The Rollad’s Guide to Riften

Even for those of you who are intrepid travellers and seasoned adventurers, your journey to Riften in Skyrim will not be without its share of challenges. Nestled in the southeastern corner of The Rift, at the eastern end of Lake Honrich, Riften is a city of stark contrasts, where the beauty of the surrounding forest area meets the bustling activity within the city walls.

Navigating the City’s Reputation

One of the primary challenges you will face is getting past Riften’s reputation as a crime-ridden hive of scum and villainy. The presence of the Thieves Guild and the city’s criminal underbelly will add an element of danger and intrigue to your exploration. However, when I visited this city I approached this challenge with caution and vigilance. I can only suggest that you do the same and that you seek to understand the city’s dynamics and engage with the locals so that you will gain valuable insights into its complexities.

Logistical Challenges to City Navigation.

The city’s layout, with its circular plaza and labyrinthine sewers, presents logistical challenges, which will require you to navigate the complex terrain to find safe passage for yourself and others. Additionally, the repeated bandit attacks from the east will pose a threat to you when entering the city from that direction. Overcoming these challenges will require strategic thinking and a blend of courage and prudence, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s culture, to uncover its hidden secrets, and for you to emerge with a deeper understanding of Riften’s complexities.

Embracing the Contrasts and Uncovering Secrets

Despite these challenges, you will embrace the city’s contrasts, from its cosy ambience to the uneasy undercurrents, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the forest area surrounding Riften while remaining mindful of the potential dangers lurking within the city. Engaging with the locals will provide you with valuable insights, enriching your exploration and providing you with a wealth of unforgettable experiences to remember after you leave.

In Riften, Skyrim, there are several recommended attractions, including shops, taverns, and local businesses that offer unique experiences for travellers. Here are some of the notable attractions:

The Thieves Guild

Riften is home to the shadowy Thieves Guild, offering a unique and immersive experience for those willing to delve into the city’s criminal underbelly. The Thieves Guild provides opportunities for lucrative interactions, making it a must-visit for adventurers seeking thrilling challenges and substantial rewards.

Black-Briar Meadery

The thriving local brewery, the Black-Briar Meadery, is renowned for producing some of the province’s best mead, offering visitors a chance to savour the local flavours and immerse themselves in Riften’s rich brewing traditions.

The Temple of Mara

For a change of pace from the city’s criminal activities, the Temple of Mara provides a serene and spiritual retreat, dedicated to the Goddess of Love and Maternity. It offers a reprieve from the city’s uneasy atmosphere, allowing visitors to explore a different aspect of Riften’s cultural and religious landscape.

Local Shops and Merchants

Riften boasts a massive shopping district, offering a wide array of goods and services for citizens and travellers alike. The city’s merchants and shops provide opportunities for the acquisition of unique, and everyday items, making it an essential stop for those seeking to enhance their adventuring experience and to maybe pick up some supplies for your journey or even a souvenir or two.

Riften Fisheries

The Riften Fisheries, which are known for its bustling activity and trade, offers a glimpse into the city’s economic and cultural significance. Visitors can witness the daily operations of the fisheries and engage with the local trade, adding a layer of authenticity to their exploration of Riften. Who knows you may even catch the odd fish or two.

The Bee and Barb Tavern

The Bee and Barb Tavern provides a lively social space for travellers seeking some rest and relaxation. This establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere, where visitors can interact with locals, share stories over a tankard or two of mead, and immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of Riften.

Haelga’s Bunkhouse

Haelga’s Bunkhouse, a gentlemen’s establishment run by Haelga, provides accommodations and a unique perspective on the city’s local life. While Haelga may not rent a room to everyone, the bunkhouse offers an intriguing glimpse into the daily lives of Riften’s citizens, providing services for a discerning gentleman and adding depth to the city’s cultural tapestry.

These attractions offer a diverse range of experiences, especially at Haelga’s, from thrilling adventures to serene respites, making Riften a multifaceted destination that caters to a wide variety of interests and preferences. Whether visitors seek excitement, cultural immersion, or natural beauty, Riften has something to offer for every traveller.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your journey to Riften in Skyrim will be a testament to your resilience, curiosity, and willingness to engage with the challenges of this remarkable city. By navigating its checkered reputation, overcoming logistical hurdles, and embracing its contrasts, you will be able to uncover a world of wonder waiting to be explored. As you embark on your odyssey through the storied city of Riften, may your journey be filled with discovery, excitement, and the warmth of new experiences. Remember, in the world of Skyrim, as in life, every corner holds the promise of something extraordinary. So, gather your courage, steel your resolve, and set forth on your own unforgettable adventure through the captivating city of Riften.

 

The Rollad’s Guide to Candlekeep

As a seasoned adventurer, I have had the pleasure of exploring many of the wonders of the Forgotten Realms. One of the most fascinating places I have visited is Candlekeep, a majestic fortress that towers over the Sea of Swords. In this guide, I will share my personal experiences and insights on Candlekeep, the realm’s greatest library.

History and Culture

Candlekeep is a bastion of enlightenment, a place where knowledge is revered above all else. It is home to hundreds of thousands of ancient books, many of which are rare and valuable. The fortress is also known for its many spires, which give it a majestic and imposing appearance.

The Avowed

Candlekeep is home to the Avowed, a group of about 300 priests who live within the fortress. Most of the Avowed are commoners, but there are also many scholars and sages among their ranks. The Avowed are responsible for maintaining the library and protecting its treasures.

Defenses and Decorum

Candlekeep is a fortress, and as such, it is well-defended. There are many magical wards and defenses in place to protect the library and its inhabitants. Here are some of the most important:

- Teleportation and other forms of magic are forbidden within Candlekeep. Visitors must enter through the front gates.
- Fires larger than a candle are magically suppressed, so spells like fireball do not function.
- Books stolen from Candlekeep immediately return there via magic.
- The keeper of the Tomes can activate a mythal which blocks everything but air and sound from getting in or out of Candlekeep.

Visitors to Candlekeep must also follow certain rules of decorum. Here are some of the most important:

- No fighting is allowed within Candlekeep.
- No stealing is allowed within Candlekeep.
- No copying is allowed within Candlekeep. Visitors may take notes, but getting a copy of a book requires paying scribes to make one.
- No damaging, marking, or modifying works is allowed within Candlekeep.

Cuisine

Candlekeep is not known for its cuisine, as the Avowed are more concerned with knowledge than food. However, there are a few places within the fortress where visitors can find sustenance. Here are some of the most popular:

- The Kitchens: This is the main dining hall within Candlekeep. It serves simple but nourishing meals to the Avowed and their guests.
- The Scholar’s Hearth: This is a small tavern within Candlekeep that serves ale and simple fare. It is a popular spot for scholars and sages to gather and discuss their research.

Insider Knowledge

If you’re planning to visit Candlekeep, be sure to bring a book or writing that is not currently in the library. This is the traditional way to gain entry to the fortress. Also, be sure to respect the rules of decorum and follow the Avowed’s instructions. They are the keepers of the library, and their word is law.

Here are some of the most popular sections of Candlekeep:

The Library

The library is the heart of Candlekeep, and is home to hundreds of thousands of books. It is divided into several sections, each with its own unique collection. Here are some of the most popular:

- The Great Library: This is the main section of the library, and is home to many rare and valuable books.
- The Arcane Archives: This section is dedicated to books on magic and the arcane arts.
- The Vault of the Sages: This section is home to many ancient tomes and scrolls and is only accessible to the most trusted scholars.

The Courtyard

The courtyard is the central gathering place within Candlekeep. It is a beautiful and peaceful place, with many benches and fountains. It is a popular spot for scholars to gather and discuss their research.

The Tower of the Tomes

The Tower of the Tomes is the tallest spire within Candlekeep, and is home to the most valuable and rare books in the library. It is only accessible to the most trusted scholars, and is heavily guarded.

In conclusion, Candlekeep is a fascinating place, full of knowledge and wonder. Whether you’re a scholar, a sage, or simply a curious adventurer, this majestic fortress is sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags, grab a book, and join me on an unforgettable journey to Candlekeep!

    

 

The Rollad’s Guide to Whiterun

As a seasoned traveller, I am excited to share my personal experiences and insights on Whiterun, a beautiful city in the province of Skyrim.

Whiterun is a bustling city with a rich cultural and historical context, and I am eager to guide you through its many wonders.

History and Culture
Whiterun is a city with a fascinating history and culture. It is home to the famous Dragonsreach, a fortress that serves as the seat of power for the Jarl of Whiterun. The fortress is an impressive sight, with its towering spires and intricate stonework. The city is also known for its Nordic architecture, which is a blend of ancient and modern styles.

Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in Whiterun is the marketplace, which is located in the city center. Here, you can find a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to unique items. The marketplace is also home to several shops and stalls that sell everything from food and supplies to rare books and other interesting items.

For those interested in history, Whiterun has several museums and historical sites that are worth visiting. The Hall of the Dead is a somber but fascinating place, where you can learn about the city’s burial customs and pay your respects to the fallen heroes. The Dragonsreach Dungeon is another must-see attraction, where you can explore the vast collection of artifacts and treasures that document the city’s rich history.

Adventure
If you’re looking for adventure, Whiterun has plenty to offer. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, which is perfect for hiking and exploring. The nearby Whiterun Hold is home to several ancient ruins and tombs, which are said to be filled with treasure and danger. Be sure to bring a sturdy pair of boots, a sense of adventure, and a sharp sword!

Cuisine
Whiterun is also known for its hearty cuisine. The city is famous for its stews and roasted meats, which are perfect for warming up on a cold day. Be sure to try the local meads, which are brewed using secret recipes that have been passed down for generations. Here are some of the most popular inns, taverns, and breweries in Whiterun:

Inns and Taverns
- The Bannered Mare: This is the most popular inn in Whiterun, located in the city center. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a roaring fire and comfortable beds. The inn is also home to a bard who performs every night.
- The Drunken Huntsman: This tavern is located just inside the city walls, and is known for its delicious food and drink. It is also home to a hunting shop, where you can buy and sell hunting gear.
- The Frostfruit Inn: This inn is located in the nearby town of Rorikstead, and is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. It is a great place to rest and relax after a long day of exploring.
- The Sleeping Giant Inn: This inn is located in the nearby town of Riverwood, and is known for its comfortable beds and friendly staff. It is a great place to rest and relax after a long day of exploring.

Breweries
- Honningbrew Meadery: This brewery is located just outside the city walls, and is known for its sweet and delicious mead. It is a great place to stop and sample the local brews.
- Black-Briar Meadery: This brewery is located in the nearby city of Riften, and is known for its strong and flavorful mead. It is a bit of a journey to get there, but well worth the trip for a true mead connoisseur.

If you’re planning to visit Whiterun, be sure to bring a map and a compass. The city can be confusing to navigate, especially for newcomers. Also, be sure to visit the city during the day, as the streets can be dangerous at night.

Here are some more details to keep in mind when exploring Whiterun:

Districts
Whiterun is divided into three districts, each with its own unique charm and attractions:

Plains District
- The marketplace is located in this district, where you can find a wide variety of goods.
- The Gildergreen tree, a sacred symbol of Kynareth, is located in this district.
- The Companions, a group of warriors who live in Jorrvaskr, are located in this district.

Wind District
- The Wind District is the main residential area and is known for its unique architecture.
- The Temple of Kynareth is located in this district.
- Jorrvaskr, headquarters of the Companions, is located in this district.

Cloud District
- The Cloud District is the smallest of Whiterun’s three districts and is located atop the bluff where Whiterun was built.
- Dragonsreach, an ancient palace that sits on the highest point of the city, is located in this district.

Blacksmiths and Armourers
Whiterun is home to several blacksmiths and armourers, who can craft and repair weapons and armor. Be sure to visit them if you need to upgrade your gear.

In conclusion, Whiterun is a city that has a rich history and culture, with plenty of attractions and adventures to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or simply soaking up the local culture, this beautiful city is sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags, grab your boots, and join me on an unforgettable journey to Whiterun!

 

The Rollad’s Guide to Baldur’s Gate.

As a seasoned adventurer, I have had the pleasure of exploring many fascinating places, but few have captured my imagination quite like Baldur’s Gate. This city is a hub of culture, history, and adventure, and I am excited to share my insider knowledge with you in this Rollad’s Guide to Baldur’s Gate.

History and Culture

Baldur’s Gate is a city steeped in history and culture. Founded by the legendary explorer Balduran, the city has been a centre of trade and commerce for centuries. Its strategic location on the Sword Coast has made it a hub of activity, attracting merchants, adventurers, and scholars from all over the world.

The city is divided into three main districts: the Upper City, the Lower City, and the Outer City. Each district has its own unique character and attractions, from the grand mansions of the Upper City to the bustling markets of the Lower City.

One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Wide, a broad avenue that runs through the heart of the city. Lined with shops, taverns, and inns, the Wide is a hub of activity day and night. It is also home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Hall of Wonders, the Temple of Oghma, and the Blushing Mermaid Tavern.

Adventure Awaits

For adventurers, Baldur’s Gate is a treasure trove of opportunities. The city is home to many powerful factions, including the Flaming Fist mercenary company, the Harpers secret society, and the Zhentarim criminal organization. These factions offer quests and missions to adventurers who are willing to take on dangerous tasks in exchange for rewards.

The city is also home to many dangerous creatures, from goblins and orcs to dragons and demons. The sewers beneath the city are infested with giant rats and other vermin, while the catacombs beneath the Temple of Oghma are said to be haunted by the spirits of the dead.

Practical Advice

If you are planning a trip to Baldur’s Gate, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, be prepared for danger. The city is not for the faint of heart, and adventurers who are not careful can quickly find themselves in over their heads.

Secondly, be sure to bring plenty of gold. Baldur’s Gate is a city of commerce, and everything has a price. From weapons and armour to potions and scrolls, you will need to spend gold to get the gear you need to survive.

Finally, be sure to make friends with the locals. Baldur’s Gate is a city of intrigue, and having allies can be the difference between success and failure. Whether you are dealing with a powerful faction or a dangerous monster, having someone on your side can make all the difference.

In conclusion, Baldur’s Gate is a city of adventure, danger, and excitement. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the Sword Coast, there is something for everyone in this fascinating city. So gather your party and venture forth, and may the gods watch over you on your journey.

 

The Rollad’s Guide to Waterdeep.

Hello and welcome to my latest travel guide. Today, I’m going to take you on a journey to Waterdeep, the City of Splendors, located on the Sword Coast in the Forgotten Realms. As a seasoned adventurer, I have explored the city’s many attractions and landmarks, and I am excited to share my knowledge with you.

Let’s start with the early history of Waterdeep. The city was founded by humans in 1032 DR and quickly became a prosperous trading hub due to its deepwater harbour. It was built on the site of an ancient elven settlement called Aelinthaldaar, which was the capital of the Tel-quessir city-state of Illefarn. Over the centuries, Waterdeep grew in size and power, becoming one of the most important cities in the Forgotten Realms.

The rulers of Waterdeep are known as the Masked Lords, a group of powerful individuals who keep their identities secret. The Masked Lords have been in power for centuries, and they have guided the city through many challenges and crises. The current Open Lord of Waterdeep is Laeral Silverhand, a powerful wizard and former member of the Harpers.

Waterdeep is known as the City of Splendors, and for good reason. The city is home to many impressive landmarks and attractions, including Castle Waterdeep, the City of the Dead, the Market, and the Dock Ward. Beneath the city lies the Undermountain, a vast dungeon complex filled with danger and adventure. The Undermountain was created by the powerful wizard Halaster Blackcloak, who was driven mad by a knot in the Weave of Magic that was created when an ancient society of elves that once lived in what is now Waterdeep used a grand ritual to remove any trace of their capital city from the world.

Waterdeep has been the site of many recent events that have shaped the city and its inhabitants. The Spellplague, the Time of Troubles, the Sundering, and Waterdeep: Dragon Heist are some of the most notable.

If you’re planning to visit Waterdeep, there are many accommodations to suit all budgets. The Yawning Portal Inn is a popular choice for adventurers, as it is located above the entrance to the infamous Undermountain dungeon. For those seeking luxury, the Sea Ward is home to many high-end hotels and resorts.

Waterdeep is a city with a rich history and many attractions. The Field of Triumph, the House of Inspired Hands, the Skewered Dragon, and the City Watch are some must-see sights. Waterdeep has a thriving food scene, with many restaurants and taverns to choose from. The Yawning Portal, the Sea Maiden’s Faire, and the Skewered Dragon are some of our top picks.

If you’re planning to explore Waterdeep, be sure to keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for pickpockets. The city is home to many powerful wizards and other magical beings, so be respectful and cautious. If you’re planning to explore Undermountain, be sure to bring plenty of supplies and a good map.

In conclusion, Waterdeep is a city with a rich and varied history, full of mystery, magic, and adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the world of Dungeons and Dragons, Waterdeep is a city that is sure to captivate and enchant you. With its many attractions, landmarks, and accommodations, Waterdeep is the perfect destination for any traveler looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Rollad's Guides

 Introducing Rollad the Wanderer, the intrepid Dwarf who has made a name for himself as a travel writer across the Forgotten Realms and beyond. Rollad has explored many of the realms of this land, from the bustling metropolis of Waterdeep to the frozen wastes of Icewind Dale, and has a wealth of knowledge to share with fellow adventurers.

Rollad’s writing is known for its vivid descriptions and insider knowledge, providing readers with a unique perspective on the many lands of the Forgotten Realms and beyond. His guidebooks are packed with in-depth information on the history, culture, and geography of each realm, as well as practical advice on how to navigate the terrain and avoid danger.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to these many lands, Rollad’s guidebooks are the perfect companion for your journey. With his expert guidance, you’ll be able to explore new lands, battle fearsome monsters, and uncover ancient treasures.

So why wait? Start your adventure today with Rollad the Wanderer’s guidebooks. Whether you’re looking to explore a bustling city or delve into the treacherous depths of a dungeon, Rollad has the knowledge and expertise to help you succeed. So grab your sword, pack your bags, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with Rollad the Wanderer as your guide.