Description
Ironbeard is the most central nation in Unknown and is located on a plateau between towering mountains. The kingdom is extremely rich with mineral and ore veins. Its borders are naturally fortified by the mountains with the exception of the southwest when the plateau lowers itself towards the sea where it borders Lynev.
Geography
The dwarven kingdom is the nation with the highest altitude in the world. Surrounded by even higher mountains, this plateau is often called "Roof of the world". The highest areas reach 30.000 feet above sea level with very cold temperatures. Thick layers of snow cover almost everything in the northern parts, regardless of the time of the year. From the middle and further to the south, snow melts during the hotter half of the year and returns in the other half. The massive mountains and the raised dwarven land, feature the richest underground. It is estimated that about 70% of the valuable ores and metals are extracted from there.
Goverment
The Dwarven kingdom of Ironbeard is ruled by a council of five Unknown, each of whom represents a different aspect of Dwarf society. These five leaders are chosen from among the most respected and accomplished dwarves in the land, and they are tasked with governing the kingdom, maintaining its wealth and power, and protecting its people.
The duties of the Forge-masters are wide-ranging and encompass everything from making laws and overseeing the kingdom's military to managing its economy and negotiating with other races. They are aided in their work by a council of advisors, who bring a range of perspectives and expertise to the table.
Demographics
More than 85% of the population consists of dwarves. A 10% consists of gnomes, halflings and goliaths and the rest 5% is split between other races.
Relations
2nd: Ironbeard was at war with Razlorleaf over territory in the north parts of Caldar (nation) and an assassination of an elven king.
3rd era: Joined the Kingdom Alliance but was forced into unfavorable trading regulations
Local Interests
The Dwarven economy is built around mining, metalworking, and trade. The
kingdom is rich in precious metals and gems, and its skilled craftsmen
create a wide range of products that are highly sought after by other
races. The Forge-masters play a key role in regulating the economy,
setting prices, negotiating trade deals, and ensuring that the wealth
generated by the kingdom is fairly distributed.
Notable features
Ironbeard has a well-trained and well-equipped military, consisting of heavily armored infantry, skilled supportive spellcasters, and powerful siege engineers. The army is led by a commanding officer known as the "Earthshaker", who is appointed by the Forge-masters. The military is used not only for defense, but also for safeguarding the kingdom's wealth and resources, as well as for enforcing its laws.
One of the most unique laws in the Dwarven kingdom is their code of
hospitality. According to this law, any traveler who arrives at a Dwarf
settlement must be offered food, shelter, and protection for three days
and three nights. This law is strictly enforced, and breaking it is
considered a grave offense. The Dwarves believe that this law not only
protects travelers, but also honors their gods, who are said to have
created the Dwarves to be protectors of the land.