The Scroll and Quill
Westkeep's hidden Local Library
Hidden away in Westkeep, this concealed institution serves as a central hub for knowledge and study on the western edge of the Prelacy. Located underground beneath an old stone building that was once a granary, its waterproofed basement holds shelves filled with books. This library is a treasure trove accessible only to a select few who are trusted to keep its location secret from the book burners of The Church of St. Ygg.
Architecture and Interior Layout
The library's exterior features ivy-covered walls and a charming wooden door with a wrought-iron handle. Inside, the main floor serves as a clever disguise, appearing mostly abandoned and unused. A hidden, dust-covered hatch provides the only entry to the library below. Accessed via a shipman's ladder, the underground space is lined with wooden shelves that reach nearly to the ceiling, stocked with books, scrolls, and occasional old maps. A wheeled ladder allows access to higher shelves, while the original granary beams add rustic charm. Several small tables with chairs are available for reading and studying. In the back, a cozy nook with a smokeless fireplace and comfortable armchairs creates a warm spot for visitors to enjoy a book during the colder months."During the full moon, you can see ghostly figures dancing in the dust through the cracks of the granary door. It’s no place for the living."
"They say the old granary is cursed by the spirits of those who starved when the crops failed years ago. At night, you can hear their mournful wails begging for just a morsel of grain."
"Endra and I, we've shared more than just secrets; we've shared the burden of knowing how fragile peace can be when ignorance is allowed to reign. Our friendship is forged in this understanding, in the trust that we must each play our part."
Librarian
Managed by Elara Moonbrook, a retired scholar of history and folklore. With her vast expertise and warm demeanor, Elara is always willing to help patrons find the information they need or recommend the perfect book for a curious reader. Her commitment to preserving and sharing knowledge has made her a respected figure in the community. Although Elara does not spend all her time at the library, she leads a modest life on a farm, lending a helping hand there. She only returns to the library under the cover of darkness to maintain and organize its extensive collection of tomes.Help Keeping a Secret
Elara oversees the library, but its secrecy is maintained through the efforts of Endra the Watcher, a member of The Church of St. Ygg. Despite the library holding texts that contradict the church's core beliefs, Endra understands the importance of preserving history and knowledge. She actively protects the library by spreading rumors and fostering fear about the place, ensuring its hidden nature remains intact. As long as Endra commands the Westkeep Watchtower, she will keep the library safe from potential threats.In the garden of wisdom, every leaf is a page, and every branch a lesson. Cultivate your mind as you would the earth, with patience and care.
Collections and Resources
While small, The Scroll and Quill's collection is diverse, ranging from historical texts detailing the region's history, to practical manuals on herbalism and local flora and fauna. The library also holds a selection of adventure tales and myths that are popular among the local pathfinders and traveling bards.Archive Section
A secured area contains more valuable or delicate texts, including some rare manuscripts relevant to the history of Westkeep and surrounding areas, accessible by request.
St. Ceddric patron saint of knowledge
A broken relic
During Session 45 - A New Direction; Osgar Cazyach & Zavel broke a prized possession of Elara Moonbrook by knocking it from a desk in the hidden library. Her personal relic of St. Ceddric patron saint of knowledge.The St. Ceddric desktop statue is a finely crafted bronze relic that functions both as a symbolic figure and a practical tool for scholars. Standing at about eight inches tall, it features St. Ceddric, the patron saint of knowledge, dressed in a monk's robe, seated on a bench with a serene, contemplative expression. He holds a quill in his right hand and stabilizes an open book on his lap, symbolizing his dedication to learning and knowledge sharing.
The statue also incorporates functional elements; its base includes a recessed ink well made of dark, sturdy material to prevent spills, with grooves for wiping excess ink. The design cleverly uses St. Ceddric's outstretched hand as a quill holder, enhancing its utility and symbolic encouragement for continuous learning. This combination of detailed artistic craftsmanship and practicality makes the statue a valuable item for any scholar's desk.
Parent Location
Owner
This location was born into the world on Session 45 - A New Direction; as a result from player carousing events.
Osgar Cazyach Futurewolf
&
Zavel Quinn
helped bring this location into Westkeep. Thanks gents!
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