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Since The Nexus Framework does not have classes, it instead relies on backgrounds to provide initial guidance during character creation. Each background must fit one of the three following patterns.

A Martial Background is one centered around combat. Accordingly, it is lighter on skills than other backgrounds. The Martial Background must include the following:

• One Apprentice-tier Combat Trait.
• One Apprentice-tier Combat or General Trait.
• One Equipment Trait.
• Two trained skills, one of which must be Aim, Brawling or Melee.
• Grants access to the Combat Trait pool.
• Must grant two or more choices for one of the three above traits. However, the other two must be fixed.

The Guardian is a protector of the weak, using heavy armour and their physical presence to defend their allies. They receive the following:

• Either the Armoured or the Defender trait.
• The Stalwart Defender trait.
• The Medium Armour Training trait.
• Trained in Endurance and Melee.
• The character has access to the Combat Trait pool.

A Studied Background is one that relies on skills and training, rather than raw combat. Most spellcasters fall into this category. A Studied Background must include the following:

• One Apprentice-tier trait from any of the Specialist pools.
• One Apprentice-tier General or Skill Trait, or one chosen from their Specialist pool.
• Three trained skills.
• Grants access to the Specialist pool from which their first trait was chosen.
• The player must be given the option to select from two or more choices for each of their two traits, unless the trait chosen has the Foundation tag.

Having spent many years training in the mystic arts, the Wizard is a powerful spellcaster. They gain the following:

• The Studied Magic trait;
• Either the Familiar trait or the Magical Focus trait;
• Trained in Knowledge, Planning and Profession;
• The character has access to the Magic Trait pool.

A Practiced Background is one that the character developed over time. It lacks formal training in anything, and serves as a bit of a hybrid background. A Practiced Background must include the following:

• One Apprentice-tier Combat or General Trait.
• One Apprentice-tier General or Skill Trait.
• Three trained skills.
• Grants access to either the Combat Trait pool, or a Specialist pool.
• The player must be given the option to select from two or more choices for each of their two traits.

As an expert in tracking and survival, the Hunter often turns these skills to use in adventuring. They receive the following:

• Either the Archery trait or the Hurled Weapons trait.
• Either Mark Prey or Tracking.
• Trained in Aim, Athletics and Perception.
• The character has access to the Combat Trait pool.

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