The Frostheim Expanse
Geography
Located in the northernmost reaches of Luminaria, is a land of breathtaking, icy beauty. The towering mountain range called The Sapphire Mountains, stretchs towards the sky. It's rugged peaks hidden beneath a mantle of frost and snow. Glaciers, shimmering like crystalline rivers, carve paths through valleys and canyons, sculpting the landscape into majestic, frozen cathedrals. The Great Iceclaw Glacier and the Chilldeath Ice Flow are two of the most notable, alongside the Frostborn River and the Glacier's Tear, which flow through the region like lifeblood.
The climate of Frostheim is unforgiving, with long, harsh winters and brief, cool summers. Temperatures range from -20°C to 10°C (-4°F to 50°F), making it a challenging environment for all but the hardiest of inhabitants. Despite this, the people of Frostheim are resilient and resourceful, adapted to the extreme conditions over generations. They live in harmony with the land, earning their livelihoods through ice fishing, ice mining, fur trading, and glacier exploration.
*(Click HERE to read more about this nation's perpetual winter.)
At the heart of Frostheim lies Asgaard, the City of Ice and Stars, home to around 473,000 inhabitants. This vibrant city is a hub of craftsmanship, storytelling, and communal living. The people of Frostheim revere the land, the spirits of the ice, and the ancient magic within. They honor their heritage through strong traditions and cultural practices. Nearby, the Frostborn Ruins, ancient structures hidden beneath the ice, whisper secrets of a forgotten past. The Glacial Cathedrals, towering ice formations, stand as sacred sites, awe-inspiring testaments to the region's natural beauty.
National Flag
National Flower
Lightbloom
National Animal
Winterclaw Lynx
Capital: Asgaard
Estimated Population: 473,000
Local Legend
The Tale of the Moonlit Skater
In the depths of winter, when the Frostborn River freezes over and Eldrida, the Elder Moon, shines bright, the spirit of a glacial half- elven woman, Aria, is said to appear. Clad in a gown of shimmering ice-silver, she glides effortlessly across the frozen river, her skates leaving trails of glittering stardust. Locals whisper that Aria, a skilled skater from Asgaard, fell deeply in love with a traveler who passed through Frostheim under the radiant light of Aethon, the Fiery Moon.
Tragedy struck when her beloved left without warning, never to return. Heartbroken, Aria ventured onto the frozen river, where she vanished into the night, her spirit drawn to the mystical energies of Nyxora, the Midnight Moon. Now, when all three moons align, Aria's spirit returns to relive her happiest moments.
On those rare nights, witnesses claim Aria grants them a single, fleeting wish if made with a pure heart, temporary protection from the harsh winter elements, or inspiration for artistic expression. Some say that on quiet nights, you can still see Aria gliding across the frozen river, forever chasing the love that slipped away. Her whispers carried on the wind, "Kærlighetens lys" ("Love's Light"), echo through the frozen landscape.
The people of Frostheim believe Aria's spirit embodies the enduring power of love, weaving together the threads of Eldrida's wisdom, Aethon's passion, and Nyxora's mystery. Her legend inspires hope and resilience in the face of adversity, reminding all that love's light can transcend even the darkest of winters.
unique to this nation
Snowberries
In the Frostheim Expanse, where winter reigns eternal, there grows a humble yet cherished fruit known as the snowberry. These hardy, vibrant red berries dot the icy tundra and stand out brilliantly against the snow, their color often the only sign of life amid the frostbitten landscape. Snowberries are small and round, with a firm, slightly waxy skin that protects them from the bitter cold and winds that sweep through the Expanse. Their flavor is an invigorating combination of tartness with a hint of natural sweetness, warming the taste buds like a spark in the cold.
Snowberries are a staple in Frostheim cuisine and are enjoyed in many forms. Local inhabitants eat them plain as a quick snack, their invigorating taste offering a boost of energy on frigid days. The berries are also a popular ingredient in Frostheim sweets, where they are baked into tarts, boiled down into syrups, or candied to capture their vibrant flavor in winter treats. Snowberry wine, made by fermenting the berries over long, cold months, is a celebrated drink during Frostheim’s winter festivals, offering a refreshing, slightly effervescent sip with a pleasant tang.
The berries' natural oils make them ideal for perfumes and fragrances as well, lending a crisp, invigorating scent that captures the essence of Frostheim’s wild beauty. In this frozen land, the snowberry symbolizes resilience, and locals regard them as gifts from the frost itself, sustaining life and bringing a touch of warmth even in the harshest cold.
Snowberries are not only a beloved staple for the people of Frostheim but also a crucial food source for the cold-hardy wildlife that roam the icy wilderness. Creatures such as snow hares, arctic foxes, and frost-feathered birds rely on these resilient berries for sustenance during the harsh winter months when other food is scarce. The berries’ bright red color attracts these animals, providing a vital burst of nutrients that helps them endure the relentless cold.
Locals often speak fondly of watching wildlife nibble on snowberries, seeing it as a reminder of the interconnectedness of life in the frozen expanse. For this reason, they harvest the berries sparingly, leaving ample amounts for their animal neighbors. Snowberries, with their tart, vibrant flavor, are not only a treat for the senses but also a lifeline in Frostheim, weaving together the lives of its people and wildlife in the heart of winter.
Giant Penguins
Giant penguins are a symbol of the region's untamed, icy wilderness. Towering at over 12 feet tall, these majestic creatures are built to endure the harshest of cold climates, their thick plumage coated in a layer of frost-resistant oil that keeps them warm even in the most unforgiving conditions.
The giant penguins, known locally as Tundra Gliders, are not only formidable swimmers, able to glide effortlessly through the frigid waters of the region, but also surprisingly agile on land. Their broad, flipper-like wings act as both rudders in the water and powerful limbs for balance when navigating the icy tundra. Their sturdy, webbed feet are perfect for traversing the deep snowdrifts, leaving large, distinctive tracks that are easily recognized.
These penguins have long been domesticated by the native inhabitants of Frostheim, who use them as mounts for travel across the snow-covered expanse. Harnessing the Tundra Gliders is a delicate process; their riders must gain their trust through a series of intricate rituals, often involving the sharing of food and a mutual understanding of the harsh environment. Once bonded, the penguins can carry riders across vast distances, their speed in the snow rivaling that of any sled team. Their sturdy builds make them ideal for carrying heavy loads as well, and they are often employed to transport goods between the isolated villages dotting the Frostheim Expanse.
Riders use a specially crafted saddle that fits securely on the Tundra Glider’s back, with reins fashioned from the tough sinew of arctic creatures. The saddle has a wide, flat design to accommodate the penguin’s broad body, while riders can hold onto specialized handles for balance. Tundra Gliders are intelligent, responding well to commands and exhibiting a surprising degree of social structure and loyalty to their riders. Their calls echo across the frozen landscape, a haunting and beautiful sound that reverberates through the icy plains.
In addition to their utility, Tundra Gliders have become a revered symbol of endurance and strength in Frostheim’s culture. Their graceful yet powerful movements across the ice serve as a reminder of the resilience required to thrive in such an unforgiving environment.
Though they are rare and highly sought after by outsiders, the Tundra Gliders are not easily captured or tamed, and only those who have spent years learning to live in harmony with the creatures can hope to ride one. They are considered both a valuable asset and a status symbol, revered by the people of Frostheim as living embodiments of the land’s raw beauty and strength.
Points of Interest In This nation:
Giant's Rest
Legend says that ancient goliath giants, sworn to protect Frostheim, were encased in ice by the gods. Now, towering ice statues stand sentinel in the northern mountains, their faces etched with timeless wisdom.
Locals whisper that on winter solstices, the statues' eyes glow like stars, awaiting the day they'll awaken to defend their realm once more.
The Shadowfrost Wilderness
The Shadowfrost Wilderness, a vast and unforgiving landscape, separates the United Commonwealth of Dorgesh-Kaan from the Frostheim Expanse. This treacherous landscape combines dense, dark forests, snow-shrouded peaks and icy tundras, forging an impenetrable barrier. Ancient magic, infused by Nyxum's shadows, veils the wilderness in mystery and danger. Mythic creatures, such as spectral Froststalkers and shadowy Winterwraiths, roam the frozen wastes, preying upon unwary travelers.
The terrain itself poses a formidable challenge, with steep cliffs, dark forests, icy rivers and treacherous crevices. Harsh blizzards, avalanches and extreme cold test even the hardiest explorers. Yet, whispers of forgotten ruins, hidden artifacts and ancient lore lure adventurers into the Shadowfrost's depths. Brave dwarven expeditions and Frostheim's hardy explorers dare to traverse this unforgiving expanse, seeking secrets and glory.
Rumors persist of a lost city, Oria, hidden within the Shadowfrost, and an ancient pact between Nyxum and ancient Frostheim rulers. Forgotten artifacts are said to hold the key to unlocking Shadowfrost's secrets. Those who venture in seek fortune, knowledge and legend, but few return to tell the tale. The Shadowfrost Wilderness remains an enigma, beckoning brave souls to unravel its mysteries and confront the darkness within.
Icerend Keep
Frostheim's imposing stronghold, Icerend Keep, stands vigilant against the unforgiving wilderness. Forged in ancient dwarven traditions, this fortress has weathered centuries of darkness and conflict.
A bastion of resilience, Icerend Keep endures, home to the legendary Frostborne Knights.
Goliath Bluff
Goliath Bluff bears witness to a goliath giant's fall. Legend holds that eons past, the mighty Goliath giant, Grimgold Ironfist, clashed with the gods themselves. Defeated, his colossal body was petrified against the mountain, a testament to divine wrath.
Locals whisper that Grimgold's heart still beats, echoing through the mountains.
Bonechill Lake
Deep within Frostheim's icy expanse lies Bonechill Lake, a frozen tomb of ancient secrets. Its glacial waters conceal the remnants of a long-lost civilization, whispers of dark magic, and unyielding spirits trapped beneath the ice.
The Wailing Snow Fields
The Wailing Snowfields, a vast and haunted expanse of frozen wilderness, stretch across Frostheim's eastern mostreaches. This unforgiving landscape is home to the Lamenting Winds, eerie gusts that keen and moan through the snowfields like the voices of the damned. Locals whisper that the Wailing Snowfields are the final resting place of the Forgotten Legion, a doomed army that marched into the frozen wasteland centuries ago, never to return.
The snowfields' strange acoustic properties amplify the winds' mournful cries, creating an otherworldly chorus that can be heard for miles. Brave travelers who dare to cross the Wailing Snowfields must endure the unsettling sensation of being accompanied by the ghostly legion's eternal lament
Frostbreath Pass
Frostbreath Pass, a treacherous gateway through Frostheim's treacherous landscape, is said to be the breath of the land itself. This snow-shrouded passage is said to hold the whispers of the ancient, be home to the spectral frostwraiths & also grant visions of the past and future to those brave enough to traverse its icy depths.
Locals warn that only the pure of heart and strongest of will can survive Frostbreath's unforgiving trials.
Blizzardrock Lake
Blizzardrock Lake, nestled in Frostheim's frozen heart, is a tempestuous expanse of icy waters and jagged rock formations. Locals whisper that the lake's depths are home to the Stormmother's Tears, ancient artifacts forged from frost and lightning. According to legend, Blizzardrock's turbulent waters calm only during the rare celestial event known as The Great Cosmic Conjunction. Those who listen closely can hear the Stormmother's whispers, guiding brave souls through Frostheim's harshest storms.
Ruins of The Great Kyriosan Temple
The Ruins of the Great Kyriosan Temple stand as a testament to the fury and majesty of Kyrios, Grand Architect & Storm God of the Tempests of Old. Once a towering monument to his power, the temple now lies shattered and weathered, its stone walls bearing the scars of the cataclysmic event known as "The Devastating Hand". Legend holds that Kyrios' sacred artifacts – the Stormsceptre, the Thunderforge, and the Eye of the Tempest – were housed within the temple's heart. The Storm God's wrath was said to be tempered by the prayers of his followers in the Hall of Whispers, where the winds themselves carried the whispers of the faithful to Kyrios' ears.
Though the temple lies in ruins, many believe Kyrios' essence remains, stirring the tempests that rage across Frostheim's skies. Some say that on stormy nights, the God's voice still thunders through the ruins, guiding those brave enough to listen.
Sapphire Mountains
The Sapphire Mountains, a majestic range of crystal-tipped peaks, stretch across the northern horizon of Luminaria, casting a shimmering veil of blue-tinged grandeur. Frost-encrusted slopes, glittering ice caverns, and snow-carved valleys conceal ancient secrets, hidden temples, and forgotten lore. Home to hardy clans, wise druids, and mysterious iceborn creatures, the Sapphires stand sentinel, guarding the mysteries of Frostheim and the whispers of the land's forgotten past.
Steaming Hills of Mor
The Steaming Hills of Mor, a mystical landscape of geothermal wonders near the base ofThe Sapphire Mountains, rise from Frostheim's icy landscape like a mirage. Smoking fissures and bubbling hot springs etch the hills, as if the land itself were alive and breathing. The nearby village of Morhaven, nestled between steam-shrouded valleys, has long been home to a hardy people attuned to the hills' ancient power. They believe the Steaming Hills hold the secrets of Mor, (also known as Terrak in other cultures), the Earthkeeper, a primordial deity who forged the land's rugged beauty.
Morhaven's villagers live in harmony with the hills, harnessing the geothermal energy to sustain their crops and crafts. Their wise elders interpret the hills' whispers, predicting changes in the weather, the earth's rhythms, and the balance of Frostheim's delicate ecosystem.