Vermy

The Duke of Blackvale sat in the square, eyes reflecting the pit of fire before his figure. He rested there with his levymen, watching the roaches lose their heads.

Valentin inspected his new sword, the voices in his head going wild. "Wow, this sword is wonderful."

The Duke of Blackvale sharpes his sword, and readies his levymen.

The Duke of Blackvale sits in front of an abandoned gate, waiting for the Aaunish forces to engage the Adrian. Sadly the city seemed empty of life, or bravery.

Valentin van Aert cleans his rapier whilst he enjoys a drink in the tavern.

☩ PACTVM FRATRVM IN ARMIS ☩ Issued the 6th of The First Seed, 119 S.A. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The Houses of van Aert and Mareno have long since had similar outlooks and principles and decided to henceforth stand stronger, united. They have reached an agreement and hereby announce the mutual cooperation and friendship of their houses through a formal alliance by Holy Matrimony: I - House of van Aert and House of Mareno shall henceforth support each other to the best of their ability in times of military need. II - The signatories of this pact agree to never purposefully sabotage the interest of the other. III - To cement this newly found alliance, Camille van Aert shall take the hand of Caius Mareno in marriage. IV - The Treaty shall be held in place until the death of either signatory, after which a meeting is expected to be held. V - The signatories will put the true might of their newfound friendship to the test by organizing friendly skirmishes with foreign guard forces. VI - To celebrate the holy matrimony of the pair, the sweetest Myrinian grapes will be pressed and barreled by 120 S.A. to form “réserve du guerrier”, a fine wine that will be available in Adria and Minitz alike! VII - To symbolize the sheer might of both families, a traditional Blackvale rapier shall be forged by Myrinian hand in the image of the famed “Burgvndiae Virtvs”. The weapon will be made out of medium-density boomsteel and will be alchemically warforged to look like it bathed in real dragon’s flame. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signed, Valentin I van Aert Duke of the Blackvale, Prince of Renatus, Patriarch-Dynast of the Pertinaxi, Baron of Pestilles Caius Mareno Heir to the March of Myrine, Lord of Trident’s Peak, Patriarch of House Mareno

☩ BLACKVALE CULTURE ☩ Extensive Edition Viri Burgvndiae, victvs a nemo ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ☩ CONTENTS ____________ I. Introduction II. Culture and Traditions ________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ☩ Introduction ☩ The Mentality of the Lodenlanders The Lodenlanders are a fiercely independent people, proud of their heritage and unyielding in their loyalty to the van Aert family. Some say they appear rather stoic. Their culture is heavily influenced by their long history of warfare, which has shaped their society, customs and faith. They are skilled fighters and are renowned for their use of a unique weapon called the "Lodenlander Longsword," which is a fearsome weapon capable of cleaving through armor with ease. Lodenlanders are noted for worshiping Aurelius Horen, Emperor of Man as Exalted, for he has never lost a battle and conquered many lands. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ☩ Culture and Traditions ☩ Youth and Coming of Age While their childhood is spent in the safety of their home, the Lodenlander youth is still trained early on. The coming-of-age ceremony in Blackvale is a long-standing tradition that dates back many generations. At the age of 16, children within the community are considered mature enough to take on the responsibility of defending their home and their people, and so they are required to participate in a duel against a seasoned Blackvale levymen. The duels are usually fought with blunted wooden weapons, though some families prefer to use real weapons to make the ceremony more challenging. The goal of the duel is not to harm or kill the opponent, but to prove one's skill and bravery in combat. The winner of the duel is considered to be worthy of the title of Blackvale levymen and is granted certain privileges and responsibilities within the community. In the weeks leading up to the ceremony, the young adults undergo intense training and preparation for the duel. They learn swordplay, archery, and other combat skills from seasoned fighters within the community. The training is both physical and mental, with a focus on building endurance, strength, and quick reflexes, as well as sharpening their strategic thinking and tactical skills.On the day of the ceremony, the young adults don their best set of armor and gather in the central plaza of the village. The duel takes place in front of the entire community, with family and friends cheering on their respective fighters. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and anticipation, and the air is filled with the clanging of swords and the thud of arrows hitting their targets.The duels are judged by a panel of experienced fighters who assess the skill, bravery, and technique of each combatant. The winner is chosen based on a combination of these factors, as well as their ability to remain composed and focused under pressure. Once the winner has been declared, they are officially recognized as a Blackvale levymen and are given a place of honor within the community. They are entrusted with the responsibility of defending their home and their people. Women and their Role in Society The idea of women fighting alongside men as levymen or soldiers was not uncommon in historical societies, and it seems that the women of Blackvale followed a similar tradition. Being a landsknecht involved training in combat, proficiency in the use of weapons, and the willingness to defend one's community in times of war. Women who chose to participate in this way were likely highly respected for their courage and skill. However, it's important to note that not all women in Blackvale have been interested in or suited to fighting. For those who chose not to fight, there were other options available. Medicine was one such option - women could train as healers or midwives, using their knowledge of herbs and medicine to care for their families and communities. In addition to medicine, women have also taken up more traditional female roles, such as cooking, weaving, and caring for children. These roles were just as important as any other in ensuring the well-being of the community. It's also worth noting that the roles available to women in Blackvale may vary depending on their social status and economic class. Women of higher status may have more opportunities for education and training in specialized areas, while women of lower status may be more limited in their options. Overall, it's clear that the women of Blackvale were not confined to one particular role or expectation. They had the freedom to choose their path in life and contribute to their community in the way that best suited their abilities and interests The Different Facets of Blackvale Culture Despite their reputation as warriors, the Lodenlanders also have a rich artistic tradition. They are skilled metalworkers and are known for their intricate armor designs and weaponry. They are often seen wearing feathered berets and big puffy sleeves with their armor, making them stand out in a crowd. They also have a talent for embroidery and are famous for their colorful, intricate patterns and designs, which are often featured on their clothing. Despite their colorful closets, one color often stands out; The Blackvale Burgundy – it's a rich and deep shade of red that is created by combining two important colors in its lineage: Renation Purple and Raevir Red. Music is an essential part of Lodenlander culture, and they have a rich tradition of folk music that celebrates their history and legends. Their music is characterized by lively rhythms and catchy melodies, often played on the fiddle or the lute. They also have a tradition of storytelling, with bards and minstrels traveling from town to town, recounting tales of heroic deeds and epic battles, of which there are many. One of the most unique aspects of Lodenlander culture is their cuisine. They have a love for hearty, savory dishes, often made with game meat and root vegetables. One of their most famous dishes is a hearty stew called "Lodenlander Potage," which is made with chunks of venison, potatoes, and carrots, simmered together in a rich broth.

Prince Valentin would enjoy a drink within the tavern.

Prince Valentin signs the contract, after which he and a few loyal levymen depart to Minitz.

THE TWIN-HEADED EAGLE Issued the 14th of the Sun’s Smile, 118 S.A. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The Twin-Headed Eagle, a crest shared of the houses van Aert and of Vilac, borne of the same lineage and hailing from Renatian lands of olde, sprung from the loins of Prince Martius Horen, a great General and servant of man who was himself the grandson of the Exalted and undefeated Emperor Aurelius. These two houses have grown exponentially since that long-past time, holding great honors and winning great victories beholding them great respect, earning legends of their own, yet neither have forgotten the brotherly ties that bind them. Brothers can depend upon one another, no matter the circumstance, whether in battle or in times of peace, and when two men can come to call one another brother, that unbreakable bond may conquer the world. It is in absolute earnest that the houses van Aert and of Vilac declare their brotherhood, not in the nature of the commonly broken alliances that various dynasties proclaim, but with a unity that cannot be broken, cannot be shaken. With this public declaration of our unified will, let it be known that our two families shall henceforth act in total support of one another in times of war and in peace, as true brothers of our great shared dynasty. We declare that this pact shall stand for a thousand years and on, a true testament of unity in the name of all sons of the Twin-Headed Eagle.

Clicking 10 cps is not gonna induce CTS for most lol. Also fights are way shorter on 1.8!

Gaspard watches from prison.

Prince Gaspard swaps to his third set of gear as he strikes the Haenseti into the mud.

FOEDUS DUORUM PRINCIPUM ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Agreed on 3rd of Owyn’s Flame, 1857 By the County of Blackvale & the Principality of Savoy ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ I - The County of Blackvale and the Principality of Savoy formally enter a pact of non-aggression. The pact will last for a duration of ten years. After the expiration of this pact, a renewal may be negotiated. II - Signing parties refrain from participating in any conflicts that put them at odds with one another. III - Residents of the County of Blackvale are protected while in the territories of the Principality of Savoy, and residents of thet Principality of Savoy are protected while in the territories of the County of Blackvale's so long as they act within the laws of the respective realms. IV - The County of Blackvale recognises Prince Lucien I as rightful ruler of the Principality of Savoy. V - The Prince of Savoy, Lucien I recognises and acknowledges the authority that the Count of the Blackvale, Gaspard van Aert has over the Dragonsblood houses as Patriarch-Dynast of the Pertinaxi. All diplomatic pacts, treaties, marriages with the Dragonsblood houses will require the signature and agreement of the Patriarch-Dynast ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signed, Gaspard van Aert Count of the Blackvale, Imperial Prince of Renatus, Patriarch-Dynast of the Pertinaxi, Baron of Pestilles Lucien I Prince of Savoy, Duke of Corazon, Count of San Luciano, etcetera.

RENATUM LEGATUM PRINCIPATUS ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ “He leaves his men to die!” St Arpad of Vilacz, prior to beheading John VI Maximillian the Jester ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ I - The Count of the Blackvale, Gaspard van Aert shall fight for the Imperial Crown, for the reconquest of Lower Petra, and the succeeding conquest of the Urguani frontier. II - The Count of the Blackvale, Gaspard van Aert, and his captain of the guard shall occupy a seat on the Imperial War Council indefinitely, and be allowed to operate as an independent force separate from the jurisdiction of the War Office. III - The Count of the Blackvale, Gaspard van Aert shall sign a vassal agreement with the Imperial Crown detailing the legal obligations, which will be drafted and publicized in a future document. IV - The Imperial Crown shall pay the Count of the Blackvale, Gaspard van Aert 5,000 minas as payment for his services in war, as well as an additional 5,000 minas or more [estimate], for construction costs. V - The Imperial Crown shall erect a statue of Divine Emperor Aurelius I Horen in the Imperial City of New Providence. VI - The Imperial Crown shall give Mihaly van Aert ownership of a a tax-free house, provided to him an Imperial butler to serve him until his dying days [Lionbileti] VII - The Imperial Crown will give ownership of the Urguani frontier in its ensuing conquest, after the reconquest of Lower Petra to the Count of the Blackvale, Gaspard van Aert. VIII - The Imperial Crown shall provide a safety clause to the Count of the Blackvale, Gaspard van Aert, in the case that the Urguani frontier can not be conquered, and will be allowed to settle on the Lower Petra region instead. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signed, Gaspard van Aert Count of the Blackvale, Imperial Prince of Renatus, Patriarch-Dynast of the Pertinaxi, Baron of Pestilles Philip III of Novellen Holy Orenian Emperor, forever August, King of Renatus, Curon, Kaedrin, Salvus, and Seventis, Grand Duke of Ves, Duke of Helena, Novellen, Furnestock, Adria, and Lorraine, Baron of Renzfeld, Protector of the Heartlanders, Orenian Highlanders, and Farfolk, etcetera Anastasia I of Kostiz Holy Orenian Empress, forever August, Queen of Renatus, Curon, Kaedrin, Salvus, and Seventis, Grand Duchess of Ves, Duchess of Helena, Novellen, Furnestock, Adria, and Lorraine, Baroness of Renzfeld, Protector of the Heartlanders, Orenian Highlanders, and Farfolk, etcetera.

CONTRACT OF NEW VALLEYS ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Agreed on 4th of the First Seed, 60 S.A. By the Grand Kingdom of Urguan and the County of Blackvale ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The Grand Kingdom of Urguan and its allies have achieved victory in the siege of Southbridge, and has seen fit to reward those who have been most successful in the exploits of the War of Wigs. Among these greatest warriors were the folk of the County of Blackvale, who long have stood in their keep overlooking the valleys and meadows of the northern Gray Mountains. I - The Grand Kingdom of Urguan continues to recognize the County of Blackvale, formerly Middelan, and the lands already granted to Count Gaspard van Aert. II - The Grand Kingdom of Urguan grants the peoples of Blackvale in addition to their previous holdings the authority to oversee the hollow to its direct south once vacated by its previous inhabitants, and the meadow to its north once the building there is removed. Though the expressed mutual intent of this land grant is to preserve the land’s natural beauty, the County is allowed to make construction within it with permission of the Grand Architect. III - The County of Blackvale offers its levymen to secure the safety within the borders of the Grand Kingdom of Urguan, abiding by the Law of the Grand Kingdom of Urguan outside of their designated territory. IV - The County of Blackvale and the Grand Kingdom of Urguan shall continue a peace treaty for the entire duration Blackvale is located upon Dwarven grounds. Therefore, the County of Blackvale shall not bear hostilities towards the Grand Kingdom of Urguan, her vassals and protectorate states. V - The County of Blackvale maintains complete autonomy, and the ability to do her own diplomacy, be it hostile or neutral, unhindered by the Grand Kingdom of Urguan. The County of Blackvale shall not perform any acts of diplomacy that goes against the Grand Kingdom of Urguan. VI - The Grand Kingdom of Urguan and the County of Blackvale shall meet every two stone months to discuss resigning of the Pact and its sustainability thereof. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signed, Gaspard van Aert, Count of Blackvale, Prince of Renatus, Baron of Pestilles Ulfric Frostbeard, Grand King of Urguan, Lord of Clan Frostbeard, Thane of Rhewenholm, Great-Grandson of Rhewen

BOUND BY BLOOD & BY LEGACY ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ "Great dynasties have emerged from the sons of Horen, but none more accomplished than my own" - Divine Emperor of Mankind, Aurelius I of House of Horen upon the creation of his new empire. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The Brotherly houses of van Aert and von Arichsdorf both honorably descending from the lineage of Pertinax have come together to a shared goal of prosperity and survival. Each shall come to the aid of another in defense of their land. The terms of this blood-pact are as follows: I - The Houses of van Aert and von Arichsdorf shall seek out the opponents of their brother family where they are attacked unjustly and without just provocation. II - The Houses of van Aert and von Arichsdorf shall be required to come to the defense of their brother family where they are attacked unjustly and without just provocation, so long as this does not impede on their contractual obligations as a vassal of their respective country. III - The Houses of van Aert and von Arichsdorf shall not be required to aid their brother family where they pursue a conflict without agreement from the Prince of their respective family. IV - The Princes of each family understand and respect each other's legal obligations to their respective liege as vassals. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signed, Manfred Frilgar von Arichsdorf, High Chieftain of the Edvardssons, Chieftain of the Godricssons, Lord of Arichsdorf Gaspard van Aert, Count of Blackvale, Prince of Renatus, Baron of Pestilles Affirmed with the blood of our shared ancestors

Gaspard cleans his boots, having chased down fleeing orenians over four separate times.

Gaspard of Blackvale raises another cup of ale for his old friend.

Gaspard wipes the sweat from his face, pulling the prisoners with him across the long road home.