The Forged
Ash-Bound Gladiators, Redemption in Flame
“From fire we fell, by fire we rise.”
Overview
The Forged are more than prisoners; they are condemned souls remade in fire. Created as an alternative to execution, the Crucible system gives criminals, political dissidents, and unwanted elements a final chance at survival: enter the arena and fight for their lives. The few who survive long enough—through blood, ash, and spectacle—earn not only freedom, but a new identity. These survivors become Forged, a distinct caste feared, revered, and marked by flame.
Born in chains and baptized in combat, the Forged exist between shame and glory. While their origins lie in punishment, many have become heroes, mercenaries, guards, or living legends. Their loyalty is hard-won, but their skills are unparalleled. Some remain bitter. Others find purpose. But all bear the brand.
Origins: The Crucible
- The Crucible is a state-run penal system disguised as bloodsport.
- Rather than death, convicts are given a final trial: survive the arena.
- Those who do are magically branded with the Mark of Forging, identifying them as both criminal and survivor.
The Crucible serves a dual function: entertainment for the masses and a means of turning cost into coin. It is overseen by the Hall of Chains in conjunction with the Hall of Cinders and the Hall of Coin.
Structure and Ranks
While Forged are not a formal military, many self-organize into companies, mercenary bands, or guard enclaves, sometimes even receiving state contracts.
- Ashlord – Rare, mythic leaders who survived impossible odds and now command entire battalions.
- Steelbound – Elite Forged veterans hired for state, noble, or high-threat contracts.
- Crucible-Born – Recent survivors of the arena. Still watched. Still feared.
- Burnmarks – Those who failed to reintegrate. Often nomadic, mercenary, or rogue.
Some Forged choose to remain loyal to Ironspire and work directly with the Wardens, becoming Enflamed—a rare title for Forged who willingly serve the city.
Role in Society
- Feared and admired, Forged walk the line between pariah and protector.
- Some serve as bodyguards, gladiators, or bounty hunters.
- Others wander as free agents, trading their strength for gold or vengeance.
Despite earning their freedom, Forged often find doors closed and eyes suspicious. Only time, service, or glory can soften the brand in public eyes.
Symbolism and Culture
- The Mark of Forging glows faintly when near other Forged.
- Many carry names of the fallen etched into their armor.
- Tattoos, brands, and ember jewelry often denote rank, victories, or allegiances.
The Forged keep to their own quarters in Ashmoor, a district near the Crucible grounds.
Interactions with Other Factions
- Hall of Chains: Oversees their creation and monitors their contracts.
- Hall of Cinders: Employs them frequently for risky or brutal missions.
- Hall of Law: Holds authority over any Forged who relapse or rebel.
- Wardens of the Deep: Sometimes recruit Forged as elite prison escorts.
Secrets and Rumors
- Some Forged were innocent—political threats or scapegoats.
- The Crucible may have underground arenas hidden from public view.
- A mythic Forged leader is said to be gathering those cast aside to form a city beneath Ironspire.
See also: Hall of Chains, Crucible, Wardens of the Deep, Ashmoor, Enflamed.