Đruχtiz Buγōn-arHwō
Đruχtiz Buγōn-arHwō are Proto-Germanic words which translate loosely as "Bow And Arrow Warband", referring not only to their weapon of choice, but also their organisational structure. While the bow has traditionally been looked down upon in Germanic warrior society, being mainly a hunting weapon with practical use on the battlefield, the Franks have come to realise and appreciate the use of a massed volley of arrows sufficiently enough to begin recruiting warbands specifically fit for the purpose, rather than the rag-tag bands that usually accompany most other Germanic hosts. As such, while they will have been composed primarily of hunters of all ages or those warriors whom showed a proficiency with the bow, a good part will also have been marksmen with enough experience as archers to make a living serving as such. In part, their constant interaction with the Romans, and the fact many Franks went on to serve under them as auxiliaries, provided this tribe with a good understanding of some of the tactics which made the Roman army so successful, archery being one of them.
As such, these men have been grouped into a warband and expected to support the main Frankish host, either through tactics of attrition, skirmish and ambushing, or directly on the field of battle, from behind the main line. Like most Germanic warriors, they are simply clad, with only a tunic and trousers, and simple leather belt and boots, as described by Agathius. Their bow was often made of ash or yew for the stave, being around six feet long, with arrows carved of poplar or beech. Arrow-heads often differed in quality and type, with heads made for hunting and armour-piercing being available. Frequently in graves, arrow-heads are found with axe heads, and so this warrior is represented with a simple axe as a backup weapon.
While archery remained relatively underdeveloped in Germanic military culture, the Franks have slowly began to realise their usefulness, and as such they would be best placed behind the lines, where they can either attack the enemy with impunity, or in cases of opportunity, outflank them and target them from behind. Needless to say, their lack of armour and shields make them extremely vulnerable to melee fighting and cavalry of any kind.
Jugunthiz Wrakjōnes
Jugunthiz Wrakjōnes are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "young warriors". Traditionally in Germanic warrior society, these were very often the youths and inexperienced men of the tribe whom had either not experienced battle, or very little of it. While most if not all men in German society were expected to own a weapon (often a bow, sling or framea - a spear) and most will have used it on occasion, often during small intensity warfare, such as cattle-raids, skirmishes and inter-tribal warfare, few became full time warriors. Those that wished to do so often attempted to serve in the retinues and warbands of nobles, chieftains and clan leaders, hoping to secure patronage and expand their wealth and honour. As such, these men will have been relatively young, inexperienced and eager, perhaps even foolhardy, as they strive to impress their lords and potential sponsors, charging headlong into battle with little of the elan and equipment of professional warriors.
Tacitus, in describing the Germans, has often mentioned that insofar as skirmishers were involved, little to no clothing was involved, so as to make them nimble and speedier of foot. As such, this man wears only a simple tunic over woolen trousers, and leather boots and belt. He carried a handful of framea or javelins, short and with slender, angular heads which made them ideal for throwing and piercing armour, but somewhat delicate in hand to hand fighting. However, he would not spurn such a situation in which to prove himself in, so a small shield with an iron boss is carried, and he can effectively engage in melee fighting for short periods of time.
Inevitably, his greenness and lack of armour will have the better of him in prolonged fighting against professional infantry and most types of cavalry. A such, a wise Frankish commander will either place them with other, mightier types of infantry, or form them up behind the main thrust, where they can deliver hails of javelins overhead into the ranks of the enemy.
Slenγanan Folkan
Slenγanan Folkan are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "sling folk" or "sling freemen". Here, the word "free men" is used somewhat ironically. While most men of the Frankish tribal society (besides slaves) would have been "free", a large portion will have been peasants and farmers, and thus live relatively poor, destitute lives, no better than peasants. Yet, even such men were required by their clansmen and chieftains to provide a number of able-bodied men to augment the warbands, and they will have done so in any manner they could, whether it be by spear, bow or sling. These men represent the peasants, farmers, shepherds and hunters of Frankish society, too poor to afford any other form of weaponry or armour. They will have been of varying age and skill, with many opportunities presenting themselves in daily life for improvement with their weapon of choice - the forests of Germania are, after all, filled with wolves, and a skirmish with a nearby tribe over a cattle raid or plunder is never far away.
Carrying nothing more than a simple hemp or linen thread to which a small leather pouch is attached, their sling is both simple and deadly. In the hands of an accurate marksman, it can crush bone and shatter shields, easily causing fatal injuries even with the protection of armour. Besides that, these men carry a simple hunting knife, and wear undyed woolen tunics and close fitting, heavy trousers, of either felt or wool, but ideal protection against undergrowth and thickets but not much else. In battle, they are mostly expected to harass the enemy with hails of stones, which they collect from nearby streams and riverbeds, being flat and oval in shape.
It goes without saying such vulnerable men should be used wisely on the field of battle. They will perish even against the lightest of infantry, and most forms of cavalry will tear them to bits. A wise Frankish king will instead seek to use them from afar, behind his lines, where he can either instruct them to target a single point in the field of battle, taking aim perhaps at a heavily armoured enemy with which their stones will prove useful against, or allowing them simply to bombard the enemy lines with random but deadly hails of stones.
Swerđan Harjaz Hreop-Wehren
Swerđan Harjaz Hreop-Wehren are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Sword army of the Ripuarians", Hreop-Wehren being the Germanic rendering of the tribe most commonly known as "Ripuarians", one of the leading tribes of the Frankish confederation. In an increasingly able and militarised society, the Franks - though continued trade and warfare with the Romans, in addition to auxiliary service - but perhaps most importantly, tribal hegemony and expansion, were increasingly able to field larger, and better equipped number of warriors. While armour is still relatively rare, swords are more prevalent, though of varying quality, and this is borne out archaeologically. Furthermore, as the tribal confederation expanded, as did both the prestige and wealth of the higher nobles of the tribes, allowing them to arm and armour an increasingly higher number of retinues and warbands. Historically, what begins around the 3rd century A.D is an increasing "Romanisation" of Western Germanic peoples, to the point that by the 5th and 6th centuries, there would be little to distinguish the average German and Roman soldier on the field of battle, with armour becoming prevalent by then. As such, these men represent the mainstay of Frankish warrior culture, being professional warriors, soldiers even, forming more than a single warband but something more akin to an army. They will have been composed of the veterans in Frankish service, those warriors well accustomed to warfare. Many will probably have served as Roman auxiliaries, where most may have acquired their swords from. Others may be bound to lesser nobles, and rather than fighting in their immediate retinue, fight alongside their more numerous warriors.
As such, these men represent a relative "middle class" of Frankish warrior society. They are better off than most, but still far off from being in the company of the earls, nobles and king's retinues, enjoying the full patronage and support of their lords. They carry swords, which had broad blades and were double-edged, often a symbol of power and honour, both to him and his clan. They will have been of relatively simple construction, made from a process known as "faggoting" wherein layered strips of lower quality iron were welded together. He also carries the eponymous francisca throwing axe, the signature weapon of the Frankish warrior, incredibly lethal, with a heavy iron head, and known to bounce unpredictably and even under shields if thrown properly. In most cases, it was used immediately before charging, further increasing the impetus of the overwhelming rush. Being relatively wealthier than most, they are able to afford better quality clothing, dyed and patterned in stripes, with a wide bronze plated belt, woolen trousers and leggings tied with leather. An enclosed leather boot and a fur skin add protection against inclement weather. They also have a stout shield made of planked wood, and a pointed iron boss familiar to Germanic tribesmen, which could also be used offensively in a punching manner.
These men represent an important, and arguably crucial, part of the Frankish battle line. They are not necessarily rare per se, but should not be squared either. They will perform admirably as medium line infantry, and fight with good martial elan, though it should be noted their lack of armour will eventually prove their downfall if paired against an enemy enjoying that particular advantage. Medium and heavy cavalry engaged in charges may also prove troublesome, and so spearmen should perhaps be paired with them. All in all, they will deliver a devastating charge with their franciscas, followed by fierce melee fighting, and a Frankish king should look for opportunities on the field where such advantages can be best exploited.
Đruχtiz Hreop-Wehren
Đruχtiz Hreop-Wehren are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Ripuarian Warband", Hreop-Wehren being the Germanic rendering of the most commonly known "Ripuarians", one of the leading tribes of the Frankish confederation. While at this time, the Franks began to enjoy an increasingly more able and militarised society, with a greater number of swordsmen and armoured nobles coming to the fore (with some scholars arguing for an increased "Romanisation" of Frankish warfare) the eponymous warband still formed the backbone of most if not all Germanic armies. These men will have been the standard result of a series of levies and conscription arrangements most lords and nobles enjoyed with their patrons, whether subjugated tribes, serfs, peasants or any other able bodied men in a Frankish lord's dominion. Given the increased prosperity and larger tribal confederation the Franks were able to enjoy at this time, their armies became increasingly larger and more sophisticated, and this is reflected in both their armament and clothing. In fact, around this time, increasing urbanisation began to occur among the Western Germanic tribes, and a greater influx of people towards towns and tribal strongholds meant not only a higher living standard but also more opportunities to prove oneself to one's lord.
As such, while these men form a relatively common type of unit among the Germanic tribes, a "warband", they enjoy certain benefits not conferred on other, less "civilized" tribes. They have access to good quality wool, dyed to a colour of their preference, in addition to woolen trousers and leggings, rather than felt, which was mostly a material of the peasants. Enclosed leather boots are a further sign of their relative wealth, in addition to a light corselet of padded leather or felt, giving them some protection against slashing blows, most often from swords. They are armed with a handful of throwing framea or throwing spears, short and with tapered iron heads, while their main weapon is a longer, broad-leafed iron headed spear more suitable for prolonged combat. A large round shield, edged in leather and with an iron boss which can be used in a punching motion, finishes their attire. Despite their relative "sophistication" these men are still warriors first and foremost, and as such, most sport the thin mustaches typical of the Franks, in addition to a wild and somewhat elaborate tribal hairstyle.
A Frankish king may count on these men to form the bulk of his battle line, as they can keep most enemies at bay with their long spears and light armour. It is worth considering, however, that heavier armoured opponents will eventually prevail over them, especially if they are left unsupported, and so a wise king will seek to support such worthy warriors with other, more specialised units, which can truly aid in tipping the balance of battle.
Swerđan Saljon
Swerđan Saljon are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Sword Companions or Friends", however, the term "Saljon" is also the Germanic rendition of "Salii", one of the leading tribes of the Frankish confederation, so a more accurate reading would be "Salian Swordsmen". The Salians were a northern Frankish tribe which inhabited the northern, right bank of the Rhine river. Like the Frisians further north of them and to the coast, they were renowned as pirates and raiders, and frequently pillaged and plundered the Eastern bank of the Rhine in the areas around Toxandria, eventually leading to its depopulation in the 4th century A.D, and being the first Germanic tribe allowed to settle on the western bank of the Rhine, in the very area they raided. A such, these men have a penchant for raiding and piracy, which is reflected in their equipment. They represent the higher up strata of warrior society among the Salii, possessing swords over spears, either as gifts from their nobles patronage and shows of bravery, or perhaps through plunder, though the native Frankish metal smiths were more than capable of forging good quality swords. These men form a core of able-bodied and experienced warriors, many of which will have seen plenty of combat, whether through piracy or raids into Roman territory or extended fighting with neighboring tribes.
Being raiders and pirates, their weaponry reflects their needs. They arm themselves with long, slender iron swords of variable quality, ideal for fighting in enclosed spaces or aboard ships, and also wield the deadly angon, a short spear much like the Roman pilum, being a heavy javelin with a short socket, a barbed head and a long, slender neck made of iron. Originally, they bent on impact much like the pilum, and were mainly used before the charge, being thrown towards the enemy in the hopes of rendering shields useless through the extra weight of the bent, punctured spear. They have stout wooden shields with a pointed iron boss, painted over in personalised styles. In addition to striped, coloured tunics befitting their status, they also wear heavy woolen trousers for the cold, northern weather, in addition to fur leggings and enclosed boots. A fur skin protects them against the sea spray or the cold winds of Rhine.
These swordsmen are efficient and eager, being used to being exposed to difficult situations, and enjoying the thrill of the hunt and raid. While they will perform well as medium infantry in a battle line, where their furious rush and lethal angons may make short work of most enemies, they must be used conservatively against better armed and armoured foes. A wise Frankish king may wish to employ them in areas where their rush may carry all before them, or perhaps even as flanking troops. As usual, cavalry are the bane of swordsmen, and will run them down if unsupported.
Wrakjōnes Saljon
Wrakjōnes Saljon are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Warrior Companions or Friends", however, the term "Saljon" is also the Germanic rendition of "Salii", one of the leading tribes of the Frankish confederation, so a more accurate reading would be "Salian Warriors". While the Salians enjoyed a reputation for raiding and piracy, inhabiting the northern, right bank of the Rhine and frequently pillaging the Roman left bank of Toxandria, like most other Germanic tribes, the warbands formed the backbone of their hosts, not pirates. These men therefore represent the majority of the able bodied men of the Saljones, reflecting a variety of individuals, with varying levels of experience, skill and age. Most smaller tribes, districts and chieftains were expected to provide a levy of able-bodied men to their Frankish overlords, and this group represent the mainstay of their war host, armed with shield and spear. Like the Ripuarians, the Salians also enjoyed an increased level of interaction with the Romans (through trade, warfare, and military service) and as such their warband is represented as being slightly better armed and armoured than most Germanic warbands would have been. It has even been argued by certain scholars the Franks (together with the Alemanni) enjoyed a level of "Romanisation" among them that would eventually result in their soldiers being virtually indistinguishable from those of the Romans by the 4th and 5th centuries.
As such, these men are armed with a handful of bronze butted, iron angular shaped javelins, in addition to their main spear or framea made of ash or maple, with a leaf shaped iron head. They also carry an oval shield with a pointed iron boss, similar to those carried by Roman auxiliaries, which some may in fact have served as, further imparting Roman military knowledge into the ranks of the Franks. The shield is adorned with elaborate tribal designs, being painted over and possibly framed in leather or bronze edging. They also enjoy the additional protection of a simple but effective iron helmet known as the spangehelm, which became fairly common around this time among the more prestigious retinues of the Germanic tribes. These could either have been secured as gifts from their lords, though plunder and the looting of fallen Romans, or even as mementos of Roman military service itself. Due to the cold weather, they make use of thick woolen trousers, held up by a wide, bronze plated belt, leggings, enclosed leather boots and two sets of tunics, dyed and undyed. Despite the garb, they are warriors foremost, and maintain the signature Frankish "thin mustache" as described by Appolinaris Sidonius.
These men will no doubt form another important part of the Frankish battle line, performing admirably as the bulk of the warriors, charging and hoping to wear down the enemy through their ferocity and staying power. They are aided in this by their long spears, oval shields and helmets, with which they can engage most types of infantry and cavalry. However, their lack of armour will prove a hindrance against enemies with it, and as such they should not be expected to last too long in such a melee, though they will no doubt give a good account of themselves. They will, however, prove the demise of most types of cavalry, and a wise Frankish king may want to consider posting them on the flanks, where they can be used to the best of their abilities.
Kjóll Swerđan-Ango Frisōnes
Kjóll Swerđan-Ango Frisōnes are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Sword and Angon Keel of the Frisii", with "Keel" meaning both the compliment but also the name of a common flat-bottom Germanic boat used in piracy, both on the seas and in rivers. The Frisians, living in the northern Germanic lands close to the coast, from the modern Zuyder Zee to Jutland, were renowned as pirates, often allying with the Salian Franks to raid Roman Belgica and Toxandria, eventually leading to the depopulation of the latter, in which the Salians were allowed to settle. In addition to this, they also served as Roman Auxiliaries on occasion since the mid 1st century, though by the end of the 3rd century A.D, Constantius Chlorus would campaign against them, defeating them and resettling them within the empire as "laeti" or allies. They thus enjoyed both an active and somewhat turbulent relationship with the Romans, which is reflected here both in their experience, and their weapons. Before that, they frequently allied and enjoyed various relationships with both the Franks and Chamavi, and this unit represents a group in Frankish service. This "keel" represents the strata of Frisian warrior society concerned with piracy and raiding, thus they will have been well accustomed to mounting sea-borne raids and handling ships, excelling in that type of warfare. They will have been made up of both young and old, inexperience and veteran warriors, brought together for the singular purpose of rapine and plunder, fore bearers to the later Saxons and Vikings of later ages.
Given their preferences, like the Salians with whom they frequently allied, they are lightly armed and armoured, preferring speed and stealth over increased protection at the cost of slowness. In addition, armour often means a quick death to anyone unlucky to fall overboard. They make good use of iron swords, long and tapered in the Germanic fashion, in addition to the deadly angon, a short spear much like the Roman pilum, being a heavy javelin with a short socket, a barbed head and a long, slender neck made of iron. Originally, they bent on impact much like the pilum, and were mainly used before the charge, being thrown towards the enemy in the hopes of rendering shields useless through the extra weight of the bent, punctured spear. However, they perform equally well in the heat of a raid or when boarding another's ship. A round shield offers them much needed protection, with an iron boss which can also be used to punch an unwary enemy. Military service with the Romans may also have impressed upon them the use of padded armour, known as the linothorax or subarmalis to the Greeks and Romans respectively, which is simply a corselet of padded felt, leather or wool, offering some protection against slashing blows. To protect from the cold weather, they wear thick, alternately striped tunics, woolen trousers and leggings, and enclosed boots, helping to keep their feet dry.
Given their experience and their light armour, these men will perform well as medium infantry in a Frankish battle line, though they are perhaps impetuous and eager, being raiders and plunderers first. Their resolve may soon waver if faced against heavily armoured and armed infantry, which they will have seldom encountered in their quick raids. Though those who may have served as Roman auxiliaries may hold out the longest, being versed in Roman ways of war, they will buckle eventually. A wise Frankish King will see to maximise their use by supporting them with other units, or using them in situations where they may excel at their abilities. As usual, cavalry will also prove dangerous should they refuse to be bogged down in a melee.
Đruχtiz Swerđan-Akwiz Frisōnes
Đruχtiz Swerđan-Akwiz Frisōnes are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Sword and Axe Warband of the Frisii". The Frisians lived in the northern Germanic coastal lands, and were renowned as pirates, often allying with the Salian Franks to raid Roman Belgica and Toxandria. They would eventually be subjugated by the Romans, being resettled as "Laeti" or allies within the Empure by Constantius Chlorus in 296 A.D. Before then, they enjoyed varying relationships with the neighboring Chamavi and Frankish tribes, often allying and fighting with them. This unit represents a warband in Frankish service, in particular, one with previous Roman auxiliary experience, as the Frisians were employed by the Romans as auxiliaries since the 1st century A.D. As such, these men will have commanded a premium, both at home and with neighboring tribes as mercenaries and allies, given their military experience and expertise. They will have been composed mainly of veterans and retired auxiliaries, willing to continue fighting for their tribal lords and possible foreign paymasters.
Their elite status is highlighted in both their equipment and in their clothing. They wear embroided linen tunics, afford to them from their military service, and which would have been prohibitively expensive (and difficult to acquire) in Germania at this time, in addition to finer quality woolen trousers, and leggings for the cold weather. They wear either enclosed leather boots or Roman carbatinae boots, in addition to a fur skin to protect them from the inclement weather. Their weapons of choice however, are the axe and spatha, which they will have either received before enlistment, during service, or as gifts from their lords. Both will have been made of iron, and the sword will have varied in quality, but been long, tapered and some may have been patterned, a style usually reserved for the noble warriors of Germanic society. They will have been well trained in the use of sword and shield, and will perform better than most Germanic swordsmen given their ample experience. A painted shield with varying colours adds to their defence, making them a formidable medium infantry force, hampered only by their lack of armour.
These men represent a rare and expensive retinue of worthy fighters and warriors to a Frankish King, whom may choose to add them to his battle line for the general melee, in which they will excel, or hold them in reserve for flanking or bodyguard duties. Their swords will be able to hold off most infantry, and their axes present an ideal opportunity for fighting against armour. As usual, cavalry charges will deplete them rather quickly, but asides from that and extremely heavy infantry, these men - being veterans - will prove useful in most engagements.
Wrakjōnes Hattisku
Wrakjōnes Hattisku are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Warriors of the Chatti". The Chatti inhabited upper Germany, around modern-day Fritzlar in northern Hesse in Germany. Their capital was Mattium, which Germanicus raised in the 1st century A.D. Eventually, they became a client tribe of the Franks, and cease being attested historically as a separate tribe around the 3rd-4th century. As such, these men represent the levy provided by the Chatti in fealty to their Frankish masters. This was nothing unusual, as even among the Franks themselves, most tribes and members of the confederation were required in any case to provide a levy or "warband" of able-bodied men to serve under the banner of the Frankish king. These men will have been a varied bunch, ranging from experienced warriors, to youths and conscripted peasants, perhaps even to lesser nobles. Tacitus recounts that they were unusually good at waging wars and not battles, and that they fielded an unusual number of cavalry.
As the prime of the Chatti youth, these men are equipped in the standard armament available to most northern Germanic tribesmen, a stout planked wooden shield with an iron boss, in addition to the ubiquitous francisca, which they carry two of, one for throwing before the charge, and another for actual combat. They will therefore perform admirably against armoured units, perhaps even horsemen if engaged before the charge. Some may have served the Romans as auxiliaries, and thus bring their experience to bear in the field of battle. The customary tunic, some of which are of good quality and embroidered on the edges, and woolen trousers are their main garments. Leggings wrapped around with leather strips and enclosed boots protect their lower legs against the cold, and a fur jacket further helps them cope in the unforgiving northern climates.
To a Frankish King, these men will form another vital element of his battle line, as their armour piercing weapons and the shock value gained from their franciscas should not be underestimated. They will perform well in melee, though their lack of armour will be a hindrance against heavier infantry, as will their lack of spears against cavalry, and they should thus be supported wisely with other types of tribesmen.
Wrakjōnes Wargengus Hattisku
Wrakjōnes Wargengus Hattisku are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Warrior-Stewards of the Chatti", with "stewards" here acting as a somewhat obscure old Germanic word which was also used in the context of "mercenaries", that is, soldiers who pledged an oath of fealty to foreign masters, becoming "stewards" of that particular lord, much like the native retinues and companions. Besides the native Chatti warriors already pledged to the Franks, these men make themselves available to the highest bidder, and as such will act in a mercenary capacity to any willing to pay them. Historically, the Chatti inhabited upper Germany, around modern-day Fritzlar in northern Hesse in Germany. Their capital was Mattium, which Germanicus raised in the 1st century A.D. Eventually, they became a client tribe of the Franks, and cease being attested historically as a separate tribe around the 3rd-4th century. These men represent older, veteran soldiers of the Chatti tribe, who've experienced many years of warfare and are thus highly skilled and able. Their native tribe no longer being independent, they sell their services in the hopes of further honour, prestige, and obviously coin.
As experienced Chatti veterans, these men are equipped with the weapons they find most suitable for their trade, a stout planked wooden shield with an iron boss, in addition to the ubiquitous francisca, which they carry two of, one for throwing before the charge, and another for actual combat. They will therefore perform admirably against armoured units, perhaps even horsemen if engaged before the charge. Some may have served the Romans as auxiliaries, and thus bring their experience to bear in the field of battle. The customary tunic, some of which are of good quality and embroidered on the edges, and woolen trousers are their main garments. Leggings wrapped around with leather strips and enclosed boots protect their lower legs against the cold, and a fur jacket further helps them cope in the unforgiving northern climates.
To a prospective paymaster, these men will form another vital element of his battle line, as their armour piercing weapons and the shock value gained from their franciscas should not be underestimated. They will perform well in melee, though their lack of armour will be a hindrance against heavier infantry, as will their lack of spears against cavalry, and they should thus be supported wisely with other types of tribesmen.
Yaiđō Gadulingaz-Aţalaz
Yaiđō Gadulingaz-Aţalaz are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Noble Spear Companions". These are the tribesmen of the Frankish warrior society whom have succeeded in impressing themselves into the ranks of the retinues and companions of the chieftains, earls, nobles and lesser nobility of the Frankish confederacy. They now enjoy the patronage of their lords, which usually translates as a steady salary, good quality arms and armour, plenty of food and drink, slaves and a roof over one's head, and possibly even land of one's own. However, in effect they have no enlisted as the personal soldiers of these lords, who themselves pay fealty to the greater Frankish king. In addition to this, their prestige, honour and wealth are all inextricably bound to the well being of their lord, and their own performance. Should they fall foul of their patrons or fail to impress them, they will lose their gifts, their patronage, their honour, if not their lives. By oath and pledges, these men swear their lives and their service to the nobles, following them to battle and acting as bodyguards. In addition to this, these men represent a nascent but increasingly important branch in Frankish military society; the increasing militarisation of the traditional warband structure from which the Franks draw on, seeing not only an numerical expansion given their hegemonic status, but also a qualitative increase, due to trade and increased interaction with the Romans.
Therefore, these men will mostly be made up of experienced, veteran warriors whom have proved themselves to their lords through many battles and many campaigns, or perhaps more rarely, young men of exceeding martial skill whom, while perhaps less experienced, are nonetheless extremely able warriors. They are best thought of as soldiers and not "warriors" in the traditional sense, though they still retain their martial vigour and their natural eagerness and thirst for battle. Being part of a retinue, they are armed with a long, good quality thrusting spear, in addition to shorter framea throwing spears, ideally suitable for punching through armour with their short, angular points. In addition to the ubiquitous shield however, they also sport a spangehelm helmet, offering them excellent protection at such a vital area, in addition to a coat of mail of decent quality, either forged in the native smiths of the country, which enjoy a great reputation, or "acquired" in some fashion or another from the Romans. Some may have been from ex-military service as auxiliaries. In the manner of auxiliaries, they also wear a focale scarf to avoid chaffing, in addition to a fine tunic, tong woolen trousers with leggings, and enclosed hardened leather boots. Their thin, wiry mustaches complete the look of a fearsome, Frankish warrior.
To a Frankish King, these men represent the cream of the warrior nobility, and by far the best bulwark available to defeat equally heavily armoured and armed opponents, like the nobles of other tribes, or the ever treacherous Romans. While such units are expensive, relatively rare and cost a lot of upkeep, they pay for themselves on the field of battle, where their long spears and their armour will keep most enemies at bay unless under the most extreme duress. Furthermore, in battle, these men will have been expected to lead from the front, with the rest of their warrior brothers, usually at the forefront of an armoured column known as the caput porcinum or "boar's head" first described by Tacitus in the 1st century A.D, and which the Romans may have copied. With the more well armed and armoured men in the front and the lesser following behind, the column charged and smashed into the ranks of the enemy, concentrating on a single point and hoping to carry all before them. Only the most professional and well-trained and led armies were able to resist them, a testament to its effectiveness.
Gadulingaz-Erloz Hreop-Wehren
Gadulingaz-Erloz Hreop-Wehren are Proto-Germanic words loosely translating as "Companion Earls of the Ripuarians". Here the "Earls" represent the nobility and chieftains of the Ripuarian Franks, and their entourages of companions, retinues and bodyguards. Given the size of the Frankish tribal confederation, they were increasingly able to command larger and larger force of such "nobles", whom more often than not were heavily armoured, armed and highly experienced, given the intricate and widespread nature of patronage enjoyed by warriors able to prove and ingratiate themselves with their respective lords and nobles. In the case of the Ripuarians, these men may have been a diverse bunch, ranging from discharged Roman auxiliary veterans, particularly successful pirates, able raiders, experienced warriors, skilled youths, among many others. With the increase in prestige from the larger tribal confederation, and increasing access to both wealth and armaments through warfare and trade with the Romans, the Franks and the Ripuarians were eventually able to equip themselves more and more as the Romans, with the distinction eventually disappearing by the 4th to 5th centuries A.D. Scholars even argue the Franks became "Romanised" in many other areas besides the military.
Representing the higher warrior classes of the Ripuarians, these men are armed and armoured accordingly. Like their more lighter tribesmen, their weapons of choice are the angon and the spatha, the former being similar to the Roman pillum in that it is a short, heavy throwing spear, with a barbed head and a long, slender neck made of iron, made to punch through shields and bend on impact. The latter would be an exquisitely crafted longsword, either presented as a gift by their lords or plundered or retained from previous military service, patterned and made of good quality iron. They enjoyed the protection of the spangehelm iron helmet, in addition to a suit of good quality iron mail. They possess a large, oval shield, beautifully painted and decorated, with a hard iron boss, useful also for offensive purposes. They wear a fine quality tunic, in addition to fell trousers, leggings and hardened leather boots. A focale scarf helps with chaffing of the mail against the neck, and their belt will have been a wide, bronze decorated military belt.
As the nobles and their retinues from one of two leading tribes of the Frankish Confederation, these men are the cream of the warrior nobility. They will fare wall in most engagements, being equally matched against most heavy infantry, having the best of arms and armour and the military experience to make good use of them. Medium and heavy cavalry may take the upper hand only if charging these men down, as even in a protracted melee, their shields and their swords will prove useful against even the most armoured of cavalrymen. This is especially useful as these men will have been expected to lead from the front, with the rest of their warrior brothers, usually at the forefront of an armoured column known as the caput porcinum or "boar's head" first described by Tacitus in the 1st century A.D, and which the Romans may have copied. With the more well armed and armoured men in the front and the lesser following behind, the column charged and smashed into the ranks of the enemy, concentrating on a single point and hoping to carry all before them. Only the most professional and well-trained and led armies were able to resist them, a testament to its effectiveness.
Wrakjōnes Akwiz Wōđinaz
Wrakjōnes Akwiz Wōđinaz are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "The Axe Warriors of Wōden". These men represent a specific warrior class in Germanic tribal society, that of the devotees to the ancient, bloody war God of the Germans, Wōđinaz, known today as Wōden or Wotan. These warriors will have been religious fanatics whom have devoted themselves utterly to their chosen war god, and as such, live only to serve him in battle. In later centuries, such men would have been known as the "Hamrarmmr" in Old Norse, meaning “those who change form” or “enter a state of wild fury” and “shapestrong”. They are closely related to other fearsome warriors known as the Ulfheđnar or “men clad in wolf skins”. All share a common trait - a state of wild, reckless rage employed by a small cadre of nearly superhumanly built men who more often than not wielded equally huge weapons. In common folklore, they are often known simply as "berserkers". As the Frankish equivalent, these men share much in common with the older “berserker” bands of the Celts, Germans and Galatians, such as the Gallic Gaesatae (said to be Hannibal’s favourite mercenaries) and the Tindonatae of the Galatians, both of which reportedly fought nude and under a drug induced fury, being impervious to pain. Such traditions are not confined to Celto-Germanic or even Indo-European culture, having Eastern equivalents in southeast Asia in the form of the Amoks. What these warriors do share in common, besides their fearsome reputations, are their skill in weaponry, whether sporting swords, axes or spears, their signature fighting style – a nearly uncontrollable, trance-like fury – and a reckless disregard for pain and their own lives. Historically, most were said to achieve this state either through a combination of drugs, alcohol or mental conditioning (or all three) in addition to working themselves into a rage before battle. Whatever the case, these men were fanatical, bloodthirsty warriors who were as likely to inspire awe in their allies as they were dread in their enemies.
Traditionally, the "wilder" versions of these devoted tribal warriors would have been significantly less well armoured, with many fighting in the nude. Most would have been outcasts, exiles, criminals, religious fanatics or simply warriors and nobles of all rungs of society, young and old, seeking to prove themselves in accordance to extremely ancient customs. Some take on the symbol (and often the pelts!) of wolves, seeking to emulate them as proud, vicious and cunning beasts, howling and stalking their prey, even altering not only their aesthetic and also their mental state to give themselves an edge in combat. The more peculiar and perhaps disturbing habits of these men (as Tacitus describes of one group) can be witnessed in the drinking of the blood of enemies, perhaps even their own blood, possibly cannibalism, self-mutilation, and of course: howling. However, given the somewhat more "civilized" nature of the Frankish confederation, and the advantages conferred to such a cadre of bloodthirsty warriors in the form of armour, these men have decided to equip their order with heavy suits of mail, either plundered from their dead foes or given as gifts by lords hoping to secure their favour (and service) within their warbands. While they wear shields, they sling these over their backs, needing both hands to wield their large, double headed axes, in addition to having a long iron sword as a backup weapon - the signature weapon of any proud warrior. A heavy iron spangehelm helmet protects them further, making these men truly monstrous, savage killers on the field.
These men are often simply best pointed towards the enemy and unleashed into a state of blind rage as shock troops whose only purpose is to carve and hack a bloody hole in an enemy line, splitting men in half from skull to breastbone, with little regard for the concepts of pain, fear, mercy or restraint. Many were said to fight on with their bare hands, biting down on shields and attacking their enemies tooth and nail, in addition to being impervious to both “fire and iron” – probably an allusion to their resistance to pain and great stamina and endurance. Given these particular and peculiar traits, they would have been rare, expensive and difficult to replace, so the Frankish King should use them accordingly - to crush your enemies, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentation of their women!
Gadulingaz Aţalaz Druhtinaz
Gadulingaz Aţalaz Druhtinaz are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Companions and Nobles of the King". These men will have been the elite of the Frankish tribal confederacy, providing the immediate bodyguard and companions (or Comitatus as it would become known classically) of the Frankish King himself. This particular set of nobles will have been the immediate kinsmen, family members, friends, sworn warriors and lesser nobility of the king's entourage, and directly at the top of the Germanic patronage and friendship structure, which was a special case of clientage and the direct source of the practice of feudalism. It involved a wholesale exchange between a social superior and inferior, with the vassal pleading military service and protection to the lord, whom in return rewarded his client with land, compensation, and many other privileges. As the senior companions in the entire Frankish realm, however, protecting the king himself, the benefits of being in the immediate warrior companions of the king will have been immense - these men will have frequently been princes, lords themselves, earls, and chieftains of entire tribes. They will have owned vast tracts of land and had the fealty of many lesser nobles pledged to themselves, in addition to owning great amounts of slaves and wealth. Such wealth by itself will have guaranteed them access to high quality weapons and armour, though the King's patronage will have provided them with the best of everything.
As the immediate companions of the King, these men will have worn expensively dyed, embroidered, highly decorated tunics in the Roman manner, as is attested by grave goods, in addition to extremely fine leather belts, with intricately engraved bronze and silver plate-work, depicting various motifs or even ritual scenes. Their armour, a suit of mail or scale, will have been of the highest quality, possibly silvered, reaching to their knees as would become customary in later centuries in Germanic warfare, with a highly decorated, reinforcedspangehelm helmet, inlaind in gold or silver, with a reinforced nasal, which may have itself been inlaid or engraved. They wield the archetypal weapons of Germanic aristocratic warriors, the spear and sword, both of which will have been made of the finest iron, with the swords of the nobles showing excellent metalworking, being carefully patterned, with exquisite pommels and beautifully decorated scabbards. They wear short iron greaves, in addition to sturdy, hardened leather boots. Their shield depicts an emblem of the king's companions, and has the usual iron boss, though the shield may have been edged in bronze or painted leather.
These men present the elite of Frankish warrior tradition, and will fair well against all opponents unless significantly outnumbered. Their spears will keep cavalry at bay, while up close their swords and armour which is second to none will cut through most infantry in melee. As the King, he will be expected to join the fight at its thickest, and lead from the front, in the traditional Germanic custom. This obviously presents great risks, but then, his bodyguard is the best equipped in the land, and well suited for such a task. At the head of the caput porcinum armoured column as described by Tacitus, the King and his retinue will be at the thick of the fight, with their armoured nobles pressing in from the sides, pressing in on a single point of the enemy line, hoping to break it.
Ridanz Wargengus Saljon-Hreop-Wehren
Ridanz Wargengus Saljon-Hreop-Wehren are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Steward riders of the Salii and Ripuarians". Here, the word "stewards" acts as a somewhat obscure old Germanic word which was also used in the context of "mercenaries", that is, soldiers who pledged an oath of fealty to foreign masters, becoming "stewards" of that particular lord, much like the native retinues and companions. Besides their native Salii and Ripuarian brethren, who fight for pledges made to the Frankish King and for the Frankish tribe, these men make themselves available to the highest bidder, and as such will act in a mercenary capacity to any willing to pay them. Possessing horses, they will be somewhere in the mid to higher strata of Frankish warrior society, and will have considerable experience of warfare to be in a capacity to make their services available to others. Perhaps they are accomplished raiders or pirates, or particularly skillful as horsemen, while others may be discharged Roman auxiliaries. Accordingly, their experience and age will vary within the unit.
Traditionally, the Germanic tribesmen preferred to fight on foot, with there being accounts of nobles and other lords dismounting before engaging in battle. However, cavalry has always featured to some extent in Germanic warfare, more so from the 3rd century onwards. Those tribes closest to the Romans will have appreciated its tactical use, and habitually mixed light infantry with cavalry, posing something of a tactical headache for the Romans. These men represent those horsemen, the "riders" whose job will have been to harass and disrupt the enemy line, shouting and strafing at the enemy, throwing javelins and hoping to draw the enemy out or tire out heavier cavalry. As such, they are lightly armed and armoured. Their horses are nimble and medium bodied, with Germanic horses enjoying a good reputation, and they sit upon a simple wood and hardened leather saddle, which may have been raised at the front to allow the rider to lean forward while throwing a javelin. They wear simple wool tunics with felt trousers and leggings, in addition to an enclosed leather boot. Their spear will have been of ash or maple, long and with a broad leafed iron head, and in addition to this they will have carried a clutch of short throwing framea javelins, together with a short, rounded shield.
As experienced Frankish riders, these men will perform well in the screening and harassing roles traditional to their type of cavalry. It will have been the type of warfare they will have been most accustomed to, and thus should be used accordingly. To a prospective paymaster, these men will form an important element of their lighter forces, being useful in pursuing routing enemies, or distracting heavier cavalry. Given their lack of armour, they will be particularly vulnerable to missiles, and will suffer in prolonged melee action.
Ridanz Wrakjōnes Tencterōnes
Ridanz Wrakjōnes Tencterōnes are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Warrior Riders of the Tencteri". The Tencteri were an ancient Germanic tribe (whose name means "The Faithful" which inhabited the right bank of the lower Rhine, later migrating to the original lands of the Alemanni (after they migrated southwards towards the Agres Decumates) between the lower Rhine and the Black Forest (Abnoba) mountain range. They disappear later in the 3rd century, and are assumed to have been amalgamated into the larger tribal confederations of the Franks or Alemanni. As a tribe with close contact with the Romans and other tribes which favoured cavalry (at least more so than most other tribes at the time) they will have appreciated its use on the battlefield, even if in a light, screening role. This group represents a unit of horsemen which, either through coin or tribal allegiance, fight for their Frankish masters. They will have been composed primarily of warriors wealthy enough to possess horses, either through wealth and prestige, or plunder and looting. They will have been relatively experienced, though many will have been raiders and the squires and retainers of their lords proper.
Traditionally, the Germanic tribesmen preferred to fight on foot, with there being accounts of nobles and other lords dismounting before engaging in battle. However, cavalry has always featured to some extent in Germanic warfare, more so from the 3rd century onwards. Those tribes closest to the Romans will have appreciated its tactical use, and habitually mixed light infantry with cavalry, posing something of a tactical headache for the Romans. These men represent those horsemen, the "riders" whose job will have been to harass and disrupt the enemy line, shouting and strafing at the enemy, throwing javelins and hoping to draw the enemy out or tire out heavier cavalry. As such, they are lightly armed and armoured. Their horses are nimble and medium bodied, with Germanic horses enjoying a good reputation, and they sit upon a simple wood and hardened leather saddle, which may have been raised at the front to allow the rider to lean forward while throwing a javelin. They wear simple wool tunics with felt trousers and leggings, in addition to an enclosed leather boot. Their spear will have been of ash or maple, long and with a broad leafed iron head, and in addition to this they will have carried a clutch of short throwing framea javelins, together with a short, rounded shield.
As Tencteri tribesmen, sworn to a foreign lord, they will give a good account of themselves on the field, but if pressed hard, will flee sooner rather than later, given their light arms and armour. In any case, only a foolish Frankish King would throw away their valuable skills by throwing them away at a reckless charge, or allowing themselves to become bogged down in a melee with superior cavalry. They are best employed on the flanks, as skirmishers, and to run down routing enemies.
Ridanz Haimaz
Ridanz Haimaz are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Chamavi Riders". Tacitus first described them in the 1st century A.D as a Germanic tribe that lived originally to the north of the Lower Rhine. Their name seems to mean "men of the settlements" or "settlers". They appeared to have a strong relationship with the Franks, as during the 4th and 5th centuries, Roman writers frequently mention the Franks and Chamavi operating in tandem with one another, such as at 392 A.D by Gregory of Tours, and then in the 5th century together with the Salian Franks. They are thought to have been a distinct ethnic polity by the 3rd century, inhabiting the areas of the modern province of Gelderland in the Netherlands, between the Ijssel and Ems rivers. As horsemen, these men will have been relatively wealthy, at least enough to be able to purchase mounts. Or they may have been the squires and lesser retinues of certain lords, operating in a supporting role. Their experience will have varied, and some may have been accustomed to serving as Roman auxiliaries at some point, as many Germanic tribesmen were enlisted into the Roman ranks. This group represents a unit which, either by tribal fealty or coin, have pledged to serve the Frankish King.
Traditionally, the Germanic tribesmen preferred to fight on foot, with there being accounts of nobles and other lords dismounting before engaging in battle. However, cavalry has always featured to some extent in Germanic warfare, more so from the 3rd century onwards. Those tribes closest to the Romans will have appreciated its tactical use, and habitually mixed light infantry with cavalry, posing something of a tactical headache for the Romans. These men represent those horsemen, the "riders" whose job will have been to harass and disrupt the enemy line, shouting and strafing at the enemy, throwing javelins and hoping to draw the enemy out or tire out heavier cavalry. As such, they are lightly armed and armoured. Their horses are nimble and medium bodied, with Germanic horses enjoying a good reputation, and they sit upon a simple wood and hardened leather saddle, which may have been raised at the front to allow the rider to lean forward while throwing a javelin. They wear simple wool tunics with felt trousers and leggings, in addition to an enclosed leather boot. Their spear will have been of ash or maple, long and with a broad leafed iron head, and in addition to this they will have carried a clutch of short throwing framea javelins, together with a short, rounded shield.
As Chamavi tribesmen, sworn to a foreign lord, they will give a good account of themselves on the field, but if pressed hard, will flee sooner rather than later, given their light arms and armour. In any case, only a foolish Frankish King would throw away their valuable skills by throwing them away at a reckless charge, or allowing themselves to become bogged down in a melee with superior cavalry. They are best employed on the flanks, as skirmishers, and to run down routing enemies.
Ridanz γazđaz Hreop-Wehren
Ridanz γazđaz Hreop-Wehren are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Pike-riders of the Ripuarians". Here, the "pike" refers to the above average length of their long spears, employed specifically for the purpose of a cavalry charge. As such, these men are best understood as an early version of the eponymous "lancers" of later ages. The Ripuarians, as one of the principal Frankish tribes, enjoyed a long and complicated relationship with the Romans, frequently warring, trading and serving as auxiliaries in their army. As such, they will have come to increasingly appreciate the role of cavalry as a shock force, able to break and pursue enemies, in addition to their traditional duties as screening and harassing forces. Some scholars have argued that indeed, among the Franks and the Alemanni, an increasing amount of "Romanisation" can be observed, not only in terms of urbanisation and the adoption of dress and Roman customs, but also in the use and change of their military forces and certain tactics. Cavalry becomes more prevalent, as does certain weapons such as the angon and light framea, throwing spears resembling the ubiquitous Roman pilum. Whatever the case, these men represent an arm of the Frankish warriors devoted to the role of a light shock force, armed with heavy, long spears, with the aim of charging into breaches and possible weak-spots, before retreating and regrouping, a tactic much favoured the Romans and their own mounted auxiliaries. This unit will have been composed of lesser nobles' retinues, squires, discharged auxiliary veterans, or experienced mounted warriors given a specific task to accomplish. Their ages, training, and level of experience will have varied.
While the Germanic tribes traditionally eschewed mounted combat, the Franks, having realised its potential, have begun to employ cavalry in heavier roles. The horse will have been a slightly heavier boned, larger breed able to support the increasing amounts of arms and armour employed by the rider, and as such will have been slower than their nimbler brethren. The saddle will have been a simple four horned, wood and hardened leather frame, possibly clothed over. The rider himself is protected by a simple planked shield with an iron boss, painted over and edged in leather. He wears a typical spangehelm helmet, carried on from previous service with the Romans, or forged specifically in one of the excellent Frankish forgeries, which enjoyed a good reputation. Likewise, he carries a long charging spear, the "pike", with a broad leafed iron head. He wears a simple, dyed woolen tunic, in addition to trousers - a necessary garment for riding due to the chaffing - and leggings, over enclosed, leather boots.
As riders with one single purpose, that of charging exposed or weaker parts of the enemy line, these men should be used accordingly. They will have been expensive to recruit and maintain, and for the wise Frankish King, an invaluable assets on the battlefield, if used at the right moment and in the right place. They will suffer against missiles and lighter cavalry, being unable to respond in kind, and their heavier mounts will make them somewhat slower. They lack of armour will make them vulnerable in a prolonged melee, but then again, they should not be allowed to find themselves in one. Their purpose is to support lighter and heavier cavalry, exploiting breaches and running down weakened and demoralised foes which will break before a sustained cavalry charge sooner rather than later.
Húsa Gadulingaz Sicambrōnes
Húsa Gadulingaz Sicambrōnes are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Horse companions of the Sicambri". They were also known as the Sugambri, and were first mentioned by Julius Caesar in the 1st century A.D, as inhabiting the right bank of the Rhine River, near the German border with the Netherlands. Caesar remarked of them that "these men are born for war and raids, no swamp or marsh will stop them" after he invited them and other tribes to continue the destruction of the Eburone tribe, which they did, taking large numbers of slaves, cattle and plunder. They were also known to serve as Roman auxiliaries, helping to destroy an uprising of Thracian tribesmen in 26 A.D. By the 3rd and 4th centuries, their lands became part of the territory with the Franks, with their name becoming synonymous with the Franks as attested by panegyrics later in the 5th century. They were also remarked to wear their hair with "locks twisted into knots". This unit represents a particular unit of Sicambrian nobility, those wealthy enough to afford not only horses, but also some type of armour. They have pledged fealty to their Frankish overlords, whom in return have allowed them to maintain their warrior status, wealth and prestige, so long as they serve under the hosts of the Frankish King. This they do by allowing their own lesser nobles, chieftains and earls to fight for them, and here they are represented as fighting on horseback, as a medium cavalry force which the Franks will have eagerly appreciated. There is much discussion about the "Romanisation" of Western Germanic peoples such as the Franks and Alemanni, and especially among those known to have served as auxiliaries in the Roman armies at some time or other. Here, the Simcambri are represented as beginning to field some of the medium and heavy cavalry which would, in later centuries, be a common element of Germanic warfare on the continent.
As nobles, these men can afford a great amount of equipment and better breeds of horses than most others. Their horse are heavier boned and larger than most, and they must be, in order to support the added weight of the arms and armour. The saddle is a traditional wood and hardened leather, four horned and sturdy, giving the rider a good seating. The rider himself enjoys the protection of a quilted, leather and woolen jerkin, similar to the Roman subarmalis worn beneath armour, offering good protection against blows and slashes. This is complimented by a decent quality iron spangehelm, the more expensive examples which may have been gilded in gold or silver and had embossed cheek-plates. They wield sturdy shields, with an iron boss and a colourful, tribal design. Their weapons are first the long, charging spear, which they wield as medium cavalry, able to act in a shock capacity, though they also possess spathas - the signature weapon of any warrior noble - which will have been of good quality, patterned and befitting their status. This will also have enabled them to act in engagements beyond the charge, in a melee capacity, fighting off other cavalry and even infantry if required. They wear a focale scarf, in addition to fine quality tunics and trousers, which will no doubt have been expensive and finely crafted. Boots and leggings help protect them from the cold climes of the north.
These men present a highly capable and flexible arm of the Frankish host. They are able to act as medium and medium heavy cavalry, well suited both for the charge and the melee that follows. Their light armour will give them staying power, and the fact it is quilted and layered will also give them protection against certain types of missiles. They will suffer against heavier cavalry, though these will be rare and far between, unless fighting specialised Roman cavalry units. All in all, these men can be used in most capacities on the battlefield, though a Frankish lord should always be sensible that their charge is perhaps their most potent weapon.
Húsa Gadulingaz Stranγaz
Húsa Gadulingaz Stranγaz are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Mighty Horse Companions". These riders represent some of the wealthiest and most important nobles and aristocracy of the Frankish tribal confederacy. While traditionally Germanic tribesmen spurned the horse in favour of leading on foot, at the front of an armoured column which the Romans called the "caput porcinum" or "boar's head", around this time many of the Western Germanic tribes began to appreciate the value of heavily armoured horsemen acting in a shock role. While the kings and higher nobles proper would only take to fighting on horses many centuries earlier (becoming the fore bearers of the famous knights) this time saw a general increase in the mounted nobility, especially around the more eastern tribes (such as the Goths and Gepics) but also among the Franks and Alemanni. Scholars argue a general "Romanisation" of these tribes may have been responsible for impressing upon them the use of heavy cavalry, if not the continues centuries of warfare with the Romans in general. As such, these men represent the cream of the warrior aristocracy, whom have taken to fighting on horseback, providing a valuable element on the battlefield to the Frankish King. They may be looked down by the older, more traditional nobles whom still prefer to fight on foot, but these men see past such prejudices, knowing full well that death can be delivered equally as efficiently (if not more) from the back of a mount. Such a group will have been made up of young and old nobles alike, their squires, earls, retinues and sworn bodyguard. Bards may have accompanied from the rear, their presence testifying to the eventual glorification of their lords if they are brave or unflatteringly if they demonstrate cowardice.
As some of the wealthiest men and lords of the Frankish Realm, these men are able to purchase the best equipment and the finest mounts. Their horses will have been especially bred (or imported from Rome or other tribes with a history of horse-breeding) for the purpose of the charge and supporting heavily armoured riders, being large and heavy boned, and therefore slower than most Germanic mounts. They will dress in fine tunics, heavily embroidered and possibly even fringed in gold, as attested in Frankish graves, copying the Roman fashion. Belts will have been wide and carried brass plates, intricately carved and possibly silvered, as were their scabbards. Trousers may have been of linen or other fine material, and their boots will have been both comfortable and durable. Their swords will have been elaborated crafted, made from the finest pattern welded iron, with ringed or chestnut pommels, of brass or even gold, and sometimes jeweled. They wear fine spangehelm helmets, gilded and possibly featuring embossed nasals and cheek-plates. Their shield is round, and features an elaborately engraved boss, with the shield being painted over in colourful tribal designs. Over their finely crafted and well maintained suit of mail, they carry a bright red cloak, the symbol of their noble status, and a means of distinction on the battlefield.
As some of the most important nobles in the Frankish Kingdom, these men are both rare and extremely expensive to maintain - they are, after all, maintained and supplied by the king himself, as they have sworn oaths of loyalty and fealty to him, and are thus under his patronage. Likewise, they should not be wasted in the battlefield. Their numbers will be small, but their effect can be disproportionate. Being heavily armoured and possessing heavy horses, they will make good shock cavalry, especially in the melee that follows. Their lack of spears will lessen their charge, but if used in conjunction with lancers proper, they may finish off an already demoralised enemy. Or they may be employed directly against similar heavily armoured cavalry, where they will perform well. A Frankish King will find these men among his most important assets on the battlefield.
Herthaz Aţalaz Druhtinaz
Herthaz Aţalaz Druhtinaz are Proto-Germanic words translating loosely as "Hearth Companions of the King". Besides the King himself, who is represented here, these men will have been the immediate "officers" in charge of leading the various warbands and army units, entourages, warrior clans and various other "units" of the Frankish army. As such, they will have varied immensely in rank, prestige and wealth, depending on what band they led. While little is known about the organisational structure of the Germanic armies, later documents allow us to gain certain insights. A Đruχtiz or warband is thought to have been composed of a few hundred to under a thousand tribesmen, and in later centuries, posts appear in the Frankish military similar to those of the Romans, such as centenarius, someone in charge of a hundred men, and so on. Similarly, the Alemanni recruited between one hundred and two hundred men per canton, and it was said there were a hundred or so cantons in the Alemanni realm. Such figures may be exagerated, but they do give an idea of how many able-bodied men such a tribe would be able to levy. Germanic tribes often fought together, either in warbands or gathered clans, and were usually led by their immediate ranking family member, chieftain, noblemen or king. As such, these men represent all the chieftains, nobles and their retinues, such as the standard bearers and other totem carriers.
As a diverse bunch, their weapons and armour will have varied, ranging from a simple tunic, to quilted armour or even mail. Scale also appears to have been somewhat prevalent among nobles, so some may take preference to it. The King himself will obviously have worn and armoured himself with only the best, much like his immedidate bodyguard. Weapons will have ranged from swords of variable quality, to axes and spears, once more, changing depending on the warband being led into battle. Shields may have been used, and will have been of the default planked wood construction, with a pointed boss which could be used in a punching motion. Standards will have carried the symbols and motifs of each tribe, with crescents and stars being popular among the Germans, in addition to Ravens and a cross-bow looking Symbol favoured by the Franks.
In battle, these men will have been expected to lead from the front, with the rest of their warrior brothers, usually at the forefront of an armoured column known as the caput porcinum or "boar's head" first described by Tacitus in the 1st century A.D, and which the Romans may have copied. With the more well armed and armoured men in the front and the lesser following behind, the column charged and smashed into the ranks of the enemy, concentrating on a single point and hoping to carry all before them. Only the most professional and well-trained and led armies were able to resist them, a testament to its effectiveness. It goes without saying the loss of such men will immediately affect the morale of their units respective units, especially more so if the King himself were to fall.
Preview IX: Sons of Wotan - The Franks
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One step closer to release! 
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Originally Posted by First Citizen Gallienus
