Ithanic Fortress
The dwarves of Ankhura, the subterranean kingdom that occupies the western portion of the Tsendarkar Mountains, are an insular but good-aligned lot. Their main connection to the outside world is through the gray stone Ithanic Fortress, an artificial massif that dominates the coastline along the southern Bream Straits. A casual viewer might see the fortress as just another grim gray mountain, but closer observation reveals that the entire crag is carved with Ankhuran runes, and its peak is crafted in the shape of an Ankhuran dwarf warrior with a conical helm.
The fortress is accessible by land over a long and circuitous trail that connects to the Heavenly Road in the east, and by sea through sturdy stone docks that lead to enclosed ship pens, connected via a series of stairs, elevators, and lifts to the fortress nearly 10,000 feet above. Here, visitors and merchants can interact with the dwarves, who, despite their insularity, are friendly and hospitable. The dwarves also maintain a small but efficient fleet of warships that can be called into action in the event of piracy, disasters, or raids by hostile sea creatures.
A number of Ankhuran officials oversee the fortress’s operation. The Matron Nakhala Hosh is the current senior manager, and she runs the place with singular efficiency. Unusually for an Ankhuran dwarf, she has spent several years among the humans in the Xha’ahan and understands their strange ways better than most. Her top military officer, Primary Fehna Khe, is a veteran of many underground battles and has a rare understanding of the horrors that dwell deep below. The fortress itself has fought off several major attacks by goblins and continues to be a stronghold of Ankhuran influence in the mountains and along the Bream Straits.
Stronghold
Ithanic Fortress
Type
Fortress
Owning Organization
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