Explorer

The life of an Explorer is not for the faint of heart. Dedicated to charting the unknown and uncovering the mysteries of the world, Explorers are relentless in their pursuit of knowledge about the wilderness, whether it be ancient ruins, dangerous forests, or the treacherous lands that few dare to enter. Explorers venture where others fear to tread, documenting their findings and mapping the uncharted lands, particularly those that are hidden, mystical, or perilous. Their journey is one of discovery, but also of great risk—especially in places like the Divide of Regulus, where the dangers of Matterbugs lurk in the unknown.

Skill Proficiencies:  

• Survival: As an Explorer, you’ve been trained to survive in the wild, learning to live off the land, track creatures, and make your way through difficult terrain.

• Nature: Your connection to the natural world is deep, allowing you to identify flora, fauna, and various environmental phenomena, and to recognize patterns in nature that others would miss.

 

Tool Proficiencies:  

• Cartographer’s Tools: You’re skilled at creating maps, recording terrain, and marking key locations of interest on your journeys. These tools are invaluable when charting unknown regions.

• Navigator’s Tools: You are adept at reading maps, using a compass, and finding your way through even the most difficult terrain. These tools assist you in navigating unfamiliar and treacherous landscapes.

 

Languages:

• Languages: Common, plus one additional language of your choice. You are likely to learn the languages of the regions you explore to better understand local cultures, trade, or navigate through foreign lands.

Equipment:  

• Explorer’s Pack: A sturdy backpack filled with essentials like rations, a bedroll, a waterskin, a tinderbox, and other tools to help you survive in the wilderness.

• Cartographer’s Tools: A set of tools for drawing maps and recording locations.

• A Personal Memento from a Past Expedition: A token from a significant journey, whether it’s a trinket, a journal, or an item of cultural significance from a place you've explored.

 

Spell List

Explorers are deeply connected to the land, though they are not inherently spellcasters. However, their knowledge of nature and the wild often grants them access to certain spells that enhance their ability to navigate, survive, and commune with nature. Some Explorers might develop magical abilities that allow them to tap into the forces of the natural world. The spells on this list reflect their profound connection to the land and their desire to protect it, survive in it, and better understand the mysteries of the wild.

Spell Level	Spells
Cantrip	druidcraft, guidance, mage hand, prestidigitation
1st	absorb elements, alarm, beast bond, detect magic, feather fall, goodberry, longstrider, snare, speak with animals
2nd	beast sense, enhance ability, find traps, locate animals or plants, locate object, pass without trace, skywrite
3rd	clairvoyance, leomund's tiny hut, nondetection, speak with plants, tiny hut, water walk
4th	divination, freedom of movement, locate creature, stone shape
5th	commune with nature, passwall, tree stride

Explorers have a unique relationship with magic. Rather than casting spells like traditional wizards or clerics, their connection to nature allows them to gain subtle magical effects. These spells help them adapt to harsh environments, track creatures, or even communicate with animals and the land itself. Whether they gain their magical abilities through divine or primal connections, their spells are always practical and designed to aid in exploration and survival.

Suggested Characteristics

Explorers are often driven by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and adventure. Their curiosity about the world around them is tempered by their need to survive. Many Explorers are independent, valuing freedom and self-reliance, but they also develop a deep respect for the lands and people they encounter. They are frequently lone wanderers but can form bonds with those who share their sense of adventure and respect for nature.

d8	Personality Trait
1	I’m always seeking out new paths, even if it means taking risks.
2	I have an insatiable curiosity about the world and can’t help but examine everything I encounter.
3	I keep a journal to document everything I see, hear, or feel—no detail is too small to be recorded.
4	I prefer to solve problems with my fists and survival instincts rather than relying on others.
5	I often find myself daydreaming about the places I’ve been or the ones I still want to discover.
6	I have a deep respect for the natural world, even if it’s dangerous or unknown.
7	I’m prone to impulsive decisions, driven by the thrill of discovery and adventure.
8	I often forget to consider my own safety, consumed by the need to uncover new lands or solve ancient mysteries.

d6	Ideal
1	Discovery. The unknown calls to me, and I will uncover its secrets—no matter the cost. (Neutral)
2	Survival. Life is fragile, and every discovery must be weighed against the cost of survival. (Neutral)
3	Freedom. The open land and untouched wilderness are where I feel truly alive—away from the constraints of civilization. (Chaotic)
4	Knowledge. There is no greater pursuit than understanding the world around us. (Good)
5	Courage. Facing the dangers of Regulus head-on is the only way to truly live. (Lawful)
6	Recklessness. The world is vast, and I will explore it even if it means embracing chaos. (Chaotic)

d6	Bond
1	I made an oath to explore the unknown with a group of adventurers I once traveled with—and I will honour that oath.
2	There is a place or landmark I have yet to find, and I will not rest until I uncover it.
3	A fellow explorer or mentor saved my life, and I am indebted to them.
4	I once found something powerful or dangerous that must be kept secret for the world’s safety.
5	A rival explorer is determined to beat me to the discoveries I seek, and I will not let them.
6	I have a map or journal of an uncharted area that my ancestors left behind, and I am determined to finish their work.

d6	Flaw
1	I often bite off more than I can chew, getting into situations I’m not prepared for.
2	I trust no one—except for myself—out in the wild, even if it alienates those around me.
3	I tend to ignore dangers when I’m on the verge of a major discovery, sometimes putting myself or others at risk.
4	I have a tendency to hoard knowledge and treasures for myself, fearing others might take what I find.
5	I have an obsession with an ancient mystery or lost city that consumes me, often clouding my judgment.
6	I sometimes get lost in the wilderness—not just physically, but mentally as well—losing track of my goals.

Contacts

Explorers often have a wide network of contacts, ranging from other adventurers and scholars to local tribes or travelers they’ve met on their journeys. These individuals might provide information, offer shelter, or help with difficult tasks while out in the wilderness. Many Explorers also gain respect from local communities, as they are seen as protectors or even heroes who bring valuable knowledge of the world.

d8	Contact
1	Varek Steelwind – A grizzled veteran of several expeditions, Varek is a survivalist who knows the dangers of Regulus better than anyone. He once saved your life in the uncharted lands, and now he occasionally sends you warnings or advice about the wilds.
2	Calenor Brightstorm – A charismatic academic who is obsessed with the lore of Regulus’ ancient civilisations. You once shared a discovery with her, but she is often cryptic and protective of her own findings.
3	Mara Rookhart – A fellow explorer who shares your passion for discovery, but with a more reckless approach. She is constantly on the move, trying to outpace you in her expeditions, and you sometimes find yourself in competition with her.
4	Drellis Fallowbranch – An eccentric mapmaker who claims to have access to maps of places long thought to be unreachable. Though Drellis’ information is often unreliable, their knowledge of obscure routes and ancient ruins has been invaluable.
5	Esha Windstrider – A skilled guide from the nomadic tribes of Dawnside. Esha helped you navigate the treacherous terrains of the uncharted lands, and now you have a deep trust in her expertise.
6	Tiberi Sahl – A rival explorer who’s always one step ahead of you in the search for the greatest discoveries. Tiberi’s a show-off who loves to rub their victories in your face, but deep down, there’s a respect between you two.
7	Captain Eri Lysaria – A captain of a mercenary expedition group. She offers you work as a guide or muscle when you need it, and while she’s a practical and efficient ally, her loyalties tend to lie with the highest bidder.
8	Cassandra Rynn – A renowned archaeologist who has long been obsessed with the ancient ruins and forgotten lore of Regulus. You’ve shared discoveries with Cassandra in the past.