Kel-Durin
| Kel-Durin | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Type | Inspection Post and Ventilation Outpost |
| Location | Khargaath Range, 35 miles from Djes-Val, on the Dul-Mar Deeproad |
| Realm | Terasil |
| Inhabitants | Orasian |
| Controlled by | Council of Stone |
| Significance | First operational checkpoint and atmospheric regulator on the Djes-Val to Dul-Val Deep Road segment |
Kel-Durin is a mid-sized maintenance outpost located beneath the Khargaath Range, approximately 35 miles into the Deep Road from Djes-Val. It serves as an early environmental checkpoint for outbound traffic, as well as a rest and inspection station for supply caravans and maintenance crews. It is not a place of residence, but is regularly staffed and maintained.
Geography
Built into a widened section of the Deep Road, Kel-Durin occupies a natural basalt chamber reinforced with smooth-cut pillars and stabilized vaults. The outpost sits beneath a cluster of vertical fissures that allow for natural airflow, supplemented by mechanical flues and exhaust channels. The floor is tiered to collect dust and debris runoff, and lantern niches provide consistent lighting without shadow pockets.
History
Kel-Durin was constructed during the initial expansion of the Khargaath Deep Road corridor. Originally designed as a ventilation shaft and structural anchor point, it was later expanded to include equipment housing, personnel quarters, and inspection lanes following early incidents with cave-ins and air stagnation. The name refers to its role as a “holding vault” during those early efforts.
Functions and Features
- Intake Towers – Vertical shafts that allow natural airflow and pressure regulation.
- Inspection Lane – A marked route through the central chamber for caravan checks and documentation.
- Tool Hall – A secured storage area for road tools, engineering kits, and stone-testing instruments.
- Rest Vault – A dry, level area with stone platforms for rest and meal breaks.
Defenses and Watch
The outpost is staffed at all times by a rotating team of Stonewardens and road engineers. Defensive design includes reinforced doorways, single-path routing for movement control, and a manual seal mechanism on the entry and exit gates.
Threats and Dangers
Environmental shifts remain the primary concern: rock pressure changes, dry gas leaks, and minor seismic adjustments are closely monitored. Early signs of air quality fluctuation trigger gate delay and additional inspection. Unauthorized passage is recorded and reported to the nearest deep station.