The Vvulfjr have no single unified nation, instead the tribes have formed a complex series of small “nations” which are small confederations of tribes with political power largely dependent on the size of the tribe. With small tribes often being absorbed by larger tribes, and breaking away occasionally. This has led to a very fluid political landscape. These small settlements are long houses and halls built of timber into the forests themselves. The Vvulfjr are primarily foresters and hunters. Being primarily carnivores the need for meat has always kept their population low, with wide ranges between settlements. This range is the hunting ground that each tribe needs.
Wars between tribes are not uncommon but are usually settled through a series of short skirmishes, with many symbolic acts of personal valor deciding the victor. Although injuries are common, casualties tend to be very few.
Between this low population, decentralized government, and wide ranges the Vvulfjr have been vulnerable to outside interference, with both the Eastern and Pelliny attempting to colonize the area. Beyond territorial pressure, the Humans have spent much time exerting political and cultural influence over the tribes. This exertion of influence and territorial expansion has increased the tensions within Whitehelm. In times of war each tribe elects a war chief to lead their warriors. Although the Vvulfjr maintain no formal military, most adult Vvulfjr are capable warriors. Due to their rich hunting and warrior tradition, martial skill is something expected of all members of the tribe. The warbands are filled by volunteers with no conscription in place. Most adults will maintain their own weapons and armor, often handing down this valuable equipment generation to generation. The armor is primarily of chain and hide, with helmets being fairly minimal.
Civilization and Culture
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Beliefs:
The Vvulfjr believe deeply in spirits, those of animals, the wilds, and of their ancestors. It is believed that these spirits are what gives one their strength, and that the spirit is the truest expression of self. It is also believed that the power of spirits can be called on and imbued into objects through ritual practices. These items are said to increase the bearer's various attributes, and Vvulfjr warriors will rarely go into battle without one. Humans are often dismissive of this practice a little more than superstition and meaningless mysticism. However these practices are generations old, and have proven meaningful to the Vvulfjr. It is thought that unless integral to the creation of the item that the connection will fade over time. There is a so-called Bone Steel, forged by the priest which is said to be able to hold this bond forever. It is exceptionally rare to have bone steel items as few have been able to master the practice, and as such items are passed down through the generations. Items like rings and weapons are common while armor made of bone steel is exceptionally rare. Few non-Vvulfjr have ever been given any item imbued by the priests and all have been named Vvulfjend.
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