Sir Cador, Knight of the Crimson Rose

Medium humanoid (human), lawful good

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Armor Class: 20 (plate armor, shield)
Hit Points: 230 (20d10 + 100)
Speed: 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
20 (+5)	12 (+1)	20 (+5)	14 (+2)	16 (+3)	18 (+4)

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Saving Throws: Strength +10, Constitution +10, Wisdom +8, Charisma +9
Skills: Athletics +10, Insight +8, Perception +8, Persuasion +9, History +7
Damage Resistances: Radiant
Senses: Passive Perception 18
Languages: Common, Latin, Old Brittonic
Challenge Rating (CR): 16 (15,000 XP)

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TRAITS

Legendary Knight of Camelot

Sir Cador is a paragon of chivalric virtue and a beacon of hope to those who follow him.

• Aura of Courage: All allies within 30 feet of Sir Cador gain advantage on saving throws against being frightened or charmed.

Aura of the Crimson Rose (30 ft.)

The crimson aura surrounding Sir Cador bolsters his allies with his divine presence.

• Crimson Blessing: All allies within this aura gain resistance to radiant damage and can add +2 to weapon attack rolls and saving throws against being charmed or frightened.
• Shield of the Rose: Whenever an ally within the aura is hit by an attack, Sir Cador can use his reaction to impose disadvantage on that attack.

Chivalric Virtue

Sir Cador abides by a strict code of honor and will not attack helpless, defenseless, or surrendered creatures unless magically compelled.

• Code of Honor: Sir Cador cannot intentionally harm creatures who are defenseless or have surrendered. He will always seek non-lethal solutions when possible.

Combat Superiority (3/Short Rest)

Sir Cador’s training allows him to take superior combat actions when necessary.

• Parry: Reduce damage dealt to him by 1d10 + 5.
• Riposte: When a creature within 5 feet misses him with an attack, he can use his reaction to make a melee weapon attack against the creature.
• Menacing Strike: When Sir Cador hits with a melee weapon attack, the target must make a DC 18 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened until the end of its next turn.

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ACTIONS

Multiattack

Sir Cador makes three melee attacks: one with his lance and two with his longsword.

Longsword of the Crimson Rose (Magic Weapon)

Melee Weapon Attack: +12 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 12 (1d8 + 6) slashing damage, or 14 (1d10 + 6) slashing damage if wielded with two hands, plus 4 radiant damage.

Lance of Valor (Magic Weapon)

Melee Weapon Attack: +12 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target.
Hit: 20 (2d12 + 5) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 18 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

Shield Bash

Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 8 (1d6 + 5) bludgeoning damage. The target must succeed on a DC 18 Strength saving throw or be stunned until the end of Sir Cador’s next turn.

Leadership (Recharge 5-6)

Sir Cador can utter a rallying command to inspire his allies. For 1 minute, any creature within 30 feet that can hear him gains advantage on attack rolls, saving throws, and ability checks until the start of Sir Cador’s next turn.

Divine Smite (Recharge 4-6)

As an action, Sir Cador can expend a spell slot to deal an additional 4d8 radiant damage on a melee weapon attack. The extra damage increases by 1d8 for each level above 1st.

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LEGENDARY ACTIONS

Sir Cador can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action can be used at a time and only at the end of another creature’s turn. Sir Cador regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

• Move. Sir Cador moves up to his speed without provoking opportunity attacks.
• Attack. Sir Cador makes one melee weapon attack.
• Defensive Stance (Costs 2 Actions). Sir Cador raises his shield, granting himself and all allies within 10 feet a +2 bonus to AC until the start of his next turn.

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REACTIONS

Rose’s Retaliation

When a creature within 5 feet misses Sir Cador with an attack, he can use his reaction to make a longsword attack against the attacker.

Defender’s Charge (Costs 2 Actions)

If Sir Cador is attacked and Astraios (his warhorse) is within 10 feet, Astraios can use his reaction to charge toward the attacker. The attacker must make a DC 16 Strength saving throw or be pushed 10 feet away from Sir Cador and knocked prone.

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EQUIPMENT

• Plate Armor of the Crimson Rose (Legendary, requires attunement)
  This radiant armor grants +2 AC and resistance to radiant damage. Once per day, Sir Cador can cast Beacon of Hope on himself and all allies within 60 feet, restoring their maximum hit points for 1 minute.
• Longsword of the Crimson Rose (Legendary, requires attunement)
  Deals an additional 4 radiant damage on a hit. If Sir Cador drops to 0 hit points, the sword automatically casts Revivify on him once per day.
• Lance of Valor (Rare, requires attunement)
  A masterfully crafted lance that forces targets hit to make a Strength saving throw (DC 18) or be knocked prone.
• Shield of Cornwall (Uncommon)
  Grants +2 AC. As a reaction, Sir Cador can impose disadvantage on one attack made against an ally within 5 feet.

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TACTICS AND COMBAT STYLE

Sir Cador fights with honor and tact, always leading from the front. His Leadership ability boosts his allies’ combat capabilities, while his Aura of the Crimson Rose grants additional support to his comrades. In combat, Sir Cador will prioritize defensive positioning, using his Shield Bash to control enemies and protect allies, and his Divine Smite to deliver devastating blows to enemies.

• Opening Tactics: Sir Cador begins the battle by using Leadership to inspire his allies and grant them advantage. He moves into the front lines and uses his Lance of Valor to deal heavy damage to key enemies, knocking them prone for follow-up attacks from his allies.
• Mid-Combat Tactics: Sir Cador focuses on protecting vulnerable allies by using Shield Bash to stun enemies and positioning himself to block attacks. He uses Combat Superiority to parry incoming blows and riposte when enemies miss him.
• Legendary Actions: Sir Cador will often use Defensive Stance to bolster his allies’ defenses or take the Attack action to further pressure enemies. In case of an overwhelming threat, he may use Move to reposition himself for better defense or a flanking advantage.

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DESCRIPTION AND PERSONALITY

Sir Cador is the embodiment of chivalry, honor, and loyalty. He is a tall, imposing figure in shining armor adorned with crimson roses, the symbol of his order and his sacred duty. His piercing blue eyes convey a quiet yet fierce determination. Sir Cador is not driven by personal glory; rather, his every action is a reflection of his dedication to his king, his kingdom, and the ideals of justice and righteousness. He fears dishonor and the collapse of the realm into chaos, and will sacrifice anything, even his own life, to preserve peace and uphold the law.

Astraios, Sir Cador’s Warhorse

Large beast, lawful good

Armor Class: 14 (natural armor)
Hit Points: 85 (10d10 + 30)
Speed: 60 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
20 (+5)	14 (+2)	16 (+3)	2 (-4)	14 (+2)	10 (+0)

Skills: Perception +4
Damage Resistances: Radiant
Senses: Passive Perception 14
Languages: Understands Common (but cannot speak)
Challenge Rating (CR): 4 (1,100 XP)

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Traits

Noble Steed. Astraios is highly trained in battle and responds instinctively to Sir Cador’s commands. He can take the Dash and Dodge actions as a bonus action when within 30 feet of Sir Cador.

Charge. If Astraios moves at least 20 feet straight toward a target and hits with a Hooves attack on the same turn, the target must succeed on a DC 16 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

Guardian of the Crimson Rose. When Sir Cador is within 5 feet of Astraios, the warhorse can use its reaction to interpose itself between Sir Cador and an incoming attack. The attack is made against Astraios instead.

Aura of Valor. Allies within 10 feet of Astraios have advantage on saving throws against being frightened and gain +2 to attack rolls when within 5 feet of the warhorse.

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Actions

Multiattack. Astraios makes two Hooves attacks.

Hooves. (Melee Weapon Attack)
Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 16 (2d10 + 5) bludgeoning damage.

Trample (Recharge 5-6).
Astraios attempts to trample a prone creature. The target must succeed on a DC 16 Dexterity saving throw or be knocked prone and take 14 (2d8 + 5) bludgeoning damage.

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Reactions

Defender’s Charge (Costs 2 Actions).
If Sir Cador is attacked and Astraios is within 10 feet, Astraios can use his reaction to charge toward the attacker. The attacker must make a DC 16 Strength saving throw or be pushed 10 feet away from Sir Cador and knocked prone.

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Equipment

• Crimson Saddle of Camelot (Legendary, requires attunement)
  This finely crafted saddle increases Astraios’s AC by +2 and grants him the ability to cast Bless on himself and Sir Cador once per day without expending a spell slot.
• Celestial Horseshoes (Rare)
  Astraios’s hooves are enchanted to leave glowing footprints wherever he steps, making him harder to track in the dark and granting him advantage on saving throws against spells or abilities that cause him to be restrained or slowed.

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Personality and Role in Combat

Astraios, named after the god of stars, is fiercely loyal to Sir Cador and embodies the nobility and courage of his master. In battle, Astraios is a force of nature, charging through enemies with devastating tramples and strikes. However, Astraios will always prioritize protecting Sir Cador and his allies, positioning himself to block incoming attacks and ensuring his rider is safe from harm.

Outside of combat, Astraios is a dignified and majestic animal, often seen standing proudly at Sir Cador’s side, his coat shimmering like polished bronze. He embodies the spirit of the Crimson Rose and is often used by Sir Cador to inspire the troops with his strength and regal presence.

Sir Cador, Knight of the Round Table

CR: 10
XP: 9,600
Alignment: Lawful Good
Race: Human
Class: Fighter (11)
Gender: Male
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 230 lbs
Age: 35
Languages: Common, Celestial, Elven

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Physical Description

Sir Cador is a towering, muscular man standing at 6’5”. His plate armor is emblazoned with a rose motif, a symbol of his devotion to the Goddess of Love and Beauty. His short, dark brown hair is neatly kept, and a strong, well-groomed beard defines his square jaw. His piercing blue eyes gleam with determination and honor. Sir Cador’s noble bearing, calm confidence, and impeccable posture make him a commanding presence on and off the battlefield. He is often seen carrying a longsword, his shield prominently displaying the crest of his house—a crimson rose against a silver backdrop.

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Statistics

AC: 28 (Full Plate Armor + Shield + Dexterity)
HP: 126 (11d10+66)
Initiative: +1
Speed: 30 ft.
Base Attack Bonus: +11/+6/+1
CMB: +14
CMD: 25
Fortitude Save: +13
Reflex Save: +5
Will Save: +7

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Abilities

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
18 (+4)	12 (+1)	16 (+3)	12 (+1)	14 (+2)	16 (+3)

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Combat Abilities

• Weapon and Armor Proficiency: Sir Cador is proficient with all simple and martial weapons, as well as all types of armor and shields.
• Tactical Fighter: As a seasoned fighter, Sir Cador excels in combat tactics and can ready an action or coordinate attacks with allies as a swift action.
• Knight’s Challenge (Ex): As a swift action, Sir Cador can challenge a single opponent within 30 feet, gaining a +2 bonus to attack rolls and damage against that opponent for 1 minute. He can use this ability 3 times per day.
• Combat Expertise: Sir Cador can take a -2 penalty to his attack rolls to gain a +2 bonus to his AC.
• Leadership: Sir Cador gains the Leadership feat and can call upon followers from the Order of the Crimson Rose to aid him.
• Crusader’s Resolve (Ex): Sir Cador gains a +4 bonus to saving throws against fear effects and can rally others around him. Once per day, he can remove a fear effect from an ally within 30 feet as a full-round action.

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Feats

• Power Attack: Sir Cador can take a -1 penalty on attack rolls to gain a +2 bonus on damage rolls.
• Shield Focus: Sir Cador gains a +1 bonus to AC while wielding a shield.
• Improved Initiative: Sir Cador has a +4 bonus on initiative checks.
• Mounted Combat: Sir Cador can attempt to negate a hit on his mount (as a free action) by making a Ride check.
• Cleave: Sir Cador can strike two adjacent enemies with a single swing if he hits with his first attack.
• Great Fortitude: Sir Cador gains a +2 bonus to Fortitude saves.

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Skills

• Acrobatics: +8
• Climb: +10
• Diplomacy: +10
• Handle Animal: +12
• Intimidate: +9
• Knowledge (History): +8
• Perception: +12
• Sense Motive: +8
• Ride: +15

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Special Abilities

• Divine Blessing (Ex): Sir Cador is a devout follower of the Goddess of Love and Beauty. Once per day, he can call upon her blessing to heal himself or an ally within 30 feet. This acts as a Cure Serious Wounds spell.
• Aura of Courage (Su): Sir Cador is surrounded by an aura of courage that extends 10 feet around him. Allies within this area gain a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against fear effects.
• Glorious Strike (Su): Once per day, Sir Cador can channel his divine energy into a single attack. This attack deals an additional 2d6 points of radiant damage and can bypass all damage reduction.

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Equipment

• Crimson Rose Plate Armor: +8 AC, grants resistance to fear effects (immune to fear for 1 minute once per day).
• Longsword of the Eternal Rose: +2 longsword that deals an additional 1d6 radiant damage on a hit.
• Shield of the Order: +2 Heavy Steel Shield, engraved with the crest of the Order of the Crimson Rose.
• Amulet of the Goddess: This amulet grants Sir Cador a +2 bonus on all Charisma-based skill checks and saving throws.

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Mount

Steed: Warhorse (Large Animal)

• AC: 22 (Natural Armor + Dexterity)
• HP: 85 (10d8+40)
• Speed: 60 ft.
• Attack: Hoof +13 (2d6+6 damage)
• Special Abilities:
  • Endurance: The warhorse can travel long distances without tiring, allowing Sir Cador to ride him into battle or across the kingdom without the need for rest.
  • Charge: The warhorse can charge with a +2 bonus to attack rolls and deal an additional 2d6 points of damage.

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Tactics

Sir Cador is a strategic fighter who favors defense and controlled offense. In battle, he will use Knight’s Challenge to single out the strongest enemy, applying his Power Attack for heavy damage. He will engage in Combat Expertise if the situation requires more defensive posture and will rely on his Crusader’s Resolve to rally his allies, ensuring they remain fearless and resolute.

He will always prioritize protecting weaker allies, using his Aura of Courage and Divine Blessing to support his team. In a mounted combat scenario, Sir Cador will use his Mounted Combat feat to protect his warhorse while dishing out powerful strikes with his longsword.

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Personality and Roleplaying Notes

• Duty Above All: Sir Cador is driven by a deep sense of duty to his kingdom and the Goddess of Love and Beauty. He believes in justice, protection of the innocent, and upholding the law.
• Honorable and Dignified: He is a noble warrior who does not engage in underhanded tactics. His honor is paramount, and he will not tolerate betrayal.
• Sacrificial: He is willing to put himself in harm’s way to protect others, even if it means great personal sacrifice.
• Devotion to His Queen and Kingdom: His love for Lady Isabel and the protection of his homeland are his greatest motivations.

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Adventure Hook Ideas:

1. Sir Cador needs assistance to uncover a dark plot threatening the kingdom, where his enemies have infiltrated the royal court.
2. A powerful dark sorcerer has cursed Sir Cador’s family, and he seeks adventurers to help break the curse that haunts his bloodline.
3. Sir Cador’s warhorse has been stolen by a band of marauders, and he seeks adventurers to aid him in recovering his mount.