Folk Hero

You were born to a commoner family, but some event earned you fame. You’re admired locally, and tales of your deeds have reached the far corners of the world.

Did you win your fame by battling an oppressive tyrant? Saving your village from a monster? Or by something more prosaic like winning a wrestling bout or a pie-eating contest?

Ability Score Increases: +1 to Constitution and one other ability score.

Skill Proficiencies: Survival, and either Animal Handling or Nature.

Tool Proficiencies: One type of artisan’s tools, one vehicle.

Suggested Equipment (Cost 2–31 gold): Any artisan’s tools except alchemist’s supplies, common clothes.

Feature: Local Fame. Unless you conceal your identity, you’re universally recognized and admired near the site of your exploits. You and your companions are treated to a moderate lifestyle in any settlement within 100 miles of your Prestige Center. 

Adventures and Advancement. Common folk come to you with all sorts of problems. If you fought an oppressive regime, they bring you tales of injustice. If you fought a monster, they seek you out with monster problems. If you solve many such predicaments, you become universally famous, gaining the benefits of your Local Fame feature in every settled land.

Folk Hero Connections

1. The bard whose song made you legendary and who wants a sequel.
2. Your friend, a traveling merchant whose caravan spreads your fame.
3. A deadly enemy: the heir of the oppressive noble you killed.
4. A deadly enemy: the mother of the monster you killed.
5. A deadly enemy: the leader of the bandits you defeated.
6. A deadly enemy: the tyrant you robbed.
7. A kid who wants to follow your footsteps into danger.
8. The jealous rival who wants to best your monster-slaying prowess, daring deeds, prize pie recipe, or whatever else made your famous.
9. A secret admirer: the heir or heiress of the oppressive noble you defeated.
10. The retired adventurer who trained you and is now in a bit of trouble.

Folk Hero Mementos

1. The mask you used to conceal your identity while fighting oppression (you are only recognized as a folk hero while wearing the mask).
2. A necklace bearing a horn, tooth, or claw from the monster you defeated.
3. A ring given to you by the dead relative whose death you avenged.
4. The weapon you wrestled from the leader of the raid on your village.
5. The trophy, wrestling belt, silver pie plate, or other prize marking you as the county champion.
6. The famous scar you earned in your struggle against your foe.
7. The signature weapon which provides you with your nickname.
8. The injury or physical difference by which your admirers and foes recognize you.
9. The signal whistle or instrument which you used to summon allies and spook enemies.
10. Copies of the ballads and poems written in your honor.