Name: House Rolland
Leader of the House: Muireann Rolland
Heir: Ciaran Rolland
Liege: House Whitestar
Founding: With Angus emerging from the Maw.
Family Members:
- Baroness Muireann Rolland
- Sir Ciaran Rolland
- Lady Cliodhna Rolland
- Sir Darren Rolland
- Fearghal Rolland
¶ History
House Rolland: Guardians of Northton
House Rolland, a loyal banner house to House Whitestar, holds its seat of power in the coastal city of Northton, situated at the mouth of the northern river. For generations, the Rollands have stood as stalwart protectors of their domain, facing the challenges of piracy and safeguarding the interests of House Whitestar. However, their history took a tragic turn almost two decades ago when the untimely demise of Killian and Asling Rolland shook the foundations of the house.
Killian and Asling, beloved leaders of House Rolland, met their demise in a tragic event known as the Dark Tides. It was a stormy night when a fierce tempest struck the shores of Northton, ravaging the city and causing devastating floods. In the chaos and destruction, the lives of the esteemed couple were claimed, leaving the house and the city in mourning.
In the aftermath of the Dark Tides, Northton became vulnerable to pirate raids, as the absence of strong leadership created a power vacuum. Pirate factions, enticed by the city's strategic coastal location and weakened defenses, descended upon Northton like vultures, seeking to exploit the chaos and seize control. House Rolland, under the leadership of the eldest sibling, Muireann Rolland, valiantly fought to repel the ongoing assaults, but their resources were stretched thin, and the pirates proved persistent.
Northton, once a bustling trade hub, suffered greatly from the constant pirate raids. The economy faltered, and the city's prosperity waned as fear and uncertainty permeated the streets. The commoners faced the brunt of the hardships, their livelihoods disrupted and their safety compromised. The Rollands, burdened with the responsibility of protecting their people, had to navigate the delicate balance between defending their domain and addressing the needs of their citizens.
The pirate threat was not homogeneous. Specific pirate factions, each with their own distinct methods and motivations, posed a significant danger to Northton. The notorious Black Scorpion Brotherhood, infamous for their ruthless tactics and cunning maneuvers, struck fear into the hearts of sailors and citizens alike. The relentless Sea Wolves, a nomadic pirate horde, prowled the coastal waters, showing no mercy to their victims. House Rolland faced the daunting task of combating these entrenched pirate factions while grappling with limited resources and the safety of their people.
The relationship between House Rolland and House Whitestar is one built on mutual respect and cooperation. Both houses share a deep allegiance to the kingdom and a commitment to maintaining stability and order. However, the geographical distance between Northton and the heart of House Whitestar's power has occasionally given rise to tensions and uncertainties. As House Rolland faces the constant challenges of pirate raids and struggles to protect their coastal city, they may question the extent of their connection to House Whitestar and contemplate forging new alliances to strengthen their position.
Within the city of Northton, influential figures emerge who may challenge House Rolland's authority or seek to undermine their rule. Captain Alaric "Ironhook" Wycliff, a former pirate who has gained a degree of power within Northton, remains an enigmatic presence. His transition from a ruthless raider to a cunning businessman has raised suspicions about his motives and alliances. Captain Wycliff, using his influence to sway public opinion, challenges House Rolland's leadership and adds an additional layer of complexity to Northton's political landscape.
The Fedor heritage of House Rolland shapes their identity and interactions with other houses and factions in the region. Descendants of the fierce Fedor people, known for their Viking-like demeanor, the Rollands have successfully cultivated a civilized facade while retaining elements of their combative past. This unique blend of refined nobility and underlying martial prowess sets them apart from their counterparts and influences how they navigate the complex web of alliances and conflicts in the region.
While House Rolland may not possess ancient legends or artifacts directly associated with their lineage, they do carry a fading tradition of magical tattoos. These mystical markings, once highly regarded, have fallen out of favor in recent years, viewed as relics of the past and overshadowed by the rise of Bellringer faith. However, the remnants of this ancient art form remain within the family, hinting at the potential for rediscovery and the resurgence of forgotten powers.
As House Rolland grapples with the ongoing pirate threat, internal power struggles, and the delicate balance between their Fedor heritage and their evolving domesticity, the story of their struggle to protect Northton and redefine their role in the Kingdom Divided unfolds. Their resilience, resourcefulness, and ability to forge alliances will be tested as they strive to restore peace and prosperity to their beloved city and uphold the honor of House Rolland.
¶ House Retainers
- Lady Rhiannon O'Brian- Steward of House Rolland Lady Rhiannon Hawthorne is a respected and capable administrator who oversees the day-to-day affairs of House Rolland. With her sharp mind and keen attention to detail, she ensures that the city of Northton runs smoothly despite the challenges posed by pirate raids. Lady Rhiannon's unwavering loyalty to House Rolland and her deep understanding of the city's intricate workings make her an invaluable asset in maintaining order and prosperity.
- Sir Colm Ironwood - Captain of the Guard Sir Colm Ironwood, a seasoned warrior with a formidable presence, leads House Rolland's defense forces. Known for his unwavering loyalty and unyielding dedication, Sir Colm commands respect from both his soldiers and the people of Northton. His strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment to protecting the city have earned him a reputation as a formidable force against pirate incursions.
- Branwen Stormrider - Navigator and Sea Scout Branwen Stormrider, a skilled sailor and navigator hailing from a long line of seafarers, serves House Rolland as their trusted sea scout. With her innate connection to the sea and her exceptional knowledge of the coastal waters, Branwen plays a vital role in safeguarding Northton from pirate attacks. Her daring nature and resourcefulness make her an invaluable asset in gathering intelligence and outmaneuvering the pirate factions that threaten the city.
¶ Secrets
- The Veiled Compact Deep within the ancestral halls of House Rolland lies a secret compact between Lady Rhiannon O'Brian and Captain Alaric "Ironhook" Wycliff. Despite their apparent rivalry, they have secretly formed an alliance, working together to ensure the survival and prosperity of Northton. This hidden pact involves the exchange of vital information and covert coordination to weaken rival pirate factions and maintain the delicate balance of power in the region.
- The Lost Isle Legends whisper of a long-lost isle known as Tír na Mara, rumored to hold ancient treasures and arcane knowledge. It is said that this mystical island holds the key to unlocking the true potential of House Rolland and restoring the glory of Northton. The exact location and nature of Tír na Mara remain shrouded in mystery, waiting to be discovered by those bold enough to venture into uncharted waters.
- The Blood Moon's Curse Among the common folk of Northton, rumors persist of a cursed amulet known as the Blood Moon's Tear. It is believed that the tragic deaths of Killian and Asling Rolland were not mere happenstance but rather a result of the curse inflicted upon them by a rival house seeking to weaken House Rolland's influence. The identity of the house and the means to break the curse remain concealed, yet the desire for justice and retribution stirs within the hearts of House Rolland's loyal retainers.