Ninbolm
Connects to: 3.26, 11.01 and 29.07.
This gnome city is carved into the petrified stump of a colossal tree. Most visitors only have the privilege of seeing the tunnels and windows that dot the small upper city. Most of Ninbolm’s secrets, including the Hierophant’s Heart and the Indigo Academy, lie within the enormous maze that is its root system.
Ninbolm’s citizens proudly assert that they have inhabited the great tree forever. However, many human scholars believe that before it was turned to stone, the tree was the fabled goblin (11.01) tree of Nilbog. According to the legend of Nilbog, the tree was the source of all goblins, and like a good mother, it provided everything they needed. The Bloodied King (29.07), however, envied them and turned the mighty tree to stone. The surviving goblins scattered across the Shrouded Lands, nursing their bitterness and outrage until they became the scorned race that they are today.
For as long as any gnome can remember, the city has been ruled by the Hierophant, a druid who long ago merged with the tree’s petrified heartwood. He can know anything that happens within the city. His omniscience is limited by the fact that he can only experience a few things at any given time. Druids, who serve all official functions within the city, commune with him through giant snail familiars that cling to the heartwood.
The Indigo Academy is based in Ninbolm. It runs the Empty Drinkhall, an illusory revelry.
Connections
- Some gnomish refugees moved out to avoid the Hierophant’s tyranny only to squabble with dwaves and get eaten by a dragon (09.24)
Hooks
- How much of the legend of Nilbog is true?
- Where is the rest of the petrified tree?
- What are some of the Hierophant’s decrees?
- In addition to the giant snails, what other strange creatures dwell in the city?
- Most important - where can a traveler get a drink in this crazy place?
