INTRO - The Empire of the Celestial Dragon
Cathay, the Empire of the Celestial Dragon, is the greatest empire of the east, and indeed, the world. For thousands of years it has stood defiant in the face of Chaos from the north and Hobgoblins from the Dark Lands. The armies of Cathay are said to be innumerable, and draw exotic warriors from all across the realm, including fierce hill people, strange warrior monks and well-disciplined armies supported by heavily armored warriors and ornate cannons. All this is presided over by the Immortal Emperor of Cathay, whose unfaltering leadership keeps Cathay the supreme state that it is.
Masters of the Art of War, the Celestial Host is ready to march and die in the name of their Emperor. They fight, safe in the knowledge that their tactics, their magic, and their warriors are superior to the barbarians of the East, who can only look on in jealously at the golden nation of Cathay. Woe be it to any enemy who is so foolish to think they can snatch victory from the jaws of Heavenly Dragon.
LORE OF YIN AND YAN
Equilibrium: The ancestor gods of Cathay produce the poles of Heaven and Earth, which in turn give rise to the energies of the Yin and Yan. If either energy gains ascendancy for too long then the world will plunge into eternal night of oblivion. Basically what this means is that after casting a Ying spell the next spell cast by Wu Jen must be a Yan spell. The spell after that is Ying again, and so on and so forth.
Ying Spells:
Ancestor's Courage: The Wu Jen calls upon the strong will of the ancestors to fill the hearts of the soldiers, inspiring them to stand fast in the heat of battle. With a radius of 50 meters / 164 feet (With the Wu Jen at the center and radiating outward), the soldiers of Cathay become stubborn as they dig in their heals, the spell allowing them to better resist panic and mind altering affects.
Sapping of Will: The Wu Jen drains the will force the enemy, making them slower and loose focus. With a range of line-of-sight, those struck by this spell will find fatigue rapidly setting in, making their movements sluggish as they fight to stay conscious.
Absorbing Chill: The Wu Jen causes an unnatural cool to fall upon his allies, making them extremely resilient against enemy blows. Basically forms a thin armor of frost over units within a 100 meters (328 feet) of the Wu Jen. makes them slightly more durable against enemy attacks.
Blazing Phoenix: The Wu Jen emits a shining bright light from him, radiating the inner fire of the Phoenix. With the Wu Jen at the center, willpower and magic determine the diameter of the inferno that explodes from him, burning all nearby.
Bereavement of Life: The Wu Jen seeps away at the life force of his enemies, draining them like a leech until death finds them. This magical bolt has a range of 300 meters (984 feet), but with greater focus, prayer, and magical strain, the range can be increased to 1 Kilometer (3280 feet). At that point the spell could even hurt larger monsters. The spell bypasses normal armor, and causes the target to swiftly wither and die. They can only be saved by magical intervention.
Shroud of Darkness: The Wu Jen causes a dark shroud to fall across the eyes of his enemies, making them unable to see their surroundings. Has a range of 100 meters (328 feet), and prevents the enemy from seeing anything that's not nearly directly in front of them.
Earth Eruption: The Wu Jen opens the ground underneath his foes, and creates great walls of earth and stone to smash them from all sides. With a range of 100 meters, the Wu Jen causes large slabs of earth (size to be determined by magic and willpower) to spring up on the sides of enemies, and smash them flat. Unless the enemy is exceptionally durable, larger then the walls, or only partially in the field of effect, they're going to die, reduced to a red stain. And even those three exceptions will be taking some significant damage.
Yan Spells:
Warrior Incarnate: The Wu Jen injects the troops with true Yan power, exhilarating their minds and turns them into bloodthirsty berserkers. With a radius of 50 meters / 164 feet (With the Wu Jen at the center and radiating outward), the soldiers of Cathay become frenzied kill crazy monsters that feel a deep hatred for all non-Cathayans.
Strength of Heavens: The Wu Jen summons the power of the heavens to bless his allies with great strength to beat the foe in combat. With a range of 50 meters / 164 feet, the soldiers of Cathay find the strength of both their melee and magical attacks increasing slightly.
Flames of Azure: The Wu Jen summons azure colored flames around his allies, making their swords burn with sacred fire and set enemies alight. Has a range of 100 meters (328 feet), and causes all the weapons in range to become covered in a magical fire, ready to burn the enemies of Cathay.
Call of the Dragon: The Wu Jen calls upon the power of the Celestial Dragon and unleashes the true fire within. This spell gives the Wu Jen the power to breath fire with a range of over twenty feet.
Resurgence from Death: The Wu Jen revitalizes those wounded in battle, and allows them to fight once more. With a range of 50 meters / 164 feet, units hit by this spell will find that they've gained incredibly regenerative powers for the next few minutes. Those formerly dying will soon be back on their feet, while all around them wounds close up and fatigue lifts.
Path of Light: Summoning a road of shining light, the Wu Jen allows his comrades to travel at lightning speed. With a range of 50 meters / 164 feet (though this can be doubled), those affected will suddenly be able to move so quickly that they appear as little more then a blur to their enemies.
Meteor Rain: The Wu Jen calls upon the full force of Yang, and the sky opens, and meteors from the heavens fall upon his foes, scorching and burning anyone underneath. This has a range of 300 meters (984 feet), but with greater focus, prayer, and magical strain, the range can be increased to 1 Kilometer (3280 feet). The exact size of the meteors that will fall is hard to determine. They may only be the size of golf balls, or they may be as big as giants. Either way, everything that gets struck by them will be pulverized and, unless it's extremely durable, will die.
RECON
Steppe Archers can act as auxiliary scouts, while Imperial Infantry will act as the main scouts. Nightblades can act as spies, and commit various acts of espionage and sabotage. Tian Shi is also a master of prophecy, and can predict a lot of what the enemy will do before they do it, allowing the Cathay army to be very prepared. Cathay is a large government, with a host of diplomats and ambassadors that can go out and convince third parties to work with Cathay, or meet with the enemy directly if possible.
PRIMARY UNITS
Imperial Infantry
Mobility: 4
Training: 3
Max Range: Bow & Arrow
Preferred Range: Varies
The Imperial Infantry consists of common men who would otherwise be working the rice paddies, who throw in their lots for a chance to see the world. The vast majority of soldiers are recruited by the Ministry of War using conscription, with every healthy man from the age of fifteen serving for a period of two years. Afterwards they join the reserves and serve in protecting their local region. Each owes one month of service every year, and remains mobilized until the age of sixty. This system permits him to maintain sufficient military ability to ensure the security of the state.
Whether proudly volunteering to serve their ruler, or forcibly conscripted into the army of the state, opportunities to gain battle experience are frequent, and the banners of the Imperial regiments have seen plenty of action. The soldier's life is dangerous, but also rich with excitement for a warrior whose courage is equal to his skill.
Offense: Poleaxe, Swords, or Bows
Defense: Simple Lacquer Armor. Some may be lucky enough to have a shield as well.
Additional Factors:
-Glory for the Dragon Emperor!: Cathay believes itself to be the largest and most advanced nation of all men and Cathay and its citizens take pride in themselves and their victorious armies. Fully devoted to their Emperor, the soldiers literally throw themselves at the foe, gladly sacrificing themselves for the glory that is Cathay.
-Most are unskilled fighters, the majority having been pressed into service with little to no formal training. This doesn't bother the Nobility of Cathay, as there are always more men to replace the fallen. Thus, the Imperial Infantry relies on numbers to make up for their lack of talent.
-That said, those who do have skill, talent, valor, will be handsomely rewarded. A man may rise from rank and file soldier to attain a higher rank by the skill of his blade. Some have even risen to become generals.
Chu Ko Nu
Mobility: 4
Training: 3
Max Range: Many many yards
Preferred Range: ^^
The Chu Ko Nu, named after the weapon they wield, are the common missile troops in the Cathay army. The Chu Ko Nu repeating crossbow is known for its simple design and incredible rate of fire, as it holds a magazine of tens bolts with steel tips, which it shoots in rapid succession, but suffers from lesser range than bows. Still, the amount of bolts unleashed by the weapon more than enough makes up for it, darkening the sky with missiles. Regiments of these units accompany the Imperial Infantry, supporting the battle line.
Offense: See Description
Defense: Simple Lacquered Armor
Additional Factors:
-Glory for the Dragon Emperor: See Imperial Infantry
-1/5 of the Imperial Army is Chu Ko Nu
-Due to a lack of precision, Chu Ko Nu often won't even bother aiming, instead firing in such massive quantities that it doesn't matter.
-The Repeater Crossbow is also a decent close range weapon.
Hill Tribesmen
Mobility: 4
Training: 3-4
Max Range: Javelin
Preferred Range: Melee
Hill Tribesmen are nomadic raiders that plague the trade routes and border settlements of Cathay. They are a tough and enduring people, skilled in battle against their foes, but also experienced in battling their hostile environments. In Cathay, the tribesmen of the mountains form bands of warriors that raid settlements and caravans along major trade routes.
Hill Tribesmen are fierce and capable warriors, proud and quick to anger if offended. The armies of Cathay often contain many of these tribesmen. They are recruited as auxiliaries in support of the main battle line, and are often the first troops sent into battle to deal with enemy archers and lightly armored troops.
Offense: Javelins for ranged attacks, and short swords for melee. Hill Tribesmen are also able brawlers when it comes to hand to hand combat. Since they are also scavengers, it is possible for them to have some other form of equipment.
Defense: Leathers and furs, though they may have some other piece of armor they've scavenged off someone else.
Additional Factors:
-Auxiliaries: A fairly large realm, there are many different tribes and cultures residing within the borders of Cathay. These tribes are often recruited into Cathay's armies to act as Auxiliary troops, acting as scouts, vanguards, and ambushers.
-They are able to live off the land, despite harsh conditions.
-Bad Bosses: The Tribesmen are treated with blatant disrespect by the Cathayan aristocracy.
-The Tribesmen are masters of ambush.
-Tribesmen lack discipline, something that provides constant frustration to Cathayan warlords. Tribesmen often charge into the fray of battle instead of moving into flanking position and disobeying orders. This is why they are rarely relied upon, and are mostly used as screeners for the main force, drawing enemy missile fire to them and thus protecting the more important troops.
-Scavengers, and the dangers thereof: Hill Tribesmen tend to scavenge the enemy and their allied troops after a battle before venturing home if their loot proves satisfying enough. With the mass of soldiers available in Cathay and the huge amount of equipment needed, the Cathayan Warlords will generally not tolerate such behavior, and should the bandits be caught plundering, they will be arrested and forced to stand trial - usually resulting in having a hand chopped off or be hanged, even if they were allies in battle just a few hours before.
LINEBREAKERS / ELITES
Swordsaints
Mobility: 5
Training: 7
Max Range: Melee
Preferred Range: Melee
The Swordsaints are the best soldiers in all of Cathay, unsurpassed fighters with the blade, bested only by the Elves. They are the image of the true warrior to the common folk of Cathay, as they are generally the most visible in battle, regiments of Swordsaints forming rallying points for the Imperial Infantry that make up the majority of the Cathayan battle line, and the Swordsaints themselves take to this reverence well. It is not entirely uncommon to see a Swordsaint leading units of commoners or teaching them some simple techniques and skills before a battle. Over the millennia, the Swordsaints have created fortresses and training monasteries in every corner of Cathay, where they train day and night to perfect their art.
Offense: The Cathay Longsword: "The Cathayan longsword is a deadly crown jewel in the hands of a skilled fighter. Gold alone is never enough to acquire such a weapon. Cathayan longswords are heirlooms and highly coveted. The few still smithed are gifted only in reward for some heroic deed that is done in the kingdoms of the east."
In the hands of a Swordsaint this weapon is beyond deadly. To Swordsaints, the sword is more than a weapon - it is an ally, a friend, a spirit companion. There is no armor they cannot pierce, and few if any melee attacks they cannot parry. They have sliced arrows out of the air and deflected weaker spells into the ground.
Defense: Heavy Armor that is well looked after and cared for. Swordsaints are also incredible acrobats: leaping, ducking, and dodging around their opponents' strikes in a way that looks totally effortless.
Special: Variant: Blademaster: After a prolonged and rigorous training, a Swordsaint may rise to become Blademaster within their order. To gain his mastery, the applicant must display his skill by defeating three of his peers simultaneously in combat, and be judged by his superiors. Only through this may he attain the instruction necessary, and become blessed with the responsibility of the training of others, or the responsibility of coordinating units of Swordsaints on the battlefield.
Additional Factors:
-Glory for the Dragon Emperor: See Imperial Infantry
-Swordsaints bolster the Imperial Infantry in battle, regiments of heavily armored warriors standing side by side with the common soldiers of Cathay, giving them both a focal point for their devotion and an unflinching anvil upon which the endless warriors of Cathay can smash their foes. Some put this down to nobility and honor, yet it could hardly be so, for they are warriors first and only.
-Viewing combat as art, a deadly dance, Swordsaints are prone to singing in battle.
Celestial Dragon Monks
Mobility: 7
Training: 7
Max Range: Melee
Preferred Range: Melee
The Celestial Dragons Monks are the most alien of the warriors of Cathay, for as they ascend through their training they leave all that makes them human behind- anger, pain, hatred and every other human emotion is forfeit, the Celestial Dragons are incomprehensible to the normal man. While the monks of the dragon do not use any forms of armament or armor other than their fists and feet, this reliance on simplicity allows them to focus on their Chi, their inner life force. Celestial Dragons manipulate it, harnessing it to heal wounds, strengthen blows and increase their speed until they are merely blurs of death.
Offense: Their body is their weapon. They train day and night, year after year to battle. Then they add the Chi, the mystical life-force that is present in all living beings, and that the Monks have learned to harness as a weapon. It increases their body's abilities exponentially, allowing them to take on squads of fully armed men and emerge without a scratch. A punch from a Monk doesn't just shatter bones… it damn near blows a hole in the body! A kick to the head sends it rocketing off into the sky! A flick of the wrist can often times be enough to tear an armored knight in half!
And they aren't just mindless brawlers, their strength is utilized and maximized through various martial arts fighting styles. There are many fighting styles for a monk to learn, but the following are the five most common. Many Monks know more then one, and Enlightened Ones (see Special), know them all.
-Black Tiger: A style that focuses on great speed, and pouncing like the namesake. A Monk with this style will knock their target to the ground before dealing the finishing blow.
-White Crane: A style that focuses almost exclusively on speed, the Monk strikes as fast as the wind, dealing lethal blows before the enemy even knows they are in danger.
-Fanged Snake: A style that focuses on flexibility and lethality, a Monk with this style bends and twists out of the way of enemy attacks, before dealing a quick, lethal blow that's almost guaranteed to kill.
-Great Dragon: A style that focuses on power, the Monk who practices this style has greater physical strength.
-Praying Mantis: A style that focuses on defense, a Monk who practices this style is able to deflect, avoid, or survive most melee, ranged, or magical attacks.
Defense: None. Monks only defend with their martial arts, or by dodging. This is actually more impressive then you'd think, as monks are able to move so fast they appear like a blur. If struck, a Monk can channel his Chi into the wound to speed up the healing process. They can also strengthen their body with Chi, making attacks that strike them do less damage, though this form of defense takes a second to prepare, and requires upkeep through constant vigilance.
Special: Enlightened One: A Monk that has trained and fought so much that they have achieved that highly sought after state of Enlightenment. To fight along side them is to battle with death itself. So great is their control over their Chi that they are able to achieve mystical feats, such as breathing fire, and running across water without breaking the surface. They can also perform minor regenerative feats with their Chi.
Additional Factors:
-Glory for the Dragon Emperor: See Imperial Infantry
-Monks are cold, emotionless beings. They live only to fight, or to prepare to fight. They have left their humanity behind in search of enlightenment.
-Monks are immune to psychological warfare or mind attacks.
Mobility: 5
Training: 4
Max Range: Melee
Preferred Range: Melee
Foo Statues are some of the strangest defenders of Cathay. They are magical constructs, chiseled and set from enchanted stone and stand immobile guarding temple grounds from intruders. On closer inspection these avatars seem indistinguishable from a normal statue, but they suddenly spring into life when certain strictures have been violated on the temple grounds. The Wu Jen long ago learned the art of animating them in times of need and since then have perfected the enchantments required to do so.
Offense: In battle they charge into their prey, pouncing on them and crushing their targets with the weight of their stone bodies. Some have carved teeth or claws that can act like the real things.
Defense: The durability of stone, with mystical agility. They also have a resistance to magic.
Additional Factors:
-As magical constructs, Foo Statues don't get tired, and are able to run/march for days on end.
-As magical constructs, Foo Statues are immune to mind attacks.
Terracotta Warriors
Mobility: 3
Training: 4
Max Range: Melee
Preferred Range: Melee
A legend in Cathay says that a Dragon Emperor pleaded with the God of Conflicts, for an unstoppable army to beat the hobgoblins to the west. Knowing that the strength of Cathay alone would be enough to best any foe, the god dug a wide trench and used all the earth and clay he removed to construct an army numbering one hundred thousand Terracotta Warriors for the Dragon Emperor. The Emperor was most pleased and set this army on the Hobgoblins and was even more pleased when they utterly crushed them.
With the hobgoblins gone, the army stopped moving and nothing could be done to make them move again. The Dragon Emperor was disappointed by this and demanded that life be returned to the Terracotta Warriors. The God of Conflicts was outraged, so he ordered the soldiers to tear the Dragon Emperor limb from limb and bear away pieces of the corpse, each going forth to find a quiet place to rest. From then on they would protect the body of the Dragon Emperor and only have life once again to face a threat with the might to crush Grand Cathay.
The Terracotta Warriors then stood quiet, unmoving for centuries, until the Wu Jen managed to solve the magical secrets of bringing them back to life. Unfortunately, this requires a huge amount of effort from the Wu Jens side, and they can therefore only control smaller groups of them at a time. Once awoken, they will follow orders just like any other soldier, except that their morale is unfaltering, making them perfect warriors. However, due to the magic required to keep them alive, they are prone to become inanimate when weakened. Still, as long as they are moving, they are a welcome unit in the Cathayan army, being the most disciplined warriors the world will ever see.
Offense: Swords of carved stone, they carry traces of magic on them. They can also tear people apart with their hands, as they possess supernatural strength.
Defense: They are made of stone. They cannot be affected by plagues, time, etc. They have a strong resistance to magic.
Additional Factors:
-Unlike most constructs, a Terracotta soldier carries within its' form a spark of intelligence. This is hardly enough to grant the construct the ability to speak or otherwise engage in free will, but it is enough for it to carry out more complex tactics than most constructs are capable of.
-Wu Jen can animate and control these soldiers, however it takes so much magic that they can usually only control small groups at a time. When the magic animating them runs low, they begin to slow down, until they eventually stop moving.
-The Terracotta soldiers are implacable warriors. Once given a mission, they will march unceasingly, fight unendingly until the goal is done, or they are destroyed.
RAPID RELIEFS:
Bastion Chariots
Mobility: 5
Training: 4
Max Range: Bow & Arrow
Preferred Range: Melee
Though Cathayans of all states have much in common, nothing is more common than their skill in the arts of war. One devastating weapon employed across the plains of Cathay by all five kingdoms is the war chariot. The chariot is more than just a machine of war; to the Cathayan, it is the symbol of both power and prestige on the battlefield. Indeed, no vassal may command more war chariots than his liege.
The Bastion Chariots of Cathay are among the heaviest in the world, using four mounts instead of the normal two, and having a larger platform allowing for more soldiers to fight from it. It is usually manned by the charioteer, an archer, and sometimes a third man holding a handful of throwing spears, plus a sword or battleaxe. It is often constructed from wood, leather, and sometimes bronze or other precious minerals and elements.
Offense: See description. Also, bronze spikes on the wheels, and you can always be trampled by horses.
Defense: The chariot is made of various metals and lacquered wood. The men on the chariots may have shields.
Additional Factors:
-To ride into battle on one of Cathay's Bastion Chariots is a great honor, usually reserved to nobles, but some soldiers rising in the ranks of the army may also receive this privilege. Some Warlords ride to war in one of these chariots, a stoic example of the grandeur that is Cathay. The Emperor himself has the grandest chariot in all the land, a resplendent construction decorated with gold and jade, glistening in the sunlight.
Dragon Lancers
Mobility: 5
Training: 5
Max Range: Several Meters
Preferred Range: Melee
Even though Cathay have great plains and access to plenty of good horses, cavalry have never played much of a large part in their military. Still, that does not mean their cavalry is absent, for riding a horse into battle is both a sign of rank and wealth, as well as a useful element in war. The Dragon Lancers are the heavy cavalry on the Cathay army, fulfilling the role of shock troops against lighter enemy units.
Offense: Halberds with a shortened haft and a crescent blade.
Defense: Heavy armor with a leather breastplate, shoulder protectors, and thigh protection added. The horses wear a short barding covering the neck, back, and flanks; a leather mask protects its face.
Special: Fire Lance: The fire lance is a black powder weapon that fires a small armor piercing projectile just before entering combat. These deadly one-shot weapons give the wielder an edge versus hand to hand combatants.
Additional Factors:
-Glory for the Dragon Emperor: See Imperial Infantry
-Units are trained to charge enemy lines in close ranks and take advantage of their speed to increase their impact. While not being as powerful as the knights of the Old World, they fulfill their own role in the Cathay army, taking out smaller units of enemy infantry, skirmishers and archers, before moving into position to flank the enemy battle line to support the infantry.
-Most of the Dragon Lancers are nobles, but one can also reach this position through prolonged service in the army. To become a Dragon Lancer is a great honor to the Cathayans.
Steppe Archers
Mobility: 5
Training: 5
Max Range: Arrows
Preferred Range: ^^
For centuries, especially during the Warring Kingdoms period when no unified empire of Cathay stood to confront the enemy, the steppe nomads were usually seen down the tip of a blade as enemies, not as partners. This all changed though when Emperor Yin Shi Zheng unified Cathay. He was the first to recognize their use on the field as allies rather than foes, and offered them land and gold in return for their services. From then on, the Steppe Archers would often show up in the armies of Cathay as mercenaries, filling the roles of scouts and light cavalry, peppering their foes with arrows from horseback.
Offense: Arrows are their bread and butter. Their most well known maneuver is the Parting Shot: The Steppe Archers would feign retreat; then, while at a full gallop, lie back to shoot at the pursuing enemy. The maneuver requires superb equestrian skills, since the rider's hands were occupied with his bow, leaving only pressure from his legs to guide his horse.
Defense: Light armor, typically leather.
Additional Factors:
-Auxiliaries: See Hill Tribesmen
-Prefer ambushes to frontal assault.
-Can act as scouts.
-Masters of flanking, and cutting enemies off from valuable supply lines or reinforcements.
-Act as mercenaries, their loyalty can be bought.
Monkey Warriors
Mobility: 6
Training: 4
Max Range: Blowpipe
Preferred Range: Melee
The Monkey Warriors from the Mountains of Heaven are among the more curious creatures of Cathay. Like the Beastmen of the Old World, they too are a spawn of Chaos. Whether they group together for similar reasons as more common beast herds, these monkey-men do seem more benevolent than their Old World counterparts, depicted more as tricksters and con men than blood-thirsty marauders. These forest denizens are able to fight using all four limbs, meaning these warriors have an unusual style of fighting. As dexterous as they are deadly, more movement is involved, using and interacting with the surrounding environment for any advantage it offers. It is a style that has been copied by the Dragon Monks, making for a more agile blend of blows from fists and feet.
Offense: They utilize a unique style of martial arts that uses all four limbs. Though somewhat weak physically, their speed and agility more then makes up for it. They also take to battle a long wood quarterstaff that can both parry enemy attacks, or deliver painful blunt force attacks. For range they utilize Blowpipes that fire small darts filled with lethal poison.
Defense: Usually they just dodge, using their inhuman grace and agility to dance around their adversaries. Sometimes they'll have some light armor that they've either stolen or been given by their human allies.
Additional Factors:
-Auxiliaries: See Hill Tribesmen
-Look good for their age: Many Monkey Warriors look younger than they actually are due to their tough training in the mountains. They have been able to maintain their youth through the years, many even older than the average human!
-Monkey Warriors are sometimes hired into the armies of Cathay, for they possess common knowledge just like any other man, yet only a few of them understands the human language. Whenever they go to battle it is mostly for food or equipment to bring to their tree colonies that they do not have the materials to make for themselves.
Mobility: 7
Training: 8
Max Range: Aura (Varies by age, but an older Qilin can have one of a few hundred feet), Melee (All)
Preferred Range: Behind the scenes
The Qilin are a race of noble aerial creatures that roams the sky in search of good deeds to reward or malefactors to punish. The Qilin come to the aid of the Cathayans if asked properly or if such they are faced with a powerful, extremely evil being. The Qilin believe in self-improvement, and do not casually come to a Cathayans aid except in the most dire of circumstances. When they do so though, they serve as very potent mounts for the Warlords and Duizhu of Cathay, soaring across the battlefield to smite their unholy foes.
Offense: Horns and hooves, and an aura of purity that makes them especially deadly to the undead, daemons, or the impure of heart. All of their attacks are magical.
Defense: They have a hide like a dragon's, and an aura of purity makes them highly resistant to evil magic. They can also fly.
Special: Variant: Emperor Qilin: The wisest and most powerful Qilin are known as emperor Qilin, having earned this title through the respect of their peers and the strength of their powers. They resemble standard Qilin, except their hooves give off sparks as they gallop through the air.
Additional Factors:
-Rare in the extreme.
-The Qilin speak their own language. Being telepathic, they are able to mentally or verbally converse with virtually any living thing.
-The Qilin rarely set hoof on solid ground, and only the males ever do so. No encounter with a female Qilin has ever been recorded, although it is certain such beings exist.
-While they are willing to act as mounts, they will only do so for those of pure heart.
SHOCK & AWE:
Hand Mortar
Mobility: 3
Training: 3
Max Range: Artillery
Preferred Range: Artillery
Hand mortars are portable artillery pieces mounted on small wagons that are brought into battle. Firing a hollow shell packed with gunpowder and metal splinters that send shards of sharp metal in every direction upon impact, these lightweight versions of the Imperial Mortars can be devastating against enemy infantry.
Offensive: See Description
Defense: The Mortars are made of iron, they are carried on wooden wagons.
Additional Factors:
-They are operated by Field Engineers (See Support)
Dragon's Breath
Mobility: 3
Training: 3
Max Range: Several Hundred Yards
Preferred Range: ^^
The Cathayan Dragon's Breath is a siege weapon that fires a continuous stream of flame, incinerating enemy infantry from short range. They call it the "Dragon's Breath" after the Celestial Dragon that is so famed across the land, and the similarities of the two "breathing" fire. It was the first use of gunpowder in Cathayan warfare, before it was imbued with enough saltpeter to explode. The Dragon's Breath is most commonly mounted on a two-wheeled pushcart, allowing it to be used on the battlefield to deter to enemy attacks by projecting a shield of flame for advancing soldiers.
Offensive: See Description
Defense: Metal Container, mounted on a cart
Additional Factors:
-Moves ahead of the main army, providing a shield of fire.
-Can be used a terror weapon, as enemies set on fire (or threatened with being set on fire) tend to panic.
Stormhurler Ballista
Mobility: 1
Training: 3
Max Range: Artillery
Preferred Range: Artillery
The Stormhurler Ballista is basically a larger version of the Chu Ko Nu, fielding a lot more destructive power. It can fire a huge amount of arrows in a single volley, covering the sky with bolts, killing everything within range. It is mounted on a fixed chassis and placed atop ramparts. As tall as a man, it can launch three-foot long bronze bolts two hundred yards or more. A hoist allows it to be lifted or lowered. Wheels help it maneuver, and at least two soldiers are needed to work it. The Cathayan armies also use these on the battlefield.
There are many versions, some lined up one next to the other, others in a fan-shape. This war machine can sow carnage among enemy ranks. However, precision is sacrificed in return for a higher rate of fire: after medium range the bolts tend to disperse. Usually, this weapon can fire several bolts, all set off together with the aid of a bronze catch. Several of these weapons can be placed side by side and tied to a single release catch with a cord connecting one to the other, giving it a still higher rate of fire.
Offense: See Description
Defense: Made of metal and wood.
Additional Factors:
-While it may lack the range of some of its contemporaries, it has incredible power, able to punch through city walls, and still manage to kill everyone on the other side.
Dragon Cannon
Mobility: 3
Training: 3
Max Range: Artillery
Preferred Range: Artillery
Neither in Cathay nor in the Old World can scholars approach with certitude the origins of alchemy, but the evidences in Cathay appear to be slightly older. The discovery of alchemy eventually led to the invention of gunpowder. The Cathayans wasted little time in applying it to warfare, and soon the first cannons could be seen. The first weapons were crude, and more often than not exploding in the faces of the crew operating them, but over the centuries they managed to both stabilize them and making them both more accurate and destructive.
In later years, the Cathayan engineers have constructed more effective ways to their war machines. While the Dragon Cannon is smaller than the ones of the Empire, it has a special type of ammunition not yet discovered in the Old World.
Offense: Dragon Cannons fire extremely volatile ammunition, cannonballs with an outer layer packed with gunpowder that explode on impact. Surrounding the cannonball is a thin metal shell packed with gunpowder. When the cannonball hits its target, the shell breaks and the spark it creates sets the gunpowder within on fire, making in very effective against infantry and monsters alike.
Defense: Metal Cannon, Wooden Frame & Wheels.
Additional Factors:
Fire Arrow
Mobility: 3
Training: 3
Max Range: Artillery
Preferred Range: Artillery
The Fire Arrow consists of a two-wheeled cart carrying a launch pad or board, filled with holes into which the ammunition is inserted. This consists of about two hundred small rockets attached to long sticks, which are then ignited and fired. The rockets explode on impacts, dealing massive damage. Many are the foes that have been slain by an artillery barrage from these fearsome weapons.
Offense: See Description
Defense: A wooden frame
Additional Factors:
-Random: Fire Arrows aren't exactly a precision weapon. While the operator can point in the general direction they want to fire, once ignited, the Arrows can fly in any number of directions due to a variety of factors such as the amount of gunpowder, wind, etc. etc. They may suddenly veer to the right, or drive into the ground, or they may all stay straight as an arrow. This makes the Fire Arrow best for large clusters of enemies, or massive monsters; things that are hard to miss.
-This is a device packed with gunpowder, and if struck by a flame attack, it will explode. Violently.
Phoenix
Mobility: 8 (10 with Teleportation)
Training: 9
Max Range: Several Hundred Meters
Preferred Range: Melee
In Cathay, the phoenix is seen as a symbol of virtue, healing, strength, and eternal life. Some pilgrims trek hundreds of miles through harsh deserts and barren hills merely to solicit a phoenix's rare and ancient knowledge, always given freely and with courtesy. The Phoenixes are the guardians of the Great Flame of Mount Rui An, beings of awesome magical power and unsurpassed grace and beauty. Even bigger than the great eagles of Ulthuan, a Phoenix also have the ability to create a massive aura of flame around themselves in the shape of a far greater bird, appearing to be many feet larger in size when roused to anger.
The Phoenix rarely interfere in the wars of Cathay, but in times when the Great Flame itself is in danger, or its future is at stake, the Phoenix will fly forth from the peak of Rui An like fiery comets to bring death to the foes of Cathay. The people of Cathay view sightings of a Phoenix as an omen of good to come and protection against evil. The Phoenix is heavily featured in Cathayan art and craft as a symbol of hope and virtue.
Offense: In battle the Phoenix is shrouded in magical fire, so every attack it makes is both magical and burning.
Defense: Flight, and being shrouded in magical fire. Non-magical melee attacks will hurt the attacker more then the Phoenix, though the bird will still take some damage.
Special: Emberstorm: The Phoenix turns into a bolt of fire, and moves up to 1 kilometer in a matter of moments. Everything in his path is set ablaze, and some are downright incinerated.
Special: Rebirth: If a Phoenix is slain, then it collapses to the ground, and bursts into flame. From the ashes, it is reborn anew. Any creature near the Phoenix when it burns suffers magical fire damage. This is a tiring process for the Phoenix, so they may not be able to fight as well as they were before, and may leave the battlefield to regain their strength.
Additional Factors:
-The Phoenix is a symbol of hope to the people, and seeing one will make them fight harder then ever.
-Phoenixes are immune to mind attacks.
-Phoenixes are incredibly wise, and will lend their knowledge to those who ask for it.
-Phoenixes are naturally peaceful creatures, and won't fight unless they think the Sacred Flame, Cathay, or the World itself is in danger.
Brass Titans
Mobility: 3
Training: 4
Max Range: Melee
Preferred Range: Melee
Implacable automatons forged of elemental fire and brass, Brass Titans stand sentinel over the palaces and temples of Cathay. Unquestionably loyal, they follow orders literally and explicitly, and so make perfect guardians for the Grand Empire. Brass Titans are forged from the purest copper and zinc found in the mountains of Cathay to make an incredibly strong brass alloy, with an inner core of molten lava. Brass Titans are normally cast to resemble huge, fearsome elemental beings, clad in shining armor.
Over the years, the art of constructing these beings has been perfected, allowing them to take orders more clearly and be built to immense sizes. The towering brass statues stand attention, holding a gigantic curved sword in their clenched fists. Heat emanates from the shining metal and the pungent smell of sulfur fills the air. Without warning, the statues come to life, stepping into a fighting stance with a thunderous crash that shakes the ground. Towering over the soldiers of Cathay, the Brass Titans march to war; each step a small earthquake and every swing of the blade able to massacre whole scores of troops.
Offense: Swords sized to fit these behemoths. Their sheer size allows them to simple crush enemies underfoot, and every step is a small earthquake. They also give off incredibly heat, so touching them will scald you.
Defense: They are made pure copper and zinc, magically animated. They have magical resistance.
Additional Factors:
-A cadre of Brass Titans guards the Emperor of Cathay.
-The Titans take orders literally.
-Can be good Terror Units, as the sight of them marching towards you would terrify most sane individuals.
-The Titans need orders. Without them, once they have completed their last order, they will freeze in place, waiting.
Celestial Dragons
Mobility: 7
Training: 9
Max Range: Hundreds of feet
Preferred Range: Hundreds of feet
The dragons of Cathay are often actively involved with the ebb and flow of the human society. Dragons, to the Cathayan, are the living embodiment of wisdom and divinity. Cathayans view dragons with terror and awe, but unlike those in the Old World, they also regard them with a deep reverence that borders on worship.
Offense: Claws, teeth, tail, all can be used as weapons. Celestial Dragons breath fire. They are also powerful telepaths, and can attack a target mentally. Targets with low willpower will be unable to fight off the dragon's assault, and their mind will shut down. Those with strong minds can protect their minds, and especially willful beings can throw them out entirely, causing psychic backlash to the dragons. The Celestial Dragons require eye contact to launch their mental assault.
Defense: Flight and extremely durable scales.
Additional Factors:
-Celestial Dragons are revered by the people, worshiped by peasants and nobles alike.
-Celestial Dragons, unlike other dragons of the Old World, do not have wings. They are held aloft by their own magical power.
-Celestial Dragons will offer potent advice to the armies of Cathay.
-Celestial Dragons are more active in times of great upheaval.
Pixiu
Mobility: 6
Training: 4
Max Range: Melee
Preferred Range: Melee
The Pixiu is a celestial lion, said to be the ninth son of a dragon, possessing the body of a lion, the head of a dragon, the paws of a kilin and the wings of an eagle. According to legend, it once served the gods in hunting down demons and halting the spread of Chaos. Then it made a mistake, breaking one of the laws of the Celestial Realm and was punished by the Dragon Emperor who banished the Pixiu, and it has since suffered a curse which has stopped it from feeding on anything other than gold.
However, its hatred for daemons did not slumber long, and it has continued hunting them tirelessly to destroy them and absorb their essence, which it transforms into gold, precious stones and many other riches. The Pixiu now lives mostly in the mountains but is drawn to places infested by Chaos, often caused by the daemons it loves to devour.
According to an ancient text, the Pixiu is condemned to wander forever on the earth, seeking gold to eat and demons of all kinds to destroy. Although the tales speak of the Pixiu as a unique being, it is more likely that it is one of a race of celestial creatures, several examples of which live in our world. All the legends agree on the Pixiu's ferocity and warlike bravery, to the extent that the term "pixie" is used to refer to an army.
Offense: Dragon's teeth and lion's claws, the Pixiu is incredibly strong. It hunts Daemons as its natural prey.
Defense: Flight, but also an incredibly thick hide. Most swords and small bullets bounce off the thing, though stronger attacks can injure it. It has a mid level resistance to magic.
Additional Factors:
-Some tales tell of Warlords with few scruples, which capture a Pixiu and bring it daemons every day for it to devour them and vomit forth gold and jewels. When battle calls, they take their Pixiu as a mount.
-A rather rare unit, unless the enemy army has a large amount of daemons in it, in which case more Pixiu will be attracted.
-Pixiu are barely controllable monsters in the presence of Daemons or practitioners of Chaos. When those aren't around, they are a little more agreeable, but they still aren't exactly friendly.
SPECIALIST SUPPORT
Warlords
Mobility: 4
Training: 7
Max Range: Battlefield
Preferred Range: Behind the troops
The Warlords have ruled Cathay throughout its entire history, forming small kingdoms for themselves and dividing the land between them. A very successful Warlord might conquer others and expand his own territory, increasing his status and power in Cathay. The most successful Warlord ever was Yin Shi Zheng who united the Warring Kingdoms and became Emperor of a unified Cathay. Since then, the other Warlords have somewhat lost their independence, now owing allegiance to the Dragon Emperor. They still control their own territory and armies, but are oath bound to the Emperor and cannot seek to expand their borders by attacking their neighbors.
Offense: Whatever weapon they want. They will have a higher chance to get a magical weapon.
Defense: The best armor in the army, with the chance for getting magical armor.
Special: Drums & Gongs: Used by the War Lords to direct their troops, even during the chaos of battle. These are used to send out signals, most often orders to move. Thus, despite the vast area covered by thousands of men locked in combat, the army is capable of coordinating its actions. Although everything may seem confused on the field of battle, visual and auditory signals can assure coherence between any army's commander and thus the success of its operations.
Additional Factors:
-Very disciplined, and they impose that discipline on others. Breaking it often results in extreme punishment. Warlords are often very stressed individuals. This creates its own set of problems, negligible for the most part, but which can be exploited by an intelligent foe.
-As the majority of the nine ranks of officers (especially the lower ranks) were themselves soldiers promoted for their skill, they generally know when and how to get the best out of their men, who see in them the hope for a better future and higher rank. This is particularly true for those of low social rank who have chosen the army to escape their situation, aspiring to a better life.
-Another Cog in the Machine: Even if Cathay's officers are well-trained, they are unfortunately not all equal, and the legalist education system often prefers to teach them the solution to a problem rather than the ability to analyze, adapt and innovate. As a result, with very few exceptions, they will usually choose the optimal option in a combat situation, with the chosen strategy being successful if predictable, but lacking genius when facing a talented, unpredictable general capable of improvisation. By the same logic, the heads of different units are trained to think of their men as interchangeable and faceless, and act directly against individuality and personal initiative. As such, they can command in any situation, but are not able to exploit their soldier's skills or expect them to react should something unexpected happen.
Wu Jen
Mobility: 4
Training: 6
Max Range: Battlefield
Preferred Range: Battlefield
Though few nobles care to sully their standing by consorting with Wu Jen and their uncouth ways, exceptional Wu Jen sometimes prove themselves sufficiently to emerge as magistrates under the Emperors and the Warlords. The Wu Jen are rather reclusive in their behavior, often locking themselves into their dormitories for days in silent prayer and meditation, purifying their bodies and minds in order to contact the various natural and supernatural powers of the world. From these entities they learn their spells - magical means to control the invisible forces of the world.
They are masters of elemental magic, and the greatest astromancers in the world, except for the Slann. They study the stars and the heavens, and focus on the aspect of the Ying and Yan, the balance of all that exist. The power they possess to unleash at the foes of Cathay is truly awe-inspiring.
Offense: A Wu Jen can use magic from any ONE of the following Lore: Fire, Metal, Heavens, or Ying & Yang. They may also have a staff.
Defense: Magical Shields
Additional Factors:
-The general populace tend to distrust the Wu Jen.
-Neither peasant nor noble, the Wu Jen typically stands outside the traditional hierarchies of Cathay - their learning and personal power demand respect, but the Wu Jen's lack of family and social graces sometimes make it difficult for the wealthy and powerful to accept their talents and skills.
-Wu Jen crave magical power in a world where no organized colleges of wizardry exist. Their thirst drives them to seek out others like themselves, hermits, recluses, or exiles who have gained the secrets they seek. Nearly all Wu Jen are trained by a single mentor in this fashion, outcast from proper society and set apart by their fearsome supernatural powers.
Strategist
Mobility: 4
Training: 8 (All theory)
Max Range: Battlefield
Preferred Range: Observing the enemy, advising the Warlord
Although Tzu-Sun's The Art of War was written more than 3500 years before present-day Cathay, it is arguably the most important work on military strategy ever written by a member of any race… or so the people of Cathay often claim. The bundle of bamboo on which the work was painted, was intended by Tzu-Sun only for his personal use, as they were based on the ideas, concepts and techniques on strategy that Tzu-Sun had tested and found to be effective. Even today, the Cathayans highly rely on the Art of War as their primary source for military tactics. Some people have even turned this into a trade; learned scholars thoroughly study it and add new tactics to it yearly.
These Strategists are often hired by the Warlords to acts as military advisers on the battlefield. Strategists are trained to identify the tiniest weaknesses in an enemy army and exploit them. At the same time, they have to mask their own weaknesses and take full advantage of their strengths. The Strategists train the troops and make the battle plans, and execute them with utmost precision. While any general is trained in the Art of War, no one is as accustomed to it as Cathay's Strategists, military geniuses bar none.
Offense: None, their job is to advise, not fight.
Defense: Being far from the front lines where the fighting is taking place.
Additional Factors:
-A popular proverb states "When thunder breaks, it is too late to block your ears." Initiative, the element of surprise, and the rapidity of troop movements constitute three essential parameters in the strategic approach to war. Understanding enemy plans and countering their strategies is another basic aspect of military operations. In fact, no matter how well prepared, the victorious general is always the one who can profit from the slightest opportunity. Warfare is not a predetermined thing; rapidly taking advantage of every situation that arises shows the true skill and character of the commanding general. In doing so he does not lay the weight of the battle entirely on his subordinate's shoulders.
Emperor's Guard
Mobility: 4
Training: 7
Max Range: Melee
Preferred Range: Near the Emperor
To protect himself from enemy Warlords seeking to kill him and claim the throne for themselves, Emperor Yin Shi Zheng created the Emperor's Guard, who dedicated themselves to a life of eternal vigilance and hardship in the pursuit of military excellence.
The Emperor's Guard are first and foremost warriors, who live and die by their blades. The prime duty in his life is to serve and protect the Emperor in all things, and to never let an enemy set foot in the Imperial Palace. However, the code of the Emperor's Guard is hard and unrelenting. An Emperor's Guard must be willing to accept his own death at any moment. There is no failure for an Emperor's Guard when protecting his Emperor, his only choices are to defend or die. If the Emperor's Guard accepts these choices, he cannot fail since death is not failure - it is the ultimate service to his Emperor.
Offense: Their signature weapon is the Glaive, but they are trained to use just about any weapon in the defense of the Emperor.
Defense: High quality armor worn beneath a tiger's pelt.
Additional Factors:
-Glory for the Dragon Emperor: See Imperial Infantry
-The Emperor's Guard were initially just a small force dedicated to the defense of the Emperor, even at the cost of their own lives, but over the years, they have developed from a single fighting unit to a Cathayan institution, where every boy grows up with aspirations to join the noble and chivalric fighting order. They have many great admirers, for their versatility in battle have proved the Emperor's Guard triumphant for many years over threats from the Chaos Wastes, the western domains of the Ogres, and the Red Mansion, where the Emperor's Guard are often the only survivors in close encounters with the daemonic legions. In a sense, the Emperor's Guard is a symbol of the resilience of the emerging empire of Cathay - if they should fall, then Cathay would also fall into ruin.
Nightblades
Mobility: 6
Training: 7
Max Range: Thrown weapon
Preferred Range: Unseen
Nightblades are assassins, arsonists, saboteurs and spies rolled into one. Clad in black so that only their eyes are seen, and with their ability to dispatch targets ruthlessly and silently, a Nightblade is both feared and despised - but a necessary evil in Cathay. Nightblades serve directly under the Emperor, carrying out tasks which the Emperor's Guard are unable to, such as secretly gaining access to another lord's castle for assassination, committing acts of arson, or intelligence gathering.
Offense: Swords, lacquered black so they don't glint in the darkness and give them away. A Nightblade can carry a wide variety of weapons, whatever is suited to his task. Typically though, he will always carry a set of knives for throwing or CQC. He may also have the 'Dragon's Claw', a weapon that acts like a brass knuckle with spikes while taking the form of a dragon's claw.
Defense: Dark colored robes, with bits of darkened armor covering their vitals. A Nightblades two greatest defenses though are never being seen or moving so fast they are never struck.
Special: Nightblades often coat their weapons with a potent poison.
Additional Factors:
-Glory for the Dragon Emperor: See Imperial Infantry
-Can act as scouts, and they patrol the borders of Cathay, halting smaller incursions or alerting the populace to incoming invasions.
-Often times, an enemy will never know a Nightblade has passed him by. The next day they simply arrive to find the corpses of those that were their targets.
-When acting on the battlefield, they often move quickly and silently, attacking where they enemy least expects it. Their strike teams are also sent to assassinate enemy commanders.
-Nightblades train for 16 hours a day. Damn.
Wu Xia
Mobility: 4 (6 on mount)
Training: 6
Max Range: Several Meters (Mount), Melee (Rider)
Preferred Range: Melee
Whether out of choice or out of desperation, Wu Xia have become a respected figures in the world of martial arts, and have devoted their lives to mastering it. Whether following a tradition, or a personal quest for glory and discovery, they travel the roads of Cathay, selling their fighting skills. But they will only fight for a just cause. For in the words of their code, "the strong warrior defeats his enemies with his weapon, but only the great warrior fights with his heart."
Most Wu Xia aspire to the ideals of righteousness, honor, justice, individualism, courage, loyalty, altruism, truthfulness, disregard for wealth, and a desire for glory. The Wu Xia is a non-conformist who fights for what he believes is a just cause. They are honorable to a fault, their word is inviolable, and their reputations are more important than life itself. Moreover, they are warriors who do not hesitate to use their skills in the defense of their beliefs. However, many Wu Xia are more dogmatic than altruistic. They are champions for any cause to which they pledge their loyalty, be it benevolent or otherwise.
Offense: The Reclining Moon Lance: These long-shafted ornamented weapons consists of two blades, one spear tip for stabbing, and one sword blade for slashing, making them high versatile in combat. Requires two hands to use properly.
Defense: Plate Armor. Mounts will have lacquered armor.
Special: Mount: Jin Shan: The Wu Xia ride upon mystical beasts known as Jin Shan - giant frogs or toads of great power - that they capture as tadpoles from the Great Pond of Cathay. Once fully grown, they become loyal mounts to their riders. As strange a sight as they may be, the Jin Shan should not be underestimated. Able to jump high into the air, they can quickly surprise the foe and attack them without warning. Their tongues can stretch out several meters longer then the toads body, and it can strike with enough force to crush bone. It is also highly poisonous. The Jin Shan can also kill by simply crushing people it lands on, and the older larger Jin Shan are big enough to swallow men whole.
Additional Factors:
-Glory for the Dragon Emperor: See Imperial Infantry
-Many Wu Xia have great disregard for authority. They believe the government to be dysfunctional and corrupt. Thus, while their more altruistic motives may be popular with the people, their disdain for government makes them a counterculture.
-Despite their disregard for wealth, most Wu Xia realize that to accomplish the goals of their cause they will need money. To obtain what they need, they will go on adventures.
Field Engineers
Mobility: 4
Training: 4
Max Range: Bazooka
Preferred Range: With a war machine
The Cathayans have long been known for their extensive knowledge in creating spectacular engines of war using simple means, and were the first humans to master the use of gunpowder, long before the men of the Empire.
Field Engineers are men specialized in building and maintaining these war machines, and despite the risk involved, often gladly take to the field of battle in order to try out their latest creations on the foes of Cathay.
Offense: Sky Rockets: "The Cathayans are generally credited with the invention of the explosive called gunpowder. They use it extensively to power rockets, both for entertainment and military use. Although they never developed the inaccurate design, rockets can be used with great effect against enemies. Rockets are noisy, smelly, and spew fire while traveling at high velocity. They damage anything they hit and do collateral damage if they carry an explosive charge."
Think of them like a cross between a firework tube and a bazooka. While they can't be fired while moving, and are difficult to aim with, they cause a lot of damage when they hit.
Fire Bomb Throwers: "Fire bombs are made from earthenware pots that are filled with gunpowder and then lit by a fuse. As the fuse burns down, the thrower swings the bomb by an attached rope and then releases it at the right moment, hopefully hurling it at the enemy to explode. The resulting blast can be terrible as the pot shatters. These grenades are effective when used as fire support in a field battle."
Defense: Lacquered Armor.
Additional Factors:
-Engineers are quick to repair and maintain the War Machines of Cathay.
-Engineers love to experiment, and are always coming up with new weapons to test on the battlefield. They will also be looking to scavenge enemy weapons left behind, taking them apart and seeing how they work.
HEROES & LEADERS
Xen Huong - Celestial Dragon Emperor, Son of Heaven, Divine Leader of Cathay
Mobility: 4 (7 in Dragon Form)
Training: 9
Max Range: Melee (Hundreds of meters in Dragon Form)
Preferred Range: ^^
Xen Huong has been the reigning Celestial Dragon Emperor of Cathay for close to 300 years ever since his return to the mortal realm. He is said to be immortal, for he does not seem to age at all, blessed by the ancestor gods and the Great Celestial Dragon itself.
It was Xen Huong who defeated the Hordes of Chaos during the Great War against Chaos in 2302 by possessing the body of the former Emperor Meng, who sacrificed himself for Cathay. With the power bestowed upon him by the Great Celestial Dragon and the Moon Goddess, Xen Huong was able to take Azaroth Bloodlord head on in single combat. By slaying the Daemon Prince of Khorne leading the forces of Chaos into battle, they scattered before his might, and Cathay was saved.
Under Xen Huong's reign, Cathay has blossomed. While the land still has suffered from war, the spirit of Cathay is unbroken and every threat so far has been dispersed. As a warrior, he is the strongest in all of Cathay, due to the power of the Celestial Dragon flowing through his veins. He is a skilled bureaucrat and politician, and is generally loved by his people.
He has given the tribes of Cathay more rights in the land, ensuring their continued loyalty, and has increased the size of the fleet, making it safer for more trade ships to travel to and from Cathay. If ever Cathay has reached its pinnacle it would be under the second reign of Xen Huong.
Offense: Phoenix Talon: "This ancient longsword has been the traditional armament of the Dragon Emperor of Cathay for over a thousand years. Forged in a Phoenix emberstorm and cooled with blessed water, this blade has never known any obstacle to hinder its graceful but deadly swing. In battle it becomes a brand of fire, weaving incandescent arcs through air and flesh alike, emboldening the allies of its bearer with its glory."
This magical weapon catches fire when swung, burning as hot as a Phoenix. It passes through armor and flesh with ease. While not part of its powers, the sight of it emboldens the people of Cathay.
Defense: Heavy Armor, a Cadre of Guards (all of Cathay, really), and the Imperial Dragon Seal. The Imperial Dragon Seal was given to the very first Emperor by the Great Celestial Dragon as a means of securing his power as the Son of Heaven. Carved from the finest jade centuries ago in the form of a dragon, this seal has always been in the possession of the Emperor of Cathay ever since. While he holds this Seal he gains potent regenerative powers. While he couldn't regrow his own head, he can survive some pretty severe wounds that would kill most normal men.
Special: Dragon Form: Xen Huong may change between his mortal form and his Celestial Dragon form as will. While he cannot use magical weapons in this form, he gains all the powers, abilities, and defenses of a celestial dragon.
Additional Factors:
-Emperor of Cathay: Xen is an inspiring presence to his troops, they will fight harder and resist attempts to frighten them.
-Will of Iron: Xen is immune to mind trickery.
-Technically Immortal: Unless killed in battle, Xen Huong will live forever, his body sustained by celestial power.
Zhao Fei - The Blue Dragon, Lord of War, Grand General of Cathay
Mobility: 4
Training: 7
Max Range: Thrown Spear
Preferred Range: Melee
Zhao Fei holds the highest ranking position possible of a warrior of Cathay. As the Grand General, it is he that is the first to lead the Emperor's armies against the enemies of Cathay. Born as a simple warrior, he enlisted in the Grand Army and quickly rose through the ranks, showing both skill as a fighter and a tactician. He was soon commandeering his own force, leading it from victory to victory against chaos warbands.
In 2217, it was he who formed the defense against the innumerable hordes of Hobgobla-Khan. Zhao Fei sent his soldiers with the present Grand General, to attack the Hobgoblin army and to destroy their supplies. However, the Grand General's army did not show up on time, so Zhao Fei along with a few hundred men went from the Great Bastion looking for them. The main Hobgoblin force was marching at that time, and Zhao Fei ran into their vanguard.
Not soon after the two sides commenced to engage in battle, the main Hobgoblin force arrived. The situation became very perilous for Zhao Fei, as he and his men were greatly outnumbered. He decided to attack the front line of the Hobgoblin army. The Hobgoblins were surprised by the attack and momentarily dispersed. However, they soon regrouped and surrounded Zhao Fei. He fought his way out towards Shang-Yang.
The Hobgoblin army pursued Zhao Fei to the city. Upon entering the Great Bastion, he ordered all banners to be dropped and hidden, all drums to be silenced, and the gates to be left open completely. Thinking that the Cathayans had retreated in panic, the Hobgoblins rushed towards the main gate.
Zhao Fei picked his moment to close the trap. He ordered his drummers to beat their instruments as loudly as they could, and his archers to rain down arrows on the Hobgoblins as they advanced, and to use firebombs against the ones passing through the gate. The pile of Hobgoblin corpses was so high that their comrades could use them to climb over the wall without ladders. Zhao Fei's forces were just about to be overrun, when a horn sounded in the east. The Grand General's army had arrived. The Cathayan Grand army flanked the stunned Hobgoblin army, which was completely routed and fled in panic back to the steppes.
Zhao Fei lost almost his entire army that day, but Shang-Yang was held. After that bloody battle, he was made Grand General of Cathay, replacing his former superior who was killed in the battle.
While still young, Zhao Fei has proven time and time again his potency as a military commander. He is so far undefeated, and any army led by him is indeed a force to be reckoned with.
Offense: The Serpent Spear: An expertly crafted spear, whose grip is tightly wrapped in wyrmhide. The primal essence of a slain dragon still rages inside its ancient frame, from its gold capped pommel to its razor edged spade-headed tip. Wickedly sharp, this weapon can thrust through whole ranks of enemies.
A magical weapon, holding it doubles Zhao's physical strength. The true magic comes into play though, when Zhao makes a thrust attack. When the spear is thrusts forward, the damage it does is equal to a artillery level bolt thrower. Thus, the amount of damage that it does can be massive, to the point where most infantry level troops rarely survive it, and even monsters can be brought down with a well placed thrust. When thrown, the weapon easily pierces its way through an entire rank of soldiers.
Defense: This suit of armor, fashioned from hardest steel and reinforced with dragon scales gives Zhao Fei unmatched resilience. Not only is more durable then most other earthly armors, it also has a powerful magical resistance.
Additional Factors:
-Grand General: After Xen Huong, Zhao Fei is the highest military authority in Cathay.
-Zhao Fei is an expert at reading his men, and keeping them from panicking, even when the odds are heavily stacked against them.
Tian Shi - Master of the Heavens, Sage of the Stars, Grand Astromancer
Mobility: 4
Training: 8
Max Range: Battlefield
Preferred Range: Battlefield
Tian Shi is the greatest astromancer in all of Cathay, and perhaps the rest of the world too; a talent which has enabled him to become one of the Emperor's most trusted advisors. Through disciplined study and constant training he has reached a level of proficiency in the art of astrology and bending the powers of the stars to his will, which is unmatched by anyone in Cathay. Every member of the Imperial Palace shows him the respect he rightfully deserves.
Being born into an aristocratic family, it was clear from the moment of his birth that Tian Shi would eventually serve as one of the many Magistrates in the Imperial Palace, as his father has done before him and his grandfather before his father. Raised by traditions and teachings centuries old and highly valued in Cathay, Tian Shi learned at a very young age to see his existence and actions as a way to enhance the greater good of all people and blend into the Cathayan community, rather than seeking to enrich himself. He meticulously studied the teachings and traditions under the watchful eye of his father and adapted them, becoming an icon of politeness, fairness and correctitude. Passing all his exams for the job and life of a magister with excellence, he moved through the different tenures, exceeding his peers in each and every one of them.
After working as a judge in the Imperial Court and tending to various provinces as adviser to the governing Warlords, Tian Shi eventually become as an astromancer at the Imperial Court, calculating and foretelling important events. Through his accurate calculations and observations he soon outdid his fellow astromancer too. The prophecies of Tian Shi always happened as he foretold them and soon he was uplifted by the Emperor to be one of his personal advisers. The accuracy of his divinations has led to the rumors that stalk his back, rumors of Tian Shi having made forbidden pacts to achieve this level of mastery. Should Tian Shi be aware of them, he neither denies nor acknowledges them, always keeping his honor without disgracing the accusators.
Offense: Tian Shi is a master of the Lore of Heavens, able to use even it's toughest spells without difficulty.
Staff of Overwhelming Thunder: This staff was first wielded by the mighty Wu Jen, Jiang Li, who fought the Daemons in the years just before the Great War Against Chaos. Jiang Li lost the staff in a battle with a powerful Daemon, and was unable to retrieve it before retreating. It was believed to have been lost forever until it turned up in the hands of a merchant many years later, and was brought back to the Imperial Court. Holding it allows Tian Shi to increase the power of his electric based spells, particularly Urannon's Thunderbolt and Chain Lightning.
Defense: Magical Shields, and a retinue of guards.
Special: Celestial Robe: The Celestial Robe is an elegant silk robe, dyed yellow and blue, and embroidered with many artistic designs. It allows whoever wears it to channel the winds of magic like no other. While wearing it, Tian Shi's magical power is increased. During battle, Tian Shi can drain the cloak of it's magical powers and cast one spell without having to rely on the winds of magic at all! This can only be done once though, and afterwards the cloak is just a cloak. Tian Shi will have to re-enchant it after the battle.
Additional Factors:
-Tian Shi is a high ranking member of Cathay's court, and an adviser to the Emperor himself.
-Tian Shi is always polite, no matter his opponent (whether it be on the battlefield or in the courtroom).
-Tian Shi can predict the future, and will use that power to guide Cathay in the coming campaigns.
Huan Bei - Beautiful Beard, Captain of the Emperor's Guard
Mobility: 4
Training: 7
Max Range: Melee
Preferred Range: Melee
Originally a soldier in the Imperial Infantry, Huan joined the Emperor's Guard following the tragic death of his brother who died in battle against Hung raiders. Blaming himself for his brother's death for being unable to protect him, he became the determined guardian of his beloved Emperor, hoping to make amends in the eyes of his ancestors. His incredible determination and skill with the blade caused him rose through the ranks until he eventually became the Captain of his force, and allowed to greet the Emperor personally. The two of them soon became good friends, and often discuss all things between Heaven and Earth between them.
As the Captain of the Emperor's Guard, Huan Bei serves the Celestial Dragon Emperor with a loyalty that is without equal in all of Cathay. He regards him not only as the ruler of the Empire but also as if he was his own brother. He advises him on all matters including ways to handle the Grand Empire with a firm but delicate hand. He is quoted as saying "A prince does not forsake kinsmen, nor offend great vassals by neglect. He will not discard an old servant, unless he has great cause. He asks perfection of no man."
Not only is Huan Bei a student of history and warfare, he is also a philosopher whose interest in divination methods led him to write learned commentaries on the Art of War. His work is held in high regard by many military leaders throughout the Cathay, including the Grand Strategist himself. His personal library is one of the great wonders of the land, and he is well-versed in the Art of War.
Although more accustomed to protecting the Emperor and assuring peace in the city, he is also skilled at commanding troops in the heat of battle. Huan Bei naturally takes his role to heart and does his duty with a great deal of skill. His guard serves him with utmost dedication, for he is a fair and genial master. His most prized possession is the Green Dragon Glaive, a mighty halberd that he swings with great grace and precision, striking all around him. In battle, he leads the Emperor's finest into the fray, a testament to the glory that is Cathay.
Offense: Green Dragon Glaive: This bronze pointed glaive was made in the ancient Kingdom of Lu. It is said that the soldier who carried it, impressed by the sermons of Kong Fu Zi, decided to desert in order to become the bodyguard of the master philosopher. This man, whose name is lost to history, accompanied the learned man in all his wandering throughout the Kingdoms of that time. He kept himself apart, an imperturbable yet protective statue, and legend has it that he defended his master against many enemies, both natural and supernatural. Now carried by the Captain of the Emperor's Guard, this glaive carries an enchantment that allows the wielder to spar the most powerful of foes.
This magical weapon increases the strength of Huan's attacks, and is capable of cutting through any armor. Huan is a master with the weapon, able to parry any CQC attack that comes his way.
Defense: The best armor available, as befits a man of his station. He is also a master of parrying his enemies attacks with his Glaive.
Additional Factors:
-Unshakable Loyalty
-Captain of the Emperor's Guard: He will always be near the Emperor, and among the Emperor's Guard, and will not leave it voluntarily.
Chu-Ye Xian - The Sleeping Dragon, Master of Tactics, Grand Imperial Strategist
Mobility: 4
Training: 8
Max Range: Battlefield
Preferred Range: Working on his strategies
Chu-Ye Xian currently holds the title of Grand Imperial Strategist, a title earned through his tremendous knowledge of tactics and strategies listed in the Art of War as well as by his keen sense for logistics and ability to quickly adapt and work out new plans in the midst of battle. He is literally a master of the Art of War, being able to provide the emperor with advices ranging from the training of soldiers over deployment and ambush routes, to battle formations and movements on the battlefield. This expertise has rightfully earned him his current title and position at court, a tenure which nobody before him has achieved.
Chu-Ye Xian showed his talent at a young age, and during a series of bandit raids on his native town, it was he who believed to recognize a pattern in the way the bandits attacked. Thus, he went to the garrison leader and predicted the next raid, exactly foretelling how many men would strike and from which directions. The whole garrison and town laughed at the young boy, who thought to have more experience in battle than the most hardened veteran. But as soon as the next bandit war party descended upon the town, Chu-Ye Xian's words proved true. Amazed, the commander in charge sent message to the imperial Court, telling the generals there of the extraordinary talent the little boy possessed. Chu-Ye Xian was summoned to the capital city, to the headquarters of the Grand Army. He was given a few easy battle samples from the Art of War in order to test his abilities.
Almost instantly solving the plans laid out before him, the generals and strategists grew curious. After many days of testing and discussing various strategies against different foes in different terrain, he was deemed worthy enough to be taught the Art of War. It didn't take Chu-Ye Xian long to add his own thoughts and experience to this impressive compendium and shortly after he was enlisted to serve the Emperor as his personal advisor in any matter regarding the business of war.
Offense: Lotus Needle: A slender repeater crossbow designed by Chu-Ye Xian himself, the lotus needle fires darts that are coated in the most lethal venoms of the east, enchanted for even further lethality.
Defense: None. Though, as his position is that of a strategist, he typically isn't near the actual fighting. If he was on a battlefield, he would be surrounded by a retinue of soldiers to protect him.
Special: Phoenix Feather Fan: This elaborate and magnificent fan is made of radiantly beautiful Phoenix feathers. When waved in a certain manner, it causes the enemy to lose focus and be slowed down.
Special: Pi-pa of Everlasting Repose: This Pi-Pa is said to have been fashioned by the Cathayan concubine for the first Emperor. When the strings of this mandolin-like instrument are plucked by an experienced musician all listeners are lulled into a deep sleep.
After much study and practice, Chu-Ye has become an expert at playing this instrument, and is able to focus the magic to either target a single individual or all enemies within hearing range. The only ones not affected by this magic are Undead and Daemons.
Additional Factors:
Cheng Long - Grand Master of the Celestial Dragon Monks
Mobility: 7
Training: 9
Max Range: Hundreds of Meters
Preferred Range: Melee
Although the populace of Cathay knows the name Cheng Long, very few of them have ever seen him. Rumored to be both a hundred years of age and a Grand Master of the martial arts, he is also given supernatural aspects, such as the abilities of flight and the spitting of fire on those he calls foe. His legend says that a former disciple, Xiao Lin, once tried to assassinate him as Cheng Long lay sleeping. Still asleep, he fought his student, only awakening when a knife sliced of half his left mustache (a grave outrage, for a Cathayan elder's beard represents his wisdom and experience). Angered, Cheng immediately killed Xiao Lin, yet still he keeps his mustache trimmed short; the better to remind him that even the best can be found wanting and caught off-guard, that no matter how good you become, you can always be better.
He singlehandedly held the east gate of the town Hanchung for several days against marauding Beastmen, and it was he who defeated the foul sorcerer known to the Cathayans as the Despoiler of Earth. Nowadays Cheng Long has reached an age in which most people would stay at home and would try to enjoy their last days among friends and family - the grandmaster although can be found in the midst of a battle, standing tall and stoic upon a mountain of fallen foes.
A loner, Cheng Long can be found wandering the Cathay, meditating or fighting the different opponents that dwell therein, be they terrible creatures of Chaos or the ferocious hobgoblin wolf riders; he sees them all as a way of bettering his arts. Some whisper that Cheng seeks to face an opponent who will prove a better fighter than he and, until that day, will continue his wanderings, whether he lives another hundred years or achieves the highest reaches of enlightenment.
Offense: See Celestial Dragon Monks. However, as Grandmaster, he has mastered these arts beyond anything otherwise humanly possible.
And if that's not enough, he can also breath fire.
Defense: See Celestial Dragon Monk, but again, much much MUCH better. Guy was once able to hold off his greatest disciple in his SLEEP.
Special: Flight: That's right. He's so good at martial arts that he can Ancestor-Damned-Fly.
Additional Factors:
-Grandmaster: Cheng Long is highly honored by his fellow brothers and the people of Cathay. He is a symbol of virtue and wherever he fights odds are turned and battles won.
-Cheng Long can apparently move so fast even elves have trouble keeping up with him or seeing his movements.
-Cheng Long will always accept any challenge offered.
-Cheng Long will not lead armies.
-Cheng Long does not give into fear or psychological manipulations.
The Monkey King - The Great Trickster
Mobility: 7
Training: 7
Max Range: ???
Preferred Range: Melee
Being born as a common Monkey Warrior, the Monkey King earned the respect of his tribe by discovering the Water-Curtain Cave behind a large waterfall and the clan made it their new home. The other monkeys honored him as their king.
He soon realized that despite his power over the monkeys, he was not beyond mortality. Determined to find immortality, he traveled inwards to the civilized lands, where he found and became the disciple of a Celestial Dragon Monk, from whom he was able to acquire human speech and manners.
The Dragon Monk was initially reluctant to take him because he was not human; but the Monkey King's determination and perseverance impressed the monk. Soon, the Monkey King's eagerness and intelligence made him one of the favorite disciples of the Dragon Monk, whose guidance and training taught the monkey a number of martial arts and even cloud-traveling. The Monkey King became proud of his abilities, and began boasting to the other disciples. The Dragon Monk was not happy with this, and cast him out of his temple.
In search of a weapon worthy of himself, the Monkey King traveled around Cathay, when he finally found what he was looking for in the possession of the Chi'an Chi Sorcerer Dien Ch'ing. From him, the Monkey King decided to acquire the Ideal Golden-bound Cudgel, which could change its size, multiply itself, and fight according to the whim of its master. Upon the Monkey's approach, the Cudgel started to glow, signifying that it had found its true master. Its versatility meant that the Monkey King could wield it as a staff and keep it inside his ear as a sewing needle. When Dien Ch'ing found out he had been tricked by the Monkey King, he was outraged, and still seeks revenge to this day.
The Monkey King still travels Cathay searching for immortality, sometimes joining the armies of Cathay in his search. While being downright annoying to everyone in his environment, his potency in combat should not be underestimated.
Offense: See Celestial Dragon Monks and Monkey Warriors, though better then the average ones.
Ideal Golden-Bound Cudgel: An iron rod whose size changes as-one-wishes, it is immensely heavy, only able to be carried by the Monkey King himself. When it is not in use, he shrinks it down to the size of a sewing needle and keeps it behind his ear. He has used it to knock flying opponents out of the air, or sweep riders off their mounts from great distances.
Defense: See Celestial Dragon Monk and Monkey Warriors, but slightly better then both.
Special: Hair of the Monkey King: The Monkey king is able to rip a single hair from his head, and transform it into a clone of himself.
Special: Mount: Flying Cloud: The Monkey King can summon a cloud at will, mount it, and use it fly.
Additional Factors:
-The Monkey King is a notorious trickster, and as such no one in Cathay fully trusts him. In addition, he uses vicious taunts and insults to trick the enemy into attacking him, drawing them out of their secure positions.
-Only Monkey Warriors don't find the Monkey King annoying.
Dalan-Ti - The Outrider, Khan of the Steppe Nomads
Mobility: 6
Training: 6
Max Range: Bow & Arrow
Preferred Range: ^^
As the proud leader of the fierce steppe nomads, Dalan- Tai sits astride the horse he loves more than any of his wives, looking out across the windswept plains and wonders what the future will bring. A hard-faced man, he is accustomed to the difficult life of the steppes, a life that no silk-covered Cathayan nobleman could withstand for a week, let alone a day. Winter lasts longer on the steppes than anywhere else except the mountains and the fierce winds blow constantly, exchanging icy blasts for furnace-hot gales when the all too brief summer is at its height.
Those who rise to the ranks of leader among the steppe nomads are special men who claim a heritage that rings with names whose vitality flies out of the mouth like a warrior's swift silk tasseled spear. The steppe nomads regard themselves as the true people of the land and have little or no regard for anyone else.
Dalan-Tai is typical of his countrymen. Of medium height compared to other Cathayans, he has small dark almond shaped eyes angled above wide high cheekbones. Slender but wiry, he walks with a slightly bow-legged gait, a testament to having been strapped to a horse as a young boy and learning to ride before he could walk. When he is on horseback, he wears his long dark hair in a braid beginning at the crown of his head, but prefers to let it loose when he is relaxing in his ger among his wives and concubines.
A skilled warrior, Dalan-Tai can both ride and shoot extremely well. Even though he is not the best archer among his men, he is extremely competitive and enjoys participating in challenge matches whenever he can.
He is a genial host who enjoys good drink, good food and a good joke, usually at someone else's expense. He is passionate about everything but especially about his beloved horse and his children. Dalan-Tai trains his sons and his daughters to be fierce warriors in the true steppe nomad tradition.
He will not tolerate internecine warfare of any kind, whether it is among his women or his tribe. When dealing with those who are not steppe nomads, he lends the appearance of a simple man of the plains. The truth is that he is far cleverer.
Offense: See Steppe Archers, but he also fights with spear and short sword for close range combat.
Dragontooth Bow: The origin of this object is lost in the mists of time. Its ancient craftsmanship leads to the conclusion that it was made at the height of the Xia dynasty, no doubt by a hunter rather than by a warrior. This intricately carved ivory bow fires arrows of enchanted Thornwood which pass through flesh and armor as if it were not there. As a magic bow, it can harm the immaterial.
Defense: See Steppe Archers
Special: Mount: Warhorse, whom he loves more then his wives, and treats better then some of his own people.
Additional Factors:
-When faced with those who are not Steppe Nomads, he acts like a simple man to fool them into underestimating him. He is actually quite clever.
ARMY X-FACTORS:
Morale: 70: Cathayans are confident in their forces, their gods, and their ancestors watching over them that a difficult battle doesn't really bother them. Even if things get bad, politics in Cathay pretty much assure that they'll keep trucking on.
Logistics: 70
Espionage: 65: Some dedicated spy and sabotage units, and a willingness by those higher up to use them.
Discipline: 70: Extremely well trained, discipline is a huge part of life for the Cathayan people.
Army Intimidation: 70: A mostly human army, but one armed with slightly better technology then other humans of the world, as well as having access to dragons, monsters, and powerful magic.
Reinforcement: High: Every able bodied man contributes to service, and more can be drafted if the numbers get to low.
ADDITIONAL INFO:
-Society: The most important social unit is the family. Cathayans place great importance on a person's position in the family and the interdependence of family members. The Cathayan family is usually an extended group of tens or hundreds of brothers, uncles, cousins, half-cousins, great-great aunts, and onwards. Everyone will have a very detailed knowledge of their own family members and their relationship to each other. These families live close together in the same town or village, or if it is a smaller family, even in the same house. The eldest male, usually the father or grandfather, is considered the patriarch of the family, makes the decisions and is respected by those younger. As old men became weak or doddering, their sons gradually take over, but younger Cathayans are still expected to treat their elders with respect.
The military class, which produces lineages of officers to command the Grand Army, is not inclusive of all soldiers. Only those who are born of a military family or have been wedded to one are included in this class. In many cases these families will actually be members of the old nobility. As for common soldiery, they are made up of peasants and citizens.
-Crimes and Punishment: Because of the influence of law in Cathay, crime is punished most severely. Those who lack social status are accorded few rights under the law, crimes they commit are regularly punished with either death or forced labor in the iron mines. Crimes committed by nobility are treated differently; if the crime is minor they will generally be fined, which is trivial, or publicly reprimanded, which is grim in the extreme and sometimes fatal, given the Cathayan ducal propensity to fall on their ceremonial longswords if downcast in matters of personal honor. Crimes between provincial clans are usually resolved through duels or silent assassination by the terror-inducing silent order of the Nightblades. Although the latter is officially proscribed by the Dragon Throne, it is common in the case of feuds.
Cathayan bureaucrats, especially magistrates, are charged with investigating and bringing to justice those suspected of committing a crime. Cathayan law differs to Old World law in that the accused is assumed guilty until he proves himself innocent, which tends to efficiently cut down the average trial time. The other strangely Cathayan twist is that according to legal tradition, the accused must confess before any sentence is passed. This condition often results in the judge using heinous methods of coercion to extract a "confession". Cathayan water torture and its ilk are justifiably renowned throughout the entire world, such are the advances Cathay has made in the art of pain; scholars argue their thousand-year experience in the application of "enforced suggestion" rivals even the Dark Elves or Skaven.
-Honor: Social interaction in Cathay is governed by the principle of honor. Each citizen holds responsibility for their reputation, their clan, and their social position. To act in a manner not befitting one's status results in embarrassment or a loss of face. This should not be confused with morality. In fact, it is possible to be quite immoral yet have much honor! The key is not necessarily to be upstanding but rather to appear as such.
Power, wealth and position mean nothing to a Cathayan if he is without honor. Honor is a measure of his worth in society, his dependability, his personal character, his trustworthiness. Without honor, soldiers of the Grand Army of Cathay lose hope and become conscripts, no better than slaves. They and their families can expect to be shunned, disrespected, insulted, even spat on. Honor is something every soldier earns on the battlefield, and can also be lost through cowardice. Breaking faith, treachery, un-avenged insults result in a loss of honor, while valiant deeds, self-sacrifice, mastery of skills, and keeping faith earn honor.
VICTORY GAINS
Cathay is not above hiring auxiliaries to work for them. They pay well and don't double-cross, so they'd be an attractive option. Cathay diplomats could convince local governments to work with or for them.
Technology: Medium: Cathay is a rather innovative nation, despite traditions that have lasted for generations. A new piece of technology will be examined by the Imperial Scientists who will likely try and reverse engineer it if it's deemed worth the effort, and they may even try to make it better.
All monies and land will be given over to the Imperial Emperor, who will decide who gets what.
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