Military of The Bind

Army - dhéghōmsteh2koryo (Earth and Stone Knights)

The Earth and Stone Knights served as the military force for The Bind. This formidable group was composed of several branches, including the Knight Bands, Support Bands, Tenders, and Slaves.

Uniforms and Equipment

The Hlrike infantry uniform during the Bing was a key element of the Earth and Stone Knights, known for its versatility and durability. This uniform is designed to transform from its battle configuration into an off-duty tunic, highlighting the dual-purpose nature of the garment.

The uniform can be adjusted from a trouser arrangement into a comfortable kilt, much like the traditional Wolgos trousers. The base materials were a heavy, durable cotton and hemp fabric, lined with a comfortable linen interior, ensuring both protection and comfort for the wearer.

Helmets

The most iconic part of the Earth and Stone Knights' uniform was their helmet, designed to instil fear in enemies while protecting the wearer’s eyes from light. The skull-shaped helmet could also be adapted with filters to provide limited protection against poison gas. The helmet's top part was hinged back to reveal the wearer’s face, and in warmer regions, the top part could be replaced with a wire mesh version for better ventilation. These helmets were highly elaborate, reflecting the Hlrike's pride in their equipment, in contrast to the machine-pressed versions used by the Anarians.

Footwear

The Hlrike boots were similar to Anarian boots but are typically higher, reaching closer to the knee and secured with heavy cotton laces. Made from leather, these boots were worn with cotton socks or a protective layer to guard against trench foot, making them practical for prolonged wear in various conditions.

Regional Variations

To accommodate the diverse climates within The Bind, the Hlrike tunic came in various regional adaptations:

• Southern Tropical Regions: The tunic was typically looser, paired with a tough but light muslin undergarment. This combination helped protect against the sun when sleeves are rolled up.
• Northern Regions: In colder climates, the tunic were be made entirely of wool to provide additional warmth.

Unlike the more standardized uniforms of the Anarian forces, the Hlrike tunic was elaborate and tailored to fit each wearer, who would typically own multiple uniforms throughout their life. Although these uniforms were significantly more expensive to produce, they were preferred by the Hlrike for their comfort and utility.

Combat Configuration

When preparing for battle, the uniform was able to be transformed by unfolding the kilt into three parts—two sides and a front—that fold to form the legs of the trousers and crotch area. These components were secured with leather ties and braces. Additional protection was provided by pressed leather, cotton, and woven wire Armor plates that were able to be slipped on and tied.

Navy - H₂ewsgwhekoryos (Storm and Tempest Warriors)

The Storm and Tempest Warriors stand out as a once formidable naval force. These warriors, renowned for their strength and tactical prowess, were a professional naval division that played a crucial role in The Bind's maritime dominance.

The Storm and Tempest Warriors emerged from the military class of The Bind, known as the Hlrike. The Hlrike were comparable to knights in medieval societies, yet within the naval context, they were referred to as "Rowers." This title underscored their role in commanding and rowing the long-ships and torpedo patrol boats that patrolled the seas.

The Warriors worked closely with the Water Spears, a volunteer and merchant naval militia. While the Water Spears represented the volunteer spirit and merchant strength of The Bind, the Storm and Tempest Warriors were the professional backbone, ensuring disciplined and effective naval operations.

Organizational Hierarchy

Unique in their organizational approach, the Storm and Tempest Warriors eschewed traditional naval command structures. Instead, they were organized around the Wolgos pack and clan system, a social structure that emphasized familial bonds, loyalty, and mutual support.

• Rower: At the base of the hierarchy was the Rower, equivalent to a seaman. Rowers formed the core of the naval force, grouped into units known as Row Packs. These packs were small, tightly-knit units, usually consisting of 8 to 15 men, averaging around 12. Each Row Pack functioned as a surrogate family, forming bonds of brotherhood among its members.
• Drummer: Leadership within each Row Pack was vested in the Drummer, the most intelligent, strong, or cunning member of the group. The Drummer's role was not only to lead in battle but also to maintain the cohesion and morale of the pack. Under their leadership, each Row Pack was responsible for a small naval vessel, such as a torpedo patrol boat or a standard long-ship.

Advanced Formations

As Row Packs demonstrated their skill and leadership, they could advance within the naval hierarchy:

• Sea Clan: A grouping of multiple Row Packs formed a Sea Clan. The Sea Clan was responsible for a larger vessel, typically a cruiser, which served as the flagship for its collective operations. The Sea Clan was led by a superior Row Pack, chosen for its proven tactical and leadership capabilities.
• Storm: At the apex of this naval organization was the Storm, a larger unit composed of several Sea Clans. Each Storm was commanded by an Exalted Drummer, who was selected through a meritocratic process that valued intelligence, tenacity, cunning, and strength. The leader of the Storm, known as the Thunder Drummer, wielded significant power and was responsible for strategic decision-making and coordination with other military divisions.

Ranks and Roles

1. Rower: A seaman or junior officer, depending on their experience and the status of their commanding Drummer.
2. Drummer: The leader of a Row Pack, responsible for both command in battle and maintaining pack unity.
3. Chosen Rowers: Rowers attached to a Superior Drummer. They operated larger packs and served as liaisons, bridging communication between different Row Packs.
4. Superior Drummer: An officer in command of a Sea Clan, responsible for the overall strategy and coordination among Row Packs under their authority.
5. High Rower: Senior Rowers attached to an Exalted Drummer, often involved in command and liaison roles aboard cruisers and other larger vessels.
6. Exalted Drummer: Commander of a Storm, responsible for both tactical and administrative leadership across multiple Sea Clans.
7. Thunder Drummer: The highest naval rank, equivalent to an admiral. The Thunder Drummer was the supreme leader of a Storm and held the authority to coordinate with other naval divisions and the overall military leadership of The Bind.

Naval Bases and Operations

The Storm and Tempest Warriors operated from several strategic bases across The Bind's territory, including:

• Osrothkros Base
• Kalsulan Base (noted for its importance)
• Vlow Base

These bases were critical for staging operations, training, and maintaining naval readiness. The strategic positioning of these bases allowed The Bind to project its naval power across regional waters and beyond.

Equipment and Naval Vessels

The Warriors were equipped with a variety of naval vessels, ranging from smaller torpedo boats to larger cruisers, which were crucial for their tactical flexibility and combat readiness. The details of their equipment remain a testament to their advanced naval capabilities and the craftsmanship of The Bind's shipbuilders.

Culture and Relationships

The culture of the Storm and Tempest Warriors was deeply rooted in the traditions of the Hlrike. The emphasis on pack and clan bonds fostered a strong sense of unity and loyalty among the ranks. Their relationship with the militia, particularly the Water Spears, was one of mutual respect and collaboration, blending professional discipline with volunteer spirit.