Adventures and Quests
From the grandest halls of the great cities to the smallest, most remote villages, the influence of the Artisans Guild is woven into the very fabric of Ertha. Members of House Gravan-Myrwinia and its associated houses are not only the crafters of tools, weapons, and architectural wonders but also the creators of art, culture, and enchantments that define the world. Their work is the foundation upon which adventurers, scholars, and rulers alike build their futures. Whether shaping raw materials into objects of immense power or refining the techniques of their predecessors, these artisans ensure that their craft remains at the heart of every story told across the land.
Foundation of Every Great Quest
No adventure begins without the work of artisans. The weapons wielded by warriors, the armor shielding explorers, and the enchanted rings slipping onto the fingers of mages all stem from the skilled hands of Ertha’s craftsmen. The artisans do not merely supply tools; they provide opportunities, advantages, and solutions for those who venture into the unknown. From the precise engineering of a clockwork trap to the subtle magic infused into an apothecary’s vial, their contributions turn the tide of history. The Artisans Guild consists of multiple houses, each specializing in different aspects of creation, ensuring that no craft is left behind. While House Gravan-Myrwinia is the governing entity of the guild, the many houses beneath its banner each bring their own unique mastery to the craft.
Great Houses of the Artisans Guild
House Alka-Gimel-Zhared – The Fire & Forge
Masters of metal, House Alka-Gimel-Zhared is the backbone of the smithing arts. Their forges burn hotter than dragonfire, and their techniques are a fusion of traditions passed down through the ages. Whether crafting fine steel blades, intricate filigree, or legendary weapons infused with ancient enchantments, the smiths of this house ensure that adventurers are never unprepared for battle. The fire of their forge does not simply create—it transforms, reshaping raw materials into the tools of legends.
House Zend-Wynn – The Shapers
The Shapers of House Zend-Wynn manipulate both material and magic, crafting objects that defy the laws of nature. From enchanted rings to weapons imbued with elemental forces, their craft extends beyond simple utility. Every creation holds a purpose, whether to amplify strength, channel arcane power, or unlock hidden pathways. The knowledge of the Shapers is drawn from the remnants of a lost fraternity, ensuring that their work is both sacred and innovative.
House Brandlekliener – The Stonemasons
Builders, sculptors, and architects, the artisans of House Brandlekliener have shaped Ertha’s landscape in ways both grand and subtle. Their knowledge of hidden passageways, ancient symbols, and the secrets embedded in stone makes them more than just craftsmen; they are keepers of forgotten lore. Their structures stand the test of time, their fortresses remain impenetrable, and their artistry transforms cities into living works of history.
House Sdradzah – The Glass Crafters
House Sdradzah produces the most exquisite and practical glassware in all of Ertha. Their craftsmanship ranges from delicate goblets that detect poison to enchanted lenses capable of revealing unseen truths. Their signature creation, Parisons Kiss, is revered for its beauty and magical resonance. Whether used in alchemy, architecture, or adventuring, their glass is known for its resilience and unparalleled quality.
House Harrowrunnah – The Leatherworkers
Fine leather is not merely for fashion; it is the foundation of protective gear, bound tomes, and essential adventuring tools. House Harrowrunnah’s mastery of tanning and crafting ensures that every piece they produce is both durable and exquisite. From finely crafted armor to enchanted bindings that keep dangerous knowledge contained, their work supports adventurers in ways both seen and unseen.
House El-Whoonah – The Woodcrafters
Wood is the skeleton of civilization, and House El-Whoonah is its master sculptor. From bows and staves to intricate carvings and towering structures, their craftsmanship transforms timber into tools of utility and beauty. Utilizing rare and enchanted woods, they create objects of power that adventurers wield with confidence. Their knowledge extends to the preservation and proper harvesting of trees, ensuring that nature and industry remain in harmony.
Artisans’ Influence Beyond Crafting
Artisans are not simply tradesmen; they are vital players in the economy, politics, and history of Ertha. Their creations are sought after by nobles and adventurers alike, their innovations drive technological advancement, and their guild serves as a hub of knowledge and collaboration. House Gravan-Myrwinia ensures that artisans receive fair trade for their works, setting pricing standards and market regulations to protect their members from exploitation.Even the shadowy corners of the world feel the reach of the Artisans Guild. Clandestine markets thrive on stolen blueprints and counterfeit crafts, but true artisans know the difference. Quality, care, and mastery cannot be imitated, and those who seek the finest work will always return to the Artisans Guild.
Training the Next Generation
The legacy of the Artisans Guild is carried forward by its apprentices. Young crafters enter the guild to train under master artisans, learning not just the techniques of their craft but the philosophy that guides it. Whether through formal apprenticeships or hands-on workshops, they gain the knowledge and experience needed to one day create masterpieces of their own. For adventurers, learning a craft can be just as valuable as wielding a sword. Knowing how to repair one’s armor, craft essential supplies, or even create unique items on the road can mean the difference between life and death. Many adventurers spend time apprenticing with the Artisans Guild before setting out into the world, ensuring they are never unprepared.
Unsung Heroes of Ertha
The artisans of Ertha are the silent force behind every legend. Their work is present in every battlefield, every grand hall, and every hidden chamber waiting to be discovered. A finely forged blade, a puzzle box hiding a forgotten secret, a beautifully painted mural telling the story of a forgotten hero—these are the marks they leave upon the world. To seek out the Artisans Guild is to seek out the very soul of creation. Their hands shape not only the world around them but the stories that unfold within it. Whether through steel, stone, wood, or magic, the artisans of House Gravan-Myrwinia and its sister houses ensure that the history of Ertha is written not just in words, but in the enduring craftsmanship of its people.
GM Tips
Artisans from House Gravan-Myrwinia can serve as valuable quest givers. Their expertise might lead them to request rare materials or seek adventurers to retrieve lost blueprints, creating opportunities for players to interact with the guild and its members.
Crafting as a Player Skill
Allow players to learn crafting skills as part of their character development. Apprenticeships with the guild can provide new abilities, allowing players to create or repair items in the field. This adds depth to gameplay and encourages creative problem-solving.
The Role of Enchanted Items
Use the guild’s reputation for enchanting items to introduce unique tools and weapons into the game. These creations can become key to solving puzzles, overcoming challenges, or gaining an advantage in combat, providing a tangible connection to the artisans’ expertise.
Social and Economic Nexus
House Gravan-Myrwinia’s artisans often operate as hubs of information and trade. Players might gain valuable insights or allies through their interactions with the guild, adding layers of intrigue and opportunity to the narrative.
By weaving the artisans and their creations into your campaign, you can enrich the world of Ertha and provide players with an immersive experience that highlights the invaluable role of House Gravan-Myrwinia – The Artisans Guild.
