On the Nora:

The Nora exist as an indigenous group that live along the base of the mountains past the northern boundaries of the Zozah Peninsula, far from the jurisdiction of the Land of the Pact. They see magic as integral to their culture, particularly those related to healing and protection. But because they treat motherhood as a sacred process not to be interfered with, any magic involving reproduction or the creation of life is forbidden.

Silverwood trees are uncommon in the area but because of their nature to take over their hosts, only qualified individuals (i.e. those that accomplish the Proving ritual ) are allowed to make use of their wood and ink, becoming apprentices under Matriarchs and experienced Braves.

On Aloy:

Aloy is a motherless woman, originally found as a baby deep in the Sacred Mountain, and is therefore treated as an outcast and raised by Rost. Her status is only further exacerbated when she discovers magic too early in life. Rost instructs her not to rely on her magic when preparing her for the Proving.

Unbeknownst to any of them, Aloy was created through the forbidden use of magic and blood from a mysterious source.

But when evidence of her origins arise, Aloy sets out on a journey south to discover her roots, avoiding the Knights Moralis and their conflict with the Brimmed Caps whenever she can.

Aside from being a skilled hunter, Aloy also is experienced in light and wind magic, having filled her spear with glyphs to aid her in battle. She often brings forth bows and arrows made of a mix of wind and light and has seals tattooed on her palms to summon such weapons. But she also carries with her the usual pen, paper and ink.

On snowy mammoths:

Creatures that only live in the far north and on white capped mountain peaks, snowy mammoths are highly valued and respected by the Nora because of their matriarchal and maternal instincts. Their coats are made of feathers rather than fur, coming in various color patterns. Their ears are actually small but the length of feathers make them appear long and large. Their tusks are shaped like talons of prey birds and their trunks end with a sharp tip.

When threatened, they raise their trunks high in the air, and spread their ears wide to intimidate their foes. Some have noticed their displays resemble the silhouette of the legendary Stormbird said to live even deeper in the blizzard-ridden peaks further north.