Clara Bellows

Clara Bellows, Bridgeport’s town crier, is a familiar figure in the city streets, known for her commanding voice and warm personality. At just 25 years old, she has already become a beloved presence across the districts. With her long, wavy brown hair and a sharp wit to match her strong voice, Clara ensures the city’s news is heard far and wide. She lives in a modest flat above Curl Up and Dye in the King's Corner district, with the podium of the open forum right in her backyard.

Her Path to Becoming Town Crier

Born in Bridgeport’s lowest class neighbourhood of The Fringes, Clara grew up surrounded by the noise and activity of the nearby docks. Her father worked as a dockhand, and her mother took in laundry to make ends meet. Even as a child, Clara had a natural ability to make herself heard, often calling out across the docks to deliver messages for her father. This talent earned her the nickname "Little Bell" from the locals.
Three years ago, when the position of town crier became available, Clara’s neighbours encouraged her to apply. Her audition before the Council of Ten was unforgettable - her voice carried effortlessly across the square, and her quick humour charmed the council. She was unanimously chosen for the role, becoming one of the youngest town criers Bridgeport has ever seen.

Apparel: Recognisable on the Streets and at Home

In her official capacity, Clara wears a distinctive blue uniform, complete with brass epaulettes that reflect the sunlight, and a matching wide-brimmed hat. The uniform is both ceremonial and practical, designed to ensure she stands out as she makes her rounds. Over her shoulder, she carries a scroll case containing the day’s announcements, and she keeps a small handbell to gather attention when needed.
When off-duty, Clara prefers simpler clothing - comfortable blouses paired with sturdy trousers and a long coat to protect against Bridgeport’s often unpredictable weather. Her hat is replaced by a scarf or headband, and she always carries a satchel, where she keeps notes and trinkets gathered during her rounds.

Clara Bellows by Tillerz using SD

Current Location

Bridgeport

Species

Human

Age

25

Aligned Organization

Guild of Cartographers, Mapmakers and Scribes

Clara Bellows by Tillerz using SD

Habits and Quirks

Clara is known for her quick wit and friendly nature. During her rounds, she doesn’t just recite announcements; she interacts with the crowd. If someone asks her a silly question - like “What’s the price of fresh air today?” - she shouts a playful answer loud enough for everyone to hear, much to the delight of the gathered crowd.
She has a habit of collecting small mementos from the districts she visits, such as pebbles, buttons, or other small trinkets, which she keeps in a little display on her flat’s windowsill. Clara also enjoys engaging with children during her rounds, often answering their curious questions with dramatic flair, turning mundane answers into entertainment.

Goals and Wishes

Clara takes great pride in her role, but she dreams of expanding her horizons. One of her greatest ambitions is to write a book about Bridgeport, capturing the essence of its districts and the people who bring it to life. She spends her spare moments jotting down anecdotes and sketches, hoping one day to weave them into a full narrative.
Another of her goals is to improve communication within the city. She envisions a network of criers and messengers who could streamline the flow of information, ensuring that even the furthest districts feel connected to the city’s centre. Clara hopes her work will inspire changes that strengthen the bonds within Bridgeport.

GM info / spoilers / plot hooks.

This is GM information