Zheng He, Admiral of the Treasure Fleet

“The Legendary Admiral: Discover the Epic Journeys and Global Influence of Zheng He!”

• Alias: Zheng He, Admiral Zheng
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Admiral, Explorer, Diplomat
• Religion: Islam
• Allies: Ming Dynasty, Emperor Yongle
• Enemies: Pirates, rival powers in the Indian Ocean
• Abode/Base of operations: Imperial Court of the Ming Dynasty in Nanjing, China
• Nationality: Chinese
• Languages: Chinese (Mandarin), Arabic, Malay, various other languages of the regions he explored
• Alignment: Lawful Neutral
• Affiliation(s): Ming Dynasty, Chinese Imperial Navy
• Significant others: Information not available in historical records

Zheng He is a figure of immense historical significance, known as one of the most influential explorers and diplomats. Born into a Muslim family in Yunnan, China, Zheng He’s early life was filled with adventures and challenges. At a young age, he was castrated and taken into the service of the Ming Dynasty’s imperial court.

Despite his personal hardships, Zheng He rose to prominence as a trusted eunuch of the emperor, entrusted with leading a series of unprecedented naval expeditions. Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire for discovery, Zheng He embarked on a series of seven epic voyages that would span the vast oceans, reaching as far as Southeast Asia, India, the Middle East, and East Africa.

His missions were not merely about exploration and conquest. He carried with him a deep commitment to diplomacy and cultural exchange. His fleets were laden with precious goods, diplomatic gifts, and envoys from the Ming court, demonstrating China’s desire for peaceful engagement and fostering harmonious relations with other nations.

As a charismatic and skilled leader, he commanded massive treasure ships, each spanning several hundred feet in length, and accompanied by an armada of smaller vessels. His expeditions were not only a display of Chinese naval might but also a testament to the mingling of cultures, as his crews included people from diverse backgrounds, languages, and faiths.

Zheng’s ultimate goal was to establish China as a global maritime power, opening up new trade routes, strengthening diplomatic ties, and showcasing the wealth and sophistication of the Ming Dynasty. He sought to create a world where different civilizations could coexist peacefully, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

Throughout his remarkable career, Zheng He left an indelible mark on history, bridging gaps between distant lands and cultures, and elevating China’s standing in the world. His legacy continues to inspire awe and admiration for his courage, ambition, and commitment to exploration and diplomacy. Zheng He’s name is forever associated with the spirit of adventure, cultural exchange, and the pursuit of a connected world.

Zheng He, Admiral of the Treasure Fleet

Medium humanoid (human), lawful neutral

Armor Class 17 (lamellar armor) Hit Points 180 (20d8 + 90) Speed 30 ft.

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

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

Saving Throws Str +8, Dex +6, Wis +6, Cha +9 Skills History +9, Perception +6, Persuasion +12, Religion +9 Senses passive Perception 16 Languages Common, Chinese, Arabic, Persian Challenge 13 (10,000 XP)

Actions Multiattack. He makes three attacks: two with his sabre and one with his dagger.

Sabre. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (1d8 + 7) slashing damage.

Dagger. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d4 + 4) piercing damage.

Commanding Presence (Recharge 5-6). He uses his voice and presence to issue a command to his allies. Each friendly creature of his choice within 30 feet of him can use its reaction to make one weapon attack.

Divine Protection. When Zheng He or a creature within 30 feet of him takes damage, he can use his reaction to grant resistance to that damage to the target.

Legendary Actions He 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. Zheng He regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

Command Strike. He makes one dagger attack.

Inspiring Words. He gives an inspiring speech, granting advantage on the next ability check, saving throw, or attack roll made by a friendly creature within 30 feet of him.

Tactical Maneuver. He moves up to half his speed without provoking opportunity attacks.

Equipment Lamellar armor, sabre (Dao), dagger, explorer’s pack, navigational tools, diplomatic seal, a set of fine clothes, and a pouch containing 50 gold pieces.

Magic Items Astrolabe of Navigation. This magical astrolabe grants Zheng He advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks related to navigation and charting.

Amulet of Diplomatic Influence. This enchanted amulet enhances Zheng He’s persuasiveness, granting him advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks when engaging in diplomatic negotiations or interactions.

CR Level Zheng He’s CR level is 13.

Plot Hooks

• The Navigator’s Guidance: Zheng He, the renowned admiral and explorer, seeks a skilled navigator to join his illustrious fleet. He values their expertise in charting unexplored waters, deciphering intricate maps, and navigating treacherous currents. The successful candidate will have the unique opportunity to sail alongside Zheng He, exploring new horizons and discovering the wonders of distant lands.
• The Treasure Fleet’s Diplomat: Zheng He, a masterful diplomat and ambassador, extends an invitation to talented envoys. He seeks individuals with a gift for negotiation, cultural understanding, and diplomatic finesse. As part of his esteemed Treasure Fleet, they will embark on daring voyages to establish trade routes, forge alliances, and promote cultural exchange with the farthest reaches of the known world.
• Mysterious Ancient Artifacts: Zheng He, collector of ancient artifacts, possesses a trove of treasures unearthed during his legendary voyages. These relics are said to hold immense power, ancient wisdom, or even grant mystical abilities. Zheng He seeks a group of adventurers with a thirst for discovery and the courage to face the unknown. Their task is to unlock the secrets of these artifacts, unraveling the mysteries of lost civilizations and unlocking their hidden potential.
• The Lost Map of the Southern Seas: Zheng He holds a fragmentary map that hints at the existence of a mythical island in the uncharted southern seas. Legends speak of untold riches, ancient temples, and powerful artifacts hidden within its shores. To complete the map and embark on this perilous journey, Zheng He needs a band of fearless explorers willing to brave the treacherous waters, face formidable guardians, and uncover the truth behind the island’s enigmatic past.
• Guardians of the Dragon’s Pearl: Zheng He has been entrusted with the protection of a legendary artifact known as the Dragon’s Pearl. This precious gem is believed to bring immense fortune and safeguard its possessor. Fearing its misuse by nefarious individuals, Zheng He seeks a group of valiant adventurers to serve as its guardians. Together, they will face formidable challenges, navigate treacherous waters, and defend the artifact from those who would seek to claim its power for themselves.
• The Rival Admirals: Zheng He’s reputation as a skilled navigator and esteemed admiral has attracted the envy and ire of a rival admiral. This adversary seeks to undermine Zheng He’s achievements, discredit his expeditions, and tarnish his legacy. Zheng enlists the aid of a group of trustworthy adventurers to gather evidence of his rival’s treachery, expose their machinations, and protect his hard-earned reputation as a pioneer of exploration and diplomacy.
• The Forbidden Island: Zheng He has acquired knowledge of a mythical island that remains shrouded in mystery and forbidden to outsiders. Legends speak of ancient ruins, hidden treasures, and otherworldly creatures guarding its secrets. Zheng seeks a courageous party of adventurers to undertake the perilous journey to this enigmatic island, face its trials and tribulations, and unravel the truth behind its ancient riddles.
• The Dragon’s Blessing: Zheng He believes that he is destined to receive a blessing from the dragons themselves. To prove his worthiness, he seeks individuals of exceptional character and valor who can help him demonstrate his courage, virtue, and commitment to the greater good. Together, they will undertake quests and challenges, overcoming trials set forth by the dragons, and ultimately seek the coveted blessing that will bring them honor and divine favor.
• The Scroll of Ancient Navigation: Zheng He has heard whispers of a mythical scroll that holds the secrets of celestial navigation, a knowledge that could revolutionize maritime exploration. He tasks a group of intrepid adventurers with the mission of locating this elusive scroll, safeguarding it from those who would use it for nefarious purposes, and ensuring that its ancient wisdom falls into the hands of those who will use it responsibly. The journey will take them to distant lands, testing their skills, resourcefulness, and resolve.
• The Specter of Betrayal: Zheng He suspects that there is a traitor among his crew, leaking valuable information to rival powers. He seeks a team of loyal and astute individuals to aid him in uncovering the spy’s identity and putting an end to their treachery. The adventurers will delve into the shadows, gather evidence, and undertake covert missions to expose the traitor and preserve the integrity and safety of Zheng He’s fleet.

Currently in the World

Physical Description: Zheng He was a tall and imposing figure, standing over six feet tall with a robust build. He had a commanding presence, with a stern expression that reflected his authority and experience. His face bore the marks of a life at sea, weathered and tanned by the sun and wind. He had a neatly trimmed beard and a mustache, adding to his dignified appearance. He is dressed in the traditional attire of a Chinese admiral, donning ornate robes adorned with symbols of his rank and achievements.

Current Situation: Zheng He is currently overseeing the preparations of his next voyage at the bustling naval shipyard in Nanjing. The surroundings are filled with the sounds of shipbuilders and sailors, working diligently to construct and outfit the mighty treasure ships that will carry him and his crew on their maritime expeditions. Zheng He’s mood is a mix of anticipation and determination as he meticulously plans each aspect of the upcoming voyage, ensuring the ships are well-equipped and the crew is prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.