William Shence
Background:
William was born the second son, and 3rd of 5 children to Duke Jarrod and Duchess Safia Shence. As a middle child William was never in the spotlight which lead to him seeking attention. He would slip away from his caretakers and spend time with the common children. He learned what life was like for the folks who didn't win the bloodline lottery.
As he grew into his teens he would often sneak off grounds and hang out in pubs, or take in back ally games. During his day to day he was taught as all aristocratic children are; math, sciences, social studies, neighboring kingdoms, and fencing. Fencing was his favorite and he greatly enjoyed the competitions. However, even there he never took a championship. Outside of official channels it was common for duels among the other nobility. Here William would excel. Using his dexterity he would often outmaneuver his opponents. Once on accident he caused what was almost a fatal wound against a visiting dignitary.
In his late teens William found that he enjoyed the company of the "common folk" more and more, spending his days walking around the town and engaging with the people. He started frequenting an orphanage bringing joy to the children. He would perform coin tricks, play games, teach them tumbling. The winter before he left home he used a large sum of his saving to buy presents for all the children in the orphanage and to make sure the larder was stocked for the rest of winter.
At 23 William decided he was done with the life of nobility, and that there was more of the world for him to see. Considering he'd never be inline for a throne, barring something catastrophic, he grabbed what coin he had on him a backpack and his rapier heading out into the world.
Along his travels he met Zillia Beinion of the Gilded Mummers. At first glace they were traveling performers roaming from town to town putting on shows. They accepted William into their ranks. Here he learned the lockpicking, stealth and deeper understanding of how to strike opponents in their weakest spots. As time passed and William more welcomed in the troupe he learned of their true purpose. They would go from town to town rob people during the shows. Frequently it was simple pickpocket thefts; occasionally it was estates and grand larceny. William wasn't morally opposed to robbing from those that could afford to lose it; however when it came to stealing from families who were struggling he drew a line. He confronted Zillia about his concerns and was met with contempt. William started planning his exit. The months before running away from the troupe he would detour during a heist and drop gold off at homes he saw that looked to be in squalor. He stashed away a rapier and everything he would need to survive on the run. He knew he was making enemies; and he didn't care.
His final show with the troupe was in a large city to a crowd of over 500 people. When the show ended he snuck into the crowd and was absorbed. He knew the troupe was headed North, so he decided to head West.
Rumors:
1 |
Ran away from home after killing someone in a fencing match. |
2 |
Was caught in bed with a visiting nobles daughter. |
3 |
Once bought an entire orphanage. |
4 |
Is in a cult of Mask. |
5 |
Once fought off a gang of 10 people by himself. |
6 |
Was/is part of a bandit outfit. |
Traits:
Despite my noble birth, I do not place myself above other folk. We all have the same blood.
Flaws:
I have an insatiable desire for carnal pleasures.
Skill Proficiencies Acrobatics, History, Perception, Persuasion, Sleight of Hand, Stealth
Tool Proficiencies Dragonchess Set, Thieve's Tools
Languages Common, Dwarvish, Elvish, Thieve's Cant
Lifestyle formerly wealthy