Lord of Ironpeak

The title of Lord of Ironpeak is a noble title originating in the mountainous region of Eldorath within Theron. The lordship was established around 62 BRE when Orin Ironpeak inherited it from his father, while his older brother, Haldor, inherited the title of King of the Mountain.
The Ironpeak Family, a cadet branch of the House of Stoneheart , continued to hold the title of Lord of Ironpeak for centuries. Throughout its history, the title has been associated with both great power and responsibility due to the region's vast iron resources.

Ironpeak Stronghold and Surroundings

Central to the title of Lord of Ironpeak is the Ironpeak Stronghold, a formidable fortress situated near the base of Ironpeak Mountain. The stronghold has stood for centuries as a symbol of both might and stability. Ironpeak Mountain, from which the stronghold derives its name, is renowned for its rich iron ore deposits. Surrounding the mountain and the stronghold is a dense forest, known as the Ironwood, which holds cultural significance for the people of Ironpeak, as it is believed to be a sacred site for the druidic faith. The Lord of Ironpeak has traditionally been the steward of both the mountain's resources and the surrounding forests and lands, tasked with ensuring their prosperity and protection.
The mines of Ironpeak Mountain have been the lifeblood of the region. Numerous mining communities have developed around the mountain, and generations of miners and blacksmiths have relied on the rich iron deposits for their livelihood. The extracted iron is primarily transported through the network of rivers converging at Aquila, from where it is distributed both internally and to neighbouring regions. The abundance of iron has contributed greatly to the economic prowess of Ironpeak.

Appointment

Traditionally, the title of Lord of Ironpeak follows a gavelkind inheritance system, deeply rooted in the druidic faith, which entails dividing land and titles among all eligible heirs. In the current era, it is widely expected that Thane, the youngest son of King Balinor, will inherit the title of Lord of Ironpeak, along with the Ironpeak Stronghold and the stewardship of the Ironpeak Mountain and its surrounding areas. This is in keeping with the customs and traditions of Eldorath. Meanwhile, Balinor's eldest son, Ronan, is expected to inherit the title of King of the Mountain. This split inheritance reflects the deep respect for tradition and druidic faith, as it aims to ensure fair distribution among heirs and sustains the distinct roles and responsibilities associated with each title. Balinor’s adherence to this age-old tradition showcases his commitment to the preservation of the customs and values that have shaped the identity and governance of the region for centuries.

Gavelkind and the Lord of Ironpeak

The practice of Gavelkind, while a deeply rooted tradition, was not enforced as strictly in the early lineage of the Stoneheart family. The early Kings of the Mountain were renowned warriors, and the title of King was often passed to the most capable and battle-tested heir, to ensure the strength and security of the realm. Furthermore, the title "Lord of Ironpeak" was not considered a separate dominion during the earliest days; instead, it was part of the King’s own holdings. It is said that Tharald Stoneheart, the first King of the Mountain, himself founded the Ironpeak Stronghold as an extension of his rule over the mountains. As generations passed, the Stoneheart family grew in number and the needs of the dynasty changed. By the time of Cerdic Stoneheart, the Ironpeak Stronghold had grown in significance due to the increasing demand for iron, and the realization that the Ironpeak region needed dedicated governance led to the creation of the title "Lord of Ironpeak".
Additionally, the druidic faith, which held sway in the region, began to have a more pronounced influence on the rulers and their policies. The druids advised that embracing Gavelkind would bring prosperity to the land by ensuring that all sons were invested in the welfare of the realm.
Therefore, Cerdic Stoneheart, upon the counsel of druidic elders and in accordance with the growing importance of Ironpeak Stronghold, decided to formally adopt Gavelkind. When his time came, he bestowed the title of "King of the Mountain" to his eldest son, Haldor, and granted the lordship of Ironpeak to his younger son, Orin, who took the name "Ironpeak" as a badge of honor and to symbolize his dedicated stewardship of the Ironpeak region. This set a precedent, and Gavelkind inheritance became a tradition amongst the descendants of the Stoneheart family.

History

Founding and Early History

The Lordship of Ironpeak was founded by Orin Ironpeak, a member of the Ironpeak family, which is a cadet branch of the ancient House of Stoneheart. House Ironpeak established itself in the mountainous stronghold of Ironpeak, which was rich in iron mines. Initially, the Lord of Ironpeak was a vassal to the King of the Mountain.

Incorporation into the Kingdom of Theron

In 25 BRE, the title of King of the Mountain was incorporated into the Kingdom of Theron and was disbanded. Consequently, the Lord of Ironpeak became a direct vassal to the King of Theron. The strategic importance of the iron mines in Ironpeak made the title holder one of the key players in the politics of the Kingdom of Theron.
The King of Theron, realising the difficulty in managing such a vast realm elevated the wider Eldarothn region to a duchy, creating the title of Duchy of Eldorath. However, the 2nd Duke of Eldorath died childless, and the title reverted to the King of Theron. The king subsequently turned Eldorath into a viceroydom, which remained in place until the death of King Brennus in 325 RE. This arrangement usually benefited the Lord of Ironpeak as they were left relatively autonomous as long as they paid the Iron Tithe.

Reestablishment of the King of the Mountain

Following the death of King Brennus, Balinor Ironpeak, then Lord of Ironpeak, assumed the title of King of the Mountain, reinstating the ancient title that had been dormant for centuries. Balinor had the most significant claim, both through ancestral right and as the most powerful lord in the region. He renamed his dynasty Stoneheart after the major keep in the city of Aquila.

Cultural Significance

The title of Lord of Ironpeak continues to hold significance as it is intertwined with the identity of the region. The iron mines symbolize both wealth and the region's industrious nature. However, the extraction of iron has often been in conflict with the druidic beliefs and the respect for nature, making the title of Lord of Ironpeak a balancing act between progress and tradition. As of 345 RE, Balinor holds both the titles of King of the Mountain and Lord of Ironpeak, symbolizing a restoration of ancient traditions and a continuation of the legacy of House Ironpeak and House Stoneheart.

Notable Holders

• Orin Ironpeak - The founder of the Ironpeak family, he established the title and brought stability to the region.
• Tharik II Ironpeak (12 RE - 70 RE) - Known for his wise governance and defence of the Ironpeak region from invaders.
• Elric Ironpeak (130 RE - 280 RE) - A revered lord, Elric expanded the iron mines and made great strides in establishing trade with neighbouring regions.
• Adalric II Ironpeak (260 RE - 320 RE) - The father of King Balinor Stoneheart, Adalric II was instrumental in preserving the ancient traditions of the Stoneheart family and maintaining the significance of Ironpeak as a region.

Type

Nobility, Hereditary

Reports directly to

King of the Mountain

Related Organizations

• Lordship of Ironpeak