The Empire of Oleon Nickname
The Kingdom of Light Colors
Medium Blue and Dark Blue Flag Royal Banner Quick Glance
Life in Oleon centers around traditional values. Oleanders are generally pious people, loyal to their Monarch, and take pride in their vast cultural heritage. Owning land defines one’s standing in the social hierarchy, and the rural nobility - which you can be a part of - has ever since been regarded Oleon's elite.
Following her claim for superiority, Oleon today has the largest warships, fields a powerful army, and has already established a moderate colonial presence, which she is eager to expand.
Oleon accepts new members, especially craftsmen, artists, agriculturalists, seamen, and entrepreneurs of all kinds, as long as they are loyal to the Monarch. Membership
Oleon is open for members. If you would like to add to Oleon's grandeur, and to spread the influence and glory of the empire - join today!
To do so, just sign up in this thread with an introduction post that shows your sigfig. A little background goes a long way, and we appreciate any story you would like to present with your character! If you'd like to join in The Monthly Raiding and Commerce Action, send Oleon Leadership a private message to get added to the latest "Private Message Thread" and coordinate our efforts. Index
Honorable Citizens of Oleon
Colonial Possessions
The Royal New Terra Company
Army Units stationed in New Terra
Royal Naval Units in New Terra
Quick Start Guide
The Builders' Bulletin Board Noble Houses of Oleon
Medals and Decorations
A DETAILED LOOK at the EMPIRE OF OLEON   Leadership   King Philip I and Queen Beatrice (NPC) After the sudden passing of his elder brother - the late King Stéphan II - Philip was crowned in April 616.
Whereas the late Monarch was a great admirer of the occult, driven by all things mythical, which allowed the Order of the Faith to spread its influence into almost every niche of Oleander society, Philip follows in the footsteps of his father Stéphan I. Noble and almost idealistic, with a broad education, and – growing up in the Royal Palaces of Granoleon – naturally provided with a passion for the arts, he now has to prove that he can prevail on the political stage as the absolute Monarch that he will need to be. With his beloved wife Queen Beatrice by his side he rules over the empire in a crucial time. He tasks himself with nothing less than challenging the mighty Order of the Faith, and reducing the influence of its destructive elements, especially that of the Clerics of Hades, to rebuild Oleon's reputation as the predominating cultural beacon it once was adored for.   Lord Chancellor Calida (NPC) Lucier Henri Calida was born into the House of Courtia - already one of the most influential Oleander noble families - and he soon saw the potential the Faith offered him for his political ambitions. He rose to power as a clergyman, but his organizational talents were soon discovered by the Royal Court. He was appointed Adviser to the King, and excelled in various tasks, foremost the introduction of a naval focus to Oleon, and the consequent buildup of La Royale prior to the Juniper War.
Today he is not only Chancelier d'Oleon – the highest administrative position in Oleon – he is also Supreme High Priest of the Clerics of Zeus, making him de facto leader of the Order of the Faith, which has blossomed under his regime. Under King Stéphan II he controlled the High Council and was First Adviser to the King, answering only to him. And as the King shared his beliefs, his authority was unchallenged. Some even say Stéphan II was a mere puppet, and that Calida was Oleon's true regent.
Now, with Philip I as King, his universal authority might be challenged for the first time. Nobody can tell how Calida is likely to react to this, since his agenda remains unclear to everyone. He is feared by many, and often described as a devious schemer who will do anything to tighten the Order's grasp on Oleon. Others see in him a savior and believe him to be the only guarantor for upholding the Empire's domestic order.
One thing is for sure, though, he is more likely to prepare for a war with Corrington than to read mass in a temple.   Structure of State Oleon is an absolute Monarchy. The King has always been the central authority, ruling over the land with a wise and strong hand since the days of King Arltrees.
Oleon is the King – and the King is Oleon. Wise Monarchs govern for the well-being of their loyal subjects, taking paternal care of them. That is the natural order of all things under the sun. So there is no need for 'representation', for 'parliaments' even, or other unsacred institutions in Oleon.
But wise Monarchs also listen to advice. That is the reason why the High Council supports the King in his rule, and advises him with expertise in all matters of state. The various branches of Oleon's administration then answer to the High Council and his chairman, the Lord Chancellor of Oleon, who traditionally is the first and most important adviser to His Majesty.   Members of the High Council   Pierre Lavalette Genaro, Duc de Vele et Pair d’Oleon, Intendant Général des Finances, Grand’Croix de l’Ordre Royal de Saint-Arltrees Pierre Lavalette Genaro is the current Duke of Vele - a booming coastal region East of Granoleon - and General Intendant of Finances at His Majesty’s Royal Court. Using his formidable fiscal talent and economic expertise, the Duke of Vele has consolidated the royal treasury, and reformed Oleon’s taxation system. By many, he is regarded as the Royal Court’s rising star. Some even go as far as saying Genaro’s influence on His Majesty has already surpassed that of Lord Chancellor Calida.   Berart Mazan, Duc de Boussac, Secrétaire d’État des Colonies, Grand Officier de l’Ordre Royal de Saint-Arltrees The Lion of Boussac is one of the most important advisors to His Majesty, and as Secretary of State of the Colonies responsible for Oleon’s fate beyond the line. Traditionalists grumble that the task of protecting the nation from her hereditary northern enemy and controlling Oleon’s overseas expansion shouldn’t go hand in hand. But the Lion of Boussac is an able man, and where better to keep Oleon’s foes at bay than in the waters of New Terra.   Guiscard Emery de Beauregard, Duc de Corban, Secrétaire d’État de la Marine, Commandeur de l’Ordre Royal et Militaire de l’Étoile d’Ardros, Commandeur de l’Ordre Royal de Saint-Arltrees, Grand-Amiral d’Oleon Growing up in chateau Sans-Nuage-sur-Maine - located in the hills just outside the harbor-city of Quilbignon - the young Lord almost naturally acquired a taste for saltwater, and soon was sent to pursue a career in His Majesty’s Royal Navy. Towards the end of the Forty-Nine Years War he was promoted to Grand Admiral of Oleon, and although unsuccessful in preventing Corrington from taking the Isle of Tam, he - under the direction of the Lord Chancellor - managed the rebuild of La Royale, which ultimately gained the upper hand over her Corrish counterpart in the following Juniper War. Today the Secretary’s attention shifts towards the eastern seas as the race for New Terra is speeding up. Oleon’s fate depends on La Royale - and on the salt in the Secretary’s veins.   Guérin Godefry de Tourment - nicknamed Le Doublonoi - Duc d’Eranos, Connétable d’Oleon, Grand’Croix de l’Ordre Royal et Militaire de l’Étoile d’Ardros, Maréchal d’Oleon Ever since official records first appeared, there has been a de Tourment holding the ‘Southern Key’ and shielding Oleon from the perils of Halos. Traditionally, the de Tourments also hold the title and position of Connétable d’Oleon, providing able commanders for Oleon’s armies who have proven their loyalty in every single conflict in Oleander history. But the house is not only a source of military genius for the Crown. Over the last decades they have also grown rich as prime suppliers of the Royal Army - a development that isn’t to the liking of all at the Royal Court.   The Order of the Faith The Order of the Faith is a secretive band of highly influential clerics that is heavily involved in Oleander politics.
As little is known fact about the Order and its agenda and ways, there are plenty of rumors out on the streets. Some see the Order's influence as a danger to the Monarchy, some even go as far as saying the Order already holds the true power over Oleon, with the Monarch acting only as a puppet. Others counter, pointing out that Oleon is free of dissidents, highlighting the Orders alleged importance for Oleon's inner stability and military might.
Wherever the truth lies, fact is that disagreeing with the Order is a good way to get into serious trouble! The Order of the Faith can be read about in greater detail here.
 
The Land


Oleon is the largest country on the peninsula, and its land is naturally an important economic factor. Wealth is usually measured in land holdings, and hereditary grants pass on from father to son for generations.
In the interior, the rural nobility traditionally resides in prestigious chateaus, and peasants live in little hamlets, and work for their lords as they have for ages. There are few large cities in the interior, but towards the coast things are beginning to change as innovations are developed. Passing from a rural hamlet with the lord's impressive manor towering over it, to a bustling port town is like going from one world to another. A multitude of coastal hubs have begun to spring up.
With oceans bordering Oleon on either side, these towns have become quite numerous, and have contributed to a new emphasis on seafaring. The Order of the Faith has encouraged this emphasis, but is still eager to preserve the traditional social ways by keeping its mystical hold on the people. With its support, Oleon's navy has boomed. Her merchant fleet is growing by the day, and the Royal Navy is famous for large battleships and highly efficient gun crews, securing Oleon’s influence on the waves.

A fine example of an increasingly important city is Breshaun on Le Bellan. Founded not long ago, it has turned into a sparkling and ambitious regional centre.

 
Society and Culture


Traditionally, a typical Oleander's life centers around the values of – traditions. Considering themselves the most culturally advanced people, Oleanders take great pride in their rich heritage of arts and literature. They are generally pious people, living in accordance with the divine rules of the Gods. But temples are visited more for social reasons than out of religious zeal.



It is true that the Order of the Faith holds its sway over the people, but that doesn't refrain Oleanders from enjoying life. And especially the aristocracy is known throughout Halos for celebrating the most glittering balls and festivities.
Oleon's cities are well organized and planned, their silhouettes often dominated by impressive temples erected in honor of the Gods. The architectural style is mostly a mix of renaissance and baroque western European, dominant among secular buildings – especially among the many aristocratic and royal chateaus and palaces that are in constant competition to outshine each other – and classic Mediterranean influences, which are preferred for religious buildings.
L'Aile du Pontis (The Pontis Wing) of the Royal Palace in Granoleon is a great example for the supremacy of Oleander architects and craftsmen.

    The Military   Oleanders are known to be fierce warriors if necessary. Military might is of paramount significance, as land is the defining social factor in society. Honor and bravery are values that every Oleander holds in high esteem, sacrificial soldiering on the fields of battle is every Oleander's duty, to die for the nation is considered the highest honor.   War Banner and Naval Ensign   The Army Ever since the days of King Arltrees the color blue is prominent in the uniforms and flags of the royal military. 
The standard military uniform always includes a blue coat, often but not always accompanied by white cross belts. A fleur-de-lys is not uncommon on the uniforms and flags either.
As presented above, the standard military flag is a white cross on a blue background with a crown over crossed cannons, but there are numerous deviations from these standards. In every case, however, the color blue must be present! (some conventional flags) As a result of a history of warfare, mostly with Corrington, many cities and ports are fortified with large walls and impressive fortresses to protect the citizens in case of an invasion.   The Navy Oleon's Royal Navy – or La Royale as she is affectionately called by the people – is among the finest and largest in all of the known world.
Heavily expanded after the Forty-Nine Years War at the instigation of the Order of the Faith, La Royale managed to have the edge over Corrington's navy during the following Juniper War, but has since then been locked in a stalemate with her biggest rival.
Oleon's master shipwrights are considered leading in the construction of heavy warships, and the emphasis on constant training and education has lead Oleander gun crews to become the most efficient in the known world. Here you can see a fine example of Oleander ship building, the glorious HRS Pride of Oleon.   Ranking System If you create your sigfig you are - of course - free to give it any rank you wish. So if you want - for example - a Captain to sail your ship through the waters of New Terra - create a Captain. If you want a Major fighting off Oleon's enemies on the fields of battle - create a Major. However, we would ask you not to start out too high up in rank right away. There are certain official ranks that can be earned, and they bring in-game benefits and lots of prestige - not to mention the awe of your foes. So fight for your own and Oleon's glory and rise through the ranks - do you have what it takes? Army Ranks: Maréchal (Marshal) Général d'Armée (Army General) Général de Division (Division General) Général de Régiment (Regiment General) Colonel (Colonel) Lieutenant Colonel (Lieutenant Colonel) Naval Ranks: Grand-Amiral d'Oleon (Grand Admiral of Oleon) Amiral (Admiral) Vice-Amiral (Vice Admiral) Contre-Amiral (Rear Admiral) Chef d'Escadre (Commodore) Capitaine de Vaisseau (Ship-of-the-Line Captain) Rank Requirements and Benefits: Promotions can be earned through military contributions, means through repeated and active participation in war campaigns, fleet actions, through acts of bravery, and - as a base requirement - you need to loyally follow orders. For promotions to High Command - Général de Régiment respectively Contre-Amiral and higher - a noble title of at least Marquis is required - to make sure only the best of the best command Oleon's finest. 'But where's the beef?' - you may ask. Well, excelling in military actions is a profound way to boost your social standing in Oleon. It will lead to some shiny medals and ribbons, can contribute to your house's growing reputation, and might eventually get you His Majesty's attention - which can open doors you didn't even believe existed. And - who knows - maybe one day you'll end up commanding the unit you were once fighting alongside with - or determine the fate of a whole royal fleet in the vast waters of New Terra.  
Diplomacy Oleon has a hostile history with Corrington, and during the last war the two factions proved to be an even match.
Officially there is no direct trade with Corrington, but various goods do make there way around via Eslandola and smugglers of all sorts.
Pirates are tolerated as long as they don't operate within Oleon claimed waters, piracy is a crime and offenders will be brought to justice when they are caught. (Note: Relationships are judged on a 1 to 5 scale; Very Friendly, Friendly, Indifferent, Unfriendly, Hostile) Oleon's relationship with...
Sea-Rats: Indifferent
Eslandola: Friendly
Corrington: Unfriendly  
Membership To sign up, post a picture of your signature figure, preferably accompanied by Oleon's formal flag colors. You are welcome to include a bit of a description as well.
Your signature figure, or sigfig, will represent your character throughout your MOCs within Brethren of the Brick Seas.
(That does not mean that your sigfig has to be in every MOC you make)
Although this is the “Bluecoat” faction, that does not mean that everyone should have a bluecoat soldier as sigfig. Within BoBS there are many possibilities. Build your own story – for example, your sigfig could start out as a carpenter that decides to work on a ship. Via battle experiences he ends up getting his own ship, eventually becoming a privateer in His Majesty's service, etc.   Vive le Roi!