Drachenburg Chancellery Decree 7/25/308: Mercenary Reforms

[FireFan96]

FROM THE DESK OF HIS HIGH EMINENCE
THE LORD CHANCELLOR OF THE REGALIAN EMPIRE
A DECREE​

Following the resignation of the previous Freisöldner Inspector, the subject of mercenary effectiveness in the city has returned to be a topic of internal discussion. While historically the Regalian State has appointed an oversight position to manage the mercenaries, it has often been summarized as merely a government position, with its significance based on the needs of the State. In recent times, I have only passively felt the mercenary presence in the city. On the contrary, most exploits of the various swords for hire are heard engaging in feudal warfare for noble employers, rather than functioning in the capital city itself. With the Schoen River Trade Crisis partially resolved by the Noble Assembly session, there is still damage that will be facing the economy. And in the spirit of mitigating the damage, the State should also look to cutting costs where needed, while maintaining the functions which are deemed essential.

Furthermore, the concept of knighthood is one which has been rarely brought up in casual conversation. While it is true that there are a few notable individuals that have acted as representatives for their Orders in the city, they are but a handful of the hundreds of thousands of knights in our Empire. Gone are the days where even the colors of the Viridian Order were commonplace on our cities, with many professing the title of Knight, yet never quite conducting themselves in a manner to exemplify their chivalrous codes. The Regalian State cannot, nor will it, aim to empower those who fail to empower themselves. The Knight Laws and permits exist for those who seek to profess honor in the city, yet they will never be granted unless the effort is shown for them.

With these preliminary statements made, the following changes shall go into effect immediately.

• On the Subject of the Freisöldner Inspector, I have decided by my prerogative to dissolve the position in its entirety, alongside any and all of its rights. While many letters have come across my desk seeking to replace the previous officeholder, I have deemed the position to be a hollow position, offering little benefit while taking on administrative costs. Until the time comes when one may be needed again, there will not be a Mercenary Inspector.
• On the Subject of Mercenary Law, with the dissolution of the Freisöldner Inspector position, it is necessary and proper to modify State Law to reflect the future functioning of mercenaries in the city. Critically, the rights of the mercenaries will stem from the contracts they accept. Those who pursue their work in the city will receive the privileges necessary to operate, while those who decide not to take up contracts will not be granted such. The amended Mercenary Laws are as follows:

1. Mercenaries may wear up to half plate without a helmet, and open-carry non-military grade weaponry, only while fulfilling a contract.
2. Mercenaries must adhere to all Regalian Laws where applicable.
3. Mercenaries must obey Regalian Law Enforcement orders from Guard Charter Commanders.
4. To operate as a Mercenary on the Crown Isle without a valid contract is illegal, and offenders will be charged for every Regalian Law violated.

• On the Subject of the Mercenary Keep, I have granted his Lordship the Protector of Irole the right to manage the facilities of the Mercenary Keep. Furthermore, all Mercenary Companies and Knights are encouraged to utilize these facilities to maintain their martial prowess, while fostering a sense of honorable conduct in fulfilling one's code of honor, or completing contracts. While the Knight is contrasted to the Mercenary, both provide a service to the State if they seek it.

The rulings of this decree take the full effect of State Law.​

SIGNED AND STAMPED,
His High Eminence Dietrich I by the Grace of the Spirit
Lord Chancellor of the Regalian Empire
March-Elector of the Drachenwald Lordship​

 

[Wumpatron]

The Protector watches as the Red and Brown banners are removed, replaced with the Tyrian and Gold associated with the Regalian Empire. Slowly the rushed fortifications of a crisis long past are removed while Imperial Engineers assess the damages and go to work repairing and replacing sections of wall and interior. The Viridian Paladin nods as the changes are completed, going to step into the floral garden near the courtyard, "Now to see if they are worth the trouble."

Finally signs are installed dividing the space between the mercenaries and the knights with final additions being made to limit the use of magic within the large, communal buildings. The renovations are concluded. The Keep is ready for use.

 

[Timetotalk]

Moving through the less-used streets of the large city, a strangely dressed 'Plague Doctor' pulled one of the Decrees off the board he passed by. After reading through it, the masked one put the paper in their coat for later, "Seems my job...will be much...more difficult in...the coming weeks, as...fighting shall start...again throughout the....Underground. With all these...Mercenaries beginning to...storm once again." the masked one stated in a slow and raspy tone, before descending back into the nearest sewer staircase.