The High King's Court

Overview & Aesthetic

The High King's Court is a breathtaking amphitheater carved directly into the highest peak of Dal-Dur's central mountain. The ceiling is a massive dome of reinforced glass that offers a view of the stars above (and the smog of the city below). The floor is a mosaic of every type of stone and metal found in the mountain. The air is cool and carries the weight of thousands of years of tradition.

History & Lore

The Court is the seat of all judicial and legislative power in Dal-Dur. It is here that High King Durnar the Iron Willed hears petitions, settles disputes between the Mining Consortiums, and declares war. The Court is famous for its "Truth-Pillar," an ancient artifact that is said to glow red if a speaker tells a deliberate lie while addressing the King.

Points of Interest

• The Iron-Willed Throne: A gargantuan throne made from the fused armor of defeated enemies.
• The Truth-Pillar: A glowing crystalline column in the center of the court.
• The Consortium Benches: Tiered seating where the representatives of the mining and manufacturing guilds sit.
• The Gallery of Ancestors: A hallway lined with the statues of every King of Dal-Dur since the Age of Ruin.

Local Factions & NPCs

• High King Durnar: The aging but formidable ruler of Dal-Dur.
• The Stone-Lawyers: A specialized group of bureaucrats who interpret the ancient "Laws of the Mountain."
• The Shield-Bearer Honor Guard: The most decorated soldiers in the city, who stand watch over the King.

Environmental Hazards / Mechanics

• The Truth-Field: Any creature speaking before the King must make a DC 16 Charisma save or be unable to tell a deliberate lie.
• Acoustic Amplification: The room is designed so that even a whisper from the throne can be heard clearly at the back of the gallery.
• Social Combat: All Charisma (Persuasion) checks made to influence the King or the Consortiums are made with disadvantage if the character's reputation with the Shield Bearers is low.