Barside Bazaar
Manual of Purlan Smithing Techniques.

PRICE: 10,000 gold pieces

A wonderful guide to the ancient techniques of the old dwarven weaponsmiths, this edition has been copied by the skillful hands of the Brotherhood of the Tome. Constructed by these devout Brothers, this fine leather-bound tome would make a beautiful addition to any library. The front cover is adorned with the title, which is written in both the traditional Tok block script of ancient Purla and modern Ladish, the language of the author. The spine is embellished with the simple but striking pictogram of a hammer and anvil, set in stunning gold leaf. The back cover bears the holy symbol of the Brotherhood, and the year of manufacture - 989 RT. The corners of the covers are set with steel caps for added durability and aesthetics. For a final binding feature, a blue ribbon of the finest Steafanian silk is affixed to the inside front cover for use as an efficient page marker.

This copy was scribed in the hallowed halls of Falmouth Abbey, attached to the famous Sothicus Libri Mansio in Mount Soth City. The colophon details the making of this wonderful tome although, as with all Falmouth Abbey editions, the gifted people who transcribed and bound the tome remain anonymous. The original text was written by Alre Noconatha, the same sage who penned 'The Ancient Days of Dwarves,' and is wonderfully illuminated by the late, and talented, Garaud O'Bragi. This edition was masterfully copied, from the actual original, on the finest Jurilian parchment paper, using only the best inks and dyes, as well as lapis lazuli and gold leaf. The brilliant Brothers who constructed the tome also added a wonderful and infinitely useful new section, called an Index. This Index lists important words, topics and names in alphabetical order, and each list item references page numbers where that information can be found. The erudite manufacture of this tome makes it more than worth the listed price, which is quite low, all things considered.

The actual contents of the manual are no less spectacular. Taken from direct instruction of Purlan Master Smiths, many of them direct descendants of the Clan Khatar and from the rare notes of an erstwhile apprentice of Master Ilkhar Claidmor, this comprehensive work details the widely admired techniques of dwarven weapon smithing. While it is certainly an enlightening look at the history and culture of Purla, it is also a valuable learning tool for the dedicated weaponsmith. Only a gifted weaponsmith could conceivably employ these intricate techniques, but to be thus proficient would indeed make one a master of the craft.

All proceeds from sale of this tome go to furthering the valuable work of Falmouth Abbey, except a small portion of which attends to the Bazaar's modest upkeep.

January 25, 2000. Copyright Angelo Barovier 1998-2000.