Bulwark

Bulwark is a oligarchical city-state located just west of Equestria. They are considered Equestria’s chief rivals. Just behind Equestria technologically and just as strong in number, the Bulls try their best to impede Equestria’s progress.

Culture
Many aspects of Bulwark's culture demonstrate their stoic mindset. Their language is simple, and written in block like font. Artists are scarce and philosophers even more so.

They adhere to ancestor worship, believing that great ponies ascend to a God-like status. Though many Bulls concern themselves with earthly matters and leave the spiritual side of life to the mystics (of which there are very few).

Language
The Bulls speak Hradin, a curt and utilitarian language devised to separate Bulwark from the other tribes of the Centrallands. It should be noted that while hraden is the official language of Bulwark, most ponies use Equentish.

Economy
Bulwark has no currency, adhering to a barter system of sorts. Anything of substantial value is traded with ones servitude. That is, one pony becomes the indentured servant of the merchant in question for a limited amount of time. In this way, the 'richest' ponies, those that have material wealth, have spent much time in servitude to earn their wealth, and the truly rich are those who have the most servants. All food and housing is provided by the Council.

Foreign Policy
The Bulls try to remain neural to most nations, scaring the warlike ones away and ignoring the peaceful ones. However, if they feel they have been slighted by a tribe, they will try their best to fight against them (as is the case with Equestria).

Government
Bulwark is currently ruled over by a small council, simply known as the Council. It is composed of four members: the Trader, the Warrior, the Mystic, and the Councilor. The current title holders are, respectively, Makas, Huul, Vari, and Entretes.

Technology
Relative to the area, Bulwark is fairly advanced. They have mastered defensive technologies such as masonry and tactics, and have the capacity to make iron armour and weapons, but not steel. They lack potent magic users.