Gwen Avery, the Alchemist (steal this NPC)

“I’ve traded sleeping in the mud for sleeping between silk sheets with my lover. It’s not a glamorous life, but it’s safe.”

Gwen is the talented alchemist who owns Gwen’s Alchemy. She has a well-deserved reputation for quality and honesty. Gwen dabbles in the creation of unusual poisons that combine potent animal venom with magic. For example, she’s learned that the weakness-inducing venom of a large spider can be enhanced with a Sleep spell. If the initial spider venom does not incapacitate a foe, then the magical effect – the spell – certainly will. Gwen developed her magical poisons while trying to figure out non-lethal ways of securing her home and possessions against intruders. Rumors of her work have caught the attention of the local Thieves’ Guild, who would love to possess such poisons.

Gwen’s shop can be placed in any town or city in your campaign. Below are a few scenarios that can be prepared with very little effort.

1. Services for Hire: Characters fresh from the field might have potions or poisons that they need identified or brewed.
2. Bodyguards Needed: Jonathan Lansing, Gwen’s lover, fears for her safety. He has heard rumors that the Thieves’ Guild wants to force Gwen to brew magical poisons for them. Jonathan will hire the party to keep an eye on Gwen’s lab. While on the job, a group of rogues will attempt to break into the shop. If the party intervenes and apprehends the thieves, they will have Jonathan’s eternal gratitude.
3. Tempting Target: For unscrupulous characters, the allure of Gwen’s shop might be too much to pass up. Rumors of potions, gold and magical poisons would make any rogue salivate. Also, Gwen is known to have a wealthy lover. Perhaps if she was kidnapped, he might pay a hefty ransom for her safe return.
4. Have lightning bolt, will travel: Even though Gwen has a very comfortable life, she is concerned that her skills as a wizard are slipping. Imbuing potions with magical energy takes its toll. She thinks that it might be time to head out into the field in order to revitalize and challenge herself. Therefore, if a good-aligned party of adventurers are in need of magical support, Gwen might be willing to accompany them.