The Karovian Hussars

[LuxyLucy 691]

 

ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF JEROVITZ

c. [576] E.S.

 

 

 

This is a continuation of the wide-ranging series treatise I, Her Ladyship, Primrose Emelya Kortrevich, will make an effort in scraping the surface in what there is to know on the subject of warfare, within the culture of my people that reside under the realm of Hanseti-Ruska. While I myself would notably not be classified as one of the martial class, I will extensively use the source of knowledge I have access to in His Excellency, Ser Andrei Kortrevich, the Knight Paramount.

 

What you’re reading is a manual of a tradition taught and passed down by the cultures of the Karovians, the nature of the Hussars have evolved alongside one another in Koppány and Jerovitz. The use of light cavalry in the steppe, such as the Mejeni’s Hussars which have formed the gold standard for light cavalry across Aevos as they are known for their exceptional horsemanship and skill in archery, they are a considerable outlier from most traditional cavalry, but used to be part of a large cultural zone formerly encompassing the former tribal natures of people, they themselves retaining close roots to this. The word “Hussar” translates to coursers or chasers.

 

 

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Spoiler

 

 

 

 

The Hussars have become the standard form of cavalry among the Mejeni in addition to the heavy cavalry. Their role is limited to irregular warfare, raiding, securing, covering and reconnaissance of main regular forces. This lightly armed cavalry does not generally take part of a regular army, when the order of battle is formed, they are placed outside it in quite separate groups and used to destroy, burn, kill and instill fear in the enemies camps while they ride ahead of the regular army. Raiding sources of fodder and provisions, harassing enemy skirmishers, overrunning artillery positions, and pursuing fleeing troops. These irregular light horsemen are a form of military levy whereby any landowner with twenty acres is duty bound to provide a mounted and equipped soldier to the Koeng’s army at their own expense. Hussars are recruited only from the land that indicates them by their regiment’s name, so all Hussars of the Mejeni style are of the Koppány Hussars regiment. 

 

 

 

 

Hussars have created the tradition of sabrage, the opening of a champagne bottle with a sabre. The blade is placed towards the base of the bottle and thrust along the length of the neck, where force of the striking point hitting the lip breaks the glass to separate the collar from the neck of the bottle. The cork and collar remain together after separating from the neck. It is a practice done in celebration after victory. Their distinctive uniforms set them apart from other cavalry units, featuring fur busbies, dolman jackets, and ornate braiding. Mejeni Hussar uniforms are not only aesthetically pleasing but also carry symbolic meaning. The colors and accessories used in their attire often represent different Mejeni tribalistic origins. For example, red is associated with the Korvacz family, while black is typically worn by other Mejeni Hussars. Numerous decorative elements, such as braids, buttons, and badges, serve as indications of bravery and achievements in battle. These symbols not only instill a sense of pride in the Hussars but also help distinguish them on the battlefield.

 

 

 

 

The Mejeni Hussar military uniforms are known for their distinctive and elaborate design. One of the most notable features is the busby, a tall cylindrical fur hat made of black lambskin. The busby is adorned with a colored bag on top, usually red or blue, and a horizontal plume made of feathers behind it. The upper garment is a dolman, a short jacket with tight-fitting sleeves, which is often embellished with intricate embroidery and braiding. The dolman features a pelisse, a fur trimming that extends down to the waist. The front of the dolman has numerous buttons, usually in groups of three, and are secured with a gold or silver braided frogging. Mejeni Hussars wear breeches that match the dolman, often made of vibrant colors like red or blue. The breeches are tucked into high leather boots. Another distinctive feature is the use of crimson or black sashes worn around the waist, which add an extra touch of elegance to the uniform. Additionally, Mejeni Hussars carry a kontusz, a wide silk sash draped diagonally across the body. The kontusz is often intricately woven with rich patterns and colors, distinguishing the wearer’s rank or unit. It is also common for Hussars to accessorize their uniforms with sabretaches - rectangular leather pouches that hang from the waist belt and display intricate designs or regimental insignia. Hussar armament includes a cavalry saber, lance, long wooden shield and, optionally, light, metal armour or simple leather vest along with javelins, bow and arrows. Their usual form of attack is a rapid charge in compact formation against enemy infantry or cavalry units. If the first attack fails, they retire to their supporting troops, who re-equip them with fresh lances, and then they charge again.

 

 

 

 

After the withdrawal from the lost defense of the Siege of Koppány, there would be a pitched battle of the retreating forces of the Covenant upon the continued assault of the Holy League, the Battle of Cordelie Winewoods, in which this Mejeni song would be dedicated to the many losses suffered that day.

 

 

Spoiler

 

 

 

“Thousands of Hussars, thousands of brothers

   Led to the river Petra thousands and thousands of steeds.

   And the bank was covered with the fallen brothers,

   And the bloody bodies made the river waters flee.

 

Love it, brothers, love it, love to fight and live,

   Having such an hetman, you cannot ever grieve!

   Love it, brothers, love it, love to fight and live,

   Having such an hetman, you cannot ever grieve!

 

Now the first arrow, now the first arrow,

   Now the first arrow, brothers, wounded my steed.

   And the second arrow, and the second arrow,

   And the second arrow in a twinkle found me...

 

 Love it, brothers, love it, love to fight and live,

   Having such an hetman, you cannot ever grieve!

   Love it, brothers, love it, love to fight and live,

   Having such an hetman, you cannot ever grieve!

 

And the wife will hear, will shed not many tears,

 She will wed again, she will forget about me,

 Pity for my wild will, for my silent wide field,

 Pity for my mother, for my stray cream-coloured steed!

 

 Love it, brothers, love it, love to fight and live,

   Having such an hetman, you cannot ever grieve!

   Love it, brothers, love it, love to fight and live,

   Having such an hetman, you cannot ever grieve!

 

Ah, my curls that are so light and my eyes that are so grey,

  Soon they will be overgrown by the grass and webs,

  While my heart that is so brave and my bones that are so pale

  Will be scattered by the ravens over the steppes...

 

Love it, brothers, love it, love to fight and live,

   Having such an hetman, you cannot ever grieve!

   Love it, brothers, love it, love to fight and live,

   Having such an hetman, you cannot ever grieve!”

 

 

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Spoiler

 

 

 

 

It would be futile to tell of the grandeur and beauty of this cavalry; to speak of their uniforms, their tall lances with long pennants, their bobcat skins and exquisite horses with saddles, stirrups and reins dripping with gold, embroidery and precious stones; to do so would only diminish their beauty. It is a chivalry that has no equal in the world; without seeing it with your own eyes, its vigour and splendour is impossible to imagine. The Koravian Hussar is certainly among the most spectacular soldiers across Aevos. To Koravians they are much more - a symbol of justifiable pride in military achievements.

 

The Koravian Hussar is a hybrid, the offspring of a complicated mix of their Karovian ancestry and influences of Hanseti-Ruska. The first Hussars to appear among the Koravians were also Mejeni. Though recruitment was quickly extended to the Koravians, in Jerovitz these ‘heavy’ Hussars are described by the armaments they use, metal breastplates, helmet, shield, lance. They are described as the ‘hardwood of the army, both an ornament and a defence … Which no people other than the Koravians have, nor can ever have’. 

 

The Koravian Hussars are organized along lines that are derived from the same recruitment system formalized by the Auvergnians. The basic company-sized unit is known as a rota, from the Auvergnian route, a contingent raised by a single Kortrevich. The Auvergnians combined small routes into banners of one-hundred for field service, and a similar practice survives in Jerovitz, where small rotas are combined to form a choragiew, literally ‘banner’. However, rota and choragiew have become synonymous - both meaning ‘company’.

 

 

 

 

Rotmistrz and Towarzysz

 

The commander or captain of a company is called a Rotmistrz - ‘rotamaster’. They are normally members of House Kortrevich. The Head of House Kortrevich maintains a Hussar company and draws pay as its Rotmistrz. The Rotmistrz raise their company by contacting a number of Towarzysz or ‘companions’. Each of these assemble a poczet (retinue), the equivalent of the ‘lance’, to serve with them. The poczet comprised, besides the Towarzysz, a number of pacholiks or ‘retainers’ - as many as seven, to as little as two or one. Plus an unspecified number of camp servants who do not appear on a unit's strength. The Towarzysz are in a very real way a ‘companion’ of the Rotmistrz - sharing the economic risk of raising the troops, and then serving alongside them on campaign.

 

The Towarzysz are normally other Kortreviches, though they may also be members of the Gentry or Military Class. Those who enlist do so often out of a genuine feeling of patriotic obligation and a desire to protect the homeland, but Hussar service is also an excellent means of social advancement, the first step on a political career path, and a way of getting noticed in higher circles. The typical length of service is three to five years. Wealthier individuals might purchase a place in the prestigious company of the Kortreviches, enlisting for very short periods of just three months to one year, enough to give them the cachet of a ‘soldier-knight’. Though younger sons, with little chance of inheritance, tend to serve for longer, becoming career soldiers. In difficult times, men of uncertified pedigree and non-nobles might also be accepted as Towarzysze, if they have the funds. Hussar Towarzysze is an elite fraternity. To be a Towarzysz of Hussars conferred an exalted status in Koravian society at large, the Hussar Towarzysz are a junior officer of sort.

 

Retainers and camp servants

 

The typical Towarzyz receives pay for three ‘horses’ or fighting men. Out of that money they raise a poczet, a small train or retinue, related in meaning to a military ‘post’ or ‘watch’, which consists of themself plus two retainers or pacholiks. The pacholik might be a member of the impoverished nobility, though most are from the lower, non-noble classes. Foreigners may refer to them as valets, squires or servants - hinting at the unequal relationship between Towarzysz and pacholik. The Towarzysz have complete jurisdiction over their pacholiks. They can hire and fire them at will, and own their equipment and horses. The army is one of the few routes for social advancement. If a pacholik is able to acquire the necessary funds and horses, they may become a Towarzysz in a lesser status unit of Hussar cavalry, where pedigree is often overlooked. The more successful Towarzysz of less acclaimed cavalry might in turn enlist as a Hussar.

 

The Towarzysz also engage camp servants to look after the wagons, tents and horses of their poczet. These are known as a ciury (singular ciura) or czeladz luzna (‘loose servants’). None-Koravians have difficulty grasping the difference between pacholiks and camp servants, which is not helped by the Hussars’ own habit of referring to the pacholiks and servants collectively as czeladz (singular czeladnik, ‘apprentice’). The vast majority of camp servants are male. While camp servants are not listed on the company registers, there is generally one to four camp servants per fighting man. A Hussar company requires space for the same again or even double the number of loose servants or in other words, one to two servants per fighting man.

 

Junior company staff

 

The Rotmistrz are assisted in their duties by a Porucznik or lieutenant. This officer is elected by the Towarzysz from among their number. Though the post of Towarzysz carries prestige, that of Porucznik is a huge step up the ladder, opening the way to a senior military rank and a civil career. The seniority of a Towarzysz increases the higher up their name is listed on a muster roll, and the closer they come to promotion to Porucznik. The position on the roll is fiercely contested, and is a frequent cause of duels. The Hussar Porucznik are themselves often called upon to perform higher command functions. The Chorazy (standard-bearer) for a company is usually selected from among the younger, more promising Towarzysz, not necessarily one with experience - the post carries few executive powers. In the absence of Porucznik, command of the company often passes to a senior Towarzysz rather than to the Chorazy, and a senior Towarzysz would often be promoted first.

 

There is no fixed requirement for musicians, though a kettle-drummer and several trumpeters are often present on a companies register, especially when in overarching service to Hanseti-Ruska and a Royal company. Each company may also have its own chaplain, barber-surgeon, and blacksmith. Chaplains and barber-surgeons do sometimes appear on the company rolls, but their presence is optional; other providers of specialist skills are rarely listed. Such services are provided informally by camp servants and pacholiks who are craftsmen in civilian life. Similarly, many staff functions are replaced by an assembly of the company’s Towarzys and officers, known as the kolo (circle). This acts as an advisory council for the Rotmistrz and a court for the company.

 

 

 

 

Mustering and pay

 

A Hussar company enters service, much as in any army: the men are lined up before army commissioners, who enter the names of each Towarzysz on to a company register, along with the number of mounted soldiers in their retinue (poczet). The company is then sworn in before its standard. The company register (or ‘muster roll’) is written down periodically and takes the following form: Register of the Hussar Rota of the County of Jerovitz, Poczet of the Rotmistrz twenty-four horses, Porucznik six horses, Chorazy four horses, five further Towarzysze with three horses; Total forty-nine horses. A Hussar's salary is eighteen Krawns, paid quarterly for each ‘horse’ of their Poczet. It may fluctuate wildly during times of crisis, but it is attempted to keep up with inflation.

 

Equipment

 

The state contributes very little to the costs of equipping Hussars. The Towarzysz themself cover the bulk of the expense as a career investment. The Rotmistrz also invests a substantial amount when raising a company, and pays for items such as lances, bobcat skins and wings, as well as subsidizing their Towarzysze. Both Towarzysz and Rotmistrz expect to recover some of their investment through pay and share of war booty, but the biggest reward - especially for the Rotmistrz - would be a lucrative office granted by the Crown upon exemplary service to the Koengdom.

 

Armour

 

Originally their gear was to be in Mejeni style, the armor being ‘properly made on the anvil from copper [i.e. brass] and iron’. In addition the Hussar was to have: helmet, mail sleeves, lance, sabre, javelins, a bow along with arrows carried on the saddle, feathers and other ornaments for splendour and to terrify the enemy according to the wish of each captain. The Mejeni style of armour, evidently intended to replace the hotchpotch of Auvergnian armours worn earlier. Its characteristic feature being the fully articulated, lobster-like breastplate that had originated from the Illatians. Though more modern versions of the Koravian Hussar began to take on a ‘half-lobster’ form, with only three or four bands or lames at the bottom. But it was only after The First Aevos Coalition War of one-hundred and fifty-five S.A. to one-hundred and sixty-six S.A. that the fashion for elaborate weaponry really caught on in Jerovitz, and the Hussar armours of the style familiar to us today started to take hold. The opulence increased during the period of peace that took place afterwards, and perhaps the most splendid turnout ever achieved so far was in two-hundred and twenty-four S.A. at the outbreak of The Second Aevos Coalition War.

 

Hussar armour is spectacular, in part because it is burnished rather than blackened to prevent rust as in other units. It is not particularly expensive to make, and both the steel surfaces and the brass fittings appear crude from close up. The sheer variety of types is evident of the larger number of workshops producing it. Given a supply of steel plate produced in quantity by foundries in the County of Jerovitz. Any small-town armourer can knock out a reasonably attractive suit of armour in Hussar style, unlike the more Full-Plate styles. House Kortrevich of Jerovitz family run workshop supplies large consignments of Hussar armours for warriors across Hanseti-Ruska, specializing in the productions of Hussar armors for the cavalry forces of their Koengdom.

 

The Hussar’s helmet for a long time followed Mejeni patterns. Like the armour, it began to evolve typically Koravian features after The First Aevos Coalition War. These include bronze fittings and rivet heads finished as rosettes in honor of Dame Primrose Kortrevich - presumably invoking her protection. The pacholiks in the rear ranks are given cheaper helmets, though a few are better made, though some wear gilded helmets fitted with feathers in a decorative clasps. The earlier iron sleeves or mail sleeves were worn with plate gauntlets though both were gradually replaced by armguards known as karwasze. At first listed singly, originally worn on the bridle arm, though they are now common and worn in pairs. In theory pacholiks receive gear of inferior finish that nevertheless provides as good protection as that of the Towarzysz. Though Craftsmen’s price lists and contracts confirm that almost every item - from armour to lance - is made in a cheaper variant for the pacholik. However, not all pacholiks receive such equipment. It is sometimes recommended to reduce the size of poczets so the Towarzysz can afford to equip their fewer retainers to a higher standard. 

 

 

 

Swords

 

Many Koravian swords are gold-plated and encrusted with jewels; these are mostly fashion accessories - symbols of nobility, carried as part of everyday attire. Combat swords are black and planer, with hand grips and scabbards of black leather. The szabla (sabre) evolved from Mejeni prototypes. The ‘Mejeni’ style which became popular had a particularly heavy blade and an open hilt, and was designed for delivering hacking blows at a gallop. A true melee sabre evolved only after The First Aevos Coalition War: the blade became lighter, the hilt was closed to protect the hand, at first by means of a chainlet or an L-shaped bar, and finally a thumb-ring was added to help improve handling. The result was the ‘Koravian Hussar Sabre’, one of the finest combat weapons found anywhere in Aevos. The sabre has a number of sub-types, the best known of which is the karabela, with a bird-head-shaped pommel, Primarily a dress sword.

 

Uniquely connected with the Hussars is the koncerz, with its long one-hundred and thirty to one-hundred and sixty cm blade of triangular or square cross-section. The weapon is Reinmaren in origin; its name ‘mail-sticker’ suggests its ability to pierce ring-mail. The unwieldy koncerz is slung on the saddle, under the rider’s thigh and hangs at an angle of forty-five degrees from the horizontal. The palasz, or broadsword, though outshined by the koncerz, is more commonly seen. About ninety to one-hundred cm in length, it has a straight blader, single- or double-edged, and a sabre-type hilt. Mejeni and Reinmaren broadswords have straight blades; Koravian ones are occasionally slightly curved. Confusingly, Koravians may use them to describe a type of close-hilted saber.

 

 

 

Bows and javelins

 

While the mark of every Kortrevich is their saber, the specific badge of a Towarzysz is their bow with many having elegant bow cases. Many Hussars carry bows as part of their everyday attire. They are also instructed to have javelins. This is primarily intended for defence of the wagons and camp. The javelin has always been a widespread cavalry weapon, they’re often used in martial sports of prowess to impress the Crown in similar fashion to the Mejeni. Hussars carry four to six javelins, strapped on the left of the saddle pommel where they won’t obstruct the lance. When sent on foraging duty or a raid they will leave the lances behind and take a larger quantity of javelins and arrows from the wagons. Though Andrei repeatedly instructs Hussar pacholiks to have both lance and bow, so that they can be fielded with either as the tactical situation demands.

 

The kopia lance

 

The kopia, even more so than the wings, are the defining weapon of the Koravian Hussars. For they are called the lancers. The kopia’s distinctive feature is its ball-shaped handguard, described by foreign visitors as an ‘apple’, mayhaps inspired by the Haeseni Wild Apples that grow within the Karoswood of Jerovitz. A one-use weapon, the kopia is constructed of cheap, light wood such as pine or fir, the lighter the better. The shaft is hollowed to further reduce weight. Two halves are conjoined with the most subtle sinews and threads of silk and the strongest glue, then painted in various colours, to mask the artifice. The lance is hollowed only as far as the apple, the lower part being of solid wood. The typical kopia measures about seventeen feet, or slightly longer than an infantryman's pike.

 

Lance pennants are uniform within each company, and often follow the design of the company flag. Most are two-coloured, typically yellow/red, yellow/black, or red/black. In heraldic honor of House Kortrevich. At thirteen feet, pennants are huge. When the lance is lowered they touch the ground and become tangled in the horse’s hooves. Though made of light silk they add to the lance’s weight (especially when wet), and become unmanageable in wind. Short pennants are employed on campaign, only about 3 feet in size. The replacement of lances during a campaign is always a problem and is mentioned after almost every pitched battle: ‘We badly need Hussar lances which none of us have, and it is difficult to obtain them in this region’. ‘We broke all our lances: I doubt not that our Lord will have us re-equipped shortly’. The situation after defeats is no better, the retreating Hussars leave the field strewn with unbroken lances. Replacement lances are obtained in New Valdev or major Keeps near the theatre of war. In enemy territory improvisation is the only option. Koravian Hussars may use hop-poles with fire-hardened points, which are stained with vegetable dyes and surmounted with linen pennants. Most lances are painted crimson and black with gold feathers in the heraldic colors of House Kortrevich.

 

 

 

 

Wings

 

Hussars have the custom of decorating themselves and their horses with large panaches, from eagle’s wings, striped with gold, which are so dense and so large in extent that they are made expressly for masquerades, or to frighten people. They are also attached to shields or the manes of horses. These wings would in time be worn on the back, but these early wings are of the same naturalistic type worn by Mejeni Hussars. Though featherware is a requirement of Hussar recruitment, a new site for the wing would be found at the back of the saddle - on the left side where a single wing does not interfere with the lance. These early wings are made of a simple row of feathers inserted into a straight batten. It is claimed they are made to scare the enemy horses and throw the enemy into retreat. There is also the custom of attaching huge vulture wings at the back, which at the gallop makes a great rustling noise. Hussar troopers screw to the rear of their armour a piece of wood reaching from the belt, high above the head, and curving over the head; inserted into this from one end to the other are a row of feathers painted in various colors, looking like a laurel or branch which make a strangely pretty sight, though not all companies use such laurel branches.

 

What are the wings for?

 

The wings are mostly a parade adornment, though they are taken on campaign. Each Hussar for greater adornment is required to wear in pairs these wings on the march, though they will also be used in times of wedding or a triumph. Each Hussar will have two wings as they parade and march. Wings just like a Hussar’s elegant silk clothing and parade horse harness are worn on campaign. Though such finery is not worn on a daily basis, as it does quickly wear out, but reserved for special occasions. In poor weather or difficult terrain such as woods, wings will be left on the wagons. They do scare enemy horses, along with protection against sword cuts. The wings are also a defence against lasso attempts on the rider. The wings are intended to frighten the enemy. They do this by visual impact. Horses are wary of unfamiliar sights, and one or two flustered horses might be enough to disrupt an entire enemy formation. The whole gear of the Hussar - bobcat skin, wings, fluttering pennants and dazzling armour - is designed to intimidate and overawe the enemy. The wings and fur evoke a primitive visceral fear of predatory animals. It may be noted that the thousands of Koravian Hussars are so well covered with the pelts of bobcats, sables, and bears, that one might think it was an army not of people but of wild animals, riding winged pegasuses in place of horses.

 

Clothing

 

When Mejeni styles of male costume arrived in Jerovitz their adoption was intimately linked with the growing importance of Hussars in the army. Indeed, for decades the terms ‘Mejeni’ and ‘Hussar’ were interchangeable. At first Koravian garments differed little from their Mejeni prototypes, though skirts grew longer and fabrics thicker in the cooler Koravian climates. However, many new garments of Ruskan design have been appearing in Jerovitz, with such fashions changing rapidly. The Hussar Towarzysz dresses as well as they can afford, often wearing garments of red. This is the color of the highest echelons of the nobility, the Kortreviches whose dazzling robes are colored with an expensive dyestuff - Koravian kermes, extracted from the tiny Porphyrophora Polonica insect of which is native to the climates Koravians prefer to inhabit are used in an industrial farming style to produce a spectacular scarlet dye.

 

A cheaper blue color is also common among the richer of the none-noble classes, the outer garments of the ordinary Koravians are blue, while the richest merchants wear other colors. From papagay (parrot green), sulphur, coral, soot, pepper, cinnamon, clove (pink), to mention only a few. The more splendid garments are reserved for parades and off duty activities, when Hussars pay visits to each other’s tents, and to the nearby homes of family and friends. Though on extended campaigns practicality takes over. Parade Hussars wear silk, gold and gems, but on campaign everyone makes use of cheaper materials. Hussars are often depicted in a wide range of colors. Uniforms - in the sense of clothing of a standard color and cut - are far more common, especially in companies raised by wealthy nobility like House Kortrevich. Sparing no expense to ensure their companies look their best; indeed on state occasions, such as royal events, the majority of Hussars will be seen to wear uniform clothing.

 

Even in wartime there is plenty of uniformity among Hussar pacholiks. These impoverished men seldom enlist with their own presentable clothing, and since their appearance reflects on the unit as a whole, clothing them is a priority. When a company is first raised, the Rotmistrz often agrees to pay for clothing the retainers. Replacement clothing is obtained fairly regularly, such clothing is regarded as an issued item like weapons and armour: it is forbidden for retainers to lend out, pawn, sell or, Seven Skies forbid, gambling them away, under the severest penalties.

 

 

 

Bobcat skins and capes

 

One of the more exotic elements of Hussar attire is the bobcat skin. Feline pelt with spots is what is required, and if a skin does not have spots, they will be stained on. There are light pelts which are of snow leopards, even some retaining the head still attached to the skin, with even some of the richest Koravians wearing lions with open jaws. Though many skins are rectangular capes, sewn together from smaller feline pelts, such as bobcats. Undoubtedly influenced by Hussar fashion, spotted bobcat-fur collars are all the rage on civilian garments. In view of the cost, bobcat skins are often supplied by the Rotmistrz. Pacholiks themselves may wear wolfskins of which are also provided by the Rotmistrz. The different animal pelts and capes worn by Hussar officers, Towarzysz and retained can cause much confusion among foreign observers, leading them to imagine they’re looking at three entirely different classes of cavalry.

 

Horses

 

The Koravian nobility of Kortrevich are accomplished horsemen and love their horses. Especially valued are the Weiss breeds such as the White Comet. Hussar horses are perhaps not the destriers of Auvergnian chivalry, but nor are they small animals. Koravian steeds are quite large, slower in running than Hyspian horses, albeit stronger than them. The desirability of Weiss horses has led Koravian breeders to introduce Weiss bred horses into their own existing stocks. There are two intriguing trends. Heavy Auvergnians breeds tend to deteriorate in the Jerovitz climate over a few generations. Weiss breeds in contrast, put on height and mass, without losing any of their good looks and quality, and often become much stronger and faster. Koravian breeders have balanced these divergent tendencies to produce a superb looking animal that is strong, solid and fast in the same nature of their Koravian Grey cattle. The Koravian Warmblood has become the perfect cavalry horse, and many thousands are supplied to Hanseti-Ruskan armies. Horses represent the single largest expense of raising Hussars. Most Hussar Towarzysz take additional horses on campaign to spare their main mount, plus draught horses for the wagons: army regulations strictly ban the harnessing of war horses to pull these. There are always two or three times as many horses with each poczet.

 

Training

 

Every prospective Towarzysz is able from a young age to ride and to wield a saber, both skills they learn at home. The system of training that produces pages and squires for The Marian Retinue, is prevalent under the guidance of His Excellency, Andrei Kortrevich, the Knight Paramount. On every holy-day young prospects will engage in a variety of chivalric sports within Jerovitz. Running at the ring is a particular favorite - catching with the lance a small ring suspended from a wooden framework. Experienced lancers are able to pick up a piece of paper or a cap from the ground. Other displays of skill include mounting a horse without touching the bow of the saddle, and lifting three lances together by their heads. More reckless individuals risk their lives in the dangerous Hussar jousts with sharp lances, which take place in the open field without a barrier to prevent collisions. The Koravians seem to be addicted to this exceptionally hazardous form of jousting which is believed to have originated in Jerovitz. Most of the young though will only learn the bulk of their military skills only after entering service. Recruitment letters require that the Rotmistrz, when forming their company, is to base it around a core of veteran Towarzysz. It is encouraged special attention be given to training the inexperienced Towarzysz and pacholiks, and also encouraged the Rotmistrz to personally drill their entire company in formation as a way to more easily discern deficiencies in its horses and equipment.

 

Hussars gradually work their way up the hierarchy of the Towarzysz system, which is often compared to a guild, with apprentices and masters. A young Hussar starts as a servant, then serves as a pacholik, before finally raising a poczet of their own. However, often those of noble birth do not start off as a lowly camp servant, keeping company with peasants. More likely starting as a pacholik while learning the craft. The most important skill for a Hussar to master is handling the lance while struggling to control their powerful mount. The Koravian Warmblood requires a severe bridle with a curb bit, since it is difficult to use the hand. In effect the mount largely has to be steered with leg movements alone. One exercise as regards the specifics of the Hussars involves galloping along a narrow marked track, and then turning within ten foot circles at either end without the horse’s hooves stepping out. This drill takes several months to perform with confidence. Horses and riders are accustomed to charging information in an exercise that alters little. The Hussars are divided into two groups facing each other. The approach begins, lances are lowered and the two formations charge each other at full tilt, passing through gaps left between them: it would appear when looking from afar as if the formations are fighting. The best school of war is of course, active service, especially among the regulars.

 

On Campaign

 

After mustering at the concentration point, the Hussars are divided into formations and received in full battle order by the House Lead of Kortrevich. Behind the pomp is the practical need for each soldier to learn how their company slots into larger tactical formations, and for commanders to acquaint themselves with the chain of command. Each formation then marches off, often on a separate route to lessen the burden on rather inadequate rural roads.

 

Baggage and logistics

 

Koravian forces on the march seem chaotic to foreigners. Unlike other armies where the wagons are collected into a baggage train, each Koravian company marches with its own wagons. The vast numbers of wagons and servants that accompany every company are in effect of the Koravian system of recruitment based around the poczet, which acts as an independent economic community. Since during the nature of war it is difficult to provision any sizable force from local supplies. Ultimately the Towarzysz is responsible for the feeding of their poczet, and do so largely out of the stores stowed on their wagons. This is an advantage when it comes to travelling through devastated regions or over the empty steppe, giving a high degree of self-sufficiency at minimal cost to the state. The Rotmistrz’s recruitment letter often states in detail the items every poczet is expected to have in its wagons, from tents of various kinds, down to axes and shovels for building entrenchments and latrines.

 

Many of the victuals carried on wagons include buckwheat, peas, dried bread, smoked meats, and hard cheeses. A commodity considered indispensable is lard, besides its mundane culinary uses, lard can be used to prevent rust on armour, lubricate sword scabbards and soften leatherware; smear it on a lance just before action, and it will glisten as if it were freshly painted, it can even be used to treat wounds on horses. Wagons are progressively consumed during the campaign: When a wagon is empty it is burned; the oxen are killed and the meat is distributed as rations. In this manner the army disposes unconsciously of the great number of wagons which follow it at the start of a campaign. When the wagons are empty, provisioning falls on sutlers who accompany the army and on local traders. But the mere presence of an army often causes food prices to double or triple. Inevitably troops resent the price hikes that they can not afford and begin scavenging for supplies, which quickly degenerates into robbery and worse. It is often the inadequacies in logistics as the root of all indiscipline in armies, and though remedies are attempted - such as setting up magazines along march routes - states treasuries are often too depleted to maintain them.

 

Camp life

 

Once a camp is set up, and each poczet is lodged in their tents, the Towarzysz settle down to a boisterous social life. A Towarzysz rarely mixes with their own retainers and servants; rather they keep company with other Towarzysz and their Rotmistrz and they will often share tables with the military's leadership or Hejtmans. Such gatherings are inevitably lubricated by alcohol. Erikider, being easy to transport or to distill with rudimentary apparatus, is the drink of the Hussars, for the idle rich of every age, are notorious for their drinking. There is often a satire that describes an Auvergnian entering a bar in Jerovitz to see a filthy-drunk Hussar Towarzysz vomiting cabbage stew onto a table from their mouth and nose… ‘This is not like Savoy’, huffs the Auvergnian. ‘Welcome to Jerovitz’, comments the Koravian. All too often drinking binges leave troops and commanders incapacitated in their tents, bringing campaigning to a halt. Better commanders are able to enforce discipline in the camp, filling vacant time with training and religious devotions.

 

Towarzysz, as a gentleman, is excused from most of the menial duties of camp life. Some of these fall on their pacholiks are the camp servants - the dogsbodies of the unit. “You're never free day or night: in the morning it’s harness my horse, brush my coat, If you don’t please him, he thumps you. Then it’s mucking out the stables, . . .And as for eating - Dear Godan, what could be worse! You watch like a puppy for something to drip from his moustache… Indeed, dogs often eat better than Hussar servants… And when they get drunk, oh, pity the poor servant… It’s jump over this bared sword, or hold up this coin, which he then shoots from your fingers.” Army regulations require some Towarzysz always be present in camp to maintain order among the servants. Such duties are performed in rotation, so that all Towarzysz gradually acquire command experience. Each company is responsible for its own fodder, and obtaining this is a key chore of the servants, who leave camp to exercise and water the horses and take the opportunity to scour the neighboring countryside ruthlessly for anything edible.

 

More aggressive foraging missions are delegated to the pacholiks supervised by a handful of Towarzysz. For these, the cavalry leave behind the wagons and heavier equipment - often including the Hussars’ lances - and travel with only what their horses can carry. Pacholiks are drawn out from the army, and attached to them to ensure better discipline are two Towarzysz from each company. This ad hoc force not only finds food, but also captures and thoroughly loots enemy lands. Siege warfare, involving long months holed up in camp, rather than sweeping charges, is the reality of most campaign life. Hussars are not expected to do manual labor, but often stand mounted in formation and under fire to provide cover while infantry dig entrenchments. When defending a wagon-fort, the infantry and camp servants would be left to hold the perimeter, while the Hussars are preserved as a mounted reserve, ready to sally out if the attackers slip their guard. In protracted sieges, the Hussar pacholiks take turns manning the ramparts, and often participate in storming operations, with one or two Towarzysz to command them. The participation of Towarzysz in such dangerous operations is entirely voluntary. Nevertheless, large numbers of Towarzysz often take part.

 

Battle Formations

 

The main tactical formation of Koravian cavalry is the huf, ‘battle formation’. This is made up of several companies, grouped as a single contiguous body. The huf is the chief operating block of the Koravian battle-array. It can number from one-hundred and fifty to one-thousand and five-hundred horses, depending on its place in the battle order. By Auvergnian standards these formations are quite shallow - though even for the larger hufs there is no need to form more than four ranks deep. However, since it is often wished to have only Towarzysz in the front rank, each of whom may have five or more pacholiks, formations are somewhat deeper in practice. Larger huf are cumbersome bodies and for flexibility it may be suggested that they should be deployed in their constituent companies. In battle, the best of the camp servants are formed up a few hundred paces to the rear of the main battle order, with a small flag for each formation. Shrewd commanders - use them to imitate reinforcements, but their main duty is to feed forward spare lances and fresh horses to the parent formation, and to care for the wounded. Though in a difficult battle they do sometimes fight.

 

 

 

 

The Experience of Battle

 

The hours before battle is a time for solemn reflection, which begins in camp with Holy Mass. As Koravians are Canonists, soldiers will often partake in religious superstitions such as seasoning their swords and arrows by rubbing with various holy things. During fast-moving operations where there is no time for Mass: “While marching everyone conducts their own private service - singing, reciting prayers; chaplains on horseback riding to hear confessions; everyone prepares themself to be as ready as possible for death.” Once in their battle formations soldiers are strictly forbidden from leaving them. The advance to combat usually begins after the army has sung a traditional Koravian battle hymn.

 

 

Spoiler

 

 

“Rejoice, oh Mamej Koravia

   Rich in noble offspring,

   To the Highest Koeng render

   Worship with incessant praise.

 

For by His benign grace

   The Koravians’ torments,

   So great, which we have suffered

   Shine with marvelous signs.

 

Here contending for justice,

   We do not yield before the anger of a Koeng:

   We stand as the soldiers of Godan,

   Alone to fight for the injury of the people.

 

 Because He constantly reminds

   The tyrants of their brutality,

   We gain the crown of a martyr,

   And fall quartered into pieces.

 

The Seven Skies wrought new miracle,

 For the Celestial Physician by His Power

 The Koravians quartered body

One more miraculously joined into whole.

 

 Thus did Koravia enter

   Into the Court of the Celestial Koeng,

   That we may at Godan, the Creator’s, side

   Beg forgiveness for us.

 

When whosoever by His merits pleads,

  Soon receives the saving gifts:

  Those who died a sudden death,

  To life return once more

 

All diseases at the touch

   Of His ring flee:

   By His holy grace health

   Is gained by the feeble.

 

Hearing returns to the mute,

   While the lame boldly take steps,

   The tongues of the mutes are untied,

   Iblees flees in haste far away.

 

Thus, you, o happy Jerovitz,

  Armed with saintly body,

   Bless for all eternity Godan,

   Who wrought all from naught.

 

May to Godan sound

   Praise, glory, celebration, adoration,

   And let the triumphs of Koravia

   Gain for us eternal bliss.”

Amen

 

The early phase of a battle is one of maneuvering for advantage. The Koravian battle-array is designed for this, the hejtman feeling around the enemy flanks with the flank hufs, or concentrating the support hufs on one wing to reinforce an attack. Such concentrations are often achieved behind the cover of a skirmish screen. Maneuver is performed in open order. Various standing orders issued by a commander stated that spacing between horses should be loose enough to allow units to turn ninety and one-hundred and eighty degrees on the spot. Six feet of ground per mount is often enough to achieve such formation changes. Attacks when they come, are rapid and aggressive, giving the enemy no time to recover balance. They are often paved by close fire-support from infantry. Cavalry also helped shoot in Hussar charges with their javelins and bows, absorbing some of the enemy fire in the process.

 

Spoiler

 

 

The charge

 

Lancers begin their charge at about one-hundred paces from the enemy, at fifty paces they run at full bridle in order to deliver their thrust. They should commence their free rein at sixty paces, as sixty paces is as much as the horse can endorse so as not to arrive tired and without vigour; furthermore, the shorter the gallop, the better united will be the troop. Hussars are mythologized to conduct half the charge in loose formation, and close up knee-to-knee just before the final spurt, so minimizing missile casualties and allowing the charge to be stopped at the last moment. This movement often flies in the face of all Auvergnian influenced cavalry doctrine. Auvergnians insist that the entire charge be conducted in tight order, as cavalry formations tend to spread out when horses gallop, with braver riders dashed ahead, and cautious or poorly mounted men falling behind. A clear description of actual Koravian practice comes from Andrei. Here it is stated that the formation maneuvers in loose order, but before a charge is initiated the Rotmistrz shouts the following series of orders: “Silence! - Secure your hats! - Close up knee-to-knee! - Sabers on sword-knots! - (or for those without lances) Draw sabers!” On the order “March on!” - the formation is to advance at a gentle trot until about halfway to the enemy, at which point comes the final instruction: - “Lower your lances!”

 

The lance is lowered alongside the horse’s head, and the unit charges, now at full gallop, to contact the enemy. These instructions indicate unambiguously that the tightening of formation occurs not during the charge, but before it begins. The idea that Hussars can alter formation even during a charge is a Koravian myth. A hejtman’s ordinance indicates that sabers dangle during the charge from a sword-knot, even when the rider is holding their lance. Hussars also keep their lances rested in a supporting boot or sleeve, known by the Mejeni term tok. Auvergnian lancers remove their lances from this before the charge, resting the lance-butt on the saddle until it is lowered shortly before contact. Koravian Hussars keep theirs in the tok even at impact. Which is clear in Andrei’s instructions for the charging Hussar: The tok should be strapped to the saddle, on the right side; while the lance in true Hussar style, should be in its tok. Don’t twist to your left, but sit bolt upright… Over the horse’s neck, lower your lance; charge forward, stroking the flying beast beneath you with the spur, and aim at the enemy’s navel.

 

Before closing with most opponents the Hussars often have to endure at least one volley of enemy fire. Its effects may be described by recounts of the enemy who are on the receiving end of a Hussar charge. Who relates how the fire from the bows and crossbows seem to have great effect: Both man and horse with their lances and kopia tumbling head-over-heels to the ground. Nevertheless, those who remained uninjured and still mounted, continued on through the dust… and put the wings to flight. The moment of impact of lances is a terrifying experience for those on the receiving end. The sight of colleagues impaled on lances is often enough to shatter enemy morale. A description of such may be put in the following terms:

No sooner does a Hussar lower their lance

Than a Orc is impaled on it’s spike,

Which not only disorders, but terrifies the foe.

That blow which cannot be defended against or deflected…

Oft transfixing two persons at a time,

Others flee in eager haste from such a sight,

Like flies in a frenzy.

 

The Hussar lance is perhaps best understood as a psychological weapon. It is not expected to kill or maim large numbers of the enemy, but rather to destroy their morale. The primary aim of combat is to break up enemy formations, converting a mutually supporting block of soldiers into a flock of frightened individuals who can easily be slaughtered. Horsed troops cannot be routed unless they are smashed open in a vigorous manner. Lancers are the best possible weapon for this task, though they need to be armored head to toe, and on good horses, and the attack needs to be followed up by Mejeni Hussars to complete the job. Koravian Hussars fit the bill perfectly, and the follow-through is performed by further bodies of Hussars, who are as well armoured as most.

 

Close combat

 

Let us assume, however, that the first Hussar charge has failed to smash open the enemy. Hussars who had broken their lances reach for a secondary weapon. Indeed, with the enemy upon them, front rankers with unbroken lances would have little option but to drop their lances as well. It is not the koncerz nor the pallash to which they turn first: in the few frantic seconds that constitutes cavalry combat, it takes too long to draw from its scabbard on the saddle. Some might reach for javelins, others might grasp a war-hammer: these are excellent for piercing helmets and armour. The bulk of Hussars, however, take to their sabers, which hangs on a sword knot from the wrist during the charge. Against bow-armed cavalry Koravian Hussars find themselves at a disadvantage; it is preferable to withdraw for another charge while some lances are still intact. A few Saber slashes, and the contact is quickly over.

 

Tactics are planned with multiple charges in mind. Not all companies charge at the same time; some remain stationary at the rear awaiting the outcome of the first wave. A Hussar company that fails to break its opponents returns to its lines through intervals left by supporting units. These intervals are to be at least as wide as the formation itself. Sheltering behind its supports, Hussar companies now caught their breath, reordered ranks and prepared for the next charge. Any unbroken lances are passed forward to the front rank. Those without lances now unsheathed their koncerz or pallash from beneath the saddle; Anyone who has broken their lance is to take to their pallash, such as the standing order. The koncerz can be used as a pseudo-lance, its great length and evil point unnerves the enemy, threatening to skewer even those skulking on the ground out of saber-reach, but it is less useful in a melee.

 

Those who have held a koncerz will testify, the weapon is blade-heavy, making parrying with it awkward. The pallash - the equivalent of a broadsword - is far more popular. Being designed for the thrust, it can be employed in tighter formations than the saber. In battles where Hussars have already broken their lances, it is usually with a pallash as their main weapon: soon after breaking the kopia on them, again they charge the enemy with pallashes. So, the battle continues, with a wave-like effect, companies charging, retiring, re-forming and then charging again, until one side finally gives way.

 

 

 

 

Hussars versus pikemen

 

Hussars, like all good-quality cavalry, can easily overrun infantry formations in the open if they are unprotected by pikes. The kopia may be an extra foot or two longer than a pike, but what advantage is an extra foot or two of a lance when a split second later the horse’s momentum impales it on the dense hedge of pikes? Hussars fell on the pikemen, since it cannot be otherwise, and broke through the enemy, though not without damage to themselves. Though some such cases happen, and we marvel at miracles, it would be quite wrong to generalize this as an effective use of the Koravian Hussar. This is not a super-weapon never seen anywhere else in the history of warfare, which allows Hussars to break pikemen as a matter of routine.

 

Pursuit

 

Wars across The Aestmarch are long brutal affairs; it is noted that during battle cavalry are not to take prisoners unless they look important. The leading pursuers are to inflict disabling wounds on the enemy and not to trouble with killing them, but to ride on looking for more enemy. The wounded would be dispatched by camp servants following behind. Loot-hungry pacholiks and camp servants are especially feared by the enemy. “I looked untrustworthy, being dressed in a grey kontuz; he distrusts me, thinking me a pacholik, worthless rabble, the sort which are most feared: they say you never find generosity in such people. But in the distance, he saw a Towarzysz, one of ours, but dressed in red in a tatty old crimson kontusz… He supposed this was a person of note and rode straight to him to offer his surrender.” Even so, if enemy nobles survive capture, they can be exceptionally well treated. Koravian stories are full of accounts of merry drink-filled evenings shared with prisoners, and of friendships springing up that both parties promised to maintain when the conflict is over.

 

After Battle

 

Most campaigns draw to a close as the first snows begin to fall. With wagons empty, horses lacking fodder and ill-nourished troops suffering illness, few armies remain useful in the field over winter. If no action is expected the following season and funds are available to pay troops off, companies are generally disbanded. This is not the end of them. The next campaign is seldom a year or more away, and Rotmistrz will receive a fresh recruitment letter from the Crown and revive their unit from a dormant state - largely with the same men - to serve in another campaign. Many companies endure for decades, developing strong corporate identities. Companies share the fortunes of their patrons. Demotions in unit status also occur when a Rotmistrz dies. If a wealthy patron cannot be found to take over the company quickly, the company often breaks up. There is nothing to prevent a Towarzysz from enlisting with a different Rotmistrz; such transfers are possible after the completion of every quarter year of service. Ambitious individuals switch regularly between units, gradually working their way up to a high-status unit of Hussars, the pinnacle of ambition being to serve House Kortrevich in their own Hussar company - under the eyes, and hopefully favors, of the family.

 

Retirement

 

For many Hussars their military service is merely a rite of passage, a short interlude in their life as noblemen. It wins them the respect of peers and the clubbish camaraderie of a noble class. A professional career might last considerably longer, some serving over twenty years. Hussar Towarzysz are often granted a semi-hereditary post of headman of a village or small town, which gives them considerable status and power. This post is ideally suited to the incidental skills learned on campaign - haggling with civil and military officials over quarters and pay arrears. Many retired Hussars go on to careers in national government. In times of major crisis, former Hussars are brought out of retirement to command levy units. Most Hussars bemoan and lament the many horses they have lost on campaign and write about them at length in their memoirs composed in their autumn years. The Hussars have evolved a unique funerary ritual as a fitting farewell to former companions and commanders. At the culmination of the funeral service a fully armored Hussar representing the deceased rides full tilt into the church and splinters their lance against the altar.

 

 

 

---

 

 

HER LADYSHIP, PRIMROSE EMELYA KORTREVICH,

The “Rose” of Kortrevich

 

 

[Sarven 2619]

Spoiler

Kino post

 

[Pancho 4197]

Spoiler

Watched live in horror as she did this in like THREE DAYS WTF