GUNNAR FIRE-HEART
FrostbornMaster Smith and Forge Master
"The forge is the heart of Frostborn strength. What we create here protects our people, feeds our families, honors our traditions. There is no higher calling.""
Identity
- Residence
- Forge of Jokul
- Civilization
- Frostborn
Appearance
• Physical: Massively built at 6'0", with muscles earned through decades at the forge. His pale skin is permanently flushed from heat exposure, an unusual sight among Frostborn. His white hair and beard are singed short. His ice-blue eyes are protected by thick goggles when working. • Clothing: Wears the most elaborate protective gear in the forge, marked with his rank. His apron is covered in burns that tell stories of his career. • Distinguishing Marks: His arms are covered in forge scars he considers badges of honor. He wears a master smith's medallion of ice-steel.
Relationships
- Family - Parents deceased. Two sons who are journeyman smiths. His wife manages the forge's business affairs.
- Allies - Chief Brynjar (NPC #7), who values his work; Councilor Hrothgar (NPC #8), who respects his leadership.
- Rivals - Smiths who challenge his traditional methods; younger smiths who want to experiment.
Personality
- Traits: Proud of his position, demanding of his smiths, surprisingly fair in judgment, deeply traditional about methods
- Mannerisms: Inspects all work personally, quotes forge tradition constantly, becomes passionate about quality.
- Voice: Rough from forge smoke, with the authority of someone who has led the forge for twenty years.
Backstory
Gunnar apprenticed under the legendary Jokul himself and was chosen as his successor. He's led the Forge of Jokul for two decades, maintaining its reputation as the finest source of ice-steel in the wastes. He's trained countless smiths and created weapons for chiefs and heroes.
Daily Life
Gunnar oversees all operations at the Forge, inspects finished work, settles disputes among smiths, and creates his own masterworks. He works longer hours than anyone under his command.
Secret
Gunnar has been experiencing tremors in his hands that threaten his ability to forge. He's hiding this from everyone, terrified of losing his position and purpose.
Story Hooks
- 1 Gunnar needs a rare material to complete his final masterwork before his condition worsens.
- 2 Someone is sabotaging the forge's output; he needs help finding the culprit.
Narrative Value
Equipment vendor and quest giver, authority figure in crafting, potential mentor, connection to Frostborn industry, character dealing with mortality. ═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════