Yasuke, the African Samurai

“Meet Yasuke, the African Samurai Who Shattered Japan’s Norms!”

• Alias: Yasuke
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Retainer, Warrior
• Religion: Unspecified (likely varied throughout his life)
• Allies: Oda Nobunaga, fellow retainers and warriors in Nobunaga’s service
• Enemies: Various opposing warlords and factions during the Sengoku period
• Abode/Base of Operations: Japan (specific locations may vary during his service)
• Nationality: African (exact origin uncertain)
• Languages: African languages (specifics unknown), Japanese (learned during his time in Japan)
• Alignment: Lawful Neutral
• Affiliation(s): Oda Nobunaga’s retinue
• Significant Others: Unspecified (no recorded information on personal relationships)

Yasuke is a remarkable individual, known for his extraordinary journey and unique position in history. He is a man of both mystery and valor, hailing from lands far removed from Japan’s shores. As an African man, his origins alone set him apart in a land where such diversity was uncommon.

Yasuke’s tale unfolds against the backdrop of the tumultuous era of feudal Japan. His life takes a dramatic turn when he finds himself in the service of the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga. Yasuke’s role as a retainer and warrior in Nobunaga’s service thrusts him into the heart of Japan’s fierce conflicts and ever-shifting political landscape.

In the midst of war and strife, Yasuke grapples with the challenges of his unique position. As a foreigner, he faces prejudice and discrimination from many who view him with suspicion. Yet, he carries within him a steadfast commitment to his lord and his newfound purpose in this foreign land.

Yasuke’s loyalty, unmatched strength, and unyielding spirit make him a formidable figure on the battlefield. His presence and actions leave an indelible mark on the pages of Japanese history, as he strives not only to protect his lord but also to find his own place in a world that often seems at odds with his origins.

While Yasuke’s ultimate goals remain cloaked in the mists of time, his unwavering dedication and the legacy he leaves behind serve as a testament to the enduring human spirit, transcending boundaries of race and place.

Yasuke, the African Samurai

Medium humanoid (human), lawful neutral

Armor Class 17 (samurai armor) Hit Points 110 (13d8 + 52) Speed 30 ft.

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

Skills History +4, Insight +6, Athletics +7 Senses Passive Perception 13 Languages Common, Japanese Challenge 7 (2,900 XP)

Background: Samurai

Samurai Resilience. He has advantage on saving throws against being frightened.

Fighting Spirit (3/Day). As a bonus action, Yasuke can gain advantage on all attack rolls until the end of his turn. He can use this feature three times, and all uses are regained after a long rest.

Indomitable (1/Day). He can reroll a saving throw that he fails. He must use the new roll.

Multiattack. He makes three melee attacks.

• Katana. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (1d10 + 4) slashing damage.
• Yumi Bow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range 150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d10 + 2) piercing damage.

Honorable Duel (Recharge 5-6). Yasuke challenges a creature to an honorable duel. Until the start of Yasuke’s next turn, he and the target have advantage on attack rolls against each other. If the target hits Yasuke, it takes an additional 9 (2d8) slashing damage. Yasuke cannot use this feature again until he finishes a short or long rest.

Relentless Endurance. When he is reduced to 0 hit points but not killed outright, he can drop to 1 hit point instead. He can’t use this feature again until he finishes a long rest.

Samurai Armor. He wears traditional samurai armor, which provides an AC of 17. He also wears a helmet, granting him resistance to critical hits.

Actions

Second Wind (1/Short Rest). On his turn, Yasuke can use a bonus action to regain 1d10+4 hit points.

Fighting Stance. He chooses between two stances:

1. Defensive Stance. his AC increases by 2, but his attacks deal 2 less damage.
2. Offensive Stance. his attacks deal an extra 2 damage, but his AC decreases by 2.

Leadership (Recharges after a Short Rest). Yasuke can use his action to grant all allies within 30 feet advantage on their next attack roll. This effect lasts for 1 minute.

Reactions

Deflect Missile. When Yasuke is hit by a ranged weapon attack, he can use his reaction to reduce the damage by 1d10+4.

Equipment

• Katana (Greatsword)
• Yumi Bow (Longbow)
• Samurai Armor
• Helm
• Traveler’s Pack
• Badge of Honor
• Historical Scroll
• 500 GP

Roleplaying Notes: Yasuke is a loyal and disciplined samurai who upholds the code of bushido. He values honor, respect, and loyalty above all else. His presence on the battlefield is imposing, and he is unyielding in the face of adversity. Despite his serious demeanor, he is known for his kindness to those in need.

Adventure Hook: Yasuke seeks a worthy master to serve in a land plagued by chaos. He has heard rumors of a powerful warlord who may bring stability to the region, and he is on a quest to find and serve this leader. However, he will not pledge his loyalty easily, and the party must prove their worthiness before he agrees to join them.

Currently in the World

Yasuke stands tall, towering above most of the people in the area. His physique is well-built and robust, a testament to his warrior background. His skin is deep brown, a stark contrast to the predominantly fair-skinned Japanese around him, marking him as a foreigner. His shaved head gleams in the sunlight, a practical choice for a warrior in Japan’s often sweltering climate.

Currently, Yasuke is clad in a traditional Japanese warrior’s attire, wearing a well-crafted suit of samurai armor. The armor is lacquered black, with intricate golden detailing that highlights his status and service. Over the armor, he wears a flowing crimson kimono, a symbol of his loyalty to his daimyo, Oda Nobunaga. A katana, the weapon of a true samurai, is sheathed at his side, ready for battle at a moment’s notice.

Yasuke is currently in the midst of a bustling Japanese battlefield, the air filled with the sounds of clashing swords and battle cries. The ground is muddy from recent rain, and the battlefield is littered with fallen warriors and broken weapons. Despite the chaos surrounding him, Yasuke maintains a focused and determined demeanor. His mood is one of unwavering resolve, as he remains loyal to his daimyo’s cause and committed to protecting those under his care.