Albert IV, “the Wise” Duke of Bavaria

“The Visionary Duke: Unveiling the Remarkable Legacy of Albert IV, Duke of Bavaria!”

• Alias – Albert IV, the Wise
• Gender – Male
• Race – Human
• Occupation – Duke of Bavaria, Head of House Wittelsbach
• Religion – Catholic
• Allies – The Holy Roman Emperor, the Archbishop of Salzburg, other German princes
• Enemies – The House of Habsburg, the Ottoman Empire, various rebellious nobles and vassals
• Abode/ Base of operations – The ducal palace in Munich, various other castles and fortresses throughout Bavaria
• Nationality – German
• Languages – German, Latin, some Italian
• Alignment – Lawful Good
• Affiliation(s) – The Holy Roman Empire, House Wittelsbach
• Significant others – His wife Kunigunde, various mistresses throughout his life

In the bustling realm of Bavaria, there stands a figure of unwavering determination and boundless ambition – Albert IV, Duke of Bavaria. A man of noble birth and charismatic presence, Albert IV has always been driven by a deep sense of duty and a burning desire to leave a lasting mark on his beloved land. As the Duke of Bavaria, he carries the weight of his family’s legacy and the responsibility to uphold the prosperity and integrity of his realm.

Albert IV is a shrewd and astute ruler, renowned for his keen intellect and strategic thinking. He possesses a visionary mindset, constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance the prosperity of Bavaria and secure its place among the great powers of Europe. With a strong sense of justice and fairness, he strives to create a harmonious society where his subjects can flourish and thrive.

Driven by his love for the arts and sciences, Albert IV is a patron of scholars, artists, and architects. He believes that the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of culture are essential for the progress and enlightenment of his people. He spares no effort in building grand universities, commissioning magnificent artworks, and supporting groundbreaking scientific endeavors, all aimed at nurturing a society that values wisdom, creativity, and innovation.

However, beneath his benevolent and forward-thinking exterior, Albert IV also faces numerous challenges and adversaries. The political landscape is fraught with rivalries, power struggles, and external threats that constantly test his leadership. As a staunch defender of Bavaria, he navigates through complex alliances, diplomatic negotiations, and military campaigns, always seeking to safeguard the sovereignty and prosperity of his realm.

Deep within his heart, Albert IV harbors a fervent desire to leave a lasting legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. He dreams of transforming Bavaria into a beacon of culture, knowledge, and progress, elevating it to unparalleled heights. With each passing day, he diligently works towards his vision, tirelessly guiding his people towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

In the intricate tapestry of Bavarian history, Albert IV, Duke of Bavaria, stands as a pillar of strength, a visionary leader, and a patron of the arts. His unwavering determination, strategic acumen, and boundless ambition shape the destiny of the land he holds dear, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of Bavarian history.

Albert IV, Duke of Bavaria

Medium humanoid (human), neutral alignment

Armor Class: 15 (chain mail) Hit Points: 105 (14d8 + 42) Speed: 30 ft.

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

Skills: History +4, Intimidation +3, Persuasion +3 Senses: passive Perception 12 Languages: Bavarian German, Latin, Italian, and French

Actions: Longsword: Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage. Javelin: Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage.

Legendary Actions: Albert IV 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. Albert IV regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

• Command Presence: Albert IV gains advantage on the next Charisma-based ability check or attack roll he makes. Proud Boast: Albert IV gains temporary hit points equal to his Charisma modifier (minimum 1).
• Noble Strike: Albert IV makes a melee attack with his longsword.
• Equipment: Chain mail, longsword, shield, javelins (x5), signet ring, fur-lined cloak, ornate hat, and a silver-plated stein filled with ale.

Traits:

• Proud: Albert IV is keenly aware of his noble heritage and demands respect from those around him. He gains advantage on Intimidation checks made against commoners or non-nobles.
• Overindulgent: Albert IV loves to eat and drink, and is known to indulge in rich foods and fine ale. He has disadvantage on Constitution saving throws made to resist the effects of alcohol.
• Chivalrous: Despite his flaws, Albert IV upholds the values of chivalry and honors his word. He gains advantage on Persuasion checks made to negotiate honorable terms of surrender or truce.

CR: 5

Note: This stat block is meant to be a representation of Albert IV based on historical accounts and personality traits, and is not intended to be a completely accurate portrayal of the real historical figure.

Plot Hooks

• The Defender of Bavaria: Albert IV is known throughout the land as a stalwart defender of Bavaria. He has a deep sense of duty and honor to protect his people from external threats. The players are called upon by the Duke to join his armies and defend the duchy’s borders against invading forces. They will engage in epic battles, repel sieges, and strategize military campaigns to safeguard Bavaria’s sovereignty and ensure the safety of its inhabitants.
• The Patron of Learning: Albert IV is not only a skilled warrior but also a patron of arts, culture, and knowledge. He establishes academies, libraries, and centers of learning throughout Bavaria to foster intellectual growth. The players are invited to his court as scholars, scribes, or researchers. They will be tasked with collecting rare manuscripts, recovering ancient texts, and preserving intellectual heritage. They may also be called upon to solve riddles, decipher cryptic codes, or uncover hidden knowledge that can contribute to the Duke’s pursuit of enlightenment.
• The Seeker of Wealth: As a ruler, Albert IV is keen on expanding Bavaria’s economic power. He seeks venturesome individuals who can help him discover new sources of wealth and establish prosperous trade routes. The players are enlisted by the Duke to embark on quests that involve exploring uncharted territories, negotiating with foreign merchants, and securing lucrative partnerships with merchant guilds. They may face challenges such as treacherous terrains, rival traders, or ancient curses guarding valuable treasures.
• The Arbiter of Disputes: With his keen sense of justice, Albert IV acts as a fair and impartial arbiter in disputes among his vassals, merchants, and townsfolk. The players serve as his trusted emissaries, tasked with navigating complex political landscapes and mediating conflicts. They will engage in diplomatic negotiations, gather evidence, and use their persuasive skills to reach amicable resolutions. These disputes may involve land disputes, trade disagreements, or conflicting claims to titles and privileges.
• The Legacy of Ancestry: Albert IV takes great pride in his family’s illustrious lineage and seeks to honor his ancestors. He assigns the players the noble task of locating forgotten burial sites, retrieving ancestral relics, and restoring ancient family estates. These quests will lead the players on journeys through Bavaria’s countryside, ancient ruins, and ancestral crypts. They may encounter puzzles, traps, and guardians protecting the family’s legacy. The successful completion of these quests will not only earn the Duke’s gratitude but also cement the players’ place in Bavarian history.
• The Defender of Faith: Albert IV is a devout Catholic and sees it as his duty to protect the Church’s interests in Bavaria. The players are called upon to root out heresy, investigate claims of witchcraft, and ensure the clergy’s authority is upheld throughout the duchy. They may encounter secret cults, occult practices, or supernatural phenomena that threaten the stability of the Church. Their investigations will require them to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and make moral judgments that align with the Duke’s strong religious convictions.
• The Huntsman’s Challenge: Albert IV is renowned for his skills as a hunter. He invites skilled trackers and archers to join him on hunts for legendary beasts that pose a threat to the Bavarian countryside. The players are invited to prove their mettle in the hunt by tracking down these mythical creatures, navigating treacherous terrains, and engaging in thrilling battles. The Duke’s hunts present an opportunity for the players to showcase their prowess, earn the Duke’s admiration, and potentially gain access to exclusive hunting grounds and royal favors.

Currently in the World

Albert IV, Duke of Bavaria, possesses a commanding presence, standing tall with a broad, robust frame. His face is clean-shaven, showcasing a square jawline that exudes a sense of authority and strength. His features are defined, with piercing eyes that radiate intelligence and determination.

In his current surroundings, Albert IV finds himself in a grand hall adorned with ornate tapestries and intricate woodwork. The hall echoes with the soft murmurs of courtiers and the occasional clinking of glasses, creating an atmosphere of elegance and refinement. The air is scented with the subtle fragrance of polished wood and fine perfumes.

Despite his imposing stature, Albert IV moves with a surprising grace, his steps measured and deliberate. He is dressed in opulent attire befitting his noble status, wearing regal garments adorned with the symbols of his ducal authority. A golden chain, bearing the emblem of Bavaria, hangs prominently around his neck, serving as a reminder of his position of power.

As he surveys his surroundings, Albert IV carries himself with a confident demeanor. His mood is serious and focused, reflecting the weight of his responsibilities as the ruler of Bavaria. His gaze is often sharp and discerning, as he analyzes the courtly intrigues and political machinations that surround him.

Within the grand hall, Albert IV engages in discussions with his advisors and attends to matters of governance. He is driven by a desire to protect and strengthen Bavaria, seeking to ensure the prosperity and well-being of his people. His decisions are guided by a sense of duty and a commitment to upholding the traditions and values of his noble lineage.