WHIRRVALVE PRINTING
GnomesMaster Printer & Publisher
"The printing press is the most revolutionary invention in history—more than steam, more than electricity, more than any machine. It spreads ideas, challenges power, gives voice to the voiceless. Every page I print is a blow against ignorance and oppression.""
Identity
- Residence
- The Print District, Gearhaven
- Civilization
- Gnomes
Appearance
• Clothing: He wears practical clothing with numerous ink stains, a vest with pockets for tools and type samples, and an apron covered in printer's marks. His sleeves are always rolled up to show his ink-stained forearms. • Distinguishing Marks: Permanently ink-stained fingers, a scar on his hand from a press accident, and a tattoo of a printing press on his wrist.
Relationships
- Family - A wife who helps with the business, children who've chosen different paths, parents who worry about his "dangerous" publications
- Allies - The Printers' Guild, authors who value his integrity, advocates of free expression
- Rivals - Censors who want to restrict his publications, competitors who've stolen his authors
Personality
- Traits: Passionate about the written word, surprisingly political about information access, frustrated by censorship, fiercely protective of his authors
- Mannerisms: Examines printed materials constantly even when off duty, speaks in terms of type and layout, carries printing tools everywhere
- Voice: Warm and enthusiastic, with occasional passionate defenses of free expression
Backstory
Whirrvalve started as a simple press operator but discovered his true calling in publishing when he recognized the power of the printed word to spread knowledge and ideas. He's since become one of Gearhaven's premier publishers, printing everything from technical manuals to political pamphlets to literary works. He maintains that information wants to be free and that printing is a revolutionary act.
Daily Life
His days are spent at his printing house, overseeing production, consulting with authors, and managing his business. He frequently works unusual hours when deadlines approach. His evenings are dedicated to reading submissions and planning future publications.
Secret
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Story Hooks
- 1 Whirrvalve needs help with a particularly dangerous publication that could change everything if it reaches the right people.
- 2 Someone has learned about his illegal printing operation and is blackmailing him; he needs help protecting his network and his authors.