What everybody knows about Heldann.
As reported by Sir Hendrik Gultzer, servant of the Glorious Lady Vanya.
The Land
The lands of the Heldannic people is harsh and unforgiving. Our winters are noted for its
cold winds that pierce right done to your bones, and the summer is not much warmer. Cold
waters from the northern regions of the Alphatian Sea splash upon our shores, keeping the
warm months cooler than most other nations of the Old World. The land is as
beautiful as it comes, with many renown painters travelling to Heldann just to paint
portraits of the landscape. Pines and spruce are everywhere, and mountain runoffs create
numerous small, crystal-clear lakes.
Although covered in pines, the land is rocky and not very adequate for agriculture.
Despite this, hardy Heldanners work the lowlands, producing enough food for the people to
survive. Further from shore, tall rough-edged mountains dominate the land, effectively
marking our border with Wendar and Denagoth.
The People
While our land is definitely picturesque, it is the people of the Heldann Freeholds that
are the true heart of our nation. They are hardy and resourceful, never giving up on any
task they set to heart.The fact that they manage to grow crops and even thrive in this
harsh land is proof enough of this fact.Heldanner commoners are a tall, light-skinned
people most likely related to the men of the Northern Reaches. They toil the fields and
are at peace with themselves and the world. The more worthy and brave among them join the
ranks of the Heldannic Knights.The majestic Heldannic Knights were once majority Hattians
(from Thyatis, but now they are equally represented between Thyatians and Heldanners. They
preach of conquest and glory, and as has been proven in the land of Norwold, these are not
empty words. One day, as foretold by Vanya, the Heldanners and Hattians will rule the
world in Vanya's name. You, the readers, may scoff at this idea, but do not say we have
not warned you. Join us now and become a crusader in the armies of Vanya. Victory and
glory are assured.
Recent History
Heldann has had a remarkable growth period recently. The Heldannic Knights have converted
the people of lands all the way up to Oceansend to the beliefs of Vanya and the glory of
the Heldannic Knights. In fact, the land under our control was so great, we had to divide
it into several territories [Notably, Heldann, Heldland, and Vanya's Rest. Ed] which,
together, form the Heldannic Empire.Admittedly, a few stubbornly resisted our rulership,
but our armies crushed these lawless bands who were known to trouble the other inhabitants
anyway. Many have thanked us for our remarkable control on crime and punishment of all
criminals.
You have probably heard about the troubles the Heldannic Knights have had within their own
lands.Maybe you even heard the rumour that the priests of Vanya lost their spells. This is
simply untrue! The Heldannic Knights merely chose to no longer use their spells for a
period of time just to show the world that they can conquer lands without magic. And we
have! On our own, we are a formidable army, yet we also have the blessing of the Lady
Vanya. Do you still doubt our glory and destiny to rule the world?
Yes, there was a rebellion in our land lead by Sir Geoffrey of Gertrum (there is a 100,000
Geldar reward for his head), but it has been squashed without any problems for the
Knights. This rebellion is simply an event blow out of proportion. There is no truth to
the rumours that we mistreat the peasants, hence causing the revolt. In fact, the Oberherr
himself solved the problem by placing a new leader in the rebellious land - one of the
rebels themselves. If this is not proof that we take care of our people and listen to
their pleas, then what is?
Don't Miss
Freiburg, the capital of Heldann, was once a filthy and tightly-packed town. But the
Heldannic Knights destroyed most of it, rebuilding it with spacious streets (so a parade
of Knights on horseback could easily get through town) and sturdy buildings. At the centre
of town lies the majestic Star Chamber, a temple and barrack dedicated to the Lady.From
this magnificent chamber Her Wulf von Klagendorf rules the land and the will of Vanya is
interpreted by the high priests.Freiburg also has the most impressive city walls on
Mystara. The Knights claim that nothing can or ever will breach the walls. Many architects
and siege engineers agree with them.
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