Rock Hammer Today

From what started as a magically generated keep set in a shallow valley of the Nether Mountains, the Coldforge Kingdom has expanded to the strongest nation in the Silver Marches.  

The true catalyst was the marriage of King Baern Coldforge of Rock Hammer to Lady Arabel Battlehammer of Mithral Hall, daughter of King Breunor Battlehammer.  Some scholars would also point out the death of High Lady Alustrial of Silverymoon, which later led to the withdrawal of the dwarven cities, as a necessary cog in the evolution of the Coldforge Kingdom.

It was High Lady Alustrial’s son, Methrammar, who encouraged King Baern to seek an alliance with the dwarven cities to strengthen a cooperative defense alliance that his mother first established.  Methrammar, ever thankful that King Baern had recovered the fabled book, The Septasigilurue, had begun to give away more lands and responsibilities to the new dwarven king.  This ensured the survival of the free people of the Silver Marches, and expanded the Coldforge Kingdom further.

Today the Coldforge Kingdom borders the city of Silverymoon to the south.  It also covers the Silverymoon Pass, that includes the towns of Khelb and Auvandell, as well as the lookout known as Hawk's Nest. The western border is on the west side of the Rauvin River, and much of the southern border is that same river in addition to the town of Wageton. Included in this area are the city of Everlund and the towns of Lhuvenheardand Hilltop.  The eastern edge of the Kingdom is the eastern edge of the Nether Mountains.  It does not include the town of Jalanthar, but the Coldforge Kingdom does keep watch over the entire length of the Kregnok Road that travels south from Silverymoon to Everlund, as well as Bastion Road that travels east from Everlund all the way to Sundabar.

The central region of the Kingdom includes the capital of Rock Hammer and the town of Cholnudon in the west, and also the town of Dragontailand the area known as Althalus Retreat.

Thorrim Coldforge I, son of Elor, and grandson of Baern, is the current King of the Coldforge Kingdom.  Currently the kingdom consists of two cities (Rock Hammer and Everlund, seven towns (Khelb, Auvendell, Hilltop, Lhuvenhead, Wageton, Cholnudon, and Dragon’s Tail), one fort (Hawk’s Nest) and several other locations all contained in and around the southern Nether Mountains, with a total population of over 100,000.

After the death of Milo Bologard, the Stone’s Throw Tavern became the secret meeting place of the Bologard Rebels for a period of time before moving on from the mountain kingdom.  Those in power in the family, met here in secrecy to plan their next moves.  Eventually King Baern was forced to clamp down on the rebel’s activities and flushed them from the city.  

Today the Stone’s Throw Tavern is run by Shameer al-Qadib, who purchased the city’s first tavern from Pipkin Bologard a few years ago.  The unofficial ambassador to Rock Hammer can even be seen on Amyria Lane every day talking to new visitors to the city, and inviting them in to his tavern.  

The Tavern boasts 40-room in this now three story inn.  It has the largest bar area in Rock Hammer, and it carries many of the beers from Nok & Nak’s Brewery.  As the center of gossip and rumors, the Stone’s Throw is a popular site for aspiring adventurers and well as those who seek to hire them.  Security is top notch in here, but Shameer tends to be able to smooth things over with his demeanor well before things come to blows.  

A large stable, and a garage for parking caravans, are also important attractions that make the Stone’s Throw Tavern a popular destination for locals and merchants passing through.  It is by far the most popular and well known business in Rock Hammer.

Link to D&D Basic

Grandson of King Baern Coldforge, son of Elor Coldforge, Thorrim came to the throne just four years ago when his father retired from office while ill, and shortly before he died.  Thorrim is young (27) and has three younger siblings; Dorn (Male, age 22), Kali (Female, age 18), and Dethal (Male, age 14).

Personality: Intellectual, ambitious
Traits: wants to push kingdom boundaries outward, well-read very intelligent, decisions are well thought out, suffers from Greylung disease, no wife and no kids.

Thorrim is very ambitious and wishes to push the borders of the Coldforge Kingdom further out from the Nether Mountains.  Thorrim does this because he believes that the Kingdom can provide a better life for the people of the Silver Marches.  Thorrim is very intelligent and seeks to further his cause through negotiations, treaties, and alliances.  Thorrim pushes for education and trade heavily in Rock Hammer and some of these measures have seen their way to the other cities of the Kingdom.  However, Thorrim is in poor health, he suffers from Greylung, from his short time in the mines.  It is a rare condition that prevents Thorrim from drawing breath easily.  Because of this, Thorrim is unable to exercise, which allows him more time to read and study.  He does make a yearly month-long trek to all the cities in the Kingdom, but often takes the following month off completely to rest and recuperate.  

Background: Was groomed for the throne from birth, his father King Elor tried to toughen him up a bit as a youth and had him work in the Coldforge Mines.  This is where Thorrim developed Greylung.  King Elor was disappointed in his son, hoping he would turn into a strong warrior, but eventually came around to appreciate Thorrim’s skills as an intellect.  Thorrim assisted King Elor to establish schools in each of the cities.

Relationships: Thorrim’s two main relationships are with his two advisors, High Lord Aindur Elenvir and Royal Counselor Ce'Nedra Auril.

What was once perceived as a ward that was slightly better than the lower ward, but less friendly, the Temel Ward has come a long way over the years.  From a time where it was known as a tight-knit community of likeminded people, it is now melting pot of races, beliefs, and people.

Ward Rep Wesley Droverson, who later served as Hand of the King, had done a lot for the Temel Ward.  As the need for the Sons of Temel started to dwindle with the death of Milo Bologard and the dismantling of the Rock Hammer Trade Coalition, Droverson could focus his efforts on rebuilding the ward.  Improvements were made to the streets, new schools were built, and incentives to businesses to move in were made.

Today the Temel Ward is a thriving community pot of people, and status -wise on equal footing with the Blackstone Ward as far as living conditions and business ventures.  The current Ward Rep is Walster Brelle, who also owns and operates the Emerald Shield Inn

The Red Tankard – has been in business for well over 100 years and still run by the Averson family.  Ned Averson still adheres to the traditions of the ward from back in the day, and begrudgingly allows non-Temel type in to his tavern.

Sage – This simple dwelling with its equally simple sign out front (Sage) is run by Ath the Sage, he provides insight to people’s problems through his divinations.  Ath is very old, and not much in known about him as he keeps to himself.  But his regulars swear by him and his ability to foresee the future.

Emerald Shield Inn – the largest and most prestigious inn and tavern in the Temel Ward, it boasts 22 rooms and two separate bars, the main bar is huge, seats 50 and always has live music.  The upper bar is quieter and more secluded.  This five-story building is the tallest in the Temel Ward, and the inn employs over 30 people.  The Inn is owned by Walster Brelle who is also the Ward rep.

Rock Hammer Herald – the heart of soul of Rock Hammer is the weekly newspaper.  The paper has a staff of five writers and over a two dozen kids who deliver the paper throughout the city when a new issue comes out.  The Herald is neither for or against the King and his rule and typically they stay away from political talk.  Mostly they report what is happening in Rock Hammer and the rest of the Kingdom.  Zad Elmi the half elf is the paper’s editor.

Rock Hammer Reclamation – This bounty hunter service has relocated from the Blackstone Ward about 50 years ago.  They apprehend fugitives that Rock Hammer Battalion cannot; they retrieve lost or stolen goods from caravan robberies, and are occasionally hired to collect debts within the Kingdom.  Today it is run by Irileth, a female drow.  

The Affiliation of Guilds – while not as tall as the Emerald Shield, this complex is the largest in the Temel Ward.  It houses most of the all of the laborer guild offices in Rock Hammer and a few others.  Guilds that use this converted warehouse as they headquarters include the Lodge of Carpenters, the Order of Stone Masons , the Leatherworkers Guild, The Weavers Guild, and the League of Clothiers.  Non-labor specific guilds also stationed here include the Wine Maker’s Guild, the Guild of Architects, and the smallest guild, the Union of Siege-Weapons.

Giant Gurak – Not a real giant, but probably the biggest orc anyone has ever seen.  Gurak stands over 7-feet tall and covered in muscles.  He has a couple of scars on his face that make it look like he is always smiling.  Because of this, people tend to give him the benefit of the doubt and greet him as if he were not an overbearing and intimidating orc that he appears to be.  Gurak has enjoyed and thrived in the Temel Ward and he has a great disposition.  Warmly welcomed throughout the ward, Giant Gurak takes one odd jobs all the time; lifting a wagon for repairs, carrying heavy things for a business, or getting cats out of trees.  Gurak never has to pay for a meal as citizens of the ward are always inviting him to dinner.  Kids love getting picked up by him and tossed high into the air.

Panendithas “Pan” Tumblebelly – Gnome tinkerer extraordinaire, had many half-finished projects laying around his home in the Temel ward.  He is often seen shuffling around the ward in search for more parts for his crazy contraptions.  He is currently working on an arcane-propelled glider and he swears that it is ready, but he has yet to find a willing person to pilot it.

A tiny village on the Silverymoon Pass very close to Silverymoon, Khelb is noting for its carefully cultivated mushroom fields.  Located at the base of the Nether Mountains, Khelb receives a good amount of shadow as well as runoff from the mountains that helps with the mushrooms.

The population is just a shade under 200 people with over half of them dedicated to the mushroom fields.  Gilrid Coldforge, cousin of King Thorrim Coldforge, is the Lord Mayor of this village.  He is assisted by Constable Axel Lancaster along with two bluecoats.

Lord Mayor Gilrid Coldforge: Has been stationed here for the past 10 years by King Elor.  Gilrid believes this is an ideal situation; a position of importance, close to the mountains, and peace and quiet.  As a hobby, Gilrid will occasionally go on hunting expeditions on either side of the Silverymoon Pass.  Usually for elk or deer, but occasionally he likes to sweep the area for organized pockets of orcs and goblins.

Constable Axel Lancaster: A very young constable, Axel has been here less than a year.  Axel does worry about his appointment, and wants desperately to succeed since the hierarchy has shown such faith in him.  He shares Gilrid’s desire to hunt, but Axel wants to focus on orcs and goblins.  When a hunting part is assembled, Axel makes sure that the two bluecoats attend to the Lord Mayor while he watches the village.  Axel has begun to venture out on his own (never with the Lord Mayor as that would be too much to risk) and might be looking for an adventuring party to assist him if he were to find a group of monsters that he could not handle by himself.

Shroom Remedies – A bizarre little shop in the middle of Khelb’s small business district that is run by the elderly tiefling Rare.  He concocts a wide variety of potions and elixirs all with mushrooms as the main ingredient.  Some adventurers swear by his products and will travel hundreds of miles to his store.  Others say they are nothing more than “drinks of stink”.  Rare is always on the lookout for unique ingredients and may hire the group to retrieve some for his latest potion.

“Lady” Nan - An elderly lady who works at the Khelb Inn, the only tavern and inn in the village.  A “mother” to everyone who passes through, Lady Nan ensures that all of her customers are well taken care of, and get plenty of helpings of her famous Mushroom and Snail soup.  She is well beloved in the community as well as by travelers.

The Rock Hammer Battalion refers to both the military and police force fall that fall under the same organization, run by Knight Marshall Fergus Ebonrock, who also sits on the King’s Council.

The police force, also known as “The Bluecoats” due to the color of the armor they wear, are in charge of patrolling the city of Rock Hammer and the other towns in the kingdom.  They enforce laws, make arrests, and guard the citizens within their particular limits (the town they work in).  In Rock Hammer and Everlund the Bluecoats work in teams of four while in the smaller towns they work in pairs.  A Constable oversees multiple squads of Bluecoats.  Large cities like Rock Hammer and Everlund might have a dozen Constables while the smaller towns would have one.  The Constables answer to Knight Marshall Fergus Ebonrock.

The military force of the kingdom is known as the “Iron Stonemen” as they dress in drab grey armor and all take their initial training in Rock Hammer.  They guard the walls of Rock Hammer, the patrols down Everlund and Silverymoon Pass (and on rare occasions patrols on the Rauvin River), and last they act as the standing army for the Coldforge Kingdom.  If criminals were to escape from a town, the Bluecoats would turn this over to the Iron Stonemen for retrieval as many of the small towns could not afford to lose their Bluecoats.  There are two ranks in the Iron Stonemen; Stonemen and Commanders.  Commanders also answer to Knight Marshall Fergus Ebonrock.  

The last and smallest faction of the Rock Hammer Battalion are the Knights of the Crown, but are more commonly known as “The Twelve”.  There are a dozen members to this illustrious title, and the senior member of this organization is regarded as its leader.  Currently the Knights of the Crown are under the leadership of Andre Drummond.  For the most part The Twelve are tasked with the protection of the King, his family, and other high ranking government officials.  It is rumored that the King entrusts a few of The Knights on secret missions of the utmost importance.

Thought to be eradicated well before the reign of King Baern Coldforge, the Sons of Temel actually thrived in the Kingdom.  A series of events fell in favor of the Sons that included placing an agent in both the Brigade (Dokannor) as well as a part-time agent in the Six Fingers (Denat Duskwalker).  But what was most impressive about the Sons efforts was the selection of Wesley Droverson, the secret leader of the Sons of Temel, to the post of Hand of the King at the beginning of the Coldforge dynasty.  

As the Sons grew in power they had to deal with their longtime rivals; the Bologards and the Rock Hammer Trade Coalition.  The Bologards had already suffered setback after setback with the new king and the Sons seized the opportunity.  A former associate of the Rock Hammer Trade Coalition, Tain Bravis was still angered over his dismissal as president of the Rock Hammer Gold & Trust.  The Sons learned that Tain came across a mysterious, and evil artifact and had gone mad because of it.  Wesley Droverson and his 2nd in command, Freddie “Three Coins” Banks, saw this as a perfect motive for a setup.

The Sons hired a doppleganger to pose as the mad Tain Bravis and made sure to have himself seen leaving Tain’s house in the Elmshire Ward.  The doppleganger went straight to the Green Field Inn, where Milo Bologard, leader of the Trade Coalition, lived.  Here, three assassins of the Sons of Temel killed Milo Bologard.  Once again the doppleganger took up the appearance of Tain Bravis and returned to his home.  When members of the Brigade arrived to follow up on this, all signs pointed to the mad Tain Bravis.  As they arrived to arrest him, Tain in his state of delirium, assumed they were here to take the Bloodstone Gem from him.  They fought to the death and that was the end of the investigation.

But what was the height of their efforts also marked the start of the decline.  Later King Baern Coldforge made sweeping changes to the charter of the Trade Coalition Guild, putting it under the power of the Kingdom.  And without a nemesis to focus their attentions on, the Sons of Temel started to fade away.

Before his term was up, Wesley Droverson was able to convince the Kingdom to make several upgrades and improvements to the Temel Ward, which included three schools, new cobblestone streets, and incentives for businesses to move in.

Today, less and less people in the Temel Ward are still descendants of the original town of Temel, and even less feel they have been pushed aside and their needs ignored.  However, with any group of people, you will always find someone trying to get revenge for perceived slights, and attempts are made to resurrect the Sons of Temel.

Personality: Calculating, Scheming
Traits: what Thorrim thinks, Aindur does.  Known for setting actions in motion, acts as a point of contact for the King in many dealings, both public and private.

Background: Hailing from the High Woods south of the Nether Mountain, Aindir grew up as part of a small, but determined society of elves that wished to reclaim the High Woods and establish the once fallen Kingdom of Eaerlann.  And like many of his forefathers, Aindur joined with dwarves and humans.

Times in the High Forest were difficult for the elves, with the innumerable tribes of orcs, gnolls, and the demons from Hellgate Keep, it made the reunification of their forgotten kingdom impossible.  Aindur, and a relatively young age, struck out on his own and headed for a new kingdom of tolerance and acceptance to the north.  

Always having an eye for seeing the potential in others, Aindur was drawn toward the young Thorrim Coldforge.  Aindur admired the dwarf’s dedication to knowledge, and Thorrim appreciated Aindur’s ability to put thoughts in to motion.   Once Thorrim became king, he appointed Aindur to the post of High Lord, where he does his absolute best to preserve the Coldforge Kingdom.

The League of Fighters has been operating in Rock Hammer for over 150 years from its Guild Hall in the Blackstone Ward, and what once started out as a loose association of likeminded individuals, has flourished in the Coldforge Kingdom.

Today the League of Fighters boasts membership of over 500 fighters, with major guilds in Rock Hammer, Everlund, Silverymoon, Sundabar, and Waterdeep.  Towns in the area that have minor guilds include Hawk's Nest, Hilltop, and Winter Edge.

Currently the League of Fighters is led by Guild Master Jotham Dawnwatcher, a grizzled veteran of The Twelve, and he operates the guild in Rock Hammer as well as the entirety of the guild throughout the Silver Marches.   Four other City Guild Masters run the other major cities, while the three towns are run by Area Guild Masters.

Membership is 25 gold pieces up front, and then 25 gold pieces a year.  Members must be in and remain in good standing in the community they serve.  New members receive training in combat, learn a code of combat, and understand how to maintain their weapons and armor.

The League of Fighters has become a great alternative to joining the Rock Hammer Battalion as either a Bluecoat or an Iron Stoneman.  It promises an exciting lifestyle; many members get picked up in adventuring groups, or travel as caravan guards, or other promising careers.  People often turn to the League of Fighters when their needs fall outside of the umbrella of the Rock Hammer Bluecoats.

The Black Marks are a nefarious organization of bandits and brigands in the Silver Marches region.  Over the years they have grown in power and in numbers and they have been known to operate from Waterdeep to Sundabar, as far south as the High Forest and as far north as Luskan.  

The organization is filled with all sorts of creatures; humans, elves, dwarves, orcs, goblins, trolls, and even giants.  They operate in gangs that range from four members all the way up to 25.  Shares of spoils are divided up nearly evenly, with the captain and lieutenants getting slightly more than the lowest ranking member.

For the longest time it was believed that The Black Marks were just a name used by several groups of bandits in the region, perhaps to strike fear in to the hearts of the citizens.  But that idea was dismissed about seven years ago when hundreds of Black Marks, in a coordinated effort, raided the town of Longsaddle, making off with tremendous amount of gold and magic.

No one knows who is the power behind the Black Marks, but they seem to be the ambitious type as the attacks by the Black Marks have become more frequent and more deadly.

Despite King Elor’s best efforts to revitalize the Lower Ward, changing the name just never caught on.  A good deal of money was spent by the Kingdom to rebuild existing structures and improve a somewhat dreary overall look.  King Elor felt this was the first thing new visitors would see as they entered the Coldforge Kingdom and he did his best to improve the look of it.  

The name never changed.

They made several efforts to push for a new name, something to reflect the improvements, but everyone still calls it the Lower Ward.  Perhaps, without the same connotations as before.

Today the Lower Ward includes the same geographical area inside the city as it did before, but it also includes the area outside of the main gate sometimes referred to as “Little Rock”.  Inside the city is where many of the unskilled laborers of the Lower Ward live, and a fair amount of them work in Little Rock.

Outside the gates and just cross the Everlund Pass are the jobs that make up Little Rock.  What was once farmland hundreds of years ago has now become a drop-off point for supplies be they imported or exported.  Timber, stone, metals, food, livestock, everything you can think of that takes up space, is stored here in the warehouse section of Little Rock.  Also in Little Rock is the city cemetery and morgue.

The most famous attraction in the ward is the Stone's Throw Tavern, run by Shameer al-Qadib who bought it from the last Bologard in town years ago.  The Stone’s Throw is not the same dive tavern it once was, it is a quality establishment that no one from any ward would be ashamed to be seen here.  A great place to meet new people and a frequent stop by traveling merchants.

Stronghammer Forges maintains its largest operation here in the Lower Ward, just across the street from the Stone’s Throw Tavern.  The owner Rithic Stronghammer can be seen here most of time when he isn’t overseeing operations in Hilltop or Sundabar.  

Just on the border between the Lower Ward and the Amyria Ward is Dwarven Gems, run by Dain Koraul.  Dain works and lives in his small shop and at times seems perfectly content to spend the day shaping and setting gems.  

One of the most famous residents in the ward is the orc painter named Toguth know is known for his elaborate and often dark paintings depicting war and battle.  Many nobles come down to have him custom make paintings of their family’s most glorious battles.  Also, Toguth is quite well versed in history and it shows in his work.

New to the ward but certainly making a name for themselves is the Band of the Axe.  An adventuring group that has just started that is led by a stocky dwarf named Belneiros Battlefate who wields an obviously magical axe slung over his shoulder that glows a faint blue.  The group totals five members; a female rogue named Janthyra Shieldheart, an elf female sorcerer named Cora Mistletoe, a human male fighter named Stein Shipsail, and human male cleric named Otik Dragonsbane.  While in town the group makes the rounds listening for rumors and looking for adventures.  Some say they seem particularly interested in information pertaining to lycanthropes.  

The Lower Ward is represented by Leoward Fletcher, who has made a career working for the Rock Hammer government.  Leoward started out at the age of 12 as a courier for the Coldforge Kingdom and soon rose through the ranks to that of master courier, overseeing all messages delivered by the Kingdom.  When the opportunity came up, he applied for and won the election to replace the previous ward rep who retired.  Leoward has a good deal of ambitions and some could see him as High Lord to the King one day, if he does enough to stand out in the Lower Ward.

The village on the Rauvin River, south of Silverymoon has turned in to quite the center of commerce and transportation hub for the Coldforge Kingdom.  While Rock Hammer conducts trade in and around the Nether Mountains, anything else flows through Wageton first.  Goods from upstream, from Sundabar to Everlund, are send downstream towards Silverymoon and eventually Waterdeep with a quick jaunt over to Mithral Hall along the way.

Today Wageton is a thriving town of nearly five-thousand residents, although the daily population can rise and fall depending on what caravans and barges are currently docked in town.  Nearly everyone is town has jobs relating to the river docks of Wageton, or are in a support role for those workers.  

Anyone brave enough to travel into the Evermoors usually start in Wageton and into the Silverwoods first.  Many adventuring bands have come through this river town, but not very many of them have returned, at least not through this direction.  

Noble Houses Moonbrace, Surehand, Sinarian, and of course Coldforge, are all represented here.  House Moonbrace has a very large footing here taking up almost half of the docks along the river for their shipping empire.

Belur Coldforge is the Lord Mayor of Wageton, he is a distant cousin of King Thorrim Coldforge and has been at this post for about six months.  Belur dreams of battle and conquests and he longs to put the life of politics behind him, but his father is quick to remind him of his responsibilities.  When focused on his job, Belur is quite competent; steadfast in adhering to the law, but compassionate enough to help out those who need his help.

Constable Emil Bloan commands a compliment of a dozen bluecoats in Wageton, most of them working on the docks, overseeing cargo, and being on the lookout for illegal trade.  Emil has been in this position in Wageton for 16 years now and looks forward to retirement.  

Zaneak the Wizard had his wizard tower built here about 10 years ago when he first moved to the region from places unknown.  Zaneak spends most of his time researching in his laboratory and usually hires a couple of young, fledgling wizards to assist.  When needed, Zaneak can be counted on to help the town whether it is a fire on the docks, or bandits trying to raid the town of goods, Zaneak is first on the spot.  A couple of years ago, Zaneak was thought to have died in a failed experiment in his tower as he was not seen for over a year.  Then one day, as if nothing had happened, Zaneak came strolling back in to town driving a large wagon of “wizard wares” as he put it.

Jandia the Bard of Wageton, or just Jandia is well-known in these parts and she owns and operates the Riverside Inn.  Jandia is an accomplished singer, musician, and storyteller and she delights all audiences who stop by for a drink before sailing further downstream.  Many think that her performances are the reason why Wageton has grown over the years.  It is rumored that she knows thousands of songs, and many think she must have traveled a lot during her youth to know so much.

The Dark Dancer Hall is place of refuge for drow escaping the Underdark as well as a shrine for Ellistraee.  The place is run by Miz’ri who escaped herself decades ago.  The place does not seem to get a lot of drow seeking asylum on the surface world, but those in town do wonder where these drow come from.  Some fear a direct link to the Underdark is nearby.

The Order of the Shining Fist has remained in Rock Hammer in their cliff-side monastery overlooking the city for over 200 years.  Currently it is run by the half-elf, Saeldir.  The monastery boasts a maximum of 25 students at any time.  New students are only accepted once a current student leaves.  Former members, that are still in good standing, are always welcomed back to either further their studies or perhaps work as an instructor and share their experiences in the world.

The most prominent student is Shamada, who left the overly righteous land of Elturgard years ago.  She came to the Order to pursue her studies and hone her skills, and although she is hesitant to talk about her past, she seems relived to be here now.

While Saeldir runs the monastery, Tilmo runs the day to day operations while the Saeldir is away.  Tilmo is an old man who has lived his entire life with the order, having been the last recruit before Feng-Jui passed away.  Tilmo conducts many of the classes, oversees the selection process for new students, and occasionally consults with King Thorrim Coldforge.

As leader of the order, Saeldir has a lot of discretion with his time.  He prides himself in his teachings, but is away from the monastery for long stretches of time.  Whether he is away meditating, or perhaps continuing the decades-long quest to retrieve The Watcher longsword, is unknown to all.

While the Coldforge Kingdom doesn’t formally grant the title of noble, the following families are regarded amongst the populace as elite, powerful, and well established families in Rock Hammer.


Clan Coldforge – By far the biggest as well as the ruling family for the three generations since the transition from a democracy.  The family not only rules the Kingdom but also owns and operates the Coldforge Mines which does a great amount of business.  Under the umbrella of the Mines are two smaller but very profitable companies; Coldforge Construction (who specialize in building and repairs from the stone from the mines) and Coldforge Gems (which is the retrieval of gems and jewels from the mines).  Politically the Coldforge family also has directly rules the towns of Wageton and Khelb, through cousins of King Thorrim Coldforge.





House Lunini – Was once the greatest family in Rock Hammer during the democracy, the Lunini family has dwindled in size and power in the mountain kingdom.  They still maintain Lunini Manor in the Elmshire Ward but there are less than a dozen Lunini’s that live in Rock Hammer and rarely more than half that number at any one time.  They do own a handful of farms in Cholnudonand a very large estate of Waterdeep that produces large scale amounts of honey, spices, and other rare items.  The family has turned away from politics as well as other government jobs, and have very little to do with Rock Hammer as far as social events, preferring  to concentrate on production from there far western estate.





Clan Stonghammer – Another noble family on the decline since the first days of the Kingdom, the dwarven Stronghammer clan once had a monopoly on the blacksmiths throughout the region.  Today the Stronghammers are down to smiths in Rock Hammer (Lower Wards), Hilltop, and Sundabar.  They are headed by Rithic Stronghammer who, when not traveling to his other smiths, can be found working the forges himself.





House Moonbrace –When one house falters, another is there to pick up the remains.  House Moonbrace literally replaced Clan Oakbeard in shipping and trade for the Kingdom when they bought them out almost 50 years ago when the dwarven clan was upon financial collapse.  House Moonbrace is notorious for pulling up stakes and moving and it is this ideal that ignites their passion for exploration.  Most everyone of House Moonbrace has the burning desire to explore the vast untamed region of the Silver Marches and use their profitable shipping and trade empire to fuel those desires.  Several of the younger kids of House Moonbrace are enrolled at the Arcane Academy.  They are headed by Lord Riol Moonbrace, who when not adventuring, can usually be found at their offices in Wageton.





House Surehand – No one ever accused House Surehand of beating around the bush.  This house, who excels as the preeminent merchant house in the Kingdom, is 100% business.  This ideology starts at the top with Davon Surehand IV, and trickles down to those in the employ of Surehand Exports.  As decedents of Davon Surehand the first, who was rescued by The Brigade in Everlund, House Surehand has been loyal and dedicated to the Kingdom since its inception.   Surehand Exports enjoys great trade relations with all the major cities in the Silver Marches, especially in Sundabar which was their original contract.





House Sinarian –  The only elven noble family in Rock Hammer, House Sinarian has a heavy druidrical background which has lead them to be the major provider of food for the entire Kingdom.  They own and operate a majority of the farms in Cholnudonas well as the mushroom field in Khelb.  In addition, they maintain and operate Lane Park in Rock Hammer as a tribute to all citizens of the Kingdom.  They are headed by Lord Amaether and Lady Jhavaspira, who live in a very woodsy estate in the Elmshire Ward.





House Yarvander – The newest and most mysterious noble family in Rock Hammer, House Yarvander moved to the mountain city just seven years ago.  No one knows how they gained their wealth as they are not currently connected to any form of income right now.  Lord Thorony and Lady Baelmera are very social, outgoing, and charismatic couple that is known by everyone.

They ruled the Rock Hammer Trade Coalition with an iron fist. Every store, every guild, and every ward had the deal with and pay the Coalition. And as the city expanded and grew, so did their power.

The Bologard family’s power peaked during the time of the presidency of Fiona Lunini. Every aspect of Rock Hammer was controlled or influenced by Milo Bologard's Trade Coalition. The only group that would stand against them was the Sons of Temel. Poor working class people, most of them descendants of the original townsfolk who relocated to the valley nearly a century before.  But the Sons were powerless against the unstoppable force that was the Coalition.

Political unrest in Rock Hammer gave support to Baern Coldforge's claims to become king. This shook the foundation of the Trade Coalition and the Bologard family.  A weak president was essential for the two to thrive in the mountain city.
Years of high taxes, excessive business tariffs, and strong arm policies of the coalition had finally caught up with them. Support started to pour in for the coronation of a strong king. When president Lunini seeded power to Baern Coldforge, the Coalition was doomed.

Milo Bologard, the ruthless and shrewd leader of the Coalition, made several attempts to undermine the King's efforts. But behind he combined efforts of the King as well as the adventuring groups The Brigade and the Six Fingers, conditions vastly improved in Rock Hammer.

Shortly after this Milo Bologard was assassinated by Tain Bravis, former president of Rock Hammer Gold & Trust, who was ousted from his position by Milo years before. It was not until years later that it was discovered that the Sons of Temel were behind the death of Milo as well as the framing of the deranged Tain Bravis.

At this point the Bologard family spiraled out control.

Those that steadfastly supported them in the past quickly separated themselves from both the Bologards and Trade Coalition.  Within six months, facing public opposition and the full wrath of the crown, the Trade Coalition was no more.  

The great majority of the Bologard’s family went in to hiding, led by Tabthia Bologard who swore revenge to all that opposed her family.  She grew a network of cutthroats, brigands, information, and secrets.  Slowly but steadily over the years, the The Bologard Rebels rose in prominence not just in Rock Hammer, but throughout the Silver Marches.  

Pipkin Bologard was one of just a handful of Bologard’s that lived in Rock Hammer.  Recently he sold The Stone’s Throw Tavern.  The first and last property owned by the Bologard family.  The Rebels had been pressuring him to spy for them from his position of owner.  It is unknown if the Rebels will one day take revenge for Pipkin’s refusal to assist.

In an ironic twist, The Sons of Temel had risen in acclaim in Rock Hammer, while the Bologards had replaced the Sons of Temel as an underground and rebellious organization.

Currently no one knows where the Bologard Rebel’s base is, or who is in charge.  But they do surface from time to time as evidence of their mark.

Personality: Friendly, charming
Traits: knows everyone, good at putting people together

Background: Shameer grew up in Zakharra and travelled often as a youth with his well to do family.  When he became an adult, Shameer set out into the world and never came back.  

After a short and brief stint working in Waterdeep, Shameer felt he would be better suited running his own place.  After hearing tales of Rock Hammer and the wealth of opportunities there, Shameer gathered up all of his savings and purchased the Stone's Throw Tavern from Pipkin Bologard.

Shameer is tall, and dark-skinned.  He is both charismatic and mysterious, the swoon of many single women in Rock Hammer.  Exceedingly friendly, Shameer has quickly made friends throughout the city and is starting to be known around the Kingdom.  Shameer is known to be able to talk rowdy patrons out of but his exceptional skill is matchmaker.  Whether it is introducing potential couples, adventurers, or those needing things to get done, Shameer seems to know everyone, and know exactly what they are looking for.

The village of Cholnudon has done well over the last 100 years as a farming community.  Just under a thousand people call this their home, with many of them living in the surrounding areas.  The lands are rich in nutrients as Cholnudon supplies over half of the food to Rock Hammer and Everlund.  

There is a small town square, the center of which holds a daily farmer’s market that travelers and merchants always stop by on their journey.  Two of the major noble families House Sinarian and House Lunini have farms here in town.

Zahn Solden has been the Lord Mayor of Cholnudon for the past three years, previously serving as civic servant in Rock Hammer to King Elor and then King Thorrim.  The contingent of government in Cholnudon is small; Zahn, two assistants, and a grant total of five bluecoats, one of them being Constable Dak’kon (githzerai fighter/mage – crossbow expert).

Cholnudon General Store – is the largest structure in the town square, they sell everything needed by the nearby farmers (seed, farming equipment, etc.) as well as anything mundane or ordinary items that could be found, including a very limited supply of weapons and armor.  The store is owned and operated by Everett Endwaller and his family.

The Clean Sweep Tavern – Named after the time when Umberto, Kregnok, and the Knights of the Silver came in and routed the cabal of assassin’s from Cholnudon hundreds of years ago, the Clean Sweep Tavern honors that day and the restart of the village into a farming community.  Olorry Graveltoes (Gnome) is the owner.

Notable Individuals

• Zahn Solden – Lord Mayor
  
• Dak’kon – Constable (bluecoats)
  
• Everett Endwaller – owner of Cholnudon General Store
  
• Olorry Graveltoes – owner of The Clean Sweep Tavern
  
• Chandler Family – large farms for the Sinarian noble family properties
  
• Fielderson Family – a small farm for the Lunini noble family properties
  
• Arroway Family – independent farming family
  
• Anem Arroway – young boy (10) who has shown some aptitude for arcane arts.
  

Jotham worked his way up through the ranks of the Iron Stonemen, receiving several battle accommodations along the way.  When an opening came up, Jotham was offered a position on The Twelve, the Knights of the Crown.

It was the most prestigious offer that a rank-and-file solder could hope to come to, but it did leave Jotham wanting a little more.  Jotham went from the battle fields, chasing off orcs or trolls, to holding doors open for visiting dignitaries, and standing around watching over an idle King Elor.  But being dutiful and a good soldier, Jotham served the position for 10 years.  When Thorrim became King, Jotham knew he had to go.  King Elor would travel, he would hunt, and he would get around the city and the Kingdom.  Thorrim preferred to sit around and read.  Jotham resigned his position in the Twelve and was invited to take over the League of Fighters.

Here Jotham flourished.  His years of expertise, his ability to mold soldiers, and his service to the crown helped propel the League to new heights.  In his short time in charge of the guild, the League has doubled the size of their Waterdeep guild, and place small, charter guilds in Hilltop and Winter Edge.  Jotham dreams of expanding even further; to Neverwinter, Luskan, Baldur’s Gate, and even into the Cormyr city of Arabel.

Personality: Driven, professional

Traits: Wants to get the League of Fighters in every major city, and smaller ones in towns in Silver Marchers.  Believes the League will discourage young men and women from turning to evil organizations.  Former member of The Twelve.

A long time defender of Rock Hammer, Ce’Nedra has grown to a position of prominence in the Kingdom.  Currently she acts as both Royal Counselor to the King as well as a single representative for all various religions in the Kingdom.

Ce’Nedra’s first contribution to the Kingdom was the creation of the magical wards that encase the city of Rock Hammer, preventing undead to exist or be created in the city.  Every year, Ce’Nedra oversees the Test of the Undead, where they invite someone from the Arcane Academy to try and summon a skeleton anywhere within the city limits; from the front gate to the back of the original keep, to the top of the Green Field Inn.  Every year they try, and every year they fail.  Not once has an undead creature stepped foot in Rock Hammer, and the magical wards remain as strong today as they did the first day.

While her dear friend Xune was out adventuring on behalf of the Harpers, Ce’Nedra had an opportunity to champion the cause of all religious beliefs in the city.  Ce’Nedra traveled a bit and reached out to other faiths, inviting them to establish temples in the Greatrock Ward of Rock Hammer, hoping that many faiths working together would result in the betterment of Rock Hammer and its citizens.  

Through her efforts, three new faiths now exist in Rock Hammer; Chauntea (goddess of agriculture), Lathander (god of spring, dawn, and birth), Torm (god of duty, loyalty, and obedience).  One could also say that in addition to those three she brought to the Greatrock Ward, you could also say she had a hand in bringing Silvanus (god of wild nature, druids) to the area known as Althalus Retreat, Mystra to the Arcane Academy, and Elistraee to the town of Wageton.  

A need arose from these faiths.  A single person to represent all of them, equally, before the king.  To see that each need was being met, and that no voice was unheard.  The appointment was clear and simple as is the title they high priests of each faith gave her.  Ce’Nedra was appointed the title and responsibility of “The One Voice”.  

Not long after her longtime friend Xune passed away, Ce’Nedra married elf commoner named Rolen, who she met at the Church of Sehanine and Selune.  Together they had three children; Xune, Malen, and Re’Nedra.

During the time of King Elor’s reign, Ce’Nedra was appointed to the position of Royal Counselor to the King.  In this role, Ce’Nedra advised the king in matters of religion as well as the citizens of the kingdom.  Before Thorrim was king, Ce’Nedra admired his dedication to knowledge and was proud to assist his efforts to place schools in every town in the Kingdom.  When Thorrim became king, his first request was that Ce’Nedra stays on as Royal Counselor.  

Currently she remains dedicated her three loves; her family, the faiths of Rock Hammer, and her duty to the throne.  King Thorrim will always lend an ear to the wise elf whenever she has something to say, but she occasionally butts heads with High Lord Aindur Elenvir about how some actions in the kingdom are carried out.

Sitting nearly at the mid-point of the Silverymoon Pass, the Hawk’s Nest stands tall in the hills between the Nether Mountains and the mountains to the north.

The Hawk’s Nest was manned for many years by the Knights of the Silver out of Silverymoon, but when the Coldforge Kingdom began to expand, the entire Silverymoon Pass and the towns along it, were allocated to the Coldforge Kingdom.  

During the spring and summer, when travel is high, the Hawk’s Nest Tower is guarded by ten Iron Stonemen of the Rock Hammer Battalion, and are led by Commander Dar Gremeth.  During the winter, only four Iron Stonemen remain as does their commander.  

Monsters know to steer clear of the tower as well as the road in either direction, so the guards do not see a lot of action here.  If given notice, Commander Gremeth will send a few of his guards towards an approaching caravan to escort them past the Nest and to within eyesight of Sundabar or Hilltop.  

The Tower itself is very defensible and could hold out for weeks if under attack.  Below the tower are a handful of buildings for the guards; a stable, a mill, a smithy, and piles of firewood.

In addition to the military presence in Hawk’s Nest, the League of Fighters also has a place near the tower.  It is more as a hunting lodge of sorts from which the League uses to launch attacks against encroaching monsters from the Nether Mountains.  Occasionally, travelling merchants will hire on members of the League of Fighters if they feel a need for additional security from the remainder of their trip.

This area of town started as gardens and farmland for the original Rock Hammer settlement, and since Umberto Lunini broke ground on Lunini Manor, this area is now where the nobles and rich families live.

The ward received its name from the huge elm tree that was planted on a small hill in remembrance of Althalus and Bastion, comrades lost in the fight against Chillreaver.

Nearly all of the noble families make their home in the Elmshire Ward; Lunini, Moonbrace, Surehand, Sinarian, and Yarvander.  The exceptions being the Clan Coldforge (Dwarven) and Stronghammer (Lower Ward).

In addition, there are a number of wealthy individuals that make the Elmshire Ward their home.  The elf Galdor Dorthonion taught at the Arcane Academy as a sorcerer and was very familiar with dragon magic and wild magic, makes his home in this district.  

Ehrendil is a half-elf that has retired in this neighborhood.  He lives in a two-story manor covered in vines.  People assume he gained his fortune from adventuring, but he is rather quiet about it.  He is still seems young enough to adventure but seems to have put that behind him.

Amand Maxwell lives and works at his office of Maxwell Properties, where he buys and sells properties all over Rock Hammer.  The company has done well for itself over the decades and chances are those who want to buy property in Rock Hammer must go through Amand.

The Dragonslayer Inn is owned and operated by Bardryn Frostbeard.   It is an upscale restaurant and inn that caters to wealthy people and frequented by the many noble families in the ward.  Bardryn has built an impressive statue out front of Baern Coldforge driving the sword Merthuvial through the head of a dragon.

Stane Auditorium is the center of art for the city.  It includes a 100-seat auditorium for plays and music as well as a museum of art work on the ground floor.  

Of Style and Grace used to be located in the Amyria Ward but many of the Elmshire residents complained that it should be closer to their homes.  Today it does a lot of business selling clothing and accessories of the finest quality.

The ward rep is a retired businessman by the name of Lucky Laxinilly, who once owned Lucky’s Profitable Ventures Company in the Lower Ward.  He did well in his day selling adventuring gear to new adventuring groups, but he struck it rich when he held an auction for arcane laced meteorite that was found in the area.  Rumors persists that the off-worlders that bought it, instead received a fake and that Lucky still owns it.  Either way, Lucky got rich, moved to Elmshire and was elected ward rep.

Saeldir has been Grand Master of the Order of the Shining Fist since Feng-Jui passed away.  An elf from the capital city of Suzail in Cormyr, Saeldir traveled to north at a young age to research the ancient elven empires.  It was during one of his excursions that Feng-Jui ran into him in the Forest of Wyrms.  The two formed a mutual friendship through their silent and solitary studies.  Saeldir soon joined the Order.

Saeldir had taken over a greater and greater role as an instructor at the monastery and all signs pointed to him taking over the Order when the time came.  The transition was very slow but carefully orchestrated by Feng-Jui, and when the ritual to infuse the spirit of Feng-Jui into a blade called the Watcher took place, it was complete.  

Although it appears ceremonial, the Watcher is a powerful artifact brought together with years of craftsmenship.  It is known to alert the wielder when danger approaches, and even act on its own to defend the wielder if he is unable.

Saeldir’s watch over the monastery was smooth; everything continued on in the traditions set forth by their founder Feng-Jui.  Life was great, the Order remained consistent.  Until The Loss.

An organized band of thieves, hiding under the cover of the night, came into the cliff-side monastery and stole the Watcher.  The timing was perfect as many of the students were on a retreat, and the theft was further helped by a fire in the nearby Coldforge Mines.  The thieves were both meticulous and deadly.  Several of the younger students lost their lives, and the only thing that was missing was The Watcher.  When Saeldir returned from the fires in the mines, he discovered what happened.  The only clue left behind was a single lotus flower where the blade once stood.

Saeldir, King Elor Coldforge, and every facet of the Rock Hammer government launched an extensive search for the blade, but nothing came of it, not even a piece of a clue.  No rumors circulated about the thieves or anyone in possession of the blade.  

Saeldir silently blames himself for the loss of the blade and while others have given up on the search, the elf grand master continues to look for it, often going missing from the monastery for weeks at a time.

Wedged between the government district and just behind the statue of Umberto Lunini, the smallest ward in Rock Hammer holds temples and shrines to all of the recognized faiths in the kingdom.

Ce'Nedra Auril is the Ward rep and has been in this position for some time.  She was the clear choice for representation as she championed the cause to bring more faiths into the kingdom.  She speaks with King Thorrim on a regular basis and stands in place for the following faiths:

Temple of Torm – One of the original faiths in Rock Hammer, the followers of Torm revere the god of law whose portfolio consists of duty, loyalty, and righteousness.  The High Priest of Torm is a retired adventurer, Tiberious Brightmaster.

High Halls of Moradin – Another of the original faiths in Rock Hammer and with the good number of dwarves in the kingdom, one of the more popular religions.  A harsh, but fair judge, Moradin inspires dwarven improvements to the race, encouraging their good nature, intelligence, and harmonious existence with other good races while battling their pride and isolationist tendencies.   Toril Shieldbound has been in the High Halls his whole life and is the current high priest.

Shrine of Selune & Sehanine – also known as Our Lady of Silver and the Moonmaiden, Selune is the goddess of the moon.  She is venerated as a goddess of light, stars, navigators, wanderers, questers and good lycanthropes.  Xera D’Arqdae, daughter of Xune and Dende, is the current High Cleric.

Tymora’s Holy Temple – Tymora, or more commonly known as Lady Luck, is the goddess of good fortune.  She shines upon those who take risks and praises those with skills to make their own luck.  Celestia Heroharp is the High Priestess for Tymora.

Waukeen’s Sanctuary – Waukeen or the Merchant’s Friend, is the goddess of coin and wealth.  She rules over deals done above and below the table and believes that mercantile trade is the best road to enrichment.  Followers believe in investing in enterprises that have any chance of succeeding.  Clio Songstone is the High Priestess here.

Gardens of Chauntea – Chauntea is the goddess of agriculture, cultivated plants, farmers, gardeners, and summers.  As an open and approachable church, Chauntea is seen as a beacon of light when crops are struck with plague or disease.  Sabra Earthgiver is the High Priestess.

The Grand Temple of Lathander – The Morning Lord is worshiped as a deity of creativity, dawn, renewal, birth, and spring.  Favored are those who dispelled the undead and blessed those who planted new life.  Morninglord Win Mountaincry leads this congregation.

Located on the eastern side of the Silverymoon Pass and north of the Nether Mountains, Auvandell is a mining community that is oddly worked by mostly humans.  The town of 500 inhabitants cluster around an old, dwarf-built Delzoun watchtower which can see all the way into Sundabar on a clear day.  

Copper, lead, and iron are the major exports of the mines that many think the dwarves abandoned centuries ago (and have no interest in mining it now) because it lacks gold veins and precious gemstones in its mountains.  King Baern Coldforge made great efforts to include the town into his kingdom, knowing that if large scale war were to ever come to his lands, that a mining town of raw materials could well turn the tide in his favor.

Constable Jorthen Serpentbane: is the constable and current acting Lord Mayor of the mining town since Lord Mayor Jason Carl passed away over a year ago.  The half-elf Jorthen has had a stellar career in the bluecoats and has recently given more thoughts to a change in careers.  As acting Lord Mayor, Jorthen enjoys the freedoms he has to make decisions without having to consult with Rock Hammer.  He has done a good job in his tenure, and has started a letter of resignation several times, but hesitates because he fears a new Lord Mayor will be appointed and then he will suddenly be out of two jobs.

Walsh Brent: Master of the Auvandell Mines, Walsh is content with a steady production of material, most of which gets shipped off to Rock Hammer and Everlund.  Walsh fears making changes to up productions because he feels that would establish new and higher quotas.  He has secretly been working on a stockpile of lead and iron incase production suddenly slows.

Gaul Thodan: a dwarf that knows a thing or two of mining.  Gaul knows of Walsh’s secret stockpile of material but has not told anyone about it, agreeing that  it is a good idea to prepare for the worst.

Nestled up against the southern edge of the Nether Mountains lies the town of Hilltop.  It gets its name from the hill that divides the center of the town, the old Nevan Keep sits on top of the hill while the rest of Hilltop is at the bottom.

Raising their own crops has made Hilltop a fairly independent community.  That and the fact that they are so far off the Everlund to Sundabar road, Hilltop is a bit of an isolated area as they see almost zero traffic through their town.

The elderly halfling Rickul Tumblebelly is Lord Mayor of Hilltop and has been here for over 14 years.  Rickul owns the Adventurer’s Delight general store in town, but his son Ollie runs it now.  The townsfolk appreciate that Rickul is dependable and fair in town matters, showing no favoritism, even when it comes to his own store.

Clan Stronghammer has a very nice blacksmith forge here in Hilltop, almost a remnant of what the clan used to be.  Because of the elaborate system of bellows they built, up to four forges can be working at the same time.  Of course, the town of Hilltop did not take off like the Stronghammer hoped, but it does do enough business to keep one of the forges working most of the time.  Rithic himself is often seen in town working the forges himself, but most of the time it is Danrel Stronghammer who runs the forge.

The League of Fighters has strong presence in the area thanks to their outpost here.  Ianan Tigersoul, a half-orc fighter, is in charge of this charter.  Hilltop has been a good launching point for young fighters and adventurers, to strike out into the wilds of the Nether Mountains.  Ianan himself will lead recruits in the surrounding area to hunt for goblins and kobolds as a way to season the fighters.

The Wandering Warrior Inn has been a local attraction for years, many an adventuring party was form in this two-story building.  Muruda Greatstone, female dwarf, runs the inn and is a good source of information as she sees the comings and goings of all the townsfolk here.

The Crimson Marauders are a group of orcs that recently came to town, having split off from the Ripped Guts orcs of the Nether Mountains.  Between the six of them they are trying to form an adventuring party, hoping that a wizard would join up with them or they could join an existing group.  While they haven’t caused any troubles in Hilltop, the townsfolk are hesitant to interact with them.  They spend a good chunk of their day the Wandering Warrior looking for work.