I am endlessly curious, always asking questions and seeking answers.
2	I lose track of time when studying ruins or artifacts.
3	I have a deep reverence for history and treat all ancient artifacts with great care.
4	I am skeptical of unverified claims and demand evidence before believing something.
5	I get excited when I uncover even the smallest new piece of knowledge.
6	I often quote ancient texts or historical figures in conversation.
7	I am more comfortable in ancient ruins than bustling cities.
8	I enjoy sharing my findings with anyone who will listen.

d6	Ideal
1	Knowledge: The past holds the answers to the present and future. (Neutral)
2	Preservation: Ancient wisdom and artifacts must be protected from those who would destroy or misuse them. (Good)
3	Ambition: The secrets of the past will give me the power or recognition I crave. (Evil)
4	Legacy: The Zepharan civilization must be remembered and honored. (Lawful
5	Discovery: Every ruin holds a story waiting to be told, and I will uncover them all. (Chaotic
6	Balance: The knowledge of the past should serve as a guide to maintain balance in the present. (Neutral)

d6	Bond
1	I have dedicated my life to understanding Zephara and its history.
2	A mentor or family member inspired my love for ancient history, and I carry their teachings with me.
3	I am searching for a specific artifact or piece of knowledge rumored to be hidden in Zepharan ruins.
4	A discovery I made in a ruin changed my life, and I am determined to uncover its full meaning.
5	I believe that uncovering the secrets of Zephara will save the world from a great calamity.
6	I am sworn to protect Zepharan artifacts and knowledge from those who would exploit or destroy them.

d6	Flaw
1	I can be reckless when pursuing ancient knowledge, ignoring risks to myself or others.
2	I am dismissive of those who lack my knowledge or understanding of history.
3	My obsession with the past sometimes blinds me to the needs of the present.
4	I can be secretive or paranoid, fearing others will steal my discoveries.
5	I often prioritize knowledge over personal relationships or responsibilities.
6	I struggle to let go of past mistakes or failures in my research.

Contacts

Zepharan Seeker Contacts

Your role as a Seeker has forged connections with various individuals and groups:

• A historian or archivist who assists in deciphering ancient texts.
• A rival scholar or adventurer who competes for Zepharan relics.
• A noble or merchant who funds your expeditions for their own gain.
• A spiritual guide or druid who shares your reverence for Zepharan history.