In the vast and enigmatic realm of Rivermond, there roams a figure shrouded in mystery and intrigue—Rasmus, an aged and elusive merchant who traverses the countryside, his origins obscured by a veil of uncertainty. Whispers and tales abound about this enigmatic figure, with many questioning his true nature, purpose, and the source of his uncanny abilities.
Rasmus, a name among many that he goes by, possesses an otherworldly ability to materialize and vanish with astonishing speed. A mere blink of an eye is all it takes for him to appear or disappear, along with his peculiar cart or wagon, laden with an assortment of intriguing goods. His mode of transportation is no ordinary creature of burden, for he is accompanied by a large and peculiar beast, a creature seemingly plucked from the realm of the fantastical. But it is not just the beast that accompanies Rasmus on his journey. Always at his side, a hooded Cyclops lurks, silent and enigmatic, emanating an aura of mystery that matches that of his enigmatic companion. The Cyclops, nameless and voiceless, appears to share an unspoken bond with Rasmus, their alliance forged in the shadows of the unknown.
To those fortunate enough to encounter Rasmus and possess the means to trade, he reveals himself as a purveyor of rare and exotic treasures. His wares transcend the realm of the mundane, often imbued with magic and imbued with ancient power. His collection is eclectic, comprising enchanted artifacts, talismans, and curiosities that have bewitched the imagination of those who gaze upon them. The act of bartering with Rasmus can be a precarious endeavor, for he possesses a cunning and elusive nature. His prices may seem exorbitant, and his haggling tactics unyielding, as if he hoards his magical items like a dragon guards its hoard. Yet, for those who possess a discerning eye and the willingness to engage in the intricate dance of negotiation, Rasmus may unveil rare and coveted treasures that have long eluded the grasp of ordinary folk.
Moreover, Rasmus is not merely a collector and vendor of magical artifacts; he is also a skilled craftsman and enchanter in his own right. By special request or as inspiration strikes, he brings forth his craftsmanship to fashion bespoke magical items. Each creation is a testament to his mastery of arcane arts, combining the practicality of mundane craftsmanship with the allure of enchantment. The nature of Rasmus's trade is as enigmatic as the man himself. His shop, a portable emporium that materializes with a mere snap of his fingers, is a testament to his mystical abilities. With each transaction, the ephemeral shop takes form, presenting an array of wonders to those fortunate enough to witness its ethereal existence.
Rasmus, with his cryptic demeanor and enigmatic origins, has become a subject of fascination and speculation among the denizens of Rivermond. His presence lingers in the memories of those who have encountered him, the stories of his elusive nature and magical trade passed down through generations. He stands as a living enigma, an embodiment of the mysterious and arcane, a merchant of secrets and wonders. While the true nature and purpose of Rasmus remain elusive, his presence in the realm of Rivermond serves as a reminder that even in a world filled with known wonders, there are still realms yet to be explored, and mysteries waiting to be unraveled. Those who cross paths with Rasmus are forever touched by the allure of the unknown, forever captivated by the enigma that is this wandering merchant.
The Hidden Curse
The Travellers, a group of adventurers on their way to Windelcrest, came across Rasmus who appeared to be in distress and the party quickly learned that he had been robbed of one of his chained-up tomes while he was in Windelcrest. He offered a reward for the book's safe return, and the party took on the task. The Travellers searched high and low, gathering information and leads until they finally found the book in the hands of a lich. They managed to defeat the creature and retrieve the tome, returning it to Rasmus.
As the party was about to hand over the book, they began to question its significance and why it was chained up. Rasmus explained that it was a dangerous book, known as "Volkrag's Book of Greed," and part of his Volkrag collection. He had collected many such items over the years, but he knew the power they held and so kept them secured. However, the party soon realized that the book had influenced Rasmus, possibly allowing it to be stolen. They decided to investigate further, and with the help of Bartimaeus Brightheart, they broke the curse that the book had on Rasmus. Once he was back to his senses, Rasmus hesitantly explained that the book may have been manipulating him and that he needed time to recover from its influence.
Rasmus, grateful for the return of his tome, allowed the party the opportunity to study it for a little while longer. However, he warned them to be careful, as the book was dangerous and could bring out the worst in people. He thanked the Travellers for their help and sent them on their way, promising to keep in touch should he need their services in the future.