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The Syndical Cooperative Kingdom of Vithinja ([[Ruthi Language|Ruþí]]: Viþjinsk) often simply referred to as The Cooperative is a constitutional monarchy located in [[Kiro-Borealis]], but | The Syndical Cooperative Kingdom of Vithinja ([[Ruthi Language|Ruþí]]: Viþjinsk) often simply referred to as The Cooperative is a constitutional monarchy located in [[Kiro-Borealis]], but can geopolitically be considered connected to the [[Levantia|Levantian]] region of Northern [[Ultmar]] and it's various nations. Sitting at the connection between the [[Kilikas Sea]] and the [[Sea of Nordska]] it is joined by [[Caergwynn]] in the south among the vithinjan island chain. Crossing the [[Kilikas Sea]] to the far west lies the island-continent nation of [[Kiravia]], heading southward instead one finds the lands of [[Faneria]]. Vithinja holds the only land crossing from Kiroborea to Levantia via the [[Bringär-Awraidd Bridging Project]], a large set of bridges and underwater tunnels connecting the Kiroborea mainland to most of the Vithinjan isles and ending in northern [[Caergwynn]]. The Vithinjan capital is the city of [[Rolvsvik]], despite being only the 7th largest city in the nation. Rolvsvik holds importance as the historical seat of power of the various royal lines of the nation as well as being the religious center for the [[Church of Rolv]]. The two largest cities are [[Tår Bringär]] and [[Cärssund]], both of which lie within the vithinjan isles. Tår Bringär has long been the economic capital of Vithinja as it holds a large and deep natural harbor well placed for both safety and trading purposes. For most of Ultmar history the city benefited from strategically defensible geography, avoiding devastation from the many wars that plagued the Ultmar mainlanders, but since the great war it has fallen in favor somewhat compared to these mainland harbor cities. Vithinja has a population of ~70 million people. The vast majority of the population lives either in the vithinjan isles, or the more temperate southern coastline, but the northern lakes region still holds small population centers. These northern population centers are important to help extract the large wealth of the northern lands. | ||
Vithinja is a | Vithinja is a nation reborn many a times until it's modern day state. It's latest reshaping being the [[Syndicalization]], an event only 80 years old. On the other hand the culture and traditions of a united northern nation has existed for almost a millennium. One of that nations largest issues is caused by large variety in cultures, religion, traditions and more recently ideologies, combined with a strong willed politically active populous, leading to the nation never truly being able to achieve stability. The nations origins is a tale of two very different peoples fighting each other for the reign but almost always united against foreign threats. The first traces of the two groups arriving in the north date back as far as 700 CE. From the evidence they were not the first people to live in the Vithinjan lands but whatever natives came before are long extinct. It is believed that the first group of settlers who would become the Ruthans left their homeland in western Levantia to sail for new lands in the north, while the celtic origins are even less certain. Both peoples started settling many of the islands along the northern coast of Levantia as well as finding the lands of [[Ruthinja]]. While the Ruthan people have generally been the rulers over both peoples the [[Vithinjan Demographics|Guerigogled]] have almost always outnumbered them, to the confusion of many scholars. | ||
The vithinjan population is mainly divided into the [[Vithinjan Demographics|Ruthans]], the former ruling people as well as the [[Vithinjan Demographics|Guerigogled]] ([[Ruthi Language|Ruþí]]: Gärgöthe, [[Siarvish Language|Siarvish]]: Siargogle) often shortened to Guerigs, who make up the majority of the population. While they once had huge cultural differences the two cultures are well integrated together in the modern era, making religion and ideology the more common cause of cultural differences than ethnicity | The vithinjan population is mainly divided into the [[Vithinjan Demographics|Ruthans]], the former ruling people as well as the [[Vithinjan Demographics|Guerigogled]] ([[Ruthi Language|Ruþí]]: Gärgöthe, [[Siarvish Language|Siarvish]]: Siargogle) often shortened to Guerigs, who make up the majority of the population. While they once had huge cultural differences the two cultures are well integrated together in the modern era, making religion and ideology the more common cause of cultural differences than ethnicity | ||
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[[Nogeath-Gogaul Mythology]] | [[Nogeath-Gogaul Mythology]] | ||
=== Noborean Settlers === | === Noborean Settlers === | ||
[[Noborea]] was once settled by some [[Noborea Aboriginals|native culture]] that there are little remnants of, with so little evidence of their existence leaving room for people to consider that they may have been [[ | [[Noborea]] was once settled by some [[Noborea Aboriginals|native culture]] that there are little remnants of, with so little evidence of their existence leaving room for people to consider that they may have been [[celts]], [[geats]] or even [[coscovians]]. They were practically extinct by the year 1000, with their numbers never having exceeded fifty thousand at their largest expanse by most estimate. | ||
The modern people living in Noborea and most of the [[Vithinjan Isles]] came sometime in the 8th century from two separate origins. These origins are surrounded by myths and legends, but thanks in part to a few more reliable records made by the group some suspect to be the origin group for the [[Caerics]]. What is known for certain is that the [[Nogeaths]] who settled western Noborea came from the north western coast of [[Ultmar]], somewhere west of [[Faneria]]. Meanwhile, the origins of the [[Gogauls]] who settled eastern Noborea is more uncertain, but are believed to have emigrated from settlements along one of the major rivers of modern [[Fiannria]] or the lands to it’s east. These settlements are also a possible origin point for the Caerics, explaining the cultures great similarities. It is believed that the Gogauls arrived at least 25 years earlier, and were the dominant culture group in most of Noborea for at least 100 years, thanks in part to their ability to settle the best lands. This was especially true for the Vithinjan Isles, which remained almost exclusively celtic for 300 years, only starting to gain a proper Nogeath minority after [[The Viking Contentment Period]] really got going. | The modern people living in Noborea and most of the [[Vithinjan Isles]] came sometime in the 8th century from two separate origins. These origins are surrounded by myths and legends, but thanks in part to a few more reliable records made by the group some suspect to be the origin group for the [[Caerics]]. What is known for certain is that the [[Nogeaths]] who settled western Noborea came from the north western coast of [[Ultmar]], somewhere west of [[Faneria]]. Meanwhile, the origins of the [[Gogauls]] who settled eastern Noborea is more uncertain, but are believed to have emigrated from settlements along one of the major rivers of modern [[Fiannria]] or the lands to it’s east. These settlements are also a possible origin point for the Caerics, explaining the cultures great similarities. It is believed that the Gogauls arrived at least 25 years earlier, and were the dominant culture group in most of Noborea for at least 100 years, thanks in part to their ability to settle the best lands. This was especially true for the Vithinjan Isles, which remained almost exclusively celtic for 300 years, only starting to gain a proper Nogeath minority after [[The Viking Contentment Period]] really got going. | ||
Thanks to the mixing of the seafaring culture of these two migrant groups after many decades of tribal conflicts, the consolidation of smaller tribes into larger ones and general population growth the peoples of the north, especially those living on the Noborea mainland started to run into a simple but motivating scarcity: A near total lack of a stable food source. While some agriculture could be maintained and the both fresh-and saltwater fish were plentiful, the fish was not nearly enough to survive on alone and the harvests were incredibly variable depending on how harsh the harsh the years winter ended up being. These factors would all lead to a region-defining cultural shift that would spread from the west-most Nogeaths all the way to the east-most Gogaul: The raiding of far away, wealthier lands. Although most early raiding was done internally, the harsh resistance that was often met combined with lacking resources worth stealing lead raiders to start sailing further and further. By the early 800’s they idea of sailing south, to lands inhabited by much weaker and richer peoples started spreading like wildfire, in part thanks to the seafaring leading to a strong interconnectivity among the northern tribes. Based on the Nogeath title for one of these seafarers a new threat started to menace far beyond their Noborean homes: The Vikings. | Thanks to the mixing of the seafaring culture of these two migrant groups after many decades of tribal conflicts, the consolidation of smaller tribes into larger ones and general population growth the peoples of the north, especially those living on the Noborea mainland started to run into a simple but motivating scarcity: A near total lack of a stable food source. While some agriculture could be maintained and the both fresh-and saltwater fish were plentiful, the fish was not nearly enough to survive on alone and the harvests were incredibly variable depending on how harsh the harsh the years winter ended up being. These factors would all lead to a region-defining cultural shift that would spread from the west-most Nogeaths all the way to the east-most Gogaul: The raiding of far away, wealthier lands. Although most early raiding was done internally, the harsh resistance that was often met combined with lacking resources worth stealing lead raiders to start sailing further and further. By the early 800’s they idea of sailing south, to lands inhabited by much weaker and richer peoples started spreading like wildfire, in part thanks to the seafaring leading to a strong interconnectivity among the northern tribes. Based on the Nogeath title for one of these seafarers a new threat started to menace far beyond their Noborean homes: The Vikings. | ||
### The Viking Age | |||
[[The Viking Age]] commonly refers to a time between 800-1300 and is generally broken up into five periods, The Reaver Period, The Invasion Period, The Consolidation Period, The Viking Golden Age and finally The Viking Contentment Period. While each of these hold a massive amount of history within them, we will only shortly discuss the most imporant aspects of each here. | [[The Viking Age]] commonly refers to a time between 800-1300 and is generally broken up into five periods, The Reaver Period, The Invasion Period, The Consolidation Period, The Viking Golden Age and finally The Viking Contentment Period. While each of these hold a massive amount of history within them, we will only shortly discuss the most imporant aspects of each here. | ||
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[[The Viking Contentment Period|The Contentment Period]] (1220-1505) represents the slowly progressing change among Vikings away from large-scale conquest, raiding of large settlements and migratory invasions. They would instead turn to in some part smaller scale piracy but mainly they would become the largest part of the merchant class in north Ultmar, never truly being replaced even though they were later to a large degree implemented into the Burgundine merchant empire. | [[The Viking Contentment Period|The Contentment Period]] (1220-1505) represents the slowly progressing change among Vikings away from large-scale conquest, raiding of large settlements and migratory invasions. They would instead turn to in some part smaller scale piracy but mainly they would become the largest part of the merchant class in north Ultmar, never truly being replaced even though they were later to a large degree implemented into the Burgundine merchant empire. | ||
### The Noborea-Ultmar Templar Wars | |||
[[The Noborea-Ultmar Templar Wars]], also known as the [[Noborea Irae|''Noborea Irae'']], covers a period between 1200-1500, where a combination of factors lead to large scale conflicts between the northern pagans and Christians, which later turned to a series of conflicts between the old traditional regimes and the new divinely guided holy orders. The final results of these wars was a partial shift towards more absolutist ideas, the large-scale conversion of most pagans, the establishment of Vithinja and Caergwynn as the two main powers north of the Empire and the rejection of the Pope as the leader of the Christian faith in the region. | [[The Noborea-Ultmar Templar Wars]], also known as the [[Noborea Irae|''Noborea Irae'']], covers a period between 1200-1500, where a combination of factors lead to large scale conflicts between the northern pagans and Christians, which later turned to a series of conflicts between the old traditional regimes and the new divinely guided holy orders. The final results of these wars was a partial shift towards more absolutist ideas, the large-scale conversion of most pagans, the establishment of Vithinja and Caergwynn as the two main powers north of the Empire and the rejection of the Pope as the leader of the Christian faith in the region. | ||
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For the remainder of the first half of the 13th century there would only be a few smaller conflicts in the region, but this would all change in the 1260's. After the emergence of the Caergwynn republic, there was a huge upheaval when one of the largest Viking realms converted to Christianity and allied with the Caeric knights. This alliance suddenly dramatically changed the power balance of the region, and not soon after Caergwynn attacked the last remnant of those Vikings who would claim half his realm. This escalated into a series of wars now known as the [[Caeric-Viking Holy Wars]]. | For the remainder of the first half of the 13th century there would only be a few smaller conflicts in the region, but this would all change in the 1260's. After the emergence of the Caergwynn republic, there was a huge upheaval when one of the largest Viking realms converted to Christianity and allied with the Caeric knights. This alliance suddenly dramatically changed the power balance of the region, and not soon after Caergwynn attacked the last remnant of those Vikings who would claim half his realm. This escalated into a series of wars now known as the [[Caeric-Viking Holy Wars]]. | ||
#### Caeric-Viking Holy Wars | |||
These wars started with the war for Hogripmar in 1267, which was the remains of the kingdom that ones held almost all of Caergwynns territories. This declaration of war was responded to by the kings of Ruthalvrigar and Clipprigar, the two most powerful pagan viking realms at the time, who both declared war on Caergwynn. Their new ally, the former viking realm of Havengem, would support the Caerics against their fellow Nogeaths. This war would last into the first months of 1270, leading to a clear Caeric victory on the mainland, annexing Hogripmar. There were a few other smaller secession but with few border changes. This would be known as the First Caeric-Viking War, and would serve as a meager taste of the bloodshed to come. | These wars started with the war for Hogripmar in 1267, which was the remains of the kingdom that ones held almost all of Caergwynns territories. This declaration of war was responded to by the kings of Ruthalvrigar and Clipprigar, the two most powerful pagan viking realms at the time, who both declared war on Caergwynn. Their new ally, the former viking realm of Havengem, would support the Caerics against their fellow Nogeaths. This war would last into the first months of 1270, leading to a clear Caeric victory on the mainland, annexing Hogripmar. There were a few other smaller secession but with few border changes. This would be known as the First Caeric-Viking War, and would serve as a meager taste of the bloodshed to come. | ||
The perceived aggression after this war would cause support from some of the less involved Viking realms, such as Anenmarigar and Sudabruda. The following war, the Second Caeric-Viking War, was declared by Clipprigar in 1279 to take back the lands formerly held by Hogripmar, which were seen as important pagan lands. This war would escalate to include in practice the entire north excluding the Nordskans. For the first two years the war was a vicious defensive grind for the Caerics and their allies, facing a substantially more numerous and wealthier foe. In 1281 things would change however, as the former pagan kingdom of Aurdicania would Christianize mid war, and declare on Ruthalvrigar, causing the first major war on the Borea mainland in history. This would start to change the tide of war, but it was not until 1283 when the king in Cuhlfros joined to assist their fellow Christians that the pagans would be driven back. Not only did they join the war, but a second northern crusade was declared. With the arrivals of the Latin support through out 1280 they would reverse most of the occupations of the Vikings. In mid 1284 a treaty was made, one that would change the region dramatically. While there were a few territories handed to some of the Viking realms, for the most part the war saw large regions of pagan lands, especially among their fortified islands, handed over to the victors. Although most of these were technically vassals of either Caergwynn or Cuhlfros, most of them were granted to the holy orders who had fought for them, who turned out to be quite loose vassals. | The perceived aggression after this war would cause support from some of the less involved Viking realms, such as Anenmarigar and Sudabruda. The following war, the Second Caeric-Viking War, was declared by Clipprigar in 1279 to take back the lands formerly held by Hogripmar, which were seen as important pagan lands. This war would escalate to include in practice the entire north excluding the Nordskans. For the first two years the war was a vicious defensive grind for the Caerics and their allies, facing a substantially more numerous and wealthier foe. In 1281 things would change however, as the former pagan kingdom of Aurdicania would Christianize mid war, and declare on Ruthalvrigar, causing the first major war on the Borea mainland in history. This would start to change the tide of war, but it was not until 1283 when the king in Cuhlfros joined to assist their fellow Christians that the pagans would be driven back. Not only did they join the war, but a second northern crusade was declared. With the arrivals of the Latin support through out 1280 they would reverse most of the occupations of the Vikings. In mid 1284 a treaty was made, one that would change the region dramatically. While there were a few territories handed to some of the Viking realms, for the most part the war saw large regions of pagan lands, | ||
especially among their fortified islands, handed over to the victors. Although most of these were technically vassals of either Caergwynn or Cuhlfros, most of them were granted to the holy orders who had fought for them, who turned out to be quite loose vassals. | |||
The Third Caeric-Viking War would serve to show what the new status qua of the regions should be. In 1295 Clipprigar would declare war on Caergwynn to take back their lost island territories. This time Cuhlfros would end up not taking part, as their own holy order vassals disobedience strained relations. The war only lasted until 1298, but ended up being vastly more destructive than the second war, especially for the Viking island territories. This time there would be no mercy for the Viking realms, who were beaten badly. The holy orders would take for themselves substantial territories, even demanding any and all territories that may have been given to Caergwynn. While the war was the greatest Christian success so far it would also serve as the start of a rift between the Caerics and the Latin holy orders. | The Third Caeric-Viking War would serve to show what the new status qua of the regions should be. In 1295 Clipprigar would declare war on Caergwynn to take back their lost island territories. This time Cuhlfros would end up not taking part, as their own holy order vassals disobedience strained relations. The war only lasted until 1298, but ended up being vastly more destructive than the second war, especially for the Viking island territories. This time there would be no mercy for the Viking realms, who were beaten badly. The holy orders would take for themselves substantial territories, even demanding any and all territories that may have been given to Caergwynn. While the war was the greatest Christian success so far it would also serve as the start of a rift between the Caerics and the Latin holy orders. | ||
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With the establishment of the Valkeer and the Templar in the region, the next 100 years would be some of the bloodiest the region had ever seen. While the various smaller holy realms countless wars against each other could be compiled separately most simply consider the next 50 years to be a single huge war between these holy orders. Ironically enough Caergwynn would end up being a wildcard during this era, fighting both against and together with both Templars and Valkeers, which allowed them to stay powerful as the two would never work together to destroy the princely republic. These wars would indirectly be one of the main causes for the Viking Contentment, as they prevented further migrations, reduced the number of raiders leaving the homelands and forced most of the colonial viking realms to fend for themselves, leading to most either being toppled or substantially weakened. Most of the smaller realms in the area would be consolidated into six remaining powerful realms in the region: Caergwynn, Aurdicania, The Transmarian Order, The Vitruthavalkeer, The Arforia Order and Anemarigar. This would all be changed by something that had yet to happen in the entire regions history: the rise of gothic-celtic realm in Borea. | With the establishment of the Valkeer and the Templar in the region, the next 100 years would be some of the bloodiest the region had ever seen. While the various smaller holy realms countless wars against each other could be compiled separately most simply consider the next 50 years to be a single huge war between these holy orders. Ironically enough Caergwynn would end up being a wildcard during this era, fighting both against and together with both Templars and Valkeers, which allowed them to stay powerful as the two would never work together to destroy the princely republic. These wars would indirectly be one of the main causes for the Viking Contentment, as they prevented further migrations, reduced the number of raiders leaving the homelands and forced most of the colonial viking realms to fend for themselves, leading to most either being toppled or substantially weakened. Most of the smaller realms in the area would be consolidated into six remaining powerful realms in the region: Caergwynn, Aurdicania, The Transmarian Order, The Vitruthavalkeer, The Arforia Order and Anemarigar. This would all be changed by something that had yet to happen in the entire regions history: the rise of gothic-celtic realm in Borea. | ||
The history surrounding Rolv I Sorthänd is surrounded by myths and legends, making the facts of the era hard to track. There is reasonable evidence that Rolv was the son of a Caeric templar officer in under the Transmarians Order and a ruthan Valkyrian. He would grow up in the order for the first seven years of his life before his mother was able to escape with him back to Ruthinja. Because of the strange circumstances of his heritage and upbringing he would find himself in a crisis of faith, attempting to fit both the ideals of Christendom and Nordskan paganism together. In his teens he would suddenly leave his family behind, traveling aimlessly for a few years before finding himself in Aurdicania. Through a series of uncertain events he would find himself becoming an commander for the celtic nation, critically just as Aurdicania was dragged into the Angelic Wrath wars once more. Rolv would find himself commanding an army against one lead by his own father at the battle of Vorgsborg, where he would seek out his father and face him in single combat. He would best his father, Cumain Gwynllaw, leaving the man at his mercy. While he would spare him, he would symbolically cut off his fathers main hand, a pristine white gauntlet covering it that represented not only his noble family but had come to be one of the main symbols for the Transmarian order. After this Rolv would paint the same gauntlet black and wear it for the rest of his life, letting it become his own symbol, giving both him and all his decendants their family name: ''Sorthänd'', or Blackhand. | The history surrounding Rolv I Sorthänd is surrounded by myths and legends, making the facts of the era hard to track. There is reasonable evidence that Rolv was the son of a Caeric templar officer in under the Transmarians Order and a ruthan Valkyrian. He would grow up in the order for the first seven years of his life before his mother was able to escape with him back to Ruthinja. Because of the strange circumstances of his heritage and upbringing he would find himself in a crisis of faith, attempting to fit both the ideals of Christendom and Nordskan paganism together. In his teens he would suddenly leave his family behind, traveling aimlessly for a few years before finding himself in Aurdicania. Through a series of uncertain events he would find himself becoming an commander for the celtic nation, critically just as Aurdicania was dragged into the Angelic Wrath wars once more. Rolv would find himself commanding an | ||
army against one lead by his own father at the battle of Vorgsborg, where he would seek out his father and face him in single combat. He would best his father, Cumain Gwynllaw, leaving the man at his mercy. While he would spare him, he would symbolically cut off his fathers main hand, a pristine white gauntlet covering it that represented not only his noble family but had come to be one of the main symbols for the Transmarian order. After this Rolv would paint the same gauntlet black and wear it for the rest of his life, letting it become his own symbol, giving both him and all his decendants their family name: ''Sorthänd'', or Blackhand. | |||
All of this happened in large part thanks to the scheming of the rulers of Aurdicania and Caergwynn, who secretly made a pact that would spell the end of the destructive holy war. They both allied together with the Templars to finally deal a definitive defeat to the Valkeer. This war took seven bloody years but would see the Vitruthavalkeer almost completely pushed out of the islands back into Borea. This was not the end of the celtic scheme however, as the two allied nations immedietly proceeded to declare war on the templars. During the war with the Valkeer they had kept back and limited the damage to themselves, placing themselves strategically to defend the templars lands as the templars themselves assaulted the pagans. The sudden betrayal of their former allies would substantially weaken the Templar orders, but they would still prove a tough opponent. After 15 years of war, they were finally defeated, with Rolv being born exactly a year before the war started. | All of this happened in large part thanks to the scheming of the rulers of Aurdicania and Caergwynn, who secretly made a pact that would spell the end of the destructive holy war. They both allied together with the Templars to finally deal a definitive defeat to the Valkeer. This war took seven bloody years but would see the Vitruthavalkeer almost completely pushed out of the islands back into Borea. This was not the end of the celtic scheme however, as the two allied nations immedietly proceeded to declare war on the templars. During the war with the Valkeer they had kept back and limited the damage to themselves, placing themselves strategically to defend the templars lands as the templars themselves assaulted the pagans. The sudden betrayal of their former allies would substantially weaken the Templar orders, but they would still prove a tough opponent. After 15 years of war, they were finally defeated, with Rolv being born exactly a year before the war started. | ||
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Rolv would lead his armies, taking substantial land from the Templars for Aurdicania. When the peace was finally made, Rolv would himself take a large part in the negotiations, demanding that he himself be given a substantial dukedom and the title of marquize of the southern isles. While this would spell the end of the Angelic Wrath Wars, it was only the beginning of what would become the Sorthänd legacy. | Rolv would lead his armies, taking substantial land from the Templars for Aurdicania. When the peace was finally made, Rolv would himself take a large part in the negotiations, demanding that he himself be given a substantial dukedom and the title of marquize of the southern isles. While this would spell the end of the Angelic Wrath Wars, it was only the beginning of what would become the Sorthänd legacy. | ||
=== The Founding of Vithinja === | === The Founding of Vithinja === | ||
to | Rolv successfully goes from small duke to ruler of the entire Vithinjan isles. He dies young but his son would with the help of Rolvs brother unite all of Noborea under one crown. Late in his life he would formally found the Church of Rolv. | ||
=== Noborean Imperialism === | === Noborean Imperialism === | ||
Vithinja starts interfering in Northern Levantia, especially the Kilikas coastline. Vithinjan relations with Caergwynn are hostile. | |||
The Anarchy happens, Vithinja and Caergwynn end up on the same side unexpectedly and are able to protect the north from Catholic dominance, in large parts thanks to naval dominance. During the war Vithinja and Caergwynn together declare themselves the Protectors of Luthers Will. | |||
West Vandarch War | Vithinja takes control/influence of Kilikas coastline. This would later lead to Vithinja being dragged into some of the Tundra wars against Faneria. First Kin War happens, Vithinja takes some small part but mostly just uses its navy to blockade Faneria. West Vandarch War finally crushes most of what is left of Vithinjan influence on the Kilikas coastline, leaving little left of the Vithinjan empire. Second Kin War was last chance for Vithinja to recover the empire. They fail. | ||
Second Kin War | |||
=== The Borean Twin Republic === | === The Borean Twin Republic === | ||
As a result of the | As a result of the First boreal war Vithinja loses the last of their empire and the main line of the royal family dies out. This leads to a Personal Union with Caergwynn as the major partner. | ||
The 100 years of history when the Borean Twin Republic existed was the most peaceful and one of the most prosperous periods in Vithinjan history. From this it has received another name: The Unforgotten Peace. Many have attributed this peace to the sharing of policies with the more peace-minded Caerics. | The 100 years of history when the Borean Twin Republic existed was the most peaceful and one of the most prosperous periods in Vithinjan history. From this it has received another name: The Unforgotten Peace. Many have attributed this peace to the sharing of policies with the more peace-minded Caerics. | ||
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As a result of the attempt to split the nation as well as the large scale devestation, loss of power and loss of confidence in Caergwynn as a shared ruling power Vithinja would reform under a new dictatorial government, focused on rebuilding the nations ability to protect itself through the navy. | As a result of the attempt to split the nation as well as the large scale devestation, loss of power and loss of confidence in Caergwynn as a shared ruling power Vithinja would reform under a new dictatorial government, focused on rebuilding the nations ability to protect itself through the navy. | ||
=== Second Great Wars === | === Second Great Wars === | ||
Despite Vithinja being in a political crisis before the start of the [[Second Great War]] it reacted immedietly when Fanerian troops invaded Caergwynn once more, and was thus pulled into the conflict. | Despite Vithinja being in a political crisis before the start of the [[Second Great War]] it reacted immedietly when Fanerian troops invaded Caergwynn once more, and was thus pulled into the conflict. | ||
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One of the effects of this new economic policy was the Vithinjan Economic Miracle, where the Vithinjan economy suddenly grew by several sizes in only a few years. This boom exteneds almost all the way to today, with substantial growth thanks to a new export-based economy built most of all on natural resources and heavy machine industries. This would also see the birth of one of the stranger economic sectors in Vithinja: The mercenary industry, where large paramilitary groups would sell their services to distant wars, in part to fulfill a religious zealotry granted to the most devoute of followers of the Church of Rolv. | One of the effects of this new economic policy was the Vithinjan Economic Miracle, where the Vithinjan economy suddenly grew by several sizes in only a few years. This boom exteneds almost all the way to today, with substantial growth thanks to a new export-based economy built most of all on natural resources and heavy machine industries. This would also see the birth of one of the stranger economic sectors in Vithinja: The mercenary industry, where large paramilitary groups would sell their services to distant wars, in part to fulfill a religious zealotry granted to the most devoute of followers of the Church of Rolv. | ||
.. | During the Deluge Vithinja sends a substantial number of mercenaries to take part in the Conflict, some of which remain there to this day. | ||
Although they deny it, Vithinja also sponsors some revolutionary elements in different parts of Crona. | |||
==Geography== | ==Geography== | ||
Vithinjas varied geography is both a blessing and a curse. Although large portions of the lands are difficult to impossible to inhabit, they hold some of the most beautiful landmarks to be found in the world. Between the innumerable fjords covering the coast to the northern villages surrounded by the sights of huge tall mountain ranges, large glaciers that glimmer in the sunlight and if any visitor is lucky, the wondrous northern lights. This would make it a better tourist location if the temperature didn't drive most foreigners away. | Vithinjas varied geography is both a blessing and a curse. Although large portions of the lands are difficult to impossible to inhabit, they hold some of the most beautiful landmarks to be found in the world. Between the innumerable fjords covering the coast to the northern villages surrounded by the sights of huge tall mountain ranges, large glaciers that glimmer in the sunlight and if any visitor is lucky, the wondrous northern lights. This would make it a better tourist location if the temperature didn't drive most foreigners away. | ||
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===Population=== | ===Population=== | ||
The Vithinjan population is officially broken up into five accepted native demographics, with a secondary break up based on languages. These five demographics are: the Ruthans, who make up just under 22% of the population; the Guerigoles, who make up almost 35% of the population; the Ruth-Gvärs, who make up about 19% of the population; the Novalke who make up just over 14% of the population; and finally the Caerics, who make up 5% of the population. The numbers for these demographics are exact as it is a component of every persons recorded information at birth for the governments identification data. | The Vithinjan population is officially broken up into five accepted native demographics, with a secondary break up based on languages. These five demographics are: the Ruthans, who make up just under 22% of the population; the Guerigoles, who make up almost 35% of the population; the Ruth-Gvärs, who make up about 19% of the population; the Novalke who make up just over 14% of the population; and finally the Caerics, who make up 5% of the population. The numbers for these demographics are exact as it is a component of every persons recorded information at birth for the governments identification data. | ||
{{Pie chart | |||
| radius = 50 | |||
| thumb = right | |||
| caption = Ethnic origins of Vithinjans based on official birth certificate (2027) | |||
| other = | |||
| label1 = [[Ruthans]] | |||
| value1 =20.81 | |||
| color1 =LightYellow | |||
| label2 =[[Ruth-Gvär]] | |||
| value2 =27.42 | |||
| color2 =LimeGreen | |||
| label3 =[[Guerigs]] | |||
| value3 =30.88 | |||
| color3 =DarkGreen | |||
| label4 =[[Novalki]] | |||
| value4 =11.15 | |||
| color4 =CadetBlue | |||
| label5 =[[Caerics]] | |||
| value5 = 4.23 | |||
| color5 =NavajoWhite | |||
| other =Other or unspecified | |||
| other-color =silver | |||
}} | |||
===Language=== | ===Language=== | ||
The official and most spoken language in Vithinja is Ruthi, a gothic language very unlike most other gothic languages, with strong influences from the celtic, coscovian and burgundi languages. This is the expected language to use for any official work such as law, education and research. Almost as common but not always allowed officially is Siarvish, a celtic language closely related to Caeric. While in some regions one can easily live only ever speaking Siarvish it is difficult to achieve great success without also learning Ruthi. Both of these languages may be taught at schools but most schools either teach Ruthi or both. There is also a few minority languages, especially within the Novalke group, some of which are allowed regionally but most are rarely even taught in local schools. On the Vithinjan isles, especially in the south there are many who still speak Caeric. While recognized as a regional language it is often discouraged, usually by the higher levels of unions, to use the language outside of private matters. Considering private business is strongly discouraged this essentially means using it at home if at all. | The official and most spoken language in Vithinja is Ruthi, a gothic language very unlike most other gothic languages, with strong influences from the celtic, coscovian and burgundi languages. This is the expected language to use for any official work such as law, education and research. Almost as common but not always allowed officially is Siarvish, a celtic language closely related to Caeric. While in some regions one can easily live only ever speaking Siarvish it is difficult to achieve great success without also learning Ruthi. Both of these languages may be taught at schools but most schools either teach Ruthi or both. There is also a few minority languages, especially within the Novalke group, some of which are allowed regionally but most are rarely even taught in local schools. On the Vithinjan isles, especially in the south there are many who still speak Caeric. While recognized as a regional language it is often discouraged, usually by the higher levels of unions, to use the language outside of private matters. Considering private business is strongly discouraged this essentially means using it at home if at all. | ||
{{Pie chart | |||
| radius = 50 | |||
| thumb = right | |||
| caption = Religion in Vithinja according to official survey (2027) | |||
| other = | |||
| label1 = Atheism and Agnosticism | |||
| value1 =24.4 | |||
| color1 =Brown | |||
| label2 =[[Church of Rolv]] and other Protestants | |||
| value2 =37.4 | |||
| color2 =#08f | |||
| label3 =Catholics | |||
| value3 =28.9 | |||
| color3 =LightYellow | |||
| other =Other or unspecified | |||
| other-color =grey | |||
}} | |||
===Religion=== | ===Religion=== | ||
Vithinja is a religiously divided nation. In the Novalke and Ruthi regions the Church of Rolv, a unique protestant branch which implements many ideas from the old pagan beliefs of the region, still holds a lot of power and support. This church is the main reason for the survival of the monarchy, as the royals serve as important figures within the faith. Then among mainly the Guerigs especially in the northeast there is still a strong catholic presence. It is weaker than the other two but serves as one of the main points of internal conflict within the nation. Finally there is the idea of fully abandoning the old beliefs which is an idea that was heavily pushed by the Syndicalist movement and holds strongest in the southern parts of the nation. At one point the Syndicalists tried to push for a fully secular nation, but failed in the face of the Church of Rolv almost breaking the nation apart. | Vithinja is a religiously divided nation. In the [[Novalke]] and [[Ruthi Language]] regions the Church of Rolv, a unique protestant branch which implements many ideas from the old pagan beliefs of the region, still holds a lot of power and support. This church is the main reason for the survival of the monarchy, as the royals serve as important figures within the faith. Then among mainly the [[Guerigs]] especially in the northeast there is still a strong catholic presence. It is weaker than the other two but serves as one of the main points of internal conflict within the nation. Finally there is the idea of fully abandoning the old beliefs which is an idea that was heavily pushed by the Syndicalist movement and holds strongest in the southern parts of the nation. At one point the Syndicalists tried to push for a fully secular nation, but failed in the face of the Church of Rolv almost breaking the nation apart. | ||
{{Pie chart | |||
| radius = 50 | |||
| thumb = right | |||
| caption = Religion in Vithinja according to official survey (2027) | |||
| other = | |||
| label1 = Atheism and Agnosticism | |||
| value1 =24.4 | |||
| color1 =Brown | |||
| label2 =[[Church of Rolv]] and other Protestants | |||
| value2 =37.4 | |||
| color2 =#08f | |||
| label3 =Catholics | |||
| value3 =28.9 | |||
| color3 =LightYellow | |||
| other =Other or unspecified | |||
| other-color =grey | |||
}} | |||
===Education=== | ===Education=== | ||
Education in Vithinja is completely controlled by the government, as private schools have been made illegal by the union of education. While the government attempts to specifically encourage certain education paths, these efforts have generally lead to educating way more members than needed into a narrow field. Recently new efforts have been made to address these issues. | Education in Vithinja is completely controlled by the government, as private schools have been made illegal by the union of education. While the government attempts to specifically encourage certain education paths, these efforts have generally lead to educating way more members than needed into a narrow field. Recently new efforts have been made to address these issues. | ||
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For being a nation in modern times Vithinja features a large indirect punishment for pretty much any crime: increased difficulty to join a union, which makes everything from getting a job to finding a partner more difficult and may lock one out of the political process. Despite this the number of people convicted for a crime has been hovering around 2.5% up until the last two years, where it has slowly increased to 3%. It is often noted that 90% of convictions are against those already considered residents, and 95% of everyone who has a criminal record are residents. | For being a nation in modern times Vithinja features a large indirect punishment for pretty much any crime: increased difficulty to join a union, which makes everything from getting a job to finding a partner more difficult and may lock one out of the political process. Despite this the number of people convicted for a crime has been hovering around 2.5% up until the last two years, where it has slowly increased to 3%. It is often noted that 90% of convictions are against those already considered residents, and 95% of everyone who has a criminal record are residents. | ||
==Culture== | ==Culture== | ||
The peoples in Vithinja are largely a strongly traditional people, just with very different traditions than most Christian nations. The core of Vithinjan culture is a great respect for communal power, the expectation for people to voice their concerns and fight against anyone trying to force them to change, and a strong family unit. | |||
Communal power in Vithinja is available through any Union employee. This power does not just refer to the individual (or in some areas, families) ability to influence decisions made by their own community, but also the communities ability to influence the decisions made above them. Many of the traditional ideals surrounding communal power, such as the folkmoot, have later served as the inspiration for the creation of the new Syndicalist order. Under the Syndicalist system this power is always in effect through the enormous structure that is the Union Hierarchy, where each employee makes decisions surrounding their operations in cooperation with other similar unions together forming union alliances to gain enough popular support to pressure officials further up the hierarchy. An important component to this communal power whether it be in the unions or the folkmoots is the individuals ability to stand up for what they believe even when faced against a majority. Every person is expected to give their view, and only change it once they are convinced. Such thinking are the origins of Vithinjan elective systems dating as far back as the 10th century, and would become a significant factor in the ruling structure of the Vithinjan nation after the 15th century. Even though these ideas are honestly quite near to and similar to common republican ideas of democracy, Vithinja specifically distances itself from both. An idea of the [[Tainted Democratic Republicanism]] has held strong in Vithinja since the failures of the [[Borean Republic]] as well as the [[First Vithinjan Republic]]. The total failures of these systems served as evidence in Vithinja that the liberal experiment was a failure that only weakened the nation enough that other powers could consume them. Despite this large taboo liberal ideas have been slowly creeping back into Vithinjan politics in the last twenty years. | |||
The fighting spirit which lives strongly in the nations cultures is one of the more influential forces in the Vithinjan society. It is a common belief that once inner violence should not be suppressed, nor should it be let run wild. One should shepherd once violent soul so that when it is needed it can overpower anything that would threaten your kin. This does not play out that well a lot of the time, and violence of many kinds is rampant in many parts of Vithinja. The state has built a lot of institutions to resolve this issue, not to reduce the violent ideals as they are seen as vital in the nations continuous survival, but through outlets. Sports in Vithinja are the most common outlet, with most sports including more protective gear than in other countries specifically to allow people to take more of a pounding during their games. Another outlet in the modern day is video games, as they often serve as a quick and easy way to give someone a way to vent. Finally... for those who have passed the point of no return, Vithinja features a sizable paramilitary. For those with at least some control they will often find themselves in the Revolutionary Guard, ready to protect the freedoms of the workers if ever necessary. For everyone else, there is the 'Fecket fyr Legosoldatir' (The Mercenary Union). A collection of organizations that are Private Military Companies in all but name (because of language taboo). These operate in conflicts all around the world for whatever their goal may be; whether that be money, glory or political change. | |||
Being close with your family in Vithinja is meant far more literally than in most other Christian nations. Different kinds of physical contact such as sitting in someone's lap or lying in a sofa together is common within most households. One of the traditions which foreigners find most strange, and even most southern Vithinjans are starting to distance themselves from, is the single massive bed most old school households use. Having the whole family share a bed is a tradition which dates back to ancient times where it was simply a tool for keeping warm. This is only one of many such examples, another is that it is common for the youngest son to sit in the lap of their mother and the youngest daughter to sit in the lap of their father during dinner. While some foreigners view these things as obscene, ironically enough when Vithinjan families are seen breaking these norms in more conservative parts it is often viewed as a sign of lacking trust and devotion towards your family. | |||
=== The Church of Rolv === | === The Church of Rolv === | ||
The Church of Rolv is the largest religion in Vithinja. While it is often classified as a Lutheran protestant branch together with most others, there are many who disagree with this classification as it has little in common with any other branch | The [[Church of Rolv]] is the largest religion in Vithinja. While it is often classified as a Lutheran protestant branch together with most others, there are many who disagree with this classification as it has little in common with any other popular branch, with the exception of some similarities to the Caeric branch. The official definition for the branch the Church of Rolv belongs to is [[Conjungites]], a group which heavily emphasizes the integration of local traditions into a Christian framing. | ||
The Church of Rolv is a unifying faith based in the idea that the old Paganism of the Vithinjan natives is not truly incompatible with the Christian faith. Instead the old pagan ideas are simply a failure to communicate some of the many ideas behind Christiandom, | While the foundation the branch is built on has it's roots in the same reformation as most other early protestant branches it differs in it's originator and purpose. Such difference also greatly expanded over time, as the directions of the branches are incomparable. The Church of Rolv is a unifying faith based in the idea that the old Paganism of the Vithinjan natives is not truly incompatible with the Christian faith. Instead the old pagan ideas are simply a failure to communicate some of the many ideas behind Christiandom, therefore allowing them to fill a similar if lesser purpose than that of the old testament, with interpretations of the intents and meanings of these old legends needing theological examination. As Gods full teachings have been in part corrupted or forgotten in these regions, the old pagan beliefs can be used to help guide and understand what parts of the old testament is most important and what the true expectations upon the rulers, representatives and followers of the divine are. | ||
One of the most important differences as thus is the distinctions, comparisons, separations and representations of rulers chosen by god and angels serving as his messengers mean. One of the distinctive beliefs is that the | One of the most important differences as thus is the distinctions, comparisons, separations and representations of rulers chosen by god and angels serving as his messengers mean. One of the distinctive beliefs is that the Christian idea of angels generally being male is incorrect, that there is a separation between the two kinds of representatives for god. Those who spread gods name to foreign lands serve as the traveling messengers on missions in gods name. As those angels are male, so is the priests who now represent them. Meanwhile, for those who stay in the various communities, maintaining gods connection to his followers, those angels and their representatives must be women. | ||
Within the ruling family there was two things made very clear: The rulers are representatives of god, just like the kings of old, no divine representative is needed to grant this right of rule if ones family has been blessed for this purpose. Thus the royal family of Vithinja | Within the ruling family there was two things made very clear: The rulers are representatives of god, just like the kings of old, no divine representative is needed to grant this right of rule if ones family has been blessed for this purpose. Thus the royal family of Vithinja (and some other Royal bloodlines) are seen as holding the right of rule within their blood, with the blood of other dynasties being a somewhat disputed topic. This means the whole family, there is no room to waste the royal blood of children just because they are women, all must help serve their divinely given purpose. The ideas and roles of the royal rulers family is in part parted by sex but mainly by what must be maintained. | ||
The Kings task is to rule over all, not in every detail but as a single whole. He must not be specialized, and any faults he has must be accounted for, for his power is not in taking care of tasks himself, but in applying the right part of the people and the nation to the purpose. But only the royals may rule. Thus he must ensure his family can make up for all his needed skills and faults. As such the remaining siblings and children must all be made to serve the role of ensuring all the tasks of the king have a skilled expert ready to serve as the kings acting hands. While the exact nature of what these expert roles are has varied greatly over time, a few specific roles have been maintained almost since the faiths establishing. The first of these is the kings heir. The heir is the oldest son who has not been defeated at a fair trial of the heirs choosing. As the king rules all, one can not be king if they cannot ensure their own win when choosing their field of battle. Second is the [[Valkyran]] and [[Valkyrian]]. The Valkyran is the royal most capable of leading offensive warfare. He ensure that the capabilities necessary to defeat an enemy completely is always available to the king. The Valkyrian represent the defensive understanding that any army attempting to march on their capital will find itself against an impenetrable wall while withering away from skirmishers devastating their supply lines. She ensures that the king may feel safe sending most of his armies to invade their foes, as outnumbered thirty-to-one his Valkyrian will still ensure there will be no victory for any invaders. | |||
All royals hold the expectation that they act according to their divine duty, with no exceptions. Thus beside extraordinary circumstances such as being deeply wounded or in the late stages of maternity, all Royal Family members are expected to take part in and carry out the rulership of their people. | |||
===Arts=== | ===Arts=== | ||
====Literature==== | ====Literature==== | ||
Vithinja features a lot of literature | Vithinja features a lot of literature especially within the areas of fiction, having many more fictional stories written in the age between the reformation and the modern era than almost any other nation. A common tradition in these stories are a close link with reality, either taking place in a fictional setting in our world or a very real setting with a small fictional twist. Stories of this kind have their origin in old mythological texts from both North Gothic and Gogaul writings. such as "The Saga of Leo and Luke", "Yormounzander, Sagas of the Vanquished" and "Warulf and the Blue Moon". More modern usually implement implement Christian ideas, often in ways which many Catholics would find obscene. Some of the most famous examples in todays pop culture include the book series "Hellsview" and "Daughters of the Valkyrian", as well as the video game [[Struggle of Sagas]]. | ||
Most of this writing is from the time before the Syndicalization, with the new form of government most kinds of artistic literature were discouraged. Since the Cooperatist Coup however literature has been on the way back into the mainstream. Literature is still however mostly seen as being for academics or just old-school in general, with most Vithinjans more focused on other artistic areas. | It has also been common among the nations intelligencia to write philosophy, poetry and political theory, leading to creations such as "The Unification", "Compartments of Liberty", "Gvärs y Gevär" "Atd Valhallar" and "Our Right to Heaven". | ||
Most of this writing is from the time before the Syndicalization, with the new form of government most kinds of artistic literature were discouraged, with the exception of political theory and philosophy. Since the [[Cooperatist Coup]] however literature has been on the way back into the mainstream. Literature is still however mostly seen as being for academics or just old-school in general, with most Vithinjans more focused on other artistic areas. | |||
One of the exception is in the creation of more erotic creations, as comparatively Vithinja has been more accepting of their printing than many other nations. Even the [[Syndicalization]] failed to deter this particularly profitable sector, today being one of the largest exporters of this kind of content in the world. A large reason for the success of this industry is the extreme profitability of smuggling such content as part of the [[Vice Trade]]. | |||
====Music==== | ====Music==== | ||
Traditional North-Gothic and North-Celtic | Traditional folksongs and myths from the North-Gothic and North-Celtic are still an important part of modern culture in Vithinja. Most musical productions today is in one way or another sourced from one of these two traditions. Alternatively some would even make a more modern mixture of both the two cultures, a somewhat controversial direction mostly taken by the nations youths. This originally lead to a strange dynamic of slower, older, tune flowing between quiet melodies to loud choruses. Until modern times this allowed for mostly traditional or archaic instruments for musical creations. Most Vithinjan music has a large emphasize on utilizing the language to ensure as perfect of a harmony as is feasible. | ||
Most of Vithinja is relatively reclusive with their musical tastes, not really entertaining the creation of music in | A notable feature of most Vithinjan classical or folksong orchestras is that they nearly always features both a men's chorus and a woman's choir. The two of them are usually used to create a duality in most Vithinjan classical music, often serving as opposing forces in the songs narrative. Another fascinating tradition is the "[[Mountainsong]]". To create Mountainsong musicians must climb high into the vast mountain ranges of Vithinja, usually in areas with little to no residents because of avalanches. The performance utilizes the echoes of the mountains to give it's music a magical feeling that is hard to replicate with modern technology, and was impossible to replicate for most of history. These performances also utilize the Vithinjan [[Alphorn]], a 5-12ft long horn originally used for long-distance communication in the mountains. Horns of various kinds is the most common and popular kind of instrument in these groups. | ||
Opposite to the slower traditional music is a very fast, excessively loud often electronic music trend created by a "rebelling" youth since the 80's which is only getting stronger in the modern age. These creators are often small groups of younger Vithinjans playing in simple local locals (not garages though since 90% of Vithinjans don't own cars). This new wave of music is mostly made up of various kinds of intense, highly rhythmic electronic music as well as a number of popular heavy metal bands. Later in the 2000's a pair of homemade strains of Hip-Hop music would also start to develop one developing out of nationalistic Guerig communities and the other from the up and coming Tech sector. | |||
Most of Vithinja is relatively reclusive with their musical tastes, not really entertaining the creation of music in foreign languages, with the exception of Caeric and some Coscovian songs, which are considered very respectable languages in large parts of the nation. This is in part because both of the main global languages, Anglish and Latin are considered to be very unharmonic (especially Anglish, which is the preferred international language in Vithinja) which generally makes most foreign music sound "wrong". | |||
===Media=== | ===Media=== | ||
==== News ==== | ==== News ==== | ||
While there are many smaller and/or more local options, there are three main news organization, mainly referred to by the name of their newspapers: Fholks Däglige, Vikpappret and Händskaren. | While there are many smaller and/or more local options, there are three main news organization, mainly referred to by the name of their newspapers: [[Fholks Däglige]], [[Vikpappret]] and [[Händskaren]]. | ||
Fholks Däglige is a Socialist leaning publication that serves as the main producer of news publications targeted at mainly the Syndicalist audience. | |||
Vikpappret on the other hand has a long historical connection to the Church and Crown, serving to represent their interests. | |||
Händskaren only really started to appear after the [[Cooperatist counter-coup of 1984]] and features a larger range of opinions, including the more centrist Cooperatist viewpoint. It is also well known that a large sponsor of this publisher is the 4th prince Valkeer Sortvit, who is one of the main representatives of the Liberal Monarchist movement. | |||
==== Cinema ==== | ==== Cinema ==== | ||
Before the Syndicalization... | Before the Syndicalization cinema was mostly seen as a tool for foreign influence and was therefore discouraged. This didn't stop a select few cinemas opening in the years before the [[Second Great War]] in some of the largest cities. In this timeframe a handful of Vithinjan made films were made, but none gained much interest. | ||
During the early | |||
During the early years of [[The Syndicalization]] the new regime pushed heavily to create a decent local industry for cinema, as it's use for influencing the population had been proven by others during GW2. Up until the Cooperatist took power the cinema in Vithinja became one of the main battleground between the Monarchists and Syndicalists, trying to influence the population to give either one enough power to rid themselves of the Compromise. Although some foreign films still made it to cinema, especially among the most popular fictional creations, for the most part the government nearly monopolized the film reels across the nation. This heated up particularly when the TV became accessibly to the common family in most of the country. | |||
After the [[The Cooperatist counter coup]] the government grip around cinema was finally released and the former propaganda creators would develop into a homegrown movie industry. They would have much tougher opposition from all of the movies surging in from the rest of the world now that the market was opening up. | |||
===Sports=== | ===Sports=== | ||
====Hockey==== | ====Hockey==== | ||
Vithinja is the inventor of both ice hockey and field hockey. They are an important part of the nations history. | |||
While many other nations take the most interest in football the household sport in Vithinja has been hockey ever since the commercialization of the radio. This applies to in part to field hockey, which is more common to be played by youths and in private as well as being generally more popular in souther regions. Ice hockey is however much more popular professionally and gets far more media attention. Vithinjan hockey referees are often less strict with more violent acts than what is common in international settings, leading to Vithinja having by far the most penalty time assigned to them in world-cup games, to the point that they almost double the runner up nation. This has however not prevented Vithinja from becoming one of the most successful nations in international hockey, with their penalty times perhaps being the only thing preventing them from total dominance within the sport. | While many other nations take the most interest in football the household sport in Vithinja has been hockey ever since the commercialization of the radio. This applies to in part to field hockey, which is more common to be played by youths and in private as well as being generally more popular in souther regions. Ice hockey is however much more popular professionally and gets far more media attention. Vithinjan hockey referees are often less strict with more violent acts than what is common in international settings, leading to Vithinja having by far the most penalty time assigned to them in world-cup games, to the point that they almost double the runner up nation. This has however not prevented Vithinja from becoming one of the most successful nations in international hockey, with their penalty times perhaps being the only thing preventing them from total dominance within the sport. | ||
==== Skiing ==== | ==== Skiing ==== | ||
Skiing is also a very popular sport in Vithinja. Although competitively most people are interested in downhill skiing and ski jumping, among the common public cross-country skiing is generally more popular. Another popular competitive skiing option is the imported 'biathlon', where cross-country is combined with rifle shooting. | |||
==== Football ==== | ==== Football ==== | ||
Football. | Can either refer to Football or Soccer in Vithinja. Both are called 'Fotboll'. | ||
Rugby Football is somewhat popular in the South especially among students. Interest is growing. It lacks enough interest in watching national events to be more than a regional sport. | |||
Soccer is quite rare in Vithinja. The kind of environment that is best suited for it is somewhat limited, and most Vithinjans think the rules are in the way to let anything fun (violent) happen. | |||
==== | |||
Vithinjan | ==== Nascar ==== | ||
Despite the Vithinjan markets lack of cars, this deadly motorsport has found it's way into the hearts of enough of the populous to be one of the most popular sports in the nation. | |||
==== Hunting ==== | |||
Hunting for sport used to be a common practice especially among the wealthiest in Vithinja. This practice was largely wiped out by the Syndicalisation but remains within the Royal Family. Today there are heavy restrictions on hunting, which mostly apply to the royals as well. Despite this it is common tradition today for the Vithinjan ruler to release a film of themselves hunting down a polar bear once per year. | |||
===Tourism=== | |||
====Skiing==== | |||
Skiing vacations is the most common reasons for tourists to travel to Vithinja. The number of options for mountain resorts is extensive and what the nation doesn't have in the largest and most luxurious of resort it makes up for in sheer bulk of options. You want to head to a resort where you are almost alone in the area? You can do that at almost any time of the year. Because of the union overseeing the skiing resort focusing on number of tourists rather than pressing out the most possible money from each, Vithinja is able to present itself as an option to those with less money to spend. | |||
Vithinja also used to hold a near-monopoly on cross-country skiing resorts until the trend was picked up more internationally in the 2010s. | |||
====Veterans==== | |||
Vithinjan tourist centers are often especially targeted at soldiers from other nations. This is in large part because a lot of Vithinjan tourist locations serve as a place for people to take out their competitive spirit, aggressions and test themselves in a real fight. Barfights, hooliganism and street brawls are not a rare sight in some of the more extreme tourist locations. These fights usually include both locals and tourists, although the locals are often just joining for fun, not taking things too seriously and letting the tourists win in many cases. The most infamous of these is the Vittimarkijöni hockey center, which uses the slogan "The most dangerous ice ever skated on!". It is the only ice ring in the world with multiple mid-game fatalities. The last of these happened in 1982, as safety has been increased since then, but it is still one of the few places in the world where you can legally hospitalize someone as part of a sport anytime of the year. | |||
===Cuisine=== | ===Cuisine=== | ||
Much of Vithinjan cuisine has been based around a mix of fish, hardy vegetables and grain mixed with rare meat from hunting. Because of the relative lack of farmlands there was never much room to raise cattle, leading to a near complete lack of cattle based food for a large portion of their history. By the time these products became more common they generally imported the way to cook meals together with the meat. | Much of Vithinjan cuisine has been based around a mix of fish, hardy vegetables and grain mixed with rare meat from hunting. Because of the relative lack of farmlands there was never much room to raise cattle, leading to a near complete lack of cattle based food for a large portion of their history. By the time these products became more common they generally imported the way to cook meals together with the meat. | ||
Although most of southern Vithinja has shifted largely to international foods of various kinds (mainly coscovian, burgundian and cartagenian) in the northern regions outside the Vithinjan Isles cooking has not changed much, with the exception of replacing most hunted meat with cattle meat. In most rural areas a good part of this meat is provided through hunting, which is still largely practiced in these regions. While much of this hunting is legal, a lot of it is not. The most damaging illegal meat trade however is provided by the black-whaling fleet, a term used to refer to illegal whaling both because it is a black market but also because it mainly targets two black whales: the sperm whale and the orca. While the orca population is mostly fine hunting sperm whales is still limited under international law. The reason these two are hunted in particular is because there is a small minority in Vithinja who follow a tradition of eating predators for good fortune. These two whales are near the pinnacle of predation making them the perfect target. | |||
The Vithinjan meatball has developed to have a huge variety of local recipes for how to make it, with significant differences in the use of spices (mostly herb-based ones), meat mixtures (usually today one wild and one cattle) as well as heating method (grilled, oven-cooked, even a few examples of baked). | |||
===Holidays=== | ===Holidays=== | ||
Despite celebrating holidays like Christmas and Easter unlike most catholic nations vithinjans have incorporated their old pagan traditions into these holidays. | Despite celebrating holidays like Christmas and Easter unlike most catholic nations vithinjans have incorporated their old pagan traditions into these holidays. | ||
On top of that vithinjans also celebrate some of their own holidays. First of these holidays is Midsummer, which takes place during solstice. Earlier in the year, about a month before Easter, the Farewell takes place. At the start of fall the Union is celebrated. | On top of that vithinjans also celebrate some of their own holidays. First of these holidays is Midsummer, which takes place during solstice. Earlier in the year, about a month before Easter, [[the Farewell]] takes place. At the start of fall the Union is celebrated. | ||
For non-religious holidays vithinjans celebrate their national day on December the 14th. Although some consider this day to be religious, being a celebration of Rolv I ascension into Sainthood. Additionally the Syndicalization is celebrated on May the 3rd. | For non-religious holidays vithinjans celebrate their national day on December the 14th. Although some consider this day to be religious, being a celebration of Rolv I ascension into Sainthood. Additionally the Syndicalization is celebrated on May the 3rd. | ||
[[Category:Vithinja]] | [[Category:Vithinja]] | ||
[[Category:Countries]] | [[Category:Countries]] | ||