TEXT: EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  The Holdenshire Chronicles
  Prologue
  Holdenshire Primer
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  Introduction
  The Holdenshire Chronicles takes EN Publishing’s 
  classic adventure To Slay a Dragon and revamps 
  it for a new generation of gamers. Using fifth 
  edition rules, we hearken back to the 1980s and 
  embark on an adventure which is sure to remind 
  you of RPG modules and boxed sets long past!
   This trilogy of adventures leads an adventuring 
  party from the town of Hengistbury on a journey 
  across the land to challenge a red dragon who 
  dwells in a volcano lair known as Skull Mountain.
   This location supplement details the county of 
  Holdenshire, which contains locations such as the 
  towns of Hengistbury and Thornbury. Subsequent 
  installments will comprise the three acts of the 
  original To Slay a Dragon adventure. The first act 
  is a location-based sandbox containing twelve 
  small quests that familiarize PCs with the lands 
  and people of Holdenshire, and raise them to 3rd 
  level so that the dragonslaying quest may begin in 
  earnest. The second act is a wilderness hexcrawl 
  in pursuit of the red dragon Cirothe and its 
  minions. The final act is a classic dungeon crawl, 
  culminating in a desperate battle between dragon 
  and dragonslayers.
  Adventure Timeline
  1. The PCs begin in a town called Hengistbury. 
  They engage in a number of optional quests 
  in a sandbox fashion (such as Jack of the 
  Weirwood, The Hound of Fogmoor, and 
  Memories of Brockendale). Eventually, 
  Ariadne, the niece of Brand the local ranger, 
  is kidnapped by kobold cultist minions of 
  Cirothe, the red dragon, and whisked away 
  to Skull Mountain.
  2. The PCs trek across the land, seeking the 
  various artifacts needed to defeat Cirothe 
  while evading her kobold minions. After 
  dealing with giant spiders, a mad Fey Queen, 
  orc warbands, a dwarven fortress, and much 
  more, they finally reach Skull Mountain with 
  the artifacts they need to slay the dragon.
  3. Dragon. Lava. Mountain. Lair. Treasure.
  Hengistbury and Environs
  Hengistbury is a small village (population 
  approximately 150) on the banks of a winding 
  river located in the rustic and rural county of 
  Holdenshire.
   Normally a sleepy little village with a few 
  essential services and not much excitement, 
  Hengistbury has recently become the focus of 
  an increasing amount of activity. Kobold tribes, 
  normally located far to the east, have begun 
  encroaching in the nearby plains and hills. 
  Moreover, someone or something is haunting 
  the old castle, strange creatures move across 
  the countryside, and a myriad of other oddly 
  disturbing events have been noticed.
   The citizens of Hengistbury and the nearby 
  community of Thornbury are on edge. Children 
  have gone missing, lizardfolk are moving in, some 
  even say that sinister rituals are being performed 
  out on the Weirhenge. How much of this is true 
  nobody really knows for sure, but everyone seems 
  to agree that things aren’t right.
  Adapted from EN Publishing’s To Slay a Dragon
   
  writing/design Russell Morrissey, Jacob Driscoll,
   
   Christopher J. Herbert; Brian Casey
   
  editing James J. Haeck (EN5ider version);
   
   Russell Morrissey, Ryan Nock
   
  cartography Sean Macdonald
   
  original art Claudio Pozas; Bruno Balixa, 
   
   Nicole Cardiff, Storn Cook, 
   
   Keith Curtis, Forest Imel,
   
   Malcolm McLinton, Eric Quigley,
   
   Ryan Sumo, Jeff Ward
   original layout Hal Mangold
   
  en5ider layout Eric Life-Putnam
   
  special thanks Joe Wetzell at Inkwell Ideas;
   
   Aaron Atwood, Darin Kerr,
   
   Matthew McKee, Chris Gath,
   
   Willaim Steffen, James P. Walker,
   
   Brian Suskind, and Our 247 To Slay 
   
    a Dragon Kickstarter Backers
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
   The county is governed by Lord Pemberton and 
  his wife, Lady Sybill Pemberton. Lord and Lady 
  Pemberton reside in Hengistbury Keep, on a small 
  hill overlooking the village. They are benevolent 
  rulers, but even they are beginning to worry about 
  what might be happening around them.
   The county is patrolled by a ranger, Brand 
  Torek, a large, easygoing bear of a man, proficient 
  in staff and bow. He reports directly to Lord 
  Pemberton. He has several part-time assistants 
  located throughout the area and calls on them if 
  things get out of hand.
   Thornbury is smaller even than Hengistbury, 
  boasting a mere 100 souls. The friendly rivalry 
  between the villages manifests every year in a 
  popular local cheese-rolling competition which 
  highlights a week long harvest festival in the fall. 
  Located a few miles upriver from Hengistbury, 
  travel between the two is not uncommon. For a 
  silver coin, a local fisherman can be persuaded to 
  ferry passengers in either direction. The journey 
  takes a couple of hours.
   With all the strangeness lately, if something isn’t 
  done soon, both Hengistbury and Thornbury may 
  not make it to the fall festival. With rumors flying 
  and tensions rising, it is up to the PCs to sort 
  things out and ensure a long and prosperous life 
  for the residents of Holdenshire.
  Other People of Note
  Three-Fingered Jake, an itinerant bard, wanders 
  through every few weeks performing in exchange 
  for food. Most news of the wider world comes 
  from his visits to town. He may know the local 
  stories and rumors and be able to point people to 
  those that might be true as opposed to those that 
  are merely whimsical fancy.
   Ugg is a small hill giant who was befriended 
  by villagers some years ago. Ugg’s real name is 
  virtually unpronounceable to those who do not 
  speak Giant, but he responds affably to the name 
  the locals have affectionately given him as he 
  clumsily, yet cheerfully, assists with manual labor 
  around town.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
   There is, of course, a wizard, Kalle Sirkesalo, 
  who lives in a tower located on an island in 
  the river about 5 miles downstream. The mage 
  is rarely seen, but his servant, Hunch-backed 
  Roland (who is neither hunch-backed, nor is 
  he named Roland), is seen in Hengistbury most 
  weeks purchasing supplies.
   Lady Sybill Pemberton is a priest of a healing 
  god, and volunteers in the only temple in 
  Hengistbury. She can often be found with her 
  assistants, Prirkka and Ariel, tending to the needs 
  of the community.
   Ariadne, Brand Torek’s niece,  will play a 
  pivotal role in the course of this adventure.
   The Mortimer Brothers fancy themselves a 
  “thieves’ guild,” but in reality the three young 
  orphans, Gord, Beej and Poke, operate more as 
  paid gossips and mischief makers. Gord Mortimer 
  is soon coming of age and sweet on Ariadne. He 
  may have a larger role to play if he thinks the PCs 
  are worthy of his services.
   Tillian Bricklebottom is a male halfling scribe, 
  writer, translator and wine purveyor who has 
  settled down in Thornbury. His services may be 
  needed.
  The Dragon
  The dragon Cirothe resides in Skull Mountain, 
  a dormant volcano, some 30 days travel from 
  Hengistbury. An adult red dragon, she maintains 
  a network of kobold servants, minions, and 
  spies. As such, she will likely be aware of the PCs’ 
  mission and will attempt to interrupt it en route.
   Using her network of kobold minions, Cirothe 
  is gathering treasure and kidnapping young 
  virgins (of either gender—she’s not particular), 
  as dragons are wont to do. She will soon seize 
  Brand Torek’s niece, Ariadne, in the latest of the 
  kidnappings occasioned by her young wyrmlings’ 
  demand for the very best in tender mortal flesh.
  Hengistbury Locations
  In addition to a variety of small shops, houses, 
  and other essential buildings, several locations 
  in Hengistbury are involved in the following 
  adventures.
  The Bleeding Heart Tavern
  Formerly known as the Beaming Hearth, the 
  tavern forms the social hub of Hengistbury. At 
  any given moment during its open hours, at least 
  a half dozen local residents can be found enjoying 
  the fine offerings as served by Merideth Jones.
   The Bleeding Heart Tavern has a somewhat 
  unusual arrangement with the local populace. 
  Lord and Lady Pemberton own the tavern, but 
  they regularly appoint individual members 
  of the community to run the bar on a weekly, 
  rotating basis. Typically this responsibility is 
  passed to more established members of the 
  community like Steffen the Baker and Rorus 
  Klain, the blacksmith. Those who run the tavern 
  are allowed to keep a percentage of that week’s 
  profits to offset their losses from their regular 
  business during the week. Occasionally, the duty 
  of running the tavern falls upon less fortunate 
  county residents when they find themselves in 
  financial need, though Lord and Lady Pemberton 
  are not so foolish as to offer this opportunity to 
  untrustworthy members of the community.
  An Unlikely Follower 
  If the PCs manage to rescue the Mortimer brothers 
  in Pandora’s Box, successfully retrieve and return 
  Elise’s ring in Lizard’s Lament, and cure the sick troll 
  child without killing its mother in Troll Under the 
  Bridge (all quests in Act I), they may find themselves 
  with an unlikely follower. Gord Mortimer will join 
  them, based on his perception of the PCs as being 
  tolerant of those in unfortunate circumstances, 
  willing to comfort and aid the needy, and under-
  standing of those who are different. When they go 
  after Ariadne at the end of the module, he insists 
  on coming along if he has not already joined them. 
  Gord will perform the function of a henchman for 
  the rest of the adventure; take care to ensure he 
  remains an interesting and interactive member of 
  the party.
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
   This arrangement means that more or less 
  everyone in Hengistbury is invested in the 
  Bleeding Heart’s success as well as being far more 
  appreciative of the labor involved in making it 
  run when they are merely patrons. Fights rarely 
  break out here, and the locals are quick to shuffle 
  anyone who has enjoyed too much cheer safely 
  home before trouble starts.
   If there is a rumor or bit of news to be had in 
  Holdenshire, the Bleeding Heart is the place to 
  find it. The traveling bard Three-Fingered Jake 
  spends most of his time here when he is in the 
  area as the patrons are very happy to have him 
  perform and tip him generously. 
  Brand Torek’s Cabin
  Brand Torek is the local sheriff, appointed by 
  Lord Pemberton. His cabin also serves as his 
  office, though he is not often found within. Brand 
  is serious about his job and spends most of his 
  day patrolling the county on foot. The cabin is not 
  particularly fancy and sits near the northern edge 
  of the village, but residents of the area know to 
  come here if trouble is at hand.
   If Brand himself is not there, it is possible that 
  one of his part-time deputies is nearby. Both Yara 
  Bloodclaw and Jayel make occasional stops at 
  the cabin to check in and see if help is needed. 
  Brand’s niece Ariadne is generally close at hand 
  and can take messages for Brand if needed.
  Samuel and Sons Trading Company
  Samuel and Sons is the chief supplier of foreign-
  produced goods in Holdenshire; the company 
  is also the chief marketer of locally produced 
  goods to the wider world. Samuel and Sons 
  runs a brisk business purchasing furs and fish, 
  as well as surplus crops and a few other locally 
  produced items. In exchange, the company brings 
  in manufactured goods such as glass items and 
  worked leather. Samuel and Sons uses the river to 
  ship trade goods and so the building is located on 
  its banks.
  Prominent NPCs
  There are many NPCs in and around the county of 
  Holdenshire. Several of them have roles to play in 
  the adventures and some do not. Feel free to use 
  any and all of them as desired to set up scenes, to 
  provide color, or to encourage the PCs to take some 
  particular course of action. Refer to the “People 
  of Holdenshire” section and make use of the NPC 
  descriptions to fill in details of personality, occupa-
  tions, and favorite hangouts.
  Residents of Hengistbury
   
  ▶ Lord and Lady Pemberton
   
  ▶ Ugg the Hill Giant
   
  ▶ Gord, Beej, and Poke Mortimer
   
  ▶ Ariadne
   
  ▶ Merideth Jones
   
  ▶ Gavin Morrigan
   
  ▶ Willem Von Nederveen
   
  ▶ Aus
   
  ▶ Penner
   
  ▶ Yara Bloodclaw
   
  ▶ Kitster “Kit” Bartleby
   
  ▶ Saraz bint Farad bint Aquilah
   
  ▶ Freya Aeval
   
  ▶ Temrus Clothbinder
   
  ▶ Rorus and Yulana Klain
   
  ▶ Prirkka Strongfist
   
  ▶ Heinrich Krebs
   
  ▶ Tamas Agrens
   
  ▶ Mallory Jackdaw
   
  ▶ Stedd Grimwold
   
  ▶ Steffen the Baker
  Travelers and Outliers
   
  ▶ Ariel
   
  ▶ Brand Torek
   
  ▶ Three-Fingered Jake
   
  ▶ Kalle Sirkesalo
   
  ▶ Hunch-backed Roland
   
  ▶ Stefan Oakfell
   
  ▶ Andrew Nemeth
   
  ▶ Logan Brokenbarrel
   
  ▶ Karatilana “Tila” Torin
   
  ▶ Mossad
   
  ▶ Juide “Black-Hand” Averauh
   
  ▶ Old Jovan
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
   Recently, there has been some sort of trouble at 
  Samuel and Sons and this has attracted the notice 
  of their parent company. Willem von Nederveen, 
  an agent of the parent company, has arrived in the 
  county to investigate the problem and determine 
  what to do.
  The Temple
  The Temple is managed by Lady Sybill Pemberton. 
  Initially dedicated to Ceres and Minerva, 
  goddesses of agriculture and the hunt, it is fair to 
  say that the town of Hengistbury grew up around 
  the Temple rather than the Temple being built 
  where the locals lived. The Temple is a wooden 
  affair and sometimes serves as the town meeting 
  hall when large gatherings are called for and as 
  the local infirmary and hospital when needed. Its 
  walls and roof are built of stout oak harvested 
  from Queenswood, and bear many intricate 
  carvings of wild animals of the hunt, field grains 
  and other symbolism related to the goddesses.
   Lady Sybill ministers to the sick and infirm 
  in Minerva’s name. She does not preach to the 
  townspeople, instead believing that by her good 
  works she can influence them sufficiently to 
  ensure a welcome in the hereafter. She is practical, 
  though and understands that the Temple may not 
  meet everyone’s needs. For example, those of the 
  Forge fall outside of the goddess’s domain and, as 
  such, require different beliefs. During her tenure 
  she has seen fit to allow the placement of various 
  symbols of other good aligned deities in and 
  around the temple. If the goddesses object to this, 
  they have remained silent on the matter.
  Goods & Services
  Hengistbury also offers the following goods and 
  services:
   Penner’s Pig Farm is located to the West of 
  Hengistbury. Penner has an interest in pirate 
  history and memorabilia and may know the odd 
  thing or two about the river and its environs.
   Clothbinder’s Cheese Shop features many fine 
  cheeses. Temrus Clothbinder makes the cheeses 
  for the annual harvest festival cheese roll. The 
  cheeses wrapped in black are not to be touched.
   The Forge in Hengistbury is run by Rorus 
  Klain. Rorus is a smith of no small skill and 
  supplies tools and weapons to both locals and 
  soldiers for miles around. He has a large order 
  that needs to go west soon.
  BLEEDING HEART TAVERN MENU
  Food Menu
   
  ▶ Marinated vegetables and lizard broth (4 sp)
   
  ▶ Peppery satyr and pork pie (12 sp)
   
  ▶ Saucy fungus and warthog pie (10 sp)
   
  ▶ Delicious half roasted eagle doused in a melon, 
  and lamb puree (10 sp)
   
  ▶ Local deep-fried fox (5 sp)
   
  ▶ Seared griffin and pork broth (6 sp)
   
  ▶ Our world-famous boiled elk (5 sp)
   
  ▶ Mouth-watering miniature hyena pastries and 
  tarts (6 sp)
  Today’s Specials
   
  ▶ Smoked mutton sausages and mashed hog 
  cooked in Golden Beard Gin (12 sp)
   
  ▶ Bitter boiled camel cooked in Humble Hawk 
  Mead (18 sp)
   
  ▶ Cold manticore cuts with lamb and oyster 
  cooked in Moody Claw Gin (17 sp)
  Drinks Menu
   
  ▶ Lonely Dragon Beer (5 sp) 
  [ivory, opaque, smells like bacon]
   
  ▶ Elven Ininyë Wine (1 sp) 
  [crimson, cloudy, smells like pears]
   
  ▶ Dwarven Slateshield Stout (1 sp) 
  [white, opaque, smells like smoke]
   
  ▶ Lazy Prior Grog (4 sp) 
  [orange, bubbly, smells like wine]
   
  ▶ Bachelor’s Snake Grog (10 sp) 
  [ivory, fizzing, smells like spices]
   
  ▶ Black Rock Lager (5 sp) 
  [turquoise, sticky, smells like sewage]
   
  ▶ Yellow Dog Cider (3 sp) 
  [charcoal, fizzing, smells like honey]
   
  ▶ Honest John Cognac (10 sp) 
  [turquoise, translucent, smells like sulfur]
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
   The Krebs Apothecary, run by Heinrich Krebs, 
  makes many fine potions, philters, and salves. 
  He’s been known to make the occasional “aid to 
  romance” as well as curatives, digestive aids, and 
  special cleaning supplies. Should someone have 
  need of smoke sticks, alchemist’s fire or other 
  such adventuring goods, Krebs maintains a ready 
  supply. He prefers to be known as Krebs the 
  Apothecary.
   Stedd’s Shoppe is the home and business of 
  Stedd Grimwald, an unfortunate dwarf with 
  no beard and a sad story to tell. He also sells a 
  variety of potions from his shop front. He is not 
  the first choice for potions and the like since both 
  the Apothecary and Kalle Sirkesalo can provide 
  potions of better quality. He does, however, tend 
  to have a wider variety on sale.
   The Bakery, as run by Steffen the Baker, is 
  very popular early in the morning with the smell 
  of fresh breads wafting in the air. Most of the 
  people in town stop by here before going on with 
  their day. If the PCs need to find someone before 
  the Bleeding Heart opens, this might be a good 
  place to look.
  Thornbury Locations
  The Spice of Life is a small shop that offers 
  various spices sourced from around the world, 
  according to Nazid, its proprietor. In reality, 
  Nazid offers whatever spices he can acquire from 
  the Samuel and Sons Trading Company, combined 
  with some locally sourced spices and a rare few 
  he parcels out sparingly from a collection he 
  brought when he first came to town. His prices 
  are relatively high compared to the local economy, 
  but, since his chief customers are the Lord and 
  Lady Pemberton who buy them for their personal 
  use and the use of a few special dishes at the 
  Bleeding Heart, he manages to make a living. 
  About once a year someone comes to town from 
  afar and supplements his supply—likely it is 
  someone from his homeland and nothing to be 
  concerned about.
  The Autumn Festival
  Every autumn, in celebration of a good harvest 
  and successful business dealings and the general 
  good health of the two communities, Lady Pem-
  berton—just as her predecessors have always 
  done—organizes a Harvest Festival for both 
  Hengistbury and Thornbury. Farmers bring their 
  final harvests and livestock, the various business-
  men and gatherers bring their wares and anyone 
  passing through is welcomed to the celebration. An 
  informal judging is held and the winners in several 
  categories for “Best Of” goods each year are given 
  a small carved trophy: Minerva’s bow and arrow 
  done in oak. In addition, Lord Pemberton grants 
  such winners six months of tax amnesty specifi-
  cally so that the locals can enjoy the fruits of the 
  winner’s labor at a reduced cost for part of the year. 
  Lord Pemberton believes that this encourages the 
  competition as well as allowing the less fortunate 
  access to the same high quality goods as those who 
  are better off.
   The highlight of the Autumn Festival is the cheese 
  roll. On the last day of the week-long festival, 
  contestants gather on a steep hill located roughly 
  halfway between Hengistbury and Thornbury. 
  Specially-created Black Cheeses are brought out 
  and, on starters orders, the cheeses are released 
  while participants give chase, hoping to catch one 
  of the cheeses as it speeds down the hill. Secreted 
  in one of the cheeses is a single platinum piece sup-
  plied by Lord and Lady Pemberton. Any contestant 
  catching a cheese might be lucky enough to open it 
  and find the prize. Competition is quite fierce, made 
  only more so by the free pints of hard cider made 
  available to the contestants before the roll. Most 
  years the platinum piece goes unclaimed, but if this 
  persists for more than five years, Lord Pemberton 
  orders a second platinum piece placed in a cheese. 
  Those cheeses that are not caught are taken back to 
  Clothbinder’s Cheese Shop unopened and stored 
  for future use. Some of them are becoming quite old 
  indeed.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
   Reg Bakerman runs the Thornbury Bakery. 
  It is smaller and has less variety than the 
  Hengistbury bakery, but if fresh bread is wanted 
  in Thornbury, this is where you go. Reg is a 
  friendly fellow and gets on well with most people, 
  but he does have a tendency to drink and this 
  sometimes makes him late in getting the bread 
  made the next day.
   Denhew’s Pub ’n’ Grub is the local tavern 
  and inn in Thornbury. During the week, Horatio 
  Denhew, the proprietor, does a reasonably 
  brisk business. Things tend to slow down at 
  the weekend though as folks prefer to go to 
  the Bleeding Heart for the entertainment and 
  camaraderie if they can make the trip. This 
  doesn’t prevent Denhew from dreaming of 
  opening a second Pub ‘n’ Grub in Hengistbury. 
  He dislikes trouble in his tavern, but it happens 
  anyway. When it does, he relies on Brand Torek or 
  his deputies to help settle things down.
   Emery Shier is Thornbury’s local alchemist. 
  He sometimes works with Heinrich Krebs to 
  replenish supplies, but by and large makes 
  himself available to the Thornbury locals to meet 
  their more pressing needs. He runs his shop from 
  the kitchen of his home. His alchemical supplies 
  are more limited in variety, but of equal quality to 
  Heinrich’s.
   Albert Wright is a good enough veterinarian 
  to minister to the needs of the animals in both 
  Hengistbury and Thornbury. He keeps his 
  Veterinary Clinic in Thornbury because it keeps 
  him near the Queenwood, Ayle’s Loch, and 
  Brockendale Castle, where he likes to search for 
  animals to study in his leisure time. He is not a 
  cruel man and merely makes notes of their habits 
  and lifestyles. He hopes to someday find a rare 
  and exotic creature to study so that he can make a 
  name for himself by writing the definitive text on 
  such an animal. His wish may come true sooner 
  than he thinks.
   Morrison’s Forge, run by Donald Morrison, 
  takes care of Thornbury’s metalworking needs. 
  Morrison does well enough, but he never seems 
  to get the larger orders Rorus does. Still, Rorus 
  knows that Morrison does good, if uninspired, 
  work and occasionally helps him out by bringing 
  him in to fulfill general orders at times when 
  Rorus has a particularly large and urgent request 
  to complete. On these occasions Rorus pays him 
  well for the help.
   Tillian Bricklebottom has a small shop in 
  Thornbury in which he performs scribe and 
  translation services for everyone in the area. Old 
  deeds and wills, the occasional newly acquired 
  manuscript from distant lands, and the writing of 
  official documents for Lord and Lady Pemberton 
  tend to keep him reasonably busy. He is fluent in 
  many arcane and strange languages and may be 
  able to help translate a document that comes into 
  the PCs’ hands. He supplements his business by 
  selling writing supplies (pens, inks, parchments, 
  and papers) to locals who have the ability to write 
  and need to send letters. To those who cannot, he 
  charges a reasonable fee to write such letters as 
  they need.
  Other Locations of Note
  This section will detail locations not already 
  described in the quests below. GMs should 
  feel free to use these locations for additional 
  adventures or to expand existing adventures if 
  they wish.
   Logan Brokenbarrel runs the Quarry to the 
  north of Thornbury. The quarry is a typical stone 
  quarry and Logan is a fairly typical dwarf. Unless 
  someone notices the tattoo, then they might 
  realize that Logan used to be something quite 
  different and has a secret past he would rather 
  leave behind him.
   Jayel’s Cabin is located roughly half way 
  between the Quarry and Brockendale Castle. 
  Jahmus “Jayel” Laekin lives here. He prefers 
  the quiet and solitude of this location, but is 
  occasionally called on by Brand as a tracker if 
  someone proves difficult to find or has become 
  lost in the wilderness.
   Ayel’s Falls and Ayel’s Loch are located to the 
  south of Thornbury. Ayel’s Falls is a wonderfully 
  scenic location featuring a 100-foot drop into a 
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  small valley that leads to Ayel’s Loch. Generally a 
  peaceful scene of beauty and repose, it does have 
  a secret history ripe for discovery.
   The Queenswood is less menacing and 
  dangerous than the Weirwood, but this doesn’t 
  mean it is any less interesting. Woodcutters tend 
  to harvest wood from here rather than elsewhere 
  due to its proximity to the river. Occasionally, 
  reports of strange events or odd creatures emerge.
   A clan of performers and fortune-tellers known 
  as the Vistani is known to sometimes make their 
  home within the Queenswood. On any given 
  day there is a 60% chance that they can be found 
  somewhere within. Among the travelers are 
  those who can read magic, identify items, and 
  cast an augury for adventurers who would like 
  to see what the future holds. Late at night, their 
  campfires can be seen burning off in the distance 
  through the trees. It is possible they have some 
  connection to Saraz bint Farad bint Aquilah.
   Hidden among the Vistani—a secret they take 
  great care to protect—is a young female half-elf 
  bard by the name of Pixy Mistynote. Why she is 
  there, no one but the nomads knows.
  The People of Holdenshire
  This section is designed to help you keep track of 
  all the NPCs in Holdenshire (both Hengistbury 
  and Thornbury). Not all of the NPCs detailed 
  herein are plot-critical, but the area is designed to 
  work as a “sandbox”-style setting; for this reason 
  plot hooks and suggestions have been liberally 
  sprinkled throughout the following descriptions 
  in addition to the ones in the main adventure.
  Lord and Lady Pemberton
  The County of Holdenshire is governed by 
  Lord Pemberton and his lady-wife, Lady 
  Sybill Pemberton, and contains the village of 
  Hengistbury and the hamlet of Thornbury. The 
  nobles reside in Hengistbury Keep, on a small hill 
  overlooking Hengistbury. Lady Sybill Pemberton 
  is a cleric of Minerva, and volunteers in the only 
  temple in Hengistbury, with the aid of Ariel and 
  Prirkka. Each year, Lady Sybill organizes the 
  Autumn Harvest Fair. Lord and Lady Pemberton 
  also own Hengistbury’s Bleeding Heart Tavern 
  and have an unusual arrangement for running it. 
  Between the Tavern, the Harvest Fair and several 
  other local programs, they do much to ensure the 
  communities in their care remain healthy, happy 
  and prosperous. News of local problems and 
  impending danger have made the Lord and Lady 
  anxious about the fate of Holdenshire and they 
  are most anxious to receive help in getting things 
  back to normal. It may be that they will reward a 
  group of adventurers well for helping out.
  The Vistani
  The people of the Queenswood refer to themselves 
  as the Vistani, meaning “people of the forest.” Like 
  most humans, the Vistani people can be found in 
  cities and villages across the world. Many Vistani are 
  drawn to adventure for the same reasons as most—
  wealth, excitement, and glory—but they take to the 
  adventurous lifestyle more readily than most, as 
  their culture is already nomadic and self-sufficient. 
  Relations between the Vistani of the Queenswood 
  and the people of Holdenshire are generally 
  cordial, but there are those who look down upon 
  their lifestyle and traditions. These prejudiced few 
  unjustly label their neighbors in the Queenswood as 
  thieves, murderers, and swindlers. Lord and Lady 
  Pemberton know of this injustice, but don’t know 
  how to solve this tension.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  Brand Torek
  The county is patrolled by a ranger (scout), Brand 
  Torek, a large, easygoing bear of a man, proficient 
  in hammer and bow. He reports directly to 
  Lord Pemberton. Brand is a tall man with broad 
  shoulders, a neatly trimmed beard which doesn’t 
  hide his square jaw. A retired adventurer, he still 
  keeps his old armor and massive warhammer 
  hanging on the wall of his cabin-cum-office in 
  Hengistbury. Brand is serious about his job and is 
  rarely found in his office as he spends much of his 
  time patrolling the villages and roads. He dotes 
  on his niece, Ariadne, and would hate to see any 
  harm befall her. His official title is “sheriff” and 
  he is occasionally assisted by Yara Bloodclaw and 
  Jayel.
  Three-Fingered Jake
  Three-Fingered Jake is an itinerant bard (spy) who 
  wanders through every few weeks performing 
  in exchange for food or coin. Most news of the 
  wider world comes from his visits to town. He 
  can usually be found performing in the Bleeding 
  Heart Tavern (originally called the Beaming 
  Hearth until the Mortimer Brothers vandalized 
  the pub’s sign). Jake knows many rumors, 
  particularly regarding a certain sword and 
  scabbard.
  Ugg
  Ugg is a small hill giant who was befriended 
  by the village children some years ago. Ugg is 
  not his real name, but he is affectionately called 
  such as he clumsily yet cheerfully assists with 
  manual labor around town. Ugg is a kindhearted 
  soul and dislikes seeing others mistreated, 
  particularly if the reason for doing so stems 
  from prejudice against those who are “different.” 
  Ugg speaks both Common and Giant, but relies 
  mostly on Common while working in the village. 
  Occasionally, when working alone, he can be 
  heard to sing some quite interesting songs in 
  Giant. His best friends in Hengistbury are the 
  Mortimer Brothers.
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  Kalle Sirkesalo
  The mage Kalle Sirkesalo lives in a tower 
  located on an island in the river about five 
  miles downstream. He is rarely seen, but his 
  henchman, Hunch-backed Roland (who is neither 
  hunchbacked, nor is he named Roland), is seen 
  in Hengistbury most weeks purchasing supplies. 
  Kalle is a black mage who is often in need of rare 
  ingredients. Roland can sometimes be found in 
  the company of Freya Aeval, the pixie, as they 
  head into the Weirwood. Kalle often supplies the 
  veterinarian, Albert Wright, with certain potions 
  and medicines he needs for his job. No one is 
  really quite sure what else might be going on at 
  the tower.
  Penner
  Penner is a halfling pig farmer (commoner) with 
  an affinity for pirate history and memorabilia. 
  He likes to spend some evenings at the Bleeding 
  Heart Tavern in the company of other locals. 
  His interest in pirates may give him a unique 
  perspective on some of the local goings on. His 
  farm’s proximity to the Weirwood may give him 
  insight there as well.
  The Mortimer Brothers
  The Mortimer Brothers fancy themselves a 
  “thieves’ guild,” but in reality the three young 
  orphans, Gord, Beej, and Poke, operate more as 
  paid gossips. They spend a lot of time with Ugg, 
  who is very protective of them. They often find 
  themselves in minor trouble, but may overreach 
  their grasp in the near future. Gord is in love with 
  Ariadne and will soon come of age; he may find 
  himself making a decision that is at once noble 
  and a little foolish, but in the long run may see 
  him become the apple of someone’s eye.
   Beej and Poke are commoners, but their more 
  experienced brother, Gord, uses spy statistics.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  Ariadne
  Ariadne is Brand Torek’s niece (commoner). Gord, 
  the oldest of the Mortimer Brothers, is in love 
  with Ariadne, though she is not aware of this. 
  She can often be located in and around Brand’s 
  house, but does make the occasional foray to the 
  riverbanks to pick flowers. Messages for Brand 
  can be reliably left with her should the need arise.
  Ariadne is probably the most important NPC in 
  this adventure, for it is she who will be captured 
  by the kobolds in Thornbury and taken off to the 
  dragon’s lair, and it is she whom the PCs will be 
  charged with rescuing. 
  Meredith Jones
  Meredith Jones is a young, serious girl in her 
  early 20s. She is stern looking and doesn’t quite 
  know what to do with her life. Right now, she’s 
  working in the Bleeding Heart Tavern as a 
  barmaid (commoner), but she knows for sure that 
  she is meant for greater things. She is the only 
  permanent employee of the tavern and therefore 
  knows how things work better than most. It may 
  be that she secretly admires someone in the town, 
  but if so, she has kept it a well-guarded secret.
  Gavin Morrigan
  Gavin Morrigan, a writer (veteran), is a dark-
  haired man with a dusting of silver at his temples 
  which seems almost to contrast the spark of 
  youthful determination in his eyes. Though Gavin 
  is often engrossed in his writing, he is clearly 
  in good shape. No one seems to know why he 
  spends so much of his free time at the Bleeding 
  Heart, nor what it is he is writing exactly. Surely 
  something, or someone, must attract him here on 
  a regular basis. What could it be?
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  Willem von Nederveen
  Willem von Nederveen is a traveling merchant 
  (commoner) from the trading company Samuel 
  and Sons in distant Northminster. He is helpful 
  to those who are friendly to him. Willem was sent 
  to Hengistbury to figure out why the company is 
  losing money there, which may lead him to ask 
  the PCs for help if he thinks they are trustworthy 
  enough. The company does a brisk business 
  buying up local materials and goods while selling 
  finished products back to the residents. There 
  really isn’t any reason for them to be losing so 
  much money. Or is there?
  Aus
  Aus is a young kid (commoner), annoying and 
  always trying to scurry around and get the latest 
  rumors in an effort to impress the older Mortimer 
  Brothers. In particular, he is interested in rumors 
  of the dragon in the east, and carries a stuffed 
  dragon toy. He cheers for the dragon and pranks 
  those who show interest in slaying it. He has 
  collected a lot of dragon trivia in his 8 short years.
   Some of it is even accurate, though no one 
  is really sure about which bits have just been 
  made up or confused with the real ones. Still, he 
  constantly tries to find more and this may prove 
  beneficial for the player characters.
  Stefan Oakfell
  Stefan Oakfell is a woodsman and hunter (scout). 
  Soft-spoken, rugged, and lean, he is approaching 
  his late 40s. Stefan has a haunted look in his eyes, 
  a look which suggests he may have seen—or 
  indeed, done—terrible things. Stefan is a solitary 
  character who does not seek the company 
  of others. He may, if he can be convinced to 
  share it, have news of strange goings on in the 
  Queenswood. He certainly seems to spend the 
  majority of his time in and around its environs.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  Nazid
  Nazid of the Adashim family from the Ben-Yumo 
  clan (commoner). He has a little spice shop called 
  The Spice of Life from which he sells spices to the 
  locals and particularly Lord and Lady Pemberton. 
  About once a year or so a foreign gentlemen 
  shows up to conduct business with Nazid. He’s 
  probably just bringing in fresh spices, right? It’s 
  probably just one of Nazid’s relatives. There 
  couldn’t possibly be anything illegal going on 
  here, could there?
  Reg Bakerson
  Reg Bakerson is Thornbury’s baker (commoner), 
  and a friendly sort to all. He has a habit of 
  saying awkward things, but he’s well-meaning 
  and is never out to do anyone harm. Reg likes 
  to drink when he’s not working, and becomes 
  rather boisterous after a few drinks. Generally 
  Reg is looked on affectionately by the townsfolk, 
  although thought of as a bit odd. He tends to 
  think of the Pub ‘n’ Grub as his home away from 
  home, and gets worried if trouble starts there. A 
  night of too much drinking means the fresh bread 
  in Thornbury will be delayed the next morning.
  Horatio Denhew
  Horatio Denhew, a brewmaster (commoner), 
  owns Thornbury’s tavern, Denhew’s Pub ‘n’ 
  Grub. He hopes to one day open a second branch 
  in Hengistbury, although the Bleeding Heart’s 
  popularity keeps him from doing this. When not 
  in the kitchen, he likes to mingle with his patrons, 
  loving to hear their tales. If asked why he doesn’t 
  adventure himself, he replies, “I nearly kill 
  meself in me own kitchen e’ery day; I wouldn’t 
  last more’n a week crawlin’ through dungeons. 
  Lemme refill yer ale.”
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  Yara Bloodclaw
  Yara Bloodclaw is a tall, tattooed woman, around 
  35 years old. She has lived in Hengistbury for 
  about 6 years, now working as a beemaster. A 
  capable fighter (tribal warrior), she reinforces 
  the guards of Hengistbury and is never seen 
  without her two warhammers. If asked about her 
  past she mentions only that she was raised in a 
  cold mountain range in a land far away. She says 
  little and never drinks alcohol. This makes her 
  especially reliable if trouble should crop up late at 
  night.
  Kitster “Kit” Bartleby
  Kitster “Kit” Bartleby is a charismatic thug. He is 
  a fence, dealing with stolen property. It is Kit who 
  persuaded John Tulworth to steal from Samuel 
  and Sons. Kit must have some reason for targeting 
  Samuel and Sons beyond just money—he has, 
  after all, taken a very big risk in such a small 
  community. Who does he sell to and why? And 
  what are they doing with the goods?
  Mylani Azalathellon
  Mylani Azalathellon is a teenaged half-elf with 
  a fascination with the law (commoner). She 
  always carries two small books with her: a book 
  of common laws, and a notebook that she uses 
  to record any transgressions of the law that she 
  witnesses. Enthusiastic, Brand finds her tiresome—
  but maybe she’s on to something. Perhaps she’s 
  unwittingly seen something important and 
  written it down in her little book. Or maybe she’s 
  just a nosy busybody with a score to settle.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  Andrew Nemeth
  Andrew Nemeth is a wandering rogue looking for 
  a successful adventurer named “Bluestone.” Why? 
  Probably because the adventurer owes him some money. 
  He is part of the troublesome adventuring group which 
  also includes Mossad and Old Jovan. They’ve been 
  wandering around the area causing trouble for the 
  residents with their questions and prying. Andrew is the 
  de facto leader of the group.
   Andrew is a spy with 36 hit points and an AC of 14, 
  and he deals 3d6 additional damage on a successful 
  sneak attack.
  Karatilana “Tila” Torin
  Karatilana “Tila” Torin is a “rogue economist,” believing 
  that redistribution of wealth is the key to economic 
  success. She takes this belief very personally, handling 
  much of this “redistribution” herself. The rest of the 
  community simply regards her as a thief. This probably 
  has everything to do with why she now finds herself in 
  Brand’s jail. How long she’ll stay there is anyone’s guess. 
  If she does leave without permission, someone will 
  probably have to fetch her back.
   Tila is a scout with 34 hit points and an AC of 15, and 
  she deals 2d6 additional damage on a successful sneak 
  attack.
  Saraz bint Farad bint Aquilah
  Saraz bint Farad bint Aquilah is a psion from a faraway 
  land. Her dress is that of someone of nobility or great 
  wealth, wearing bright colored silks. She is inquisitive 
  and curious and makes extensive notes about everything 
  in Hengistbury and the surrounding countryside. She is 
  naive about local customs. She suspects that something 
  odd is going on at one of the stores in Hengistbury. She 
  could be right, but really needs to learn more. She may 
  be connected to the Vistani of the Queenswood in some 
  way, but who can tell for sure?
   As a psion, Saraz uses priest statistics, with the 
  following exceptions. She has an AC of 10 (unarmored), 
  an Intelligence score of 16 (+3), is proficient in the 
  Arcana skill instead of Religion, and has spells 
  prepared from the wizard list. Her spellcasting ability 
  is Intelligence (spell save DC 13). Her Divine Eminence 
  feature deals psychic damage instead of radiant damage.
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  Freya Aeval
  Freya Aeval is tiny and adorable pixie girl with 
  long braided red hair and blue eyes, with pink 
  and black butterfly-like wings. She spends 
  much of her time in the vicinity of the Bleeding 
  Heart Tavern, although she can be a source of 
  information about the Weirwood. She seems to be 
  sweet on Hunch-backed Roland, though it isn’t 
  entirely certain that he returns the affection. They 
  are often seen going into the Weirwood together, 
  though.
  Robert MacBain
  Robert MacBain is dark of hair and large of stature 
  (commoner, with 8 hp and a Strength score of 
  15). Tall and well-muscled from years working 
  with his hands, Robert is generally thought of 
  as kind and strong. He works stone mined from 
  the quarry for various uses around the county. 
  Most of the homes in Hengistbury are starting to 
  put in stone foundations and some of the larger 
  buildings in the area are already converted. 
  Probably no great secrets will be unearthed. 
  Probably.
  Temrus Clothbinder
  Temrus Clothbinder is a cheese maker (the 
  surname “Clothbinder” comes from the cloth used 
  to bind up cheese, as he loves to inform people). 
  Not only does he make cheeses for general use, he 
  is also responsible for providing the cheeses used 
  in the annual Autumn Harvest Festival cheese 
  roll competition. Each cheese for the festival is 
  wrapped in black and all the residents know not 
  to touch those cheeses. This prevents tampering 
  and might also have something to do with the 
  platinum piece hidden in at least one cheese as 
  a prize. At least, they are supposed to be hidden 
  in the cheeses. As far as everyone else knows, 
  anyway.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  Rorus Klain
  Rorus Klain is a large man in his early 40s, wide 
  of girth and grizzled in appearance (commoner, 
  with 10 hp and a Constitution score of 14). He 
  is a smith of great skill, and takes his work very 
  seriously, with no time for foolish questions or 
  irritating visitors. Rorus is quick to anger, but 
  equally quick to forgive, and once he becomes 
  a friend, he is fiercely loyal. His strong-willed 
  wife, Yulana, is probably the only person in 
  Hengistbury that Rorus fears. He often takes on 
  large orders and has made arrangements with 
  Thornbury’s smith, Donald Morrison, to cover his 
  day-to-day work at these times.
  Mossad
  Mossad is a tall, dark-haired thug who uses a 
  two-handed sword. He, along with Old Jovan 
  and Andrew Nemeth, is part of a troublesome 
  company of adventurers staying temporarily in 
  Hengistbury. Because of their shared experience 
  with Bluestone, Mossad is loyal to Nemeth and 
  Old Jovan, but he is rapidly losing enthusiasm for 
  the pursuit and grows more convinced each day 
  that they should just move on.
  Emery Shier
  Emery Shier is an alchemist (acolyte) based in 
  Thornbury. He sometimes works with Heinrich 
  Krebs to replenish supplies, but by and large 
  makes himself available to the Thornbury locals 
  to meet their more pressing needs. He runs his 
  shop from the kitchen of his home. His alchemical 
  supplies are more limited in variety, but of equal 
  quality to Heinrich’s. This makes some people 
  suspicious and they wonder who the real talent is.
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  Albert Wright
  Albert Wright is the 12th of thirteen kids of from 
  the hills near Brockendale who grew up to be a 
  veterinarian (commoner). He dreams of taking 
  care of baby owlbears, sick hippogriffs, and other 
  exotic creatures. He keeps his Veterinary Clinic 
  in Thornbury because it keeps him near the 
  Queenwood, Ayle’s Loch, and Brockendale Castle, 
  where he likes to search for animals to study 
  in his leisure time. He is not a cruel man and 
  merely makes notes of their habits and lifestyles. 
  He can be a valuable guide to the area around 
  Brockendale Castle.
  Ariel
  Ariel is a midwife and herb supplier. She 
  spends much of her time in the local wilderness 
  collecting supplies. She once adventured and is 
  a somewhat accomplished druid. She helps Lady 
  Sybill minister to the needs of the community 
  and generally does so willingly, but she has been 
  known to have a sharp word for anyone who has 
  injured themselves doing something foolish or 
  dangerous.
  Prirkka Strongfist
  Prirkka Strongfist is a half-orc midwife 
  (commoner) new in town. Prirkka is tall, with 
  long black hair with a few hints of gray, about 50 
  years of age. One of her eyes is brown while the 
  other is green. She is allergic to cats. She has been 
  drafted into service helping Lady Sybill care for 
  the county’s residents. No one is quite sure where 
  she came from or why she ended up here. Some 
  folks still mistrust her, but she may be slowly 
  winning them over, provided nothing untoward 
  happens.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  Donald Morrison
  Donald Morrison is a giant of a man (commoner, 
  with 20 hp and Strength and Constitution scores 
  of 14). He wears a kilt and works the forge in 
  Thornbury. He’s not as skilled as Rorus Klain 
  is, but still produces serviceable items of decent 
  quality. Rorus employs him when there is a large 
  order that needs filling to handle the more work-
  a-day needs of the community. Both men are on 
  genial terms with each other, but, is that just a hint 
  of jealousy in Morrison’s eyes?
  Heinrich Krebs
  Heinrich Krebs, a self-proclaimed apothecary 
  (commoner), wears his chosen profession like 
  a title. Almost all villagers use products of this 
  shop, be it to help with diseases, to enrich the 
  love-life, or to get the town’s best stain remover. 
  For the occasional adventurer, classics like 
  Alchemist’s fire or Smoke Sticks are always in 
  stock. Whenever Heinrich needs to re-supply, 
  Thornbury’s Alchemist, Emery Shier comes along 
  to help out. Some locals are starting to wonder 
  who the real alchemist is.
  Juide “Black-Hand” Averauh
  Juide “Black-Hand” Averauh is a rarely-seen 
  woodsman (scout) who keeps the village well-
  supplied with good meat. Most people assume 
  he hunts in Queenswood for the most part and 
  Juide does nothing to disabuse them of this 
  notion. Perhaps it is true. Although, if the rumors 
  are to be believed, some folks might be quite 
  displeased to discover his real source. He may 
  know something about Ayle’s Loch that someone 
  else wishes he didn’t.
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  Old Jovan
  Old Jovan is a dwarf thug who was turned into 
  a shambling mound in his younger years of 
  adventuring. He traveled the swamps a long time 
  until a Vistani mystic was able to help turn him 
  back. Unfortunately, a hint of the smell remained. 
  People are often understandably uncomfortable in 
  his presence. He is part of the adventuring party 
  staying in Thornbury: the others are Andrew 
  Nemeth and Mossad. Jovan is loyal to Nemeth, 
  but he, too is beginning to weary of chasing 
  Bluestone.
  Tamas Agrens
  Tamas Agrens is the local sage (priest) of the 
  area. He’s fairly aloof and unfriendly, and clearly 
  considers himself more clever than most of the 
  locals. For this reason, the Mortimer Brothers 
  enjoy taunting him with stupid questions and 
  pranks; trouble ensues when they steal a certain 
  box from him, though. Maybe he does know 
  something the rest of them don’t. Whatever it is, it 
  is unlikely to be good for anyone.
  John Tulworth
  John Tulworth is an untrustworthy little sneak 
  (commoner). He is known to the other kids as 
  “the toad.” It is John who is stealing from Samuel 
  & Sons at the behest of Kit. What hold does Kit 
  have over him that made this possible? And has 
  “the toad” learned anything that would make Kit 
  hopping mad? Maybe Tulworth is a good kid at 
  heart who has just been lead down a bad path.
  Mallory Jackdaw
  Mallory Jackdaw is a seven-year-old boy 
  (commoner), with unkempt brown hair and blue 
  eyes, who never stops talking. He knows a little 
  about everything and is willing to make the rest 
  up. He’s been feeding Aus various stories and, in 
  some cases, outright lies about the dragon far to 
  the East. It’s fairly likely that any information he 
  might give to interested adventurers is no better. 
  He is the second of three children to disappear 
  into the Weirwood.
  
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue | EN World EN5IDER
  Stedd Grimwold
  Stedd Grimwold is a dwarf sorcerer. He 
  manifested his powers working the quarry: He 
  needed a light to read a note and his body erupted 
  into flames. All of his hair was burnt off and the 
  fire caused a conflagration which killed his family 
  and many other miners. In time he learned control 
  over his powers, and opened a small shop in 
  Hengistbury where he provides potions. Morose 
  and taciturn, Stedd mopes about, a sad forlorn 
  shell of a dwarf. Perhaps something can be done 
  for him?
   Stedd uses mage statistics, except has 25 hp, 
  cannot cast spells above 3rd level, and has only 
  two 3rd-level spell slots.
  Steffen the Baker
  Steffen is the Hengistbury town baker 
  (commoner). With brown-grey hair, he’s a little 
  plump from too much bread. All that means is he 
  has a finer understanding of the bread-making 
  arts than does his counterpart in Thornbury. 
  People line up daily to collect fresh bread from 
  Steffen and his bakery serves as a secondary 
  community hub before the Bleeding Heart opens 
  for the day. What you don’t hear there, you might 
  hear here.
  John-Francis Rainweaver
  John-Francis Rainweaver is hearty woodsman 
  (scout) of indeterminate age. He was once a court 
  scholar in Northminster. He was charged with 
  teaching the young prince of Northminster, but 
  some unspecified catastrophe occurred and he 
  was dismissed. Unable to find more work as a 
  scholar, he came to Holdenshire to seek what 
  fortune he could. There is enough need for wood, 
  meat and skins to keep several woodsmen busy. 
  Perhaps Rainweaver wished he could redeem 
  himself in some way, though?
  
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  EN World EN5IDER | The Holdenshire Chronicles: Prologue
  Logan Brokenbarrel
  Logan Brokenbarrel is the black-bearded dwarf 
  quarry-master (guard). Characters with the 
  soldier background may recognize Logan’s 
  regimental tattoos, which link him to a notorious 
  massacre committed by the last king’s troops at 
  Ayle’s Loch. He keeps his past a closely-guarded 
  secret, and if anyone were to find out the exact 
  nature of his deeds he would surely be displeased. 
  He might even take drastic action to silence the 
  person.
  Jahmus “Jayel” Laekin
  Widely known as Jayel, Jahmus Laekin is the 
  name of a onetime scout, now hunter of men 
  at the behest of Brand. Though amicable, the 
  dark-haired man holds little sympathy for the 
  malicious. He prefers to live peaceably, but has 
  no qualms about doing bad things to bad folk. Or 
  folks he believes to be bad at any rate. It would be 
  a terrible thing if he got carried away one day and 
  did something unforgivable to someone innocent. 
  Fortunately, Brand has been able to use Jayel’s 
  emotions for good.
  Tillian Bricklebottom
  Tillian Bricklebottom is a male halfling scribe, 
  writer, translator and wine purveyor (commoner) 
  who has settled down in Thornbury. Old 
  deeds and wills, the occasional newly acquired 
  manuscript from distant lands, and the writing of 
  official documents for Lord and Lady Pemberton 
  tend to keep him reasonably busy. He is fluent in 
  many arcane and strange languages and may be 
  able to help translate a document that comes into 
  the PCs’ hands.
  
SOURCE: textdata/thevault/Dungeons & Dragons [multi]/5th Edition (5e)/3rd Party/EN World EN5ider/EN5ider 056 - Holdenshire Primer.pdf