Dietrich was born to a merchant, Gerhardt, and his wife, Enna. The couple and their 4 year old son were forced to flee their home mere days before Theodoric II’s genocidal campaign reached the village gates. They left under the cover of night, carrying only that which was necessary. The woods which they would travel through were known to be treacherous, especially in the dead of winter. They became lost 2 days after leaving their village. One night, they found themselves at the mercy of a pack of wolves. Gerhardt had a crossbow, but only enough arrows to protect himself. Fearing for the life of his wife and son, he reached in his pocket and pulled out a wooden idol of the Traveler, a token which all wanderers are told to carry, then fell to his knees and cried for the god’s mercy.
His prayers were answered. A family of deer, which seemingly came from nowhere, suddenly came out of a thicket and paused long enough for the wolves to spot them. They ran, and the entirety of the wolf pack followed. The Werners fled immediately.
Before long, they came across a temple in the woods. They noticed an old man, clad in a dusty black robe with yellow trim, working in the garden. He saw them coming, and invited them in to eat and stay for the next few days to rest. They told him the story about the wolves, to which he responded (with a smile) that “Old Bright Eyes” likes to keep his people safe. Gerhardt asked how he could repay the Traveler, to which the old man (who was named Iso) responded that they could use a few extra hands to keep the temple clean while the monks were on pilgrimages. So, the Werners set up residence on the temple grounds, offering food and lodging to wanderers. Dietrich was raised in the temple, and received an excellent education by the monks of the order.
Upon turning 18 he became a full Journeyman, and must now embark upon his first (of many) pilgrimages.
How does your character feel about magic? He feels that it is a blessing to be used wisely and for the benefit of all. He opposes magic which restricts the freedom of another, unless it is used in defense or to the aid of the common good.
How does your character feel about magical creatures? Being a devotee of the Traveler, he appreciates all creatures, mundane or magical. However, just as one would be cautious when approaching a tiger, he is cautious when a magical creature is present. He observes the creature, and if the creature is showing signs of submission or docility, he will approach. However, if the creature is defensive or aggressive, he will react in a way that will satiate it while doing the least amount of harm to it. Killing or maiming is only done out of necessity.
How does your character feel about non-humans? He treats them the same as he would a human.
Who is a friend that your character has? He is close to his mentor, Aldo, as well as a monk who frequented the temple, named Roric. Roric often took the time to teach Dietrich a few magical tricks while Aldo wasn’t around. Roric established a brotherly bond with Dietrich.
Who is an enemy your character has? Being a temple-raised 18 year old, he doesn’t have any enemies that he has met face to face. However, he harbors a deep hatred for Theodoric II and is very distrusting to anyone who supports him. He will more than likely instigate a fight with a member of Theo’s army, and attempt to verbally abuse or intimidate anyone who supports him.
What are 2 things your character thinks is right? His childhood and adolescence in the temple have instilled in him a love for freedom and knowledge. He believes people should be free to do as they wish (as long as it is without consequence to others), and that knowledge should be freely given and always available.
What are 2 things your character thinks is wrong? He has an extreme dislike for bullies or anyone with a “might makes right” attitude. He also feels that borders (imposed or imagined) are unlawful.
Dietrich is a follower of the Traveller.
