Egil, Brother of Völund “Agilaz”, the Renowned Archer

“Meet Egil, the Legendary Archer: Master of the Bow, Savior of Captive Brothers, and Defender of Love!”

• Alias: Egil, Brother of Völund, the Renowned Archer
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Archer, Defender
• Religion: Pagan/Norse Mythology
• Allies: Völundr, Slagfiðr, Ölrún, Valiant Warriors
• Enemies: King Niðung, Oppressors
• Abode/Base of Operations: Forest stronghold
• Nationality: Scandinavian
• Languages: Old Norse, Proto-Germanic
• Alignment: Neutral Good
• Affiliation(s): Family, Brotherhood of Warriors
• Significant Others: Ölrún (Wife)

In the realm of ancient legends, there is Egil, a remarkable figure whose prowess with a bow is whispered in tales and songs. As the brother of Völundr and Slagfiðr, and the husband of Ölrún, a valkyrie, Egil embodies the spirit of a true hero. With unyielding determination and unfaltering loyalty, Egil stands as a beacon of strength and courage.

Egil’s journey is one driven by love and a thirst for justice. When Ölrún, his beloved wife, departed to seek battles, Egil, resolute in his devotion, embarked on a perilous quest to find her. With snowshoes strapped to his feet, he braves the harsh wilderness, venturing eastward in pursuit of his lost love. It is a quest fueled by a love that knows no bounds, and Egil’s unwavering determination pushes him forward, overcoming any obstacle in his path.

In the annals of Þiðrekssaga, Egil’s legendary status as a great archer shines brightly. Commanded by King Niðung, he faces the ultimate test of skill and nerve: shooting an apple perched atop the head of the king’s own son. With unwavering focus, Egil selects two arrows, but his aim is true with the first, accomplishing the seemingly impossible feat. His unparalleled marksmanship astonishes all, but it is his response to the king’s query that reveals the depths of his character. Egil, with a calm demeanor, explains that he had prepared a second arrow, ready to defend his honor and seek justice should harm befall the innocent.

But Egil’s heroism extends beyond his incredible archery skills. When his brother Velent (Völundr/Wayland) falls victim to Niðung’s cruel captivity and is rendered crippled, Egil takes up the mantle of a protector. To aid Velent’s escape, He cunningly employs his archery once more, skillfully shooting geese and collecting their feathers. With these humble ingredients, Velent fashions a miraculous pair of wings. Together, they concoct a ruse to deceive Niðung, using a bladder filled with blood tied around Velent’s waist. Egil’s accurate shot strikes the bladder, tricking the king into believing that his captive brother has met his demise, allowing Velent to soar to freedom.

Driven by love, honor, and an unyielding sense of justice, his unwavering loyalty and incredible archery skills make him a legend in his own right. His actions exemplify the essence of a true hero, with a burning desire to protect and a steadfast determination to right the wrongs of the world. Egil’s story echoes through the ages, inspiring others to embody the same indomitable spirit that resides within him.

Egil, the Renowned Archer

Medium humanoid (human), neutral good

Armor Class 16 (chainmail) Hit Points 120 (16d8 + 48) Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
14 (+2)	18 (+4)	16 (+3)	14 (+2)	16 (+3)	12 (+1)

Saving Throws Dex +7, Wis +6 Skills Athletics +5, Perception +6, Survival +6 Senses passive Perception 16 Languages Norse, Elvish Challenge 7 (2,900 XP)

Actions

Multiattack. He makes two attacks with his longbow or one attack with his longbow and one with his shortsword.

Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, range 150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (1d8 + 4) piercing damage.

Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.

Evasive Shot (Recharge 5-6). Heuses his bonus action to make a Longbow attack and can choose a different target within range. The target must succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw or take an additional 7 (2d6) piercing damage.

Defensive Tactics. He gains a +1 bonus to AC while wearing his chainmail armor.

Reactions

Uncanny Dodge. When Egil is targeted by an attack he can see, he can use his reaction to halve the attack’s damage against him.

Equipment

• Chainmail armor
• Longbow
• Quiver of arrows
• Shortsword
• Traveler’s clothes
• Explorer’s pack

Magic Items

• Bracers of Archery: Egil’s attacks with ranged weapons gain a +2 bonus to attack rolls and damage rolls.

Plot Hooks

• The Betrayal of Aliruna: Egil’s wife, Aliruna, was taken captive and betrayed him during a crucial battle. Egil is haunted by this betrayal and seeks to uncover the truth behind her actions. The players are drawn into a web of intrigue and treachery as they assist Egil in unraveling the mystery and confronting the one responsible for Aliruna’s betrayal.
• The Avenger’s Quest: He swears a solemn oath to avenge the death of his fallen brother, Völundr, at the hands of a powerful enemy. He recruits the players to aid him in tracking down the elusive antagonist and bringing them to justice. The quest takes them on a dangerous journey through hostile lands and tests their mettle against formidable foes.
• The Elven Prophecy: A prophecy foretells that Egil holds the key to restoring balance between the mortal realm and the Feywild. The players are chosen as Egil’s trusted companions in fulfilling the prophecy. They must navigate the intricacies of elven politics, uncover ancient secrets, and confront otherworldly creatures to fulfill their destiny.
• The Hunt for the Enchanted Bow: Legends speak of an enchanted bow that grants its wielder unparalleled skill and accuracy. Egil embarks on a quest to find this legendary weapon, believing it will enable him to fulfill his true potential. The players accompany Egil on a perilous adventure, braving treacherous terrains and overcoming cunning guardians to secure the bow.
• The Blood Feud: He is locked in a long-standing blood feud with a rival family or clan. The players find themselves caught in the crossfire as they navigate the intricacies of ancient vendettas and seek to bring an end to the cycle of violence. Their choices and actions will determine whether peace can be achieved or if the feud escalates into all-out war.
• The Guardian of the Sacred Forest: He is entrusted with safeguarding a sacred forest that holds immense spiritual significance to his people. However, dark forces threaten to desecrate the forest and unleash chaos. The players join Egil as protectors of the forest, defending against encroaching evil and uncovering the source of the corruption.
• The Archery Tournament of Kings: He receives a prestigious invitation to participate in a grand archery tournament held by powerful rulers. The players are invited to join him as his entourage, navigating political intrigue, rivalries, and sabotage. They must prove their loyalty and skill in order to secure victory for Egil and his kingdom.
• The Legacy of the Archer-Kings: Egil hails from a lineage of renowned archers and is determined to reclaim the lost artifacts and knowledge of his ancestors. The players embark on a quest to uncover ancient archery techniques, retrieve legendary bows, and unlock the hidden power within themselves as they follow in the footsteps of the Archer-Kings.
• The Rescuer’s Dilemma: His sister is held captive by a powerful sorcerer, and he enlists the players’ help in mounting a daring rescue mission. They must infiltrate the sorcerer’s stronghold, navigate deadly traps, and outsmart arcane guardians to save Egil’s sister and bring an end to the sorcerer’s tyranny.
• The Ultimate Shot: Legends tell of a mythical target, said to be the ultimate test of an archer’s skill. Egil is consumed by the desire to hit this elusive mark and prove himself as the greatest archer of all time. The players join him on a quest to locate the target, facing perilous trials and overcoming extraordinary challenges along the way.

These highly specific roleplaying hooks delve deep into Egil’s personal journey, motivations, and relationships, offering players unique opportunities to explore his character and engage in immersive storytelling within the game world.

Currently in the World

Physical Description: Egil is a tall and muscular man with a rugged appearance. He has long, flowing hair and a beard, both the color of burnished copper. His piercing blue eyes exude a sense of determination and focus. He bears the marks of a seasoned warrior, with scars across his arms and a weathered complexion. He is dressed in sturdy leather armor adorned with intricate patterns and carries a bow slung across his back, along with a quiver filled with arrows. His presence commands respect and reflects his prowess as an archer.

Current Activity and Surroundings: Egil stands atop a rocky outcrop, overlooking a sprawling forest. He has taken a momentary respite from his vigilant watch over the surrounding lands. His keen eyes scan the horizon, ever watchful for any signs of danger. The rustling leaves and chirping birds provide a peaceful backdrop to his surroundings. The scent of pine fills the air, invigorating his senses. Despite the tranquility, Egil’s focus is unwavering, his senses attuned to the slightest disturbance.

Mood: Egil’s mood is resolute and purposeful. His expression reflects a quiet determination as he carries the weight of responsibility for the safety of his allies and the defense of his homeland. There is a glimmer of anticipation in his eyes, fueled by the desire to protect those he holds dear and fulfill his duty as a guardian. His unwavering dedication and unwavering focus give him an air of steadfast resolve.