LEGIO BURGUNDIAE

[Tide1 4535]

LEGION OF BURGUNDY

LEGIO BURGUNDIAE

In the year 5 of the Age of Reckoning

 

✠

 

“IN GLADIO VERITAS”

 

 

“I yield to none.”

-Gaspard I

 

 

The Legion of Burgundy is an elite standing armed force that operates in the Midlands region. Levied by the Duke of Middelan, it is charged with maintaining peace and stability of the realm, and protecting her people from enemies foreign and domestic. The Duke of Middelan, supreme authority of the Midlands, has the power to deploy the Legion at his behest. The legion serves not only as a defensive force against invaders, but also as a means to fortify the Duke's rule and maintain law and order. Loyal, disciplined, dangerous— men of the Legion are expected to be founts of honor and martial excellence. 

 

The legion's name, Burgundy, pays homage to its Renatian and Vilachian influence, and suggests a strong connection to the people and culture of the Midlands.

 

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ORGANISATION

 

Duke of Middelan — Germanicus I

 

Lord Marshal

The Marshal holds senior command within the Legion and is second only to the Duke. His primary responsibilities are leading larger formations, such as battalions or regiments, and coordinating multiple companies under his authority.

 

 

Centenary

The rank of centenary represents a higher level of leadership within the legion. A Centenary is a seasoned soldier who has proven his competence and demonstrated leadership abilities. He is responsible for commanding a company of legionaries— from overseeing their training, to leading them in battle.

 

 

Serjeant-at-Arms

When a Centenary is absent, a Serjant is responsible for providing soldiers with guidance and commands. Being proactive and taking charge in the absence of orders is crucial for the legion to accomplish their objectives and succeed. Serjeants can handle various tasks, including assignments such as gate duty or leading a patrol along the highways. While other accolades in the legion may be based on an individual's combat abilities, the role of a Serjant is to mentor and pass on their knowledge to the next generation of soldiers.

 

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Lancer 

The Lancer is an experienced infantryman or horseman who has displayed exceptional skill and loyalty. He will specialize in spear and lance fighting and is trained in both defensive and offensive formations. Lancers often serve as elite units within the Legion, capable of breaking enemy lines and defending key positions.

 

Footman

Upon completion of basic training, a recruit becomes a footman. Footmen form the core of the Legion's ground forces and are skilled in close combat and battlefield tactics. Footmen are typically organized into squads and operate as the Legion's frontline soldiers.

 

Recruit

The Recruit is a fledgling soldier who has recently enlisted in the legion. He will undergo basic training and will be introduced to military life, discipline, and fundamental skills. He will receive guidance from experienced soldiers and officers, familiarizing himself with responsibilities of a legionary.

 

 

Spoiler

 

Quartermaster

The Integral, the Quartermaster is responsible for equipping the legion with the best of arms. He must be of sound mind and aptitude, lest risk failure for the entire Legion. His task is not one of glory but a decisive necessity.

 

Standard-bearer

The Valiant, the Standard-beared is the bravest of braves, the most honourable of honourables. The legionary to take this position has earned his respect from fellow soldiers. He is responsible to keep the Burgundy Standard erect in battle, and lead in the vanguard of formations. His duties extend also to the throne room. 

 

Headsman

The Merciless, the Headsman is a specialist employed from the ranks of foot, tasked to effect 

executions once given a black warrant. Often tasked with prisoners of war and deserters alike. Only one man shall be appointed to this post.

 

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ARMS, ARMOR, & EQUIPMENT

 

a foot-lancer furnished in full kit: 

ARMOR: steel burgonet with gold rivets above the peak, steel breastplate over a doublet with slashed upper sleeves, leather gauntlets, slashed trousers or black breeches and spurred over-the-knee-boots.

ARMS: lance or pike, steel arming sword, gilded bollock dagger. 

 

THE STEEL BONNET, AND PIKEMAN’S POT

Light and effective, these helmets provide little to cover the face.

 

THE BREASTPLATE
A staple of the legionary's kit, it must be earned.

THE JACK

Newly oathed legionaries are given this sleeveless, heavy-quilted tunic. Thin steel plates are secured in between the layers of cloth. A burgundy escutcheon with a white sword is sewn onto the center of the tunic.

 

THE BOOTS

The iconic over-the-knee boots are worn only by mounted lancers of the Legion. A fashion statement.

 

THE PARRYING DAGGER

More short sword than dagger, this weapon has a blade length of eighteen inches and a wicked taper. 

THE BOLLOCK DAGGER

This dagger is a handy backup weapon that can be used for eating as well as for fighting— a must have in an infantryman’s kit.

 

THE LANCE, AND PIKE

A legionary’s best friend. The standard length for lances are nine feet; pikes eighteen.

 

THE POLEAXE

A foot soldier's answer to heavy cavalry. With a length of six feet, a head and a protruding forwards spike, the ax is a versatile weapon. 

 

THE LONGBOW

A staple of warfare since the dawn of mankind. Oft employed as artillery by the Legion.

 

THE CROSSBOW, AND LATCHET

Much more common than the bow, it is quick to train and easy to use. Every legionary knows this weapon well.

 

THE BUCKLER

As much a weapon as it is a shield, when lines break the buckler is a close ally.

 

 

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Oath to the Midlands

 

Prior to entering service in the Legion of Burgundy, recruits must take this solemn oath to pledge their allegiance and resolve to the Duke, Midlands, and her people. When a man takes the Oath to the Midlands, he guarantees his integrity and commits to the noble purpose that is to protect and uphold the values of the Midlander.

 

“That which is born from these fields of gold, bear witness to my oath.

I, [full name], swear upon my privilege of life to defend the majesty of the Midlands.

I shall obey my superiors without fault and faithfully execute all he may command. 

I shall hold fast in the face of peril,

and never betray nor forsake my brothers-in-arms.

I shall let the Duke’s justice be done, come what may.

….

I am the guardian of the innocent.

I am the shield against tyranny.

I am a beacon of hope for the destitute. 

….

This oath I take, freely and willingly.

Thus I raise my sword for the Midlands till my soul is laid to rest,

or my oath deemed fulfilled.”

 

 

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LEGION TRADITIONS 

 

BURGUNDY FIELDS

Indoctrination into the Legion of Burgundy involves the process known as the Burgundy Fields.

 

Through the rigorous training of the Burgundy Fields, recruits not only become skilled warriors, but also develop a deep appreciation for the Midlands and her people. A recruit will understand the weight of his responsibility and the crucial role he plays in protecting the realm’s safety, stability, and prosperity. With training and unwavering dedication, men of the Legion of Burgundy stand as a steadfast shield, ready to defend the Midlands against belligerent invaders or threats at a moment’s notice.

 

JOUSTS
Legionnaires can strengthen their bond and bravery through jousts and tournaments. The idea of a charging lancer can be daunting, but participating in these activities with fellow soldiers can boost a sense of courage whenever true battle emerges. Legionnaires are urged to create events and attend those hosted by the duchy's vassals. Additionally, participating in contests hosted on foreign soil provides individual recognition and personal fulfillment opportunities, while also giving them an idea of what they would go against.

ON DECLARING WAR

The symbol of the Legion, a silver sword wrapped in oak branches, is delivered to the enemy by the herald. To the brave man comes victory, not to the dastard. 

 

ON DESERTION

There is no greater shame than the one associated with treason and there is no greater crime. To betray one's oath is to betray the Midlands, of which the price is paid in blood. The betrayer's death is never swift and almost always made an example of.

Recruits have been known to escape with horrific scarring and banishment. 

 

 

 

Awards & Honours

 

OAK CROWN

A metallic, golden crown of oaken leaves and two sprigs, connected behind the head. They resemble a crown of laurels. Awarded to those few who could be solely credited with saving the Midlands, the Legion, or winning a war. The highest battlefield honor a Legionnaire may obtain. 

 

WINGS OF PERTINAX

Awarded to he who has shown the greatest sword skill in the army. This badge is composed of a winged helm overlaying a purple shield. Often given to tourney winners. 

 

ST. ARPAD’S MACE

An ornate, flanged mace with inlays of gold. It is to be worn at the hip during ceremonies while doubling as a weapon should the need arise. Awarded after ten years of distinguished service.

 

HADRIAN’S BADGE

Awarded to those who can be credited with the first kill of any major battle. The badge depicts a burgundy shield with a dog standing on its hind legs. 

 

CONQUEST COIN

Awarded to those who succeeded in their first battlefield conquest. The silver coin depicts Leonid Vilac facing left on the obverse, with “Vincere est vivere” below the head. The reverse depicts an eagle foot, talons holding a bolt in a bend.

 

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TITLE OF CONQUEST

Awarded to those who are persistent in success during war time. Per the duke’s wishes and the marshal’s observations, a third name is officially bestowed upon you to be respected by all. Ten years of service is a prerequisite for this award.

 

 

Enlistment

 

Prior to joining the Legion, one must qualify all prerequisites as stated. The Legion may take exceptions, for the sake of holding legionaries to the highest standard of discipline and honor. 

The requirements are as followed:

 

I. One must be of human descent.

II. One must be of at least thirteen years of age.

III. One must be of the male gender (exceptions can be made).

IV. One must be a resident of the Midlands.

V. One must exhibit common sense and the capacity to be trained.

 

To enlist, find an officer of the Legion or make your way to the nearest recruitment post.

[MisterBlitzkrieg 1357]

"Mans be makin a PEAK peng ting wif dis shiet ye ye." Acolyte sev Arsen commented "Mandem bettah make sure no one is proppah vexxed wif dah bigger boss Germanicus n' dah BIG MAN!" sev Arsen signed the lorraine before pointing up into the sky and handing the missive to his rivian brothers.

[-_- 273]

Germanicus smiles at the result of many months of work. "About time," he remarks to Hendrik, newly appointed Marshal of the Burgundy Legion.

[Vermy 1484]

The Duke of Blackvale readies himself and his levymen to enlist in the Legion.

[Ryanark 2738]

Vlan looked in awe at the Legion of Burgundy and their.. Burgundy tabards.

[Haseroth 1740]

Augustus read the poster and smiled the sun's smile.

[VoxyNoir 973]

Philip smiles at it as he support his friends

Edited August 16, 2023 by VoxyNoir

[Cobbler 809]

Sebastian would grin as he read the missive, packing his bags from the coast he would ride home to join the legion.

[Smmer 2441]

Aestrid thinks the marshal Hendrik is pretty cute n also gives praise to who ever made the well formatted and neatly organized forum post. 

[Laeonathan 5889]

Georg Euler grins in approval of the color burgundy.

[iFractal 302]

The princess of Talar’nor gave a nod as she scanned over the impressive missive

[Olox_ 4318]

[♪]

 

Heinrich II Lothar offers a respectful salute to all members of the Legion of Burgundy, especially to his friend, Gaspard van Aert 

 

@M1919

[unlegiqDuck 324]

"We are simply build like that"

[STBNL 250]

Kelland was immediately transferred over, "It is what it is."

[SmackSmack 200]

Drolzu'Gorkil dunz zah borgondi aend redyz hyz zult vur zah waghs tu komz.