Steelhold is an independent realm.
In the event that the ruler is unable to preside over the realm, this person/these persons are to temporarily take command until the ruler is able to return to their duties.
Since the ruler is currently active and healthy, this position is not in use. It will become "active" once the ruler is unable to manage the realm.
This is the rulership position for the realm. This position also includes rulership over Steelhold, the realm's capital. In the event of the ruler's death, a designated regent is to be selected as the new ruler if there is no rightful heir to take the place of the ruler.
First Ones who are looking to follow the path to becoming a Forged Knight are given the title of Iron Initiate. Initiates are put through a process in which they are sponsored by a noble who then has them perform certain tasks or quests. If they show promise by successfully completing these tasks then they are considered for the position of Forged Knight, but only once they've shown they are effective and intelligent leaders.
Tasks given to Iron Initiates are encouraged to cover various topics of statesmanship: Military, diplomatic, stewardship, etc.
Whoever may be appointed as a Forged Knight is one who is a trusted friend and ally of those within Steelhold. The Forged Knights are to be ready to mobilize/command a levy in the event of conflict. In peace, they must serve as honorary figures in the name of Steelhold, serving as diplomats or instructors for those new to the realm.
Forged Knights, upon being knighted, are gifted a black surcoat with white trim. Within the black is the image of Steelhold's Grand Tower in a light gray.
This body is to serve as a direct advisory to the current rulership and is given voting rights within the legislative council, where new laws or decrees can be proposed and deliberated upon.
These persons are to provide useful knowledge to members of the realm, both new and longtime, in order to better refine the realm as a whole. They may aid nobles in presiding over various topics including but not limited to economic, military, or diplomatic matters. They are expected to be given access to settlement records in order to adequately formulate plans for growth and expansion.
| The Lowlands | Peace | - |
Before being willingly incorporated into Ascalon, these lands were once known as Asitet Anoth. A handful of Anothians strived to ensure the survival of their small, yet determined nation and the city of Steelhold allowed them some form of safety behind its grand walls.
It is claimed that the name Steelhold is derived from the dark grey and durable stone located in the region, mostly acquired through large quarries due to the lack of any notable mountains or hills with which to dig into. The stone is used primarily for many of the realm's defensive, governmental, or important cultural structures due to its durability, but its relative difficulty in gathering leads to some degree of scarcity if used for broader purposes.