Background Malefactor

Malefactor

Malefactor

You are a harbinger of misfortune, a practitioner of curses, or perhaps just someone who revels in the suffering of others. For some, the path of the Malefactor is one of dark tradition, while for others it might be a form of resistance against perceived injustices. Either way, you know how to tap into dark energies to manipulate situations in your favor, often at the expense of others.

Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, Intimidation

Tool Proficiencies: Poisoner’s Kit

Languages: 1 of your choice.

Equipment

A set of dark clothes, a small token or symbol representing your source of malevolent power (such as a small skull, a black gem, or a vial of dark liquid), a poisoner’s kit, a pouch containing 10 gp

You start with the following equipment, in addition to the equipment granted by your class:

  • clothes, traveler's
  • poisoner's kit

Feature: Cursed Presence

You can instill a sense of dread or impending doom in those who dare cross you. This can act as a social leverage when trying to extract information, intimidate, or otherwise interact in a confrontational manner. People might not know why they fear you, but they often do. You can also sense places or individuals recently touched by significant curses or dark enchantments.

Suggested Characteristics

Malefactors often possess a dark charisma; people are drawn to them even if they shouldn’t be. They are generally intense, focused individuals with an air of danger about them. Whether they see their abilities as a curse or a gift can greatly influence their worldview.

d8Personality Trait
d1I wear my emotions on my sleeve; you'll always know where you stand with me.
d2I never speak louder than a whisper but make sure my words carry weight.
d3I enjoy gallows humor and find irony in dark situations.
d4No one would ever describe me as optimistic.
d5I am fatalistic, often pondering the nature of destiny and doom.
d6I'm quiet, always listening and observing before taking action.
d7I can't help but be drawn to objects or places with a dark history.
d8I have an unsettling stare that I'm not afraid to use.
d6Ideal
d1Power. With great malevolence comes great influence. (Evil)
d2Balance. Misfortune is a necessary counterpart to luck. (Neutral)
d3Rebellion. The established order must be brought down. (Chaotic)
d4Discipline. The use of curses and malevolent power must follow ancient traditions. (Lawful)
d5Vengeance. Someone must pay, and I'm here to collect. (Any)
d6Mystery. The world is full of hidden darkness; I aim to uncover it. (Any)
d6Bond
d1I learned my dark arts from a mentor whose memory I honor.
d2I was wronged terribly and took up this path to exact vengeance.
d3I have seen the worst of humanity and this is my response.
d4I aim to protect a secret society or family that practices similar dark arts.
d5My powers stem from a cursed object that I must keep safe.
d6I use my powers to protect something or someone important to me.
d6Flaw
d1I revel too much in the suffering of others, sometimes to my detriment.
d2I am quick to curse and slow to forgive.
d3My conviction that I am destined for a particular fate makes me reckless.
d4I often find myself in over my head but am too proud to admit it.
d5The source of my power is also my greatest vulnerability.
d6I am haunted by the first person I ever cursed, and it's making me question my path.

Credits: Squire 5