Kelath-Tar
| Kelath-Tar | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Type | Dual-Tier Logistics Settlement |
| Location | Eastern edge of Vale's Edge, descending into Telenkar Fold |
| Realm | Terasil |
| Inhabitants | Duranthi |
| Significance | Primary cargo transfer point from Vale’s Edge to the Sora River transport system |
| Controlled by | Council of Stone |
Kelath-Tar is a split-level logistics settlement positioned at the western edge of the Telenkar Fold, where the Sora River plunges over the Kelath Fall. The settlement consists of two functionally linked tiers: Upper Kelath-Tar, which receives shipments from Dul-Val and other Vale’s Edge locations, and Lower Kelath-Tar, which manages cargo transfer to river barges. The site serves as the key overland junction between elevated highland supply routes and the Sora Basin distribution system.
Geography
Upper Kelath-Tar is built along the escarpment shelf at the top of Kelath Fall, incorporating reinforced terraces and anchored haul points. Its structures are carved directly into the edge of Vale's Edge, a wide plateau descending eastward. Lower Kelath-Tar occupies a flat stone shelf at the base of the waterfall, beside the river’s transition into the Telenkar Fold. Both levels are linked by a large stone-hauling system that allows cargo and personnel to move between elevations without reliance on Deep Road routes.
History
Kelath-Tar was established during early trade expansion following the stabilization of Dul-Val. The difficulty of moving bulk goods down the escarpment and into the central Vale led to the development of a fixed stone transport system, initially operated manually, then reinforced with counterweights and carved rail mechanisms. Over time, storage vaults and dwellings were added to both levels, creating a permanent dual-tier settlement.
Notable Locations
- Upper Kelath-Tar – Receives goods from Dul-Val; contains staging platforms, cargo hoists, and structural anchor points along the cliff edge.
- Lower Kelath-Tar – Handles river loading; includes flat docks, warehouse terraces, and repair yards for rivercraft.
- Kelath Hauler – The stone-hauling lift and cablework system spanning the cliff face.
- Observation Ledge – A signal platform used for coordination between tiers and regional monitoring.
Culture and Society
Life in Kelath-Tar is strictly work-oriented. Residents are primarily transporters, handlers, repair crews, and logistics recorders. Shifts are regulated by flow cycles, barge timing, and hoist intervals rather than ceremonial rhythms. Duranthi overseers maintain record accuracy and coordinate with regional distribution planners. While some workers reside permanently in lower quarters, most rotate seasonally.
Economy
The settlement exists entirely to support material movement. It processes cargo from Vale’s Edge for eastward travel and receives inbound goods from river caravans. Internal trade is minimal, limited to tool provisioning and short-term resource swaps. The surrounding terrain is not cultivated.
Defense and Military
Though unfortified, both tiers of Kelath-Tar are monitored by Stonewarden staff. Upper ledges feature reinforced perimeter rails and signal posts, while Lower Kelath-Tar maintains coordinated river watch. The site is not militarized but responds swiftly to logistical delays or attempted disruption.