Torvel Hawke
Sir (a.k.a. Knight and Commander)
Sir Torvel Hawkes is a steadfast knight and the last remnant of House Krivaltis's loyal retinue. As both the seneschal and military commander of Nysera's Baroness Manor, his strength and discipline form the backbone of Lady Nysera’s efforts to solidify power in Nulb. His noble bearing contrasts sharply with the lawless town, serving as a stark reminder of the honor Nysera seeks to reclaim.
Loyal Knight and Commander of Nysera’s Men
- Physical Description: Torvel is a grizzled man in his late fifties, with a rugged face marked by scars from countless battles. His salt-and-pepper hair is kept short, and his piercing gray eyes seem to weigh every soul he meets.
- Attire: He wears battered but meticulously maintained chainmail, over which rests a surcoat with the faded heraldry of House Krivaltis—a green griffon clutching a sheaf of wheat on a white field.
Background
- A Loyal Knight of House Krivaltis: Torvel has served the Krivaltis family since his youth, rising from a squire to the house’s lead knight and seneschal. He remained loyal even after the fall of the house, believing in Nysera’s potential to rebuild their legacy.
- A Survivor of Emridy Meadows: Torvel fought in The Battle of Emridy Meadows, where the Viscounty’s forces triumphed against the Temple of Elemental Evil. His valor earned him respect, but the dishonor of House Krivaltis’s treachery after the war tarnished his reputation.
- Guardian of Nysera Krivaltis: Following the execution of Nysera’s father, Torvel vowed to protect Nysera and ensure her survival. He guided her to Nulb, where she could establish a new base of power, and became the commander of her enforcers.
Role in Nysera’s Court
- Seneschal: Torvel oversees the day-to-day operations of 33. Baroness Manor, ensuring that its small court functions smoothly.
- Military Commander: He trains Iron Talons: The Men of the Baroness instilling discipline and martial prowess into her rough collection of warriors.
- Strategist: A seasoned tactician, Torvel advises Nysera on military and political matters, helping her navigate Nulb’s chaotic power struggles.
- Diplomat: Though not naturally charismatic, Torvel’s honor and experience lend him an air of authority when dealing with other leaders in Nulb.
“My blade has tasted battle for decades, but I wield it now for a single cause—your rise, my Lady.”
Personality
- Loyal and Stoic: Torvel’s loyalty to Nysera is unwavering, and he remains a calm and steadfast presence in her court.
- Pragmatic: While he holds himself to a code of honor, he is willing to compromise his ideals to ensure Nysera’s survival and success.
- Mentorly: Torvel acts as a mentor to Nysera’s men, shaping them into a disciplined force amidst the chaos of Nulb.
Motivations and Goals
- Restore Nysera’s Honor: Torvel’s ultimate goal is to see Nysera restored to a position of power and legitimacy in the Viscounty of Verbobonc.
- Protect the Manor: He views Nysera Haven as a stronghold of Krivaltis’s legacy and will defend it with his life.
- Navigate Nulb’s Dangers: Torvel seeks to protect Nysera from the many threats of Nulb, from rival leaders to Temple agents.
“Your ambitions will not grow without roots, Lady Nysera. Let us plant them deeply in Nulb, where no rival may unearth them.”
Allies and Relationships
- Lady Nysera Krivaltis: Torvel views Nysera as his rightful liege and is deeply loyal to her, though he occasionally worries about the moral compromises she makes in her pursuit of power.
- Nysera’s Men: He trains and commands the Iron Talons: The Men of the Baroness, viewing them as both tools and protégés.
- Rivals in Nulb: Torvel is cautious of figures like Dick Rentsch and Captain Tolub, recognizing their ambitions as threats to Nysera’s control.
- Lakash Quallad: Torvel respects Nysera’s brother for his intelligence but mistrusts his methods and allegiance to the Temple of Elemental Evil.
DM-Only Section
Show spoiler
Secret Past
- His Past with the Temple: While Torvel was unaware of Lord Krivaltis’s treason during the First Temple Uprising, he now grapples with the dishonor it brought upon him. This shame drives him to restore Nysera’s honor at all costs.
- Conflicted Loyalties: Torvel is uneasy about Nysera’s dealings with Temple agents. Though he serves her faithfully, he privately fears that her alliances with the Temple could doom her as it did her father.
Potential Plot Hooks
- A Test of Loyalty: The Temple may attempt to manipulate Torvel’s loyalty to Nysera, testing his honor and resolve.
- A Crisis of Conscience: If Nysera’s actions grow too morally dubious, Torvel may struggle to reconcile his code of honor with his loyalty to her.
“Steel and discipline are the foundations of power. Remember this when words fail.”
Sir Torvel Hawkes
Medium Humanoid (Human), Neutral STR 16 (+3) | DEX 12 (+1) | CON 14 (+2) | INT 12 (+1) | WIS 14 (+2) | CHA 13 (+1)- Armor Class: 16 (chainmail)
- Hit Points: 58 (9d8 + 18)
- Speed: 30 ft.
- Skills: Athletics +5, Insight +4, Persuasion +3
- Alignment: Neutral
- Languages: Common
- Multiattack: Two longsword attacks (+5 to hit, 1d8+3 slashing).
- Leadership (Recharges After Short/Long Rest): Grants allies within 30 feet +1d4 on attack rolls and saving throws for 1 minute.
Alignment
Lawful Neutral
Current Location
Species
Ethnicity
Year of Birth
537
39 Years old
Children
Sex
male
Eyes
piercing gray eyes
Hair
curly grey
Height
6'2"
Aligned Organization
House Krivaltis Crest by 3orcs
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