Sikvar

Residents of the Brumal Path, the Sikvar are a collection of tall, fair-haired and pale warrior people that deny the civilization of other human races. They have at times even worked alongside the Or’Kati, respecting their anger and desire for conquest though finding their short-sightedness a pathetic defect of their inferior race.

Origins
Sikvar claim descent from the Frost Giants of the Frozen North, thought his claim seems more a denial of reality than anything based in truth. While there are Bruman half-giants, the Sikvar are largely similar to other humans save they tend to have blonde hair, blue eyes, and long somewhat severe features. Red hair and green eyes do appear within their populace, but these are considered outcasts and often shunned for their lack of conformity. Small bands of exiles form along borders, often shunned for small genetic distinctions.

Organization
Like the frost giants, the Sikvar utilize a system of jarldom to determine their leader. They are not an overly numerous people, so generally there is only one jarl at a time. That being said, they do define their society along very specific roles, often dealing with one’s ability in battle. More civilized than the Or’Kati in domestic affairs, they still are far more brutal than other humans and for this reason, some do believe they may be descended from frost giants.

A man wounded that cannot continue onward is rarely spared the blade. Cannibalism has also been heard of during particularly harsh winters, though they have no specific word for it as it is merely an act of survival.

Their leader is chosen from a general melee, though they must be possessed of blonde hair to be entered into it. If a leader’s bloodline is found to be contaminated in any way, he is assassinated for bringing shame upon his bloodline. Their purity test is the most exacting of any in existence, and skalds will carefully determine the viability of a candidate.

Their current leader is Jarl Varjn.

Military
The Sikvar, though not overly numerous, are extremely talented in warfare. Having adapted tactics from centuries of combat, they have knowledge of extensive shield walls, archery, and general melee combat. They are not particularly skilled sailors but have mastered shore piracy and will drag slaves back to their capital to serve their needs.

Religion
They worship Vojna, who they claim was a daughter of their people.

Historical Significance
Sikvar, much like goblins, seem to enable Or’kati more than encourage them into action. They are very close-lipped about what they have seen in the north and actually diminish genetic diversity by killing off those they see as tainted.