The Imperial Legions

[Imperial Administration 530]

THE IMPERIAL LEGIONS

Est. 10th of Sun’s Smile, 1579. Authored by Ser Rakim of House Yar and doctored by his Excellency, the Imperial Archchancellor Ser Leopold of House Horen

His Imperial Majesty’s war machine, a reminder of Man’s superiority to the lesser descendants.

 

“You are a soldier in the Imperial Legion. You stand alongside other soldiers, brothers-in-arms, comrades, who fight for the Empire. You fight for Country, for Humanity, and for the Emperor, to whom we give our lives for so that our bodies may be blessed with a glorious death, and our souls bathed in the brilliant light that resonates from our Empire. It is the highest honor to fight in these same illustrious ranks which have produced some of the most exalted and renowned men in the Empire, and to call them your superiors. Your responsibility, and that of your fellow soldiers is to help ensure that our magnificent imperium is defended from its enemies. You will smite our foes wherever you find them, with the fervent passion and fury of fanatical devotion that comes with being an Imperial Soldier.”

–Emperor Peter Chivay, 1st of Grand Harvest, 1457

 

A learned Lundic military officer once said “Emperor, Decurion, Oren - these three words forge an army.” Albeit such words were spoken over a century ago during the Imperium Tertius, they still ring true to many Heartlanders today. Serving under His Imperial Majesty the Holy Orenian Emperor John III Owyn and his chosen commanders, the Imperial Legion is created to defend the Imperium Quintus from both the internal and external threats embedded in the Isles of Axios. The men of the Imperial Legion make up a well disciplined fighting force, demonstrating the best of Man and ready to serve the Empire unto death.

 

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WHY FIGHT?

 

“You will see things that few will be asked to bear witness to, and you will have to face your worst fears. But face them you must, with strength, fortitude, devotion and valor; for it is on these qualities that our country is built. But rest assured, there will be a brother behind you to ensure your faith remains constant.” –Helton Chivay, addressing the soldiers of Kaedrin

 

It is one of the greatest honors to serve under His Imperial Majesty as a defender of Man’s dominion. Young men seeking glory and respect are welcomed to join and become apart of such a divine brotherhood. For many of the men that join the Imperial Legion, their battle-brothers are the closest thing they have to a real family. Others might join in hopes of obtaining a better life. As of the Imperial Retiree Program of 1579, those that actively serve the Imperial Legion for 8 years (2 Saint’s months) and are also a Class A or Class B citizen will be provided a farmstead in order to raise a proper family. Furthermore, the legions, when acting exemplary and grand in the eyes of the Emperor and Country, they may be granted a bonus from the Imperial Treasury.

 

THE EVOCATII

 

If the legionary chooses to continue their service in the legion after completing a successful Tour of Service (8 Years), they may reenlist and be granted the immediate rank of Evocatus, which affords them the privileges with that rank. Before they decide to become Evocatii, the legionary must first sign a contract binding them to another 5 years of service.

 

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CHAIN OF COMMAND

 

“Go forth and ensure our prosperity and your eventual glory. Fight with pride and fervor, for it is better to die for a purpose than to live without reason. A sheep has no place in the legion, but a lion is always considered.”

–Emperor Robert Primus Aeldinicus Chivay, 1462

 

An artist’s rendition of John I Frederick, Henry Rothesay, and Augustus d’Amaury planning for the battle of Hoar Hill, 1541

 

OFFICERS

 

PRINCEPS [O5]

The Princeps is the supreme commander of all Imperial Legions. He has complete command in the field. The Princeps may manage specific sections of the legions and further delegate the overall management of the legion. The Princeps is traditionally held by the Emperor or the Crown Prince.

 

IMPERIAL LEGATE [O4]

The Imperial Legate is the chosen commander of the Imperial Legion and as such, only follows the orders of His Imperial Majesty and the Princeps. The Imperial Legate is responsible for organizing the Imperial Legion as needed as well as assuming the role of commander on the battlefield should the need arise.

 

TRIBUNE [O3]

A tribune is assigned to each region hosting a brigade part of the Imperial Legions. The tribune leads his designated brigade under the orders of the Imperial Legate. He is responsible for maintaining law and order in his assigned region as well as making sure his brigade is well manned well fitted for battle.

 

DECURION [O2]

Decurions are tasked with leading the companies under the brigade. The Decurions are the forefront tactical leaders on the battlefield and are expected to carry on the commands from superior officers with no mistakes. Decurions are expected to manage their brigades by making sure their companies are well supplied. Should the need arise for more supplies, a Decurion must make a request to the Tribune or fill the need with his own men.

 

ENSIGN [O1]

Ensigns are officer cadets that assist and enforce the Decurion’s commands, and are also given the duty and privilege of holding the legion’s standard. They ensure formations are kept in line and serve as advisors to Decurion when out in the battlefield. Ensigns are generally the officers that focus on recruiting and relaying information from the Decurion to the ranks of foot.

 

RANKS OF FOOT

 

KNIGHT [E7]

When knights first join the Imperial Legion, they are put into this rank by default. Knights still obey the orders of their company’s Decurion and his designated Ensigns. Knights are given special privilege for officer ranks if they demonstrate valor and effort on the battlefield as well as a knack for strategy.

 

PRIMUS [E6]

The Primus is the elite of the enlisted. A veteran of both peace and war, a loyal soldier, and a man of many skills and achievements. They have proven themselves as the cream of the crop, and are the model enlisted soldier. The Primus has the choice of pursuing a Knighthood under the Order, or choose to command under the Officer wing, starting at Ensign.

 

EVOCATUS [E5]

The Evocatii are longtime soldiers that have proven their dedication to the legion and the Empire through loyal and unyielding service. They are the only soldiers in the legion bound by a five year service contract, but are afforded special privileges during their service. An evocatus is granted a bonus upon reenlistment, and is not required to participate in several general enlisted duties.

 

DECANUS [E4]

Veteran Men-at-Arms that survive their first tour of duty and show themselves as capable and well disciplined soldiers achieve the rank of Decanus. A Decanus means “chief of ten” and is the representative of his tent party, comprised of nine other men and himself. He acts as a role model to his fellow brothers-in-arms. A Decanus may often be placed in command of the Unoathed in their company, ensuring they are properly trained.

 

MAN-AT-ARMS [E3]

The Man-at-arms are the backbone of the legion’s military forces. The Men-at-arms make up the main battle line, and are the rank-and-file soldier of the legion, who follows orders willingly and obediently. The Man-at-arms is to respect every superior, and must refuse to contradict their orders in a public setting. If a critique is absolutely necessary, the Man-at-arms may request a private audience.

 

FOOTMAN [E2]

The Footman has advanced past Ranker and has proven himself to be loyal and capable of basic military etiquette and discipline. The Footman will be put under a personal apprenticeship with a higher enlisted, who will act as their battle brother and mentor. Much like the Men-at-arms, the Footman must obey and respect all command in the legion. If a critique is absolutely necessary, the Footman may request a private audience.

 

RANKER [E1]

Those who make it through initiation become oathed men to the Imperial Legion, known as Rankers. They make up the bulk of the Imperial Legion and are treated with more respect than the unoathed. Typically they are the force that deals with menial labor on the campaign. Upon becoming a Ranker, one must serve another 2 years before they can seek an honorable discharge. A Ranker may not request a private audience to critique a lawful order.

 

THE UNOATHED [E0]

The unoathed are the freshly enlisted men of the Imperial Legion, wearing an armband to signify their status. Before becoming a ranker, an unoathed must serve for one year, acting as their initiation. The unoathed may quit at anytime with no consequences. During this time, the unoathed is only referred to as UNOATHED and is fed the scraps in dining halls. They are put through a training regimen geared towards the brigade they have joined where they are expected to learn what their job is in the brigade. After one year, the enlisted take their oath and must endure the tradition of blood striping from their superiors. Afterwards, the unoathed becomes an official member of the Imperial Legion and may be referred to by name once more.

 

 

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BILLETS

Billets are specialized ranks are jobs given to men of the Imperial Legion in each brigade. During peace and war it is their duty to fulfill these roles just as they would fulfill their roles on the battlefield. They are as follows:

 

COOK (1 per brigade)

Cooks ensure rations are made for each soldier in his brigade before going on scouting missions and prepare at least three meals per day during peacetime. It is their duty to tell the Quartermaster when they are in need of ingredients. They are expected to keep a clean kitchen and may take on an apprentice.

 

MESSENGER (2 per brigade)

Messengers deliver and receive reports from command to deliver to their brigade. These roles are usually given to Ensigns. Must be literate.

 

REPORT MASTER (1 per brigade)

Deals with roster and general reports for the brigade. Must be literate.

 

QUARTERMASTER (1 per brigade)

Typically given to ranks E4 and above , the Quartermaster ensures everyone in their brigade is well fitted. They take count of supplies of each brigade and report to command on any supplies needed. Furthermore, a Head Quartermaster is assigned to each legion, acting as the prime manager of the legionary armory.

 

DISCIPLINARIAN (1 per brigade)

Role typically given to Ensign, but no lower than Decanus. The Disciplinarian leads training exercises at least once per Saint’s week to ensure the brigade is in shape. The disciplinarian, during training exercises, is given permission to discipline anyone in the brigade save those of officer rank unless directed by an officer superior to the former.

 

DRILL INSTRUCTOR (1 per company)

The Drill Instructor is tasked with the training of the Unoathed within their respective company. The role is typically assigned to a Decanus, and they are responsible for ensuring the qualified Unoathed pass their trials and formally take their oath.

 

MEDIC

Those well versed in medicine and the healing arts that ensure the health of the brigade.

 

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THE LEGIONS

The Legions of the Empire hail from all the prominent regions under His Imperial Majesty’s dominion. Each legion is assigned to a region and will be afforded almost complete autonomy in their operations, answering only to the Princeps or His Imperial Majesty. The legions shall maintain jurisdiction of their own region and shall not infringe upon another legion’s province. A military council will convene often to gauge the direction the legions are heading and act as a meeting to discuss needs and future strategic plans. Wayforts will also be constructed throughout the Empire to provide a rallying point for these regional legions.

 

A detailed drawing of the continent of Aeldin, mapping the borders of the rival Horosid Empire after the conclusion of the Exeter war. The map depicts the Empire and the outlying sovereign nations. Drawn by Rhystin Gaerhart, 1514

 

PRINCEPS: Prince John Augustus ((Varendoz))

 

LEGIO I IOANNES

1st Legion of The Crownlands

 

Imperial Legate: Rodrick Redcliff ((7lo))

 

1st Imperial Brigade of the Crownlands Legion

Death’s Head

Tribune: Owyn Jrent ((dabliusmaximus))

The first Deathshead Brigade accepting the surrender of a Dreadlandic Officer, 1576

 

The 1st brigade known as “Death’s Head” finds its origins tracing back to the Imperial Army during the Imperium Tertius when it was more well known as Totenkopf. Much like its first  manifestation, Death’s Head is a foot guard unit for the 1st Legion. They specialize as shock infantry, the very first to engage the enemy and the very last to pull out. Death’s Head is made up of the more fanatical warriors of The Crownlands. This comes at a grave cost however with casualty rates being one of the highest in the legion. Historically, only one in every five new recruits survive their first battle. As a result, the camaraderie among those of the 1st brigade goes unmatched and those that do survive their first battle tend do well the rest of their careers in the Imperial Legion.

 

 

2nd Imperial Brigade of the Crownlands Legion

Nauzica

Tribune: Tribune Ser Edwyn Harwyn ((Thotpyrodude))

The 2nd Brigade formed in battle array, led by the Nauzican Gentlemen, 1570

The 2nd Brigade returns to its roots as the cavalry unit of The Crownlands much like it had been during the reign of John I. These men specialize in mounted warfare, using lances to skewer enemy footmen and to knock off opposing mounted units. Their attacks are swift and hard for the enemy to counter if lead correctly. The 2nd Brigade also serves as scouts for the rest of the brigade, quickly going behind enemy lines to assess the proper route of strategy for the Imperial Legate. Furthermore, whilst not directly deployed, the Nauzican Brigade is tasked with the safety of the Emperor and Imperial Family, acting as their premier bodyguards.

 

 

3rd Imperial Brigade of the Crownlands Legion

Sappers

Tribune: His Excellency, the Imperial Archchancellor Ser Leopold of Marna ((Islamadon))

 

An artist's rendition recalling a brutal siege of attrition, the moated keep of Kal’Valen, 1542

 

The 3rd Sappers Brigade is made up of versatile men specializing in siegecraft. Often an underappreciated unit in the legion, Sappers serve an important role in the construction of siege weaponry and the construction of defenses in times of external forces invading Man’s dominion. In recent years, the 3rd Sappers Brigade has also taken on the responsibility of purging necrotic beings across the realm via the will of his Imperial Majesty, John III. With defense of the realm comes trust, and the 3rd Sappers Brigade is made up of some of the most honest war engineers in the realm.

https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/151183-imperial-guide-to-siegecraft/#comment-1428181

 

 

 

LEGIO II HANSETIA

2nd Legion of Haense

 

Imperial Legate: Prince Andrew Barbanov ((preliatorII))

 

1st Royal Brigade of the Hansetic Legion

His Majesty’s Own

Tribune: Tuvya Berhal ((isbadguy))

 

The predecessor to the 1st Hansetic Brigade, the Golden Crow heavy infantry engaged in combat with the Dreadlandic opposition during an imperial raid on enemy territory, 1568

 

His Majesty’s Own, the 1st Royal Brigade of Haense, serves as the heavy infantry of the Hansetic Legion, excelling in in anti-cavalry combat as they advance forth in pike formation. Being his Majesty’s Own armed forces, this Brigade is stationed in the Capital of the Kingdom of Haense, Saint Karlsburg. From there they lead the Hansetic Legion.

 

 

2nd Royal Brigade of the Hansetic Legion

Sons of the North

Tribune: Count Sergei Kovachev ((NJBB))

 

Hansetic archers warding off Dreadlandic ambitions, during a raid on Imperial soil, near the town of Vsenk, 1569

 

His Majesty’s 2nd Brigade, the Son’s of the North, are the lightest infantry found within the entire Imperial Army, serving as archers most of the time during combat. Staying near other bulks of infantry, a well aimed longbow shot from these brigade archers can easily eliminate any hostile targets opposing the Empire’s Legions. If the situation calls upon it, members of the Brigade can act as outriders, scouting ahead of the Legion’s advancements and securing the surrounding area during a march. This Brigade’s headquarters is found in the County of Turov, led by the Right Honourable, Sergei of House Kovachev.

 

 

3rd Royal Brigade of the Hansetic Legion

Sons of the Sea

Tribune: Marquis Fiske Vanir ((InfamousGerman))

 

Marines of the 3rd Hansetic Brigade fight for sport in the flooded hippodrome during a festival held in the Imperial Capital, 1575

 

The 3rd Royal Marines, known for their martial abilities regarding Naval Warfare. Being the sole naval group within the Imperial Army, they are tasked with the removal of threats on the seas, while the Marine’s sister Brigades remove the threats on land. If it were to ever occur, the Marines have the capability to form as a primarily light foot Brigade during a pitched battle, other than that, the Brigade takes turn patrolling the Northern Seas of the Empire, ensuring all oceanic trade routes are secure and well patrolled. The Marine Brigade is made of some of the hardiest, as they have to deal with the Northern Climate whilst being at sea. They are situated in the March of Vasiland, a border territory held by the Marquis of House Vanir, Sir Fiske.

 

 

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REQUIREMENTS

 

One must be a male imperial citizen with the ability to trace one’s lineage up to two generations. Only full blooded humans with Class A or Class B citizenship may serve in the Officer ranks or as a Knight.

Upon taking oath, one must serve at minimum 2 years (2 Saint’s Weeks) before being allowed honorable discharge.

All oathed men must have a good grasp of Imperial Law as well as proper etiquette at the Imperial Court for they must enforce the law as well as address their superiors properly.

 

Imperial Law of the Holy Orenian Empire
https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/148772-imperial-law-of-the-holy-orenian-empire/

 

Etiquette at the Imperial Court

https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/149341-etiquette-at-the-imperial-court/

All Unoathed must be clean shaven. All enlisted below the rank of E3 are not permitted a full beard, but a mustache and sideburns are allowed.

Criminals, felons and illegal migrants may not serve in any proper brigade within the Imperial Legion unless given pardon by His Imperial Majesty.

All officers must be literate in order to read and deliver battle orders.

 

 

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HOW TO ENLIST

 

One must send a letter to the Imperial Legate or to the Tribune of the brigade they wish to join, requesting to be enlisted into the Imperial Legion. One may also speak with the Imperial Legate or another officer in person.Whether one sends in an application or is recruited in person, they must answer these questions and they must be documented by the recruiter.

 

Name and surname:

Age:

Racial status:

Any prior service:

Preferred Legion:

Preferred Brigade:

Any trades or skills, such as smithing or mining, that you could provide to the Imperial Legions:

Do you understand that an oath requiring a minimum of 2 years (2 saint’s weeks) service will be taken?:

 

((NOTE: All applications will be filled out either in-game or through Forum PMs to the respective tribunes or legates. All applications will be In Character, and any applications posted directly to this thread will be ignored and deleted.))

 

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THE OATH

The Oath of the legions is recited before the standard of the Empire and the standard of the legion they are swearing under. The oath must be recited in presence of an officer and enlisted rank E4 or above.

 

“I, being of legal age, of my own free will, without coercion, promise, or inducement of any sort, after having been duly advised and warned of the meaning and consequences of this oath, hereby swear my life and strength to the obedience, loyalty, defense and glory of the Emperor of Oren, and to honor the authority of my superiors.  I swear to protect with iron vigilance the legitimate foundation of the Empire, its lands, administrators and its titles.  I swear to serve with great diligence the Imperial Legions for a period of not less than two years and as much longer as may be required by the needs of my service.  I swear to uphold loyalty unto death to my comrades-in-arms and my legitimate commanders, and to expect loyalty unto death from those that may be under the command of me.  I swear that I would die before fleeing the field in shame.
Ave Orenia!”

 

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MEDALS AND HONORS

The Imperial Legions grant special medals and honors onto its soldiers to both recognize their dedication and praise their service to Crown and Country. All medals may be worn during special formal occasions, and may even be worn on formal attire after they have left the service.

 

ORDER OF THE IMPERIAL CROWN [#8]

The highest honor one can achieve, the Order of the Imperial Crown is reserved for only the greatest of the Empire. Men such as Uthor Silverblade, Peter Chivay would be awarded with the Order of the Imperial Crown. These men wear the medal upon their neck proudly, knowing the Emperor himself has seen their actions as the most worthy of any man in the Empire.

 

 

ORDER OF MERIT [#7]

One of the highest honors a man can achieve, the three degrees of the Order of Merit are awarded only to the most stalwart and heroic of Imperial men and women. Through battle or otherwise, the bearers of the Order of Merit have proven themselves to be those the Emperor can rely on the most for their loyalty and unwavering devotion to his vision.

 

 

ORDER OF THE RHOSWENII[#6]

Named in recognition of the past Order of the White Rose, the Order of the Rhoswenii is a medal granted to members of the legions that have proven to be experienced fighters and exceptional leaders.

 

 

MEDAL OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE [#5]

Containing only a single degree, the Medal of Distinguished Service is awarded most commonly to soldiers having served in the Imperial forces for upwards of fifteen years. The bearers of this title wear the medal proudly on their uniform.

 

 

ORDER OF BRAVERY [#4]

For those who show themselves to be truly selfless and willing to charge headlong into the fires, there is the Order of Bravery. Often heroic Knights and courageous soldiers who have shown little regard for their safety when the Empire is on the line.

 

 

 

NATIONAL DEFENSE MEDAL [#3]

The National Defense Medal is awarded for those that have served their entire Tour of Service of eight years.

 

 

GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL [#2]

The Good Conduct Medal is awarded to soldiers that have proven to be exemplary models and have received no negative marks on performance.

 

 

LEGION SERVICE MEDAL [#1]

The Legion Service Medal is awarded to soldiers that achieve the rank of Footman [E2].

 

[Imperial Administration 530]

RESERVED

[Imperial Administration 530]

RESERVED

[Imperial Administration 530]

RESERVED

[Inkthorn 1433]

Sylvestre looks over the poster humming, "Plough 'em all, plough 'em all..." He would smile, too; for soon, the newly assembled Imperial Legions would march on the uruks.

[Reckless Banzai Screamer 15456]

Rakim flexes his left hand's digits after finally putting down his quill and ink. He smiles at the finished project, thankful for the help he received and for the knowledge of militaries passed down to him by his late father, Nafis Yar.

 

He rests easy in his humble abode in the Barony of Senntisten, enjoying the moment of silence alongside Asra.

 

"Another step forward." He mumbles to himself, looking out the window.

[Sarcof 98]

Name and surname: William Fletcher (Warmarcher)

Age: 43

Racial status: Highlander, no accent.

Any prior service: No.

Preferred Legion: Legio I Ioannes

Preferred Brigade: As needed.

Any trades or skills, such as smithing or mining, that you could provide to the Imperial Legions: Mining, smithing, cooking, wood working.

Do you understand that an oath requiring a minimum of 2 years (2 saint’s weeks) service will be taken?: Yes.

[seannie 7443]

3 minutes ago, Sarcof said:

Name and surname: William Fletcher (Warmarcher)

Age: 43

Racial status: Highlander, no accent.

Any prior service: No.

Preferred Legion: Legio I Ioannes

Preferred Brigade: As needed.

Any trades or skills, such as smithing or mining, that you could provide to the Imperial Legions: Mining, smithing, cooking, wood working.

Do you understand that an oath requiring a minimum of 2 years (2 saint’s weeks) service will be taken?: Yes.

((NOTE: All applications will be filled out either in-game or through Forum PMs to the respective tribunes or legates. All applications will be In Character, and any applications posted directly to this thread will be ignored and deleted.))

[Abeam 511]

-snip-

[Ezo Karasuga 356]

Ezo Karasuga, Commandant of the Chambery Marines and Regent of Chambery reads the proclamations.  He sits in his cabin on the "Resolution" Class warship In Chambery's port

 

 

" There is no listing under Legio I for Chambery's forces.  The Empire considers the Vanir to be their naval force?  Chambery's warships outclass their smaller ships and we even have a functioning shipyard building additional ships for the Crownlands Military!    Did our forms not get sent in?  I must get to the bottom of this."

 

Ezo  takes out his stationary from his captain's desk and begins to pen a letter to the Crownlands Military Command

[InfamousGerman 1553]

1 hour ago, Ezo Karasuga said:

Ezo Karasuga, Commandant of the Chambery Marines and Regent of Chambery reads the proclamations.  He sits in his cabin on the "Resolution" Class warship In Chambery's port

 

 

" There is no listing under Legio I for Chambery's forces.  The Empire considers the Vanir to be their naval force?  Chambery's warships outclass their smaller ships and we even have a functioning shipyard building additional ships for the Crownlands Military!    Did our forms not get sent in?  I must get to the bottom of this."

 

Ezo  takes out his stationary from his captain's desk and begins to pen a letter to the Crownlands Military Command

Fiske corrects the plural to warship.

[Ducklingator 795]

[!]

 

An application form, half-filled, lays in the pile; The filled half would be covered in spit and ink. The words "No respect for elves!" Are scribbled down upon the other side. A long line appears to be trailing after the 's', as if the person writing it was drunk!

[Ducklingator 795]

-snip-

[CrushKappa 4]

Name and surname: Darrak (CrushKappa)

Age:30

Racial status:Human,Highlander

Any prior service:No

Preferred Legion:No

Preferred Brigade:No

Any trades or skills, such as smithing or mining, that you could provide to the Imperial Legions:Yes

Do you understand that an oath requiring a minimum of 2 years (2 saint’s weeks) service will be taken?: Yes

[hudsun202 233]

Name and surname: Peterson Quinn (The_Lemon_Head)

Age: 25

Racial status: Human

Any prior service: Nein

Preferred Legion: Nein

Preferred Brigade: Nein

Any trades or skills, such as smithing or mining, that you could provide to the Imperial Legions: Whatever is needed really.

Do you understand that an oath requiring a minimum of 2 years (2 saint’s weeks) service will be taken?: Yeah :P