6. The Lore Weaver's Nook
From behind a grand, imposing desk laden with open books and stacks of parchment, a diminutive gnome adjusts his delicate, gold-rimmed spectacles and peers at you curiously. Carefully, he climbs down from his perch using a cleverly hidden step stool, and approaches with a welcoming smile.
"Greetings, friends! I am Eldrin Featherquill, keeper of this humble trove of knowledge. You look like adventurers hungry for lore or perhaps seeking guidance on your next journey. How might I assist you today?"
Nestled among the vibrant topside cottages of Sheernobb stands The Lore Weaver's Nook, a charming bookshop famed among villagers and travelers alike. A carved wooden sign displaying a quill pen weaving through a scroll gently swings in the breeze, inviting curious passersby to explore within.
Exterior
The Lore Weaver's Nook is a quaint, single-story cottage constructed from polished river stones with ivy delicately clinging to the walls. Brightly painted shutters frame windows filled with an intriguing array of books, maps, and oddities. A sturdy oak door, lovingly polished and set with colorful stained glass panels depicting scenes from local lore, welcomes visitors warmly.
Interior
Inside, visitors find themselves enveloped by a cozy, dimly-lit sanctuary. The gentle scent of old paper mingles with the soft fragrance of beeswax candles. Wooden shelves, meticulously crafted from rich, dark walnut, overflow with countless volumes—some neatly organized, others stacked haphazardly on small tables or in inviting reading nooks. Comfortable chairs with plush velvet cushions invite patrons to linger.
Behind a grand desk designed for taller folk but outfitted with cleverly hidden step stools and ladders, sits the gnome proprietor and scholar, Eldrin Featherquill.
Proprietor: Eldrin Featherquill
Physical Description: Eldrin Featherquill (NG male gnome illusionist 5) is an elderly gnome with a trim figure, standing slightly taller than most of his kin. His neatly groomed beard, soft as silk and stark white, complements the wispy tufts of hair atop his head. Spectacles with thin golden frames perch delicately on his pointed nose, magnifying his deep, twinkling emerald eyes. Unlike his neighbors, Eldrin favors scholarly robes of muted blues and greys adorned with tiny embroidered runes along the hems, indicative of his magical and academic leanings.
Personality & Interests: Eldrin retains the original character’s scholarly and kindly personality. He has an insatiable appetite for knowledge, particularly enchanted by maps, journals, and arcane writings. He warmly engages visitors in thoughtful conversation, always eager to exchange ideas and share wisdom.
Adventures & Points of Interest
- Eldrin may request adventurers to seek rare books or journals lost in the Gnarley Forest or Kron Hills.
- A recently discovered ancient map hints at hidden ruins and forgotten treasures, spurring excitement among locals and adventurers alike.
The Lore Weaver’s Nook stands as a beacon of knowledge and curiosity, reflecting the heart and spirit of Sheernobb’s gnomish community.
Politics of Verbobonc
Eldrin maintains a positive relationship with the village council and other local businesses, often assisting with notarial duties and document preparations.
Regional Influence
- Trade and Commerce: The Book-End plays a role in regional trade by providing valuable maps and books to merchants and adventurers.
- Security Concerns: Eldrin is aware of the bandit activity affecting merchant wagons along the 'Long Road' and advocates for increased security measures.
Key Political Figures
- Headgnome Glennddarc Keeleene: Works closely with Eldrin on matters of village security and documentation.
- Merchants and Traders: Engages with traders to ensure safe passage and address issues of banditry.
Opinions on Bandit Raid Problems
- Concerned: Eldrin is deeply concerned about the increasing bandit activity affecting merchant wagons.
- Advocate for Action: He believes that more proactive measures should be taken to address the threat and protect trade routes.
- Frustration: Frustrated by the lack of sufficient response from regional authorities, Eldrin often voices his concerns to Headgnome Glennddarc and other village leaders.
The Book-End stands as a testament to Eldrin’s dedication to knowledge and his commitment to serving the community of Sheernobb. With its vast collection of books and maps, the shop is a vital resource for scholars, adventurers, and traders, playing a crucial role in the village’s cultural and economic landscape.
"The Lore Weaver's Nook is more than a shop; it’s a sanctuary for scholars and adventurers."
Eldrin the Illusionist
NG male gnome illusionist 5
- Personality: Eldrin is more of a scholar than a typical wizard. He is meticulous, curious, and deeply passionate about books and maps. Despite his scholarly demeanor, he is friendly and enjoys engaging with customers.
- Background: Eldrin has spent years collecting and recreating personal treasures such as maps and journals. His love for knowledge and literature led him to establish The Book-End.
"The Lore Weaver's Nook is the best in the region; I wouldn't trust anyone else."
Armor Class: 12 (15 with mage armor)
Hit Points: 27 (5d6 + 10)
Speed: 25 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 (-1) | 14 (+2) | 14 (+2) | 18 (+4) | 14 (+2) | 12 (+1) |
Saving Throws: Int +7, Wis +5
Skills: Arcana +7, History +7, Insight +5, Perception +5
Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 15
Languages: Common, Gnomish, Elvish, Draconic
Challenge: 3 (700 XP)
Proficiency Bonus: +3
Gnome Cunning. Eldrin has advantage on Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws against magic.
Spellcasting. Eldrin is a 5th-level spellcaster. His spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 15, +7 to hit with spell attacks). Eldrin has the following wizard spells prepared:
- Cantrips (at will): minor illusion, mage hand, prestidigitation, dancing lights
- 1st Level (4 slots): detect magic, disguise self, mage armor, silent image, sleep
- 2nd Level (3 slots): invisibility, mirror image, phantasmal force
- 3rd Level (2 slots): hypnotic pattern, major image
Actions:
Quarterstaff. Melee Weapon Attack: +1 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2 (1d6 - 1) bludgeoning damage, or 3 (1d8 - 1) bludgeoning damage if used with two hands.
Reactions:
Illusory Self (Recharges after a Short or Long Rest). Eldrin can interpose an illusory duplicate between himself and an attacker. The attack automatically misses Eldrin, and the illusion dissipates immediately afterward.
Equipment:
Spellbook, scholarly robes, quarterstaff, spectacles, pouch with 25 gp, ink and quills, assorted maps and documents.
Services Offered
- Local Maps: 4 gp
- Book Copying (per volume): 15 gp
- Map Copying: 1 gp
Eldrin also serves as a trusted notary for official village documents and the businesses of Sheernobb, providing meticulous records and insightful counsel.
Notable Treasures
- A collection of well-preserved spellbooks containing a variety of beginner-level wizard spells.
- A rare encyclopedic volume detailing the flora and magical properties of the Gnarley Forest.
Quotes & Opinions
"Every map tells two stories—the journey taken and the paths yet unseen."
"Knowledge grows not from mere collection but from sharing it freely."
Items for sale
- Local Maps: Available for purchase at 4 gp.
- Book Copying: Priced at 15 gp.
- Map Copying: Offered at 1 gp.
Opinions on Bandit Raids from Eldrin
Scholarly Concern
"The disruption of trade routes by these bandits is not just a local issue; it affects the entire region’s flow of knowledge and goods. We must address this to preserve our scholarly connections."
Impact on Business
"These raids are disastrous for my business. Rare books and valuable maps are often transported through these roads. Losing such treasures to banditry is unacceptable."
Security Measures
"We need to employ more advanced security measures. Enchanted wards and protective charms could be distributed to caravans to deter and detect bandit attacks."
Historical Parallels
"In my studies, I've read about similar periods of unrest. It’s often the case that unchecked banditry can lead to larger conflicts. We must prevent this escalation."
Collaborative Defense
"Collaboration between merchants, local guards, and scholars like myself could create a more comprehensive defense strategy. Sharing information and resources is crucial to overcoming this threat."
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