THE HOLY GRIND - OFFICIAL MAP
THE HOLY GRIND - OFFICIAL MAP
Full map of The Holy Grind (Josh & Stan)
THE 25 REGIONS OF THG
THE ISLETS
The sparsest region of THG, the islets mostly consist of open ocean. One can get a good view of the regions from Sam's Point or the cold dunes. The islets gets its name from the episodal appearance of small island-like masses, occasionally reported by the fishermen of the region. During winter, ice flows are common and icebergs occasionally wash up on the shore. These waters are teeming with fish...
THE NORTHERN SHORE
This region is windy and wet almost year-round. The largest city, Gilltown, is a hub of economic and military activity. For centuries, it has been the birthplace of some of THG's most famous sailors. Most of the Holy Grind's navy is anchored in it's harbor. The Naval Academy, AA battery, ammo depot, dry-dock and underground submarine base form, with the harbor a large military complex. A gigantic lighthouse marks the entrance to the harbor. To the west, the oil refineries, Fishov fisheries and the famous Gilltown cannery employ the other half of Gilltown's population. To the east, the wet grasslands are overlooked by the northern face of Mount Macabre. The land is mostly quiet there, home to some of the typical riff-raffs making up most of THG's local population. On the extreme east of this region, thick patches of fog start to cover the land as the rolling hills transition into the great bog of the northern estuary... Exploration is ill-advised. One should instead follow the south eastern road through the pine forests of Mount Macabre.
THE NORTHERN ESTUARY
The Northern Estuary, due North of the Capital, is the home of the Great Bog. This region is cold, water-logged year-round and a particularly desolate location. At night, strange voices call out from the fog, attempting to lure travellers into the bog. There are no trading posts, inns or accessible population centers. The bog forms a natural barrier and has, over the years, claimed the lives of many inexperienced explorers. Little is known about the inhabitants of the bog as their inhospitable home grants them significant isolation and privacy. Two roads flank the bog from either side, travellers are advised to stick to them to avoid unpleasant encounters...
TÖKKENFJORD
Tökkenfjord is one of the most breathtaking regions of THG. It's population is mostly made up of hardy sea-farers and fishermen. Dungard is a picturesque viking village, known for its ornate wooden longhouses and outdoor fishmarket. The catch of the day varies, but usually includes a plethora of fish, whales and molluscs of unusual size. The many inns and taverns of the western part of the region make for great pit-stops for travellers. The road east takes you through both beautiful and frightful trip through geyserfields, the forever-dark woods and tundras filled with ancient tombs and ruins. Along the coast, the fjords are the region's most striking geological feature. Tours can be booked to visit this fantastic landscape. Exploring these parts without a local tourguide is ill-advised, as one could disturb some of the endemic mega-fauna or encounter locals during some of their more "private" enterprises.
THE BAY AREA
The Bay Area, is one of the more forgotten regions of THG. Mostly devoid of trees, most of the coast is made up of coarse gravel beaches and gloomy plains. Few people live there partly due to it's windy weather and lack of economic activity. The cobblestone streets of Ludz-on-Sea often feel empty. Most of the activity in this region centers around farming and pickle production. Home to many rumors and stories of spirits and hauntings, a cloud of mystery hangs over this region. The road south takes travellers to the eastern barronies, through a narrow pass in the mountains.
THE EASTERN BARONIES
The Eastern Baronies is one of the frontiers of THG. It's land and climate transition from mountains and grassy pastures to the north, to dry and dusty desert to the south. Redwater is the main population center, home to some of the cattle barons that give the region its name. The main sources of employment here are cattle and tequilla production. Life in the Eastern Baronies is often short and violent. Outlaws, thiefs and bandits are only kept in check by the expeditive justice rendered at the Redwater courthouse, sending offenders to gallow's hill in record times, due to the region's unique set of laws. To the east, the tribal lands are generally off-limits for tourists. The road west will take you to the northern highlands. The road south leads to the Red desert, travellers are heavily discouraged from following this path.
THE NORTHERN HIGHLANDS
The Northern Highlands, just north-east of Grindenburg, is one of the safest regions of THG. Brasstown, the fortified factory-city can be seen from miles away due to the thick plumes of steam that it generates. The city, with its distinctive vertical layout is made up of 3 quarters. The powder mill and weapons factories are hotbeds of heavy industry. The brass keep is the highest quarter, home to the garrison and governer's quarters. The weather here is dry and temperate. The geothermal activity and striking landscape make for unforgettable hikes. For those interested in caving, the Northern Highlands are the perfect destination. The goblin village lets in visitors year-round to discover their indigenous way of life. Exploration of the southern mountain range is more hazardous and visitors are invited to limit their adventures away from the slopes.
RIVERSIDE
Riverside is one of the oldest regions of THG. Just north of Grindenburg, it is vertically bisected by the river, flowing south to north, which empties into the Northern Estuary. The eastern half is covered in dense woodland. Deep inside this forest, Perceval hamlet is a private domain, home to one of the oldest families of THG. Crossing over Old King Harold's bridge, the western half features the town of Mülltown. Once a bustling locale, it is now a backwater settlement ever since the bottling plant shut down due to environmental polution. Indeed Riverside is unfortunately one of THG's most polluted regions. Travellers may find rest and food at the Slippery Toad Inn and Danny's Guesthouse. Sentinel hill overlooks the town and strange rumors of occult rituals cast an ominous shadow over its decrepid houses. To the south-west, the unpolluted lands are used for farming...
MOUNT MACABRE
Mount Macabre, the white mountain, overlooks THG's capital. Orynx village and the Araki skiing resort make it one of the grinders' favorite winter destination. The southern and western faces of the mountain are particularly suited to tourism. The northern and western faces are wilder and less safe. Lake Custodier and Lake Oblit are both skateable during winter. Cozy cabins, green pastures and cheese-making are some of the region's claims to fame. Specter has thier HQ on the North Western face, out of the way of tourists. An excellent tourist destination !
SUNRIDGE
Sunridge gets its name from its fair weather and tall cliff. It is home to quaint country vilalges like Clifftown and Shittleton. The northern shores are a popular tourist destination. The coast is dotted with ancient statues and standing stones. Further inland, below the western face of Mount Macabre, a thick forest emits a mix of fear and inviting mystery. This magic grove is known to confuse travellers and often tricks them to walk in loops back to the surrouding grasslands. Further south, the abandonned chemical plant sticks out like a wart on the otherwise picturesque landscape. Fish-based dishes and crèpes are the regional specialties, perfect for filling the stomachs of tired hikers.
THE GULF AREA
The Gulf area is a temperate bay with soft winds. To the east, the white cliffs of Glüttown provide a scenic view of the gulf. Much fishing takes place in this region.
GLÜTTOWN
Glüttown is one of the most prosperous regions of THG. The climate is temperate with long and sunny summers, making it ideal for grain cultivation. Indeed, Glüttown region was historically the breadbasked of The Holy Grind. The city from which the region gets it's name is famous for its market. The Grand Roost is the fortified bastion, overlooking the city. It gets its name from it's distinctive egg shape and walls painted with white lime. Surrounded by wheat fields and windmills, Glüttown is the perfect rest-stop for weary and hungry travellers. Outside the city, rolling hills and fields extend south, towards the dense and leafy "Brightshade Forest". It is a recommended starting point for apprentice adventurers, due to its low danger level and proximity to the capital's hospital.
GRINDENBURG
The capital of The Holy Grind occupies a central position. Surrounded by tall walls, 9 meters thick at their widest point, the city is densely packed. The city center includes the presidential palace (home of The Holy Grind himself), the federal offices (workplace of much of the administration), the mausoleum where many important historical figures are burried, the coliseum, and the Great Grinder Temple (a 20m tall grinder of particular cultural and religious significance). South of the presidential palace, one can walk to the ever-busy stock exchange, the great libraries of the national archive, the history museum and the institute of science and techonology. Saint Rory's hospital is adjacent to the campus and the site of much medical research. The botanical gardens and city park are must-sees for tourists. There is much to discover in Grindenburg. Outside the wall, Walter interantional airport and the doctor pepper plant occupy the north east. To the east, a large "Grindenburg" sign inspired by the iconic hollywood sign faces the city on the slopes of twisted valley. Below it, the humble leedle and parkinglots are overlooked by a hill on which a perculiar "buff korean jesus" statue was placed. It was purchased from South Korea in 2023. Some say the location was specifically chosen next to the "atheism village" just south of it. The south west of the city is dedicated to military exercises and instalations.
TWISTED VALLEY
Twisted Valley gets its name from its confusing layout, the canyons and convoluted mountain passes make it difficult to navigate. It attracts climbers and hikers every year, it is not recommended for beginners however. The only noteworthy settlement is Hope Town to the east. It was once a humble trading post for fur trappers and hunters to turn in their pelts. The tallest points of the valley are the five pointed peak, Mount Kaczynski and the Great Barrier, a massive mountaineous formation that seperates the Norther Highlands form Twisted Valley. The region is home to a significant number of megafauna species. Due to the twisting layout of the passes, travellers encountering these creatures are recommended to stay close to the mountain face and let the megafauna pass undistrubed. Airship travel is another option for those unwilling to navigate the sinuous pathes.
RED DESERT
The Red Desert is not open for travel for tourists. This area is currently not under rule of law. Exploration is absolutely discouraged. If the sands below your feet start to turn a ocre orange, turn around and head back the way you came, making sure to step back onto your footprints if possible. The hostile environmental conditions are only the start of your troubles. Rumors surrounding this region speak of a bandit cannibal cult having established a fortress in a mysterious canyon to the east. The current state of turmoil that this region is in unfortunately prevents visitors from exploring its rich archeological heritage and spectacular geology. Sandcastle, now unoccupied and with its halls filled with sand was once the seat of power in the region.
BANOVIA
This region's climate is hot and particularly humid. The city that gives its name to the region was historically the maritime rival of Gilltown to the north. Today, where Gilltown further industrialized and became the location of most of THG's maritime command, Banovia retains its authentic flair dating back to the golden age of sail. The city is known for its many pubs, cigar industry and slave market. Indeed much of the local agriculture uses prisoners captured from rival nations and the many bandit and pirate crews operating in the area. THG nationals who found themselves in positions of leadership within such felonious associations are imprisoned inside of the dreaded navy prison. Further to the north, Old King Rodrik's castle is a favorite of ghost hunters. Travelers are however asked to avoid travel north of the castle, as an insurgency is currently underway. A group of anarchists and pirates have settled themselves in an isolated piece of coastline surrounded by mangroves. Exploration south of Banovia can be hazardous, visitors are asked to stick to the road southeast heading to Barandu. The volcano south of the region can privde stunning views.
PURPLE MOUNTAINS
The purple mountains are directly south west of THG's Capital. It's two peaks "Eisenhower" and "Besmegen" are some of the most challenging climbs in THG. Between them, the Ice castle stands as one of the most inaccessible yet mezmerizing constructions. On the southern face of Mnt Eisenhower, the Ulyanov Penal Center hangs over the void, some of THG's most dangerous criminals are held there. Dragon nests are another thing to lookout for when attempting to climb the peaks. The roads surrouding the foot of the mountain make for some of the best hiking trails in THG. Pine candy is a local delicacy and the alpenflage surplus store makes for a great place to get souvenirs after a delightful hike thru the lupine flower fields and tall forbodding pines. The entrance to the Goblin underkeep is said to be accessible from the surface somewhere on the western face of Mnt Besmegen.
CROWFIELD
Crowfield is the region directly south of Grindenburg. These flat prairies are where vast herds of cattle graze, under an enormous sky. The town of crowfield to the southeast is famous for its historic downtown and rancher auctions. To the south the great swamp serves as the border of this region. This sparsely wooded region is sandwhiched between the purple mountains' pines to the west and the eerie treeline of the pine barrens to the east. North of the town, the Crowfield Nuclear Power Plant provides much of the region and Grindenburg with electricity. To the southeast, misery point's bridge marks the start of the haunted Southern Highlands, passage to this region is ill advised.
PINE BARRENS
Stretching south east of Grindenburg, this dense coniferous forest acts as an almost impenetrable obstactle. Filled with deep pockets of fog, mires and abandonned locations, this region is not for the faint of heart. Rumors of witchcraft, undead hordes and hostile megafauna normally turn away foolish explorers and hikers, but every year the National Park Service conducts search and rescue operations there. Urban explorers keep coming back however due to the numerous attractive abandonned locations (Lumber yard, theme park, spaku burger). If one really must traverse this region, they best stick to the southern road and avoid investigating any noises off in the bushes, even if they sound human. North of the region, the village of Salwhich links this region to Twisted valley to the north.
FEDERAL FURRY RESERVATION
Originally created decades ago, this semi-autonomous region was first created as a safe haven for a marginalized part of THG's population. This stretch of wildlands was purposefully chosen to be given away for its lack of strategic or economical interest to Grindenburg. Settling it was pretty unsuccessful and even those to whom the land was given to ended up leaving THG altogether. After mineral ressources were discovered there, the environmental destruction there chased out the few remaining locals. Today, most of these ressources having dried up, it is a particularly tranquil region reclaimed by nature. Although access to the FFR is made difficulat by the red desert to the north and pine barrens to the west, it is home to wonderous sites. Mount Dugalo and Mount Hudson's slopes are perfect for hiking. Hidden behind them along THG's border, the mythical milimanju tree attracts nature fanatics from all over THG. There are few year-round inhabitants and a vacation there, although involving a difficult journey makes for an unforgetable experience. Wild tobacco, and the famous Kristown casino are also among the favorites of travellers.
THE JUNGLE
Occupying the south west corner of THG, the Jungle is one of the most inaccessible regions. It's triple canopy foliage and hostile wildlife make it particularly unsuited to exploration. Rumors of golden temples and uncontacted natives run wild. Many traffickers of all kinds take refuge there and the ongoing Tchumba rebel insurgency seems to originate from there.
BARANDU
South of the Purple Mountains and East of the Jungle, Barandu is one of the hottest regions of THG. It's windy and sunbleached savannahs are unlike any other region. Barandu is the sprawling town that gives the region it's name. It is famed for its bazaar and fine dining. The banovia bank is one of the best defended locations in THG. Outside of town the airstrip allows buisnessmen to come and go as they please. To the west, the Great Swamp acts as a barrier, leaving only the roads heading north west and north east as the terrestrial way out of Barandu. The southern thrid of Barandu Region is unsuitable to tourism as the risk of wythern attack and of causing a disturbance to the native's way of life is great. Similarly walking too close to the muddy shores of the great swamp at night is discouraged. Big game rifles are a necessary measure for travellers using the roads here.
THE GREAT SWAMP
The southern rival of the great Bog to the north, the Great Swamp is totally inaccessible to the common of mortals. It's fetid odor reaches north to Crowfield. The dark mud, foul smelling mist and rotting vegetation make it particularly unappealing. It remains an ethnological debate wether a year-round settlement exists in the great swamp. Locals of the caravan village south of Crowfield swear that witches live there and only come out to prey on the populace. Avoid. Avoid. Avoid.
THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS
Upon following the road south east of Crowfield, passing the bridge at misery point, the rocks take on a subtle purple-ish color and elevation begins to rapidly climb. A sinuous road takes visitors past the dreary village of Larnwhich and rows of empty cottages. Peering throuhg dense patches of brambels and twisted grey trees, it is usually then that they catch the frightful sight of the fortress. Castle Bathory stands upon a rocky promontory overlooking the Southern Highlands' plateau. The fortress's western entrance is open to the public, giving them access to the Castle Bathory Mediatheque's vast collection of documents. Unsuprisingly, few hold library cards and fewer still report making frequent trips from other regions there. This isolated region is also home to a close and mysterious community, the village of Nightshade. Exploration of the region, though uncommon offers a unique experience, but travellers are advised to keep amulets and anti-hexxing protection of some kind. Interestingly, this region has been the top answer for "which region would you like to vacation in most this summer" among goblins each year.
MYSTERY LAKE
This region is by far the most discreet of the 25 that make up THG. Once a bustling vacation destination, Mystery lake is now barren. Visitors may find this suprising as nature there is particularly untouched. The region is hidden by the souther highlands to the west and the FFR to the north. The abandonned town of Mielke and the now empty Sunny Smiles Summer camp remain as testimonies to this region's prior inhabitation. The lake that gives this region it's name is the largest freshwater reservoir of THG. Numerous rumors of cults, curses and monsters keep people away and some hypothesize that a supernatural force dooms any who trespass here. Today, these are all believed to be bogus and travellers can expect an unforgettable journey here !
The Holy Grind Office of Tourism takes no responsibility to any damages to goods, pets, familiars or people encured following a visit to Mystery Lake.