Anderssn

THE BLACK ARMY OF RUBERN Penned by Kyriakos of Barbea FOREWORD “I’ll be a great king, won't I?” -Franz II, King of Haense It has been said that the Princedom of Rubern is more so an army with a state than a state with the army. The Prince himself employs the Black Reiters with such consistency that they more resembled an overpaid, professional army than the flagless profiteers that they once might have been. It was with this impression of the Reiter that Prince Vladrick set himself upon the task of expanding the Reiter’s methods to that of his own force to create a modern army for an ever-changing world. The Black Army was his Opus, his great effort to revitalize his Princedom and bring it to the precipice of modernity. Rank and Structure “You put the K in ‘Chain of Command.’” -David Adler, to Vladan Valic High Command Commander of the Black Army – Brutus Morr of House Vallberg It is the role of the Commander of the Black Army to serve as the logistical cornerstone of the great temple to war he supports. If any and all responsibilities of his lessers are failed to be completed, it is the duty of the Commander of the Black Army to execute said responsibilities. This shall ensure that there is never a moment where the logistics of this army fail, and never a moment where the needs of the lowest poor effing infantry to the most elite of Reiters fall on deaf ears. He shall serve as the line of communication between all Captains of the Black Army, given that they may be unable to communicate with themselves on campaign, and as the mediating force between them and his cabinet. Seneschal of the Black Army It is the primary duty of the Seneschal to ensure the Commander never has to do his job. While the Commander serves as a last resort of duties, it is the task of the Seneschal to provide all logistical support necessary to the many banners of the Army. This includes the management of supply lines, wagon trains and payroll for the Black Army itself, as well as the ledger and master documents which detail the intricacies and sensitive information of the Army. Commandant of the Black Army, Captain of the Ram – Darius of Rubern The Commandant of the Black Army is the martial assistant to the Commander, and provides input on all strategic concerns, disciplining of the army, and recommendations for future actions within the army. Likewise, he provides a passive advisory role for the Captains of the Banners, hearing their concerns and providing input when necessary, as well as bringing concerns to the ears of the commander. Captain of the Black Army (Reiter, Roc) A Captain of the Black Army is tasked with the bearing of executive authority and leadership within his designated Banner, and to ensure that all runs according to high command’s plans, from logistical smoothness to disciplined troops, it is the task of the Captain to ensure their Banner’s superiority on the field. Magistrate of the Black Army, Captain of the Ox The Magistrate serves as the chief executor of the rule of law within the Black Army, and is responsible for the Black Army’s moral rectitude. He may, if the situation arises, hold trial for a soldier going against the moral code of the Black Army, or its direct and clear intentions for the purpose of sabotage or self-interest. Trial shall be determined by the laws of the Army, which shall henceforth be drafted by the Magistrate, and given the signature of consent by the Commander if he finds it fitting for implementation. 1st Banner of the Ram – Ground Infantry “I came to Felsen as a city of stone with 20 grunts, and left it a city of rubble with 50.” -Thomas Gloop Lieutenant of the Ram A lieutenants job is often that of the captain’s second, and the Lieutenant of the Ram serves such a purpose. It is the duty of the Lieutenant to serve as the Captain’s successor, assistant and executor of his will, as well as of his own when the Captain is incapable of exerting his wishes. He is tasked with the management of promotion, movement and organization of his lowers, as well as the leading of raiding parties and other small-scale warfare. He, or someone of higher status, is required to be present for the promotion of any Private to Footman. Sergeant of the Ram Tasked with the recruitment of new members, holding of trainings, feasts, and expeditions, the Sergeant of the Ram is arguably one of the most integral roles one may serve in the Black Army. He is to monitor the well being and rectitude of his lowers, as well as recommend them for promotion to the Lieutenant of the Ram. Standard Bearer of the Ram The epitome of service, the Standard Bearer shall be marked as the most effective of Corporals, the cream of the crop, and carry the flag of the Ram into battle. He shall lead its charge, and his peers shall follow him. An honorary position, carrying no pragmatic power or authority, yet worthy of the utmost respect from his peers and even his betters. He is responsible to be present at the promotion of any member from Private to Footman. Corporal of the Ram The principal rank of the Banner of the Ram, the Corporal is the final rank one may take on before being given responsibilities beyond that of being an example of a good soldier. Soldiers may acquire this rank by recruiting 4 individuals, serving 6 years in the armed forces, or at the Sergeant’s discretion. Footman of the Ram The standard rank of non-officers within the Banner of the Ram, the Footman is the lowest blooded rank in existence. Footmen shall obey the orders of their superiors, and can seek promotion by performing their duties admirably. Private The initiate rank of the Banner of the Ram, Privates of the Ram can look forward to their time of service by performing all tasks required of them by all members of the Banner, and must serve 1 year of service before becoming a blooded member. They are not limited to the Banner of the Ram, and serve all Banners excluding the 4th Banner of the Reiters, and are assigned a banner upon their promotion. 2nd Banner of the Roc – Siege Engineers “Have you ever witnessed Helvetii engines at daybreak, Heathen King?” -Aurelius I Horen, in a letter to the King of Norland Chief Engineer of the Roc The Banner of the Roc, named for the famous mythical bird which could carry elephants from the savannahs of the Qalasheen lands to the walls of Petrus, is tasked with the execution of his Highness’s wrath, and as such, they must be adept in their art, lest his wrath be misdirected. The Chief Engineer is the best of the best, and is tasked with the management of direction on all siege engines. Quartermaster of the Oxen The Quartermaster of the Ox is tasked with the assurance that all men of all banners, regardless of position, rank or status, is well equipped with all necessary equipment. He, as well as all other members of the Banner of the Ox, carry the same authority as that of a Sergeant of the Ram. Engineer of the Roc The Engineer of the Ram is expected to assist in the construction of siege equipment of all sorts, from trebuchets to trenches, as well as command these engines on the field of battle to deliver his brother banners to victory. 3rd Banner of the Oxen – Logistics Officers “Who Polices the Police?” - Sabo Gradic, upon his execution. Constable of the Oxen The concept of military police is a rather modern invention, inspired by the Gradic Rights bestowed to all Vessian citizens. The Rights, however, are flawed--there is no power behind mere paper. It was the idea of our Prince, then, that such Rights must have force behind them, as well. It is the task of the Constable of the Ox to police the Banners of the Black Army, ensuring all are on the true path of moral rectitude and that none stray too far from the path, especially if they intend to infringe upon the rights of citizens of Rubern as a whole. Intelligence Officer of the Oxen The handler of all sensitive information, the Intelligence Officer of the Ox is purposed to preserve the secrecy and intimacy of the Black Army’s most sensitive topics. This includes, but is not limited to, espionage, internal investigations, and counterespionage. 4th Banner of the Black Reiter “War is Hell, until the Reiters arrive. Then it's a show.” -Unknown Footman of the Ram Reiter There is but one rank in the Banner of the Reiters, excluding their captain. Admission is not determined by the Commander, but instead by the Banner itself, admitting only the most capable of warriors, captains and intelligent minds the other Banners bring forth. It is a brotherhood, a lodge, a sworn pact between men to be the best of the best. The Black Reiters themselves are said to display godlike agility and skill on the field of battle. It is a saying that a single Reiter could turn the tide of battle, and that they do not die, but are instead missing in action. Reiters may hold a rank of High Command, whether it be a Captainship or in the office of the Commander, however there is no obligation upon entry. They are the elite cavalry of the Black Army, the Bodyguards of the Prince, and Angels of Death. CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS “We must hold our way of life tight, or we become no better than the Adrians.” -King Guy de Bar, prior to eating a vine of grapes ON THE BLEEDING OF PRIVATES It is to be expected that not every Private is to be recruited at the same time, yet it is expected entirely for them to be promoted in unison. Each Private shall be bracketed into a class, and once that class reaches a maturity of one year, they shall undergo a great ceremony for their bleeding. The Standard Bearer of the Ram shall stand before the Footmen-to-be, and behind him a great receptacle in the form of a bowl on a pedestal. Each Private shall walk in pairs, from the outside in, to the flanks of the Standard Bearer, perform a salute, and then pass him to the bowl. The Privates shall take a ceremonial knife, which they shall receive prior, and cut their hands, bleeding into the bowl. They shall then proceed to the Lieutenant of the Ram, who shall clasp their bleeding hands with his own, then allow them to pass. One representative of each Banner, excluding the 4th, shall be present, preferably the Captain of each, though open to substitutes. The Lieutenant will then announce to which Banner each Private shall go, and they will kneel before their respective senior officer. Once all have performed the ritual, oil will be poured into the bowl, and it will be set alight, prompting all to rise as blooded members of the Black Army of Rubern. Festivities shall then commence. ON THE TRYING OF MISCREANTS Concerning those who are found to be suspect of crimes within the Army, the constable is tasked with their apprehension and delivery to trial at the behest of the Commander or Magistrate. Either the former or latter shall take a judiciary role in a trial. There shall be a plaintiff and defendant, which shall be represented by the Constable and the accused respectively, and each shall be entitled to the calling of witnesses, the examination and cross examination of them, and the formation of final arguments. Lawmen are permitted for hire to work on behalf of both parties. The acting judiciary figure shall meditate over the events of the trial, and then come forward with a verdict and determine a sentence if need be. ON THE DECLARING OF WAR When the time comes for the Black Army to mobilize, there shall be a grand congregation of the forces of all banners in the walls of Rubern. There shall be food and drink, and conflict shall be prohibited--enough blood will be spilt in the days to come. The men shall sing songs to God, and omens shall be derived from the stars. A competition of strength shall begin, first wrestling, then the javelin, then archery. The three champions shall be crowned and drowned (figuratively) with all the wine one could muster, and the celebration shall continue into the night with periodic sacrifices of several small or young animals, the final animal slaughtered being a calf. The night shall be finalized by a speech from his Highness to rally the troops. ON THE PUNISHMENT OF MISDEEDS Upon a guilty conviction, the Judiciary figure present will ask for the interpretations on the stars of the evening prior to be presented, dictating the severity of the punishment. For the lightest offenders, a public round in the stockade, or a flogging--more serious offenders perhaps face castration, the removal of a hand, blinding, and removal from the ranks of the Black Army. The most serious of offenders, however, shall be put to death, the worst of them being subject to the brazen bull, a metal contraption in which the offender is to be placed inside and slowly heated to a terrible death, their screams sounding akin to the bellowing of a bull. ON THE TESTS OF SKILL Wrestling matches shall be man versus man, and no blood will be spilled. There will be no use of any weapons of any sort, and the better man will prevail over the lesser. The javelin contest will be a great test of strength, seeing which man can throw his spear the furthest, and the archery contest shall be determined by whoever may land a shot on a horseback rider in the fastest time. ON THE INVALIDITY OF DUELS There shall be no disagreement between two men of any true importance settled by any variety of dueling with weapons of any sort. All disagreements between two men of the Black Army may be settled either through sport, dialogue with one’s superiors, or through trial. To spill the blood of a fellow Bannerman in any context other than that of a wrestling contest shall be considered an offense against the Black Army. ON THE BURDEN OF RESPONSIBILITY It is hereby recognized that if one’s inferior in incapable of performing a job, it is the duty of the superior officer to do the job. It is in this manner that we ensure all jobs, no matter the duty, are done, whether by peeved officers or thoroughly whipped Privates. ON THE CUSTOMS OF VICTORY After any given campaign comes to its logical conclusion--a stalwart victory on behalf of the Black Army, a great parade shall be held in Rubern’s streets. Captured prisoners shall be paraded through these byways alongside the soldiers of the Banners, as well as the imprisoned leadership figures of the defeated party. The Parade shall reach its conclusion at the foot of the Prince and Commander’s palace, at which the leadership of the defeated shall be executed via beheading for the crowd to witness, and the prisoners either pressed into the army or executed alongside him. Laws of the Black Army “I find the best laws to be the ones I write” - Claudius Bracchus There shall be no violence between brethren of the Black Army. There shall be no merit to consent in this context, to spill the blood of one's peer shall be considered an infraction against the Black Army. There shall be no merit to violence as a means of retribution. There shall be no merit in physical damage of any sort to any property of any member of the Black Army, including theft, vandalism and slander. There shall be no insubordination from any rank of the Black Army. Reiters are provided autonomy necessary to function as a separate entity, but still bear responsibility and subordination towards those of High Command. There shall be no empty seat on the board of High Command, all positions must remain full at all times. If no man is fit to fill the position, then the Seneschal shall take the duty of the role until a fitting successor is found. There shall be no difference in the authority of any Captain of any Banner. All Captains of the Banners are subordinate to the rest of High Command. There shall be trial held for all criminal charges within the Black Army, which the Magistrate or Commander shall witness as the judiciary authority. The abuse of prisoners of war shall be viewed as an offense against the Black Army. Those who surrender on the field of battle are not granted quarter by right, and only by the consent of an officer may they be taken alive. Those who are blooded members of the Black Army may not serve any other liege than the Prince of Rubern, and may not serve as mercenaries of a foreign crest. All soldiers of the Banners are entitled to pay, adequate supply and lodgings. Wages “I should have… paid them more…” Vibius de Sola, upon his mutiny. There is likely no more important an issue to any soldier of any army, excluding the most misguided of Zealot pretenders or the most disorganized of rabble, than the matter of payment. His Highness understands the concerns of the common footman, and therefore has agreed to fair concessions. The starting rank of footman shall receive a salary of 200 minas a week, and upon every promotion, receive an increase of 50 minas on that account. They shall be provided bedding and lodging. It is upon the role of Officer, however, that this reward may change. Soldiers are granted the opportunity to be granted farmland and an estate on the fields of Rubern, excluded from the city itself, in exchange for their service, where they may rear children and hold slaves. This would result in a severe decrease in pay, however, resulting in a weekly sum of 50 minas, though the equity provided by such an estate should be more than enough to generate the loss’s equivalent in earnings. Such a movement towards equity from wage is expected of all soldiers in the long run, and is essential to the prolonging of the Army’s functioning. HONORS AND AWARDS “When I close my eyes, I cannot see.” - Asgoslav of Vekaro The Grass Crown Awarded to he who saves the entirety of the Black Army, the Princedom of Rubern. Traditionally only given to those of High Command for strategic excellence in the most dire of circumstances. The Civic Crown Awarded to those who accomplish herculean tasks to further the welfare of those in the Princedom of Rubern. Often going to Seneschals or high ranking officers, and acts of diplomatic importance, civic benefit, and technological or cultural innovation are the leading contributors to the awarding of the Civic Crown. Badge of the Crow (400 Minas) Awarded to any given soldier who demonstrates not only absolute resolve in the face of challenge, but to he who may save the lives of his brethren through mettle, cunning and bravery. Decisive performance in battle, the rescuing of very important people, and great charity contribute to the designation of this award. Badge of the Lion (350 Minas) Awarded to he who proves himself a formidable force on the battlefield, having felled tens, if not hundreds of men over the course of his service. Those who wield a blade as if it were an extension of themselves are granted this badge in recognition for their power and contribution to the force of the Black Army. Badge of the Stallion (300 Minas) Awarded to he who has shown invaluable service over a lifetime to the Black Army. Often used as a celebration of retirement, this lifetime achievement award commemorates the labor a soldier endures to prolong the existence of the Black Army and its Prince. Badge of the Sphinx (200 Minas) Awarded to he who has demonstrated excessive cunning and leadership in the face of opposition, and become a leader of men and slayer of foes on the field. Participation in extensive field operations contributes heavily to the awarding of this badge. Badge of the Griffin (50 Minas) Awarded to he who has shown continuous dedication to the defense of Rubern. Defending against raids from enemies of the Princedom shall contribute to this award. ENLISTMENT Contact Patu#4556, Fish#5175 or Lionbileti# for Questions ={ OOC }= MC NAME: DISCORD: TIMEZONE: ={ RP }= NAME: AGE: RACE: NOTABLE SKILLS:

“A true legend to remember. No man of today could compare to the those who challenged the Scourge of the Nether.”

There are plenty of ways to avoid bandits through legitimate roleplay effort. All that matters is if people are willing to put the effort into it. Ask for an escort if you’re worried about bandits on the road, and rp hubs should be expected to have security protection the rpers in the town rather than relying on ooc barriers blocking certain type of RP from happening as long as it isn’t oocly toxic. Restrict toxic bandits, not bandits as a whole. Bring back peace time raids with 5player caps and counter raids/rescue raids with 10player caps.

THE FIRST PROVINCIAL DUMA OF RUBERN, 8TH OF SUN’S SMILE IN THE YEAR 1728 Written thusly are the matters discussed in the Duma’s open discussion. For those seeking to attend and participate, Duma shall be held once every saint’s week inside Rubern’s town hall. It is at these meetings that the citizenry of the province can bring matters of concern to the Prince directly to be addressed. The Duma’s open session is free for anyone to join and is the most efficient way to offer input on the Province’s business or have problems addressed. OPENING: Vladrick Hieromar welcomes all to the Duma and outlines the purpose Asks the assembly for grievances FIRST CONCERN: Yaroslav notes that the stables need carrots and some mina to purchase goods for saddles The stables will be funded and supplied as necessary by Caspian Nafis Basrid and Vladrick Hieromar SECOND CONCERN: Simon Basrid notes that the employment of farmers and builders is essential to the province and the food stocks Otto Tuvic mentions Daslav is a loyal man who can get farmers and builders for the province Otto Tuvic’s offer is accepted and Daslav is ordered to assist with the construction of the town THIRD CONCERN: Vladrick Hieromar announces the need of a town bailiff Brutus clarifies the role and responsibilities of the town bailiff before the duma Carlovac Turovec, a Reiter, puts himself forward Carlovac Turovec is made Bailiff, with the idea of holding an election at a later time due to a lack of candidates putting themselves forward Bailiff position is voted to be a challenge system where the current bailiff may be challenged for his position APPOINTMENT OF ALDERMEN: Vladrick Hieromar announces the need for Aldermen Brutus clarifies the role and responsibilities of the Aldermen before the duma Yaroslav, and Edwin Brooks put themselves forward as aldermen candidates Both candidates are made aldermen MATTERS OF COURT: Vladrick Hieromar announces that he would prefer court meet every two years No one contests this decision THIRD CONCERN PERIOD OPENS: No concerns are brought forward ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE SECOND HUNT OF RUBERN: Vladrick Hieromar announces a hunt for a recently spotted direwolf will be taking place soon Vladrick asks the crowd for volunteers, some of whom present themselves ANNOUNCEMENT OF DIPLOMATIC INITIATIVES: Caspian Nafis Basrid announces that in the days following the meeting, he will begin to offer diplomatic initiatives for the populace to participate in Other events are encouraged to be conducted by the citizenry THE FIRST DUMA ASSEMBLY IS CONCLUDED IN DECREE OF THE KNYAZ VE RUBERN His Highness, Prince Vladrick Hieromar Barbanov-Alimar of House Alimar, Black Prince of Rubern & Sovereign Protector of the Ruber riverlands Sealed by the Bailiff

Brutus Morr, the bastard son of Ewan Darius of House Vallberg, a loyal serviceman of the Prince, cheered and raised his right arm to salute the Prince and the Province which his Highness had delivered. “To great efforts we have gone, and to greater efforts we must go, to bring this Province and it’s fair folk to a fruitful and prosperous age. Long live Prince Vladrick, long live the Prince of Rubern!”

Rubern will buy these two.

Mister Sniffles sheds a snot.

TRIUMVIRATE OF THE RUBER This treaty hereby entails the principles to an accord agreed upon by the signees, to be adhered to by both their respective civilians and military alike. Should either principle be broken by a respective participant of either nation, then a truce will be inherently invoked, ergo allowing a maximum of three saints days wherein efforts to re-evaluate the accord, and, or, deem the accord no longer viable. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE TRIUMVIRATE OF THE RUBER The Triumvirate of the Ruber does hereby recognise the independence of each signatory and their respective borders. The Triumvirate of the Ruber consists of the lands and provinces extending from the westernmost point of the Ruber river to the east, the Kingdom of Cascadia, the Rubern Province and Brannby. The Triumvirate of the Ruber does hereby enter into a full military alliance and partnership, ensuring free traders and open borders between the signatories. The map recognised by the Triumvirate of the Ruber, blue detoning the Kingdom of Cascadia and her territories, red detoning the Rubern Province and her territories and orange detoning the town of Brannby and her territories. The Triumvirate of the Ruber will last until the threat of the Usurper Emperor of Oren is over. The Triumvirate of the Ruber is no longer considered valid, as the Kingdom of Cascadia is no longer a sovereignty. Signatories King Tiberius Tiber King of Cascadia Captain Owyn Alexander of the Phoenix Band Prince Vladrick Hieromar “The Black” Barbanov Alimar Captain Brutus of the Black Reiter Company of the Rubern Province

Mr. Sniffles turned over several contracts, quickly eyeing through most of them until he reached one that caught his attention. “Ah 10 000 mina.” He inspected the rest of the contract before turning to his Reiters and handing the sheet over. “Scout the area for anything relevant, report back to Calais with your findings.”

Sniffles will make commission when he makes more monies

Aha aha yeah Server needs to progress, we’re in the 18th century now.

Mr. Sniffles day dreamed of the homeland of the Reiters.

@SeventhCircle add a map with tiles and already existing nations pls

Charters on freebuild too, the freebuild covers a really big area of the east part of the map and some in the west, and with the number of nations the staff is allowing AGAIN, the nation circle is gonna be pretty much full with very limited locations for new charters without getting someone’s ass in your face. Say a group doesn’t have the means to get a charter so they start a settlement in the freebuild area, they grow and expand and now they have a nice spot and enough resources for a Charter, why would you not let them place a charter on their already existing settlement? Disallowing charters is a mistake tbh.

:-)

a true engineer

@Treshure Shaders make anything look cool

And that’s basically how it worked irl too. If a weaker nation doesn’t want to get fucked they should probably look for aid from other nations, improve relations with larger nations or subjugate under a larger nation in return for protection and possibly remain autonomous. Small groups on lotc tend to rely on ooc restrictions to avoid threats, instead they should rely on diplomacy and foreign relations just like any small nation in the real world. If you don’t make friends you’ll get bullied, if you make a lot of friends the bully is less likely to bully you because there are many of you. With less restriction, if a nation bullies a smaller nation and fabricates a CB to invade them, other nations who disapprove of the false CBs could then declare war on the bully based on that. With the current restrictions, if the larger nation manages to get CBs to invade, no one except official allies can really get involved because of the rules. “It kills RP! :<” Only if the group lets that happen to themselves, instead of fighting to the last drop like the **** did, destroying your morale defeat after defeat yeah of course it kills your RP. When Haense vassalized it didn’t kill their RP, they made a deal. They have autonomy and continue to rp with the same old group in their own lands as they always have, but they’re ruled by a different monarch, that’s life. When Vrakai was active the first three-four months of the map it was still a quite small group compared to larger nations since most of the RP there was from the road travellers and tavern goers. And Vrakai didn’t get in trouble with any large nations (unless you count the flays) because they had strong relations with almost every major nation at the time. Tl;dr, don’t rely on restrictions to keep yourself safe, use diplomacy and relations.

@NotEvilAtAll @Man of Respect Economy, professions and grinding. For Lotc I don’t think it’s possible to make a fluid system that makes sense in terms of roleplay, logic and realism and at the same time works for everyone on Lotc. There are two types of players; Grinders and non-grinders. While it would make sense to have a need for grinding and gathering, the server should not punish those who don’t grind, whether it’s because they don’t want to or have less time online. It has to be optional. Economy should be based by supply and demand, professions should be realistic but also engaging and grinding should be optional. But with the resources of the server and the game combining these as they should be is probably impossible, not to mention all the complications that come with bending the mechanics of minecraft. Personally the first place to start would be custom recipes and balancing the use and gathering (supply and demand) of resources. → Making mail armour common and easy, iron armour more expensive etc.

-Benghis

Vrakai is not a part of Adria nor the Empire, so if you could fix that thanks. Good looking map tho.

I like your affro

So you write about the death and defeat of your character but you don't PK? Kinda pathetic tbh.