Bohemian Nobility

Lore & Background

The relationship between the nobility and the peasantry is often tense, bound by tradition but strained by economic hardship. Nobles are expected to provide protection and justice, yet many exploit their position for personal gain. During the events of Henry's journey, the stability of these houses determines safety in towns like Rattay. The death or capture of a key noble can lead to power vacuums filled by bandits or foreign mercenaries.

In Their Own Story

Inside the stone hall of Trosky Castle, the air smells of roasted meat and beeswax. Lord Divish leans over a map stained with wine, pointing at the borderlands while Sir Radzig listens intently. Outside, rain lashes against the arrow slits, but inside, the fire crackles warmly. They speak in hushed tones about the King's health and the Saxons' movements. A scribe waits nearby with a quill, ready to record commands that will soon dictate the fate of hundreds in the valley below.

Reader's Guide

The Bohemian Nobility seeks to preserve their autonomy and land holdings amidst royal succession disputes. Their hierarchy mirrors the feudal structure, with King Wenceslaus at the apex, followed by princes like Radzig of Kobyla and counts such as Konrad Lipa. Below them lie knights who manage local estates and justice. These lords often operate independently, prioritizing family interests over crown directives when convenient. Henry interacts with this class primarily through service and necessity. Initially a blacksmith's son, he serves the nobility directly at Trosky Castle before his life changes. As the story progresses, figures like Sir Radzig rely on Henry for covert tasks that require discretion or skill beyond their own reach. The nobles view him as a useful tool initially, but his competence earns genuine respect from key allies. Political maneuvering defines their existence. While publicly loyal to the Crown, many nobles harbor private grievances against King Sigismund's ambitions. They control the flow of information and resources within the region, making them essential for any outsider seeking influence. Navigating their complex web of alliances is crucial for survival in Rattay.

Did You Know?

• Many of the game's characters are based on historical people, though the protagonist Henry of Skalitz is fictional.
• Henry's liege lord is Radzig Kobyla, who leads a resistance movement against the invading Hungarian king Sigismund.
• Sir Hanush of Leipa is the acting lord of Rattay and guardian to his young nephew, Lord Hans Capon.
• Lord Divish of Talmberg parlays with Markvart von Aulitz to convince Sigismund's army to leave Talmberg.
• Sir Radzig Kobyla acknowledges Henry as his illegitimate son after Henry escapes from Tóth's captivity.