GUILDS

in Factions and Guilds of Lankhmar

Lankhmar

is famous for its numerous guilds, the most powerful of which is the Thieves' Guild. A character who belongs to a guild can expect aid and professional information from his fellows, though against an overt threat only the Thieves' Guild and the Slayers' Brotherhood can help. Any of Lankhmar's guilds will quickly blackball a member who causes them discomfort or embarrassment. The numbers in parentheses after each guild listing are (first) the initiation fee and (second) monthly dues.  

Lankhmar

is filled with guilds, for they are the lifeblood of the city’s commerce. There is a guild for every profession, honest or not, and membership is not only coveted, but mandatory in most cases. Those who try to operate outside the strictures of the guilds often find themselves receiving the worst deals in business (at best) or considered an outlaw or marked for death. Not every guild is listed here, but a few of the more prominent ones that can play a central role in a Lankhmar campaign are included. Being a member of a guild certainly means paying dues or a cut of profits, but it also means earning protection, whether that be from unhappy clients, other freelance interlopers, or the law. Heroes in a Lankhmar campaign may find themselves in a position to join an appropriate guild (either one directly suited to their talents, or perhaps in a support role to another profession). They will also undoubtedly cross a guild or two before their time in Lankhmar draws to a close. Playing these guilds as active—even proactive—entities can add quite a bit of flavor and opportunity for exciting game sessions.