NJAL RUNE-SHAPER
FrostbornRunecrafter and Weapon Enchanter
"Runecraft is power. Power protects. Those who fear to use it are dooming our people to weakness.""
Identity
- Residence
- Frosthold - Rune Quarter
- Civilization
- Frostborn
Appearance
• Physical: Tall and thin at 6'0", with the build of someone who spends more time studying than exercising. His pale skin is covered in intricate rune tattoos that glow faintly. His white hair is wild and unkempt. His pale eyes are intense and focused. • Clothing: Wears robes adorned with runic patterns. His fingers are stained with magical inks. He carries multiple rune-carving tools. • Distinguishing Marks: His tattoos move slightly when he works magic, an effect that unnerves some people.
Relationships
- Family - Parents were minor runecrafters, now deceased. No siblings. Never married - "runes are my companion."
- Allies - Warriors who appreciate his weapon enchantments; those who share his aggressive views.
- Rivals - Eldric Rune-Binder (NPC #3), who opposes his dangerous experiments; traditionalist runecrafters.
Personality
- Traits: Obsessive about runecraft, dismissive of those who don't understand magic, surprisingly practical about applications, ambitious
- Mannerisms: Traces runes in the air when thinking, speaks in magical terminology, becomes excited when discussing new techniques.
- Voice: Rapid and technical, with a tendency to assume others understand runic theory.
Backstory
Njal was a talented student who quickly surpassed his teachers. He's spent thirty years pushing the boundaries of runecraft, developing new applications that some consider dangerous. He believes runecraft should be used more aggressively, especially in weapons.
Daily Life
Njal spends his days in his workshop, experimenting with new runic combinations and enchanting weapons for wealthy clients. He rarely leaves, claiming his work is too important.
Story Hooks
- 1 Njal needs help testing a new runic weapon; he needs someone to wield it in combat.
- 2 His dangerous experiments have attracted unwanted attention; he needs help covering them up or defending them.
Narrative Value
Quest giver for magical missions, source of magical equipment, potential antagonist, connection to magical research, character representing dangerous ambition. ═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════