The hill tribes of High Heart name themselves Finnish words for birds, clouds, hills, mountains, high places, the sun/moon/stars, weather and the sky. Surnames follow the same rules and are passed from mother to child.
Examples are:
Each individual from High Heart will also introduce themselves formally with their Perhe (see The Seven Perhe) name as well.
Examples are:
- Lumi Varpunen
- Mäki Kukkula
- Vuori Lumimyrsky
Each individual from High Heart will also introduce themselves formally with their Perhe (see The Seven Perhe) name as well.
- Vouri Lumimyrsky of Höyhen
The sun and sky are important to the people of High Heart. They bathe the dead in the waters of the river that feeds the Plunge, a practice believed to prepare and cleanse their soul for the journey ahead, and then burn the body.
The ashes are given to four griffon-riders, usually the family or friends of the deceased, who fly in the four directions and scatter them over the surrounding mountains. It is important to do this so that the soul can return to the care of their goddess, the Mountain Queen (see Religion).
The ashes are given to four griffon-riders, usually the family or friends of the deceased, who fly in the four directions and scatter them over the surrounding mountains. It is important to do this so that the soul can return to the care of their goddess, the Mountain Queen (see Religion).
See a guide to High Heart's griffon-keeping practices at the link below.
Towns and cities in High Heart are often built with the sky taken into account, as many citizens have griffon mounts, and some are entirely inaccessible from the ground. Wood is the most common material used, and towns are often linked by rope walkways between homes and public spaces.
Decorative carvings are very common, with birds, weather, and griffon motifs being the most common. Due to the high altitudes and cool winters, homes have thicker outer walls and often lined with thick, woolly tapestries that can be removed in the summer. Doorways are usually quite large, especially on public buildings, to accommodate griffons into interior spaces.
Cities and towns are often decorated with wind chimes, banners, spinners, and other things that react to the air currents. There are usually nets to lay on over open air, as well as under places where it might be easy to fall.
Decorative carvings are very common, with birds, weather, and griffon motifs being the most common. Due to the high altitudes and cool winters, homes have thicker outer walls and often lined with thick, woolly tapestries that can be removed in the summer. Doorways are usually quite large, especially on public buildings, to accommodate griffons into interior spaces.
Cities and towns are often decorated with wind chimes, banners, spinners, and other things that react to the air currents. There are usually nets to lay on over open air, as well as under places where it might be easy to fall.
The Hill Tribes of High Heart have a very loose class system, and similar to Padwell, leaders are expected to do service for the people and live among them as friends, not overlords. Although in stark contrast to their lowland cousins, the people of High Heart are led by councils made up of their tribe’s oldest and most experienced members.
The region is divided into seven tribes known as Perhe. Each Perhe is further divided into smaller family groups and towns/cities.
The region is divided into seven tribes known as Perhe. Each Perhe is further divided into smaller family groups and towns/cities.
Woodcarving, architecture and carpentry are all very common and skilled craftsmen in these fields are treated with respect.
Music is also very popular; High Heart has a wide variety of whistles created to mimic bird calls. These serve both as tools to communicate with their griffons and for performing songs.
Dances are common as well, often done on griffon-back and involving a lot of showy spins and dives.
Weaving and creating clothing is considered a form of art, with it being common to incorporate the typical patterns associated with each Perhe into the fabric.
Tattooing is incredibly common in High Heart, although less as personal decoration and more to represent important parts of the person’s life. Each gets a tattoo once they turn thirteen that represents their Perhe; they choose the colours (although there are preferred ones for each Perhe) and where it goes (usually a visible location, as the tattoo is meant to show where the person is from), and one of the council members applies it. These can be altered or removed at a later point.
Griffons usually get their wingtips painted with matching markings.
Music is also very popular; High Heart has a wide variety of whistles created to mimic bird calls. These serve both as tools to communicate with their griffons and for performing songs.
Dances are common as well, often done on griffon-back and involving a lot of showy spins and dives.
Weaving and creating clothing is considered a form of art, with it being common to incorporate the typical patterns associated with each Perhe into the fabric.
Tattooing is incredibly common in High Heart, although less as personal decoration and more to represent important parts of the person’s life. Each gets a tattoo once they turn thirteen that represents their Perhe; they choose the colours (although there are preferred ones for each Perhe) and where it goes (usually a visible location, as the tattoo is meant to show where the person is from), and one of the council members applies it. These can be altered or removed at a later point.
Griffons usually get their wingtips painted with matching markings.
The typical looks for each Perhe’s tattoos are as follows:
Other tattoos that can be received are:
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Vuorikuningatar Nousu
A large, wooden carving of a griffon taking flight in Falcon’s Landing. About the size of a typical windwyrm. Located in a raised courtyard with surrounding gardens, beside the Empress' hall, the city aviary, and the all-Perhe council building.
Was created through a collaboration between craftsmen and artisans from each Perhe.
Extremely, extremely old and carefully tended to and repaired as needed; it's plumage is carved with small clouds, thunderstorms, birds, and all the other associated symbols of each Perhe. It is meant to represent the Mountain Queen herself, as well as the unity of High Heart people under her, the Empress, and their Perhe councils when they come together to vote on major decisions.
Was created through a collaboration between craftsmen and artisans from each Perhe.
Extremely, extremely old and carefully tended to and repaired as needed; it's plumage is carved with small clouds, thunderstorms, birds, and all the other associated symbols of each Perhe. It is meant to represent the Mountain Queen herself, as well as the unity of High Heart people under her, the Empress, and their Perhe councils when they come together to vote on major decisions.
Garb in High Heart is warmer than the rest of Padwell by necessity, often lined with llama fur or wool. Fabric is often less water-repellant and dyed in patterns associated with the individual's Perhe. The people of High Heart love to use bright colours and complex designs on clothing.
Griffon riders wear flight goggles and have undershirts with exposed backs, even if they haven’t completed the Plunge ceremony, and wear short cloaks overtop to keep warm while in the air.
Feather and bird motifs are very common, as well as incorporating actual shed griffon/bird feathers into clothing. The feathers are usually bleached and dyed into different colours and patterns.
Griffon riders wear flight goggles and have undershirts with exposed backs, even if they haven’t completed the Plunge ceremony, and wear short cloaks overtop to keep warm while in the air.
Feather and bird motifs are very common, as well as incorporating actual shed griffon/bird feathers into clothing. The feathers are usually bleached and dyed into different colours and patterns.
There are a wide variety of foods found in High Heart.
- Myrkky - an extremely potent alcohol made from the wide variety of potatoes found in the mountains. Drunk by itself it can burn the mouth, so it’s always diluted before being consumed. Myrkky’s more common use is as an incendiary; it was used by griffon riders to set fires during the war against Xocrium, sabotaging and destroying the camps of any knights by the border.
- Potatoes - there are hundreds of varieties of potatoes in High Heart. They come in a number of shapes, sizes, and usually brilliant colours.
- Meat - they raise turkeys, ducks, goats and a few other types of livestock for food. Hunting and fishing are also rather common.
- Plants - maize, beans, squash, algae, tomatoes, lots of citrus fruits, wild berries, and a variety of extremely strong herbs.
- Edible flowers are very common, added both for flavour and looks.
- Coffee and tea - High Heart produces some of the best in the Realm.
The people of High Heart often work as:
- Soldiers
- Farmers/herders
- Hunters/fishers/foragers
- Griffon riders/tenders
- Tackmakers for griffons
- Carpenters, woodcarvers, architects
- Explorers
- Redwings
The Hill Tribes of High Heart have a very loose class system, and similar to Padwell, leaders are expected to do service for the people and live among them as friends, not overlords. There is no nobility or concept of rule by birthright.
The region is divided into seven tribes known as Perhe, each ruled by a council of the oldest members, who report to the Empress. Each Perhe is further divided into smaller family groups. Even the position of Empress/Emperor (or Sovereign if the individual is neither male or female) of High Heart is an earned one, not something one is born into. You may read more about each Perhe at this link.
The Empress (or Emperor/Sovereign) of High Heart is chosen every generation upon the death or retirement of the previous one. It is not an inherited role; it must be earned. Read more about the Empress and High Heart's government here.
The region is divided into seven tribes known as Perhe, each ruled by a council of the oldest members, who report to the Empress. Each Perhe is further divided into smaller family groups. Even the position of Empress/Emperor (or Sovereign if the individual is neither male or female) of High Heart is an earned one, not something one is born into. You may read more about each Perhe at this link.
The Empress (or Emperor/Sovereign) of High Heart is chosen every generation upon the death or retirement of the previous one. It is not an inherited role; it must be earned. Read more about the Empress and High Heart's government here.
There are several significant holidays recognized in High Heart. Some have a celebratory mood, while others are more solemn.
Surujen Aika (All of March)
A time to honour the dead.
Celebrated in both Padwell and High Heart. For the entire month of March, it is forbidden to eat or drink (aside from water and medicines) during the daytime, and instead families and friends gather after the sun has set to share meals and discuss those they have lost. Exceptions are made for those with health issues that would make participating in Surujen Aika difficult, of course.
For the duration of the month, you are supposed to spend your time doing things in respect to those who came before; leaving gifts for the dead, making offerings to the Mountain Queen, and cleaning up the natural areas where you live. It is a solemn time.
Celebrated in both Padwell and High Heart. For the entire month of March, it is forbidden to eat or drink (aside from water and medicines) during the daytime, and instead families and friends gather after the sun has set to share meals and discuss those they have lost. Exceptions are made for those with health issues that would make participating in Surujen Aika difficult, of course.
For the duration of the month, you are supposed to spend your time doing things in respect to those who came before; leaving gifts for the dead, making offerings to the Mountain Queen, and cleaning up the natural areas where you live. It is a solemn time.
Sundancer Festival (July 6th to 12th)
The Sundancer Festival is a playful holiday that lasts for a full week in mid-summer. Each Perhe hosts games for its members, usually involving sports competitions done on foot or on the back of a griffon, though the most beloved event is hosted at the city of Falcon’s Landing. Each year it is the responsibility of the current Emperor or Empress to organize a cross-Perhe competition, where griffon riders arrive from all parts of High Heart to compete in a game similar to capture the flag. The teams are made up of members of all Perhes, and meant to encourage strong bonds between each of High Heart’s tribes.
Matching its intense festivities, food served during the Sundance Festival is traditionally sweet and filling, meant to give party-goers the energy they need to compete. Food served and clothing worn during the festival often have sun motifs on them, with bright colours being preferred.
Matching its intense festivities, food served during the Sundance Festival is traditionally sweet and filling, meant to give party-goers the energy they need to compete. Food served and clothing worn during the festival often have sun motifs on them, with bright colours being preferred.
Festival of the Heart (November 17th)
Every year, the Festival of the Heart calls griffon-riders from across High Heart to visit the home of Korkeus Perhe and listen to stories of the past. The stories range from serious to comical, but all feature important figures and events in the history of highland Padwell. It’s a favoured holiday by both young children and adults alike; the former out of excitement to hear about the adventures of their heroes, and the latter for the chance to mingle with the people of other Perhes and catch up on news.
The Festival of the Heart was started in the 470s A.E.D., after the rebellion against Xocrium began to relax, and was meant to help preserve High Heart’s history and traditions.
The Festival of the Heart was started in the 470s A.E.D., after the rebellion against Xocrium began to relax, and was meant to help preserve High Heart’s history and traditions.
Jaa Metsästystä (December 28th)
A celebration of friends and family; meant to reaffirm close bonds and establish new ones. A large festival day with races, games, and a group hunt followed by a large, shared meal. Not really an expectation to give physical gifts, although that's nice, just your time and love and presence.
Emblem used to represent the Mountain Queen. Art by J-Haskell.
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While the people of High Heart believe in the Marsh King and his power over the lowland swamps, they venerate a figure known as the Mountain Queen as their primary goddess instead.
Similarly to the main god of most of Padwell, the Mountain Queen is more embodiment of High Heart’s lands than a singular figure. She is believed to control the sky and the mountains, and while she once clashed with the Marsh King, reached peace with him after he accepted the Padwellans into his territory. There is no formal priesthood for her; each citizen of High Heart celebrates her in their own way. Like with the Marsh King, caring for the natural environment and the other people of the nation is a good way to gain her favour. They believe she is the mother of both the citizens of High Heart and the people of Padwell, aligned with sunlight, fire, the sky and the wind. She cares for the spirits of the dead; said spirits cause the winds and weather depending on their moods. The griffons are her sacred animals; she shaped them from the winds to roam the world and test the hearts and souls of humanity. To tame and call a griffon a friend is incredibly important in High Heart's society, considered to be a sign of good character and one of the most effective ways to connect with the Mountain Queen. After all, you cannot bully a griffon into accepting you; you must earn its respect and trust, which is a dangerous but rewarding challenge. |
The Plunge CeremonyA dangerous trial meant to prove the mettle of griffon-riders in High Heart. It is only undertaken by a small portion of the population, and not everyone who attempts it succeeds, let alone on their first shot.
One needs to be at least seventeen, a member of a Perhe, and perform a flight test before the Empress to confirm they have at least basic skills in the air. It can be completed by those with a different mount than a griffon, or their own wings if the Empress gives the go-ahead, but it’s rare - the Plunge is meant to test griffon-riders, after all. If they are satisfied, they will be given approval to try it. |
The Mountain Queen’s GiftThe Vuori Lahja is an ancient practice in the mountains of High Heart, older than even the Marsh King’s blessing, and a sacred trial of the spirit by the Mountain Queen herself.
As the goddess does not have a dedicated priesthood, it is up to every individual to decide if they are ready to attempt the journey into her realm. Failure means death and it is not a thing to embark upon without thought; as such, only a small handful of people in every generation even try it. Technically anyone may follow the steps of the Vuori Lahja, but only those who are part of a Perhe (born or adopted, human or dragon) and accompanied by a griffon have any chance of success. |
High Heart has a different opinion of Harvest Magic than the rest of Padwell, and allows it to be practiced so long as the bodies of the animals sacrificed are used in their entirety afterwards. Necromancy is still outlawed.
Traditionally, it was up to each Perhe to educate its members on how to survive in High Heart, to teach them to read, write, and about the rest of the Realm. Since around the year 470 A.E.D., the Empress has started the ‘Wings of High Heart’, a program similar to Padwell’s Hunters.
High Heart started the Wings in the late years of the revolution after a discussion between the previous Empress and Queen Tuonetar of Padwell. It was believed that having a similar experience to the Hunters would promote good relationships between their people, and so far, it has.
The Wings function in a similar manner to the Hunters. It teaches children from 10-18 valuable skills, as well as directing their time to assist the various villages and towns in High Heart.
The only major difference between the two groups is that the Wings teach mountain survival and griffon-training as essential skills. It’s not uncommon for them to ‘trade’ members for a few years once they’ve mastered their local environment to learn from the other group.
Although not as common as with the Hunters, the Redwings may recruit from the Wings as well. Most children who join them end up as griffon-riders, however, not members of the Redwings.
Some of the skills taught in the Wings are:
Some of the public service Wings might do:
High Heart started the Wings in the late years of the revolution after a discussion between the previous Empress and Queen Tuonetar of Padwell. It was believed that having a similar experience to the Hunters would promote good relationships between their people, and so far, it has.
The Wings function in a similar manner to the Hunters. It teaches children from 10-18 valuable skills, as well as directing their time to assist the various villages and towns in High Heart.
The only major difference between the two groups is that the Wings teach mountain survival and griffon-training as essential skills. It’s not uncommon for them to ‘trade’ members for a few years once they’ve mastered their local environment to learn from the other group.
Although not as common as with the Hunters, the Redwings may recruit from the Wings as well. Most children who join them end up as griffon-riders, however, not members of the Redwings.
Some of the skills taught in the Wings are:
- Combat skills
- Hunting/fishing
- Edible/dangerous plants and how to use them
- Teamwork and forming healthy friendships
- Construction/repairing
- How to live in/navigate the mountains
- How to assist local communities
- How to deal with natural disasters
- Griffon care & training
- Creative skills
- Reading/Writing
- Formal education
- Life skills - cooking, treating injuries, etc
Some of the public service Wings might do:
- Help feed villages in times of flood, drought, or poor hunting
- Disaster relief (for the older Wings, mostly)
- Repairing damaged buildings
- Helping run festivals
- Mountain cleanup
- Assisting in construction projects
Similar to the rest of Padwell. Families are extremely tight-knit, usually very large, and friends and allies are often adopted into them. Surnames are passed on from the mother to child, and traditionally mothers name the children.
An individual's Perhe is seen as an extension of their family, and they can always expect to receive welcome when visiting them, even if they are technically strangers.
An individual's Perhe is seen as an extension of their family, and they can always expect to receive welcome when visiting them, even if they are technically strangers.
See Padwell’s culture page. Has very close ties with the people of Padwell; sibling cultures.