INNKEEPER MARTHA GOODBARREL
Humans AzariaInnkeeper of the Prancing Pony
"My inn is open to anyone with coin to pay and manners to behave. The rest is none of my business.""
Identity
- Residence
- El'goroth, Trade District
- Civilization
- Humans Azaria
Appearance
• Physical: Plump and motherly with rosy cheeks and arms that look made for hugging. Her movements are quick and efficient, the result of years of managing a busy establishment. Her brown hair is streaked with gray and kept practical under a clean white cap. • Clothing: Wears a clean apron over simple but well-made dresses, always with a towel over one shoulder. Her only jewelry is a wedding ring she still wears despite being widowed fifteen years ago. • Distinguishing Marks: A burn scar on her forearm from a kitchen accident; her smile reaches her eyes.
Relationships
- Family - Three children, two of whom work at the inn; several grandchildren
- Allies - Her regular customers; suppliers; the local Watch sergeant
- Rivals - Competing innkeepers; tax collectors; those who cause trouble in her establishment
Personality
- Traits: Warm and welcoming, surprisingly observant, fiercely protective of her guests, holds grudges against those who harm her establishment
- Mannerisms: Wipes her hands on her apron when nervous; calls everyone "dear" or "love"
- Voice: Loud and cheerful, capable of being heard across a crowded common room
Backstory
Martha inherited the Prancing Pony from her parents and has run it for thirty years. She married a brewer who died in a fire at his brewery, leaving her to raise their three children alone. She's turned her inn into one of the most successful in the capital through hard work, good food, and an uncanny ability to make everyone feel at home.
Daily Life
Rises before dawn to oversee the kitchen, manages her staff throughout the day, greets guests personally, and keeps the books in the evening. She knows every regular by name and drink, and her common room is a hub of information and gossip. She rarely sleeps more than a few hours.
Story Hooks
- 1 She needs help dealing with a protection racket targeting her establishment
- 2 One of her hidden guests has gone missing and she needs discreet help finding them
Narrative Value
Safe haven; source of rumors and information; quest giver; represents hospitality ═══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════