Page VI – Whirring Peaks (Engines of the Losts)
The Whirring Peaks are a cluster of mountains that house Archelm Hold and the Junkyard. These mountains obtained their name from the low continuous hum than can be heard when climbing at high altitudes. Another notable feature of these mountains is the steam that occasionally rises from various vents positioned throughout the mountains. The occasional discharge of steam from these vents is briefly visible and rarely dangerous to others. Years ago, the mechagnomes chose to construct their kingdom here because the mountains were rich with metal ore. These minerals were essential for the development of both Archelm and the automatons they constructed. Today, the metals extracted from the Whirring Peaks are being used yet again. This time giving life to a new settlement outside as the Junkyard.
Thundering Steps
Those who trek up the Whirring Peaks will eventually discover a staircase carved from the stone and inlaid with plates of metal. These steps lead to the entrance of Archelm. Their appearance may be inviting in contrast to the stark rocky snow-capped peaks of the Whirring Peaks. However, any who dare climb these steps will soon be met by the thunderous fury of the Archelm Cannons. These giant automatic weapons fire high-velocity projectiles that explode with a roaring blast. Most who trespass on the Thundering Steps are easily warded off or eliminated by this deterrent. The simplest way to bypass this defense is by obtaining an automaton transmitter. With this device in your possession, the Archelm Cannons will not detect any threats. Therefore, sparing you and granting you safe passage to the Grinding Gates above.
Grinding Gates
These large metallic doors are the only known entrance into Archelm Hold. Dozens of giant interlocking gears come together forming a wall of metal. Multiple gyrocores produce a faint blue light that can be seen glowing from between the cogs of these gears. Many wouldn’t even realize they are standing in front of an entrance, if unfamiliar with Archelm technology. This door, like the rest of the city, was built by the mechagnomes. Only they possess the ability to open the Grinding Gates. When a gnome elevates to become a mechagnome their bodies undergo multiple technological upgrades. One of these upgrades is an Archelm Identifier and only the original residents of Archelm were originally given them. These small electrical gizmos were typically implanted in the head of the mechagnomes and acted as a key into the city. To pass through the Grinding Gates one must have an Archelm Identifier installed, only then will the gears begin to turn revealing the entrance into Archelm.