Imperiums

An Ostmen Ulfhedinn

Many Ostmen have little time for study. They undergo great physical trials just to stay alive. As such there are many Barbarians among the Ostmen.

Most barbarians have some skill as sailors and are comfortable on a ship. And, as many sailors are, barbarians tend to be a superstitious folk with a healthy mistrust of magic and those who use it. Still many adorn themselves with trinkets which are thought to aid the barbarian not only with safe sailing, but also in regards to gaining strength and the ability to overcome their foes in battle.

Most larger communities have groups called the Úlfhéðnar which is comprised solely of barbarians. The Úlfhéðnar clad themselves in bear or wolf pelts and believe themselves to be housing the spirits of these animals, able to gain these spirits strength when needed. Most Ostmen believe them to be shapechangers. While this is not strictly true, few can doubt the fierceness of an Úlfhéðnar when they rage. It truly does seem like they become more animal like.

While respected as warriors by other Ostmen, Barbarians and Úlfhéðnar are not fully trusted as they have been known to attack friend and foe alike while enraged in battle. Much is done to appease them with the hopes that this will hold back their anger.

While respected, few barbarians end up as leaders of their clans. Their temperament lends themselves more towards being the warriors of a vanguard more so than the chieftain leading the battle.