Yastor

Located to the Northwest of the continent, Yastor is a land that appears as cold and harsh as the people who inhabit it. Its landscape is dominated by towering ice-capped mountains, rugged highlands, and a vast, unforgiving tundra where snowstorms are a frequent occurrence. But beneath the intimidating exterior lies a land of remarkable beauty - frozen lakes shimmering in the midnight sun, deep fjords that tell tales of the ancient glaciers that carved them, and an expansive coastline filled with an abundance of marine life. The coastline is indeed the lifeblood of Yastor, supporting a thriving maritime culture and providing a wealth of resources for its people.

Structure

The Yastorians are governed by a system known as the Thaneship, where each major settlement or region is ruled by a Thane, who is both a political leader and a military commander. The selection of a Thane is often a meritocratic process, where the strongest, wisest, or most cunning individuals ascend to power. To help guide their decisions and maintain the peace, the Thanes regularly convene in the Althing, a grand meeting where issues of state, including legislation, conflict resolution, and even declarations of war, are discussed and decided upon.
The political landscape of Yastor is, however, far from peaceful. Factional disputes, territorial skirmishes, and power struggles are commonplace, with Thanes often calling upon their loyal warriors to enforce their rule or expand their territories. Despite this tumultuous political climate, the Yastorians remain fiercely loyal to their land and will unite in the face of external threats.

Culture

The people of Yastor, known as Yastorians, are a resilient lot, as hardened as the icy winds that sweep across their land. Roughly inspired by Norse culture, they are a society of seafarers and warriors, renowned for their prowess in battle and their exceptional navigational skills. Their maritime culture extends far beyond just fishing and whaling; the Yastorians are skilled shipbuilders, constructing sturdy vessels designed to withstand the ferocious North Sea. These ships facilitate robust trade links with the Ochal Confederacy and enable the exploration of distant lands. The Yastorians hold a deep reverence for nature and its elemental forces, worshipping a pantheon of deities that embody the natural world around them. Their tales of heroism, struggle, and survival, passed down through generations, echo the harsh beauty of the land they call home.

Points of Interest

Frostholm, the largest city and cultural center of Yastor, is built around a deep, natural harbor and is famous for its grand longhouses and bustling marketplace.
The Hjalti Peaks, a range of awe-inspiring mountains that form the backbone of Yastor, are a sight to behold. The highest peak, Skjold Mountain, is believed to be the earthly abode of Bergthora.
The Boreal Wharfs, a complex network of docks and shipyards, is where the Yastorian shipbuilders showcase their skills. Here, ships of various sizes, from small fishing vessels to grand longships, are birthed.
The Icebound Veil is a spectacular expanse of glistening glaciers and frozen waterfalls. It is both a natural wonder and a spiritual site where Yastorians believe the boundary between their world and the gods' is thinnest.

History

The history of Yastor, shrouded in the mists of time, is as rugged and resilient as its people. Passed down through oral tradition by the revered Skalds, their sagas tell stories of heroic deeds, great battles, harsh winters, and the ever-enduring spirit of the Yastorians.
Yastorians regard their homeland as the cradle of civilization, a belief held deep within their collective consciousness. According to the ancient sagas, Yastor was shaped by the primordial gods who imbued the land with their strength and elemental power. Over time, the first races - Firbolgs, Goliaths, Rock Gnomes, and others - took root in Yastor, developing their unique cultures and adapting to the harsh environment.
The sagas speak of an age-long tradition of Thanes leading their people, each Thane's rule being a chapter in the epic saga of Yastor. Tales of valorous Thanes who fought ferocious beasts, weathered severe winters, and forged key alliances are the core of Yastorian history.
Throughout the centuries, Yastor has been a bastion of independence and strength. The Yastorians, driven by their love for their land and their steadfast resolve, have fiercely defended their borders against countless invasions. Their Frostguard, the formidable warrior force, and the strategic use of their rugged terrain have consistently held the invaders at bay.
Key to their defense was the creation of the Council of Thanes, a decentralization of power that allowed the Yastorians to mobilize swiftly and effectively against external threats. Each Thane pledged their loyalty not only to their community but to Yastor as a whole, fostering unity in defense of their homeland.
The Yastorian history is a saga of survival and determination, a testament to the resilience of its people. It is a history that is not written on parchment but sung in the melody of the wind, echoed in the rhythm of the waves, and etched into the very heart of its people. Even today, the Skalds continue to recite these sagas, the living, breathing history of Yastor, reminding each Yastorian of their roots, their strength, and their unyielding spirit.

Nash Dom's Slaving Fleets

A significant chapter in Yastor's history is the perpetual struggle against the slaving fleets of Nash Dom, a recurring threat that has shaped the Yastorian identity and galvanized their resolve.
Nash Dom, a hostile maritime power from across the North Sea, has long coveted the strength and spirit of the Yastorian people. For centuries, they have sent their slaving fleets, aiming to capture and enslave Yastorians. Yet, each time, they've met with the fierce resistance of the Yastorians.
The first encounter with Nash Dom's fleets, often referred to as the First Wave in Yastorian sagas, was a harsh awakening for the people of Yastor. The sagas recount tales of their ancestors' courage as they repelled the invaders, with many a Yastorian Skald and warrior achieving legendary status through their heroic deeds.
The struggle against Nash Dom brought changes to Yastorian society. The Frostguard was reinforced, its ranks filled not just with warriors, but with skilled seafarers and tacticians. The shipyards began to produce more Stormreaver Ships, swift and sturdy vessels that could confront the slaving fleets in the open sea. Defensive measures were established along the coastlines, watchtowers and fortresses were built, and early warning systems were put in place.
The Council of Thanes, too, found a renewed sense of purpose. The constant threat of Nash Dom necessitated cooperation between the clans, fostering unity and collective responsibility in defense of their homeland. This shared struggle against a common enemy has been a significant unifying force in Yastorian history.
Over the centuries, the struggle has persisted, with Nash Dom's fleets regularly probing Yastor's defenses. But the Yastorians remain undeterred, their resolve unbroken. The sagas continue to tell tales of their struggles, victories, and the heroic deeds of those who defend their land, ensuring that the memory of their resistance is passed down through generations. The people of Yastor stand as a bulwark against Nash Dom's ambitions, a testament to their enduring spirit and their determination to safeguard their freedom.

Demography and Population

Yastor is a diverse land, home to a fascinating array of races that each contribute their unique strengths and skills to the Yastorian society. Although humans do dwell in Yastor, they form a small minority of the overall population.
Firbolgs, known for their connection to nature and peaceful disposition, constitute a large portion of Yastor's population. With their imposing size, gentle strength, and uncanny ability to communicate with animals and plants, they play a crucial role in the maintenance of Yastor's unique ecology. From managing the Frost Ewe herds to gathering medicinal herbs, the Firbolgs are the backbone of Yastorian agriculture.
Goliaths, another dominant race in Yastor, hail from the icy peaks and rugged highlands. Renowned for their endurance, physical strength, and remarkable adaptability to the harsh Yastorian climate, they are often found among the ranks of the Frostguard or working as miners in the Skyreach Peaks. Their cultural focus on self-sufficiency and fair competition aligns well with the Yastorian values of resilience and honor.
What may seem surprising to outsiders is the significant population of Rock Gnomes in Yastor. While they are not naturally suited to the cold climate, their industrious nature, adaptability, and affinity for intricate craftsmanship have found them a niche in Yastorian society. They are highly valued as artisans, engineers, and tinkers, bringing a dash of creativity and innovation to this rugged land.
Though these races are the most prevalent, Yastor is home to a myriad of other races as well. Elves, Dwarves, Halflings, and even the occasional Tiefling or Dragonborn can be found within its borders. Yastor's society is welcoming to those who adapt to their ways, demonstrating the enduring Yastorian values of acceptance, adaptability, and communal unity.
Despite the frigid climate and harsh landscapes, Yastor's population thrives, a testament to the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants. It is this unique blend of races, each contributing to the society with their unique strengths, that makes Yastor a vibrant and resilient land.

Military

The Yastorians, hardened by their challenging environment and proud of their warrior heritage, maintain a formidable military force known as the Frostguard. This force is composed of citizen-soldiers, who lead regular lives as fishermen, farmers, or craftsmen but can be called upon for service when needed.
At the heart of the Frostguard is the longship fleet, composed of swift and maneuverable vessels designed to traverse the often treacherous northern seas. Each Thane maintains a fleet, the size of which varies based on their resources and power. These longships can be used for both warfare and raiding, with crews adept at boarding tactics and hit-and-run strategies.
On land, the Frostguard is made up of shield-bearing infantry, archers, and cavalry. The warriors are heavily armed, typically carrying axes or swords, round shields, and wearing mail or leather armor. A distinctive feature of the Frostguard is the Bearskins - a select group of elite warriors known for their strength, courage, and the bear-skin cloaks they wear into battle. These warriors often serve as bodyguards to the Thanes and are seen as symbols of Yastorian bravery.
While the Frostguard are skilled fighters, they're also exceptional strategists. The use of terrain and the elements is fundamental to their tactics. In winter, they use the snow and ice to their advantage, laying traps for enemies or disappearing into blizzards. In summer, they leverage their superior knowledge of the seas to outmaneuver and outflank opponents.
Despite the harshness of Yastorian warfare, there exists a strong code of honor among the Frostguard. Courage in battle is valued above all else, and surrender is seen as a grave dishonor. After each battle, it is traditional for the victors to hold a feast in honor of the fallen - friend and foe alike - for it is believed that those who die in combat earn a place in Valhalla, the hall of heroes in the afterlife.
Additionally, the Yastorian military is not purely aggressive. The Frostguard also plays a significant role in exploration, disaster response, and maintaining trade routes, demonstrating the Yastorian understanding that survival requires both sword and shield.

Religion

Religion in Yastor is deeply interwoven with the respect for nature and the elements. The Yastorians follow the Elder Way, a polytheistic belief system in which a myriad of gods and goddesses embodying various aspects of the natural world are worshipped. Key among them are Skjolir, the god of the sea and storms; Bergthora, the goddess of mountains and earth; Vindur, the god of the wind and sky; and Solara, the goddess of the sun and seasons.
Rituals and festivals throughout the year mark the changing seasons, sea conditions, and celestial events, allowing the Yastorians to connect with their gods and ask for protection, prosperity, and good fortune. Seers, known as Visionspeakers, play an important role in Yastorian society, providing spiritual guidance and interpreting the will of the gods.

Foreign Relations

Yastor generally enjoys cordial relationships with most nations in Versaria, despite its remote location and harsh climate. Its political ties are as strong and resilient as its people, save for the glaring exception of its relationship with Nash Dom.

Ochal Confederacy

Yastor and the Ochal Confederacy share a solid diplomatic relationship, buoyed by their strong trade links. The mutual respect between the two nations is evident in their political exchanges, fostering an atmosphere of cooperation.

Nash Dom

Yastor's relationship with Nash Dom is marked by deep-seated animosity, stemming from the latter's coastal raids and slave-taking expeditions. This constant threat and hostility have embedded a sense of distrust towards Nash Dom amongst Yastor's populace and have often escalated into armed conflicts.

Andasand and Ula

Yastor enjoys a peaceful and supportive relationship with both Andasand and Ula. The nations share resources and knowledge to survive in their harsh climates and have frequently collaborated on matters of mutual interest, such as water conservation initiatives.

Dao and Takk-Feigr

Yastor's relationships with Dao and Takk-Feigr are amicable, defined by a shared appreciation for the mystical and the ancient. Their mutual respect for tradition and folklore has led to a cordial relationship, allowing for fruitful cultural exchanges.

Verre Oewer

Yastor's relationship with Verre Oewer is characterized by mutual respect and a healthy trade relationship. Despite their geographical distance, the two nations have managed to foster a bond rooted in maritime traditions and shared interests in naval navigation and trade.

Laws

In the icy landscapes of Yastor, fire serves not only as a source of heat and light, but also as a symbol of life and endurance. Hence, one of the most intriguing and unusual laws in Yastor is the Law of Frostfire.
According to this law, no hearth fire in any Yastorian longhouse or dwelling may be intentionally extinguished, except in times of mourning or if a particular house is left uninhabited. This continuous fire, known as the Frostfire, symbolizes the continuity of life and community spirit. Each Frostfire is carefully tended by the inhabitants of the dwelling, ensuring it burns day and night.
The Frostfire is also deeply tied to Yastorian hospitality. It is customary that a traveler or guest who seeks shelter must be invited to warm themselves at the Frostfire, signifying their acceptance into the house as a guest.
In times of mourning, the Frostfire is ceremonially extinguished and then rekindled after the mourning period ends, symbolizing the end of one life and the continuation of the community. In cases where a dwelling is abandoned or its inhabitants move, the Frostfire is ritually put out by the family or community elders, marking the end of that household's era.
The Law of Frostfire not only serves practical purposes, but also reflects Yastorian values of community, continuity, and reverence for the elemental forces that shape their lives. It is a tradition that has been respected and upheld for centuries, and continues to burn strong in the heart of every Yastorian home.

Agriculture & Industry

In the frost-kissed fields of Yastor, agriculture displays a unique blend of the familiar and the fantastical. Traditional crops such as rye and potatoes are grown, displaying a resilience in the face of the chilling climate. The rye is often milled into hearty bread and the potatoes find their way into warming stews, both providing sustenance during the relentless winters.
Among these more common crops, the more unusual thrive. The Frostsnap Pea, a hardy legume that can withstand the cold, grows in abundance. These peas have a naturally sweet taste, making them a staple in many Yastorian dishes.
In terms of livestock, the usual suspects such as goats and sheep are raised, providing Yastorians with milk, cheese, wool, and meat. However, grazing alongside these more mundane creatures are the extraordinary Silversheep, prized for their luminous, silver wool that provides exceptional warmth. The wool of these creatures is used in everything from clothing to tapestries, displaying the Yastorian blend of the practical and the beautiful.
The most imposing of Yastorian livestock are the Thunderhooves, massive oxen-like creatures with thick, grey fur and large, curved horns. They serve as beasts of burden, pulling heavy sleds and ploughs through the snow-covered fields.
Yastorian industry thrives on the riches offered by their land. The Skyreach Peaks are rich in iron and silver, facilitating a robust mining industry. Craftsmen utilize these resources to create practical tools, intricate jewelry, and formidable weapons, which find their way across Versaria through trade.
At the heart of Yastorian industry is the shipbuilding trade. Yastorian shipwrights, using timber from the resilient Northwood Pines, create the legendary Stormreaver Ships. These vessels, known for their durability and grace, are a testament to Yastorian craftsmanship and their maritime culture. They sail the treacherous northern seas, serving as a lifeline for trade and exploration.

Trade & Transport

The economy of Yastor is largely dependent on its marine resources and trade. Fishing and whaling are fundamental aspects of Yastorian life, with seafood forming a significant part of their diet and whale oil being a vital commodity for light and heat during the long, dark winters. Skilled Yastorian shipwrights produce hardy ships that are sought after throughout Versaria, driving a substantial portion of their economy.
Furthermore, Yastor is known for its skilled craftspeople. Blacksmiths work with iron and steel from the mountains to produce weaponry, tools, and beautiful trinkets. Weavers create intricate tapestries depicting Yastorian folklore and history, while brewers distill strong, warming spirits from native grains and berries. Trade of these crafts, along with furs, dried fish, and whale oil, provides a substantial source of wealth for the Yastorians and secures their survival in the harsh northern landscape.

Official Currency

While barter is the mainstay of daily transactions in Yastor, owing to its society's reliance on trade of goods and services, a formal currency system is in place for larger transactions, especially those involving merchants or foreign trade.
The official currency of Yastor is the Skald, a durable coin made from the abundant Wintersteel found in the Skyreach Peaks. The Skald is named in honor of the revered storytellers and poets of Yastor who preserve the land's history and legends. Each Skald is expertly crafted, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship Yastorians are renowned for.
The Skald is divided into two denominations: the larger, more valuable coin is known as a High Skald, often used for major transactions and trade deals. The smaller and more common denomination is known as a Low Skald, used for less significant purchases.
High Skalds are intricately engraved with depictions of famous Yastorian legends or deities, each year featuring a different design. This practice has led to a secondary interest in coin collecting within Yastor and beyond, with certain year's coins being particularly sought after.
Low Skalds, on the other hand, are more utilitarian in design, generally bearing the emblem of Yastor – a ship sailing on a wave, framed by Northwood Pines.
The Skald system provides a standard for larger trades, making transactions smoother and more streamlined, especially in dealings with foreign traders. This system, although not as commonly used as barter in day-to-day transactions, plays a vital role in Yastor's commerce and trade relations.

Education

Education in Yastor is a uniquely personal and communal affair, lacking the formal structures found in other lands. Instead of large, established schools, knowledge in Yastor is transferred primarily through mentorship and hands-on experience.
The mystics of Yastor - Hedge Wizards, Green Witches, and local Shamans - play a significant role in this educational model. They provide apprenticeships to young Yastorians showing an affinity for their particular path. These mentors instruct their pupils in the secrets of herbalism, the reading of runic inscriptions, the channeling of elemental magic, and the delicate art of communicating with the spirits of nature that permeate their land. This form of education, although informal, is highly valued and integral to the preservation and continuation of Yastorian mysticism.
Warrior Lodges scattered throughout the country provide another form of education. These Lodges, often associated with a particular Thane or community, function as training centers for young warriors. In these rustic halls, seasoned veterans pass on their wisdom and skills, teaching the younger generation the art of combat, survival skills, ship handling, and the importance of honor and courage. This training is not merely physical; it encompasses a moral education, instilling Yastorian values of bravery, resilience, and loyalty to their kin and land.
Craftsmen and artisans, too, play their part in Yastor's educational system. From the meticulous shipwrights to the dexterous blacksmiths, each master craftsman takes on apprentices, teaching them the intricate skills and secrets of their trade. This ensures that each new generation can uphold the high standards of Yastorian craftsmanship.
In essence, education in Yastor is a communal responsibility, deeply embedded in their culture and lifestyle. The knowledge and skills necessary for survival, prosperity, and the preservation of their unique culture are passed from generation to generation, ensuring the continuity and vitality of Yastorian society.

Infrastructure

The infrastructure in Yastor reflects the Yastorian spirit: rugged, practical, yet undeniably beautiful. With limited reliance on advanced technology, Yastorian architecture and infrastructure blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment, exuding a rustic charm and the robustness to withstand the harsh climate.
Roads in Yastor are primarily well-trodden paths, often compacted by the frequent passage of Thunderhooves pulling sleds and carts. These roads connect the scattered communities and are marked by runestone pillars, each carved with symbols and runes to guide travelers. During the harsh winters, these paths become snow trails, navigated by sleds and guided by torch-lit way-markers.
The most impressive infrastructure in Yastor are the Longhouses, communal living structures that serve as the heart of Yastorian communities. Built using Northwood Pine logs and covered in thatch, these structures are simultaneously sturdy and inviting, with intricate carvings adorning the wooden pillars and doorways. Inside, a central hearth provides warmth and light, and ornate tapestries tell stories of Yastorian lore and history.
The Warrior Lodges stand as another striking feature, usually located at the edge of the settlements or atop hills. These structures are built much like the Longhouses, but they boast martial ornamentation, weapons displayed prominently, and the banners of the local Thane or community.
Harbors and shipyards line the expansive Yastorian coastline, simple yet efficient in design. Built with sturdy timber, they house the impressive Stormreaver Ships, ready to face the raging northern seas. Drydocks for ship repair, wooden cranes for cargo handling, and boathouses for smaller craft complement these maritime hubs.
Though not lavish, Yastorian bridges, wells, and storage structures are designed with the same robust practicality and attention to detail. They use natural materials and traditional methods, creating an aesthetic harmony with the landscape.
Despite its rusticity, Yastorian infrastructure showcases the resilience, adaptability, and artistic flair of its people, standing as a testament to their determination and reverence for the natural world.

By Frost, Forest, and Foaming Sea, We Stand Unyielding.

Founding Date

Unknown

Type

Geopolitical, Country

Alternative Names

Fjellheim (Ochal Confederacy)
Yastarak (Andasand)
Berghjem (Ula)
Sten-Dùn (Takk-Feigr)

Demonym

Yastorian

Economic System

Barter system

Location

The Continent of Versaria