Keeper of the Deep

The title of Keeper of the Deep in Khazadthur isn't conferred by formal proccedures, it's a position reached through experience, wisdom, and earned respect among the dwarven populace. Here are some of the qualifications that are typically considered necessary:   Profound Wisdom: As the title suggests, the Keeper of the Deep is someone who is deeply in tune with the wisdom of the ages, steeped in the history, traditions, and lore of Khazadthur. They are expected to have extensive knowledge of dwarven culture, the ancient Deep Speech, and the history of their people.   Respected Leadership: A candidate for the Keeper of the Deep must have proven themselves as a leader. This doesn't necessarily mean they have led in a formal capacity before (though it often does), but they must be well respected and their wisdom and judgment trusted by their peers.   Valuable Contribution: The Keeper of the Deep is also typically someone who has made significant contributions to Khazadthur society. This could be in any area – from the arts to defense, diplomacy to industry – but the individual should have a track record of serving their community and bettering life for their fellow dwarves.   Stalwart Resolve: As a leader in a society that prides itself on determination and resilience, the Keeper of the Deep must demonstrate an unyielding spirit and a commitment to preserving and protecting their home and their people.   Approval of the Circle: Ultimately, the final decision on who becomes the Keeper of the Deep rests with the Circle of the Deep. A prospective Keeper must have the approval and trust of this influential council, further emphasizing the importance of respect and reputation in dwarven society.   Remember that these qualifications can vary depending on the unique circumstances of each dwarven community and the challenges they face at the time of selection. It's also important to note that these qualifications are often intertwined - a candidate who is strong in one area is often strong in others as well.

As the Keeper of the Deep, Drakhar Stonefist carries the heavy responsibility of overseeing the well-being and progress of Khazadthur. His responsibilities are numerous and profound, reflecting the importance of his position:   Stewardship of Tradition: As the embodiment of the deep roots of Khazadthur, the Keeper is responsible for upholding and preserving dwarven traditions. This includes maintaining a deep knowledge of historical events, traditional rites, and cultural practices, and passing this wisdom down to younger generations.   Leadership of the Circle of the Deep: As the Head of the Circle of the Deep, the Keeper leads the council in making decisions that impact the entire kingdom. This involves a careful balancing act of taking into account the varied viewpoints and interests within the Circle and coming to a consensus.   Guardianship of Khazadthur's Secrets: The Keeper holds the responsibility of protecting the secrets and mysteries of Khazadthur. This includes the knowledge of hidden passages, rare minerals, ancient relics, and forgotten tales that are passed down from one Keeper to the next.   Strategic Defense: The Keeper is deeply involved in ensuring the safety and security of Khazadthur. This means coordinating with the Warden of the Walls on military matters, fortification strategies, and defense tactics.   Diplomatic Relations: The Keeper, in concert with the Herald of the Open, oversees Khazadthur's relationships with other entities beyond the Open Border. This involves participating in diplomatic negotiations and setting trade policies.   Symbol of Unity: Lastly, the Keeper serves as a symbol of unity for the dwarves of Khazadthur. His actions and words reflect the shared values and collective spirit of the dwarven people.   Overall, while the Keeper of the Deep does not involve himself in the day-to-day running of each aspect of Khazadthur, he is involved in guiding and influencing the general course of the kingdom and its inhabitants.

The title of Keeper of the Deep was formed during the Grey Years, soon after the founding of Khazadthur. The first Keeper was the founder of Khazadthur himself, King Brawin, who recognized the importance of safeguarding the culture, traditions, and secrets of the newly formed dwarven realm. He played a crucial role in the formation of the Circle of the Deep, establishing the structure of governance that Khazadthur follows to this day. Another significant event was during the Necrons Split. It was the Keeper of the Deep at the time, Tharok Ironheart, who led the kingdom through the period of chaos and instability, strengthening the defenses of Khazadthur, and ensuring the dwarves' survival.   The role of the Keeper of the Deep was also pivotal during the Rot in Eastrix. The decision to isolate Khazadthur and close the borders to protect the kingdom from the spreading corruption was a defining moment in the title's history, further solidifying the importance and respect for the position.

The Keeper of the Deep has a profound cultural impact, especially within Khazadthur. He is seen as a symbol of resilience, wisdom, and leadership. The position commands great respect and is seen as the epitome of dwarven values and traditions. To the dwarves, the Keeper is not just a leader but a guardian of their way of life, the link between the past and the present, between the deep core of the world and the surface. In a society that deeply values ancestry and tradition, this connection is incredibly significant. Outside of Khazadthur, the title is viewed with a degree of awe and respect, though interpretations can vary based on cultural differences. To the Accordians, the Keeper represents a unique blend of leadership, mystery, and cultural richness. They see the position as a testament to the deep roots and unwavering spirit of the Khazadthur.   For other entities, the Keeper of the Deep is a diplomatic representative of Khazadthur, the voice that speaks for the dwarven kingdom in international matters. Despite potential conflicts or disagreements, the position's weight and importance are universally recognized. In essence, the Keeper of the Deep is more than just a title - it is an embodiment of the spirit and heritage of Khazadthur, leaving an indelible mark on its history and culture.