Warlord Thane

The Warlord Thanes of the Dwarven Kingdoms of Ashar are the military governors and battlefield commanders who rule over the Holds and fortresses of the Kingdom, ensuring that their territories remain fortified, disciplined, and prepared for war at all times. Unlike traditional Thanes, who govern with a focus on economy, trade, and law, a Warlord Thane is first and foremost a warrior, holding the dual responsibility of leading their armies in battle and maintaining the security of their domain. Appointed by the Grand Assembly and High King, Warlord Thanes command the might of the Dwarven Legions, oversee fortress defences, and enforce military law within their regions. They are not merely rulers but frontline generals, expected to fight alongside their warriors, defend the Holds from external threats, and uphold the honour of the Dwarven military tradition. A Warlord Thane’s authority is nearly absolute within their designated Hold, but they must remain loyal to the High King and the Grand Assembly, ensuring that military power never becomes unchecked ambition. They are among the most respected and feared leaders in Dwarven society, wielding iron discipline, strategic brilliance, and an unbreakable oath to defend the Kingdoms at all costs.

Qualifications

A Warlord Thane is not born into power—they earn it through battle, leadership, and years of proving their worth. Unlike a traditional Thane, who may inherit their position, a Warlord Thane must demonstrate superior military strategy, combat mastery, and unwavering loyalty to the Kingdom before they can claim the title.

Minimum Qualifications & Prerequisites

A candidate for Warlord Thane must fulfill the following mandatory requirements:

Proven Military Service (Mandatory Combat Experience – Minimum 100 Years)

Must have served as a commander, general, or war-leader in at least three major military campaigns.
Must have fought in at least one full-scale war, siege, or underground incursion, proving their battle-tested experience.
Must have held the rank of Legion Commander, Deepwarden Captain, or Fortress Marshal, leading troops in both war and peacetime operations.

Mastery of Military Strategy & War Doctrine

Must be formally trained in siege warfare, tunnel defense, phalanx formations, and tactical leadership.
Must have completed the Stoneward Tactical Trials, an ancient test of strategic skill where candidates simulate a full-scale battle.
Must have personally led troop deployments, supply lines, and defensive fortifications.

Leadership & Governance Experience (Minimum 50 Years of Command)

Must have served as a military governor, fortress administrator, or deep-road outpost commander.
Must have experience managing fortifications, supply logistics, troop morale, and war funding.
Must prove ability to balance military needs with economic and civilian concerns (A Warlord Thane is not just a warrior but a ruler).

Battle-Tested Physical & Mental Endurance

Must pass The Gauntlet of Endurance, a trial involving weeks of physical exertion, sleep deprivation, and combat simulations.
Must demonstrate resistance to pain, exhaustion, and magical influence—a weak-willed Thane is a dead Thane.
Must possess unbreakable loyalty to the Kingdom, as confirmed by a sacred Oathstone ritual.

The Trial of the Forge (Kazrul-Thorim-Rethgor) – The Final Test

Even after meeting all qualifications, a candidate must undergo The Trial of the Forge, an ancient ritual of combat, leadership, and judgment to determine if they are truly worthy of ruling a Hold and leading its warriors into battle. The trial consists of three parts:

The Trial of the Hammer (Personal Combat Mastery)

The candidate must face and defeat three elite warriors in a ritualized combat challenge, proving their skill in battle.
The fights may be one-on-one duels, endurance matches, or weapon-based trials.
The candidate must not yield, as surrender is an automatic failure.

The Trial of Stone & Steel (Tactical Prowess)

A simulated war scenario where the candidate must lead a battalion against an overwhelming force.
Judges evaluate their ability to adapt, hold formations, and ensure minimal losses.
Those who fail to protect their troops or execute a viable strategy are deemed unfit for leadership.

The Oath of the Mountain (Unbreakable Loyalty Test)

The candidate must swear The Oath of the Mountain, binding them to defend the Dwarven Kingdoms until their last breath.
If they betray this oath, their name will be struck from history, and they will be erased from the Grand Archives.

Disqualifications & Forbidden Traits

A Dwarf cannot become a Warlord Thane if they meet any of the following conditions:

Cowardice in Battle – Any record of fleeing from combat without orders results in permanent disqualification.
Oathbreaking – Those who have violated military contracts or broken their sworn word can never hold the title.
Foreign Influence – Any Dwarf found collaborating with non-Dwarven warlords, mercenary companies, or enemy states is barred from ever holding military command.
Lack of Combat Experience – Political appointments do not exist for this position—if a candidate has not seen war firsthand, they are not eligible.
Physical or Mental Frailty – If a candidate is too weak to fight, too slow to command, or too unstable to lead, they are immediately rejected.

Duties

The Warlord Thane is not just a warrior or a ruler—they are the unbreakable shield of their Hold and the hammer that strikes down its enemies. Their duties go beyond military command; they must preserve the honor of the Dwarven legions, uphold the stability of the Kingdoms, and ensure that their Hold remains strong, disciplined, and ready for war at all times. Unlike a civilian Thane, who focuses on trade, diplomacy, and governance, the Warlord Thane’s primary concern is war and defense. They must balance the needs of their warriors, the safety of their people, and the laws of the Grand Assembly, ensuring that justice, order, and loyalty remain unshaken.

Core Military Duties (The Shield & Hammer of the Kingdoms)

Defending Their Hold at All Costs

A Warlord Thane is the first and last line of defense for their Hold, ensuring that no invader, monster, or traitor threatens their people.
They must maintain a standing army, oversee defensive fortifications, and train new warriors to be battle-ready at all times.
If a Hold is attacked or besieged, the Warlord Thane is expected to lead from the front, not hide behind their warriors.

Training & Maintaining Military Discipline

Ensures that all warriors under their command are properly trained in formation combat, siege defense, and tunnel warfare.
Punishes insubordination, desertion, and cowardice swiftly, as undisciplined soldiers endanger the entire Hold.
Personally trains the next generation of officers and commanders, passing down tactical knowledge.

Leading Troops in War

In times of war, a Warlord Thane is responsible for leading their army into battle—retreat is only permitted if it serves a greater strategic purpose.
Must ensure that logistics, supply lines, and reinforcements are properly managed.
Expected to fight alongside their soldiers, proving their strength, courage, and ability to lead by example.

Leadership & Governance Duties (Balancing War with Stability)

Maintaining Order Within the Hold

Enforces military law within their territory, ensuring that crime, rebellion, and internal disputes do not weaken the Hold.
Oversees guild disputes, trade restrictions, and resource allocations that affect the military’s ability to function.
Has the right to judge criminal cases that involve military personnel but must defer civilian trials to the High Arbiter or local magistrates.

Managing Resources for War

Ensures that their Hold’s food stores, blacksmiths, and armories are well-stocked and prepared for war.
Oversees the mining and distribution of steel, mithril, and adamantine for military use.
Works with Guildmasters to secure trade for weapons, siege engines, and magical defenses.

Enforcing & Upholding Dwarven Law

While the High Arbiter interprets the law, a Warlord Thane is responsible for ensuring that all military rulings are carried out justly.
Must report any corruption, treason, or legal violations to the Grand Assembly.
Cannot ignore or override a ruling made by the High Arbiter, even if it weakens their military position.

Moral & Ethical Obligations (A Leader’s Honor is Their People’s Strength)

Loyalty to the Kingdom Above All Else

A Warlord Thane must be utterly loyal to the High King, the Grand Assembly, and the Dwarven Kingdoms as a whole.
If forced to choose between personal ambition and the Kingdom’s survival, they must sacrifice their pride.
Betrayal is unforgivable—any Warlord Thane who conspires against the Kingdom is hunted and executed as a traitor.

Leading by Example – Strength, Honor, and Courage

A Warlord Thane must never show weakness before their soldiers, as morale is tied to their strength.
If a battle is lost, they are expected to fight to the last or die defending their warriors.
Must be willing to sacrifice themselves before allowing their people to suffer dishonor or enslavement.

Protecting the People, Not Just the Army

Though their first duty is war, a Warlord Thane must also protect the civilians of their Hold.
A Hold without its workers, miners, and craftsmen cannot survive—a Warlord Thane must ensure that their people are not exploited, overtaxed, or left vulnerable to raids.
They are expected to listen to the concerns of their people, ensuring that military rule does not turn into tyranny.

Diplomatic & External Relations (The Warrior’s Voice in Politics)

Negotiating with Other Holds & Guilds

While not as politically active as a civilian Thane, a Warlord Thane must still attend meetings of the Grand Assembly when military concerns are involved.
Must ensure that their Hold is not economically or strategically undermined by rival factions.
May petition for more resources, reinforcements, or war funding if their Hold faces an external threat.

Managing Relations with Non-Dwarven Factions

If their Hold has contact with Humans, Elves, Goliaths, or other factions, they must ensure that Dwarven interests are protected.
Has the right to bar foreigners from entering military-controlled regions if security is at risk.
Must ensure that no foreign influence threatens the sovereignty of the Dwarven Kingdoms.

Benefits

The Warlord Thane is one of the most powerful and prestigious positions in the Dwarven Kingdoms, commanding both military and political authority over a fortress Hold and its armies. As a result, they receive significant benefits in the form of wealth, military resources, political influence, and personal honors. However, these benefits come with heavy responsibility, and failure to uphold their duty can result in swift punishment, exile, or execution.

Monetary & Material Wealth (Gold for War, Not for Luxury)

Control Over the Hold’s Treasury & Military Resources

A Warlord Thane has direct access to their Hold’s war fund, ensuring they can pay soldiers, reinforce defenses, and fund military campaigns.
While they cannot personally profit from the treasury, they control its distribution, making them a powerful figure in Hold economics.
Can petition the Grand Assembly for additional funding in times of war or crisis.

Stipend & Personal Wealth (More Than a Thane, Less Than a King)

Receives a significant stipend from the High King and the Grand Assembly, ensuring they never lack for personal needs.
Has the right to claim a percentage of war spoils—gold, weapons, or artifacts seized from enemies.
Unlike civilian rulers, a Warlord Thane cannot engage in trade or personal business ventures, as their wealth must be tied to their service to the Kingdom.

Ownership of Land & Fortresses

Granted a personal estate within their Hold, often a fortified manor or military stronghold.
Can construct barracks, armories, and personal forges to improve their military forces.
Unlike civilian Thanes, they do not own mines or merchant districts, as their focus is on war, not commerce.

Political Power & Influence (The Warrior’s Seat in the Grand Assembly)

Direct Authority Over Their Hold’s Military & Defense

A Warlord Thane has near-total autonomy over their Hold’s army, giving them unparalleled power within their domain.
They can raise additional troops, enforce military law, and fortify their city without needing approval from the Assembly.
If their Hold is attacked, they have the authority to declare a state of war and mobilize all available forces immediately.

Seat in the Grand Assembly (Kazrul-Vokun)

While primarily a military leader, the Warlord Thane sits in the Grand Assembly, allowing them to influence Kingdom-wide decisions.
Can vote on matters of war, national defense, and military funding.
Has the right to challenge policies that weaken the Kingdom’s military strength.

Right to Challenge the High King (In Military Matters Only)

If a Warlord Thane believes the High King’s strategy is flawed, they may formally challenge their decision in the Assembly.
This is rare and dangerous, as a Warlord Thane who loses their challenge must either submit or resign.

Military Privileges & Honors (A Warlord’s Might is Their Legacy)

Command of an Elite Personal Guard

The Warlord Thane is granted a personal company of veteran warriors, known as their Shieldbearers.
These soldiers serve as their bodyguards and battlefield vanguard, ensuring their safety in war and political meetings alike.

Right to Bear Custom-Runed Weapons & Armor

Given a custom-forged weapon, often a runed warhammer or battleaxe, signifying their authority.
Their armor is enchanted with protective runes, ensuring they are identifiable and nearly unkillable in battle.
Only other Warlord Thanes, the High King, and the High Arbiter may wield similar weapons.

Power to Issue Military Decrees (Within Their Territory)

Can enforce conscription (drafting civilians into the army) during times of war.
Can declare emergency law to quell rebellions or maintain order in their Hold.
Has the authority to sentence criminals within the military, but civilian cases must still go through the High Arbiter.

Social Status & Cultural Benefits (Fear, Respect, and Eternal Honor)

Revered Among Soldiers & Citizens

Feared by enemies, respected by warriors, and often loved by their people (as long as they rule wisely).
Songs and tales are written about legendary Warlord Thanes, ensuring their name lives on even after death.

Unparalleled Influence Among Dwarven Clans

Even the richest Merchant Guildmasters and civilian Thanes defer to a Warlord Thane in matters of war.
The position is seen as a pinnacle of Dwarven leadership, granting them a seat at every major council of war.

Sacred Burial Rites Upon Death (Only Given to the Greatest of Dwarves)

Upon death, a Warlord Thane is given an honor-rite funeral, buried with their weapons, armor, and war banners.
Some are entombed in the Grand Anvil Crypts, where only the most honored warriors rest.
If they die in battle, their name is carved into the Wall of Eternal Shields, ensuring they are never forgotten.

Limitations & Restrictions (Power That Comes with Responsibility)

While a Warlord Thane is one of the most powerful figures in the Kingdoms, their position comes with strict limitations to prevent abuse or tyranny:

Cannot own businesses or profit from trade Prevents them from becoming corrupt or using war for personal gain.
Bound by the Codex of the Forge (Dwarven Law) They must follow the law and cannot override High Arbiter rulings.
Can be removed if found guilty of corruption, treason, or incompetence Ensures that only the worthy hold this title.
Cannot refuse a summons from the High King or Grand Assembly They must answer when called upon for war or governance.
Must personally fight in battle A Warlord Thane cannot send others to die while they remain behind.

Accoutrements & Equipment

A Warlord Thane is both a ruler and a warrior, and their equipment reflects this dual role. They are adorned with the finest armor, weapons, and regalia, designed not just for ceremony but for battle, leadership, and unwavering authority. Unlike the High King, who wears a crown, or the High Arbiter, who carries the Hammer of Judgment, a Warlord Thane’s symbols of power are forged for war. Their armor, weapons, and insignia are unique to each Hold, but all Warlord Thanes receive sacred relics upon their appointment, symbolizing their unbreakable duty to their warriors, their Hold, and the Kingdoms of Ashar.

Ceremonial & Battle Armor (Worn in War & Council Alike)

The Warplate of the Unyielding (Kazrul-Thorim-Durim) – The Armor of a Warlord

Forged from rune-carved adamantine, offering near-unbreakable protection in battle.
Enchanted with ancestral runes that enhance physical endurance and resistance to magical attacks.
Each set of Warplate is unique to its Hold, often bearing the sigil of the fortress or clan it protects.
A Warlord Thane must wear their armor at all times in public, as they are expected to be ready for battle at a moment’s notice.

B. The Cloak of Command (Kazrul-Vorim-Thorim)

A heavy, fur-lined cloak adorned with battle runes and clan insignias.
Symbolizes authority and leadership, meant to distinguish the Warlord Thane from their officers in war councils and public addresses.
Some Holds use griffon feathers, dragonhide, or enchanted scales in their cloak designs, showcasing past victories and legendary battles fought by previous Warlord Thanes.

Sacred Weapons & Artifacts (A Warlord Thane Never Goes Unarmed)

The Blade of Dominion (Kazrul-Dorim-Rethgor) – The Symbol of Rule

Each Warlord Thane is granted a sacred weapon upon their ascension, usually a warhammer, battleaxe, or greatsword.
Forged from mithril, adamantine, or soulsteel, imbued with runes of command and leadership.
If a Warlord Thane falls in battle, their weapon is passed down or interred with them, ensuring that only the worthy may wield it.

The Shield of the Hold (Kazrul-Tharum-Belgorin) – The Warlord’s Oath

A massive, rune-carved tower shield, engraved with the sigil of their Hold and the Oath of the Mountain.
Represents the Thane’s duty to protect their people, even at the cost of their own life.
Some Warlord Thanes carry the shields of past rulers, ensuring that the legacy of fallen leaders continues into every new battle.

Regalia of Office & Symbols of Authority (Recognizing the Warlord Thane’s Status in Council & War)

The Helm of the Warlord (Kazrul-Thorim-Morak) – The Unbreakable Visage

A ceremonial yet fully functional helm, designed to hide fear, doubt, or weakness in battle and council.
Runic engravings enhance focus, perception, and battle awareness, ensuring that the Warlord Thane is never caught unaware.
Only removed in death or during solemn oaths before the High King.

The Chain of Oaths (Kazrul-Tarim-Dorim) – The Burden of Leadership

A heavy iron chain, worn over the shoulders, signifying the unbreakable oaths sworn to the Hold and the Kingdom.
Every link represents a past war, victory, or great challenge overcome by the Hold.
If a Warlord Thane is exiled or disgraced, their Chain is melted down and reforged into prison shackles.

The Banner of the Warlord (Kazrul-Morgrim-Thorim) – The Rallying Standard

A battle banner carried by their personal guard, displaying the colors and sigil of their Hold.
Used to rally troops, mark command posts, and signify where the Warlord Thane stands in battle.
If the banner falls in battle, it is seen as a grave omen—some Warlord Thanes have fought to the death rather than let it touch the ground.

Insignia & Seals of Office (Used in Council, Law, & Diplomacy)

The War Seal of the Hold (Kazrul-Tharum-Khazrum) – The Warlord’s Mark

A massive signet ring or war medallion, used to sign military orders, approve fortress defenses, and declare war.
Each Warlord Thane’s War Seal is unique, bearing a symbol of their personal legacy and war philosophy.
Without the War Seal, no military decree is legally binding—losing it is considered a mark of great dishonor.

The Horn of the Legion (Kazrul-Vorim-Rethgor) – The Call to War

A ceremonial war horn, only sounded in times of siege, war, or kingdom-wide crisis.
A Warlord Thane’s horn is enchanted so that its sound can be heard across the entire Hold.
Some Holds have ancient horns that have called warriors to battle for thousands of years, symbolizing their unbroken lineage of warlords.

Final Honors & Death Rites of a Warlord Thane (A Leader’s Legacy in Steel & Stone)

The Tomb of the Warlord – The Final Honor

Upon death, a Warlord Thane is laid to rest in their Hold’s warrior crypts, buried with their weapons, armor, and battle honors.
Their war banner is placed over their tomb, ensuring that their name is never forgotten.

The Breaking of the Warplate – A Final Tribute

If a Warlord Thane dies defending their Hold, their armor is ceremonially shattered, its pieces melted into new weapons for the next generation of warriors.
This signifies that their strength lives on in those who continue to fight in their name.

The Last War March – A Funeral Unlike Any Other

In Holds that practice the Last War March, a Warlord Thane’s body is carried through the city on a shield, accompanied by a silent procession of warriors.
Their Hammer or Blade is struck against the Gates of the Hold, one final time, to signal their passing to the ancestors.
If a Warlord Thane is dishonored or executed, they receive no war rites, and their name is stricken from the records.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

A Warlord Thane holds their title for life, but their power is not absolute. While they are among the most respected and feared leaders in the Dwarven Kingdoms, they serve the Kingdom, not themselves. If a Warlord Thane fails in their duties, betrays the Kingdom, or brings dishonor to their Hold, they can be removed, exiled, or even executed. However, because military stability is critical, dismissing a Warlord Thane requires a formal and rigorous process. Unlike civilian Thanes, who can be voted out or pressured into resignation, a Warlord Thane must be officially judged by the High King, the Grand Assembly, or through combat.

Grounds for Removal (What Can Get a Warlord Thane Dismissed?)

Military Failure or Gross Negligence (Kazrul-Dorim-Thorim) (Failure in War is Unforgivable)

If a Warlord Thane loses a critical battle due to incompetence, poor strategy, or cowardice, they can be removed from command.
If they allow their Hold to fall without a proper fight, they are deemed unworthy of leadership.
A Warlord Thane who surrenders without a justifiable reason faces immediate exile or execution.

Treason Against the Kingdom (Kazrul-Tharum-Morgrim) (Betrayal is Death)

If a Warlord Thane conspires against the High King, the Grand Assembly, or their own Hold, they are charged with treason.
If found guilty, their punishment is execution, exile, or eternal dishonor.

Examples of treason include:

Secretly allied with foreign powers.
Selling military secrets to enemies.
Declaring themselves independent from the Kingdom.

Corruption or Abuse of Power (Kazrul-Torim-Vorim) (A Warlord is a Leader, Not a Tyrant)

If a Warlord Thane abuses their power for personal gain, overtaxes their people, or exploits resources meant for the military, they can be forcibly removed.
If they favor one guild, clan, or political faction over others, they may be put on trial for misconduct.
If found guilty of hoarding wealth or using military forces for personal conquest, they are exiled or executed.

Refusal to Obey the High King or the Grand Assembly (Kazrul-Vorim-Thorim) (A Warlord Must Serve, Not Rule Alone)

A Warlord Thane must obey lawful orders from the High King, especially in times of war.
If they refuse a direct command, they must justify their reasoning before the Grand Assembly.
If their refusal is deemed unjust, they are stripped of their title and potentially exiled.
However, if the High King’s order is seen as dishonorable or reckless, the Warlord Thane may challenge the order before the Assembly instead of obeying it outright.

Incompetence, Weakness, or Inability to Lead (Kazrul-Tharum-Borim) (Only the Strong May Rule)

If a Warlord Thane loses the trust of their warriors, they may face internal rebellion.
If their own officers, soldiers, or fortress commanders refuse to follow them, they may be challenged in the Trial by Combat.
If they are physically unable to lead due to injury, old age, or illness, the Grand Assembly may force them into retirement.

The Dismissal Process: How a Warlord Thane is Removed

Because Warlord Thanes hold immense military power, their removal must be carefully handled to prevent rebellion, civil war, or power struggles.

Step 1: The Petition for Removal

A formal charge must be brought forth by one of the following:

The High King (for military failure, insubordination, or treason).
The Grand Assembly (for corruption or abuse of power).
A coalition of military commanders (for incompetence or loss of authority among the troops).
The accusation must be proven with evidence, such as battlefield reports, testimony, or financial records.

Step 2: The Trial of Judgment (Kazrul-Tarim-Rethgor) (Formal Legal Trial)

The High Arbiter oversees the case, ensuring that the trial follows Dwarven law.
Witnesses, commanders, and evidence are presented before the Grand Assembly.
The accused Warlord Thane may defend themselves, argue their case, or invoke the Trial by Combat (if eligible).
The Grand Assembly votes on the verdict—a two-thirds majority is required for removal.

Step 3: The Trial by Combat Option (If Challenged)

If the Warlord Thane believes they are being unfairly removed, they may demand a Trial by Combat, proving their right to rule through strength of arms.
The trial can be a duel against their accuser or a selected champion.
Victory means they retain their title; defeat means death or exile.

Consequences of Removal (What Happens to a Fallen Warlord Thane?)

Exile (Kazrul-Durim-Torim) – For Dishonored Thanes

If a Warlord Thane is found guilty of incompetence, corruption, or negligence, they are banished from all Dwarven Holds.
Their name is struck from the war banners, ensuring that they are never remembered in the annals of history.

Execution (Kazrul-Tharum-Vorim) – For Treasonous Thanes

If found guilty of treason, cowardice, or betrayal of the Kingdom, a Warlord Thane is executed immediately.
Execution methods vary, but the most common is Anvil Crushing, where their own armor is melted down and used to forge weapons for the next generation of warriors.

Forced Retirement (Kazrul-Tharum-Borim) – For Unfit Leaders

If a Warlord Thane grows too old, weak, or mentally unfit to lead, they may be forced into retirement.
They are given a seat in the Grand Assembly as an advisor, but they can never hold military command again.

Public Shaming & Stripping of Titles

If found guilty of abusing their power or violating their oaths, a Warlord Thane may be stripped of all honors, weapons, and status.
Their Chain of Oaths is melted down, and they are forced to live as a commoner, forever disgraced.

Notable Removals in Dwarven History (Rare, but Legendary Cases)

Warlord Thane Kargan Steelaxe (4978 A.H.) – Executed for breaking an alliance with the Goliaths, leading to a massacre that almost caused a civil war.
Warlord Thane Uldrak the Red (5321 A.H.) – Exiled after losing an entire legion in a reckless charge against an orc horde.
Warlord Thane Durrim Firebrand (5505 A.H.) – Stripped of rank after using military forces to seize control of merchant trade routes for personal profit.
Warlord Thane Borgrim Ironjaw (5538 A.H.) – Challenged the High King’s authority and was killed in the Trial by Combat.

History

The Warlord Thane is one of the most crucial and battle-hardened titles in Dwarven history, shaping the rise, defense, and survival of the Dwarven Kingdoms. Since its creation in 3795 A.C., Warlord Thanes have led armies, defended fortress Holds, fought in legendary wars, and even challenged kings for the sake of the Kingdom. Below are some of the most significant historical events tied to the office of Warlord Thane.

The First Forging & The Iron Decree of War (3795 A.C.)

The Creation of the Warlord Thane Rank
Before 3795 A.C., each Hold governed its own military independently, leading to disorganized defenses, clan rivalries, and weak coordination in times of war.
High King Khadgar Stonefist, seeing the need for stronger military unity, proposed the Iron Decree of War, which formally created the rank of Warlord Thane.
Grundar Ironfist was appointed as the First Warlord Thane, laying the foundation for the military structure still used today.
This event unified the Dwarven Holds under a centralized military command, ensuring that defense and strategy were no longer left to individual Thanes and their political ambitions.

The War of the Blackened Tunnels (3812 A.M. – 3819 A.M.)

The First True Test of the Warlord Thane System
Shortly after the Warlord Thane system was established, the Deep Roads were overrun by an alliance of Orcish warbands and subterranean invaders.
Warlord Thane Grundar Ironfist led a seven-year campaign to reclaim lost fortresses, using the newly created Dwarven phalanx formations and fortified tunnel tactics.
This war proved the necessity of the Warlord Thane rank, as a centralized military allowed Holds to reinforce one another, rather than fighting as isolated strongholds.
This led to the Deep Road Fortress Initiative (3805 A.C.), where Warlord Thanes were given control over permanent fortifications within the Deep Roads.

The Siege of Kazad Stro’Morn (4381 A.M.)

The Greatest Defense in Dwarven History
An army of 100,000 Orcs and mercenaries besieged the capital Hold of Kazad Stro’Morn in one of the longest sieges ever recorded.
Warlord Thane Hrothgar Doomshield, refusing to surrender, led a six-year defense, using traps, collapsible tunnels, and siege-breaking weapons to hold off the enemy.
The city never fell, and by the end of the siege, less than 1,000 Orcs remained, while Kazad Stro’Morn still stood strong.
This battle cemented the Warlord Thanes as legends, proving that with the right leadership, no fortress would ever fall.

The Winter Wars Against the Goliaths (4712 A.M. – 4760 A.M.)

The Warlord Thane's Role in Controlling the Goliaths
When the Goliaths emerged in 4900 A.H., they were seen as war assets rather than an independent people.
Warlord Thane Morgrim Frosthammer devised new tactics for fighting in extreme cold and ice-laden tunnels, ensuring that Goliath resistance was crushed before it could become a major threat.
This led to the construction of Kazad Grundar, the first northern fortress built entirely for war against surface invaders.
Though victorious, the wars created tensions that still remain today, as some modern Dwarves believe the Warlord Thanes were too brutal in their treatment of the Goliaths.

The Fall of Warlord Thane Vargan Bloodfist (5015 A.H.)

The Warlord Who Sought to Become King
During the chaos of the Tarrasque’s rampage (5000 A.H.), Warlord Thane Vargan Bloodfist attempted a coup, declaring that the High King was unfit to rule and that the Warlord Thanes should seize power.
Gathering an army, he launched a civil war against the Grand Assembly, leading to the bloodiest internal conflict in Dwarven history.
He was ultimately defeated by the combined forces of the remaining Warlord Thanes and executed for treason.
This event led to the Grand Anvil Pact, a law stating that no Warlord Thane could unilaterally declare war without the High King’s approval.

The Giant Wars (5230 A.H. – 5292 A.H.)

The Battle That Ensured Dwarven Supremacy Underground
In one of the most deadly conflicts in Dwarven history, Frost Giants from the northern reaches invaded the Deep Roads, attempting to claim Dwarven strongholds for their own.
Warlord Thane Baldrik Thunderborn led a brutal counteroffensive, personally slaying the Giant King in single combat.
His victory ensured that Giants would never again threaten the Deep Roads, earning him the title Slayer of Giants.
His battle tactics were so effective that Dwarven warfare remained unchanged for centuries after his death.

The Betrayal of Warlord Thane Dorgar Ironhelm (5340 A.H. – 5411 A.H.)

The Unseen Blade Turned Traitor
The first Warlord Thane to incorporate assassination tactics and guerrilla warfare into Dwarven strategy.
Created the Deepwarden Shadow Corps, used for covert operations and eliminating high-value targets.
However, it was later discovered that he had been selling military secrets to rival factions in exchange for gold and influence.
Assassinated by his own Shadow Corps, his name was erased from the records, and his legacy was buried in disgrace.

The Rise of Warlord Thane Skaldi Firebeard (5460 A.H. – 5525 A.H.)

The First Female Warlord Thane
Broke centuries of tradition by proving that strength of leadership, not bloodline, should determine who holds the title.
Unified three Holds under a single military alliance, preventing internal disputes from weakening the Kingdom’s defenses.
Died holding the bridge at Kazad Morak, ensuring that her warriors could retreat to safety while she fought alone against overwhelming odds.
Her axe and armor are still displayed in the Hall of Warlords, a reminder that greatness knows no gender.

The Last Removal: Warlord Thane Gorgrun Stonefury (5510 A.H. – 5558 A.H.)

The Berserker Who Was Too Dangerous to Rule
Known for his relentless aggression and reckless battle tactics, leading to high casualties but undeniable victories.
Declared war on a neighboring Orc clan without approval, leading to political fallout and conflict with the Grand Assembly.
Removed from office in 5558 A.H., exiled to the outskirts of the Deep Roads, where he is rumored to be gathering forces for a rebellion.

The Modern Era: The Goliath Reparations Debate (5565 A.H. – Present)

Some factions argue that the Dwarves should make amends for their historical mistreatment of the Goliaths.
Warlord Thanes are divided, with some believing that the war crimes of the past must be acknowledged, while others insist that Goliaths were never allies, only conquered foes.
High Arbiter Khadgrun Steelmantle has yet to make a final ruling, but whatever he decides will change Dwarven-Goliath relations forever.

Type

Civic, Military, Commissioned

Status

Active

Creation

The Iron Decree of War - 3795 A.C.

Form of Address

Warlord Thane [Name], Shield of the Hold

Alternative Naming

Kazrul-Tharum-Dorim, Thane of War, Shield-Lord, Stone-Blooded Warlord

Source of Authority

The High King, The Grand Assembly

Length of Term

Indefinite Term Until Death or Removal

First Holder

Grundar Ironfist

Current Holders

Past Holders

Reports directly to

High King

Related Organizations

The Dwarven Kingdoms of Ashar