Galen “One-Eye” Afton

The lake hides more than fish, if you know where to look.

Name: Galen “One-Eye” Afton
Title: Retired Fisherman and Smuggler
Race: Human
Class: Commoner (with smuggling experience)
Alignment: Neutral
Location: Shatar
Role: Mentor and Storyteller

Overview

Galen “One-Eye” Afton is a grizzled yet affable old fisherman who once lived a life of smuggling goods across the lake. Though his days of braving the authorities are long past, he still has a wealth of knowledge about the lake’s secrets and hidden routes. Now retired, Galen spends his time repairing boats, sharing stories with those who’ll listen, and acting as a mentor to the younger generation, particularly those with a penchant for walking the line between lawful and unlawful.

Appearance

Galen is a weathered man in his sixties, his face lined with years of sun, wind, and toil on the lake. His most distinctive feature is a deep scar over his right eye, which he lost during a smuggling run gone wrong. His remaining eye, a sharp gray, still gleams with a mischievous spark. He wears simple, patched clothing suited for a life of labor, with a broad-brimmed hat to shield him from the sun. His calloused hands and sturdy frame tell the story of a life lived outdoors.

Personality

Galen is a blend of gruff practicality and warm humor. He speaks plainly, often seasoning his words with old sailor idioms. Though he has a tough exterior, those who get to know him find a compassionate soul who cares deeply about his village and the people in it. Galen believes in self-reliance but is always willing to lend a hand or share his knowledge, especially to those he sees as kindred spirits.

Background

Born and raised in the lakeside village, Galen learned to fish as a boy. By his twenties, he’d fallen into smuggling, drawn by the promise of adventure and extra coin. For years, he worked discreetly, moving goods between the village and nearby towns, using the lake’s many hidden inlets and coves to avoid detection. One fateful night, however, a betrayal led to an ambush, and Galen barely escaped with his life—losing his eye in the process. He retired soon after, content to live a quieter life in his village, though his past is never far behind.

Duties and Influence

Though no longer active in the smuggling trade, Galen’s knowledge of the lake and its surrounding areas remains invaluable. He repairs boats, advises younger villagers on fishing techniques, and occasionally helps discreetly move goods for those he trusts. While he wields no formal authority, his wisdom and experience give him a quiet influence over those who seek him out.
Primary Responsibilities: Boat repairs, mentorship, storytelling
Areas of Influence: The lake and its hidden routes, the smuggling community (dormant)
Methods: Practical advice, oral history, and connections to his smuggling past

Motivations and Goals

Galen’s primary motivation is to live out his remaining years in peace, sharing his knowledge to help the next generation. Though he no longer participates in illegal activities, he still sees value in smuggling as a necessary means for some to survive. He hopes to pass on his practical wisdom and cautionary tales to those willing to listen.
Primary Motivation: To pass on his knowledge to the next generation
Secondary Motivation: To protect the village and its traditions
Long-term Goal: To ensure his village and its people remain self-sufficient and free from outside interference

Notable Relationships

  • Young Adventurers: Galen often mentors young villagers, offering advice on survival, smuggling, and avoiding trouble.
  • Village Elders: He is respected as one of the oldest villagers, often consulted on matters involving the lake.
  • Local Fishermen: Many current fishermen learned their trade from Galen and continue to seek his guidance.


Galen "One-Eye" Afton

Medium , Chaotic Good

Armor Class:

12

Hit Points:

18 (3d8 +3)

Speed:

30 ft

STR

10

DEX

14 (+2)

CON

12 (+1)

INT

11 (+1)

WIS

13 (+1)

CHA

12 (+1)

Languages

Common

Saving Throws

Dexterity +4, Wisdom +3

Senses

Passive Perception 13

Skills

Perception +3, Stealth +4, Survival +3, Deception +3

Challenge

Cunning Action

(Recharges after a Short or Long Rest): As a bonus action, Galen can take the Dash, Disengage, or Hide action.

Hidden Compartments

Galen has expertise in concealing small objects or items. He has advantage on Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks when hiding contraband or disguising items.

One-Eyed Veteran

Galen has disadvantage on Perception checks that rely on sight. However, his experience compensates, granting him a +2 bonus to detect hidden dangers or traps through other means (e.g., sound, intuition)

Actions

Fishing Spear (Melee Weapon Attack)

+4 to hit, range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 3 (1d6) bludgeoning or piercing damage (e.g., a fishing weight, rock, or small tool).

Improvised Throw (Ranged Weapon Attack):

+4 to hit, range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 3 (1d6) bludgeoning or piercing damage (e.g., a fishing weight, rock, or small tool).

Tactical Retreat (1/Day):

Galen can use his action to impose disadvantage on opportunity attacks made against him and move up to his full speed without provoking opportunity attacks.


Campaigns