Archetypes

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Who Am I: "Fear not! I will guide and help the hero as they take on their quest. I may be older, wiser, bearded, magical, or perhaps a small green man with a staff. Whatever my form, it is my job to prepare the hero for a quest. I must challenge and encourage them, but push them to his or her best self." Options: Hero, Ally, Mentor, Threshold Guardian

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Mentor

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Who Am I: "A sidekick, friend, or supporter is the role I play. I’m ready to help the hero with whatever they need. I may know the hero before the quest, or we might meet on the journey. We might even start out as rivals but eventually join forces! The hero and I may have our disagreements, but ultimately I’m on their team."

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Ally

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Who Am I: "I challenge you to a duel! I’m the hero’s first challenge. I “guard” the threshold into the Unknown World. Maybe I’m a monster, or perhaps I’m a more important character – one that may even become an ally. I spur the hero to their first act of bravery."

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Threshold Guardian

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Who Am I: "I’m here to save the day! I was called out of my boring life and led on an incredible quest. At first, I may not have been so sure about this quest, but now I know that it’s up to me to right the wrongs. I may have a flaw or two, weaknesses that my enemies try to take advantage of. I must overcome these weaknesses to complete my mission."

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Hero

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Who Am I: "I can change at will. Perhaps it is my appearance that changes, or more metaphorically, my motives. I represent trust – and mistrust. After all, you never know what to expect with me!"

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Shapeshifter

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Who Am I: "I look out for me, myself, and I! If I help the hero, there is likely something in it for me. I may also help the hero’s enemy if it is to my benefit. I represent chaos and sometimes have an eccentric personality. Some may think I’m a little off my hinges. I can also be quite the troublemaker! I enjoy speaking in riddles and toying with whoever seeks my help."

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Trickster

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Who Am I: "You’re invited! What: a quest Where: Unknown World I bring the hero news of a mission or journey. Sometimes I come in the form of a character, maybe even someone who has been watching over the hero from afar. Other times, I might be an event or tragedy, moving the hero to action."

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Herald

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Who Am I: "You may hear my menacing breathing through my black helmet. I’m the opposition to the hero, the antagonist if you will. I reflect the hero’s darkest qualities. In fact, I may even be connected to or related to the hero. This connection is what makes our rivalry so intense. The hero will have to face or defeat me to restore balance."

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Shadow

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Examples of a hero:

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Harry Potter • Katniss Everdeen • Luke Skywalker

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Examples of a mentor:

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Dumbledore • Gandalf • Yoda