Ranger

Rangers are the skilled hunters and trackers of the realms, guardians of the borderlands where civilization meets the wild. They are adept at navigating through dense forests, steep mountains, and other challenging terrains, often serving as scouts, guides, or wardens. Rangers harness their intimate knowledge of the natural world to protect it from the threats that lurk in the shadows. With abilities that enhance their prowess in combat, mastery over certain terrains, and an almost mystical connection with natural forces and creatures, rangers are formidable foes of those who threaten the balance of nature.
Adventures: Rangers often embark on adventures to protect the natural world from unnatural intrusions, such as the spread of monstrous entities, the encroachment of civilization on sacred lands, or ecological disasters. Their adventures may lead them to track a marauding beast across leagues of treacherous terrain, thwart poachers in ancient forests, or explore uncharted wilderness areas to chart potential threats. For rangers, adventuring is less about seeking treasure and more about maintaining the equilibrium between nature and civilization.
Characteristics: Rangers excel in combat with a combination of martial prowess and magical ability that is often attuned to nature. Skilled in stealth and survival, they can navigate the wilderness with ease, set traps, track foes, and provide for a group while on long expeditions. Their fighting style is adaptable, combining close-quarters combat with ranged attacks. Many rangers also form a close bond with an animal companion, a loyal ally who shares their deep connection to the natural world.
Alignment: Rangers tend to be neutral, often taking a pragmatic approach to the world around them. They are less concerned with laws and politics and more focused on the greater balance of the natural order. However, their specific goals and personal experiences can lead them to any alignment, with their actions guided by a personal code rather than a universal one.
Religion: Rangers might worship deities associated with nature, wilderness, hunting, or animals. They tend to prefer a personal and less dogmatic approach to worship, seeing the divine in the life forces of the natural world rather than in temples or scriptures. Their rituals and prayers are often simple, reflecting their deep reverence for nature and its cycles.
Background: Rangers often come from the fringes of civilization, perhaps raised in a frontier town, or as part of a tribe that lives in close harmony with nature. Others might be self-taught, having turned to the wilderness for solace or survival after personal tragedy. Regardless of their origins, all rangers share a foundational respect for nature and a desire to protect it from those who would do it harm.
Races: While any race can follow the path of the ranger, Elves, Humans, and Half-Elves are particularly common. Elves bring a natural affinity for the woods and an innate understanding of the natural world, while Humans' adaptability and resilience make them versatile rangers. Half-Elves bridge the gap between the human and elven worlds, often finding their place in the wilderness where they can avoid choosing sides.
Other Classes: Rangers work well with Druids, sharing a deep respect for nature, and often ally with Fighters and Rogues who can complement their combat and scouting skills. Their self-sufficiency makes them excellent partners for long-range or exploratory missions, where resources are scarce and survival skills are essential.
Roles: In an adventuring party, rangers are often the scouts, trackers, and ranged attackers. They excel in gathering information, navigating through difficult terrain, and ambushing enemies. Their unique abilities allow them to adapt to various environments, making them invaluable on any mission that takes them into the wild.

Other Associated professions

• Barbarian
• Druid
• Green Knight
• Paladin

Used By

• Brethren Court
• Mist Wardens
• The Stone

Personal Characteristics

Personality Traits

• Resourceful: "I can make use of whatever the wilderness offers me, adapting to any situation with quick thinking and ingenuity."
• Observant: "I notice even the smallest details in my surroundings, always alert to changes and potential threats."
• Independent: "I prefer solitude to the hustle and bustle of crowded places, relying on my skills and instincts to navigate the wild."

Ideals

• Conservation: "I am committed to protecting the natural world and its ecosystems, believing that all life forms are interconnected and must be preserved."
• Freedom: "I cherish freedom, both my own and that of others. I strive to protect the liberties of those who cannot defend themselves."
• Balance: "I believe in maintaining the balance between nature and civilization, ensuring that neither encroaches too heavily upon the other."

Bonds

• Sacred Land: "I am deeply connected to a particular wilderness area that has been my family's responsibility for generations. Its protection is my life's mission."
• Lost Companion: "I once lost a close companion in the wild, and I am driven to prevent such tragedies from happening to others."
• Mentor's Legacy: "My skills were honed by a mentor whose teachings guide my every action. I strive to live up to their legacy and pass these teachings on."

Flaws

• Loner: "My preference for solitude often makes it difficult for me to work in a team or trust others."
• Vengeful: "I harbor deep grudges against those who harm the natural world, and my desire for vengeance can cloud my judgment."
• Overly Cautious: "My intense awareness of potential dangers can sometimes make me overly cautious, causing me to miss opportunities or hesitate when immediate action is needed."