Relic Hunter
The less-than-wholely-legal equivalent of archeologists, relic hunters explore and plunder dwarven ruins of artifacts that can sell for precious coin.
Career
Qualifications
Successful relic hunters find that the profession is more demanding mentally than physically. Knowledge of dwarven runes as well as the observational skills to pick out whatever traps are suredly waiting within the ruins have been what made the difference between life and death for many a hunter.
Career Progression
While relic hunters are not legally permitted to explore the ruins, it is possible for them to transition into more legitimate means of exploration. This is usually possible for hunters who demonstrate actual archeological habits such as documenting their findings instead of simply pilfering whatever shiny objects aren't nailed down. Having contacts within the local Scholar Guild also doesn't hurt.
Payment & Reimbursement
Relic hunters typically only receive payment for selling off whatever they find within the ruins the explore.
The exact price for their efforts vary depending on their buyer. Most hunters operate through a broker who has a connection to willing customers, however, this often leads to a lower profit than selling directly to a buyer.
Perception
Purpose
Relic hunters arose in no small part for those desperate enough for money to try and make a living as the right haul can pay better than a week's labor in the field.
On the other side of things, hunters provide a useful means to circumvent the church's monopoly of authority over the ruins and the historical artifcats held within.
Social Status
Officially, relic hunters are looked upon well due to their activities not being legal.
In some circles, though, an accomplished hunter can garner respect for their success. Many tales make the rounds in taverns of explorers navigating traps and other dangers before striking a fortune in what they manage to claim from the ruins.
Demographics
Most relic hunters come form poor backgrounds where the need for funds is most likely to outweigh the legal and potentially mortal daners associated with the occupation.
Aspiring scholars are also not unheard of amongst the hunters as the experience can lead to being alowed membership into the guild.
Operations
Dangers & Hazards
As their activities are not sanctioned by the church, who has primary authority over the ruins, hunters can face significant legal troubles should they be caught in the act.
There is also the dangers posed by the ruins themselves. Many a hunter have been lost due to someone failing to notice a dwarven trap until it was too late.
Finally, hunters are best to be wary of their peers. The profession often draws those desperate for coin and not all are above capitalizng on another's efforts, even by force if necessary.
Alternative Names
Ruin Rats
Type
Illicit
Legality
Relic hunters are not legally allowed to explore dwarven ruins as such are the recognized as falling under the perview of the Church of Rosaris.
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