Heron River

Long a nesting ground for the White Bearded Heron, the Heron River has been heavily engineered by the dwarves of the Broken Shield Clanhold. The river flows through the Iron Mountains several days east of the Gate of the Gods. It is an important source of water and food in the more desolate eastern valleys. Control of the river is held by the Broken Shield Clan.

The Heron river has three distinct sections: The Headwaters if formed from several small lakes and streams, the Locks is where the clanhold controls all access to the river, and the Lower Heron when it flows free of the last gate and eventually empties into Lake Stolps.

Headwaters

The primary headwater is a small spring-fed lake a few miles north of the Iron Mountains. The tributary of this lake is eventually joined by several streams as it passes through the Shattered Valley. Winding its way through the valley the river is cold, quick, and deep enough in places that a dwarf cannot cross it on foot.

Locks

The river broadens as it reached the first river lock. Constructed by the Broken Shield Clan, the lock is a large gate spanning the river and protected by flanking towers. The lock is wide enough to allow four horses abreast to cross. It also gives the dwarves control of the river flow, allowing enough water to make the river navigable as boats pass through a series of locks.

There are eleven locks, each one also serving as bridge and fortified gatehouse. The most southern lock is built just as the river exits the Iron Mountains. Traditionally the lands to the south are the territory of the Kingdom of Dakar; although the Broken Shield clan claims river and hunting rights south of the gate.

Lower Heron

The Lower Heron is marked by the most southerly river lock until the river empties into Lake Stolps. The Broke Shield Clan have made several improvements along the banks, without seeking approval from any human land owners. These channels keep the river navigable and reducing the flooding when heavy snow melt requires all of the locks to be opened.

The dwarves encourage boats to trade along the river often providing for free guards to those making the journey. They have a large trading house on the shore of Lake Stolps where the Lower Heron empties into the lake. The dwarves maintain this channel keeping it free of silt and flotsam.