The Griffin Empire

## Faction Background & Info

The Imperial War Banner

Throughout history, humans have endured oppression and mistreatment, being considered a lowborn race, a derogatory term used by the godborn races (Dwarves, Monsters, and Elves) to describe anyone not created by the six elemental gods. This discrimination stemmed from the fact that they were not accepted by the Dwarves and Elves, the races that helped create them. Long ago, during the Elven and Dwarven wars, a lone Elf and Dwarf fell in love, giving birth to the first Human children. A race that should not exist, and was condemned as a unforgivable and heretical act by both Dwarves and Elves. This went against their beliefs that copulation should never go beyond the boundaries of their own kind. Although this belief persists, its accuracy remains unclear. However, it is believed that Helma, a prominent figure, was one of the first human children to be born from the heretical copulation, and may hold some significance in this regard.

Initially, as more humans began to emerge, they were left to fend for themselves, lacking a home, religion, and identity. They lived as nomads until Helma emerged as a unifying force. She rallied and unified the various nomadic tribes, leading them in the Human Unification Wars. Helma informed her people about the oppression and mistreatment they faced from other races, positioning them as the underdogs in this struggle. Together, they fought against the chains of oppression, striving for their birthright—an equal place among the countries and alliances of Malm's enlightened peoples. Over time, they achieved this goal, rising from the mud and isolation to become a proper unified race led by Helma. With growing civilization, Helma directed her attention towards the Elves and Dwarves, hoping to appeal to them. The humans were previously seen as barbarian nomads, but now they sought acceptance as a civilized race. However, the Elves remained unyielding, while the stubborn Dwarves continued to mistreat them. The Horde, once allies, grew resentful upon discovering that humans aspired to embrace technology, similar to the Dwarves.

Helma believed that technology was the final step in humanity's ascension, enabling them to stand among the highborn races. She repeatedly appealed to the Dwarves to share their technological advancements, arguing that it was Humanity's birthright as descendants of their forefathers. However, the Dwarves remained selfish, hoarding their innovations and resources. They strip-mined the planet, fought off the Beastkin, and engaged in war with the Elves, who also desired the Dwarves' technology. After numerous failed appeals, the humans decided that technology must be liberated from the Dwarves and shared with all inhabitants of the planet. Helma and her followers believed that the world would benefit as a whole. Thus, they embarked on a crusade to free the technology from the Dwarves. In the ensuing battle, Helma slew the Dwarven king, Odin, gaining access to a portion of their technology. The Elves swooped in and took the other half. The humans examined their acquired technology and managed to extrapolate, reverse engineer, and create Machina, while the Elves developed Aethertech from their share. It is important to note that the humans did not seek to exterminate the Dwarves, contrary to what some claim throughout history. Their goal was to liberate technology and share it with the world. If the Dwarves refused, the humans were willing to eliminate anyone who stood in the way of technological liberation and the betterment of the world. It is worth emphasizing that the humans only succeeded in this battle because, at that time, most of the Dwarves had migrated to the western hemisphere, engaging in a war with Fafnir and becoming trapped behind the Crosswinds, a formidable wind wall. Many throughout Malmian history consider the early Helmatic humans' actions as genocide, but their true goal was never eradication.

Helma even attempted to spare King Odin's life, offering him the chance to surrender and willingly relinquish the technology. However, he chose to stubbornly attack and was subsequently defeated. Some who know the truth still question the Helmites' actions, even though non-human history books deliberately obfuscate these facts.

After the liberation of technology, the humans experienced a surge of fervency and unwavering belief in their cause. They saw it as the holy path of ascension guided by Helma. Helma, deeply devoted to her people, was willing to sacrifice her mortal body for their protection, care, and betterment. The immense emotional faith placed in her by the entire human race provided her with enough aether to achieve godhood. This collective belief and emotion acted as a catalyst for her ascension, transforming her into a tulpa, a goddess materialized through spiritual practice and intense concentration. Thus, she shed her mortal form and became the embodiment of the human spirit – their living saint, their goddess. Helma became the vanguard against the ideology of hate and oppression, protecting and watching over the human race as a holy beacon of hope. To lead humanity, Helma appointed six men from her inner circle, imparting upon them all the knowledge and wisdom she had accumulated throughout her life. These six individuals became known as the six holy sages. Their descendants, in turn, formed the foundations of the holy Griffin Empire, where emperors would be appointed to lead this new kingdom of humankind. The Empire derived its name from the legendary creature, the griffin – a lion-eagle hybrid of immense power. During Helma's ascension, a lion was witnessed sitting beside her, a creature she always rode into battle. Additionally, her beloved pet eagle was seen leading her into the heavens. These two creatures merged into one, forming the griffin that accompanied Helma into the realm of gods. The image of the eagle is featured on imperial banners, symbolizing the belief that eagles will lead humanity into their own ascension, much like their saint. The Empire was also named after the Griffin that was formed during her ascension, from the eagle and lion. This merging of these two creatures has significance among the Imperials.

To this day, other races obscure the truth and speak out against Helma and the Empire. Some misunderstand, while others harbor jealous rage that a lowborn race could rise up and create a literal god. The elves view them as heretical for birthing an unsanctioned deity. The Union despises them for their use of Machina, and some perceive them as warmongers bent on domination. In reality, the Empire's goals are to break the chains of oppression and hatred, fight for freedom, and encourage all races to embrace technology for the betterment of their lives. Helma guided the humans towards technology, believing it to be the key to the next stage of evolution, capable of conquering disease, war, and bringing about peace. The Empire aspires to expand and assimilate all races into one global community. However, it is unfortunate that some individuals within the Empire have misunderstood their purpose and at times assumed human superiority over other races. There have been instances of oppression and innocent lives lost in the name of Helma by those who have taken power too far. Although this is not the norm within the Empire, critics often point to these occurrences as evidence of the Empire's evil. Helma cannot always be present to guide her humans, and some individuals misuse their power. Nonetheless, the Emperor envisions a united community capable of advancing technology and improving the well-being of everyone on the planet. Yet, some nations and people remain unwilling to accept their goddess, holy texts, or technology.

When humans first emerged on the land of Malm, they were trapped in a state of desperation, clawing their way through the mud in search of purpose. Many believed they should not exist and were dismissed as lowborn filth, denied assistance from any nation. However, against all odds, they have flourished into a formidable empire and a global superpower, all thanks to the guidance and support of a singular woman who continues to watch over them from the celestial realm. Driven by a deep-rooted desire for freedom and a sense of divine purpose, most humans fight with unwavering determination. They understand the weight of oppression and strive to ensure that no other race will ever subject them to such injustice again, even if it means resorting to violence. Any individual or race that obstructs their path towards justice and equality is seen as a threat to their hard-won freedom. In fact, humans often go beyond their own struggles and fight on behalf of others, even without being asked, if they perceive that a race or individual is being oppressed. Their hearts are filled with compassion and a genuine desire to help, but their methods of achieving their goals may not always be the most refined or effective. The majority of humans possess hearts of gold, driven by the best of intentions. They strive to create a world where justice and equality prevail. However, their zeal sometimes clouds their judgment, leading to actions that may not align with their noble aspirations. Nevertheless, their unwavering determination and their commitment to ensuring the freedom and well-being of all races make them a force to be reckoned with.

### OOC information

Much of the Empire and it's hierarchy are played by NPCs or Game Masters only. Players who get involved with the Empire faction are only allowed to play Church, Machina, Army, and Citizen characters that make up a Imperial Legion. The faction by in large is represented in Crosswinds as only one of it's military legions: **the fifth legion**. The fifth legion is one of many that are deployed throughout Malm on a mission of conquest, and it's goal is to assimilate other groups into the Empire and unify Lecisia under the rule of the Empire.

## Imperial Society

Within the Empire, the Emperor is the highest being, second only to the Holy Goddess Helma. His word is law. The Emperor all but never directly interacts with any but the higher echelons of the Church, instead relying on his Agents to enforce his will. The Emperor comes from a long lineage of sages who stood beside Helma while she was a mortal woman. These six sages were her most trusted servants, and were ordered to carry out her will after she ascended. Their seed must be carried on to the next at the end of their lifespans, to ensure her testament stands the test of time. Through history, each Emperor has been one of the descendants of the original six sages.

Even amongst the highest echelons of Imperial society, service and loyalty is valued above all. The Church teaches that to serve the empire is to serve Helma, and to serve Helma is to join her in divine ascendance, once one's life has reached its end. Through this belief, the citizenry of the empire of galvanized to that single cause; without that faith, humanity's culture would have doubtless crumbled many years ago.

As Lesicia is currently a lawless land, no official government has been established, and thus the Church is responsible for the management of all Imperial missionaries and citizens in the Disputed Territory. **The Empire's main goal is to assimilate any and all who wish to dedicate themselves to Helma, and the Emperor.** Their mission statement includes instructing natives of their ways, teaching them of Helma, offering her salvation, and offering their advanced technology that they liberated from the Dwarves. They welcome any and all to join their nation. The Emperor wishes to bring order, peace, and advancement to the world, just as Helma believed and fought for. The humans believe that the technology they possess (Machina) will lead to the world's next step of evolution, and that all should embrace it. While not expressly prone to outright conquest, the Empire rarely hesitates to bring their considerable military might to bear when threatened, or otherwise interrupted from their goals. The Empire's first resort is most always diplomatic, offering exchanges of resources, knowledge, and (perhaps a bit arrogantly) education on their beliefs; however, when rebuffed, the military is most always close at hand to provide the first blow, having lead to several major conflicts through out Malm's history.

### Lifestyle within the Empire

Imperial cities are seen as advanced and developed. Most are industrial, and expansive, offering modern privilege's like airship travel, plumbing, machines, and gas lighting. It is not uncommon to see titanic structures and smoke stacks that tower over it's citizens, adorned with windows lit with electric lights. Some Imperial cities are large mining towns, while others are large airship ports, making them the center of international trade. Beyond the refinement of iron, Imperial Craftsmen and Machinists have made numerous breakthroughs with new kinds of metal, such as mythril, darksteel, and cermet. The research of Imperial Machinists has led to the development of engines that utilize steam and coal energy and allow rapid advances in technology.

To say that the Empires' culture and population is predominantly Human would not be far off the mark, however, other races do inhabit Imperial lands - The assimilation of the Helfan isle being a prime example. Often times, the cultures of those nations and groups that have been assimilated, are absorbed and mixed in with Imperial culture, becoming part of it. This leaves many ethnic neighborhoods and settlements throughout Imperial cities and territories. The Empire puts a strong emphasis on becoming an official citizen of the Empire. Work, faith, and service are rewarded with citizenship. Imperial Citizens get to reap the benefits of Imperial society: food, protection, healthcare, land, steady paychecks, and the Empire's most attractive commodity: Machina Technology.

The Imperial church is of the belief that the result of two orderly forces, such as two humans or two elves, joining together may create powerful and beneficial offspring. As such, The joining of Man and Monster is seen as Heresy, as combining a Pure Force with a Chaotic Force can only create an Impurity. As the Church is first and foremost, spread of Helma's will and charity is encouraged amongst the populace. As Beasts and Monsterkin can be shown the light that is Helma, it is not frowned upon to perform missions in foreign lands so that all may bask in her warmth and receive her gifts.

### Imperial Hierarchy

Imperials follow a strict classist structure, with lower, middle, and upper classes. The Emperor, his High Paladins, and the Imperial Church members rank supreme. Next are the military, as they are given extra privileges, and treated much better for their dedication to the Empire. Under them are the working class citizens of the Empire, typically including both the standard civilians and non-humans who have proven themselves, or who are working to become citizens and immigrate into the Empire.

Citizens are primarily Humans, and on rare occasions, Elves. Beast and Monsterkin are allowed to become citizens and even enter the military. To prove themselves, they are expected to handle mostly manual labor and 'dirty work', as is 'befitting' one of the lower casses. Once a non-human proves themselves, and earn citizenship through serving the Empire, they are from henceforth considered "equals" and "enlightened"; a rare occurrence, but the most dedicated of non-humans occasionally earn the honor. Currently, there are no non-humans holding positions of great power, such as Bishops or Commanders. (OOC note: Only human based characters can hold the two faction leader position, but all other ranks are open to any race -- 99% of the faction's positions are not racially locked.)

### Major historic Achievements

The Empire has fought in most major world wars, and participated in both Monster Wars, contributing heavily to the war effort towards banishing the Shadow Lord and restoring peace; however, humans have also started several conflicts as well. One of the Empires most notable achievements is the stabilization of Helf: a far eastern island off the eastern coast of Asien, which had long stood without government. Vagrant 'samurai' warlords and monsters ruled over the lands, and the nation was in a constant state of proxy wars for control. The warrior clans had hoped to bring peace, but continually failed, until the Empire arrived, offering security and stabilization to the nation. With the allure of the advanced Machina devices the Empire promised, most warlords and clans willingly bent the knee, tired of centuries of warfare. After a swift conflict with rebel samurai and monster clans, the country was stabilized and assimilated into the Empire. The Empire embraces the far eastern culture of the Helfan people, and respect their traditions. The Emperor even has allowed a local president of the country to be elected by it's people, who is expected to oversee the country for him. The Helfan people enjoy the modern conveniences, peace, and protection the Empire has brought to their nation, and most Helfans live happily under imperial rule. It is not uncommon to see a Helfan samurai who carries a tobacco pipe and a pistol under his belt in modern times. The industrialization and agricultural technology offered by the Empire has made Helf the world's largest exporter of crops; Asien's geography did not lend itself to stable farmland, but technologies and techniques brought from the mainland brought new life to acres of wetlands.

## Faction Ranking Structure (OOC)

There are four branches and six ranks within each Imperial Legion's structure, with each branch considered to be equal to one another and sharing the burdens of the Legion. However each has it's own duties, purpose and methods of operation specific to itself. Cadets fall under the banner of the Legion, but are individuals who have yet to successfully apply to a branch. Citizens are not part of the Legion itself and as such do not answer to any branch, but instead have civilian liaisons that facilitate the communication and distribution of tasks between the legion and the citizenry.

### Uniform Requirements

Rank 0-3 wear silver or grey armour with a gold trim and blue cloth. Their formal uniforms are navy and gold.

Rank 4 wear white armour with a gold trim and blue cloth. Their formal uniforms are white and gold.

Rank 5 wear black armour with a gold trim and blue cloth. Their formal uniforms are black and gold.

### Imperial Ranks

Imperial ranks are granted by promotion after a individual has preformed the necessary tasks and show the required guidelines to preform such a duty, and are promoted by their superiors. Some ranks are not seen on the chart, and only given as roleplay titles for players to place in their titler. Such as Knights, High Paladins, and Sergeant, to note a few. Using Sergeant as an example, Sergeant being a R-2 position, but still wields slightly more power than a Corporal. Your Faction Leaders will explain more if you have questions about this.

### Rank 0 [Cadet] (R0)

Cadets are hopefuls, initiates, applicants and fresh recruits. Not truly in the Legion at this rank, this is to serve as an acclimatization period for both the individuals to assimilate to the culture and goals of the Empire, to be reviewed for suitability by the Legion and to find what branch within the Legion would be most appropriate.

**Rank Requirements:** Being in good IC standing with the Empire. At least a rudimentary commitment of Faith towards Helma is required. Non-Humans will face further scrutiny and assessment for this position and being an Imperial Citizen first regardless of race almost guarantees this opportunity.

### Rank 1 [Lower Core] (R1)

Acolytes, Privates, Technicians and Operators. The baseline rank within an Imperial Branch which is assigned upon introduction to a branch and the first step as a true member of the Legion, yet at the bottom rung of the ladder. Those at this rank are to be tested and examined for proficiencies and properly taught their role and associated skills during this time.

**Rank Requirements:** Mission, Quest or Exam which directly relates to the branch which the Cadet wishes to join. These are typically handled by branch leaders and officers where possible, but also by Faction Leaders if appropriate.

### Rank 2 [Upper Core] (R2)

Deacons, Corporals (and sergeants), Engineers and Agents. This is the mainstay rank within a branch of the Empire and is assigned to those who have consistently shown competency, skill and understanding of their role and associated skills within the Legion. Considered a respectable position and carrying the understanding that one is a worthy veteran, this rank is where most promotion paths end, apart from those pursuing leadership positions and following the difficult route as officers and command staff.

**Rank Requirements:** Demonstrating activity, character proficiency in their role, event attendance and if relevant, character development within the Empire. This can be assigned at will by an appropriate Officer, or if believed to be overlooked, via request following a review of the individual in question.

### Rank 3 [Officer] (R3)

Priests, Lieutenants, Senior Engineers and Inspectors. This rank represents an officer within a branch of the Empire who acts as a sub-leader of the branch. Those at this rank are tasked with distributing orders, leading squads and teams, organizing others in the branch and generally being capable and skilled in the branch’s specialties and focuses. There is a degree of OOC commitment from this rank further to remain active, take initiative and help maintain the faction on an OOC level. Failing to maintain stable and consistent activity may be grounds for demotion to clear the path for another Officer to take their place.

**Rank Requirements:** A player must demonstrate both a personal interest in the role, as well as both IC and OOC leadership ability. Players for Rank 3 are hand-picked by Division Leaders and Faction Leaders. This is the first rank with OOC commitments and responsibilities to being and maintaining activity within the Empire. Players should be encouraging RP and showing strong OOC initiative towards generating RP.

### Rank 4 [Division Leader] (R4)

Chaplains, Captains, Chief Engineers and Executors. Characters and their players that manage and operate the Branch of the Empire they are active in. They are considered to be Command Staff and are the highest authority within their respective branches. Only one player should hold this rank for each branch at a time. They are tasked with disseminating the orders of the Lord Bishop and directing those under their command to meet with that guidance. Players at Rank 4 have an IC and OOC commitment to maintaining the branch, acting as a leader and making sure the OOC side of the faction runs smoothly.

**Rank Requirements:** Further demonstrate proficiencies in Leadership beyond that of Rank 3. Demonstrate excellent communication skills, an understanding of the Empire’s OOC themes and goals. Good organizational skills and strong initiative in generating and encouraging RP are highly sought after.

### Rank 5 [Faction Leader] (R5)

The Lord Bishop is the highest rank within the Imperial Legion. Tasked with seeing through the will of the Emperor and of Helma, the Lord Bishop is a beacon of the faith and the guiding hand tasked with steering the Legion through whatever is asked of it, within the divine mandate of the Church and the intentions and goals of the Emperor. The player at this rank is the ultimate authority both IC’ly and OOC’ly within the faction, guiding its overall direction and delegating that guidance to the [R4] Division Leaders and [R3] Officers to enact on their behalf.

**Rank Requirements:** Selected by GMs for their ability to direct, organize, manage a faction in its entirety.

## The Imperial Legions

    The Imperial Legions are a professional, state sanctioned military force, receiving direct support in terms of direction, funding, equipment and personnel directly from the Imperial Government and its institutions. The legions, of which there are eight (including a naval legion), are the main fighting forces of the Imperial army. It is highly organized and has strong logistical support from the civilian sectors of the Empire, allowing it to readily project power across Malm and maintain a large standing force. The core foundation of the Legion is built upon the cohesion of its troops and using tactics and strategies which rely upon strong leadership and organization between branches. Tactics focus upon individuals working in unison with others to multiply force and for the specialties of each branch to support the others. This does create a degree of rigidity and discipline within it’s doctrine that makes the Legion slower to adapt or react in the moment, though the constant development of Machina and a strong intelligence network do allow it to produce solutions to most issues when given the time to act. An individual legion is broken into two core components. A branch of the Imperial Army Corps and a Branch of the Imperial Machina Corps which is then given leadership and guidance by an attached branch of the Holy Church of Helma and finally supported by a branch of Imperial Intelligence Operations, all combining together as a single force under the leadership of a Lord Bishop.

Generally, one imperial legion consists of ten men/women (R1) that form a squad, led by an Imperial Sergeant or Corporal (R2). Ten squads form one Platoon, led by an Imperial Officer (R3). Ten Platoons form up one Legion, A single Legion is led by an Imperial Bishop, and each (R4) rank that oversees it's four individual branches inside the legion: Army Corps, Machina Corps, Church, and I-Ops. There used to be a fifth branch of every legion, the Imperial Corps of Magery, but since the advent of machina and science, mages have become increasingly rare, as technology has been slowly phasing out magicks. Imperial battle mages, as they were called, have now been absorbed and placed in the Imperial Army Corps.

### The Imperial Army Corps

**Title:** Empire ⛨ Trooper

**Ranks:** R1 - Private, R2 - Corporal, R3 - Lieutenant, R4 - Captain

The frontline of any Legion is centered around the Imperial Army Corps and operates exactly as one may expect of an organized and professional army. Discipline is strict, formations, drills and inspections are a day to day part of an Army Trooper and the training is extremely rigorous, focused on both the martial prowess of an individual, but also on the tactics and coordination of small units, expected to work together in combat. The Army Corps consists of any individual focused upon combat regardless of their means. This can include Knights, Spearmen, Riflemen, Archers, Spellswords and Mages so long as their primary focus is serving as a combatant within the Legion. The means of which they achieve this is predominantly irrelevant so long as they fit within the general guidelines of Imperial Tactics. The primary role of the Army Corps is combat. Their responsibilities include patrols, combat training, guard duties, escorting VIPs and serving as the main fighting force of the Legion.

### The Imperial Machina Corps

**Title:** Empire ⛨ Machinist

**Ranks:** R1 - Technician, R2 - Engineer, R3 - Snr. Engineer, R4 - Chief Engineer

These are essentially the legion's corps of engineers, and the backbone of the Imperial Legion involved in any and all advanced machinery and systems which the Empire relies upon. Those joining the Machina Corps are focused upon the maintenance, construction, development and testing of all machina from advanced rifles to steam tanks to airships and all the infrastructure which supports them. They also to a lesser extent involve themselves in any construction projects, scientific pursuits and intellectual challenges within the Empire. A lesser spoken, yet critical duty of the Machina Corps is handling various forms of logistics within a Legion, ensuring that supplies and equipment freely flow to the destinations they are most needed to assist the Empire. The primary role of a Mechanist is to maintain and field the machina of the Empire. This includes backline infrastructure not related to combat. Mechanists may also pursue Research and Development, Experimental Testing and other intellectual challenges to further the technology of the Empire. Mechanists may be called upon to serve an auxiliary combat role either by operating frontline Machina or as ad hoc soldiers when necessary.

### The Holy Church of Helma

**Title:** Empire ⛨ Clergy

**Ranks:** R1 - Acolyte, R2 - Deacon/Deaconess, R3 -  Priest/Priestess, R4 - Chaplain, R5 - Lord Bishop

The foundational pillar of faith which supports the Empire in all it’s religious guidance. The Holy Church is equal to the military in terms of hierarchy, and often they work in tandem on missions to ensure the emperor's will is carried out in every aspect. While they are not part of the military, they are deployed alongside the Imperial legions. Spreading and maintaining the word of Helma and her divine will is the god-given task of every member of the church, Higher ranking church members also serve as an inquisitorial force, investigating instances of heresy and disloyalty within the Empire.

The Holy Church consists of men and women of the cloth and those who have devoted their worldly pursuits. This can include both combatants, such as Paladins or other Holy Warriors but also non-combatants such as healers, preachers and those involved with the morale and faith of the Legion. The church is equal to the military in terms of hierarchy, and often they work in tandem on missions to ensure the emperor's will is carried out in every aspect.

The primary role of the Clergy is to spread and maintain the faith of Helma. In this role they should also be vital in maintaining morale, providing spiritual guidance and both emotional and mental assistance to those of the Empire. Duties can involve healing, preaching, offering guidance, holy rituals, blessings and generally maintaining order of the faith.

### Imperial Intelligence Operations [I-Ops]

**Title:** Empire ⛨ Operative

**Ranks:** R1 - Operator, R2 - Agent, R3 - Inspector, R4 - Executor

A more secretive element of the Imperial Legions which focuses primarily upon the less conventional aspects of security and warfare. Imperial Intelligence Operations, also known as ‘Int-Ops’ or ‘I-Ops’, are a permanent investigation unit, typically commanded by the heads of Imperial government, the church, or the Emperor himself. Often they are assigned to Imperial Legions in the field or frontlines, and will receive orders directly from the Legion command, or their assigned Lord Bishop. Operatives are used for reconnaissance or intelligence gathering purposes. Operatives are called upon to scout foreign lands and enemy territories—either secretively or by using force. As they often find themselves in remote areas where supplies become scarce and communication with Imperial Command may become impossible. Each Operative is rigorously trained to be self sufficient in the field, and live off the land if needed, for longer recon missions. Because of this, they are trained harder than the average rank and file trooper. Int-Ops has a very mixed image, whilst their work is extremely beneficial to the Empire and a Legion, the clandestine nature of the group is generally frowned upon and viewed with distrust by the more traditional imperials.

Officially they are tasked with scouting, reconnaissance, tactical and strategic planning and acting in an advisory role to a Legion’s command staff. Unofficially they are sometimes granted permission by a legionary commander, Lord Bishop, High Paladin, Inquisitor, or the Emperor himself, to act upon the intelligence collected should it not be appropriate for the more conventional forces of the Legion to handle, especially for tasks of a clandestine nature deemed unsavory by the powers that be. Scouts, Snipers, Saboteurs, Assassins, Spies and Strategists are found within Int-Ops and are, by and large, deemed a necessary evil.

Reconnaissance, sabotage, spying, strategic planning, advisory roles, investigation, communications with hostile factions and clandestine operations are all part of the duties and goals of those within the intelligence branch.

### The Imperial Citizenry

**Title:** Empire ⛨ Citizen

**Ranks:** N/A, Unique titles where relevant.

Whilst not an actual branch of the 5th Legion, they are a noteworthy element of Imperial presence in and around the contested lands. Not much is expected of the Citizens of the Empire except to pay their respects at the local church, and to live life under Imperial law, which of course includes taxes.

The purpose of the Citizenry is for any character that is a Citizen of the Empire and who has at least cursory allegiances to the Empire without necessarily being Enlisted within the 5th Legion. This can include anyone from simple peasants and farmers to traders and scholars or even nobles who have not committed to military service. Providing a simple hook for those wanting involvement without the military aspects attached. E.g. A scholar from the Capital offering their services to the Legion.

## Titles and accolades

### The Imperial Knights

Imperial Knight is not a rank, but a special title. A title granted to only exceptional individuals. They are elites in what they do. There are soldiers, and then there are the knights. One's rank does not restrict them from obtaining the title of a Knight, even a private can become a knight. Even though their title carries no ranking power, it is a symbol of one's hard work and dedication, and as a result, they are still treated as heroes or higher class citizens. Becoming a knight is one of the highest merits of honor the Empire has on offer. Imperial knights are considered elite warriors within the Empire's legions, and are above the common foot soldier. Once a superior knights a soldier, they are placed within their own named squads inside a legion and carry out the high risk, sensitive, or secretive missions in the field. They are considered shock troops, or even special forces. There are only a few thousand Imperial knights within the Imperial Army. Generally, each Imperial legion has atleast one elite knight unit/squad attached to it. The most notable Knight units consist of the Iron, Gold, and Mithril Musketeers, as they are affectionally nick named.

### The Imperial Mages

As stated before, Imperial battle mages were once a fifth division of a legion's power, but have since been phased out, due to advancements in technology, machina, and chemistry. The Empire consolidated the last Imperial Mages into the Imperial Army Corps a few years ago. Generally now, Imperial legions carry firearms and grenades that negate the need of fireballs and spells. The last remaining Imperial Mages are much older humans, and are disgruntled by this sudden change. They regard newer generations as too reliant on technology, but still actively practice magicks. The Imperial Church has decreed that only Fire and Light magicks are allowed to be practiced by Imperials, as they are the only two elements that are considered holy and safe for usage. Fire for progress and flames of purification, and Light for Helma's grace, able to banish darkness.

### The Imperial High Paladins

High Paladins are a hand picked group of the Empire's finest soldiers that answer only to orders personally issued by the Emperor. They are Led by the legendary hero of the Second Monster War, Captain Lancelot du Lac and comprised only of Twelve members, who sit on a council around the Emperor. Although their operations are usually classified, they are used for a variety of situations including; extremely dangerous missions, dispatching extremely tough or high value targets, overseeing important Imperial operations, protecting VIPs, but most notably, guarding the Emperor himself, and are usually found in his throne room. They are personally Knighted by the Emperor himself, and are are chosen for their purity and dedication to the Empire. They are considered the Emperor's voice, and fist if necessary. To become a High Paladin is the highest merit one can achieve, but so few ever do, they are an exclusive fraternity. These 12 are usually referred to as the "Imperial Guard", or "Imperial Guardsmen".

### The Imperial Cardinals

Cardinals are high ranking officials in the church, generally played by NPCs, and serve the Grand Bishop's whims. They take special care to oversee, and inspect High Bishops in the field, and report back to the Grand Bishop. They are seen wearing Red uniforms, and most fear them if they come for an inspection.

### Merit Ribbons and Badges

In the Empire you can earn a slew of various awards for your service throughout your military career. Below is a list:

 Campaign Ribbon - Awarded for serving in an important military campaign, such as a war.

 Operation Ribbon - Awarded for serving in an important military operation, such as a raid or mission.

 Helmatic Wings Ribbon - Awarded for any action that saves another legionnaire's life.

 Medical Service Ribbon - Awarded for healing and taking care of others in the line of duty.

 Mithril Musketeer Ribbon - This is awarded to any Imperial Knight. Mithril Musketeer is the name of the special squad Imperial Knights are placed in.

 Purple Wound Ribbon - This is awarded to taking a wound in the line of duty.

 Service Ribbon - This is awarded for good conduct within the legion and fulfilling your duties as a legionnaire.

 Valour Ribbon - Awarded for displaying exceptional Valour, Bravery, and Courage in the line of duty.

 Veteran Ribbon - Awarded for legionnaires that have served in any legion for atleast a year or any major deployment.

 Imperial Honor Cross Badge - The highest award one can obtain in the Empire, given for going above and beyond the line of duty and what is expected.