The Northern Kingdoms was—for centuries—an agglomeration of independent lands, each governed by monarchs said to be descended from Lyn, a mythical woman said to have once ruled the entire peninsula. In 143 H.A., The Crown staged a bloody war of conquest, toppling the loosely organized forces of the various kingdoms in The 15 Day War. Since then, the northern kingdoms have become a vassal state administered by the Tribunal of the Five Kings. The 6th kingdom, the Lands of the Wind, refused to sign the treaty and stand in open rebellion against The Crown.
The Summer Lands
Occupying the southeastern tip of the peninsula, The Summer Lands has long been the de-facto seat of power. It is by far the most populous of the kingdoms through combination of gentle winters and a glut of productive farmland. The Summer Lands capitol, Summer’s Breath1, is a metropolis upon the waters of the Baltic Sea
.
The Mountain Fastness
Due north from the Summer Lands, the Kingdom of the Mountains is the second most populous region. Its winters, harsher for being further north, are somewhat tempered by its namesake ridge to the west. The Baltic Sea
to the east similarly provides a moderating effect during all but the harshest years. People from this kingdom are hearty and independent, but not unsociable. Density is moderate, with most of its lowlands occupied by small family farmsteads.
The Ocean Lands
Due west from the summer lands, the Ocean Kingdom is surrounded by water on three sides. Its population is heavily concentrated along these coasts in towns sheltered from storms by their fjords. Almost its entire industry is maritime, made up of large amounts of fishing as well as trades with other lands.
The Lands of Wind
Perhaps the least hospitable of lands, the Kingdom of the Wind stretches along a battered length of coastline backing to a high ridge of mountains. Frequent harsh storms make for brutal winters, and trade with other Northern Kingdoms is difficult due to few usable passes.
The Lands of Ice
Far to the north, the Lands of Ice are only barely considered among the kingdoms. Its peoples are often nomadic, hunting and trapping along the huge northern expanses to maintain their food supplies. Its loose organization is mostly concerned with a tribal support network that aims to ensure none go hungry through long winters due to poor luck.
The 6th Kingdom
There is a 6th, off to the north east, around the Baltic Sea. I don’t have a name for it yet though.