Dnd Next Character Creation: Carric Ilphelkiir - Wood Elf Operative

Mechanical Objectives:

Playing with the rogue class, I wanted to build a character that could be useful to the group (dealing with locks, handling traps, lying to guards) and be capable while scouting ahead, or otherwise sneaking around solo of dropping individual targets or otherwise sowing discord.

Thematic Objectives: 

I really fell in love with the spy background, and wanted to build a character that could make good use of the disguise kit. The wood elf, with shortbow weapon training and wood elf grace, complements the rogue class. Having the Magic User specialization not only gives him access to handy utility spells, but also means he can pass as a high elf if need be.

Attributes:

 I used the standard array included in the playtest materials, and used every opportunity I could get to boost dexterity. At level 4, he'll be able to boost it a final time to get 18 dexterity. Relying on finesse weapons and the rogue trained skill bonuses let leave both strength and charisma at the low end of the spectrum (hopefully there won't be any call to scale a cliff)

Strength 8
Dexterity 17
Constitution 13
Intelligence 14
Wisdom 12
Charisma 10

Hit Points: 7
Hit Dice 1d6
AC 14
Initiative +3
Speed 35

Attacks

Kind of concerned about the lack of bludgeoning or slashing damage - it may be worth picking up a sling, just in case there are necromancers around.

Sneak Attack Damage +2d6
Short Sword +5 1d6 Piercing
Short Bow +5 1d8 Piercing

Skills

I wasn't sure what happens when the multi-background thief ends up with the same skill twice. I put Sleight of Hand in tentatively until that could get sorted.

Skill Mastery 10
Sneak +6
Open Locks +6
Find & Disarm Traps +6
Bluff +6
Spot +6
(Sleight of Hand +6?)

Race: Wood Elf

When I was looking at the difference between Wood Elves and High Elves, it struck me that the Magic User specialty and a reasonable intelligence stat would make the difference between the two basically a cultural/aesthetic one. Perfect for someone with a disguise kit.

Low-light vision: 30 feet
Training: Shortbow, Longbow, Longsword
Advantage: Perception Checks
Immunities: Charm, Sleep
Trance - 4 hour meditation
Language: common, elven
Hide in light foliage, nature

Class: Rogue

I went with the thief scheme for the improvements to hiding and the skills associated with the background. In the woods, thief sneaking will be redundant with wood elf grace, but it'll be nice in the city or dungeon to have.

Language: Thief's Cant
Thief Sneaking - Hide while Lightly Obscured

Specialty: Magic User

This is something i'm excited about for this character. Being able to employ mage hand and ghost sound opens up a number of options when dealing with potentially dangerous traps or distracting guards. The 3rd level familiar as a potential scout is icing on the cake.

Mage Hand
Ghost Sound

Equipment

I fudged the numbers on these a little bit with regards to some of the "fluff" items that don't have explicit prices, but this should provide everything you need to get into places you aren't supposed to be.

Leather Armor
Shortbow
Shortsword
Thief's tools
Disguise Kit
Small Steel Mirror
Healing Kit
Adventurer's Kit
Caltrops
20 Arrows
Traveller's Clothes
Breeches with Secret Pocket
Belt Pouch
Satchel with Secret Compartment
Ink
Ink Quill
10 Sheets Vellum
18 gold