Dur'Khazun
Dur’Khazun is an ancient dwarven border-town nestled close to the rocky highlands on the central edge of Dhil Ahldur, where the mountains meet the low valleys that stretch into the human kingdom of Scaelor. Originally a fortified mountain fortress built during the Age of Dragons, it served as a vital trade and diplomatic post with the human village then called Quethsegol, under the rule of the Draconic Empire of Aurix.
Though time and empires have changed, Dur’Khazun has remained, quietly prospering, weathered by age, yet strong and respected. Today, it continues to be a vital hub of diplomacy and trade, with a dwarven envoy stationed in modern Cragyard, symbolizing the enduring alliance between Scaelor and Dhil Ahldur.
Government
Dur’Khazun is governed by a Stonemarshal, a hereditary title held by the ruling Clan for generations. The Stonemarshal answers to the Stone Sovereign of Dhil Ahldur but has broad autonomy in regional trade, defense, and diplomacy. A Council of Elders, made up of clan leaders, respected artisans, and guildmasters, advises on major decisions and disputes. This council also guides policy, maintains harmony among the clans, and ensures that tradition and innovation remain in balance.
Assets
Stone & Steel Smithy: Operated by Rurik Deepforge, a master weaponsmith who crafts both practical arms and ornamental pieces. Also sells enchanted gear.
The Glimmering Vault: A gem and jewelry shop run by Belga Shardeye, a jeweler who appraises magical gems and trades in ancient draconic relics.
Lorebinders' Scrollhouse: An archive and bookstore overseen by Archivist Kelbrin Loremantle, home to historical records dating back to the Age of Dragons.
Inns and Taverns:
- The Emberflask Tavern: Run by Dorra Emberbrew, a gregarious dwarven brewmaster known for her spiced ale. A popular meeting place for travelers and locals.
- The Resting Pick Inn: Managed by Mardin Coppernose, a retired miner turned innkeeper. Offers warm beds, strong drink, and better stories.
Guilds and Factions
- The Guild of Stone and Flame: The local artisan and mining guild, led by Thalgrin Hammerthane. Oversees mining operations, stonework, and local crafts.
- The Veinwatch: A militant faction dedicated to protecting the ancient trade routes and mountain paths, led by Captain Brynja Goldmark.
- The Ember Oath: A semi-secretive religious order venerating the ancestors and bloodlines of old, headed by High Flamekeeper Odrik Anvilchant.
History
Dur'Khazun was founded long before of the Age of Dragons, when dwarves of the eastern clans sought to establish a stronghold closer to the lowlands and the influence of the Draconic Empire of Aurix. Carved into a natural amphitheater of blackstone cliffs, the town quickly became a center for trade, diplomacy, and craftsmanship. It forged one of the earliest cross-cultural ties with the human city of Quethsegol, exchanging dwarven steel and gemcraft for exotic goods and draconic relics. Even as empires fell and the Age of Man began, Dur'Khazun endured, its deep halls and strong traditions keeping it anchored through centuries of change. Its survival is a testament to dwarven perseverance and the strength of well-forged alliances.
Points of interest
- The Wyrm Gate: A massive stone gate bearing draconic runes, once used to parley with emissaries of the Draconic Empire. Still guarded and honored.
- The Everforge: A forge powered by deep-earth geothermal vents. Produces some of the finest enchanted arms in the kingdom.
- The Shrine of the Five Ancestors: A reverent place where dwarves meditate and leave offerings to honor their lineage.
- The Old Market Vaults: Subterranean trading halls that once connected directly to Quethsegol via ancient tunnels, now mostly sealed.
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