Martial Meritocracy
Drakenscar
Land of the First Ones. A rough mountainous region with arid areas. The capital Sanghor, is carved entirely out of a rugged mountain. It is surrounded by imposing rock-hewn structures and winding stone pathways.
Explore Dusk's Wonders
A Glimpse into Drakenscar
Zarathul: The Cavern of Unspoken Echoes
Bandar Tul
Arna's Sip
Strike
Rake: The Protectorate
Spotlight: Hammerfall
Vaelrun
Vaelrun is a massive crater that dominates the rugged landscape of Drakenscar, a monumental testament to the world-shaping might of the ancient dwarven gods. At its center stands a colossal spire, an obelisk that pierces the sky, said to be the exact spot where Knul’Vaelrath, the Forge Father, first struck the earth with his divine hammer. This spire serves both as a temple and a beacon for dwarves across Drakenscar, radiating a palpable sense of power and sacredness that can be felt throughout the region.
Surrounding the spire, the walls of the crater are lined with intricate carvings and statues that depict the creation myths and legendary figures of dwarven lore. The ground is scattered with rare minerals and ores that glow with an inner light, making Vaelrun a place of pilgrimage and mining both. During the annual Hammerfall festival, dwarves from across Drakenscar gather at Vaelrun to pay homage to Knul’Vaelrath, participate in feats of strength and craftsmanship, and renew their bonds of kinship and clan loyalty. The atmosphere during these times is charged with a deep, resonant energy, as if the very stones of the crater whisper the secrets of the world’s creation.
Geographical Features
Region Overview
Drakenscar, characterized by its rugged terrain and towering mountain ranges, is the bastion of dwarven strength and resilience. The region is known for its vast mineral wealth, which has shaped its culture around mining, metalwork, and engineering. The cities, carved directly into the mountain sides or nestled in the valleys, are feats of dwarven architecture and stonework, built to endure the ages. Drakenscar’s people are as hardy as the land they come from, known for their stoicism and fierce independence.
Types of People
Miners and Smiths: The backbone of Drakenscar’s economy, skilled in extracting and refining the rich minerals from the mountains.
Warriors and Guards: Trained from a young age to defend their homeland and its resources, often equipped with the finest armor and weapons their smiths can provide.
Artisans and Craftsmen: Renowned for their exquisite metalwork and stonemasonry, creating everything from everyday tools to intricate jewelry and monumental statues.
Elders and Lorekeepers: Respected figures who maintain the traditions and histories of their people, often serving as advisors to the Clan Council.
Priests and Ritualists: Caretakers of the spiritual and religious practices, particularly those centered around the worship of Knul’Vaelrath and the sacred rituals performed in the Valerun.
Traders and Merchants: Handle the economic exchanges with other regions, dealing in metals, crafted goods, and occasionally, rare magical items forged in Drakenscar.
Explorers and Pioneers: Dwarves who venture beyond the mountains to explore the wider world of Dusk, seeking new resources and opportunities for their people.
Guild Leaders: Heads of the powerful guilds that manage various aspects of dwarven life, from mining guilds to artisan collectives.
Students and Apprentices: Young dwarves learning the trades that will sustain their culture, often seen working alongside masters in forges and workshops.
Visitors and Diplomats: Representatives from other regions who come to Drakenscar for political, economic, or cultural reasons, often seen negotiating in the halls of the Clan Council or participating in Drakenscar’s renowned festivals.
Traditional Dress
Cultural Attire
The traditional attire in Drakenscar is designed for both functionality and symbolic significance. Dwarves favor durable leather and chainmail mixed with finely wrought metal accessories that signify clan allegiance and personal achievements. Helmets and armor are common, even in non-military contexts, reflecting their martial culture and the ever-present need for protection in the dangerous mountain environment.
People's Attitude
Stoic, determined, and fiercely independent
Regional Tensions
The relentless mining and resource extraction have occasionally led to disputes, Fenrath. Internally, tensions can also arise between clans over mining rights and territorial disputes, although these are typically settled through the council before escalating into conflict.
- With Thornwyld and Fenrath over mining.
Diplomatic Alliances
Drakenscar maintains a pragmatic approach to its alliances, particularly with Ostromar, with whom it shares a mutual interest in maintaining strong defenses and robust trade in arms and arcane artifacts. This alliance benefits Drakenscar by providing magical protections and enhancements for its forges and weaponry, crucial for its defense and economic stability. Drakenscar also engages in trade with other regions, exporting metals and crafted goods in exchange for food and other necessities it cannot produce locally.
Power Dynamics
Power in Drakenscar is concentrated in the hands of the Clan Council, a gathering of leaders from the most powerful clans. This council decides on matters of state, defense, and economic policies, ensuring the interests of their robust mining and smithing industries are always prioritized. Below the Clan Council, various guilds wield significant influence, managing the intricate details of everyday life in Drakenscar, from the mining operations to the artisan smithies.
Cultural Exchange
Drakenscar is relatively insular but participates in cultural exchange primarily through its trade routes. Dwarven metalwork and stonework are highly prized, and artisans often travel to other regions to share their skills and learn new techniques. Festivals and competitions, particularly those showcasing metalwork and gem cutting, attract visitors from across Dusk, allowing Drakenscar to showcase its cultural heritage and craftsmanship.