Lord Christian D'Elagante's page

Offense
BAB: +7/+2
Range: +10/+5
Melee: +7/+2
Finesse Weapons +10/+5 (+7 BAB +3 Dex)

Bastard Sword
Attack: 1d20 +12 (+7 BAB +0 Str +3 Dex +0 Magic +1 Focus +1 Mstwk)
Damage: 1d10 +3 (+3 Dex +0 Str) Crit: 19-20x2

Naginata
Attack: 1d20 +7 (+7 BAB +0 Str +0 Dex +0 Magic)
Damage: 1d8 +0 (+0 Str) Crit: 20x4 (Reach)

Defense
HP: 72 (6d10 +1 Con +1 Favored Class)12,12,12,12,8,8,8

AC: 20 (10 Base +3 Dex +4 Armor +0 Natural Armor +0 Deflection +0 Magical +2 Dodge +1 Shield)

Touch: 15 (10 Base +3 Dex +0 Armor +0 Natural Armor +0 Deflection +0 Magical +2 Dodge +0 Shield)

Flat-Footed: 14 (10 Base +0 Dex +4 Armor +0 Natural Armor +0 Deflection +0 Magical +0 Dodge +0 Shield)

Mithril Chain Shirt (+4 Armor, +0 Magical, +6 Max Dex, 0 Armor Check, 10% Spell Fail, 30 feet move, 10 lbs.)
Darkwood Buckler (+1 Shield, +0 Magical, -- Max Dex, 0 Armor Check, 5% Spell Fail, 2.5 lbs.)

CMB: +10 (+7 BAB +0 Str +3 Dex)
CMD: 20 (10 Base +7 BAB +0 Str +3 Dex)

Saves
Fort: +6 (+5 Base +1 Con)
Refl: +5 (+2 Base +3 Dex)
Will: +4 (+2 Base +1 Wis) +1 Trait

Feats:
Bonus:Weapon Focus: Heavy Blades (Bastard Sword)
Natural Ruler: Charisma
Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Bastard Sword
Slashing Grace
Dynasty Founder
Leadership SCORE:19
Feat Tax: Agile Maneuvers, Combat Expertise, Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, Power Attack

Chain Challenge 9th
Osyluth Guile 11th

Cavalier
Weapon and Armor Proficiency:
Daring champions are proficient with all simple and martial weapons, light and medium armor, and bucklers.

Challenge: 3/day +7 damage
Once per day, a cavalier can challenge a foe to combat. As a swift action, the cavalier chooses one target within sight to challenge. The cavalier's melee attacks deal extra damage whenever the attacks are made against the target of his challenge. This extra damage is equal to the cavalier's level. The cavalier can use this ability once per day at 1st level, plus one additional time per day for every three levels beyond 1st, to a maximum of seven times per day at 19th level. Challenging a foe requires much of the cavalier's concentration. The cavalier takes a –2 penalty to his Armor Class, except against attacks made by the target of his challenge. The challenge remains in effect until the target is dead or unconscious or until the combat ends. Each cavalier's challenge also includes another effect which is listed in the section describing the cavalier's order.

Champion’s Finesse (Ex)
At 1st level, a daring champion gains the benefits of the Weapon Finesse feat with light or one-handed piercing melee weapons, and he can use Charisma in place of Intelligence for the purpose of combat feats prerequisites. A daring champion also counts as having the Weapon Finesse feat for the purpose of meeting feat requirements.
This ability replaces mount.

Order of the Dragon:
Edicts:
The cavalier must remain loyal to his allies and must always work to further the aims of the group. He must protect his allies from harm and defend their honor when called into doubt.
Challenge: +2 attack for allies
Whenever an order of the dragon cavalier issues a challenge, his allies receive a +1 circumstance bonus on melee attack rolls against the target of his challenge whenever he is threatening the target. This bonus increases by +1 for every four levels the cavalier possesses.
Skills:
An order of the dragon cavalier adds Perception (Wis) and Survival (Wis) to his list of class skills. In addition, whenever an order of the dragon cavalier uses Survival to provide food and water for his allies or to protect his allies from harsh weather, he receives a bonus on the check equal to 1/2 his cavalier level (minimum +1).
Aid Allies:
At 2nd level, whenever an order of the dragon cavalier uses the aid another action to assist one of his allies, the ally receives a +3 bonus to his armor class, attack roll, saving throw, or skill check. At 8th level, and every six levels thereafter, this bonus increases by an additional +1.
Strategy (Ex):
At 8th level, the cavalier can spend a standard action to grant one of a number of bonuses to all allies within 30 feet (including himself ). The allies must be able to see or hear the cavalier to receive this bonus. The cavalier can grant a +2 dodge bonus to AC for 1 round, a +2 morale bonus on all attack rolls for 1 round, or the ability to move up to their speed as an immediate action once. The cavalier can grant a different bonus to each ally within range, but allies can only benefit from this ability once per combat.
Act as One (Ex):
At 15th level, the cavalier can spend a standard action to move up to his speed and make a melee attack. All allies within 30 feet can also move up to their speed and make a melee attack as an immediate action. This movement and attack can be made as a charge if the movement qualifies. All attacks are made at a +2 bonus (this stacks with the bonus from a charge) and all participants receive a +2 dodge bonus to their AC for 1 round. A cavalier can use this ability once per combat.

Tactician: (Precise Strike 2/Day for 6 rounds)
At 1st level, a cavalier receives a teamwork feat as a bonus feat. He must meet the prerequisites for this feat. As a standard action, the cavalier can grant this feat to all allies within 30 feet who can see and hear him. Allies retain the use of this bonus feat for 3 rounds plus 1 round for every two levels the cavalier possesses. Allies do not need to meet the prerequisites of these bonus feats. The cavalier can use this ability once per day at 1st level, plus one additional time per day at 5th level and for every 5 levels thereafter.
Benefit: Whenever you and an ally who also has this feat are flanking the same the creature, you deal an additional 1d6 points of precision damage with each successful melee attack. This bonus damage stacks with other sources of precision damage, such as sneak attack. This bonus damage is not multiplied on a critical hit.

Nimble: +2
At 3rd level, a daring champion gains a +1 dodge bonus to AC when wearing light or no armor and carrying no more than a light load. Anything that causes the daring champion to lose his Dexterity bonus to AC also causes him to lose this dodge bonus. This bonus increases by 1 for every 4 levels beyond 3rd (to a maximum of +5 at 19th level).

Panache and Deeds: Panache Points: 5
At 4th level, a daring champion gains the swashbuckler’s panache class feature, along with the following swashbuckler deeds: dodging panache, precise strike, and swashbuckler initiative.
---Dodging Panache (Ex): +5ac
At 1st level, when an opponent attempts a melee attack against the swashbuckler, the swashbuckler can as an immediate action spend 1 panache point to move 5 feet; doing so grants the swashbuckler a dodge bonus to AC equal to her Charisma modifier (minimum 0) against the triggering attack. This movement doesn’t negate the attack, which is still resolved as if the swashbuckler had not moved from the original square. This movement is not a 5-foot step; it provokes attacks of opportunity from creatures other than the one who triggered this deed. The swashbuckler can only perform this deed while wearing light or no armor, and while carrying no heavier than a light load.
---Precise Strike (Ex): +7 Damage
At 3rd level, while she has at least 1 panache point, a swashbuckler gains the ability to strike precisely with a light or one-handed piercing melee weapon (though not natural weapon attacks), adding her swashbuckler level to the damage dealt. To use this deed, a swashbuckler cannot attack with a weapon in her other hand or use a shield other than a buckler. She can even use this ability with thrown light or one-handed piercing melee weapons, so long as the target is within 30 feet of her. Any creature that is immune to sneak attacks is immune to the additional damage granted by precise strike, and any item or ability that protects a creature from critical hits also protects a creature from the additional damage of a precise strike. This additional damage is precision damage, and isn’t multiplied on a critical hit. As a swift action, a swashbuckler can spend 1 panache point to double her precise strike’s damage bonus on the next attack. This benefit must be used before the end of her turn, or it is lost. This deed’s cost cannot be reduced by any ability or effect that reduces the amount of panache points a deed costs (such as the Signature Deed feat).
---Swashbuckler Initiative (Ex):
At 3rd level, while the swashbuckler has at least 1 panache point, she gains a +2 bonus on initiative checks. In addition, if she has the Quick Draw feat, her hands are free and unrestrained, and she has any single light or one-handed piercing melee weapon that isn’t hidden, she can draw that weapon as part of the initiative check.

Advanced Deeds:
At 11th level, a daring champion gains the following swashbuckler deeds: superior feint, targeted strike, subtle blade, and dizzying defense.
Champion’s Weapon Mastery:

Banner: +2 morale bonus save vs. fear and a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls made as part of a charge
At 5th level, a cavalier’s banner becomes a symbol of inspiration to his allies and companions. As long as the cavalier’s banner is clearly visible, all allies within 60 feet receive a +2 morale bonus on saving throws against fear and a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls made as part of a charge. At 10th level, and every five levels thereafter, these bonuses increase by +1. The banner must be at least Small or larger and must be carried or displayed by the cavalier or his mount to function.

At 20th level, when a daring champion threatens a critical hit with a light or one-handed piercing melee weapon, that critical is automatically confirmed. Furthermore, the critical modifier of those weapons increases by 1 (×2 becomes ×3, for example).

Skills: 56 Cavalier:4 +1 Int +1 Human +2 Background:8

The cavalier’s class skills are Bluff (Cha), Climb (Str), Craft (Int), Diplomacy (Cha), Handle Animal (Cha), Intimidate (Cha),Perception (Wis), Profession (Wis), Ride (Dex), Sense Motive (Wis),Survival (Wis), and Swim (Str).

Acrobatics: +3 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +3 Dex)
Appraise: +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Bluff: +15 (+7 Ranks +3 Class Skill +5 Cha)
Climb: +0 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +0 Str)
Craft: +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Craft: +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Diplomacy: +16 (+7 Ranks +3 Class Skill +5 Cha +1 Trait)
Disable Device: +3 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +3 Dex)
Disguise: +5 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +5 Cha)
Escape Artist: +3 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +3 Dex)
Fly: +3 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +3 Dex)
Handle Animal: +9 (+1 Ranks +3 Class Skill +5 Cha)
Heal: +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Wis)
Intimidate: +9 (+1 Ranks +3 Class Skill +5 Cha)
Knowledge (arcana): +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Knowledge (dungeoneering): +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Knowledge (engineering): +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Knowledge (geography): +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Knowledge (history): +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Knowledge (local): +4 (+3 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Knowledge (nature): +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Knowledge (nobility): +11 (+7 Ranks +3 Class Skill +1 Int) BG:4
Knowledge (planes): +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Knowledge (religion): +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Linguistics: +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Perception: +11 (+7 Ranks +3 Class Skill +1 Wis)
Perform: Oratory +13 (+7 Rank +0 Class Skill +5 Cha +1 Trait)
Profession: Soldier +11 (+7 Rank +3 Class Skill +1 Wis) BG:4
Ride: +9 (+1 Ranks +3 Class Skill +3 Dex +2 Saddle)
Sense Motive: +5 (+1 Ranks +3 Class Skill +1 Wis)
Sleight of Hand: +3 (+0 Ranks + 0 Class Skill +3 Dex)
Spell craft: +1 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +1 Int)
Stealth: +3 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +3 Dex)
Survival: +10 (+6 Ranks +3 Class Skill +1 Wis)
Swim: +0 (+0 Ranks +0 Class Skill +0 Str)
Use Magic Device: +5 (+0 Rank +0 Class Skill +5 Cha)

Languages:
Common, Elven

Racial:
Human characters gain a +2 racial bonus to one ability score (CHA) of their choice at creation to represent their varied nature.
Size: Humans are Medium creatures and thus receive no bonuses or penalties due to their size.
Base Speed: Humans have a base speed of 30 feet.
Languages: Humans begin play speaking Common. Humans with high Intelligence scores can choose any languages they want (except secret languages, such as Druidic). See the Linguistics skill page for more information about these languages.
Bonus Feat: Humans select one extra feat at 1st level.
Skilled: Humans gain an additional skill rank at first level and one additional rank whenever they gain a level.

Weapons/Armor Proficiency
all simple weapons and martial weapons.
handaxe, short sword, and weapons from the close fighter weapon group.
All types of armor (heavy, light, and medium) and with shields (except tower shields).

Traits:
Voice of Velvet:
You gain a +1 trait bonus on Diplomacy and Perform (oratory) checks.

Bastard:
You take a –1 penalty on all Charisma-based skill checks made when dealing with members of nobility but gain a +1 trait bonus on Will saves as a result of your stubbornness and individuality. (The penalty aspect of this trait is removed if you ever manage to establish yourself as a true noble.)

Equipment:
Strength: 11+1 for Masterwork Backpack
Light: 43 lbs. or less
Medium: 44-86 lbs. (Max Dex +3, Skill Checks –3, Speed: 15 ft., Run ×4)
Heavy: 87-130 lbs. (Max Dex +1, Skill Checks –6, Speed: 15 ft., Run ×3)
Lift: 130
Drag: 650

Masterwork Bastard Sword (6) 335g
Naginata (9) 35gp
Darkwood Buckler (2.5) 203g
Mithril Chain Shirt (10) 1100g
Belt of Incredible Dexterity +2 (-) 4000g
Signet Ring, Rogarvia (-) 5g Hanging around his neck
Signet Ring, Courtenay (-) 5g
Signet Ring, Chavis (-) 5g

Masterwork Back Pack (4) 50g
Compass (.5) 10g
Canteen (.5) 2g
Survival Kit (4) 5g
Carrying: 36.5
Total Cost 5750g

**Horse and Wagon**
Bedroll (5) 1s
Blanket (3) 5s
Gear Maintenance Kit (2) 5g
Grooming Kit (2) 5g
Shaving Kit (.5) 15g
Signal Horn (1) 1g
Chair Folding (10) 2g
Cot (30) 1g
Tent Small (20) 10g
Cooking Kit (16) 3g
Explorers Outfit (8) 10g
Feed 9/Days (90) 35c
Rations 14/Days (14) 7g
Riding Kit, Military Saddle (59) 26g
Riding Horse 75g
Wagon 50g
Carrying: 260.5
Cost 210gp, 9sp, 5cp

MONEY
PP:0
GP:39
SP:0
CP:5

Magical Items:
Potion of Cure Moderate Wounds.
Alchemist's Fire flask
Headband of Alluring Charisma +2

***Wanted Items***
Diadem of Inspiring rule
Ring of the Ecclesiarch

Physical Description:
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 158
Eye color: Green
Hair color: Black
Skin: Tanned, Heavily
Haircut: Short
Build: Thin and Wiry
Back Ground:
It was 4684 and Lord Etienne Courtenay was every bit as elegant as his namesake. Silks, feathers, satin, and lace at special dispensation was di rigeur for this fancy lad. Born to the exiled House of Courtenay from Galt, he was well-known at Urzen Rogarvia's Court, and dressed appropriately as one of the king's lovers. He lived a life of excess, and was quite content to be a plaything for the royalty, even gaining proper title in exchange for his talented favors.
But the lives of the noble class are fraught with politics, and Etienne was the bearer of Courtenay blood. In an effort to bring the House closer to the throne, a marriage was arranged. Etienne was furious, and made it well known that he wanted nothing to do with a girl from the Rogarvian line. His tantrums could not halt the political duties of his lineage and so, he was wed. The consummation was laughable with both ready to play the bride. Etienne performed his duty, disgusted, swore to never do so again. Fortunately, the Lady Courtenay was planted with the fruit of his labor that night. When the child was birthed, it was a boy, and Etienne was summoned from Urzen's chamber to give the name. Call it Foufou la chou, he laughed, dismissing the babe. Etienne's sister, attending at the bedside, intervened. Etienne! At least give the child a proper name! Etienne turned and left the room but ran into the night soil boy, a young Courtenay servant. The lord looked at him and asked what is your name boy...the reply was soft and confused...Christian sir...With a smug look Christian it is then, he called on his way out the door. And so, Christian Courtenay of House Rogarvia came into the world. Since the father wanted nothing to do with his child, Christian's mother made sure that he had a proper name. Dragomir Rogarvia of House Rogarvia.
His mother did the best she could in raising him as a gentlemen but there was still his father blood running in his veins. He took to donning the delicate clothing of a dandy and not limiting himself in terms of the love of one women. The Patriarch of House Courtenay had hoped for a strong line from his grandson, but saw that he was no better than Etienne.
Christian’s uncle the Lord Stavros Rogarvia despised Etienne with a fiery passion. The disgrace that was force on his family line was unbearable even to strengthen political ties. Lord Stavros decided to remove that burden with an honor duel. Etienne was trapped, if he did not fight the duel he would lose his status in court and if he did fight the duel he would lose his life. Although Etienne loved the finer things, he loved his life even more. So in the middle of the night he fled with as much wealth as he could carry. He was never heard from again. Rumors have it he tried to sleep his way into the Ustalav court, but those are just rumors or are they.
Lord Stavros was not content with running Etienne out of town, he wanted to run him through. His anger grew and he took it out on Christian at any opportunity he got. His mother’s protection was the only thing keeping Christian alive. The years passed by and Christian grew into a fine young man. His good looks and charm got him into much trouble and it also got him out of trouble on just as many occasions. Now Lord Stavros’ anger grew to an obsession with the young lord. Insults and bullying were his way of dealing with Christian. Some of his favorites were to call him "Mister Fancy Pants" or to say something along the lines of you look so elegant tonight. Christian’s tolerance of his uncle's anger was legendary and drove the Rogarvian Lord to even greater hatred.
Now Christian was to be trained as a gentleman and so he went to school. History and languages were his forte. He thought the knowledge of the past would help him to better deal with the present. He enjoyed the Elven language as it was a way for him to swoon the women of the court. Then came the time to be a man as his grandfather would say. He learned to ride a horse, the art of warfare, and diplomacy. The call of a cavalier was there in his blood for he excelled at his training, but he could not place his heart to any ideals that sat right with his soul. During all this training it was widely known that Christian was running around the kingdom enjoying himself whenever, wherever and with whomever he please. He was loved by the locals and of course by the ladies. There were times when his escapades would get him into fights, mostly over a girl. He would try his luck at the diplomatic route but most times it ended up with him in a fight.
Christian was soon to turn thirteen and would no longer be afforded the luxury of a mother’s protection. His uncle had waited for this time to come. His attempts to have Christian removed from the house had failed time and time again. His mother foresaw that her younger brother would make another attempt to get rid of her son. To secured his place in the Rogarvian family she made arrangements with her father to make Christian heir apparent. The announcement would be made at his birthday celebration dinner.
The night came and Lord Stavros was celebrating heavily and his insults grew more frequent and louder as the night went on. When the announcement was made, Lord Stavros was livid. His face was bright red and he stood up. What have you done!!! You gave him my birth right! You treacherous little cuss you, I will kill you for this. Christian had sat there listening to his uncle go on about his mother and he did not like it one bit. He was scared of his uncle and rightfully so. This man could kill him quickly if he decided to do so. His mother who had protected him his whole life is now in need of protecting. He found that he wanted to protect her and it was not just her but all the people in attendance at this dinner. They did not deserve to be witness to such behavior and it needed to stop now. He stood up slowly and looked at his uncle. Christian was not sure what he should do but he needed to do something. He had felt that tonight would be an eventful night. His uncle stood up tall and sneered down at him. Christian steadied himself and in a soft voice...My mother the Lady Rogarvia has done nothing to you, uncle. She has done nothing but put herself in front of me to protect her son from your anger. An anger that has gotten the better of you over the years. An anger that has made you the butt of more jokes than I can recall. You should dance with me good sir as the Lady Rogarvia is way out of your league.Christian was as surprised as everyone else at the words that rolled out of his mouth. The veins on his uncles head were huge. Across the table from Christian was his uncle in another fit of anger, so angry was he that he drew his rapier before he even thought the better of it. Standing there pointing it at Christian with his anger for all to see.Very well then, I will just have to get rid of you right now. Christian looked at his uncle and with a genuine smile on his face. You tilt uncle...when you should have withdrawn. Lord Stavros, it is known that you wield a rapier forge by the Smoke Stone Weapon Masters Guild. A blade of forty-seven inches, your reach with such a weapon would be about ninety inches. Even with a quick lunge you could not reach me on this side of the table which is about ten feet from you, giving me about two feet or so of safety. Meaning I am protected from you, safe enough that I can do this. With very little effort, very little movement, Christian raised a hand and with a quick snap of his fingers. I on the other hand have you at a severe disadvantage. You will apologize to my mother and the rest of these fine folk here. The sound of weapons coming free as the guards all came to the aid of the heir apparent. Lord Stavros stared hard at Christian for a very long time. So long that time itself seemed to stand still until the disgraced Lord dropped his rapier on the table with a long loud clank of metal hitting plates. He turned and slowly walked towards the door. Christian watches as he goes and he seems to be waiting for the right moment to continue his conversation with his uncle. Just as the Lord Stavros reaches the doors and was about to push them open, Christian made his last play on words. Speaking with a voice filled with authority and loud enough to carry to all corners of the room. Oh and one thing more uncle. If you ever threaten my mother again, I will make sure that you get that honor duel you have been wanting all these years. You are a little long in the tooth uncle and you might not like the outcome.The Lord's footsteps are drowned out as the King burst out in laughter. Soon others join in and then the doors close on the departing nobleman.
Lord Stavros is seen less and less over the next few weeks. When people would talk with him they would get a cold, short responses. Not many people cared about the disgraced Lord much, but gossip does spread and people were wondering if the new heir might have pushed the angry lord too far. Christian wanted to push him to the point that he did act. This was so that he could deal with his uncle and be done with this feud. He has been training all of his life and he desperately needed to prove himself.
There came a time when christian decided to relax his guard a bit and go out for a drink or four. He went to one of his favored taverns, the Vulgar Unicorn. It was here that he felt comfortable. Around him were common folk and noble alike, just enjoying the good times of each others company. The Bards were decent enough but then again not many people came here for the music. It was a place to get away from the daily grind of life. To some it was an escape from the rigors of being a noble and for others it was a place to just enjoy what you have worked so hard to earn. Christian was well known here and it came as no surprise when the drinks started to show up without him ordering them. One such drink came by with a guest. A beautiful women of maybe eighteen winters. She was attractive in all the right ways.
It did not take long for the two wanting to enjoy each others company beyond words. Christian was used to such occurrences, his last name was gold...even for one of his age. The time to retire to a more private setting was over due and it came as no surprise when she ask him to walk her home. Christian being the gallant gentleman that he was insisted on doing such a thing and of course he brought along a basket of late night snacks with a nice bottle of wine. He did so love the set up at the Vulgar Unicorn, they knew how to take care of the customer. As they walked and talked, Christian found out that she was a newly released apprentice of a local mage of minor reputation. She has found that making a living as a mage was very difficult and hard to make ends meet. She was doing her best and had just taken an offered job that would set her up for many months if not a year or more. She seemed to be happy but a bit unsure..of what he was not certain. When they came to what he thought to be her home, he was surprised. It was an old ferry boat house that was being refurbished. She explained that she had acquired the property while being an apprentice. Doing scribe work on the side had paid her enough gold to buy this run down building. The outside left much to be desired but the inside was just starting to see the renewed life of a hard work paying off. It was nice to say the least. The moment came for the two to get better acquainted when a noise came from behind them, he turned to see what was making the noise. He saw two men come out of the shadows blocking the exit.
The first was a tall male human of Ulfen blood with short greasy cropped hair and a full beard. He was wielding a large ax in his hands. The other was also a male but of an Eastern decent. He carried a long weapon Christian had never seen before. A pole weapon with a curved blade at the top. He was slowly turning his head towards his guest for the night. Look I might be a Courtenay but I am not my father. I like my women to be...well....women. He finished his turn, facing the woman and his smile fades as he understand what is going on. He had been played and marked for something that Christian will not like at all. Oh really. And I was so looking forward to waking up next to you in the morning. The woman looks shocked and confused as she struggles to understand what Christian stated. What did you say, you are of Courtenay blood and not Rogarvian?
Any remark Christian might have wanted to make were drowned out as the large human came crashing in with a loud bellow that shook the windows in their frames. His ax came slashing across from left to right. Christian dropping to his knees as the ax cuts the air just above his head. Punching out with his fist at the one object now in his line of sight. Christian misses the target but just barley as the butt of the ax comes down close to his head. Rolling to his feat and away from combat, Christian is able to draw his weapon and take stock of what he is involved in. The woman is standing a few feet away to his left under the second floor balcony. The large man whom Christian referred to as Mr. Ugly was getting his bearings again and charging straight at him. The man from the east was calmly walking around to his right. They were surrounding him, this was no simple robbery, they meant to kill him.
Mr Ugly charges in bellowing something incoherent. The over head chop comes crashing down into the cross beam of the second floor balcony. Christian is backing up wondering what he can do to save his own life. His back hits something solid. Thinking it is the mage he quickly jumps forward and to his right. Right into the eastern man who somehow close the distance. His speed was incredible. Both men were shocked and surprised as they collide into each other. Christian is inside the eastern mans reach and is able to get his rapier up and stabs at him in the lower gut scoring a minor hit. As the eastern man tries to back out and use his weapon at a distance, Christian is able to score another hit. Blood is now freely flowing from the eastern man. Mr ugly is screaming mad as he tries to pull his weapon free of the wooden beam as the mage is in the process of casting a spell. This is not looking good for Christian. The eastern man tries to slash at him from a distance but misses his target as Christian step up inside his reach. This time his rapier hits true and the eastern man falls back dropping his weapon and taking along with him Christian's rapier. Now unarmed and with a huge man finally free from the cross beam. Everything turns bright white and then he can only see spots. The light fades after a brief second or two but that is enough to put him off his mark. Stumbling backwards a few step to just separate himself from the rage of the big man, he hears something that can only be really bad...at least for him that is. The Ulfen was using words that Christian just could not understand. Mr Ugly's anger seemed to be at its peak until the light got bright, oh did he ever get mad. He swung his ax in a upward swing trying to gut Christian from navel to chin. Fortunately Christian was just a few steps away, unfortunate for him was the second floor balcony. The ax bite deep into the already damage cross beam. The Balcony came crashing down on Christian. The mage seeing that her spell worked and her target was disorganized, started to cast another spell. She was never able to get it off as the huge man collapsed the balcony on top of herself and Christian. The cross beam came crashing down with the balcony on top of her pinning her under broken wood beams. Mr Ugly calms himself and takes stock of what he has done, seeing the two people trapped under the structure makes him smile. Ha. That was easier that I thought. You were less of a challenge than I was told. Mr. Ugly walks over and takes a lamp off the wall and walks back to where Christian and the mage are trapped under the collapsed balcony. He looks around for the eastern man. The little guy ran away, I did not like him anyway. And that witch, she was just never up to the task. I will collected their part of the payment as well. Not a bad days work. He throws the lamp on top of the debris and the fragile glass shatters. It hits, spilling oil and flames all over the wood. Within moments it is ablaze and Mr Ugly laughs as he walks away.
Trying desperately to figure a way out of this death trap, Christian struggles to break free. His struggles are rewarded as he feels something under his left arm. He is able to free his arm with the object. It is the pole weapon the eastern man wielded. Bracing the weapon under the beam and over his legs he is able to leverage the weight off of his legs and pull himself out from under the flaming wood. Standing up and scanning the room to find a way out of the fire, he sees the female mage trapped as well. Freeing her from the wood took less time then he thought it would since he had a way to lift the wood off of her without burning himself. Christian is thinking how wonderful this weapon is when he hears the building groan in protest. He does not have much time left before the building will collapse. Seeing no real way out of the building, he drags the unconscious women towards the back where the ferry is stored. Laying her down, he finds a piece of the crossbeam and drags it to the back by the dock. Pushing it into the water and then laying the women across the beam, christian takes another look around to make sure this is his best coarse of action. Being fairly certain of his decision, he grabs his new pole weapon and drops down into the water. Cradling the women's head on his shoulder and pushes the crossbeam out into the river to float downstream away from the fire and Mr Ugly. What seemed like several hours latter, Christian directs them towards shore. He spends a night in the dark all alone and cold. He stays vigilant as he keeps watch for Mr.Ugly and also for the mage to wake up. She was hurt badly but she will recover in time. Just before the sun breaks the sky. The mage starts to stir. Christian lays the pole weapon across her throat in an attempt to negate and thought of verbally casting a spell. Feeling the cold metal on her skin, her eyes open wide with terror. Looking up the weapon towards the wielder, her face calms with the sight of Christian. It is you, good I am glad you made it out of there alive. Christian looks confused for a second then he starts to wonder what it is she means. What are you talking about, you were there to kill me just like the others. I did not think you would enjoy being cooked alive, so I pulled you out of the building that your friend put to the torch. I want answers. I have the money to get them from you one way or another. I prefer not to talk to a corpse but I will if it is necessary. Sitting back a bit with the weapon resting across his knees, Christian starts to interrogate the mage.
Who are you and who sent you after me. The mage is quick with the response which puts christian off a bit as he wonders if she rehearsed these responses or if she is willingly telling the truth. My name is Jasrella and I am a mage recently released from Master Evoker Parnell of the Burning Fist. I am sorry for what happened last night, I was told something that I am now realizing was not the truth. I know of you and what was said is not true. I was paid a large amount of gold to get rid of you but you are not the person I was told would be you.. She sighs a little.Look I was told that there was a distant cousin of House Rogarvia that has been bringing dishonor to the family for far too long and that he was plotting to take over the Rogarvian Royal line. I was given a description of you and what you would be wearing, this man made it seem like you were the devil all dressed up. He did not give me a name but he keep calling you Mr. Fancy Pants. When you spoke up about your father being a Courtenay, I knew who you were. We have never met but I have heard the stories of you and of your father. I then was able to put the pieces together. I was wrong to take the contract on you, I am sorry I never knew that you were the target of the contract. We were just supposed to frighten you into to leaving the kingdom. A look of disgust washes over Christian's face as he understands things now. His uncle wants him dead and will go to any length to get it.Who else is in on this plan to encourage me to leave. The mage looks up at him, sitting up taller and brushing herself off.
The only others I know of were the eastern man who does not talk much and the Ulfen. There is another target if we fail. He mentioned that if you were not willing to leave town that he would have to target another noble within the house. I am not sure who it is but I got the impression the she was of noble blood. Christian is shocked at what she is saying. The questions just start to flow one after another until he is satisfied that he knows all that he can from Jasrella. It is brought to light that he is wanted dead or scared into running away. This would allow his uncle to remain as steward of the family until Christian's Grandfather passes away. When that happens, if christian is not to be found or dead then the steward would take up the reins of the family. His mother is in danger now and christian has no way of knowing who it is that has accepted the contract to kill her.
Reeling with guilt and too many questions to think straight until it dawns on him. He wants to protect his mother at all cost, but to do that he will have to die. If he is dead then the title of Patriarch will revert to his uncle when the current patriarch passes away. If he is alive, then his mother is a target because of him. Christian hates to hurt his mother but in order to protect her he must die. Christian wonders when it was that he became so enamored with protecting his loved ones. He never meant any ill will towards them, except his uncle of course but now he is actively seeking ways to protect them from harm.
Christian helps the mage up, taking off his Courtenay signet ring and tosses it to the mage. Deliver this to your employer. Tell him that the barbarian tried to kill me and failed as I was still alive and pulling myself out from the burning building. You were able to pull yourself out and dispatched me before I could free myself completely. You took this ring as proof of the deed. If he asks about the eastern man, tell him that I injured him and he ran away. Collect you gold and try to enjoy your life without killing anyone. I can tell you that killing a person is hard and I am still trying to get over the fact that I killed that man. I have trained and trained but they can never trained you to get over your first kill. Jasrella stands up tall and starts to object to his words. Now wait a minute it was my Flare Burst spell that kept you alive. I do not need to be dismissed just like that. I helped you to survive and I need to help you stay alive... to make up for my poor choices. Christian looks at her with a genuine smile. I appreciate that you were able to see the error of your ways but I am a danger right now to anyone I am near. Go back and collect your gold and I will be on my way. The city is about three hours walk that way, you will get to the main road in about half that time going upstream. I wish you luck Lady Jasrella. Christian turns and starts to walk into the woods going in the opposite direction and away from his home, maybe never to return again.
Several weeks later Christian is taking his mid day break at a little inn along the main road just about two days out from the next town. A fragrance that is familiar to him is reintroduced to his senses. Even after days of hard travel and sleeping in barns and at times out in the open, his senses are still able to pick up that smell. So when Jasrella sits down next to him he is not surprised that she showed up. Fancy meeting you here of all places. Jasrella puts some coin on the bar and orders a drink and a plate of food. Christian looks at her from the side and recognizes a smile on her face. Ok, so how did you find me. Jasrella still smiling and simple states... There are not many of those weapons known around these parts. She points to his pole weapon. So it was a simple mater of time before someone saw a weapon like that. It did take longer than I had hoped, You are good at covering your tracks when you want to. [/b]They both drink the afternoon away together talking about the last few weeks as to what happened. So how much did my uncle pay you for my death...Jasrella does not miss a beat One hundred shiny gold crowns for you...wait that man was your uncle? Christian spits out his drink That cheap motherf..Sorry. I was thinking I was at least worth five hundred maybe even seven fifty, but only a hundred. Suddenly I am not feeling so well... Jasrella slides a ring over to Christian. This is yours. I did not need it after all. The corpse of the eastern man was located with your rapier next to him. That was all the proof my employ...your uncle needed. There is much morning going on in the city. You were well liked among the common folk and nobility alike. Christian takes the ring and returns it to the rightful place on his hand. It was time to heal the wounds of the past and they both enjoyed a heartfelt laugh. One of many the two will share over the years.
The time passed by and Christian had changed so much since that fateful night. He was growing into a handsome man. Much different than the boy he was just a year ago. The two friends started to hear some unsettling rumors....That the Rogarvia Royalty had mysteriously vanished. No traces left behind, they just were gone. What happened to his mother, his family? What was he to do? This was not the news he had wanted but he dare not return to the lands of his upbringing. He had no political might no military might to back up his claim. He had nothing left to him. Oh he knew people but he was thought to be dead and that would not help matters if he just showed up out of the blue to claim a throne that was his by claiming to be a dead boy the died over a year ago. No it was best if he continued on his way and earn his name. In time with some luck he may be able to do something but right now he needed to put some distance between him and home.
The two traveled the lands, traveling light and moving from town to town. They would hire on as caravan guards or a personal scribe if the need was great. Christian kept his name but never use his full name, always going by Christian. The two enjoyed each others company and came to respect one another. They also came to understand the needs of the other, It was a good relationship. They kept their personal feelings about each other to themselves, never wanting to cross that bridge that can never be undone.
In a little town that had only one tavern, the two were enjoying a meal and a drink after a long journey with a local merchant. The tavern was small and mostly filled with the locals. That was until the Lupers came in, as this is what the locals called them. The were a rowdy bunch but respectful of the tavern and the people there. Not a bunch of thugs. Jasrella and Christian looked at each other and both knew what the other was thinking. This could be a interesting night. The two kept to themselves until a a short man in his thirties came over to Jasrella and made a point to inject himself in between the two friends and try to buy Jasrella a drink. She polity refused and told him that she already had a drink. He continued to try to buy her a drink and again she politely refused informing him again that she already had a drink. Christian at this time was letting things go for he knew that Jasrella could take care of herself. The man introduced himself as Marcus Gothicus of Riversford and decided that she needed some personal time with him. She again said that she was not interested and this time informed him that he should stop his advances before he got hurt. Marcus placed his hand on her leg and smiled at her. She smiled right back as she watched him collapsed to the ground in pain. Rubbing the back of his head he started to curse at whomever hit him. He stood up looking at Christian face to face as he was sitting at the bar beside Jasrella. Do not look at me, I left you to your own devices,..that failed might I add. Christian chuckles at Marcus' expense. Looking past him to Jasrella Did you have to do that to him. She responds..He would not take no for an answer and therefore he deserved it. Marcus starts to speak up when a large round dough ball of a man stood up from the table where the Lupers were sitting, followed by several of the other occupants of that table. The man directly behind the first man was a little taller but just as round. Christian looks over at Jasrella. oh great, this is going to be fun.
The first man walks up to the two as Marcus scurries away to stand behind the pack. What is the meaning of this assault on one of my men. Christian could see the fires building up inside Jasrella and decided that it is best if he talks. My apologies sir, but your man was making unwanted advances towards the young lady here. The attack was a simple slap across the back of the head to let him know that she is not interested. Christian steps up to meet the large man before he is too close to Jasrella. This move gave her space to cast spells if the need arises and gave her time to flee if the need arises. Christian was at disadvantage, here he is standing face to face with at least a dozen men. This could get ugly real quick. The large man bellows out a laugh and looks at Marcus You are destined to be alone Gothicus, you are never going to meet a nice women with talk like that.
The Lupers are all laughing at Marcus and as the laughter reaches a high point the large man states ...next round is on Gothicus. The Lupers all cheer except for Marcus. The night was fun and it lasted long into the morning hours. The group was known as Lupers in these parts but their official name was ArgentLupe. They are a mercenary band of two dozen men and women. They are known for doing caravan work, but are not afraid of clearing out dens of monster when the money is right. The leader is Codwin the silver tongued. He is a very large man of middle years. His second is a man just as large but younger and a little taller and goes by the name Angus MacGregor. We are introduced to the rest of the pack. Allister Costerotto a scout, which is odd since he is well over 6 feet in height. Sarrick Vormunde is their repair man and siege weapons expert. Kreyson MacLeod a dark skinned human with a wicked brewing habit and just as wicked with any pole weapon. Hamish is Angus' brother and he helps to hold their front lines together. The shield mates are Barktooth of the Shortbeard, Marcus Gothicus, Enoch MacBainister, Walgrim Von Kirchaff, Jeggred Von Tiramalis, Fenris McCanne. There is Liam Macleod a lighter skinned version of Kreyson. Liam is of Ulfen blood and was taken in by Krey after a chance meeting between the two at a bar one night. His real last name has never been spoken. Saraphina is a beautiful women on horseback and finally there is the man known as Big G or Gio. His voice is raspy but soft and he stands close to seven feet tall and just as wide as Codwin. For the next eight years Christian and Jasrella travel and work with ArgentLupe. Slowly over time they made the way back towards Brevoy and the River Kingdoms.
It is during this time that Christian takes the name D'Elagante which means the elegant. For years Christian D'Elagante's name is spread far and wide earning him his reputation as a fair and just young leader. He was ready to defend his charges, his soldiers, and those that can not defend themselves. He would remain loyal to them. About two years ago, Christian met up with Codwin about their contracts for the year. The trade season was about to start and it was best to have a contract set in ink before the first caravans left town. Codwin did not have a contract set up and it did not seem like he cared if ArgentLupe had a contract or not. The Lupers needed this contract. Many of the soldiers had families and needed this money to make sure they were taken care of while they were away. Christian had seen the decline in the leadership over the last several years or so. It would seem that the two leaders could not get any fatter on their laziness but getting bigger is what those two did best. Christian mentioned that he has seen Baron Zlatko just the other day and he might have work for them as they have worked for him in the past. The meeting goes well as Christian and Jasrella secure a contract that will set them up for the trade season. It seemed that the decline in leadership of ArgentLupe was not a secret. His Excellency Baron Zlatko of House Medvyed demanded that Christian be the one to sign the contract as it is Christian that he has been dealing with all these years. The season was winding down with not much going on. No bandit activity no wandering Goblins. Nothing at all was happening, which made Christian uneasy. The last run of the season both Codwin and Angus decided that they did not need to go on this caravan. They did not do much these days so it would not be a change of pace at the very least. The caravan went out on schedule and ArgentLupe followed along per its usual strategy. On the way back to town on the last run of the season, the outriders came back with news that some bandits had hit a caravan of travelers. The bandits were just toying with the survivors. Taking stock of the numbers and their tactics that were described by the outriders, Christian formulates a plan. He sent his shields to protect the civilians and sends the rest of his unit up the hill towards the left flank of the enemy. Timing is everything as he gets his men into position before the enemy knows he is there and the shields can do what they need to do. The bandits are in the treeline lobbing arrows down on the caravan as the shield unit comes rushing into position in front of the caravan. The bandits are not happy to see them and regroup to attack down the hill when out of the woods crashing into the rear corner of their left side comes the second unit of ArgentLupe. Seeing that the rest of the Lupers are now charging down the hill at them, the shield men move there line forward and up hill cutting across the front right side of the enemy effectively placing them in between the two group of Lupers. The bandits did not know what to do and started to flee in all directions. Most were cut down before they could get out of the pincer move.
The Lupers help to take care of the dead from the caravan and it turns out that the caravan was part of a larger group and got separated. Christian decides to escort the survives back to town to make sure they meet up with the rest of their caravan. It turns out that the passengers are the extended family of a wealthy nobleman from House Orlovsky. A party was given to the Lupers for their bravery and for going above and beyond the contract of their duty. The night was filled with drink, food and good songs. The nobleman even had a bard create a song of the adventure. Then little tidbits started to flow back to Christian's ear. It seems that Codwin was taking credit for the safe return of the family members. Now being lazy, fat and taken ArgentLupe's hard earned money was bad enough but now you are trying to take the victory away from the men and women who earned this party that night. Christian has had enough, he decides that he is done with Codwin, but what can he do about the rest of the unit. If he and Jasella leave, what is to become of the rest. He needed to remain loyal to them, they deserved that at least. Just as he is about to confront Codwin, Baron Zlatko hands Christian a scroll that is sealed with the personal seal of the Mayor of Restov. Reading it brings a smile to Christians face as he confronts Codwin in a very public manner. In the end ArgentLupe was now defunct with only two members left. The rest of the Lupers joined Christian and Jasrella on their journey to the Green belt. Christian sent Jasrella and the rest of the Lupers to gather their families and all the equipment that was scattered across the realms. They will join Christian in the greenbelt with a vigor and much experience. He knew the best way to help those that are under his protection was to give them a place that they could protect. A place to lay roots down, a place to start a family...simple put...a Home.
Christian was wondering what to do about the name that he had helped to build over the years..ArgentLupe..this was who he was or was it just a name. He had not thought much of his past..his real name. In the end Christian Courtenay of House Rogarvia unknown as Dragomir Rogarvia, the lone survivor of the Vanishing, decide that a new name was in order. Argent Dracos was created to bring prosperity and peace to the Stolen Lands. To give a home to his men and women and maybe one day to lead from the front in reclaiming his birth right.