Ruins of Kitezh

Overview

Once the heart of a powerful necromantic sect, the Ruins of Orishan lie amid the shifting dunes of formerly fertile Kaijistan, on the banks of a long-dry river bed. As a living city, Orishan stood proud in the Kingdom of Kaijistan; now, its skeleton stands half-buried in wind-blown sand, a grim warning to those who dare to enter.

Though many adventurers have attempted to carve their names into its crumbling stone, few return — and those who do tell hushed tales of whispers in the corridors and undead shadows moving beneath the moon.

Origin, Decline & Current state

Origin: Established deep within mountain folds, Kitezh was crafted from grey granite and revered for its masterful works—vaulted halls, carved effigies, and runic architecture.

Decline: Bound by their oath to serve as the gods’ smiths, the dwarves endured until they rose in revolt, burning much of the city though pockets survived; its fall was abrupt and brutal, for control had long been enforced by duergar “betrayers” and a Kua Toa garrison—but once the dwarven legions committed, the city was finished.

Current state: Reaching Kitezh is a feat in itself: five days below the surface through lightless caverns, past the drow’s merciless patrols and tunnels prowled by silent beasts, as supplies fade and sanity frays. Few ever return, so rumor fills the gaps: collapsed grand halls of toppled pillars and shattered rune mosaics; scorched stone veined with faint, glowing sigils—wards or curses still alive; hidden vaults glimpsed through rubble, rich with relics but one tremor from entombment; and fractured stone sentinels that some swear shift when you turn away.

“No amount of gold or gems would make any sane Dwarf return those cursed halls. Though riches there are for sure.” — Dimrek, Quartermaster of Nav'golam

Places of Note