As BOrsuk had his idea about 3 years ago, I think I'm clear of infringement
I certainly think that additional thoughts on mod should be mostly here - or I risk to not get them... But as for your quote - I certainly understood Kristoffer as meaning the same Vans - especially as I know that historically Normans founded a Russian ruling dynasty..
Also, as Vanarus is named as predescessor, I may almost safely use Ivan Grozny's age as a model. It would also be more in tune with other late-age factions, many of which are modelled on the same 16th century. If I have time enough, I may try to make also a sectant/Cossack-based faction. These will probably get a lot of stealthy troops... %)
Any other thoughts?