Handsome, youthful, and with a ready smile, Riordan Parnell is a bard as willing to steal a kiss or a song as he is the Duke's jewels. Riordan normally travels with his cousin Celedon, sometimes stealing (but only from evil rich men), sometimes aiding the poor and oppressed, but always adventuring and seeking danger.

Riordan has been rich several times. . . and flat broke just as often. He is 74 years old, but looks 28. He is 5' 8" tall and weighs 130 lbs. He was knighted by the Baron of Bloodstone and serves as a Brigade Commander in the Army, where his bardic powers make him an effective leader.