The Lands of Warlderia

Blackhaven

The Free Community of Blackhaven lies a day's ride north of Belluzcha amongst fertile vineyards and gently rolling hills. Founded almost one hundred years ago, it has become home to successive generations of exiles, refugees and political outcasts from the True Empire. Unlike Belluzcha itself, whose merchants and rulers must constantly balance diplomacy with commerce, Blackhaven concerns itself with little beyond its own affairs. The Prince of Belluzcha is content to leave the community largely to govern itself, provided it remains loyal to the Principality and keeps its intrigues within its own borders. The first settlers were supporters of Prince Pamarian who chose exile rather than submit to the authority of the Emperor. They were soon joined by defeated nobles, dismissed generals, disgraced magistrates, scholars, priests and merchants who found themselves on the losing side of Imperial politics. Some were honourable men unjustly persecuted, whilst others had committed crimes or political mistakes that made returning home impossible. Belluzcha rarely asked questions provided they were willing to swear loyalty to the Principality. Over the years Blackhaven became a curious reflection of the Empire that had cast out its people. Noble families rebuilt their estates, military officers established academies and wealthy merchants founded vineyards and workshops. The fashions, manners and traditions of the old Imperial court are still observed with remarkable enthusiasm, even though many have long since disappeared within the Empire itself.

Despite its peaceful appearance, Blackhaven is not a quiet place. Ancient feuds between noble houses continue beneath carefully observed courtesy. Rival claimants to forgotten titles maintain private guards, whilst old conspiracies are whispered over fine wine in the manor houses overlooking the valley. More than one resident secretly finances rebellion within the Empire, whilst others maintain agents and informers amongst the Imperial nobility. Visitors soon discover that every family possesses a history it would rather not discuss. The Princes of Belluzcha have wisely chosen not to interfere in these rivalries. The exiles are free to plot against one another as much as they wish, provided they do not threaten the peace of the Principality. Any noble foolish enough to draw Belluzcha into their private quarrels soon finds themselves quietly expelled from the community. The current ruler, Lord Marcus Valerius, is descended from one of the original exile families. A capable diplomat rather than a great warrior, he spends much of his time mediating disputes between the leading houses and ensuring that old grudges never grow into open conflict. Although respected by almost everyone, he is trusted by very few, a fact he considers essential for anyone wishing to govern Blackhaven successfully.

To outsiders, Blackhaven appears a prosperous community of vineyards, handsome manor houses and courteous nobles. Its neighbours know better. Behind almost every smiling face lies an old ambition, an ancient grievance or a secret that could shake the politics of the eastern lands.

It is often said in Belluzcha: "A man who loses his fortune comes to Belluzcha. A man who loses his honour comes to Blackhaven."

The Knights of the Iron Mantle

The Knights of the Iron Mantle are one of the oldest military orders still operating beyond the borders of the True Empire. Although regarded as traitors by the Imperial Court, they continue to consider themselves loyal servants of the Empire and faithful followers of Hextor, believing that it is the Empire that has abandoned its traditions rather than the Order. The Order traces its origins back to the Divine War, when it served as one of the Empire's elite heavy cavalry formations. Renowned for their discipline, unwavering courage and strict adherence to military law, the Knights earned a formidable reputation on battlefields throughout eastern Warlderia. They fought with distinction during numerous Imperial campaigns and were often entrusted with the defence of important fortresses and the command of Imperial armies. Their downfall came during the civil wars that followed the collapse of Imperial authority in the eastern Successor States. When rival claimants struggled for control of the Imperial Throne, the Knights supported one of the Emperor's younger brothers, believing him to be the lawful heir. His defeat left the Order branded as rebels and traitors. Their lands were confiscated, many of their leaders executed and the surviving Knights declared outlaws throughout the Empire.

Rather than swear loyalty to an Emperor they believed had gained the throne through treachery, the remaining Knights chose exile. Prince Pamarian of Belluzcha offered them sanctuary, recognising both their military value and their hatred of the Empire's current rulers. The Order accepted, establishing its headquarters near Blackhaven where it remains to this day. Although diminished in number, the Knights have never abandoned their traditions. Every member still swears the ancient oaths of service, trains daily in the arts of war and follows the strict discipline for which the Order has always been renowned. They consider themselves guardians of the old Imperial virtues of duty, honour and obedience, believing that strength exists to maintain order rather than to satisfy ambition. The Knights have become respected instructors and commanders throughout Belluzcha. Many of the Principality's younger nobles seek military training from the Order, whilst experienced members frequently serve as advisors to the Prince or commanders of mercenary companies fighting in distant lands.

Relations with the people of Blackhaven are generally cordial, though not always comfortable. Many of the exiled noble families still nurse old political grievances, whilst the Knights concern themselves only with military honour. They avoid becoming involved in the endless intrigues of the exile community whenever possible, considering politics to be the weakness that destroyed the Empire. Within the True Empire the Order remains officially condemned. Possession of an Iron Mantle banner is sufficient to invite investigation by Imperial authorities, whilst any Knight entering Imperial territory does so knowing that they may be arrested or executed without trial. Despite this, rumours persist that not all within the Empire believe the Order deserved its fate. From time to time young officers quietly disappear from Imperial service and, months later, a new Knight is seen wearing the black cloak of the Iron Mantle.

The current Grand Marshal is Severian Voss, an ageing but formidable warrior who has led the Order for nearly twenty years. Stern, disciplined and utterly devoted to the old ideals of the Empire, Voss has refused every suggestion that the Order should seek revenge against the Empire. Instead he teaches that one day the Empire will rediscover its honour, and when that day comes, the Knights of the Iron Mantle will be ready to serve once more. The Order's fortress monastery, known as Black Steel Hall, lies a short distance from Blackhaven. Its dark stone walls, parade grounds and training fields have become a familiar sight in the region. Visitors are welcome, provided they respect the strict discipline of the Order, though few find the place particularly welcoming. The Knights live austere lives, devoting themselves to training, study and the worship of Hextor.

Amongst the Knights themselves there is an old saying: "A title may be taken. Honour cannot."