| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| Lemernis |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 11:34:05
I figured I'd share some content I wrote up for gift items that one might find in an expensive shop anywhere in the Realms. These were created specifically for a NWN2 persistent world set in Amn, but can be used for any type of FR campaign. The items were intended for use as plothooks for those (NPCs and PCs alike) who covet rare or exotic luxury/gift items. And to offer some nice targets for thieves.
DMs can obviously adapt prices to their own campaigns.
So if any of you have created any such items for their own campaigns, please share them in this thread!
(Note: I recall seeing in a source book somewhere a list of 100 items that more or less of this type ... thought it was 1st ed. FRCS but not finding it there...)
Wood Carved Statuette of a Raven
This superbly detailed wooden carving of a raven stands about ten inches high and is marked underneath with the burnt emblem of a hunting bow as if pulled back, the tips of which are touched by the ends of an owl's wings fanned downward in flight. The lustrous wood is a very high grade of cherry, and the carving is clearly the work of a master craftsman. The artistry of the piece is exceptional in every way, but the raven's knowing eyes, in particular, are carved with great subtley. 700 gp
(DM Notes: An extemely wealthy young heiress in Raven's Bluff commisioned master furniture maker Emryn Bentbow to make this carving. Emryn has been deceased for fifteen years, and he carved this statuette very early in his career in 1296. The customer for the piece was a priestess of the Cult of the Raven, a secret society peculiar to the city of Raven's Bluff. Such statuettes of ravens are used in the cult's secret worship services (see The City of Raven's Bluff p. 17, 77, 95). The cult seeks wisdom and insight from the Raven as a kind of totemic spirit. The city is named for a species of Greater Raven that dwell exclusively in the area.
Emryn carved this piece early in his career for a staggering fee, providing venture capital that proved instrumental in helping his renowned furniture business get off the ground. Emryn was not an artist per se. He specialized in ornate carving for furniture. So this is truly a rare, one of a kind piece. The item's current price is based on its superb artistry and workmanship. However should provenance for the item ever materialize, such as a letter by the heiress describing it and identifying Emryn as the artist, its value will skyrocket.)
Decorative Clay Pot from Chult
This remarkable piece of pottery is said to be from the darkest jungles of Chult. It is primitive, yet there is an undeniable sophistication to it. The shape of the pot is clearly that of the head of a big cat. Perhaps it is a fanciful creature since its face is mottled with spots, a feature not seen in Amn’s mountain lions. Everywhere upon it is etched an intricate maze of swirling lines. Though it is not easy to tell, the lines seem to radiate to an origination point on the creature’s forehead. The effect of the lines is almost hypnotic. The inside of the pot is stained a very dark reddish brown, and it retains a very faint but pungent odor. 525 gp
(DM Notes: This container was used by a spiritlord of Ubtao for ceremonial worship, during which the mage (shaman) actively contacts the spirit world. The pot held a drink of crushed berries, leaves, flowers, and bark that produces a mildly hallucinogenic effect. Long term use of the elixir can diminish Constiution due to various toxins, but the residue in the pot will not be harmful. The owner's spirit guide and familiar was a leopard. The lines on the pot depict the spiritlord's personal "maze of life." See Jungles of Chult p.23-26.)
Rare Bottle of 1359 “Red Dragon’s Delight” Berduskan Dark
Berduskan dark wine is a heavy, sweet, and burning wine. It is very dark in hue, almost black, and high in alcohol content. It is highly prized by some across the Realms. Once Berduskan dark was bottled in a cooperative effort of guilds in Berdusk. After a falling out between the Vintners' and Alchemists' Guilds, the wine became available in the containers found elsewhere in Faerûn. This particular vintage was manufactured by special order for the luxurious Heralds’ Rest festhall in Berdusk, from the winepress one of the region’s foremost vintners. It is regarded by connoisseurs as among a handful of the best wines to be produced in Berdusk over the last century, possibly ever. 975 gp
(DM Notes: A bottle of this wine is used by the Harpers as a signal. It is presented to guests who are being recruited to join the Harpers, specifically the Red Dragon office, one of the High Heralds. The Red Dragon office of the Harpers “has traditionally been the office of young Heralds with new ideas and plans for the future. This has led to an important diplomatic role in arranged marriages amongst nobility. Red Dragon also has the ceremonial duty of escorting supplicants in rituals of attaining or receiving a title, position, or honor…[T]he office …[has]… acquired a reputation for lusty decadence…”(Code of the Harpers p.79). See also Volo’s Guide to the Sword Coast, p.174 for information on The Heralds’ Rest festhall, which says “This exclusive, luxurious private home looks like a small castle. Inside it’s a haven of tapestries, carpeting, discreet veils, and polite, skilled lady and gentleman escorts.” This bottle should never have left the Heralds’ Rest; the DM can write how that occurred. This item was invented for Exodus.)
Jeweled Dragon Fly Pin
This pin in the shape of a dragonfly is to be worn upon a lady's shoulder or to fasten a cloak or shawl. It is fashioned of the purest gold and glitters with tiny but precious saphires, emeralds, and diamonds. This exquisitely crafted piece of jewelry is the work of none other than Korbus Brightjewel, the renowned court jeweler to the Duke of Daggerford. 4,900 gp
Chessentan Statue of Prince Imnel
This life sized statue is of one of Amn's greatest heroes, the legendary Crown Prince Imnel, who led the nation to victory in the Ogre Wars in 479 DR. Prince Imnel later became King Imnel, and he completed construction of the grand city of Esmeltaran, Amn's original capital. The statue is made of made of the finest quality granite, and it was clearly the work of a master Chessentan artist. Chessenta is renowned for some of the most masterful works of sculpture ever produced on the planet. Chessentan sculptors excel in rendering the human form. For thousands of years wealthy foreigners have commisioned Chessentan sculptors to make statues that give the subject a noble and heroic appearance. Chessentan statues are typically painted. Judging from the wear on the statue and the faded paint, it is seems many centuries old. No one knows the origin of this particular statue. But it is indisputably one of the finest examples of Chessentan sculpture one could ever hope to find. 12,000 gp
Saffron from Ormpur
Possibly the rarest of all spices, saffron is highly aromatic and flavorful cooking ingredient. It is usually a rich orange-yellow color, and is sometimes used as a dye. The plant has medicinal properties as well. This highly ornamented flask of saffron, emblazoned with a green jeweled dragon, is from the Lapaliiyan city-state of Ormpur. This saffron is a pure dark red color, and many believe this to be the finest in all the Realms. In Ormpur it is harvested from crocus flowers growing in abundance in the port city's highly protected, shelted bay. 600 gp
Calishite Tapestry
This tapestry woven from the finest silk and fine precious metal threads was created by a skilled artisan comissioned at the khanduq of Calimport's Jaleh Sabban, a bazaar specializing in rare luxury items. In superb detail, it dazzlingly depicts a decisive military victory in Calimport's relatively distant past: in -1402 DR, powerful priests of Calimport's Drakhon sabban led the Calishite army to victory over the beholder forces of Qyraaptir the Bloodeye, a beholder mage of devastating power. The work is clearly stitched from a masterwork painting. For a variety of reasons this artwork could easily strike a chord with many in Amn. 800 gp
Musk of Giant Slug Perfume
Imported from the Rouse of Pride perfume shop in Waterdeep comes this pungent scent made from sex glands of giant female slugs. At one point it was rumored to have been produced from a species of giant ice-slug in the Frozen North, called a haundar, but this seems unlikely due to the difficulty in finding such rare, solitary creatures. Parts of the huandar are used in magical potions, and the rumor may have been started by a rival perfume dealer in an effort to quash his competitor's sales. Alleged to make the wearer more desirable, this promise seem more than a little questionable. This fragance is nevetheless all the rage, and in scarce supply. 350 gp
Gilded Calfskin Covered Chapbook
This blank chapbook is handsomely covered with calfskin and fitted with brass corners. It contains 75 pages of gilt-edged parchment bound with gold wire. The item is imported from a Berduskan specialty shop. The book comes with an accompanying fitted calfskin sleeve with tassled drawstring to provide protection from the elements. This item could serve any number of functions for a merchant or official. It would certainly be of interest to the occasional bard or scholar passing through Amn, though for most of them the price would likely be prohibitive. 300 gp
Neverwintan Lute
This beautifully made six stringed, pear shaped instrument was made as a custom order by master lutemaker Rebeth Laereeryn of Neverwinter, whose work is prized throughout the Realms. The soundboard is made of hundred year old pine from the Neverwinter Wood. The ribs are yew (rarely found in the Realms). The body is constructed of alternating strips of light and dark cherry, following the ribs inside. The fingerboard made of prized weirwood found only in remote regions of the North. It was commisioned for a young Waterdhavian noble who took up the instrument on a whim and quickly lost interest. 6000 gp
Catfish Statue Strongbox
This strongbox was crafted by a cleric of Gond at the High House of Wonders' gift shop, which belongs to the grand museum and temple of Gond in Baldur's Gate. It is made to look like an object d'art, a metal statue of a catfish. The statue consists of many interlocking and ormanental parts, the fins, scales, tail, whiskers, and so forth, each a different type of metal. It contains a number of secret chambers, each with succesively more difficult locks to pick. It is trappable with a stunning jolt of lighting emanating from the fish's whiskers that is severe enough to be potentially lethal. Only the most talented of thieves could succeed in stealing its contents. 350 gp
Totemic Lion Spirit Pendant
Given Amn's high level of civilization, and with tales returning of Maztica's colonization of that exotic native population, a fad has taken hold in Amn of a kind of condescedning romanticization of taming the savage--i.e., that it is a civilized people's noble obligation to do this. This pendant is made of a dull black stone that is crudely chisled into the head of a lion. It is from a region of the North lands lying at the foot of the Great Glacier. It comes from a nomadic tribe that once worshipped the lion as their totemic spirit. The tribe is said to have abandoned its savage, nomadic ways to embrace village life as peaceful farmers, herders, and traders. Thus to the Amnian mindset the pendant signifies the triumph of civilization over barbarism. 475 gp
(DM Notes: The pendant is made of chardalyn, a naturally occuring but exceedingly rare stone that has the property of allowing one (and only one) spell to be cast into it, the spell being released when the stone is shattered. This totem was enchanted by a powerful Uthgardt Black Lion tribe shaman who held with the old ways. Appalled at his people, the shaman left this community to live as a hermit/prophet in the wilderness. He eventually went somewhat mad with thoughts of vengence in his bitterness and solitude. The hermit shaman imbued the stone with a Shapechange spell to transform himself into a Nightwalker. His plan was to use it in a meeting with the village leader. He would slam his cudgeal against his breatplate, smashing the stone, and then slaying the leader in his terrible undead form. Ironically, while making the trip to the village a heavy snow began; he lost his footing on a icy narrow mountain pass and badly fractured his ankle. A blizzard quickly enveloped him, and unable to walk he froze to death. The shaman's remains were found and his belongings scavenged by a fur trapper from Loudwater who was doing business in Beorunna's Well. See Volo's Guide to the North Appendix III p. 233 for info on chardalyn.)
Far East Incense Censor
This porcelain incense burner is said to be from the Endless Wastes, also known as the Land of the Snow Demons. It is a strikingly exotic piece, fired in brillliant, bold colors. The censor is made in the shape of a divine humanoid figure, dancing, whose upper torso is enveloped in clouds. His left hand holds a water pitcher, his right hand grasps a thunderbolt. By skillful manipulation of polished surfaces inside the piece, the god's eye holes have been fashioned to subtley reflect the faint light cast from the burning incense within. The incense smoke pours out from openings in the clouds. This would appear to be a ceremonial item used in some kind of priestly ritual. 650 gp
(DM Notes: The piece is Tuigan. It was was obtained from the ruins of Winterkeep, and taken to market at Bright Beacon Spring from whence it made its way west. The figure depicts the god Teylas, Tuigan god of heaven, who sends the rains and who the Tuigans invoke for general blessings and protections. Some propitiate Teylas to try to strike down their enemies with thunderbolts. This piece is not imbued with any magical properties. It is simply an evocative artwork.)
Lavender Scented Medicinal Pillow
This comfortable bed pillow is filled with a combination of soft goose down and dried Lavender. Lavender is known to soothe a raspy throat. So the pillow is promoted as having medicinal properties for those with head colds and croaky voices. If nothing else, it is pleasantly fragrant. Until it has reached overuse, that is. Washing will destroy the dried lavender within--necessitating purchase of a replacement pillow! This item is considered quite the clever sales innovation by the Amnian merchant elite. It is spawning imitations in other forms with a variety of fragrant medicinal herbs and other filler substances, such as buckwheat. But for now this is the only such item available in Amnwater. 50 gp
Pewter Stein
This pewter stein was imported from Velarstown Silver and Jewelry shop in Harrowdale. It is richly decorated, and the hinge to the lid is in perfect working condition despite the stein's obvious age. Upon it is sculpted a rather strange image: above a mountain peak a fish is placed facing left, with seven pointed star above the fish. It is certainly handsome drinking mug, and Amnians do love their ales and beers. 175 gp
(DM Notes: The stein was crafted in Haunghdannar, a little known kingdom of seafaring dwarves that existed between -4974 and -3389 DR, detailed in Dwarves Deep, p. 58.)
Zelpiran Springwound Toy Falcon
This delicate toy must be handled and used with great care. It is from the small seaport of Zelpir in the land known as Var the Golden, on the southern sea called the Golden Water. Crafted by a Gondsman, it uses a combination of internal springs and gears powered by a hand crank positioned on a gearwheel behind it. The springwound mechanisms are geared to the revolutions of the crank. The falcon unfolds its wings, flaps them several times, and then simulates soaring first to the left, and then to the right. The toy is constructed of various metals, chiefly brass and tin externally. The springs inside are high quality steel which partially explains its durability. Otherwise it must surely be blessed by Gond to function as durably as it does with so many intricate moving parts! 325 gp
Cosmetic From Xontuil Bay
This women's cosmetic is exported from the Ulgarthan city of Suormpar, where it is known locally by the name of "fiertallin." It is harvested 20 miles upriver from the coastal city, on the River Xon where the flowering plant grows abdundantly upon the river's banks. The flower is crushed into a tan colored powder that is used by women to apply on their faces to conceal blemishes. The merchant class ladies of Amn consider it far superior to local products. But this might be attributable mostly to fiertallin originating from a far off, exotic land, in relatively limited supply in Amn, and therefore a status symbol. 250 gp
Ketjap
From the land of Durpar in the Shining South comes this flavorful condiment, a mixture of a potent Ulgarthan spice called mingari (similar to cinnamon) and the exotic Maztican juniper berries, melons, and calabash. All the rage in Calimport, this sidedish has become a hot item in Amn as well. 85 gp
Coral Pendant Box
This stunning piece of jewelry making is from Sezilinta, a seaport in Durpar on the Golden Waters. It is pendant worn about the neck that also servers as a container. The pendant is made of ornately decorated silver from the Giant’s Belt Mountains, and inlaid with richly colored red and purple and coral from the golden hued waters of the Shining Lands, found at market in Assur. The inner compartment is inlaid with mother of pearl. It is crafted in a geometrically inspired design, reminiscent of a lotus, in a four petal design around the center compartment. 1250 gp
Coffee
This exotic drink from the Shining Sea is rapidly becoming the most popular non-alcoholic beverage in Calimport. Whether this will simply prove to be another fad time will tell. It is made from a bean that grows only in Durpar. The drink is brewed like a tea, coloring the water a deep brownish black color. It has a wonderfully heady aroma, and the flavor is strangely bitter, yet smooth and rich. It has the property of invigorating the drinker, and provides renewed energy and mental alertness. Coffee goes especially well with a rich, robust new species of pipeweed discovered in Maztica called tabacca, which is smoked in hookahs in Calimshan. This five pound burlap sack of these beans is a relatively rare, and sought after item in Amn. 450 gp
Mingari
This potent spice is grown in plantations found only in Ulgarth, one of the kingdoms of the Shining Lands. The spice is made from the inner bark of the mingari plant, the resins of which become granulated to form a crumbly powder of light brown color. The aroma is warm, pleasing, and highly fragrant. Its flavor is delicately sweet and slightly hot. Mingari is prized as a flavoring for many types of foods, including chicken and lamb. It is also highly sought for the making of sweetmeats. Here the spice is sold in a decorative ceramic jar. 500 gp
Pipe Leaf from the New World
The hin of Amn are very worried about the appearance of this new species of pipeweed from the New World’s kingdom of Nexalan. It is called tobacca. Compared with traditional Faerunian pipeweed, the dark, pungent leaf of this plant has a far fuller, more robust flavor. It burns better and produces a smoke with a much richer, sweeter flavor and scent. The halflings of Amn have long cornered the premium market on pipeweed in their own region, as they keep closely guarded the secrets to growing the very best of its kind. But should this tobacca become more readily available and more affordable, there could be harder times ahead for the hin. This wonderful pipe leaf is sold in sealed clay pots that hold 1 lbs. 300 gp
Pearl Bracelet
This bracelet is made of some of the finest pearls in all the Realms, harvested from the pearl beds of Guilmarl on the Great Sea. Naturally gold, greenish silver, and ivory white colored pearls are linked with the finest silver with a clasp fashioned in the shape of a small dolphin. This piece stands out due to the pearls’ exceptional luster. 5000 gp
Keepsake Box
Made of ‘bluewood’ from the Durparian Forest of Amatar, this magnificent keepsake box is decorated with a mandala design set within finely inlaid brass and beautiful specimens of highly polished opal, amethyst, amber, and blue quartz. This wood from the Shining South's mathiri tree is ivory colored with blue streaks, and when highly polished it radiates a gem-like luster. Different colored stains have been applied in the wood burned mandala design, which is very intricate indeed. An item of rare beauty and craftsmanship. 3375 gp
(DM Notes: The mandala is a magic design that allows a wizard with the proper skills, and of sufficient level and spell knowledge, to ascertain if any item placed within it is infused with any subtle poisons. The box will then neutralize the poison if desired. The stones are selected for this function, as connected by the magical design, and of course the magus’ concentration and mystical powers. The mage who designed the box devised an ingenious use of the spell Resist Energy to detect and nullify poisons. The box is the invention of a Halruaan mage who comissioned a Dambrathan halfling artisan to build it for him. The mage feared being poisoned—and how it left his possession is left up to the DM (though once established that lore for the item will be set). It was sold by a merchant who had no idea what it was, and neither did the purchaser. In Amn, where magic is unknown except for secret practitioners of the Art, this would seem simply be just another attractively decorated treasure box. Prerequisites: Wis 14+, Ability to Cast the Spell Resist Energy, Skill Focus: Knowledge (Nature) or Skill Focus: Alchemy.)
Ornamental Wood Carved Walking Stick
This handsomely carved walking stick from the city of Ammathluir in the Shining Lands is made of cypress stained a beautiful dark mahogany color and adorned at the top with a strikingly exotic and presumably a fanciful image. It is at least a creature entirely unknown in Amn. The figure is a serpent with its body gracefully coiled in a figure eight—and a marvelous pair of feathered wings. The figure imparts a sense of beauty, grace, and wisdom. The creature’s wings are glazed to with an overall purplish mahogany color that emits a faint iridescent, multicolored hue reminiscent of mother of pearl. The work of a master halfling master wood carver renowned in Luiren who caters to the land’s neighboring human markets, this item was brought to the area by halfling traders. It has been inspected by the local Tessarch’s official and has been assayed simply to be a very beautiful wood carving, and not associated with wizardry. 2800 gp
(DM Notes: It is however a masterwork item suitable for enchantment. The creature depicted is a couatl, a celestial outsider gifted with telepathic powers. The couatl depicted is found in the Amjer forest of the Shining Lands, an enlightened being who teaches the way of the Adama. This creature from time to time polymorphs into human form and travels the land as a wandering ascetic monk, seeking converts to Adama. The artist was moved to give the monk some food in an act of kindness, and in return the coutal bewtowed upon him a telepathic vision of his true form. That vision served as a powerful inspiration that haunted the artist for weeks on end till he felt utterly compelled to carve the piece.)
Myrrh
This highly prized, exceedingly rare incense is far more valuable than gold. It comes from the Anauroch desert, where it is harvested from the resin of the myrthaiah tree in hidden groves deep within the mountains. Myrrh's smoke produces such a heavenly fragrance that it is considered one the most pleasing of propitiations to the gods that a priest could possibly offer. It also has a variety of other uses, including spiritual annointing with its oils, a spice for food, midwifery and mortuary uses, and when molded into beads it produces a wonderful fragrance when warmed by the skin. The incense has remained fresh because it is packed within a sealed clay jar. The clarity and darkness of the resin of the highest quality, and when crumbled it is sticky to the touch. 7000 gp
Chamberpot
Amn prides itself on its high level of civilization, but some matters of daily life remain common demoninators. Chamberpots are in use in every home. In status conscious Amn even such a mundane item will be desirable if it is elegantly crafted. This particular chamberpot is made of copper, which is the lowest of metals in Amn. It is however nevertheless finely crafted, richly decorated, and the choice of a baser metal is deliberate as part of the piece's joke. The central image emblazoned upon it is of a cresent moon resting upon the horizon, which is reflected upon the still waters of a bay--the heraldic symbol of Waterdeep! This clever, tongue-in-cheek item was crafted locally at the artist colony in Eshpurta. Sure to strike the fancy of most Amnian merchants, the high value of this item owes to its novelty. 1500 gp
Xylopal Bookends
These bookends are carved of opalized wood. When wood petrifies and reflects this rainbow of colors it is an absolutely stunning sight. This specimen of xylopal is reported to have been found in the Shaarwood and is believed to have been formed from an ancient Suth tree. Crafted by a master artisan in Athkatla, these matching bookends are each sculpted in the image of the head of a stallion. The pair of visages of these noble animals bespeak nobility, power, grace, and elegance. Amn breeds some of the finest horses in all the Realms, and these sculptures exude the traits Amn's merchant class believes itself to possess. 6500 gp
Maztican Fan
This festive looking fan is fashioned from colorful plumage of exotic birds from the New World colony of Maztica. Vibrantly colored feathers of various sizes are intricately woven together into the shape of a hummingbird. As the fan is waved its bold, vivid patterns of colors produce an almost mesmerizing effect. This is the work of a master atrisan. 3000 gp
Cardamom from Zakhara
All the way from Hafayah, City of Secrets, in the far off land of Zakhara, this ceramic wide mouthed bottle is cork stoppered, and contains seed pods of the spice cardamom. Typically used to flavor coffee, tea, and sweetmeats, cardamom has an intensely aromatic fragrance. Its flavor is light and subtle, resembling a combination of ginger and pine nuts. Once cardamom seeds are exposed or ground they quickly lose their flavor. Exotic spices are readily available in Athkatla. But the more distant their land of origin, and the greater the dangers of transport, the costlier they become. 2225 gp
“A Merchant’s Musings”
Found at Serpentil Books & Folios in Waterdeep, this book written in 1355 DR is a limited edition signed by the author, Donstable Hroun, Master Merchant of Tsurlagol. It is gilt-edged and handsomely bound in soft, lustrous leather. Hroun shares his insights into the art of trade from many decades of experience in a city-state known as the Gateway to the Unapproachable East, and also a haven for safe trade by pirates raiding the Sea of Fallen Stars. Amn has no scholarship, and reading and writing skills are applied almost entirely to bookkeeping. Private libraries among the merchant class are not uncommon but are typically strictly for show, as yet another display of wealth. This is a book that may actually get read, however, as the subject matter is certainly of interest in the Land of Merchants. 600 gp
Rare Coin from Calimshan
This weathered platinum coin looks ancient but its stamp remains discernable. Upon it is the image of a djinni hovering majestically over a cityscape of spires, his arms outspread in a gesture of beneficence. The coin is called a djendjen, and it was minted in the Calishite city-state of Manshaka a shocking nine and one half millennia in the past. That a coin of such tremendous age has survived to the present day makes it exceedingly rare, and highly valuable to collectors. Like all Calishite coins it has a hole punched into it so that it can be carried on a string. Here in status conscious Amn it is presented as a wearable pendant on a chain of platinum silver. The coin was purchased from Balthorr’s Rare & Wondrous Treasures in Waterdeep, where it was identified by an expert numismatist. 8,000 gp
Fancy Mortar and Pestle
From Phalantar’s Philtres & Components in the City of Splendors comes this handsome apothecary mortar and pestle set, made of the finest grade white marble from the Moonsea region. The item’s crafter is unknown. Carved around the outside of the mortar is a scene of cavorting nymphs and satyrs. The scene is exquisitely drawn and masterfully detailed. The marble’s hardness and smooth, non-porous texture make it an excellent material for grounding substances to a fine powder without leaving traces of stone in the mixture, a very important consideration for ensuring purity of ingredients. 1775 gp
(DM Notes: Although the practice of arcane magic is persecuted in Amn, apothecaries are found in the major cities. They are however subject to the scrutiny of the Meisarch’s office to assure there is no wizardry afoot. The remedies in these stores are typically prescribed by druids and cleric of Nature deities.)
Silk Aba from Zakhara
This long, flowing outer garment is a poncho-like robe worn in the hot sands of the fabled Land of Fate, Zakhara. Suitable for Amnian summers, it is made of the finest silk, said to be from Keelung in Kara-Tur, brought to Zakhara by the Sea Lords of Karatin. The robe is a wonderfully deep, rich crimson color, dyed from “firethorns,” a plant also known as the “sea rose.” The scarlet dye of the firethorn is expensive because it is a rare species only found in abundance in a few islands in Zakhara. Firethorns are poisonous and extremely dangerous to harvest and work with. The robe is embroidered with thread made of the finest silver. Hagglers will be reminded of what has gone into making this unique piece of clothing available. 4250 gp
Turmishan Black Tea
From the Turmish metropolis Alaghon, this black tea is unrivaled in its taste and aroma. This tea has a heady, robust fragrance. It has a fruity aroma akin to grapes. Its nose includes a strong spice aroma with subtle notes of cardamom and saffron, and other spices that are difficult to discern. The tea initially offers an explosion of flavors in the mouth, and is most invigorating to the senses. It has a very smooth finish. This large brick of tea could easily last for several months of regular use, and should keep well provided it is properly stored. 350 gp
Decorative Wyvern Egg
An object d’ art worthy of the mantle of any Amnian fireplace, the surface of this hollowed wyvern egg is finely decorated with an intricate geometrical carving, masterfully hand-painted in rich colors, and encrusted with tiny precious gems. It is truly dazzling, particularly when struck by the dancing light of a fireplace. 6500 gp
(DM Notes: A Cormyrian noble, Areus Silversword, commissioned a Neverwintan artisan to make the piece. By the time the artwork was completed Areus’ expensive tastes, financial improvidence, and gambling debts had gotten him disowned by the family. A penniless black sheep, Areus was unable to pay the balance on the egg. The disgruntled artist, Enaster Demiso, traveled all the way to Cormyr in what proved to be fruitless effort to collect from the family in Suzail. Enaster ended up selling the item to Elhazir’s Exotica, an expensive gift shop in Arabel, in order to pay his way back home. See Cormyr p. 49 for info on the Silversword family.)
Zakharan Indigo
From Muluk, City of Kings, in Zakhara comes this wax sealed urn filled with dried leaves of the indigo plant, shipped with a wrapped stick of charcoal to absorb moisture. A paste may be produced from the indigo leaves that dyes fabrics a wonderful shade of lapis. In greater concentrations it produces a shade of deep violet that is very distinct, and prized throughout the Realms for its beauty. Consequently, Zakhara does a thriving trade in purple dyed fabrics. Here the dye ingredient itself has been made available, eliminating the middleman in the process. Since this obviously undercuts the highly lucrative Zakharan fabric trade, it is rare for the indigo plant to leave Muluk’s indigo plantations. Muluk’s corsairs patrol the Great Sea to prevent that. Whenever indigo is successfully smuggled out of Zakhara, invariably its price is so exorbitant that it is often cheaper simply to purchase Zakharan fabrics wholesale. 7500 gp
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| 28 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Halidan |
Posted - 17 Mar 2011 : 17:02:45
While I still haven't found Boby Nichols 100+ Realms Treasure items list, I have found these gems from a Postfest that we had on the FRDM list over on Yahoo. Like the original list by Lemenris, these items are just another way yo throw a little Realms history and legend into your treasure. None of these items are my work, and unfortunatly, I have lost the names of the creative Realms sage who wrote them. Anyway, here they are:
Comb and Mirror set, broken
This is a stained and dirty comb and mirror set that a very skillful discerning eye would reveal to be made of solid ivory. The looking glass is an oval about 8 inches by 6 inches and is inset with a tarnished brass mirror. The back of the mirror has a single rose in full bloom carved on it. A handle about 4 inches long completes the mirror. The comb, also about 8 inches long, has 2 teeth missing and another 3 broken in varying lengths. A broken corner on one end looks like something else, perhaps a handle, was once attached. If the mirror and comb are cleaned thoroughly numerous tiny rosebud carvings would be revealed thus enhancing the value of the set. If in perfect condition this set would be worth 100 gold pieces. In this condition they are only worth 10 gold pieces for the salvage value of the ivory.
Feather Totem
6 bright blue feathers are glued to a carved felsul wood disk; spaced equidistant around it. 12 tiny yellow topaz stones form a circle around a single larger, lilac-hued amethyst in the center of the disk. All in all it reminds you of some sort of flower. This totem is in excellent condition but it is only worth 5 gold pieces unless you find an expert appraiser to
value it and a collector or museum buying Maztecan art to purchase it. As a prime example of very rare Maztecan antiquities it is worth from 100 to 500 gold pieces. Any native Maztecan viewing this in a collection would have a definite negative reaction to the one possessing it. Detect Magic cast upon this totem would reveal a faint aura of Transmutation magic upon it. The totem has a permanent spell of mending upon it so it always remains in
perfect condition.
Draughts Set
This consists of a simple drawstring bag containing a game board made of 1 inch squares of maple and walnut glued together to make a board of 8 rows of 8 squares alternating in color. A plain walnut border all around completes the board. A smaller drawstring bag inside the larger contains 20 thin maple disks and 20 complementary walnut disks as playing pieces which
complete the set. Draughts normally does not use that many disks so some must be extra. The craftsmanship of this set suggests that perhaps this a recent project completed by a student. Nevertheless the set is still valued at the standard draughts price of 1 gold piece.
Cameo Necklace
This cameo is a small oval of worked silver containing an ivory inset carved with the raised silhouette of a woman. The cameo is attached to a finely worked silver chain and clasp. Street value 10 gold pieces. If someone of medium or higher level working at or associated with Waterdeep Palace views this cameo it will be recognized as a missing piece in a set owned by one of the first occupants of the castle. An appropriate reward would be conferred upon the one returning it.
Arkhen Bloodnotes
This single piece of quality paper is made out with a short inscription, "To Elgath Innar, to whom I owe the sum of 45 nobles." (Note that nobles are the name of Sembian gold coins.) The IOU is signed in blood by Harlyn Grimmerhand, a Daerlunian horse trader, and is sealed in wax with the Sembian raven and the tricrown and star of Archendale. Despite the stamp of the two named parties, the bloodnotes can be cashed anywhere in Archendale or Sembia (see the FRCS p. 91 for more on bloodnotes).
Old Fires Chamberpot
This chamberpot is made of blue Yeven clay, cast by Arsith's Old Fires in Battledale. Wider than the standard chamberpot, with an elegantly curved lip and an extra thick bottom, this pot is masterfully glazed white with stylized depictions of branching trees in green glaze. The
firing mark of Arsith's Old Fires--an A without the horizontal bar and a flame reaching up to its apex--is carved into the on the underside of the pot. This fine piece of craftsmanship is worth far more than a standard clay pot; it is worth as much as 3 or 4 gp (see Volo's Guide to the Dalelands p. 41 for more on Battledale pottery).
The Tale of Tasker the Idiot
This small chapbook is old, though still in rather good condition. Like most such books, the paper is poor-quality and the binding mediocre at best; the cover is wood wrapped in black cloth, with the title printed in red ink. It tells the tale of Tasker the Idiot, a Forrest Gump-like folk hero who bumbled his way through one adventure after another.
For example, he fell asleep while fishing one day only to be pulled into the river by a dragon turtle that got caught on his hook. The frightened creature dragged him all the way to the Alamber Sea, where he was picked up by a Mulhorandi warship. The warship was sunk by pirates and Tasker survived as a slave, eventually charming the captain with his innocence and landing a position as a cabin boy. The pirate ship was then attacked by sahuagin, who kept the idiot Tasker as a pet. The normally-bloodthirsty sahuagin king loved his pet Tasker so much that he
eventually set him free, building him a magnificent coral ship and loading it with gold. Unfortunately Tasker was too simple to properly steer the ship, and crashed into the treacherous reefs of the Thousand Swords off Altumbel. He was rescued by a mermaid, who brought his back to his fishing spot along with a single piece of sahuagin gold to remind
him of his adventure.
This chapbook is of interest to collectors, probably selling for around 5 gp. Its real value, however, lies in the sahuagin gold piece that is hidden between the cloth cover and its wooden backing. A curved coin with sharp serrations and three small puncture marks at equal intervals,
the coin is engraved with a sahuagin warrior holding a sharktooth spear, along with the words "Forever in the Deeps" on the heads side and "Shazalaran" on the tails side in Sahuagin. The coin is worth a standard gold piece, perhaps as much as five to a collector, but its real value lies in its connection to the fabled treasure of Tasker the Idiot.
Silver Tea Service
This complete set weighs 10 pounds and bears the mark of Clan Silverforge, a symbol of quality. A stylized capital R is engraved prominently on each piece. Underneath next to the mark of Clan Silverforge is a number which is the same on each piece. The value of the silver alone in this set is 50 gold pieces. Purchased new from Aurora's or the Clan Silverforge shop in Arabel, this set would be valued at 2000 gold pieces.
Since this is a numbered set with an engraved monogram no respectable buyer would consider it's purchase without a full provenance. (Here's a chance to use that forgery skill.)
Note: Clan Silverforge is non-canon and is the clan of a dwarven cleric that is a character of mine.
Sacrificial Dagger
This ornate dagger has a blade of blackened steel. The handle is finely worked silver inlaid with bloodstone. The guard is silver with a small teardrop shaped ruby on each end. Dark stains remain on the blade. Testing would show that they are dried blood. Although magical detection reveals no aura good characters handling this blade feel a sense of revulsion and
wrongness about it. Successful appraisal reveals this dagger to be worth 12 gold pieces.
Walking Stick
This fine quality walking stick is made from a single branch of blackthorn polished almost glass smooth. Twisted and gnarled and flimsy-looking it nevertheless is a sturdy walking stick and is quite functional as a cane. Close examination reveals that the end of the hand grip unscrews revealing a chamber large enough to hold something such as a small rolled up map or a single dose potion vial. Appraised value 15 gold pieces.
Alabaster Jars
Each of these stoppered alabaster jars, suitable for perfume or cosmetics or spell components, is well-made and the stopper closes the jar nearly perfectly. If stoppers are switched it becomes obvious that each jar and stopper are fitted as a unit. Such precision indicates that these better quality than the average jar found at market. Appraised value 4 gold pieces
each. These are usually found in sets and the contents are often worth more than the jars themselves. |
| Ayrik |
Posted - 17 Mar 2011 : 05:53:46
"Welcome! Welcome! Three times welcome to Ayrik's Auxilliaries ... a travelling proprietry (of fine repute) specializing in all manner of bygones and knickknacks, trinkets and trifles, notions and novelties, whimsies and curios, souvenirs, embellishments, rarities, and exotics ... I can offer all types of treasure, art, frippery and finery from the furthest frozen corners of fantastic Faerûn! And all at the fairest prices ye'll find anywhere from anyone throughout the land, no less! <Ha-ha-ha!> Are ye looking for something decorative or functional? Something unique? Do I see yer discerning pretty eyes drifting toward my fine collection of masterfully crafted drow crossbows? Or perhaps to my display of bejewelled zakharan blades? Or would ye like to see what wonderful wares have been wrought from the legendary lands of Shou?" |
| Alystra Illianniis |
Posted - 17 Mar 2011 : 03:56:12
*ahem* Anyone have any more of these lovely items? |
| Ayrik |
Posted - 17 Mar 2011 : 02:37:10
He just likes to keep his hair colour the same as the legendary box set, that's all. |
| Alystra Illianniis |
Posted - 17 Mar 2011 : 01:57:23
Yeah, by several HUNDRED years, lol! And still gray..... |
| Ayrik |
Posted - 17 Mar 2011 : 01:24:27
Elminster's not old! He's just experienced. |
| Alystra Illianniis |
Posted - 17 Mar 2011 : 01:13:25
Which means of course, that we'll see it when we're all as old and gray as Elminster himself..... LOL!! |
| The Sage |
Posted - 17 Mar 2011 : 00:22:57
quote:
Originally posted by Arik
This is a phenomenal scroll, my thanx go to Lemernis for these great items [even though he(?) hasn't been seen within the keep for over three years]. The Amnian chamberpot caught my eye as well.quote:
The Sage
And Lemernis, expect to receive full credit when I include the Neverwintan Lute in my listing of Realms-derived musical instruments -- due for release to Candlekeep shortly.
Ah ... has this yet been released, Mister Sage?
Not as such. It's been compiled into my overall "Encyclopedia of Realms Music" that I've been slowly working on over the last ten years. Rather than release it piece by piece, I thought it more appropriate to keep everything together -- so that when I eventually make it available for the folk at Candlekeep, they'll be easily able to differentiate between the fan-based material that I've compiled, and the official stuff on Realms music that I've taken from novels, sourcebooks, online articles, etc. |
| Ayrik |
Posted - 16 Mar 2011 : 22:49:01
This is a phenomenal scroll, my thanx go to Lemernis for these great items [even though he(?) hasn't been seen within the keep for over three years]. The Amnian chamberpot caught my eye as well.quote:
The Sage
And Lemernis, expect to receive full credit when I include the Neverwintan Lute in my listing of Realms-derived musical instruments -- due for release to Candlekeep shortly.
Ah ... has this yet been released, Mister Sage? |
| Halidan |
Posted - 21 Jul 2010 : 10:37:08
First if all, thatanks for sharing - these are good items.
These items remind me a lot of a list compliled by Bobby Nichols on the old FRCS forum. It was a list of non-magical items with Realms history and/or significance. Between Bobby and a lot of the other old sages, the list got way above 100 items.
Does anyone have a copy of Bobby's old list? I've lost mine years ago. |
| Galuf the Dwarf |
Posted - 18 Jul 2010 : 04:19:59
quote:
Originally posted by Kyrene
Mostly you answered your own question there. “Nose” is often used by so-called connoisseurs when describing the aroma of wine, liquor or cheese, as in “how it sits on/in the nose”.
Alright, that part makes sense. The thing is, "Its nose" makes it sound like the tea itself has a nose to me.  |
| Kyrene |
Posted - 16 Jul 2010 : 06:28:58
quote:
Originally posted by Galuf the Dwarf
Mostly, I don't understand what "Its nose" refers to. Care to elaborate?
Granted, if that were me, I would have probably wrote such as "The aroma of this tea is significantly pungent, reminescent of grapes and spices along with hints of saffron and cardamom." That's just me, though.
Mostly you answered your own question there. “Nose” is often used by so-called connoisseurs when describing the aroma of wine, liquor or cheese, as in “how it sits on/in the nose”. |
| Brace Cormaeril |
Posted - 15 Jul 2010 : 23:41:34
Shou Ginger, dipped in Maztican chocolate.
(The complete phrase in canon.) |
| Galuf the Dwarf |
Posted - 15 Jul 2010 : 23:05:06
I agree with many others at the supendous effort you made here! 
However, I noticed something I didn't quite understand with the Turmishan Black Tea entry, which I colored red within the quote.
quote:
Originally posted by Lemernis
Turmishan Black Tea
From the Turmish metropolis Alaghon, this black tea is unrivaled in its taste and aroma. This tea has a heady, robust fragrance. It has a fruity aroma akin to grapes. Its nose includes a strong spice aroma with subtle notes of cardamom and saffron, and other spices that are difficult to discern. The tea initially offers an explosion of flavors in the mouth, and is most invigorating to the senses. It has a very smooth finish. This large brick of tea could easily last for several months of regular use, and should keep well provided it is properly stored. 350 gp
Mostly, I don't understand what "Its nose" refers to. Care to elaborate?
Granted, if that were me, I would have probably wrote such as "The aroma of this tea is significantly pungent, reminescent of grapes and spices along with hints of saffron and cardamom." That's just me, though. |
| Alystra Illianniis |
Posted - 15 Jul 2010 : 18:55:57
There was also an article in Dragon- #265, I think, that had Art object tables for lairs and treasure hoards. You could use those tables to make lots more items. |
| Brace Cormaeril |
Posted - 15 Jul 2010 : 17:03:23
I always like to receive thalander, steeped in phaenaelo, then dried. Makes for a good smoke. |
| see |
Posted - 30 Nov 2008 : 19:31:39
quote:
Originally posted by Lemernis
(Note: I recall seeing in a source book somewhere a list of 100 items that more or less of this type ... thought it was 1st ed. FRCS but not finding it there...)
Forgotten Realms Adventures hardbound, p.143-146 . . . included here on Candlekeep at http://www.candlekeep.com/downloads/moneyart.zip |
| EytanBernstein |
Posted - 30 Nov 2008 : 03:25:52
That's some great stuff! I may just use it in my games. |
| Brynweir |
Posted - 27 Nov 2008 : 17:04:00
Indeed, a self-cleaning chamberpot... lol
I like the lute, as well. It might be interesting to have it enchanted to play its self.
Or the Jeweled Dragon Fly pin might actually seem alive- as in be enchanted to move, flutter its wings.
I also like the idea of the Raven statue with the "knowing eyes" to actually be an enchanted guardian of some sort -allowing the owner to see what it sees or recording what happens in its vacinity for later viewing.
The list is very nicely done, Lemernis - a lot of work. Good job! |
| Nerfed2Hell |
Posted - 27 Nov 2008 : 16:52:18
Enchanted self-cleaning chamberpot? That'd be... neat. |
| Lemernis |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 20:01:30
Btw, as a masterwork item the lute is enchantable. That was part of the idea too with these very high end items. Even the chamberpot, I suppose.  |
| Lord Karsus |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 18:41:31
-Excellent job. This is the type of stuff I saw more often, in official books. |
| Daviot |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 18:34:47
A most impressive list, Lemernis. The lute might be the perfect treasure for a bard in one of my campaigns.  |
| The Sage |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 15:15:25
Indeed, I'm inclined to agree with Wooly.
And Lemernis, expect to receive full credit when I include the Neverwintan Lute in my listing of Realms-derived musical instruments -- due for release to Candlekeep shortly. |
| Wooly Rupert |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 15:00:48
This is some really good stuff! I am quite impressed.
I particularly like the Amnian Chamberpot. Having the Waterdhavian emblem on there is simply brilliant! |
| Lemernis |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 14:56:29
Thanks, I put quite a bit of thought into these, actually. It was kind of fun to pour over my collection of FR source books to come up with them. Things like this help bring the depth, breadth, and diversity of the Forgotten Realms to life, I feel.
I had originally set a goal of creating 50 but pooped out at 36. I might still return to it and add 14 more, and if so I'll certainly post them.
If others here feel inspired to contribute some of their own, maybe we can see about getting them added to the next Candlekeep Compendium. |
| Rinonalyrna Fathomlin |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 14:47:04
I agree, those are some neat items. Nice detail! |
| Alisttair |
Posted - 26 Nov 2008 : 13:23:34
Wow nice. A lot of good items there. I think I might present some in my home campaign. |
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