Kron Fortress
Kron Fortress stands as an enduring symbol of gnomish craftsmanship and determination, a hidden stronghold hewn from the rock of the Kron Hills. Serving as the gateway to the fabled Greenway Valley , it commands a narrow pass along the Greenway, the primary trade route connecting the gnome lands to the wider Viscounty of Verbobonc. Constructed entirely within a stone outcropping, Kron Fortress blends seamlessly with the rugged terrain, its intricate stonework showcasing the ingenuity of its builders. Below the fortress, the village of Kron thrives, a sprawling network of burrows, cottages, and workshops, bustling with trade and civic life. Though tensions with Verbobonc have dampened outside relations, Kron remains the economic heart of the gnome settlements, its markets rich with gemstones, finely crafted goods, and mechanical wonders.
"You stand on the Greenway, traveler. If you walk with respect, you shall pass unharmed. If not, you’ll never pass at all."
Geography and Layout
The Fortress of Kron
Kron Fortress is an engineering marvel, a stone redoubt carved directly into a rocky outcrop, guarding the Greenway Pass.
- Built into a natural rock formation, the fortress is nearly invisible from a distance.
- The Greenway road runs directly through the fortress, allowing for complete control over passage.
- The garrison of 100 gnomes can seal the pass with reinforced gates and portcullises.
- Cleverly hidden murder-holes and arrow slits ensure any attacker is met with deadly resistance.
- Reinforcements can be rapidly called from the Greenway Valley in times of crisis.
"The gates of Kron open to friends, close to foes, and vanish to those unworthy of either."
The Village of Kron
Below the fortress, the village of Kron is the largest and wealthiest of the gnome settlements in the region, serving as a hub for trade and commerce.
- Ancient burrows are intricately carved and comfortably furnished, passed down through generations.
- Many surface dwellings resemble cozy, round-doored cottages nestled against hillsides.
- Beautiful gardens and small parks are scattered throughout the village, creating a pastoral charm.
- Crystal-clear pools and artificial streams, fed by underground springs, meander through the village.
- Herds of goats, dogs, and exotic animals freely wander, often treated as cherished members of the community.
- Once catered to human and elven merchants, but recent tensions with Verbobonc have reduced foreign visitors.
"The Greenway brings the world to us, but not all the world is welcome."
History of Kron
The Founding of the Fortress
Kron Fortress was constructed during the early settlement of the Greenway Valley as a means to protect the gnome lands from external threats.
- Built centuries ago by the ancestors of Clan Tulvar and Clan Keeleene.
- Dug entirely into the rock to create a defensible, hidden stronghold.
- Originally guarded against humanoid raiders from the Gnarley Forest and Kron Hills.
- Expanded during the Hateful Wars when gnomes fought alongside dwarves and elves to purge the region of orcs and goblinoids.
The Golden Age of Trade
Kron became a prosperous trade center, connecting the gnome lands with Verbobonc and beyond.
- Merchants from Verbobonc and Celene frequently traveled the Greenway to trade.
- Gnome craftsmen gained renown for their fine metalwork, gem-cutting, and mechanical devices.
- The village flourished with inns, workshops, and a bustling market square.
Tensions with Verbobonc
Relations with the Viscounty of Verbobonc have soured in recent years, leading to isolationist policies.
- Disputes over taxation and trade regulations strained relations with the Viscount.
- Some Verbobonc nobles view the Greenway Valley as a subject territory rather than an independent gnome enclave.
- Human patrols Mounted Borderers were withdrawn, forcing Kron to rely entirely on gnome militias and allies like The Gnarley Rangers.
- Many businesses once catering to humans and elves have shuttered, focusing instead on internal trade.
Governance and Politics
The Thane of Kron – Jeet Jimbleclap
Jeet Jimbleclap, an aging but formidable gnome warrior, serves as Thane of Kron and commander of its defenses.
- A veteran of past conflicts, she is widely respected for her leadership and strategic mind.
- Pragmatic and direct, she has little patience for politics, focusing solely on security.
- Commands the Kron Garrison, ensuring the fortress remains ready for any threat.
- Prefers negotiation over conflict but will not hesitate to act decisively to protect gnome lands.
The Kron Council of Elders
Kron's internal affairs are managed by a council of family elders, who oversee village life and trade.
- Each major gnome family in Kron has a representative on the council.
- Focuses on infrastructure, market regulation, and resource management.
- Maintains cautious diplomacy with Verbobonc but prioritizes gnome autonomy.
The Free Alliance of the Kron Hills
Kron is a key member of the Free Alliance, a confederation of independent gnome settlements.
- Works closely with Tulvar, the political heart of gnome resistance to Verbobonc's influence.
- Advocates for self-governance and mutual defense among the gnome clans.
- Jeet Jimbleclap often defers political matters to Urthgan Tulvar, leader of the Free Alliance.
1: The Kron Market
The Grey Market is typically a brisk and bustling centre of commerce but lately with the heightened bandit activity the trade has all but stopped. Many a Magi and herbalist move between the shops and stalls, comparing goods, prices and the integrity of the vendor. Everything can be found here, and everything is overpriced.
2. Glopna's Stone Inn
The Gibbering Stone Inn is Kron’ inn and tavern gnome halfling sized Inn, and it shows. It is short and squat but still two stories tall. Round red door between carved wood pillars presents the front of the establishment.
3. The Gilded Burrow
A Lavish Inn for the Wealthiest of Travelers in Kron
The Gilded Burrow is the most extravagant inn and tavern in the village. Designed to cater to noble merchants, scholars, and adventurers with deep pockets, this opulent establishment boasts fine wines, rare delicacies, and an ambiance of excessive luxury rarely found in gnome settlements.
4. Tulvar's Waypoint
Tulvar’s Waypoint—a bustling gnome trade outpost operated by House Tulvar . This fortified trading post serves as the first stop for merchants, travelers, and diplomats entering gnome lands, handling commerce between the gnomes of the valley and the outside world.
"Stone and cunning built Kron, and neither shall falter."
Kron Village Map
Population:
165: 150 (0th) 11 (1st) 2 (2nd) 1 (4th) 1 (8th)
Notable Gnome Clans and Figures
Clan House Tulvar
Masters of Mining and Politics
- One of the most influential gnome families, deeply involved in the Free Alliance.
- Controls several hidden gem mines in the Kron Hills.
- Led by Urthgan Tulvar, a shrewd leader balancing diplomacy and defiance.
Clan Keeleene
Keepers of Tradition and Trade
- Expert gem-cutters and jewelers, supplying the finest gemstones in the region.
- Known for their deep connections to gnome history and religious traditions.
- Headed by Glennddarc Keeleene, an elder statesman and master jeweler.
Jeet Jimbleclap
Thane of Kron and Fortress Commander
- Hardened warrior and fierce protector of the Greenway Valley.
- Commands the 100-strong garrison and organizes village militias.
- Pragmatic, humorous, and unwavering in her duty to the gnomish people.
Prince Jimm Pithriggen
Gnome Diplomat and Mediator
- Acts as a liaison between the Free Alliance and Verbobonc.
- A skilled diplomat, constantly working to prevent outright conflict.
- Advocates for maintaining trade while resisting political annexation.
NOTABLE LOCATIONS
Most of the village comprises peasant homes. A few locations, however, are of interest to adventurers:
1. The Kron Market: Filled with vendors, merchants, booths, some magical goods and herbs can be found here (at exorbitant prices).
2. Glopna's Stone Inn: This inn and tavern gnome halfling sized Inn.
3. The Gilded Burrow: The Gilded Burrow is the most extravagant inn and tavern in the village.
4. Tulvar's Waypoint: Tulvar’s Waypoint—a bustling gnome trade outpost operated by House Tulvar.
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