Mold allergy
6 of Wands: [Clematis] A much-needed respite. Give that man a break. Lancelot?
9 of Swords: [Poppy] Pain and illness, suffering and grief.
The Chariot: [Nasturtium] Triumph, willpower, success! Ireena's back, baby!
7 of Coins, again: [Anenome] Forward motion. Change leading to growth. Just keep trucking, Garebear.
6 of swords in reverse: currently gareth has a lot of old ballast on his mind
prince of pentagons in reverse: the way to his future is pathed with wastefulnes
9 of swords in reverse: aaaand that leads him to despair
"Gareth has a grimdarkness that lends itself well to Derse but at his core, he is about loyalty, religious brightness in his soul that speaks deeply to Prospit Prospit tends to be (though definitely Isn't) more of the Heroic archetypes (Vriska, though she is not a hero, is a Hero), while Derse lends itself to Antiheroes well, and Gareth strikes me more as just a Hero than an Antihero"
"I've already touched on Gareth--depressed and bitter, but he is, at his core, a heroic person who wants to do the best he can through largely above-board methods. He has the impression of a person who thinks (beyond the layer of his cynicism), that all good people will prevail because they are inherently good, and he has to cling to the hope that that will be Enough to push them over the edge of victory. It's the Hope."
Sylph of Doom
Sylph is a magic-based class that is thought to specialize in healing. As such, the definition of Sylph is thought to be one who heals [aspect] or one who heals through [aspect] for others.
Those bound to the aspect of Doom are fate's chosen sufferers. It may not sound like an overly pleasant aspect to be aligned with, but it does come along with great wisdom and empathy. The Doom-bound understand that misery loves company, and they are ready and willing to provide said company. The Doom-bound won't fix you; they aren't healers. They are commiserators, aware that sometimes the only thing you can do for a person is let them know that they are not alone in their suffering. They are not the advice friend-they're the friend you go to when you need to vent about a rough day at work. They are not necessarily noble martyrs, either-the Doom-bound can become quite irate about their lot. At their best they are wise, kind, and non-judgemental. At their worst, bitter, resentful, and fatalistic.
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Sylph of Doom: One who Invites Creation of Doom or one who Invites Creation through Doom
Sylphs will calmly, analytically and happily give their opinion all about their Aspect. They meddle, healing or fixing any lack of it they notice. Their challenge is act upon their opinions instead of waiting by the sidelines
A Sylph of Doom would likely have all kinds of ideas and opinions about rules and obligations and which ones should be followed. They have a habit of being a goody two shoes, never breaking the rules and even trying to hold others to the same rules. They are very responsible, cautious and pessimistic people. They limit and restrict what doesn’t fit into their world view, including other people. They might get annoyed by optimistic hyperactive people who can’t sit still or can’t follow through with responsibilities.
They try to regulate and create rules for even improv-type games and things that aren’t meant to have solid rules. They believe their own standards and rules are the correct ones and try to enforce them whenever possible. They definitely remind me of no nonsense nanny types. They definitely try to instill a healthy sense of pessimism and caution in others and themselves, saying 'no you can’t its impossible’. They would try to hold people back from what they perceive as wrong or dangerous. Needless to say they aren’t very adventurous or really exciting people. They’re not likely to be very active or energetic either. They might have a hobby of pruning plants or gardens, inviting creation through burning/cutting off the weak parts of the plants.
For scarier/more evil Sylphs of Doom you can see them culling the necessary people or animals they view as wrong, dying or decaying. Maybe they even try to burn or kill anything that doesn’t follow their rules.
101 questions you may want to know about your PC
Family
1. Are your parents still alive? Honestly, I'm not sure. I don't think so.
2. Do you have siblings? Yeah.
3. Did you know your extended family – grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles? I met my grandparents maybe once or twice... But I don't really remember much about them.
4. Did your family have a “black sheep” – someone who was shunned or driven away? You mean me?
5. Does your family have an eccentric member, someone who marches to a different drummer? Hah. Yeah, I guess.
6. Does your family approve of your adventuring career? They don't know and they probably wouldn't care.
7. Were your parents living together when you were born? I think so? Not sure. Never bothered to ask.
8. Did your parents continue to live together as you grew up? Yes.
9. Did one or both parents ever leave home for extended periods of time? Father was out a few times for some of his studies.
10. Do you have any children? No...
Pets
1. Have you ever had a pet? What was it? I suppose... Lancelot would count as one? A raccoon.
2. Is there something that keeps you from having a pet now? Apparently not.
3. Is there some sort of exotic creature you wish you could keep as a pet? Does a raccoon qualify as exotic? I wouldn't really want to keep anything as pet that is not suitable to live as such.
4. Have you ever mistreated a pet – yours, or someone else’s? I hope not. I do still feel bad for leaving Lancelot behind back in Vallaki...
5. Did anyone ever mistreat your pet? Aside from him being all alone in that awful house... I think he has been lucky enough to stay out of trouble for the most part.
Money
1. Growing up, was your family well-off, or poor? Well-off enough, I think. We definitely weren't starving.
2. Did a family member have an unusual attitude towards money – greedy, spendthrift, stingy? I'm not sure. If they did, it didn't really concern me.
3. How important is wealth to you? Not very much. I'd like to have enough to not sleep out on the street. Anything more than that could be used to help someone else.
4. Has anyone ever stolen anything from you that was important to you? Nothing important, I don't think. Or maybe I'm just good at convincing myself it wasn't important.
5. Does anyone owe you money? There's no debt I consider still owed. There have been a few families who did not have enough to pay us back for the funeral service. I don't begrudge them for it, though.
6. Do you owe anyone money? Not as far as I'm aware.
7. Do any of your family members owe anyone money? I don't know and I don't care.
8. Is anyone in your family owed a debt? See my previous answer.
Living Arrangements
1. Where did you live growing up – a house, a castle, a cave? A house. Two floors, and enough room for more than one study and storage room. And even so, it always seemed too small. After that... a Pharasmin church.
2. Did you stay in one place or keep moving? I stayed at the church for as long as I worked there. I've been traveling quite a bit ever since.
3. Did anyone else live with you besides immediate family? You mean after I left said immediate family? Father Antoine lived at the church when he took me in.
4. Did you have your own room? At my family's house? Yeah. At the church? Also yes. I think Father Antoine furnished that room just for me. It wasn't much, but it was nice.
Sophistication
1. Growing up, did you meet members of other races? As a kid, not really. If we had any guests, human or not, I was usually to stay away. When I helped out at the church, yes. Everyone dies, sooner or later.
2. Did you have any friends who were of another race? Not really, though my circle of friends was.. fairly small.
3. Did you travel far from the place of your birth? It is a good bit away, yes.
4. Did your hometown have many people of other races? Not many. Nothing you wouldn't expect in such a small town. Mostly halflings and some half-elves. The occasional dwarf and gnome, if they didn't get bored there. Anything else was usually just passing through.
5. Did you live in or near a city? Near a small town. With more smaller towns a day away. The next proper city was.... a ways away.
6. Did you ever visit a city? Haven sure is a city.
7. Did you live in or near wilderness? I guess. There was a lot of wilderness around. Mostly woods - anywhere that hadn't been turned into farmland.
8. Did you ever visit wilderness? I tried not to. But Barovia has a lot of that to offer.
9. Did you live in or near a body of water large enough to sail ships (not just boats) upon? I passed through some seaports, but I didn't really stay for long.
10. Have you ever left the Prime Material Plane? As it seems, the Mists part of on the Material Plane, so...
Friends
1. Do you have many friends? ...I have Sock? Possibly... Alto and Marie. I wouldn't call that many...
2. Are any of your friends also adventurers? Obviously.
3. Do any of your friends owe you a favor? I'd say Lyrin owes me two gold. But I'm not one to count favors, usually.
4. Do you owe any of your friends a favor? I don't know? None that any of them have expressed to me. Though I suppose I owe them a lot for the fact that I am alive right now...
5. Did you ever have to protect a friend from someone or something? Certainly tried to....
6. Did a friend ever protect you from someone or something? Certainly tried to, with mixed success.
7. Do you have a best friend or friends that are especially important to you? They're all important, friend or not. I suppose Sock has a special place.
Education
1. Who taught you the proficiencies and features of your class? Father Antoine has taught me everything practical. Anything else is a gift of my goddess.
2. Who taught you the proficiencies of your background? Most of that I got taught by my parents. Abyssal and elvish, a little bit of arcana...
3. Who taught you the other things you know – how to read and write, racial proficiencies, and the like? My parents. Mostly my mother.
4. Did you have a favorite subject or subjects? Learning about history was pretty interesting. And anything involving monsters of any kind, as scary as they may have been.
5. Did you have a subject or subjects you disliked Honestly, any science involving math or magic or whatever. My parents' favorite subjects.
Romance
1. Have you ever been in a romantic relationship? A couple. Uhm, three.
2. Have you ever been in love? I have. And I am.
3. Have you ever loved someone who didn’t love you? Could make that case about my previous relationships, but I think, or at least hope, that they actually felt something for me at some point.
4. Have you ever been loved by someone you didn’t love in return? Not that I'm aware of. Unless I count Sock's awkward attempts at flirting.
5. Are you married? No. Not yet...?
6. Have you ever been married, but it is now ended (death, divorce, abandonment, other)? No.
Entertainment
1. What is your favorite kind of music? Something calm. A nice piano piece? Don't often get to hear that, though. Marie plays some nice music. ...when it's not some horrifying lullabies.
2. What is your favorite kind of food? Any nice and warm meal is good. Baked cheese, like brie or camembert, with some nice bread? Nothing extraordinary, but so good.
3. Do you use any drugs (including tobacco and alcohol)? I... try not to. Still have my weak moments, I suppose. It's mostly the coin in my pocket, or lack therof, that keeps me from indulging in a smoke or drink too often.
4. Are you addicted to anything? I try not to, even if it takes all of my willpower, to be frank. It is... tempting to just give in, sometimes. To just forget everything. But I know if I did... I would never get back out.
5. Do you like to dance? Not.. particularly? Can't say I'm very good at it.
6. Do you like to gamble? I try not to. It's an easy entertainment, if shortwhile. The regret afterward is rarely worth it.
7. Do you like dining out? If I can afford it. Certainly tastes better than anything I could conjure up.
8. Do you like to travel? I wouldn't say I like it.
9. Do you like public spectacles (e.g., circus, gladiatorial games)? At times. It's a welcome distraction. I try to avoid the more bloody ones, though.
10. Do you like libraries? I wish I liked them more, frankly. I appreciate a good book. It just reminds me a little too much of my parent's obsession.
Appearance
1. Do you style your hair and / or beard? I keep both short to not have to bother with that.
2. Do you like the latest fashions in clothing? Sticking to priestly vestments is a good excuse for not bothering with any of that.
3. Do you wear the clothes than would be expected for your race and social class? I... suppose? I guess it's not impressing the rich. But I'm a man of the cloth, so that is what I am wearing.
4. Do you strive to be attractive? Eh.
5. Do you wear jewelry? Not any more than I need to for my faith.
Religion
1. Do you attend religious services? Not as much as I'd like to, especially since I'm traveling. Not many Pharasmin services to be found around here. I used to conduct some myself, though our church was always more concerned with the services we provide, rather than sermons.
2. If you do attend, are you sincere? As sincere as I can be.
3. Do you believe the gods of the campaign world are real? I wouldn't be a cleric of one otherwise.
4. Do you believe the gods of the campaign world are beneficial to their worshipers? Pharasma certainly is, but I'm not sure if that is true for all faiths.
5. Do you like / love the gods you worship? Again, I wouldn't be a cleric of hers, otherwise.
6. Do you fear / hate the gods you worship? I don't. But believe some people should, for the atrocities they commit.
7. Do you try to avoid acknowledging the gods of the campaign world, even though you believe in them? Quite the opposite.
8. Do you make offerings to gods you don’t worship, just to be safe? Not to just any god. There is many that embody cruelty and atrocities, as depraved as people themselves can be. But I try to pay my due respect to gods that aid people in everyday life.
9. How important are your religious beliefs to your choices? -motions to self-
10. Are your religious beliefs similar to those of your family? Oh, not at all. Don't think they ever considered Pharasma with more than a passing curiosity. They're rather following the god of knowledge and magic, though much more in action and lifestyle than piety. Just as he likes it best, I suppose.
11. Are your religious beliefs acceptable to typical members of your race and home? Yes? While the faith of Pharasma is not one most people pray to regularly, most people appreciate aid in birth or death.
12. Are you curious about other religions? I am. I try to keep an open mind towards everyone's beliefs. Unless they're an anathema to my faith's tenets. In which case it is still helpful to know what I am dealing with.
Politics
1. Are there nations you would fight to defend? People? Yes. Communities? Possibly. Nations? I care little to fight in a war the powerful are waging.
2. Are there rulers you would fight to overthrow? I suppose I am trying to do just that at the moment.
3. Do you identify with any political cause or party or faction? Not so much, but I must admit, I'm not all that informed about all the powers that be. I suppose any cause that has the safety and well-being of people in mind is a good one, even if none of that should be political.
4. Have you sworn fealty to any person or group? Only my faith.
5. Do you bear ill will toward any ruler or nation? Hah. Yeah.
Miscellaneous
1. Is there a creature that fascinates you? I mean. Have you ever watched a raccoon? Entertainment for hours.
2. Have you ever interacted with any extremely powerful creature? The Abbot counts as one, I suppose? And a couple of vampires.
3. Is there a creature that disgusts you? Hah. Well. Any undead existance is one too many. But while most of these people are merely victims of their fate, there is some particularly despicable ones that prefer to indulge in their undead state.
4. What is your nickname? Just Gary, for the most part. Apparently I also earned the nickname Garebear.
5. Is there a type of weapon or spell that you like for reasons other than utility? The Spirit Guardian I can summon makes me feel a little closer to my goddess and my faith, even when the Mists seem to have disturbed our connection.
6. Have you ever been knocked unconscious? That's one way to say it. I've been knocked dead would be another.
7. Do you feel attracted to any of the four elements? Not particularly.
8. What is your favorite season? Autumn is quite pleasant. Not too hot, surrounded by wonderful colors, and a good excuse to stay inside. Unless you have to be outside and in the rain. Then it's a little less pleasant.
9. Do you prefer plants or animals? Animals, I suppose. Hard to resist such a lively and soft companion.
10. What is your favorite type of terrain? Whatever I can walk on. A solid road is preferable.
11. What is your goal? To undo Strahd, in whatever way possible. To help the people of Barovia. To protect Ireena, in whatever way I can.....
12. What is the greatest disappointment of your life? Disappointment is a bit of an understatement for most things that come to mind. I suppose, a true disappointment is... seeing all the things Lyrin is willing and capable of doing. And it is worrying me especially since she, too, is in a relationship with the woman I love.
13. Have you ever committed a crime? Not knowingly....? No, wait, breaking into the burgomaster's jail was definitely not allowed. Also, I'm not sure if visiting that cock fighting ring was all that legal... or wise.
1.) what's their favorite color?
He wouldn't say that he has a favorite color per se. He's very fond of blue, though, since it is the sacred color of his faith and goddess, and also frankly suits him fairly well.
Recently, he also developed a deep appreciation for amber...
2. tell me about their laugh: loud, soft, giggle, guffaw, cackle?
Usually a quiet chuckle. Might include a snort if he's really caught off-goard.
3.) where are they inclined to hang in a crowded tavern? Probably either the bar if there's a free spot, or wherever the quietest corner is.
4.) what's their most valued non-essential-equipment item?
Does a journal count? Because probably that.
5.) do they do anything to relax?
Imagine Gareth relaxing. Probably petting and cuddling Lancelot. That's pretty relaxing and grounding. He didn't have (and still doesn't) have a lot of helpful coping tools besides that.
6.) could they take care of a house plant?
Depends on the plant, tbh. He's not much of an expert when it comes to plants, but as long as it's not something too exotic, but something that just needs some regular watering and pruning, he'd do just fine.
7.) another fave, hmmm, what's their favorite food?
He's a simple man and would appreciate any well-cooked warm meal. If he had to pick a favorite, it would be brie. Fine on a slice of bread, even better when baked.
8.) must pick one: dragon or unicorn
Giant dangerous flying lizard that can scorch and eat you or mystical, good natured horse with a horn? Unicorns, yeah.
9.) are they a spring, summer, autumn, or winter person?
He'd probably say of himself that he's an autumn or winter person, with holing up inside in warm clothes and a nice hot drink, but frankly, that seasonal depression be hitting hard.
In truth, he's feeling best in spring. Fuck summer, though.
10.) what do they wear to sleep?
At home, he'd have a proper set of pyjamas or even a nightshirt. When traveling, he'll just stick to shirt and underpants.
11.) do they collect anything?
Small bones, as part of his faith's rites. Somewhat related to that, he also collects the names of the recently deceased (and born) from his daily prayers, as a sort of memento. Would feel weird to just throw them away.
Aside from that, he didn't exactly have the chance to engage in any collecting hobbies, but he would weird and possibly macabre little figurines and trinkets. He still has that mummy matryoshka... The first of many?
12.) what would their dream house consist of?
Four walls to keep warm, enough rooms for a small family, and maybe a nice little backgarden to spend time in with the one he loves.
13.) when's their birthday?
June 23 (or whatever the local name would be for the month). He doesn't really bother to remember or celebrate it, though.
14.) what would be the title of a ballad chronicling their life?
Haunted
15.) what about favorite.... fruit?!
He's a fan of berries, I think. Especially more sour ones. Currants for some quick, fresh snack.
16.) how about animal, do they have a favorite animal?
He has a deep respect for birds of all kinds, strongly informed by his faith.
His favorite animal, though, would be Lancelot. Obviously.
17.) name something (or someone) they are grateful for
Once again, Lancelot takes top spot, carrying him through some of the hardest time with his unconditional love. Of course he is also so grateful for Ireena and the light she brought into his life, despite the deep pain and sorrow he is struggling with right now, and he is grateful for having Sock's friendship, despite the headaches he causes him on the regular.
18.) what type of sandwich would they be? yes, I'm serious
19.) early bird or night owl?
Yes. There's a point that is too early, even for him, but he's the type to regularly get up at 6 am without fail or complaint.
20.) more favorites!!! beverage?????
Water.
(Some tea, probably, frankly.)
21.) what cheers them up when they're feeling down?
A snuffle from Lancelot or a smile from Ireena.
22. another pick one: beach or hot springs?
Hot springs! Nice and cozy and relaxing.
He'd just burn on a beach and everyone would see.
23. are they a gossip or a keeper of secrets?
He's not much for gossip.
24.) what were they like as a child?
A disappointment. Curious, though insecure, when he was really young. Couldn't keep up with his parents' expectations, so he turned into a depressed, rebellious and (self-)destructive teenager fairly early.
25. favorite outdoor activity!! yeah!!!
Imagine liking the outdoors....
Probably something simple as taking a stroll without expectations, or doing some maintenance and care of the graves and plants around them (back when he did that).
26.) would they enjoy the Spice Girls as a concept?
He would not... dislike them? But that is so not his world or style.
27. favorite dessert
A nice sweet pie!
28. describe them but as a candle scent, please
Goodness, uh... Something cozy and homely and old-timey... Fresh rain? Dried roses?
Yeah, that.
29.) would they wear a funny hat?
Only under threat of his life.
30. and one single mechanics question: if you had to pick a different class for them, what would it be?
Honestly, I'm really into the idea of down-on-his-luck depressed but romantic poet bard Gareth.
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