This is meant as a reference guide for both pronunciation and the many unique Vi'nlandisk terms used in this saga. It also includes a character list in case you forget who someone was. I'll be updating this with new terms and characters as they come up in the story.

Pronunciation Guide

Character IPA Rough pronunciation ' : An apostrophe usually means the preceding letter is held longer than normal, exceptions below þ θ 'th' as in 'thing' ð ð 'th' as in 'this' a ɑ 'o' as in 'mock' a' a: Something between the 'o' in 'block' and the 'a' in 'fan' r ɾ A rolled 'r', much as it's pronounced in Spanish n' ɹn 'rn' as in 'barn' i ɪ 'i' as in 'bin' i' i: 'ee' as in 'keen' j j 'y' as in 'yes' æ æ 'a' as in 'can' o o 'oa' as in 'boat' y y 'ee' as in 'been', but with the lips rounded ø ø 'e' as in 'bet', but with the lips rounded ǫ ɒ 'o' as in 'bot', but with the lips rounded ɨ ɹ 'r' as in 'ran' eh ə A sort of short, half-hearted moan, like the second 'a' in 'Canada' q kʷ 'qu' as in quest sc ʃ 'sh' as in shot zc ʒ 'g' as in beige tc t͡ʃ 'ch' as in choose dg d͡ʒ 'dg' as in bridge

Glossary

Age of wisdom (aldartals spekþa)

Years 45-75 of an orc-man's or orc-woman's life, considered to be the prime of life both physically and mentally. Since half-orcs develop slower than full-blooded humans, the mid-forties is the age when they become fully mature mentally. Still full of youthful vigour but tempered by experience, it's considered to be the time for a half-orc to fulfill his or her purpose in life.

Al'þing (All-Assembly)

The Al'þing is the national parliament, supreme court, and yearly festival of Iceland all rolled into one. Like Vi'nland, Iceland traditionally had no king or any executive branch of government to speak of. Instead, they had a well-defined legal code enforced by community pressure and blood feuds.

Bjarknfæ'gr (Bark-Artist)

He'lgi Gi'sls'on earned this nickname by carving a message and a picture in a tree in a Holtmaðr summer camp that had been abandoned for the winter.

Dale (dælt)

A type of grassy valley typically centred on a river.

Ðreðr

The best compliment an orc-man can give someone. It describes a person who is honest and upright, fair in all their dealings, who only picks fights with equals and never with the weak. An honourable and masculine man or orc-man. Usually used of males, but it can be used of females as well. The closest equivalent in modern English would be badass.

England (England)

England is said to be an island, or part of an island, in the western part of Miðgarþt. According to legend, it's inhabited by pale men who speak like Norwegians do, but who adopted Christianity much earlier. Sometimes dominated by Norway or Denmark, parts of England seem to have been colonised by orc-men.

Fjord (fjǫrþt)

A type of long, skinny bay or inlet, typically featuring a high coastline or cliffs.

Fjǫ'rðritir, or Fjö'rðritir (The Fjords)

A part of Vi'nland passed over by the first wave of settlers, Fjǫ'rðritir is defined by its erratic coastline, many fjords, and treacherous waters broken by innumerable islands. The lands immediately adjacent to the water are rocky and largely unsuitable for farming, although there are thick forests and verdant river valleys a bit further inland.

Greenland (Grø'nland)

An island mostly covered in glaciers located northeast of Vi'nland and inhabited by orcs. The Dyrmaðar hadn't been enountered yet at the time of this saga.

Franks (Frankir) and Frankland

Franks appear very rarely in a few of the earliest sagas. From the little that can be gleaned, they seem to have been from a country in Miðgarþt. Franks are known to have been devout Christians whose priests aided in the conversion of Norway. Latin is thought by some to have originated with them, but Christian Vi'nlandiskar maintain a tradition of Latin originating with a separate people called the Romanir, who once ruled all of Miðgarþt. Another school of thought contends that Franks and Romanir were one and the same.

Gi'sls'tað (Gi'sli's Place)

When Si'gvejg and her family built themselves a new home near Tcise'gawþing, she decided to name it after her late husband. It was a homestead like any other, and would have consisted of a longhouse and a number of out-buildings—barns, sheds, and such—surrounded by a fence. In the early days, however, it would have been little more than a small log-framed shack.

Gormǫ'nþ (Gore-month, or Slaughter-month)

Gormǫ'nþ is the first month of winter on the pagan Vi'nlandisk calendar. It runs roughly from late October to late November. The name is indeed a macabre one, as it is during this month that farmers cull their herds and preserve the meat for use over the coming year.

Harpa

Harpa is the first month of summer on the pagan Vi'nlandisk calendar. It runs roughly from late April to late May.

Hjænda'ta

A term for 'village' used mostly in the Ve'strlandisk dialect of Vi'nlandisk Ajmun. It came into Sagamo Þo'rvalðr as the name of the village the titular character grew up in, but it couldn't possibly have been the original name of the village. The word itself came into Vi'nlandisk fairly late the language's development, as it comes originally from the Hwendat language, spoken by men living along the Great River.

Holtmaðar (Hillmen)

The Holtmaðar are a group of humans who originally inhabited the whole eastern coast of Vi'nland all the way down to the shores of the Mikil'hjandwaw, and deep into the interior. They are a traditionally a nomadic people who followed a seasonal migration pattern. Summers are spent fishing at the sea shore or on the edge of one of the innumerable lakes in their homeland. In the winter, they go inland and hunt caribou. They are noted for their hospitality, and rarely engage in warfare except in self-defence.

The arrival of the Vi'nlandiskar did not immediately disrupt this pattern, but it has had a profound long-term affect. Over time, many Holtmaðar adopted aspects of Vi'nlandisk culture and ways of life, and intermarriage is still common to this day. Nowadays, most Vi'nlandiskar have Holtmaðr blood in them, especially those north of Vi'nsær.

Huskatðr (plural: huskatnar), feminine form: huskona(r)

A paid, live-in servant. Huskatnar and huskonar do whatever their employer requires them to do. They usually do housework or farm work, and take care of any sort of repairs or other heavy labour that needs doing. They also support their employer in any feuds he may get involved in. Those who can afford it often hire huskatnar specifically as household guards or professional soldiers.

Iceland (I'sland)

An island far to the northeast of Vi'nland and inhabited by orcs. Erroneously thought by some to be the original homeland of the orcs. Iceland continued to have very limited contact with Vi'nland, such that many in later generations would not believe it ever existed, but those on the east coast would trade with them occasionally.

I'ngr, ᛝ

The runic equivalent of "ng". I'ngr is another name for the god Frøyr, who's generally associated with fertility and thus with wealth. The rune itself represents abundance.

Ka'nehda

Ka'nehda is the name of the whole continent of which Vi'nland is a part. The word itself comes from the Holtmaðr word "Ka'nehdaw", which means "hunter".

Kawn, ᚴ

The runic equivalent of "k". Kawn represents ill-health.

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Miðgarþt (Middle-Enclosure)

A land far, far to the east, beyond Iceland, a land believed by many to exist only in mythology. Said to be home to a race of pale men, as well as orc-men and shapshifters.

Norway (No'rvekt)

The western edge of Miðgarþt, inhabited by orc-men. It's said to have been the homeland of the first settlers of Vi'nland, and is also postulated as the first place orcs and men began to intermingle.

Orc-man (orkamaðr), or orc-woman (orkakona), also called half-orcs (hǫ'lvorkar)

Orc-men are, as the name suggests, the descendants of both orcs and men. The precise mixture depends on the individual, as the term covers the whole spectrum from those with only a pinch of orc blood, to those with only a speck of human. They're often a full head taller than men, and build and retain muscles much easier. Their skin ranges from light brown, to pale green, to dark green, their ears are pointed. Most have an underbite, and often have fangs on the lower jaw that peek above the lip when closed.

In later generations, orc blood would wane, especially in the west, to the extent that many could barely be called orc-men at all. But in the days of Þo'rvalðr, most orc-men were around a half-and-half mix.

Røykjarvi'k (Smokey Bay)

Røykjarvi'k, or Røykjarvi'ka is a bay in Iceland near which the Al'þing is convened. In Þo'rvalðr's day, there were no towns or cities in Iceland, but eventually Røykjarvi'ka would grow into the only real city on the island.

Runes

Runes are both the primary alphabet of Vi'nlandisk Ajmun and a means of enchantment. It was He'lgi Bjarknfæ'gr who created the first runic alphabet tailor-made for use in Vi'nlandisk. Since he studied runes in both Sweden and England, Bjarknfæ'gr's alphabet contained symbols from multiple runic alphabets.

The Latin alphabet can be used for writing Vi'nlandisk as well, but is almost exclusively used in the Fjords, and mostly only by Christians, so it's often called the Christian alphabet. No one has ever used the Christian alphabet for enchantments, and while Latin inscriptions can be used for this purpose, there are very few people able to do that.

Sagamo Þo'rvalðr (Reading the Saga of Þo'rvalðr: or, more literally, Watch Sagafication Þo'rvalðr)

This saga tells the story of Þo'rvalðr Gi'sls'on and his brother He'lgi as they and others established the first settlement in Vi'nland. It discusses the building of the first homesteads, the establishment of relations with the Holtmaðar, the workings of the earliest þing, the beginnings of Vi'nlandisk Ajmun, and the first feud in Vi'nland.

Sa'mi (plural: Sa'mir) (also called Finns, or Fin'ir)

Sa'mir are full-blooded humans with the natural capability to transform themselves into a wolf. Sa'mir in Vi'nland are very few in number, but continue to exist to this day. They're said to be descended from men who lived next to the orc-men back in Miðgarþt, and are known for keeping reindeer. A Sa'mi's most notable feature is his pale skin compared to other men of Vi'nland, even with a tan.

As with other humans, Sa'mir have an odd biological quirk: most pregnancies result in the birth of a single child.

Steel-weave tunic (stǫ'lveva kyrtil't)

An specially crafted tunic with magic weaved into its threads to make it invulnerable to steel—and, by extension, any material related to steel, such as iron or bone. Only a highly skilled vǫlva can make one.

Tcise'gawþing (Cliff-Assembly)

The first half-orc settlement in Vi'nland was originally called Bjargan Þing (Boulder Assembly, but "bjarg" can mean "cliff" as well). At some point, probably as the Danish tongue started morphing into Vi'nlandisk Ajmun, "bjarg" was replaced by the more precise "tcise'gaw", which refers to a cliff specifically. Tcise'gawþing's status as a cultural icon and major court-city as well as a trade hub ensured it would grow become the most important city on the east coast of Vi'nland, but it would eventually be eclipsed by some of the cities to the south around Vi'nsær.

Tvi'mǫ'nþ (Two-Month)

Tvi'mǫ'nþ is the 5th month of summer on the pagan Vi'nlandisk calendar. It runs roughly from late August to late September.

Ve'strland, or Ve'stland

The westernmost region of Vi'nland, centred on the Mikil'jhahndwaw (Great-River). It was yet to be explored by orc-men at the time of Sagamo Þo'rvalðr.

Vi'nland (Wine-Land)

Vi'nland was originally the name given by Lejvr the Lucky to Rawðøyta (The Red Isle). However, it was quickly applied more generally and came to refer to all the lands in Ka'nehda settled by half-orcs.

Vi'nlandisk (Vinlandic, or Vinlandish)

Of or having to do with Vi'nland.

Vi'nlandisk Ajmun (Vinlandic Speech)

A term encompassing the many dialects of the language that resulted from the intermingling of orc-men and Holtmaðar.

Vǫlva (plural: vǫlvar)

Vǫlvar are orc-women, and sometimes women, skilled in the sejðra school of magic. Typically worshippers of the goddess Frøyja (Freyja) and most closely associated with prophecy. Vǫlvar can and often do branch into other forms of magic, most commonly weaving enchantments, as sejðra is closely associated with the concept of weaving. Other common forms of magic are those of potion-making and healing.

Wigwam (wiqak)

A type of primitive, but effective dwelling used by cutlures all over northeastern Ka'nehda. A wigwam is a circular structure made of sticks, often built over a shallow pit. The frame is then covered in sheets of birch bark or animal skins, usually caribou or moose. The frame is wider than it is tall, and the tip is left uncovered to allow smoke to escape.

Wunjo, ᛈ

The runic equivalent of "w". It represents joy, happiness, and good times.

Characters

Gi'skynir (Gi'sli's kin)

Gi'sli Þo'rvalðs'on: A wealthy landowner who functioned as the leader of Hjænda'ta. He was married to Si'gvejg, and fathered Þo'rvalðr, So'lbjǫrta and Kolþerna, Ro'n'og and He'lgi, and Þo'rdi's and Erma.

Si'gvejg Halþo'rsdot'ir: Twin of Þo'rgerðr, she was a vǫlva skilled in healing and prophecy. Wife of Gi'sli Þo'rvalðs'on and mother of Þo'rvalðr, So'lbjǫrta and Kolþerna, Ro'n'og and He'lgi, and Þo'rdi's and Erma.

Þo'rvalðr Gi'sls'on: Eldest child of Gi'sli and Si'gvejg, Þo'rvalðr was coming the age of wisdom at the beginning of the saga. Known to be fiercely loyal to his family and friends, and skilled in both the sword and bow.

So'lbjǫrta Gi'slsdot'ir: Known to study magic under her mother, together with her twin Kolþerna.

Kolþerna Gi'slsdot'ir: Known to study magic under her mother, together with her twin So'lbjǫrta.

Ro'n'og Gi'slsdot'ir: Twin of He'lgi. Known to have been married with a family of her own, who lived in a homestead near Hjænda'ta.

He'lgi Gi'sls'on: A very bright orc-man with a promising aptitude for magic, He'lgi went abroad years before the saga began to study runes in Sweden and England. He returned a true runemaster, with probably more knowledge of runic enchantments than any other single individual then living. Although intelligent beyond his years, his young age shows in the occasional immature prank.

Þo'rði's Gi'slsdot'ir: Barely a teenager at the beginning of the saga, Þo'rði's and her twin are the youngest children of Gi'sli and Si'gvejg. Known to have a fountain of infinite energy deep down inside that constantly overflowed the confines of her person.

Erma Gi'slsdot'ir: Younger twin of Þo'rði's. Less energetic, but only in the most relativistic terms possible. Known to shadow Þo'rði's and fight as often as play with her, but always in good fun.

Other Vi'nlandiskar

Bjǫrnar Ejri'ks'on: Bjǫrnar is a full-blooded orc from Greenland, and a devotee of Frøyr. Never one to back down from a fight or an insult, he's known for being proud, ornery, and quick to anger.

Agvalðr Bjǫrnas'on: Son of Bjǫrnar and elder twin of Halþo'r. Known to be very responsible with property, but also austere and boring.

Halþo'r Bjǫrnas'on: Son of Bjǫrnar and younger twin of Agvalðr. Known to be irresponsible and a copious drinker.

Hro'ðolvr I'vars'on: A viking from Jo'rvi'k in England with a hot temper and an inability to back down from a fight. Father of Þo'rir.

Si'gstelðr: An obscure farmer from the area around Tcise'gawþing, Si'gstelðr is known as an ally of Bjǫrnar Ejri'ks'on who was killed by the bear while out hunting.

Þo'rir Hro'ðolfs'on: A young orc-man who has yet to find his way in the world. He has a strong sense of justice and a commitment to his duty to carry it out. Son of Hro'ðolvr.

Holtmaðar (Hillmen)

Ma'sci'dgew: A young man from the band led by Wa'bu'n. He's an excellent hunter and has a strong protective instinct for his band. Known to be a relative of Na'nɨmyswa't, but their relationship is unclear.

Mɨnu'tjew: An extroverted young woman full of energy and looking forward with her whole life ahead of her. Daughter of U'scna'bew and Scu'myna'mo.

Na'nɨmyswa't: A young man and prominent member of U'scna'bew's band. Known for being laid-back and cool-headed with a teasing sense of humour.

Scu'myna'mo: Wife of U'scna'bew and respected elder of the band.

U'scna'bew: A respected elder and recognised leader of his band, U'scna'bew cares deeply about the well-being of his people. Although he's in his fifties, his health has yet to seriously decline and he's still able to hunt caribou with the younger men. He's married to Scu'myna'mo and has several grown-up daughters, one of whom is named Mɨnu'tjew.

Wa'bu'n: An elderly woman, powerful shaman, and leader of her band. Known for her cool temperment and for using the diplomatic approach rather than resorting to violence if at all possible.

Ulvritir (The Wolves)

Akeho'ksaw “Ulvrin'”: The He-Wolf was a reindeer herder who settled next to an area of Norwegian habitation. Unlike most of his people, Ulvrin' settled permanently in one place, specifically to sell his specialty reindeer sausages. Known for his casual attitude and dry humour.

Jo'fava “Ylgrin'”: The She-Wolf was married to Ulvrin'. Known to be resolute in her sense of justice and fiercely protective of her children, but also emotionally sensitive.

Gjorbu Ulvs'on: Son of Ulvrin' and Ylgrin'. At the start of the saga, he was at an age when young Sa'mir typically begin to experiment with shapeshifting on their own. During this time, most find it difficult if not impossible to refrain from spending long periods of time exploring their abilities.

Gi'ðesa Ulvsdot'ir: Daughter of Ulfrin' and Ylgrin'. Known to have been sick and nearly died of consumption before being nursed back to health by Si'gvejg.

Miðgarþiskar (Midgarders)

Chief Haralðr: A chief in northern Norway, whose seat of power was not far from Hjænda'ta. Known to be a strict adherant and enforcer of King O'lǫ'vr's policies.

King O'lǫ'vr Tryg'ves'on: King of Norway at the beginning of the saga. Known to be a devout Christian determined to convert Norway and all its inhabitants by any and all means necessary. Þo'rgerðr Halþo'rsdot'ir was executed under his orders.

Þo'rgerðr Halþo'rsdot'ir: Twin of Si'gvejg. Known to have been a powerful vǫlva, so skilled in enchantment that she made a steel-weave tunic for her brother-in-law Gi'sli. She was executed for unlawful practice of magic under King O'lǫ'vr's orders at some point before the beginning of the saga.