Baelheim is the northernmost region of Orathos. It is where the dragon sleeps.
General Overview
Baelheim is a hard province to reach due to its border of steep inclines, high altitude, and lack of roads. Glacier melt feeds chillwater rivers which flow down to the rest of the lands of Orathos. Settlements are few and far between and due to the sub-zero nights it is treacherous for long-distance travel to be attempted.
Capital City: Patagon.
Population: 1,200,000.
Size: 6,500 square miles.
Geography: Glaciers, icefalls, rugged mountains, tundras, hot springs, snow-tipped forests, and steppes.
Climate: Borealic Tundral Ice Cap Glacier
Common Professions: Hunter, herder, stonemason, woodcutter, ice-cutter, plougher, pathfinder.
Governance and Law
- The Dragon (Leader of Baelheim)
- Vala (Dragon-Speaker)
- Jarls (Leader of a Settlement)
- Highborn (Upper Class)
- Commoners / Karls (Middle Class)
- Thralls (Lower Class)
Baelheim is considered to be ruled by the elder dragon that resides in its lair at the Northernmost point of the country. This is the legendary creature of which all Orathos pays tribute each year. As none dare to disturb it within its lair the de-facto leader is the Vala (dragon-speaker) who is said to interpret the wills and wishes of the dragon directly.
Jarls compete for settlements and territories. Each Jarl claims authority over a settlement or hold. Viable farmland and rich fishing spots are few and far between in the harsh northern lands of Baelheim.
Tribute to Bael'Drakkor
The main villain in Baelheim is the idea that tribute will not be paid to the ancient dragon Bael'Drakkor.
Bael'Drakkor
Bael'Drakkor is a legendary dragon that sleeps within its lair at the Northernmost point of Baelheim. The country itself is named after it. It is one of the oldest and largest dragons to have ever been recorded in history. Its roar can be heard on the beaches of South Rivalon. Its wingbeat can turn the ocean's tides back on themselves. Its bite can carve a mountain in two. Bael'Drakkor is a god in a godless world.
Tribute
The four regions of Orathos unite to offer tribute to Bael'Drakkor once a century. Heaps of gold and jewels for the dragon to further pad its hoard. In exchange, Orathos receives three benefits.
Firstly, protection. Bael'Drakkor remains on the island and so no other dragon would ever dare to enter its territory given its size and age.
Secondly, tradition. Orathos has always paid tribute to Bael'Drakkor. Some of its citizens consider the tribute a festival of celebration.
Thirdly, stability. Bael'Drakkor returns to slumbering in its lair. Tribute has never not been paid. The unknown contains a scary possibility the dragon may take its tribute by force or punish the isle. Tribute is due in four years. Will it be paid on time?