Difference between revisions of "Ishida Family"

From BattleMaster Wiki
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Line 4: Line 4:
  
  
−
The origins of House Ishida are lost to time, but tradition holds that they are descended from a line of Far Eastern nobles who fled from their homeland generations ago. Ishida nobles can now be found all over the world, though the main branch of the family is head-quartered on Atamara.
+
The origins of House Ishida are lost to time, but tradition holds that they are descended from a line of Far Eastern nobles who fled from their homeland generations ago. The main branch of the family has since settled in Atamara.
  
−
As a result, most Ishida nobles have hair as black as night, a lingering reminder of their oriental heritage.
 
  
  
 +
=== Present Day ===
  
−
=== Present Day ===
 
  
 +
Under the leadership of Mizuhiro the Ishida managed to elevate themselves into the ranks of the peerage. Originally from Sauvia, during the Great Atamaran War Mizuhiro saw fit to relocate the family home and its heirlooms to Craigmore.
  
−
Under the leadership of Mizuhiro the Ishida managed to elevate themselves into the ranks of the Atamaran nobility. Originally from Sauvia, during the Great Atamaran War Mizuhiro saw fit to relocate the family home and its heirlooms to Craigmore. They have maintained an active presence in Atamara ever since.
+
The Ishida are fair skinned, with characteristically black hair. Though records suggest that their ancestors possessed oriental facial features, the average contemporary Ishida would not look out of place among the high-blooded of Atamara.
  
  
Line 29: Line 29:
 
The heraldic emblem of House Ishida is a stylised raven with outstretched wings. It is often featured as an argent charge upon a sable field.  
 
The heraldic emblem of House Ishida is a stylised raven with outstretched wings. It is often featured as an argent charge upon a sable field.  
  
−
The Raven is seen as a creature of cunning and intellect, both qualities prized by the Ishida. The Raven is also a common sight on the battlefield, a reminder to Ishida nobles that one should not fear battle, for there is much opportunity in war.
+
The Raven is seen as a creature of cunning and intellect, both qualities prized by the Ishida. The Raven is also a common sight on the battlefield, a reminder to Ishida nobles that one should not fear battle for there is much opportunity in war.
 +
 
 +
The primary colour of House Ishida is a sable, dark as the night. This is found most commonly on the cloaks donned by those who serve the House.
  
−
The primary colour of House Ishida is a hue that falls between midnight blue and sable, as found most commonly on the cloaks donned by those in the House's employ.
 
  
−
Many Ishida nobles adopt the phrase "'''In midnight clad'''" while signing off in letters as a reference to the House colours which they bear with pride.
 
  
 
== Residence ==
 
== Residence ==
Line 40: Line 40:
 
House Ishida's seat is the '''Ravenholme''', an imposing tower built of smooth black rock. Exceedingly lofty in comparison to the structures around it, the Ravenholme is both a fortification and a residence. Barrack spaces and living quarters have been hewn into the walls of the lower levels, ready to house the Ishida's troops as well as provide guest facilities for visiting nobles.
 
House Ishida's seat is the '''Ravenholme''', an imposing tower built of smooth black rock. Exceedingly lofty in comparison to the structures around it, the Ravenholme is both a fortification and a residence. Barrack spaces and living quarters have been hewn into the walls of the lower levels, ready to house the Ishida's troops as well as provide guest facilities for visiting nobles.
  
−
The Ishida themselves occupy the upper floors, commanding a spectacular view of Craigmore's plains. Compared to the homes of many noble families, the Ravenholme's interiors tend to convey a dark, brooding ambience. Wall-mounted candles provide a measure of light, as many of the hallways and rooms have little more than arrow-slits for windows. Furs are a common item, both as decoration and for warmth.
+
The Ishida themselves occupy the upper floors. Compared to the homes of many noble families, the Ravenholme's interiors tend to convey a dark and brooding ambience. Wall-mounted candles provide a measure of light, as many of the lower hallways and rooms have little more than arrow-slits for windows. Furs are a common item, both as decoration and for warmth.
 +
 
 +
 
  
 
== The Raven Guard ==
 
== The Raven Guard ==
Line 49: Line 51:
  
  
−
House Ishida maintains a standing force known as the '''Raven Guard'''. Much of the Raven Guard is structured into company-seized formations called '''Wings'''. By birthright, an Ishida noble can choose to take on command of a single Wing of the Guard, and it becomes the noble's responsibility to see that their Wing is maintained and trained for service to realm and family.
+
House Ishida maintains a standing force known as the '''Raven Guard'''. The Raven Guard is structured into units known as '''Wings''', each led by a noble commander.
  
  
Line 56: Line 58:
  
  
 +
In Guard hierarchy, Ishida nobles bear the rank of '''Legate'''. They are the supreme commanders of their Wings as far as the Guard is concerned.
  
−
Raven Guard commanders are always members of House Ishida. In Guard hierarchy, a noble commander bears the rank of '''Legate'''.
+
Below the nobles are the '''Centurions''', the Guard equivalent of a Captain. Centurions are hand-picked from the ranks for exceptional leadership and courage in battle.
  
−
Below the nobles are the '''Centurions''', the Guard equivalent of a Captain. Centurions are hand-picked individuals groomed to lead their Wing into battle. While the Wing looks towards its noble commander for strategy, it is often the Centurion's courage and leadership that decides his troops' actual performance in battle.
+
In times of peace Centurions receive schooling in tactics and philosophy. Such education is costly and difficult to obtain outside of the nobility, and so the rank of Centurion is one that is very much sought after by the common soldiery.
  
−
In times of peace Centurions are given the privilege of being schooled in tactics and philosophy. Such education is costly and difficult to obtain outside of the nobility, and so the post of Centurion is one that is afforded much respect by the common soldiery.
+
Wings are often broken down into smaller, squad-sized groupings known as '''Talons'''. A Talon is a squad of 8 to 10 men lead by a '''Decurion''', usually the longest serving man in the Talon. The Decurion's roles are to provide individual leadership to his Talon and to promote camaraderie among his men.
  
−
Each Wing is further broken into smaller, squad-sized groupings known as '''Talons'''. A Talon is a squad of 8 to 10 men lead by a '''Decurion''', usually the most senior man in the Talon. The Decurion's role is to provide individual leadership to his Talon, as well as to promote camaraderie between his men.
 
  
−
=== The First Wing ===
+
 
 +
=== Raven Guard Troops ===
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==== First Wing ====
  
 
[[Image: Showcase_09.jpg‎]]
 
[[Image: Showcase_09.jpg‎]]
Line 72: Line 78:
  
  
 +
The First Wing forms the elite of the Raven Guard and is always designated to the current leader or heir of the House.
 +
 +
They are the cream of the crop; masters of mounted blade-work. Each is armoured with a black composite suit scale and plate, granting commendable protection without sacrificing too much dexterity. Helms and visors hide their faces from view, dehumanising the First Wing to ensure that the enemy sees nothing but death and terror approaching. A hooded cloak of deep crimson (the colour signifying their elite status) completes the outfit, secured with a clasp bearing the insignia of the Raven Guard.
 +
 +
In battle the First Wing rides the charge on barded black destriers. They each wield a pair of matched blades and are taught to use them ambidextrously on horseback. A code of honour binds them to silence while they don their masks, forcing the First Wing to communicate commands in battle via hand gestures.
  
−
The First Wing forms the elite of the Raven Guard and is always designated to the current leader or heir of the House.
+
The Centurion of the First Wing is referred to instead as '''Huntmaster''' (or '''Huntmistress''' if female) in recognition of the extreme proficiency required of the individual who manages to acquire this position.
  
−
Compared to the rest of the Guard, the composition of the First is extremely flexible and subject to the noble commander's preferences. They will, however, always be better equipped and trained than the other Wings.
 
  
−
The First are currently deployed as unorthodox heavy cavalry. Helms and masks forged in the stylised likeness of a raven hide their faces from view. Composite armour of scale and plate, dyed as black as night, provide a balance between mobility and protection. A hooded cloak of deep crimson completes the outfit, secured with a clasp bearing the insignia of the Raven Guard.
 
  
−
In battle the First Wing rides the charge on barded black destriers. Wielding a matched pair of swords, each man is trained to fight ambidextrously even on horseback. A code of honour binds them to utter silence while they don their masks, forcing them to communicate commands in battle via hand gestures.
+
==== Linesmen ====
  
−
Clad as such and inhumanly silent, the black Horsemen of the First are an unnerving sight, for they show no mercy and take no prisoners.
 
  
 +
Linesmen make up the majority of the Guard's rank-and-file. The average Linesman is equipped with a round shield, axe or (more rarely) short sword, and several javelins. They are usually armoured in leather and/or chainmail, depending on the resources available to their Legate.
  
 +
In battle the Linesmen are called to do exactly as their name suggests; hold the line. Discipline and cohesion are core tenets of the Linesmen cohorts, and reckless bravery is touted as foolish in the face of organised formations. Linesmen tactics commonly involve forming a shield wall with the front ranks while their comrades in the rear fling javelins to whittle down the enemy.
  
−
=== The Battle Wings ===
 
  
  
 +
==== Shieldbearers ====
  
−
The other Wings of the Guard are trained to fight as tactical infantry.
 
  
−
Raven Guard infantry doctrine revolves around the use of heavy shields large enough to cover a man from chin to shin. The men are taught to fight in close, defensive formations, locking shields to present a stout barrier of wood and steel against any foe. Wild swings are discouraged; each soldier is trained to make precise stabs using his gladius while keeping the rest of his body protected behind his shield.
+
The Shieldbearers are a corps of men who disdain ranged warfare, preferring instead to rely on stoutness of body and heart to weather all threats. Their trademarks are the large shields that they carry into battle, capable of covering a man from chin to shin. Usually armoured in chainmail or better, the cumbersome nature of their attire leads most Shieldbearers to opt for a mace or hand axe in battle, instead of a sword.
  
−
Some commanders may choose to equip their men with missile armament, such as short bows or light javelins. Other commanders may shun ranged weaponry in favour of heavier armour for their infantry. Regardless of preference, the Raven Guard core precepts of discipline and cohesion in the battle line always take precedence.
+
Shieldbearer cohorts are known for their doggedness and skill in utilising the box formation. They take much pride in forming a "fortress" of armoured men, a stout barrier of wood and steel to bolster weak spots in the battle line.
  
−
Equipped with such tactics and often clad in scale or mail, it is a small wonder that the Raven Guard infantry are known for an innate stubbornness. They will always prefer to fight in the box formation when possible, and will almost always fortify their camp.
+
  
−
Of course in practice, Wings of the Guard can operate across vast distances with only sporadic contact with one another. It is not uncommon for a certain amount of variation between the size and structure of the various Wings employed by Ishida nobles.
+
==== The Ravensworn ====
  
−
=== The Ravensworn ===
 
  
 
[[File:Ravensworn.jpeg]]
 
[[File:Ravensworn.jpeg]]
  
  
−
The positions for Centurion-hood in the Guard are few, but the applications from the rank-and-file are many; an unsurprising fact given the various benefits that Centurions enjoy.
+
There are many in the Guard who aspire to serve in the First Wing, not a difficult thing to understand given the associated benefits that come from being an elite force. Naturally, applicants must undertake a stringent training regime and succeed in a number of tests before they can be counted among the best of the Guard.
 +
 
 +
Many fail at some point or other, and those who wish to submit their names for another try are allowed to do so on one condition; they must serve for two years with the Ravensworn.
  
−
Unsurprising also, then, that applicants are put through a series of stringent tests and training regimes with demanding standards of performance. Many applicants fail at some point and are allowed to send their names for reconsideration on one condition: they must serve a year's tenure in the Ravensworn.
+
The Ravensworn operate as a tactically flexible light cavalry force, trained primarily for extended sorties and scouting missions, but also to act as mounted skirmishers in battle when needed. More lightly armoured than the First Wing, they are equipped with swords and short bows to take advantage of their greater mobility.
  
−
The Ravensworn are taught methods of warfare which set them apart from the Battle Wings. They are trained to use both the sword and the short bow, with an emphasis on initiative and martial excellence, values that will serve them well should they eventually make it to a command position.
+
As failed applicants seeking reconsideration the Ravensworn are usually called upon for demanding military assignments far from home. These men ride into battles with fervour, hoping to distinguish themselves in the eyes of their superiors.
  
−
In battle the Ravensworn serve as a tactically flexible light cavalry force, their lighter armour and unbarded horses granting them much agility at the cost of protection.
 
  
−
Much is expected from the men, as the desire for command must be matched by an equal willingness to duty and service. As a consequence the Ravensworn are usually called upon for demanding military assignments far from home. These men often ride into battles with fervour, hoping to distinguish themselves as potential candidates for promotion to Centurion.
 
  
 
== Notable Members ==
 
== Notable Members ==

Revision as of 16:58, 20 March 2013

House Ishida

Origins

The origins of House Ishida are lost to time, but tradition holds that they are descended from a line of Far Eastern nobles who fled from their homeland generations ago. The main branch of the family has since settled in Atamara.


Present Day

Under the leadership of Mizuhiro the Ishida managed to elevate themselves into the ranks of the peerage. Originally from Sauvia, during the Great Atamaran War Mizuhiro saw fit to relocate the family home and its heirlooms to Craigmore.

The Ishida are fair skinned, with characteristically black hair. Though records suggest that their ancestors possessed oriental facial features, the average contemporary Ishida would not look out of place among the high-blooded of Atamara.


Heraldry

Ishida.png


Heraldic device of House Ishida


The heraldic emblem of House Ishida is a stylised raven with outstretched wings. It is often featured as an argent charge upon a sable field.

The Raven is seen as a creature of cunning and intellect, both qualities prized by the Ishida. The Raven is also a common sight on the battlefield, a reminder to Ishida nobles that one should not fear battle for there is much opportunity in war.

The primary colour of House Ishida is a sable, dark as the night. This is found most commonly on the cloaks donned by those who serve the House.


Residence

House Ishida's seat is the Ravenholme, an imposing tower built of smooth black rock. Exceedingly lofty in comparison to the structures around it, the Ravenholme is both a fortification and a residence. Barrack spaces and living quarters have been hewn into the walls of the lower levels, ready to house the Ishida's troops as well as provide guest facilities for visiting nobles.

The Ishida themselves occupy the upper floors. Compared to the homes of many noble families, the Ravenholme's interiors tend to convey a dark and brooding ambience. Wall-mounted candles provide a measure of light, as many of the lower hallways and rooms have little more than arrow-slits for windows. Furs are a common item, both as decoration and for warmth.


The Raven Guard

RavenGuardCaptain.jpg

A Centurion of the Raven Guard


House Ishida maintains a standing force known as the Raven Guard. The Raven Guard is structured into units known as Wings, each led by a noble commander.


Raven Guard Hierarchy

In Guard hierarchy, Ishida nobles bear the rank of Legate. They are the supreme commanders of their Wings as far as the Guard is concerned.

Below the nobles are the Centurions, the Guard equivalent of a Captain. Centurions are hand-picked from the ranks for exceptional leadership and courage in battle.

In times of peace Centurions receive schooling in tactics and philosophy. Such education is costly and difficult to obtain outside of the nobility, and so the rank of Centurion is one that is very much sought after by the common soldiery.

Wings are often broken down into smaller, squad-sized groupings known as Talons. A Talon is a squad of 8 to 10 men lead by a Decurion, usually the longest serving man in the Talon. The Decurion's roles are to provide individual leadership to his Talon and to promote camaraderie among his men.


Raven Guard Troops

First Wing

Showcase 09.jpg

The Horsemen of the First


The First Wing forms the elite of the Raven Guard and is always designated to the current leader or heir of the House.

They are the cream of the crop; masters of mounted blade-work. Each is armoured with a black composite suit scale and plate, granting commendable protection without sacrificing too much dexterity. Helms and visors hide their faces from view, dehumanising the First Wing to ensure that the enemy sees nothing but death and terror approaching. A hooded cloak of deep crimson (the colour signifying their elite status) completes the outfit, secured with a clasp bearing the insignia of the Raven Guard.

In battle the First Wing rides the charge on barded black destriers. They each wield a pair of matched blades and are taught to use them ambidextrously on horseback. A code of honour binds them to silence while they don their masks, forcing the First Wing to communicate commands in battle via hand gestures.

The Centurion of the First Wing is referred to instead as Huntmaster (or Huntmistress if female) in recognition of the extreme proficiency required of the individual who manages to acquire this position.


Linesmen

Linesmen make up the majority of the Guard's rank-and-file. The average Linesman is equipped with a round shield, axe or (more rarely) short sword, and several javelins. They are usually armoured in leather and/or chainmail, depending on the resources available to their Legate.

In battle the Linesmen are called to do exactly as their name suggests; hold the line. Discipline and cohesion are core tenets of the Linesmen cohorts, and reckless bravery is touted as foolish in the face of organised formations. Linesmen tactics commonly involve forming a shield wall with the front ranks while their comrades in the rear fling javelins to whittle down the enemy.


Shieldbearers

The Shieldbearers are a corps of men who disdain ranged warfare, preferring instead to rely on stoutness of body and heart to weather all threats. Their trademarks are the large shields that they carry into battle, capable of covering a man from chin to shin. Usually armoured in chainmail or better, the cumbersome nature of their attire leads most Shieldbearers to opt for a mace or hand axe in battle, instead of a sword.

Shieldbearer cohorts are known for their doggedness and skill in utilising the box formation. They take much pride in forming a "fortress" of armoured men, a stout barrier of wood and steel to bolster weak spots in the battle line.


The Ravensworn

Ravensworn.jpeg


There are many in the Guard who aspire to serve in the First Wing, not a difficult thing to understand given the associated benefits that come from being an elite force. Naturally, applicants must undertake a stringent training regime and succeed in a number of tests before they can be counted among the best of the Guard.

Many fail at some point or other, and those who wish to submit their names for another try are allowed to do so on one condition; they must serve for two years with the Ravensworn.

The Ravensworn operate as a tactically flexible light cavalry force, trained primarily for extended sorties and scouting missions, but also to act as mounted skirmishers in battle when needed. More lightly armoured than the First Wing, they are equipped with swords and short bows to take advantage of their greater mobility.

As failed applicants seeking reconsideration the Ravensworn are usually called upon for demanding military assignments far from home. These men ride into battles with fervour, hoping to distinguish themselves in the eyes of their superiors.


Notable Members

- Mizuhiro Ishida, Atamara, Cagilan Empire

- Tetsuko Ishida, Atamara, Talerium (Hiatus)

- Himeko Ishida, Dwilight, Corsanctum

- Isamu Ishida, Atamara, Cagilan Empire

Retrieved from "https://wiki.battlemaster.org/index.php?title=Ishida_Family&oldid=169312"