I am hoping to do a Viking themed playthrough, and wondering which factions are the best at raiding?

Also, do any of the norse factions have access to two handed axe units?

Is there any way to retreat from a battle? In particular I use FOG: Medieval, and there are often two rounds of combat. One battle where my full force fights the enemy, and if I lose, a second battle is started with the remnants of my army which retreated during the first battle. Is there any way, e...