SPINDLEVALVE INKWELL
GnomesInk Maker & Scribe Supplies
"Ink is the blood of knowledge—without quality ink, even the greatest thoughts fade to nothing.""
Identity
- Residence
- The Flowing Pen, Gearhaven Scholar's Quarter
- Civilization
- Gnomes
Appearance
• Physical: Spindlevalve has permanently ink-stained hands in various colors—black, blue, red, and exotic hues. His fingernails are always trimmed short to prevent scratching delicate paper, and his eyes are sharp from examining minute details. • Clothing: He wears a leather apron covered in ink splatters that he considers a record of his work. His sleeves are always rolled up, revealing forearms decorated with accidental ink patterns. • Distinguishing Marks: A blue stain on his right temple from a childhood ink explosion, and permanently discolored cuticles.
Relationships
- Family - His uncle still works as a scribe and provides valuable feedback on his inks
- Allies - Scribes, artists, scholars, bookbinders who need quality materials
Personality
- Traits: Meticulous and precise, surprisingly artistic, deeply knowledgeable about chemistry
- Mannerisms: Dips fingers in ink to test consistency, sniffs inks to identify ingredients
- Voice: Soft and thoughtful, often trailing off when concentrating on a formula
Backstory
Spindlevalve apprenticed under his uncle, a court scribe who taught him that the right ink could make the difference between a document that lasts centuries and one that fades in years. He now creates inks for scholars, artists, and officials throughout Gearhaven, including special formulations for magical texts.
Daily Life
He spends his days grinding pigments, mixing formulas, and testing inks on various papers. His workshop is filled with jars of colors from across the world—ground lapis for blue, iron gall for black, cochineal for red. He consults with scribes on the best inks for their specific needs.
Secret
He's developed an ink that only appears under specific conditions—moonlight, heat, or magical detection—and he's sold it to parties unknown.
Story Hooks
- 1 He needs rare pigments from a dangerous location to fulfill a royal commission
- 2 Someone is using his special inks to create forgeries, and he needs help clearing his name
Narrative Value
Provider of essential supplies and potential source of specialized materials. His inks can have hidden properties. ═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════