Northrun, City of Prosperity
Northrun, one of the few bastions of actual civilization in the Broken Spine region. You can find almost anything you need there, be it physical needs or knowledge. If you're of the arcane persuasion, and want to avoid headed east? Well, you're in luck. I literally cannot begin to describe how good it will feel to get a chance to relax after being on the road for so many moons.In the lands of the northern Broken Spine Mountains, the city of Northrun stands as a beacon of civilization in the wilderness. The city can trace its history back only a handful of centuries, yet it has persevered against most challenges in that time. Thanks to many trade routes passing through it, and the city sitting outside the jurisdiction of the Rhyliss Empire and Myrisian Sages, almost anything can be acquired if you know where to look. The Northrun Academy, for example, has developed around studying arcane knowledge and teaching others to wield magic. Similarly, the Broken River Trading Company openly operates a business acquiring objects from ruins in the region and selling them to individuals from places where such trade is illegal.
Of course, that'll last until I'm called to the office to account for the journey's expenses...
Most aspects of running the city are left to a council of peers, with the mayor making major decisions and ascribing a general course of development. Traditionally, mayors serve a term of six years and do not serve consecutive terms if any others eligible seek the office. However, in the last few decades the office has remained in the hands of an elf by the name of Torbin Wran. Most citizens of the city have become complacent with how things have been run, and the trading houses have steadily been gaining influence with members of the city council. Unlike the mayor, city councilors are elected until they choose to step down or are unable to continue serving. Five of the seventeen members are now heavily in debt to the Copper Coffers over extraordinary misfortune with shipments in the last year. In exchange for these debts not being called in, the councilors vote as they are 'advised'.
And so the city has slowly changed to suit the tastes of the trading houses, with the Copper Coffers being the major beneficiaries of the arrangement. They have acquired many businesses in the last few years, leading to guilds being formed to counter this practice, and the mayor has spent more of his time trying to keep these factions from tearing apart the city from within.
Notable Individuals
Mayor Torbin Wran. (Elf Male) As an elf, Torbin Wran has an exceptionally long lifespan and very little is known about his life before settling in Northrun. Rumors suggest he arrived out of the western lands some time early in the city's history, but the man himself does not discuss it. Thirty-two years ago, Torbin became the mayor of Northrun as the only person interested in the position. While he is nominally in charge of the city, this applies to major issues the city faces. Despite this, Torbin devotes a great deal of time to ensuring funding for the city guard remains adequate and most infrastructure is attended by two trained stonemasons. The only issues he cannot directly solve are those stemming from trouble within the city council, so he instead tries to mitigate the negative results.Faron Tilclay, Master Trader. (Dwarf Male) Faron leads the local branch of the Copper Coffers, and is also the leader of the Tilclay Clan of dwarves. These duties do not often conflict, as the dwarves of the clan are happy to assist in making sure the trading house can be successful and benefit the clan by extension. Faron has an understanding with the mayor, which is greatly beneficial to the company. Faron avoids calling in the debts owed by a few city councilors, and in turn the Copper Coffers collect a portion of the entry tolls paid by those using the south gate. The company's merchant caravans are always seen paying these tolls of course, yet the arrangement swiftly puts the money back into the Copper Coffers' accounts.
Reed Clathorn. (Human Male) A relatively young and unpopular City Councilor, Reed has swiftly grown frustrated with his role. As one of the few city councilors who is opposed the rapid economic expansion in the last few decades, he has repeatedly been unable to steer funding back into the city infrastructure instead of expanding the presence of merchants' stalls in the market. This affords him the support of the mayor in order to keep the stonemasons employed, while the populace are unsure of how to react to a young human being supported by a seemingly ageless elf,
Frida Graves. (Human Female) Hailing from Durrsk, Frida has served on the City Council as the Keeper of the Watch for almost two decades. She has little patience for the machinations of other Councilors who argue over how to spend the city's money, instead focused on keeping the city guard trained and equipped to best protect the city. This has led to an uneasy alliance of sorts with Counsilor Clathorn which allows her to secure funding while instructing guards to keep eyes on those who try to set up "illegal" vendor locations within the Northrun Market.
Kirtha Moonglow. (Elven Female) Kirtha is the proprietor and owner of "The Sixth House of the Unknown", affiliated with the "Houses of Wandering Mystery" trading company. Very little is known about Kirtha's history or motives, but she is quite perceptive and intelligent. Few who come into her establishment with a conviction to seek an object end their business arrangement empty-handed, and this has raised many concerns with the competition. Despite these concerns, nobody takes action against the shop or the company due to past efforts ending very poorly.
Maeyan Darkblood (Tiefling Male) Proprietor of the Blue Silk Room, Maeyan will welcome anyone into the establishment who can pay the fees for whatever services are requested. Rather than keeping a 'menu' or list of prices, he quite blatantly charges whatever prices he believes the customer can pay in accordance with how unusual or rare the request is. He fosters a mild distaste for adventurers who try to buy their way in, mostly built upon experience with those who are ill-mannered and yet expect their coins to get them out of trouble.
Districts
The interior of the city is designed to guide people along one of two main streets, one of which leads visitors along the border of market districts to the northern gate. The other road winds through the slums and leads residents to the temple of Ardonis or the Thornhill Park. The center of the city is raised higher than the rest of the city to quietly divide the Northrun University and Academy of Arcane Arts from the city itself. Visitors are often struck with the variety of offerings within the markets, but this is most of what they see. The Lord Mayor has a small portion of the central portion of the city as his own estate, which includes the offices which handle the city's daily operations.
What follows is a brief overview of the nine city districts, describing what one might find there.
Two notable stores in the district are "Blush of Rose" and "Painters' Eyes". The latter establishment is an art studio run by Jenelle Rosewood, an elven woman who offers exquisite portraits in oil paint. The quality of these portraits is undeniable, as she uses her talent with illusion magic to capture a likeness to reference as long as she needs. The cost is greater than many other artists, but her artwork tends to depict an individual without excessive "artistic interpretation".
"Blush of Rose" is a shop where a person can purchase exotic foodstuffs and wines, and the owner makes it their business to keep a wide variety on hand. This owner's name is Tristan Wanders, who meets comments on his name with a wry smirk. Tristan makes deals with various caravan masters and arcanists across Erisdaire to stay stocked with various seasonal offerings from both Myrisia and the Empire, even to pick up exotic spices from the jungles of Sebile. Always as fresh as could be expected, and rarely a dissatisfied customer.
Aside from the usual expected offerings, there is the "Drallon Hall" situated just near the university grounds. This gathering hall is used for student functions as a matter of tradition, or so it is said. Those who have been residents for a long time know of a superstition speaking of misfortune to befall the university should the functions be held anywhere else. A common tale known by such gossipers concerns a year where the roof was deemed unsound following a heavy snowfall, so the university quickly converted some classrooms to use instead. It turned out the whole of attendees found themselves seriously ill, though there were no fatalities. Ever since, the university only books events with Drallon Hall, and ensures any obstacles to its use are swiftly dealt with.
Within the Scorill District are some other interesting locations, first of which is the "House of Scorill". The first of these is a bookstore which was assembled by Miriam Scorill, an arcanist who left Myrisia to open a store to share knowledge with those who sought it. Together with other arcanists, she was instrumental in founding the Academy, though she always kept time available for her shop. Most of the tomes she brought into her shop are magical, and the current proprietor is not keen on letting it be known the extent of "the collection".
Secondly, there is the soothsayer Nana Verone who has a small shop called "The Crystal Eye". As the name would imply, the elven lady utilizes a scrying crystal for her work and claims she can peer into the lives connected to those who visit. For the price of a single gold coin, she will answer a single question from the petitioner - and it must be a single gold coin. Occasionally she has been known to refuse service to those who ignore this stipulation or attempt to pay for multiple questions in advance, saying her gift is not to be disrespected.
Within the Thornhall District, there can be found an alchemist who works to make potions from exotic ingredients. Residents claim his cures are worthless, and it would be a considerable mistake to buy potions from him. However, those with a keen sense have noticed there are no ingredients normally associated with healing draughts on display at the store. With the store open only rarely, and at strange times of the night when it is open, residents are mystified as to how the alchemist still has a business.
Many other notable offerings can be found here, due to the proximity to both the House of Ascension and the Steelglow District. "The Mithril Needle" is run by dwarves who have converted to worshipping Ardonis, primarily handling the requests for vestments by the temple. Rumors abound they have inherited a set of tailors' tools crafted from orichalcum. This is true, though the tailor himself is reluctant to confirm this except to those who earn his trust.
"The Ivory Orchid" is a small business near the Thornhill District's gates offering topical ointments which relieve stress and pain, or alleviating symptoms of many common illnesses. The elves who run it named it after their family name of 'Zyoro', and offer their expertise to those who show respect. With the supposed rarity of elves who dwell within cities, there are ample rumors about the reason they are here. Most inquiries are deftly deflected, and blunt demands for answers are met with calm dismissals. Escalating matters even this far is a good way to find oneself kept from getting good service in the district, however; residents greatly respect the Zyoro elves.
Lastly, there is a singular tree of interest near the entry to the Steelglow District. The so-called 'Dark Oak' has been in the city for as long as can be remembered, but has not flowered or borne leaves within a generation's memory. Despite this, it appears the tree is not dead - merely dormant. Most who investigate can agree the tree is some form of oak tree, yet they can explain nothing about its origins or how it remains alive. What is clear is how a local carpenter takes advantage of the tree's proximity to stir up business.
"The Blue Silk Room" is located here, offering the wealthy a chance to find exotic pleasures and entertainment. It is possible, during certain times of the year, to purchase a pass from the Market in order to visit this establishment specifically. The owner keeps a lease on one stall in the Ballweather Markets, though it is conspicuously unused during the periods the Blue Silk Room is not offering "seasonal memberships".
Unknown by many, there is an academy near the Ballweather District attended by the youth from the neighboring district. Where the Northrun University is held as a beacon of education, the Ballweather Academy is quietly giving children whose parents can afford the tuition a substantial degree of knowledge. Due to the exclusive nature of the academy, few are aware of exactly what is being taught within. What is known for certain is the cost of attending is prohibitive for all but the wealthy, and visitors are not permitted.
Northrun Market (Market District)
Most visitors to Northrun are here for the market, and so the district the market is in has a great deal of attention paid to it. The actual main market square is relatively spacious and allows vendors ample space to set up their stalls on market days. Signed leases allow activity to be monitored, and a number of existing storefronts along the district streets keep the major sellers from pushing others out of the square.Two notable stores in the district are "Blush of Rose" and "Painters' Eyes". The latter establishment is an art studio run by Jenelle Rosewood, an elven woman who offers exquisite portraits in oil paint. The quality of these portraits is undeniable, as she uses her talent with illusion magic to capture a likeness to reference as long as she needs. The cost is greater than many other artists, but her artwork tends to depict an individual without excessive "artistic interpretation".
"Blush of Rose" is a shop where a person can purchase exotic foodstuffs and wines, and the owner makes it their business to keep a wide variety on hand. This owner's name is Tristan Wanders, who meets comments on his name with a wry smirk. Tristan makes deals with various caravan masters and arcanists across Erisdaire to stay stocked with various seasonal offerings from both Myrisia and the Empire, even to pick up exotic spices from the jungles of Sebile. Always as fresh as could be expected, and rarely a dissatisfied customer.
Academy District (Scholar District)
In the center of the city, the Northrun University offers education to those who can afford the fees and books. The dean makes no apologies for the expense, as the university offers a substantial amount of knowledge to students. The district is not entirely given over to the university grounds, but rather the housing for students and faculty. Guards posted at the entry are there solely to keep out those who seem out of place or lost, though after nightfall they have been known to hold inebriated students (and staff) who try sneaking back in. While many in the city know the best healers outside of the temple are in the University, they do not freely treat those unaffiliated with the University. A special letter of reference is required merely to make an appointment, though any curatives are usually less expensive than elsewhere.Aside from the usual expected offerings, there is the "Drallon Hall" situated just near the university grounds. This gathering hall is used for student functions as a matter of tradition, or so it is said. Those who have been residents for a long time know of a superstition speaking of misfortune to befall the university should the functions be held anywhere else. A common tale known by such gossipers concerns a year where the roof was deemed unsound following a heavy snowfall, so the university quickly converted some classrooms to use instead. It turned out the whole of attendees found themselves seriously ill, though there were no fatalities. Ever since, the university only books events with Drallon Hall, and ensures any obstacles to its use are swiftly dealt with.
Scorill District (Arcane District)
Most cities within the Empire would balk at the presence of arcanists in their midst, and Myrisian cities would wonder why it was strange. Northrun sits in the midst of these attitudes, keeping the Scorill District separated by a high wall and yet the guards only keep an idle watch on those entering and leaving the district. The Academy of Arcane Arts is the major feature here, where anyone who is interested in arcane magic can learn more about it. The instructors are known to teach even those without the gift of arcane magic, to allow them to understand its limitations and potential. The Academy library contains a great many written works on all things arcane, including ritual magic, and it is possible to pay a fee in order to acquire copies of the books made by students.Within the Scorill District are some other interesting locations, first of which is the "House of Scorill". The first of these is a bookstore which was assembled by Miriam Scorill, an arcanist who left Myrisia to open a store to share knowledge with those who sought it. Together with other arcanists, she was instrumental in founding the Academy, though she always kept time available for her shop. Most of the tomes she brought into her shop are magical, and the current proprietor is not keen on letting it be known the extent of "the collection".
Secondly, there is the soothsayer Nana Verone who has a small shop called "The Crystal Eye". As the name would imply, the elven lady utilizes a scrying crystal for her work and claims she can peer into the lives connected to those who visit. For the price of a single gold coin, she will answer a single question from the petitioner - and it must be a single gold coin. Occasionally she has been known to refuse service to those who ignore this stipulation or attempt to pay for multiple questions in advance, saying her gift is not to be disrespected.
Thornhall District (Botanical District)
Thornhall was designed to focus on an extensive park dominating the district, but a lack of proper cultivation and attention left it to become unruly. Similarly, the district has declined and decayed into something less appealing to visitors or residents. The decline is so much of an embarrassment, guards are posted to gently dissuade outsiders from entering. Officially there are no residences in the district, but in actuality the condemned buildings host a surprising amount of people who have nowhere else to go. Despite the state of the surrounding district, a few individuals keep things functioning. Rumors among the current generation of residents suggest there may be criminals lurking in the tunnels under the district, but long-time residents don't give the rumors much attention. They know it's true, and things will be better if nobody disrupts matters.Within the Thornhall District, there can be found an alchemist who works to make potions from exotic ingredients. Residents claim his cures are worthless, and it would be a considerable mistake to buy potions from him. However, those with a keen sense have noticed there are no ingredients normally associated with healing draughts on display at the store. With the store open only rarely, and at strange times of the night when it is open, residents are mystified as to how the alchemist still has a business.
Mudrun District (Merchant District)
Adjacent to the Thornhall District is a street which winds through numerous run-down buildings, where merchants who barely have enough money to rent a storefront have gathered. While there are a broad selection of services here which are useful to residents, there are few which are attractive to visitors. This means there isn't a great deal of money entering the district, and so it might be stuck in a downward spiral until something changes. Rumors persist of a story hidden down the dark alleys which offers curious items of unknown origin, but any directions locals give seem unable to reach the building.Ardonis' Corner (Temple District)
Here in the southwest corner of the city lies the temple of Ardonis, the "House of Ascension". Within this district, the priesthood is revered and treated as favorites by the residents. In exchange, the priests and acolytes are known to be generous to residents with their time and aid. Outsiders are forced to wait for service if there is a priest needing anything. Offering a tithe of coin to the temple is a good way to skirt this matter, as word spreads quickly of outsiders showing such support. Most residents choose residences here, to be close to the temple and hopefully capture a taste of the favor of Ardonis.Many other notable offerings can be found here, due to the proximity to both the House of Ascension and the Steelglow District. "The Mithril Needle" is run by dwarves who have converted to worshipping Ardonis, primarily handling the requests for vestments by the temple. Rumors abound they have inherited a set of tailors' tools crafted from orichalcum. This is true, though the tailor himself is reluctant to confirm this except to those who earn his trust.
"The Ivory Orchid" is a small business near the Thornhill District's gates offering topical ointments which relieve stress and pain, or alleviating symptoms of many common illnesses. The elves who run it named it after their family name of 'Zyoro', and offer their expertise to those who show respect. With the supposed rarity of elves who dwell within cities, there are ample rumors about the reason they are here. Most inquiries are deftly deflected, and blunt demands for answers are met with calm dismissals. Escalating matters even this far is a good way to find oneself kept from getting good service in the district, however; residents greatly respect the Zyoro elves.
Lastly, there is a singular tree of interest near the entry to the Steelglow District. The so-called 'Dark Oak' has been in the city for as long as can be remembered, but has not flowered or borne leaves within a generation's memory. Despite this, it appears the tree is not dead - merely dormant. Most who investigate can agree the tree is some form of oak tree, yet they can explain nothing about its origins or how it remains alive. What is clear is how a local carpenter takes advantage of the tree's proximity to stir up business.
Steelglow District (Craft District)
The Steelglow District is situated along the main road from the eastern gate, and most of the draw for visitors is the presence of "The Sixth House of the Unknown". Most of the professionals in the district produce very fine work, often having passed down the work through family lines. As such, practically any object which is made by hand can be acquired here with little doubts needed as to the object's quality. Adventurers are the most common of visitors here, as an outlet run by the Copper Coffers sells enchanted armors for many different needs. Surprisingly, the most commonly sold enchantments are armors made to appear as normal clothing, so as to allow adventurers to blend in easier. "The Crucible" is another notable shop within the district, though the elves who now run the business are stuck operating it at the behest of the Copper Coffers. Nevertheless, the forge does perform admirably for those willing and able to afford the rates.Ballweather District (Upper Class District)
If a visitor has trouble distinguishing where the more wealthy residents in the city reside, it isn't because the wealthy are shy about it. The Ballweather District has guards posted at the various points of entry, and the gates are always closed except to admit those who show proof they have business within. Most of the area is taken up by larger houses or estates, and many things beyond necessities are provided by the 'Gilded Kindred' guild. The guild mostly operates within Northrun, and handles businesses solely to ensure the wealthy residents can avoid needing to leave Ballweather for anything."The Blue Silk Room" is located here, offering the wealthy a chance to find exotic pleasures and entertainment. It is possible, during certain times of the year, to purchase a pass from the Market in order to visit this establishment specifically. The owner keeps a lease on one stall in the Ballweather Markets, though it is conspicuously unused during the periods the Blue Silk Room is not offering "seasonal memberships".
Ballweather Markets (Merchant District)
The Ballweather Markets are a smaller, more upscale, version of the Northrun Market square. Despite a more run-down appearance, the vendors within are patronized by the residents in the Ballweather District as the first choice. The Gilded Kindred run a few shops within this district, primarily to sell the lesser-quality offerings to unwary customers. The Broken River Trading Company runs their branch office from this district, as a great number of their clients dwell in the Ballweather districts. Their history in securing Northrun as a major merchantile power in the region affords them a little leniency from the city council, though this has begun waning with the Copper Coffers gaining influence.Unknown by many, there is an academy near the Ballweather District attended by the youth from the neighboring district. Where the Northrun University is held as a beacon of education, the Ballweather Academy is quietly giving children whose parents can afford the tuition a substantial degree of knowledge. Due to the exclusive nature of the academy, few are aware of exactly what is being taught within. What is known for certain is the cost of attending is prohibitive for all but the wealthy, and visitors are not permitted.
Points of interest
While there are a variety of notable places inside the city, most visitors will hear of these locations ahead of others. Truly, it is likely visitors will be arriving with one (or more) of these locations in mind.
Northrun University. A century and a half ago, a number of learned individuals built the University to help retain knowledge and educate future generations. While it is expensive to attend the University, the instructors are more than capable of training a person to the equivalent of Journeyman status in the traditional master/apprentice relationship. Furthermore, the library contains a broad store of information which can be difficult to find even inside the Empire or Myrisia.
Academy of Arcane Arts. This subdivision of Northrun University is devoted to teaching individuals how to tap into the flow of arcane energies. The dean of the academy believes anyone who is willing to put in the effort and study will be able to tap into this power. Between the dean and the instructors who serve at the Academy, every style of magic is available for learning. This includes some topics which would be banned either in Myrisia or the Empire, such as necromancy and channeling infernal energies.
The Northrun Market. While there is a whole city district named after it, there is a difference between the district and "the Market" to residents. The Market is a spacious area where several dozen wooden stalls have been built, and several colorful shades have been hung over the area to keep customers from feeling the heat. Each stall has a lease attached to it, which is transferrable only at the authorization of the one paying for it. Thus, while one might expect itinerant merchants would be the common fixtures there are many residents who pool their money and "share" a lease together in order to sell a variety of goods. Thus the exact offerings in the Market are certain to change from week to week, season to season. The city guard allow an overflow of merchants on market days, but keep a close eye on the situation to avoid it becoming too crowded.
House of Ascension. As a temple dedicated to Ardonis, the Master of Progress, the House of Ascension makes use of many architectural features to give it a distinct appearance. First and foremost are the vaulted ceilings employed to give it an open feeling inside. In combination with this are mithril reinforcements in the walls to bear the weight, allowing for stunning stained-glass windows which hold scenes of the city's founding myth on them. With most of the city's residents being at least nominally followers of Ardonis, turnouts for the weekly service easily fill the interior seating to the point some are left standing in the outer aisles.
The Sixth House of the Unknown. One of the smaller, and enigmatic, trading houses maintains a shop in the Steelglow District known as "The Sixth House of the Unknown". Locals shorten this to "the Sixth House" or even "the Sixth", but mostly use it as a reference point rather than patronize it. Adventurers and nobles, however, are more common customers. According to the owner, anything can be acquired - for a price, and in a reasonable amount of time to locate and acquire. Customers have agreed this statement is not false, though they balk at revealing exactly what they were looking for.
The Blue Silk Room. Run by darkblood tieflings, this establishment holds a reputation for being a place for the upper class to entertain their vices. For a price, the proprietor will fulfill any request for food, drink, activity, or even normally-illicit materials. He does draw the line at things which are strictily illegal or harmful towards other sapient beings. Adventurers are instructed to pay for services up-front, and are further advised damages will be assessed against anyone who gets rowdy.
The Crescent Bank. The foundation upon which Northrun is built, the Crescent Bank began as a simple moneylending operation and grew into its current incarnation over three centuries of service to the populace. This massive edifice in the Northrun Market district is well-fortified and protected with many layers of magical protection to frustrate thieves. While it is believed a vast hoard of gold rests below, the bank mostly deals in notes of credit which are backed by prestige and promises of payment from many affluent individuals within the city.
The Crucible. Cursed with a nondescript name, the Crucible is located in the Steelglow District and run by elves who specialize in nonstandard alloys. While some consider their work as unremarkable as the business name, the 'Crucible Elves' are known to finish orders on time and to the customers' specifications. Most of the work is done for the Copper Coffers, turning iron ore from the North Spur mines into quality steel to trade along the routes between Northrun and either Rhyliss or Myrisia.
Northrun University. A century and a half ago, a number of learned individuals built the University to help retain knowledge and educate future generations. While it is expensive to attend the University, the instructors are more than capable of training a person to the equivalent of Journeyman status in the traditional master/apprentice relationship. Furthermore, the library contains a broad store of information which can be difficult to find even inside the Empire or Myrisia.
Academy of Arcane Arts. This subdivision of Northrun University is devoted to teaching individuals how to tap into the flow of arcane energies. The dean of the academy believes anyone who is willing to put in the effort and study will be able to tap into this power. Between the dean and the instructors who serve at the Academy, every style of magic is available for learning. This includes some topics which would be banned either in Myrisia or the Empire, such as necromancy and channeling infernal energies.
The Northrun Market. While there is a whole city district named after it, there is a difference between the district and "the Market" to residents. The Market is a spacious area where several dozen wooden stalls have been built, and several colorful shades have been hung over the area to keep customers from feeling the heat. Each stall has a lease attached to it, which is transferrable only at the authorization of the one paying for it. Thus, while one might expect itinerant merchants would be the common fixtures there are many residents who pool their money and "share" a lease together in order to sell a variety of goods. Thus the exact offerings in the Market are certain to change from week to week, season to season. The city guard allow an overflow of merchants on market days, but keep a close eye on the situation to avoid it becoming too crowded.
House of Ascension. As a temple dedicated to Ardonis, the Master of Progress, the House of Ascension makes use of many architectural features to give it a distinct appearance. First and foremost are the vaulted ceilings employed to give it an open feeling inside. In combination with this are mithril reinforcements in the walls to bear the weight, allowing for stunning stained-glass windows which hold scenes of the city's founding myth on them. With most of the city's residents being at least nominally followers of Ardonis, turnouts for the weekly service easily fill the interior seating to the point some are left standing in the outer aisles.
The Sixth House of the Unknown. One of the smaller, and enigmatic, trading houses maintains a shop in the Steelglow District known as "The Sixth House of the Unknown". Locals shorten this to "the Sixth House" or even "the Sixth", but mostly use it as a reference point rather than patronize it. Adventurers and nobles, however, are more common customers. According to the owner, anything can be acquired - for a price, and in a reasonable amount of time to locate and acquire. Customers have agreed this statement is not false, though they balk at revealing exactly what they were looking for.
The Blue Silk Room. Run by darkblood tieflings, this establishment holds a reputation for being a place for the upper class to entertain their vices. For a price, the proprietor will fulfill any request for food, drink, activity, or even normally-illicit materials. He does draw the line at things which are strictily illegal or harmful towards other sapient beings. Adventurers are instructed to pay for services up-front, and are further advised damages will be assessed against anyone who gets rowdy.
The Crescent Bank. The foundation upon which Northrun is built, the Crescent Bank began as a simple moneylending operation and grew into its current incarnation over three centuries of service to the populace. This massive edifice in the Northrun Market district is well-fortified and protected with many layers of magical protection to frustrate thieves. While it is believed a vast hoard of gold rests below, the bank mostly deals in notes of credit which are backed by prestige and promises of payment from many affluent individuals within the city.
The Crucible. Cursed with a nondescript name, the Crucible is located in the Steelglow District and run by elves who specialize in nonstandard alloys. While some consider their work as unremarkable as the business name, the 'Crucible Elves' are known to finish orders on time and to the customers' specifications. Most of the work is done for the Copper Coffers, turning iron ore from the North Spur mines into quality steel to trade along the routes between Northrun and either Rhyliss or Myrisia.
Table of Contents
Type
Large city
Location under
Comments