The Silver Anchor

The Silver Anchor is a nautically-themed tavern and inn located right on the Diamonds River, with an old dock stretching out to the water, where visitors can moor small boats. The building itself resembles a ship’s hull, with thick beams of dark wood and walls decorated with maritime relics—weathered nets, seashell chandeliers, and anchors salvaged from Theron Blackwater’s voyages. The interior is lit by soft lantern light, with the occasional creak of wood mimicking the sound of a ship at sea. Outside, tables under a canopy offer diners an unobstructed view of the river, and many enjoy the sound of water lapping at the dock as they sip on ale.
The tavern is always buzzing with conversation—merchants haggling over deals, sailors swapping tales of the seas, and adventurers planning their next journeys. The Silver Anchor’s charm lies in its relaxed, communal atmosphere, where everyone is treated like family, and no one leaves without hearing at least one of Captain Blackwater’s famous stories.
Captain Theron Blackwater, the owner of the tavern, is a retired and seasoned sailor known for his sharp wit and weathered charisma. Theron, a imperial man with deep tan skin and a salt-and-pepper beard, opened The Silver Anchor after his final voyage, a circumnavigation of Ferra, ended in the Diamonds River. There he accidentally crashed his ship into the docks of Gem Wall. Taking it as a sign, he chose to disassemble his ship, using the material to build the tavern that still stands today. The crew became his staff and he, a beloved figure among locals. He often regales guests with stories of his adventures at sea, earning him a reputation as a raconteur and a man who always welcomes travellers. 
== Menu ==
=== Food ===
* Captain’s Catch of the Day – 6 silver  
** Fresh fish or seafood, caught that day from the river or surrounding waters, grilled to perfection and served with roasted root vegetables and a lemon-butter sauce. The selection varies depending on the catch, but it’s always a favourite among regulars.
* Sea Dog’s Stew – 5 silver  
** A hearty seafood stew made from clams, mussels, shrimp, and chunks of river fish, slow-cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and a mix of herbs. It’s served with warm, crusty bread perfect for dipping.
* Anchor’s Roast Chicken – 4 silver  
** A whole chicken, slow-roasted with a blend of sea salt, rosemary, and garlic, served with buttery mashed potatoes and sautéed greens. This dish is a staple of the tavern’s menu, known for its succulent flavours and generous portions.
* Riverside Shepherd’s Pie – 4 silver  
** A comfort food favourite, this shepherd’s pie is made with tender lamb, carrots, onions, and peas, all stewed in a rich gravy and topped with fluffy mashed potatoes browned to a crisp. It’s a perfect dish for those looking to warm up on a cool evening.
* Sailor’s Delight Platter – 1.2 gold 
** A massive sharing platter featuring an assortment of grilled seafood, smoked meats, cheeses, olives, and fresh bread. This platter is ideal for larger groups and is commonly ordered by adventurers and sailors celebrating a successful journey.
* Rum-Soaked Honey Cakes – 4 silver  
** Small, dense honey cakes soaked in a sweet rum glaze, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. These cakes are a favourite dessert among sailors with a sweet tooth.
=== Drinks ===
* Silver Anchor Ale – 2 silver per mug  
** A rich, amber ale brewed locally, known for its smooth, malty taste with a hint of saltiness that makes it uniquely refreshing. It’s often described as the perfect companion to a fish meal.
* Captain’s Reserve Rum – 4 silver per shot  
** Theron’s personal stash of dark rum, aged for over a decade. It’s known for its deep caramel flavour with hints of vanilla and spice, and is often served straight or in speciality cocktails. The locals believe it brings good fortune if drunk before setting out on a long journey.
* River Maiden’s Wine – 6 silver per glass
** A crisp white wine, harvested from vineyards along the river’s edge, with notes of pear and citrus. It’s favoured by the rare merchants and aristocrats who pass through the tavern and enjoy a lighter drink with their meal.
* Gem Wall Cider – 8 copper per glass  
** A tart, refreshing cider made from apples grown in orchards surrounding the city, with a hint of cinnamon. Served chilled, it’s a popular drink during the warmer months.
* Salted Lime Grog – 6 silver per mug  
** A strong drink made with rum, lime juice, and a pinch of sea salt. This classic sailor’s grog is tangy, salty, and perfect for those looking for something a bit stronger after a long day of work or travel.
== Lodging ==
The Silver Anchor offers comfortable, modest accommodations. Most rooms are small but cosy, with wooden furnishings and windows that offer views of the river. The rooms are nautically themed, with ship-inspired designs like circular porthole windows, rope accents, and soft blue and white linens. The walls are adorned with paintings of ships and coastal landscapes, giving guests a sense of adventure while providing a restful night’s sleep.
* Deckhand’s Hammock – 1 silver per night  
** For the budget-conscious traveller, these hammock-style beds are available in a shared room. Deckhands from ships often rent these hammocks for a quick, cheap sleep before setting sail again. The room is open and communal, with a shared bathroom.
* Sailor’s Nook – 3 silver per night  
** A simple but clean and cosy room with a single bed, small writing table, and a window overlooking the river. The Sailor’s Nook is popular among travellers passing through, offering affordable and quiet lodging.
* First Mate’s Cabin – 7 silver per night  
** A comfortable, medium-sized room with a queen-sized bed, a writing desk, and a view of the riverside. Guests in this room receive a complimentary mug of Silver Anchor Ale each night of their stay.
* Captain’s Quarters – 4 gold per night  
** The finest room in the inn, with a spacious bed, private balcony overlooking the river, and a large desk for writing. This room is often booked by travelling merchants or important guests. The Captain’s Quarters includes a complimentary breakfast and bottle of the house rum upon arrival.
Category:Tavern/Inn