Novelty Goods Shop Owner
Summary
The Novelty Goods Shop Owner is a merchant in Rex Tree who operates a novelty goods store comparable to seasonal Halloween retailers. In Session 4, the shopkeeper conducts a transaction with Sucks, trading dangerous Toxic Burning Goo for Purple Goo. The shopkeeper is desperately attempting to dispose of the burning goo—a silly string-like substance that burns skin—which was supposed to have been returned but remains in inventory. Throughout the exchange, the shopkeeper demonstrates considerable anxiety about legal liability and provides extensive safety warnings about the product's dangers. The character is voiced by Shawn, the Game Master.
Appearance
The Novelty Goods Shop Owner wears a distinctive negotiating hood tied around the neck like a babushka scarf during business dealings. Beyond this identifying feature, no other physical characteristics are established in Session 4.
History
Session 4
The shopkeeper [encounters Sucks at the Novelty Goods Shop](timestamp://86cd404c-d3fc-4850-9eff-ab865b388df9/00:00) when Sucks arrives seeking to exchange his purple goo. Initially, the shopkeeper attempts to charge Sucks for disposal of the goo, demonstrating typical merchant behavior. However, upon seeing the purple goo, the shopkeeper becomes interested in making a trade.
The shopkeeper reveals possession of problematic inventory: Toxic Burning Goo that burns people's skin. This substance was supposed to have been returned but remains in the shop. The shopkeeper fears getting in trouble for having it and eagerly pursues the exchange opportunity.
During negotiations, the shopkeeper examines Sucks's offering carefully: "You can see him holding the jug up to the light and, like, looking at the goo." The shopkeeper agrees to a liter-for-liter exchange, using a larger vessel—a 4 liter bottle—compared to Sucks's 2 liter bottles.
Before completing the transaction, the shopkeeper provides comprehensive safety warnings about the Burning Goo:
- Don't spray near eyes, mouth, or nose
- Don't breathe when spraying
- Don't use while pregnant
Most importantly, the shopkeeper insists on protecting the source of the dangerous product: "Oh, no, besides that. You do whatever you want with it, but just don't tell anybody you got it here." When Sucks asks what to do if someone inquires about the goo's origin, the shopkeeper suggests: "You just maybe spray them with the go."
Key Attributes
- Merchant instincts: Initially attempts to charge for disposal before agreeing to favorable trade terms
- Legal anxiety: Deeply concerned about liability and being traced as the source of dangerous goods
- Risk management: Provides detailed safety warnings while simultaneously trying to dispose of hazardous inventory
- Business pragmatism: Willing to trade away problematic merchandise to avoid trouble
- Distinctive accessory: Wears negotiating hood as business attire
- Inventory: Operates shop similar to seasonal Halloween stores; possesses large quantities of toxic burning goo
- Vessels: Owns 4 liter bottles for storage, larger than standard containers