Kar'Garan

Kar'Garan is an awe-inspiring hold built into the heart of the mountains, stretching across multiple levels. The Okosor River flows over the hold, partially redirected underground to feed a subterranean river and lake, providing the hold with fresh water and a means of transportation.
Kar'Garan is governed by the Dwarven Council, a body of elected representatives from each district. The council is headed by the High Lord, currently Thrain Ironfist III, who oversees the hold's political and military affairs. The council ensures that all aspects of life in Kar'Garan run smoothly and that the hold’s traditions and laws are upheld.
Kar'Garan is renowned for its formidable defenses. The hold features massive stone gates, reinforced with mithril and enchanted to withstand both physical and magical attacks. Watchtowers and battlements are manned by a highly trained militia, the Hammerguard, who are equipped with rune-carved weapons and armor. The underground river and lake can be used to flood certain passages in case of an invasion, and the hold's numerous traps and hidden passages provide additional layers of security.
=== Stoneheart District ===
The central and oldest part of Kar'Garan, Stoneheart is where the heart of the hold’s governance and culture resides. The district is illuminated by magical light sources embedded into the walls, casting a warm glow over the intricately carved stone buildings. The grand hall, where the Dwarven Council meets, is the focal point, surrounded by various important buildings.
Notable Locations:
* The Grand Hall of Thrain
** A majestic hall where the Dwarven Council convenes, adorned with tapestries and relics depicting the hold's history.
* Runevault Archives
** A vast library and workshop where the secrets of rune carving are studied and preserved. Managed by Master Runecarver Balin Stoneforge.
* The Silver Tankard Tavern
=== Glowstone Caverns ===
This district is dedicated to the mining and crafting operations of Kar'Garan. Glowstone Caverns are named for the luminescent minerals embedded in the rock, providing a natural, ethereal light. The sound of hammers and forges echoes through the caverns, as skilled dwarves craft weapons, armor, and magical items.
Notable Locations:
* The Mithril Forge
** Renowned for producing some of the finest weapons and armor in the realm, operated by Thrain Ironfist III, a descendant of the hold's founder.
* The Enchanted Anvil
** A shop selling enchanted items and custom rune-carved pieces, run by Gimli Runeshaper.
* The Glowstone Market
** A bustling marketplace where raw materials and crafted goods are traded.
=== Deepwater District ===
Home to the underground river and lake, this district is crucial for the hold’s water supply and features a series of floating terraces and pathways. The area is serene and beautiful, with glowing algae lighting the waters and creating a magical ambiance.
Notable Locations:
* The Aquatic Gardens
** Lush gardens that utilize the underground water sources to grow rare plants and herbs. Tended by Mira Greenleaf, an expert in herbalism.
* The Crystal Cavern Inn
* The Fisher’s Wharf
** A small dock where fishers bring in their catches from the underground lake, providing fresh seafood to the hold.
=== Skyforge Heights ===
The highest level of Kar'Garan, featuring terraces and pathways that float magically above the lower districts. Skyforge Heights is where the most prestigious artisans and scholars reside, with breath-taking views of the mountains.
Notable Locations:
* The Skyforge
** A legendary forge said to be powered by the very essence of the wind and sky. Mastered by Eldrin Windshaper.
* The Starfall Observatory
** An observatory where dwarven scholars study the stars and celestial phenomena. Led by Astronomer Thalrik Stargazer.
* The High Hall Tavern
=== History ===
Kar'Garan, one of the most majestic Dwarven Holds of Ferra, lies nestled deep within the Highlands mountains. It was founded by the legendary rune carver, Thrain Ironfist, who discovered a rich vein of mithril and an underground river. This discovery allowed the dwarves to establish a self-sufficient and highly defensible hold. Over the centuries, Kar'Garan became renowned for its magical craftsmanship, eventually rediscovering the lost art of dwarven rune carving, which imbued objects with powerful enchantments.