Upper ArcWorlde

## ArcWorlde

Arcamundi Altius, known amongst the common folk as Upper ArcWorlde, is a large northern continent at the very centre of most maps of ArcWorlde. Although many would like to think that Upper ArcWorlde is indeed the focal point of all creation, the more likely reason is that the offices of the Mapmaker’s Guild of Albionnica just so happen to be found there.

Upper ArcWorlde has throughout its history been the dominion of many great empires, both current and ancient. Some of the greatest cities on ArcWorlde can be found there, and it is thought to be the cradle of human civilisation. However, even to this day and despite countless efforts the vast majority of its lands remain unclaimed and untouched by humankind.

Within the heart of Upper ArcWorlde lies the great Mildaark – an immense, untamable forest that stretches from the frostbitten northern lands of Njorsvald to the fringes of the southernmost lands of Galanaux. It is a place of towering canopies, hidden groves and unexplored places too numerous to count. The dominating presence of the Mildaark to the south and the vast polar wastes of Norwhere have forced most attempts at civilisation to the very fringes of the continent. Even to this day, swathes of Upper ArcWorlde remain uncharted.

However, even amongst this hostile environment there are many great human nations in Upper ArcWorlde, each having claimed a piece of the land for themselves. Some, such as Albionnica and Esandaluca, lie away from the mainland, separated from the clutches of the Mildaark by the sea. Others, such as the Halfling nation of Hobbleshire and the rugged lands of Njorsvald, fought tooth and nail for their dominion, and now reap the benefits for themselves. The civilised nations of Upper ArcWorlde are in a constant battle against natural forces, and the wilder factions and creatures that call the Mildaark home.

Those who attempt to clear the forest and settle further into the heart of the Mildaark are often met with bitter failure. Trees cut down in the morning miraculously grow back in the night, axes blunt themselves on iron-hard trunks and dangerous beasts and rogue warbands lurk around every corner. Those who choose to eke out a living within the borders of Mildaark must be wary, and many folk venture into its heart in search of adventure, fame and fortune.

## Holidays

### Griffmas

Throughout the civilised lands of ArcWorlde, the Midwinter festival known as Griffmas is celebrated every year, on the 25th of Greatsong.

On the night of Griffmas Eve, the great warrior known as Saint Nickelgriff takes to the air from his castle in the Drakensfaal mountains upon his magical war-sleigh, pulled by three mighty Griphons. It is on this night that he does battle with the myriad of evil spirits that threaten the world, thus keeping it safe for yet another year. His treacherous path through the skies is heralded by the plucky Griffling, Coodolph, who lights the way with a magical red lantern around his neck.

The spoils of war which “Father Griffmas” gleans are gathered in a large hempen sack and are magically transformed into toys and treats. These presents are then given to the children of ArcWorlde as a reward for their good behaviour throughout the year. Before they go to bed that night, it is tradition to leave a glass of mead for Father Griffmas, a pile of grain for Coodolf and three chicken legs for the Griphons, to strengthen them on their quest.

Griffmas is indeed a merry occasion, and one that the citizens of ArcWorlde look forward to each year. It is a time for feasting, a time for family, and a time to forget about the troubles that the year has brought. Usually vast amounts of alcohol are involved, as is only good and proper!

## ArcWorlde in Other Media

### Miniatures Game

ArcWorlde is the setting for the ArcWorlde Miniatures Game.

### Books/Comic Books

ArcWorlde is also the setting of the comic book, ArcWorlde, Tales from the Journal. More informatgion about the lore and art of Arcworlde can be found in the Compendium Lore and Art Book.