Nervii

A Celto-Germanic people, the Nervii are the fiercest and most fearless of the Belgae tribes inhabiting northern Gaul. Bravery is at the heart of their culture, which is Spartan-like in both outlook and reputation. The Nervii eschew all luxury, especially alcohol, which they perceive makes the body and spirit weak. Instead, they pursue the traditions of their Celtic and Germanic origins, venerating the cult of the hero-warrior. Their kings and chieftains are chosen for their martial prowess and wise leadership.

With such great emphasis placed on an individual’s skill and bravery in battle, the Nervii rarely use cavalry and missile weapons. Instead they favour ambushes and lightning assaults to close quickly with their enemy and prove their mettle.

At the start of their campaign, the Nervii have cordial ties to neighbouring tribes such as the Atrebates and Viromandui in place, as well as the wider Belgae tribal network stretching as far as Britannnia. As such, they are in an excellent position to strengthen these bonds while moving deeper into Gaul. In fact, their fearsome reputation and skill in battle makes Nervii expansion further to the east or south highly likely.