Jules Steward
Overview
Jules is the loyal steward of Comte Émeric de Puyrault’s estate, Le Coteau des Ombres. A man in his mid-50s, cautious and gruff but warm-hearted beneath his reserve, Jules is one of the few household staff who remained through the Revolution and Napoleon’s campaigns. He is fiercely protective of Émeric and the estate.
Appearance & Demeanor
- Age: Mid-50s
- Appearance: Weathered, with calloused hands. He dresses in simple but well-maintained clothing. His posture is upright, suggesting military training or long years of service.
- Manner: Cautious, reserved, and slow to warm to strangers. But once he accepts someone, his loyalty is absolute.
- Voice: Rough, with the accent of a working man
- Distinguishing Feature: He lives in the gatehouse and rarely ventures far from the estate
Personality
Jules is a practical man who has survived decades of chaos by keeping his head down and doing his duty. He is not particularly bright, but he is extremely observant and has a good instinct for character. He dislikes change and is suspicious of outsiders until proven otherwise.
He loves Émeric as one might love a son, and will protect him fiercely from harm or manipulation.
Role in Chapter 2
If Investigators Visit the Estate
Jules:
- Greets the investigators formally but cautiously
- Assesses their character and intent
- Reports back to Émeric on his judgment of them
- Facilitates practical matters (lodging, meals, stables)
- May warn them about local superstitions regarding the estate
Key Dialogue
On the estate:
“This place… it has seen hard days. My family served here before the Terror, and I stayed on when others ran. It’s healing now, but slowly.”
On Émeric:
“The Comte is a good man. Better than his father was, God rest him. I would not see him hurt by bad company.”
On local reputation:
“The villagers, they fear this place. They say the vines grow dark because of the blood spilled here. I don’t put stock in such talk, but… I don’t dismiss it either.”
Characteristics (CoC 7e)
| Attribute | Score |
|---|---|
| STR 60 | CON 65 |
| SIZ 65 | DEX 50 |
| INT 55 | POW 50 |
| APP 45 | EDU 50 |
| HP 13 | MP 10 |
Build: 0 | DB: —1D4 | Luck: 50
Skills
- Spot Hidden 65%
- Listen 60%
- Persuade 45%
- Intimidate 50%
- Ride 55%
- Melee (Staff or Sword) 50%
Connections to Other Files
- Emeric de Puyrault — His master and charge
- Le Coteau des Ombres — The estate he serves
Relationships
- Serves Emeric de Puyrault — Devoted to Émeric and his family