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Azeroth
Ironforge, Capital City of Dun Morogh
Many Dwarven
strongholds fell during the Second War, but Ironforge was not among them.
It has never been breached in its long history. Carved from the breathing
heart of the Khaz Modan Mountains themselves, it is an engineering marvel
standing in resplendent praise to Dwarven ingenuity and talent.
If you travel to Ironforge by road, the first thing you will notice upon
reaching the Gates of Ironforge is the sheer size of … well, everything.
Soaring heights, lofty reaches, living rock carved into great solid
buildings, Ironforge gives am impression of timeless security and
strength.
Ironforge is the Capital of the Dwarven lands and the main center of
commerce for a very large area of the Eastern Kingdoms. It is a world
renowned center for blacksmithing, armor, and weaponry. Now the adopted
home of the Gnomes as well, it has become a multicultural city and offers
a wide range of engineering expertise and products. A large and bustling
bank, international auction house, inns, top schools and training, and
numerous shops attract people from many countries. Flights directly into
the heart of the city make day trips fast, easy, and affordable.
A Walking Tour of
Ironforge
The City is laid out in a circular fashion with several outlying sections
connected by tunnels or large entrance ways all built around a large
central area called the Great Forge. Upon entering from the Gates of
Ironforge, you may travel either left or right, both options depositing
you into The Commons, a large and spacious public area.
We will turn right and start our tour of Ironforge heading east after
entering the city. We will travel first along the outside rim and visit
the various sections of the city until we return to The Commons. Then we
will venture into the heart of the City and finish up in the central Great
Forge area.
If at any time you find yourself lost or unable to find what you are
looking for, remember Ironforge, like all the Dwarven lands, is very well
patrolled with highly trained and very kind guardsmen. Although trained
for battle these fine dwarven officers do not hesitate to act as tour
guilds and will readily help you to find your destination.
The Commons
As you enter Ironforge you find yourself in the Commons. A vast public
area devoted to commerce and the necessities of doing business in
Ironforge. Used as a meeting and gathering place for locals and visitors
alike, it’s a great place to indulge in that favorite pastime, people
watching. People come to The Commons not only to see, but to be seen. From
unusual animals to extraordinary fashions the most fabulous and brightest
congregate here to show off their prized possessions. An afternoon spent
loitering in this area is sure to delight you with many impromptu and
entertaining events, and professionals of all sorts ply their trades here
and offer up their skills.
In the Commons you will find the draped in blue International Auction
House, The Vault of Ironforge with its red and gold facade, mail services,
and some of the finest baked goods anywhere. Myra Tyrngaarde has been
selling her fabulous breads and pies in The Commons for as long as anyone
can remember. She is easy to spot in her perennial white blouse and long
yellow skirt. Her tell we sent you!
The
southwest side of The Commons holds only the International Auction House
flanked on either side by the towering entrances to the city.
One the northeast side you will find The Ironforge Vault centered directly
across from the Auction House, with mail services available at the door.
To the south of the Vault is the Ironforge Armory, selling fine light and
heavy armor. To the north of the Vault you will find Steelfury’s Weapon
Emporium.
To either side of the Commons are wide curving avenues arching east and
west that lead to the other sections of the city.
East Arm Avenue of the Commons
Upon entering the city we will turn right and enter the eastern arm of the
Commons Avenues. The first thing you will see on this side of the avenue
is the Ironforge Visitor’s Center. If you’re looking to join an Alliance
Guild or are hatching plans to start your own dynasty, this is the place
you’re looking for. You will be able to work with on site designers to
create and have your own guild tabards produced here too.
Directly across the avenue from the Visitor’s Center you’ll see
Fizzlespinner’s General Goods. Fillius Fizzlespinner has a wide variety of
trade and general good items always in stock. You’ll find everything from
threads to spices to vials and blacksmithing supplies. There are also
camping supplies, small weapons and ammunitions, and an on site bag
specialists.
Right next door to the Visitor’s Center you’ll find the studio of that
amazing sculptor The Grand Mason Marblesten of the Royal Stone Cutters
Union. Find the time to drop by his studio which he kindly keeps open for
passing visitors. I am sure you’ll be delighted to watch this master in
action as he works on whatever current piece has grabbed his attention.
He’ll allow you wander around the studio to see other works on the
premises too, although he often is too absorbed in his work to chat. The
rest of this arm of the Commons Avenues is devoted to some majestic
private homes.
The Military
Ward
Ironforge has a large military presence and one section of the city is
devoted to such concerns. The fine patrols that keep all of Dun Morogh
safe to travel are trained here. World class trainers, warriors, and
enlistment services are available. A pub, Bruuk’s Corner, with a large
variety of drinks makes it easy to rest a while when visiting this
fascinating part of the city, and it offers mail service on its doorstep.
First class weapons and armor can be bought here, and you’ll always find
Songar Cliffbeard roaming the plaza in the Military Ward. He provides some
of the finest cuts of meat in the city for both you and your favorite pet.
The Hall of Arms, a large and imposing building in the southeastern part
of the Ward, offers the best in warrior and hunter training, as well as an
excellent stabling service for your pets. Inside you will find the
following personalities of note, all of whom are ready to chat with
visitors who frequent the Hall.
Warrior Trainers
Bilban Tosslespanner
Kelstrum Stonebreaker
Kelv Sternhammer
Hunter Trainers
Olmin Burningbeard
Regnus Thundergranite
Daera Brightspear
Stable Master Ulbrek Firehand offers the best in care for your pet while
you visit the city.
Pilot Longbeard of the Ironforge Siege Brigade is custodian of a
fascinating collection of war machines housed at the back and lower level
of the Hall. Entrance is free, you may browse at will.
If you are eager to do your part in Horde skirmishes you will find all the
major recruitment officers in the Hall of Arms.
Alterac Valley Battle Master: Glordrum Steelbeard
Arathi Basin Battle Master: Donal Osgood
Warsong Gulch Battle Master: Lylandris
Some Shops of Particular Note
Goldfury’s Hunting Supplies (next door to Bruuk’s Corner Pub)
Timberline Arm’s (just south of the Hall of Arms)
Craghelm’s Plate and Chain (the same corner as Timberline’s)
Tinkertown
Tinkertown is the heart of the Gnomish section of the City and as the
entrance to the Deeprun Tram to Stormwind it is one of the more bustling
and busy areas of Ironforge.
In Berryfizz’s Potions and Mixed Drinks you can find some of the best in
Alchemy training and a large selection of alchemy supplies on sale.
Journeyman Alchemist Vosur Brakthel and Expert Alchemist Tally Berryfizz
offer classes daily.
Springspindle Fizzlegear offers Artisan Engineering training from his shop
Springspindle’s Gadgets. He has put together a full range of training
opportunities by taking on the Quikswitch sisters Jemma and Trixie to
offer Journeyman and Expert training. His shop is fully stocked with a
wide range of engineering supplies.
Right outside the shop you find a small forge available for on-the-spot
blacksmithing use.
Things That Go Boom has a lovely and entertaining supply of fireworks
available for all your special occasions.
Mail service is available as you enter the tunnel for the Deeprun Tram
service and just beside it you will find the office of the Alliance Cloth
Quartermaster and Gnomeregan representative Bubulo Acerbus.
Officer Porterhouse can be found in Tinkertown accepting Gnomeregan
Commendations each day.
Perhaps the most astonishing part of Tinkertown is that you will usually
find the King of Gnomes, High Tinker Mekkatorque himself spending his days
here. You can see him with his two trusted friends Tinkermaster Overspark,
who is a Master Engineer, and the Master Mechanic Castpipe.
The Hall of
Explorers
Continuing along our circular route of Ironforge we come next to the Hall
of Explorers. Far from the bustle and crowds of the Commons the Hall of
Explorers contains The Library, a great collection of information, access
to some notable personalities, and a wondrous collection of fossils and
artifacts. You will not want to visit Ironforge and miss taking in this
historical part of the City.
As you enter the Library you may be met by Curator Thorius on his rounds.
Take a moment to stop and look up; you’ll not want to miss the intact
Pteradon skeleton uncovered in the Un’Goro Crater. Continue along straight
ahead and you will come to a large vaulted circular room filled to
brimming with the collected knowledge of the Dwarven race. Librarian Mae
Paledust of the Explorers League, world famous Prospector Stormpike,
Historian Karnik, and Advisor Belgrum are all on hand here most days and
are happy to share their particular areas of expertise with Library
visitors.
Leaving the main Library collection and turning to the right, or north,
you will find a lovely collection of Uldaman relics, remnants from the
second war and artifacts attributed to the Night Elves. Turning left,
south, instead would have brought you to a collection of skeletons and
remains of some of the most outstanding of Azerothian creatures, not the
least of which is the skeletal head of what is believed to be the consort
of Dragonqueen Alextrasza.
This section of Ironforge is generally quiet and peaceful and is not to be
missed in any visit to this magnificent Dwarven City.
The Forlorn
Cavern
Continuing north, or more northwest now as we follow the curve of the
city, we enter the Forlorn Cavern. A rough and seeming unfinished part of
Ironforge, it gives the impression of being dark and secretive. If you
fancy a walk on the wild side, this may be just the section of Ironforge
you’ve been looking for. Be careful here, travel in groups when possible
and always keep your eyes open. Some of Ironforge’s shadier personalities
are often found wandering the darkened corners of the Forlorn Cavern.
Immediately to your left upon entering from the Hall of Explorers, you
will see a large flight of stairs. While you will find no signage
indicating it, inside is a very highly esteemed house for the training of
rogues. The likes of Hulfan Blackbeard, Ormyr Flinteye, and Fenthwick make
it a habit to frequent the house to share their rather specialized
knowledge; for a fee. Also usually nearby you will find the “Dealer”
Tynnus Venompsrout and his sometimes questionable wares.
Across the way and to the right of the tunnel entrance is the home of
Demon Trainer Jubal Corpseseeker. Jubal works from his home and again you
will find no signs indicating that a business is being run on the
premises. With the Warlock trainers next door I am of the opinion that
most of this business arrives through word of mouth.
Just past Jubal’s home and up the next flight of stairs is the
headquarters of the Warlock Trainers of Ironforge. Here Alexander Calder,
Briarthorn, and Thistleheart offer their services to those seeking dark
training. You will often see a rather formidable character keeping them
company going by the name of Gerrig Bonegrip.
Right across from a pristine underground pond you will find the shop the
Traveling Fisherman to buy fishing supplies and even take classes should
you need them. Proprietor Grimnur Stonebrand and his lovely Tansy
Puddlefizz acted on a stroke of genius in setting up shop in this quiet
and peaceful part of Ironforge. It’s the best little lure house in town.
But the local sense of humor is very evident in their choice of
location... because you can no longer fish in the pond that 'lured' you in
in the first place; although recent information tells me that the pond is
being restocked to the joy of local fishermen.
Making your way out of the Forlorn Cavern and next door to the Traveling
Fisherman is Stoneblade’s where you’ll find a decent selection of daggers
and swords.
The Mystic Ward
Immediately upon entering the Mystic Ward you will notice the large
decorative pond directly ahead of you and in the center of the Ward and to
its right the brilliant white stone and gold façade of the Hall of
Mysteries. The Mystic Ward is the well known haunt of those who play with
the magics of our world.
On the right just as you enter you will see the sign for Maeva’s Mystical
Apparel. Dazzling robes, coordinated outfits, and a lovely selection of
hats makes Maeva’s a favorite shop in the area.
In the corner next to Maeva’s you’ll find the private home of Talvash del
Kissel. Talvash is well known as something of a character. A very friendly
fellow you will find him on his porch nearly all day and always ready to
chat with any passer by.
Lying between Talavsh’s home and the Hall of Mysteries is the private home
of Tymor. Tymor has a charming place and has been known to make a room
available to out of town visitors. If you’re looking for something cozier,
and quieter, than the local inn, Tymor’s may be just the place for you.
With fishing available practically next door in the Forlorn Cavern you may
want to check early for availability.
Next we enter the Hall of Mysteries. This white and gold beauty is
dedicated to magic and the power of faith. Upon entering you will find to
your left ranks of priest trainers as well as High Priest Rohan. On the
left are three mage trainers including the charming Dink and Bink. There
is also a portal trainer on hand for those able to learn this helpful
talent. Up a small flight of stairs proudly stand two paladin trainers.
Taking a sharp right you will see rising along the tower walls, for that
is what you are in-a tower, a ramp curving to a second level. Upstairs are
the Masters of each of the schools taught below. The center of this level
looks down into the hall below, and the balcony has a breathtaking view of
the entire Ward. Don’t forget to look up to the intricate detail of the
runed ceiling towering above you. Whether or not you hope to train in any
of these particular schools of magic, a visit to the lovely Hall of
Mysteries is worth the time.
Upon leaving the Hall of Mysteries and continuing our journey west, we see
next door, the shop called The Fighting Wizard. As the name so graphically
tells us, it’s a shop specializing in weaponry used by the students
studying in this Ward.
Directly across the plaza from The Fighting Wizard you will see
Longberry’s Reagents (ree-a-gents). Inside are the “tools of the trade”
for the students of the Mystic Ward. You will also find Bimble Longberry
of the same family plying her trade of fresh fruit, imported from the
forests of Elywnn, to students and visitors alike throughout the Mystic
Ward.
West
Arm Avenue of the Commons
Leaving the Mystic Ward and going full circle now we enter the west arm
avenue leading us back to the Commons. On the left hand side you will find
a lovely self catering home placed far enough from the Commons to allow
you a good nights rest and yet close enough to be a short stroll to many
of your shopping needs.
On the right a little further up you will arrive at the Stonefire Inn.
Serving a wide range of meats and drinks and being so close to The
Commons, it’s a popular hang out. Mail service is provided right outside
the door.
Next door and on the very edge of The Commons you’ll find Barim’s Reagents
(ree-a-gents).
To the City’s
Heart and The High Seat
From The Commons there are two narrow halls, like long thing arms, that
lead to the Great Forge of the City. We are going to take the southern one
and head out on our last leg of our tour. Just to the east of Steelfury’s
Emporium you will see a small arched entrance way guarded by an Ironforge
Guardsman – that will lead us to where we’re headed. Once you’ve arrived
in the Great Forge area make a left turn and stop when you find yourself
centered between the Great Forge and The High Seat.
Enter The High Seat if you’ve a taste for rubbing shoulders with Royalty,
for in here you will find none other than King Magni Bronzebeard himself
holding audience for any who venture in. He is usually in the company of
Senator Barin Redstone and the Royal Historian Archesonus. You will also
often see the lovely courtier Deliana hover around the place.
That such high born personages make themselves available to all and sundry
is a true indication of the welcome and hospitality of the Dwarven race.
The Great
Forge
Leaving The High Seat will bring you face to face with the Great Forge
itself. This is the hub of Ironforge; a ceaseless buzz of activity greets
you any time of the day or night. In The Great Forge you will find the
greatest blacksmiths, armorsmiths, and weaponsmiths in all of Azeroth. You
may buy smithing supplies on site and there is a vast forge available to
crafters.
Great reputations are forged here as well as fine swords. Astounding
fortunes have been won or lost standing where you are now. The quality of
the products leaving The Great Forge has won battles and saved the lives
of countless people. Whether known or unknown to visitors here, there are
few lives in the Alliance that are untouched by the never ending activity
of The Great Forge in the heart of Ironforge.
The Inner
Ring
The Great Forge is surrounded by an inner ring of halls, with three vast
boulevards leading to the three main Wards of the City- heading northwest
to the Mystic Ward – heading northeast to the Hall of Explorers – and
heading southeast to the Military Ward.
We will continue to the right following the pattern set when we started
our tour.
Leaving the area in front of The High Seat we turn right and come first to
the Ironforge Physician. Herbalists, trainers, suppliers, and first aid
teachers supply all the medical needs of the City.
Our next
stop will place us between the Ironforge Flight Center and a wonderful and
convenient self catering home for visitors. The Flight Center, located on
the inner part of the ring overlooking the Great Forge, the only thing
that is, has continuous flights leaving and entering the city.
Next door is the Thistlefuzz Archanery. Here those wishing to learn fine
craft of enchanting can begin their studies and continue through becoming
experts. Supplies are on hand for students as well.
The Bronze Kettle, as we continue, has started some of Azeroth’s finest
chefs. The master chef Daryl Riknussun now teaches only beginning classes,
but it’s said that he tutelage is so fine that once a student is done with
Bronze Kettle classes, a few books to continue in self study is all that’s
needed to shine in the culinary world. Supplies are available to all
visitors to the school.
Passing the large boulevard leading to the Hall of Explorers we next find
the Deep Mountain Mining Guild. The guild has taken it upon itself to
ensure the quality of mining and ores coming into the city by taking on
students for a small fee. It also has a clerk who sells supplies to Guild
members, students, and the general public.
Next along the outer side of the ring we find Burbik’s Supplies. Trade
goods of all kinds are available year round.
At Stonebrow’s Clothier tailoring classes of many levels are offered. For
home hobbyists there is a tailoring supply shop and Outfitter Eric has his
Specialty Tailoring Supplies shop upstairs to cater to the needs of the
most discerning tailor or seamstress.
Usually on duty just outside Stonebrow’s is Mistina Steelsheild, the
Dwarven Alliance Cloth Quartermaster.
Finespindal’s Leather Goods is a full service shop and school for all
things related to leather. From skinning, to crafting fine armor, to
buying the tools of the trades, you’ll find it all here under the one
roof.
Entering the last leg of our Great Forge circle we meet up with Officer
Ironbeard who deals with Ironforge Commendations. Instead of working in an
office, it’s said that Ironbeard prefers to see the “real” Ironforge and
stay close to its people.
And there you have it, a walking tour of Ironforge, a Dwarven Masterpiece
in Living Stone. Please don’t hesitate to share your favorite stories of
visiting or living in this historic and fascinating city!
Bon Voyage!
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