Kalvetian

The Kalvetians are a hardy and robust people, shaped by their martial traditions and ruggedness of their homeland. They typically have fair or ruddy complexions, and many individuals have scars adorning their skin. Their hair is, stereotypically, blonde or red in color, but darker shades are by no means uncommon. Kalvetians will often braid their hair with decorative beads or charms, and the men will proudly sport beards. Their people favor wool and leather garments, often adorned with simple yet catching patterns that symbolize their clan. Their eyes hold a stern resolve, reflecting the hardship their people have had to endure.

Adapted to the harsh reality of their northern home, Kalvetians are incredibly athletic. They make some feats of strength look incredibly easy, and they face the world's challenges with an unwavering courage.

The Kalvetians find their origins in the windswept tundras and fjords of northern Impatria, where many early clans had to carve out a life from the unforgiving wilderness. Having to so heavily rely on their strength, resolve, and resourcefulness led to these early settlers giving this region the name of Kalvete, which translates to "frozen hell" in their native language. For many centuries, the Kalvetian people were fragmented by war, with each clan vying for control to ensure their survival. The unification of their people finally began with Queen Ylva the Resolute, a clan chief who forged many alliances through negotiation and conquest. Her vision for a united people culminated in the birth of the Kingdom of Kalvete, though unity remains fragile as some refuse to acknowledge new rule. Even so, the Kingdom's rise has allowed their people an even greater resilience and the opportunity to influence Asobria beyond their borders.

Kalvetian culture revolves around strength, and warriors of all kinds are held in high regard. Strength, however, is not measured purely in physical feats. Wisdom, perseverance, and the ability to inspire others are valued just as highly as martial ability. These feats of character are immortalized within one's clan, and an emphasis is put into this aspect of community. Kalvetian oral tradition is rich with sagas and songs that recount the achievements of one's ancestors, ensuring one's legacy is never truly forgotten.

Courage is perhaps the core of Kalvetian identity. Fearlessness is what ensured their people survived in the frigid north, and it is viewed as the foundation for any growing warrior to build their other key virtues upon. To their people, fleeing from a battle, whether literal or figurative, is the greatest shame one can bring upon themselves.

Festivals and games are an icon of Kalvetian tradition, serving as a method of combining competition, storytelling, and community. These festivals often involve grueling challenges, such as stone lifting, archery contests, and obstacle courses to test one's physical and mental fortitude. These festivals act as an outlet for clan rivalries and oftentimes serve to honor local heroes or tales through their challenges. A well-known example would be the Valkyrie Festival, which is held annually in the Kalvetian hold of the Highlands. Dedicated to the Valkyries, a legendary group of female warriors, this event celebrates the strength and endurance of Kalvetian women. Contestants travel from across the Kingdom and even beyond to compete in the various games and trials, culminating in a final test of survival in the surrounding mountains. While this festival in particular is unique to the Highlands, similar events take place throughout Kalvete and act as a source of pride and reminder of the Kalvetian's enduring spirit.

The fierce independence of the Kalvetian people have greatly shaped their relationships with other people. While their courage and honor are respectable by many societies, many other, more centralized cultures will view them as unruly or even violent. While some trade and alliances have occurred, Kalvetians' tendency to mistrust outsiders and solve disputes by force often lead to unwanted tensions. Additionally, the struggle for unity within their own people is still ongoing. The Kingdom's efforts to maintain peace and order often precede other ambitions, leading to an unintentional seclusion from the world at large. As their Kingdom solidifies, however, the Kalvetians are poised to leave an even greater mark on Asobria.