River Rat (Rogue Archetype)
Not all pirates sail the ocean or ply the depths of space. Indeed, river pirates are occasionally a thing in history. I actually live pretty close to a cave system, Cave-In-Rock by name, which has historically been a hideout for highwaymen and river pirates alike.
It only makes sense, after all. If trade routes exist there will be those seeking to profit from them, so naturally this would apply to rivers as well. With that in mind, today’s archetype seeks to portray that same sort of river-bound ne’er-do-well.
That being said, this archetype could easily also be used for any river folk that live by their wits and a deep understanding of the river.
Agile and savvy in the shallows and marshlands, these rogues can move much faster in such areas than most.
Additionally, their proximity to those environments inoculates them against the diseases and poisons common to such areas.
The rogue talents associated with this archetype include hiding and moving in the wilds, swimming, and attacking from ambush.
A simple archetype, but a useful one if you’re planning on playing in a game set in a river-laden region. Pretty much any rogue build can be used with this archetype, though they do indeed make useful boat pilots and aquatic ambushers.
Regardless of their disposition, these rogues are perfect for recreating the sort of folktale feel that comes from the era of steamboats in the cultural memory of Americana. Of course, consider also researching other examples of river piracy across the world for more inspiration as well.
As useful as it is for travel, the Gray River is notorious for dragging mortals under, which only adds to the reputation when grasping undead hands are added to the undertow. The duskwalker Alag Venshor patrols the river, searching for undead to lay to rest, his crew sporting a variety of undead-hunting techniques, but also mastering the art of river ambush to turn the tables on the dead.
Normally a gregacious sort, Velder Truesparrow has become withdrawn lately, spending long nights on his raft, drinking far from shore. Some say the halfling saw something terrible, but what exactly is unknown. He will be needed to discover the truth of the matter.
Every year, the snakes of Velock swarm the river to breed. The river folk avoid those shores during those times, not just for fear of being bitten, but also due to rumors of their behavior being influenced by occult power, though exactly how no one knows.
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