The adventurers and explorers into The Duchy.

The Duchy has the capacity to be an every day medieval setting, in which a group of odd friends go adventuring. Dungeoneering, murder, fairy kingdoms etc. But, the way I think I will attack it will be from an outside perspective. Who would come to the Duchy? In history, the baltic lands were largely encased by thick forest and swamps that acted as a natural defense. It's rivers were also not navigable to any meaningful trade opportunities. Most of the vikings went around. But, when they first arrived, they weren't to know that. The lands were a curiosity. What kinds of people and places sat behind the shore lines.

So historically, there were many explorers. The Golden Horde came in from the south east. Some of them stayed around and became body guards of the high duke. The Teutonic knights came in from the north to spread the good word and... loot. The vikings came from the west, but also baltic vikings went west and then came back. The Prussians and other baltic tribes came in from the south and then of course there were internal criminals and outcasts who spent some time away or in hiding before returning to explore and build a life elsewhere.

So, we shall look at

Horse lords, that have been split from their tribe and come to the land with many hopes and dreams.

Monotheist knights come to spread the word and enslave.

Sailors who come to trade, settle, raid.

And outside tribes who come to take land, wealth and power. From the north, the west and the south.

Criminals. The original beginnings of the duchy were released criminals with tattoos given a chance to regain their lives.

Over the next week I will explore each. This is a work in progress

Horse Lords

Appearance

Appearance Trait	Description
1. Long hair	Braided with 1) beads or 2) feathers or 3) bones or 4) skin.
2. Facial tattoos	1) Symbols 2) Animals 3) Stars 4) Scripture
3. Weathered skin	Tanned and rough from years of riding under the sun.
4. Vibrant clothing	Made from animal hides, adorned with intricate patterns.
5. Facial Scar	1) Self inflicted 2) Battle inflicted 3) Eye 4) Nose
6. Pierced ears	1) Metal 2) Bone 3) Chains 4) facial
7. Heavy leather boots	Sturdy and practical for long journeys. Stolen, Made, Gifted.
8. Ornate headdress	1) Horse hair 2)bone 3) wooden 4)feathers
9. Tall and muscular build	Reflecting strength and endurance from riding.
10. Unique eye color	A rare hue, believed to signify special lineage.
11. Calloused hands	Evidence of a life spent training and caring for horses.
12. Body Tattoos	Representing their spirit animals or victories in battle.

Table 2: Background

Background Element	Description
1. Exiled from their tribe	Due to a disagreement/command with/of tribal leaders.
2. Lost family in battle	Seeking revenge.
3. Scout for a new land	Searching for fertile grounds to settle.
4. Trader of rare goods	Will establish trade routes and relationships.
5. Healer or shaman	Using traditional medicine/crafts to help others.
6. Former warrior	Once a respected fighter, now seeking redemption.
7. Cultural ambassador	Aiming to spread knowledge of their culture.
8. Runaway slave	Escaped from a life of servitude or captivity.
9. Diplomat	Trying to forge alliances with local tribes.
10. Historian	Documenting the stories and traditions of their people.
11. Artist	Creating art that reflects their journey and heritage.
12. Protector of sacred sites	On a quest to safeguard important cultural locations.

Table 3: Goals

Goal	Description
1. Reclaim lost honor	Restoration
2. Find a new home	Settling
3. Unite fractured tribes	Alliances
4. Discover ancient secrets	To know secrets
5. Train a new generation	Teaching traditions.
6. Establish trade routes	Increase wealth and influence.
7. Protect the innocent	Defending the oppressed.
8. Create a legendary steed	Seeking to breed or find a mythical horse.
9. Uncover family history	Searching
10. Personal mastery	Become the best.
11. Spread their culture	Promoting their way of life.
12. Build a legacy	Ensuring their story and that of their people is remembered.

Monotheistic knights.

Table 1: Appearance

Appearance Trait	Description	Symbolism
1. Silver plated armor	Shining and adorned with intricate engravings.	Represents purity and divine protection.
2. Cloak with a cross	A heavy cloak emblazoned with a prominent cross.	Signifies faith and commitment to the crusade.
3. Heraldic crest on shield	Unique emblem depicting a lion or eagle.	Symbol of bravery and noble lineage.
4. Tall, imposing stature	Towering and muscular, exuding authority.	Represents strength and valor in battle.
5. Flowing, long hair	Often tied back or adorned with a headband.	Signifies nobility and a warrior spirit.
6. Scars from previous battles	Marks of honor and experience.	Each scar tells a story of survival and bravery.
7. Simple yet elegant tunic	Underneath armor, made of fine linen.	Represents humility despite status.
8. Leather gauntlets	Sturdy and worn from years of use.	Symbol of protection and readiness for combat.
9. Decorative sword belt	Embellished with gold or silver accents.	Indicates rank and prestige among fellow knights.
10. Elaborate boots	High, sturdy, and often embellished with symbols.	Represents readiness for travel and combat.
11. Unique facial tattoos	Religious symbols or personal tributes.	Signifies devotion and personal history.
12. Brightly colored surcoat	Over armor, displaying the knight's heraldry.	Represents allegiance and identity in battle.

Table 2: Background

Background Element	Description	Motivation
1. Noble lineage	Born into a family of warriors or clergy.	A desire to uphold family honor and legacy.
2. Religious zealot	Driven by faith to spread their beliefs.	Seeking to convert others to their monotheistic faith.
3. Survivor of a raid	Witnessed the devastation brought by pagan forces.	Seeking revenge and justice for their fallen kin.
4. Former mercenary	Experienced in combat, now seeking a holy cause.	Desire for purpose beyond mere profit.
5. Scholar of theology	Studied religious texts, aiming to enlighten others.	Aspiring to guide others to spiritual salvation.
6. Diplomat or envoy	Tasked with negotiating alliances with local powers.	Seeking peace through understanding and cooperation.
7. Guardian of sacred relics	Sworn to protect important religious artifacts.	Driven by a sense of duty to preserve faith.
8. Artisan or craftsman	Skilled in creating weapons or armor.	Aiming to contribute to the knightly cause through craftsmanship.
9. Squire turned knight	Rose through the ranks from humble beginnings.	Seeking recognition and respect in their order.
10. Healer or herbalist	Knowledge of medicine to aid wounded comrades.	Driven by compassion and duty to save lives.
11. Former peasant	Elevated to knighthood through valor.	Seeking a better life and opportunity for family.
12. Protector of the weak	Sworn to defend the oppressed against tyranny.	Motivated by a strong sense of justice and equity.

Table 3: Goals

Goal	Description	Ultimate Desire
1. Establish a stronghold	Aiming to create a fortified base in the region.	Desire for stability and protection for their order.
2. Convert local populace	Seeking to spread their faith among the natives.	Aspiring to create a united religious community.
3. Seek ancient knowledge	Searching for lost texts or artifacts.	Desire to deepen their understanding of faith.
4. Defend against invaders	Protecting against rival factions or raiders.	Ensuring the safety of their order and allies.
5. Unite fractured factions	Aiming to bring together divided groups for a common cause.	Aspiring to create a powerful alliance.
6. Achieve personal glory	Seeking to become a legendary knight through deeds.	Desire for fame and recognition among peers.
7. Train the next generation	Mentoring squires and young knights.	Ensuring the future strength of their order.
8. Recover lost lands	Aiming to reclaim territories taken by pagan tribes.	Desire to restore their rightful domain.
9. Build a lasting legacy	Leaving behind a name remembered in history.	Aspiring for their achievements to inspire future generations.
10. Forge alliances	Establishing pacts with other knights and nobles.	Desire for mutual protection and support.
11. Promote chivalry	Upholding the ideals of knighthood and honor.	Aiming to instill values of justice and mercy in the region.
12. Protect sacred sites	Ensuring the safety of important religious locations.	Desire to preserve the faith and its symbols.

Sailors

Table 1: Appearance

Appearance Trait	Description	Symbolism
1. Braided hair	Often adorned with beads or leather bands.	Signifies strength and heritage.
2. Weathered skin	Tanned and rough from years at sea.	Represents resilience and a life of adventure.
3. Heavy cloak	Made of wool, often with a hood for protection.	Symbolizes status and practicality.
4. Scarred hands	Calloused from handling ropes and weapons.	Marks of a seasoned sailor and fighter.
5. Tribal tattoos	Designs representing personal achievements or beliefs.	Signifies identity and connection to the past.
6. Pierced earlobes	Adorned with simple metal or bone jewelry.	Represents cultural heritage and individuality.
7. Imposing build	Tall and muscular, built for strength.	Symbolizes a warrior's prowess and endurance.
8. Brightly colored tunic	Worn under armor, often dyed with natural pigments.	Represents vitality and connection to the earth.
9. Leather sandals	Sturdy and practical for long voyages.	Indicates readiness for travel and adventure.
10. Elaborate arm cuffs	Made of metal or leather, often engraved.	Represents status and achievements in battle.
11. Tattoos of sea creatures	Representing sailors' connection to the ocean.	Symbolizes guidance and protection on the sea.
12. Facial markings	Unique designs or scars from battles or rituals.	Signifies personal history and experiences.
13. Heavy belt with tools	Equipped with knives, fishing hooks, and other tools.	Represents readiness for survival and trade.
14. Unique eye color	A rare hue, often seen as a sign of special lineage.	Symbolizes destiny or favor from the gods.
15. Furs or pelts	Used for warmth and status, often worn as cloaks.	Represents a connection to nature and hunting.
16. Simple yet functional armor	Leather or chainmail, practical for sea battles.	Represents preparedness for conflict.
17. Ankle tattoos	Often depicting waves or nautical symbols.	Symbolizes a life spent at sea and a love for water.
18. Heavy metal jewelry	Rings or bracelets that signify achievements.	Represents wealth and social standing.
19. Weather-beaten face	Lines and wrinkles from years at sea.	Symbolizes wisdom and experience.
20. Colorful sailcloth cape	Made from old sails, displaying vibrant colors.	Represents a connection to the sea and adventure.

Table 2: Background

Background Element	Description	Motivation
1. Born into a seafaring family	Raised on the coast, learning the ways of the ocean.	Desire to continue the family legacy.
2. Survivor of a raid	Experienced the thrill and danger of raiding.	Seeking more excitement and riches.
3. Former trader	Skilled in commerce, seeking new markets to explore.	Desire for wealth and new opportunities.
4. Exiled from home	Driven out due to conflict or crime.	Seeking a new place to belong.
5. Shipbuilder	Knowledgeable in crafting ships for voyages.	Aspiring to improve maritime technology.
6. Navigator	Skilled in reading the stars and sea currents.	Seeking to chart new territories.
7. Fisherman	Experienced in catching fish for sustenance.	Seeking to provide for their crew or family.
8. Warrior	Trained in combat, skilled with various weapons.	Seeking honor through battle and conquest.
9. Explorer	Driven by curiosity to discover new lands.	Desire to map uncharted territories.
10. Healer	Knowledgeable in herbal remedies and medicine.	Aiming to care for their comrades.
11. Cultural ambassador	Seeking to establish trade and alliances with locals.	Aspiring to promote peace and understanding.
12. Historian	Interested in chronicling the stories of their people.	Desire to preserve their heritage.
13. Slave or indentured servant	Seeking freedom and a new life.	Motivated by the desire for independence.
14. Pilgrim	On a spiritual journey to sacred sites.	Seeking enlightenment or favor from the gods.
15. Bounty hunter	Skilled in tracking and capturing prey.	Seeking fortune and notoriety.
16. Artisan	Crafting goods for trade, skilled in various crafts.	Aspiring to gain respect and wealth.
17. Protector of the land	Sworn to defend their home against invaders.	Motivated by a sense of duty and justice.
18. Scout	Skilled in stealth and reconnaissance.	Seeking information and advantages for their crew.
19. Daring adventurer	Thrill-seeking individual eager for new experiences.	Motivated by the pursuit of fame and fortune.
20. Keeper of lore	Guardian of stories and traditions of their people.	Seeking to pass on knowledge to future generations.

Table 3: Goals

Goal	Description	Ultimate Desire
1. Raid wealthy settlements	Looking to acquire riches and resources.	Desire for wealth and power.
2. Establish a trade route	Aiming to create connections with local traders.	Aspiring to ensure a steady flow of goods.
3. Settle in new lands	Seeking a place to build a new home.	Desire for stability and community.
4. Discover hidden treasures	Searching for lost artifacts or riches.	Motivated by greed and adventure.
5. Forge alliances	Establishing pacts with local tribes or factions.	Seeking mutual protection and cooperation.
6. Train a new generation	Mentoring young sailors and warriors.	Desire to ensure the survival of their culture.
7. Explore uncharted waters	Charting new territories and discovering new lands.	Seeking fame and recognition for their discoveries.
8. Defend against invaders	Protecting their new home from hostile forces.	Motivated by a sense of justice and duty.
9. Master the sea	Aiming to become the best sailor or navigator.	Desire for personal achievement and respect.
10. Recover lost kin	Searching for family members taken by raiders.	Driven by love and loyalty.
11. Spread their culture	Promoting their traditions and beliefs in new lands.	Aspiring to create a lasting legacy.
12. Seek revenge	Targeting those who wronged them or their kin.	Motivated by anger and the desire for justice.
13. Build a legendary ship	Aiming to create an unparalleled vessel for voyages.	Desire for recognition and success.
14. Protect sacred sites	Ensuring the safety of important cultural locations.	Driven by respect for their heritage.
15. Create a lasting legacy	Leaving behind a name remembered in history.	Aspiring for their achievements to inspire others.
16. Discover ancient knowledge	Searching for forgotten lore and wisdom.	Desire to deepen understanding of their heritage.
17. Become a leader	Aspiring to rise to a position of authority within their community.	Desire for influence and respect.
18. Uncover family history	Seeking to learn about their ancestry and roots.	Motivated by curiosity and connection to the past.
19. Seek adventure	Craving new experiences and challenges.	Driven by a desire for excitement and novelty.
20. Build a fleet	Aiming to gather ships and crew for larger expeditions.	Desire for power and dominance on the seas.

Other Balts and Prussians

Table 1: Appearance

Appearance Trait	Description	Symbolism
1. Ornate headdresses	Made from feathers, wood, or metal, often colorful.	Represents status and tribal identity.
2. Weathered skin	Tanned and rough from exposure to the elements.	Symbolizes resilience and a life of hardship.
3. Decorative tattoos	Intricate designs symbolizing personal or tribal history.	Signifies bravery and achievements.
4. Long, braided hair	Often adorned with beads or natural elements.	Represents cultural heritage and beauty.
5. Traditional garments	Made from natural fibers, often dyed with local plants.	Symbolizes connection to the land and culture.
6. Tribal markings	Facial or body paint used in rituals or warfare.	Represents readiness for battle or ceremonies.
7. Scarred body	Marks from battles or traditional coming-of-age rites.	Signifies strength and survival.
8. Leather accessories	Bracelets, belts, or pouches made from animal hide.	Represents practicality and resourcefulness.
9. Unique eye color	A rare hue that signifies special lineage or status.	Symbolizes a connection to the spiritual world.
10. Heavy boots	Sturdy footwear for traveling and combat.	Represents readiness for long journeys.
11. Animal pelts	Worn as cloaks or capes, showcasing hunting prowess.	Symbolizes skill and a connection to nature.
12. Beaded jewelry	Necklaces or earrings made from local materials.	Represents artistry and tribal identity.
13. Simple yet functional armor	Made from leather or woven materials.	Represents practicality and readiness for battle.
14. Brightly colored sashes	Worn around the waist or shoulders, unique to each tribe.	Symbolizes tribal affiliation and pride.
15. Heavy necklaces	Made from metal or stone, often ceremonial.	Represents power and status within the tribe.
16. Tattoos of animals	Representing spirit animals or personal victories.	Symbolizes connection to the natural world.
17. Facial scars	Marks from battles or tribal rituals.	Represents experience and resilience.
18. Natural plant adornments	Flowers or leaves woven into hair or clothing.	Symbolizes connection to nature and fertility.
19. Colorful war paint	Applied before battle to intimidate foes.	Represents preparation for combat and courage.
20. Unique footwear	Often decorated with tribal symbols or colors.	Represents individuality and tribal pride.

Table 2: Background

Background Element	Description	Motivation
1. Born into a warrior clan	Raised with an emphasis on combat and honor.	Desire to uphold family legacy and traditions.
2. Survivor of a raid	Experienced the brutality of conflict firsthand.	Seeking revenge or justice for lost kin.
3. Skilled hunter	Experienced in tracking and hunting local wildlife.	Aiming to provide for the tribe.
4. Shaman or spiritual leader	Knowledgeable in rituals and connection to the spirit world.	Seeking to guide the tribe spiritually.
5. Farmer or gatherer	Skilled in agriculture or foraging for food.	Aiming to ensure the tribe's survival.
6. Trader	Experienced in bartering goods with neighboring tribes.	Seeking wealth and resources.
7. Scout	Skilled in stealth and reconnaissance.	Aiming to gather information about enemies.
8. Storyteller	Keeper of tribal lore and history.	Seeking to preserve culture and memory.
9. Craftsman	Skilled in creating tools or weapons from local materials.	Aiming to contribute to the tribe's needs.
10. Exiled	Driven from their tribe due to conflict or crime.	Seeking a new place to belong.
11. Diplomat	Tasked with negotiating alliances with other tribes.	Seeking peace and cooperation.
12. Healer	Knowledgeable in herbal medicine and traditional healing.	Aiming to care for the sick and wounded.
13. Young initiate	Recently undergone rites of passage into adulthood.	Seeking to prove themselves to the tribe.
14. Guardian of sacred sites	Sworn to protect important cultural or religious locations.	Motivated by respect for their heritage.
15. Adventurer	Eager to explore new lands and discover new resources.	Driven by curiosity and the desire for wealth.
16. Bounty hunter	Skilled in tracking and capturing those who wronged the tribe.	Seeking justice and fortune.
17. Protector of the weak	Sworn to defend the vulnerable against oppressors.	Motivated by a strong sense of justice.
18. Cultural ambassador	Aiming to spread knowledge and understanding between tribes.	Seeking peace through cultural exchange.
19. Keeper of traditions	Focused on maintaining rituals and customs.	Aiming to preserve their tribal identity.
20. Environmental steward	Advocating for sustainable practices and respect for nature.	Motivated by love for the land and its resources.

Table 3: Goals

Goal	Description	Ultimate Desire
1. Raid neighboring tribes	Looking to acquire resources and wealth.	Desire for power and sustenance.
2. Establish trade routes	Aiming to create connections with other tribes.	Seeking economic stability and prosperity.
3. Settle in fertile lands	Seeking a place to build a new home.	Desire for stability and community.
4. Defend against invaders	Protecting their territory from external threats.	Motivated by loyalty to their tribe.
5. Recover lost artifacts	Searching for cultural or historical items.	Desire to reclaim their heritage.
6. Unite fractured tribes	Aiming to bring together divided factions.	Seeking strength in numbers and solidarity.
7. Train the next generation	Mentoring young tribesmen and women.	Aspiring to ensure the survival of their culture.
8. Explore new lands	Driven by curiosity to discover uncharted territories.	Desire for adventure and knowledge.
9. Master traditional skills	Aiming to become the best in hunting, crafting, or combat.	Desire for personal achievement and respect.
10. Forge alliances	Establishing pacts with other tribes for mutual protection.	Seeking peace and cooperation.
11. Spread their culture	Promoting their traditions and beliefs to others.	Aspiring to create a lasting legacy.
12. Seek revenge	Targeting those who have wronged their tribe.	Motivated by anger and the desire for justice.
13. Build a strong community	Aiming to create a supportive and thriving village.	Desire for stability and security.
14. Recover family members	Searching for relatives lost in conflicts.	Driven by love and loyalty.
15. Protect sacred sites	Ensuring the safety of important cultural locations.	Motivated by respect for their heritage.
16. Discover ancient knowledge	Seeking forgotten lore and wisdom.	Desire to deepen understanding of their history.
17. Become a tribal leader	Aspiring to rise to a position of authority.	Desire for influence and respect within the tribe.
18. Create a lasting legacy	Leaving behind a name remembered in tribal history.	Aspiring for their achievements to inspire others.
19. Seek adventure	Craving new experiences and challenges.	Driven by a desire for excitement and novelty.
20. Foster community spirit	Encouraging cooperation and unity among tribespeople.	Motivated by the desire for harmony and peace.