Province, Ursus

Description

Ursus Province, nestled within the dense forests of Vindicta, boasts a culture forged by the challenges of its treacherous environment. Its inhabitants, renowned for their self-sufficiency and resilience, have become skilled monster hunters, drawing adventurers seeking thrilling hunts or an honorable demise. Once shrouded in darkness under the tyrannical lich Xalinar, the province has been transformed by Flax's intervention, which banished the lich. However, Xalinar's legacy lives on, manifesting in monstrous creatures that haunt the woods.

Government

Ursus Province operates under a system of tribalism, characterized by autonomous clans that govern themselves. Leadership is often claimed by the most skilled monster hunters and warriors, who rise to prominence through their combat prowess and ability to maintain order amidst danger. These individuals hold significant influence, ensuring the survival of their communities.

Defenses

The province lacks a formal military, instead, its defenses rely on self-taught warriors who navigate the perilous landscape. These hunters and warriors are well-respected for their ability to confront both monstrous threats and rogue criminals, maintaining a fragile order within their treacherous home.

Commerce

Ursus Province thrives on a traditional economy fueled by the lucrative trade of monster carcasses and rare weapon parts. Skilled hunters venture into the depths of the forests to harvest valuable materials, which are then sold to craftsmen and traders throughout Vindicta. This trade not only sustains the economy but also attracts adventurers and mercenaries seeking fame and fortune.

History

Once shrouded in darkness under the tyrannical lich Xalinar, Ursus Province was transformed by a legendary hero who confronted and banished the malevolent being in an epic battle. The dense forests, once teeming with undead minions, now conceal the ruins of Xalinar's stronghold and his elusive phylactery, the source of his immortality. Despite the hero's victory, Xalinar's dark legacy lingers, manifesting in monstrous creatures that haunt the woods, while whispers of the lich’s ghost seeking vengeance still echo among the inhabitants.

Demography and Population

The population of Ursus Province is sparse, primarily consisting of a few dark elves and humans and their Palliara Companions, along with some Goblins and Hobgoblins that call the terrain their clans home. The Province has a unique ecosystem and environment, with ghouls, chimeras,  great-drakes and various other deadly creatures posing constant threats to the inhabitants.

Religion

The people of Ursus Province generally lack adherence to formal religious practices, shaped by the harsh realities of their environment. Skepticism towards higher powers prevails, although small groups of adventurers may maintain ancestral beliefs or worship their own gods.

Trade & Transport

The economy of Ursus Province hinges on the trade of monster carcasses and rare weapon parts. Skilled hunters venture into the dangerous forests, harvesting valuable materials that are crafted into unique weapons by local artisans. This lucrative trade attracts adventurers and merchants alike, ensuring a steady flow of commerce despite the ever-present dangers.

Population:
~15.000 (Dark Elves, Humans, Paliarras and some Goblins and Hobgoblins)

Languages:
Common, Feé and Oalk

Religions:
Dominant: Skepticism towards organized religion.
Tolerated: Ancestral beliefs among small groups.

Threats:
Monstrous creatures
Lurking Criminals and Murderes
Remnants of Xalinar's undead

Neighboring Nations

• Province, Deus Gentis
• Province, Patriam Campan