MINGLECOG TRADEBENDER
GnomesMerchant of Mechanical Wonders
"A good deal leaves both parties smiling. A great deal leaves them both wondering if they got the better bargain. That's the magic of honest trade.""
Identity
- Residence
- The Gear Market, Gearhaven
- Civilization
- Gnomes
Appearance
• Clothing: He wears a brocade waistcoat with hidden pockets containing samples of his finest wares, trousers with reinforced knees for examining goods on the ground, and shoes with built-in abacus mechanisms for rapid calculation. • Distinguishing Marks: A gold tooth that he claims is "pure profit manifested," a scar across his palm from a deal gone wrong in his youth, and a tattoo of a balanced scale on his wrist.
Relationships
- Family - A daughter who runs the accounting side of the business (they have creative disagreements about "necessary" expenses), a deceased wife he still mourns
- Allies - The Merchant's Guild, various inventors who supply his wares, a network of informants about market trends
- Rivals - The Ironmonger Consortium (competing merchants), counterfeiters who damage his reputation
Personality
- Traits: Shrewd but fair, genuinely loves the art of the deal, surprisingly generous to those who can't afford his goods, collects stories more than coin
- Mannerisms: Rubs his hands together when excited about a sale, quotes prices in multiple currencies simultaneously, keeps detailed journals of every transaction
- Voice: Smooth and persuasive, with the rhythm of a practiced negotiator
Backstory
Minglecog started as a street vendor selling repaired gadgets and built his empire through honest dealing and recognizing quality. He's now the premier merchant of mechanical wonders in Gearhaven, with connections to buyers across Landorya. Despite his wealth, he maintains a small stall in the market where he started, personally serving customers who remind him of his younger self.
Daily Life
Mornings are spent reviewing inventory and correspondence with suppliers. Afternoons bring negotiations with major clients and inspections of new acquisitions. Evenings are dedicated to his original market stall, where he trades stories as much as goods and keeps his finger on the pulse of the city's needs.
Secret
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Story Hooks
- 1 A rare artifact has come into his possession, but several dangerous parties want it; he needs help determining the rightful owner or safest disposition.
- 2 Someone is counterfeiting his goods and framing him for selling dangerous devices; he needs investigators to clear his name.