An NPC with semi-class and skill hints...

Howdy, y'all!

Listen, I'm not the brightest bulb in the lightset. I'd love to use some of these new things (semi-classes and skills), but I cannot find most of them. I know that the vagueness of where the obtainables are is to promote exploration of the world, and I understand that. Regardless of that, I think it would be handy to have an NPC, perhaps in the SDI, perhaps elsewhere (but still easily accessable by all), who can direct the inquisitive PC in the direction of said semi-classes and skills.

For example, let's take an NPC, we'll call him Creepy Pete. He sits in the Sleeping Dragon Inn, tankard in hand, worn walking staff at his side, and glowers at everyone who comes near, especially Rick Longshanks. When clicked on, he says "Yeah, whaddya want? Can't ye see I'm busy?" The PC counters with some sort of query - "Sir, you look like a well travelled person - can I ask you a question or two?" Creepy Pete narrows his eyes in disgust. "I dunno ... can ye?" Now the PC can ask a variety of questions, such as "Do you know about painting with runes?", "Do you know about crafting gem stones?" Also, some general questions about the semi-classes can be inserted as well.

I guess it's possible that Rick Longshanks could fill this role with a modified conversation, but he's a jerk, and I secretly look forward to every time he gets toasted by a DM. In fact, I may get on and do it myself! (Just kidding, I wouldn't do that! Not me! I'm an angel! )

Whaddya think? Creepy Pete is getting tired of waiting...

I like the idea; even it's garbled or "unintentional" hints, such as asking about a particular semi-class is met with something like "Why don't you do something useful with your time? The Iron Tortoise is lookin' fer somebody!"