Louis Dominique Bourguignon “Cartouche”, the King of Thieves

“The Legendary Outlaw: Unmasking the Thrilling Tale of Cartouche, France’s Most Notorious Highwayman!”

• Alias: Cartouche
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Outlaw, Thief, Rebel
• Religion: N/A
• Allies: A band of loyal thieves and supporters
• Enemies: Authorities, the wealthy elite, corrupt officials
• Abode/Base of Operations: Abode/Base of Operations: Paris, specifically the Court des Miracles and other hidden safehouses and secret hideouts in the underbelly of Paris
• Nationality: French
• Languages: French, Thieves’ Cant
• Alignment: Chaotic Good
• Affiliation(s): None specifically, but aligned with the common people and the oppressed
• Significant others: N/A (Focused primarily on his cause and the people)

In the bustling streets of Paris, the enigmatic figure known as Cartouche emerges as a charismatic and elusive outlaw, captivating the imagination of the masses. With a mix of audacity, cunning, and a Robin Hood-like charm, he robs from the rich to give to the poor, becoming a symbol of resistance against the oppressive regime. Driven by a deep sense of justice and a desire to challenge the rigid social order, leading a band of loyal thieves, using their illicit gains to alleviate the suffering of the impoverished.

Born as Louis Dominique Bourguignon, Cartouche’s humble origins and the injustices he witnessed in his early life fueled his resolve to defy the aristocracy and corrupt officials. With his quick wit, agility, and mastery of disguise, he evades capture, leaving authorities and the wealthy elite in awe of his audacious exploits. His actions are motivated not only by personal gain but also by a genuine compassion for the downtrodden, as he seeks to level the playing field and expose the hypocrisy of the ruling class.

Through his daring robberies and acts of defiance, he becomes a folk hero, a symbol of hope for the oppressed and a thorn in the side of the privileged. His notoriety grows, as does the mystique surrounding his true identity. Rumors spread like wildfire, embellishing his feats and creating a legend that both frightens and inspires. His ultimate goal is to disrupt the oppressive social hierarchy, to challenge the notion that birthright determines one’s worth, and to create a more just and equitable society.

However, Cartouche’s audacious actions do not go unnoticed. The authorities, led by relentless pursuers, are determined to capture him and put an end to his Robin Hood-like escapades. As the net tightens around him, Cartouche must rely on his wit, his loyal comrades, and the unwavering support of the people he fights for. His story unfolds as a thrilling tale of rebellion, adventure, and the enduring power of one man’s quest for justice in a world divided by privilege and poverty.

Cartouche, the King of Thieves

Medium humanoid (human), Chaotic Good

Armor Class 15 (studded leather) Hit Points 112 (15d8 + 45) Speed 30 ft.

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

Skills Acrobatics +9, Deception +8, Stealth +9 Senses Passive Perception 11 Languages French, Thieves’ Cant Challenge 8 (3,900 XP)

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Actions

Multiattack. He makes two attacks: one with his shortsword and one with his hand crossbow.

Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 5) piercing damage.

Hand Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, range 30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 5) piercing damage.

Sneak Attack (1/turn). Cartouche deals an extra 14 (4d6) damage when he hits a target with a weapon attack and has advantage on the attack roll, or when the target is within 5 feet of an ally of Cartouche that isn’t incapacitated and Cartouche doesn’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.

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Legendary Actions

Cartouche 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. Cartouche regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

Shadow Step. Cartouche magically teleports up to 60 feet to an unoccupied space he can see.

Sly Flourish (Costs 2 actions). He makes one shortsword attack and one hand crossbow attack.

Misdirection (Costs 3 actions). Cartouche chooses a creature he can see within 60 feet. That creature must succeed on a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw or believe that Cartouche is in a different location until the end of its next turn.

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Equipment

• Studded leather armor
• Shortswords
• Hand crossbow
• Thieves’ tools
• Cloak of Shadows (magic item) – Cartouche gains advantage on Stealth checks while wearing this cloak and can use the Shadow Step ability once per long rest.

Description

Cartouche is a lean and agile figure, dressed in dark leather armor that blends seamlessly with the shadows. His piercing eyes, framed by a black mask, exude an air of confidence and mischief. His hands are nimble and dexterous, always ready to strike or pilfer valuables. Hemoves with uncanny grace and seems to melt into the darkness at will, leaving behind only whispers of his presence.

Lair Actions

On initiative count 20 (losing initiative ties), Cartouche takes a lair action to cause one of the following effects:

Shadowy Distraction. He creates illusory images and sounds in an area within 60 feet of him. Creatures within the area must succeed on a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw or become distracted, granting Cartouche advantage on his next attack against them.

Cloak of Shadows. Heshrouds himself in an impenetrable cloak of darkness, gaining resistance to all damage until the start of his next turn.

Vanishing Act. He magically becomes invisible for the next minute or until he attacks or casts a spell. During this time, he can move through other creatures and objects as if they were difficult terrain.

Legendary Resistance

If Cartouche fails a saving throw, he can choose to succeed instead.

Currently in the World

Cartouche is a charismatic and daring figure, standing tall with a lean and agile build. His dark hair cascades in unruly waves around his face, framing a pair of sharp and calculating eyes. A well-groomed mustache adds to his roguish charm, while a mischievous smile often plays on his lips. He dresses in a combination of stylish and flamboyant attire, adorned with hints of wealth and adventure.

Currently, he finds himself amidst the bustling streets of Paris, navigating the maze-like alleys of the Court des Miracles. The air is thick with the scent of intrigue and clandestine activities. He moves with confidence, seamlessly blending into the shadows, his keen senses alert to every opportunity and danger that may arise. Surrounded by a motley crew of fellow thieves and vagabonds, his presence exudes both authority and a touch of mystery.

The Court des Miracles is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood, alive with the sounds of music, laughter, and whispered conversations. Dilapidated buildings with crooked rooftops line the narrow streets, providing an ideal backdrop for Cartouche’s illicit exploits. The ambiance is a mix of excitement and tension, as the inhabitants go about their clandestine affairs, keeping a watchful eye for rival gangs and authorities.

His mood is one of calculated determination. He is driven by a desire for both personal gain and to protect the less fortunate denizens of the Court des Miracles. His actions are guided by a sense of justice, albeit a skewed one, as he takes from the wealthy and corrupt to distribute among the downtrodden. With a keen intellect and an innate ability for deception, Cartouche thrives in the shadows, forever evading capture and leaving his mark on the city as a daring and legendary figure.