Iron Curse

From Ardesia

The Iron Curse was a powerful spell that prevented the use of iron for a century. It marks the end of what is now called the Steel Age. The Curse ended in Queen's Year 99.

The Curse afflicted anyone who worked iron goods (including steel) or who traded in raw iron. The effect of the curse was a blistering heat erupting under the skin that began subtly but increased with each transgression.

The Curse effectively ended the production of iron. Iron and steel weapons and armour continued to be used but rapidly fell into disrepair. Goods of iron and steel became rare and were hoarded for special occasions. In time, even the knowledge of iron and steel forging was lost, as each new generation of smiths forgot or corrupted the rote instructions they were taught but no longer understood practically. The world returned to cast bronze and brass.

Iron mines, once common, have long since been lost and forgotten, or have collapsed under the weight of years.

Small amounts of iron are beginning to appear in circulation again, but its price is dear and few can work it well. The dwindling number of items of steel or iron left from the Steel Age are highly prized and often change hands by questionable means. Some new ironwork is passed off as Steel Age–quality, but even the most shallow knowledge of metalwork can distinguish it from the genuine article.