Hartheim

Ruled by Chief Ilya, Hartheim sits on the edge on the edge of the Wailing Steppe and was part of the Norresh Treaty.
Hartheim controls much of the farmland of Valaskar and is the proverbial breadbasket of Valaskar. Barley, honey, and especially beef make their way from Hartheim to all of Valaskar. This great agricultural wealth attracts the attention of the Khagan Nomads from the east and often Hartheim must defend itself from raids.
Those from Hartheim are generally looked down upon by other Valaskarrans and especially by Skarrans. Those from Hartheim are seen as sedate milk drinkers, little different than the cattle they raise. Those that have seen Khagans attempt to raid Hartheim however know the truth. They share more in common with bulls. Slow, unless prodded to terrifying anger.

Demographics

Most of the local inhabitants of Hartheim are Valaskarran. Many craftsmen and laborers were raised hearing tales of how their grandfathers first built their homes in Hartheim, of how they first learned beekeeping from the Nyztalene, and how horrible the first batch of mead tasted.
The Nyztalene make up the second largest group in Hartheim. Some are the descendants of those that refused to leave when Hartheim was given to the Valaskarran, others are married to Valaskarran Skeinners having returned from their duty in the Nyztalene Empire, while others still are merchants lured by the prospect of business.

Government

Chief Ilya rules Hartheim at the appointment of Jarl Yaro. As chief he collects taxes from the populace and enforces the law with his Skeinners. When finds itself under attack he leads the defense and sees to the safekeeping of the young and the infirm.
Matters of legal dispute are settled by the eldest Runecarver. In the presence of Chief Ilya, the Runecarver listens to the accused and the accuser, and is advised by the chief about which laws are in effect. If it is a clear case the Runecarver renders judgement and Chief Ilya carries it out. If however the Runecarver is unsure, even after being counseled by Ilya, the Runecarver then retires and entreats the old gods for guidance.

Defences

When Hartheim is under attack its people retreat behind the trench and palisade that encircle Hartheim. The trench itself is fifteen feet deep and lined with wooden spikes at the bottom. While the Palisade is ten foot tall sitting atop a steep earthen ridge. The spiked gate to the palisade is operated by a pulley system.
A common tactic used by previous chiefs is after the people are safe within Hartheim the chief will leave the gates open as long as possible. Once the chief gives the signal the pulley system of the gates is activated and the spiked gates swing shut, impaling any would be invaders.

Industry & Trade

Most of Hartheims wealth comes from its grain and cattle. The fields to the north regularly send large shipments of rye and barley north to Valagird where it makes its way to the rest of Valaskar while the southern pasture lands send cattle.
In addition to this Hartheim mead has found its way to not only Valagird but to the Skar Islands, Nyztal, and even to the city of Ilium where it is well received. Because of this many beekeepers who started apiaries for the prospect of honey and beeswax find themselves turning into brewers over night.
Hartheim is also a destination spot for many Skeinners who wish to retire. Bringing spoils and wages from the Nyztalene Empire after their three years of service, these veteran soldiers buy homesteads. Setting down their weapons of war and picking up carpenters tools to carve and polish Novor pine. The intricate beauty of Valaskarran carpentry is fast becoming a commodity in its own right. It's even said Emperor Solon has a Valaskarran four poster bed made by Hartheim craftsmen.

Infrastructure

Roads from Hartheim lead north branching off to Valagird and Novor while road south leads down and through the Norr mountain range to Mysk.
A stream on the eastern side of Hartheim powers the Frey Mill. Most of the grain from the northern fields is taken to the Frey Mill and turned to flour to be traded among the inhabitants or sent to Valagird and from there the rest of Valaskar.
Along the western side of Hartheim several apiaries and breweries can be found. The oldest of which are the Thias Apiary and the Piov Inn
Most of the original homes and buildings of Hartheim are built in the Nyztalene style. One story tall affairs using milled lumber and iron nails. Meanwhile all the newer buildings are made in the Skarran style. Wood is warped and then fitted into locking joints which is then carved with runes of strength.

Geography

Hartheim sits on the edge of the Wailing Steppe with grasslands stretching far off to the east. It's nearby eastern stream is the main source of water for the people while a few on the western side of the town have dug wells. On south and west horizons the outline of the Norr mountains can clearly be seen.

Natural Resources

The local apiaries provide an abundant source of honey and wax for Hartheim.
Thanks in no small part to the apiaries, the northern fields of Hartheim have always been bountiful in their harvest of barley and rye.
Due to the local stream, the southern pastures of Hartheim are home to the many herds of cattle.

Type

Town

Population

approx. 1800

Inhabitant Demonym

Valaskarran

Owner/Ruler

Chief Ilya

Owning Organization

Valaskar

Characters in Location

• Chief Ilya