*You look around and take in the scene... Out of the corner of your eye you spy a figure dressed in what seems to be a white shirt, light tan pants, and simple brown long coat. His head is covered with shoulder-length white hair that covers part of his face when he's not careful. He has packs and pouches of various sizes placed on a black belt or slung over his shoulder. He seems to be categorizing his surrounding environs.
Curious about this person, you approach him and notice he is studying something intently. He seems to be writing notes of what he's studying into a thick, blue and white leather-bound tome. Seemingly unaware of your approach, he continues to study his specimen. You watch for a few more moments, not wanting to disturb him.

While observing, you notice that his face and hands are pale and light; his eyebrows are the same white on the light skin of his youthful face. Something about him seems to suggest a youthful age, but his movements at times are slow and purposeful. You think you hear him mutter something to himself, but you are not sure. Just as you are about to say something, he chuckles, gently shuts his book, and turns in your direction.*

Well, hello there. I suppose you would like to know who I am, maybe hear my story? I would be delighted to share with you such things! I am Virtuous Pride...
*He pauses for a moment to slide the small wire-framed glasses up his nose before continuing...*

I specialize in mixing, brewing, concocting, and creating potions. I came by my trade long ago and in a land far away from here. I have become learned and well-versed in the ways of many lands. I know of the creatures that inhabit them, of the plants that grow within, and of the elements of nature itself -- be it light, air, earth, darkness, rain or...something else.

I can, and have, created a myriad of potions. I have turned the weak into the powerful. I have turned the feeble minded into great thinkers and philosophers. I have caused dreadfully ill men to rise from their beds within weeks...days...even minutes...
I can brew batches of joy and adulation, curiosity and wonder. Do you wish for wealth? Want the ability to fly amongst the clouds and stars? Ever desired to be suave and debonair? In which ways would you want to enhance your mind and body? Is there a creature... or soul you would like to free?

*He pulls down his glasses to eye you fully before sliding them back up his nose once more and continuing on.*
I must say I am uncertain of how I ended up here, in this new land. All I can recall is that I was exploring a cave while searching for ingredients for a mixture I wanted to create. I ventured further into the cave than I ever had before as the search was less productive than I wished. Because I was so intent on finding ingredients, I was not paying attention to the path I was taking. I chuckled at my misfortune when I realized I was lost. After walking for what seemed like days I emerged from the cave into bright light… When my eyes had adjusted to the beauty of the brightness, I saw before me a cabin. And, when I went to look for the cave, it had disappeared. Thinking that someone dwelled within the cabin and could answer my questions, I entered.
I have been here ever since.

*He tucks his book under his arm and eyes you further.*
For now, I am searching these new lands for ingredients, be they common, rare, or unique. I currently have access to No Man's Land, Marind Bell, and the Archives. I am also now able to explore Loreroot. The guards were tough, but I have proven myself worthy to them. I look forward to discovering new plant and creature specimens to categorize, collect, experiment with, and eventually, establish a mutually beneficial relationship. Loreroot is a veritable treasure trove of supplies and ingredients! *He spaces out for a minute before seeming to pull himself back to you. He clears his throat before continuing.*
I would also like to check out Necrovion, as that place may have some interesting things lying about. But, out of all the lands, it is Golemus Golemicarum that holds the most interest for me...I feel drawn to there...I stand outside its gates, transfixed for countless moments in lost thought. I see the shore calling out to me... I long to respond...

*He stares off into the distance for a moment and becomes silent. He removes his glasses a wipes a tear from his eye, and places them back upon his face. Before he has a chance to speak again, you gently put forth your uncertain request. His eyes widen and seemingly brighten before he speaks again.*
A love philter, you say? I would be delighted! Not necessarily a challenge by any stretch of one's imagination, but something I could truly put myself behind. Of course, I will need the ingredients and the coin.

*He smiles welcomingly and softly invites you to join him. His smile seems natural, and vaguely mysterious all the same... you're sure there's something more, but you cannot quite make it out. Perhaps... but, no... yet, it does spark your imagination a bit.*

What would you have me to make for you, oh weary traveler of these lands?