Cornelius Copperfield III
Cornelius Copperfield III is an eccentric and sprightly old gnome, a relic of a bygone era wrapped in wealth, wit, and an insatiable hunger for discovery. With short, wispy white hair—bald on top—and an impressive mustache that curls at the ends, he exudes an air of nobility. A golden monocle perches over one eye, magnifying his keen, inquisitive gaze. Despite his advanced years, Cornelius moves with the energy of a man half his age, always bustling about in pursuit of his next grand adventure.
Hailing from Avalon and an heir to a wealthy and influential family, Cornelius is the last of the Copperfield dynasty still interested in Brimstone. His grandfather was one of the first prospectors to strike it rich in the region, founding Brimstone Hollow and establishing what would become the town of Brimstone itself. Though the family estate still stands in the northern quarter of town, none of his kin bother to visit anymore—except Cornelius, and only on the rarest of occasions. When he does, he is always accompanied by his ever-loyal bodyguard droid, NESTOR, a towering and refined automaton that speaks with an air of impeccable etiquette while being entirely capable of dismantling threats with frightening efficiency. Unlike many of his noble peers, Cornelius has little interest in power or politics. His true passion lies in archaeology, specifically the study of ancient imperial artifacts linked to the Chantry. While he has enough wealth to fund his expeditions without reliance on the Eternal Empire, his independent pursuits often place him at odds with their officials, who view his excavations with suspicion. Cornelius is careful to operate within the bounds of imperial law—mostly—but his relentless curiosity sometimes leads him into legal grey areas, particularly when an artifact of great historical significance is involved. A philanthropist at heart, Cornelius believes in the importance of preserving history, even if that history contradicts the Empire’s carefully curated narrative. His vast network of scholars, adventurers, and rogue traders ensures that he remains well-informed and well-supplied, allowing him to navigate the treacherous world of relic hunting while keeping just enough distance from imperial scrutiny. Brilliant, bombastic, and always carrying an air of mischievous charm, Cornelius is a man who defies his years, driven by an endless thirst for knowledge and an unshakable belief that history belongs to those daring enough to uncover it.
