Deep within the towering peaks of the Worldspine Mountains lies Khazad-Dur, the greatest dwarven city in all of Mythea and ancestral seat of the Anvil Council. Carved directly into the living stone of the mountains, the city stands as a monument to dwarven perseverance, craftsmanship, and engineering.
To outsiders, Khazad-Dur appears as a colossal fortress built into the face of a mountain. To those who pass through its gates, however, an entire underground kingdom unfolds—a vast metropolis of grand halls, glowing forges, subterranean lakes, ancient temples, bustling markets, and endless stone roads stretching deep beneath the earth.
For thousands of years, the dwarves of Khazad-Dur have guarded the mountain passes between Vhal'Tor and Sylvarana while mastering the arts of smithing, mining, engineering, and craftsmanship. Their weapons, armor, jewelry, and stonework are considered among the finest creations in the known world.
To the dwarves, Khazad-Dur is more than a city.
It is their greatest achievement.
Ruling Body:
The Anvil Council
Government Type:
Council of Clans
The most influential dwarven clans each appoint representatives to the Anvil Council, which governs the city through tradition, consensus, and centuries of accumulated wisdom.
Major decisions affecting the city require the support of multiple clans.
Predominantly:
Dwarves
Minor Populations:
Humans
Gnomes
Traders
Craftsmen
Scholars
Estimated Population:
80,000+
Major Industries:
Mining
Smithing
Engineering
Stoneworking
Gem Cutting
Trade
Major Exports:
Weapons
Armor
Precious Metals
Gems
Engineering Works
Mastercrafted Goods
Khazad-Dur is carved directly into the Worldspine Mountains.
Massive gates of stone and steel guard its entrances, while towering statues of ancient kings and legendary heroes stand watch over the mountain roads.
Within, enormous vaulted chambers stretch beyond sight. Stone bridges cross underground chasms illuminated by rivers of molten metal and enchanted crystal. Massive elevators, ancient mechanisms, and engineering marvels connect hundreds of levels throughout the city.
Golden light from countless forges reflects across polished stone, creating an atmosphere of warmth amid the mountain depths.
Every wall tells a story.
Every hall was built to last forever.
The industrial heart of Khazad-Dur.
Thousands of smiths, artisans, and craftsmen work here daily.
The finest weapons in Mythea often originate from these forges.
Residential districts belonging to the major dwarven clans.
Each hall reflects the traditions and achievements of its people.
A sprawling underground marketplace where merchants from across Mythea gather to trade.
Rare materials, gems, artifacts, and mastercrafted goods can all be found here.
The city's central thoroughfare.
This massive avenue connects most major districts and serves as the social and commercial heart of the city.
A sacred complex honoring generations of dwarven heroes, kings, and clan leaders.
Many dwarves visit before important decisions or journeys.
Seat of the Anvil Council.
Carved from a single block of black granite, this immense chamber serves as the political center of Khazad-Dur.
Adventure Hooks:
Political disputes
Clan rivalries
Diplomatic missions
The largest forge in Mythea.
Fueled by ancient geothermal vents deep beneath the mountains.
Many legendary weapons and artifacts have been crafted here.
Adventure Hooks:
Rare commissions
Stolen blueprints
Legendary materials
The treasury and secure storage complex of Khazad-Dur.
Protected by powerful locks, guardians, and centuries of engineering.
Adventure Hooks:
Lost heirlooms
Missing treasures
Ancient relics
A breathtaking network of natural caves filled with massive glowing crystals.
Many possess unusual magical properties.
Adventure Hooks:
Magical anomalies
Rare resources
Hidden creatures
Training grounds and gathering place for warriors.
Military drills, tournaments, and competitions occur regularly.
Adventure Hooks:
Combat challenges
Mercenary recruitment
Clan rivalries
The largest collection of dwarven history in existence.
Contains:
Clan records
Engineering plans
Historical chronicles
Lost maps
Adventure Hooks:
Ancient secrets
Forgotten passages
Historical mysteries
A vast subterranean lake hidden beneath the city.
Its waters supply much of Khazad-Dur and support unique underground ecosystems.
Adventure Hooks:
Strange creatures
Hidden ruins
Missing explorers
An ancient underground highway connecting distant dwarven settlements throughout the Worldspine Mountains.
Much of it remains unexplored.
Adventure Hooks:
Lost outposts
Deep expeditions
Ancient dangers
Strong allies.
Trade and military cooperation have existed for centuries.
Respectful relationship.
Though culturally different, both peoples value history, tradition, and stewardship.
Frequent collaborators.
Dwarven engineers and Collegium scholars often cooperate on ancient discoveries.
Major trade partner.
Khazad-Dur exports crafted goods while importing luxury items and rare materials.
Khazad-Dur serves as a hub for:
Crafting commissions
Monster hunting
Deep exploration
Ancient dwarven ruins
Lost treasure recovery
Engineering mysteries
Clan politics
Underdark expeditions
Among the most persistent stories are:
A forgotten dwarven kingdom lies deeper beneath the mountains.
Ancient machines still operate in sealed chambers.
A dragon sleeps somewhere beneath the Worldspine.
Hidden vaults contain relics from before recorded history.
Portions of the King's Road descend into realms no dwarf has mapped.
The deepest levels of Khazad-Dur predate the dwarves themselves.
Whether these stories are truth or myth remains uncertain.
But every dwarf knows one thing:
Stone remembers.
And the mountains keep their secrets well.