Rite of Rebirth (5e Background)

Design Note: This background is written in line with lore from the Forgotten Realms setting.

Rite of Rebirth

Prerequisite: dragonborn race, metallic dragon type

As part of the long-running war between Bahamut and Tiamat, there was a need for forces on the side of the Platinum Dragon. Because forcefully breeding soldiers was seen as abhorrent, Bahamut instead sought volunteers among humanoids who were willing to stand against the dragon queen. Those who were frail were not discriminated against, and even evil could be redeemed through this service to Bahamut. All that was required as a show of faith to oppose Tiamat and her evil hordes. However, there were some who profaned against this rite, twisting it into one of disgusting wanton murder. These disgraced graduates of the rite killed not only Tiamat's spawn but also dealt blows against all draconic entities, good and evil.

The rite essentially changed humanoids into dragonborn. It consisted of training under a dragonslayer to best learn the tactics and anatomy of the enemy dragons, as well as tactics to strike at their weakest points and track them for ambush. Students are tutored in draconic culture as well, learning the language and reading dragon literature. After approval by this mentor, the tutee is then entered into the ceremony. This ceremony consists of drinking from a christened goblet filled with magical blood from dragons as well as previous seniors of the rite. After drinking, the tutee is led into a metal egg where they must meditate. The egg is then sealed with wards so that it will only break when a dragonborn touches it from the inside, with the newly converted tutee reborn. If the tutee dies within the egg, they are left and considered to have been unworthy.

Having gone through the rite yourself and survived, you are now a dragonborn. What was your experience at the time as you prepared? Did you like your seniors and dragonslayer mentor? Were there lots of expectations of you? Why did you decide to pursue this path? Do you truly despise Tiamat? If so, where does this hatred stem from? What race were you before you undertook this ritual? Did your family and friends support this choice? Perhaps a traumatic event caused by the chromatic dragons made you hate them all. As a new dragonborn, how are you treated by others who have also passed the rite? Have you made any friends? And now, where are you to go next in your quest to slay Tiamat? Or perhaps you have more insidious plans in store...

Skill Proficiencies: Survival, Athletics

Languages: A language from before you undertook the rite

Equipment: A scroll case of notes from your days being mentored, an amulet signifying Bahamut's champion, traveler's clothes, and a belt pouch with 10 gp.

Feature: Bahamut's Champion

As one who passed the test of Bahamut, you have the respect and are regarded among the ranks of the metallic dragons of good as well as other Bahamutian worshipers. You and your adventuring companions can expect to receive free healing and care at a temple, shrine, or other established presence of Bahamut, though you must provide any material components needed for spells. Those who share your religion will support you (but only you) at a modest lifestyle.

Alternate Feature: Dragon's Enemy

You were trained to be a full-fledged dragon hunter. You are intimately familiar with the anatomy, habitat, and territorial markings of dragons. You may add your proficiency bonus to any check made to track dragon-type creatures, as well as to dissect and use their innards for various purposes, reflective of your knowledge going far beyond other hunters.

Suggested Characteristics

As one who completed the rite, you are deigned as one who has displayed admirable traits under adversity. Whether these have changed since your time training for the rite is to be seen.

d8	Personality Trait
1	I look down at everyone I come across who is not a dragonborn.
2	I am suspicious of anyone I meet. They could be Tiamat spies.
3	I like to attack first and ask questions later.
4	I keep my emotions under control at all times.
5	Bahamut said we had to be charitable, so I try to help whenever and whoever I can.
6	I like to put off work until it is absolutely necessary, taking my time.
7	I hate to wait for anything or anyone.
8	I tend to always look on the bad side of things.

d6	Ideal
1	Destruction. I will kill all the dragons of this world so only I remain. (Evil)
2	Victory. I will bring the banner of Bahamut honor by slaying Tiamat. (Lawful)
3	Benevolence. I want to use my new powers to help those less fortunate as a result of the evil dragons' deeds. (Good)
4	Privilege. I have risen above everyone else, so I can do anything! (Chaotic)
5	Self-Fulfillment. I gained this power for myself, and I will use it thusly for my gains. (Any)
6	Survival. This grand battle is mad. I only want to stay alive. (Neutral)

d6	Bond
1	I have a hard time bonding with people in general.
2	Unless you're dragonborn, I don't trust you.
3	I hate to listen to any superiors.
4	I want to make more friends.
5	I bonded with my fellow cadets over my training.
6	People drift apart naturally. Getting attached is pointless.

d6	Flaw
1	Even if it is good advice, I rarely listen.
2	I am very unlikeable because of my attitude.
3	My picky tastes make me intolerable.
4	My incessant curiosity is annoying.
5	I always act before I think.
6	My impatience makes me a liability in some cases.

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