IN THE BLOOD MAIN CHARACTER BACKGROUNDS

HERVOR, Warrior (Berserker)   

Combat: She hides an eagerness to fight, but fears neither death nor the bloodlust in her heart.  

Notes: Hervor is the daughter of Angantyr and Tofa. Tofa is the daughter of Jarl Bjarmar. Angantyr was a great warrior, but he was killed in a duel against the Swedish hero, Hjalmar.

Hervor lives with her grandfather in his hall at Bjarfrost. There she rebels against the role of bondmaid. Instead, she occupies her private time learning to ride, shoot, and wield a sword. She also devises an alter-ego: dressed as a man, and calling herself Hervard, she takes to stalking the road in search of trouble.

Hervor

THURL, Sailor

Combat: Unless someone threatens his ship, Thurl leaves the fighting to those better suited. 

Notes: In his decades as a sailor, Thurl has weathered many storms. He once survived an horrific shipboard accident which left him with a mangled left hand. He was back at the board the following season. He is known for his exceptional navigation skills and his ability to read the sea like no other. Thurl’s expertise makes him an invaluable asset during voyages and raids. His calm demeanor and steady hand inspire confidence in those who sail with him.  

Thurl

SKALDI, Bard

Combat: Skaldi prefers the rear flank where he can work magic and shout advice.

Notes: Skaldi is the poet of Loch’Othen, known for his lyrical prowess and deep connection to the ancient Norse traditions. His verses often capture the essence of the land and the fierce spirit of the Danes. Skaldi’s poetry is not just a form of art but a means of preserving history and inspiring his fellow villagers. He is often called upon to recite tales of heroism and the gods during gatherings and ceremonies. 

Skaldi

VALA, Witch (Volva)

Combat: She prefers not to fight.

Notes: Vala is a bondmaid apprenticed to the old seer Augnes. They both speak with the dead. Augnes has been grooming Vala to take her place, ever since she saw that her own end is near. Vala’s connection to the spiritual realm sets her apart, making her both revered and feared. At the same time, she stands ready to serve the community in times of uncertainty.  

Vala

EIR, Herbalist

Combat: Eir will only fight if she must defend herself.

Notes: Eir is the healer of Tyrsung. She has a place in the Vale of Tyrsung where she has a small supply of potions. These she will restock if purchased. She is known for her extensive knowledge of herbs and healing practices, often sought after for her medical expertise. Eir’s gentle demeanor and compassionate nature make her a beloved figure in the community. Her skills are not limited to physical healing; she also provides emotional support and guidance to those in need. 

Eir

OLUF, Hunter

Combat: Oluf likes to bring his skills as a hunter into a fight.

Notes: Oluf is fond of regaling the ladies with tales of his fighting prowess, and then pointing out that he’s really, “a lover not a fighter.” But his greatest love is hunting. Oluf has his eye on the title of Master Hunter. He calls his spear ‘Little Gungnir’ after Odin’s spear. 

Oluf

HROLGAR, Warrior

Combat: He is eager to prove himself in battle.

Notes: Hrolgar is Hervor’s younger half-brother on her mother’s side.  He is a spirited and adventurous young man, always eager to prove himself. Despite his youth, Hrolgar possesses a keen intellect and a natural talent for strategy, making him a valuable ally. His relationship with Hervor is marked by both sibling rivalry and deep familial loyalty. 

Hrolgar

SNORRI, Warrior (Viking)

Combat: Snorri sees combat as an art. He often sings when fighting.

Notes: Snorri is a follower of Odin and a member of the brotherhood. He is a skilled warrior and a devout believer in the Norse gods. Snorri’s loyalty to Odin and his combat abilities makes him a formidable ally. He is often seen as a protector of the faith, ready to defend the sacred sites and the people who worship there. His dedication to duty and his strength in combat are the defining traits of his character. 

Snorri

WODE, Priest

Combat: Wode prefers to leave the fighting to younger men.

 Notes: Wode is a priest of Odin, dedicated to the service of the Allfather. He is a figure of authority and wisdom within the Sons of Odin, guiding the faithful and performing sacred rituals. His unwavering faith and deep knowledge of the ancient ways make him a respected leader. His role is crucial in maintaining the spiritual well-being of the community and ensuring that traditions are upheld.

Wode

HROLF THE MAD, Prophet

Combat: Hrolf is not afraid to fight, he’s just not well trained.

 Notes: Hrolf is the half-dwarf son of Frigr, a seeress. He would have been a great seer too if not for the curse that killed his mother while she was still pregnant with him. This curse affected Hrolf’s mind, causing him to become addled. Despite his madness, Hrolf possesses moments of clarity where he can offer prophetic insights. His character is a tragic blend of potential and misfortune, making him unique and unpredictable. If cured of his curse, he can add 1 point to INT & SPI. 

Hrolf

BRAGI, Warrior

Combat: He will fight at the slightest provocation. He sees his weapons as an extension of himself.

Notes: Bragi is a follower of Odin and serves as a guard to Jargn. He is a loyal and skilled warrior, dedicated to the service of the Allfather. Bragi’s journey begins with a mission to follow and recruit Hervor, whom he initially mistakes for a man. His dedication to his duty is unwavering, and he is often seen as a figure of strength and reliability. Bragi’s character is defined by his loyalty, his combat prowess, and his commitment to the ancient ways of the Norse. 

Bragi

FRODE, Mage

Combat: Frode enjoys a good fair fight.

Notes: Frode is the twelfth of thirteen sons. His father is the old sorcerer Njal of Firthialfi. Njal is famous for being the great grandson of a giant. Frode is the last son living at home since the recent disappearance of his younger brother Olsuf.

Frode