Northman (Character Kit)

Northman
Description: The northman is a warrior from the cold fjords and mountains of the far north (obviously, he can be from the far south, too, and be known as a southman). In our own history, we can draw on the example of the Vikings. Northman lands are poor for farming, so the northmen take to the sea and raid warmer lands for food and treasure. Northmen are superb and daring sailors. Although they seem similar to the barbari- ans, northmen have a real civilization. They make excellent boats, armor, and weapons. Northmen are physically large, much more so than other peoples. They have pale skin, blue or gray eyes, and blonde or red hair. Rangers and fighters may be northmen, but paladins may not. When rolling height and weight, the play- er should use the above average random rolls. Northmen must have a minimum strength of 14.
Role: As with other cultures, northmen have a variety of attitudes. Some are chaotic and carefree, while others are grim and fatalistic. All have a zest for combat. Northmen adventurers are easily notice- able out of their home environment be- cause of their size and appearance. Nobles often hire them as personal guards. Northmen are loyal to the death if they vow service to a chief or employer.
Secondary Skills: The sailor skill is appropriate.
Weapon Proficiencies:
* Required: battle axe, long sword. If the PC is a fight- er and wishes to specialize, he must choose one of these above two weapons for specialization.
* Recommended: short bow, knife, spear, hand axe.
Nonweapon Proficiencies: Bonus proficiencies: Swimming, Seamanship.
* Recommended: Navigation, Survival (cold), Endurance, Rope Use, Fishing.
Equipment:    Northmen are disdainful of armor heavier than chain mail and often wear armor lighter than that. In combat, they prefer large shields. A north- mans goal in life often is to command a longship with full crew, either hired or
volunteers, and go raiding to gain land and treasure. Ultimately, he wants to die glori- ously in battle.
Special Benefits: The benefit of being a northman lies in his bonus proficiencies. In addition to being a fine swimmer, the northman is skilled in oars, sails, and keelboats.
Special Hindrances: Because of their raiding reputation, northmen have a +3 penalty on reaction rolls when in lands of the people who suffer from their raids.
Wealth Options: Northmen receive the normal 5d4x10 gp.
Races:  Only humans may be northmen. Note: This warrior kit would fit very
well into the Norse campaign setting pub- lished in HR1 Vikings Campaign Source- book. This 96-page sourcebook (TSR Product No.: 9322) details a fantasy Viking civilization using the AD&D 2nd Edition rules and includes deck plans of ships boats, a map of the Vikings world, and character classes and magic unique to the setting.
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