Hidden within the labyrinth of narrow alleys in the Slave Trade District, Shackles and Whisper Tavern is a place where deals are struck in the shadows, and words are worth more than gold. This is not an establishment for rowdy feasts or carefree drinking. Here, patrons drink in silence, speak cautiously, and listen attentively. Every word can be sold, every deal overheard, and any visitor may not be who they appear to be.
Atmosphere and Interior
Upon entering the tavern, one is immediately greeted by the thick, lingering scent of cheap ale, damp wood, and wet stone. The ceiling is low and oppressive, as if the city itself is watching what transpires within. Dim lanterns, affixed to the walls, flicker faintly, casting shadows that conceal more than they reveal.
The central hall is a long, narrow room with roughly hewn tables and benches. Rusted chains hang from the walls—a stark reminder of who holds power here and a symbol of submission that permeates the entire Slave Trade District. In the far corner, near the bar, stands a massive wooden barrel labeled “Slaver’s Bastion”—a local ale so potent that even seasoned warriors struggle to stay on their feet after three mugs.
But the true heart of the tavern lies in its negotiation chambers. These small, dimly lit rooms, hidden behind heavy curtains, host the district’s most crucial meetings: slavers discussing shipments, informants selling secrets, and criminal syndicates hiring mercenaries. No one shouts here, no mugs are slammed on tables, and no musicians are welcomed—only whispers, hushed negotiations, and the scratching of quills signing contracts on parchment.
Several servant-slaves work within the establishment, each wearing a magical collar that suppresses any attempt at escape. Their movements are flawless, yet their eyes are empty. They know that any mistake will be met with immediate punishment.
Keeping order is Kragmul “The Deaf”, the tavern’s owner—a thief, spy, and schemer who knows every secret in the district. His presence lingers in every dark corner, and it is said that his ears can hear even the softest whisper spoken behind closed doors.
Tavern Menu
- “Slaver’s Bastion” – A thick, heavy ale with a metallic bitterness that leaves even dwarves drunk after a single pitcher.
- “Torn Bread” – Pieces of stale bread soaked in a hot, strong broth.
- “The Branded Casserole” – Meat of questionable origin, cooked with mushrooms and spices.
- “Silent Tea” – A scentless beverage with a mild sedative effect, either helping to forget troubling thoughts—or loosening one’s tongue.
Notable NPCs
Kragmul “The Deaf”
“You either say something useful, or you never speak again.”
Kragmul is the owner of Shackles and Whisper, a man who prefers listening over speaking. His old leather coat is covered in stitched-up knife wounds, and under his left eye is a dark tattoo marking him as a former member of one of Dergorai’s most notorious criminal syndicates. He despises meaningless chatter, but if you come bearing valuable information, he guarantees protection and a hot meal.
Reynald Crooked-Tooth, Regular Patron
“I don’t sell people. I sell information. The people just come as a bonus.”
Reynald is one of the most notorious information brokers in the Slave Trade District. He is hunched, gaunt, constantly hiding his hands in his sleeves, and reeks of alcohol and magical dust. No one knows where he gets his intel, but his information is always valuable.