TABLE OF CONTENTS
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GENERAL INFORMATION
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GOVERNMENT
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SOCIAL HIERARCHY
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IMPERIAL STATES
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MILITARY
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IMPERIAL ARMY
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THE INFANTRY
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MILITIA
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The Imperial Coat of Arms
The Holy Imperial Gottesreich
A Sergeant in the Imperial Army
A Landsknecht from Soderlingen
The Holy Imperial Gottesreich in relation to other nations.
A great and powerful empire positioned in the heart of Renavia, The Cradle of Kingdoms, a picturesque expanse of lush meadows and vast farmland dotted with ancient forests and tranquil rivers. Quaint villages with timbered houses lay nestled among fertile valleys, offering glimpses of whitewashed castles perched atop distant hills. The Holy Imperial Gottesreich is a realm of law, justice and absolute dominion, spreading its black feathered wings throughout central Highdonia in a struggle to bring peace, order and prosperity to all of humanity. It seeks to maintain and enforce Imperial Law, eliminate the enslavement of humans, eradicate the Undead Plague, and purge the use of Black Magic, among other ambitions.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Official Name: The Holy Imperial Gottesreich
Other Names: The Gottesreich, The Empire
Demonyms: Gottsreichers, Imperials, Reichers, Reichsmen, Gottishmen, Goths
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Key Words: Any object, place or thing with the word "Imperial" in its description
or title typically means it comes from the Gottesreich. Example: Imperial Cuirass.
Motto: Absolutum Dominium - Absolute Dominion
Official Colours: Yellow and Black
Official Sigils: Any variation of black eagle with wings displayed.
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Emperor: His Imperial Majesty Otto IV, by the grace of GOD, Emperor of the Holy Imperial Gottesreich, forever August, King of Ponce, King of Avenholm, King of Osterland, King of Soderlingen, King of Lidesbach, King of Savobourg, King of Ludland, King of Ostravia, King of Hanepasse, King of Luntz, King of Bressk, King of Stauffer, King of Martz, King of Volkhof, Duke of Lauenflein, of Küstenheim, of Zilverdijk, of Edelhafen, of Goudenfeld, of Molenheim, of Flussberg, of Burchtofen, of Edelwieler, of Clarowitz, Count of Oberrunkland, of Niederrunkland, of Müren, of Adelbrücke, of Lusden, of Bokenhof, of Clemenrücken, of Ludenbrugge, of Grunthal-les-Bains, of Prucksdorf, and Glücksburg-und-Sigishold, in the glory of GODs name, LORD of all mankind.
Common Languages:
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High Diutisc and Low Diutisc (Primary)
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Common Highdonian (English)
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Old Imperial (Official Documents and Religious Texts)
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A dialect of Beauçais (in Ponce)
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Savodiutisc (in Savobourg)
Common Religions:
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The Church of the Holy Precept (primary)
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The Church of the Divine Diurnity (Savobourg, with a few churches in Avenholm and Soderlingen)
Common Races:
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Overwhelmingly Human, some Dwarves and very few Half-Elves.
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Mosquitans and Blemmyae, but they are often killed on sight.
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Population:
General Population: 19-20 million
Rural to Urban Ratio: 1:10
Civilian to Soldier Ratio: 1:167
Knight to Soldier Ratio: 1:5
Martial Knight to Soldier Ratio: 1:10-1:20
Soldiers and Mercenaries: Around 116,765
Lesser Knights: 25,931
Greater Knights: 894
Barons: 602
Counts/Earls: 67
Archdukes/Dukes/Princes: 6
Castles and Fortresses: 22,941
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Currency: Imperial Silver Gilschen (g)
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*Imperial Marks and Imperial Pfunds have no physical coinage, they are simply a unit of account.​
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Capital City: Adelbrücke
Largest City: The Free Imperial City of Müren
Noteworthy Cities:
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Bokenhof, Ducal Seat of Lauenflein
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Clemenrücken, Ducal Seat of Avenholm
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Ludenbrügge, Ducal Seat of Osterland
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Grunthal-les-Bains, Ducal Seat of Ponce
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Prucksdorf, Seat of the Grand County of Savobourg
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Glücksburg und Sigishold, Ducal Seat of Soderlingen
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The Free Imperial City of Müren
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The Free Imperial City of Lusden
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The Free Imperial City of Clarowitz
Noteworthy Landmarks:
Rivers
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The Flein
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The Runk
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The River Stines
Calendar: Imperial Calendar (I.C.) Current Year, 1522
The calendar starts at year 0 with the foundation of the “Kingdom of God'' or “Gottesreich.” This occurred about a hundred years after the collapse of the Iron Empire.
States:
IMPERIAL DUCHIES:
An Imperial Duchy is the largest regional classification in the Empire. It is ruled by a Duke
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Lauenflein
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Avenholm
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Osterland
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Ponce
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Lidesbach
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Savobourg
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Soderlingen
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Ludland (formerly)
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IMPERIAL COUNTIES:
An Imperial County is an autonomous county which is vassal only to the Emperor. It is ruled by a Count or Margrave.
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Ostravia
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Hanepasse
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Luntz
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Bressk
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Stauffer
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Martz
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Volkhof
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COUNTIES:
There are 67 counties in the Empire. Not all of these are named yet so GMs can create their own if they wish. They are ruled by a Count or Margrave.
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Oberrunkland (Upper Runkland)
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Niederrunkland (Lower Runkland)
FREE IMPERIAL CITIES:
A Free Imperial City is an autonomous city which is vassal only to the Emperor. They can be ruled by any level of nobility.
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Müren
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Adelbrücke
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Lusden
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Clarowitz
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Goals: in order of importance
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Maintain the enforcement of Imperial Law
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Maintain peace within its borders
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Eradicate the Undead Plague within its borders and beyond
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Purge “Black Magic” (Occult, Soul and Arcane)
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Kill or drive out “wretched” beings from within its borders (Mosquitans, Blemmyae, etc)
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Eliminate the Slavery of Humans
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Eliminate the Arcane within its borders
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Eliminate Dragon Cultism​
Name
Nickname
Abbreviation
Value
Pfennig
Penning, Penny
d (or pf)
1
Imperial Gilschen
N/A
g
5d
Groschen
N/A
N/A
4d
Gilschnur
Gillie, Gilly
g
10d
*Imperial Mark
Mark
m
120d or 24g
*Imperial Pfund
N/A
p
240d, 48g, or 2m
GOVERNMENT
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ELECTOR DUKES
The Emperor is elected by the “Elector Dukes,” who are the highest authority of each Imperial State. They trace their lineage back to before the founding of the Empire and are the heads of the most powerful noble houses in the realm. Each of their titles may have a different name, such as Duke, Archduke, Prince, etc, but they are all of equal rank to one another. Elector Dukes have a highly decorated ceremonial mace as a symbol of office. When Elector Dukes wear armour they are identified by a Ducal Crown on their helmets and a crest which looks like their ceremonial mace or the heraldry of their Duchy. Ludland has retained this tradition even after separating from the Empire.
CURRENT ELECTOR DUKES:
Lauenflein: Duke Willem van der Flein (Emperor, regnal name: Otto IV)
Avenholm: Duke Tybalt III Eichenstein
Osterland: Duke Heinrich Altstadt
Lidesbach: Duke ???
Ponce: Prince Adelard de Côteval
Savobourg: High Count Roland von Grusch
Soderlingen: Archduke Klaus von Gruber
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HIERARCHY OF IMPERIAL SOCIETY
NOBILITY:
Emperor/Empress: Lord and Sovereign of the Holy Imperial Gottesreich. Addressed as His/Her/Your Holy Imperial Majesty and thereafter as Sire/Madame.
Chancellor: This title is held by the Emperor’s deputy, or second-in-command. It is a role only filled by an Elector-Duke and is addressed as His/Her/Your Holy Grace and thereafter as Sire/Madame.
Duke/Archduke/Elector Prince/High Count: Lord, Sovereign and Elector Duke of one of the 6 Imperial Duchies. This is the highest rank of nobility after the Emperor and is addressed as His/Her/Your Grace and thereafter as Sire/Madame.
Prince/Princess: The heirs of the Emperor or of an Elector Duke. Addressed as His/Her/Your Imperial Highness and thereafter as Sire/Madame.
Margrave: The Marcher Lord of a March or Mark, the border land between the Empire and another Country. Addressed as His/Her/Your Grace and thereafter as Sire/Madame.
Count/Countess: The Lord of one of 67 Counties within the Empire, addressed as His/Her/Your Excellency and thereafter as my Lord/Lady or His/Her/Your Lordship/Ladyship.
Baron/Baroness: The Lord of one of 602 Baronies found within the Empire, addressed as His/Her/Your Excellency and thereafter as my Lord/Lady or His/Her/Your Lordship/Ladyship.
Burgrave: The ruler of a Castle, Fortress or Fortified City. Addressed as my Lord/Lady or His/Her/Your Lordship/Ladyship and thereafter as Ser.
Landed Knight: The Knighted Lord of one of 894 Fiefdoms or other plot of land within the Empire, addressed as my Lord/Lady or His/Her/Your Lordship/Ladyship and thereafter as Ser.
Lesser Knight: A member of gentry nobility who has been Knighted but does not own land, addressed as Sir.
Stadtholder: Sometimes the chief executive officer of an Imperial Free City or City-State appointed by the Emperor to represent his interests in the city.
Patrician: Sometimes the chief executive officer of an Imperial Free City or City-State with a more republican form of government composed of wealthy or influential families, or minor nobility, known as Patricians.
CLERGY:
Pontiff: On paper, the Pontiff is of higher rank than the Emperor himself, but in practice is about equal. Addressed as His/Your Holiness.
Cardinal: Higher social rank than a Count and is referred to as His/Your Eminence.
Bishop: Higher social rank than a Baron and is referred to as His/Your Excellency. Sometimes Bishops act as the chief executive officer of a City-State or Imperial Free City.
Inquisitor: A high ranking member of the Order of Salt, entitled His/Her/Your Excellency.
Abbot/Abbess: The leader of an Abbey and is referred to as The Right Reverend and thereafter as Father or Mother [name].
Priest: Higher social rank than Freeman/Commoner and is referred to as Father.
Friar: Same social rank as Freeman/Commoner and is referred to as Brother.
Nun: Same social rank as Freeman/Commoner and is referred to as Sister.
IMPERIAL ARMY:
Feldobrist: An Obrist but in command of more than one infantry regiment with cavalry and artillery in addition.
Generalobrist: An Obrist but in command of more than one infantry regiment.
Obrist: The Colonel of a regiment of up to 1000 men. This position is often a Margrave/Count, Baron, or rarely a Landed Knight.
Leutnant-Obrist: The Lieutenant-Colonel of the Regiment who takes command in the Colonels absence. Often a Count, Baron or Landed Knight.
Feldcaptain: The commander of more than one Company. Often a Baron, Landed Knight or rarely a Lesser Knight.
Captain: The commander of a Fähnlein, also known as a Company, consisting of around 250 men. This role is almost exclusively filled by Landed Knights or Lesser Knights. There are 4 Fähnlein in a Regiment, and subsequently usually 4 Captains under an Obrist. Captains are identified by a scarlet silk sash worn diagonally across the chest from right to left. Most of the time this sash will bear a ceremonial besagew of various shapes, painted with the regiments colours and heraldry. Addtionally, most captains will wear a penant atop their helmet.
Rottmeister: The elected commander of a Rotten, also known as a Platoon, consisting of 60-65 men. There are 4 Platoons in a Company and subsequently 4 Rottmeisters under a Captain.
Sergeant: The commander of a Trupp, also known as Troop, consisting of around 15-20 men. There are 4 Troops in a Company and subsequently 4 Sergeants under a Rottmeister. Sergeants are identified by a maroon wool sash worn diagonally across the chest from right to left.
Trooper: The individual soldier within a Trupp, a troop of 15-20 men. Troopers are assigned a role when they join the Imperial Army, based on past experience. These roles include but are not limited to: Pikeman, Halberdier, Arquebusier, Crossbowman, Gunner (Artillery), Engineer, Sapper, Light Cavalry, and others.
CITIZENRY:
Burgermeister: The chief executive officer of a large town or city, known as Mister or Herr.
Burgher: A middle-class citizen, found overwhelmingly in larger towns and cities. Titled Mister or Herr.
Militiaman: The most common type of soldier in the Empire, making up one of 77,465 non-Imperial Army soldiers in the realm. These men guard urban centers and their surrounding rural areas, performing mostly policing duties.
Freeman or Commoner: Most people are Here.
A KNIGHT OF LAUENFLEIN
Armour styles vary within the Empire. Knights of Lauenflein prefer to cover their armour by wearing a waffenrock overtop. The oculars of their sallets are often barred rather than slits as well.
A KNIGHT OF AVENHOLM
Armour styles vary within the Empire. Knights of Avenholm prefer to cover their armour by wearing a tabard overtop. Avenholm borders the northern region of Albany in the Kingdom of Chauncey, leading to a lot of bleed-over in material culture. For this reason, Avenholm knights often borrow styles from Chauncey.
A KNIGHT OF OSTERLAND
Armour styles vary within the Empire. Osterland borders the Kingdom of Ludland, a former duchy of the Empire. For this reason, the armour styles of Osterland tend to combine the Kastenbrust style of Ludland with the Maximilian style of the Gottesreich. Osterland sallets are often seen with rondels on the hinge pivots and sometimes with barred oculars like Lauenflein to the north.
A KNIGHT OF PONCE
Armour styles vary within the Empire. Ponce borders the southern region of Beaugencie in the Kingdom of Chauncey. For this reason, Knights of Ponce are known as the most skilled heavy cavalry in the Empire, and they know it. Their smug attitude is backed up with their typically heavier armour.
A KNIGHT OF SODERLINGEN
Armour styles vary within the Empire. The Imperial Duchy of Soderlingen is known for having invented and popularized the "puff-and-slash" style of clothing most commonly associated with the Landsknecht Mercenaries predominantly from this duchy. For this reason, Knights of Soderlingen tend to be just as garish in appearance.
A KNIGHT OF SAVOBOURG
Armour styles vary within the Empire. Knights of Savobourg have their own style of armour which differs from the average Gottsreich Knight. They were recently invaded by the Empire and refuse to adapt the imperial "blackened" armour style, instead preferring heavily decorated and gilded "Gothic" style.
IMPERIAL STATES
The Empire is divided into 6 major regions, each held by an Elector Duke. These regions are large, about the size of a small Kingdom.
THE IMPERIAL DUCHY OF LAUENFLEIN
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Culture: German-Dutch
The landscape of Lauenflein stretches out in vast, flat expanses, crisscrossed by winding rivers, canals, and marshes. Iconic windmills punctuate the horizon, serving as both drainage systems and grain mills. The economy thrives on agriculture, with dairy farming and trade playing pivotal roles, facilitated by an extensive network of waterways. Picturesque towns and cities adorn the scenery, boasting charming canal houses and bustling markets that epitomize the enduring prosperity and beauty of the Duchy.
This but medieval
Elector Duke: Archduke Willem van der Flein
Capital City: Bokenhof
Counties: Küstenheim, Zilverdijk, Edelhafen, Goudenfeld,
Molenheim, Flussberg, Burchtofen, Edelweiler
Major Cities: The Free City of Clarowitz
Major Exports: Minted Coinage, Dairy Products, Rapeseed
Notable Locations: The Flein River, The “Morgensumpf” Marshlands,
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THE IMPERIAL DUCHY OF AVENHOLM
Culture: Primarily German with English borderlands
Located to the North West, the Duchy of Avenholm is the smallest of the six major states and shares a border with the Kingdom of Chauncey, owing to its more anglicized culture and style. Dense forests cloak much of the landscape, their towering trees casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. Forestry is a cornerstone of the economy, with skilled woodworkers crafting intricate furniture, tools, and structures from the abundant timber.
Elector Duke: Duke Tybalt III Eichenstein
Capital City: Clemenrücken
Counties: Waldenhurst, Steinfurt,
Major Cities: Waldorf
Major Exports: Iron, Hardwood, Timber, Charcoal, Wool
Notable Locations: Hanapasse Hill
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THE IMPERIAL DUCHY OF OSTERLAND
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Culture: Primarily German with Bohemian borderlands
The landscape of Osterland is a patchwork of rolling hills, lush forests, and fertile valleys cradled by the gentle flow of winding rivers. Agriculture reigns supreme, with fields of hardy cereal grains dotting the countryside, sustaining bustling towns and villages. Whitewashed castles perch atop rocky outcrops, their imposing presence a reminder of Osterland’s storied past and enduring beauty. Its hilly terrain lends to a booming mining industry, with precious metals such as silver being one of the duchy’s major exports.
Elector Duke: Duke Heinrich Altstadt
Capital City: Ludenbrügge
Counties: Schwarzwald, Hohenwald, Rosenburg
Major Cities:
Major Exports: Silver, Iron, Cereal Grains
Notable Locations:
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THE IMPERIAL DUCHY OF PONCE
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Culture: Primarily German with French borderlands.
A picturesque land of rolling hills and lazy pastures which surround quaint villages and towns guarded by grand whitewashed and pattern-roofed castles. The architecture of Ponce is exceedingly unique, with its half-timbered houses decorated with glazed tile roofs of different colours and patterns, creating a beautiful tapestry of patterns among the rooftops of villages.
Elector Duke: Prince Adelard de Côteval
Capital City: Grunthal-les-Bains
Counties: Côteval, Rebenwald, Reislingau, High Herschberg, Closberg
Major Cities:
Major Exports: Wine, Textiles, Cheese
Notable Locations:
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THE IMPERIAL GRAND COUNTY OF SAVOBOURG
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Culture: Primarily German with Swiss influence
I am sleepy continue this tomorrow
Elector Duke: High Count Roland von Grusch
Capital City: Prucksdorf
Major Cities: Callnberg, Swislingau
Major Exports: Bread, Ale, Beef, Pork
Notable Locations: Castle Flauensleben
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THE IMPERIAL DUCHY OF SODERLINGEN
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Culture: South German
I am sleepy continue this tomorrow
Elector Duke: Archduke Klaus von Gruber
Capital City: Glücksburg und Sigishold
Counties: Grünthal, Lower Herschberg, Gersthausen, Eichenwald,
Major Cities: The Free Imperial City of Müren
Major Exports: Ale, Beer, Wine, Liquor, Beef, Grain, Barley, Soderlingen Schnapps
Notable Locations:
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MILITARY
Most of the military might of the Empire comes from Militia troops who guard towns, cities and other military establishments. These troops do not fall under the Emperor, but rather the local lords which they serve. The Emperor commands the Imperial Army, a completely separate professional standing army.
THE IMPERIAL ARMY
At the Imperial Diet of Bokenhof in 1513, a commitment was made by the Dukes and Archdukes of each Imperial Duchy to maintain a permanent standing army of 20,100 soldiers and 4200 cavalry. This standing army is to be well armed, equipped and regulated by a set of strict Military Ordinances.
The tax is collected through a system that reflects the divided nature of the Holy Imperial Gottesreich. Though the local territorial powers recognize the need for a common purse to protect and preserve the Empire, they are simultaneously unwilling to surrender power to the Emperor. Thus, instead of a direct tax collected by the Emperor, obligations are set through the Imperial Register on the individual Dukes, Counts, Barons, Lords, Free Cities, Imperial Towns, and other political structures to provide a set number of horse and infantrymen, equipment, or a set amount of money based on the wages of the requested troops. The obligations of the territorial powers are based on a rough estimate of how wealthy each individual territory in the Empire is, with some of the larger, richer territories obligated to provide hundreds of men, while the smaller lords provide as few as five. Through this system, almost 400 separate territories are obligated to pay something to the Empire, while leaving collection and payment of the tax up to the regional territorial powers, preserving local independence.
The Imperial Register is a list of all Imperial Estates within the Holy Imperial Gottesreich that specifies the amount of troops, equipment or taxes they owe to the crown for the upkeep of the Imperial Army. Any small, fledgling states-to-be see it as a mark of officiality to be recorded in the Imperial Register.
The Imperial Army is bolstered in number by retinues of individual Knights and Lords, as well as the infamous Free Companies of Landsknechte from Soderlingen
GENERAL INFORMATION
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Commaner-in-Chief: His Imperial Majesty, Otto IV
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Founded: 1513 (9 years old)
Headquarters: Adelbrücke
Military Age: 13-70+
Personnel: 24,300 (20,100 Infantry, 4200 Cavalry)​​
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MILITARY ORDINANCES OF THE IMPERIAL ARMY
Military Ordinances are a set of regulations and orders which every soldier of the Imperial Army is expected to obey. The very existence of these rules means that not every soldier obeys them, however. It is quite common to see soldiers disobeying the rules, and lazy Sergeants overlooking the lack of discipline, often disobeying the rules themselves.
The Military Ordinance of 1513
By order of His Imperial Majesty,
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There are no personal colours. Knights may retain their heraldry, but the colours of yellow and black must be worn by all Imperial Troops.
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Knight Captains will be identified by a scarlet silk sash bordered with gold, and a heraldic besagew depicting the heraldry of the unit they lead.
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Knight Captains will wear a pennant atop their helm also depicting the heraldry of the unit they lead.
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Sergeants will wear a maroon wool sash worn diagonally across the chest.
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All men will wear a sallet painted.
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All men will wear blackened armour.
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All men will wear a katzbalger in the Soderlingen fashion.
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Women are not permitted to join the Imperial Army.
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All Knights of the Empire, unless specially exempt from duty, shall serve 5 years in the Imperial Army.
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Desertion is punishable by death.
​These commands, by the grace of GOD, shall be obeyed by every man, or be penalized according to the severity of the offence.
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The Military Ordinance of 1514
By order of His Imperial Majesty, a sumptuary law has been declared on account of the following:
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No common man shall don the armour of a Knight or Noble, be it looted, purchased or otherwise obtained.
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No common man shall use the weapon of a Knight or Noble, be it looted, purchased or otherwise obtained.
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No common man shall wear the garments or accoutrements of a Knight or Noble, be it looted, purchased or otherwise obtained.
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No common man shall wear any garment or accoutrement dyed with Tyrian Purple.
​These commands, by the grace of GOD, shall be obeyed by every man, or be penalized with a fine of two score Imperial Gilschen
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The Military Ordinance of 1516
By order of His Imperial Majesty,
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No man shall consume alcohol while on duty.
- No man shall gamble while on duty.
- No man shall partake in the pleasures of the flesh while on duty.
- No man shall engage in any vice not aforementioned while on duty.
These commands, by the grace of GOD, shall be obeyed by every man, or be penalized according to the severity of the offence.​
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IMPERIAL ARMY RANKS​
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GENERAL OFFICERS
Feldobrist: An Obrist but in command of more than one infantry regiment with cavalry and artillery in addition.
Generalobrist: An Obrist but in command of more than one infantry regiment.
OFFICERS
Obrist: The Colonel of a regiment of up to 1000 men, made up of 4 Companies. This position is often a Margrave/Count, Baron, or rarely a Landed Knight.
Leutnant-Obrist: The Lieutenant-Colonel of the Regiment who takes command in the Colonels absence. Often a Count, Baron or Landed Knight.
Feldcaptain: The commander of a Fähnlein, also known as a Company, consisting of around 250 men. This role is almost exclusively filled by Landed Knights or Lesser Knights. There are 4 Fähnlein in a Regiment, and subsequently usually 4 Captains under an Obrist. Captains are identified by a scarlet silk sash worn diagonally across the chest from right to left. Most of the time this sash will bear a ceremonial besagew of various shapes, painted with the regiments colours and heraldry. Additionally, most captains will wear a pennant atop their helmet.
Captain: The commander of a Rotte, also known as a Band, consisting of 60-65 men. There are 4 Bands in a Company and subsequently 4 Captains under a Feldcaptain.
COMMON MEN
Rottmeister: The elected deputy-commander of a Rotte. This is most often a senior sergeant position, in charge of the discipline, dress and deportment of the common men.
Sergeant: The commander of a Trupp, also known as Troop, consisting of around 15-20 men. There are 4 Troops in a Rotte (Band) and subsequently 4 Sergeants under a Captain/Rottmeister. Sergeants are identified by a maroon wool sash worn diagonally across the chest from right to left.
Trooper: The individual soldier within a Trupp, a troop of 15-20 men. Troopers are assigned a role when they join the Imperial Army. These roles include but are not limited to: Pikeman, Halberdier, Arquebusier, Crossbowman, Gunner (Artillery), Engineer, Sapper, Light Cavalry, and others.
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IMPERIAL ARMY ROLES​
Different than a rank, roles are the proficiencies in which an individual soldier is trained. Roles vary by rank or station.
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Knight or Nobility
Rotte Commander: The commander of an infantry band.
Squadron Commander: The commander of a cavalry squadron.
Battery Commander: The commander of an artillery battery.
Signals Officer: In charge of relaying messages over distance on the field of battle with the use of flag and flare.
Staff Officer: A generic administrative position for junior officers of the Imperial Army.
Sergeant
Troop Sergeant: The commander of a troop.
Patrol Sergeant: The commander of a patrol.
Provost: The head of Military Police.
Quartermaster: Responsible for the issue of kit and equipment.
Exchequer: Responsible for the pay of soldiers.
Hundmeister: The master of hounds. Responsible for tracking and scouting.
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Trooper
Pikeman: A soldier specialized in the use of a pike or long spear.
Halberdier: A soldier specialized in the use of a halberd.
Arquebusier: A soldier specialized in the use of a harquebus.
Crossbowman / Bowman: A soldier specialized in the use of a crossbow or bow.
Gunner: A soldier specialized in the use of cannon artillery.
Engineer: A soldier specialized in the use of siege weaponry such as trebuchets.
Sapper: A soldier specialized in the construction of field defenses and offensive positions such as tunnels.
Scout: A soldier specialized in reconnaissance. Often mounted and employed in a light cavalry role.
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STRUCTURE
The Imperial Army works on bases of 4.
An Infantry Regiment consists of 4 Fähnlein (Companies), which consist of 4 Rotten (Bands), which consist of 4 Trupps (Troops).
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Infantry Regiment Composition
Regiment: 1000 Men. There are a total of 20 Infantry Regiments in the Imperial Army.
Fähnlein (Company): 250 Men. 4 Fähnleins make a Regiment.
Rotte (Band): 60-65 Men. 4 Rotten make a Fähnlein.
Trupp (Troop): 15-20 Men. 4 Trupps make a Rotte.
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Typically a Regiment will have 3 Fighting Companies and 1 Headquarters Company which provides logistical support to the fighting companies.
Each Rotte will typically have 3 fighting Trupps and 1 Headquarters Trupp.
This concept also applies to Cavalry regiments.
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Cavalry Regiment Composition
Regiment: 1000 Men. There are a total of 4 Cavalry Regiments in the Imperial Army.
Squadron: 250 Men. 4 Squadrons make a Regiment.
Troop: 60-65 Men. 4 Troops make a Squadron.
Patrol: 15-20 Men. 4 Patrols make a Troop​
THE INFANTRY BAND
The building block of the Imperial Army is the Rotte (Band). These structures of men are commanded by a Captain, and his deputy, the Rottmeister. It is not a group of people who play instruments.
THE KNIGHT-CAPTAIN
Knight-Captains are the lowest ranking officers in the Imperial Army, but arguably the most important. To be a Knight-Captain one must be a Knighted member of nobility within the Empire. Every Imperial Knight is required by law to serve at least 5 years in the Imperial Army. These men spend 1 year training and 4 years commanding a Band. When their service is up, they are given the option to leave the Imperial Army or to continue a fulfilling career with potential promotions and more leadership roles.​​
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Captains are identified by their scarlet silk sashes bordered with gold. It is also very common for a Captain to wear a pennant atop their helmet. These identifying items display the heraldry of the unit.
THE ROTTMEISTER
Rottmeisters are the highest ranking Common Soldiers in the Imperial Army. To be a Rottmeister, a common man must join the Imperial Army and rise through the ranks. It is a very senior position, often held by soldiers who have over 15-20 years of experience.
A Captain (left) and Rottmeister (right)
THE SERGEANT
Sergeants are the first level of authority in the Imperial Army. They command a Trupp (Troop) of 15-20 men. The Captain and Rottmeister have 4 sergeants under their command. Each sergeant is responsible for the discipline, drill, dress and deportment of his troops. ​​
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Sergeants are identified by a maroon wool sash worn diagonally across the chest. These wool sashes depict the units heraldry on the top. You can tell where a regiment is based out of by the colours of the unit heraldry. In this case, yellow and black are the colours of the Imperial Duchy of Soderlingen. From this you can tell that the band featured here is from Soderlingen, even if the troops in it might not be.
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Sergeants have the authority to arrest and detain soldiers or common civilians.
THE TROOPER
The most basic single unit in the Empire. Imperial Troopers are well-trained professional soldiers who are held to a higher standard than any other soldier in the Empire. To be a trooper, a common man must voluntarily sign up with a local recruiting sergeant for an indenture of 3-5 years. From there they will be expected at muster somewhere near where they signed up to be marched to the Imperial Army Headquarters in Adelbrücke for training and assignment to one of the 20 infantry regiments.
New troops are issued a sallet or equivalent helmet, a cuirass, a katzbalger sword and a polearm (most often a halberd.) These pieces of equipment are owned by the crown, and are expected to be kept in very good condition for the duration of a troopers' career. Any soldier may privately purchase their own equipment and return the issued items if they please. A soldiers' first private purchase is often a pair of gauntlets, a bevor, or a mail collar. It is common practice for younger soldiers to bring their father's katzbalger to muster, and for veteran soldiers to purchase gauntlets, arm harness and leg harnesses.
A Sergeant with a Halberd
A Trooper with a Pike
THE LANDSKNECHT
Hailing primarily from the Imperial Duchy of Soderlingen, Landsknecht mercenaries are employed by the Imperial Army in great numbers. Landsknechte organize themselves into what's known as Free Companies, which follow the same structure as the Imperial Army. In fact, the Imperial Army structure is based on that of the Landsknecht Free Companies.
These gaudy mercenaries are famously known for their outlandish fashion and very expensive tastes in all things worldly. They are without a doubt the wealthiest soldiers in the Empire.
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Their wealth is not without its reasons however, as Landsknecht mercenaries are exceedingly skilled warriors. It is said that one landsknecht is worth two veteran soldiers, and that is reflected in their pay, earning twice as much as an ordinary soldier. Landsknechte troops can vary from pikemen and halberdiers to more specialized units such as harquebusiers and men known as Doppelsöldner. These men are the first to rush into battle, often wielding a zweihander. Doppelsöldner are paid twice as much as an ordinary landsknecht, and four times as much as an ordinary soldier.
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Every regiment in the Imperial Army employs Landsknecht to some degree. It is required by law for the Imperial Army to employ these mercenaries, regardless of how poorly they affect the morale of the regular troops. Landsknechte are required to camp separately from ordinary troops, and their rambunctious laughter, gambling and drinking can be heard by the poor miserable sods on night guard picket duty as they look longingly toward the inviting glow of revelry in the mercenary camp.
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Landsknechte are not required to obey the military ordinances that regular troops must, meaning they have no restrictions on alcohol consumption, gambling or even allowing women into their ranks to fight alongside them. Many women have become very successful mercenaries from this.
COMMON PRACTICES
Red Bowed Garter: One of the most common practices among all troops in the Imperial Army is to sport one or two red garters tied in a bow either above or below the knee. These are prized possessions gifted by sweethearts, mothers or lovers and are believed to bring good luck and protection from harm to the individual.
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Checkered Stocking: The second most common practice in the Imperial Army is for an individual to wear one or two checkered stockings which cover the calf and foot. These stockings indicate an individual has actual combat experience and are strictly regulated. This practice has also become popular for civilians or militiamen who have served in the Imperial Army or have seen combat. Officers are encouraged to wear these stockings even if they have never seen combat, to keep the respect of the troops for their authority.
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Asymmetrical Arm and Leg Harness: When a soldier gains enough time in and wealth, they often privately purchase gauntlets, arm and leg harnesses. It is very common to see soldiers clad in only arm and leg armour on the right side of their body, leaving the left bare to show off popular puff-and-slash style clothing. The protection of only the right side of the body is explained by the fact most fighters are right handed, and as a consequence, the right side of the body is the most targeted place in combat. The left side is often protected by comrades when in formation.
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Painted Helmets or Armour: Imperial soldiers are required by the ordinances of 1513 to wear a painted helmet. This serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it maintains a professional appearance among the soldiers. Secondly, it offers troops a boost of morale, being able to customize their equipment to an extent. And thirdly, the armour is painted with a chalk-based paint which has the ability to ward off or deflect lower-tiered magical attacks. Below is a list of the most common phrases painted on helmets:
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Veritas Vincit - Truth Prevails
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Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum - If You Want Peace, Prepare for War
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Gott Vergib Mir - God Forive Me
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In Deo Confido - In God I Trust
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Leg dich hin und blute - Lie down and bleed
An example of bowed calf garters, checkered stocking, and asymmetrical leg harness
A painted Imperial Army sallet. The text reads "Gott Vergib Mir" - God Forgive Me.
MILITIA
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There are approximately 116,765 soldiers and mercenaries total in the Empire. 24,300 of those are Imperial Army while around 15,000 are Mercenaries. That leaves 77,465 fighting men in the empire who belong to local militias or ducal retinue.
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The ranks and structure to the Imperial Army are revolutionary and less than a decade old. Militamen are not nearly as uniform or organized. There is no regulated uniform for militiamen other than the occasional use of livery coats or painted sallets, though some towns, cities and free cities try to emulate the Imperial Army if they can afford it.
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A shining example of some of the best militia in the Empire is that of the Free City of Müren.
