Illus. by D. Bircham
e’s a card player, gambler, scoundrel. You’d like him.” —Han Solo, The Empire Strikes Back He’s the silver-tongued charmer who can finesse his way past even the most intimidating guard. She’s the skilled sword-spinner whose mere tap of her blade and slow shake of her head are just as effective as running a man through. He’s the sorcerer who crosses his fingers, casts a few spells, and barrels headlong into a volcano. All of these characters are scoundrels: quick-witted cads, death-defying daredevils, improvisers, gamblers, and downright lucky bastards. Everyone has seen scoundrels, whether in fiction, in movies, or in D&D games. They’re the characters who always know just what to say, who act on a whim, and who always manage to see their way through any situation. Confident risk-takers and thrill-seekers, these opportunists break all the rules and still manage to come out on top.
What Makes a Scoundrel?
Who is a scoundrel? Sure, the fast-talking con artist and the charming thief are probably scoundrels. Yet so might be the fleet-footed monk, the veteran warrior, and the
cleric of Pelor. Being a scoundrel doesn’t have anything to do with a character’s class. It’s a mindset, a way to play your character, an archetype any PC with any goal might fulfill. Being a scoundrel isn’t about thieving, lying, and cheating—though sometimes those tactics come into play. It’s about thinking on your feet, taking the big risk, finding opportunities, and doing whatever it takes to get exactly what you want. Whether your character is a skilled pickpocket, a reclusive druid, or a devoted paladin, this chapter tells you how to create and play exactly the scoundrel you want. The scoundrel mentality and lifestyle revolve around some key elements. While your scoundrel character might not adopt all these philosophies and styles of play, some might aid you or give you ideas on how to make your scoundrel unique. Scoundrels break rules. Scoundrels aren’t always what they appear to be or who they say they are. They warp the truth to obtain their goals, and few are beyond lying when they must or whenever convenient. Breaking rules frequently, but not always, implies breaking laws. Few scoundrels go out of their way to commit crimes or provoke lawful individuals, but they refuse to let an intangible idea prevent them from attaining their goals. Breaking the rules doesn’t have to be out of selfishness or
