House Vanir

[Vanir 693]

-=House Vanir=-

 

 

Our Sigil: Sea-Serpent
Our Colours: Black, Grey and Blue
Our Words: Sons of the Sea or The Sea Bows to None!

 

Our History

A relatively unknown family, House Vanir is composed of human northerners who inhabit their isle fortress of Erstavik. Lead by the family patriarch, Vasili, House Vanir primarily functions as a merchant and military based group united under one family’s leadership. Defined by their own distinctive, isolated culture with roots in Raev, Vanirs and the men and women sworn under them seldom leave their lands for purposes other than raids or trade. Their aggressive culture and combat rituals both separate them from their neighbors, and define them as a people. Rising in prominence in recent years, House Vanir has begun expansion beyond their current lands, branching out into Athera’s seas and the land beyond. Their purpose, for now, seems unclear.

 

 

Traditions

 

Raiding: The most famous and well practiced of Vanir pastimes, the people are all but defined by their incredibly troublesome and stealthy raids. Often appearing out of thin air, Vanirs would pillage a village, church, fort or even city, taking captives as they sought and carrying off as much loot as they could physically carry. Plunder was not restricted to gold; highly sought after prizes included tools, seed, livestock, slaves and trophies. Vanirs have been known to spare the lives of those they raid should they be deemed honorable, often taking them as prisoners, or just maiming them, and allowing them to live on to share their story of attack. Vanirs do not see plunder as theft; it is an honorable deed done to win glory and wealth for oneself or family. Loot was often shared between members of the party, and cowardly-theft of another Vanir’s rightful plunder, at raid or home, is seen as the gravest of crimes, akin to murder.

 

Hostage Taking: The Vanir’s are famous for taking their enemies captive, particularly during their famous “lightning raids” in which they would appear without warning. Men and women of the lower classes, at any age, were often taken as slaves to be used by the Vanirs personally or sold off. Nobility, Clergy, and at times even soldiers were often taken as captives, often spared from death if they fought honorably, or offered a potentially large ransom.

 

Honor duels: A fairly hot headed people, many disputes between Vanirs were solved with personal duels. Ranging anywhere from a wrestling match and bloody fist fight to a full on trial by battle (exclusively permitted by the patriarch's word only), these duels were seen as fair ways to resolve problems. After losing a duel, a Vanir would admit his wrongdoing, and make up with the man he had just fought with, often growing the bond between them. Harboring resentment or ill will after a duel is severely frowned upon.

 

 

Trophy belt: An important part of Vanir culture, the trophy belt was used to show off a raiders prestige and history of battle. After defeating a worthy opponent, a Vanir would take a trophy, perhaps a weapon, cloak, or valuable, and affix it to their belt. The Patriarch of the family and his captains often wear golden rings and chains on their person and belts as well, to distinguish themselves as leaders. 

 

Festivals: Harvest and Battle festivals were celebrated often by Vanirs, praising their deities for a good year, and wishing for luck in the next. These were known to be quite festive, with heavy drinking, dueling and swimming contest. Traders from around the world would be welcome at the island for a few days only, to sell their goods, purchase or ransom slaves/materials, or to hire the Vanirs as raiders against an enemy.

 

 

Clothing

The common outfit of the average Vanir will include a heavy cloak, an assortment of leather articles of clothing, perhaps some mail, and most importantly, their trophy belt. Leaders and key figures in Vanir culture are often distinguished by the golden bands they wear on their belts, arms, or necks.

 

Weapons and Armour

 

Shield: The most important part of the common Vanir's arsenal, the round shield is an incredibly effective and common tool of warfare. Made from hard ash wood or the more common pine, Vanir round shields included an iron boss, and would often reach 3 feet in diameter. Used both in single combat and for the formation of shield walls, they were often decorated meticulously by the warriors before setting out for battle.

 

 

Seax: The favored "side arm" of a Vanir, the seax is seen as an unusually long dagger or short sword, depending on personal preference. Typically 20' inches in length, they most often featured a single edged blade and tapered point, and were used for both everyday means and as fierce weapons in combat. They are worn on a horizontal sheath affixed one's belt, or often carried on the inside ward of one's shield.

 

Bearded Axe: A common addition to every Vanir's arsenal was the bearded axe, a particularly sharp axe often reaching nearly 3 and a half feet in length, most of which is formed from the haft. Balanced further towards the head, the bearded axe is used primarily with ones shield for chopping, hooking and even punching. Cheap and reliable, it is one of the most well recognized weapons.

 

Swords: While not the most commonly used weapons, arming swords are still used often by Vanir, often equipped as a personal preference by individual warriors. Reaching nearly 3 feet of length in the blade, Vanir swords are tapered slightly, but retain a strong cutting edge and full tang. Cross Guards and pommels are fashioned from pure iron or steel, with hilts of wood, bone or leather.

Spears: Long, oak or ash shafted spears are carried everywhere by many Vanir warriors, used to thrust or even throw at enemies. Favored with the shield wall, these spears included winged tips to prevent beheading, and are even used during hunts.

 

Armor

Brynie: A coat of mail often reaching to or past the waist, Brynie's are the most commonly used pieces of protection by the vanir. Riveted single mail is made by Vanir smiths, or taken as trophy from defeated enemies. If a full coat is not available, many Vanir choose instead to wear hardened studded tunics, with overlapping small sections of mail on the arms, armpits and various other places.

 

Helmets: The average Vanir helmet is an iconic bowl-helm with an elongated nasal guard. Used for protection of the head, face, and with small adjustments the neck and throat, these half helms are increasingly popular among Vanir warriors.

 

Plate: Not often used, Plate is sometimes taken from defeated foes or prisoners to be worn by the Vanir, though they much prefer mail or a the lighter forms of harness.

 

Bows: Rarely used outside of hunting, the Vanir bows resemble typical self bows or the more rare longbows, and could be used to fire from the deck of a ship or inside of a fort.

 

Warpaint: A favored tool of the younger Vanirs, warpaint of various colors and markings is often painted upon one's face and body before entering combat, festivals or religious ceremonies.

Living on the coast or on islands is a major part of the Vanir’s culture, and thus so is fishing. The Vanirs rely heavily on fishing to not only feed themselves, but as trade and bargaining chips.The farming of traditional crops, such as potatoes, wheat and barley is done on the mainland near the isles, for a varied diet and the feeding of captured livestock. Another primary export of the Vanirs is a harsh brine, or sea salt, used heavily in their foods and in cuisine abroad.

 

Contrary to the beliefs of those who may be their victims, the Vanirs are not full time raiders, instead often pursuing jobs as fisherman, lumberjacks, or farmers. Spending the planting and harvesting seasons at home tending to their lodgings and livelihoods, the Vanir often take to their ships come winter or other holiday seasons, pillaging the lands of their enemies and returning with glory and wealth. Historically lacking little access to materials such as iron and livestock, they began their raids as a simple means of gathering resources, although they have fast become one of the most notable aspects of Vanir culture. Young men, between the ages of 14 to 20, are often brought on their first raid to officially become a member of the House or her sworn raiders. Remembered mostly for their sudden arrivals and quick departures, House Vanir has earned the right to call themselves Sons of the Sea.

 

 

Internal and External Relations

 

Nations:

Kingdom of Oren: Loyal

Grand Kingdom of Urguan: War

The Rexdom: Neutral

The Kha: Neutral

Wood Elfs: War

High Elves: Friendly

 

Houses/Groups:

House Vladov: Friendly

House Vydra: Loyal

House de Savoie: Friendly

House Stafyr: Neutral

House Horen: Neutral

House Montfort: Friendly

Order of Saint Amyas: Friendly

[Vanir 693]

Joining Up

Wish to serve House Vanir as one of our hardy men-at-arms? Or, perhaps you're a long-lost family member, wishing to regroup with your brothers and sist

ers? Regardless of your reason to join up with the Sons of the Sea, letters can be sent to Erstavik II, in the settlement of Karovia!

 

 

Letter Suggestions:

 

​Make sure to state your name (first name and surname if applicable), whether you are a family member or simply looking for employment. If looking for employment, include your past jobs, your skills, and why you think you would be hardy enough to be a Vanir Bannerman.

 

OOC:

Those wishing to apply as a family member should first speak with me via the forums

 

"The Sea Bows to None!"

[Vanir 693]

Letters are delivered to any Vanirs who have already settled in Karovia, or those who have made their presence known to the Patriarch:

 

"It has been many years since we have left our beloved island stronghold for a new dream, my kinsmen. After many, many, we are finally having a place to call home: Erstavik II. This fortress is being built on top of a cliff, overlooking the valleys around the town of Karovia. The town, itself, nestled close to a ocean-fed lake, which pours off of the cliff into the river below. This is truly a place that we can call home. Here, we can once again preserve our traditions, and expand the family so that our culture does not become lost in the annals of history! All should make sure to stay close to town, as it is better to be bunched together in these dark times, in these times where the dead men walk.

 

When Erstavik II is completed, you can be sure that a grand feast will be held! Be sure to un-bury fishing poles from your closets and getting fishing, brothers and sisters! As Sons of the Sea, it is our duty to ensure that none think of Vanirs as not important: our culture, cuisine, and sailing is unmatched. Never forget this.

 

Am hoping to see and sail with many of you in years to come."

 

-Vasili, Patriarch of House Vanir

[Vanir 693]

Updated Family List

 

Blood-Related

 

Artyom Vanir- Eldest living Vanir, Grandpapa of Arik and Vasili ((johan2))

Vasili Vanir- Patriarch, Older brother of Arik ((TaylorStriffe))

Arik Vanir- Younger brother of Vasili ((XRyanSeveranceX))

Bjorn Vanir- Nephew of Vasili ((InfamousGerman))

Harald II Vanir- Nephew of Vasili and Arik ((TNTlover12345))

Ubba Vanir-Eldest son of Vasili ((NordicGod))

Dagr Vanir- Second son of Vasili ((Cdpayer))

Rykov Vanir- Third son of Vasili ((Arkantos1279))

 

Honourary/Adopted

 

Brool Vanir ((Empirerebel))

Kryllaal Vanir ((Intense_Death))

 

[The Thought Police 73]

Bannerman

 

IC

 

((Kryllaal just says this to Vasil, because he can't read or write.))

 

Name: Mi am Kryllaal'Kog

Age: Mi nub gruk, ahurhurhurhur.

Race: Mi am Uruk

​What skills do you practice?: Mi am hozh cheff

Why do you wish to serve House Vanir?: Mi nub gruk, releh, juzt klomp wid Vay-zilleh.

 

OOC

 

Skype name: theeroticgrape

Do you have TS, or will you be willing to get TS?: Yes.

[Vanir 693]

 

Bannerman

 

IC

 

((Kryllaal just says this to Vasil, because he can't read or write.))

 

Name: Mi am Kryllaal'Kog

Age: Mi nub gruk, ahurhurhurhur.

Race: Mi am Uruk

​What skills do you practice?: Mi am hozh cheff

Why do you wish to serve House Vanir?: Mi nub gruk, releh, juzt klomp wid Vay-zilleh.

 

OOC

 

Skype name: theeroticgrape

Do you have TS, or will you be willing to get TS?: Yes.

 

 

Vasili nods his head slightly, not understanding half of the words. He runs a hand through his beard and shrugs. "Da, are accepted."

[Vanir 693]

-A letter is sent out to all family members of House Vanir. A few are left on tavern doors on the off-chance that a lost relative might find it-

 

Brothers and Sisters,

I write to you now to apologize. It is seeming we will not be moving into a mighty Fortress, as Vanirmen commonly did when they had amassed much wealth. In fact, we shall be doing quite the opposite. We are to move to the Holy City of Petrus, much to my dismay. It is very far from the Sea; the best it has is a long river snaking it's way through the continent. Have been told we are getting out own district by river, though, which is niet too bad. Still, it is niet what we are used to, so am hoping all will stick with ol' Vasili and be moving to Petrusia. Being such big city, maybe will even reunite with family members.

 

-Vasili, Patriarch of House Vanir

[Vanir 693]

Vanir War Songs

 

What a helluva way to die! (Performed by Vanir Choir)

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWgsdexkv18

 

 

Lyrics:

He was just a rookie raider and he surely shook with fright.
He checked off his equipment and made sure his straps were tight.
He had to sit and listen to the waves crash on-the-shore
He ain’t gonna raid no more
Chorus:
Gory, gory, what a hell of way to die.
Gory, gory, what a hell of way to die.
Gory, gory, what a hell of way to die.
He ain't gonna raid no more.

"Is everybody ready?" called the Marshal looking up.
Our hero feebly answered, "Yes", and then they stood him up.
He jumped onto the frothy shore, his seax came unseathed
And he ain't gonna raid no more.

He shouted long, he shouted loud, he climbed upon the rocks.
He felt the steel, he felt the clash, he saw his comrades drop.
An arrow loosed from behind and pierced into his legs
And he ain't gonna raid no more.

spear and shield probed at his neck, maces cracked his dome.
Sword and axe cut and chopped into his skinny bones.
The frothy tide became his shroud, he sunk into the sea.
And he ain't gonna raid no more.

The days fought and fucked and drank kept running through his mind.
He thought about the lass back home, the one he left behind.
He thought about the temple monks and wondered what they'd find.
And he ain't gonna raid no more.

The cavalry was on the spot, the horses running wild.
The archers jumped and screamed with glee, drew their bows and smiled.
For it had been a week or more since last a ship had sailed
And he ain't gonna raid no more.

He hit the waves, the sound was "Splash," his blood went spurting high.
The raiders, they were heard to say, "A helluva way to die."
He lay there slowly drowning in the welter of his gore.
And he ain't gonna jump no more.

There were guts upon the ship deck, there was blood upon the sail.
Intestines were a-dangling and the wind blew harsh with hail.
He was a mess, they picked him up and poured him from his mail.
And he ain't gonna raid no more.

 

 

 

((More to follow))

[Busenki 17]

((nice 1

[Pureimp10 5691]

Bannerman

 

IC

 

Name: Ronald Cassius

Age: 38

Race: Human

​What skills do you practice?: Good farmer and swordsman

Why do you wish to serve House Vanir?: Served Carrions for a long time, want to serve you.

 

OOC

 

Skype name: ((you have it

Do you have TS, or will you be willing to get TS?: Yes.

[Vanir 693]

 

Bannerman

 

IC

 

Name: Ronald Cassius

Age: 38

Race: Human

​What skills do you practice?: Good farmer and swordsman

Why do you wish to serve House Vanir?: Served Carrions for a long time, want to serve you.

 

OOC

 

Skype name: ((you have it

Do you have TS, or will you be willing to get TS?: Yes.

 

 

"Da, are accepted! Meet me in Karovia when are next available."

[NicktheRed20 215]

Bannerman

 

IC

 

Name: Castien

Age: 24

Race: Wood Elf

​What skills do you practice?: Cooking and fighting

Why do you wish to serve House Vanir?: Looking for work, friends, and to better understand the culture.

 

OOC

 

Skype name: nickblake11

Do you have TS, or will you be willing to get TS?: Don't have it but can get it 

[Vanir 693]

 

Bannerman

 

IC

 

Name: Castien

Age: 24

Race: Wood Elf

​What skills do you practice?: Cooking and fighting

Why do you wish to serve House Vanir?: Looking for work, friends, and to better understand the culture.

 

OOC

 

Skype name: nickblake11

Do you have TS, or will you be willing to get TS?: Don't have it but can get it 

 

 

"Accepted! Report to the town of Karovia, and I will set you up."

[Vanir 693]

((Updated with Internal and External Relations))

[Lita 677]

Moved to the Great Library. It shall be sorted into appropriate category shortly.