Nobles Nobles are those born to the highest ranks of society. They are rich, dress well, and they usually spend money frivolously. They are the privileged few the common people idolize. And they are the symbols of what others often consider the best in the world.

This leads many nobles to believe they are better than everyone around them—not just in wealth or social standing, but in manner and abilities. This sense of superiority can manifest itself as overwhelming pride, arrogance, and condescending snobbery. These nobles use their wealth, standing, and power to take what they want from those weaker than themselves. They can be as brutal, savage, and unthinking as the horrific monsters they slay.

Not all nobles are like this, however. Some feel a certain sense of stewardship for the unwashed hordes. These nobles consider it their duty to do all in their power to better the world—as long as their lifestyles are not jeopardized. They can be chivalrous toward members of the opposite sex, and they might occasionally stop to chat with peasants. These nobles mean well, but they may be out of touch with what is important in the lives of the common people.

Nobles need not be played as brutal tyrants or out-of-touch fops and dandies, but there are plenty of wealthy individuals who fit those two archetypes.

Social ranks: Nobles are only found in the upper echelons of society. Roll 2d6 to determine the rank of a noble.

2d6 roll	Rank
2–4	Upper Middle Class
5–12	Upper Class

Requirements: Nobles need only meet the requirements of their adventuring class. This kit is open to all classes and races except mongrelmen.

Weapon proficiencies: Any allowed by their adventuring class.

Recommended nonweapon proficiencies: Etiquette, heraldry, riding (any), dancing, languages (ancient or modern), history, (local or ancient), reading/writing, religion, gambling, musical instrument, animal handling, hunting, and gaming.

Equipment: Regardless of his class, he must purchase a mount and tack, as no self-respecting noble would allow himself to be seen on foot when out and about. Further, all armor, weapons, clothes and accouterments must be of the finest quality.

Recommended traits: Allure, artistic ability, glibness, lucky, music (any).

Benefits: Because of his superior manner of dress, speech, and decorum, NPC nobles will recognize the player character’s status and accord him the proper respect. Player character nobles receive a +2 reaction roll bonus when interacting with individuals from the upper class and upper middle class.

Hindrances: Because the noble demands the finest things in life, he pays more money for meals, board, equipment, etc. In addition, many vendors recognize the noble as being wealthy and raise their prices accordingly. A noble must add 25% to the price of any item or service he wishes to purchase.

Wealth: Nobles begin with twice the normal starting gold of their class to reflect their higher level of resources.

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