Jarldom of Heortland
Heortland comprises the richest agricultural region of Svalbard, and as such, forms a vital link between the northern trade routes as the major source of grain and crops. It extends from the North Bend of the Barrier Peaks in the north to the Skjelling River in the south, and the shores of Wyvern Gulf in the west to the Barrier Peaks.
Traditionally, Heortland has been the home of the Ulf Clan from its founding in 227 4A until the death of Tostig Bearkiller in 671; however, Tostig’s wife Aelfwyn broke with tradition by naming herself Jarl following his death (she hails from the Halgrimr Clan). This move has created great friction within the jarldom, as the vast majority of thanes are Tostig’s kinsmen.
The jarldom includes the cities of Axefield (the capital) and Trollfen, numerous smaller towns, villages and hamlets. Its central protected and southern location means richer soils and more abundant crops, making Heortland the breadbasket of the kingdom.
Culture
Heortlanders tend to think of themselves as steadfast, independent, salt of the earth types. This makes a certain amount of sense, as even the fighting core of the jarl's warband are farmers or fishermen. The hard-headed practicality of these good folk is coupled with a firmer piety for the gods, to whom they sacrifice for good weather, good crops and abundant game and fish.
Assets
Apart from the rich soils and abundant fish and game, the relative seclusion of the area and close proximity of communities means defense is relatively easy. There are a higher concentration of fortifications in Heortland than in any other jarldom in Svalbard. The population is also higher due to the abundance of food. While relatively iron-poor, the markets of Axefield and Trollfen are rich with Dwarven weapons and armor, as the Barrier Peaks clans cannot produce sufficient food for their population.
Military
Apart from local militias, there are three main warbands in Heortland: the Jarl's Huscarles of Heortland, the Axefield Guard and the Trollfen Crushers. All of these units are comprised of similar mixes of troops, for three important reasons. Firstly, the needs of Heortland revolve around defense over attack, so armored forces are favored over mobility; second, when called upon by the King the troops must be moved by sea; and finally, land area is too limited and important to be used for raising horses.
Diplomacy
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