When the Codominium dissolved, the extensive Khuzan road network that once covered Hârn was reclaimed by nature and forgotten. Stone bridges were an important part of that network. Unfortunately, most of them have been destroyed by erosion and lack of maintenance over the last millennia.
One example of these stone bridges is mostly intact. A great storm shifted the riverbed and left it high and dry on the bank of the river. Fifty years ago, it was discovered by Ulm of Staggon. Where others saw a ruin, Ulm saw two strong walls and dry arch for a roof. He converted the ruin into his home over the course of two decades. Ulm also earned a reputation as an eccentric hermit.
Like previous HWG articles, the ruined bridge is intended to be placed wherever the GM requires. It is likely somewhere between Kiraz and Azadmere, but the Khuzdul had outposts all over the island, so it could be almost anywhere. In keeping with Ulm being a hermit, it should be somewhere off the beaten track. Ulm has a secret source of wealth which he spends in the nearest town for supplies he can’t produce himself.
The article also includes a full colour, illustrated Friends, Foes and Followers (FFF) entry for the hermit, Ulm of Staggon.
The article was edited by Rob Barnes. Richard Luschek drew the excellent colour illustrations and assisted with the map design and final improvements. Bill Beane provided several custom map icons. Thank you to all of them for their help; it is much appreciated. Any errors that remain are my responsibility.
by Kerry Mould
