Sovngarde

## The Kingdom of Sovngarde

*"Listen to the howl of the wind, and hear the songs of your ancestors thrumming in your ears. Brace yourselves against the ice and snow, and feel the warmth of the breath in your chest. Through the tyranny of the mighty dragons, and under the guidance of Kraal himself, we stand tall against the coming winter."*

*"Let none stand against you, and be as sturdy as the mighty mountains that scrape the skies with their peaks. We are the dirt and the ground beneath our feet. We are the foundation which this kingdom is built upon. The wolves that prey upon those who would seek to do evil. We are the blessed people. We are the guardians of Sovngarde."*

*-King Thorin*

Sovngarde is a kingdom known for its pride in the history of its nation, and in their Patron God: Kraal. The Legend of Kraal is as entwined with Sovngarde as the roots of their vast forests. He is known as the Great Conquerer, the Dragon Slayer, the God of War. In this chapter, you will learn about the history of Sovngarde and the people that inhabit its cold and bitter lands. Now... button up your coats, grab your furs, and begin your journey to the icy north.

### **Hearth Keep**

Many Sovs make their home all across the western half of Solus. Towns, trading posts, and settlements dot the landscape. However, the most impressive of them all, serving as the capital to the land, is Hearth Keep. Said to be crafted by the God of Crafters, Titan himself, you will be in awe of its towering walls and sturdy foundation that has stood the test of time. Hearth Keep is the main hub of the kingdom and if you cannot find something there, you cannot find it anywhere. Thousands live out their lives within its great walls and serve their king: King Thorin I.

As the 7th King of Sovngarde, King Thorin commands his kingdom with wisdom gained through the ages and the guidance of his counsel. His heir, Prince Alexander, seeks to prove himself as a Paladin of Kraal.

Together, as father and son, they make up the ruling body of Sovngarde and reside within the "Keep" of Hearth's Keep. Although a monarchy, King Thorin's reign has been positively received by most for being primarily peaceful. A war has not broken out in many long years and none have encroached on their lands. However, some have criticized the laxness of the crown in the face of rising powers, such as Davenport, to the East. No matter your opinion on the politics, you won't find a prouder or more patriotic people than the Sovs of Hearth Keep.

Primary population: Humans and Dwarves.

***"Lux in tenebris lucet. We are the light that shines in the dark."***

- Archmage Ragnar Zephare

*The official flag of Sovngarde is represented as the head of a wolf on a red flag, a white cross behind it. It symbolizes the blood, shed in the process of settling the harsh lands they have carved into their homes.*

### Guilds and Organizations

* Slayers Guild: Revered monster hunters that travel the world to hunt the most dangerous beasts Solus has to offer. Leader: Ivor Daro.
* Mages Guild: The head of research and magical development within Sovngarde. Only the brightest of minds are accepted into this esteemed guild. Leader: Ragnar Zephare.
* Warriors of Kraal: These warriors hone their martial skills through combat and hold many competitions within a grand arena. Leader: Jack Clancy (The Jack of Spades).
* Bards of Lore: This college is dedicated to collecting the art, music, and lore of Sovngarde and present it for all to see. They are considered the most prestigious bards in all the land and put on many performances that engross all who have the pleasure of attending them. Leader: Mistress Eveline Vindyr.