Building a Workshop for a Cantankerous Dwarf

Hey everyone! I've been working on implementing an alternative storyline path in Mystic Valley. Today I wanted to share the workshop I've created for Borin "Bombwick" Ironforge, a cantankerous dwarf who becomes a harsh but effective mentor for certain players.

The Workshop Design

As you can see in the screenshot, I've built Borin's workshop in a dried oasis setting. The space features:

• A blazing forge - essential for his bomb-crafting and earth magic teachings
• Storage crates and shelves filled with explosive materials and mining tools
• Weapon racks displaying his various tools and implements
• Work surfaces for his constant bomb-making activities
• His bomb slime companion - the steadfast companion

The stone flooring and timber framework capture the practical, no-nonsense atmosphere that fits Borin's personality. Note that there's no bed here - as a dwarf traumatized by an underground explosion, Borin actually sleeps in a tent outside, unable to tolerate enclosed spaces for sleeping.

The Bomb Slime Companion

One of the things that makes Borin unique is his constant companion - a bomb slime that follows him everywhere. It's the only living creature that can tolerate his brutal honesty and cantankerous personality. The slime's behavior actually reflects Borin's mood:

• Bouncing slowly when he's calm
• Jittering quickly when he's annoyed
• Puffing up when he's making a point
• Hiding behind him when he's emotional

The slime isn't just for show either - Borin can command it to detonate for mining or clearing obstacles!

A Different Kind of Mentor

Borin was the old wizard's former apprentice - he understands magical theory deeply but cannot cast spells himself. He lives alone in this dried oasis because of his brutal honesty and teaches through harsh criticism rather than gentle encouragement.

His backstory involves trauma from the magical explosion 15 years ago. He was underground when it happened, and now can't sleep in enclosed spaces anymore - explaining why this dwarf sleeps in a tent outside rather than underground like his kin typically would.

Players who find themselves learning from Borin will experience magic education through pressure and consequences rather than community support. It's a completely different gameplay experience focused on self-reliance, practical application, and earning respect through competence rather than kindness.

Development Progress

I'm really happy with how the workshop captures Borin's character - practical, harsh, but ultimately caring in his own way. The bomb slime adds personality and makes him feel unique compared to other NPCs.

This alternative path offers unique earth and shadow magic emphasis, bomb-crafting mechanics, and explores themes of isolation, redemption, and the cost of being unable to play nice with others.

What do you think of having drastically different mentor characters based on player choices? Do you enjoy finding hidden storylines that completely change the game experience?