Ironhold Keep

Ironhold Keep stands as a formidable bastion located in the perilous region of Nocturnal Scape, positioned strategically near the borders of both the Bleak Expanse and Stormlash Valley. Built by the Gloomguard Kingdom in the **430 SC**, the primary purpose of this imposing fortress was to shield the kingdom's borders from potential threats from Valoria. As time evolved, especially post the tumultuous **633 SC**, its function pivoted to serve as a vigilant watchtower, ensuring that no cadaver hordes from the fallen lands of Stormlash Valley would breach the kingdom's borders. The keep stands not only as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Gloomguard Kingdom but also as an enduring symbol of resilience against the encroaching darkness.

## Architecture

Ironhold Keep is a majestic representation of medieval architectural brilliance. Constructed using robust gray stone, the main structure stands tall, fortified by high walls and punctuated with circular towers at strategic intervals. A dominating central keep serves as both a command center and the final line of defense.

The walls of the keep are thick, built to withstand both sieges and the ravages of time. They are further reinforced with crenellations, allowing the guards to safely monitor the surrounding landscape and to use crossbows or other ranged weapons against any threats while enjoying protection from retaliatory fire.

Large wooden gates, bound with iron and reinforced with metal studs, provide entry to the inner courtyards. Above the main gatehouse, a machicolation is built into the wall, enabling defenders to drop projectiles or hot substances on adversaries attempting to breach the entrance.

A deep moat encircles the entire structure, ensuring an additional line of defense against intruders, with a retractable drawbridge facilitating access to the fortress.

Within the walls, the layout is functional and strategic. Barracks, armories, and training grounds occupy a significant portion, ensuring that the stationed troops are always ready for battle. The central courtyard serves as both a meeting point and a place of respite for the soldiers.

One of the standout architectural features of the keep is its towers. The tallest one, known as the Sentinel Tower, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding terrains, ensuring that no movement in the vicinity goes unnoticed. The tower also houses a large bell, which is rung to alert the garrison of any incoming threat.

Additionally, secret passages and underground tunnels are incorporated into the design, providing escape routes or allowing for discreet troop movement if ever necessary.

## Strategic importance

### Before cadavers

Ironhold Keep's establishment in **430 SC** was not just an architectural marvel, but a calculated strategic decision by the Gloomguard Kingdom. Located on the cusp of the Bleak Expanse and the Stormlash Valley, its primary role was to monitor and regulate the flow of traffic between these territories and the ever-ambitious neighboring kingdom of Valoria.

Valoria had exhibited expansionist tendencies, frequently clashing with the Gloomguard Kingdom over territorial disputes. Ironhold Keep's towering walls and vigilant garrison acted as both a deterrent and a statement of Gloomguard's intent to safeguard its territories. The fortress was pivotal in repelling several incursions and attempted sieges by Valorian forces. Its mere presence made any Valorian aggression towards Gloomguard's lands a costly venture.

With its strategic positioning, the keep could easily relay messages across the kingdom, ensuring swift reinforcements when necessary. Moreover, the keep's vantage points, especially the sentinel tower, allowed for early detection of advancing Valorian troops, granting Gloomguard forces a preparative advantage.

Over the years, as political landscapes changed and newer threats emerged, notably the cadaver menace post **633 SC**, the keep's role evolved. But its foundational purpose, to protect the borders from Valoria, remained a significant aspect of its legacy, immortalizing Ironhold Keep's importance in the annals of Gloomguard history.

### After cadavers

**633 SC** marked a devastating shift in the landscape of threats faced by the Gloomguard Kingdom. With Valoria being largely overrun by the cadaver plague, the role of Ironhold Keep evolved from a bulwark against human invaders to a sentinel against an undead menace.

The proximity of Ironhold Keep to Stormlash Valley meant that it became a frontline defense against the cadaver hordes that might break free from the valley. As a result, the fortress underwent rapid modifications to specifically fend off these new foes. Walls were heightened, and additional watchtowers were built for guards to maintain a vigilant eye for any approaching undead. Barricades and traps, specifically designed to halt and decimate cadaver onslaughts, were installed around the perimeters.

The soldiers stationed at Ironhold Keep underwent rigorous training to combat the cadavers. Specialized weaponry, designed to incapacitate and destroy the undead, was forged and distributed among the keep's garrison.

Furthermore, the keep became a sanctuary for refugees fleeing from the plagued territories. Inside its walls, a community grew, providing shelter and security for those whose homes had been lost to the cadaver plague. Ironhold Keep transformed into a beacon of hope in a land overshadowed by the terror of the undead.

As the years passed, the keep stood firm, successfully repelling several cadaver incursions and ensuring that the menace did not spread further into the heart of the Gloomguard Kingdom. Ironhold Keep's steadfast defense further cemented its legacy as an essential bastion of security in a constantly changing and perilous world.

## Notable events

* **10.Oct.1057 SC**: Ironhold Onslaught;