This concept refers to a specific character archetype and setting combination within the tabletop role-playing game, Changeling: The Lost. It describes an individual, likely a hobgoblin, who focuses on training or managing Changelings who have escaped from the fae realm. This figure could be an authority within a freehold, responsible for teaching new Changelings about the mortal world, or perhaps a rogue element, exploiting escaped fae-touched for personal gain. An example would be a seasoned hobgoblin within a freehold who instructs young Changelings on the Wyrd, kiths, and their place in the mortal world.
The importance of such a character lies in their potential to shape the experiences of newly escaped Changelings. They provide guidance, instruction, and potentially, protection from the dangers of both the mortal world and the Fae. Historically, this role could be viewed as a parallel to mentors or guardians who assist individuals transitioning into unfamiliar environments, helping them navigate challenges and understand new realities. The “trainer” aspect emphasizes a structured approach to integration or exploitation, depending on the individual’s motivations.
