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# Vices and Virtues When creating a character, their personality traits often shape their interactions, decisions, and overall journey in the campaign. Vices and Virtues are powerful tools for defining these traits, adding a varied depth and complexity to characters. By choosing a vice or virtue, players can establish a core aspect of their character’s personality, which can influence their behavior and choices throughout the adventure. ### Developing Your Vice or Virtue To create a compelling and nuanced vice or virtue, consider the Seven Deadly Sins and the Seven Heavenly Virtues as a foundation for your character’s personality. Each sin or virtue represents a broad aspect of your characters nature that can be refined into a specific vice or virtue for your character. |
Sin |
Virtue | |:----:|:----:| | Pride | Humility | | Greed | Charity | | Lust | Chasity | | Envy | Gratitude | | Gluttony | Temperance | | Wrath | Patience | | Sloth | Diligence | Think about your characters personal journey up until this point. Think about how this sin or virtue manifests in your character’s behavior. What specific actions or attitudes do they display? Are they prideful and walk with their nose in the air, wrathful and constantly clenching their fists, or slothful and regularly finding themselves napping. Additionally, consider how this vice or virtue affects your character’s interactions with others. Does their greed cause them to hoard treasure from the group, or does their sense of humility and charity cause them to reject treasure and reward even at the parties expense. \columnbreak ### Balancing Vices and Virtues It is important to recognize that some vices and virtues naturally counteract each other. For instance, charity and greed are opposing traits; a character driven by greed may struggle with acts of charity. Considering these relationships can add depth to your character and create interesting roleplay dynamics. Balancing a vice with an opposing virtue, or vice versa, can lead to internal conflicts and growth opportunities for your character. ### multiple sins and dynamic vices As you explore the possible options for you characters vices and virtues, you may come to find that the idea of a singular sin or virtue may not tell the whole story. If this is the case, consider working within the bounds of multiple sins or virtues to create a dynamic vice or virtue. Are you a Bard who sees everyone around them as a potential coin to be had? While Greed may cover a large swath of this characters vice, Pride also plays a heavy role. Or maybe you're a Barbarian who's a victim of both Wrath and Envy, and holds grudges over those who are stronger than you, even if they are your party members.
By integrating these vices and virtues into your characters, you not only add depth to their personalities but also create engaging opportunities for roleplay and character development. Use this framework to enhance your game and bring your characters to life in rich and meaningful ways.
ART CREDIT: britannica.com
\pagebreak # Vices #### Pride - **
Haughty:** "I often speak with a condescending tone, finding it hard to see others as my equals."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Intelligence checks when debating or proving a point, but Dis.Adv. on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when trying to gain trust or cooperation.
- **
Showoff:** "I always take the opportunity to demonstrate my superior skills, even when it isn't necessary."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Performance checks, but Dis.Adv. on Stealth checks when trying to avoid notice.
- **
Infallible:** "I struggle to admit when I'm wrong, often doubling down on my decisions."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Deception checks when defending a false statement, but Dis.Adv. on Insight checks to understand when someone is genuinely trying to help.
- **
Perfectionist:** "I can't stand imperfections and must fix them, no matter how small."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Investigation checks to find flaws, but Dis.Adv. on Sleight of Hand checks when time is short.
- **
Leader by Default:** "I always assume leadership in any group, believing I am the best suited for the role."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Intimidation checks when asserting dominance, but Dis.Adv. on Persuasion checks when collaborating
#### Greed - **
Kleptomaniac:** "I'm compelled to steal anything that catches my eye, especially if it's valuable."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Sleight of Hand checks made to conceal an expensive object, but Dis.Adv. on Insight checks to see if people are watching you steal.
- **
Hoarder:** "I can't part with my belongings, no matter how trivial."
**Boon/Bane:** Double your carrying capacity, but Dis.Adv. on Stealth checks due to the noise and bulk of your belongings. - **
Bargain Hunter:** "I always look for the best deal and haggle aggressively."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Persuasion checks to negotiate prices, but Dis.Adv. on Deception checks to hide your desperation for a bargain.
- **
Treasure Seeker:** "I prioritize finding wealth over other objectives."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Perception checks to find hidden objects, but Dis.Adv. on Perception checks to notice danger.
- **
Jealous Keeper:** "I become hostile if others try to take what I believe is mine."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Strength checks to hold onto objects, but Dis.Adv. on Charisma (Persuasion) checks to share or cooperate.
\columnbreak #### Lust - **
Charmer:** "I use my charm to get what I want from others."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Persuasion checks when flirting, but disadvantage on Insight checks to discern genuine interest from manipulation. - **
Flirt:** "I can't help but flirt with attractive individuals, often at inappropriate times."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Performance checks when flirting, but disadvantage on Intimidation checks in serious situations.
- **
Tempted:** "I am easily swayed by physical attraction, sometimes making poor decisions because of it."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Deception checks when seducing, but disadvantage on Wisdom saves against charms.
- **
Romantic:** "I always seek out romantic opportunities, even in dangerous situations."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Insight checks to gauge romantic interest, but Dis.Adv. on Perception checks for threats.
- **
Impulsive:** "I act on my desires without thinking of the consequences."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Acrobatics checks when trying to impress, but disadvantage on Intelligence checks to determine consequences.
#### Envy - **
Competitor:** "I constantly compare myself to others and strive to outdo them."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Intimidation checks against rivals, but disadvantage on Insight checks to understand their strengths.
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Jealousy:** "I become resentful when others receive praise or rewards I believe I deserve."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Deception checks when discrediting others, but disadvantage on Persuasion checks when they are being praised.
- **
Covetous:** "I desire what others have, often trying to take it for myself."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Sleight of Hand checks to steal, but disadvantage on Insight checks to notice others' needs.
- **
Distrustful:** "I am suspicious of others' motives, believing they want what I have."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks to detect lies, but disadvantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when trying to build trust.
- **
Rivalry:** "I create rivalries with those I see as better than me, often undermining them."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks to find weaknesses, but disadvantage on Charisma (Deception) checks when interacting with rivals.
\pagebreak #### Gluttony - **
Overindulgent:** "I consume more than necessary, whether it be food, drink, or luxuries."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Constitution saves to resist vomiting, but disadvantage on Dexterity (Acrobatics) checks due to sluggishness.
- **
Hedonist:** "I seek pleasure in excess, often at the expense of my duties."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Charisma (Performance) checks in social settings, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks to notice important details.
- **
Addictive Personality:** "I quickly become addicted to new pleasures and find it hard to stop."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Constitution (Saving Throws) against poison, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Saving Throws) against addictive substances.
- **
Greedy Eater:** "I can't resist eating delicious food, even if it's not mine."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Constitution (Saving Throws) against food poisoning, but disadvantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks when sneaking food.
- **
Excessive:** "I always go to extremes, whether it's eating, drinking, or celebrating."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Constitution checks to endure long celebrations, but disadvantage on Intelligence checks when exhausted.
#### Wrath - **
Temper:** "I lose my temper quickly, especially when provoked."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Strength (Athletics) checks when angry, but disadvantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when trying to remain calm.
- **
Revenge-Seeker:** "I hold grudges and seek revenge against those who wrong me."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks to find enemies, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks to understand motives.
- **
Impulsive:** "I act without thinking when I'm angry, often making rash decisions."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Strength checks during combat, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Saving Throws) against manipulation.
- **
Aggressive:** "I often resort to violence to solve problems, even when unnecessary."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Strength checks in combat, but disadvantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks to de-escalate situations.
- **
Hostile:** "I become hostile towards those who challenge or question me."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Charisma (Intimidation) checks when asserting dominance, but disadvantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when cooperation is needed.
\columnbreak #### Sloth - **
Procrastinator:** "I always put things off until the last minute, often causing problems."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks when rushing, but disadvantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks for planning.
- **
Lethargic:** "I lack energy and motivation, often avoiding tasks that require effort."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Constitution checks to resist exhaustion, but disadvantage on Strength (Athletics) checks.
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Avoidant:** "I avoid responsibility and let others take charge."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Charisma (Deception) checks to avoid blame, but disadvantage on initiative rolls.
- **
Daydreamer:** "I often get lost in my thoughts, missing important details."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on saving throws against mind reading, but Dis.Adv. on Intelligence (Investigation) checks to discern details.
- **
Unreliable:** "I have a hard time following through on commitments and promises."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Charisma (Deception) checks when making excuses for not fulfilling commitments, but Dis.Adv. on Charisma (Persuasion) checks to convince others to believe you.
### Combined Vices - **
Con Artist (Greedy Pride):** "I see everyone around me as a potential coin to be had. My charm and wit are unparalleled, and I use them to get what I want."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Deception checks when manipulating others for personal gain, but disadvantage on Insight checks when assessing the genuine intentions of others.
- **
Grudge Bearer (Wrathful Envy):** "I hold grudges against those stronger than me, even if they're allies. Their strength reminds me of my own weaknesses, which fuels my anger."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Athletics checks when competing against someone you envy, but disadvantage on checks when trying to cooperate with them.
- **
Hedonist (Lustful Gluttony):** "I indulge excessively in all pleasures, be it food, drink, or physical desires. My insatiable appetite often leads me into trouble."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Constitution saves against overindulgence, but disadvantage on Perception checks to notice danger while indulging.
- **
Lazy Opportunist (Slothful Greed):** "I desire wealth but lack the motivation to work hard for it. I often rely on others to provide for me or take shortcuts to get what I want."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Deception checks to persuade others to do your work, but disadvantage on Athletics checks due to lack of effort.
- **
Dominant Fury (Prideful Wrath):** "I believe I am superior to others, and I become easily enraged when my authority is questioned. My temper is quick to flare."
**Boon/Bane:** Advantage on Intimidation checks when asserting dominance, but disadvantage on Wisdom saves against emotional manipulation.
\pagebreak # virtues ####
Humility - **
Self-Deprecating**: "I always downplay my achievements, giving credit to others instead."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when being modest, but disadvantage on Charisma (Intimidation) checks.
- **
Servant Leader**: "I lead by serving others, prioritizing their needs over my own."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks to understand others' needs, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks for self-interest.
- **
Modest Appearance**: "I avoid ostentatious displays and prefer simple, unadorned clothing and equipment."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Performance) checks.
- **
Listener**: "I listen more than I speak, valuing others' opinions over my own."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Deception) checks.
- **
Unassuming**: "I avoid the spotlight and let others take the credit for group successes."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when deflecting praise, but disadvantage on Charisma (Performance) checks.
####
Charity - **
Generous**: "I give freely of my resources, even when it leaves me with little."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when giving, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks.
- **
Helper**: "I go out of my way to help those in need, no matter the inconvenience."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Strength (Athletics) checks when assisting others, but disadvantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks.
- **
Self-Sacrificing**: "I often sacrifice my own well-being for the sake of others."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Constitution (Saving Throws) against fatigue, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks.
- **
Benevolent**: "I seek out opportunities to do good deeds without expecting anything in return."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks to find those in need, but disadvantage on Charisma (Deception) checks.
- **
Compassionate**: "I have a deep empathy for others and feel compelled to alleviate their suffering."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks to comfort others, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Saving Throws) against emotional effects.
####
Chastity - **
Pure of Heart**: "I maintain a pure and virtuous demeanor, avoiding temptations."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Saving Throws) against charms, but disadvantage on Charisma (Deception) checks.
- **
Self-Controlled**: "I exercise strict control over my desires and impulses."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Constitution (Saving Throws) against addiction, but disadvantage on Charisma (Performance) checks.
- **
Ascetic**: "I live a simple life, avoiding indulgence in physical pleasures."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks.
- **
Devout**: "I dedicate myself to spiritual practices, shunning worldly distractions."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Religion) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Deception) checks.
- **
Temperate**: "I practice moderation in all things, avoiding excess."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Constitution (Saving Throws) against excess, but disadvantage on Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks.
####
Gratitude - **
Thankful**: "I express gratitude for even the smallest acts of kindness."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when expressing thanks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Intimidation) checks.
- **
Positive Outlook**: "I focus on the positive aspects of any situation."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks.
- **
Gracious**: "I accept help and gifts with grace, always showing appreciation."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Deception) checks.
- **
Optimist**: "I believe in the goodness of people and situations."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Saving Throws) against despair, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks for dangers.
- **
Uplifter**: "I encourage and uplift others, acknowledging their contributions."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Charisma (Performance) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Intimidation) checks.
\pagebreak ####
Temperance - **
Moderate**: "I avoid extremes, practicing balance in all things."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Constitution (Saving Throws) against indulgence, but disadvantage on Dexterity (Acrobatics) checks.
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Self-Disciplined**: "I stick to my principles, even under pressure."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Saving Throws) against temptations, but disadvantage on Charisma (Performance) checks.
- **
Balanced**: "I maintain a balanced lifestyle, avoiding excess in any area."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Deception) checks.
- **
Prudent**: "I make careful and considered decisions, avoiding rash actions."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks, but disadvantage on Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks.
- **
Mindful**: "I am aware of my actions and their consequences, practicing mindfulness."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks.
####
Patience - **
Calm**: "I remain calm and collected, even in stressful situations."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Saving Throws) against fear, but disadvantage on Strength (Athletics) checks.
- **
Enduring**: "I can wait for long periods without losing my composure."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Constitution checks to endure hardship, but disadvantage on Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks.
- **
Forgiving**: "I forgive others easily, even when they wrong me."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks to reconcile, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks.
- **
Perseverant**: "I persist in my efforts, no matter how long it takes to achieve my goals."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Strength (Athletics) checks for endurance, but disadvantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks.
- **
Tolerant**: "I tolerate difficult situations and people without complaint."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Intimidation) checks.
\columnbreak ####
Diligence - **
Hardworking**: "I work tirelessly to achieve my goals, often going above and beyond."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Strength (Athletics) checks, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks.
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Persistent**: "I never give up, even when faced with great challenges."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Constitution checks, but disadvantage on Charisma (Deception) checks.
- **
Focused**: "I maintain focus on my tasks, avoiding distractions."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks, but disadvantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks.
- **
Dedicated**: "I am dedicated to my work, always striving for excellence."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks for precision, but disadvantage on Charisma (Performance) checks.
- **
Conscientious**: "I pay attention to detail and ensure my work is done properly."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks, but disadvantage on Strength (Athletics) checks.
###
Combined Virtues - **
Selfless Altruist (Humility Gratitude)** "I serve others selflessly, giving without expecting anything in return, allowing my actions to speak for themselves."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks to understand others' needs and motivations. Disadvantage on Charisma checks when trying to take credit for group successes.
- **
Stoic Guardian (Temperance Patience)** "I practice moderation in all things and maintain a calm demeanor, even in the face of adversity."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Constitution saves against effects of overindulgence. Disadvantage on Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks when acting quickly or under pressure.
- **
Enduring Optimist (Gratitude Diligence)** "I express gratitude for small blessings and persistently work towards my goals, no matter the obstacles."
**Boon/Bane**: Advantage on Strength (Athletics) checks for prolonged physical activities. Disadvantage on Intelligence (Investigation) checks when seeking quick solutions.
- **
Mindful Giver (Charity Temperance)** "I give freely to those in need while practicing a moderate and balanced life."
**Boon/Bane**:Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks to discern genuine needs and intentions. Disadvantage on Persuasion checks when encouraging others to indulge in moderation.
- **
Patient Devotion (Patience Diligence)** "I devote myself fully to my tasks and remain calm and persistent, even when faced with great challenges."
**Boon/Bane**:Advantage on Constitution checks to resist exhaustion during extended work. Disadvantage on Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks when performing tasks under time pressure.