Heimer

Description

The Heimer, often dubbed "the scourge of the north," are a formidable warrior culture rooted in the northern expanse of Arboria, a territory colloquially known by southerners as Drakenheim. Although Human by race, the Heimer's distinct way of life and traditions set them apart. Historically, they are part of the larger tapestry of Humans who, during the Great Migrations spurred by the Ice Age, ventured into and settled Arboria. As they made it their home, they built atop the remnants of the Feynarin civilization that once dominated these lands.
Organized into a loose confederation of clans, known as The Heimer Clans, internal conflicts and power struggles are commonplace within the Heimer community. Outsiders often perceive them as brutish, known for their reliance on force, fondness for alcohol, and seemingly barbaric practices. However, within the heart of their culture, the Heimer are deeply bound by a code of honor. Their notorious raids, often seen as acts of aggression, are driven more by need than malevolence. Their internal skirmishes are seen as rites of survival, with the underlying principles of respect, honor, humility, and hospitality playing a central role in their societal fabric.
Yet, in the southern territories, tales of the Heimer are tinted with fear and prejudice, painting them as merciless invaders with a thirst for blood and chaos, wreaking havoc on both outsiders and their kin.

History

Hyperborean nomads

In the annals of history, the earliest Heimer are portrayed as quintessential Human nomads, roving vast landscapes, their lives dependent on hunting and foraging. Sequestered in the northernmost reaches of the world, they remained relatively secluded from other races, unlike their Human kin who neighbored the Feynarin Elves. Such isolation and the unforgiving terrain, with its bone-chilling winters and scant resources, bred strife within the Heimer tribes. Skirmishes with other Human factions, namely the Jermane and Slaya, over resources and territories further augmented their insular existence.

The migration

The The Cataclysm's tremors resonated across the world, heralding the advent of the Ice Age. With glacial fingers stretching southward rapidly, all Humans, the Heimer included, were compelled to traverse south or face extinction. While the Jermane found refuge with the Elves in the west, and the Slaya locked horns with Elves in the east in a series of brutal conquests, the Heimer's path led them to snowy Drakenheim, a segment of Arboria, the former dominion of the Feynarin. Their path bostructed by the Nord Sea, they staked their claim here, making a home amid adversity. Yet, these lands held a deeper mystery. All Jermane migrants had previously fled across the Nord Sea with the Feynarin under the guidance of Arish the Lightbearer, who miraculously parted the sea, offering them safe passage. The Heimer, arriving later, discovered only the remnants of grand structures, standing as silent testaments to a bygone era. To them, these monoliths appeared almost divine in origin, perhaps a gift from the gods?

United Clans

With the Ice Age receding and the climate becoming more hospitable, the Heimer Clans began to flourish. The cessation of their perennial internal conflicts was a welcome relief, thanks to the warmer climes. They witnessed an explosion in their population and made significant strides in technology. From mastering metallurgy, exploring underground riches, transitioning from foraging to farming, to constructing boats, they were on an ascendant trajectory. The seas, which once acted as barriers, now became their highways. It was during their maritime explorations that they encountered the Jermane anew.
However, these voyages weren't without complications. The Heimer explorers, although deeply fascinated by the advanced southern civilizations, were ill prepared for trade. Their lack of valuable resources meant they often resorted to theft, which did little to endear them to the southerners. Returning home, these explorers shared tales of southern opulence, and a simmering resentment against those who zealously guarded their treasures.
With their growing population reaching a tipping point and the limited resources of Drakenheim unable to sustain them, the Heimer were driven by necessity rather than greed, to obtain these riches for themselves. They lacked the advanced agricultural and infrastructural knowledge of the south, but they were adept at warfare. Their need to secure resources to support their burgeoning population led to the onset of the Heimer raids. Instead of focusing their energies on internal strife, they unified against a common southern adversary, marking the beginning of the formidable Heimer Incursions.

Arhitecture

In the rugged expanse of Drakenheim, nestled within the embrace of ancient forests, atop steep cliffs, along whispering rivers and calm lakes, the architecture of the Heimer stands as a testament to a culture both hardened by struggle and inspired by the natural world. This is a civilization that has carved its existence into the very bones of the north, creating structures that are as much a part of the landscape as the stone and timber they are hewn from.

Key Elements

Timbered Fortitude:

• The Heimer's dwellings display a robust composition, chiefly constructed from the hearty trees that cover their forested landscape. 
• The gabled roofs, steep and overlaid with wooden shingles or thatch, exemplify their adroitness in creating structures that withstand the weight of heavy snowfall.

Defensive Prowess:

• Though the Heimer value peace within, they are well-versed in defense against outside threats. Strategic placements of homes, the sturdy construction, and discreet fortifications like palisades demonstrate their readiness to protect their kin and territory. 
• This defensive approach extends to the thoughtful positioning of their villages, often in locations that are easily defensible and offer clear vantage points.

Rustic Aesthetics:

• The aesthetic appeal of Heimer structures lies in their rustic simplicity. There's a palpable sense of rugged beauty that mirrors the untamed spirit of their culture, a raw, unpolished charm that underlines their close bond with the wilderness. 
• The architecture does not dominate but rather complements the wild, capturing the essence of Heimer life.

Adaptive Ingenuity:

• Adaptability is a key trait of Heimer architecture, showing their ingenious response to environmental challenges. Structures are elevated on stilts where flooding is a concern, or insulated with earth where warmth is paramount. The strategic use of resources reveals a sophisticated understanding of their challenging climate and topography.

Community Hearth:

• Central to a Heimer stronghold is the communal space, which comes in the form of a large hall. Here, the hearth reigns supreme, a beacon of warmth and unity. 
• The smoke gently rising from the chimney signifies the heart of their community life, where tales are told, feasts are shared, and plans for expeditions are fervently discussed.

Mystic Runes:

• Symbolism is carved into the very essence of Heimer architecture. Runes, believed to carry potent magic and ancestral stories, are etched into doorframes, beams, and other structural elements. These markings invoke protection, prosperity, and pay homage to their ancestors and deities, embedding spiritual fortitude into their homes.

Clothing

General Aesthetics:
Heimer clothing favors a robust and utilitarian design with an undercurrent of elegance. Garments are cut to allow freedom of movement, accommodating the demands of a lifestyle that is both active and attuned to the rhythms of nature. The silhouettes are often layered, providing insulation as well as a rugged, textured look.
Materials:
Durable fabrics are the cornerstone of Heimer fashion, with heavy wools, leather, and furs most commonly used. These materials are sourced from the fauna of the region, chosen for their warmth and ability to shield the wearer from the elements. Textiles may be thickly woven, sometimes incorporating less common materials like bear hide or elk skin for added resilience and protection.
Color Palette:
The colors of Heimer clothing are predominantly earthy and muted, reflecting the tones of the forest, mountain, and winter landscapes. Browns, greys, and dark greens prevail, occasionally accented with the rich reds or burnt oranges reminiscent of autumn foliage or the soft blues and whites mirroring the winter skies and snow.
Details and Accessories:
Attention to detail is evident in intricate stitching and embossed leatherwork, often featuring patterns that draw from natural surroundings or Heimer mythos. Accessories may include leather belts equipped with pouches and tools, gloves or gauntlets, and clasps or brooches that are not only decorative but also serve to secure layers of clothing.
Footwear:
Footwear is sturdy and often high, designed to protect against snow and rough terrain. It is typically made from hardened leather, with thick soles and reinforced stitching, providing a solid foundation for traversing rugged landscapes.
Utility:
Every aspect of Heimer dress serves a purpose, from the capes and hoods that offer concealment and protection from the weather, to the fur lining that traps heat. Pockets and loops for carrying essential tools, weapons, and small items are common, reflecting a life where self-sufficiency is both a necessity and a point of pride.

Related Organizations

• The Heimer Clans

Related Locations

• Arboria

Parent Race

• Humans