Jolly Tuneweaver
tavern signer, Gnome, Bard, Chaotic Good
Description
A sprightly gnome barely three feet tall, Jolly sports wild auburn hair that seems to defy any attempt at tidiness. His bright green eyes twinkle with mischief and merriment. He favors garish doublets and silken breeches in clashing purples, golds, and greens—each piece adorned with embroidered musical notes and dancing figures. A well-worn lute is perpetually slung across his back, and he rarely appears without his signature feathered cap perched jauntily atop his head. An assortment of jingling bells hangs from his belt. Despite his diminutive size, he commands attention in any room.
Backstory
Grew up in a bustling gnome village where music and storytelling were prized. Traveled from town to town, honing his bardic skills and gathering tales. Settled as a tavern singer to share stories and songs while seeking adventure.
Personality
Cheerful and quick-witted, loves entertaining crowds with stories and songs. Often impulsive but kind-hearted, always ready to brighten the mood.
Jolly Tuneweaver
Small Humanoid, chaotic good
AC 14 (studied leather jacket and embroidered adventurer’s garb)
Initiative +2 (12)
HP 27 (5d8+5)
Senses Passive Perception 10
CR 2 (XP 450; PB +2)
Traits
Gnome Cunning. Jolly has advantage on saving throws against being charmed or affected by illusion magic.
Minor Spark of Inspiration. When Jolly makes a Charisma (Performance) check, he can add a d4 to the check. If he does, he can then target one creature he can see within 30 ft with encouragement (no action required). The target gains temporary hit points equal to the result of the d4.
Unsteady Performer. Jolly’s speed isn’t reduced by difficult terrain if he can move at least 10 feet during his turn.
Actions
Dazzling Jest (Cantrip). Ranged Spell Attack Roll: +6, range 30 ft. Hit: 14 (4d6) psychic damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or have disadvantage on its next attack roll before the start of Jolly Tuneweaver’s next turn.
Frosty Tuneweaver’s Lute Strike. Melee Weapon Attack Roll: +5, reach 5 ft. Hit: 10 (2d6+3) bludgeoning damage.
Bard’s Bray Bells. Ranged Weapon Attack Roll: +6, range 20/60 ft. Hit: 11 (2d6+3) thunder damage. On a hit, the target can’t benefit from being invisible until the start of its next turn.
Flaws
Easily distracted by new stories and songs
Overestimates his charm in tricky situations
Avoids serious conflict, prefers laughter over confrontation
Voice
Speaks quickly with a sing-song lilt and a light Gnomish accent. Often peppers speech with rhymes and playful wordplay, sometimes tripping over words when excited.
Motivations
Collect and preserve ancient ballads and stories
Inspire hope and joy in weary travelers
Gain fame as the greatest bard in the region
Adventure Hooks
Knows a hidden verse that reveals the location of a lost treasure
Recently heard a forbidden song tied to a secret society
Owes a debt to a mysterious patron who saved his life backstage