Thuels

Thuels are the Argos basin barbarians, olive-skinned, heavy set and deeply tanned as a consequence of their long exposure to the sun. They tend towards dark hair and features, but lighter variants are not unknown.

Exact Thuel numbers are difficult to assess, but it is clear that the tribes are dwindling compared to the fast-breeding Skorn. A unified barbarian horde would be a potent force but has yet to be achieved in recorded history.

By and large, the clans are ruled by warrior chieftains, whose titles are inherited by blood or won through contests of strength. Thuels are highly superstitious and true magic universally feared. Mundane shamans and druids may or may not be shunned, varying from tribe to tribe, with some taking up useful roles as medicinal healers or spirit guides. Thuels have no written language, instead recording their history by way of song, story, and dance. The keepers of these oral histories, the skalds, enjoy special status.

The largest Thuel societies are found in the Great Plains and Argos Plateau, spread across the east and west of the Midlands, competing with the Skorn plague.

All demonstrate unmatched survival and wilderness skills.

Barbarian garb varies between factions and climates, but tattoos and skin painting are considered high art, and scars indicative of courage and virility. Maximizing such visual cues often means sparse clothing, especially in the warmer territories.

The valley and hill tribes rear the finest horses in the region and enjoy a fierce rivalry between their greatest riders. Spiritually speaking, clan beliefs tend towards elemental animism or totemic animal guides. In contrast to the beastmen however, lycanthropy is reviled.

When the Thuel go to war, they utilize light armor, short bow cavalry, axes, and reckless ferocity. Their high mobility and mastery of the terrain makes them experts in guerrilla warfare.