Founded: Unknown (Formed in late 1248/early 1249) Disbanded: Unknown
The Sovereign Soil traces its ideological roots back to the continent's earliest recorded history. Its tenets claim direct lineage to the original human settlers of Year 1, who staunchly refused to make contact with the ominous Bukhara Spires. They believe that the Spires' activation in Year 67 irrevocably tainted the very bloodline of Coia. Furthermore, the Faction asserts that all non-human races—such as Tieflings, Dragonborn, and Elves—are nothing more than invasive weeds, actively stifling the true heritage of the continent.
General Rictus the Reasonable, the Faction's founder, initially served as a mid-ranking officer within the Coia City guard. His tenure was marked by a disturbing pattern of excessive brutality against non-human civilians, which ultimately led to his dishonorable discharge. It was in the wake of the Herthe Gateway's destruction in 1248 that Rictus began to gather support.
He successfully radicalized a diverse group of disaffected farmers and veterans, capitalizing on the widespread fear and uncertainty. Rictus argued that the Dragonbone Vanguard, though abominations themselves, had inadvertently proven his point: the Spires were undoubtedly the ultimate source of all suffering and woe. It was from this fervent base, galvanized by the events of 1248, that The Sovereign Soil truly emerged as an organized force.
Operating as a traveling war camp, The Sovereign Soil's strategy under Rictus is as predictable as it is unusual. He has attempted to "liberate" four small settlements, mostly hamlets situated near the Freehold of Bone, through siege warfare. Each siege begins with Rictus surrounding the town and then meticulously reading a 40-page document titled "The Reasonable Terms of Surrender."
This lengthy document invariably demands the voluntary exile of all magic users and non-human inhabitants from the besieged settlement. Due to Rictus's unwavering refusal to employ "tainted magic" in battle, his forces rely solely on steel and rudimentary siege engines. Consequently, every single one of these siege attempts has resulted in a humiliating rout at the hands of local militias or passing adventurers.
Despite this consistent record of military incompetence and repeated defeats, The Sovereign Soil has seen a significant surge in its recruitment numbers. The rising tide of xenophobia following the dragon attacks of Year 1249 has terrified commoners across the land, making them desperate for someone to blame. Many now flock to Rictus's banner, seeking a tangible target for their fear.
Currently, The Sovereign Soil continues to grow in strength, attracting new members despite its leader's demonstrated lack of tactical prowess. The traveling war camp is presently on the march, setting its sights on the recently cleansed town of Herthe for what will be its fifth siege attempt.
