Nathargundu

In 702, colonists from Akthol-Tharag went far east to claim territory and prospective mining sites. They were led by Prince Nathargundu. He settled the dwarves in the Turkosh valley. There first major holding was Chunswornkrak. Because of the great distance and infrequent communication between these colonists and Akthol-Tharag, they voted to cede from their distant brothers. In 723, the kingdom of Nathargundu was established. It was named after Prince Nathargundu killed in a mining accident a year earlier.

Nathargundu are a hardy folk, frequently battling the forces of Sakullêth and the goblin hordes that dwell in great numbers within the Elephant Backbone. The sporadic attacks of the goblin hordes are a nuisance compared to the depredations of the Belgunth and her minions. Under these incessant threats, the people of Nathargundu have become fearsome and cunning mountain fighters.

Crack guards accompany the merchant barges which leave Morguard and Chunswornkrak for destinations along the Mizzen and as far as the Ginnoth.

The most profitable trade of the Nathargundu is saltpeter. This material is an important ingredient in the manufacturer of gunpowder. The Saltpeter Consortium owns more than thirty nitre beds.

Architecture

The builders of the Nathargundu are adept at using the natural defenses of the mountains to enhance the strength of their castles. They construct walls across valleys, or form "killing zones" formed by three triangular bastions. Every form of missile-fire covers these areas. At Gumargûn, no less than twenty Bearded Belly mortars can drop their deadly missiles into its kill-zone.

Other than the fortifications, the dwellings of the people are Spartan-like.