Imperial Empire of Germania | |
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Flag of the Empire | |
Red core Empire, while blue equals client state. | |
Goverment | |
Type of Goverment | Senatorial Dictatorship |
Head of State | Karl Franz |
Secondary Leaders | Elector Counts |
Geography | |
Location | Northern Europe |
Capital | Aldorf |
Population | |
Languages | Germanic |
Demonym | Emperian |
Religion | Cult of Sigmar |
Races, and Ethnicity | Vast Majority are Teutonic but sizeable numbers of Slavic in the east, Fraks throughout the west and other Germanic variants in the south make it more distributed then most would think. |
Population | Placeholder |
The Imperial Empire of Germania or the "The Empire" is the largest and most powerful Human Nation in Europe, where it is located in Europe, and extends far west into parts of France, while south it goes as far as the mountains of Lucerne, and East it goes as far as Kizlev.
The Empire is the home, and central location of the vast population of the germanic tribe of the Teutons. One of the oldest German tribes the Teutons have maintained there hold over The Empire through wars, and migrations and are one of the most powerful ethnic groups in Europe as a result. The Teutons have become known for their nearly fanatical nationalistic approach to foreign policy and they have little to no acceptance to outsiders outside of the outlying regions of The Empire. In the western province of the Lowlands the only non Teutonic Majority exists in the form of the Franks of whome are the only non-Teutonic Elector Count that exists in The Empire.
The Imperial Empire of Germania is dominated religiously by the Cult of Sigmar of which dominates nearly every province within the Empire outside of five of the provinces in the form of Wissenland, Middenland, Slovakia, Saxony, and Brandenburg of whom follow minority religions. While the Cult of Sigmar is the dominent fixture of the religion of the Empire the second most powerful is the Church of Ulric of whom are dominent in the central regions and also control a seat at the Imperial Senate. Christianity exists in a majority in the east spurred by the ministry work of the Christians of Poland, while there are Taal
The current Empire is Karl Franz, of whome is a member of the very powerful European House Franz of which started in Hannover but swiftly took control of The Empire when they felt the time was right. Karl Franz gained a swift and powerful reputation as a brilliant diplomat and administrator but his overall reputation was tarnished after the small Kingdom of Hogwarts defeated a large force of Emperian troops and then destroyed a large town as retribution. He has attempted to raise the tension in Europe in order to makehimself more popular amongs the Teutons that have lost faith.
Originally founded by Sigmar following the Chaotic days of the Trolloc Wars, the Empire would eventually become one of the strongest Kingdoms in Europe, and would begin to push its beliefs on all that surrounded them. Sigmar became extremely powerful after being uplifted by the Titans as one of their Man Gods, and he was the only one of the Man Gods that was not killed by the intervention of one of the Gods of Chaos, and his actual whereabouts are unknown after he left his crown behind and travelled east for tasks unknown. Following his departure the Teutons would follow a system of goverment that he left behind for them, and this would lead them with little internal problems until the rise of House Franz led to a civil war which eventually changed the balance of power towards the powerful House Franz. House Franz would complete the conquests that were started in eastern Europe and would expand so far that they connected themselves with their ally in Kizlev greatly increasing the power of Kizlev.
Overview
There are ten provincial states in the Empire, each ultimately ruled by an Elector Count who owes his or her power to the unifying figurehead and ultimate authority of the Emperor. Alongside this their is the province of Toppenheim of which basically rules itself and has an elector count.
It should be noted that the Empire is not truly a single, centralized nation, but instead a confederation of individual, feudal states united only by a shared language, religion (Empire Worship ) and culture. The Imperial states correspond roughly to the ancient tribal territories brought together by Sigmar when he united the tribes of Man beneath one crown.
The life of a citizen of the Empire of Man is a perilous one, for there are foes within every shadow and enemies around every corner. Secret Chaos cults abound, or at the very least, there are rumors of them running rampant. No one is certain who is trustworthy, and fear and paranoia are omnipresent in the isolated settlements that dot the Empire's provinces
History
Main Article : Timeline of The Empire
Early History
The Empire was originally founded in the German region of Europe . Once Germany had been a paradise for Humans of the Numerian Empire , and this changed little following the Fall of Numeron. The change in the region came about when the Humans of Germany allowed their greed and selfishness to take over from unity. The precursor Kingdom was called Amania , and its fall allowed many creatures and monsters to take over control of regions of Germany. This would continue for almost a hundred years until the Trolloc Wars which ended when the first Atlantians arrived in Europe.
Empire of Numeron
Main Article : Empire of Numeron
The Rise of Sigmar
Main Article : Sigmar
See Also : Man Gods
The Rise of Sigmar You must save our people Sigmar. You are the only one who can. |
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Sigmar was born in the region of Bavaria in the northern part of Germania, to the Unberogen tribe, generally considered to have been one of the most powerful pre-Empire tribes. The night of his birth was marked with the appearance of a twin-tailed comet, which the human tribes took as a sign of great portent from the gods. This twin-tailed comet was in fact the arrival of the Titans Woglinde, and Zesperia of whom were coming to the village of Sigmar in order to assist in the plans of Ares to rise Sigmar to become a Man God. Ares had come to believe following the death of Jesus that the main reason for Jesus dying and ultimately failing was that from the moment that Jesus had come to be he had believed himself a god, and that this belief had led Jesus to walk into the trap laid for him by Nagash. Thus not wanting to make the same mistake twice Ares would decide to instead mold Sigmar into a compassionate, and strong human being before finally turning him into the God that he would become. Unlike Jesus Ares would not directly intervene instead leaving this intervention to Woglinde, and Zesperia of whom would conseal who they really were and silently turn him into the Man God they needed him to be. Attack on BreebozeOnly two days after his "father" Ares would leave the region he set at the Trollocs of the forest and killed them in such number that they rampaged south to escape his wrath and directly into the path of Sigmar's village. Sigmar was fifteen at that moment and was working at his families blacksmith shop when the massive horde of Trolloc would rampage into the village. Legends say the small village of just 200 was attacked by over 800 Trolloc, and the chances of survival were beyond grim. What men could fight grabbed their weapons and the women and children hid in their houses with the faint hope that they would survive but basically knowing that it was over. Sigmar watched as his tribe was cut down and something snapped in him, so he picked up his father's plain blacksmith's hammer and charged out and into the Horde of Trolloc. Sigmar is said to have singlehandled held the center of the village, and in the morning when the villagers returned to the village they found the young boy laying down surrounded by hundreds of Trolloc. After resting for only a few hours Sigmar led the men of the village in a punitive raid against the nearbye Trolloc nest. While travelling on the road to the Trolloc nest Sigmar's group came upon a Dwarf convoy headed by the High King of Karak Ankor, of whome at that moment was being attacked by a horde of Trolloc rampaging due to the massacres of Ares. The two groups fought off the terrifying number of Trolloc and gathered together after the battle. In gratitude, Kurgan presented the young warrior with a magical rune-enchanted warhammer called Ghal Maraz ('Skull-splitter,' in the Dwarf Khazalid tongue). The Crusade BeginsConquering the BlacktuskFollowing his beggining of his crusade Sigmar went to the home of King Bjorn the most powerful cheiftan in the region, and once there he along with his friends made every effort to gain their support. King Bjorn was a wise man and Sigmar often sat at his feet and listened to his stories. He at first did this because he wanted the control that King Bjorn could provide for him and his growing powerbase. One of them was about Blacktusk :
As Bjorn finished the story, Sigmar was already asleep. But he still heard the admonitions of his father, the river Blacktusk Skien were alive and we must always honor the gods or he would come and take revenge. Gaining a KingThe next morning, Sigmar gathered his closest friends, including Wolfgart in order to go fishing. Sigmar told them he wants to go fishing on the River Skien and all were pale with fear. Wolfgart told the Warrior of the river area and no one fishes there is Blacktusk. But Sigmar replied only that it therefore there would be a lot of good fish. After the friends had forgotten their initial fear they followed Sigmar. The prey was abundant, and soon no one really thought of Blacktusk. Everyone laughed and rejoiced as Wolfgart screamed, dropped his spear and ran to the middle of the river. On the shore stood a huge boar, drool dripping from his mouth and with his huge blood-red eyes, he watched the young men. She immediately tried as far as possible from the shore to get away. Sigmar just stopped. The boar jumped into the river and rushed towards Sigmar. Sigmar stood still. He had thrown his spear and stretched a hand toward the boar. Just before him was the boar and Sigmar are touched him on the snout. He spoke softly to the animal and scratched it behind the ear while he was with his other hand clutching something in his coat. With a jerk pulled Sigmar herraus the subject, it was a spearhead. The boar grunted shrill, shook his head and trot away. Sigmar went to his friends, the spearhead is still in his hand and said: ". Has You see, there was a man of the boar driven to madness, not the gods" Disappeared with a last look at the forest in the Blacktusk, the men returned to the village. Uniting the TribesWith the power of King Bjorn behind him he would then go on a campaign to unite the disparate tribes of the future Empire, and one by one they submitted, either by conquest or diplomacy. He first had to deal with the forces of the Orcs that surrounded his tribes, and were causing great hardship in the region. During the Battle of the Asthofenbrücke Sigmar put the corrupt Wildork Warboss Grimgut Bonecrusher to an end. A day after his 15th Birthday Sigmar was called to his father, where he was shown his shield, as it was now up for a fifteen-year tradition adults. The land of unanswered roe was of Greenskins , Beastmen infested, cut-throats and bandits and worse. He received a sign with the sign of a black boar, which he had defeated a year earlier. With half of the warrior Reikdorfs he moved south after they had enjoyed the night before a feast. Wolfgart was part of the squad as a Warrior Prince left the village. Sigmar was Bracers of the moon, sun, and the two comets were drifted, and a wolf skin over his shoulder, and a Two-Handed Sword and a helmet, both of which were decorated with a few jewels. Part of the squad was also Pendrag , the red-headed standard-bearer, who also bore the sign of the black boar, and three hundred more warriors on horseback, partly as Sigmar on horseback . After a journey through several villages whose inhabitants they beobachtetn misträuisch as was customary, they reached the southwest located in the Grey Mountains. There, the water of a river, they held a meeting. During the meeting we saw smoke coming from the gray mountains, as the burning of huts Asthofen was determined. The horsemen of the army stormed to the horses, Sigmar and the command squad with them and as fast as they could jagdten after Asthofen. After a hard day of ride they arrived. Since orcs are not only bigger and stronger than humans, but also smell better, look and listen, they postponed the attack for the morning. In the morning you watched the Savage Orcs and Goblins, which set the city ablaze with flaming arrows and undisciplined in large numbers on the doors smashing. Directly to the gate Grimgut, who struck with his ax on the city was revealed on their banners the symbol of a flying hawk. Sigmar gained fifty volunteers who störmten in two waves with slings and bows before the orcs of a hill, and back again before the thousand eyes of the Greenskins . The goblins rushed forward at first, but pulled back in panic as the warriors of Sigmar were located on flat level. Were soon to Sigmar and his followers in battle with the Orcs, defeated many, but their attack was slowed down massively due to the sheer mass of the Orcs. This forced Sigmar on his gray horse and the remaining riders to retreat towards the river. On the run pursued by orcs, another died before Sigmar's troops reached the bridge. The last of the return was abolished, Wolfgart. Right after the riders crossed the bridge, fifty spearmen came under command of Trinovantes from the bushes and schnürrten the orcs from the road. They sold their lives dearly, but all this was part of the plan Sigmar. Ultimately, they too had to retire again, and fled toward the rider. The Orcs followed them, and entered so the wide plain, where Sigmar's horsemen were superior to them completely. The bronzegeharnischten riders had an easy game, so the orcs were then quickly defeated. Those who fled were stopped by the warriors Asthofens so could not escape the orc. After the battle there was a big celebration in Asthofen. Then returned home and received Sigmar be so coveted shield, which distinguished him as a warrior and leader. The most famous incident was his subjugation of the belligerent Teutogens, the largest and most powerful tribe, who lived near the Middle Mountains in the north central Empire, near the current location of Middenheim. Their chieftain, Artur, was defeated by Sigmar in single combat. Clearing the ForestsFrom that point onward, Sigmar embarked upon a campaign of purgation and liberation throughout all of the tribal lands, primarily against the Trolloc that infested the forests of Germany. Among the other enemies that Sigmar was forced to contend with were the human followers of Chaos such as the Norse (as evidenced by his defeat of Morkar's invasion) who had come to infest the Denmark region along with present day Kizlev. The Orcs ComeAfter the fall of the southern Karaz Ankor Dwarfholds, High King Kazgar Eniksson of Karaz-a-Karak and the Dwarfholds of the western mountains – including Karak Hirn – reconciled their differences and established an alliance against the seemingly countless numbers of greenskins. Karaz Ankor has been hard pressed in the fighting and needed help in stabilising the situation in the Worlds Edge Mountains. Many warriors joined Sigmar’s banner and King Dorant “Orcbane” Kraegsson gathered an expeditionary force of Dwarfs and Humans from the Black Mountain Dwarf kingdoms. In the Battle of Dracherückgrat Kamm, King Dorant’s forces cleared Sigmar’s right flank of Orcs, allowing the main allied Dwarf and Human armies led by Sigmar to smash the main greenskin in the Battle of Black Fire Pass. The crushing of the greenskins ushered a millennium of peace and prosperity for Karak Hirn and the Empire founded by Sigmar. Battle of BlackfireBattle of PrussiaRising as EmperorWith his victory complete following the Battle of Fire Pass, Sigmar is said to have been carried back to Nuln by his army. When he arrived the nobles amongst his rallied tribes crowned him Emperor of theThe Empire , and gave him a crown fashioned by the Dwarves . Elector Counts Sigmar set up the leaders of the twelve main tribes that followed him as the Elector Counts of the Empire, a position that remains to this day. Although no longer led by the leaders of each of the important tribes, and instead led by the Leaders of the provinces. During these early years he would attempt to deal with the one delaying factor to the control of all of Germany in the form of the Kingdom of Bavaria which was led by the powerful House Franz. |
The First Dark Crusade
Main Article : The First Dark Crusade
The first main threat to the Empire during Sigmar's reign was in the 9th year of the Imperial Calendar, when a massive Norsii invasion ravaged the Imperial lands north of Middenhiem. A climactic battle occured outside Middenheim at the height of the fighting, with Dwarf and Human troops battling the invading Norse. A Daemon Prince named Azur Kul led the Norse armies, protected by magical wards that stopped it from being harmed, but said wards were undone by the first Runefang Blodambana, or Bloodbane, wielded by Count Myrsa of Middenhiem , allowing Sigmar to kill the Daemon Prince outright.
The Skaven
See Also : The Skaven
After the defeat of the Norsii, however, Sigmar's army were set upon by Skaven ratmen emerging from the tunnels under the Faushlag Rock, but through sheer perseverance, the Skaven were defeated. It was during this time that Sigmar's brother, Pendrag, and his love, Ravenna were killed by the swordsman Gerron, who escaped to the Norsii lands. Afterwards, Sigmar led a year-long crusade against the Norsii tribes, wiping out village after village, yet also searching for Gerron, in revenge for his betrayal.
Golden Age
Following the Empire's victory of Azur Kul, and the later victory over the Skaven horde Sigmar instigated a period that can only be described as the Golden Age of The Empire. During this time he put in place the Elector Counts, set up the provinces, and created many of the cities and fortresses that still stand to this day.
Sigmar Leaves
In the fiftieth year of his reign, Sigmar put by his crown and set off into the east. Sources conflict on the details of what precisely motivated Sigmar to do this; some accounts claim he set off to return Ghal Maraz to the Dwarfs. The sudden method of his departure was only ofset by the fact that Sigmar had placed such rules in place that his death had already been accounted for and thus the Empire held its first elections and named their first Emperor in Krelle Van Transe.
The Second Dark Crusade
Main Article : The Second Dark Crusade
Following the departure of Sigmar from the Empire of Man the Empire became threatened by a new enemy who was the second chosen one of Chaos. Chaos this time had come together
much better then they had the first time, and although Malekane was not as godlike as Kul he was believed to be powerful enough to take the Empire, but his real strength lay in his intelligence. Malekane was imbued with all the skill and stength of the gods, and with this he gathered his forces and begin moving on Kislev, as all Chaos attacks must do.
Instead of becoming bogged down in a conflict against Kislev he knew his real target was The Empire and because of this he continued to move westward eventually reaching the most eastern
section of The Empire in the province of East Prussia. East Prussia was constructed by Sigmar as a fortress province and in the way of Malekane was the Fortress of Wolfenstein which had been constructed and designed by Sigmar himself and even Kul had been forced to bypass the massive fortress. Malekane was not Kul and he would not accept that Wolfenstein could not be taken by his forces, so he put the fortress under siege. He knew that to attack it like this would be suicide but in the siege he could wear the fort down while he ran around west of Prussia.
War in Arnor
Main Article : Arnor War
Valerian Incident
War with Hogwarts
Main Article : The Hogwarts Empire War
Following the Civil War that rocked Hogwarts, and then the War with the Malfoy's and their allies Hogwarts was believed by the Malfoy's to be very vulnerable. Because they had lost so many of their vasals when they attacked Hogwarts the Malfoy's were not strong enough to attack again, so they went to an outside source in The Empire.
The Empire was offered free trade through their connection if they would destroy Hogwarts. The Empire was a very supersticious land as it was so the chance to destory a Magi city, as well as gaining free trade was too much for them to pass on. Unfortunatly for The Empire Hogwarts had not been as badly damaged as the Malfoy's had believed, and in fact had become stronger since the attack due to much of the gained experiance during the war. Specifically Harry Potter , Hermione Granger , and Ron Weezly were quickly becoming some of the greatest wizards in the entire continent.
The Empire sent an army under the command of the Emperor at the time's son. This army was made up of well over 45,000 men and the small 4,000 Hogwarts should have been no match for them the commanders believed.
Destruction of Greenhop
Conflict with Arnor
Dead Invasion of Germania
Main Article : Dead Invasion of Germania
Arthas Invades Germania This monster has crushed all resistance before him. He defeated the Austrians at Nuln. Crushed the wolves of Middenland at their own capital. Broke our army at Castle Nunenstein. Tell me my Emperor. How can we stop him? What do we do? |
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Following the Battle of Fornost the army of Arthas Menathil would move northward gathering significant reinforcements from the casualties of the Fornost region and then increasingly more as they moved through the war torn regions of Arnor. The rapidly expanding army of Arthas Menathil carves its way through Arnor, and Priam secretly commands the forces of Austria to do there best to avoid conflict with his army and instead begs for assistance from Karl Franz of whom begins rallying forces with the nearby forces of Slovakia, and Ostmark of whom were already rallying troops. Galindus Vapnisson would despite his own strong desire to not remain be left behind as the regent of Kosice when his father Edgin Vapnisson and elder brother Volham Vapnisson rallied much of there forces to join the army of Slovakia in resisting the invasion of Arthas, and thus would be within the walls of Kosice when a small splinter force of Arthas Menathil put Kosice under siege. Battle of NulnPushed back at great cost from the inner gatehouse leading to the main city, the forces of Arthas would retreat out of Nuln but he left a splinter force behind with commands to kill and burn as much of the taken portion of the city as possible while the majority of the army retreated northward. Massacre at FratenjortzMain Article : Siege of Fratenjortz It was Janus Frandsen who was still living at his estate when the forces of Arthas Menathil came to Austria and while the main forces marched towards the major cities small splinter forces moved against some of the smaller villages including the villages looked over by Janus Frandsen, and it was here where he would make his power known. While his families home of Fratenjortz was under siege nearby it was Janus that was attacked at his estate by Magnus Fargriever a Liche in the Scourge army, and Magnus attacked directly towards the estate seeing it as the only defensible position in the area and arriving at the walls it was Janus who came to meet him with his guard. At first attempting to force a surrender out of Janus it was Magnus who became overcome with pain and begin to lose control of his skeletal forces as Janus came near him and realizing it was his powers doing this Janus entered his dream world and was able to pull Magnus from the Fade obliterating his soul and leaving him a soulless husk back in reality. With the death of Magnus the force with Magnus collapsed around him and with victory at hand he traveled to the local villages and had them retreat into the forests while he gathered what men he could and traveled towards Fratenjortz. After defeating the Scourge force attacking his land he would travel with his personal forces to Fratenjortz where he would attack the Scourge siege forces while they were attacking the walls and with an attack so unexpected he was able to get into the command structure of the sieging Scourge army and using his pariah gene he would obliterate the entire command structure of the attacking army leaving the skeletons and the entire army to collapse around him and breaking the siege. Relief of NulnFollowing his breaking of the siege of Fratenjortz it was Janus that was taken by his sister Aristea Frandsen of whom was now all but ruler of House Frandsen with their father Conrad a sickly old man and she took him alongside much of the army of Fratenjortz towards Nuln where she planned to break the siege there. Arriving at Nuln the main force of Arthas had already left for the north but the remaining Nuln forces were struggling to break the remaining attackers and the forces of Fratenjortz would smash into them and using Janus they targeted the Liches all across the field of battle and were able to shatter the remaining Scourge forces who begin surrendering as they realized the weapon that Janus was. Invasion of SlovakiaMain Article : Arthas Invasion of Slovakia It was Wolfram Hertwig III., and his son Wolfram Hertwig IV. that would lead the forces of Slovakia into the defense of the border of Slovakia when it was assailed by a dead army of Arthas moving into their province and the Slovakian forces would split their forces into two with one force led by Wolfram defending Castle Orava while a force led by Edgin Vapnisson would defend Orava Bridge. While these preperations were being made it was Galindus Vapnisson that would despite his own strong desire to not remain be left behind as the regent of Kosice when his father and elder brother rallied much of there forces to join the army of Slovakia in resisting the invasion of Arthas, and thus would be within the walls of Kosice when a small splinter force of Arthas Menathil put Kosice under siege. Gaining victory at the Battle of Castle Orava it was Wolfram who rallied his forces and moved towards Talabheim where the dead army fresh from victory at the Battle of Orava Bridge had put the city under siege, and joined by the forces of Galindus Vapnisson they prepared the army for the Battle of Talabheim. Following the defeat of the force besieging Talabheim it would be Galindus that rallied the broken forces of House Vapnisson following the defeat of his father and brother and led them north where they would fight at the Battle of Middenheim where he would be horrified to discover his brother and father had been reanimated and now fought for Arthas and although he was able to end his brother his father would escape the battle with Arthas. Invading the Lands of UlricFollowing the Battle of Nuln and with the city nearly defenseless the movement of Arthas north would finally cause the forces of Middenland and the Ulric worshipers to make a move to truly enter the conflict. The army of Arthas would move directly through the center of Wissenland forcing the Elector Count there in the form of Alberich Anderssen to raise his armies, but not having enough forces ready that quickly he could not engage the skeletal army of Arthas and instead followed it as it moved through central Wissenland and north into Middenland. Chaos Allies
Battle of MiddenheimMain Article : Battle of Middenheim The combined forces of Middenland, Wissenland, and a small force from the Kingdom of Galia would mass outside of the city of Middenheim for the defence of the Ulric capital of which the Arthas army finally seemed intent on a fight as it moved towards the army. Following the defeat of the force besieging Kosice it would be Galindus that rallied the broken forces of House Vapnisson following the defeat of his father and brother and led them north where they would fight at the Battle of Middenheim where he would be horrified to discover his brother and father had been reanimated and now fought for Arthas and although he was able to end his brother his father would escape the battle with Arthas. Battle of Nunenstein CastleMain Article : Battle of Nunenstein Castle Battle of AldorfMain Article : Battle of Aldorf Following the forces of Arthas breaking through the fortress of Nunenstein Castle the army of Bavaria would be marshaled in its entirety and moved itself to Aldorf. While the Bavarians were mobilizing the long awaited reinforcements of Hannover moved into the province arriving west of Aldorf bolstering the defenders, but still paling in comparison to the forces they knew would be arrayed by Arthas Menathil. The AftermathVolham Vapnisson having been found dying on the field by his brother he would die in his brothers arms and then taken back to Kosice where unlike their father he was put to rest in the ground and not raised in undeath like their father Edgin had been by Arthas. Breaking out of DenmarkDefeated for the first time at the Battle of Aldorf the dead army of Arthas would make a move northward towards Denmark with their diminished forces, with this movement unable to be chased by the Hannover, and Bavarian Army due to the casualties they had suffered themselves. Isabella Rasmussen would during the movement of Arthas through Denmark become responsible for his escape when she met with Arthas in the Fade and mistakenly came to believe that his intentions were honorable, but after telling her father this and having him listen to her it was Arthas who came to her once again in the Fade and revealed that he would return in time and kill everyone in Denmark. |
Conflict with Lucerne
William Lovie and Karl Franz had started their relationship in a generally positive way. When William was crowned the two sent letters back and forth, and so this led to a lot of positive thoughts for what their first meeting would be like. When the two did meet it was a month before the Invasion of Westbridge, and it was in the southern part of Westbridge.
When the two met they nearly immediatly didn't get along, and past the customary kindness to a fellow leader the two were trading insults, and threats throughout the entire conversation. This eventually led to William Lovie storming out, and threatening that any attack on Arnor would be counted as a direct attack on Lucerne.
Proxy War
Following their massive disagreement the forces of Lucerne attacked and took over the vitally important city of Westbridge as what Andrew wrote in a letter was a threat that they had best not attack Arnor.
Political Geography
Provinces in The Empire
- “Always remember my son that The Empire will always make their appearance as if they are the strongest of the world. They believe there size gives them the strength that noone can ever curtail them. But look closer son. They are but a series of kingdoms held together by the simple fact that a god once stuck them all together. The first chance they get to split they will.”
- — William Lovie III. to William Lovie IV.
The Empire is not a centralised nation, but rather a feudal confederacy of 14 large and semi-independent provinces, bound together by common interests, history, language, religion, and culture. Somewhat outside of the rule of the nobility are the semi-independent city-states. There the burgers choose their own Burgomeisters. It's very likely that the richest and most influential merchants have the greatest influence over the whole process but precise details are currently unknown.
Of the fourteen provinces of the The Empire only nine of the provinces hold to the worship of the Cult of Sigmar, with the other five holding to the worship of several other religions including the Church of Ulric, Temple of Taal, and in the east the worship of Christianity has also risen.
Name | Capital | Elector Count | Religion | Ethnicity |
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Bavaria | Aldorf | Karl Franz | Cult of Sigmar | Teutonic |
Denmark | Copenhagen | Fermund Habsburg | Cult of Sigmar | Tuetonic |
Middenland | Middenheim | Boris Todbringer | Church of Ulric | Utogens |
Western Prussia | Ahlbeck | Theoderic Gausser | Cult of Sigmar | Teutonic |
Eastern Prussia | Kronisburg | Valmir Von Rauken | Cult of Sigmar | Asaborns |
Austria | Nuln | Priam Troy | Church of Anvien | Tuetonic |
Lowlands | Marrianburgh | Magritta Tovendown | Cult of Sigmar | Taleutons |
Hannover | Berlin | Liam Odrell | Cult of Sigmar | Swabians |
Wissenland | Wirtbad | Alberich Anderssen | Church of Ulric | Utogens |
Slovakia | Talabheim | Wolfram Hertwig III. | Temple of Taal | Menotens |
Ostmark | Mordheim | Aldebrand Ludenhof | Cult of Sigmar | Teutonic |
Solland | Ahlbeck | Konrad Aldrech | Cult of Sigmar | Teutonic |
Saxony | Magdeburg | Cerradoc Andomeran | Christianity | Saxons |
Brandenburg | Potsdam | Christianity | Saxons |
City States of The Empire
Name | Capital | Duke | Religion | Ethnicity |
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Toppenheim | Pfieldorf | Temple of Taal | Atlantians | |
Southern Austria | Fornost | Dragonoph | Atlantians | |
Flanders | Gravensteen | Cult of Sigmar | Taleutons |
Cities of the Empire
Cities of The Empire |
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AltdorfSee Also : Aldorf Altdorf is the Imperial capital, the seat of Karl-Franz; home to the Great Cathedral of Sigmar, the Colleges of Magic and the School of Engineers. The city is a centre for trade and learning; its docks teem with merchants, its taverns with students. From the strange creatures housed in the Imperial zoo, to the majestically solid, dwarf-built walls, Altdorf is a city of great beauty and variety. Along with this Aldorf now lies as one of the largest cities in all of Europe. It is located in the province of Bavaria, and thus has been one of the most isolated of the major Emperian cities, and only has been attacked on two occasions of which both times it repulsed the attack. The city of Aldorf is led by its Elector Count, and the overall Empire of the The Empire in the form of Karl Franz, but nominally on a day to day basis it is ruled by an oligarchy of rich nobles, and other important men in the city. The City of Aldorf is one of the largest cities in the entire world, and in terms of just the continent of Europe it is in the top five largest cities, with its nearly three hundred thousand souls living and dying within the walls, or outside in the outskirts of the giant city. Aldorf was founded before the Fall of the Empire of Numeron, and was founded by the Teutons with the help of an elite group of High Elves led by Tyrion, and Teclic Aestarion of whom also shared with them secrets of Magi. Years after the Downfall of Numeron the city of Aldorf was one of the largest of Germany, and it was at this point that Teclis, and Tyrion returned and would found the Colleges of Magi where the Magi of The Empire would forever train their skills at Magi. Following this under subsequent rulers of The Empire the city of Aldorf continued to be the capital of the entire empire, and this led to it becoming the center of goverment, and trade of which increased its wealth and power exponentially. NulnSee Also : Nuln Nuln is the Capital of the province of Austria, inThe Empire. The city is built at the center of the meeting point of the Reik and Aver rivers. Due to its location, Nuln is a centre of trade. Trade goods enter the city from the north and the south, from Wissenland, the Dwarf Holds in the mountains and especially from Tilea. With a population well in excess of 300,000 its a power that dominates the border with Arnor. This population is much in the same way of the rest of Austria in that it is nearly completely Teutonic, and non Teutons are treated brutally until they are either evicted from the city all together or they leave on there own accord. The only non Teutonic elements within Nuln is a colony of Dwarves, and a small embassy of the Atmer Empire containing some forty five High Elves. MiddenheimSee Also : Middenheim Middenheim is a major city in The Empire. It is most known for two things of which the first is that it is the center of the Ulric Religion which is a type of Empire Worship but very different, and the second is that it is built on top of a mountain and can only be assailed through four gates, of which 3 can be raised at will. Middenheim is a the capital city of the province of Middenlandinthe Empire. Commonly known as The City of the White Wolf, it is second in influence only to the Empire capital Aldorf. Middenheim is extremely powerful in this way as it hosts a single vote when it comes to the electing of a new Emperor, and this number rises to two if you count the Head of the Cult of Ulric of whom also stands within Middenheim. Middenheim is the center of the Utogens of whom are an offshoot of the overall Tuetonic Germans that dominate the lands of The Empire. The Utogens are quite close to the overall Teutonics but they are taller and more stocky due to the harsh landscape that they have been accustomed to living within. The Utogens have massive numbers within Middenheim, and it is by far the largest concentration of their people throughout Europe and the entire planet. A half century before the Empire was established by Sigmar, Artur, chief of the Teutogen tribe, discovered the rock. As the Teutogens were not renowned as great builders, Artur enlisted the aid of the Dwarfs forced from their ancient home in the Middle Mountains to tunnel up through the rock and build a fortress. A century passed before the work was complete. In that time Artur had fought and lost to Sigmar in single combat, but by the 60th year of the Empire the fortress was complete and became the home of the Teutogens. MarrianburghSee Also : Marrianburgh Marrianburgh is a massive port in the north-west of The Empire located in the province of The Lowlands. Marienburg has long been the largest and most prosperous trading city inEurope . Many call it the City of Gold which alone conveys a good idea of the wealth of this sprawling cosmopolitan city. Nowhere else can be found the vast array of shops selling goods from as far away as the Elven kingdoms of Ulthuan in the west and distant Cathay in the east. The city’s craftsmen represent every skill known to man, and a few others beside, so that it is said in Marienburg there is no activity that cannot be quickly turned to profit. Many mercantile guilds have their headquarters in Marienburg, most important of all the secretive High Order of Honorable Freetraders which represents the elite amongst mercantile society. This large, rich and ambitious body of men feel themselves shackled by the old order and are eager to seize power for themselves. Marriangburgh was founded later then basically every other city in the Lowlands, and thus its rise was extremely shocking. It was first founded when the army of Sigmar made its way into the Lowlands during the campaign to control the lands of what today is The Empire. During this one of Sigmar's most able commanders remained behind in the Lowlands and during this stay he would become hateful towards the nobility in the Lowlands so he basically picked a new city from where he would rebuild the aristocracy of the region. BerlinSee Also : Berlin Berlin is a very large city in the Empire, and the capital of the province of Hannover. Berlin was the largest Numenoran city in Germany and because of this it is often cited as the largest remaining city of the old Empire of Numenor. With a population well in excess of 500,000 the city is truly massive, and it is a center of peace in the usually restive and unsafe central parts of The Empire. The population of the city is a member of the Teutonic branch of the Germanic people, but the vast majority are known as Swabians and from Berlin they control the province of Hannover. The Swabians are basically Tuetonic but they share many physical, and cultural traits with the Atlantians that they assimilated into when the Teutons took control of the town from them. The Swabians count themselves as the overall Teutonic category but they remain a distinctly non-Tuetonic grouping of which makes them rather unique within The Empire. Berlin was founded during the earliest expansion of the Tuetons into the region of central Germany, and served as the center for one of the multitude of Tuetonic Kingdoms during that time. When the Empire of Numeron came to the area it was anexxed by them in a brief but brutal conflict which wiped out much of the Teutons of the area. The Atlantians would dominate the city for some time until eventually the Downfall of Numeron would lead to the influx of massive numbers of Tuetons into the city. The city would not suffer the genocide of many of the other Atlantian dominated cities and instead it would be centuries of intermingling between the two groups that would form the new group called the Swabians. MordheimSee Also : Mordheim Mordheim is the capital of the state of Ostmark within The Empire and sits on the banks of the River Stir. Mordheim was once a massive city with a huge population, but it was struck by a comet, and since this day it has been at war with itself for survival. Their are parts of the city that are completely controlled by Ostmark while the rest are shared with the cultists of Chaos, and the exeedingly numerous Skaven. Mordheim was founded during the reign of the Empire of Numeron, and during this time the city became the bedrock of the northern expansion making it increasingly populated with Atlantians. During the Downfall of Numeron the Atlantians in the city were betrayed by the growing population of Teutons, and during this betrayal a last stand was fought by the Atlantians, and as the last died he cursed the Teutons who remained in Mordheim. The city would grow for hundreds of years after, but suddenly it was changed forever when a warpstone comet hit the eastern part of the city. PfeildorfSee Also : Pfieldorf Pfieldorf is a major city in The Empire province of Austria. While technically part of Austria, its a city state of the Dukedom of Toppenheim. Pfieldorf has been defined for the majority of its history by the comings and goings of the powerful House Toppenheim. House Toppenheim lost their ancestoral control during the rise of Sigmar, and from that point on every subsequent leader of the House has attempted to regain their ancient power in the region of Toppenheim, and specifically their ancestoral capital of Pfeildorf. With a population in excess of 220,000 it is a massive town with huge influence. Alongside this massive population the city also contains a large standing army of 40,000 that are some of the most elite troops in the entire province of Austria. The City of Pfieldorf was initially founded by Teutons who were travelling south from their ancestoral homelands in northern Germany. Although twelve tribes are said to have unified behind Sigmar to wage war with Dwarf allies against the greenskin horde, there were many smaller tribes that existed in alliance with the larger tribes in the land that became the Empire. The city of Phieldorf begin its actual city qualification under its time in the Empire of Numeron. This part of Austria was heavily controlled and lived in by Atlantians, and the Numernorians so the city itself was growing quite substancially. |
Unique Area
Name | Location | Notes |
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Drakwald Forest | Middenland |
Goverment
Main Article : Goverment of The Empire
The Empire is led centrally by an elected Emperor, and controlled provincially by Elector Counts. Although the Emperor is both head-of-state of the Empire and commander-in-chief of its armies, the real power within the Empire is held by the 10 Elector Counts, of which the Emperor is one. Upon the death of an Emperor the throne does not automatically pass to his heir. An election is held with 15 Electors, 10 of which are Elector Counts. Each of them casts a vote, and the candidate with most votes becomes Emperor. The Emperor is largely the leader of the Elector Counts, who are extremely powerful and independent. His power is severely limited by the inability of enforcing his edicts within the semi-independent provinces, as the Elector Counts can effectively choose to largely ignore most of his edicts. A wise emperor will realise that trying to subdue the Elector Counts through force and/or threats is a very dangerous errand, which all too easily ends up in open rebellion and civil war. Gaining their respect and loyalty through example and fair leadership tends to be the best solution. Even this has sometimes not been enough to maintain control, and because of this the Empire has been prone to civil wars, and the rule of the central goverment is strong in some areas while nearly completely non-excistent in other areas.
The Emperor
- “The Emperor is one of the most feared human beings in the entire world. At his word kingdoms die. At his word entire bloodlines are lost or reborn. It is the voice of the Emperor that is feared above all others.”
- — Unknown Scribe
The Emperor is the leader and ruler of The Empire. He is chosen from the Elector Counts by the 15 Electors and crowned by the Grand Theogonist. The first Emperor was Sigmar and his crowning started the reckoning of the Imperial Calendar. Following Sigmar there have been a substancial number of Emperors of which at certain points there have been more then to over the course of a year based off civil war, or death of the Emperor in battles. Whoever the Empire may be it is known by nearly everyone throughout the continent of Europe as the most important and powerful figure in the entire continent and for many the most powerful leader on Earth outside of perhaps the Sultan of Nehekhara or the Emperor of Cathay.
List of Emperor's
Name | House | Seat | Reign |
---|---|---|---|
Sigmar | None | Berlin | 2182 - 2215 |
Siegrich Rauken | House Rauken | Ahlbeck | 2218 - 2227 |
Siegrich Rauken II. | House Rauken | Ahlbeck | 2227 - 2228 |
Contested | Contested | Contested | 2228 - 2241 |
Fredrik Odrell II. | House Odrell | Berlin | 2241 - 2301 |
Gregorich Odrell IV. | House Odrell | Berlin | 2301 - 2319 |
Mandred Gausser | House Gausser | Ahlbeck | 2496 - 2527 |
Mandred Gausser II. | House Gausser | Ahlbeck | 2527 - 2549 |
Mandred Gausser III. | House Gausser | Ahlbeck | 2549 - 2610 |
Mattheus Franz II. | House Franz | Aldorf | 5067 - 5105 |
Luitpold Franz | House Franz | Aldorf | 5105 - 5122 |
Karl Franz | House Franz | Aldorf | 5123 - Current |
The Elector Counts
This position is hereditary, and usually passed from father to eldest child. This is obviously unlike the elected position of the emperor and for this reason many of the Elector Counts have been in the same family since they were founded by Sigmar. As a badge of office each Elector Count wields a Runefang: one of the 12 magic swords forged by Alaric the Mad, a Dwarf Runesmith. At the beginning of The Empire there were 10 Elector Counts, but over the centuries two of the provinces have split creating two new Elector Counts and conquering lands has led to two more bringing the current count to fourteen Elector Counts.
Technically the Emperor rules over the whole Empire, and the Elector Counts owe him their loyalty. In reality however the true power belongs to the Elector Counts as each province is usually very independent and far more loyal to its local ruler. On many issues the Emperor is but the 'first among equals. As rulers of their provinces the Elector Counts must defend them from internal rebellions and outside threats. Most of them are experienced and able generals, while those who aren't will pass such responsibilities to a hopefully loyal and adequate substitute. Many Elector Counts are quite warlike and, on occasion, even wage war against each other. Their title is stripped only in cases of high treason or extreme incompetence. This is always a last resort measure because of the threat of a civil war.
Elector Counts of the Empire | ||||
Provincial Elector Counts | ||||
Title | Current Holder | Seat | Runefang | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Elector Count of Bavaria | Karl Franz | Aldorf | ||
Elector Count of Denmark | Fermund Habsburg | Copenhagen | ||
Elector Count of Austria | Priam Troy | Nuln | ||
Elector Count of Hannover | Liam Odrell | Berlin | ||
Elector Countess of the Lowlands | Magritta Tovendown | Marianburg | Only female Elector Count in The Empire | |
Elector Count of Eastern Prussia | Valmir Von Rauken | Warsaw | ||
Elector Count of Western Prussia | Theoderic Gausser | Ahlbeck | ||
Elector Count of Slovakia | Wolfram Hertwig | Talabheim | ||
Elector Count of Middenland | Boris Todbringer | Middenheim | ||
Elector Count of Wissenland | Alberich Haupt-Anderssen | Wirtbad | ||
Elector Count of Ostmark | Aldebrand Ludenhof | Hergig | ||
Elector Count of Solland | Konrad Aldrech | Ahlbeck |
The Council of State
State Councilers | ||||
Title | Current Holder | Seat | Role | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Divine Chancellor | Emil Valgeir | Middenheim | ||
Grand Theogonist | Volkmar | Aldorf | ||
Arch Lector of the Law | Emmanuelle von Liebewitz | Aldorf | ||
Arch Lector of Coins | Helmar Tovendown | Marrianburg | ||
Arch Lector of the Fleet | Vasilly Saukov | Copenhagen | ||
Supreme Patriarch of Magi | Balthasar Gelt | Aldorf | ||
Arch Lector of Prussia | Oleg Feuerbach | Brass Keep | ||
Elder of the Moot | Hisme Southeart | The Moot | ||
Grand Diplomat | Kaslain Krupp | Aldorf | ||
Grand Master Assasin | Aglim Kassal | Aldorf |
Demographics
Ethnicity
Religion
The Imperial Empire of Germania is devided between several different religions with the majority of the Empire worshipping Sigmar through the Church/Cult of Sigmar, but there are several other prominent religions in the form of the Church of Ulric, Temple of Taal, Christianity, and Dragonoph.
Religion | Share of Population |
---|---|
Church of Sigmar | |
Christianity | |
Temple of Taal | |
Dragonoph |
Sigmar Worship
Main Article : Emperor Worship
Emperor Worship or "The Cult of Sigmar" is the dominent religion of The Empire, and many nations of northern Europe and eastern Europe. Emperor Worship is founded around the belief in the Man God Sigmar, and its adherents believe him the son of God in much a similar way as Jesus is held in the view of Christians. Many faithful Sigmarites are deeply concerned with the role of the Sigmarite cult in politics. They feel that the political dimension of the Sigmar religion impairs their personal beliefs. Thus, they seek other ways to express their piety, abdicating personal goods and riches to live as eremites or beggar monks or sign up in the armies to spread their god's word. However, generals usually don't like to have religious zealots amongst their ranks, so these people often form their own war parties or even become Flagellants.
There is some political conflict between the leaders of the cults of Sigmar and Ulric - the northern god of winter, wolves, and war - but within the armies of the Empire followers of both cults are often found fighting side by side. Temples of Sigmar can be found throughout the Empire, with the largest located in Altdorf: the Great Temple of Sigmar. Another temple of Sigmar is located in Black Fire Pass, on the site where Sigmar made his historic pact with the Dwarfs. The head of the Cult of Sigmar is the Grand Theogonist, who is assisted by two Arch Lectors of Sigmar, who act as the Grand Theogonist's surrogates, and each of these positions holds a vote in the Electoral Council to determine a new Emperor.
Population
Population Centers
Military of the Empire
The armies of the Empire are massive and diverse fighting forces, having a wide range of available units while the Imperial Navy patrols the mighty rivers of The Empire besides protecting the northern coast of Denmark. Each of the Elector Counts, including the Emperor, maintains their own standing armies, called State Troops, which are largely composed of infantry. These forces are supplemented during war by various forms of militia, such as peasant levies and mercenary bands. In addition to these forces are the various secular and religious Knightly Orders which will form most of the cavalry.
Knightly Orders
Main Article : Knightly Order of The Empire
The Empire is home to the many Knightly Orders that protect its boundaries and peoples. These are cults and brotherhoods of elite, armoured warriors that recruit from the sons of Imperial nobles. An Empire army is as reliant on its heavy cavalry provided by the Knightly Orders as it is the solid blocks of infantry and devastating war machines. The noble-born warriors of the Empire do not form part born of any state's standing army, for to do so would mean to rub shoulders with the common soldiery. Instead, they typically fight for one of the Knightly Orders of the Empire; heroic brotherhoods of warriors who ride into battle atop mighty barded warhorses.
A part of the Empire that is purely Teuton is the creation and maintenence of the Knightly Orders. The Knightly Orders of The Empire are religious, and aristocratic in a way that is unlike the rest of Europe, and was a hot bed of contention between the Knights of Bretonia and The Empire during their times together. There are basically three kinds of Knightly Orders in The Empire in the form of the Religous Orders, Military Orders, and Aristocratic Orders. The Religious Orders are based around the specific different religous that exist within the Empire and for this reason they are vastly Sigmar related throughout, but with a concentration of Ulric in the province of Middenheim. The Military Orders are usually created by High Rankings commanders in order to defend specific areas, or people and in this way they are perhaps the most powerful of the three kingds of knightly orders. The third and final are the aristocratic and these are the orders that the richest members of Emperian society send their children into in order to gain a reputation for their children.
Main Article : Navy of The Empire
The Imperial Navy is the smallest segment of the Empire's military and is basically responsible for defending the trade routes that exist in the northern sea. The only place where the navy exists in huge numbers is in the province of the Lowlands where the region has become a centerpiece of the western European trade routes, while in Denmark and the eastern provinces the navy seemingly clings to life and attempts each day to defend the massive coastlines against an endless horde of Andals and other invaders. The Imperial Navy protects the shores and sea trade routes of the Empire. Most of its ships constantly patrol the Sea of Claws protecting the coastline of Nordland and Ostland from the incursions of Norse pirates. Some ships patrol the rivers.
Political Orders in The Empire
Cult of Sigmar
Main Article : Cult of Sigmar
The Cult of Sigmar is a very powerful religious and political organization within The Empire that leads the Sigmar Worshippers within the land, and also pushes for its growth amongst foreign nations. The Cult of Sigmar is led by the Grand Theogronist of whom is widely regarded Sigmar's representative on earth, and as a consequence holds great religious and political influence within The Empire. Together with his two Arch Lectors, the Grand Theogonist commands three votes on the Council of Electors making him an extremely powerful member of the goverment of The Empire.
The Cult of Sigmar was established within The Empire in the years following Sigmar's abdication and disappearance as a means to first find him. The cult quickly grew into a fully-fledged religion, venerating Sigmar as the founder of The Empire and their role diminished in the attempts to find Sigmar and they moved towards venerating him as a god. Becoming known as the Sigmarite Church, the cult was officially organised in IC 73 by the first Grand Theogonist Johann Helsturm and under the Emperor at that time they were given a vote on the Elector Council, and two other votes in subsequent years as well.
Foreign Relations
The Empire's Expansionist policy has meant that Kingdoms, and principalities that surround it are often very hostile towards them. This hostility towards it also has to do with the fact that The Empire has engaged in war with three of the major powers that surround it.
Allies
Kizlev
The only true ally that The Empire has. While every other relationship is a client to master relationship, the long history between Kizlev and The Empire has meant that the two are very close, and all Emperor's are meant to continue this relationship for as long as it is possible.