Hold

A hold or a stronghold was the fortified home of a dwarven clan. Typically constructed high in the mountains or deep underground, holds were built over some natural resource, usually a vein of precious minerals. They were also deeply private places, intended merely for the clan and no outsiders. The ideal hold was entirely self-sufficient, requiring as little contact with the outside world as possible, though this was often an impossible ideal rather than a practical reality.

Locations

While each hold was unique, they often shared a number of common features, specific to dwarven culture or daily life.

• Commons: A central meeting place for the clan to gather, the commons was where the dwarves would take their meals and drink together. The commons were open to all at any hour of the day, though meals and drinks were typically served as discreet times.
• Guest Gate: The "main" entrance to most dwarven holds, the Guest Gate was where what little trade the hold had was conducted. Originating during the Glimmergem Rebellion, Guest Gates were often designed to look as intimidating as possible, to deter potential invaders, and often came armed with one or many booby traps.
• Thane's Hall: Also sometimes called the Peer's Hall, this chamber was where the thane – and Peer Council – would hold court. It often featured a throne or high seat for the thane but enough seating to represent a plurality of the clan's Peer Council, even if only symbolically.

Campaigns

The Menagerie

• Khûm: In addition to visiting Truethrone, a large section of this book takes place in Snowperch, the hold of Clan Bracebow.