Bolvirki (ˈbɔlvɪrkɪ)

"What outsiders never understand about the Bolvirki is that they aren't allowed to do what they are required to do. They must be punished, despite their actions being necessary."

— Sigurd Haraldsson

The Eyjamaður believe that sometimes, the only way forward is an evil one. Promises must be broken, lies told, crimes committed, and good people must die, all that the community at large may survive and prosper. This belief has led to the strange role of the Bolvirki in their society. This is a person whose duty it is to recognize those moments when an evil act is required and to commit it, despite the consequences.

Famous Bolvirki

The best known of the Bolvirki is the Vættir god Hveðrungr, who was the Bolvirkr to the other gods of Eyju. Hveðrungr's tales speak of how he stole fire for the humans, but also how he murdered several of the other Vættir for reasons that he never disclosed. Hveðrungr was eventually banished into the underworld for his crimes, and forced to serve the shades of those he had slain until the end of time. However, he still sometimes leaves his prison to carry out some plot or scheme in the living world, generally without the true purpose being clear until long afterwards.

Career

Qualifications

A Baleworker must be clever and perceptive, and also able to do whatever is necessary. All other skills are learned as needed - when one Bolvirkr saw that their peaceful king would not be able to wage a needful war, she spent months mastering the art of poisons, so that another more warlike king could step forward.

Career Progression

Few Bolvirki have long careers, although some do manage it. A wise king will often appoint their own Bolvirkr to advise and criticize them, much like other kingdoms will use jesters. Those Bolvirki who can shape the future with words rather than actions tend to last longer in the role.

Payment & Reimbursement

A Bolvirkr's reward is punishment for their actions. While their deeds are seen as needful by the community, they cannot be allowed to go unpunished, nor are the punishments lightened for the Bolvirki. Many Bolvirkr will suffer for their work, with punishments ranging from public humiliations and forced labor to maiming, torture, and execution. In many cases, banishment is the kindest reward they may hope for. If they are officially employed as a Bolvirkr by a ruler, they will receive their room and board, but many Bolvirki also have another profession they use to support themselves.

Other Benefits

There are no tangible benefits, although many claim that they are satisfied with the consequences of their actions.

Perception

Social Status

This can vary greatly depending on the Bolvirki. Some choose to live on the edges of society as hermits or outcasts. Others will place themselves at the heart of society, in the hall of a king or chief. There are those who do not reveal themselves as Bolvirki until the moment is right for them to act, so that they can maximise the impact of their choices. In general, acknowledged Bolvirki are given a grudging respect for those who understand their place in society, as those who are willing to suffer for the well-being of everyone else.

Alternative Names

Baleworker

Legality

Many of the actions a Bolvirki may take are illegal, and carry harsh punishments. One of the duties of the Bolvirkr is to accept those punishments, so that justice can be meted out. Those Bolvirki who choose to avoid the consequences of their deeds are reviled by all, and are typically slain when they are caught.

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