The Smithing Company

A standard forge found across the realm.

The Smithing Company is a metalworking institution in Soothereos, with various forges, workshops, and clothiers around the country under its name. Its primary purpose is the production and distribution of weapons and armor, but there are also workshops and clothiers that produce miscellaneous objects for sale. Characters can be employed at or receive quests from The Smithing Company.

## History

The Smithing Company had begun during an impoverished Uneers by a trio of skilled blacksmiths. Their mastery of the forge had brought them great success. However, their trademark resides in a powerful metal only the most seasoned blacksmiths can handle: Hallowed Steel. A sword composed of Hallowed Steel can cut through anything with ease and is totally resistant to worldweaving. Its recipe is only known to the most experienced and trusted blacksmiths of The Smithing Company.

The Smithing Company single-handedly transformed Uneers into the industrial powerhouse it is today. It was the push it needed after the violent war for independence against Atholnar. Because the country's economy rests on its shoulders alone, The Smithing Company holds a firm position in the Sootharian government.

## Interaction

The Smithing Company has firms all over Soothereos at which characters can purchase wares, receive quests, or even seek employment. Each firm has different wares to sell. Forges sell weapons, armor, and other miscellaneous metals. Workshops sell furniture, building materials, and tools. Clothiers sell clothes, bags, saddles, and anything threaded and filled with cotton.

## Ranks

There a wide range of positions one can take within The Smithing Company outside of working the forge. Higher ranks are more vital to the quality of production, but each rank serves an important purpose to the constitution of the forge.

#### **Forge Guards**

Provides security for the company. There is always a need for protection at workshops, so Forge Guardians are always in demand. When they're understaffed, the company will hire mercenaries to provide protection instead.

#### **Scribes**

Keeps records of the company's operations and rituals, hoping to preserve The Smithing Company's traditions for future generations. They also catalogue commissions and deal with advertising and sales.

#### **Supply Masters**

Oversees the acquisition and transportation of raw materials. They work with scribes to ensure that every company has access to essential materials.

#### **Smithing Monks**

Devout members of the company who dedicate themselves to their craft with a religious fervor, often living ascetic lifestyles and participating in rituals and ceremonies. They're responsible for embodying and upholding The Smithing Company's traditional ideals.

#### **Apprentices**

Novices who work under Master Smiths in hopes of becoming one themselves. Only Master Smiths can choose their apprentice.

#### **Master Smiths**

The highest honor a craftsman can have. Each forge, workshop, and clothier is run by a Master Smith. As the name suggests, they are masters of their craft and produce the finest work The Smithing Company can offer.

#### **High Priest of the Forge**

The overseer of all of The Smithing Company domains in each Rhaekland. They oversee all operations and rituals. There are five total, one for each Rhaekland.

## Trivia

* The Smithing Company's headquarters is located in the capital of Uneers: Loduhr.
* The company operates with a cult-like devotion to its craft, with members seeing themselves as guardians of an ancient art form.
* The Smithing Company has a significant impact on the kingdom's economy, with many smaller metalworking businesses relying on its supply chain and distribution networks.
* The company has significant political influence as well, with many members of the nobility owing it favors or being directly involved in its operations.
* The Smithing Company also has a strict code of conduct and ethics, with members expected to uphold high standards of quality and craftsmanship.
* The company has a reputation for being secretive, with many of its inner workings and rituals known only to its most devout members.