War of the Lions

The War of the Lions was an international conflict that took place from 329 to 331 in the Fourth Era. Its primary objective was to determine colonial boundaries and import rights in Neuland. The Kingdom of Stellung and the Republic of Geldland formed one side of the conflict, while the Kingdom of Leonia stood on the other.

The name "War of the Lions" derives from the banners of the Kingdom of Leonia and House Goudenport, who played crucial roles as commanders in most of the battles, overshadowing the Kingdom of Stellung. However, in Stellung, the war is referred to as the "Invasion of Leonia," as the nation prefers not to acknowledge its passive stance in the conflict.

The war came to an end with the signing of the Treaty of Tulesa between Stellung and Leonia, solidifying Stellung's decisive victory. The conflict resulted in the demise of Duke Arthur Embers and the subsequent rise of his son, Devon, whose reign proved to be ineffective and led to the eventual overthrow of their dynasty.

## History

### Background

The colonization efforts of both Stellung and Leonia in Neuland began around the same time, marking the expansion of their respective empires. In the year 120 of the Fourth Era, a significant agreement known as the Treaty of Hochfurt was reached among Stellung, Leonia, Geldland, and the princes of Madan Alyaqa. This crucial treaty aimed to establish boundaries for the newly discovered lands, granting territorial divisions between Stellung and Leonia. Additionally, Geldland was bestowed with exclusive trade privileges, while the sovereignty of Madan Alyaqa was safeguarded. The Treaty of Hochfurt remained intact and influential for more than two centuries, fostering relative stability in the region.

However, as the Fourth Era progressed into its fourth century, Leonia encountered formidable resistance within its colonial territories, primarily from the powerful Techica Empire and the Sun Empire. The native inhabitants also posed challenges to Leonia's colonization efforts. In stark contrast, Stellung faced fewer conflicts with the indigenous populations in the northern regions of Neuland. Frustrated by the obstacles they faced, Leonia made the fateful decision to violate the terms of the Treaty of Hochfurt and initiated the movement of their troops northward.

Leonia's intention was to establish more prosperous and peaceful colonies, free from the hardships they encountered in their existing territories. However, this provocative action was seen as a direct violation of the treaty by Stellung. In response, Stellung swiftly intervened, launching attacks against Leonia's advancing troops. These clashes, known as colonial skirmishes, intensified over time, leading to escalating tensions between the two powers.

Finally, in the year 329, Leonia officially declared war against Stellung, marking the beginning of what would be known as the War of the Lions. The declaration of war shattered the fragile peace that had been maintained for centuries since the signing of the Treaty of Hochfurt, plunging the region into a prolonged and devastating conflict.

### Conflict

With swift determination, Stellung and Geldland launched their invasion of Leonia, quickly landing their troops along the northern coast of the kingdom. In the forefront of the conflict, the Republic of Geldland took charge, engaging in the majority of battles, while Stellung besieged Tulesa, the capital of Leonia.

The War of the Lions served as a crucial precursor to the future conflicts that would shape Rainmore's history. It was within this war that the Duke of Regenmeer, Arthur IV Embers, met his tragic end in the fateful Battle of Altivia, creating an opportunity for his son Devon to assume the mantle of leadership. In another significant event, Lord Clement Silversea fell valiantly in the Battle of Talavas, leaving his young son Lawrence to inherit his noble title. The shared grief over their fathers' deaths forged a deep bond between the two young men, setting the stage for Lawrence's eventual rise as Minister of Laws and the subsequent overthrow of Devon's rule. Moreover, it was during this tumultuous period that Devon crossed paths with Neal Crowmann and John Highsea, forging fateful alliances that would leave an indelible mark on his destiny.

Following the fall of Tulesa, a climactic battle unfolded in the vicinity of the city, as Leonia sought to reclaim its capital from the clutches of the invaders. The Battle of Meris proved to be a resounding triumph for Stellung and Geldland, as they tenaciously repelled the weary forces of King Sisenando I. Subsequently, the king formally surrendered, and the Treaty of Tulesa was solemnly ratified, bringing an end to the war and sealing the fate of Leonia, which was expelled from Stellung's colonial territories.

## Casualties

### Geldland

* Duke Arthur IV Embers, Duke of Regenmeer and Lord of Rainmore.
* Lord Clement Silversea.
* Lord Darwell Cliffert.
* Lord Eugene Crane.
* Sir Frederyck Parwyn.
* Sir Hugh Whell, Sword of the North to Arthur IV.
* Duke Reinhardt IV Salt, Duke of Greykust and Lord of Aarges.
* Lord Richard Holder.
* Lord Thommard Argent.
* Lord Wilkell Booth.