Candlekeep

Welcome to Candlekeep

Candlekeep is a bastion of knowledge located on the cliffs overlooking the Sea of Swords. It serves as the greatest repository of lore and written knowledge in all of Faerun. Those who enter are seekers of truth, adventurers, or scholars who have come to expand their understanding of the world.

The Fortress at a Glance

• Location: South of Baldur's Gate, along the coast.
• Entrance Requirement: A book, scroll, or written work of significant value that is not already part of Candlekeep's collection.
• Atmosphere: Quiet and reverent, with a focus on the preservation and pursuit of knowledge.
• Notable Features: The Court of Air, the Great Library, and the mystical Emerald Door.

Rules of Candlekeep

• No violence, theft, or destruction of property within the fortress walls.
• Magic is monitored and restricted in certain areas, particularly the Great Library.
• All knowledge brought into Candlekeep is considered sacred and will be cataloged for future generations.

Notable Locations

1. The Court of Air

The Court of Air is the first area visitors enter upon passing through the gates. It features gardens, fountains, and various buildings where visitors can rest, gather supplies, and interact with the Avowed. Merchants and scribes offer services to those who pass through.

2. The Great Library

The heart of Candlekeep, this vast library holds knowledge collected over centuries. Its halls are filled with ancient tomes, magical scrolls, and even sentient books that guard their secrets. Scholars and the Avowed work tirelessly to maintain order and protect the texts.

3. The Emerald Door

A magical green-glowing door deep within the library, leading to the most restricted sections. Access is granted only to those with permission from the [strong]Keeper of Tomes[/strong].

4. The Hearth

A warm and welcoming tavern where visitors and scholars share stories, seek guidance, or relax. It serves hearty meals and offers comfortable lodging.

Shops and Services

1. The House of the Binder

Type: Bookbinding and Scribe Services

This charming shop offers blank journals, enchanted writing tools, and repairs to damaged books.

Proprietor: Elaris Dawnspring, a half-elf artisan known for crafting protective book enchantments.

2. The Farseer's Telescope

Type: Observatory and Magical Shop

A celestial observatory filled with star charts, navigation tools, and enchanted items related to prophecy and the stars.

Proprietor: Master Astrid Zorya, a dreamy but wise diviner.

3. Emberlight Emporium

Type: Magical Item Shop

Specializing in fire- and light-based magical items, this shop sells enchanted lanterns, glowing stones, and minor fire-related spells.

Proprietor: Flinvar Brightspark, a fiery-tempered gnome with a love of pyrotechnics.

Notable NPCs

1. First Reader Lyrella Eryndor

Role: Second-in-command, responsible for organizing Candlekeep's texts.

Personality: Stern but patient. She values genuine curiosity and diligence.

2. Keeper of Tomes Janussi

Role: The leader of Candlekeep, and the ultimate authority within its walls.

Personality: Wise and enigmatic, often speaking in riddles.

3. Quill the Chronicler

Role: A gnome scribe and chronicler of visitors' adventures.

Personality: Cheerful and inquisitive, with a love of gossip and stories.

Atmosphere and Adventure

Candlekeep is a place where knowledge is revered above all else. The fortress is filled with the faint rustle of turning pages, murmured debates, and the soft glow of magical wards. Its labyrinthine halls hide both treasures of knowledge and potential dangers for the unwary.