Eyju
Eyju is the largest island in the Norður Islands and one of the largest islands in the entire Great Ring. The island is the home of the Eyjamaður, who are known throughout the region as traders and sea-raiders.
The island is not governed by a central authority but rather by a network of loosely affiliated clans and independent communities. Each clan operates autonomously, guided by its own set of traditions, laws, and leaders. The Eyjamaður value self-governance and place great importance on personal freedoms and individual responsibility. Decision-making is often achieved through a system of consensus, where representatives from various clans come together to discuss matters of communal interest, such as the defense of the island or the management of shared resources. In such cases, representatives from each clan form ad hoc alliances, creating a temporary governing body known as the Samstaður. The Samstaður oversees these specific issues, striving to find equitable solutions that benefit all parties involved.
While there is no overarching ruler or formal government structure, the Eyjamaður respect and honor their elders and those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities. These individuals, known as Lögsögumenn, hold influential positions within their respective communities and often act as mediators, advisors, and custodians of the island's oral history and legal traditions. When a Samstaður forms, it is the Lögsögumenn who represent their clans.
The largest port on the island is Höfnvík, on the eastern coast. There are many other ports and harbors along the coast, but nearly half the international trade goes through Höfnvík, making it one of the richest cities in the Northeastern Region.
Notable Spirits
The spirits and gods of the Eyjamaður are collectively known as the Vættir. Eyju itself has many Vættir, but there are four great spirits who dominate the island's spiritual landscape. Each spirit is said to protect one quarter of the island, and they are revered and respected by the Eyjamaður. Reginn, a great wyrm, guards the north. Slíðrugtanni, a great boar, guards the south. Rasvelg an eagle, guards the east. And Elgfróði, a massive elk, guards the west. These spirits are seen as guardians of the land and sea, and their power is believed to keep the island and its people safe from harm.
Geography
Eyju is a rocky and frozen island, with only a quarter of the land covered in vegetation, mostly along the coasts. The interior is dominated by the Hálendi, a mountainous lava desert that makes up about half of Eyju's total area. This region is almost entirely above 1000 ft, and of recent volcanic origin. The soil of the Hálendi is primarily volcanic ash, and basalt mountains and lava fields are common. Glaciers are also a common feature of the Hálendi, and during volcanic eruptions can create a risk of glacier runs, when vast quantities of ice suddenly melt and flood large areas.
The coastline features hundreds of fjords, and most of the population of Eyju lives in coastal settlements. The eastern region of the island is the most heavily vegetated, and has the largest population centers as a result. There are several lakes on the island, and these are often the only places in the interior where communities can be found. The most famous of these lakes is Frostvatn, in the Hálendi.
In the northern region is Reginnsfjall, the great volcano. This towering peak is the centerpiece of Eyju's landscape, and it dominates the skyline for miles around. Reginnsfjall is an active volcano, and it erupts periodically, spewing ash and lava into the surrounding area. It is sacred to Reginn, and the town of Eldshamrar is built in the mountain's shadow to serve as a center of worship to the god. The town has had several close calls, but so far has been spared destruction, presumably due to the goodwill of Reginn.
Ecosystem
The island's rugged terrain and harsh climate make it a challenging environment, but a variety of species have adapted to survive. Eyju is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elk, reindeer, and foxes. The island's waters are teeming with fish and other sea creatures, including seals and whales. The island's plant life is limited, and includes hardy species such as dwarf willow, arctic heather, mosses, and lichens, which provide important food sources for herbivores. Birch trees can be found in sheltered areas, and scattered wildflowers bloom in the brief summer months, including purple lupines and yellow buttercups.
Climate
The climate of Eyju is cold and harsh, with long winters and short, cool summers. The island is subject to frequent storms and high winds, especially in the winter. The climate varies between different parts of the island. Generally speaking, the south is warmer, wetter, and windier than the north. The Hálendi is the coldest and driest part of the country. Snowfall in winter is more common in the north than in the south.
Maps
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Eyju
Geographic Details
Location: Northeastern RegionLatitude: 65 degrees North
Longitude: 40 degrees East
Average Elevation: 518 ft
Highest Point: 6,562 ft (Reginnsfjall)
Lowest Point: -16 ft (Frostvatn)
Area: 39,682 sq mi
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