In the heart of Sigil’s Guildhall Ward, amidst the clang of forges and the roar of workshops, stands the Broken Blade — a favourite refuge for smiths, warriors, and travellers seeking strong ale and straight talk. This is a rough‑edged, no‑nonsense establishment where idle gossip and showy luxury have no place. Here gather those who shape metal, wear armour, and know how to wield a weapon.
Why the Name?
The sign outside is a two‑handed sword split clean in half, suspended from a heavy iron chain. Locals claim it once belonged to a legendary smith who tested his masterpiece a little too hard, snapped it, and on the same day forged an even better blade.
Atmosphere & Interior
- A stout stone building braced with iron beams, built to survive drunken brawls and the occasional alchemical explosion.
- Dimly lit: a central hearth provides most of the glow, aided by guttering lamps over the tables.
- Floor strewn with metal shavings; walls hung with battered armour, broken swords, and the hafts of war‑hammers — trophies left behind by patrons who lost them in wagers or fights.
- Scents: coal smoke, hot oil, charred meat, and strong beer.
Main Areas
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Great Hall | The tavern’s core, packed with heavy wooden tables and stone benches that are hard to topple during a scuffle. |
| Forge Corner | A small smithy right inside the tavern where weapons can be touched up or tempered when the place turns into a battlefield. |
| Challenge Ring | A circular patch in the far corner where guests settle disputes with fists or steel. |
| Mercenary Rooms | Private chambers on the second floor where warriors and smiths rest after a long day’s labour. |
Menu Highlights
| Dish / Drink | Description |
|---|---|
| “Nail‑in‑the‑Throat” | Potent dwarven ale said to double as weapon oil. |
| “Charred Giant” | Roasted meat of questionable origin served with a pitch‑black sauce reminiscent of forge coal. |
| “Flaming Bowl” | A drink set alight just before serving, intended only for the hardiest patrons. |
| “Blade‑Broth” | A thick stew that occasionally contains metal shavings — rumoured to be an initiation test for apprentice smiths. |
Notable NPCs
Torgrim “One‑Hand” — Proprietor
“If you’ve a blade, have a drink. If not, be gone.”
A former smith who lost an arm to a badly enchanted hammer, Torgrim now runs the Broken Blade, keeping order and showing no mercy to the faint‑hearted.
Ragna “Storm” — Regular Patron
“Drink or fight — there’s no third option.”
A mercenary with a stormy temper and a love of ale, Ragna can become ally or enemy depending on how well you hold your liquor.
Ready your mug and keep your weapon close: the Broken Blade awaits.