Deepening Gate the Vaulted City

You wish to know about our city and the clan who keeps those great walls that close off the cavern beyond? Then best you have a seat and open your ears longshanks I won't being saying it twice.
We Dvergar, descendants of the ancient Duergar, have toiled for generations to construct these mighty gates. Each stone was painstakingly placed by the calloused hands of our ancestors, and their blood has seeped into every inch of this stone, a testament to their sacrifice. We bear the weight of their legacy, and it is both an honor and a privilege to offer our lives in defense of the Deepening Vaults.
We stand as unwavering guardians, resolute in our duty to keep the darkness at bay. The malevolent forces that lurk beyond these gates seek to encroach upon the realms above, to spread their corruption and wreak havoc upon all that is pure and blessed by the golden sun. But we shall not falter, nor shall we retreat.
Our resolve is unyielding, for we understand the consequences of failure. We have witnessed firsthand the decay and corruption that afflicted our people, the Duergar, as they succumbed to greed and betrayal. We, who stood idle in the face of their transgressions, have learned the price of inaction. We carry the weight of their sins upon our shoulders, and we are determined to make amends.
In service to our sworn duty, we renounce the name Duergar and embrace the mantle of the Dvergar, the deep beards. We seek redemption through unflinching loyalty to the Mountain Throne and our solemn vow to protect the world above from the terrors that dwell below. We know that only through duty and sacrifice can our sins be absolved, and so we offer ourselves willingly.
We are dour and grim, for there is no room for mirth or pleasure in our chosen path. We deny ourselves the luxuries and joys that others may indulge in, for our purpose transcends personal satisfaction. Our mines delve deep into the earth, unearthing precious resources such as iron, adamantine, and Mithril. These riches are not for our own enrichment, but to forge weapons and armor that will aid us in our eternal battle against the encroaching darkness.
Gold, silver, and gemstones hold no allure for us, for we understand that true beauty lies in fulfilling our duty. Any riches we acquire, which do not directly aid us in our cause, are traded to those who can appreciate their splendor. Our reward lies not in earthly treasures but in the forgiveness and salvation we seek from the gods and our ancestral spirits.
We are staunch and fearless warriors, standing resolute against any foe that dares to emerge from the deep dark. Goblinoids, orcs, Duergar, Trow, and the abominations that crawl forth from Old Night—they all tremble before our unyielding resolve. We document their horrors, ensuring their deeds are not forgotten like the Duergar who came before us. But unlike our corrupted brethren, we do not merely defend as they once did; we actively hunt down these nightmarish creatures. We seek them out in their lairs, burning their nests and cleansing the world of their twisted existence. We track their influence as it seeps into the world above, rooting out their wretched cults and consigning their cultic witches to the pyres.
We understand that our purpose is greater than ourselves. We fight not for personal glory or satisfaction, but to protect the realms blessed by the golden sun. Our lives are but a small sacrifice in the grand tapestry of our penance. We forge ahead, steadfast and unwavering, until our hammers fall silent and our final breaths are drawn in the heat of battle. It is then, and only then, that we may find forgiveness and rest.
We are the Dvergar, the true heirs of the Duergar, uncorrupted and penitent. We guard the Deepening Vaults with unwavering determination, standing as the last line of defense against the encroaching darkness. Our purpose is clear, our duty unyielding. We shall not waver, for it is through our sacrifice that the realms above shall remain steadfast and untainted.
-Gyrmwer Ironshod Dvergar lore keeper

Demographics

In the bustling city of Deepening Gate, the majority of the population consists of dwarves belonging to Clan Dvegar. These dwarves, who have embraced their unique heritage and the path of penance, form the backbone of the city's society. They are deeply committed to their duty and the redemption they seek through their service to the world above.
Among the Dvegar dwarves, a smaller number of Dhargar dwarves can also be found. These Dhargar dwarves, known for their regal bearing and ancient lineage, hold positions of authority and influence within the city. They provide guidance and support to the Dvegar, upholding the traditions and values of their people.
Alongside the dwarves, there is a diverse mix of other inhabitants in Deepening Gate. Various gnomes, known for their affinity for craftsmanship and engineering, have found a home within the city. They contribute their unique skills and perspectives, enriching the city's industrial and technological advancements.
While the dwarves of Clan Dvegar form the largest ethnic group in Deepening Gate, the presence of other races is acknowledged and respected as much as one can expect from the dour faces dwarves of the Dvergar.

Government

In the city of Deepening Gate, the Dvergar pledge their loyalty and fealty to the Dhargar and the king who sits upon the mountain throne. While they reject any noble titles for themselves, the Dvergar abide by the rule of a steward appointed by the Dhargar King. This steward serves as the leader of Deepening Gate and governs with the guidance and authority bestowed upon them by the king.
To assist the steward in governing the city, a council of Dvergar is appointed. This council consists of respected individuals who are entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the city's army and managing various guilds. They work hand in hand with the steward, providing counsel and assistance in matters pertaining to defense, infrastructure, commerce, and other important aspects of city life.
The council of Dvergar ensures that the city of Deepening Gate remains well protected and fortified against external threats. They organize and maintain the city's army, training its warriors and strategizing for the defense of the realm. Additionally, they oversee the different guilds within the city, fostering economic growth, regulating trade, and preserving the traditions and craftsmanship for which the Dvergar are renowned.

Defences

The defenses of Deepening Gate are formidable, reflecting the Dvergar's commitment to protecting the city and the Deep Vaults from the encroaching darkness. The ancient stone walls that encircle the city rise to an impressive height of a hundred feet, instilling a sense of awe and intimidation in any would-be assailants. These massive walls, constructed with precision and strength, serve as a barrier against the forces that seek to breach the city's defenses.
Crafted from the resilient material known as Adamantium, the gates of Deepening Gate are virtually impenetrable. This exceptional metal ensures that the city's main entry points are well-protected and fortified against direct attacks. The Dvergar understand that the integrity of the gates is vital to maintaining the security of the city and the Deep Vaults beyond.
To further enhance the city's defenses, Deepening Gate boasts an intricate network of murder holes, sniper nests, and redoubts along its walls. These strategic positions provide vantage points for archers and marksmen to rain down a hail of arrows and bolts upon any approaching adversaries. The defenders of Deepening Gate use these advantageous positions to repel attackers with deadly accuracy and precision.
The walls of Deepening Gate are adorned with bristling balista bolts, ready to be launched at a moment's notice. These powerful siege weapons are capable of inflicting devastating damage upon enemy forces, providing a significant deterrent against any who dare to threaten the city. The sight of these menacing projectiles serves as a clear warning to potential attackers, reinforcing the notion that breaching the city's defenses will come at a great cost.
Approaching Deepening Gate is a perilous endeavor for any hostile force. The area surrounding the city is a treacherous forest of traps, spikes, and ditches. These cunningly designed obstacles are intended to impede and ensnare enemies, effectively slowing their advance and leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks from the city's defenders. The Dvergar understand the value of creating a deadly and inhospitable terrain to deter would-be invaders.
The defenses of Deepening Gate stand as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Dvergar. The combination of towering stone walls, adamantine gates, strategically positioned snipers, and a deadly landscape of traps ensures that the city remains well-guarded and impervious to all but the most determined and resourceful adversaries.

Industry & Trade

Deepening Gate's primary industry revolves around warfare, as the forges and craftsmen of the city are wholly dedicated to equipping the Dvergar in their eternal battle against the nightmarish creatures that lurk within the depths of the earth. The relentless onslaught from these subterranean monsters drives the city's forges and craftsmen to produce exceptional weapons, armor, and defensive structures, ensuring the Dvergar are well-prepared to repel any threat that arises from the deep.
The skilled artisans and blacksmiths of Deepening Gate tirelessly ply their trade, honing their craft to create weapons of exceptional quality. These weapons, forged with meticulous attention to detail, are specifically designed to combat the horrors that dwell in the depths. Its armor is thick and carefuly designed to ward away the ripping claws and slavering jaws of the things that they encounter on their partols of the twisted underground realms beyond the Gate.
Despite its focus on warfare, Deepening Gate surprisingly thrives as a trading hub. The city's safety and stability have made it an ideal waypoint for traders who traverse the treacherous underground pathways between deep mines and subterranean city-states to the surface and back. The presence of Deepening Gate provides a secure environment for these traders, allowing them to conduct business and exchange goods without fear of the lurking terrors of the deep.
The robust trade network that flows through Deepening Gate contributes to the city's economic growth and prosperity. Dvergar merchants, known for their shrewdness and business acumen, capitalize on the city's strategic location to facilitate the exchange of resources, minerals, and rare artifacts between various underground communities and the surface world. Deepening Gate serves as a vital link in this subterranean trade network, fostering economic ties and nurturing the interdependence between different dwarven and gnome settlements.

Infrastructure

In Deepening Gate, the city's primary infrastructure revolves around the immense gates and fortified walls that safeguard the entrance to the Deep Vaults, the sacred domain of the Dvergar dwarves. These towering structures serve as the first line of defense against the encroaching darkness and the horrors that lie within the depths.
A significant portion of the city's resources and efforts are dedicated to the maintenance and fortification of these formidable walls. Skilled craftsmen and engineers tirelessly work to ensure the structural integrity of the gates and walls, repairing any damages and reinforcing their defenses. The stonemasons meticulously carve and shape the stones, imbuing them with both practical functionality and artistic beauty, as a testament to the craftsmanship of the Dvergar.
Deepening Gate's armory and weapon caches are strategically positioned along the walls, readily accessible to the city's soldiers and defenders. These armaments include a wide array of weapons and armor, meticulously crafted by expert blacksmiths to provide the utmost protection and effectiveness in battle. The training grounds and barracks house a formidable army, constantly honing their combat skills and ready to mobilize at a moment's notice.
To supplement the strength of their soldiers, the Dvergar employ a sophisticated system of traps and defensive mechanisms along the walls and within the gates. These traps are ingeniously designed to deter and incapacitate any intruders who dare to breach their defenses. The Dvergar constantly refine and improve these mechanisms, ensuring they remain effective against the ever-evolving threats that lurk in the darkness.
The infrastructure of Deepening Gate revolves around the protection and preservation of the city and its inhabitants. The focus on maintaining the gates, walls, traps, weaponry, and the military forces highlights the unwavering dedication of the Dvergar to their sworn duty. Every effort is made to fortify the city against the encroachment of evil, ensuring that the realms above remain safe from the perils of the Deep Vaults.
While other aspects of city life exist, such as dwellings, marketplaces, and communal spaces, these elements are intricately woven into the larger infrastructure of defense. The safety and security of the city and its people take precedence above all else, as the Dvergar understand that without protection, the foundations of their society would crumble.

Districts

Deepening Gate, true to the pragmatic nature of the Dvergar, possesses a simple and efficient layout that focuses on functionality and practicality. The city is divided into a small number of districts, each serving a specific purpose and contributing to the smooth operation of the community.
Citadel District: At the heart of Deepening Gate lies the Citadel District, home to the towering citadel that houses the ruling steward and the council of Dvergar. This district serves as the administrative and political center of the city, where important decisions are made, and governance is carried out. It is a place of authority and leadership, symbolizing the unwavering commitment of the Dvergar to their sworn duty.
Forge District: Adjacent to the Citadel District, the Forge District is a hub of industry and craftsmanship. This is where the skilled Dvergar artisans ply their trade, forging weapons, armor, and other essential tools required for the defense of the city and the pursuit of their duty. The ring of hammers and the glow of molten metal permeate the air, signifying the ceaseless industry and dedication of the craftsmen.
Barracks District: The Barracks District houses the city's soldiers and military infrastructure. Here, training grounds, armories, and barracks are strategically located to facilitate the readiness and preparedness of the Dvergar's formidable army. The soldiers undergo rigorous training and drills, honing their skills and ensuring they are always prepared to defend Deepening Gate against any threat.
Market District: The Market District is a bustling hub of commerce and trade, where goods from within and beyond the city are exchanged. Dvergar merchants, as well as visiting traders from other races, gather here to offer their wares. The market square bustles with activity, and the voices of haggling and bartering fill the air. The market serves as a vital economic center, supporting the needs of the Dvergar community and facilitating the acquisition of resources required for their mission.
Residential District: Surrounding the core districts, the Residential District is where the Dvergar and other inhabitants of Deepening Gate make their homes. It consists of modest dwellings and communal living spaces, designed with functionality and practicality in mind. The residential area fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie among the inhabitants, supporting the unity and cooperation necessary for the shared goal of protecting the city and fulfilling their duty.
Deepening Gate's simply named layout emphasizes efficiency, ensuring that the various aspects of city life are well-organized and optimized to serve the needs of the Dvergar. It reflects their focus on their duty and tendency to do away with frivolity.

Assets

Deepening Gate is blessed with access to abundant and rich mines in the region, making it a vital trade hub for the dwarves and gnomes who predominantly dwell underground. The city's wealth is primarily derived from these prosperous mines, allowing it to sustain its operations and fulfill its duty as defenders of the Deep Vaults.
While a significant portion of the city's resources is sent as tribute to the Dhargar, who oversee the region, Deepening Gate efficiently manages its remaining wealth to enhance its military structure. The Dvergar understand the importance of allocating resources swiftly and without unnecessary complications. They prioritize the reinforcement of their defensive capabilities, ensuring that the city remains well-protected against the encroaching darkness.
The riches extracted from the mines are promptly directed toward strengthening the city's military infrastructure. This includes the acquisition of advanced weaponry, the improvement of armor and equipment, and the recruitment and training of skilled soldiers. The Dvergar value the swift and efficient allocation of resources, recognizing the crucial role it plays in maintaining the city's preparedness for any potential threats.
Deepening Gate operates with a no-nonsense approach when it comes to channeling its resources. There is little room for excessive bureaucracy or unnecessary delays. The focus is on maximizing the military potential of the city, as the Dvergar understand that their duty requires constant vigilance and readiness.
By swiftly and efficiently directing resources into their military structure, Deepening Gate ensures that its defenses remain strong and capable. The city stands as a bastion of protection, thanks to the pragmatic and decisive approach taken in managing its wealth. Through their steadfast commitment to their duty and the effective allocation of resources, the Dvergar continue to uphold their role as guardians of the Deep Vaults and the realms above.

Guilds and Factions

Deepening Gate, like many dwarven cities, boasts a range of guilds that oversee various areas of craft and service within the community. However, unlike in other Dwarven Holds, the guilds associated with the city's armed forces hold a position of unparalleled prestige and wield significant influence in political matters.
In Deepening Gate, the guilds associated with the military and defense are highly regarded and held in utmost esteem. Their members are seen as the protectors of the city and the vanguards against the horrors that dwell in the deep earth. As such, their opinions and expertise carry considerable weight in the political landscape of the city. The wealth, power, and prestige of the Dvergar are intrinsically tied to their ability to fulfill their duty and safeguard the great Cavern, preventing the terrors of the deep from launching attacks on the surface world.
While factional conflicts may arise in other societies, the Dvergar of Deepening Gate are a tightly-knit group with a shared cultural perspective on redemption through duty. The overarching belief in the necessity of their mission unites them, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and common purpose. The city's guilds, including those associated with the armed forces, work together harmoniously to serve the greater goal of protecting the realms above from the encroaching darkness.
The shared cultural views and the importance placed on fulfilling their duty create a strong sense of unity among the Dvergar. This unity extends to their approach to politics, with the guilds associated with the armed forces holding a prominent position due to their vital role in upholding the city's defense. The cooperation and mutual respect between guilds and individuals ensure that Deepening Gate remains a well-coordinated and cohesive society, driven by a singular purpose—redeeming themselves through their unwavering commitment to duty.

History

Long ago, the first Dwarven king, Garrdok, divided his vast kingdom among his three sons. To Dharnok, the eldest, he granted the majestic mountains. Harn, the youngest, was given the rolling hills, while Duern, the middle son, inherited the wealth of the deep caverns. Along with this wealth came the responsibility of safeguarding the depths from the malevolent forces that lurked there.
Deepening Gate, the great city of Duern, was established with a singular purpose—to defend against the creatures that emerged from the depths of the earth and threatened the lands of the dwarves. Among the oldest of the dwarven holds, this fortress city stands as a testament to the determination and duty of its founder. Duern was a solemn and devoted dwarf, and under his rule, the Duergar became the first guardians of Deepening Gate.
Throughout the ages, the gates of Deepening Gate have withstood countless threats. From the ancient High Ghoblyns to eldritch horrors and subterranean dragons, the city has held firm against their onslaught. However, it was the treacherous betrayal of Falknyr Stoneblood, son of the executed king Fafram Stoneblood, that led to the breach of the gates. Falknyr, in alliance with the Swart Alflar and their mercenaries, opened the gates, allowing them to strike at the Mountain Throne from below. This act of betrayal would eventually result in the banishment of the Duergar and the subsequent curse of the grey soul.
The majority of Clan Duergar were cast beyond the very gates they once defended, cursed with grey skin, hearts, and emotions. However, those Duergar who remained loyal to their kin were spared from the curse and granted Deepening Gate. They embraced a new name, the Dvergar, and dedicated themselves to seeking redemption for the sins of their former clan. They have steadfastly held Deepening Gate, unwavering in their commitment to their duty and the pursuit of penance. Their primary goal is to bar the entry of wicked creatures attempting to breach the Deep Vaults, protecting the realms above from the darkness that dwells below.

Points of interest

Deepening Gate, the formidable dwarven city, boasts several notable points of interest that showcase its rich history and cultural significance:
The Great Walls and Gate: Standing tall and impenetrable, the grand walls of Deepening Gate are a testament to the city's strength and resilience. These sturdy defenses serve as the first line of protection against any potential threats from the deep earth.
The Halls of the Iron soul: Among the oldest structures in the city, the Halls of Iron holds great historical and religious significance. Once the palace of the kings, it has been transformed into a majestic temple dedicated to the Dwarven Gods. The Halls of Iron are a revered place of worship and a center for religious ceremonies and rituals.
The Wall of the Honored Dead: A somber and revered monument, the Wall of the Honored Dead stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who have valiantly defended Deepening Gate. Constructed from exquisite marble, the wall bears the carved names of the fallen heroes who gave their lives in defense of the city and its people. It serves as a solemn reminder of the cost of protecting the city and honors the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. While such walls are common in many dwarven holds the wall in Deepening Gate is one of the largest and oldest having stood undamaged for eons adding name upon name with each lost patrol or attempt by the forces of evil to batter down its defences.

Architecture

The architectural style known as Grim-Dour, prevalent in Deepening Gate, reflects the pragmatic and practical nature of the Dvergar and Duergar dwarves, occasionally seen in the Dhargar as well. Grim-Dour architecture is characterized by its simplicity and lack of external adornment. The structures are solid and squat, with sharp edges and a utilitarian design.
One striking feature of Grim-Dour architecture is the absence of external artwork. Unlike later dwarven architectural styles that showcase intricate carvings and statues, Grim-Dour structures stand in stark contrast with their smoothed stone exteriors. The focus of this style is on functionality and defense, with minimal decorative elements visible to outsiders.
Most of the carvings and artistic expressions in Grim-Dour architecture are internalized, hidden from the view of potential enemies or thieves. Even then, such embellishments are sparse and mainly reserved for the residences of the wealthy and influential members of the community. The Grim-Dour style prioritizes security and practicality over extravagant ornamentation.

Geography

Deepening Gate is situated in a strategic location within the subterranean realms. It is positioned beneath the Jotun-Brides Tears, an under-river that flows through the underground landscape. This river serves as a vital water source for the city and provides a natural barrier to potential invaders.
The city itself is nestled within a cavern that acts as a critical chokepoint along the largest natural tunnel complex in the region. This tunnel complex serves as the gateway to the deeper strata of the subterranean realms, leading to vast and uncharted territories below. Deepening Gate's location at this chokepoint allows the dwarves to control access to the deeper realms and defend against threats that may arise from there.

Climate

Deepening Gate enjoys a stable and temperate climate throughout the year, unaffected by seasonal changes or winds due to its underground location. The subterranean environment provides insulation and protection from external weather conditions, resulting in a consistent climate within the city.
The absence of significant temperature variations allows for a more predictable and comfortable living environment for the inhabitants of Deepening Gate. The underground setting maintains a moderate temperature, providing a sense of stability and reliability in terms of weather conditions.

Natural Resources

Deepening Gate is blessed with abundant natural resources that contribute to its prosperity and sustenance:
Valuable Veins of Gems and Ore: The region surrounding Deepening Gate is rich in mineral wealth, with numerous veins of gems and ore. Dvergar miners tirelessly extract these precious resources, including gems like diamonds, rubies, and emeralds, as well as valuable metals such as gold, silver, and mithril. The city benefits greatly from the wealth generated by these mining operations.
The Jotun-Brides Tears: The under-river known as the Jotun-Brides Tears serves as more than just a water source. It provides a unique ecosystem for aquatic life adapted to the underground environment. Eyeless albino cave trout and other species thrive in its dark waters. The Dvergar utilize the river's resources, engaging in fishing to harvest these adapted species for sustenance.
Aquatic Farming: To enhance their food production, the Dvergar have created ponds and artificial lakes branching off from the Jotun-Brides Tears. Through the use of dams and canals, they have established aquaculture farms. These farms cultivate fish, cave frogs, and swarms of aquatic insects that have adapted to life below ground. These creatures form a significant portion of the Dvergar's farming efforts, providing a renewable source of food.
Unique Flora: The ponds and lakes of Deepening Gate's aquaculture farms also serve another purpose. They support the growth of various strange flora native to the underground realms. These unique plants have adapted to the subterranean environment and fulfill a range of needs for the Dvergar. They provide not only food but also materials for textiles and other practical uses, enhancing the self-sufficiency of the city.
The wealth of valuable gems and ores, coupled with the resources from the Jotun-Brides Tears and the diverse flora and fauna of the region, contribute to the economic prosperity and sustenance of Deepening Gate. These natural resources are carefully harnessed and utilized by the Dvergar to support their city and its thriving population.

Type

Military, Base