When I started out doing what would become Dragon Heresy, I went looking for some experience in sword and shield fighting. I’d already decided on a viking-style bent, since they were sort of the OG D&D party. I found a school here in the Twin Cities, and fell in with remarkable people.

Arthur is a very good guy, and has traveled the world, often with his partner in scholarship Roland Warzecha, examining historical artifacts of the Viking age and recreating the fighting styles as the equipment suggests. He founded a school, Asfolk, and has taught classes there for several years.

Personally, as a former instructor there, I’d like to see the school thrive. It’s a distinct alternative to the traditional Asian martial arts (not throwing shade there: I was a happy practitioner of a Korean style for more than 15 years), and the environment is very collaborative. “Let’s try this, and see if it works” rather than “here’s a curriculum, follow it.”

I’ve been able to draw a lot of inspiration in rules, game-writing, culture, and material construction from my time there. I got into shield-making because of it, as well as crafting training weapons.

As are many small businesses that depend on public gatherings, Asfolk is struggling during the Covid-induced quarantine. So the school needs help.

If you can find it within yourself to make a donation to help them out, I know I’d appreciate it, and so would the instructors and students at the school. If not, I understand that too.

Save Asfolk Viking School