If the Ghaash’kala clans are the tines of a trident, the shield wall of Vaanka Dar is the solid hilt. Guarding the largest mountain pass from the Wastes to the Reaches, the immense fortification is a nigh unbreakable shield, and home to the Final Clan. Known as Wyrm’s Grasp, the shield wall lies between twin peaks that rise above the Labyrinth to the level of the Shadowcrags, providing panoramic views of both the verdant forest on one side, and the blasted hellscape on the other.
Inside Wyrms’ Grasp
The common name for Vaanka Dar arises from the twin focus on Eberron and Siberys present in its people. The taller peak is capped by an ancient observatory crafted by the couatl in ancient times; contained within are priceless tools to track the movements of the heavens, providing insights into the Draconic Prophecy. With their combined divine beliefs and primal traditions , the Star Druids and Nature Clerics of the Vaanka commune on their observations to keep track of future dangers. Imminent plots to release Overlords or the raising of prophetic champions in the Carrion Tribes, is critical information for the Ghaash’kala’s survival. The observatory also serves a far more mundane purpose; the keen eyes of the Vaanka Shifters keep watch for any creatures seeking to sneak through this final stretch of Labyrinth.
On Blessed Wings. The heights of the lower peak are devoted to dragonhawk aeries. The immense birds are an ancient gift from the Eldeen Reaches to aid the Ghaash’kala in their duties. Skilled riders use the dragonhawks to carry missives at speed between the clans, relaying prophetic news and diplomatic messages faster than flying fiends can catch. Over time, some of the birds have been blessed by the Kalok Shash with greater intelligence, silver talons, and divine spellcasting. These flameblessed hawks follow the Kalok Shash, and choose worthy riders themselves.
Verdant Defenders. On the slopes of both mountains, the Vaanka have built fortified homes out of quarried stone. Wyrm’s Grasp is located in a manifest zone to Lamannia that encourages plant growth and hardens natural materials; as a result, the Vaanka live on the surface behind nighunbreakable fortifications . Below the homes, step fields grow crops year-round due to Life Conduit artifacts that channel Lamannia’s influence. These are stored and carried to other clans by air in the event of a siege or other catastrophe, acting as a surprise back-up during dire events.
Source: Paladins of the Wastes