Meet Reece Windrider: The Enigmatic Merchant You Can’t Afford to Miss. A NPC Guide 5e

Introduction

As a Dungeon Master, one of my greatest joys is crafting memorable non-player characters (NPCs) that bring the world to life. One such character who has become a beloved figure in my campaigns is Reece Windrider, a charming and mysterious merchant who roams the land with his traveling caravan. Today, I want to introduce you to Reece, share his story, provide his stats, showcase his unique inventory, and give you tips on how to integrate him into your own adventures.

Who is Reece Windrider? NPC Guide 5e

A Man of Many Faces

Reece Windrider is a male human, around 35 years old, with a lean build and a weathered but handsome face. His piercing blue eyes seem to hold secrets of distant lands, and his dark hair, often tied back, shows the occasional streak of grey, hinting at a life of adventure. He dresses in practical, yet elegant clothing—always ready for the road, but with a flair that suggests his merchandise is far from ordinary.

The Traveling Caravan

Reece runs a traveling caravan that sells rare and exotic items. His wagon is a marvel of craftsmanship, adorned with intricate carvings and painted in vibrant colors. It is pulled by two sturdy horses, and the interior is packed with curiosities from every corner of the realm. From enchanted trinkets to ancient tomes, Reece’s wares are as diverse as they are valuable.

Reece Windrider’s Stats

Race: Human
Class: Rogue (Arcane Trickster)
Level: 5

Abilities:

Strength: 12 (+1)
Dexterity: 16 (+3)
Constitution: 14 (+2)
Intelligence: 14 (+2)
Wisdom: 13 (+1)
Charisma: 18 (+4)

HP: 38
AC: 15 (Studded Leather Armor)
Skills: Persuasion +7, Deception +7, Insight +4, Sleight of Hand +6, Stealth +6
Tools: Thieves’ tools, Disguise kit, Forgery kit

Features:

Cunning Action
Mage Hand Legerdemain
Spellcasting (Arcane Trickster)
Uncanny Dodge

Spells:

Cantrips: Mage Hand, Minor Illusion, Message
1st Level: Disguise Self, Charm Person, Detect Magic
2nd Level: Invisibility, Mirror Image

Personal Items

Reece carries several personal items that reflect his adventurous life and merchant skills:

Amulet of Proof against Detection and Location: Keeps him hidden from magical scrying.
Bag of Holding: For carrying his vast inventory.
Ring of Mind Shielding: Protects his thoughts and identity.
Travel Journal: Filled with maps, notes, and sketches from his journeys.
Enchanted Dagger: A gift from a grateful customer, it glows faintly when near danger.

Meeting Reece

On the Road

The party is likely to encounter Reece on a well-trodden path or a secluded forest trail. His caravan stands out in the wilderness, a beacon of color and activity. As the party approaches, they hear Reece’s cheerful voice, perhaps singing an old traveler’s song or haggling with another customer.

DM Tip: Describe the scene vividly to draw the players in. Mention the smell of exotic spices wafting from the caravan, the sound of wind chimes tinkling in the breeze, and the sight of strange artifacts glinting in the sunlight.

In a Small Town

Alternatively, Reece can be found setting up shop in the market square of a small town. He draws a crowd with his charismatic sales pitches and the promise of rare goods. Children gather around to listen to his tales, while seasoned adventurers inspect his merchandise with keen interest.

DM Tip: Use Reece’s presence to create a lively atmosphere in the town. Have NPCs talk about him and his wares, generating curiosity and excitement among the players.

Dialogue with Reece

Reece is a master of conversation, able to charm and intrigue with his words. Here are a few snippets of dialogue to bring him to life:

Greeting the Party: “Ah, travelers! Welcome, welcome! Step right up and feast your eyes on the wonders of the world. I am Reece Windrider, purveyor of rare treasures and teller of tales. How may I assist you on this fine day?”
Discussing Merchandise: “This here is a genuine dragon’s tooth, carved into a pendant. They say it grants the wearer courage in battle. Or perhaps you’re more interested in this enchanted map? It reveals hidden paths known only to the ancients.”
Sharing a Tale: “Let me tell you about the time I ventured into the Frostbite Mountains in search of a fabled crystal. It was said to be guarded by a fearsome yeti, but what I found was far more astonishing…”

Reece’s Inventory

Common Items

Healing Potions (50 gp each)
Basic Adventuring Gear (prices vary)
Simple Weapons (prices vary)
Common Alchemical Ingredients (10-20 gp each)

Uncommon Items

Potion of Greater Healing (200 gp)
Enchanted Arrows (20 gp each)
Scroll of Identify (100 gp)
Bag of Holding (500 gp)
Cloak of Elvenkind (750 gp)

Rare Items

Ring of Protection (1500 gp)
Amulet of Health (2500 gp)
Wand of Magic Missiles (3000 gp)
Boots of Striding and Springing (3500 gp)
Tome of Clear Thought (10,000 gp)

Legendary Items (if appropriate for campaign level)

Vorpal Sword (50,000 gp)
Staff of the Magi (100,000 gp)
Helm of Brilliance (75,000 gp)
Deck of Many Things (priceless and extremely risky)

DM Tip: Adjust prices and availability based on your campaign’s economy and level of magic. Rare and legendary items should be exceptional finds, potentially requiring additional quests or negotiations.

Quests Involving Reece

The Missing Shipment

Reece informs the party that a valuable shipment of goods has gone missing on its way to his caravan. He offers a handsome reward for its recovery. This quest can lead the players through dangerous terrain and pit them against bandits or wild creatures.

Quest Hook: “Friends, I find myself in a bit of a predicament. A shipment of rare artifacts was supposed to arrive days ago, but I’ve heard nothing from the courier. Will you help me recover my lost goods? I assure you, the reward will be worth your while.”

The Cursed Item

One of Reece’s items, an ornate mirror, is rumored to be cursed. A local noble who purchased it has fallen ill, and Reece fears the curse may be real. He asks the party to investigate the mirror’s origins and find a way to lift the curse.

Quest Hook: “I sold a beautiful mirror to a noble last week, but now I hear he’s taken ill under mysterious circumstances. There’s talk of a curse. I need your help to get to the bottom of this and make things right.”

The Hidden Treasure

Reece has acquired an old map leading to a hidden treasure. He offers to share the map with the party in exchange for a share of the loot. This quest can take the players on a thrilling treasure hunt, complete with puzzles, traps, and guardians.

Quest Hook: “Ah, this map… It points to a hidden treasure, buried long ago by a legendary pirate. I’d venture there myself, but my business keeps me on the road. What do you say we split the spoils if you retrieve it for me?”

Integrating Reece into Your Campaign

A Recurring Ally

Reece can be a recurring character, appearing at various points in the campaign. His presence can provide a sense of continuity and familiarity, giving players a trusted ally who always has something new to offer.

A Source of Lore

Reece’s extensive travels make him a valuable source of information. He can provide the party with crucial lore, hints about upcoming quests, or even rumors that lead to new adventures.

A Plot Device

Reece’s mysterious background and eclectic inventory can serve as a plot device. Perhaps one of his items is key to the party’s main quest, or maybe his past hides secrets that tie into the larger story.

Conclusion

Reece Windrider is more than just an NPC; he’s a gateway to adventure, a source of intrigue, and a friend on the road. By incorporating him into your campaign, you can add depth and richness to your world, creating memorable interactions that your players will cherish. So, the next time your party is on the road or visiting a small town, don’t forget to introduce them to Reece Windrider—the enigmatic merchant whose caravan holds the wonders of the world.

Creating compelling NPCs like Reece Windrider enriches your campaign and leaves a lasting impact on your players. Embrace the opportunity to weave intricate stories and dynamic characters into your game, and watch as your world comes to life in ways you never imagined. Happy adventuring!

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