---
name: create-npc
description: Create a new NPC note for the Baltun'ia D&D campaign from the NPC Framework Template — filed in the correct POI/city/Key Figures folder, fully wikilinked, and reciprocally linked from its parent note. Use when the DM wants to add, stat out, or flesh out a non-player character (e.g. "make an NPC for the docks", "create the tavern keeper", "add Commander Taylor's lieutenant").
---

# Create an NPC

First read `.claude/skills/_shared/vault-conventions.md` and
`z_templates/Framework Templates/NPC Framework Template.md`. Skim one nearby
existing NPC (e.g. `2. World Almanac/Regions of Baltun'ia/Jessergate/Voxiu/Cotton Row Market/Hedda Wickwhistle - Cotton Row Market.md`)
to match tone.

## Steps

1. **Place it.** Determine where the NPC belongs:
   - Tied to a POI → `.../<POI>/<Full Name> - <POI>.md`
   - Tied to a city but no POI → `.../<City>/<Full Name> - <City>.md`
   - A historical figure → the relevant Age's `Key Figures/<Name>.md`
   If the location isn't given, ask the DM where they live/operate.

2. **Mine canon.** Grep the vault for the NPC's name and their location for any
   facts already established (recaps, parent POI note, Campaign Flow). Reuse,
   don't contradict.

3. **Draft the knowable fields** of the NPC template: Name (+ title/alias),
   Race (wikilink the `[[species]]`), Age, Gender, Location (wikilink region +
   city + POI), Appearance, Voice & Speech.

4. **Collaborate on the creative pivots.** Use AskUserQuestion to confirm:
   - Primary motivation / what they want from the party
   - Faction allegiance (offer the real factions: `[[Belter Overview|Belters]]`,
     `[[Vexens]]`, etc.) — and whether it's open or secret
   - A secret or personal quest, and one plot hook
   Offer concrete options grounded in current campaign tensions (automaton
   rights, the Crown Elect election, the ley-line conspiracy).

5. **Write the file** in full template structure, wikilinking every proper noun.
   Fill "Notes & Flavor" with catchphrases / mannerisms.

6. **Reciprocate.** Add the NPC to the parent POI/city note's "Notable NPCs"
   section using the `- **Name**, Role *(race)*` + `→ hook` style, with a
   wikilink. Report any referenced entities that still need their own notes.