Northern Realms

The Northern Realms embody one of the most formidable and diverse factions in the Witcher universe. Spanning vast expanses and united by history, culture and mutual enemies, these states are a beacon of human resilience and ambition in a world ravaged by supernatural threats. They are home to some of the most famous dynasties, including Redania and Kaedven, which produced such legendary figures as King Radovid and Foltest.

Power is the cornerstone of the Northern Realms, not only through brute force, but also through intricate intrigue, skillful diplomacy, and strategic alliances. These are lands where kings, wizards, knights and spies battle for influence, join forces in great games of war and politics, immortalized in ballads sung by bards in crowded taverns. The armies of the Northern Kingdoms are a testament to humanity's determination to survive against overwhelming odds. Comprised of tough infantry, powerful heavy cavalry and devastating war machines, they wage a merciless war against their enemies. Their strategies are as varied as they are devastating, aided by powers that can hold their own against beasts, elves, and everything in between.

But despite the challenges, there is an indomitable spirit among Northerners. Tales of heroism and romance, pain and joy, magic and banality thrive in small towns, bustling cities and big cities. The Northern Realms are at the core of the Witcher world: a land where ordinary people live, love and often fight, entwining their lives with the extraordinary.

Given the tumultuous reign of the Witcher universe, the Northern Realms faction is a beacon of determination and resilience. Comprised of kingdoms such as Redania, Temeria, Kaedven, and Aedirn, this desolate landscape was originally a vast wasteland inhabited by native races such as dwarves and elves. However, human colonization gradually led to the formation of these powerful kingdoms.

These kingdoms, though constantly at odds with each other, united despite Nilfgaardian invasions and earned the collective title of the Northern Kingdoms. These battles, remembered as the First, Second, and Third Northern Wars, not only cemented their shared history, but also formed the great factions against Nilfgaard. The Northern Kingdoms have a long line of legendary rulers, heroes and villains. Radovid V, also known as "Stern", is one such figure who has left an indelible mark on Redania. A shrewd but notoriously ruthless ruler, his rule is testament to the difficult but fascinating political game that has marked the history of the Northern Kingdoms.

Witches also have a clear connection to this faction. The infamous School of the Wolf, where the main character Geralt of Rivia was trained, is located in Kaer Morhen, a fortress in the kingdom of Kaedven. Their often ambiguous roles, alternating between heroes and mercenaries, add another layer of complexity to the historical tapestry of the Northern Kingdoms.
At its core, the history of the Northern Kingdoms is a saga born of survival and resistance. It defies the Nilfgaardian notion of "order" and encourages a quest for independence, making it a central part of the Witcher universe's story. As he continues his harrowing journey through these regions, Geralt often becomes the scribe of their history, influencing and influencing the dynamic past of these troubled realms.

The Northern Realms, the quintessential realms of the Witcher universe, exemplify a harsh yet fascinating landscape. Surrounded by thick forests, mountains and lazy rivers, these lands offer a unique combination of danger and wonder.
At the heart of the empire is Redania, renowned for its naval dominance, and the mighty city of Novigrad, rich in culture and bustling commerce. To the east is Kaedven, a land of freezing deserts with seemingly endless winters, home to Kaer Morhen, an abandoned fortress where witches were once trained.

To the south lies Temeria, known for its fertile pastures and large vineyards, which contribute greatly to the Northern Kingdom's food supply. Known as the bleeding heart of the north due to its battle-torn history, Sodden borders Nilfgaard to the south.

Despite frequent wars and harsh climates, the northerners resolutely defend their territories, leaving the rich a symbol of unyielding resilience. Whether it's the treacherous mist-shrouded swamps, the glittering courtyards of Vizima, or the silent paths of the dwarves deep in the Mahakam Mountains, the geography of the Northern Realms is vibrant, varied, and reflects stories of survival and glory.