Buy me a coffeeSir Lucan the Butler
He wasn’t the strongest knight at Camelot—but what Sir Lucan did when the kingdom fell will break your heart.
- Alias – The King’s Steward, The Shield of Camelot, Lucan the Loyal
- Gender – Male
- Race – Human
- Occupation – Knight of the Round Table; Royal Steward and Butler of Camelot
- Religion – Follower of the Old Faith and the Chivalric Code (sometimes interpreted as a Christian analog in Arthurian settings)
- Allies –
- King Arthur Pendragon
- Sir Bedivere (his brother)
- Merlin
- Queen Guinevere
- The Knights of the Round Table
- Enemies –
- Mordred
- Traitors to Camelot
- Agents of chaos or dishonor
- Abode/ Base of Operations – Camelot Castle, primarily within the royal court and war council chamber
- Nationality – Briton (Kingdom of Camelot)
- Languages – Common (Arthurian English) and Latin
- Alignment – Lawful Good
- Affiliation(s) –
- The Court of King Arthur
- The Knights of the Round Table
- The Order of Camelot
- Significant Others – None canonically confirmed; he is often portrayed as unmarried, married to his duty (optional in campaign play: rumored past affection for a healer, scribe, or court official, long left behind in favor of service)
Sir Lucan the Butler is more than just a knight in King Arthur’s court—he is its very backbone. While other knights ride off to battle or embark on legendary quests, Lucan quietly ensures that the ideals of Camelot endure within the walls of the castle. He serves as the Round Table’s steward, overseeing the daily workings of Arthur’s kingdom with meticulous attention to detail. His loyalty is unshakable, his judgment wise, and his integrity absolute.
Born a nobleman of no particular renown, Lucan ascended to the highest ranks of Camelot’s knights not through ambition, but through selfless service and steadfast duty. As Arthur’s closest confidant, he acts as the king’s advisor in matters both large and small, and while he speaks little, when he does, the court listens.
Lucan’s devotion to King Arthur is beyond that of mere fealty—his bond is one of brotherhood, forged on the battlefield and sealed in oaths of honor. His life is bound to the ideals of Camelot: to serve with integrity, to protect the weak, and to uphold justice. He is a silent protector, ever watchful over the kingdom, ensuring its heart beats with honor in every moment.
Legends & Myth
In the halls of Camelot, tales of Lucan’s wisdom and valor circulate—though he himself remains humble and rarely speaks of his deeds. It is said that Lucan was one of the first to swear an oath to Arthur, and that it was his guidance that helped Arthur solidify his rule and unite the fractured kingdoms of Britain. Some say that, in battle, Lucan is a living shield, always first to rush in and protect his fellow knights, his armor gleaming with the light of Camelot’s idealism.
Unlike many of the other knights who gain fame through their individual feats, Lucan’s fame is one of service. His legend is woven into the very fabric of Camelot—he is the quiet strength that ensures the kingdom remains whole.
Personality
Lucan is pragmatic, wise, and unwavering in his dedication to duty. He does not seek fame, glory, or even recognition. What matters to him is the health and stability of the kingdom, and he will often take on burdens that no one else will, simply because it is his responsibility. He is a knight of few words, but when he speaks, his counsel is sound, and his decisions are absolute.
- Loyal: Lucan’s loyalty to Arthur, to the Round Table, and to Camelot is his greatest strength. He believes that serving a noble cause is the highest calling.
- Compassionate: While stoic, Lucan is deeply empathetic, especially towards those who serve under him. He often takes the time to guide young squires and offer advice to those who are uncertain of their roles in the kingdom.
- Humble: He never seeks the spotlight. While others may boast of their victories, Lucan quietly carries the weight of Camelot on his shoulders without complaint.
Despite his deep affection for his fellow knights, Lucan’s unwavering commitment to Camelot’s ideals often puts him at odds with those who are driven by personal ambition, including some of the more self-serving members of the court.
Physical Appearance
Sir Lucan’s appearance is as dignified and humble as his nature. He is tall, with broad shoulders that bear the weight of many battles, yet his frame is not one of excessive muscle—it’s a body honed by a life of service. His face is worn, with laugh lines that speak of the joy he finds in his duties and the care he takes in every moment. His eyes are calm, but keen, constantly observing the court for signs of unrest, deceit, or trouble.
His armor is masterfully crafted, and he wears the plate armor of a knight, polished to a gleaming sheen, though not as extravagant as the armor of those seeking glory. The crest of Camelot—a golden lion—adorns the front of his breastplate, and a simple crimson tabard flows over his armor, signifying his loyalty to the king.
In contrast to the flashiness of other knights, Sir Lucan’s presence is commanding not because of his physicality but because of his authority. He is often seen carrying a long, ceremonial sword, a symbol of his position as steward, but his true weapon is his ability to guide the knights of Camelot to greatness.
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Influence on the World
Lucan’s role is not just one of physical protection but of moral guidance. He does not wield influence through political maneuvering or grand speeches, but through the quiet demonstration of his own values. He shapes Camelot’s identity, serving as a model for all who enter the kingdom. He’s the beacon of honor and integrity, and his influence ensures that even in the darkest of times, Camelot does not lose its way.
Fate
In the final days of Camelot, during the Battle of Camlann, Sir Lucan will remain steadfast by King Arthur’s side. Despite being gravely wounded, he will assist in carrying the mortally injured king to safety. However, the strain will prove too much for his injured body. His wounds will reopen, and he will collapse, dying from his injuries. His death will epitomize his unwavering dedication to duty and loyalty to his king.
Lucan the Butler 5e
Lucan the Butler Pathfinder
Sir Lucan the Butler
Sir Lucan the Butler stands as an exemplar of chivalry and steadfastness, embodying the virtues of Camelot through his unwavering dedication, martial prowess, and inspirational leadership on the battlefield.
Sir Lucan the Butler
Medium humanoid (human), lawful good
Armor Class: 20 (plate armor, shield)
Hit Points: 187 (25d8 + 75)
Speed: 30 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 (+5) | 12 (+1) | 16 (+3) | 14 (+2) | 16 (+3) | 18 (+4) |
Saving Throws: Strength +9, Constitution +7, Wisdom +7
Skills: Athletics +9, Insight +7, Persuasion +8, History +6
Damage Resistances: Radiant; Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
Senses: Passive Perception 13
Languages: Common (Arthurian English), Latin
Challenge: 12 (8,400 XP)
Special Abilities
- Legendary Steward:
Sir Lucan has advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when interacting with nobility and can’t be surprised while within Camelot or any allied stronghold. - Aura of Devotion:
Allies within 10 feet of Sir Lucan can’t be charmed and have advantage on saving throws against being frightened. - Knightly Leadership (3/Day):
As a bonus action, Sir Lucan can grant an ally within 30 feet an extra action on their next turn. - Mounted Combatant:
While mounted, Sir Lucan has advantage on melee attack rolls against unmounted creatures smaller than his mount. Additionally, he can force an attack targeted at his mount to target him instead. - Knightly Steward (Aura):
Allies within 30 feet of Lucan gain advantage on saving throws against charm, fear, and being frightened. Lucan’s very presence instills courage and honor in those around him. - Vow of the Butler:
Once per day, Lucan may grant a willing creature within 30 feet temporary hit points equal to his level. If that creature is below 50% HP, this healing also removes one condition (charmed, frightened, or poisoned). - Unyielding Service:
Lucan has resistance to necrotic and poison damage. Once per long rest, he can use his reaction to take damage intended for an adjacent ally. - Commanding Presence (Legendary Action):
Lucan can use his commanding presence to rally his allies. All creatures of his choice within 30 feet may take an immediate bonus action to either move up to half their speed or make a melee weapon attack. (Usable once per round.) - Oathkeeper’s Smite:
Once per day, Lucan may call upon the power of Camelot’s ideals to smite an enemy. On a successful hit, the target takes an additional 5d10 radiant damage. If the target has broken an oath or dishonored their word, this damage is doubled.
Actions
- Multiattack:
Sir Lucan makes two melee attacks, choosing from his longsword or lance. - Lucan’s Longsword (Melee Weapon Attack):
+9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit:- 12 (1d10 + 7) slashing damage (when used with two hands), or
- 10 (1d8 + 7) slashing damage (when used with one hand).
- Lance (Melee Weapon Attack):
+9 to hit, reach 10 ft. (only while mounted), one target. Hit: 14 (1d12 + 7) 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. - Commanding Word (Recharge 5–6):
Sir Lucan issues a command to an ally within 60 feet who can hear him. That ally can immediately use their reaction to make one weapon attack or move up to their speed.
Reactions
- Parry:
Sir Lucan adds 3 to his AC against one melee attack that would hit him. To do so, he must see the attacker and be wielding a melee weapon.
Legendary Actions
Sir Lucan 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. He regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.
- Inspiring Presence:
Sir Lucan chooses one ally within 30 feet. That ally gains 10 temporary hit points. - Defensive Maneuver:
Sir Lucan moves up to half his speed without provoking opportunity attacks. - Valiant Strike (Costs 2 Actions):
Sir Lucan makes a longsword or lance attack with advantage.
Equipment
Warhorse:
Sir Lucan is typically mounted on a trained warhorse, enhancing his mobility and battlefield effectiveness.
Warhorse
Large beast, unaligned
Armor Class: 11
Hit Points: 19 (3d10 + 3)
Speed: 60 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 (+4) | 12 (+1) | 13 (+1) | 2 (–4) | 12 (+1) | 7 (–2) |
Senses: Passive Perception 11
Languages: —
Challenge: 1/2 (100 XP)
- Trampling Charge:
If the horse moves at least 20 feet straight toward a creature and then hits it with a hooves attack on the same turn, that target must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone. If the target is prone, the horse can make another attack with its hooves as a bonus action. - Hooves (Melee Weapon Attack):
+6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage. - Lance:
A finely crafted lance used primarily during mounted combat, allowing Sir Lucan to engage enemies from a distance.
Tactics
- Battlefield Role:
Sir Lucan is a paragon of battlefield leadership and defense. He strategically positions himself to protect key allies, using his Aura of Devotion and Knightly Steward (Aura) to bolster their courage against charm and fear effects. - Mounted Combat:
Mounted on his warhorse, he leverages superior mobility to charge into battle, using his lance to strike foes from a distance while his shield and Shield Bash disrupt enemy formations. - Team Coordination:
With Knightly Leadership, Commanding Word, and his legendary actions such as Inspiring Presence and Defensive Maneuver, Sir Lucan coordinates with his allies to create openings and mitigate threats on the battlefield. - Defensive Measures:
His Parry reaction helps reduce incoming melee damage, ensuring he remains a steadfast protector for the duration of the fight.
Sir Lucan the Butler
Male human cavalier (honor guard) 12
Lawful Good Medium humanoid (human)
Init +1; Senses Perception +13
DEFENSE
AC 27, touch 11, flat-footed 26 (+10 armor, +1 Dex, +5 shield, +1 deflection)
hp 115 (12d10+48)
Fort +12, Ref +7, Will +9; +4 vs. fear
Defensive Abilities aura of courage, mounted shield; DR 5/evil
OFFENSE
Speed 30 ft.
Melee +2 longsword +20/+15/+10 (1d8+9/19–20)
Ranged mwk heavy crossbow +14 (1d10/19–20)
Special Attacks challenge 3/day (+12 damage), order abilities (challenge +3, for the king), tactician 3/day (grant Shield Wall feat, duration 6 rounds), greater tactician 1/day (grant Coordinated Charge feat, duration 6 rounds)
STATISTICS
Str 18, Dex 12, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 13, Cha 16
Base Atk +12; CMB +16; CMD 27
Feats Armor Proficiency (heavy, light, medium), Coordinated Charge, Diehard, Endurance, Great Fortitude, Improved Bull Rush, Iron Will, Mounted Combat, Ride-By Attack, Shield Focus, Shield Wall, Spirited Charge, Toughness, Weapon Focus (longsword)
Skills Diplomacy +18, Handle Animal +15, Knowledge (nobility) +15, Perception +13, Ride +16, Sense Motive +13
Languages Common, Latin
SQ cavalier’s charge, expert trainer, for the king, greater tactician, honor guard, mounted shield, order of the lion, tactician
EQUIPMENT
Weapons: +2 longsword, masterwork heavy crossbow with 20 bolts
Armor: +3 full plate, +2 heavy steel shield
Other Gear: cloak of resistance +2, ring of protection +1, belt of giant strength +2, amulet of natural armor +1, potion of cure serious wounds (2), noble’s outfit, signet ring, 150 gp
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Challenge (Ex): Three times per day, Sir Lucan can challenge a foe to combat. This grants him a +12 bonus on damage rolls against the target of his challenge.
For the King (Ex): Sir Lucan gains a +2 morale bonus on attack rolls against targets that threaten or have attacked his liege (King Arthur).d20PFSRD
Tactician (Ex): Three times per day, Sir Lucan can grant the Shield Wall feat to all allies within 30 feet who can see and hear him, lasting for 6 rounds.
Greater Tactician (Ex): Once per day, Sir Lucan can grant the Coordinated Charge feat to all allies within 30 feet who can see and hear him, lasting for 6 rounds.
Aura of Courage (Su): Sir Lucan is immune to fear (magical or otherwise). Each ally within 10 feet of him gains a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against fear effects.
Mounted Shield (Ex): Sir Lucan adds his shield bonus to his mount’s AC.
Cavalier’s Charge (Ex): Sir Lucan receives a +4 bonus on melee attack rolls on a charge while mounted.
Honor Guard (Ex): Sir Lucan gains the Bodyguard and In Harm’s Way feats as bonus feats.
EXEMPLAR WARHORSE
Exemplar Warhorse
Large animal
HD 6d8+18 (45 hp)
Init +2; Senses low-light vision, scent; Perception +10
DEFENSE
AC 22, touch 11, flat-footed 20 (+8 armor, +2 Dex, +3 natural, –1 size)
Fort +8, Ref +7, Will +3
OFFENSE
Speed 50 ft.
Melee 2 hooves +9 (1d6+4), bite +4 (1d4+2)
Space 10 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
STATISTICS
Str 18, Dex 14, Con 17, Int 2, Wis 13, Cha 6
Base Atk +4; CMB +9; CMD 20 (24 vs. trip)
Feats Endurance, Run, Improved Natural Attack (hoof)
Skills Perception +10
EQUIPMENT
Armor: +2 chainmail barding
Other Gear: military saddle, bit and bridle, saddlebags
SPECIAL ABILITIES
Combat Trained: The warhorse is trained for combat and does not take penalties when attacking.
TACTICS
Before Combat: Sir Lucan drinks a potion of bear’s endurance and a potion of bull’s strength to enhance his physical capabilities.
During Combat: Sir Lucan initiates combat with a mounted charge, utilizing his cavalier’s charge ability for increased accuracy. He focuses on protecting his liege and allies, using his Bodyguard and In Harm’s Way feats to intercept attacks. He employs tactician abilities to grant teamwork feats to allies, enhancing group coordination.
Morale: Sir Lucan fights valiantly to protect Camelot and its ideals. He retreats only if ordered by King Arthur or if it ensures the safety of his comrades.
Sir Lucan the Butler is a distinguished figure in Arthurian legend, renowned for his unwavering loyalty and martial prowess. As a member of the Knights of the Round Table and the royal butler, he played a pivotal role in King Arthur’s court. His steadfast dedication was evident during the Battle of Camlann, where he remained by Arthur’s side until his final moments.