05/07/2025

Happy Wednesday and welcome back to Tabletop Thoughts!

Today, we will continue with some worldbuilding for the Shadowdark Campaign, Shadows of the Sundered Throne. We will make a little history for the Kingdom and add some effects that are still felt even now in Thessaria

The Ashen Fall of Pyrepeak

Summary:
Two centuries ago, the mighty dwarven city of Pyrepeak, nestled in the volcanic peaks of the Ashfang Mountains, was annihilated in a single night of fire and ash. The mountain—now called Mount Mourngrim—erupted with such fury that the nearby human settlement of Hillhome was buried alongside the dwarven stronghold, and the skies darkened for weeks.

1. Cause of the Eruption:
Legends say the dwarves delved too deep—not for gold, but for a vein of “living flame,” a primordial elemental force. Some say they found it… and tried to bind it. Others claim a dwarven heretic made a pact with a fire-demon in search of forbidden forge-magic.

2. Lasting Effects:

The northern land of Thessaria, near the mountain, is scarred. All that remains of Hillhome is a stretch of ashen fields, obsidian glass plains, and skeletal ruins.

Dwarves from surviving clans bear generational guilt, shame, or pride depending on their view of Pyrepeak’s fall.

Some say Pyrepeak’s vaults remain buried but intact, sealed away with ancient dwarven relics and forbidden magic.

3. Modern Relevance:

The emperor could have a vested interest in claiming the riches of Pyrepeak, sending adventurers into the “dead mountain.” Some of these riches may be artifacts that can help end the civil war. How will the dwarves react to this?

The dwarves may hesitate to ally with Thessaria. Dwarf characters in Thessaria might receive some poor treatment, especially in the northern portions of the Kingdom. Dwarves in the Southern part of Thessaria might be trying to escape their family’s role in the disaster.

Keep on gaming!