Scandinavian Freelands

The Scandinavian Freelands is the lands of Scandinavia, which includes Sweden, Norway, previously Denmark, Greenland and Iceland. It is home to the Norseman and multiple clans of raiders, pirates, and warriors, or "Vikings."

## History

In the earliest days, Crusaders migrated north in hopes a better future. When they found the beauty of Scandinavia, they believed they had found a place they could take for themselves.

Instead, they eventually found another race of humans, the Norsemen. They were better adapted than the Crusaders to the cold and stronger than them. Crusader groups that attempted to settle were met with Norse chiefs who demanded tribute for being on their lands. Those who refused were put into bloody conflicts with the Norsemen, while those who agreed either integrated into Norse society rather than keep their own culture or failed with their settlements after awhile.

Despite this, however, early Crusader communities in central Europe began to establish trade with the Norse, who had many rare items the Crusaders were yet to discover (particularly gems for decorative swords). Trade was stable for about 40 years, until one Norse clan decided to cheat the Crusaders by stealing one of their trade ships. Afterwards, many other clans followed suit. This ultimately led to Crusaders developing better soldiers and guards to protect their cargo from these pirates.

Some trade still goes on today, and Vikings still terrorize the sea.

## Culture

As a semi-anarchy nation, culture varies from clan to clan, but it generally the same: honor, friendship, courage, and strength is appreciated above all. At a young age, men (and in some clans, women) are taught how to fight efficiently, regardless if they plan on becoming warriors. Because of this, many Norsemen are excellent soldiers, even those who aren't soldiers (a Norse farmer is almost as skilled as a trained Crusader soldier).

However, due to many disagreements and the short tempers of Norsemen, the nation is a never-ending state of civil war. Many Crusader nations don't trust them due to them being a "breeding ground" for criminals, leading to an enhanced state of war by (small) local Crusader nations.

As implied, the nation is "free" as it does not have a centralized government that rules the nation.

## Weapons

The Scandinavian Freelands is home to multiple different weapons. Due to the varying culture and brutality of the Norse, not all things considered a "weapon" can be listed. But general types of weaponry can.

**Axes:** The most iconic weapon of the Norse, axes are usually small, heavy, and carved with multiple runes. In some clans, tradition makes it so soldiers must carve the names of battle the axe has been in to honor the weapon. For those who are strong and brave enough to wield them, two-handed axes are also common. Additionally, miniature ones meant for throwing are also common.

**Swords:** Unlike Crusader swords, Norse swords are usually made entirely out of metal, including the handle and grip. This results in a heavier but slightly more unwieldy weapon. They are more rare than some other weapons due to requiring more iron (and sometimes tungsten) than other weapons.

**Spears:** A long pole weapon with a pointed, metal end. It is considered a very effective weapon as it allows Norsemen to attack their opponent(s) from a longer range than most other weapons. While effective, though, it is usually reserved for hunting big game rather than fighting other men.

**Hammers:** The hammer is both a great tool for building and breaking, as well as exercise. In honor of one of their gods, they are usually rectangular in shape and carved with runes and pictures revolving around storms and lightning.

**Knives:** A smaller version of the sword, these are usually held as backup weapons when in a pinch, as well as quick, silent takedowns, either by sneaking behind or throwing into foes.

**Shields:** While not a "weapon," large shields and bucklers are important for combat, as it protects the user from blows from both melee weapons and projectiles alike. They're also great for sledding down icy hills, which can actually be used strategically, depending on the circumstance.

**Bows:** A ranged weapon that uses arrows, the bow is considered one of the greatest weapons of all time by Norsemen. In some clans, it is required by law to learn to use and properly maintain a bow and craft arrows. It is widely available, and used as a weapon of war, a tool of hunting, and a toy for celebrations and tournaments.