Terra is the northern territory that holds as much history as it does snow flakes. To the uninformed outsider, the thought of Terra conjures images of Ice, rocks, mud, and snow. Though there is truth in this the people of Terra know the land also for it's beautiful tundra, roaring waterfalls, enchanting skies, and towering mountains. Terra holds 3 of the largest mountains in all of the provinces, making it truly a land kissed by sky. The beautiful land contains frequent blizzards, rain, sleet, snow, as well as the occasional summer weather. And even if you manage to survive it's harsh exterior, you'll then have to survive it people.
The Nords: a hardy of men who have settled in the province of Terra. The Nords or 'snow-backs' as they are sometimes called, are proud and strong. They've spent most of their existence conquering the lands of Terra and those beyond. Taming the wilds have left them fearless and powerful. Make no mistakes, this is a race of conquerors.
The Nords value honor, loyalty, and strength above all else. It is said that an easy way to befriend any Nord 'is a strong drink and a stronger fist fight'. Many Nords prefer to settle issues on their own and a great many scorn politics, let alone know much about them. However, the Nords are ruled by a strong standing goverment that has been in place for since the dawn of Nordic life The system however, is different from most races and provinces.
The Nords value honor, loyalty, and strength above all else. It is said that an easy way to befriend any Nord 'is a strong drink and a stronger fist fight'. Many Nords prefer to settle issues on their own and a great many scorn politics, let alone know much about them. However, the Nords are ruled by a strong standing goverment that has been in place for since the dawn of Nordic life The system however, is different from most races and provinces.
The Nords are ruled and governed by Clans (or houses). Each and every city contains different families that constantly rival (or assist) one another. Each of the 5 Major cities is ruled by their most dominant Clan. Though clans hold great power, the name of a clan is its greatest weapon. By announcing your place as part of a particular clan, you will surely get different and immediate reactions. For example: The Silverblood house often is related with scorn by many Nords. The Winterheart Clan however, is often revered and respected. The political ruler of a major city is know as the Jarl (or Nordic King). It's his duty, not to rule, but to lead. A good Jarl's first duty is to his people and their benefit. Jarls can be male or female.
It is also important to note that Nordic society values both male and female Nords in equal regard. A Nordic woman is proud, independent, and many hold military office/positions. While in other provinces it may be unheard of for having a Queen, a male Nord would be sure to hold his tongue to prevent the wrath of his Jarl. While often times Male Nords are sent off to war and battle, it becomes the duty of the wife to rule over the household and its defense. She is given the keys to all property and weapons, and becomes the head of the household.
Jarls are also held responsible for their actions. By Nordic law, any free Nord is allowed to challenge their Jarl for the right to rule. The challenge is to single combat with the mentality that "if you feel you can do a better job... prove it... or stop complaining." The fact that the Jarl can be challenged often keeps them more honest and honorable than most. This avoids health risks.
It is also important to note that Nordic society values both male and female Nords in equal regard. A Nordic woman is proud, independent, and many hold military office/positions. While in other provinces it may be unheard of for having a Queen, a male Nord would be sure to hold his tongue to prevent the wrath of his Jarl. While often times Male Nords are sent off to war and battle, it becomes the duty of the wife to rule over the household and its defense. She is given the keys to all property and weapons, and becomes the head of the household.
Jarls are also held responsible for their actions. By Nordic law, any free Nord is allowed to challenge their Jarl for the right to rule. The challenge is to single combat with the mentality that "if you feel you can do a better job... prove it... or stop complaining." The fact that the Jarl can be challenged often keeps them more honest and honorable than most. This avoids health risks.