Ivar Bjornstead: The Innkeeper with a Hidden Agenda
Why an Innkeeper like Ivar Bjornstead is Needed in Your Campaign
As a Dungeon Master, one of the greatest joys is creating characters that leave a lasting impression on your players. Ivar Bjornstead, the innkeeper of The Broken Bruin, is one such character who can add depth, intrigue, and a touch of warmth to any campaign. But why is an NPC like Ivar so essential? Let me share my own experience.
In one of my campaigns, my players arrived in a bustling town after a grueling adventure. They needed a place to rest, gather information, and plan their next move. Enter Ivar Bjornstead. From the moment they stepped into The Broken Bruin, Ivar’s welcoming demeanor and the sight of Baxter, his playful bear companion, captured their interest. Ivar offered them hearty meals, comfortable beds, and most importantly, a listening ear.
One night, over mugs of the tavern’s finest ale, Ivar shared a tale from his adventuring days. He spoke of a perilous journey to retrieve a powerful artifact, a mission that had nearly cost him his life. The party was enthralled, not just by the story, but by the wisdom and experience Ivar exuded. They realized that Ivar was more than just an innkeeper; he was a seasoned adventurer with invaluable knowledge.
Ivar’s dual life as the leader of Bearpaw Operations added layers to the campaign. When the players discovered his secret, they were faced with moral dilemmas and complex choices. Should they join Ivar in his quest to protect ancient artifacts, or should they remain neutral? The intrigue surrounding Bearpaw Operations kept them engaged and invested in the storyline.
Introduction and Backstory of the Innkeeper, Ivar
In a bustling town teeming with adventurers, traders, and wanderers, The Broken Bruin stands as a haven of warmth and camaraderie. This tavern-inn, named after a brave bear mount who once fought valiantly but now rests in peace, welcomes all with open arms. Its innkeeper, Ivar Bjornstead, a rugged human with a storied past, runs this establishment with an eye for detail and a heart full of secrets.
Ivar’s journey began as a young adventurer, traversing wild terrains and confronting dangers that most would only dream of. During one of his many quests, he encountered a fierce bear that had lost a leg in battle. Struck by the bear’s resilience and spirit, Ivar named the creature Bruin and took it under his wing. Their bond grew unbreakable, and Ivar’s reputation as a fearless yet compassionate warrior spread far and wide.
Years passed, and Ivar decided to settle down, choosing to open a tavern-inn in honor of his loyal companion, Bruin. Thus, The Broken Bruin was born, quickly gaining fame for its hearty meals, cozy beds, and the endearing presence of Bruin’s son, Baxter. Baxter, a living testament to Bruin’s legacy, roams the inn’s grounds, charming patrons with his playful antics and formidable presence.
Yet, beneath the cheerful façade of The Broken Bruin lies a hidden agenda. Ivar established Bearpaw Operations, an underground organization dedicated to seeking out ancient and magical artifacts. This secret society operates under the cover of the tavern, using its patrons and network to uncover hidden treasures and forgotten relics.
The Broken Bruin: More Than Just a Tavern
The Broken Bruin is more than a place to rest and refuel. It is a sanctuary where stories are shared, alliances are forged, and plans are hatched. The tavern boasts a rustic charm, with wooden beams, stone hearths, and tables carved with intricate designs. The walls are adorned with artifacts from Ivar’s past adventures, each telling a story of courage and discovery.
Baxter, the son of Bruin, adds to the inn’s unique appeal. This majestic bear, with his thick fur and gentle eyes, has become a symbol of the tavern’s spirit. Patrons often find him lounging by the fire or playfully interacting with visitors. Baxter’s presence ensures that The Broken Bruin is always buzzing with life and energy.
The inn offers a variety of services to cater to its diverse clientele. Travelers can enjoy hearty meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a range of dishes, from savory stews to sweet pastries, all crafted to provide comfort and sustenance. The tavern’s ale, brewed in-house, is renowned for its rich flavor and smooth finish.
Accommodations at The Broken Bruin are equally impressive. The rooms, though modest, are clean and comfortable, offering weary travelers a place to rest their heads. Each room is furnished with a cozy bed, a sturdy wooden chest for belongings, and a small table with a candle for reading or writing.
Bearpaw Operations: Unveiling the Secret Network
Bearpaw Operations operates from the shadows, its true purpose known only to a select few. This clandestine organization seeks to uncover and protect ancient and magical artifacts, believing that such powerful items should not fall into the wrong hands. Ivar leads this group with a firm but fair hand, using The Broken Bruin as a front to gather information and recruit like-minded individuals.
The members of Bearpaw Operations come from all walks of life. Some are former adventurers like Ivar, while others are scholars, artisans, or even retired soldiers. Each member brings unique skills and knowledge to the table, making the organization a formidable force in the world of artifact hunting.
Bearpaw Operations conducts its activities with utmost secrecy. Meetings are held in hidden rooms beneath The Broken Bruin, accessible only through a series of concealed passages. These chambers are equipped with everything needed for planning and executing missions, including maps, ancient texts, and magical tools.
The organization employs a network of informants and allies to gather intelligence on potential artifact locations. These contacts range from local traders and travelers to nobles and high-ranking officials. Bearpaw Operations also uses coded messages and secret handshakes to communicate, ensuring that their plans remain hidden from prying eyes.
Detailed Stats, Actions, Items, and Tactics
Name: Ivar Bjornstead
Race: Human
Class: Fighter/Rogue (dual-class)
Alignment: Neutral Good
Background: Former Adventurer, Innkeeper, Leader of Bearpaw Operations
Abilities:
| Ability | Score |
|---|---|
| Strength | 16 |
| Dexterity | 14 |
| Constitution | 15 |
| Intelligence | 12 |
| Wisdom | 13 |
| Charisma | 16 |
Skills:
- Persuasion
- Insight
- Athletics
- Stealth
- Investigation
Actions:
- Multiattack: Ivar makes two attacks with his longsword or shortbow.
- Tavern Brawler: Ivar can use improvised weapons with proficiency and can make an unarmed strike as a bonus action after using an improvised weapon.
- Cunning Action: As a bonus action, Ivar can Dash, Disengage, or Hide.
- Second Wind (1/Short Rest): Ivar can use a bonus action to regain 1d10 + his fighter level in hit points.
Items:
- Bruin’s Claw: A magical longsword forged from one of Bruin’s claws, dealing an extra 1d6 necrotic damage on a hit.
- Bearpaw Amulet: Grants advantage on Stealth and Investigation checks.
- Potion of Greater Healing (x2)
- Map of Hidden Artifacts: Provides clues and locations of ancient and magical artifacts.
Tactics:
- Ivar uses his charisma and persuasion to gather information and form alliances.
- In combat, he relies on his strength and training as a fighter, utilizing his multiattack and tavern brawler skills to overwhelm opponents.
- When necessary, he uses his rogue abilities to scout ahead, gather intelligence, and strike from the shadows.
- Ivar’s connection to Bearpaw Operations means he often has access to additional resources and allies, calling upon them when needed.
Dialogue, Quests, and Roleplaying Tips
Dialogue:
- “Welcome to The Broken Bruin! You look like you could use a warm meal and a good story.”
- “If you’re interested in more than just a bed for the night, I might have a proposition for you.”
- “There are secrets hidden in every corner of this world, and I’m always on the lookout for those who are willing to help uncover them.”
Quests:
- The Lost Relic: Ivar tasks the party with retrieving a powerful artifact rumored to be hidden in a nearby ancient ruin. Along the way, they must navigate traps, battle guardians, and solve puzzles to claim the relic.
- Bruin’s Revenge: A rival organization has captured Baxter. Ivar enlists the party’s help to rescue his loyal companion and uncover the rival’s plans.
- The Secret of Bearpaw Operations: The party stumbles upon a hidden room in The Broken Bruin, revealing the existence of Bearpaw Operations. Ivar offers them a chance to join the organization, leading to a series of missions to acquire magical artifacts and protect them from falling into the wrong hands.
Roleplaying Tips:
- Emphasize Ivar’s dual nature as a warm and welcoming innkeeper with a hidden, more serious side dedicated to his secret organization.
- Use Ivar’s bond with Baxter to show his compassionate and loyal nature, creating a strong emotional connection with the party.
- Introduce moral dilemmas through Bearpaw Operations, challenging the party to make difficult decisions about the use and protection of magical artifacts.
- Allow Ivar to be a mentor figure, sharing wisdom and offering support, while also having his own goals and secrets that may occasionally put him at odds with the party.
Conclusion
Ivar Bjornstead is a dynamic and versatile character who brings depth and intrigue to any Dungeons & Dragons campaign. As the innkeeper of The Broken Bruin and the leader of Bearpaw Operations, he provides a unique blend of hospitality and adventure. Whether the party is seeking a place to rest, a thrilling quest, or a mentor to guide them, Ivar stands ready to play a pivotal role in their journey. His rich backstory, coupled with the personal anecdotes and wisdom he shares, creates a character that players will remember long after the campaign ends.
Incorporating Ivar into your campaign allows you to explore themes of loyalty, secrecy, and moral ambiguity. His interactions with the party can lead to deep, meaningful role-playing moments, as players grapple with the complexities of his character and the ethical dilemmas posed by Bearpaw Operations. The presence of Baxter, his bear companion, adds a touch of warmth and charm, creating memorable encounters that blend the mundane with the magical.
By weaving Ivar Bjornstead into your D&D world, you provide your players with a rich tapestry of stories, challenges, and emotional connections. His tavern, The Broken Bruin, becomes a home base filled with intrigue and adventure, while Bearpaw Operations offers a steady stream of quests that can shape the course of your campaign. Embrace the opportunity to create a lasting legacy with Ivar, and watch as your players become deeply invested in the world you build together.
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