Baron Solnorm (3.5e NPC)
Description
Baron Ricard Solnorm is a enormous man, both well fed and well exercised. He is prone to wearing expensive clothes and is in love with his large, black handlebar mustache and his slicked back black hair. He is constantly adorned with expensive silk clothing, often dyed in expensive oranges and purples, and wears rings and necklaces with large, colorful gems. His face is full, his cheeks are rosy, and he always seems to sport a perfect smile and a twinkle in his eye. Sometimes the smile seems too perfect. Sometimes the twinkle isn't happy at all.
Personality
The Baron speaks confidently about a variety of topics with grace. He is clearly well-traveled and educated. He constantly seizes attention wherever he goes and has come to expect this respect from everyone. He likes to think of himself as merciful, but nonetheless is very strict with his retainers and brooks little incompetence nor the smallest treachery. Though it is not immediately obvious, the Baron also excels at other... less lawful... skills that he picked up in his youth before he willfully elevated his family from near poverty back into the graces of the royal court.
Combat
The Baron is highly skilled with throwing axes, and—when he is prepared, which thanks to his light shield and mithral shirt is virtually always—is a skilled combatant that usually unleashes a flurry of throwing axes. The Baron generally activates his pair of signature axes, one wreathed in electricity and the other in frost, and then each round throws three axes (thanks to Quick Draw and Rapid Shot). Each of the signature axes returns at the beginning of the next round and the Baron flurries again. His distance, aim, and ability to do damage are rather prodigious (i.e. remember to add Far Shot, Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, and Improved Precise Shot to the combat). He is also virtually untouchable by mundane attacks when he wields his magical shield (embossed with a symbol of a mountain and wild horse). Finally, he is most dangerous when he is able to strike against a distracted foe, which—thanks to his minions, gathered through political wit (Diplomacy) or threats (Intimidation)—is often. The Baron also knows a few tricks about fighting dirty, and will use them ruthlessly if pressed, including keeping to high ground, using cover, and using Bluff to open opportunities for his sneak attack (which, with deadly precision, can be rather harmful).
Background
A favorite at King Marak's court, the Baron—if rumors are true—is being groomed by the King himself to be the next ruler of Anselm in the lack of any royal children.
King Marak's court is in the capital of Anselm (part of Anazar) Weatherholm (Large City, Pop. 21,000).
Template:DnD NPCs Breadcrumb → CR 14
Template:DnD NPCs Breadcrumb → ECL 14