Voltaris
“We did not want to rule. But someone had to hold the mountain.”
Cultural Overview:
Voltaris was born from necessity — a union forged in response to rising human empires. Dwarves did not seek power or dominion, but they would not be left defenseless.
The nation’s culture is defined by:
- Craftsmanship as character
- Permanence over glory
- Reluctant leadership in place of conquest
Their vast underground cities are heated by geothermal vents, lit by crystal circuitry, and protected by myth and metal.
Geography and Infrastructure:
- Located in the frozen desolate north, rarely accessed by outsiders
- Contains:
- The Deepheart Crucible – Magma forge for only the most legendary smiths
- The Hall of Silent Bronze – A vault of failed creations, honored for their ambition
- Subterranean rail systems, lava conduits, and golem-warded citadels
The Guardian: Ignaroth the Infernal
- An Ancient Red Dragon, not evil, but highly territorial
- Protects the deep forges in exchange for masterwork artifacts and enchanted gear
- Considered by many dwarves to be a sacred patron, his presence has shaped the heart of Voltaris’ legend
Political Notes:
- Current Kahn serves a limited term and often returns to their forge
- The first Kahn, Thalgryna Hearthveil, forged the alliance with Oralthis and refused to serve more than one term
- Power is considered a burden, not a right
Relationships:
- Oralthis: Longstanding ally, shared history of unification
- Common Humans: Tolerated, often too impatient
- Ancient Humans: Deeply admired
- Mechanis: Respected from afar, seen as kindred in values if not lifestyle
Social Tensions:
- Dwarves not drawn to forging often feel culturally stifled
- Population growth is low, prompting exploration of human-dwarven partnerships
- Quiet political efforts are underway to invite human settlers into safe outer zones
Name:
Voltaris
Type:
Dwarven Nation
Alternative Names:
The Stone Pact, The Deephold Alliance
Government System:
Elected Kahn (10-year term)
Reluctantly accepted; traditionally selected from master smiths or elder artisans
Founding Date:
1766 AFA
Capital:
Deepmount Forgehold — a vast subterranean stronghold beneath the frozen north
Allies:
Oralthis (Elven Nation)
Neutral Toward:
Mechanis, Ironspire
Founders
Notable Members
Eternal Allies
Allies, Trade Relations, Information Exchange Relations
The dwarves of Voltaris have a deep respect for the military and scientific might of Mechanis.
This was a primary motivator for the dwarves to forge their nation and get elves' asses in gear, as they would say.
The dwarves would eventually become allies with Mechanis , and while the dwarves are loath to do so generally, they will travel to Mechanis for an annual information exchange.
When Mechanis was attacked by Dreadspire and Lóthiriel was destroyed many dwarves died there during one of these exchanges.
This resulted in the world witnessing the military might of the dwarves for the first time in two centuries as they allied themselves with Ironspire.
In the current era, the dwarves maintain their diplomatic status with Mechanis.
Non-Aggression
The dwarves are an isolated nation as far from Ironspire as possible.
Mostly, they didn't care about their country.
They did maintain solid trade relations with them through their allies in Oralthis.
This attitude remained even during the Great War, as Voltaris mainly operated as a weapons supplier.
They were entirely neutral regarding punishment, only wishing to be repaid for their efforts and to return things to the status quo.
"Since the rightful rulers are now in place... we only wish for trade to resume to normal as soon as possible."
Ignored, Peace, Disconnected Trade Relations
Completely Hostile
The Dreadspire radicals have aims to wipe out the dwarves; kill on-site.
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