Captain Alden Greymantle

* Build: Broad-shouldered and robust, with a weathered appearance that speaks of years at sea.
* Distinguishing Features: Grizzled beard, deep-set eyes that seem to have seen every corner of the ocean, and a collection of old sea-scars. He often wears an old captain's coat adorned with faded insignia.

#### Background:

* Home City/Town: Glimmerport, currently serving as a guest lecturer at the Arcane Academy of Nautical Wonders.
* Family/Clan: Comes from a family with a long history of seafaring, though he has carved out his own legendary status over the years.
* Education/Training: Self-trained in the arts of navigation and naval combat, with experience gained through numerous voyages and battles at sea.

#### Personality and Traits:

* Alignment: Lawful Neutral
* Demeanor: Commanding and authoritative, yet approachable and willing to share his vast experience. Known for his pragmatic approach to problem-solving and leadership.
* Goals/Motivations: To impart practical seafaring knowledge to a new generation, ensuring that the traditions and skills of the sea are not lost amidst the rise of magical practices.
* Fears/Insecurities: Concerned about the fading of traditional seafaring skills in the age of magic.
* Likes/Dislikes: Loves the open sea and the camaraderie of a crew; dislikes piracy and dishonorable conduct at sea.

#### Abilities and Skills:

* Special Abilities: Expert navigator and seasoned combatant, skilled in naval tactics and survival at sea.
* Skills and Proficiencies: Proficient in sailing, naval combat, weather forecasting, and leadership. Knowledgeable in maritime lore and history.

#### Equipment and Possessions:

* Weapons: A well-used cutlass and a weathered flintlock pistol, both with histories as rich as his own.
* Armor: Prefers sturdy but comfortable attire suitable for sea travel, with a protective charm or two for good measure.
* Magical Items/Artifacts: An old nautical compass that is rumored to point to more than just the magnetic north.
* Other Notable Possessions: A collection of sea charts and logs detailing his many voyages, a telescope gifted to him by a renowned explorer.

#### Role in Aetheria:

* Affiliation with Organizations: Guest lecturer at the Arcane Academy, respected member of the seafaring community in Glimmerport.
* Philosophy or Beliefs: Strongly believes in the value of experience and practical knowledge, especially in matters of the sea.
* Political Ties/Enemies: Maintains a neutral stance politically but is well-regarded by the Harbor Authority and disliked by pirates and lawbreakers.
* Economic Interests: Mostly retired from active seafaring, his interests now lie in education and imparting knowledge.

#### Involvement in the Plot:

* Role in the Story: A source of practical seafaring knowledge, potentially aiding in quests requiring naval expertise or historical maritime insight.
* Quests Available: Investigating a series of mysterious ship disappearances, seeking advice on navigating dangerous waters, recovering a lost ship or treasure.
* Information/Secrets Held: Knowledge of obscure sea routes, tales of legendary ships and sea monsters, insights into historical naval battles.

#### Relationships:

* Allies: Fellow lecturers at the Academy, former crew members, and contacts in various ports.
* Rivals/Enemies: Has made enemies with several pirates and unscrupulous traders over his career.
* Family/Significant Others: Has a family, but details are scarce, suggesting a life mostly spent at sea.

#### Miscellaneous:

* Voice/Accent: Gruff and commanding, with a hint of a coastal accent.
* Mannerisms: Often seen staring off into the distance as if scanning the horizon, plays with an old coin when deep in thought.
* Quirks: Has a repertoire of sea shanties for every occasion and is known to recite them spontaneously.
* Rumors/Gossip About the NPC: Some say Captain Greymantle once outmaneuvered a pirate fleet in a fog-laden sea, using only his wits and knowledge of the currents.

Captain Alden Greymantle brings a wealth of real-world experience and maritime tradition to the Arcane Academy of Nautical Wonders. His presence adds a tangible link to the practical aspects of seafaring, complementing the magical curriculum and providing students with a rounded education in nautical arts.