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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Hand of Graz'zt" data-source="post: 4409608" data-attributes="member: 71489">I have posted this in the General Discussion forum but this is probably a better place for it.While not a plot in and of itself, a character hook can be the starting place for some of the greatest plots and storylines in any game. Stalking the Dread Lord of Nambia is so much more fun when you learn he is.....your brother (insert dramatic music here).Anyway here we go:I am currently preparing a player's handout for my new 4e campaign. In order to assist them with character development I wish to give them a list of character hooks - similar to that suggested in a recent Dragon article.I have prepared a number below, please critique and edit my atrocious writing as well as suggest your own. They are not intended to be crunch, purely wispy pieces of fluff to ignite the imagination.If any of them seem like a waste of space by all means say so.My players range from die-hard gamers to first timers ready to burst their D20 cherry.Here is what I have so far:DetectiveSent by your order/noble you have arrived in Malenter Vale to investigate rumours of <xxxxx>. Like all areas in these dark times you will need to integrate yourself with the towns and overcome their suspicion of outsiders in order to gain their confidence so you can complete your mission.IndebtedTimes have been tough for your family, whether it be a small mining venture, trading house or a once great noble family that has fell on hard times and needed the assistance of another party to help them through the tough days. Unfortunately, the streak of bad luck continues and unless you can raise the funds soon, your family may face complete ruin (or worse!). Turning to the life of an adventurer you hope to raise your family name (or business) to the heights it belongs.My Sword, Squire!Eye of Newt, Spiders LegFamily ManThe Eager StudentYou have longed to join this knightly order, now that you have learnt the rudiments of your chosen profession, you are ready to petition for membership.ORYou have longed to join this guild of magi, secret society or dark coven of warlocks. Now, through long study and great sacrifice you are ready to petition for membership.ORSilent steps and unseen deeds have lead you to this brotherhood, the life of crime is the only way for you.ORWhether it be a swordsman of great skill or mage of dark powers, you long to serve this person so you may to one day share a part of their greatness.Vengeance Will Be Mine! (Person, Group, Organisation)Foul Beast! Yours Days Are Numbered! A slain family member, an ancient heirloom or bloody vendetta, you have sworn you will see the end of the Blood Cult of Shara-Ti, Vragul the Lich or the white dragon Frostflame. The Chosen OneAs you reached adulthood, your parents revealed the secret truth. You are not their child at all, one dark night, amongst arcane symbols, evil words of power and bloodcurdling screams you were to be dedicated as the Chosen One for some dark purpose. Saved by a wandering band of warriors you were dropped on the couples doorstep and they have raised you as their own.Court Intrigue (Eladrin or Erathon)While battle or words of magic excite you, nothing gets your blood racing like the intrigues of the Court of the Green Lady or the nobles of Erathon. Secret agreements behind velvet curtains, the fall of your rival, the affection of the beautiful ladies that frequent the halls of the powerful, this is what you live for.</blockquote>

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