The River Aver (known in the Dwarf tongue of Khazalid as Zhuf-durak[2a]) may be traced to the mountain stream of the Black Mountains and is most notable for its strong blue colour and vigorous, foaming waters. Its upper reaches contain many waterfalls, but by the time it joins the River Reik, the river is large and easily navigable by river boat and barge.
It also passes through the heart of the Moot -- the homeland of the Halflings -- where it is a vital irrigation source for their agriculture. From time to time it also bears messengers between the great city of Nuln and the distant Dwarfen fortress of Karak Varn, high in the Black Mountains.[1a]
The Aver and the River Stir are the major rivers of the southern Empire, giving their names to the Electoral Provinces of Averland and Stirland. Both rise in the Worlds Edge Mountains, and the dark waters that flow from that range give the rivers a deep, rich colour. They are major paths of trade to and from the great Dwarf holds of Karak Kadrin and Zhufbar. Ancient roads follow their course to towns that mark the furthest point upstream that riverboats can travel.[3a]