Frostborn of Thaldris

The Frostborn – Their Language, Culture, and Physiology

The Frostborn are a people who live in complete harmony with the icy world surrounding them. Their culture, language, and physiology are deeply intertwined with the cold, while warmth is not only a physical threat but also a cultural taboo.  

The Taboo of Warmth in Their Language and Culture

For the Frostborn, "warmth" carries a negative connotation. Words like "hot," "warm," or "burn" are deliberately avoided and hold weakening or even threatening meanings in their language. The term "warmth" might not even be spoken at all, instead replaced by euphemisms. Rather than referring to warmth, Frostborn use words like "weakening," "consuming," or "devouring" to express the danger and discomfort it brings. Heat is seen as a form of betrayal against the cold, which sustains their world and existence.   This linguistic habit influences their entire culture and mythology. In their stories, warmth might symbolize destruction, while cold represents the protective force that holds their community together. Their prayers and rituals honor frost and ice, seeking protection from the "consuming heat." A Frostborn who desires warmth or dreams of it is considered an outsider—a potential threat to the values of their people.  

Physical Structure and Internal Warmth

The Frostborn exhibit a fascinating duality—their internal warmth is essential for survival, while their external structure shields them from the freezing elements. Their blood is warm, though slightly cooler than that of an ordinary human, keeping their organs and metabolism stable. This inner warmth keeps them alive and active, even in the coldest regions.   Externally, however, they are perfectly adapted to the cold. Their thick skin forms an insulating barrier against frost and wind, while a strategically distributed fat layer stores internal heat. Their pale complexion helps reflect sunlight, reducing the risk of heat absorption. Their compact body structure, with a broad torso and shorter limbs, minimizes exposed surface area, preventing excessive heat loss. Their often narrowed eyes protect against glare from the snow and allow sharp vision in darkness.   One of their most remarkable traits is their state of "Ice Dusk" (Life-Preserving Stasis). On especially cold nights, their heartbeat slows during sleep, conserving energy and preserving their inner warmth. Their skin and pores are adapted to retain heat, regulating temperature through breathing and direct physical contact rather than sweating.  

Sensitivity to Heat and Ideal Temperature Range

The Frostborn thrive at temperatures between -10°C and -30°C. At these levels, their internal warmth and external adaptations function in perfect harmony. Higher temperatures are uncomfortable and harmful, while extreme cold below -40°C can also be dangerous. They avoid direct sunlight and warmer environments, as their physical structure is unable to efficiently release excess heat.   To support one another, the Frostborn use their internal warmth, seeking close physical contact to share heat. This technique, which might be called "Frostbond," not only strengthens their physical endurance but also solidifies their communal ties. In extremely cold regions, they employ additional survival methods such as insulating clothing, magical runes, and snow-built shelters.  

Diet

The Frostborn have a versatile approach to food, adapting to the harsh resources of their environment. They eat most of their food raw, including meat, fat, and bone marrow, supported by their robust digestive system. Raw food is easily accessible and requires no additional resources like fire.   They also practice fermentation and drying to preserve food. A technique known as "ice curing"—the natural tenderizing of meat through cold and time—is widely used, particularly for long journeys or winter supplies. Mosses, lichens, and resilient plants supplement their diet with vital nutrients.  

Clothing

Their clothing is simple, practical, and highly insulating. Made from the hides and furs of ocean beasts, reinforced with driftwood and other natural materials, it is designed in layers to trap body heat. Fat-treated leather gloves and boots provide extra protection against cold and moisture.  

Regeneration and Health

The Frostborn do not possess supernatural regeneration, but their wounds rarely become infected. The cold acts as a natural antiseptic, preventing the growth of bacteria and disease. This grants them high resistance against infections and enhances their ability to continue fighting or working despite injuries.  

The Balance of Strength and Vulnerability

The Frostborn embody a remarkable balance between adaptation and limitation. While cold is their strength and protection, heat remains their greatest weakness. This dual relationship of power and vulnerability shapes not only their culture and survival strategies but also their very identity as a people.