Bert

Bert “Old Bert” Wyndell Human Commoner (Level 1), Neutral Innkeeper of “The Rusted Crown” in Barrenford

Overview: Bert Wyndell, better known as “Old Bert,” is the innkeeper of The Rusted Crown, the most prominent tavern and inn in Barrenford. A man in his early sixties, Bert has spent most of his life in Barrenford, having inherited the inn from his father. He’s a gruff, no-nonsense figure with a thick grey beard and a weathered face, but beneath his tough exterior lies a man who cares deeply for the townsfolk and his regulars. Bert has an uncanny ability to keep things running smoothly, and while he may appear to be just a hardworking innkeeper, he knows far more about the town’s underbelly than he lets on.

Appearance: Bert is a stocky, weather-beaten man with short, greying hair and a thick, scraggly beard. He typically wears simple but well-maintained innkeeper’s attire—an apron over a linen shirt, worn trousers, and sturdy boots. His eyes are sharp and watchful, always seeming to notice more than they reveal.

Key Traits and Characteristics:

• Grizzled Veteran of Barrenford’s Ways: Bert has seen the town grow, struggle, and change, and he has a deep sense of loyalty to its people. He’s well-versed in the town’s history and gossip, often serving as an unofficial historian for travellers. Though he can be gruff, he’s generous with regular patrons and those who’ve earned his respect.
• Underworld Liaison (Unknowingly): For those in the know, Bert is a discreet contact for arranging meetings with the local underworld. If someone asks to “speak with Fred,” Bert will quietly arrange for a clandestine meeting the following night. However, Bert is unaware of the identities of the figures he is connecting with. He communicates through simple signs—a flowerpot moved on a windowsill, a lamp left burning late into the night—ensuring the meeting occurs without direct contact.
• Underworld Deception: What Bert doesn’t realise is that the local underworld is, in fact, a single rogue operating under the guise of an entire thieves’ guild. This rogue, named Dylan “The Shade” McCrae, has led Bert to believe that there’s an entire guild behind him, using simple tricks and illusions to maintain the facade. In truth, Dylan has no real network and is anxious about the recent appearance of a more organised group—the Web of Knives, whose junior members have started to infiltrate Barrenford. Dylan has spotted them but is too cautious to confront them or reveal his own operation.
• Knows More Than He Lets On: Despite not knowing who exactly is involved in the town’s criminal activities, Bert has a sharp intuition and has noticed the uptick in shady dealings. He’s heard more whispers about “new blood” in town, but for now, he’s keeping quiet and watching from the sidelines, as he’s not fond of getting directly involved in violent matters.
• Discreet and Trusted: Bert is trusted by the people of Barrenford, especially those who walk on the darker side of the law. He never asks too many questions, and his discretion has made him the go-to person for low-key exchanges or deals. This has put him in an advantageous position to hear secrets and rumours, but it also means he’s a potential target if the wrong people start asking about his contacts.

Roleplaying Tips:

• Gruff but Fair: Bert speaks in a low, gravelly voice, always with a gruff, matter-of-fact tone. He’s not one for small talk unless it’s with someone he likes, and he has little patience for nonsense. However, he can warm up to regular patrons, sharing a drink or a quiet word of advice.
• Tactful with Questions: When dealing with strangers asking about “Fred,” Bert never acknowledges anything out loud. He simply nods and indicates they return tomorrow night. His role as a middleman has taught him not to ask questions he doesn’t want answers to.
• Unwilling to Get Involved Directly: While Bert will arrange meetings or share information when asked, he’s unwilling to get directly involved in any criminal activities. If things go awry, his priority is always his own safety and the smooth operation of his inn.

Key Statistics:

• HP: 7 (2d8-2)
• AC: 10
• Speed: 30 ft
• Stats: Str 12, Dex 9, Con 11, Int 10, Wis 13, Cha 11
• Skills: Insight +3, Persuasion +2, Deception +2
• Tools: Brewer’s supplies, cook’s utensils
• Languages: Common
• Abilities:
  • Observant Innkeeper: Bert has advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks to detect deception or hidden motives, especially in his inn.
  • Thick-Skinned: Bert has advantage on saving throws against being intimidated or frightened due to his experience dealing with unruly patrons.

Ties to the Campaign:

• The PCs’ Contact for the Underworld: If the PCs need information or wish to make contact with the local criminal element, Bert can act as a middleman. Upon request to “see Fred,” Bert will facilitate a meeting with Dylan, unknowingly helping the rogue maintain his charade of leading a larger thieves’ guild.
• A Growing Threat: Bert has overheard vague talk about new, more organised criminals in town, and he’s starting to feel uneasy. If the PCs dig deeper into Barrenford’s troubles, Bert may reveal his suspicions about the arrival of these new “strangers.” He’s spotted a few unfamiliar figures skulking around the town and has heard whispers that they’re connected to something bigger, though he doesn’t yet know about the Web of Knives.
• Hook for Investigations: The PCs can use Bert to get access to underworld dealings, but they will also realise he’s an unwitting player in a much larger game. If they push him for information, Bert might admit that he’s noticed a shift in the criminal landscape but doesn’t want to be directly involved. PCs with high Charisma (Persuasion or Intimidation) might convince him to share what he’s seen, including the signs and signals used to arrange meetings.

Dialogue Examples:

• “You want to talk to Fred, do you? Come back tomorrow night. I’ll see what I can do. Don’t go asking questions you don’t need answers to.”
• “Keep your head down, mind your business, and you’ll do just fine in Barrenford. That’s what I’ve done all these years.”
• “I’ve seen a few unfamiliar faces around lately. Don’t like the look of ’em, to be honest. Keep an eye out for yourself, stranger.”

Bert is a key NPC who adds depth to the intrigue in Barrenford. He provides a safe entry point for the PCs into the town’s criminal dealings while also foreshadowing the growing presence of the Web of Knives without realising the danger he’s inadvertently facilitating.