This background is perfect for characters from imperial or culturally dominant societies, such as fallen empires, active conquerors, or disciplined republics. It fits fighters, clerics, warlords, or paladin-type characters who blend military prowess with civic ideology.
- Skill Proficiencies: History, Athletics
- Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set (such as dice or knucklebones), one type of artisan’s tools (mason’s tools or smith’s tools recommended)
- Languages: One of your choice
- Equipment:
A signet ring or token of citizenship, a dagger or shortsword from your legionary service or family tradition, a scroll of civic laws, a belt pouch containing 15 gp
As a citizen of a powerful empire, you command a certain level of respect—especially from those who understand the power of law and order. In any settlement that recognizes the influence of your empire or civilization, you can secure basic accommodations, audience with local officials, or minor legal protections. Your word carries weight, especially if backed by documentation or titles.
Suggested Characteristics
Imperial Citizens are shaped by discipline, civic pride, and a structured worldview. Whether they were born into a patrician family, served as a soldier, or labored as an engineer or scholar, they carry the pride—and burden—of empire with them.
| d8 | Personality Trait |
|---|---|
| 1 | I quote philosophy or law in everyday conversation. |
| 2 | I walk and speak as if the gods themselves watch me. |
| 3 | I take offense easily if I feel my honor is questioned. |
| 4 | I admire discipline and detest laziness. |
| 5 | I treat non-citizens with polite caution. |
| 6 | I judge others by their service to the greater good. |
| 7 | I uphold tradition, even in foreign lands. |
| 8 | I enjoy debate and never back down from an argument. |
| d6 | Ideal |
|---|---|
| 1 | Duty. My first loyalty is to the empire and its laws. (Lawful) |
| 2 | Conquest. Civilization must expand, or it dies. (Evil) |
| 3 | Honor. A citizen’s word is their bond. (Lawful) |
| 4 | Glory. Great deeds make a person immortal. (Any) |
| 5 | Piety. The gods favor those who uphold their order. (Neutral) |
| 6 | Progress. Through reason and labor, we shape the world. (Good) |
| d6 | Bond |
|---|---|
| 1 | I carry a relic or standard from a famous battle or legion. |
| 2 | My family holds a seat in the Senate—or seeks one. |
| 3 | I lost a comrade in a distant campaign and seek justice. |
| 4 | I owe my life to the legions and will repay the debt. |
| 5 | I seek to revive the greatness of my homeland. |
| 6 | I am the last living heir of a disgraced noble house. |
| d6 | Flaw |
|---|---|
| 1 | I believe my way of life is superior to all others. |
| 2 | I distrust magic unless sanctioned by tradition. |
| 3 | I see treason everywhere. |
| 4 | I refuse to back down, even when wrong. |
| 5 | I obsess over order and cleanliness. |
| 6 | I secretly question the empire's moral right to rule. |
Comments