A strange woman gives you an ornate box sealed with wax and hoarsely whispers "It's up to you now, keep it safe, keep it from ... them." It is not until the woman drops dead at the character's feet that the dagger in her back becomes obvious.
Pickpocket: During your adolescence your family fell on hard times forcing you to turn to petty theft and other criminal activities involving you with criminal organisations.
During your early adulthood you saved someone's life. This person becomes your companion. (work with your DM to determine details) Roll 1d10 on a 9-10 your companion falls in love with you.