Nilheim
A village located along the river Norn. nown for its trading port and local artisans. Particulary for bone carving and unique red dye .A prideful village bordering the Norn River. A primarily human settlement, with a few dwarfs. Houses built of stone and clay line the river. The town sports many craftsmen and it is particularly well known for its intricate carved bones and textiles.
A particular flower with red berries grows in the region. When in season it is a stark contrast against the white snow and dark clay beneath it. The berries are used to make a deep red dye that became the signature dye for the region. Lanterns line the narrow streets lit with flax oil. In the spring the fields of flax sport brilliant blue flowers. Winters are harsh and can provide little food, making raids necessary for survival.
Being on the river, fish is a staple part of their diet. Fishermen are a common trade and most diners offer some form of seafood. Goats milk is readily available. Flax seeds are a staple part of their diet. Duck and chicken eggs as well as lamb and goat provide the meat. Treats made of honey are popular. Honey is often added to food and drink. A variety of berries are harvested and are planted lining the town. Mead is the drink of choice.
Demographics
The people of Nilheim take great pride in their appearance. They tend to be well groomed and bathe regularly. Clothes are used as statements and status symbols. As textiles are a primary export they take great care to give off an appearance of luxury. Both men and women wear makeup. Mohawks and various styles of braiding hair are popular. Tattoos with colorful ink pigments in Vannieheim designs or of the Raven Queen are common amongst the raiders. Scars are seen as warrior marks and shown off with pride.
Industry & Trade
Most materials are made of linen, clay, and stone. Villagers fear taking too much from the forest for tales of a witch, Vald-Hexe that lives within. It is customary to give libation any time something is taken from the forest. Precious resources are traded for and stolen from other cultures. The village chief leads the village’s raids, joining with the other villages of Vanirheim as is required of them. Wood and precious metals are highly sought after resources. Food and livestock are also taken.
Sculpture and textiles are the primary trade for the region. As such, much of the townsfolk consist of craftsmen. Families pass down their techniques resulting in distinct styles throughout the village. In the winter, ice is sculpted. Competitions are held each year between the guilds to create the most beautiful display. Pottery is made from the dark clay and is typically blacks and greys with designs in reds and pinks. It is the carved bone that the town is most famous for. Handmade paints are pressed into the carvings. Swords with carved bone hilts. Shields, and armor. As well as jewelry and decor.
Flax fields are cultivated to create linen. ]The most popular form of dying is using wood blocks. After carving intricate patterns into the wood, the wood boards are then tightly bound with linen threads around the fabric and submerged in handmade dyes. This effect is layered to create beautiful relief patterns. The most popular colors are shades of reds, pinks, browns, yellow, beige, and greys. Clay, charcoal, and berries are the primary dye sources. Blues and indigo dyes are rare and mostly owned and sought after by the wealthy. Leather and furs are common in addition to linen and typically make up the outer layers. The sleeves, coif and edge of the linen tunics are the most highly decorated as that is what is typically seen. Leather is carved likewise in intricate designs and fur is often dyed in shades of reds and pinks. Their beautiful textiles are an important trade resource and are frequently sought out. Residents take great pride in their appearance and displays of beauty. Fishnets, canvas, and sails are also created and traded. The flax is also used to create canvas and oils as a base for paints and dyes. Summer festivals often showcase a variety of paintings in addition to the textiles and carvings. Textile painting is also popular, weaving cloth and paint to create multi-dimensional tapestries. This technique is particular to the region.
History
The Battle of White Fire.
The one battle no one speaks of. Not won by grit and blood, but of cowardice and devil deals.
Type
Village
Location under
Included Locations
Owning Organization
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