The Kingdom of Ryndell

The Kingdom of Ryndell is a vast, rugged land in the northernmost reaches of Abendall. It is characterized by untamed wilderness, towering mountains, and dense pine forests. Governed by House Vintorden, the people of Ryndell are known for their resilience and adaptability, having thrived in their harsh homeland for centuries. With a motto of "Never shall we be Sundered," House Vintorden exemplifies the spirit of unity and strength that defines the Ryndell people. The colors of House Vintorden are black and dark blue, and their sigil is a silver snowflake on a dark blue field, symbolizing the eternal winter that grips their land. Frostfjell, the capital city, is a marvel of engineering and architecture, built within the basin of a large mountain range and carved into the side of a mountain. At its heart stands the great burt minor elder tree known as the Ember Tree, which plays a central role in the city's history and identity.
Frostfjell was once the capital of the Eluri snow elf kingdom of Abendall, but after the Godfall and the incursion of dragons and giants, the city was plunged into an eternal winter. The dragons laid siege to Frostfjell, burning the Ember Tree and releasing its powerful energy throughout the land. As the elves fled, it was the humans who fought back against the dragons, ultimately claiming the land as their own.
The people of Ryndell have a deep connection to nature and a profound spiritual belief in the Wild Gods. These gods emphasize the importance of balance and harmony with the natural world. The culture and traditions of Ryndell draw from medieval Nordic and Celtic influences, and the people celebrate various seasonal festivals to honor the gods and spirits of the land.
House Vintorden has a long and storied lineage, with a reputation for military prowess and expertise in guerrilla tactics and fighting in harsh terrain. Warriors from Ryndell are highly sought after as mercenaries, and their formidable fighting skills are known far and wide.
Despite their strength and resilience, the Kingdom of Ryndell faces numerous challenges. The harsh climate makes agriculture difficult, forcing the people to rely heavily on hunting and trade for sustenance. A mysterious and deadly creature, the Pale Wraith, has begun to terrorize the wilderness, making travel and hunting even more dangerous.
Furthermore, the region's untapped resources and lost dragon hoards have attracted the attention of other kingdoms, leading to conflicts over territorial claims and mining rights. House Vintorden must navigate this complex political landscape to maintain their sovereignty and protect the interests of their people.

The City of Frost and Fire:

The capital city of Ryndell, Frostfjell, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient snow elf architecture and the more recent human influences. Nestled within the basin of a large mountain range, the city is carved into the side of a mountain, creating a unique and easily defensible landscape. The snow elf architecture is characterized by elegant, sweeping lines and intricate patterns inspired by the frost and ice of the surrounding environment. Many buildings feature a combination of natural stone and enchanted ice, creating a beautiful interplay of light and shadows. As the humans took over, they incorporated their own style, using wood and stone to create sturdy structures that blend seamlessly with the existing elven designs. The city layout is organized around the great burt minor Elder Tree, known as the Ember Tree, which stands proudly in the center of Frostfjell. This ancient tree is a testament to the city's rich history and serves as a symbol of strength and resilience. Its warm, glowing embers provide a stark contrast to the cold, icy surroundings and offer a sense of warmth and hope to the city's inhabitants. The tree is believed to possess mystical properties, and its branches are used in various rituals and ceremonies. The streets of Frostfjell wind and twist around the tree, creating a labyrinthine network of tunnels and stairways that connect various districts.
The attire of Frostfjell's citizens reflects the harsh environment they live in. The people wear heavy, layered clothing made from furs and thick, insulated fabrics to protect themselves from the biting cold. Their clothing often features intricate embroidery and patterns inspired by the snow elf and human cultures. Dark blues, blacks, and silvers are prevalent, echoing the colors of House Vintorden's sigil. The citizens of Frostfjell are known for their stoicism and determination, as well as their strong connection to their land and its history. They are resilient and resourceful, with a deep respect for the natural world and its harsh beauty.
The Royal Family of House Vintorden, led by King Haldor and Queen Ingrid, resides in a magnificent palace carved into the heart of the mountain. The palace is an architectural marvel, combining the grace and elegance of the snow elf designs with the practicality and strength of the human influences. The royal family is known for their wisdom, courage, and unwavering dedication to the people of Ryndell. They are skilled in the arts of diplomacy and warfare, adept at navigating the treacherous political landscape and defending their kingdom from external threats.

Districts:

Emberheart District: At the heart of Frostfjell lies the Ember District, named after the great Ember Tree that stands at its center. This district is a gathering place for the community, where people come to celebrate festivals, share stories, and seek solace from the harsh winter weather. The architecture in this district is characterized by snow elf-inspired designs with intricate carvings and delicate ice sculptures. The Ember District transitions into the neighboring districts through wide, gently sloping stairways and tunnels that are decorated with ornate frescoes depicting the history of Frostfjell and its people.
Hearthstone District: The Hearthstone District is the residential area of Frostfjell, where the citizens make their homes. This district is characterized by cozy stone dwellings built into the mountainside, with sturdy doors and windows designed to keep out the cold. The houses are adorned with intricate snow elf motifs and are often decorated with furs, woven tapestries, and other items that showcase the craftsmanship of the local artisans. The Hearthstone District transitions into the neighboring districts through narrow, twisting alleys and stairways that offer glimpses of the vibrant community life within.
Frostforge District: The Frostforge District is the industrial heart of the city, where skilled blacksmiths, craftsmen, and artisans work with metal, stone, and other materials to create weapons, armor, and everyday items. This district is characterized by the constant sound of hammers striking anvils and the glow of forge fires, reflecting the industrious nature of the people of Frostfjell. The architecture is more utilitarian, with large workshops and warehouses built into the mountainside. The Frostforge District transitions into the neighboring districts through a network of tunnels that transport goods and materials to and from the various workshops.
Winterwind District: The Winterwind District is the center of trade and commerce in Frostfjell. The district is filled with bustling markets, where merchants from all over the kingdom come to sell their wares, from furs and food to rare gems and magical artifacts. The architecture in this district is a blend of snow elf and other cultural influences, with vibrant banners and signs adorning the buildings. The Winterwind District transitions into the neighboring districts through wide, open plazas and market squares, where people gather to socialize, trade, and conduct business.
Skyhelm Summit District: The Summit District is the seat of power in Frostfjell, where House Vintorden resides and governs the kingdom. This district is characterized by grand halls, opulent residences, and fortified structures that serve as a symbol of the city's strength and resilience. The architecture in this district is heavily influenced by snow elf designs, with soaring spires and delicate ice carvings adorning the buildings. The Summit District transitions into the neighboring districts through imposing gates and fortified walls, reminding the citizens of the city's enduring determination to withstand the challenges of their environment.

Regions of Ryndell:

Ryndell is home to not only the Eluri Snow Elves but also various human settlements throughout its diverse regions. These human communities have adapted to the harsh climate and have developed their own distinct cultures, often influenced by their Snow Elf neighbors. While the two races share the land, their coexistence is not always peaceful, and conflicts often arise between them.
Frostfang Mountains: The Frostfang Mountains are a range of jagged peaks and deep valleys covered in thick layers of snow and ice. The terrain is harsh and unforgiving, with treacherous cliffs and avalanches posing a constant threat to travelers. The wildlife in this region consists of mountain goats, sabertooths, Bears and various species of birds adapted to the high altitude. Hardy evergreen trees and alpine shrubs dominate the lower slopes. Monsters lurking in the mountains include the fierce yeti's, ice trolls, and fearsome Cave Ogers, all of which pose a threat to both Snow Elves and human settlements. Additionally, An ancient white dragons are said to make its lair in the highest, most inaccessible peaks. It is said that the dragon slumbers, waiting for the return of it's brethren.
In the Frostfang Mountains, human settlements are primarily found in the lower valleys where the land is more hospitable. These communities rely on mining, herding, and trade with the Snow Elves for their livelihood. Tensions between the two races are common, as disputes over resources and territory often lead to skirmishes and raids. To survive, the mountain humans have developed alliances with the local Winter Witches, seeking their aid in times of conflict.
Rimevale: Rimevale is a vast expanse of icy plains and windswept tundra. The region is characterized by its frozen ground, which remains solid even during the brief summer months. Hardy grasses and lichens are the primary vegetation in this area, providing sustenance for herds of reindeer, arctic hares, and other cold-adapted creatures. Monsters found in Rimevale include packs of dire wolves, ice elementals, and the elusive pale wraiths. These dangerous creatures prowl the frozen landscape, preying on the unwary and adding to the challenges faced by the inhabitants of Ryndell. It is said that the Wraiths are the long cursed nobles of the northern kingdoms that hid in their keeps as Gostwyld razed their cities.
The human inhabitants of Rimevale are largely nomadic, moving from place to place with their herds of reindeer and other livestock. They have learned to navigate the icy plains and tundra with expertise and have developed a deep respect for the land. While they occasionally trade with the Snow Elf clans, there are instances of territorial disputes and raids between the two races. The humans of Rimevale often rely on their own resourcefulness and the guidance of the Winter Witches to protect themselves and their way of life.
Glacialmaw Coast: The Glacialmaw Coast is a frigid shoreline dotted with ice floes and towering glaciers. The sea here is rich in marine life, including seals, walruses, and an abundance of fish. Coastal birds such as auks and puffins also make their home along the rugged cliffs and rocky outcroppings. The waters of the Glacialmaw Coast are home to deadly monsters such as the kraken, frost serpents, and chilling sirens, which can lure sailors to their doom with their hypnotic song. On land, the coastal inhabitants must contend with the ice-breathing coastal drakes and the terrifying ice golems that roam the icy shores.
The humans living along the Glacialmaw Coast are primarily fishers and traders, their livelihood depending on the rich bounty of the sea. They have established several port towns and villages, which serve as hubs for commerce and trade with the Snow Elves and other coastal communities. Conflicts with the Snow Elves in this region are often sea-based, as both races vie for control of the lucrative trade routes and fishing grounds. The humans of the Glacialmaw Coast have become adept at naval combat, utilizing their knowledge of the sea to defend their interests.
Frosthallow Forest: The Frosthallow Forest is a dense, snow-covered woodland dominated by ancient evergreen trees, with frost-coated underbrush and patches of frozen ground. The forest is teeming with life, including elk, foxes, snowy owls, and other cold-adapted creatures. The interplay of light and shadow in the forest creates an eerie, otherworldly atmosphere. The monsters of the Frosthallow Forest include ice spiders, which weave webs of frost to ensnare their prey, and the Northern beastmen of Gor, savage monster men who prey on the anywho cross their path. In the deepest, darkest parts of the forest, legends speak of the dreaded snow liches, ancient and powerful undead sorcerers who command the frozen elements with a cold and ruthless will.
The human communities in the Frosthallow Forest are known for their woodcraft, hunting, and trapping skills. They live in harmony with the forest, often trading with the Snow Elves and sharing knowledge of the land. While these communities generally have more peaceful relations with the Snow Elves, disputes over hunting grounds and resources can still lead to conflicts. The humans of the Frosthallow Forest have developed a close relationship with the spirits of the land, seeking their guidance and protection in times of strife.

The Ember Tree:

The Ember Tree, a great burt minor Elder Tree, is a symbol of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Its magical properties are derived from its connection to the ancient snow elf civilization and its roots in the divine. As the embers drift off the tree, their soft glow creates a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow in the cold winter air. The snow and frost that blanket the city extinguish these embers, symbolizing the delicate balance between warmth and cold in the harsh environment of Ryndell. The Ember Tree serves various purposes for the people of Frostfjell. Its gentle warmth provides a reprieve from the biting cold and creates a central gathering place for citizens to come together in camaraderie and shared experiences. The tree's presence is not only a source of physical warmth but also an emotional and spiritual anchor for the people, reminding them of their strength and ability to endure even the harshest conditions.
The magic of the Ember Tree extends beyond its ability to warm the city. The tree is believed to possess potent healing properties, and its leaves, bark, and sap are often used in traditional remedies and potions to treat various ailments. The tree's branches, imbued with magical energy, are sought after for crafting powerful staves, wands, and other enchanted items. These artifacts are said to hold a unique connection to the tree's energy, amplifying their wielder's magical abilities and offering protection from the elements.
Additionally, the Ember Tree is thought to be a conduit to the spirit realm, particularly to the Wild Gods and ancient snow elf spirits. Through rituals and ceremonies performed at the base of the tree, the people of Frostfjell can communicate with these divine beings, seeking their guidance, wisdom, and blessings. These connections are deeply intertwined with the spiritual beliefs and practices of the city's inhabitants.
Some legends even suggest that the Ember Tree has the power to restore life or grant immortality. However, this power is believed to be incredibly rare and is only accessible to those chosen by the tree itself or favored by the Wild Gods. This aspect of the tree's magic is shrouded in mystery and is the subject of many tales and myths that have been passed down through generations.

Type

Geopolitical, Kingdom