Heavy Cataphracts (Zoroaster)

The mounted elite of the empire, equipped to the highest standards. Not quite nobles, but very close. No one is likely to stand fast when they charge.


 * Human fighter/1*; CR 1; Medium humanoid; HD 1d10+5; hp 11; Init +2, Spd 20 ft.; AC 23, touch 14, flat-footed 19, shieldless 21; Base atk +1; Grp +5; +6 melee (d6+4/18-20, Scimitar) or +4 ranged (d8+4/x3, composite long bow); SQ none; AL LN; SC Fort +4, Ref +2, Will -1; Str 18, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 8, Cha 8.

Skills and Feats: Diplomacy +1, Heal +3, Ride + 8; Toughness, Armor Focus (heavy).

Possessions: Masterwork composite longbow (+4 strength), masterwork scimitar, arrows (100), masterwork great armor, heavy metal shield, noble uniform, waterskin, bit and bridle, military saddle, light war horse, masterwork great armor barding, healing kit. Cost 7,003 gp. Weight 377 lb. Rider encumbrance 86 lb.


 * Warhorse, Light*; Large Animal; CR 1; Hit Dice 3d8+9 (22 hp); Initiative +1; Speed 40 ft.; Armor Class 21, touch 10, flat-footed 20; Base atk +2; grp +9; Atk +4 melee (1d4+3, hoof); Full atk 2 hooves +4 melee (1d4+3) and bite 1 melee (1d3+1); Space/Reach 10 ft./5 ft.; Special Attacks ; Special Qualities Low-light vision, scent; Saves Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +2; Abilities Str 18, Dex 12, Con 17, Int 2, Wis 13, Cha 6.

Skills and Feats: Listen +4, Spot +4; Endurance, Run

These animals are similar to light horses but are trained and bred for strength and aggression. They usually are not ready for warfare before age three. A light warhorse can fight while carrying a rider, but the rider cannot also attack unless he or she succeeds on a Ride check.

Carrying Capacity A light load for a light warhorse is up to 230 pounds; a medium load, 231460 pounds; and a heavy load, 461690 pounds. A light warhorse can drag 3,450 pounds.