Actually, I quite like the concept of an Aristocrat NPC class and it works quite well as it is - however, there are more possibilities. One thing is almost certain, they will have received specialist education and training, befitting their rank, somewhere.

A particularly capable NPC (ie a 15pt build) is able to progress in PC classes, and is not restricted to NPC classes. However, their aristocratic upbringing can be represented by the Noble Scion feat.

Feat: Noble Scion

Traditionally, aristocratic children who are not going to inherit titles go into 'The Church' or 'The Army', however some families might have links to specific orders of knighthood or other suitable organizations, such as a magic college or even a bardic college.

This is absolutely brilliant for the son and (to a lesser extent) daughter, who is going to fill the traditional Aristocratic role of Military Officer or Leader. It reflects the early medieval role of European aristocrats who earned their wealth and maintained their position by strength of arms - and certainly has an important place in most fantasy games. In my games it generally means that the NPC has attended a military School, served an apprenticeship as a military cadet, been trained at home or been fostered in a Noble house of some sort.

NPC Class: Aristocrat

Most aristocrats practice duelling techniques as they grow up, partly because those big houses have long corridors and large chambers where you can practice inside on a cold wet day. Most people start with the basic rapier based technique, which involves shuffling back and forth along a carpet, and is good for keeping the practice fights away from the artwork and statues that line the corridor. Some families, particularly those interested in Duelling Sword or Buckler & Falcatta play, occupy mansions with large hall, often called a Salle, where more active sword skills can be honed. While most Aristocrats don't pursue a career as a duellist, a few continue the practice for personal pleasure. A few go on to qualify as masters (prestige class), although they are never up to the standards of the professionals.

These Aristocrats follow a different type of training, concentrating on light armour and their chosen Sword. The more successful should, eventually, be able to qualify for the Swordlord or Duellist PRC class. This is an archetype of the Standard Aristocrat NPC class.

• A Duellist Aristocrat is proficient with all simple & martial weapons, light armour, Medium Armour and Shields.
• At first level, Duellist aristocrats gain …
  • The Exotic Weapon: Duelling Sword feat and the Sword Scion trait. This replaces Heavy Armour. (Aldori)
  • OR
  • +1 Dexterity. This replaces Heavy Armour. (Others)
• Restriction: Only families of the right standing will have trained Duellists in their number.

Note: The first option facilitates access to the Swordlord prestige class. The second option enables access to the Duelist prestige class. As a Buckler straps to the forearm, and is not held in the hand, this class is beneficial to both Rapier and Falcata duellists.

Later in history, Finishing Schools were all the rage - initially for young ladies of wealthy families, while in later years it has also been common for the young men of some noble families. It is advised that a

• A Schooled Aristocrat is proficient with all simple weapons and light armour.
• At first level, the schooled Aristocrat gains the Iron Will feat. This replaces Heavy Armour proficiency.
• At first level, the schooled Aristocrat gains the Persuasive feat. This replaces Medium Armour.
• At first level, the schooled Aristocrat gains a +1 trait bonus on Knowledge (nobility) and Sense Motive checks. This replaces Shield proficiency.
• At first level, the schooled Aristocrat gains proficiency in Buckler (but no other shields), Rapier, Short Sword and Sword Cane. This replaces the Martial Weapons proficiency.
• Requirement: A Schooled Aristocrat must take the Noble Scion feat at first level, and must select Art, Lore, Magic or Peace. Ignore the Cha-13 requirement.
• Restriction: Must go to a finishing school.