The Marketplace

The Marketplace, also known as the Bazaar, sits atop the Temple complex in the middle levels of The Skeld. This bustling trade center serves as the economic heart of the city, where clan crafters sell their goods and visiting merchants hawk exotic wares.

Layout and Structure

Built on the Temple's roof, the Marketplace features:

• Permanent Stalls: Stone booths for established clan merchants
• Temporary Spaces: Areas for visiting caravan traders
• Central Plaza: Open area for auctions and announcements
• Storage Chambers: Secure rooms carved into the shell walls

Market Days

The Marketplace operates on a regular schedule:

• Daily Trading: Local clan goods and necessities
• Caravan Days: When merchant trains arrive (irregular)
• Festival Markets: Special celebrations with rare items
• Auction Days: Monthly sales of valuable finds

Common Goods

Clan Specialties

• Metalwork: Tools, weapons, and decorative items
• Textiles: Desert-appropriate clothing and gear
• Pottery: Water vessels and storage containers
• Leather Goods: Armor, bags, and survival equipment

Caravan Imports

• Spices and Herbs: From distant lands
• Luxury Goods: Silk, jewelry, and art
• Exotic Materials: Rare metals and magical components
• Books and Maps: Knowledge from other cities

Notable Merchants

Keth Ironscale (General Goods)

The most successful local merchant, Keth's stall dominates the eastern section. Known for fair prices on essentials and shrewd bargaining on luxuries.

Zara Goldweaver (Textiles)

Master weaver whose desert cloaks are prized throughout the caravan route. Her patterns are said to bring good luck to travelers.

Thane Ironback (Weapons & Armor)

The city's premier smith, whose stall showcases the finest metalwork in The Skeld. Custom orders require advance payment and patience.

Market Rules

The Marketplace operates under strict clan law:

• Fair Dealing: Cheating customers results in banishment
• Water Tax: All transactions include a small water fee
• No Violence: Disputes must be settled through arbitration
• Clan Priority: Local needs come before export sales

Prices and Bartering

The Marketplace uses a mixed economy:

• Coin: Gold, silver, and copper accepted
• Barter: Trade goods for goods
• Labor: Work in exchange for items
• Water Credits: The most valuable currency

Special Events

Caravan Arrival

When merchant trains reach The Skeld, the entire Marketplace transforms into a festival atmosphere with exotic goods, entertainment, and news from distant lands.

Artifact Auctions

Monthly auctions of items recovered from ancient ruins. These events draw collectors and scholars from across the desert.

Seasonal Festivals

During clan celebrations, the Marketplace features special foods, ceremonial items, and traditional crafts not available at other times.