A swashbuckler could have started as a young adventurer in a group exploring ancient ruins. In the ruins, they discovered a magical sword that seemed to have a will of its own. This sword gave them the confidence and skill to become a swashbuckler. Their back story then revolves around uncovering the secrets of the sword, and using it to fight against the dark forces that lurk in the forgotten places of the world. Along the way, they met many friends and foes, all while being guided by the power of the mysterious blade.
One idea is that the swashbuckler was an apprentice to a master thief. They were trained in stealth and quick movements, but after a heist went wrong and their master was killed, they decided to use their skills in a more honorable way. They took up the swashbuckler lifestyle, using their blade and charm to make a name for themselves, always with the memory of their fallen master driving them forward.
Maybe the swashbuckler was born in a small village that was constantly raided by bandits. They watched helplessly as their family and friends were killed or taken captive. Vowing revenge, they set out on a journey. Along the way, they met a wandering swashbuckler who taught them the ways of the sword and panache. They became a swashbuckler themselves, traveling the land, hunting down the bandits who had destroyed their village, and becoming a protector of the weak.
A swashbuckler could have been born into a family of sailors. Growing up on the ship, they learned to be nimble to avoid the swinging ropes and cargo during storms. Their first duel was against a bully on a rival ship who mocked their family's small vessel. This led to their passion for the swashbuckler's way, constantly proving themselves in duels and adventures at sea.
The main elements in the pathfinder back story often include their starting point. For example, if they started from a small village, that village's culture and traditions might influence their journey. Also, the tools and equipment they use play a role. If they have a special compass or a magical item, it could be a significant part of their story.
The mystery of their reincarnation is a big part of it. Samsarans might not always remember their past lives clearly, but there are always hints and inklings. These bits of memory from different lifetimes can make their back stories really captivating.
One way to create a Pathfinder character back story is to start with their origin. Consider where they were born, whether it was in a big city, a small village, or in the wild. For example, if your character was born in a city, they might have been exposed to a diverse range of cultures and trades from an early age. Then think about their family. Were they part of a noble family, a family of merchants, or perhaps they were orphans? A noble - born character could have had a strict upbringing with lessons in etiquette and combat. Next, consider any major events in their past that led them to become an adventurer. Maybe they witnessed a great injustice in their hometown and decided to seek justice on a larger scale. Or perhaps they were exiled from their home for some reason and are now on a journey to prove themselves.
One common element is spending long periods alone in nature. This helps the druid to attune to the natural rhythms. For example, they might spend weeks in a cave observing the hibernation patterns of bats.
Add some mystery. Don't reveal everything at once. For example, your character could have a strange mark on their body that they don't fully understand the origin of. This could be something that other characters in the game might be curious about. Another way is to include some unexpected twists. Maybe your character was supposed to be a simple farmer, but due to a chance encounter with a powerful wizard, they were thrust into the world of adventure. You can also give your character some unique goals. Instead of the typical 'find treasure' goal, they could be on a quest to find a long - lost family heirloom that has special powers.
An elf ranger in Pathfinder might have a back story like this: Growing up in an ancient elven forest, she was always drawn to the wilder parts. Her parents were skilled archers, and she learned the ways of the bow from them. One day, a dark force started to corrupt the forest. She vowed to become a ranger to protect her home. She trained hard, learning survival skills and the secrets of the forest's magic. Now, she roams the land, not just to safeguard her forest but also to help other places facing similar threats.
Some elements might include a spiritual journey. The elf ranger could have had a vision or a spiritual awakening that led them to the path of the ranger. For instance, they might have seen a future where the natural world was in ruins if they didn't take action. Another element could be an apprenticeship. They could have apprenticed under a famous ranger or a druid who taught them the ways of the wild. And of course, there could be a love interest. Maybe they fell in love with someone from a different culture or race, and this relationship has both complicated and motivated their journey as a ranger.
A typical Pathfinder druid back story might begin with a connection to nature from a young age. Maybe the druid grew up in a forest village and was always drawn to the plants and animals. For example, they could have had a special encounter with a wise old owl as a child that sparked their interest in the natural world and its magic.
Swashbuckler novels often feature adventurous heroes. They are full of action, like sword fights and daring escapes. The heroes are usually skilled in combat and have a sense of honor.