Valund

Valund is a fictional town and municipal district in the northern province of Northhaven on the continent of Ardinia. It is the administrative center of Valund District and lies at the confluence of the Valund River and the Silver Brook. The population is about 12,500 as of 2024, with Valundian and Northhaven Common spoken widely.

Geographically, Valund sits in rolling hills bordered by boreal forest. The surrounding landscape supports forestry, small-scale agriculture, and river-based activities. Local landmarks include the Valund Gorge and the foothills of Mount Loral.

Valund traces its origins to a river fortress established in the 11th century to guard a major crossing. It grew into a regional market town by the 13th century. The arrival of the railway in the late 19th century transformed it into a logistics hub and spurred urban growth.

Valund operates under a mayor-council system within the Northhaven provincial framework. The economy centers on forestry, fishing, and logistics, with light manufacturing and services contributing as well. A regional port and a rail junction connect inland markets to coastal routes.

Most residents identify as Valundian and use Valundian as their local language, with Northhaven Common understood widely. The community hosts the annual River Crossing Festival, featuring markets, music, and boat regattas. Timber-framed architecture remains common in the historic core.

Valund hosts several educational institutions, including the Valund Institute of Technology and Arts (founded 1954) and the Valund College of Natural Resources (founded 1972). Notable sites include the Old Bridge, the Keep of Valund, and Saint Mira Cathedral.