Ward - Dragon (Character Kit)

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:This was originally published in Dragon Magazine #206
==Ward==
The ward is a half-dragon who has a wealthy patron—usually the half-dragon's dragon parent, but possibly a government body, guild, criminal organization, or non-dragon patron. This patron provides the ward with wealth, a place to live, and tasks to perform. Some patrons provide assistance without ever revealing themselves; others are known to the wards, but the relationship is kept secret from others. A dragon patron provides help either because it is responsible for the half-dragon's birth or because it wants to use the half-dragon as a tool. Nondragon patrons have their own reasons for employing the half-dragon, but none do it out of charity.
Settings: The ward is appropriate for the Council of Wyrms, GREYHAWK, and FORGOTTEN REALMS settings. This is a common kit for half-dragons with silver, Greyhawk, or steel dragon parents, especially those living in large cities like Greyhawk or Waterdeep. It is not known to be used by the children of Oriental dragons or by a Krynnish half-silver, who would be raised as a normal human or demihuman child. 
Requirements: Nil.
Role: When a ward is openly accepted by her patrons, she has a place in the patron's clan or organization, if any. She is tolerated by the dragon's allies and subordinates for work purposes but might be shunned socially. Some wards are helped in secret; these wander from place to place, though they do so with better resources than exiles.
Many wards live well. Often, all their patrons ask for in retum is the same type of service their other servants provide; the half-dragon is not so much "used" as simply employed.
Weapon proficiencies: A ward can select any weapon available for her class.
Nonweapon proficiencies:
* Bonus: etiquette.
* Required: none.
* Recommended, general: artistic ability, dancing, riding (land-based), seamanship, swimming. 
* Recommended, priest: ancient history, engineering, healing, reading/writing.
* Recommended, warrior: endurance, hunting, running.
* Recommended, rogue: appraising, gem cutting, juggling, musical instrument.
* Recommended, wizard: spellcraft.
Equipment: A ward can use any weapons, armor, and equipment suitable to her class.
Special benefits: Wards have access to the wealth and knowledge of their patrons. This does not mean that they are provided with unlimited funds and supplies, but they receive aid when they most need it, seldom more than once per year. Patrons also are likely to provide tips and quests leading to considerable rewards.
Special hindrances: Because of the universal distaste often exhibited toward half-dragons, members of this kit receive a -1 penalty to encounter reactions when dealing with NPCs. Some wards are kept on a figurative short leash by their patrons, who don't wish the half-dragons to gain too much freedom and perhaps strike out on their own.
Wealth options: Wards start play with 5d6 x 10 gold pieces to purchase equipment. At the DM's option, some of this amount might be in the form of equipment, such as weapons, armor, or other materials.
Category:Character Kit
Category:Character Kit Dragon Magazine