Brun, the Baron's Bodyguard
House Valens had been the pre-eminent ruling house of the Empire for the last three decades under Emperor Soros. However, with the Emperor's assassination and the Empire's lords all pointing fingers at one another, it seems war may be inevitable. As every nobleman's mother once told them, "you're always less likely to be stabbed in the back if you've a well-fed ogre behind you."
They're the best soldiers- loyal, well-trained, and in absence of a great excess of intelligence- they're bloody strong. Brun, my lad here, has been watching over my household ever since the Imperial Troubles began. And every single meeting I've had with every single corrupt, stuffy, self-interested lord has been the better for his presence. He considers me a friend, my dear Brun. And I too, must admit I've grown fond of his company. He has a way of seeing the world that's... Charming, really. Like a child, but one who can hurl a halberd the size of a horse through a stone building. And the best part?
Brun works for grog. And my lands produce the finest peasant swill in the North provinces. Really, my friend, you must get yourself an Ogre sooner rather than later. I can recommend you a fine recruiter, if you're inclined? Send me a reply too, old sport and I'll give you all the information you need. Better sooner, before those river-wading western families hire up all the good ones, hm?
- Letter from Baron Arkos Valentine to his friend and correspondant, Luka Manikos, circa 1345, Imperial Calendar.