Suebi

The Suebi, or “our people”, are not a single tribe, but a collection of many smaller groupings that share a language, gods, and an abiding interest in raiding their Gallic neighbours across the Rhine. This interest in warfare is important, as it is through warfare that warriors earn fame and notoriety. While kings and chiefs are often members of elite or “noble” families, their positions are elected; success in war is a good way of attaining and keeping power within the tribes.

This need for glory and to be seen doing mighty deeds might also explain the most distinctive feature of a Suebi’s appearance: his hair. To distinguish themselves from their slaves, Suebi freemen and warriors sported a topknot that added to their height and fearsome appearance. For kings, chiefs and champions, this “Suebian knot” was even more elaborate than usual. That way, the doer of great deeds would be clearly visible on the battlefield.

And in battle the Suebi are not easy opponents. Their infantry and raiding tactics are deadly and the framea, a type of javelin, is deadly in their hands.

Although happy to be isolated until now, the Suebi could unite in a single purpose: conquest. Gaul, Britannia and Iberia could easily be snuffed out by a determined Suebi warlord. It just needs faith in the gods, and the will to take up the spear and shield…