SPINDLEVALVE MIDWIFE
GnomesMechanical Birth Assistant
"Birth is the most natural thing in the world, but that doesn't mean it can't benefit from careful assistance. My mechanical aids don't replace the mother's strength; they support it, protect it, help bring new life safely into the world.""
Identity
- Residence
- The Healing Quarter, Gearhaven
- Civilization
- Gnomes
Appearance
• Clothing: She wears practical clothing reinforced for medical work, comfortable shoes for long hours standing, and a vest with pockets for medical tools and supplies. Her apron is embroidered with symbols of birth and renewal. • Distinguishing Marks: A scar on her hand from an early delivery, permanently stained fingers from medical compounds, and a pendant containing a lock of hair from her first delivered baby.
Relationships
- Family - Children who've chosen different paths, grandchildren she delivered herself, parents who are proud of her "important" work
- Allies - The Midwives' Guild, families who trust her with their births, fellow healers who share her compassion
- Rivals - Those who oppose mechanical intervention in childbirth, competitors for clients
Personality
- Traits: Deeply compassionate, surprisingly knowledgeable about mechanical birthing aids, frustrated by those who fear technology in childbirth, fiercely protective of mothers and babies
- Mannerisms: Speaks in soothing tones, carries medical supplies everywhere, checks on delivered babies constantly
- Voice: Warm and reassuring, with special tones for different situations
Backstory
Spindlevalve has assisted with hundreds of births over her career, developing mechanical aids that have improved safety for both mothers and babies. She's considered one of Gearhaven's most skilled midwives, trusted by families across the social spectrum.
Daily Life
Her days are spent attending births, consulting with expectant mothers, and maintaining her mechanical aids. She frequently works unusual hours when babies decide to arrive. Her evenings are dedicated to rest and preparation for the next call.
Secret
Spindlevalve has discovered that one of her mechanical birthing aids seems to have unusual effects—improved outcomes, reduced pain, even (she suspects) subtle enhancement of the babies. She's terrified of this knowledge being exploited.
Story Hooks
- 1 Spindlevalve needs help understanding her unusual birthing aid, offering her midwifery expertise in exchange.
- 2 Someone has learned about her discovery and wants to exploit it for profit; she needs help protecting mothers and babies from exploitation.
Narrative Value
Life-bringer and healer. Provides midwifery services, access to family networks, and raises questions about technology and natural processes. Her discovery adds wonder and ethical complexity. ═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════