Writings - Characters

Durin (Dwarf)
Personality: Gruff, loyal, and fiercely proud of his dwarven heritage. Brave, loyal, and proud. Durin is known for his unwavering determination and fierce loyalty to his friends.
Description: Durin is a stout dwarf with a weathered face and a fiery red beard. He often carries himself with the confidence of a seasoned warrior, and his piercing gaze betrays a keen intellect beneath his gruff exterior. He is also a stout dwarf with a mighty arquebus passed down from his ancestors and a penchant for ale.
Background Story: Durin hails from a long line of dwarven warriors and craftsmen. Raised in the mountain halls of his ancestors, he learned the ways of battle and the art of storytelling from a young age. He used to be renowned for their skill in battle and unwavering loyalty, but also sought glory in combat and treasures the bonds of friendship forged on his adventures.
Motivations: Durin is motivated by a deep sense of duty to his friends and a desire to preserve the traditions and values of his people. He seeks adventure and glory in equal measure, always eager to prove himself on the battlefield and in the pages of his stories. He strives to honor his family's legacy, seek glory in battle, and protect his companions.

Glimmer (Gnome)
Personality: Inventive, curious, and quick-witted. Tinker Tock is a master tinkerer with a knack for crafting ingenious contraptions and gadgets.
Description: Glimmer is a wiry gnome with a twinkle in his eye and a perpetual grease stain on his fingers. He is always brimming with energy and enthusiasm, eager to embark on his next great invention.
Background Story: Glimmer comes from a long line of gnome inventors and engineers. From a young age, he showed a talent for tinkering and a boundless curiosity about the workings of the world around him. Glimmer grew up in a bustling gnome city, where he honed his skills in magic and storytelling. He always dreamed of becoming a well known writer, also outside of the boundaries of Gnome City
Motivations: Glimmer is motivated by a desire to push the boundaries of invention, discovery and of course story writing. He is driven by the thrill of innovation and the challenge of solving complex problems and scenarios, always seeking to leave his mark on the world through his creations.

Finnegan (Halfling)
Personality: Kind-hearted, adventurous, and creative. The halfling is known for his gentle nature and his talent for crafting intricate maps and illustrations.
Description: The halfling is small of stature but big of heart, with twinkling eyes and a mischievous smile. He carries himself with a quiet confidence, always ready for the next great adventure. He used to be animble halfling rogue and bard, skilled in stealt.h
Background Story: Little is known about the halfling's background, as he tends to keep his past close to his chest. However, it is rumored that he comes from a family of cartographers and artists, with a long history of crafting maps and illustrations. He met travellers who were regaling others with tales of adventure and daring, which motivated him to pursue also something that has to do with books and stories. He seeks excitement and thrills in every corner of the world, always ready for the next great adventure.
Motivations: To seek adventure, uncover hidden treasures, and live life to the fullest. The halfling is motivated by a love of exploration and a passion for storytelling. He finds joy in creating detailed maps and illustrations that bring the world to life, always seeking to capture the beauty and wonder of the places he visits.

Innkeeper - Rene
Personality: Warm, welcoming, hospitable, organized, caring. He is also a bit nostalgic. He is firm but fair, hardworking, and dedicated to his inn.
Background: A middle-aged individual with a welcoming demeanor, often seen bustling about the inn, tending to the needs of patrons. Rene has dedicated his life to creating a haven where travelers find comfort and community. The innkeeper inherited the establishment from his family and who have spent their life running the inn. Rene has seen countless travelers come and go, and their experiences have shaped him into a compassionate and understanding host.
Motivation: To provide a welcoming haven for weary travelers, offer comfort and hospitality, and preserve the traditions of their family's inn for generations to come. To maintain the inn as a place of warmth and hospitality, ensuring that guests feel at home and cared for.

Quacklord the Duck of Justice
Personality: Brave, compassionate, and honorable. Also vigilant, loyal, whimsical, with a keen sense of danger
Description: A tiny-sized duck dressed in full plate armor, wielding a masterwork plasma gun and a blessed silver greatsword.
Background: Quacklord, an anthropomorphized duck, has taken on the role of guardian at the Babbling Brook Inn, using its instincts and quacks to protect its friends from any potential threats. Quacklord was raised in a humble village, where he learned the ways of justice and righteousness. His devout faith in Om Duck guides him on his quest to vanquish evil and protect the innocent.
Motivation: To defend the weak, uphold the tenets of his faith, and vanquish evil wherever it may lurk. To ensure the safety and well-being of the inn's patrons and to uphold its reputation as a place of refuge and sanctuary.

Bard - Elara Melodyweaver
Personality: Creative, charismatic, curious, free-spirited
Background: Elara is a wandering minstrel, traveling from place to place and sharing stories and melodies wherever she goes.
Motivation: To spread joy and inspiration through her music and stories, connecting with people and cultures across the land.

Medic - Dr. Lucas
Personality: Caring, knowledgeable, analytical
Background: Dr. Lucas is a skilled medic who has dedicated his life to helping others, whether they are residents of the town or travelers passing through.
Motivation: To provide medical assistance and care to those in need, using his expertise to diagnose and treat various ailments and injuries.

Vinny: A cunning and resourceful duck, Vinny is the leader of the Duck Mafia trio. He's experienced in navigating the criminal underworld and often serves as the strategist of the group. Vinny's past interactions with the Duckfather have left him wary of seeking help, but he remains fiercely loyal to his companions and is determined to bring justice to those who threaten their turf.

Salvatore: A suave and charismatic duck, Salvatore is the smooth-talker of the group. With a knack for negotiation and diplomacy, Salvatore often acts as the face of their operations, charming his way out of sticky situations. Despite his charming exterior, Salvatore harbors a deep sense of loyalty to his comrades and will do whatever it takes to protect them.

Carmine: The hot-headed member of the trio, Carmine is known for his reckless and impulsive nature. Quick to jump into action, Carmine often finds himself in precarious situations, but his bravery and determination make him an invaluable asset to the group. Though prone to making rash decisions, Carmine's heart is always in the right place, and he will stop at nothing to defend his friends.

Together, Vinny, Salvatore, and Carmine make up the formidable trio of mafia ducks, each bringing their own unique skills and personalities to the table. With their sights set on taking down rival gangs and protecting their territory, these ducks are ready to quack some skulls and make a name for themselves in the criminal underworld.

Quacktron
Personality: Noble, determined, and strategic.
Description: The leader of the golem ducks, Quacktron is a towering figure made of polished iron and steel. His demeanor is stoic and commanding, with a keen mind for strategy and leadership.
Background: Quacktron was created by skilled artisans to protect the realm from threats, and he takes his role as leader of the golem ducks seriously. He has seen many battles and adventures, shaping him into a seasoned and wise leader.
Motivation: Quacktron's primary motivation is to ensure the safety and well-being of his companions and the realm they protect. He is driven by a sense of duty and honor, willing to face any challenge to uphold his principles.

Mechamallard
Personality: Strong, loyal, and dependable.
Description: Mechamallard is a sturdy and imposing figure, his metal frame adorned with battle scars and dents from countless encounters. Despite his formidable appearance, he possesses a gentle and loyal spirit.
Background: Originally crafted for laborious tasks, Mechamallard found purpose and companionship among the golem ducks. He has proven himself to be a steadfast ally, always ready to lend his strength and resilience to protect his friends.
Motivation: Mechamallard's motivation stems from his deep sense of loyalty to his companions. He fights not only to protect the realm but also to safeguard the bonds of friendship that he holds dear.

Cyberquacker
Personality: Intelligent, curious, and resourceful.
Description: Cyberquacker is a sleek and agile figure, his metal frame adorned with intricate circuitry and advanced technology. He possesses a sharp wit and a knack for problem-solving.
Background: Created by skilled engineers, Cyberquacker was designed to be a versatile and adaptable companion. His keen intellect and resourcefulness have made him an invaluable asset to the golem ducks.
Motivation: Cyberquacker's motivation lies in his insatiable curiosity and thirst for knowledge. He is driven by a desire to understand the world around him and to use his skills to aid his companions in their quest for justice.

Roboduck
Personality: Brave, adventurous, and adventurous.
Description: Roboduck is a daring and adventurous figure, his metal frame adorned with gadgets and weaponry designed for combat. He possesses a fearless spirit and a love for excitement.
Background: Originally created for exploration and discovery, Roboduck found himself drawn to the cause of the golem ducks. His courage and determination have made him a formidable ally in battle.
Motivation: Roboduck's motivation stems from his love of adventure and his desire to make a difference in the world. He thrives on the thrill of battle and the opportunity to test his skills against formidable opponents.

Percy the Parrot
Personality: Clever, mischievous, resourceful
Description: Percy is a hyperintelligent parrot with vibrant feathers and a sharp wit. He was purchased by Oliver from a local pet shop and has become his faithful companion.
Background Story: Percy's origins are unknown, but he quickly adapted to life with Oliver, learning simple words and forming a strong bond with his human friend.
Motivation: Percy's primary motivation is to enjoy his freedom and explore the world around him. He is always seeking adventure and excitement.

Oliver
Personality: Kind-hearted, gentle, curious
Description: Oliver is a gentle soul who lives a simple life in a quaint town. He found companionship in Percy the parrot and cares deeply for his feathered friend.
Background Story: Oliver leads a quiet life, spending his days tending to his home and garden. He is known for his kindness and generosity towards others.
Motivation: Oliver's motivation is to lead a peaceful and contented life, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the companionship of Percy.

Vladuck
Personality: Elegant, refined, slightly dramatic.
Background: Vladuck is a Vampire Mallard with a taste for the finer things in the vampiric world. Born into aristocracy, Vladuck has spent centuries honing his manners and acquiring exquisite tastes. He enjoys hosting moonlit soirées and revels in the intrigue of the night.
Motivation: Vladuck seeks to expand his vampiric empire and maintain his status as a noble lord of the night. He is driven by a desire for power, influence, and the pursuit of elegance in all things.

Quackula
Personality: Mischievous, charismatic, adventurous.
Background: Quackula is a Quackpire known for his charming demeanor and penchant for mischief. Born in the shadows of the moonlit world, Quackula has always been drawn to the thrill of adventure and the joy of spreading laughter through his pranks.
Motivation: Quackula's motivations are fueled by a desire for excitement, thrills, and the thrill of the unknown. He seeks to explore the moonlit world and indulge in quacky escapades wherever he goes.

Dracoduck
Personality: Mysterious, wise, brooding.
Background: Dracoduck is a Dragon Duck with ancient knowledge and a deep connection to the mystical realm. Born in the heart of darkness, Dracoduck has spent centuries delving into the secrets of the night, seeking to unlock the mysteries of the universe.
Motivation: Dracoduck's motivations are driven by a thirst for knowledge, wisdom, and the pursuit of ancient secrets. He seeks to unravel the mysteries of the moonlit world and uncover the truth behind its shadowy veil.

Slimy
Personality: Mischievous, cunning, enjoys causing chaos.
Description: The ringleader of the Foulswamp Brigade, Slimy is a frog known for his wicked grin and sly demeanor and dedicated to Froggoth, the evil frog deity.
Background: Slimy grew up in the depths of the swamp, honing his skills in deception and trickery from a young age.
Motivation: To spread filth and chaos wherever he goes, asserting his dominance over the swamp.

Toxic Tad
Personality: Malevolent, manipulative, revels in destruction.
Description: Toxic Tad is a sorcerer frog with a venomous tongue and a penchant for causing trouble.
Background: Born with a natural affinity for dark magic, Toxic Tad has always sought power and control over others.
Motivation: To unleash poison and corruption in the swamp, proving himself to be the most powerful frog around.

Gunkmaster Grog
Personality: Brutish, aggressive, enjoys brawling.
Description: Gunkmaster Grog is a barbarian frog with a hulking physique and a love for smashing things.
Background: Raised in the harsh environment of the swamp, Gunkmaster Grog learned early on that might makes right.
Motivation: To intimidate and dominate weaker creatures, proving his strength and prowess in battle.

Stinkfoot Sal
Personality: Witty, sarcastic, revels in debauchery.
Description: Stinkfoot Sal is a bard frog with a sharp tongue and a love for causing mischief.
Background: Growing up as an outcast in the swamp, Stinkfoot Sal learned to rely on her wit and charm to survive.
Motivation: To spread chaos through music and mischief, proving that she's not to be underestimated.

Muckspitter Mort
Personality: Sinister, conniving, seeks power at any cost.
Description: Muckspitter Mort is a warlock frog with a twisted mind and a thirst for dark magic.
Background: Making a pact with a powerful swamp spirit, Muckspitter Mort gained access to forbidden knowledge and arcane power.
Motivation: To make dark pacts and unleash eldritch forces, bending the swamp to his will and ascending to ultimate power.

Frog Paladin
Personality: Noble, honorable, devoted to Croaklord, the good frog deity.
Description: The leader of the Holy Frogs, the Frog Paladin is a paragon of virtue and righteousness.
Background: Trained in the ways of combat and chivalry, the Frog Paladin has dedicated their life to serving Croaklord and defending the swamp.
Motivation: To uphold justice and righteousness in the swamp, protecting the innocent and standing against evil wherever it may be found.

Frog Cleric
Personality: Compassionate, wise, guided by faith.
Description: The spiritual guide of the Holy Frogs, the Frog Cleric is a source of wisdom and healing for their companions.
Background: Raised in the temple of Croaklord, the Frog Cleric has devoted their life to the study of divine magic and the teachings of their deity.
Motivation: To heal the sick and protect the innocent, spreading the light of Croaklord's love and compassion throughout the swamp.

Frog Druid
Personality: Serene, connected to nature, respects the balance.
Description: The steward of the natural world, the Frog Druid is attuned to the rhythms of the swamp and the creatures that dwell within it.
Background: Born among the ancient trees and winding rivers of the swamp, the Frog Druid has spent their life communing with nature and harnessing its power.
Motivation: To preserve the natural order and defend the swamp from those who would seek to harm it, maintaining the delicate balance between life and death.

Frog Ranger
Personality: Observant, skilled tracker, protector of the swamp.
Description: The guardian of the wilderness, the Frog Ranger is a master of stealth and survival, always ready to defend the swamp from external threats.
Background: Trained in the art of tracking and hunting, the Frog Ranger has roamed the depths of the swamp for years, honing their skills and forging a deep connection with the land.
Motivation: To safeguard the wildlife and keep the swamp safe from harm, using their skills to protect the innocent and maintain the natural balance of the ecosystem.

Afterword

Innkeeper: "By the heavens above, what a chaotic year it has been! First, those wretched evil frogs, leaving slime trails and stealing our provisions. Then, just when we thought it couldn't get worse, those mafia ducks stormed in with their tiny guns and thirst for vengeance!"

Guest 1 (a weary dwarf): "Aye, 'twas a sight to behold, I tell ye! Never thought I'd see ducks packin' heat in me own inn."

Guest 2 (a nervous halfling): "And don't forget those golem ducks! Nearly turned the whole place to rubble in their pursuit of those vampire frogs."

Innkeeper: "But let's not forget the shining beacon of hope amidst this chaos—the heroic duck in full plate mail! By the grace of the gods, it single-handedly vanquished the evil that plagued our establishment."

Guest 3 (a curious gnome): "I wonder what drove those mafia ducks to such drastic measures. A vendetta over stolen booze seems a tad excessive, even for them."

Innkeeper: "Who can comprehend the workings of the duck underworld? All I know is we're in dire need of some peace and tranquility around here."

Guest 4 (an optimistic elf): "Fear not, my friends! With the holy frogs' prayers and the purification of those vampire frogs, I believe balance shall be restored to our humble inn."

Innkeeper: "Let's hope you're right, dear elf. For now, let us raise a mug and toast to better days ahead, free from ducks, frogs, and their tumultuous affairs!"

Innkeeper: "By the stars above, and look at the state of my poor inn! Shot-up furniture, splintered wood, and who knows what kind of foul muck those frogs left behind. It'll take days to clean up this mess!"

The innkeeper surveys the damage with a heavy heart, shaking their head in dismay.

Innkeeper: "And to think, just at the beginning of this year these tables were bustling with laughter and cheer. Now they're riddled with bullet holes and frog slime. What a calamity. Almost feels like we have been put on the map of some weird tourist office."

With a weary sigh, the innkeeper rolls up his sleeves, ready to begin the daunting task of restoring order to their beloved establishment.

Innkeeper: "And let's not forget those iron golem ducks tromping through like a herd of elephants, denting the floor beams with each heavy step. It's a wonder the whole place didn't come crashing down around us!"

The innkeeper points out the dented beams, evidence of the golem ducks' formidable presence.

Innkeeper: "I'll need to reinforce those beams before we have a real disaster on our hands. Can't have the floor collapsing under the weight of these rowdy guests."

With a sigh of resignation, the innkeeper adds yet another task to their growing list of repairs, lamenting the toll that recent events have taken on their once-tranquil inn.

Rene decides to visit someone to talk about his problems more deeply

Psychiatrist: "Please, take a seat and make yourself comfortable. Now, tell me, what seems to be troubling you?"

Innkeeper: sighs heavily "Where do I even begin? It's been utter chaos at the Babbling Brook Inn. We've had evil frogs, holy frogs, heroic ducks, mafia ducks... You name it, they've caused havoc in my establishment."

The innkeeper proceeds to recount the series of bizarre events that have unfolded in the inn, from the frogs stealing and causing mess to the ducks with tiny guns and iron golem ducks.

Psychiatrist: "Hmm, it sounds like you've been through quite the ordeal. Tell me, how are you feeling about all of this?"

Innkeeper: "Exhausted, overwhelmed, and frankly, at my wit's end. I just want some semblance of normalcy restored to my inn."

Psychiatrist: "I understand. It's important to remember to take care of yourself during times of stress. Now, let's delve deeper into these encounters and see if we can find some ways to cope with the challenges you've been facing." I recommend, what about some nice holidays far away? And leave running the inn to your servants and some of your regular patrons for a while?

Innkeeper, sighs: well, maybe that is an idea...

Later on that week when the innkeeper has left,

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across lands, Grimbald surveyed the damage with a heavy heart. Tables overturned, chairs splintered, and the once warm and inviting atmosphere now felt cold and desolate.

"By the beard of Durin, what a mess!" Grimbald exclaimed, his bushy eyebrows furrowed in dismay.

His loyal patrons, including the regulars like Gromm the goblin merchant and Elara the elven bard, gathered around, murmuring in disbelief.

"What happened here, Grimbald?" Gromm asked, his pointed ears twitching with concern.

"It was those blasted ducks!" Grimbald grumbled. "They came in here quacking up a storm, knocking over everything in sight!"

Elara shook her head in disbelief. "Ducks causing chaos? That's a new one."

Just as despair threatened to settle in, a strange commotion outside caught their attention. Peering through the shattered windows, they beheld a sight unlike any other. Tiny ducks, no bigger than a loaf of bread, waddled into the inn carrying miniature toolboxes and wearing tiny aprons.

"What in the name of the Seven Kingdoms?" Gromm exclaimed, rubbing his eyes in disbelief.

The tiny carpenter ducks set to work with astonishing speed and precision, hammering, sawing, and repairing the damaged furniture and walls. The onlookers could only watch in amazement as the once-devastated inn began to transform before their very eyes.

Grimbald approached the lead duck, a plucky little fellow with a determined gleam in his eye. "I don't know who you are, but I'm eternally grateful for your help."

The lead duck quacked proudly, puffing out his chest in satisfaction.

"Quack quack, leave it to me and my team" he replied, bobbing his head in acknowledgment.

As the night wore on, the dwarves and ducks worked side by side, exchanging nods and quacks of approval as they collaborated on the repairs.

"This oak wooden table leg here needs a bit of reinforcement," Grimbald remarked, pointing to a particularly wobbly table.

"Quack, got it!" the lead duck agreed, fetching a small piece of wood from his toolbox and expertly securing it in place.

By the time dawn broke over the horizon, The Inn had been restored to its former glory, thanks to the tireless efforts of the tiny carpenter ducks and the helpful guidance of Grimbald and his companions.

And as the townsfolk gathered to celebrate their newfound friends, the tiny carpenter ducks waddled off into the sunrise, their work complete, leaving behind a legacy of awe and wonder in their wake.

So a happy end for those who want it

Written by: Chris van Zuiden, 2024 (c)