Benjamin Hornigold, Gentleman Pirate, Blackbeard’s Mentor

“Benjamin Hornigold: The Fearsome Pirate Who Ruled the High Seas!”

• Alias: Blackbeard’s Mentor
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Pirate Captain, Privateer
• Religion: Unknown
• Allies: Edward Teach (Blackbeard), Pirate Crew
• Enemies: British Royal Navy, Spanish Empire
• Abode/Base of operations: Nassau (Republic of Pirates), Bahamas; Coastal Hideouts
• Nationality: English
• Languages: English, some Spanish
• Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
• Affiliation(s): Brethren of the Coast, Pirate Republic
• Significant others: Mary Hallett (common-law wife)

In the turbulent era of the Golden Age of Piracy, Benjamin Hornigold emerges as a prominent figure on the high seas. With a rugged yet charismatic presence, Hornigold commands respect among his fellow buccaneers. He is driven by a desire for wealth, adventure, and a deep-seated yearning for freedom from the constraints of society.

As a seasoned pirate, Hornigold possesses a cunning mind and a keen eye for opportunity. His weathered face tells tales of countless battles and daring escapades, while his sharp gaze assesses the ever-shifting tides of fortune. With a salt-soaked beard framing his determined features, Hornigold exudes an air of authority that draws both fear and admiration from his crew.

Driven by a code of honor, Hornigold seeks to maintain a semblance of order among his fellow pirates. He believes in fair treatment and equitable distribution of spoils, earning him loyalty from those who serve under his black flag. His leadership style combines strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and a knack for inspiring loyalty in the face of danger.

Hornigold’s ambitions extend beyond mere survival and plunder. While he revels in the thrill of the pirate’s life, he aspires to establish his own pirate haven, a place where freedom reigns and the rules of society hold no sway. He dreams of creating a sanctuary where pirates can thrive without fear of capture or the constant threat of the noose. Such a haven would allow him to amass vast wealth, influence, and perhaps even retire in comfort.

With each successful raid and daring escapade, Hornigold’s reputation as a formidable pirate grows. The lure of adventure and the promise of riches keep him sailing the treacherous waters, forever chasing the next prize that awaits. He navigates the dangerous world of piracy with an unwavering determination, guided by an insatiable thirst for the thrill of the open sea.

Benjamin Hornigold, a pirate of distinction, sails the vast oceans in pursuit of both personal gain and the dream of a pirate utopia. His actions, motives, and quest for freedom intertwine, fueling his relentless pursuit of fortune and the indomitable spirit of a true buccaneer.

Benjamin Hornigold, Gentleman Pirate

Medium humanoid (human), chaotic neutral

Armor Class 16 (leather armor)
Hit Points 135 (18d8 + 54)
Speed 30 ft.

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

Saving Throws DEX +7, CON +7, CHA +8
Skills Athletics +6, Deception +8, Perception +6, Persuasion +8
Senses passive Perception 16
Languages Common, Spanish
Challenge 10 (5,900 XP)

Actions

Cutlass. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.

Flintlock Pistol. Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, range 30/90 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 3) piercing damage.

Multiattack. Benjamin Hornigold makes two attacks, either with his cutlass or his flintlock pistol.

Gentleman’s Gambit. Benjamin Hornigold uses his charm and wit to attempt to persuade or deceive a creature within 30 feet. The target must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be charmed or frightened for 1 minute (target’s choice). The target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on a success.

Legendary Actions

Benjamin Hornigold 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 creature’s turn. Hornigold regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

Captain’s Command. Benjamin Hornigold gives an inspiring command to one friendly creature within 30 feet, granting advantage on their next attack roll or saving throw.

Daring Dodge. Hornigold dodges out of the way of an incoming attack, imposing disadvantage on the next attack roll made against him.

Intimidating Presence. Hornigold unleashes his commanding presence, forcing one creature within 30 feet to make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 16) or be frightened for 1 minute.

Equipment

• Cutlass
• Flintlock Pistol
• Leather Armor
• Pirate Hat
• Compass
• Spyglass
• Set of Lockpicks
• Pouch of Gold and Gems

Magical Items

• Charm of the Buccaneer (Wondrous Item): Grants advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks made to negotiate or persuade in pirate-related matters.
• Sea Serpent’s Eye (Wondrous Item): Once per day, allows the user to cast water breathing or control water.

Abilities Table

Gentleman Pirate
– Gentleman’s Honor. Benjamin Hornigold gains advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when interacting with other pirates or seafaring individuals.
– Sea Legs. Hornigold ignores difficult terrain caused by water and has advantage on Acrobatics checks to maintain balance on a ship.
– Captain’s Command. Hornigold can rally his crew, granting advantage on ability checks and saving throws to friendly creatures within 30 feet.

Character Traits

Benjamin Hornigold is a charismatic and cunning pirate, known for his charm and persuasive abilities. His leadership style blends a sense of honor and camaraderie with a fierce determination to amass wealth and reputation. He is respected and revered among his crew, and his code of conduct promotes fairness and loyalty.

Currently in the World

Benjamin Hornigold, a seasoned pirate captain, cuts an imposing figure on the deck of his ship. Standing tall and muscular, his salt-and-pepper beard cascades down his chest, a testament to his years at sea. His weathered face bears the marks of countless battles and his eyes, gleaming with a mix of mischief and determination, survey the horizon.

Currently, Hornigold stands at the helm of his vessel, the wind whipping through his long, dark hair. The creaking of wooden planks and the rhythmic sounds of the ocean create a symphony that resonates with his adventurous spirit. The scent of saltwater permeates the air, mingling with the tang of gunpowder and the intoxicating aroma of freedom.

Surrounded by a loyal crew, their weather-beaten faces etched with tales of triumph and hardship, Hornigold commands respect. His presence exudes a mix of authority and camaraderie, fostering a sense of unity among the ragtag band of pirates who call him captain. The ship itself is a patchwork of repairs and modifications, a testament to their resourcefulness and adaptability.

The current surroundings showcase the vastness of the open sea. The endless expanse of azure water stretches to the horizon, occasionally interrupted by the silhouette of distant land or the presence of other vessels. The sky above is a tapestry of shifting clouds, their colors reflecting the hues of the setting sun. The gentle sway of the ship upon the waves adds to the sense of freedom and possibility that pervades the air.

Hornigold’s mood is one of focused determination, with a hint of mischievous anticipation. He revels in the thrill of the hunt, the chase for plunder and adventure. His eyes gleam with excitement, knowing that the next target could yield untold riches. Beneath his gruff exterior, there is a sense of camaraderie and loyalty towards his crew, fueled by a shared desire for freedom and the spoils of the pirate life.

As Benjamin Hornigold stands at the helm, his gaze fixed on the ever-shifting horizon, he embodies the essence of a seasoned pirate captain. His physical presence and commanding aura evoke both respect and fear among those who sail alongside him. In this maritime world of peril and opportunity, Hornigold’s spirit is restless, forever seeking the thrill of the open sea and the riches that await the boldest of adventurers.