There are fewer laws in the world of Grimnir than in many other adventure settings. In general, might makes right. Still, some boundaries have been established. All out bloodshed between clans is minimized, both by the völv and by the jarls, especially in troubling times. In general, a killing, outside of warfare, for no valid reason, can be tried by the jarl of either the victim or the aggressor. Often the killer is forced to pay coin or land to the victim’s family.
When disagreement or conflict occurs between jarls, the völv step in to prevent a war. These interventions often wait until the Gathering, but jarls have been known to sail with their clans to the Well of Wisdom so that judgment might be pronounced more swiftly. For less urgent issues, the clans keep an accounting of transgressions that they then tally during the Gathering at Drifthall, in long meetings with the other jarls, all adjudicated by the völv.
Oaths#
Oaths may be sworn for a variety of reasons. Though most are only judged by other mortals, some catch the ears of the gods and become ever more binding. However, for both mortal and immortal, the bending of words, the outwitting of a rival through a cleverly worded oath, is respected … and anticipated.
Oath of Duty#
In cases of severe judgment, a raider might be forced to agree to an Oath of Duty to their victim, or the victim’s family. Such an oath might also be taken voluntarily, either to repay a debt or to express appreciation. At the naming of the oath, both parties agree to the length of time for which the oath holds.
Oath of Fellowship#
In times of trouble even rival clans must come together. When needed, a group swears fellowship to one another and promises to defend each other, share glory and spoils, and to never act against the others. At least while the terms of the fellowship are valid.
Oath of Retribution#
When wronged, a raider’s wrath knows no limits. A raider may declare a Bloodvow against an enemy that has insulted or injured them. This is a ritual, but one undertaken by the wronged raider, alone. Often the ritual involves a long rest in the deep woods and an offering of their blood or flesh to Grimnir.
