Ward
Structure
The Ward Family operates under a traditional noble hierarchy with clearly defined roles and responsibilities:
- Earl of Hawkport: The head of the family, responsible for overseeing the family’s estates, wealth, and political alliances. The Earl serves as the final authority in family matters and holds a seat in the Noble Conclave of Edria.
- Countess of Hawkport: Supports the Earl in managing internal family affairs, diplomatic relations, and overseeing charitable and cultural responsibilities.
- Heir Apparent: The eldest son, trained to inherit the title and estate. He serves as an advisor and is responsible for learning the intricacies of leadership and estate management.
- Second Son: Often serves in advisory roles, diplomacy, or military command.
- Third Son: Traditionally free from inheritance duties, the third son usually joins the military or becomes a Priest.
- Household Staff: Includes stewards, butlers, cooks, maids, stable hands, and groundskeepers. They manage daily operations at the family estates.
The family maintains a clear sense of duty, with each member expected to contribute meaningfully to the preservation of the Ward legacy and the well-being of their people.
Culture
The Ward family is steeped in tradition, valuing loyalty, honor, and responsibility above all else. Each generation is raised with a deep respect for their noble lineage and the sacrifices of their ancestors, particularly during the Second War of the Roses.
Core cultural values include:
- Service to the Crown: The family prides itself on its unwavering loyalty to the Commonwealth of Edria.
- Compassion for the Commonfolk: Despite their noble status, the Wards maintain a strong sense of responsibility towards the people living on their lands.
- Intellectual Pursuits: Education and scholarship are highly valued, as demonstrated by Josiah’s dedication to history and ancient manuscripts.
- Faith in Infinite Grace: Their faith underpins their moral and ethical decisions, with regular participation in religious observances.
Public Agenda
- Maintaining peace and stability on their land and through the Commonwealth
- Preserving historical knowledge and ancient wisdom
- Upholding their oath to the Crown and the Commonwealth
- Ensuring the survival and safety of their people before, during and after the apocalypse
Assets
Hawkport Mansion: The ancestral home and symbol of Ward authority.
Extensive Land Holdings: Farmlands, forests, and small villages under Ward protection.
Wealth: The family possesses inherited wealth, trade contracts, and financial investments managed through trusted advisors.
Armory: Historical weapons, including Talonblade and Hawk's Reach.
Loyal Retainers: Skilled fighters, advisors and household staff devoted to the Ward family.
Guardian Solace: While technically this former Benedictine monastery belonged the Crown, history will say this temporary refuge and stronghold was a part of the Ward family assets.
History
The Ward family rose to prominence during the Second War of the Roses when Ewan Ward used Talonblade and played a pivotal role in securing victory for the Crown. For his bravery and loyalty, he was awarded the title of Earl of Hawkport and granted extensive lands in the Commonwealth.
Over the centuries, the Wards have maintained their commitment to duty and honor, navigating political intrigue, economic challenges, and cultural shifts within the Commonwealth of Edria.
Now, with the world descending into chaos during the apacalypse, the Wards face their greatest trial yet. Josiah, the third-born son, has stepped into an unexpected leadership role, carrying the weight of ancient prophecies and survival on his shoulders.
Military
The Ward family traditionally maintains a small but highly trained retinue of guards and archers.
Household Guard: Protects the family and their estates. They are skilled in both melee combat and archery.
Local Militia: Farmers and commonfolk trained in basic combat to defend the region in times of crisis.
Chauncy Ward's Command: Chauncy leads with his mastery of the Hawk's Reach, providing superiority in conflicts.
Gaylord Ward's Strategy: Gaylord often acts as a field strategist, coordinating troop movements and ensuring efficient resource management during sieges or skirmishes.
Religion
- Regular attendance at religious services
- Patronage of monasteries and charitable religious organizations
- Family prayers conducted before major decisions or events
Trade & Transport
Trade Routes: Well-maintained roads connect Hawkport Manor to nearby towns and the larger trade networks of Edria.
The family prioritizes safe and accessible transportation for trade caravans and supply lines, ensuring consistent economic stability.
Items Transported:
- Timber
- Grains
- Textiles
- Crafted goods
- Fine wines
- Rare manuscripts
- Spices
Education
Private Tutors: Members of the Ward family are educated by experienced tutors in history, diplomacy, mathematics, languages, and swordsmanship.
Scholarship Programs: Sponsored education for promising children from villages under Ward protection.
Josiah’s Legacy: Josiah Ward’s dedication to historical research has emphasized the importance of education within the family.
The Wards believe knowledge is a foundation for strength and resilience.
Ethics
Loyalty Above All: Betrayal of the family or the Crown is considered the highest dishonor.
Service to Others: Protection of the commonfolk is seen as both duty and privilege.
Humility in Power: Nobility is a responsibility, not a right to exploitation.
Faith in Infinite Grace: Actions should align with the tenets of their faith.
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