Kings Harvest Hall

The indisputable heart of Kingsmarket is Kings Harvest Hall, a grand timber-framed pavilion capped with a steep slate roof. The building is flanked by several carved wooden columns, each depicting scenes from Orthay’s history. Its wide doorways to the north and south invite locals and tourists alike to partake in the sights, sounds and flavours therein.

Interior

The inside of the pavilion is arranged in colourful rows of stalls, with many accompanied by an equally eye-catching sign. Hundreds of lanterns warmly glow from the crossbeams, lending the hall a welcoming hue at all hours of the day and night.

Farmers from across Northern Valoria proudly display crates of fresh produce, meats and textiles, while spice merchants from across the sea beckon customers with fragrant saffron, firepepper flakes and smoked lotus salt. Bakers fill the air with the aroma of honey-glazed pastries and freshly baked loaves, still piping hot from the oven.

At the centre of the hall is a communal seating area. Its sturdy oak tables offer patrons a place to stop for a meal, discuss recent events or watch bards performing for tips. The melodic chaos of it all creates a festival atmosphere; indeed, many of the Hall’s patrons simply visit as an escape from the drudgery of daily life.

Holman Goodbarrel

Presiding over the hall is Master Steward Holman Goodbarrel, a stout, good-natured halfling with a keen love of food and wine. He ensures the hall remains clean, safe and honest, settling any vendor disputes with measured authority.

Near Holman’s office stands the Harvest Board, an informal bulletin board where he posts job notices, adventuring contracts and community announcements. It has become something of a fixture of the hall, especially among budding adventurers seeking simple work.