Empire of Nilfgaard
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Empire-of-Nilfgaard-COA-433993241
Nilfgaardian Empire is the most powerful empire in the history of the Witcher world. It is located in the southern part of the Continent and boasts both a thriving economy and a strong, well-trained army with talented commanders. It has expanded mostly through the conquest of foreign countries, which were then turned into provinces of the Empire.
Capital of empire is Nilfgaard, City of Golden Towers - great metropolis located on the Alba river. Citizens of the city tend to consider the Nilfgaardian Empire as defined only by the inhabitants of the capital and surrounding lands, and certainly not by the inhabitants of the "lesser" areas.
Current ruler is Emperor Emhyr var Emreis, Deithwen Addan yn Carn aep Morvudd (in the Elder Speech - the White Flame Dancing on the Barrows of his Enemies). He publicly is favourable to the Elder Race, in stark contrast to the Northern Monarchs. His rule of Nilfgaard is highly aggressive, similar to his predeccesors; with large expansionist policies. This led to the two wars against the North described in the novels. Emhyr var Emreis is an intelligent and brilliant ruler. He picked his people well and crushed all plots against him. He was ruthless toward traitors and moved towards his goals with determination.
Great Sun with 16 rays, alternately straight and wavy, symbolizing solar radiance and solar heat, is popular symbol in Empire. It's blacksmith’s mark of swords from Viroledo, symbol of official Nilfgaardian state religion, and of course emblem and badge of Nilfgaardian Empire.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Nilfgaardian-Suns-457598375
Some coats of arms of Nilfgaard - 1st one is arms of Black Infantry, basic squads of Imperial Army. Second one is used in coats of arms of the emperor's family and some imperial provinces. Third one, coat of arms of the Nilfgaardian Empire, is only used by the emperor and armies under his direct command.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Empire-of-Nilfgaard-COA-433993241
Nilfgaardian Empire is the most powerful empire in the history of the Witcher world. It is located in the southern part of the Continent and boasts both a thriving economy and a strong, well-trained army with talented commanders. It has expanded mostly through the conquest of foreign countries, which were then turned into provinces of the Empire.
Capital of empire is Nilfgaard, City of Golden Towers - great metropolis located on the Alba river. Citizens of the city tend to consider the Nilfgaardian Empire as defined only by the inhabitants of the capital and surrounding lands, and certainly not by the inhabitants of the "lesser" areas.
Current ruler is Emperor Emhyr var Emreis, Deithwen Addan yn Carn aep Morvudd (in the Elder Speech - the White Flame Dancing on the Barrows of his Enemies). He publicly is favourable to the Elder Race, in stark contrast to the Northern Monarchs. His rule of Nilfgaard is highly aggressive, similar to his predeccesors; with large expansionist policies. This led to the two wars against the North described in the novels. Emhyr var Emreis is an intelligent and brilliant ruler. He picked his people well and crushed all plots against him. He was ruthless toward traitors and moved towards his goals with determination.
Great Sun with 16 rays, alternately straight and wavy, symbolizing solar radiance and solar heat, is popular symbol in Empire. It's blacksmith’s mark of swords from Viroledo, symbol of official Nilfgaardian state religion, and of course emblem and badge of Nilfgaardian Empire.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Nilfgaardian-Suns-457598375
Some coats of arms of Nilfgaard - 1st one is arms of Black Infantry, basic squads of Imperial Army. Second one is used in coats of arms of the emperor's family and some imperial provinces. Third one, coat of arms of the Nilfgaardian Empire, is only used by the emperor and armies under his direct command.
Kingdom of Temeria
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Temeria-COA-449328303
Temeria, often reffered as the "Pearl of the North", is one of Four Kingdoms - minor countries in the northern half of the Continent. It lies on the southern shore of Pontar River.
Kingdom was founded in VIII century, after First Landing. First ruler was king Dezmod - a notable half-legendary monarch.
During long ages of kingdom's existence, it became to be one of the most important countries located between Jaruga and Buina Rivers.
Capital city is Vizima. Lying where important trade routes converge, it sits picturesquely on the shore of Lake Vizima in the valley of the Ismena River, a tributary of the Pontar. The city is divided into four teeming quarters, which are home to thousands and host travelers from all corners of the world. The Royal Palace and court are both found here, and the city boasts many markets, temples, forges, shops, banks, workshops, inns and brothels.
Current ruler is Foltest - king of Temeria, prince of Sodden, sovereign of Pontaria and Mahakam, senior protector of Brugge and Ellander. He is the kind of man who, when hit, made a sound suggesting he was forged of steel and not molded of bird dung. Being unmarried, he led a rather casual private life. In his youth, while still a prince, Foltest strove to demonstrate what he was capable of, and he proved capable of much. The love affair he had with his own sister, by whom he fathered his eldest daughter Adda, is widely known, as is his later affection for Baroness Mary Louisa La Valette, which result are two bastards - Anais and Bussy.
Current coat of arms is a black shield dotted with silver fleurs-de-lys. It has been used since reign of king Cedric. The old coat of arms of the Kingdom of Temeria was a gold end black field parted per fess with a black lion passant on upper half. Crown princes used a different COA - they was adding black field above, with the three fleur de lys. The heraldic symbolisms of the lilies are a sign of the crown prince, heir to the crown and sceptre. When prince Goidemar, son of old King Gardic, went to fight Falka’s rebels, the army fought under this under the coat of arms of the lilies, making a decisive advantage. And when Goidemar inherited the throne from his father, in memory of those victories and the miraculous salvation of his wife and children from enemy hands, he instituted the coat of arms of three lilies on a black field for his kingdom. And then King Cedric changed the field by special decree, so now it is semé with silver lilies.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Temeria-COA-449328303
Temeria, often reffered as the "Pearl of the North", is one of Four Kingdoms - minor countries in the northern half of the Continent. It lies on the southern shore of Pontar River.
Kingdom was founded in VIII century, after First Landing. First ruler was king Dezmod - a notable half-legendary monarch.
During long ages of kingdom's existence, it became to be one of the most important countries located between Jaruga and Buina Rivers.
Capital city is Vizima. Lying where important trade routes converge, it sits picturesquely on the shore of Lake Vizima in the valley of the Ismena River, a tributary of the Pontar. The city is divided into four teeming quarters, which are home to thousands and host travelers from all corners of the world. The Royal Palace and court are both found here, and the city boasts many markets, temples, forges, shops, banks, workshops, inns and brothels.
Current ruler is Foltest - king of Temeria, prince of Sodden, sovereign of Pontaria and Mahakam, senior protector of Brugge and Ellander. He is the kind of man who, when hit, made a sound suggesting he was forged of steel and not molded of bird dung. Being unmarried, he led a rather casual private life. In his youth, while still a prince, Foltest strove to demonstrate what he was capable of, and he proved capable of much. The love affair he had with his own sister, by whom he fathered his eldest daughter Adda, is widely known, as is his later affection for Baroness Mary Louisa La Valette, which result are two bastards - Anais and Bussy.
Current coat of arms is a black shield dotted with silver fleurs-de-lys. It has been used since reign of king Cedric. The old coat of arms of the Kingdom of Temeria was a gold end black field parted per fess with a black lion passant on upper half. Crown princes used a different COA - they was adding black field above, with the three fleur de lys. The heraldic symbolisms of the lilies are a sign of the crown prince, heir to the crown and sceptre. When prince Goidemar, son of old King Gardic, went to fight Falka’s rebels, the army fought under this under the coat of arms of the lilies, making a decisive advantage. And when Goidemar inherited the throne from his father, in memory of those victories and the miraculous salvation of his wife and children from enemy hands, he instituted the coat of arms of three lilies on a black field for his kingdom. And then King Cedric changed the field by special decree, so now it is semé with silver lilies.
Kingdom of Redania
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Redania-COA-458095477
Situated between the Braa River in the north and the Pontar in the south, Redania, one of Four Kingdoms, is a wealthy realm which profits from trade and agriculture. For ages, it has fought a customs war with Temeria, which is its main competitor in the north. The country possesses the best intelligence service in the world. The government of Redania is heavily influenced by sorceresses.
Many historians trace the establishment of a Redanian state to 966, when Abrad the Old Oack united local counties and tribes. The Kingdom of Redania was founded in 1025 when Radovid I, descentant of Abrad, was crowned in Novigrad - which was the first capital of kingdom until reign of king Vestibor the Proud.
Presently, capital is Tretogor - not too large, but strongly fortified city located in central Redania. The name of the town comes from the three hills on which it was built.
Other famous town is Oxenfurt, known for its famous University.
Current ruler is Radovid V. When his father, Vizimir II had fallen victim to an assassin a few years earlier, the prince had had but thirteen summers. The country fell into chaos, as usually happens in such circumstances, and queen Hedwig would not have been able to control things. The aristocracy, as they tend to – started to organize themselves into factions, attempting to tear something out for themselves. Some practically licked the boots of Nilfgaardian emissaries, doing so with much practice and a real sense of commitment. The Regency Council appointed to save the kingdom from the conflict managed to do so, and properly hung the traitors, yet its members disregarded their underage ruler. Therefore nobody among the Redanian nobles expected that Radovid would grow up to become a firm monarch who would repay all humiliations he and his mother had suffered during the regency. The king was quick to show that, if his father had earned the moniker of"the Just", he would be remembered by history as "the Stern".
For ages colors of kingdom are white and red, and the national simbol is silver eagle on a red field - arms of Abrad the Old Oack.
Current coat of arms of Redania is a crowned silver eagle on a red field. The eagle grips a golden scepter in its talons and a small black shield bearing a golden cross of Jamurlak adorns its proudly protruding chest. It was finally established by king Radovid IV the Bald.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Redania-COA-458095477
Situated between the Braa River in the north and the Pontar in the south, Redania, one of Four Kingdoms, is a wealthy realm which profits from trade and agriculture. For ages, it has fought a customs war with Temeria, which is its main competitor in the north. The country possesses the best intelligence service in the world. The government of Redania is heavily influenced by sorceresses.
Many historians trace the establishment of a Redanian state to 966, when Abrad the Old Oack united local counties and tribes. The Kingdom of Redania was founded in 1025 when Radovid I, descentant of Abrad, was crowned in Novigrad - which was the first capital of kingdom until reign of king Vestibor the Proud.
Presently, capital is Tretogor - not too large, but strongly fortified city located in central Redania. The name of the town comes from the three hills on which it was built.
Other famous town is Oxenfurt, known for its famous University.
Current ruler is Radovid V. When his father, Vizimir II had fallen victim to an assassin a few years earlier, the prince had had but thirteen summers. The country fell into chaos, as usually happens in such circumstances, and queen Hedwig would not have been able to control things. The aristocracy, as they tend to – started to organize themselves into factions, attempting to tear something out for themselves. Some practically licked the boots of Nilfgaardian emissaries, doing so with much practice and a real sense of commitment. The Regency Council appointed to save the kingdom from the conflict managed to do so, and properly hung the traitors, yet its members disregarded their underage ruler. Therefore nobody among the Redanian nobles expected that Radovid would grow up to become a firm monarch who would repay all humiliations he and his mother had suffered during the regency. The king was quick to show that, if his father had earned the moniker of"the Just", he would be remembered by history as "the Stern".
For ages colors of kingdom are white and red, and the national simbol is silver eagle on a red field - arms of Abrad the Old Oack.
Current coat of arms of Redania is a crowned silver eagle on a red field. The eagle grips a golden scepter in its talons and a small black shield bearing a golden cross of Jamurlak adorns its proudly protruding chest. It was finally established by king Radovid IV the Bald.
Kingdom of Kaedwen
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Kaedwen-COA-458327913
For ages coat of arms of densely forested, cold and harsh Kaedwen, the largest of the Four Kingdoms (and the second largest country on the Continent), is a black unicorn rearing on a golden field. Old Kaedweni legend say that it was symbol of King Unicorn - first legendary ruler of territory between formidable ranges of the Blue, Kestrel and Fiery mountains which define the northern, eastern and western boundaries of contemporary kingdom.
Some historians think that King Unicorn was really existing leader of Wożgorians (or Vozgorians), what was the name given to Skelligans who arrived here about VII, VIII century. In the fact, first historically confirmed ruler of territory was Viduka (circa 830 – circa 879), chieftain of Wożgorians, who agreed to be baptized by hierarch of Novigrad and founded the duchy of Caedwen (in the Elder Speach means "White Forest").
At the second half of X century, when king Velburs of Aedirn conquered land of Lormark which belonged to Kaedwen for ages, duke Rostivit of Kaedwen took steps to consolidate his power whereby two years later he was crowned in Ard Carraigh, as Rostivit I, king of Kaedwen, heir to the Dynasty of the Unicorn, lord of Ard Carraigh and archduke of Ban Ard.
Capital of Kaedwen and seat of power of Kaedweni kings is Ard Carraigh. In Elder Speech its name means "Upper Rock".
Other famous places are Ban Ard (known for its mining and its magical academy) and Kaer Morhen - old keep where the witchers of the Wolf School used to be trained.
Current ruler is Henselt - king of Kaedwen, heir to the Dynasty of the Unicorn, lord of Ard Carraigh, archduke of Ban Ard and vanquisher of Nilfgaard. Known to be excessively greedy and hot-headed, he in no way resembles the classic image of a king - he is bearded as a robber and has small, penetrating, wandering eyes. As all representatives of the Dynasty of the Unicorn.
Henselt feuds with his neighbors over borders, titles and protectorates. He is also known for his intense hatred of nonhumans.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Kaedwen-COA-458327913
For ages coat of arms of densely forested, cold and harsh Kaedwen, the largest of the Four Kingdoms (and the second largest country on the Continent), is a black unicorn rearing on a golden field. Old Kaedweni legend say that it was symbol of King Unicorn - first legendary ruler of territory between formidable ranges of the Blue, Kestrel and Fiery mountains which define the northern, eastern and western boundaries of contemporary kingdom.
Some historians think that King Unicorn was really existing leader of Wożgorians (or Vozgorians), what was the name given to Skelligans who arrived here about VII, VIII century. In the fact, first historically confirmed ruler of territory was Viduka (circa 830 – circa 879), chieftain of Wożgorians, who agreed to be baptized by hierarch of Novigrad and founded the duchy of Caedwen (in the Elder Speach means "White Forest").
At the second half of X century, when king Velburs of Aedirn conquered land of Lormark which belonged to Kaedwen for ages, duke Rostivit of Kaedwen took steps to consolidate his power whereby two years later he was crowned in Ard Carraigh, as Rostivit I, king of Kaedwen, heir to the Dynasty of the Unicorn, lord of Ard Carraigh and archduke of Ban Ard.
Capital of Kaedwen and seat of power of Kaedweni kings is Ard Carraigh. In Elder Speech its name means "Upper Rock".
Other famous places are Ban Ard (known for its mining and its magical academy) and Kaer Morhen - old keep where the witchers of the Wolf School used to be trained.
Current ruler is Henselt - king of Kaedwen, heir to the Dynasty of the Unicorn, lord of Ard Carraigh, archduke of Ban Ard and vanquisher of Nilfgaard. Known to be excessively greedy and hot-headed, he in no way resembles the classic image of a king - he is bearded as a robber and has small, penetrating, wandering eyes. As all representatives of the Dynasty of the Unicorn.
Henselt feuds with his neighbors over borders, titles and protectorates. He is also known for his intense hatred of nonhumans.
Kingdom of Aedirn
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Aedirn-COA-462417241
Aedirn, one of Four Kingdoms, lies between Temeria and the massif of the Mahakam Mountains to the west, and the Blue and Fiery Mountains to the east. In the north realm is feuding with Kaedwen about the land called Lormark or Upper Aedirn, depending on the interested party's political persuasion. These lands have been disputed for ages, with Kaedwen laying claim to them as well.
Aedirn, adjacent to the mountains forming the western border of the continent, was one of the latest areas colonized by humans. Unfortunately, a little aversion to other races is still existing, especially the elves, whose remnants still inhabit dense woodlands and mountain valleys. In contrast to it, situation of dwarves is rather good - many of them live on an even keel in Upper Aedirn, near to Mahakam Mountains, their homeland.
Aedirn is an agricultural country full of ridges and hills. Unchanging, continental climate makes the grounds give good yields, especially in the east, in the area called the Valley of Flowers (or Dol Blathanna in Elder Speech), which forming a a real granary of the kingdom.
It have also well-developed industry - in Upper Aedirn and on the border with Mahakam are minning large amounts of minerals, mainly coal and less precious metals. In Gulet and Eysenlaan are smelters and forges. In Vengerberg (which is the capital of the realm) and Aldersberg develop mainly dyeworks and manufactures of wool and textiles, Vengerberg have also malt mills and distilleries.
Currently country is governed by Demavend III, son of Virfuril, 16th king and ruler of Aedirn. For many years, he participated in an ongoing dispute with Henselt over the Lormark. As a ruler he was known for being rather cruel and envious, but also quite intelligent and knowledgeable about the tactics of war. He was, for example, able to predict Emhyr var Emreis' moves during the war with Nilfgaard.
King showed little or no regard for the pain or suffering of others and had a particular hatred of elves. All the more Aedirnian knights and nobles was suprised, when he agreed to establishment land of Dol Blathanna as elven allodial land ruled by duchess Enid an Gleanna (former sorceress and illegal queen of Dol Blathanna during second Northern War).
Aedirn's coat of arms is a golden-red chevron on a black field.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Aedirn-COA-462417241
Aedirn, one of Four Kingdoms, lies between Temeria and the massif of the Mahakam Mountains to the west, and the Blue and Fiery Mountains to the east. In the north realm is feuding with Kaedwen about the land called Lormark or Upper Aedirn, depending on the interested party's political persuasion. These lands have been disputed for ages, with Kaedwen laying claim to them as well.
Aedirn, adjacent to the mountains forming the western border of the continent, was one of the latest areas colonized by humans. Unfortunately, a little aversion to other races is still existing, especially the elves, whose remnants still inhabit dense woodlands and mountain valleys. In contrast to it, situation of dwarves is rather good - many of them live on an even keel in Upper Aedirn, near to Mahakam Mountains, their homeland.
Aedirn is an agricultural country full of ridges and hills. Unchanging, continental climate makes the grounds give good yields, especially in the east, in the area called the Valley of Flowers (or Dol Blathanna in Elder Speech), which forming a a real granary of the kingdom.
It have also well-developed industry - in Upper Aedirn and on the border with Mahakam are minning large amounts of minerals, mainly coal and less precious metals. In Gulet and Eysenlaan are smelters and forges. In Vengerberg (which is the capital of the realm) and Aldersberg develop mainly dyeworks and manufactures of wool and textiles, Vengerberg have also malt mills and distilleries.
Currently country is governed by Demavend III, son of Virfuril, 16th king and ruler of Aedirn. For many years, he participated in an ongoing dispute with Henselt over the Lormark. As a ruler he was known for being rather cruel and envious, but also quite intelligent and knowledgeable about the tactics of war. He was, for example, able to predict Emhyr var Emreis' moves during the war with Nilfgaard.
King showed little or no regard for the pain or suffering of others and had a particular hatred of elves. All the more Aedirnian knights and nobles was suprised, when he agreed to establishment land of Dol Blathanna as elven allodial land ruled by duchess Enid an Gleanna (former sorceress and illegal queen of Dol Blathanna during second Northern War).
Aedirn's coat of arms is a golden-red chevron on a black field.
Free City of Novigrad
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Free-City-of-Novigrad-COA-463942614
Novigrad - the largest city in the north of Amell Mountains, religious center of Northern Kingdoms and one of the major ports on the continent. The population of metropoly is nearly 30,000 inhabitants - mostly humans, but also goodly community of halflings, dwarves and gnomes.
Before the First Landing, Novigrad was small elven settlement. When the first humans' ships arrived in the Pontar Delta, the city was abandoned. It quickly became the capital of the new country created by king Sambuk, the ancestor of the first king of Redania, Radovid I the Great.
During the reign of Vestibor the Proud, Novigrad was conquered by Temerians during the Seven Years' War. The capital of Redania was then moved to Tretogor and Novigrad became a Temerian city for a long time.
The situation changed during the reign of Vestibor's grandson, Radovid III the Bold, after long negotiations, a compromise was reached and the metropolis was acclaimed as a free city.
Although Redanian kings are officially recoginized as "kings of Redania and Novigrad", the real authority is the hierarch who is elected during sessions held by the Council of Electors. The current hierarch is Cyrus Engelkind Hemmelfart, grizzled old man and a racist. Other significant figure is Chappelle, head of Novigrad's secret service and the éminence grise of hierarch.
Metropoly has a large seaport with port cranes, Grand Picket - probably the biggest temple in the North (and also eighteen other temples), hierarch's castle, zoo, four watermills, eight banks (including main branches of dwarven banks of Vivaldi, Cianfanelli and Zammorto families, also one of important branches of Giancardi' Bank), famous Borsody Brothers Auction house, thirty five inns and taverns, nineteen lombards and twelve brothels, with famous Passiflora.
Coat of arms of Novigrad is full of symbolism. Flame' theme is related with the holy Eternal Fire, ardently worshiped in the city. Anchor is associated with large seaport. The wall and tower is familiar motif in a lot of crests of cities. Letter "N" in Latin and Glagolitic is an initial of Novigrad. The silver ring with three gold keys, according to old legend, opens land, sea and river. Silver Eagle is an emblem of Abrad the Old Oack.
[video=youtube;ue-ER61uE_o]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ue-ER61uE_o[/video]
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Free-City-of-Novigrad-COA-463942614
Novigrad - the largest city in the north of Amell Mountains, religious center of Northern Kingdoms and one of the major ports on the continent. The population of metropoly is nearly 30,000 inhabitants - mostly humans, but also goodly community of halflings, dwarves and gnomes.
Before the First Landing, Novigrad was small elven settlement. When the first humans' ships arrived in the Pontar Delta, the city was abandoned. It quickly became the capital of the new country created by king Sambuk, the ancestor of the first king of Redania, Radovid I the Great.
During the reign of Vestibor the Proud, Novigrad was conquered by Temerians during the Seven Years' War. The capital of Redania was then moved to Tretogor and Novigrad became a Temerian city for a long time.
The situation changed during the reign of Vestibor's grandson, Radovid III the Bold, after long negotiations, a compromise was reached and the metropolis was acclaimed as a free city.
Although Redanian kings are officially recoginized as "kings of Redania and Novigrad", the real authority is the hierarch who is elected during sessions held by the Council of Electors. The current hierarch is Cyrus Engelkind Hemmelfart, grizzled old man and a racist. Other significant figure is Chappelle, head of Novigrad's secret service and the éminence grise of hierarch.
Metropoly has a large seaport with port cranes, Grand Picket - probably the biggest temple in the North (and also eighteen other temples), hierarch's castle, zoo, four watermills, eight banks (including main branches of dwarven banks of Vivaldi, Cianfanelli and Zammorto families, also one of important branches of Giancardi' Bank), famous Borsody Brothers Auction house, thirty five inns and taverns, nineteen lombards and twelve brothels, with famous Passiflora.
Coat of arms of Novigrad is full of symbolism. Flame' theme is related with the holy Eternal Fire, ardently worshiped in the city. Anchor is associated with large seaport. The wall and tower is familiar motif in a lot of crests of cities. Letter "N" in Latin and Glagolitic is an initial of Novigrad. The silver ring with three gold keys, according to old legend, opens land, sea and river. Silver Eagle is an emblem of Abrad the Old Oack.
[video=youtube;ue-ER61uE_o]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ue-ER61uE_o[/video]
Kingdom of Cintra
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Cintra-COA-464100114
Kingdom of Cintra, located between Yaruga river to the north, Amell Mountains to the south and the Great Sea to the west, is one of the strongest realms in this part of the Continent. Country with elven roots, inhabited by brave, tough and full of temperament people, who came to the area on their ships during VIII century. Name of their first leader is unknown nowadays.
First known king of Cintra and founder of the kingdom was Cerbin (in Elder Speech his name means "raven", or "crow"), who married with princess Becca of Nazair. He lived at the turn of X and XI centuries.
Capital of kingdom is city also called Cintra (in Elder Speech - Xin'trea) - large metropoly with a seaport and pretty antiques.
One of the greatest rulers of Cintra was Calanthe Fiona Riannon, queen of Cintra and Skellige, liege lord of Brugge, Sodden and Attre, sovereign of left-bank Riverdell and the Slopes. She accessed the throne in 1232 when she was 14. Already a year later she reveived moniker "Lioness of Cintra", after winning lead Cintrian forces versus army of Nazair during the Battle of Hochebuz. She was married twice - in 1235 with duke Roegner de Salm and in 1252 with Eist Tuirseach, jarl of Skellige Islands. When Eist' brother Bran abdicated, Eist was coronated as the king of Skellige, and Calanthe becamed queen of Islands at his side. Calanthe for many years maintained quite strong hand power in Cintra, relying invasions of foreign armies and maintaining domination despite the unfavorable internal situation (factions of noble families, dynastic complications). During the reign of the Lioness, Cintra reached the greatest splendor.
Situation changed in 1263, when Nilfgaardian Empire invaded countries to the north of Amell Mountains. When imperial armies crossed Marnadal Stairs and burst into Cintra, Calanthe and Eist, royal couple, in their own persons stood at the head of Cintrians in the Battle of Marnadal. King Eist died and Calanthe with a handful of knights protected the retreat off the beaten army, she was seriously injured. Her men managed to deport her from the field and transported to Cintra. When Nilfgaardians broke into the city and it was clear that the castle will fall also, Calanthe demanded to be killed or given something sharp, then she would open a vein. When refused, she crawled to the window and threw herself from the tower...
After the occupancy, the Kingdom was transformed into an imperial province. Capital city became the seat of imperial governor, marshal Menno Coehoorn. One year after conquest, emperor Emhyr var Emreis ordered to build a cenotaph of Calanthe in the royal crypt in the basement of the castle. The decision to build a - an extremely beautiful - cenotaph got a cold reception in Nilfgaard military circles, but has contributed to increase in popularity of the emperor of the conquered population of Cintra.
During the Second Northern War, in 1267, eight thousand Cintrians supported Nordlings' side under the command of marshal Vissegerd. Many of them deserted when princess Cirilla, granddaughter of Calanthe, came to Nilfgaard and asked the emperor about the asylum. Admittedly there was some rumors that young girl is not the one she claims to be, but the majority of population of Cintra supported her claim to the throne.
2nd April 1268, after the Battle of Brenna, Nilfgaard and Northern Kingdoms signed a treaty outlined the conditions following the war. Deliberations lasted in the city of Cintra and treaty was named "Peace of Cintra".
Some time later, emperor Emhyr got married with Cirilla. The status of the kingdom has been restored and the capital was rebuilt.
Since ancient times coat of arms of Cintra have three golden lions passants guardants on an azure field. From the reign of Coram II onward, the lions are crowned. Altrough crowns were removed during the occupation, but after marriage of Emhyr and Cirilla they have been restored.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Cintra-COA-464100114
Kingdom of Cintra, located between Yaruga river to the north, Amell Mountains to the south and the Great Sea to the west, is one of the strongest realms in this part of the Continent. Country with elven roots, inhabited by brave, tough and full of temperament people, who came to the area on their ships during VIII century. Name of their first leader is unknown nowadays.
First known king of Cintra and founder of the kingdom was Cerbin (in Elder Speech his name means "raven", or "crow"), who married with princess Becca of Nazair. He lived at the turn of X and XI centuries.
Capital of kingdom is city also called Cintra (in Elder Speech - Xin'trea) - large metropoly with a seaport and pretty antiques.
One of the greatest rulers of Cintra was Calanthe Fiona Riannon, queen of Cintra and Skellige, liege lord of Brugge, Sodden and Attre, sovereign of left-bank Riverdell and the Slopes. She accessed the throne in 1232 when she was 14. Already a year later she reveived moniker "Lioness of Cintra", after winning lead Cintrian forces versus army of Nazair during the Battle of Hochebuz. She was married twice - in 1235 with duke Roegner de Salm and in 1252 with Eist Tuirseach, jarl of Skellige Islands. When Eist' brother Bran abdicated, Eist was coronated as the king of Skellige, and Calanthe becamed queen of Islands at his side. Calanthe for many years maintained quite strong hand power in Cintra, relying invasions of foreign armies and maintaining domination despite the unfavorable internal situation (factions of noble families, dynastic complications). During the reign of the Lioness, Cintra reached the greatest splendor.
Situation changed in 1263, when Nilfgaardian Empire invaded countries to the north of Amell Mountains. When imperial armies crossed Marnadal Stairs and burst into Cintra, Calanthe and Eist, royal couple, in their own persons stood at the head of Cintrians in the Battle of Marnadal. King Eist died and Calanthe with a handful of knights protected the retreat off the beaten army, she was seriously injured. Her men managed to deport her from the field and transported to Cintra. When Nilfgaardians broke into the city and it was clear that the castle will fall also, Calanthe demanded to be killed or given something sharp, then she would open a vein. When refused, she crawled to the window and threw herself from the tower...
After the occupancy, the Kingdom was transformed into an imperial province. Capital city became the seat of imperial governor, marshal Menno Coehoorn. One year after conquest, emperor Emhyr var Emreis ordered to build a cenotaph of Calanthe in the royal crypt in the basement of the castle. The decision to build a - an extremely beautiful - cenotaph got a cold reception in Nilfgaard military circles, but has contributed to increase in popularity of the emperor of the conquered population of Cintra.
During the Second Northern War, in 1267, eight thousand Cintrians supported Nordlings' side under the command of marshal Vissegerd. Many of them deserted when princess Cirilla, granddaughter of Calanthe, came to Nilfgaard and asked the emperor about the asylum. Admittedly there was some rumors that young girl is not the one she claims to be, but the majority of population of Cintra supported her claim to the throne.
2nd April 1268, after the Battle of Brenna, Nilfgaard and Northern Kingdoms signed a treaty outlined the conditions following the war. Deliberations lasted in the city of Cintra and treaty was named "Peace of Cintra".
Some time later, emperor Emhyr got married with Cirilla. The status of the kingdom has been restored and the capital was rebuilt.
Since ancient times coat of arms of Cintra have three golden lions passants guardants on an azure field. From the reign of Coram II onward, the lions are crowned. Altrough crowns were removed during the occupation, but after marriage of Emhyr and Cirilla they have been restored.
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Kingdom of Lyria and Rivia
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Lyria-and-Rivia-COA-473263221
Two countries united by personal union, located on the banks of Yaruga river between massif of the Mahakam Mountains to the west, Dol Angra valley and Amell Mountains to the south, Kingdom of Aedirn to the north and northeast and Fiery Mountains to the east. One of the most important players in politics in this part of the Continent.
Kingdom was founded in the first half of XII century, AD 1133 post Resurrectionem, when Lyrian king Berric has ascended the Rivian throne proclaiming formation of a confederation of both countries and proclaiming himself as its ruler.
There are many stereotypes about Rivians. They are often called "Rivs", and have a reputation of loafers, thiefs, dodgers - hardly anyone really likes them. Unkinds say that full of country income is produced by many resided dwarves, living in ghettos in the largest Rivian (unkindly - "Rivish") towns and cities.
Kingdom have two capitals - summer capital is in city of Lyria, where is one of rulers' castles and the royal Office. Winter capital is Rivia castle, located on the headland on Loc Eskalott lake, which a poor town on the southern shore of the lake, where army barracks and royal warehouses are placed. Town has rather bad reputation after horrific Rivian Pogrom, when many of non-humans were murdered by racists.
Current ruler is queen Meve, known for her wisdom and beauty. Widow, have two sons. When the Nilfgaardian empire invaded her country in 1267, she stood at the head of Rivian partisans. During the Battle for the Bridge on the Yaruga she was wounded in the face; wounds became disfiguring scars later. After this battle Meve knighted witcher Geralt for his valour and granted him the right to be known as Geralt of Rivia.
After the war with Nilfgaard, she was one of the negotiators of the peace treaty in Cintra.
About coat of arms:
Quarterly 1st and 4th Azure three lions passants Or armed and langued Argent; 2nd and 3rd Argent three lozenges Gules; overall on an inescutcheon Or an eagle displayed Sable armed and langued Gules.
And it comes from here: black eagle was an emblem of the ancient Lyrian kings; red lozenges is coat of arms of Rivia, many of worthy Rivian knights have lozenges in their escutcheons. Quod attinet golden lions on azure: it's emblem of rulers of Cintra, notable dynasty of Ravens-Cerbins. Into coat of arms of Lyria & Rivia their arrived when Cintrian prince Ceran, son of king Correl and brother of forthcoming king Coram I, got married with princess Impecca, daughter of Lyrian king Egon, son of Berric.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Lyria-and-Rivia-COA-473263221
Two countries united by personal union, located on the banks of Yaruga river between massif of the Mahakam Mountains to the west, Dol Angra valley and Amell Mountains to the south, Kingdom of Aedirn to the north and northeast and Fiery Mountains to the east. One of the most important players in politics in this part of the Continent.
Kingdom was founded in the first half of XII century, AD 1133 post Resurrectionem, when Lyrian king Berric has ascended the Rivian throne proclaiming formation of a confederation of both countries and proclaiming himself as its ruler.
There are many stereotypes about Rivians. They are often called "Rivs", and have a reputation of loafers, thiefs, dodgers - hardly anyone really likes them. Unkinds say that full of country income is produced by many resided dwarves, living in ghettos in the largest Rivian (unkindly - "Rivish") towns and cities.
Kingdom have two capitals - summer capital is in city of Lyria, where is one of rulers' castles and the royal Office. Winter capital is Rivia castle, located on the headland on Loc Eskalott lake, which a poor town on the southern shore of the lake, where army barracks and royal warehouses are placed. Town has rather bad reputation after horrific Rivian Pogrom, when many of non-humans were murdered by racists.
Current ruler is queen Meve, known for her wisdom and beauty. Widow, have two sons. When the Nilfgaardian empire invaded her country in 1267, she stood at the head of Rivian partisans. During the Battle for the Bridge on the Yaruga she was wounded in the face; wounds became disfiguring scars later. After this battle Meve knighted witcher Geralt for his valour and granted him the right to be known as Geralt of Rivia.
After the war with Nilfgaard, she was one of the negotiators of the peace treaty in Cintra.
About coat of arms:
Quarterly 1st and 4th Azure three lions passants Or armed and langued Argent; 2nd and 3rd Argent three lozenges Gules; overall on an inescutcheon Or an eagle displayed Sable armed and langued Gules.
And it comes from here: black eagle was an emblem of the ancient Lyrian kings; red lozenges is coat of arms of Rivia, many of worthy Rivian knights have lozenges in their escutcheons. Quod attinet golden lions on azure: it's emblem of rulers of Cintra, notable dynasty of Ravens-Cerbins. Into coat of arms of Lyria & Rivia their arrived when Cintrian prince Ceran, son of king Correl and brother of forthcoming king Coram I, got married with princess Impecca, daughter of Lyrian king Egon, son of Berric.
Hlaalu, you do not yet realize your importance. You have only begun to discover your power. Join me, and I will complete your heraldic training. With our combined strength, we can end this destructive lack of coats of arms and bring order to the Witcherland Heraldry.
In other words: Join the Dark Side, we have heraldic cake!:rofl:
Oh, I intended to apprentice myself to you, Master Witcherland Herald the second I was pointed to this thread, don't worry!
Resume:
I wrote my undergrad thesis on the portrayal of arms in women's clothing after the second crusade, and I served as herald and heraldry adviser to both high school and college medieval societies. (I still advise both groups from afar). I never got so far to be SCA (didn't want to pay dues) ... but barring that, I hope to be as qualified as an American can be to serve at your hand!
As for the dark side stuff ... I'm currently trying to figure out how to combine Harry Potter's Dark Mark with Elder Scroll's Black Hand. Once satisfied, it shall be tattooed
. In other words, I've *MADE* the Dark Side cookies...*kneels* I hope you find me worthy. :unworthy:
Kingdom of Cidaris
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Cidaris-COA-511895450
Sorry for the long break.
Not so large, though wealthy and strong seaside realm located on the western shore of the Continent, one of major players on the political scene of Northern Kingdoms. Its history dates back to times of elves and conquests of Skelliger vikings. This vivid country owes its position and prosperity from maritime trade, shipbuilding industry, vine plantations and the rational use of the riches of the ocean - seafood, pearls, amber...
Its capital, also called Cidaris, is a former elven town turned into a port city, extremely beautiful, with charming streets and intricate cloisters on white homes. It is especially famous for its Seaside Bazaar where it's possible to buy the most unusual goods, imported by sailors from all over the world.
Current ruler is King Ethain of Cidaris. The great and connoisseur of art and poetry, friend of famous bard Dandelion, cares about the economical, cultural and military development of his land.
Note: I've changed the image above to new, 2016 version. For the original 2015 version, look here.
http://smiki55.deviantart.com/art/Kingdom-of-Cidaris-COA-511895450
Sorry for the long break.
Not so large, though wealthy and strong seaside realm located on the western shore of the Continent, one of major players on the political scene of Northern Kingdoms. Its history dates back to times of elves and conquests of Skelliger vikings. This vivid country owes its position and prosperity from maritime trade, shipbuilding industry, vine plantations and the rational use of the riches of the ocean - seafood, pearls, amber...
Its capital, also called Cidaris, is a former elven town turned into a port city, extremely beautiful, with charming streets and intricate cloisters on white homes. It is especially famous for its Seaside Bazaar where it's possible to buy the most unusual goods, imported by sailors from all over the world.
Current ruler is King Ethain of Cidaris. The great and connoisseur of art and poetry, friend of famous bard Dandelion, cares about the economical, cultural and military development of his land.
Note: I've changed the image above to new, 2016 version. For the original 2015 version, look here.
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