A deity or other such powerful being asks you to become its agent on earth, if you choose to accept The deity gives the character an unusual pet as a gift. (work with your DM to determine details)
Rivalry: A rival to you or your family cause upheaval forcing you to relocate possibly to a far distant land. (Work with your DM to detirmine the details)
In a dark alley at night, you are attacked by thugs. Before they can take anything, they turn white with terror and run away. You discover that you have a guardian ghost, a wise, benign spirit who accompanies you (work with your DM to determine details)