CULTURE OF BLACKVALE

[Vermy 1346]

 

☩ BLACKVALE CULTURE ☩

Extensive Edition

 

 

Viri Burgvndiae, victvs a nemo

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☩ CONTENTS 

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I. Introduction

II. Culture and Traditions

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☩ Introduction ☩

 

The Mentality of the Lodenlanders

 

The Lodenlanders are a fiercely independent people, proud of their heritage and unyielding in their loyalty to the van Aert family. Some say they appear rather stoic. Their culture is heavily influenced by their long history of warfare, which has shaped their society, customs and faith. They are skilled fighters and are renowned for their use of a unique weapon called the "Lodenlander Longsword," which is a fearsome weapon capable of cleaving through armor with ease.

Lodenlanders are noted for worshiping Aurelius Horen, Emperor of Man as Exalted, for he has never lost a battle and conquered many lands.

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☩ Culture and Traditions ☩

 

Youth and Coming of Age

While their childhood is spent in the safety of their home, the Lodenlander youth is still trained early on. The coming-of-age ceremony in Blackvale is a long-standing tradition that dates back many generations. At the age of 16, children within the community are considered mature enough to take on the responsibility of defending their home and their people, and so they are required to participate in a duel against a seasoned Blackvale levymen. The duels are usually fought with blunted wooden weapons, though some families prefer to use real weapons to make the ceremony more challenging. The goal of the duel is not to harm or kill the opponent, but to prove one's skill and bravery in combat. The winner of the duel is considered to be worthy of the title of Blackvale levymen and is granted certain privileges and responsibilities within the community.

 

In the weeks leading up to the ceremony, the young adults undergo intense training and preparation for the duel. They learn swordplay, archery, and other combat skills from seasoned fighters within the community. The training is both physical and mental, with a focus on building endurance, strength, and quick reflexes, as well as sharpening their strategic thinking and tactical skills.On the day of the ceremony, the young adults don their best set of armor and gather in the central plaza of the village. The duel takes place in front of the entire community, with family and friends cheering on their respective fighters. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and anticipation, and the air is filled with the clanging of swords and the thud of arrows hitting their targets.The duels are judged by a panel of experienced fighters who assess the skill, bravery, and technique of each combatant. The winner is chosen based on a combination of these factors, as well as their ability to remain composed and focused under pressure. Once the winner has been declared, they are officially recognized as a Blackvale levymen and are given a place of honor within the community. They are entrusted with the responsibility of defending their home and their people.

 

Women and their Role in Society

The idea of women fighting alongside men as levymen or soldiers was not uncommon in historical societies, and it seems that the women of Blackvale followed a similar tradition. Being a landsknecht involved training in combat, proficiency in the use of weapons, and the willingness to defend one's community in times of war. Women who chose to participate in this way were likely highly respected for their courage and skill. However, it's important to note that not all women in Blackvale have been interested in or suited to fighting. For those who chose not to fight, there were other options available. Medicine was one such option - women could train as healers or midwives, using their knowledge of herbs and medicine to care for their families and communities. In addition to medicine, women have also taken up more traditional female roles, such as cooking, weaving, and caring for children. These roles were just as important as any other in ensuring the well-being of the community.

 

It's also worth noting that the roles available to women in Blackvale may vary depending on their social status and economic class. Women of higher status may have more opportunities for education and training in specialized areas, while women of lower status may be more limited in their options. Overall, it's clear that the women of Blackvale were not confined to one particular role or expectation. They had the freedom to choose their path in life and contribute to their community in the way that best suited their abilities and interests

 

The Different Facets of Blackvale Culture

Despite their reputation as warriors, the Lodenlanders also have a rich artistic tradition. They are skilled metalworkers and are known for their intricate armor designs and weaponry. They are often seen wearing feathered berets and big puffy sleeves with their armor, making them stand out in a crowd. They also have a talent for embroidery and are famous for their colorful, intricate patterns and designs, which are often featured on their clothing. Despite their colorful closets, one color often stands out; The Blackvale Burgundy – it's a rich and deep shade of red that is created by combining two important colors in its lineage: Renation Purple and Raevir Red. 

 

Music is an essential part of Lodenlander culture, and they have a rich tradition of folk music that celebrates their history and legends. Their music is characterized by lively rhythms and catchy melodies, often played on the fiddle or the lute. They also have a tradition of storytelling, with bards and minstrels traveling from town to town, recounting tales of heroic deeds and epic battles, of which there are many. One of the most unique aspects of Lodenlander culture is their cuisine. They have a love for hearty, savory dishes, often made with game meat and root vegetables. One of their most famous dishes is a hearty stew called "Lodenlander Potage," which is made with chunks of venison, potatoes, and carrots, simmered together in a rich broth.

 

 

 

[Fie 2521]

Wilhelmina gave an approving nod to her older brother, Valentin. "We did good work."

[Ryanark 1993]

"Genzō approve! Blackvale za very good employer..!" The samurai retainer smiled, giving a thumbs up, having fought for these men before!