[Nyka location] Tempered Anvil Headquarters

[Liar]

The Tempered Anvil Headquarters With its sweeping arches and immaculate edges, the Tempered Anvil headquarters is the embodiment of the subtlety of craft. Precious metals, such as gold and silver, line pillars and thresholds, reflecting gracefully in the pervasive firelight. Though the building itself rises high above the ground, external lights seem to never quite fill the halls, giving them instead an air of earthy intimacy. It is said that these halls lead to the Nykshela quarries and offer a direct route for transport of raw material, but the rumors remain unconfirmed. These shadowed passages open in a to the happy contrast of a large and well-lit workshop. As gem cutting and metal work are poorly done by firelight alone, tall windows seem to pour light onto all manner of lapidary equipment and stone-carving paraphernalia; three separate hearths stand beside ores and metalsmithing tools. This area is responsible for all kinds of creative design, and pieces made here are said to be blessed by the Alvina for which the resident monks devote their work. Unlike those of other monasteries, the workshop is closed to all civilians. At the western end of the hall stands a door to a library with a few tables and comfortable chairs, containing books on art in general and jewelcraft specifically as well as information on the Tempered Anvil order and worship of Xannos. The opposite wall of the headquarters is lined with similar windows, shining light onto a sizeable dining hall where most monks take their meals. Another, though smaller, hall serves as a place of meditation and worship. Quiet and dim, the garden that contains more gravel than flora, mostly of the same reddish stone that comprises most of the city’s buildings, but with gemstone ores scattered throughout. The area’s stone benches are artfully adorned with jewels between elegantly simple carvings. Four towers frame the building, containing the monks living quarters. Most bedrooms have access to at least a small window, and are reached by climbing many steps. Each small room contains a bed, chair, small dresser, and lantern. A pair of communal bath halls is included on the first floor. NPC : Jod Murandan Age: 65 Position: High Priest Though Jod can still hold a hammer, his many years at work (along with a bit of unlucky blood) have left his knuckles brittle and his eyes unfocused. Though he no longer spends every waking hour at the headquarters’ workshop, he is always keen on a good discussion on art or philosophy. Quick to accompany a cruel opinion with a daring smile, he especially loves to offer critique on jewels and jewelry. Though he keeps his door open and spends much time in public places, only novices are fooled by his open demeanor: he loves to argue but he hates to be wrong, and he has developed a knack for making sure he never is. When he does not use blatant intimidation to inspire a concession, he can easily turn a man’s words against him. If a brave mind does engage in a battle of wits with him, they are like to learn a thing or two. History: Jod does not talk about his family much, though it is said that his father was the monk that inspired him to join. Though not initially interested in the art of jewelcraft, he took to the trade easily and developed a strong passion for it; when he was not working, he was talking about working. Some say it was his talent that allowed him to rise in the ranks, but others blame it on his quick tongue, which praises as easily as it insults. Whatever the case, he has held the position longer than most, and many opinions have stirred concerning his retirement. Skills: Hammer 70, Gemcutting 66, Metalsmithing 60, Intimidation 58, Politics 52, Philosophy 45 No moderation required, unless you require a dispute resolved.