Harpell Family
The Harpell Family
The Harpell (pronounced: /ˈhɑːrpɛl/ HAR-pell[5]) family was an eccentric clan of wizards who, for the most part, lived in the Ivy Mansion in Longsaddle in the Savage Frontier of northwest Faerûn.[2] Despite their eccentricity and their strange experiments, they were well known for collectively having a vast knowledge of the history and geography of the North.[6]Contents
Organization
They were a kind-hearted clan, but their magic was capricious, sometimes backfiring in peculiar ways. As members of the Lords' Alliance,[2] they were firm allies of Mithral Hall, despite their unreliability as magicians.[3][7]Scholarship
After the Harpells interviewed Drizzt Do'Urden about the drow in 1356 DR, they published a treatise on the drow that was distributed to notable leaders and leading wizards. This was known as the Harpell treatise or the Harkle treatise. The treatise mentioned that drow liked to eat animals that were still alive because it gave the meat a better flavor.[8]The Ivy Mansion
The Ivy Mansion consisted of three main buildings: two that looked like simple farmhouses and a unique, heavily spired central house. The mansion was surrounded by a fence of magic that, while normally invisible, had been painted to look like a fence. The mansion grounds also featured an "Underbridge/Overbridge" that arched over an uphill-flowing stream—to get to the mansion, you walked upside-down on the underside of the bridge, and to leave the mansion grounds you walked on the top side.[9] There was also a stable full of strange animal creations and miniaturized mounts.[10]Inside the Ivy Mansion was the Fuzzy Quarterstaff, a tavern and inn run by the Harpells. The main room of the tavern consisted of a circular room and a wizard conducting an invisible orchestra. Guests could order drinks from a magical green gem placed on every table; the drinks were then brought to them on magical floating blue disks.[10][11]
History
Around 1245 DR, the Harpells' conflict with the Talonmist family of Westbridge began when Ordrar Talonmist was killed in a spell duel by Darnthal Harpell.[12]For generations, the Harpells gave Longsaddle more prestige in the North than its size and purpose would warrant. This tradition began with mighty Authrar Harpell, who was famous in the North for single-handedly destroying an onrushing orc horde with spells.[2]
Catti-brie, under the name of "Delly Curtie," dwelt and studied magic with the Harpells in Longsaddle from 1479 to 1482 DR. She was considered nearly family, to the point some suggested she be "ordained a Harpell."[13]
Members
Until the mid–14th centuryThe Harpell Family: Detailed Breakdowns
Penelope Harpell
Description:Penelope Harpell is a woman in her mid-50s with a warm, nurturing presence. Her silver hair is often worn in a loose braid, and her gentle green eyes reflect a deep empathy and kindness. She is usually seen in practical, yet elegant attire, suitable for both domestic duties and social events. Penelope has a soft-spoken demeanor, but her resolve is strong when it comes to family matters. Motives:
Penelope's primary motive is to ensure the well-being and happiness of her family. She acts as the glue that holds the Harpell family together, often smoothing over conflicts and providing emotional support. Her concern for her family drives her to stay informed about their activities and to provide guidance when needed. Penelope also harbors a desire to see her children and husband succeed in their respective pursuits.
Dowell Harpell
Description:Dowell Harpell is a distinguished man in his late 50s, with a commanding presence. He has a strong build, graying hair, and a beard that frames his thoughtful face. Dowell typically wears formal robes adorned with the insignia of the Harpell family, signaling his status and authority. His eyes are sharp, often showing a depth of understanding and strategic insight. Motives:
Dowell is deeply invested in the success and reputation of the Harpell family. His motives include maintaining the family's influence in magical and social circles, protecting their legacy, and ensuring their continued prosperity. Dowell is also focused on navigating external threats and challenges, balancing diplomacy and strategic maneuvering to safeguard his family.
Kipper Harpell
Description:Kipper Harpell is an elder mage in his early 70s, with a weathered but dignified appearance. He has long, silver hair and a beard, both neatly kept. His robes are richly embroidered with arcane symbols, reflecting his deep knowledge and experience. Kipper's eyes are a piercing blue, often showing a mixture of wisdom and weariness. Motives:
Kipper is driven by a desire to pass on his knowledge and ensure that the family’s magical heritage endures. He is motivated by a sense of duty to protect and educate the younger members of his family, and to uphold the traditions and responsibilities of the Harpell lineage. Kipper also has a personal quest to uncover and understand ancient magical secrets, which he believes will benefit the family and the broader magical community.
Kenneally Harpell
Description:Kenneally Harpell is a promising young wizard in his mid-20s, known for his striking, innovative magical style. He has short, dark hair and an intense gaze that reflects his fervent dedication to his studies. Kenneally dresses in modern, practical attire suited for both academic and field work, with an emphasis on functionality. Motives:
Kenneally is driven by a passion for magical experimentation and a desire to make a name for himself within the magical community. He seeks to push the boundaries of arcane knowledge and prove his worth to his family and peers. Kenneally is also motivated by a desire to protect his family and contribute to their legacy, seeing his research as a way to secure their future and honor their name.
Tuckernuck Harpell
Description:Tuckernuck Harpell is a charismatic adventurer in his early 30s, with a rugged appearance and a flair for the dramatic. He has tousled brown hair, a scruffy beard, and a wide, engaging smile. Tuckernuck’s clothing is practical for travel and exploration, often adorned with various tools and trinkets from his adventures. Motives:
Tuckernuck is motivated by a sense of adventure and discovery. He is driven by a desire to explore the unknown and uncover hidden secrets, both magical and mundane. His adventurous spirit often leads him to take risks that others might avoid, and he is eager to bring back knowledge and artifacts that will enhance the family’s status and contribute to their magical research.
Vellynne Harpell
Description:Vellynne Harpell is a distinguished necromancer in his early 40s, known for his unique approach to necromancy. Despite his formidable skills in the dark arts, Vellynne's appearance and demeanor convey a sense of calm and benevolence. He has a gaunt, yet serene face, with dark eyes that shimmer with both wisdom and kindness. His attire is dark but adorned with intricate, cheerful patterns and symbols that reflect his positive outlook on his magic. He carries a staff topped with a crystal that glows softly, a symbol of his focus on using necromancy for good. Vellynne is often accompanied by a cadre of kobolds, both living and undead. The undead kobolds, affectionately referred to as "happy zombies" by Vellynne, are animated with an aura of tranquility rather than menace. They assist him with tasks and are a testament to his belief that necromancy can be a force for good, providing aid and comfort rather than fear and dread. Motives:
Vellynne's primary motive is to use his necromantic powers to bring about positive change and aid those in need. He has uncovered the sinister plot of the Del Goldwhite family and is committed to exposing their dark deeds. His goal is to protect innocent lives and ensure that the sacrifices being made to Gorvash are stopped. Vellynne's dedication to using necromancy for benevolent purposes drives him to confront corruption and work towards a better, more just world. Despite the ethical challenges of his magic, he remains steadfast in his belief that necromancy can be used to support and heal rather than harm.
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