Aldie Chesk

The enigmatic and unflinchingly pragmatic proprietor of The Iron Bloom in the village of Redoubt.

A Font of Rumor

Not much is known about Chesk from his time before he came to Redoubt to build and run the Bloom, but that doesn't stop his patrons from offering up theories and rumors. The grizzled man has seen things, so they say. Some argue that he ran with a mercenary company as their quartermaster but left when they turned to atrocity. Others suggest that he served as a war priest before he turned his back on the gods. Some of his drunker patrons even whisper that he is the avatar of Nalv. Chesk does nothing to affirm or dispel these rumors, but one thing is for sure: whatever his background, he has seen enough blood in his life to never want to mop it off his floors again.

Zero Tolerance

Some might think that, because of Chesk's appearance and the suggested violence of his youth, that he would relish a good fight. Nothing could be further than the truth. Starting a fight in the Bloom can get patrons banned for life and damage to the establishment can see the perpetrators ostracized or even expelled from Redoubt. The vast majority of patrons respect these rules and even help to enforce them. After all, the Bloom is the center of culture in Redoubt, and the village's citizens defend it with zeal. This, combined with the consequences, stifle most fights before they begin. However, the area immediately outside the tavern has seen some of the largest brawls in the village's short history.

Unapologetically Pragmatic

Chesk's pragmatism is perhaps his most defining characteristic, at least in his older years. He will happily host a thief's guild meeting at one table and a cleric's convention at another, so long as all parties are paying customers and everyone keeps their weapons sheathed. This often frustrates the militia. After all, much of the illicit activity in Redoubt is masterminded in the Bloom. Even guards and soldiers need a place to rest and relax though. It is not uncommon to see militia members across the bar from known criminals. Even the soldiers know to wait until everyone has left the Bloom before coming to blows.

Pillar of the Community

Love him or hate him, Aldie Chesk has more sway in Redoubt than almost any other person. His position at the center of the village's culture, politics, and daily activities gives him unique insight and power. Of course, he seems completely uninterested in exercising that power. He is content simply to pour the drinks, and on occasion, head back into the kitchen to cook up the best food available in Redoubt.