Sir Daniel von Blumenthal
“Meet the forgotten Knight of the Round Table who took on a giant army and a mechanical dragonâarmed with a magical sword you’ve never heard of!”
- Alias: Sir Daniel of the Flowering Valley
- Gender: Male
- Race: Human
- Occupation: Knight of the Round Table, Heir to the kingdom of Blumenthal
- Religion: Likely Christian (based on the typical religious context of Arthurian legend)
- Allies:
- King Arthur
- Knights of the Round Table (notably Sir Percival and Sir Gawain, though he initially battles them)
- Enemies:
- King Matur (giant king)
- Maturâs army of giants
- Mechanical dragon of King Matur
- Abode/ Base of operations:
- Blumenthal (Flowering Valley, his homeland)
- Later, the kingdom of King Matur, which he gains after defeating him
- Nationality: German (from a Middle High German literary tradition)
- Languages: Likely speaks the language associated with the Germanic and Arthurian literary traditions (Middle High German)
- Alignment: Lawful Good (seeking honor, justice, and protection for his people)
- Affiliation(s):
- Knights of the Round Table
- Kingdom of Blumenthal
- Significant others: None explicitly mentioned, but his devotion to his homeland and his king is a core part of his characterâ.
Daniel von Blumenthal, or Sir Daniel of the Flowering Valley, is a lesser-known figure from the rich tapestry of Arthurian legend. Emerging from a 13th-century German romance written by Der Stricker, Daniel’s tale places him in the company of the greatest heroes of King Arthur’s court, despite his relative obscurity today.
As a member of the Knights of the Round Table, Daniel embodies a blend of dark-age heroism and medieval chivalry, taking on formidable foesâincluding a giant king and a mechanical dragonâwhile seeking honor, protection for his people, and validation of his knightly worth. His story weaves themes of bravery, perseverance, and the tension between self-doubt and a longing for recognition.
Early Life and Character Motivation:
Daniel von Blumenthal hails from the mythical kingdom of Blumenthal, also known as the Flowering Valley, a picturesque land that mirrors the beauty and serenity of its name. As the heir to this kingdom, Daniel is imbued with a deep sense of responsibility to his homeland and its people. His early life is largely shaped by a desire to prove himself worthy not only to his kingdom but to the world at large, a characteristic that drives many of his later exploits.
Daniel is a character defined by his intense fear of failure and obscurity. In a court filled with legendary figures like Sir Gawain and Sir Percival, Daniel is acutely aware that his reputation pales in comparison. His deepest fear is to be forgotten or overlooked, a knight who fails to live up to the heroic ideals set by his peers. This fear fuels his quest for glory, recognition, and his drive to protect those he loves, hoping that through his deeds, his name will be etched into the annals of history alongside the other great knights.
Entry to the Knights of the Round Table:
Daniel’s introduction to the court of King Arthur is one of determination and skill. Upon arriving at Camelot, he must prove himself worthy to join the elite Knights of the Round Table. In a dramatic show of prowess, Daniel engages and defeats both Sir Percival and Sir Gawain, two of the courtâs most revered warriorsâ. His victories earn him not only the admiration of Arthur but also a coveted place among the knights.
This early success provides Daniel with a brief taste of the recognition he craves, but it also serves to intensify his desire to validate his worth continually. He knows that in a court brimming with legendary figures, one victory is not enough to secure eternal fame.
The Quest Against King Matur:
Daniel’s defining adventure begins when Arthur’s kingdom faces an unusual threat: a giant king named Matur, who has raised an army of giants to conquer Arthurâs realm. Matur, a formidable foe, has even constructed a palace atop an elephant, creating an intimidating spectacle as he marches toward Camelotâ
To further complicate matters, Matur wields a mechanical dragon, a terrifying device capable of unleashing a scream so horrendous that it incapacitates anyone who hears it.
While the Knights of the Round Table debate how to handle this bizarre and overwhelming threat, Daniel, driven by his need to prove himself, volunteers to confront Matur alone. This act of bravery reveals Daniel’s core motivation: not just to protect Arthur’s realm but to seize the opportunity to stand out among his peers.
Daniel’s journey to Maturâs kingdom is filled with trials and distractions, but these obstacles ultimately lead him to discover a magical sword, a weapon that becomes crucial in his battle against the giant king. This sword, reminiscent of the famed Excalibur, symbolizes Daniel’s destiny to achieve greatness and secure his place among the legendary knights. Armed with this newfound power, Daniel confronts Matur, destroys his army, and defeats the mechanical dragon, silencing its dreadful screamâ
Achievements and Rewards:
Danielâs triumph over King Matur cements his place as one of the most powerful and respected knights in Arthurâs court. As a reward, Arthur grants Daniel dominion over Matur’s former kingdom, elevating him not just in reputation but in political powerâ
This kingdom is a testament to Danielâs courage and serves as a constant reminder of his successful quest.
However, Danielâs character is not one to rest on his laurels. Even after receiving this immense honor, his inner fear of being forgotten drives him to continue seeking new adventures and challenges. In this way, Daniel is emblematic of the archetypal knight whose hunger for glory and validation is never fully satisfied.
Character Analysis and Depth:
Daniel von Blumenthal is portrayed as a knight who embodies both the heroic and tragic aspects of chivalric life. His greatest strength is his unwavering courage and determination, but this is also his greatest flaw. His insatiable need for recognition leads him to take immense risks, often facing threats that other knights might avoid or approach with greater caution.
What Daniel fears most is not physical harm or death, but irrelevance. In a world filled with larger-than-life figures and stories, he dreads being the knight whose name fades into obscurity. This fear drives him to constantly prove his worth, even if it means facing overwhelming odds.
Yet, Daniel is not without his softer side. His love for his homeland, Blumenthal, is central to his character. Protecting his people and ensuring that his kingdom remains a safe and prosperous place are paramount in his mind. This deep connection to his roots keeps him grounded, even as his quests pull him into ever more dangerous territory.
Conclusion:
Daniel von Blumenthal’s story is one of ambition, bravery, and the quest for eternal recognition. Though lesser-known in the grand scheme of Arthurian legend, his tale is rich with adventure, danger, and the timeless struggle between self-doubt and the drive for greatness. Through his journey, he secures both personal glory and the safety of his people, ensuring that his name, while perhaps not as famous as Lancelot or Gawain, is nonetheless written into the legend of King Arthurâs court as a knight who dared to face the impossibleâ.
Sir Daniel von Blumenthal 5e
Sir Daniel von Blumenthal Pathfinder
Sir Daniel von Blumenthal
Medium humanoid (human), lawful good
Armor Class: 20 (plate armor, shield)
Hit Points: 210 (20d10+100)
Speed: 30 ft.
STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 (+5) | 14 (+2) | 20 (+5) | 14 (+2) | 16 (+3) | 18 (+4) |
Saving Throws: Str +9, Con +9, Wis +7, Cha +8
Skills: Athletics +9, Insight +7, Perception +7, Persuasion +8
Senses: Passive Perception 17
Languages: Common, Celestial
Challenge: 14 (11,500 XP)
Abilities
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Legendary Resistance (3/Day) | If Sir Daniel von Blumenthal fails a saving throw, he can choose to succeed instead. |
Aura of Courage | Sir Sir Daniel von Blumenthal and friendly creatures within 10 ft. cannot be frightened while he is conscious. |
Indomitable (2/Day) | Sir Daniel von Blumenthal can reroll a failed saving throw. He must use the new roll. |
Magic Weapon | Danielâs sword, Heiligklinge, is a +2 magic sword that deals an extra 1d6 radiant damage on a hit. It glows with faint holy light when drawn. |
Shield Master | When Daniel uses the Attack action, he can use a bonus action to shove a creature within 5 ft. Additionally, he gains a +2 bonus to saving throws against spells or effects. |
Relentless Pursuit | Daniel can move an additional 10 ft. as part of his movement each round if moving toward an enemy. |
Defender of Blumenthal | When Daniel rolls initiative, he and all allies within 30 ft. gain 10 temporary hit points. |
Actions
Multiattack. Sir Daniel von Blumenthal makes three attacks with Heiligklinge or his longbow.
- Heiligklinge (Magical Longsword). Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 13 (1d10+5) slashing damage, plus 4 (1d6) radiant damage. - Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, range 150/600 ft., one target.
Hit: 9 (1d8+2) piercing damage. - Shield Bash. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 8 (1d4+5) bludgeoning damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 17 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Legendary Actions
Sir Daniel can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action option can be used at a time, and only at the end of another creatureâs turn. He regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.
- Attack. Sir Daniel von Blumenthal makes one attack with Heiligklinge or his shield bash.
- Rallying Cry (Costs 2 Actions). Daniel inspires his allies, granting all friendly creatures within 30 ft. of him 10 temporary hit points.
- Move. Daniel moves up to his speed without provoking opportunity attacks.
Reactions
- Parry. Sir Daniel von Blumenthal adds +3 to his AC against one melee attack that would hit him. He must be wielding a melee weapon to use this ability.
- Defensive Stance (Shield Master). When a creature makes an attack roll against a creature within 5 feet of Daniel (other than himself), he can impose disadvantage on the attack roll using his shield.
Equipment
- Heiligklinge (Legendary Magic Longsword): This +2 longsword deals an extra 1d6 radiant damage and glows with holy light. It was gifted to Daniel on his quest against King Matur and has special properties against evil creatures, granting advantage on attack rolls made against fiends and undead. Additionally, once per day, it can cast Holy Aura (DC 17).
- Plate Armor of Blumenthal (Rare, Magic Armor): This +1 plate armor is adorned with the symbol of Blumenthal and offers resistance to non-magical slashing, piercing, and bludgeoning damage.
- Cloak of Heroism (Rare, Wondrous Item): This crimson cloak grants Daniel the ability to cast Heroism on himself at will, as a bonus action. When cast this way, the effect lasts for 1 minute.
Character Lore & Playstyle
Sir Daniel von Blumenthal is a protector of his homeland, a fearless knight, and a leader with a deep sense of honor. His abilities reflect his dedication to protecting others, his mastery of battlefield tactics, and his drive to achieve personal glory. He fights with overwhelming force and can withstand heavy punishment, making him a formidable opponent in direct combat. His legendary actions and reactions make him adept at defending allies, while his martial prowess and strong equipment make him a deadly force on the battlefield.
Sir Daniel von Blumenthal
Male human fighter (tactician) 15
Lawful Good Medium humanoid (human)
Init +2; Senses Perception +12
Aura Aura of Courage (10 ft.)
DEFENSE
AC 28, touch 12, flat-footed 26 (+10 armor, +2 Dex, +3 shield, +3 natural)
hp 190 (15d10+90)
Fort +15, Ref +8, Will +10; (+4 vs fear effects)
Defensive Abilities bravery +3, Armor Training 3, Shield Mastery
OFFENSE
Speed 30 ft. (20 ft. in armor)
Melee +2 Heiligklinge +21/+16/+11 (1d8+9/19â20 plus 1d6 radiant)
Ranged +1 longbow +15/+10/+5 (1d8+3/x3)
Special Attacks Weapon Training (heavy blades +3, bows +2)
TACTICS
Base Atk +15; CMB +20 (+22 to bull rush); CMD 32 (34 vs bull rush, trip)
FEATS
- Power Attack
- Weapon Focus (longsword)
- Greater Weapon Focus (longsword)
- Weapon Specialization (longsword)
- Greater Weapon Specialization (longsword)
- Shield Focus
- Critical Focus
- Iron Will
- Improved Critical (longsword)
- Step Up
- Leadership
SKILLS
Climb +13, Intimidate +18, Knowledge (nobility) +10, Perception +12, Ride +12, Sense Motive +14
Languages Common, Celestial
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Aura of Courage (Su): Sir Daniel and all allies within 10 feet gain immunity to fear effects.
Bravery (Ex): +3 bonus on Will saves against fear effects.
Indomitable (Ex): Once per day, Sir Daniel can reroll a failed Will saving throw.
Armor Training (Ex): Daniel reduces his armor check penalty by 3 and can move at full speed while wearing medium or heavy armor.
Weapon Training (Ex): Daniel has a +3 bonus on attack and damage rolls with heavy blades, and a +2 bonus with bows.
Tactical Expertise (Ex): Once per day, Daniel can use a swift action to grant all allies within 30 feet a +2 bonus on attack rolls for 1 round.
Relentless (Ex): Sir Daniel can move an additional 10 feet as part of a charge or when pursuing an enemy.
MAGIC ITEMS
- Heiligklinge (+2 Holy Longsword): This legendary +2 longsword deals an additional 1d6 radiant (holy) damage on a hit. It also glows with a faint holy light when drawn and grants the wielder a +2 bonus on saving throws against spells and effects created by evil creatures.
- Plate Armor of Blumenthal (+2 Full Plate): This +2 full plate provides Sir Daniel with resistance to non-magical slashing, piercing, and bludgeoning damage.
- Cloak of Resistance +3: Grants Sir Daniel a +3 resistance bonus on all saving throws.
DESCRIPTION
Sir Daniel von Blumenthal is a towering figure in shining armor, an exemplar of knightly virtue, and a tactician of great renown. He is not just a warrior but a leader who stands firm in the face of evil, commanding his allies and inspiring them with his valor. Wielding Heiligklinge, a sacred sword blessed with holy power, Daniel is a fearsome opponent against fiends and other evil creatures. His plate armor is adorned with the sigil of his noble house, reflecting his dedication to defending his homeland and the ideals of chivalry. Danielâs reputation as a knight-commander makes him a legend, and his presence on the battlefield often turns the tide of battle.
TACTICAL ROLE
Sir Daniel is a CR 14 opponent and is best used as a central figure in high-level encounters. His ability to boost his allies with tactical prowess and his proficiency in heavy armor makes him a force to be reckoned with. He excels in protecting others, standing firm against hordes of enemies, and taking down evil foes with his powerful strikes. His leadership ability also makes him an ideal general or commander figure in larger-scale battles.