Winterholme

A cold, forbidding land in the northernmost reaches of Drevoss, Winterholme does not have many settlements. The deepest, coldest reaches of Winterholme are inhabited only by monsters, and foolish adventurers looking for ill-gotten treasures.

Demography and Population

Winterholme is almost entirely inhabited by minotaur, who have developed a strong warrior culture from surviving the harsh elements. Advancement in society is done through ritual combat, whether through duels, hunting contests, or raids.

Territories

Comprising the northern reaches of Drevoss, Winterholme is a polar region of tundra and taiga. Summers here are mild, short, and precious. The Celestial Palaces track unusual paths through Winterholme – it sees 16 hours of daylight each day during the summer, and 16 hours of darkness each day during the winter.

Military

The combined naval might of the various minotaur clans is enough to rival that of Twillin, though the Twills would never admit it.

Religion

Winterkin practice ritual worship of primal spirits, particular ancestor spirits. Communities near the sea have shrines to Ogrus and Sona.

Foreign Relations

Since most Winterkin found outside of Winterholme are pirates or raiders, relations with other nations are often neutral at best. However, Winterholme enjoys a good relationship with the Fespaani Isles, and regularly trades with Esperia. They are not currently part of the conflict with Kar'dorel.

Agriculture & Industry

The minotaur of Winterholme trade ambergris, whalebone, and furs for supplies they need – or take to lives of raiding and piracy.

Type

Geopolitical, Country

Alternative Names

Winterholme Expanse, The Expanse

Demonym

Winterkin

Government System

Tribalism

Power Structure

Federation

Economic System

Barter system

Major Exports

Ambergris, elemental ice, furs, oil, whalebone

Major Imports

Fruits, vegetables, wood

Legislative Body

The minotaur communities live as a loose federation of matriarchal tribes. Each chieftain has a shamanic counselor to advise on spiritual matters. Every summer, each shaman travels to Bone Hollow, where they convene with ancestor spirits and their chiefs (through sending spirits) to discuss matters of importance.

Neighboring Nations