House Falconhand


Heraldic Coat of Arms:

The Falconhand family crest features a powerful falcon, wings spread wide, standing firmly on a man's closed hand holding a dagger, set against a red field. This design symbolizes control, mastery, and the strength of the Falconhand family, showcasing their leadership in both the skies and seas. The falcon represents a keen, far-reaching vision, while the hand signifies power and command.

Kingdom: Kydmarra

Family Structure:

  • Patriarch: High Sea Lord Azzur Falconhand
  • Matriarch: Queen Mirvanalle Falconhand
  • House Heir and Mage: Princess Amarina Falconhand (Wizard/Mindmage)
  • House Elder(s): High Priest Sorin Falconhand
  • House Weapons Master: Sea Lord Ciaran Falconhand of Vin
  • House Cleric: High Priest Sorin Falconhand
  • Other Notable house Members:
    • Princess Dove Falconhand
    • Sea Lord Vartyn Falconhand of Falcon's Reach

    Rank: Royal House

    Type: Human

    Background:

    House Falconhand, rulers of the Kingdom of Kydmarra, is a house built on the traditions of naval might, cunning, and ruthlessness. From their fierce rule over the islands of Kydmarra to their maritime prowess, they control both the land and the seas with an iron grip. As the heart of the kingdom, House Falconhand represents the pinnacle of pirate nobility, proud, volatile, and unpredictable. The Falconhands rose from scattered pirate bands of Kydmarra to dominate the region, securing the seat of power in Port Blacksand, once the ruin of an ancient city.

    Religious Affiliation:

    The Falconhands are followers of the Sea God and various tribal deities. The family's spiritual leader, High Priest Sorin Falconhand, guides them in maintaining favor with the sea gods, ensuring their dominance over the pirate fleets and the maritime domain.

    Motto or Saying:

    “Master the Skies, Command the Seas.”

    Family Traditions:

    House Falconhand upholds pirate traditions while integrating them with the strict rules of nobility. Sea rites and maritime rituals are central to the family, and they hold grand feasts and ceremonies that honor the Sea God. These traditions are passed down to each generation, especially in the form of naval training and pirate code of honor.

    Business Interests:

    The Falconhands dominate piracy, smuggling, and raiding, controlling the trade routes that pass through Port Blacksand. They export rare minerals, exotic goods, and weapons, and their fleet is a key asset in their wealth. House Falconhand also manages a large network of pirates and merchants, ensuring their dominance over Kydmarra’s economy.

    Influence and Prestige:

    House Falconhand rules with brutal authoritarianism, backed by military power and pirate loyalty. They are the undisputed rulers of the Pirate Isles, and their control over Port Blacksand ensures their economic and political dominance in Kydmarra. Rival houses, pirate lords, and even guilds of thieves must contend with the Falconhand family’s strength.

    Related Houses:

    • House Kobassis
    • House Hadrak

    Alliances and Feuds:

    Alliances: The Falconhands maintain alliances with pirate lords such as Sadisil, Vin, and Tryke, though these are tenuous at best.

    Feuds: House Kobassis and House Hadrak are constant political rivals. Within the royal family, there is internal strife between the ambitious members, particularly between Princess Amarina and Princess Dove.

    Other Notes of Interest:

    The future of the Falconhand family is in jeopardy, with internal factions within the royal family and rival pirate lords threatening their rule. Princess Amarina, a strategic genius and Mindmage, might one day challenge her father for the throne, while Princess Dove seeks independence and often defies the family’s political constraints.

    Colours:

    Red, Black, and Gold

    Residences:

    The family resides in Port Blacksand, the heart of Kydmarra’s trade and politics. Their grand palace overlooks the bustling docks, with vast fleets of pirate ships anchored in the bay.

    Political Influence:

    The Falconhands hold absolute power in Kydmarra, but their rule is constantly challenged by rival houses, pirate lords, and internal family politics. While King Azzur’s reign appears secure, Princess Amarina and other ambitious members of the family are poised to claim greater power.

    Cultural Preservation:

    The Falconhands are the embodiment of pirate culture in Kydmarra. Their rule is defined by piracy, naval dominance, and an embrace of both nobility and lawlessness. They ensure that the traditions of the pirate lords are maintained while exerting control over the kingdom's political landscape.

    Arts and Culture:

    House Falconhand patronizes sea shanties, pirate ballads, and traditional sea-bound arts. Their royal court is known for its extravagant displays of wealth, but also for its dark, volatile atmosphere, where power is the ultimate currency.

    Education and Training:

    House Falconhand places a heavy emphasis on martial training, naval tactics, and seafaring expertise. Princess Amarina, a Mindmage, represents the house’s interest in magic, and every member of the family is well-versed in the intricacies of both pirate diplomacy and military command.

    Philosophy and Ethical Beliefs:

    The Falconhands believe in the philosophy of survival through strength, cunning, and ruthless ambition. They uphold the pirate code, but have no qualms about using political power and violence to secure their rule. Their leadership is based on maintaining control through fear, loyalty, and domination of the seas.