06/17/2026

Happy Wednesday, and welcome back to Tabletop Thoughts!

Last week, I announced that I would be starting a campaign of Five Leagues from the Borderlands. After spending some time reading through the rules, generating characters, and creating a campaign, I’m finally ready to introduce the adventurers who will be exploring the Borderlands.

One of the things that immediately appealed to me about Five Leagues from the Borderlands is how quickly a group of random characters begins to develop personalities and stories. A few dice rolls can create heroes with unique backgrounds, motivations, strengths, and flaws. Before long, what starts as a collection of miniatures becomes a band of adventurers with their own goals and reasons for venturing into dangerous lands.

As I’ve mentioned before, one of the reasons I wanted to try Five Leagues is that it gives me an opportunity to actually use the miniatures and terrain that I spend so much time printing, painting, and collecting. Rather than waiting for a roleplaying session that may or may not fit into an already busy schedule, I can set up a battlefield, play through an encounter, and continue building the story whenever I have some free time.

The warband you’ll meet below will be the heroes of that story. Some may become legendary adventurers. Others may fall victim to monsters, bandits, or simple bad luck. That’s part of what makes campaign games like Five Leagues from the Borderlands so interesting. The story isn’t planned in advance. Instead, it develops naturally through victories, defeats, injuries, discoveries, and the unexpected events that occur along the way.

I’ve selected miniatures from my collection to represent each member of the group, and I’m excited to see how their stories unfold. As the campaign progresses, I plan to share updates here on the blog, including battle reports, campaign developments, new terrain builds, and whatever adventures await the warband in the Borderlands.

Without further ado, let’s meet the members of the Borderwardens!

Bjorn, Son of the Frontier

Born in the borderlands west of Whitepoint, Bjorn grew up hearing stories of Snakefolk scouts beyond the hills and undead wandering from the southern marshes. A capable swordsman and respected voice among common folk, he has never sought glory, only the means to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Recent reports of growing threats convinced him that the frontier will need more than walls and watchtowers in the years ahead. Gathering a handful of companions, Bjorn has taken to the road to seek fortune, allies, and answers.

Bjorn is a Human of the Frontier background. He possesses Speech 2, Agility 2, Combat 1, Toughness 3, Will 2, and Luck 2. He moves 4″ with a +3″ dash and begins the campaign with no experience. He carries a bastard sword and wears light armor.

Vulwin the Wayfarer

Vulwin has never truly belonged anywhere. His Fey blood marks him as different among humans, while his mortal upbringing leaves him an outsider to the hidden folk of the wild places. For years he wandered the forests and roads of the Region, earning coin as a scout, hunter, and occasional guide. Quiet and watchful, Vulwin trusts his bow more than most people. He joined Bjorn’s company after encountering strange movements in the woods that reminded him of old tales best left forgotten.

Vulwin is Fey Blood with the Outsider background. He possesses Wits 1, Agility 1, Combat 2, and Toughness 3. He moves 4″ with a +3″ dash and begins the campaign with 2 experience points. His equipment consists of a quality longbow, a dagger, and light armor.

Lyra Swiftgale

The youngest daughter of a minor noble family in Nordscale, Lyra grew tired of courtly expectations and endless discussions of politics. Determined to prove herself through deeds rather than birthright, she took up arms and left home in search of adventure. Though accustomed to privilege, she possesses a courageous streak that often places her in danger before caution can intervene. Lyra sees the company as an opportunity to forge a name worthy of song and story.

Lyra is a Human of Noble background. She possesses Speech 1, Agility 1, Combat 2, Toughness 3, and Will 1. She moves 6″ with a +3″ dash and begins the campaign with 2 experience points. She is equipped with a fine short sword, partial armor, and a shield.

Brandis the Oathbearer

Brandis descends from a long line of frontier warriors whose deeds are remembered in family stories and weathered grave markers across the Region. Raised to honor the promises of those who came before him, he believes the spirits of his ancestors continue to watch over their descendants. Before battle he recites the names of the honored dead and asks for their guidance. Brandis claims that in moments of great danger he can feel their presence steadying his hand and directing his strikes. He carries not only his sword, but the oaths of his bloodline, and will endure any hardship rather than see them broken.

Brandis is a Human with the Zealot background. He possesses Speech 1, Agility 1, Combat 2, Toughness 4, Will 1, and Luck 1. He moves 6″ with a +3″ dash and begins the campaign with 1 experience point. He carries a bastard sword, wears partial armor and a helmet, and possesses two tonics.

Greta of Dawnbreeze (Follower)

Greta spent most of her life as a farmer in the village of Dawnbreeze. When raiders threatened her home several seasons ago, she discovered a stubborn bravery she never knew she possessed. Refusing to remain behind while others risked their lives, she volunteered to accompany Bjorn’s company. Though lacking formal training, Greta’s determination often carries her through situations that would make seasoned warriors hesitate.

Greta is a Human with the Brave Villager background. She possesses Speech 1, Agility 1, Combat 1, and Toughness 1. She moves 4″ with a +3″ dash and carries a hand axe.

Talbot the Watchman (Follower)

Talbot served in the local militia for years, patrolling roads and keeping peace between isolated settlements. His steady hand with a bow and practical nature made him a reliable if unremarkable soldier. With tensions rising across the Region and rumors of Snakefolk expansion spreading through the frontier, Talbot chose to leave routine service behind and join Bjorn’s band. Someone, he reasons, needs to keep an eye on the horizon before trouble arrives at the gates.

Talbot is a Human with the Militia Man background. He possesses Speech 1, Agility 1, Combat 1, and Toughness 1. He moves 4″ with a +3″ dash and is equipped with a self-bow, a dagger, and light armor.

Next update will include information about The Region.

Keep on gaming!