The Ashen Gate

Overview


@Ashen Gate is the surface outpost and primary fortress of the @Ashen Vigil, located high in the @Northern Crags . It guards the only known entrance into @Mourner’s Way — the sacred descent leading to @Gloomdeep . The outpost functions as a supply hub, training ground, and purification site for all Vigil forces. Every operation into the depths begins and ends here under strict quarantine and ritual supervision.

History

  • Construction: Built a century ago under the direction of @Lord of Ashes Kaelen Morvane after the founding of the @The Ashen Vigil . Designed as a fortified redoubt capable of withstanding prolonged siege, it stands as the first and last human structure before the cursed underworld.

  • Purpose Defined: From the beginning, Ashen Gate was established to isolate the Vigil’s operations from the world above, preventing any trace of corruption from escaping.

  • Enduring Watch: The fortress has never fallen nor been evacuated. Its fires and watchtowers have burned continuously since the day of its consecration.

Description


Ashen Gate is a self-contained fortress carved into the mouth of a natural cavern. High palisade walls of blackened timber and reinforced stone encircle the outer yard, while inner structures are built from iron and ash-treated brick. The compound contains barracks, supply warehouses, purification chambers, and a chapel of flame. The entrance to @Mourner’s Way is sealed by a reinforced gate within the inner wall, guarded at all times. The outpost is functional, austere, and kept in strict military order.

Dangers (Ordered by CR)

  • No active threats are present within Ashen Gate. The surrounding crags are monitored and kept clear by Vigil patrols.

Points of Interest

  • The Outer Palisades – Defensive walls reinforced with blackened stakes and warding sigils.

  • The Watchfires – Massive braziers that burn without pause; if dimmed, it signals immediate lockdown.

  • The Supply Yard – Central loading area where food, oil, and weapons are inspected and purified before storage.

  • The Cleansing Halls – Stone chambers where returning soldiers undergo ritual and physical purification before rejoining the surface ranks.

  • The Training Grounds – Open yard where recruits undergo combat and endurance drills prior to descent.

  • The Descent Gate – Sealed iron doors marking the beginning of @Mourner’s Way.

Faction Presence

  • @The Ashen Vigil : Holds full control of the fortress, overseeing all supply and descent operations.

  • @The Mage Guild : Permitted limited presence for inspection of recovered materials; all contact is supervised.

  • @Order of the Last Light : Maintains ceremonial oversight but exercises no command authority.