Overview

The Kingdom of Hammer Hold is located in the northeastern corner of Bail. It is unique in Bail as it is a Dwarven stronghold, unlike the predominantly Human regions surrounding it. It is also interesting to note that while the sovereignty is called "The Kingdom of Hammer Hold", it is ruled by a council and not a monarch. Like other Dwarven citadels, Hammer Hold is governed by a council of nine Dwarves, as is custom per the High Dwarvish Code. Similar to other Dwarven realms, Hammer Hold tends to be reclusive. However, due to the political dynamics in Bail, Hammer Hold has had to adopt a more proactive approach to politics. As a result, it maintains a more significant political presence in the realm compared to other Dwarven citadels in their respective territories. One notable characteristic of Hammer Hold's courts is their isolationist stance; they prefer to engage in political matters only when absolutely necessary.

Government Operation

Like other Dwarvish citadels, Hammer Hold follows the High Dwarvish Code to govern the kingdom. At the top of the citadel's political structure are nine dwarves, evenly divided among three clans. Hammer Hold grants a level of independence to its various wards. The Clan Council sets goals, agendas, and specific laws for the citadel, but as long as the wards meet the council's standards, they are mostly left to manage themselves.

There are several wards, including a production ward, a mining ward, a forestry ward, and an agriculture ward. Each ward is overseen by a dwarf who is responsible for its operations, reports to the Clan Council, and manages the ward's affairs. This system works effectively for Hammer Hold; although the structure is small, the bureaucracy operates efficiently.

High Council: The nine Dwarves from three clans who are responsible for operating and governing the stronghold. 

Ward Chief: The leader of one of Hammer Hold’s wards, they are given great freedom in the operation of their ward, as long as they meet production goals and quality standards.

Military

The military of Hammer Hold is commanded by the High Council. Many Dwarves are skilled combatants, so when Hammer Hold requires military support, the council issues a call to arms to Maldur and the rest of the kingdom. Unlike Saltminster’s Claim, those who respond to the call are well-trained, equipped, and ready for war at a moment's notice.

In addition to this militia, Hammer Hold is home to the Mountain Rangers, a professional force of mountaineers responsible for protecting the kingdom and patrolling the mountain ranges of The Iced Reaches. This force is legendary throughout Gevadun, and its members are often dispatched to other Dwarven citadels to help train similar ranger units.

High Council: The High Council of Hammer Hold has complete military authority.

Mountain Rangers: The Mountain Rangers are an elite fighting force that stewards and protects the mountains around Hammer Hold, and the entirety of The Iced Reaches. This means they often patrol beyond the borders of Hammer Hold.

Clansmen’s Militia: At a moment's notice, most able-bodied people in Hammer Hold are ready to heed the call for war. This militia is well armed and disciplined.