Differences

This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.

--- legacy:characters:background:constable [2025/03/13 05:37] – [Traits] tailkinker
+++ legacy:characters:background:constable [2025/08/29 12:17] (current) – tailkinker
@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 ====== Constable ======
+The role of a Constable in most societies is one of duty, vigilance, and, at times, necessary force. Unlike the structured, uniformed police forces of modern times, medieval constables were often appointed from among the common folk—sometimes by a local lord, sometimes by the community itself. Their responsibilities varied widely, from keeping the peace in bustling market towns to tracking down outlaws in the wilderness. Some served as night watchmen, ensuring curfews were observed and fires were kept in check, while others acted as sheriffs' deputies, enforcing laws and collecting fines. The level of authority granted to a constable often depended on the size and wealth of the settlement they served. In a thriving city, they might be part of a small, organized watch, while in a remote village, they could be little more than a concerned citizen with a cudgel and a sense of duty.
+{{ :legacy:characters:background:constable.jpg?400|}}Because the position was not always permanent, many constables came from diverse backgrounds. Some were former soldiers or mercenaries, bringing martial skill to their work, while others were craftsmen or merchants pressed into service by the ruling authorities. Their effectiveness often relied more on their reputation and personal skill than on any official mandate. In some cases, they were well-respected protectors of the people; in others, they were little more than bullies who abused their temporary power. In more structured societies, particularly those with strong monarchies, constables might serve as the foundation of a more formal law enforcement system, paving the way for trained guards and justiciars.
-===== Attributes =====
+A constable's work was dangerous and frequently thankless. Bandits, feuding nobles, and corrupt officials could all pose as much of a threat as common criminals. The job required a keen mind as well as a strong arm—knowing when to strike and when to negotiate could mean the difference between maintaining order and sparking chaos. Those who excelled at the role often developed a deep understanding of human nature, knowing how to read a room, sense deception, and uncover hidden truths. Others, particularly those in harsher environments, learned to rely on brute strength and intimidation to maintain control.
-When you select this background, add seven points to your Strength score and five points to your Intellect score.
+Despite the risks, some found great purpose in the role. A dedicated constable could become a pillar of their community, a figure whom the people trusted to mediate disputes and dispense justice. Even in societies where the position was temporary, those who served well could gain the favour of nobles or councils, leading to more permanent roles in governance or law enforcement. For many, the position was not just about enforcing the law---it was about ensuring that order and fairness prevailed, even in lands where justice was often determined by those with the most power.
-In addition, you may distribute eight points among any of your other attribute scores.  No single attribute may receive more than four points.
 ===== Features =====
-**Stamina**:  A Constable begins play with 30 stamina, plus an amount equal to your Strength bonus.
+**Stamina**:  A Constable begins play with 15 stamina, plus an amount equal to your Strength bonus.
 **Recovery Dice**:  When you select Constable as your background, you gain two ten-sided dice (2d10) as Recovery dice.  This is in addition to any Recovery dice you gained due to your ancestry.
-**Defences**:  Add two training ranks to your Fortitude defence.
+**Defences**:  Add one training rank to each of the three defences---Fortitude, Reflex and Will
 ===== Skills =====
-Place one training rank in the Lore skill, with the Law specialty.  In addition, place one training rank in each of Investigation, Perception and Unarmed Combat.  Finally, choose any two additional skills from the following list:  Athletics, Blunt Weapons, Diplomacy, Insight, Intimidation, Medicine, Society, Stealth.  Place one training rank in each of the chosen skills.
+Place one training rank in the Lore skill, with the Law specialty.  In addition, place one training rank in each of Investigation, Perception and Unarmed Combat.  Finally, choose any three additional skills from the following list:  Athletics, Blunt Weapons, Diplomacy, Insight, Intimidation, Medicine, Polearms, Society, Stealth, Unbalanced Weapons.  Place one training rank in each of the selected skills.
-Place one training rank in each of the selected skills.
 ===== Traits =====
-Choose two of the following traits, and add it to your character.  In addition,
+Choose one of the following traits, and add it to your character.  In addition,
-the following traits are available to your character as Basic traits, regardless of their base class.
+the following traits are available to your character as Apprentice-tier traits.
   * [[legacy:traits:expert_weapon_training|Expert Weapon Training]]
@@ Line 31: / Line 31: @@
   * [[legacy:traits:sneaky|Sneaky]]
   * [[legacy:traits:tough|Tough]]