Broken Shield Clanhold

The Broken Shield Clanhold is a fearsome set of buildings that span the Heron River. Initially constructed in Y1374 AE, it has been expanded over the years. Each of the eleven locks that span the river are protected by towers or walled towns.

Following a fierce battle with an orcish tribe, the Broken Shield Clan was founded. The clan established their original clanhold on the west bank of the Heron River where the founder died.

In Y1493 AE - Y86 AH the clan built the eight locks of Wasserhaus. Each of these locks was constructed along the same plans. A squat and strong gatehouse guards the eastern bank of the river, while a walled village is built on the west side. The bridge over each the lock is wide enough to carry two horses abreast.

In Y197 AH Whitegate, the most northern river lock, was constructed just south of the Shattered Valley. Built from the white limestone that is found in the valley, two large gatehouses sit on either end of the bridge. The defenses shield the clan hold from the dangers of the Shattered Valley.

• Name: Broken Shield
• Location: Iron Mountains
• Founded: 1374 AE
• Ruler: Thane Varnek Shieldbane
• Land Area: 93 km² (23,000 acres) * Woods: 38 km² (9,400 acres) * Cleared: 23 km² (5700 acres) * Waste: 20 km² (5000 acres) * Population: 2000

  • Ethnicity: Dwarf (99%), Other (1%)
• **Holdings

  • Whitegate
  • Wasserhaus
  • Dankestahl hold

Iron, Silver, Copper, Gold, Lead, Tin, and Zinc are all commonly found in the mines claimed by the clan hold. The very southern edges of their territory is rich in coal. There are dangers mining too deep as the ground holds large pockets of methane. These metals are melted and either sold as ingots (rarely) or as finished goods. A few traders go overland to the west, but most travel up and down the river.

Farming, herding, and fishing is only subsistence level, barely providing enough variety in the clan's diet. The surrounding land offers very little soil over broken shale and clay. Shrubs and trees thrive in places, but do not provide enough food for large herds of animals. The Heron River has many species of cold-water fish, but the clan careful regulates the fishing to avoid over catching.

The clan hold is ruled by a Thane, who is advised by a member from each of the families. The Thane makes all of the decisions, but a wise Thane listens to their council.

In the event of war an Impirrick is selected. This War Leader outranks the Thane, taking command of all functions of the clan-hold until the war has concluded. The Impirrick can be removed from this office by a vote from the Thane and at least half of the council.

This heavy strengthened gatehouse spans the northern flow of the Heron River. Made from the white rocks of the Shattered Valley to the north, the gatehouse is beautiful when the sun shines in the valley. It has a large portcullis for the river with interlocked bronze plates protected by fining positions within the gatehouse, which would make forced passage along the river impossible.

A full square (80 dwarves) along with their support are stationed at Whitegate at all times. Each family is expected to muster their own square - rotating after eight to ten (8-10) years.

Each of the river locks along the longest stretch of the river were constructed in the same manner and controlled by a prominent family within the clan. A single stone tower and gatehouse is built along the eastern bank, supported by canal walls to prevent undercutting by the river. A lock-house is built midway along the bridge which holds the chains and windlass for the locking plates.

The western shore is a walled town with a single tower for support.

The largest hold not constructed along the river. This hold is comprised of three towers constructed up the side of a mountain. They restrict and protect access to the richest mines in the clan's territory. A large vein of gold and precious gems has given the Dankestahl family wealth and power beyond the prestige won in battle.

Each tower can support he others with several ballistas built into cupolas constructed in the tower.