Darklight Tunnel

A subterranean causeway that links the cities of Frostbane and Qwesaar.
This path was constructed over the span of one hundred years and is now seldom used after Frostbane split away from the Driston Empire.

Purpose / Function

Originally a mineshaft that delved deep under Yillan Ridge from the city of Qwesaar in search of minerals and Loomstone, this elaborate labyrinth had several chambers and homes installed over its length. 
After years of tunnelling and diligent work, the path eventually broke out into lands west of the mountains into a vale that would be settled by these miners. The town would become called Frostbane and acted as a resource depot and small refineries. Eventually familes would come together here and the town grew into a prospering settlement in its own right. 
As both settlements grew Darklight Tunnel's purpose shifted from a mine network into a transportation route for goods and people.

Alterations

As Qwesaar and Frostbane grew the tunnel was widened and reinforced to allow more traffic to pass through it. Checkpoints were established to speed travel with rest stops and small underground markets for supplies.

Architecture

The tunnel is lined with large stone slabs and strong pillars that lift the roof nearly 30ft in the air. After the numerous expansions it is now possible for two carts to pass side by side along the full length, originally people would have to step into passing points to allow others past. 
There are ever burning flames that light the path for travellers. To walk the full length takes nearly seven days.

Defenses

The tunnel is guarded at both ends by heavy iron and stone gates, veritable fortresses in their own rights, to prevent unwelcome denizens of the tunnel from breaching into the cities. These were installed after a series of coordinated attacks from Underdark creatures that nearly destroyed Qwesaar in 1129. 
There are several garrisons at checkpoints along the tunnel to work as a response force for incursions.

Founding Date

1085

Type

Tunnel

Parent Location

Frostbane

Owner

Turmark Struth

Contested By

• Driston Empire