*Racial Breakdown*: 75% Mountain Dwarves, 20% human, 5% other.
*Population*: 9000 +/-
*Major Industries*: Gem mining, Smithing, Construction, Agriculture
*Military*: Medium land forces, Standing Archers and Cavalry, no navy, little use of magic
*Government*: Monarchy
*Current Ruler*: Great Thane Celest Von Stratag
History
Dolgerhan is a much younger city than Gerdain, and is a cultural mixing pot of dwarf and human. The city thrives on its multiculturalism and is one of the more flavourful of the Dwarven cities.
It first established as a refugee camp of sorts after the War of the Dark and was then cemented as an outpost and later developed into this small economic trade hub. It was first mostly a farming community as the upper levels are very close to the surface and thus animals are brought to the hills and mountains to graze. Top soil is also brought down to grow the tubers and roots that are a staple of the Dwarven diet. As the city grew and expanded its reach in to the depths rich veins of gems, precious stones and gold and silver ore were discovered thus expanding its budding export trade.
Dolgerhan today is considered a posh and upscale city and avant-garde in all manners of industries from there breeding of their short stocky cave horses “The Zwerg’Ross” to the fine carved arts and jewellery which are coveted worldwide.
Politics
All the Major cities in Dwarven Society are run by large dwarven families called Strongholds. The current ruling Stronghold in Dolgerhan is Great Thane Celest Von Stratag’s Stronghold. Celest is the youngest Female to have gained the title of Thane and has made her mark among the few other female rulers that the Kingdoms have seen. There are a few other Strongholds such as Gargus, Malex and Von Flarg , but none are strong enough to usurp Von Stratag.
Religion
Dolgerhan has kept the separation from church and state the same as Gerdain and Nellerdan but they have found room to build temples to the gods as the city grew.
The Three main temples located within the levels are:
- The Temple of Herbst, meaning “harvest” or better known to the outside world as Cassyndria. It is extensively used by the farmers and growers of the upper levels close to the surface, to aid in making there produce plentiful.
- The Temple of Mordak, Located mid level for those of the Schwerts and the Panzer who seek guidance strength and protection in their duties, as well as those who seek protection for loved ones who serve.
- The Temple of Shöpferkraft, meaning “creative power” it is known to the rest of the world as The Muse. Located on the lowest levels of the City it is there where those go to seek inspiration when they find there mind is blocked and they cannot continue to create.
Societal Views
The social structure remains mostly the same in Dolgerhan as in Gerdain, but differs slightly in the divisions of the level of the city. The farmers and growers tend to stay closer to the surface. The more military aspect of the city is in the lower levels, along with weapon and armour smithies. Farther down, the fine arts and crafts side of the dwarven nature is seen. The lowest levels of the city are occupied by the ruling Stronghold and other nobles as well as any residing members of the Imperium. These members of the Imperium act as liaison officers between the Stronghold and the Emperor, as well as judges for any legal matters.
There is a higher human population as well in Dolgerhan and so inter-racial marriages are more common than in any other of the Dwarven strongholds. The humans are welcomed and accepted as long as they show a strong ability in their field, a willingness to learn, and the Dwarves’ passion for work. “If you are willing to learn, a Dwarf is always willing to teach.” Or so the saying goes when it comes to humans.
Males and females are on equal footing in Dwarf society, although their roles are often separate and distinct from one another. Both are treated fairly by the people and laws. Males tend more toward business and war. Females tend more toward the family. However, Dwarven females are considered militant, shrewd, business-minded and organized by most other races.
Dwarf marriages are monogamous relationships between a male and a female. They believe that marriage is eternal and transcends even death. Only by the dying breath of the spouse can permission be granted to remarry, though more times than not, the spouse will choose to honour the deceased spouse by not remarrying.
Dwarf households consist of only the core family. Families are usually quite large, averaging four children. It's not unheard of having a near full family tree within a few buildings of each other. This is done to promote family values and a sense of loyalty. Very little ceremony surrounds the birth of a dwarf child. Reproduction is seen simply as a basic function of society.
Children are highly prized. Traditionally, fathers care for and raise male children and mothers raise the daughters. This causes a small, but acceptable, gender rift in the society. Both sons and daughters are educated. Discipline is strict compared to other cultures, but fair.
Dwarves bury their dead. It is only natural that dwarves wish to return to the ground after death. Dwarves believe that they and the land are eternally intertwined. Dwarves believe they are formed of rock, and upon death they return to the rock.
Trade
Major exports include: Gems, precious stones, Ale, Ciders, live stock, vegetables and weapons.
Major imports include: Textiles, fruits and lumber
