Marfisa the Unconquered

“Unleash the Fury of Marfisa, the Saracen Warrior Princess, in this Epic Battle of Honor and Bravery!”

• Alias: Marfisa
• Gender: Female
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Warrior, Adventurer
• Religion: Polytheistic (Worshiper of various deities)
• Allies: Knights of the Round Table, Orlando, Ruggiero, Bradamante
• Enemies: Saracen rivals, sorcerers and magical creatures
• Abode/Base of Operations: Traveler, no fixed abode
• Nationality: Saracen, from The kingdom of Ethiopia
• Languages: Saracen, Italian, Latin
• Alignment: Lawful Neutral
• Affiliation(s): None in particular, aligns herself with noble causes and fights for justice
• Significant Others: No known romantic partners, focuses on her quests and adventures

Marfisa, the Saracen Warrior Princess, is a fierce and determined fighter, driven by a deep sense of honor and a thirst for adventure. With her remarkable skill in combat and indomitable spirit, she has carved her path through the world, leaving a trail of defeated enemies in her wake. Born to a noble Saracen lineage, Marfisa was trained from a young age in the art of war, honing her natural talent and learning the ways of her people.

Driven by a desire to prove herself and seek glory, Marfisa embarked on countless quests and battles, establishing a fearsome reputation as a formidable warrior. She fought valiantly in the legendary battles of Orlando Furioso, displaying unwavering loyalty to her cause and exhibiting unmatched prowess with her weapon of choice, the mighty sword.

Despite her fierce exterior, Marfisa possesses a compassionate heart and a strong sense of justice. Her unwavering commitment to her people and her desire to protect the innocent drives her actions. She seeks to bring peace and stability to the lands, defending the weak and standing against those who would oppress or harm others.

Marfisa’s ultimate goal is to prove her worth, not only as a warrior but as a leader. She aspires to unite her people and bridge the divide between different cultures, fostering understanding and cooperation. She dreams of a world where honor and respect are valued above all else, where individuals can coexist in harmony regardless of their backgrounds.

With her exceptional combat skills, unwavering determination, and a burning desire for justice, Marfisa remains a force to be reckoned with. Her name echoes through the annals of history, inspiring awe and fear in equal measure. As she continues her journey, she leaves an indelible mark on the world, forever remembered as a symbol of strength, valor, and unwavering resolve.

Marfisa, the Saracen Champion

Medium humanoid (human), lawful neutral

Armor Class 18 (plate armor) Hit Points 180 (20d8 + 100) Speed 30 ft.

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

Saving Throws Str +9, Dex +7, Con +8 Skills Athletics +9, Perception +5, Intimidation +7 Senses passive Perception 15 Languages Common, Saracen Challenge 12 (8,400 XP)

Brave. Marfisa has advantage on saving throws against being frightened.

Actions

Multiattack. Marfisa makes three melee attacks.

Spear. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (1d6 + 5) piercing damage, or 12 (1d8 + 5) piercing damage if used with two hands to make a melee attack.

Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d6 + 5) slashing damage.

Defensive Maneuver. As a reaction, Marfisa can impose disadvantage on an attack roll made against her or an ally within 5 feet of her.

Aura of Courage. Marfisa and friendly creatures within 10 feet of her can’t be frightened while she is conscious.

Legendary Actions

Marfisa 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. Marfisa regains spent legendary actions at the start of her turn.

Attack. Marfisa makes one spear or scimitar attack.

Inspiring Words (Costs 2 Actions). She speaks inspiring words to her allies, granting them advantage on their next attack roll or saving throw.

Relentless Determination (Costs 3 Actions). She gains an additional action on her turn.

Equipment

• Plate Armor
• Spear
• Scimitar
• Shield
• Explorer’s Pack
• Potion of Healing (2)

Magic Items

• Saracen’s Valor (Magic Spear). This finely crafted spear grants a +1 bonus to attack and damage rolls. Once per long rest, when Marfisa hits a creature with the spear, she can choose to deal an additional 4d6 radiant damage.
• Shield of the Desert Winds (Magic Shield). This magical shield grants a +2 bonus to AC. Once per long rest, as a reaction when Marfisa is targeted by a spell or magical effect that requires a Dexterity saving throw, she can add 5 to the saving throw result.

Characteristics

Marfisa, a fierce Saracen warrior hailing from the distant lands of the East, is a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Clad in shining plate armor and wielding her trusty spear and scimitar, she strikes fear into the hearts of her enemies. Marfisa is known for her unyielding loyalty to her people and her unwavering dedication to upholding the Saracen code of honor.

CR: 12 (8,400 XP)

Lair Actions

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

• Heroic Inspiration. Marfisa calls upon her allies’ inner strength, granting them advantage on attack rolls and saving throws until the start of her next turn.
• Unyielding Defense. Marfisa emanates a protective aura, granting herself and her allies within 30 feet a +2 bonus to AC until the start of her next turn.
• War Cry. Marfisa lets out a powerful war cry, forcing all enemies within 30 feet to make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 16) or become frightened until the end of their next turn.

Note: Adjust the lair actions based on the environment where Marfisa is encountered, incorporating elements of her Saracen heritage and combat style.

Plot Hooks

• The Betrayal of Ruggiero: Marfisa’s loyalty is tested when she discovers that her beloved Ruggiero has been manipulated by a treacherous sorceress. The players are drawn into the heart-wrenching dilemma of choosing between helping Marfisa save Ruggiero from darkness or aiding the sorceress in her nefarious plans.
• The Quest for Durindana: Marfisa embarks on a quest to recover the legendary sword Durindana, stolen by a cunning thief. The players join her in a thrilling adventure through enchanted forests, ancient ruins, and perilous dungeons, as they unravel the thief’s secrets and confront formidable guardians to reclaim the sword.
• The Lost Kingdom of Atlantea: Marfisa becomes fascinated with the ancient tales of the lost kingdom of Atlantea and its mystical artifacts. With the players’ assistance, she delves into forgotten ruins, deciphering cryptic clues and facing mythical guardians, all in the pursuit of uncovering the secrets of Atlantean power.
• The Trial of Chivalry: Marfisa is challenged to prove her chivalry in a grand tournament of knights, where she must confront her own doubts and past mistakes. The players become her trusted confidants, supporting her emotionally and physically as she faces skilled adversaries and seeks redemption through honorable combat.
• The Curse of the Moon Goddess: Marfisa is cursed by the vengeful Moon Goddess, transforming her into a half-human, half-wolf creature. The players must aid her in finding a way to break the curse, traveling to sacred shrines, seeking the guidance of wise sages, and battling twisted creatures under the moonlit sky.
• The Demon’s Bargain: Marfisa strikes a dangerous deal with a powerful demon to gain the strength needed to defeat a formidable enemy. The players are enlisted to help her fulfill the demon’s sinister requests, testing their own moral boundaries as they navigate treacherous situations and confront the consequences of their actions.
• The Pursuit of Vengeance: Marfisa sets out on a relentless quest for revenge against those who wronged her family, leading the players on a relentless pursuit through dangerous lands and treacherous political webs. They must balance their loyalty to Marfisa with the moral implications of her thirst for vengeance.
• The Trial of the Golden Spear: Marfisa is chosen to undergo the ancient trial of the Golden Spear, a test of courage and martial prowess. The players accompany her on a perilous journey through hostile lands, where they must overcome deadly traps, solve riddles, and face formidable guardians to prove their worth and gain the spear’s power.
• The Enchanted Labyrinth: Marfisa becomes trapped in an otherworldly labyrinth, her only hope of escape resting in the hands of the players. They must navigate the maze’s shifting corridors, overcome enchanting illusions, and outsmart the cunning guardian to free Marfisa from her ethereal prison.
• The Curse of Immortality: Marfisa accidentally triggers an ancient curse that grants her immortality but at a terrible cost. The players join her in a race against time to find a way to break the curse before it drives her to madness, seeking out forbidden knowledge, encountering powerful beings, and facing moral dilemmas along the way.

Currently in the World

Physical Description: Marfisa is a tall and imposing figure, standing at around 6 feet in height. She has a strong and athletic build, with well-defined muscles honed through years of combat. Her skin is a warm olive tone, and her piercing eyes are a deep shade of brown. Marfisa’s hair is jet black, flowing down to her shoulders in loose waves. She wears a suit of gleaming plate armor, adorned with intricate engravings and bearing the symbols of her noble lineage.

Current Situation: She currently finds herself in the midst of a bustling city, her presence commanding attention as she navigates the crowded streets. She is engaged in a heated discussion with a group of local merchants, advocating for fair treatment of the common folk. Her confident demeanor and unwavering resolve display her determination to fight for justice and protect the vulnerable. Despite the noise and commotion surrounding her, Marfisa remains focused and composed, her eyes glinting with a fiery determination to right the wrongs she encounters.

Surroundings: The cityscape is a vibrant blend of colors and sounds, with market stalls lining the streets and the aroma of exotic spices filling the air. Marfisa stands amidst the hustle and bustle, her towering figure standing out against the backdrop of the busy marketplace. The buildings rise high around her, their ornate architecture a testament to the city’s rich history. People of all walks of life pass by, casting curious glances at the warrior woman clad in her formidable armor. Despite the chaos of the city, Marfisa’s presence brings a sense of order and purpose to the surroundings.

Mood: Marfisa’s mood is a mix of determination and compassion. Her eyes reflect a deep sense of responsibility, as she carries the weight of her noble lineage and the expectations placed upon her. She is resolute in her mission to defend the weak and uphold justice, but there is also a warmth and empathy in her gaze, revealing her genuine care for the well-being of others. Despite the challenges she faces, Marfisa’s spirit remains unyielding, fueled by a sense of righteousness and a belief in the power of one individual to make a difference in the world.