Bal Kuldir
History
Founded during Ironhold’s Second Expansion, Bal Kuldir was originally a fortified waystation protecting the southern roads. Its strategic location quickly elevated it to prominence. During the Caravan Rebellion (a merchant uprising several decades ago), the city held the line for Ironhold, refusing to defect and earning its name: Bal Kuldir, "Stone of Oaths" in Old Dwarvish. Since then, it has been regarded as the keystone of Ironhold's southern defense and economy.
Geography
Bal Kuldir is cradled in the far southern foothills of Ironhold’s great mountain range, where the land begins to flatten into sweeping upland plains. Located at the convergence of all major Ironhold trade roads, the city is a nexus of commerce, diplomacy, and military logistics. The surrounding terrain is dominated by rolling stone hills, natural rock outcrops, and ancient caravan routes marked by dwarven milestones.
Climate
Bal Kuldir’s southern position gives it a slightly warmer, windier climate than other Ironhold cities. Summers are dry and sunbaked, with dust kicked up from endless trade caravans. Winters are cold but rarely snowy. Storms roll in from the southeast but break over the mountains before reaching full strength. A dusty haze often hangs over the city by midday.
Natural Resources
While Bal Kuldir itself is not rich in raw resources, it thrives as the processor, distributor, and taxing authority for the many materials flowing in from the Ironhold mines. Caravan yards bustle with metals, gems, stonecrafts, livestock, and even exotic spices brought in from southern ports and overland traders. The city’s forges are fed by imported coal and ore, producing finished tools and weapons for both local and foreign use.
Population
30,000
Owner/Ruler
Additional Rulers/Owners
Ruling/Owning Rank
Owning Organization
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