Fruztii - Frost Barbarians
Fierce survivors of hardship and conquest, the Frost Barbarians of Rhizia have risen from subjugation to near sovereignty, forging alliances and reclaiming their strength through cunning and war.
History
The Frost Barbarians (Fruztii) have long been the weakest of the three Suel nations inhabiting the Thillonrian Peninsula, known as Rhizia to its people. Their fortunes fell drastically after suffering devastating losses at the Battle of Shamblefield in 109 CY, when they clashed with the Great Kingdom in the Bone March. For the past twenty years, they have been vassals of the Schnai (Snow Barbarians) , ruled by a supposed figurehead king, Hundgred.
However, King Hundgred has proven far from a mere puppet. Through strategic rebuilding and diplomatic maneuvering, he has restored his people's strength. While still nominally under Schnai rule, the Frost Barbarians now function as an independent kingdom in all but name. Recently, they have forged a powerful alliance with Ratik, launching successful military campaigns against the Bone March and driving Stonehold forces from key mountain passes.
Politics and Society
The Frost Barbarians have solidified their sovereignty through a pact with Ratik, sealed with a consecrated parchment kept in the baronial vaults. While historically seen as reckless and warlike, the Fruztii are increasingly recognized as shrewd warriors and cunning leaders. Their king allows the jarls significant autonomy, maintaining unity through shared raids, military campaigns, and a strong warrior culture.
Religion
The Fruztii worship the Suel deities, with Vatun revered as their chief god. As the God of Winter, War, and Kingship, he embodies the harsh realities and warrior spirit of the Frost Barbarians.
Military
The Frost Barbarians field a force of battle-hardened warriors, primarily infantry armed with axes, bows, swords, and spears. Cavalry, though rare, are equipped with spears and scything axes—modified battleaxes with extended reach. Their longships enable them to launch swift coastal raids, though their disciplined royal forces also conduct coordinated military campaigns against enemy strongholds.
While ordinary warriors are brave but undisciplined, the king's soldiers are well-trained, well-equipped, and organized, distinguishing them from the more chaotic raiding parties.
Notable Locales
One of the most significant sites in Rhizia is Krakenheim, home to the largest graveyard on the peninsula. This vast burial ground contains countless grave mounds and ship burials, serving as the final resting place for kings, jarls, and common folk alike. Legends persist that some of these graves may be hidden portals to the Feywild, a rare and mysterious connection between that realm and Oerth.
Economy and Way of Life
The Frost Barbarians sustain themselves through hunting, fishing, whaling, and raiding. Their shipbuilding expertise is legendary, allowing them to plunder the southern coasts each spring, bringing back wealth and glory. While these raids were once viewed as mere nuisances, the growing strength and organization of the Fruztii have made them a rising power that can no longer be ignored.
Proper Name: North Kingdom of the Fruztii
Ruler: King Hundgred of the Fruztii (human)
Government: Hereditary feudal monarchy
Major Settlements: Krakenheim; Djekul
Resources: Foodstuffs (plus fish), furs, silver, gold, iron, timber, shipbuilding supplies
Population: Human, Dwarf, Halfling
Law: CN
Allies: Ratik, dwarf and gnome clans in Griff and Corusk Mountains
Enemies: Empire of Iuz, Stonehold, North Kingdom, Bone March, Sea Barons, Cruski (sometimes), Schnai (sometimes)
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