Hälbed

Hälbed is a small village in the northern highlands of the Nordic-inspired realm of Nordmark. Located in a sheltered valley along the river Hvarud, it sits at roughly 420 meters above sea level. The village has about 450 residents and a mixed economy based on timber, sheep farming, and craft production.

Founded in the 12th century by agrarian settlers, Hälbed grew as a regional market center and trading point for forest products. Today it forms part of the Nordmark Confederation, governed by a local council and a bailiff.

The built environment consists mainly of timber-framed houses with stone foundations. The 16th-century Hälbed Church is a prominent landmark, featuring a carved wooden altarpiece and a stone baptismal font.

The surrounding countryside is characterized by conifer forests and small pastures. The local dialect preserves features from Old Norse, and the community hosts a winter market and a midsummer festival that attract visitors from neighboring villages. Education is provided by a single primary school; non-local students commute to the regional secondary campus in Nordstad. Nearest rail link is 25 kilometers away; road connections link Hälbed to Nordmark’s main towns. Notable products include hand-carved wooden goods and wool textiles.