The Youxia class: an introduction (Patreon)

I hope you enjoy this little contextual preview of the youxia. I'm currently in the process of finalizing a couple of sections (martial arts techniques, setting recommendations, and optional rules for qi) before I can have a complete draft ready for $3 patrons to playtest!   Before that, I think I might do a little Discord hangout to get some feedback from you amazing folks!

- DK

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For the last ten years, I have polished this sword. Its edges have never been tested against a true foe. My lord, here I am standing before you; asking if this blade can help anyone suffering from injustice.

—Xiao Lan of the Mountain Orchid Sect

You are a youxia [yo she-ah] - a wandering hero who protects the innocent and seeks to correct injustices using their martial skills and diplomacy.  You are neither knight nor bandit. You have no allegiances to orders, monarchs, or noble families. Driven by an unwavering sense of justice, you avenge wrongs and help the poor - often through acts of violent heroism.

As a youxia, you typically do not serve a lord, hold military power, or belong to an aristocratic social class (though you may originate from one). Indeed, the essential qualifications for being a youxia were not physical prowess or martial skill, but rather an altruistic spirit and strong sense of justice. Being a youxia was not a profession, but rather a way of conducting life. Youxia were simply people who sought to right wrongs and help those in distress – often by defying corrupt laws and through force.

Compared to the knights of Europe or the Japanese samurai, Chinese youxia were more independent and did not follow a rigid code of behaviour. However, when playing as a youxia in D&D, consider the following guidelines for inspiration:

• In Chinese literature, youxia sometimes act outside of the law to achieve justice for those in need. While a youxia may not always act in accordance with the law, they do not act as bandits preying on the common folk.
• Youxia will help people regardless of their social standing, but draw the line based on their perceived moral character. No youxia worthy of legend would help a corrupt official or oppressive monarch.
• Youxia always fulfill their promises. The willingness to die for one’s convictions is central to the morality of a youxia.
• Loyalty to a friend is more important than one’s duties to a monarch or family.
• They will rush to aid someone in distress without giving a second thought to their own safety. That said, you may be more inclined to use force to solve problems.
• Youxia are not boastful and refrain from seeking glory. While they may undertake mercenary work, the purpose of their mission must align with their individual values.
• Youxia live modestly and give generously.

These guidelines serve only as a narrative guide for using this class. Failing to adhere to these guidelines does not result in the loss of mechanical power.