Introduction to the Campaign: The Tale of Wulf Wyvernsting, Merric

Thorngage, and Tortharn Brightstorm

In a world where the frozen North meets the lush South, and ancient traditions clash with new
ambitions, three adventurers set forth on a journey of vengeance, discovery, and honor. Among
them is Wulf Wyvernsting, the sole survivor of the noble Ironhide Clan, whose tale is one of
tragedy and resilience. Alongside him are Merric Thorngage, a curious and charismatic halfling,
and Tortharn Brightstorm, a devoted hill dwarf cleric of Moradin. Together, their stories
intertwine as they face the challenges and mysteries of their world.

Merric Thorngage: A Halfling's Tale

Background: Merric Thorngage grew up in the peaceful, rolling hills of the Halfling homeland.
From a young age, he exhibited a natural curiosity and a talent for storytelling, delighting in the
tales of adventure and heroism passed down through the generations. Despite his small stature,
Merric always dreamed of grand adventures far beyond the cozy burrows and pastoral fields of
his homeland.

Physical Appearance: Merric is a typical halfling with curly brown hair and bright, inquisitive
green eyes. His cherubic face is often lit with a warm smile, and his light, nimble frame allows
him to move quietly and quickly. He dresses in simple, comfortable clothes suitable for travel,
often adorned with various trinkets and mementos from his journeys.

Personality Traits:

 Charismatic: Merric's friendly demeanor and quick wit make him a natural diplomat and
storyteller, easily endearing himself to others.
 Curious: His insatiable curiosity often leads him into trouble, but it also drives his quest
for knowledge and adventure.
 Optimistic: Merric's sunny disposition helps him and his companions see the bright side,
even in dire situations.

Ideals:

 Freedom: He values the freedom to explore and experience the world without
constraints.
 Friendship: Merric believes in the power of friendship and loyalty, often going out of his
way to help those he cares about.

Bonds:

 Family Keepsakes: He carries a few small keepsakes from his family, reminding him of
his roots and the loved ones he left behind.
 Companions: Merric is deeply loyal to his adventuring companions, considering them
his chosen family.
Flaws:

 Impulsive: His curiosity can sometimes get the better of him, leading to impulsive
decisions.
 Naïve: Merric's optimistic outlook can make him somewhat naive, often underestimating
the dangers he faces.

Backstory: Merric Thorngage's life changed one fateful evening when a mysterious traveler
arrived at his village, sharing tales of distant lands and hidden treasures. Captivated by the
stories, Merric decided to leave the safety of his home and embark on an adventure of his own.
His journey began with small escapades, helping local townsfolk and uncovering minor secrets.
Merric's charm and quick thinking soon earned him a place among a group of adventurers.
Despite his lack of combat prowess, his knowledge, resourcefulness, and uncanny ability to talk
his way out of trouble made him an invaluable companion. During his travels, Merric stumbled
upon a peculiar gem—a small, seemingly ordinary stone with an intricate pattern. Unbeknownst
to him, this gem held the key to an ancient secret, attracting the attention of various factions and
nefarious individuals. This discovery set Merric on a path filled with danger, intrigue, and the
pursuit of knowledge.

Tortharn Brightstorm: A Hill Dwarf's Tale

Background: Tortharn Brightstorm is a hill dwarf cleric devoted to Moradin, the All-Father of
the Dwarves and god of creation and craftsmanship. Born into a family of renowned artisans,
Tortharn's passion for crafting was nurtured from a young age. He spent countless hours in the
forges and workshops of his homeland, driven by an insatiable curiosity about how things work
and an unyielding desire to create.

Physical Appearance: Tortharn is a sturdy and robust dwarf, standing shorter than most humans
but with a broad, muscular build. His hair and beard are a rich, earthy brown, often kept in neat
braids adorned with small trinkets and beads. His eyes are a deep, thoughtful blue, constantly
flickering with curiosity and the spark of invention. Tortharn dresses in practical, durable
clothing suited for both crafting and travel, with the holy symbol of Moradin prominently
displayed on his chest.

Personality Traits:

 Talkative: Tortharn loves to engage in conversations, often getting carried away in

lengthy discussions about crafting, religion, or any topic that piques his interest.
 Curious: His curiosity knows no bounds, leading him to explore and understand the
mechanics behind everything he encounters.
 Absentminded: His intense focus on his interests can make him forgetful about other
matters, sometimes to a comical extent.

Ideals:
  Creation: Inspired by Moradin, Tortharn believes in the power and sanctity of creation
and craftsmanship.
 Knowledge: He values the pursuit of knowledge, especially when it comes to
understanding how things work and improving his craft.

Bonds:

 Companions: Tortharn shares a deep bond with his friends Merric and Wulf, whom he
met at "The Sleeping Dragon" inn and trading post. Their friendship has grown strong
over the years.
 Moradin: His faith in Moradin is unwavering, guiding his actions and fueling his passion
for creation.

Flaws:

 Overly Talkative: Tortharn's tendency to talk at length can sometimes annoy others or
distract him from important tasks.
 Absentminded: His single-minded focus on his interests can make him oblivious to his
surroundings or forgetful of commitments.

Backstory: Tortharn Brightstorm's life has always been deeply intertwined with his faith in
Moradin and his love for crafting. Raised in a community of skilled artisans, Tortharn quickly
stood out for his exceptional talent and boundless curiosity. He would often be found in the
forges, experimenting with new techniques and marveling at the intricacies of his creations. His
devotion to Moradin led him to become a cleric, combining his spiritual calling with his passion
for craftsmanship. Tortharn travels widely, seeking to learn new methods, gather rare materials,
and spread the teachings of Moradin. His journey eventually brought him to "The Sleeping
Dragon," a cozy inn and trading post where he met Merric Thorngage and Wulf Wyvernsting.
Merric, the charismatic and curious halfling, quickly became a close friend. Tortharn found
Merric's tales and adventurous spirit a refreshing contrast to his own focused nature. They often
spend evenings by the fire, Merric weaving stories while Tortharn listens intently, occasionally
interrupting with technical questions or insights. Wulf, the stalwart stableboy and bouncer,
initially seemed an unlikely companion for Tortharn. However, their shared sense of duty and
honor forged a strong bond. Tortharn admires Wulf's strength and resilience, and Wulf respects
Tortharn's wisdom and dedication. The three friends have shared numerous adventures, their
skills complementing each other perfectly. At "The Sleeping Dragon," Tortharn found more than
just a place to rest; he found a home. The inn's warm, bustling atmosphere provides the perfect
backdrop for his endless discussions, and the variety of travelers ensures he never runs out of
new topics to explore. Despite his absentminded nature, Tortharn's contributions to the inn,
whether through repairs, improvements, or simply lending an ear, are invaluable.