GoodGuyMatt

Chased out of lower Petra, one Ludrik Katzak huffs, his sides bleeding, his Reinmaren garb, the only armor he had donned during the war, was soaked in blood. As he returned to Minitz, the man chuckled somewhat, and took his Lud, the Reinmaren lute of two strings, beginning to play it.

The Katzak contemplates, nodding "Meh, you're right. He put up a worse fight than the wood of the Moot Hall"

"They probably have their own" chuckled the Chieftain

THE TALE OF THE FLOWERED RAIDER DIE GESCHICHTE VOM BLUMENRÄUBER Issued by the Father of Katzak in the year of our Lord 1917 Cyrano, the flowered raider, accompanied by Jan of House Jazloviecki SÖHNE UND TÖCHTER VON MINITZ, Some nights past did it so happened that the Adrian mercenary filth, as they had many nights prior, roamed the Kingsroad in search of lone, easy targets to capture as theirs. One such they believed to be the King’s Treasurer Bult Wick. To the surprise of the faithless mercenaries, however, the Treasurer had found himself prepared, countering the Adrian halt with many units, men of Minitz and of Aaun, who came to his aid. Amongst them counted the brave men of Lechia, Lord Jan and his companions; the Lady Guinevere von Reuss, and Caius Godwin of House Alstion. Thus, without much difficulty, the one so called Cyrano was captured, a raider who before had pestered many travelers and outnumbers warriors on the roads. In my own recklessness, I had found myself amongst such targets many moons prior. Until the Adrian transgression on the sacred Moot Hall of Minitz, an unspoken honor of war was shared between the us and the rebels. We brought no abuse or violation to either their prisoners or to what they held dear, and they so did the same. I, the Father of Katzak, so enjoyed the benefits of such unspoken code during my short capture. At least until my own stallion, a most sacred beast to the Reinmaren people, was stolen by Cyrano. To take a Reinmaren’s horse is to take not only his dignity and honor, but his very soul. Thusly I pledged blood feud with the heathen, and in the spirit of the first Katzak, Adem von Aschar, I bloodied my own eyes in search of revenge. The same honors of war we kept upon the raider as was shown upon me. He was neither harmed nor abused, his body was neither cut nor bled. Yet, as revenge upon my own dishonor, I sent my own tribesman and Lawspeaker, Sir Maxwell von Katzanik, to humiliate the raider. The tale of the raider in a dress was born. The “man” of Adria was stripped and made to dress the robes which the Aaunic ladies wore. Without much compliance, the heathen obliged, a man most cowardly when outnumbered, despite constant preaching and boasting of bravery when surrounded by many companions. Thusly, the mercenary Cyrano, without much fight, flowered himself much like the fair women of our realm do. So well it fit, that many idle guards within the dungeons began mistaking him for a woman. Laughter filled the otherwise dim, depressing halls, the very presence of the flowered raider filled the soldier’s lungs with laughter. Good old Tony of Vienne, a smoker at heart, almost found himself dead from laughter. The Sons of Katzak had thusly stolen the dignity of the raider as their own Father’s dignity was stolen. In the dead of night, where the bounty of the Katzak lies, we found a raider stripped of his manhood, who, as per the honors of war, was sent back unharmed physically, but perhaps harmed mentally, his head fuming and his mouth foaming with anger. Propaganda poster produced by Rakshasa El-Shahidi in light of the vents. OURS IS THE NIGHT’S BOUNTY, Ludrik Katzak von Katzanik Chieftain of Katzanik, Lord of Riverrock, Father of the Katzak, Lord of Arms of the Band of Banners

"Most of them are mercenaries anyway" replied a mourning Ludrik Katzak

Ludrik and the gang go crazy over the comeback "It's joever."

Ludrik himself starts the competition with the most classic piece in the history of Minitz: NAME: Ludrik Katzak ALLEGIANCE: Minitz PROPAGANDA PIECE:

DER STAATLICHE PROPAGANDA-WETTBEWERB THE STATE PROPAGANDA CONTEST Issued by the Lord of Arms of the Band of Banners in the year of our Lord 1916 SÖHNE UND TÖCHTER VON MINITZ, War surrounds us on this day as it did in the days of Theoderic and Gelimar. Raiders, kidnappers and hostages travel the Kingsroad more than traders and innocent travelers do. The folly of the traitors have cost us much grievance and much trouble, yet this has not been spoken or shown of enough. It is thus that the Band of Banners, in the spirit of the most blessed Reinmaren ultranationalism, warrior’s culture, and love for the arts of sight, calls forth all those who think themselves skilled enough to produce pennings and paintings of propaganda relating the war that surrounds us. Let all who wish to join come forth, be they Reinmaren or Aaunic, Waldenian or Lechian, as long as they pledge no allegiance to Heinrik, father of the traitors. The contest shall be presented before all who wish to attend within the city center of Neu Brandthof, all spectators and participants shall hold an equal vote to the outcome of the best piece. GUIDELINES Example propaganda poster during the war against Cloudbreaker The propaganda pieces are recommended to: Be centered around the Minitzian war struggle Show a great extent of Reinmaren ultranationalism Inspire and promote Warband enlistment or other contribution of the populace in the war. REWARDS Propaganda poster as designed by the Lord of Banners, Maxwell von Katzanik The displayed art and propaganda shall be voted by all those who attend the contest, all holding equal vote. One contestant may present multiple pieces, however, these will be voted on separately. The pieces which garner the most votes shall be rewarded the following FIRST PLACE: A reward of 150 minae. This piece shall be recognized as official State Propaganda, its author credited and their piece hung around the Duchy of Minitz. Its author will be offered a job and position within the Band of Banners as its first “Master of Propaganda”. SECOND PLACE: A reward of 75 minae. This piece shall be recognized as official State Propaganda, its author credited and their piece will likely be hung around the Duchy of Miniz. Free drinks at the Golden Boar tavern until the war ends. THIRD PLACE: A reward of 50 minae. This piece shall be recognized as official State Propaganda, its author credited and their piece may be hung around the Duchy of Miniz. OOC: Time: 4pm EST this Thursday (IN TWO DAYS!) Place: Town Center of Neu Brandthof REGISTERING Those who wish to enter the contest MUST submit their name and Propaganda piece alongside this document, following the format below: NAME: ALLEGIANCE: (Aaun, Minitz, etc. ADRIA not allowed!!!!) PROPAGANDA PIECE: ((IGN: ___)) GOTT MIT UNS, Ludrik Katzak von Katzanik Chieftain of Katzanik, Lord of Riverrock, Father of the Katzak, Lord of Arms of the Band of Banners His Grace, Brandt Wilheim Barclay Herzog von Minitz GMSTSR Duke of Minitz, Count of Neu Brandthof, Viscount of Tucay, Baron of Boriënwald and Brandthof, Lord of Durres, Harvest Lord, Protector of the Aaunic Heartlands, Chief of the Minitzian Reinmaren

Where am i dude.

Ludrik Katzak, Lord of Arms of the Banner of Banners smiles as he sits down and prepares some Heraldic heat.

Chieftain Ludrik Katzak smiled as he read through the poetry. He nodded, and set out to find Ulvi in hopes of getting him a job within the Band of Banners, it would be a shame for such penmanship to go to waste.

DAS BAND DES BANNER THE BAND OF BANNERS Issued by the Lord of Arms in the year of our Lord 1916 SÖHNE UND TÖCHTER VON MINITZ, Since their exposure to the feudal ways and customs, the Reinmaren people have always shown fascination with one feudal art amongst others, that being Heraldry. Beginning as an unofficial tradition amongst certain members of House Barclay back in its inception in the 1720s, a good few Reinmaren Wappenmeisters have emerged through the centuries. Amongst these, Venerated Anton, Albrecht Barclay, and Herzog Leon Barclay have been the most prominent. As Herzog of Minitz, it was Leon Barclay’s ambition to foster a Heraldic culture amongst his populace, to embrace the display of glory, tradition, and history through art, shields and banners, as our tribal forefathers were believed to have done many eons past. It is in this day and age that time has finally come for such centuries of tradition and mastery of the Heraldic arts amongst the Reinmaren people to not only be officialized, but institutionalized. Thusly, it is by the blessing of Herzog Brandt ‘the Bosnan’ Barclay, and the work and leadership of Ludrik Katzak as first Lord of Arms that the Band of Banners be founded. To document, produce, grant and display arms and record the genealogies of our forefathers, to embrace the traditions of our ancestors and to expand upon their work, such is the mission of the Band. As its Motto professes: THROUGH SERVICE, HONOUR. BAND HIERARCHY THE DUCAL HERALD (HONORARY) - The Ducal Herald of Minitz, as member of his Grace’s Herrenhaus and primary bearer of the Herzog’s arms is positioned as the Symbolical Head of the Band of Arms. With their presence they now not only represent the Herzog himself, but also the Band as a whole. They don the arms and carry the banners granted by the Band, but hold no authority to grant such. Furthermore, the Ducal Herald acts as the Band’s representative within the Herrenhaus. Currently held by Eloisee von Minitz (IGN: Aimy_lol; Disc: ♡ Aimy_lol ♡#7910) @Aimy_lol THE LORD OF ARMS - The more senior of the Lords of the Band, the Lord of Arms acts as its de facto head. Their say in the decisions and work of the Band is final, and their approval mandatory in matters of granting of both arms and banners. The Lord of Arms focuses on the designing and granting of all arms relating to the feudal, noble, and knightly institutions of the Duchy, as well as recruitment and leadership of the band as a whole. Currently held by Ludrik Katzak (IGN: GoodGuyMatt2k; Disc: GoodGuyMatt#2000) @GoodGuyMatt THE LORD OF BANNERS - Whilst the work of the Lord of Arms focuses on the feudal institutions of the realm, the Lord of Banners, also termed ‘the Bannerlord’, is in charge of designing and granting of all banners within the realm. Such include the banners donned by the tribes of Minitz, the Standards of War raised by either Theoderic’s Warband or the Order of Saint Tylos, etc. As junior lord of the Band. Currently held by Sir Maxell ad Landren (IGN: boarlord; Disc: boar#5647) @Lord of Boars THE KEEPER OF GENEALOGY - Mainly invested in purposes of genealogical record keeping, the Keeper of Genealogy also acts as the Band’s head of archival research and overseer of the integrity and credibility of all arms and banners produced and proposed. Currently Vacant AUTHORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES DESIGN AND GRANT OF ARMS AND BANNERS Amongst the main purposes of the Band, the Lords of Arms and Banners specialize in the very designing of these, alongside holding the power to officially grant both arms and banners. Whilst many may ask for the granting of arms or banners, it is only those who complete a set of requirements that may be worthy and eligible to hold such. This privilege is mostly reserved for the Noble Tribesmen of the realm, including chieftains, the nobility and the Ducal house of Barclay, and lastly the Ritter of Minitz. It is, however, possible for a servant of the realm who has shown great dedication and assistance to the Duchy, but does not fill the above roles, to be granted arms or banners of their own. DISPLAY OF ARMS AND BANNERS Mainly fulfilled by the Ducal Herald, the display of arms and banners from the Herald is only reserved for the arms of the Ducal House of Barclay, and of the Herzog whom the Herald serves. They carry these arms in their attire, and blow on the Herald’s horn to signify the coming of the Herzog. It is the aim of the Band to expand upon these displays of arms, to include the display of Banners and Standards of War. RECORDKEEPING OF GENEALOGY Mainly upheld by the Keeper of Genealogy, the studies of the tracing of one’s descendants becomes paramount when dealing with the distribution, granting, and proper attribution of heraldic arms or banners. Whilst any tribesman or tribeswoman may ask for the services of the Band to trace their genealogies, it is mainly for the lords and chieftains that the Keeper conducts research. STANDARDIZATION AND UPKEEP OF HERALDIC SYSTEMS Alongside the making and utilizing of both arms and banners, it is the duty of the Band to standardize the Heraldic practices within the Duchy of Minitz. Thusly, they are in charge, with the blessing of the Herzog, to officiate documents detailing the Heraldic rules, such as the Cadency system, the Minitzian Blazonry, the requirements for the granting of arms, etc. THE WAPPENROLLE OF THE BAND OF BROTHERS The following are the arms and banners used by the Band of Banners, be it her officers, chiefs, or the associated attributed arms: THE ARMS OF THE LORD OF ARMS Quarterly, Gules a cross Argent; 1st and 4th quarter a swan proper, 2nd and 3rd five cross crosslets Or; For a crest, a feather argent. The main charge used to symbolize the Band is the swan proper (colored in its natural tints). Representing grace, beauty, and purity, it is through this avian that the ideals and purpose of the Band is best displayed. Quartered by an argent (white) cross, the other two quarters are filled by five cross crosslets. The cross crosslet in itself is made out of four crosses, brought together to form the fifth cross between them. Thus, the 2nd and 3rd quarter have a total of 25 crosses each, symbolizing the 25 years passed between the founding of the Harvest Confederation during Duke Leon’s reign in 1889, and the first Duke’s abdication in 1914. The white feather issued from the chief represents the feather of a quill, a symbol of artists and painters, which becomes standard throughout the arms and banners of the Band. THE BANNER OF THE LORD OF BANNERS A Banner Azure, a man Carnation to sinister clothed Vert, crined Or, crowned a Tribal Cap, in the dexter hand a spear proper flagged Vert, in the sinister a feathered quill Argent. Featuring the figure of a Reinmaren tribesmen clothed in the colors of his fatherland, the Bannerlord’s Banner shows to represent the tribal prowess. The held spear, also bannered, represents the Bannerlord himself, meanwhile the tribal cap he adorns represents the Chief of Reinmaren, as it has been used through the centuries before by Reinmaren heralds. Wearing naught to protect his feet, the lack of footwear represents the humble life of Reinmaren tribesmen, displaying the egalitarian ideal of our people proudly, for the farmer is, ultimately, equal to the lord. On his left hand, the tribesman holds a feathered quill, one again signifying artistry of the Lord of Banners, and of the Band as a whole. THE ARMS OF THE KEEPER OF GENEALOGY Or, a book Vert charged an oak tree Sable surmounted by a quill Argent issuant from the dexter base. A rather self-explanatory amongst the arms of the Band, the Keeper, as holder of the Tome of Genealogy, has this displayed on his own arms. The green color of the book refers to the Reinmaren colors, with the branched oak tree used for its common symbolism for family trees. Once again, the feathered quill appears in the Keeper’s arms, issuant from the dexter base, touching the tree. THE ATTRIBUTED BANNERS OF THEODERIC AND GELIMAR Two banners crossed, the dexter Vert, a Horse Salient Argent, the sinister Azure, an Eagle displayed Sable, Armed Or. Whilst historical records mention the usage of banners by the olden tribes of the Reinmaren, the exact designs have been lost to time. It is, however, a widely accepted theory that of the main tribes of Gelimar and Theodrik, the eagle and the stallion were used. Thedoeric’s men were said to have been superior horsemen, and found the argent stallions more noble and bringers of better omens. As such, it is theorized that after the beginning of his rebelion against Chieftain Gelimar, the young Theoderic adopted the sigil of the white stallion as his mare. Thus, it is through these historical records that the Band grants the Attributed Banner of Banner Vert, a Horse Salient Argent to Chieftain Theoderic, this be a banner granted post-mortem. Gelimar, on the other hand, seen as the more senior of the Chieftains, was associated with the Waldenic eagle, with whom the Reinmaren people shared common forefathers. It is thus that the Chieftain Gelimar is granted the Attributed Banner of Banner Azure, an Eagle displayed Sable, Armed Or. THE GREATER COAT OF ARMS OF THE BAND OF BANNERS Quarterly, Gules a cross Argent; 1st and 4th quarter a swan Argent armed Or, 2nd and 3rd quarter five cross crosslets Or; For a crest, three feathers argent, issuant from the chief two banners, the Dexter Vert, a Horse Salient Argent, the Sinister Azure, the sinister an Eagle displayed Sable, Armed Or; on the dexter a man Carnation to sinister clothed Azure, crined Sable, in the dexter hand a book Vert charged with an oak tree Sable crowned a Tribal Cap, on the sinister a man Carnation to dexter clothed Vert, crined Or, holding a spear proper flagged Azure, crowned a Tribal Cap. For a Motto: "Durch Dienst", Ehre; meaning "Through Service, Honour" A combination of the entirety of the arms and banners above mentioned, the Greater Arms of the Band of Brothers symbolizes the unification of all offices within it, as well as the very forefathers of the Reinmaren people. As the most senior of the Lords, the Arms of the Lord of Arms is displayed as the main escutcheon, supported by the Bannerlord’s tribesman to the right, and another tribesman of opposing features to the left, holding the Tome of Genealogy. The crest, composed of three feathers, includes the main feather used by the Lord of Arm’s Coat of Arms, coupled with those of the other two offices. Finally, the Banners of Theoderic and Gelimar remain issuant from the base of the escutcheon, signifying the origins of the Reinmaren people, and their importance to the Heraldic traditions to follow. RECORDS AND COLLECTIONS Such are the records and collections held by the Band of Banners as per its founding in the Year of our Lord, 1916: BARCLAYS WAPPENROLLE: The first official Roll of Arms recorded by a Reinmaren and Barclay Wappenmeister. The Armorial is a collection of most heraldric achievements of members of House Barclay until the Year of our Lord, 1789. Authored by Venerated Anton Barclay. MINITZISCHE WAPPENROLLE- VOLUMEN I: One of the two main heraldic collections designed and granted by the first Herzog of Minitz, Leon Barclay, the publishing of the first Minitzian armorial was the beginning of a more consistent, organized Minitzian Heraldic tradition. The original copy is held within the Band’s Archives. Authored by Leon Herzog Barclay von Minitz in the Year of our Lord: 1914, a few days before the Herzog’s death. THE BALIANITE ROLL OF ARMS: The second of Herzog Leon’s works, the first Balianite Roll of Arms was designed and granted after the shared agreement of mutual respect and friendship was established between the Duchy of Minitz and the Kingdom of Balian. Such occurred after the publishing of “REINMARIA’S BLOOD PRICE”, in which many Canonsit princes joined the Barclay-led cause against Antonius and Gwendel Vilac, who were found to have murdered Lord Teft Barclay. After Balian’s agreement, Herzog Leon offered to design Balian its missing armorial, and so delivered later in the Year of our Lord 1914. COMMISSIONS AND PRIVATE WORK Aside from its duties within the Duchy, the Band of Banners also works on an international scale through commissions. Such commissions, however, are purely based on artistic work, rather than official actions such as grant of arms, banners, etc. The members of the Band who accept such commissions keep a portion of the earnings as their personal payment, whilst the rest of the amount is donated to the Herzog’s coffers. Those who wish to employ the services of the Band may do so for the following: Designing of Achievements, being: Escutcheon (the Heraldic shield) Coat of Arms (including crests, mottos, etc.) Banners and Standards of War Heraldic Decorational Elements (Such as the page dividers of this document) Producing of Genealogical Records Writing of Blazons (Descriptions for Coats of Arms) RECRUITMENT AND APPRENTICESHIP Alongside maintaining the Heraldic traditions of the realm, the offices of the Band also work to pass down their craft and traditions, apprenticing those who wish to learn more on the art of Heraldry, Genealogy, Blazonry, etc. Thusly, those who wish to one day join one of the offices of the Band may do so by apprenticing under one of the current holders, gaining the title “APPRENTICE AT ARMS”. It is mostly those who have taken the Ritual of Blood and become Reinmaren tribesmen of Minitz who are usually accepted as such, for the Band’s main function is to serve the Fatherland. THROUGH SERVICE, HONOUR; Ludrik Katzak Lord of Arms, Ducal Scribe, Father of the Katzak. His Grace, Brandt Wilheim Barclay Herzog von Minitz GMSTSR Duke of Minitz, Count of Neu Brandthof, Viscount of Tucay, Baron of Boriënwald and Brandthof, Lord of Durres, Harvest Lord, Protector of the Aaunic Heartlands, Chief of the Minitzian Reinmaren

Ludrik Katzak, the harasser of citizenry laughed as he read such. "I'm sure Pavel liked the soup and drinks we served him! Asking for 150 minas for the Duke's brother is barely demanding" he said then towards Marius, one of his younger brothers. He then made to prepare for what's to come again.

One Ludrik, Father of the Katzak left the battlefield bloodied and beaten. His hood torn and his hands bloodied. They were bested, and he accepted such. With a chuckle, the man removed the marks of blood he had signed on his face, as per the traditions of his people. Those who lost the battle were not worthy of the marks of war. As such, he returned to Minitz, planning on showing his worth once again.

"It's so over..." said one hooded Ludrik Katzak, reading the paper and seeing its devastating effects on his Kingdom,

RANSOM FOR PAUL SARKOZIC Issued by the Sons of Katzak "The fat Marius of the Katzak alongside Paul Sarkozic” O HEINRIK SARKOZIC, The events of war have seen your beloved brother, Pavel of House Sarkozic taken hostage by the warriors of Minitz and the sons of Katzak. As per the honors of war and the integrity of the Reinmaren traditions, we ask a humble Reingeld (Reinmaren ransom) of 200 150 minae for your kinsman. If you are an upholder of the most important family virtues, we expect a courier to come to Neu Brandthof with the Reingeld. We await. Note: After winning a game of Reinmar’s Luck, your brother had his ransom lowered to 150 minae instead. OURS IS THE NIGHT'S BOUNTY, Ludrik, Father of the Katzak Marius, Son of the Katzak

Ludrik reads and smiles "I love Minitz"

Scribe Ludrik smiled as the document was finalized and published, making for the tavern to celebrate "GOTT bless Minitz, GOTT bless her Herzog!" he cheered Ludrik reads and smiles "I love Minitz"

One Ludrik Katzak arches a brows upon hearing of the news. Afterwards, he goes to light a smoke from the Original Prince's Pick pack, his second favourite cigarettes after the Barcston's.

DIE REDE DES GESETZGEBERS VON LUDRIK KATZAK THE LAWMAN'S SPEECH OF LUDRIK KATZAK Issued by Ludrik Katzak, Nominee for Lawman in the year of our Lord 1915 Artist’s depiction of Ludrik giving his speech to the Reinmaren masses SÖHNE UND TÖCHTER VON MINITZ, When I came upon this land many moons and many seasons past, I came as a peasant of Reinmar. I knew not the common language, but I knew of the practices of our people, for I was born and raised a Reinmaren. Thusly I went back to Reinmar, and attended the Reinmaren College, to learn the arts of writing and of reading, of law and of history. It is thus, through my education and through my personal experience, that I find myself to fill the position of a lawman well" The Kanun which Herzog Leon wrote - GOTT rest his soul - while elaborate and long, remains subject to addition and to edicts. As lawman of the Landtag, I would bring forth propositions of law which not only uphold the customs of our people in cases of wrongdoing, but of everyday life. I would propose the practices of the mountainous villages of Reinmar, for example. Where the dowry paid to the woman or her family is set and according to the law. Or where he who enters another man's home must knock thrice and call twice, as Theoderic did when he entered Gelimar's pasture. The Kanun is not only our law, but our very lifestyle, and additions must be made so that it reflects such, that the ways of our people are held staunchly, so that they may never be lost. Thank you for your time. GOTT MIT UNS, Ludrik Katzak von Minitz

One son of Minitz, Ludrik Katzak smiles as he read the post, nodding singularly "May our ancestors bless our kinsmen with glory and a better life" he said then before going to prepare for court.

Artist’s depiction of Sir Leon before facing Vazov Gleb’s brigands The echoes of pouring rain filled the high peaks of the Arentanian mountains, the dirt path drenched and muddy. The sky was gray and the sun was hiding its face amongst the clouds. It was as sad and depressing as it got. The oldened knight adorned his armor, covered in steel plate, heavy as it was protective. He kept his visor open, it was hard enough to see with such weather. Atop his stallion he stood, the fourth stallion he ever called his. It was white as snow, noble as royalty, strong as a battle-hardened warrior. Alongside Leon rode the young Henry of Alstion, whom Leon accompanied during his so-called ‘expedition’. The duo had just departed from the safe walls of Corwinsburg, having spent the previous night in the host of Prince Ottomar of Alstreim. Now Henry and his bodyguard departed for hunting, an idea the former Duke proposed. The weather, bad as it was, made for a good cover to one’s tracks. “Would be good for the lad to get experience traveling in bad weather.” thought Leon, and thus they departed. The hunting grounds were within sight, just a few minute’s of slow riding away. Amongst the sound of the pouring rain, the duo made small talk exchanging questions and answers before them. The grayed Leon laughed every now and then, his deep voice echoing around the tall cliffs of Arentania. It was then that he realized they weren’t alone. Just as he planned before, the heavy rain covered the hunter’s tracks for the prey not to notice. He realized then, they themselves were the prey. Before the Knight could do anything, a large group of men stood before them, dressed in clothes as black as the night’s sky. They were like the daemons mentioned in children’s stories to scare them. They held weapons in hand, two handed axes and sharpened swords. Their faces donned ugly, wretched smiles, akin to the hyena which has found the weak prey. One man stood out amongst them, tall and wide, Leon recognized him immediately. Before him stood the notorious Vazov Gleb and a regiment of his brigands. “What do you seek, Vazov?” asked the Barclay, getting straight to business. “Revenge, and a hostage!” replied the wretched, almost demonic voice of the ambusher. Leon huffed, and turned to Henry. “Prepare to gallop back, your Highness.” he instructed quietly. The young Henry attempted to protest, but to no avail. “GOTT knows what they’ll do to you if they take you. I can’t have it.” continued Barclay, his own words falling on deaf ears, as the young prince wished to fight alongside his Knight. Thusly, left with no choice, Leon retrieved the medium-lengthed lance from his horse’s side, and with its bottom, hit Henry’s stallion, making it neigh and gallop back. The brigands were still some way off, and Leon looked at them with a slight smile, almost a relieved one “You will fight for your revenge today, Gleb” he shouted towards the lot, who remained quiet, seeing as they were unable to retrieve the prince now. For a moment, the falling rain was the only sound which surrounded them. It was rather calming to Leon, almost like silence. Looking in front of him, he counted at least thirty or so heads, perhaps more. Giving it no further matter, the former Herzog whispered some final prayers, and lowered his visor. It was then that the shouting broke out, from both sides. So loudly they shouted that the rain’s pouring was masked, almost unhearable now. The knight was better equipped than any of them, his full plate covering most of his body, and before him he had only counted three or four cavalrymen. He galloped as he had during his jousting practices, and the tournaments. These lot were easier targets, even, novice equestrians at best, the Barclay’s charges disposed of easily by the cavalrymen, most of whom met the lance’s pike with their chests or heads. He was now closer to the main infantry rally, who stood in front of him, with Vazov Gleb in front of them all. He looked at their leader for a moment, and then charged once again towards the cavalry. The ground was relatively open, but if his charge were to pass the infantry, he’d find himself on the narrow mountainous road. This was his only option, unfortunately, and with his lance forward, the Herzog fell another few of the men. Vazov stood his ground, the only left cavalryman of his brigands, even his equipment did not come close to the Herzog’s. Leon went back and forth, taking a few men with each charge, tiring his stallion, which took a few light cuts after every run forward. It was the third or fourth charge now, and Leon realized Henry had probably found safety. He found comfort in this, and took a deep breath. This charge was his last, and he found himself felled on the ground by one of Vazov’s pikemen, unhorsed and covered in mud. Another pike pierced the galloping stallion, which was now covered by blood. Without its warrior, the white stallion made to leave the battlefield and rushed back home. Leon could hear only a long, high-pitched ringing on his ears. The fall was hard, his heavy armor now working against him as he blacked out for a moment. However, the man got himself on his feet, and got up, now only ten or twelve feet away from the Glebites. He grunted, and dropped his lance, instead equipping his trusty sword and his heraldric shield, bearing the green and blue colors and arms of House Barclay. With utmost persistence, the Herzog charged at the infantry again, shielding up, bashing into them first, and then slashing left and right. Despite being outnumbered, he fought long and hard. The first pierce came to his left leg, an arrow. The next came to the right leg also an arrow from the men on the back. As he was pierced slowly, he took three to four men down each time, his shield fending most blows. Soon, the number of his enemies had dropped significantly, but more reinforcements were to follow, as one of them had shouted. He was covered with many wounds, perhaps five or six, he didn’t hold count. Still standing, he looked to Vazov, and pointed his sword at him “COME AND GET YOUR REVENGE, COWARD!” shouted the Herzog amids heavy breaths. He raised his visor then, and grunted, removing his helmet “We are on equal grounds now.” he added, referring to his wounded state. Vazov took up the challenge with pride, and told his men to stand back. The rest of the criminals surrounded the two, who now slowly moved in a circle, facing one another “Your men need more training” commented the former Herzog as they went around in circles, his shield held to his side “Although they won’t need it after I’m done with you” he concluded before rushing towards the tall rogue. They exchanged blows, each equipped with a shield and sword. Leon was tired and wounded, yet fought with valor and persistence, dealing a few cuts and blows to his ambusher. As they exchanged swings and parried one another’s blows back and forth, Leon finally saw an opening, and thrust his sword at the brigand’s neck, sure of victory and with a smile on his face. Just like before, it was Barclay that was caught in the trap like prey to the predator. The opening he saw was a deception, calculated by the swordsman before him. Vazov had taken advantage of Leon’s opening, and made to thrust his own sword right to the knight’s chests, piercing through the battered plate. So deep had the sword reached, that Vazov could not draw it back. Leon’s own thrust was interrupted, and blood spilled from his mouth. He huffed and grunted, and took three steps back, the sword still stuck into his chest. He stood up for a moment, and looked at Vazov. He coughed blood once more, and dipped his head somewhat “You fought well, brigand.” he said towards his bloodied enemy then. The Duke then looked around, men surrounding him as they all stood on the narrow path. He turned around, and started walking slowly and with great difficulty, trying to get out of the Glebite encircling him. It was then that he saw it, a ray of sunlight, coming east, where Minitz was. He saw the sun first, then caught a glimpse of the Minitzian fields, which stretched not far from where he was. The Glebites had allowed him a last view of his Fatherland, and, with a final smile on his face, he dropped to his knees, blood pouring from the pierced chest. Barclay could feel the light leave his eyes, keeping them fixated on the slight view he could get of Minitz. “Ich kehre zu meinen Wurzeln zurück” were his last words… ‘I return to my roots’, referring to the words of House Barclay von Minitz. He then finally dropped, laying on the muddy, cold ground, surrounded by many of the brigands he had felled. He took one last look towards the seven skies, and accepted his fate. He had lived a long, happy life. Now was the time for him to meet his ancestors. THUS FELL DUKE LEON BRANDT BARCLAY VON MINITZ, ASSASSINATED BY VAZOV GLEB ON THE YEAR OF OUR LORD 1914 Duke of Minitz Warchief of Theoderic’s Warband Grossmeister of the Order of Saint Tylos the Stallion of Reinmar Knight of the Order of the Red Eagle Knight-Immortal of the Immortal Order of Emperor Henry the Lion Harvest Lord Wappenmeister Warrior Son of Minitz Father Husband

BALIANS WAPPENROLLE BALIANITUM ARMA VOLVUNT THE BALIANITE ROLL OF ARMS Gifted by the Former Herzog Leon of Minitz to King Alexander of Balian in the year of our Lord 1914 FREUNDE UND FREUNDINNEN VON BALIAN, Following the assistance of King Alexander of Balian into the Minitzian effort against the murderers of Vilac in 1909, the then-Herzog Leon of House Barclay did pledge to gift the King Alexander of Balian a full set of heraldic arms. Thusly, let the heraldric standards be officialized and recorded in this document, and may the friendship and good-will between the Duchy of Minitz and Kingdom of Balian live until time immemorial THE NOBLE ROLL The Noble Roll is composed of all the Noble titles held by his Majesty the King of Balian, including the subsidiary titles, all of which are inherited by the King’s heir. THE LORDSHIP OF ATRUS THE LORDSHIP OF MONTEROSA THE BARONY OF CIAVOLA THE BARONY OF MALENOS THE BARONY OF VALENS THE BARONY OF BRUCCA THE VISCOUNTY OF ANATIS THE VISCOUNTY OF EFLEN THE KINGDOM OF BALIAN THE ROYAL ROLL Differently from the Noble Roll, the Royal Roll is composed of all coat of arms held by individual members of the Royal Family, including the arms of the cadet sons and daughters of his Majesty, the King. THE KING OF BALIAN Including the Dynastical Novellen Coat of Arms GREATER COAT OF ARMS OF THE KING OF BALIAN Standard His Majesty, ALEXANDER I, King of Balian, Viscount of Eflen and Anatis, Baron of Brucca,Valens, Malenos and Ciavola, Lord of Atrus and Monterosa. His Royal Highness, HADRIAN CASIMIR, Prince of Monterosa, Duke of Abretta, Heir-Presumptive of the Kingdom of Balian His Royal Highness, ALEXIOS MICHAEL, Count of Pavano Her Royal Highness, ELENA CASIMIRA, Princess Royal of Balian, Countess of Rosemoor Her Royal Highness, LYDIA ANTHEIA, Countess of Caluzzo THE GREATER COAT OF ARMS DURING THE TIME OF KING ALEXANDER I Including the Arms of the Royal Family THE ROLL OF THE ROYAL DUANA Composed of both the offices of the Royal Duana and the Monterosa Court, the last and final roll is used by the officials of the King’s government, to represent both themselves and their offices. THE AMIRATUS OF BALIAN THE SENESCHAL THE SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS THE LEGATE THE SECRETARY OF INTERIOR THE MINISTER OF INTERIOR THE SECRETARY OF CIVIL AFFAIRS THE CENSOR THE MAGISTRATE-GENERAL THE MAGISTRATE THE COMPANY OF BALIAN THE CONSTABLE THE OFFICE OF THE TREASURY THE PROCURATOR THE MONTEROSA COURT GOTT MIT UNS, His Lordship, Leon Brandt Ritter von Minitz KRE, RSTSR, KIEHL Knight of the Red Eeagle, Ritter of Saint Tylos the Stallion of Reinmar, Knight-Immortal of Emperor Henry the Lion, Harvest Lord His Royal Majesty, Alexander I, by the Grace of GOD, King of Balian, Viscount of Eflen and Anatis, Baron of Brucca,Valens, Malenos and Ciavola, Lord of Atrus and Monterosa, Protector of the Heartlanders and the South, etcetera.

DER ERSTE MINITZISCHE WAPPENROLLE THE FIRST MINITZIAN ROLL OF ARMS Issued by the Former Herzog Leon of Minitz in the year of our Lord 1914 SÖHNE UND TÖCHTER VON MINITZ, Mainly designed and drawn by the first Herzog of Minitz, Leon Barclay, who, in aims of fostering a heraldic culture amongst the nobility and people of Minitz, the first Minitzian Roll of Arms depicts all coat of arms used within the Duchy of Minitz during Herzog Leon’s Reign. THE NOBLE ROLL The Noble Roll of Minitz is composed of all the Noble titles held by the Herzog of Minitz and the Ducal House of Barclay von Minitz. These titles are all passed down to the Herzog’s heir. THE LORDSHIP OF DURRES THE LORDSHIP OF BRANDTHOF THE BARONY OF BORIENWALD THE BARONY OF HUSSEN Held by the Duke’s Eldest Son THE VISCOUNTY OF TUCAY THE COUNTY OF NEU BRANDTHOF THE DUCHY OF MINITZ The Primary Title THE DUCAL ROLL The arms held by the Ducal House of Barclay von Minitz during the reign of Leon Barclay, mainly consisting of the Herzog, his wife, and their two children. DYNASTIC ARMS OF HOUSE BARCLAY VON MINITZ His Grace, LEON BRANDT BARCLAY, Duke of Minitz, Count of Neu Brandthof, Viscount of Tucay, Baron of Boriënwald and Brandthof, Lord of Durres Her Grace, MARIA FREDERICA BARCLAY NÉE VON PREUSSENS, Duchess-Consort of Minitz His Lordship, BRANDT WILHEIM BARCLAY, Baron of Hussen, Heir-Presumptive of the Duchy of Minitz His Lordship, OTTOMAR JOSEF BARCLAY THE GREATER COAT OF ARMS OF HIS GRACE, LEON BRANDT BARCLAY THE ROLL OF THE HERZOGRAT Firstly founded during the Reign of Herzog Leon, the Herzograt of Minitz made up the entirety of the Minitzian government, including many important offices. The highest of such were named the “Herrenhaus”, consisting of the Herzog’s privy council. All offices of the Herrenhaus, as well as that of the Mayor, received their specific arms, to be used for official documents and matters as councilors of the Herzog. THE LAWSPEAKER’S DIET THE LAWSPEAKER OF THE KANUN THEODERIC’S WARBAND THE WARCHIEF OF THEODERIC THE BAILIFF’S OFFICE THE BAILIFF OF MINITZ THE ORDER OF SAINT TYLOS THE HERRENMEISTER OF SAINT TYLOS THE HERALD’S OFFICE THE DUCAL HERALD THE MAYOR’S OFFICE THE MAYOR OF NEU BRANDTHOF THE ROLL OF SAINT TYLOS All of the Heraldry for the Order of Saint Tylos the Stallion of Reinmar, including the full arms of the Order, and the arms of all Ritter oathed during the Reign of Herzog Leon, the Order’s founder. The mantling of the arm’s support corresponds to the Ritter’s rank within the order, with the Herrenmeister received the largest mantling. The design of the chain of Saint Tylos, which is depicted in each Ritter’s arms, was gifted to the Herzog by Wappenmeister Leopold Barclay, the Herzog’s tutor. These same arms are also displayed in the TOME OF CHIVALRY of the Order. THE CHIVALRIC ORDER OF SAINT TYLOS THE STALLION OF REINMAR SIR LEON BARCLAY, First Grossmeister of Saint Tylos SIR JOHANN BARCLAY, First Herrenmeister of Saint Tylos SIR WILHEIM BARCLAY, Second Herrenmeister of Saint Tylos SIR YVIAN GALKEN, Third Herrenmeister of Saint Tylos SIR ROBERT STROHEIM, Ritter-Kastellan of Minitz SIR MARRO VON MINITZ, First Ritter of Minitz SIR TEFT BARCLAY, Ritter of Saint Tylos, Bailiff of Brandthof SIR IRID VON MINITZ, Ritter of Saint Tylos SIR BRANDT BARCLAY, Ritter of Saint Tylos, Baron of Hussen SIR MAXWELL AD LANDREN, Ritter of Minitz, Lawspeaker of Minitz SIR WILHEIM II BARCLAY, Ehrenritter of Saint Tylos, Duke of Reinmar THE ROLL OF TRIBES Although many of the Minitzian tribes during the first years of the realm’s inception were not formally and officially recognized, many of the Reinmaren groupings that came to be were allowed the usage of their own Tribe banners. Differently from the common heraldic shields used by feudal nobility, the tribes of Reinmar use tribal banners to carry to war and to depict in official documents. Thus, showing distinction from the common peerage system. THE TRIBE OF HERRLICHKEIT Circa 1882 - 1904 THE TRIBE OF ADLER Circa 1882 - 1903 THE TRIBE OF ROA Circa 1904 - 1907 THE TRIBE OF STROHEIM Circa 1904 - Present GOTT MIT UNS, His Lordship, Leon Brandt Ritter von Minitz KRE, RSTSR, KIEHL Knight of the Red Eeagle, Ritter of Saint Tylos the Stallion of Reinmar, Knight-Immortal of Emperor Henry the Lion, Harvest Lord

Silence falls around Ludrik as he takes a deep breath within the Minitzian tavern. After supplying himself with enough oxygen, he beigns like last time...