101 character specific reasons for an alternate racial trait


Pathfinder First Edition General Discussion

Shadow Lodge

The Mission:
Give the original text with the standard built in reason for "why" a character has an alternate racial trait. Then give a character specific version as to why which may or may not fit with the "standard" version.

Race(for these examples) Half Orc

1)Skilled: Second- and third-generation half-orcs often favor their human heritage more than their orc heritage. Half-orcs with this trait gain 1 additional skill rank per level. This racial trait replaces darkvision.

Character Specific Version: Character was raised by Sisters of the Golden Eryines (Asmodean Nuns). In order make sure she did not develop the "unfair" advantage of darkvision she was made to sleep in a room with a light spell always lit. She took advantage of this, reading books late into the night. They were her comfort and solace. But never exposed to dark enviroments until adulthood, she never developed the darkvision she would normally have acquired.

2)Sacred Tattoo: Many half-orcs decorate themselves with tattoos, piercings, and ritual scarification, which they consider sacred markings. Half-orcs with this racial trait gain a +1 luck bonus on all saving throws. This racial trait replaces orc ferocity.

Character Specific Version:Same character was whipped by the sisters on a regular basis, in order to "beat the orc" out of her and punish her for infractions, real and made up. To this day her back is filled with scars (like slaves pre civil war). Fortunately, a good spirit was attracted and continues to watch over her.


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(I don't have time to write stuff now, so this is me dotting this thread for later & bumping it to get some love)


IMHO, if you are born with dark vision you should not be able to unlearn it as in my book it is genetic in nature.

MDC

Shadow Lodge

Mark Carlson 255 wrote:

IMHO, if you are born with dark vision you should not be able to unlearn it as in my book it is genetic in nature.

MDC

But while it known most half orcs have dark vision, it is not explained how it is developed, whether it is expressed at birth and if not, whether something could prevent a trait from being expressed.

We do know it's possible because if I poke a nail into your eye your sight trait would no longer be expressed (we will not try demostrate, it would create difficulties for all involved). Why can't you come in game reason in game why a trait is expressed not expressed because of a spell or curse.

The point is there can be many reasons a person is the way they are.

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