Umbraforge

"You need to have thick skin to live in a place like that." - A common sentiment held by Fey-Kin.

"It 'aint THAT hot" - A common sentiment held by Dwarves.



At a Glance
Straddled across the volcanic river "Balor's Tongue" that pours from the volcano Flametop, the Tiefling city of Umbraforge was a universally-recognized haven for thieves, murderers, cutthroats, and fugitives. Located at the center of The Heartlands, Umbraforge was one of the oldest settlements on the mortal plane, dating back to before the Corruption of the Tieflings. Being at the center The Heartlands, Umbraforge became a hub for trade and transport, but because of its rocky reputation few travellers dared to stay longer than they needed to carry out their business.

History
Originally a settlement for a race of red-skinned humanoids, ancient Umbraforge sat on the verdant fields between the red-shale mountain of Charcrest and the volcano Flametop. Sensing the capacity for violent change in these settlers, Nerull, the God of Hate approached the inhabitants of Umbraforge and promised them the power to distinguish themselves from the other races (especially the long-lived Deva to the west). Greedily, the humanoids accepted but the cost was great -- painfully transformed into the horned Tieflings.

However, unexpected to Nerull, the fury and will of the Tieflings was beyond that of even the most grotesque Pit-Lord. Rather than be subservient to Nerull's seething hatred, the Tieflings rallied against him. In the ensuing battle the release of powerful magics caused Flametop to erupt, spilling out a river of lava that divided Umbraforge through the heart of the city. Banished back to his realm, Nerull retreated.

Throughout the centuries, other races (such as Cindersoul Genasi and Goblins) would come and populate Umbraforge but one thing was always clear: it was a Tiefling city, and anyone who entered had to abide by Tiefling law.

Political Structure
The political structure of Umbraforge was a Plutocracy in which society was governed by a wealthy ruling council. Its last monarch, Zaras Hezroukan would strangle the guilty before having them burned and hung from the city's spires. When he died with no lasting heir, the ruling council took on some of his ruling tenants which were:
 * The worship of any god but Avandra is forbidden, as fortune and the pursuit of fortune are sacred.
 * Foreigners must abide by Tiefling law, as they will be judged by it.
 * Slaves must have proper documentation within Umbraforge or they will be confiscated by the council.
 * Theft of another's property will be settled by a duel to the death. The associates of the deceased may not take vengeance on the victor.

Religion
All Tieflings in Umbraforge abhor Nerull and Asmodeus. The only god that is given tribute is Avandra, and those who seek protection under her name are allowed passage.