Brunello, the Cunning Thief

Introducing Brunello: The Crafty Dwarf Thief of Italian Epics, Who Plots, Steals, and Faces a Fateful End!

• Alias: None known
• Gender: Male
• Race: Dwarf
• Occupation: Thief, spy, agent
• Religion: Not specified
• Allies: Saracen army of King Agramante
• Enemies: King Sacripante, Marfisa, Bradamante
• Abode/Base of operations: Varies depending on the storyline
• Nationality: Italian
• Languages: Italian, Saracen, Dwarvish, Thieves’ Cant
• Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
• Affiliation(s): Saracen army, King Agramante’s forces
• Significant others: None specified

Brunello, the cunning dwarf thief of Italian epics, is a captivating character whose actions shape the course of the story. Standing at a diminutive height, Brunello possesses a mischievous glint in his eyes and a nimble frame that allows him to move unnoticed through the world. His motivations lie in serving the Saracen army of King Agramante, a powerful force intent on invading Europe and defeating Emperor Charlemagne.

Driven by a thirst for adventure and a desire to prove his worth, Brunello embarks on a daring mission. He sets his sights on obtaining the magical ring belonging to Princess Angelica, a coveted artifact that can secure the loyalty of the young warrior Ruggiero. To accomplish this task, Brunello employs all his wit, stealth, and cunning. He infiltrates the fortress of Albracca, outwitting both King Sacripante and the formidable female warrior Marfisa, seizing the ring and establishing his prowess as a thief.

As Brunello presents the ring to Agramante, his success is rewarded with the promise of a kingdom. However, his role in the grand scheme of things doesn’t end there. Recognizing the strategic importance of Ruggiero’s involvement, Brunello devises a plan to lure the warrior out of his hidden sanctuary. With clever manipulation and the allure of battle, he entices Ruggiero to join the Saracen expedition against France, cementing his importance in the unfolding events.

In the subsequent epic, Orlando Furioso, he remains a central figure, entrusted with the ring by Agramante. However, fate takes a darker turn for the dwarf. The brave female warrior Bradamante, deeply in love with Ruggiero, seeks to free him from captivity. Following the advice of the sage Merlin, she confronts Brunello, understanding that she must obtain the ring to achieve her goal. Although Brunello is spared from death by Bradamante’s hand, he finds himself at the mercy of Marfisa, who demands the return of her stolen sword.

Eventually, Brunello’s actions catch up with him. Betrayed by his captors, he falls into the clutches of Agramante, who orders his execution. Trapped in a web of his own schemes, Brunello meets a tragic end, hanged for his crimes against those who crossed his path.

In this tale of ambition, trickery, and ultimate downfall, Brunello shines as a complex character driven by his desire for recognition and reward. His cunning nature and quick thinking make him an indispensable asset to the Saracen cause, but ultimately lead to his untimely demise.

Brunello, the Cunning Thief

Medium humanoid (dwarf), Chaotic Neutral alignment

Armor Class 15 (studded leather) Hit Points 65 (10d8 + 20) Speed 25 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
14 (+2)	18 (+4)	14 (+2)	13 (+1)	14 (+2)	18 (+4)

Skills Acrobatics +7, Deception +6, Sleight of Hand +7, Stealth +7 Senses Darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 12 Languages Italian, Saracen, Dwarvish, Thieves’ Cant Challenge 4 (1,100 XP)

Actions

Dagger. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage.

Cunning Action (Recharge 5-6). On each of its turns, Brunello can use a bonus action to take the Dash, Disengage, or Hide action.

Uncanny Dodge. When an attacker that Brunello can see hits him with an attack, he can use his reaction to halve the attack’s damage against him.

Reactions

Evasion. When Brunello is subjected to an effect that allows him to make a Dexterity saving throw to take only half damage, he instead takes no damage on a success and half damage on a failure.

Equipment

• Studded Leather Armor
• Dagger
• Thieves’ Tools
• Burglar’s Pack

Abilities

Master of Disguise. He has proficiency in the Disguise Kit and can create convincing disguises to alter his appearance.

Sneak Attack (1/turn). He deals an extra 3 (1d6) 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 that isn’t incapacitated and Brunello doesn’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.

Nimble Escape. He can take the Disengage or Hide action as a bonus action on each of his turns.

Thieves’ Cant. He is fluent in Thieves’ Cant, a secret language used among thieves and rogues.

Magic Items

Ring of Invisibility. This magical ring allows Brunello to become invisible at will as an action. The invisibility lasts for up to 1 hour and ends if Brunello attacks or casts a spell.

Currently in the World

Physical Description: Brunello is a short and stout dwarf, standing around three feet tall. He has a stocky build with a wiry strength, his body well-suited for agility and stealth. His dark, unkempt hair falls in unruly curls around his face, and his beady eyes gleam with a mischievous spark. his weathered and wrinkled face bears the marks of a life spent in cunning and deceit. He often wears ragged and tattered clothing that allows for easy movement, and a cloak that blends into the shadows.

Current Situation: Currently, Brunello finds himself in the bustling streets of a Saracen city, surrounded by the clamor of merchants and soldiers. He moves swiftly and discreetly, blending into the crowd with practiced ease. His hands deftly pickpocket unsuspecting victims, procuring valuable information and precious items for his Saracen allies. Despite the chaos around him, he remains focused and alert, his sharp senses attuned to any potential threats or opportunities.

Surroundings: The city streets are lined with vibrant market stalls, filled with exotic goods and enticing aromas. Colorful banners flutter overhead, displaying the symbols of King Agramante’s reign. The air is filled with the sounds of haggling, laughter, and the occasional clash of weapons in the distance. Shadows dance along the alleyways, offering Brunello ample hiding spots and concealment as he carries out his covert tasks.

Mood: Brunello’s mood is a mixture of excitement and caution. He thrives in the thrill of his thieving endeavors, relishing the challenge of outwitting his targets. His mind is always sharp, analyzing every situation and calculating the best course of action. While he maintains a sense of confidence, there is also a lingering wariness, knowing that his actions could have dire consequences if he’s caught or betrayed.