The Storm Peaks

The Storm Peaks is a tumultuous region dominated by storm giants who rule from the Lightning Heights, constantly challenged by the orc tribes who seek to reclaim their lands. Human tribes live resiliently in the foothills and coastal areas, navigating the dangerous political landscape. The region is known for its violent storms, rich mineral deposits, and the mysterious northern swampland that remains unexplored. Under the rule of High Stormlord Thorak, the storm giants maintain their dominance, while the orcs and humans struggle for survival and autonomy in this volatile land.

Geography

Location

The Storm Peaks is situated to the north of Wildemarch, bordered by a vast ocean to the west and a towering mountain chain to the east. To the north lies a mystical, deadly swampland shrouded in a thick, lethal mist that has claimed the lives of all who have attempted to explore it.

Climate

The region is known for its frequent and violent lightning storms that strike the mountain tops. The climate varies from cool and temperate in the lower regions to harsh and frigid in the higher elevations.

Capital City

Thunderguard, a fortress city built by the storm giants high in the mountains.

Major Regions

• Lightning Heights: The upper reaches of the mountains where the storm giants reside and lightning strikes are most frequent.
• Orcish Valleys: Fertile valleys where orc tribes have their strongholds and settlements.
• Human Encampments: Scattered enclaves of resilient human tribes who live in the lower foothills and coastal areas.
• Mystic Swamp: The northern swampland, perpetually shrouded in mist and mystery, feared and avoided by all inhabitants.

Culture

Language

Jotun (storm giants), Grakhtona (a common trade tongue spoken by orcs and humans)

Religion

The storm giants revere sky gods and elemental forces, while the orcs worship their ancestral spirits. Human tribes have a mix of animistic and shamanistic beliefs.

Festivals

Storm Call: A giant festival invoking the power of the storms, held at the highest peaks.

Orcish War Drums: A celebration of strength and combat prowess, marked by ritualistic battles and feasting.

Thunder Moon: A human festival celebrating the harvest and the protection of their tribes by the elements.

Art and Architecture

Storm giant architecture is grand and imposing, built to withstand the elements. Orcish structures are more rugged and utilitarian, often adorned with tribal carvings. Human encampments are practical and mobile, reflecting their nomadic tendencies.

Politics

Government Type: Tribal monarchy ruled by storm giants, with constant power struggles against orc tribes.

Current Ruler: High Stormlord Thorak, a powerful and cunning storm giant chieftain.

Governing Bodies:

• Council of Clans: A council of storm giant chieftains who advise the High Stormlord.
• Orcish Warbands: Independent orc tribes each led by a war chief, constantly vying for dominance and territory.
• Human Elders: Leaders of human tribes who govern their people through councils and consensus.

Law and Order

Maintained through might and tradition among giants and orcs, with human tribes relying on communal decisions and shamanistic guidance.

Economy

Major Industries

Mining: Rich mineral deposits in the mountains, particularly sought after by storm giants.

Raiding and Warfare: Both a way of life and a means of acquiring resources.

Fishing and Hunting: Coastal and forest resources used for sustenance.

Trade

Limited trade between the factions within the Storm Peaks and with neighboring regions, primarily involving weapons, minerals, and furs.

Currency

Barter system predominantly used, with some precious metals and gemstones serving as trade commodities.

Notable Locations

Thunderguard: The storm giant fortress city, a marvel of giant architecture and a center of power.

Bloodspire Keep: The largest orc stronghold, infamous for its brutal defenses and warlike inhabitants.

Misty Veil: The edge of the northern swampland, marked by eerie silence and the remains of failed expeditions.

Thunderfall Cove: A coastal area where humans and orcs sometimes trade and interact, known for its stunning views and dangerous waters.

History

Founding: The Storm Peaks was originally inhabited by orc tribes who roamed the valleys and foothills.

Arrival of the Giants: Storm giants arrived by ship several years ago, seeking new lands to conquer and settle. They established dominance through sheer power and strategic prowess.

Constant Conflict: Since the arrival of the giants, the region has been embroiled in constant conflict, with orc tribes waging guerrilla warfare to reclaim their ancestral lands.

Human Resilience: Human tribes, caught between the warring giants and orcs, have managed to survive through adaptability and alliance-building, often acting as mediators and traders.