Set among the tallest peaks of the Ahnadiv Mountains, Malshashar guards a major point in Adar's defenses. Malshashar isn't as close to the foothills as Shalquar, but the fortress is named after a monastery that once was. Even so, it has more to worry about in the form of Riedran patrols and potential spies than many other strongholds. It faces Riedra proper and not the small settlements on the frontier of the Andnemun Desert and Syrkarn. The fortress is mainly under one mountain, but it sprawls under two other peaks and connects to the dromite city-hive of Zi'til'natek through psionic portals that function within Shroud bubbles.
Life is harsh in Malshashar, where even the food must be grown underground. Regular storms and landslides make the surrounding territory hostile and impenetrable. Artificial walls have sealed passes for centuries, but magic and psionics make these walls look natural. A particularly discerning dwarf might be able to see their real nature, but the dwarves of Sarlona live far away.
Kalashtar outnumber humans in Malshashar. Feeling it is their duty to defend the land of refuge in a war for which they are responsible, they handle all military matters in the stronghold. Supported by kalashtar psions and martial artists, a few of the human monks of Malshashar live as they have for ages, some not overtly participating in the ongoing struggle. The kalashtar value the meditations of these pacifist monks nonetheless.