Major Cities

Major Cities

Okenshield is said to have four major cities that “poke above ground”—each a shining example of dwarven engineering and cultural pride.

Stonehearth (Capital City)

1. Deepforge
2. Description:
   Deepforge is the heart of Okenshield’s industrial might. Its forges, smoke-stacked and partly exposed to the surface, echo the rhythmic pounding of hammers that have produced legendary weapons and armor for generations.
3. Key Figure:
   Master Artisan Kelgrim Emberforge – A visionary smith and leader of Deepforge’s artisan guild, Kelgrim is celebrated for his innovations in metalwork and his ability to blend traditional techniques with subtle magical enhancements.
4. Runestone
5. Description:
   Runestone is a city of lore and mysticism. With elegant spires carved from ancient rock and libraries filled with time-worn runic inscriptions, it is the cultural and scholarly heart of Okenshield.
6. Key Figure:
   High Scholar Brynjar Runecaller – A learned sage dedicated to preserving the ancient runes and histories, Brynjar ensures that the wisdom of the forefathers guides Okenshield’s future.
7. Ironpeak
8. Description:
   Perched atop a rugged outcrop near the mountain’s summit, Ironpeak is a fortified frontier city that serves as Okenshield’s lookout. Its strategic location offers commanding views of the surrounding lands, making it the first line of defense against surface threats.
9. Key Figure:
   Captain Sigurd Ironpeak – A battle-hardened military leader, Sigurd is responsible for the defense and rapid mobilization of troops in this critical border region.

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Surrounding Villages

In addition to its major cities, Okenshield is supported by a network of six villages that foster local trade, mining, and artisanal craftsmanship. These villages not only provide resources but also serve as cultural outposts that strengthen community ties across the mountain range:

1. Boulderfall
2. Overview:
   A bustling mining village known for its steep stone slopes and rich, untapped ore deposits. Its residents are experts in extracting raw materials from rugged terrain.
3. Mithrilbrook
4. Overview:
   Renowned for its nearly mythical vein of high-quality ore, Mithrilbrook is a small village where miners and smiths work in tandem to produce coveted mithril alloy used in the finest armaments.
5. Granitevale
6. Overview:
   Built around a naturally occurring valley with granite cliffs, Granitevale is a peaceful village known for its scenic beauty and sturdy stonework. It is a center for stonemasonry and intricate architectural design.
7. Stonehaven
8. Overview:
   A refuge for wandering dwarves and skilled craftsmen, Stonehaven serves as a waypoint for those traveling between major cities. Its hospitable inns and workshops are famed throughout the realm.
9. Deepdelve
10. Overview:
    Named for its extensive, ancient mines, Deepdelve is a village steeped in history. Many ancient techniques and traditions of mining are preserved here, passed down from generation to generation.
11. Runebrook
12. Overview:
    A small village where the study of runes and ancient lore remains a daily pursuit. Runebrook’s residents are both artisans and scholars, dedicated to recording the mystical heritage of Okenshield.