Scandal: Chargen
I own Xanathar's, Tasha's, PHB, DMG, and MM. Anything outside those tomes, I need links to online sources (nothing I have to sign in to see, because get off my lawn) that are legally free to use.
Extras/Clarifications[edit]
If I don't list it here assume we're using standard rules (PHB or options from Tasha's).
Level - Same as the original BotR game, L5 total character level, but you only have to have a minimum one (1) level of Bard instead of three (3).
Abilities - Point buy or standard array.
- Note: All characters get the Perform skill for free. If you gained that skill elsewhere, pick another skill to replace it.
Race - All options from PHB and Tasha's are fine. Anything else, ask.
- Note: Dwarven Trade is the Common tongue of this setting. That doesn't have to appear on your character sheet, just something to know.
- High Dwarven replaces Dwarven. Tieflings speak Outlander rather than Infernal (Outlander encompasses both Celestial and Infernal). Halflings and Gnomes do not have their own language. Replace Halfling with Giantish, and replace Gnomish with either Elven or High Dwarven.
- Note: Shadow Elves replace Drow in this setting (because there is no underdark) but are statted as Drow [PHB p24]. Players who wish may remove the Sunlight Sensitivity drawback by reducing their Darkvision to 60'.
Class - (Edna Mode voice) No Artificers!
Wealth - 250g as original BotR game.
- Note: Choose one item of gear to be an heirloom item for your character, something with meaning and history tying them to their past. Once per long rest you can use this item to perform a cantrip that you select during chargen as a bonus action. Charisma is your spellcasting ability for this effect regardless what list the cantrip hails from.
Feats - Everyone gets one free feat (above any you would get from your normal build).
Backstory Prompts[edit]
Respond to the following prompts and add your responses to your character's backstory.
Name a crime you are wanted for but didn't do.
- This could be just about anything, but please steer clear of sensitive or overly graphic choices.
- Note: This doesn't have to be a 'real' crime per se. Maybe they think you slept with the wrong lord's lady or the wrong lady's lord. Rock star shenanigans (unless you want something harder).
Name a crime you committed that nobody knows was you.
- This could be just about anything, but please steer clear of sensitive or overly graphic choices.
- Note: This doesn't have to be a 'real' crime per se. Maybe you slept with the wrong lord's lady or the wrong lady's lord. Rock star shenanigans (unless you want something harder).
Name a shady contact. Include their description and occupation.
- This is an asset you can call on. This is in addition to any contact your background might already grant you.
Name your claim to fame. (Some format of the suggested prompt below. Fill in the blank).
- Like 13th Age's One Unique Thing, your claim to fame should generate story interest, but not grant specific mechanical benefit.
- I am the only bard who/that_______.
Character Ties[edit]
The characters all know each other and are all part of the same band, but each of you have had some memorable interaction with two of the others.
Come up with a positive impression your PC has of one other PC and a neutral-to-negative impression they have of a different PC.
During this process, try not to speak for the other PCs or narrate specific actions on their behalf. This is more about how your character feels than what their character said or did. Feel free to collaborate, spitball, whatever to keep things friendly and keep each player's agency intact.
Name Your Band[edit]
What name does the announcer call when they call you onstage? Who are your fans chanting to see? What name is branded across your Wanted poster?
What is your onstage Role in the band?[edit]
Specifically what is each PCs primary instrument? All bards start proficient in three, and your background could give you a forth. Decide amongst yourselves who usually plays what.
