Mirt the Moneylender

Lore & Background

Beyond his financial acumen, Mirt is a seasoned adventurer who has fought alongside legendary heroes like Drizzt Do'Urden and Elminster. He possesses magical abilities, including the power of invisibility and teleportation, which he uses sparingly but effectively to save lives or escape danger. His relationship with the Harpers is complex; while not an official member, he often aids their cause by providing funds or information, acting as a silent guardian for Waterdeep's stability against the encroaching shadows of evil.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the cobblestones of Waterdeep's Dock Ward, reflecting the flickering lanterns of Mirt's latest venture. A hooded figure approached the moneylender's desk, trembling as they placed a heavy pouch of coins on the counter. 'I need more time,' the figure whispered. Mirt leaned back, his eyes twinkling with amusement rather than malice. He tapped the ledger, not to record a default, but to reveal a hidden compartment where he slid a small, enchanted amulet toward the stranger. 'Time is expensive,' Mirt chuckled, his voice warm despite the storm outside. 'But loyalty? That's free. Go, and bring me news of the harbor patrol.'

Reader's Guide

Mirt originated in Neverwinter as an orphan who learned early that survival required both a sharp mind and a silver tongue. He moved to Waterdeep, where he established his reputation by lending gold to those the banks refused, eventually amassing a fortune through shrewd investments and high-interest loans. His key relationships include a deep friendship with Elminster, a mentorship role for many young adventurers, and a complex alliance with the Harpers. He is known to have saved Waterdeep on multiple occasions by financing expeditions or bribing corrupt officials from within his own coffers. Major deeds in his life include exposing corruption within the city's guilds, funding the defense against Zhentarim plots, and personally leading parties into dangerous dungeons when the situation demanded it. He remains a central figure in Waterdeep's political landscape. Currently, Mirt continues to operate as a merchant and moneylender, though he often slips away for adventures that require his unique blend of magic, wealth, and combat prowess.

Did You Know?

• Mirt is one of the few characters in Forgotten Realms lore who can legitimately claim to have both saved Waterdeep from destruction and owned a significant portion of its real estate.
• He frequently uses disguises so convincing that even his closest friends sometimes fail to recognize him until he reveals himself with a punchline.
• Despite his love for gold, Mirt is known to give away large sums of money anonymously to help the poor or fund charitable causes in Waterdeep.