The Iron Gates

The Iron Gates is a colossal bridge that spans the northern expanse between the two continents of Aspor and Ofrana, serving as a vital connection across the Sidhe Ocean's treacherous waters. Slightly longer than the Enlightened Overpass, the Iron Gates is the largest and most ambitious structure ever constructed by mortal hands, standing as a testament to engineering prowess and determination. The bridge was initially forged from massive iron beams and plates, though time and the corrosive sea air have taken their toll over the centuries. Many alterations and repairs have been made over the years, with entire sections reinforced to combat the rust and decay caused by the ocean's high salt content. Larger-scale renovations have locked the Iron Gates in a state of magical stasis, preventing further corrosion and preserving the structure's integrity. Ancient runes and arcane seals have been placed throughout the bridge’s framework, freezing time for the metal itself and preventing it from rusting or flaking away. The bridge now gleams with a mixture of aged iron and arcane energy, a fusion of mortal craftsmanship and magical innovation.
Points of Interest The Stasis Pylons Scattered across the Iron Gates, these massive pylons house the arcane mechanisms responsible for maintaining the bridge’s state of stasis. Each pylon contains intricate machinery powered by both magical and mechanical energy, and they are guarded by automatons and constructs built into the bridge itself. Maintenance crews, composed of both engineers and mages, regularly inspect the pylons to ensure the enchantments remain intact. These pylons emit a faint, glowing light that bathes the surrounding metal in a soft, otherworldly glow.
The Giff Hangars Hidden beneath the Iron Gates, deep within the support beams and towering columns, lie the Giff Hangars, where the Giff—a race of militaristic, spacefaring humanoids resembling hippopotamuses—have hidden their spaceships. These vessels, crafted for interplanar travel, are a secret to most of Astrium's inhabitants. The Giff, guardians of the multiverse, use these hidden ships to monitor and defend against multiplanar threats. The hangars themselves are vast, echoing chambers reinforced with powerful shielding magic to hide their presence from prying eyes. Access to the hangars is through concealed passages that only the Giff and their trusted allies know.
The Rustveil Arch Despite the stasis enchantments, an older section of the Iron Gates—known as the Rustveil Arch—is slowly eroding due to a magical disruption that occurred centuries ago. This segment of the bridge is characterized by crumbling iron and twisted metal beams, creating a hauntingly beautiful ruin. It is believed that something broke the stasis enchantment in this area, and scholars suspect that a powerful entity or artifact might be buried beneath the ruins. Adventurers often explore the Rustveil Arch, hoping to uncover ancient relics or uncover the truth of what caused the enchantment to fail.
The Gilded Watchtower Standing at the center of the Iron Gates is the Gilded Watchtower, a colossal structure that acts as both a lighthouse and a defensive outpost. The tower is plated with golden iron, enchanted to resist the salt of the sea, and its light can be seen for miles. From here, sentries keep watch over the bridge and the surrounding ocean, ever-vigilant for threats from sea, air, or other planes. Inside the tower, Giff officers and their mortal allies monitor multiversal disturbances and coordinate their hidden defense efforts.
The Bridge Markets Along the wide walkways of the Iron Gates, thriving markets have sprung up where merchants and traders sell goods to travelers. The markets are filled with the sound of haggling, the clinking of iron tools, and the scent of saltwater. Everything from exotic spices to fey-touched artifacts can be found here, and it is said that some traders possess knowledge of the Giff’s hidden operations. The Bridge Markets are an eclectic mix of cultures and races from both continents, offering a unique experience for those traveling between Aspor and Ofrana.
The Iron Gates is more than just a bridge—it is a symbol of the ingenuity of mortals, a hidden fortress for interplanar defense, and a bustling hub of commerce and trade.

Purpose / Function

The Iron Gates were constructed over the course of two centuries to provide ways for people to travel between continents without boat for those that couldnt afford. It was chosen in the location  to be on the opposite side the the Enlightened overpass that appeared on the south side of the continents.

Alterations

Many alterations and repairs have occured over the years, with many of the alteration done to reinforce sections that have been flaking away due to salt content of the sea rusting away the Iron. Bigger alteractions have locked the Iron gates into a form of stasis so that the salt doesnt affect the quality of the structure.

Founding Date

37AD - 276AD

Alternative Names

Rusted Chasm

Type

Bridge