Ephred

 is an elf pastry baker of Jrusar known as the Shadow Baker. As an NPC, he is played by Matthew Mercer.

Appearance
Ephred is an elf. He is tall, handsome, and in his thirties; he has dark skin, deep brown eyes, a shaven head, and is described as looking very similar to Lance Reddick. He wears a heavy, gray, patterned woolen cloak across his shoulders.

Personality
Ephred has an intense presence; he is described as giving off the impression of being a "powerful creature". He has the charisma of a charming salesman but also maintains a mysterious demeanor. He speaks in a deep voice with a Marquesian accent.

Background
The Shadow Baker regularly sells his "colorful, wonderful-smelling baked goods" at Elder's Post. He keeps them hidden in pouches under his cloak like a seller of contraband, and his true intentions are unclear. Ephred describes himself as a "curator of fine pastries", and says that he does not wish to become a renowned baker but bakes only for "those that need what I have to offer." Amongst his wares are sold a blackberry citrus cinnamon roll with purple and orange icing and purple sprinkles and a bright pink bear claw. He harbors a disdain for pies. Yash Mangal refers to his baked goods as "phantom pastries".

The Campaign Three adventuring party ran into the Shadow Baker at Elder's Post while looking for Ashton's associate Advik to get to the bottom of Sir Bertrand Bell's murder. Most of the party, apart from Ashton, were awed by his persona and baked goods. Laudna, Imogen, Fearne, and Ashton purchased his wares, and all of the party except Fresh Cut Grass (who cannot eat) and Orym (who prefers pies) tried them.

Offended by their uncouthness, and taking advantage of their underworld naivety, Ephred sent the adventuring party into a trap at the Root Trader Alcove.

Quotes

 * "Look upon the work of the Shadow Baker!"
 * (Responding to why he bakes in the shadows:) "I want those that need what I have to offer to find me."
 * (To Orym:) "I am not a maker of pies! I am a curator of fine pastries. What kind of riffraff do you bring to me, Ashton? Pies?!"