Dutchy of Maltarn

Otherwise known as the Grand Duchy of Maltarn, this gnomish feudalistic kingdom actively pursues a desire to annex nearby kingdoms. The current duke doesn't want to increase the kingdom by war, but desires political alliances and annexation of Tilman and Ziquan to unify the west of Bellflower for protection and trade.
The clergy of the Venetsir and the Druids of Ironwood act as a significant voice throughout the duchy.

Culture and Festivals

After a number of very successful wars to consolidate its current territory The Dutchy had trained a large number of tacticians and continues to farm them out as consultants for security. So military colleges have grown up and tactical games have become popular among the populace.
Many gnomes also find boating and sailing a fantastic profession. Given that the duchy is split between a north and south coast a lot of trade is done by boat.
A large contingent of nomadic halflings roam between the Duchy of Maltarn and Tillman. This tent cities move annually and are a thorn in the side of the duchy as they are not behaving normally in the standard hierarchy. This group is known as the Wandering Stars and uses a crescent moon and three stars as its common motif in textiles.

by Alex Rawlins (arawlins)

Every year there is a week long summer memorial known as The Divings. It is used as a memorial of the survival from The Plague of Silmora and it involves ritual sponge baths with scented water and pilgrimages to the druidic grove homes in the center of the country. While only a percentage of the population goes inland, it tends to shut down must functions of large cities for a week.
The celebration to Katala is had in the early spring is denoted by great feasts and blessing of the children to have passion for learning and strength of body.

Architecture and Clothing

Wood built homes are the standard with especially holy sites being grove homes of the druids being made of still living trees and shrubbery.
Clothing is fairly uniform as most people wear felt fabric with tight fitted shirts and pleated pants and skirts. The felt tends to be patterned with tans, blacks and gray.

Type

Geopolitical, Country

Major Exports

Tacticians, sugar, clothing and timber.

Major Imports

Fabric, stone and animals.