PATRON OF THE ARTS

Regardless of where they actually gain their power, some houses are best known as patrons of the arts. They support painters, sculptors, and musicians—any artist whom they might transform into the “latest thing,” and thus share in the ensuing glory and prestige. Invariably, of course, popularity fades, and the house moves on to other artists. Patrons of the arts rarely sponsor adventurers, but they might occasionally do so if their territory or membership is endangered. They frequently support artists, of course, and a PC with a high artistic skill might gain patronage that way.

Associated Classes: Aristocrat, expert, bard.

Associated Skills: Craft, Knowledge (nobility and royalty), Perform, Profession, Speak Language. Supplies Available: The house can supply all manner of mundane equipment. It can also supply minor wondrous items, whose value cannot exceed 50% of the total aid provided. Depending upon its other interests, it might be able to provide alternate materials at the DM’s option, but never to the same extent as other houses more fully invested in those areas.

Sample Contact: Baroness Elspath Silverweave (aristocrat 4/bard 2). The baroness will provide raw materials for the creation of a single work of art (not weapons, armor, or equipment), the value of which cannot exceed 100 gp. Once per month.