Drow Researcher
Drow Researcher
The Drow Researcher is a drow woman who has been studying aberrations in the tunnels beneath Garmok's Mine for decades. She provided sanctuary to Deez Nuts in her magically warded study.
Background
This drow researcher has dedicated decades to studying the aberrations created by illithid (mind flayer) experiments in the Underdark passages beneath the Mere of Dead Men. She maintains a warded study that protects her from the dangers of the Underdark while she conducts her research.
Role in Campaign
In Session 45, the drow researcher encountered Deez Nuts during or after their battle with the Mind Gobbler. She warned the party to be quiet, cautioning that they would "disturb it."
She explained that the Mind Gobbler was an experiment of some sort created by illithids, though she couldn't determine what creature served as its original form—certainly not a common turkey. She had been studying the Mind Gobbler and other creatures like it for decades, trying to figure out where they came from.
The researcher warned the party about other dangers:
- An aboleth lurks somewhere deeper in the tunnels, which she's attempting to study
- Mind flayers (illithids) have been conducting experiments in these passages
- There may be a causal relationship between aboleths and mind flayer activity
She offered valuable tactical information:
- Mind flayers' most dangerous ability is getting close to victims
- She possessed a magical knife that could provide an advantage against the Mind Gobbler if successfully lodged in it
- The tunnels to the south are closest to the surface
- Deep gnomes (svirfneblin) live in these tunnels and are masters of stonework
The researcher offered her warded study as a safe place to rest, explaining that the wards are strong enough to keep out any Underdark dangers. She offered to create a Scroll of Featherfall for the party if they stayed the night, anticipating they might need it for exploring vertical passages.
Personality
The researcher is cautious and scholarly, preferring to study dangerous creatures from a distance rather than confront them directly. She's been successful surviving in the Underdark for decades through careful preparation and magical wards.
Relationships
- Deez Nuts – Offered sanctuary and information
- Mind Gobbler – Subject of study (avoids direct confrontation)
- Aboleth – Attempting to study, remains elusive
- Deep gnomes – Knows of their presence, suggested party seek them
Current Status
Active in her Underdark study, continuing research on aberrations.