Ulfen

The Ulfen (pronounced OOL-fen) are a human ethnicity once feared along Avistan's coastlines for the fierce and merciless raiding they conducted in their longboats. They are sometimes referred to as Vikings, though this may more specifically be applied to Ulfen fighters and warriors. The days of raiding have passed, but the Ulfen are still renowned for their height, blonde hair, and their prowess as warriors. Ulfen bodyguards are highly desired throughout the courts of the Inner Sea region.

Appearance

The Ulfen normally boast physiques larger than the average human with men standing no less than six feet on average, and women just a few inches shorter. They have pale skin and their hair is usually either blonde, straw brown, or red, and is often worn in a braid by both men and women, although women's braids tend to be more elaborate. Men also frequently wear beards.

Naming Traditions

Feminine names

Common female names include Gunda, Hege, Ingrit, and Signe

Masculine names

Common male names are Dines, Ostog, Svalk, and Tallak.

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

common, skald

Common Dress code

Ulfen clothing is tailored for their cold environment, with fur being a commonly used material. They decorate their clothes with jewellery shaped like a braid made out of horn, ivory, bronze or silver. Necklaces are also often worn made of narwhal horn, mammoth ivory, or amber.

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

Ulfen culture puts a high value on appearance despite the Ulfen reputation for savagery. They carefully braid their hair, or else have long, flowing locks, and dress themselves in the best furs they can afford (generally ermine, mink, or fox).

Gender Ideals

The role an Ulfen is expected to fill depends on his or her gender, though the majority of Ulfen are farmers, trappers, fishermen, or labourers. Male Ulfen are most likely to become rangers or priests of deities like Torag, Erastil, or Gorum. Druids of Desna are also common. Women are often priestesses of Desna or Torag. A small amount of women also become Wind Sisters, Ulfen maidens who have tamed an aerial mount and use it to fly from isolated settlement to isolated settlement. They also form the first line of defense against aerial threats.