The Bear
The Bear
Known in Life as Smokey
Patron Of:
- Explorers and Trailblazers
- Fortune-Favored Wanderers
- Those Who Venture into the Unknown
Symbol:
A paw print overlaid with a compass rose, encircled by a ring of flames. This emblem signifies guidance through chaos and the fiery spirit of discovery. Followers often wear this symbol as a pendant or tattoo it on their skin before embarking on perilous journeys.
Common Appearance to Mortals:
The Bear manifests as a towering, flame-wreathed woman, or a great grizzly bear, her eyes glowing embers of curiosity and determination. Clad in weathered forest ranger uniform, she carries a bow that transforms into various tools—map, lantern, weapon—depending on the seeker's need. Her presence exudes warmth and an unyielding drive to uncover hidden truths.
History and Myth:
In life, Smokey was a renowned human explorer and a member of the Talons, a faction of monster hunters enhanced by magic to better hunt their prey. Though affiliated with the Talons, she spent most of her life exploring the far frontiers and other continents, particularly Shontari in the east. There, she allied with others to confront the Liches of Shontari, a group of powerful undead who had overthrown the dragon lords and reclaimed control of the continent.
Smokey's journey led her into the heart of the Blight, a cursed region teeming with corruption and malevolent entities. It was here she met her end at the hands of a Wendigo, a twisted being born from insatiable hunger and dark magic. However, her story did not conclude with death. Recognizing her unwavering spirit and selfless pursuit of knowledge, the Speaker granted her a second chance—not for herself, but to aid others who shared her adventuring spirit.
Elevated to godhood, The Bear became a beacon for explorers, knowledge seekers, and those who brave the unknown. She embodies the chaotic yet selfless nature of discovery, guiding mortals through treacherous paths and illuminating truths hidden in darkness.
Relic of The Bear: Smokey’s Emberfang Knife
"It always pointed to where the truth was buried. Even if that was straight through hell."
Weapon (Dagger), Rare
Initial Form (Level 5–8):
- Explorer’s Edge – This +1 dagger grants proficiency in Survival and Investigation while attuned.
- Ember Trail (1/short rest): As a bonus action, throw the dagger. You may teleport to its location as a flash of smoke and cinders (up to 60 feet).
- Wendigo’s Bane: Deals an extra 1d6 fire damage to undead and shapechangers.
Awakened Form (Level 15–20):
- Blade of the Blightbreaker (+2 dagger): Now deals 2d6 additional fire damage to undead, fiends, and aberrations.
- Ash Step (3/short rest): As a bonus action, teleport up to 60 feet, leaving behind a smoldering clone that explodes after 1 round (3d6 fire + 3d6 psychic, Dex save DC = 16 for half).
- Mark of Curiosity: Once per long rest, ask the GM one question about your current environment, enemy, or mystery, and receive a truthful but cryptic answer as if casting Legend Lore (no material cost).
