Before you stands a small rectangular keep built of a strange alabaster stone. Its walls are 35 feet high and pierced on the south side by a drawbridge (with an accompanying moat and portcullis) which is guarded by a tower on either side. The air above the walls shimmers slightly, as if some unseen barrier lies between you and those within. Humanoid figures walk the crenelated battlements, patrolling their assigned sections of the walls. Atop each of the corner towers rests a large catapult; and shutters facing away from the keep suggest other heavy weaponry concealed within.

A softly glowing sign on road next to you catches your eye...

"Welcome, traveller, to my (not so) humble abode. Within, you will find many wonders, both mundane and magical - some dangerous, some not. While you are here, feel free to walk the halls and enjoy my hospitality - but be warned, some areas are dangerous and best avoided.

The keep is steeped in mystic lore, and many fascinating people live within its magically-reinforced walls. What it has to offer depends entirely upon you and your interests. It is to be hoped that your stay will be enjoyable and enlightening, but not all may find it so.

Anyway, without further ado, feel free to cross the drawbridge and seek whatever fortunes await you inside." - Alannon Harpell