SWORD OF DAMOCLES - WARLORDS
Short yet Elaborate Descriptions of Factions and Religions.
For those poor unfortunate souls unfamiliar with the lore of SOD.
- by scholar and loremaster MorrisB, anno domini 2011. -
I'm going to presume that since everyone here playes/played Mount and Blade and/or MnB: Warband, you all have some basic knowledge of the Calradian factions. So I'm not going to describe those factions, BUT if their lore was altered in any manner or we added something new to it (ie. religion) I'll list it. Note that events which took place (either in theory or practically) in the official SOD mod story may not be reflected in SOD Warband because that would lead to restricting certain game aspects, and we don't want that.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THE LORE MATERIAL LISTED BELOW OR OTHERWISE, FEEL FREE TO ASK.
In SOD and SOD: Warlords there are "major factions" (kingdoms, empires, republics, etc) and "mercenary factions" which assist their 'mother faction'. Currently only the Calradian factions have mercenary guilds to back them up, this might change later.
Each faction has (or in the case of Calradian factions, "will" have) its own Noble troops and Faith troops, both of which can be acquired only by building the required structures in castles/towns.
In addition, each faction has its chosen religion. Of course, the Player can pick his/her religion during character creation (cannot be re-picked during game !), but some religions are Calradian/Native Ponavosan only.
CURRENTLY THE CALRADIAN RELIGION DESCRIPTIONS ARE NOT YET DONE.
While I'll do descriptions for them eventually, they won't be that much in-depth as they have fairly little role in the story whatsoever (specifically: none. They are but excuses to give the Calradian factions Faith Troops and make the players suffer. Mwahahahaha !!! Oh, and basis for some new future quests.)
Lists below.
If you have trouble finding a faction description, use Ctrl+f, type in the full faction name and keep searching the results
Major Faction list:
- Kingdom of Aden (SOD faction, can be chosen during character creation)
- Empire of Antaria (SOD faction, can be chosen during character creation)
- Republic of Marina (SOD faction, can be chosen during character creation)
- Villianese Duchy (SOD faction, can be chosen during character creation)
- Zerrikanian Sultanate (SOD faction, can be chosen during character creation)
- Imperial Legion (SOD faction, cannot be chosen - will be erased/replaced in later mod versions of SOD Warlords)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
- Kingdom of Swadia (Calradian faction)
- Kingdom of Vaegir (Calradian faction)
- Kingdom of Nord (Calradian faction)
- Kingdom of Rhodok (Calradian faction)
- Khergit Khanate (Calradian faction)
- Sarranid Sultanate (Calradian faction)
Mercenary Factions and their employers:
- Black Army (Swadia)
- Boar Clan (Sarranid)
- Conquistadors (Vaegir)
- Elephant Guard (Khergit)
- Jotnar Clan (Nord)
- Serpent Host (Rhodok)
- Slavers (all)
Religion list:
- The One (SOD, can be chosen during character creation)
- The Void (SOD, can be chosen during character creation)
- The Old Gods (SOD, can be chosen during character creation)
- Spiritual Enlightment (SOD, can be chosen during character creation)
- Natural Philosophy (SOD, can be chosen during character creation)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
- Marsus (Imperial Legion, cannot be chosen)
- Orthodox Amhelite (Calradian, cannot be chosen)
- Reformist Amhelite (Calradian, cannot be chosen)
- Balance of Trinity (Calradian, cannot be chosen)
- Nature Worship (collective term - has many forms, cannot be chosen)
- Ponavosan Deities (Ponavosan, cannot be chosen)
--------------------SOD FACTIONS--------------------
KINGDOM OF ADEN
Aden is a SOD faction, which highly resembles Swadia in many respects.
Prior to the War of Recapture, it was a constitutional monarchy (nobles held the true power); after it was liberated from the Imperial Legion, it became an absolute monarchy.
Throughout its history, Aden became known for its arrogant barons and other nobles whose infighting and politicking brought the kingdom to the brink of collapse several times and the oppression of the peasantry, though now that it has a strong monarchy leading things go quite smooth. For now, that is.
The nobility holds many privileges and power, though in recent history their influence dropped significantly.
Aden's military is primarily composed of melee cavalry troops (starts out as medium cavalry but goes up to heavy cavalry on higher tiers) led by nobles, assisted by masses of ill-equipped serfs (weak archers and cannon fodder footmen).
Aden's noble troops are Squires and Knights who form the personal retinues of magnates. On top tier, the nobility itself moves to battle represented by the heavily armed Magnates. Each of the three units are heavy cavalry troops and use mostly lances, swords and maces.
Historical relations: 'friendly rivalry' with Antaria (sometimes allies, sometimes enemies), bitter enemies with Marina in the past (border disputes), allies with Swadia (became allied during the Invasion of Calradia), enemies with Vaegirs (helped Swadians against the Vaegirs).
Aden's religion is Spiritual Enlightment, but it has no unified church. Religious services are performed in individual shrines, monasteries and by wandering monks and holy knights.
Adenians value (material) independence, self-reliance and loyalty to one's cause but this also makes them to act selfishly and arrogantly.
Adenians favor simple, practical outfits and rarely decorate their armors or weapons, though it is not uncommon to use heraldic clothing and/or shields to display their allignance to their overlords.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Kingdom of Aden in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Baron Buegard Kollin.
If you wanted a real-life equivalent (save for the religion of course, which has none), it would be the Kingdom of Hungary during the medieval era.
Prior to the War of Recapture, it was a constitutional monarchy (nobles held the true power); after it was liberated from the Imperial Legion, it became an absolute monarchy.
Throughout its history, Aden became known for its arrogant barons and other nobles whose infighting and politicking brought the kingdom to the brink of collapse several times and the oppression of the peasantry, though now that it has a strong monarchy leading things go quite smooth. For now, that is.
The nobility holds many privileges and power, though in recent history their influence dropped significantly.
Aden's military is primarily composed of melee cavalry troops (starts out as medium cavalry but goes up to heavy cavalry on higher tiers) led by nobles, assisted by masses of ill-equipped serfs (weak archers and cannon fodder footmen).
Aden's noble troops are Squires and Knights who form the personal retinues of magnates. On top tier, the nobility itself moves to battle represented by the heavily armed Magnates. Each of the three units are heavy cavalry troops and use mostly lances, swords and maces.
Historical relations: 'friendly rivalry' with Antaria (sometimes allies, sometimes enemies), bitter enemies with Marina in the past (border disputes), allies with Swadia (became allied during the Invasion of Calradia), enemies with Vaegirs (helped Swadians against the Vaegirs).
Aden's religion is Spiritual Enlightment, but it has no unified church. Religious services are performed in individual shrines, monasteries and by wandering monks and holy knights.
Adenians value (material) independence, self-reliance and loyalty to one's cause but this also makes them to act selfishly and arrogantly.
Adenians favor simple, practical outfits and rarely decorate their armors or weapons, though it is not uncommon to use heraldic clothing and/or shields to display their allignance to their overlords.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Kingdom of Aden in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Baron Buegard Kollin.
If you wanted a real-life equivalent (save for the religion of course, which has none), it would be the Kingdom of Hungary during the medieval era.
...
EMPIRE OF ANTARIA
Antaria is a SOD faction, which is composed of 3 smaller countries: the Kingdom of Antares (mostly miner-cities), Jarnas (mountains and hills-filled area with some forestlands) and Redes (lots of grassy fields and agricultural territories). Obviously, the true boss is Antares.
Antares is a highly advanced feudal state. In comparison, Jarnas and Redes were initially both inhabited by primitive nomadic clans and tribes, but after they were attached to the empire they were slowly assimilated.
Antaria always was and still is an absolute monachy, however after the War of Recapture a bicameral (lower and upper house) Parliament was also formed albeit with limited power.
Nevertheless, the lower classes have more power and influence than in other average feudal states. The nobility has more of a supportive role than actual political strength, though they still have a notable influence.
Antaria's military is composed of three branches: the cities of Antares each uphold regular armies of heavily-armored swordsmen; the tribes of Jarnas train battalions of Javelin-throwers; and the people of Redes maintain light-medium cavalry companies.
Antaria's noble troops are the Nobles (members of nobility who escort their king/queen to war), and the Honor Guard who are personal bodyguards of the royal family. Both are clad in superb plate armors and traditionally wield massive two-handed swords.
Antarians worship The One, and have a strong centralized church, however it is becoming increasingly decadent and corrupt.
Historical relations: 'friendly rivalry' with Aden, enemies with Swadia and Nord (claimed territories from both prior to the Invasion of Calradia), bitter foes with Zerrikania (religious wars)
Antarians in general (all three states) value loyalty to one's nation and comrades-at-arms, being (religiously) devoted to one's cause. The Antarians have a rigid code of fighting honor. While generally consiered to be good folks, an average Antarian can be dangerously prideful, over-confident and self-righteous.
Antarian equipment choice depends on the country of origin. The swordsmen of Antares always wear at least chainmail armors if not plate armors, but rarely display their allignance anywhere, giving them a more coherent, uniformed look. The people of Jarnas and Redes, however, prefer leather armors (sometimes reinforced with metallic plating) and openly display the heraldry of their lords on their shields.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Empire of Antaria in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Viceroy Fordail Ironcap.
The closest real-life equivalent would be the late Western Roman Empire (imperials + "barbarian" mercenaries) and/or Holy Roman Empire.
Antares is a highly advanced feudal state. In comparison, Jarnas and Redes were initially both inhabited by primitive nomadic clans and tribes, but after they were attached to the empire they were slowly assimilated.
Antaria always was and still is an absolute monachy, however after the War of Recapture a bicameral (lower and upper house) Parliament was also formed albeit with limited power.
Nevertheless, the lower classes have more power and influence than in other average feudal states. The nobility has more of a supportive role than actual political strength, though they still have a notable influence.
Antaria's military is composed of three branches: the cities of Antares each uphold regular armies of heavily-armored swordsmen; the tribes of Jarnas train battalions of Javelin-throwers; and the people of Redes maintain light-medium cavalry companies.
Antaria's noble troops are the Nobles (members of nobility who escort their king/queen to war), and the Honor Guard who are personal bodyguards of the royal family. Both are clad in superb plate armors and traditionally wield massive two-handed swords.
Antarians worship The One, and have a strong centralized church, however it is becoming increasingly decadent and corrupt.
Historical relations: 'friendly rivalry' with Aden, enemies with Swadia and Nord (claimed territories from both prior to the Invasion of Calradia), bitter foes with Zerrikania (religious wars)
Antarians in general (all three states) value loyalty to one's nation and comrades-at-arms, being (religiously) devoted to one's cause. The Antarians have a rigid code of fighting honor. While generally consiered to be good folks, an average Antarian can be dangerously prideful, over-confident and self-righteous.
Antarian equipment choice depends on the country of origin. The swordsmen of Antares always wear at least chainmail armors if not plate armors, but rarely display their allignance anywhere, giving them a more coherent, uniformed look. The people of Jarnas and Redes, however, prefer leather armors (sometimes reinforced with metallic plating) and openly display the heraldry of their lords on their shields.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Empire of Antaria in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Viceroy Fordail Ironcap.
The closest real-life equivalent would be the late Western Roman Empire (imperials + "barbarian" mercenaries) and/or Holy Roman Empire.
...
REPUBLIC OF MARINA
The Republic of Marina is a SOD faction highly renowned for its democratic views.
As the name suggests, it is a republic. The nobility (and thus the country's leadership) is formed by people of either wealth or influence, or both, primarily merchants. The nobles form into political parties, and there are elections on a 6-year basis.
However, after the War of Recapture the title 'Governor' was established. In war time the Governor gains massive political power but in peaceful times he/she has not much to do. (Think of the role of the consul in ancient Rome).
Marina has many coastal cities and rich agricultural lands, trading is very profitable.
Marina's military consists of small armies of well-equipped regular troops (pikemen and crossbowmen), but in war times peasants are conscripted, given ****ty equipment, basic training and then sent to bolster the regular troops.
Marinan noble troops are represented by Mercenaries, or in the case of the richest merchant families, the famous Landsknecht and Condottieri companies. They are renowned for flexibility and high discipline, being armed similarly to the crossbowmen of the regular Marinan army but even better, expert with both crossbows and close combat weapons, primarily swords.
Historical relations: bitter foes with Zerrikania (trade wars), enemies with Aden (border disputes), friends with Rhodok (stood united during the Invasion of Calradia), 'friendly rivals' with Nord.
Marina generally tolerates any religion, but most of the populace follows (or at least accepts) the conceptions of Natural Philosophy. No church to speak of.
Marinans value community spirit, rationality and (spiritual) independence, but are often either somewhat cowardic, materialistic and scheming, or alternatively, radically nationalistic and racially intolerant.
Marinan regular troops primarily wear chainmail armors sometimes augmented with steel plates, but low-level conscripts have only leather armors. Marinans wear single-colored uniforms, the color of the uniform displaying the rank (brown - conscript, green - regular, blue - officer, etc.), but rarely use any heraldry.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Republic of Marina in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Governess Katrinne Hilis.
The closest real-life equivalent would be the ancient Greek city-states, were they united and survived to the medieval times
As the name suggests, it is a republic. The nobility (and thus the country's leadership) is formed by people of either wealth or influence, or both, primarily merchants. The nobles form into political parties, and there are elections on a 6-year basis.
However, after the War of Recapture the title 'Governor' was established. In war time the Governor gains massive political power but in peaceful times he/she has not much to do. (Think of the role of the consul in ancient Rome).
Marina has many coastal cities and rich agricultural lands, trading is very profitable.
Marina's military consists of small armies of well-equipped regular troops (pikemen and crossbowmen), but in war times peasants are conscripted, given ****ty equipment, basic training and then sent to bolster the regular troops.
Marinan noble troops are represented by Mercenaries, or in the case of the richest merchant families, the famous Landsknecht and Condottieri companies. They are renowned for flexibility and high discipline, being armed similarly to the crossbowmen of the regular Marinan army but even better, expert with both crossbows and close combat weapons, primarily swords.
Historical relations: bitter foes with Zerrikania (trade wars), enemies with Aden (border disputes), friends with Rhodok (stood united during the Invasion of Calradia), 'friendly rivals' with Nord.
Marina generally tolerates any religion, but most of the populace follows (or at least accepts) the conceptions of Natural Philosophy. No church to speak of.
Marinans value community spirit, rationality and (spiritual) independence, but are often either somewhat cowardic, materialistic and scheming, or alternatively, radically nationalistic and racially intolerant.
Marinan regular troops primarily wear chainmail armors sometimes augmented with steel plates, but low-level conscripts have only leather armors. Marinans wear single-colored uniforms, the color of the uniform displaying the rank (brown - conscript, green - regular, blue - officer, etc.), but rarely use any heraldry.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Republic of Marina in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Governess Katrinne Hilis.
The closest real-life equivalent would be the ancient Greek city-states, were they united and survived to the medieval times
...
VILLIANESE DUCHY
The Villianese Duchy is a SOD faction.
Originally, the Duchy is not so much a true monarchy but a sleazy alliance of tribes under a common sovereign. The Duke used to have limited power, but after the War of Recapture the Duke's power was expanded.
There are several dozen tribes inhabiting the Duchy, each with its own Chiefs. Those with the greatest amount of land, military power and the right to participate in the election of new Dukes (which happens every 10 years) are referred to as High Chiefs.
The Duchy has enermous forestlands and mountain ranges, as such it has poor agriculture but wild animals are aplenty and ores are in bountiful supply.
The military of Villian is composed of the personal armies of the Chiefs and High Chiefs, primarily swordsmen with great shields and longbow archers. Villianese armies are at home in rough environments and prefer slow but sure advancement.
Villianese noble troops are represented by Chiefs and on higher tier, High Chiefs. It is very common for the lesser clan leaders or their sons to march to war alongside their warriors, and are each professional warriors on their own right. Their primary weapon is the bow, but in close combat they switch to brutal two-handed battle axes. Their armors are exceptionally good as well.
The Villianese worship the Old Gods (and are thus practically nature worshipers). Each tribe has its own patron deity/deities whose will are made known by shamans and seers.
Historical relations: pissed at Antarians (border disputes), bitter enemies with Zerrikania (raid attacks), allies with Nords and Khergits (both factions housed Villianese tribes during the Invasion of Calradia)
Villianese value freedom and loyalty to one's family and clan. Many clans have strict moral codes. From a more negative side, Villianese are unforgiving and cruel, and infighting between clans is not a rare thing either.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Villianese Duchy in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Earl Ardevso Kentura
Closest real-life equivalent would be Scottish highlanders with Norman influences (and longbows).
Originally, the Duchy is not so much a true monarchy but a sleazy alliance of tribes under a common sovereign. The Duke used to have limited power, but after the War of Recapture the Duke's power was expanded.
There are several dozen tribes inhabiting the Duchy, each with its own Chiefs. Those with the greatest amount of land, military power and the right to participate in the election of new Dukes (which happens every 10 years) are referred to as High Chiefs.
The Duchy has enermous forestlands and mountain ranges, as such it has poor agriculture but wild animals are aplenty and ores are in bountiful supply.
The military of Villian is composed of the personal armies of the Chiefs and High Chiefs, primarily swordsmen with great shields and longbow archers. Villianese armies are at home in rough environments and prefer slow but sure advancement.
Villianese noble troops are represented by Chiefs and on higher tier, High Chiefs. It is very common for the lesser clan leaders or their sons to march to war alongside their warriors, and are each professional warriors on their own right. Their primary weapon is the bow, but in close combat they switch to brutal two-handed battle axes. Their armors are exceptionally good as well.
The Villianese worship the Old Gods (and are thus practically nature worshipers). Each tribe has its own patron deity/deities whose will are made known by shamans and seers.
Historical relations: pissed at Antarians (border disputes), bitter enemies with Zerrikania (raid attacks), allies with Nords and Khergits (both factions housed Villianese tribes during the Invasion of Calradia)
Villianese value freedom and loyalty to one's family and clan. Many clans have strict moral codes. From a more negative side, Villianese are unforgiving and cruel, and infighting between clans is not a rare thing either.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Villianese Duchy in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Earl Ardevso Kentura
Closest real-life equivalent would be Scottish highlanders with Norman influences (and longbows).
...
ZERRIKANIAN SULTANATE
The Zerrikanian Sultanate is a SOD faction.
It was, is and will probably continue to be an absolute monarchy led by the sultan whose power is absolute indeed.
Zerrikania strecthes across deserts, steppes and tundras, neither of which are truly hospitable. To maintain itself, the Sultanate encourages slave trading on an intercontinental level and has respectable manufacturing capabilities. Since slave-rebellions are constantly potent sources of threat, the military is always ready for action.
The military is rather colorful. The backbone of the regular army is formed by cavalrymen, both horse archers and medium melee cavalry, assisted by masses of expendable foot troops, archers and axemen alike. Unlike other factions the Zerrikans don't have outstanding elite troops in any field, but their army structure is balanced so they don't lack any troop type.
Fresh recruits often wear ragged, irregular civil clothing, regulars and officers on the other hand rather wear color-themed armors and clothes to display which army branch they belong to (ie. axemen - dark red, elite axemen - dark green, black - medium cavalry, etc.)
Zerrikan noble troops are represented by Boyar's Sons and Boyars, land-owning nobles who were called to fight alongside their Sultan. On higher tier they are replaced by Dvor bodyguards, secretive and unforgiving warriors of the Sultan. Each tier has access to medium horses and ranged weapons.
Zerrikans follow the religion of the Void under the guidance of a centralized but highly corrupt clergy.
Historical relations: enemies with Villian, Antaria and Marina, allies with Vaegirs (fought side-by-side during the Invasion of Calradia), 'friendly rivals' with Khergits
Zerrikanians value humility towards one's superiors, endurance in everyday life and honing one's skills. However this ideology also attempts to justify slave-trading and social injustices.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Zerrikanian Sultanate in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Boyar Vladigar the Scalper.
The closest real life equivalent would be if you combined the Ottoman Empire with the Kievan Rus.
It was, is and will probably continue to be an absolute monarchy led by the sultan whose power is absolute indeed.
Zerrikania strecthes across deserts, steppes and tundras, neither of which are truly hospitable. To maintain itself, the Sultanate encourages slave trading on an intercontinental level and has respectable manufacturing capabilities. Since slave-rebellions are constantly potent sources of threat, the military is always ready for action.
The military is rather colorful. The backbone of the regular army is formed by cavalrymen, both horse archers and medium melee cavalry, assisted by masses of expendable foot troops, archers and axemen alike. Unlike other factions the Zerrikans don't have outstanding elite troops in any field, but their army structure is balanced so they don't lack any troop type.
Fresh recruits often wear ragged, irregular civil clothing, regulars and officers on the other hand rather wear color-themed armors and clothes to display which army branch they belong to (ie. axemen - dark red, elite axemen - dark green, black - medium cavalry, etc.)
Zerrikan noble troops are represented by Boyar's Sons and Boyars, land-owning nobles who were called to fight alongside their Sultan. On higher tier they are replaced by Dvor bodyguards, secretive and unforgiving warriors of the Sultan. Each tier has access to medium horses and ranged weapons.
Zerrikans follow the religion of the Void under the guidance of a centralized but highly corrupt clergy.
Historical relations: enemies with Villian, Antaria and Marina, allies with Vaegirs (fought side-by-side during the Invasion of Calradia), 'friendly rivals' with Khergits
Zerrikanians value humility towards one's superiors, endurance in everyday life and honing one's skills. However this ideology also attempts to justify slave-trading and social injustices.
The Ponavosan colonies of the Zerrikanian Sultanate in SOD: Warlords are ruled over by Boyar Vladigar the Scalper.
The closest real life equivalent would be if you combined the Ottoman Empire with the Kievan Rus.
...
IMPERIAL LEGION
The Imperial Legion is a SOD faction but it cannot be chosen as a playable faction.
The Imperial Legion are the main antagonists of the original SOD (which was made for vanilla MnB). Among other things, they are responsible for the conquest of the five other SOD nations and attempting to subjugate the whole of Calradia (again, this is the plot of the original SOD).
The Imperial Legion serves a powerful country referred to as "The Empire". Many fans tend to call the Legion's mother faction as "Romans" or "Roman Empire" because of the appearent roman and antique greek motifs and equipment worn by the Legion's troops, but officially the Legion's mother faction is simply called "The Empire", period.
"The Empire" is an absolute monarchy with an Emperor leading it. There's also a senate which advises him but has otherwise little political power.
Ideologically, "The Empire" believes it is their divine right to conquer/unite every other nation and lead the world to to a bright new future under their leadership. As such, "The Empire" is slowly but steadily expanding its borders and assimilates those nationalities which fall under its rule. But again, it is a thought-over, slow process. It was not until the time of Emperor Janus Constantinus and the appointment of Gaius Marius to the rank of Legate that "The Empire" began the rapid conquest of the world, a campaign that eventually ended in crushing defeat at the hands of a certain refugee king/queen (the Player).
Guided by their ideology of supremacy, Imperials, while usually tolerant (both religiously and racially), patient and open-minded, generally look down on others and consider every nationality beside theirs as 'servant ethnicities'. They back up these beliefs with hard work and overall high level of education (Imperial citizens can all read/write, serve in the army for several years and are trained to be professionals in their jobs). During the attempted Invasion of Calradia, most officers of the Imperial Legion commonly displayed cunning thinking, unshakable loyalty and zealous determination.
From military aspect, the Imperial Legion has a fairly balanced troop tree. The backbone is formed by well-armored infantry troops armed with board shields, short swords, spears and occasionally javelins. The cavalry starts out medium and later upgrades to heavy, armed primarily with lances and sabers. The ranged branch is made of crossbowmen but they lack proper armor and have no shields up to the final tier.
During the attempted Invasion of Calradia, the Imperial Legion also deployed two unique mercenary companies: the elite cavalry archer Sons of Deer and the ruthless assault infantry Bastard Brothers.
The main Imperial colors are red and black, sometimes ornamented with silvery, or more often, golden decorations. A recurring image in the Imperial Legion's heraldry is that of a two-headed dragon, which is a mythological holy beast of their deity, Marsus, and also appears on the heraldry of the Emperor's family.
The Imperial Legion (along with most Imperial citizens) worship the supreme deity Marsus.
The Imperial Legion also appears in SOD: Warlords but they are reduced to renegade warbands and mercenary groups since "The Empire" was annihillated by the vengenceful SOD/Calradian nations. Note that they are a full-scale faction in the "test versions", though.
There are two Imperial characters of high notority:
- Emperor Janus Constantinus who devised the conquest of the SOD nations and Calradia; his sanity was questioned by many, but he was a nevertheless charismatic and highly intelligent ruler until he lost his head - literally, in a public execution.
- Legate Gaius Marius, who carried out the conquest of the SOD nations and led the Imperial Legion to try and conquer Calradia as well; exceptionally cunning and talented, but also a humble, honorable and down-to-earth personality, he is/was the "final boss" of vanilla SOD, fighting not only a military but also a moral battle with the Player. Depending on the Player's choice, he could be either imprisoned, executed, or asked to ally with the Player (but the latter required very high Honor). His true fate in SOD: Warlords has yet to be revealed...
The Imperial Legion, as well as its mother faction "The Empire" are heavily based on a mixture of late Roman and antique Greek culture but also bear some far-eastern motifs. Their worldview was based on American expansionism/"manifest destiny" ideals.
The Imperial Legion are the main antagonists of the original SOD (which was made for vanilla MnB). Among other things, they are responsible for the conquest of the five other SOD nations and attempting to subjugate the whole of Calradia (again, this is the plot of the original SOD).
The Imperial Legion serves a powerful country referred to as "The Empire". Many fans tend to call the Legion's mother faction as "Romans" or "Roman Empire" because of the appearent roman and antique greek motifs and equipment worn by the Legion's troops, but officially the Legion's mother faction is simply called "The Empire", period.
"The Empire" is an absolute monarchy with an Emperor leading it. There's also a senate which advises him but has otherwise little political power.
Ideologically, "The Empire" believes it is their divine right to conquer/unite every other nation and lead the world to to a bright new future under their leadership. As such, "The Empire" is slowly but steadily expanding its borders and assimilates those nationalities which fall under its rule. But again, it is a thought-over, slow process. It was not until the time of Emperor Janus Constantinus and the appointment of Gaius Marius to the rank of Legate that "The Empire" began the rapid conquest of the world, a campaign that eventually ended in crushing defeat at the hands of a certain refugee king/queen (the Player).
Guided by their ideology of supremacy, Imperials, while usually tolerant (both religiously and racially), patient and open-minded, generally look down on others and consider every nationality beside theirs as 'servant ethnicities'. They back up these beliefs with hard work and overall high level of education (Imperial citizens can all read/write, serve in the army for several years and are trained to be professionals in their jobs). During the attempted Invasion of Calradia, most officers of the Imperial Legion commonly displayed cunning thinking, unshakable loyalty and zealous determination.
From military aspect, the Imperial Legion has a fairly balanced troop tree. The backbone is formed by well-armored infantry troops armed with board shields, short swords, spears and occasionally javelins. The cavalry starts out medium and later upgrades to heavy, armed primarily with lances and sabers. The ranged branch is made of crossbowmen but they lack proper armor and have no shields up to the final tier.
During the attempted Invasion of Calradia, the Imperial Legion also deployed two unique mercenary companies: the elite cavalry archer Sons of Deer and the ruthless assault infantry Bastard Brothers.
The main Imperial colors are red and black, sometimes ornamented with silvery, or more often, golden decorations. A recurring image in the Imperial Legion's heraldry is that of a two-headed dragon, which is a mythological holy beast of their deity, Marsus, and also appears on the heraldry of the Emperor's family.
The Imperial Legion (along with most Imperial citizens) worship the supreme deity Marsus.
The Imperial Legion also appears in SOD: Warlords but they are reduced to renegade warbands and mercenary groups since "The Empire" was annihillated by the vengenceful SOD/Calradian nations. Note that they are a full-scale faction in the "test versions", though.
There are two Imperial characters of high notority:
- Emperor Janus Constantinus who devised the conquest of the SOD nations and Calradia; his sanity was questioned by many, but he was a nevertheless charismatic and highly intelligent ruler until he lost his head - literally, in a public execution.
- Legate Gaius Marius, who carried out the conquest of the SOD nations and led the Imperial Legion to try and conquer Calradia as well; exceptionally cunning and talented, but also a humble, honorable and down-to-earth personality, he is/was the "final boss" of vanilla SOD, fighting not only a military but also a moral battle with the Player. Depending on the Player's choice, he could be either imprisoned, executed, or asked to ally with the Player (but the latter required very high Honor). His true fate in SOD: Warlords has yet to be revealed...
The Imperial Legion, as well as its mother faction "The Empire" are heavily based on a mixture of late Roman and antique Greek culture but also bear some far-eastern motifs. Their worldview was based on American expansionism/"manifest destiny" ideals.
--------------------CALRADIAN FACTIONS--------------------
KINGDOM OF SWADIA
In SOD history, King Harlaus gave some lands to both the Antarian and Adenian refugees but did so to put space between his fiefs and the Nords/Vaegirs respectively. After a while the Antarians got pissed and became independent, and when Lady Isolla of Suno started a coup against Harlaus the Adenians supported her. After a short but bloody civil war Isolla became queen and now rules Swadia.
In SOD: Warlords, the Ponavosan colonies of Swadia are under the rule of Isolla's daughter, Princess Lisan the Caring.
Swadia in SOD: Warlords follows the Orthodox Amhelite religion.
In SOD: Warlords, the Ponavosan colonies of Swadia are under the rule of Isolla's daughter, Princess Lisan the Caring.
Swadia in SOD: Warlords follows the Orthodox Amhelite religion.
...
KINGDOM OF VAEGIR
In SOD history, the Vaegirs sheltered but also exploited the Zerrikans, who allied with Prince Valdym the Bastard. The plot failed, but King Yaroglek weakened and the Zerrikans earned independence. When the Imperial Legion came to Calradia, the two factions set their differences aside and fought together, eventually becoming close friends.
In SOD: Warlords, the Vaegir colonies are under the rule of Lord Saverok the Gutter, a bastard son of Yaroglek.
Vaegirs are a nature-worshiping faction; they primarily worship the powers of nature embodied in terrifying mythological creatures.
In SOD: Warlords, the Vaegir colonies are under the rule of Lord Saverok the Gutter, a bastard son of Yaroglek.
Vaegirs are a nature-worshiping faction; they primarily worship the powers of nature embodied in terrifying mythological creatures.
...
KINGDOM OF RHODOK
In SOD history, King Graveth welcomed the Marinan refugees but shamelessly exploited them, so the Marinans began supporting Lord Kastor of Veluca's claim to the Rhodok throne. After a lot of court drama and political scheming, Lord Kastor won the next election and became good mates with the Marinans who proved to be great allies.
In SOD: Warlords, Rhodok colonies are ruled over by Lord Talan of Jelkala, a cousin of Lord Kastor.
As opposed to Swadians, Rhodoks are Reformist Amhelites in terms of religion.
In SOD: Warlords, Rhodok colonies are ruled over by Lord Talan of Jelkala, a cousin of Lord Kastor.
As opposed to Swadians, Rhodoks are Reformist Amhelites in terms of religion.
...
KINGDOM OF NORDS
In SOD history, King Ragnar died fighting the Imperial Legion during the Invasion of Calradia. He was succeeded by Lethwin Far-Seeker who rallied the Nords and helped to re-unite the scattered Villianese clans.
In SOD: Warlords, the Nord colonies are ruled over by Prince Levin Far-Seeker, Lethwin's son.
Nords can be counted as nature-worshipers, though they primarily honor their dead ancestors first and elements of nature second. Also, they follow a "Don't pray but act" principle so the Nords build very few shrines and have no notable clergy.
In SOD: Warlords, the Nord colonies are ruled over by Prince Levin Far-Seeker, Lethwin's son.
Nords can be counted as nature-worshipers, though they primarily honor their dead ancestors first and elements of nature second. Also, they follow a "Don't pray but act" principle so the Nords build very few shrines and have no notable clergy.
...
KHERGIT KHANATE
In SOD history, Sanjar Khan accepted several Villianese clans into his service. While Dustum Khan plotted Sanjar's downfall, the Villianese foiled his plot out of a sense of honor, after which the Khergits accepted the Villianese as their brethren, even though later these Villianese clans travelled to the Nord kingdom to re-unite with the other clans.
In SOD: Warlords, the Khergit colonies are ruled over by Mistress Harika Galetwist, Dustum Khan's daughter who had sworn loyalty to Sanjar to earn forgiveness for his father's "sins".
Khergits are nature-worshipers, but the two primary objects of their worship are the Horse Spirit and the Wind Godess, deities who gave birth to the Khergits as a nation (according to their myths, that is).
In SOD: Warlords, the Khergit colonies are ruled over by Mistress Harika Galetwist, Dustum Khan's daughter who had sworn loyalty to Sanjar to earn forgiveness for his father's "sins".
Khergits are nature-worshipers, but the two primary objects of their worship are the Horse Spirit and the Wind Godess, deities who gave birth to the Khergits as a nation (according to their myths, that is).
...
SARRANID SULTANATE
In SOD history, the Sarranid Sultanate remained suprisingly passive during the Invasion of Calradia, confident in their position until the very last moment. Then in their confusion they spent immense manpower trying to hold the Imperial Legion at bay. While economically crippled, the Sultanate earned much credit for buying time for the rest of Calradia to rally against the invaders. Using the chaos to her advantage, Arwa the Pearled one arranged the assassination of Sultan Hakim and ascended to the throne.
In SOD: Warlords, the Sarranid colonies are under the rule of Caliph Ferhan Al-Hakim, Hakim's son who decided to marry Arwa (he was on bad terms with his daddy anyway).
Sarranids follow the religion of Balance in Trinity in SOD: Warlords and have a well-organized church under the authority of the Sultan.
In SOD: Warlords, the Sarranid colonies are under the rule of Caliph Ferhan Al-Hakim, Hakim's son who decided to marry Arwa (he was on bad terms with his daddy anyway).
Sarranids follow the religion of Balance in Trinity in SOD: Warlords and have a well-organized church under the authority of the Sultan.