The Orc Shaft

The Orc Shaft: A Vibrant Dockside Tavern for Misunderstood Races Amidst the Flooded Ruins

In the heart of the submerged Flood District lies the Orc Shaft, a massive inn that has risen from the ruins of what was once a vibrant part of Freeport. With many of the district's original structures now submerged, the resilient orcs, goblins, and hobgoblins have made this district their home, building atop the remnants and creating a unique community that thrives amid the wreckage.

These resourceful races navigate their reclaimed environment using a network of bridges and small boats, allowing them to move between buildings with ease. While some have found employment as dockhands, the majority of the community has turned to fishing to sustain themselves, embracing a more peaceful lifestyle and steering clear of mercenary work and blood games.

Nestled within the bustling Flood District, the Orc Shaft is a unique and vibrant dockside tavern that was once a small mansion belonging to a Dock Master at Bellerman's Quay. Now, it stands as a proud establishment within the territory of the Longshoreman Dockers Union, offering a safe haven and gathering place for orcs, half-orcs, hobgoblins, and other often misunderstood races.

Owned and operated by the formidable orc woman Kraghka and her burly human husband, Big Rikkard (affectionately known as "Big Dick"), the Orc Shaft is a place where camaraderie and revelry abound. Their eight half-orc children take on the responsibility of bartending, serving a wide array of patrons with their unique blend of charm and grit.

The tavern's most distinctive feature is a squat, lurid green tower that rises high above the surrounding buildings, save for the cranes and pulley systems used to offload ships. The top of the tower is typically painted in alternating shades of purple or fleshy-pink, providing an amusing visual pun that is not lost on the locals. It has become a rite of passage for the youth of the docks to graffiti the tower, prompting periodic paint-overs that alter the tower's hue and appearance.

Inside the Orc Shaft, an open courtyard houses a large fighting pit known as THE PIT. This space is the epicenter of the tavern's energy, hosting everything from heated disputes and rowdy brawls to lucrative betting and the monthly worship service dedicated to Thargor, the Renewer of Paths. Although Kraghka and Rikkard welcome other humanoid races into their tavern, they have little patience for foolishness and expect all visitors to be prepared to defend themselves if necessary.

A loyal and respected hobgoblin named Quincy serves as the head bouncer, having been a member of Kraghka and Rikkard's adventuring company the Shadowswords in their youth. He leads a team of robust hobgoblin bouncers, many of whom are children of the Bluecloaks that patrol the docks. Those who dare to harm the bouncers will face the wrath of the Blue Cloaks, with retribution often involving a swift and painful end beneath the docks, where the crabs eagerly await their next meal.

The Orc Shaft is known as a sanctuary for Ashgulg seeking refuge from both humans and Morgulzâga, who are unwelcome within the tavern's walls. Should Morgulzâga defy this rule, they are given one warning before being forcibly removed and left beneath the docks or subjected to the "lord's bath," as the regular patrons like to call it.

In the Orc Shaft, Kraghka and Rikkard have created a lively haven where outcasts and misunderstood races can revel in their shared experiences, forging friendships and alliances within the heart of the Flood District.

Pork Meal Options:

1. Pulled Pork Sandwich: 8 silver pieces (SP)
2. Pork Ribs (half rack): 10 SP
3. Pork Chop with Roasted Vegetables: 12 SP
4. Pork Stir-Fry with Rice: 9 SP
5. Pork Schnitzel with Mashed Potatoes: 10 SP

6. Pork Chili:

   • Bowl of Pork Chili: 5 silver pieces (SP)
   • Pork Chili with Bread: 7 SP
   • Pork Chili with Rice: 8 SP
   • Pork Chili with Cheese: 9 SP
7.  

Chicken Meal Options:

1. Grilled Chicken Breast with Steamed Vegetables: 10 SP
2. Chicken Curry with Naan Bread: 9 SP
3. Roasted Half Chicken with Herbed Potatoes: 12 SP
4. Chicken Skewers with Rice Pilaf: 8 SP
5. Chicken and Mushroom Pie: 7 SP
   
   

6. Fruits:

   • Apple: 1 silver piece (SP) each
   • Orange: 2 SP each
   • Banana: 3 SP each
   • Grapes (bunch): 5 SP
   • Watermelon (slice): 10 SP
   • Pineapple (whole): 15 SP
7.  

8. Alcoholic Beverages:

   • Tankard of Ale: 3 copper pieces (CP)
   • Pint of Lager: 5 CP
   • Mug of Stout: 7 CP
   • Craft Beer (specialty): 1 SP
   • Pitcher of Ale (for sharing): 1 SP
   • Glass of House Red/White Wine: 5 SP
   • Fine Bottle of Red/White Wine: 10 SP
   • Shot of Whiskey: 5 SP