Averland

From Lexicanum

Averland is a province/state that is part of the Empire nation in the Old World. The province is located directly west of Black Fire Pass between the Aver River and the Upper Reik and is the southern-most Imperial province besides its neighbour Wissenland. The other bordering provinces of Averland are Reikland (to the west) and Stirland (to the north). The Moot, or land of the Halflings, is partially located within Averland along its northern border.

Averland is the richest of the states, due largely in part to the horses they breed, although it is not the largest or most influential. It is a large crop growing region although it is the trade from the Black Fire Pass that has made it rich. The trade travels across the mountain and arrives in Averheim and then sent by river to Nuln.

Also of note within Averland are the Three Towers.

The riches that come with the mountain pass are only part of the story. Attacks from foreign forces such as Orcs and Goblins often arrive in the Empire via Averland. Therefore, the state has to hold many troops in an attempt to hold back the invaders. The specialist troops are known as the Mountain Guard.

The current color scheme of Averland is black and yellow in a quartered pattern. Most of the troops of Averland use this scheme including those defending the Black Fire Pass.

The last notable leader or Elector Count of Averland was Marius Leitdorf. Leitdorf was the Count of Averland until his death in Imperial Year 2520. He died at the hands of a massive Orc invasion which was only defeated when the Emperor arrived. No Count has been nominated since.

Because of the pass, they maintain strong links with Tilea and their influence can be seen in the impressive use of crossbowmen, half pikes and in the worship of Myrmidia, the goddess of war. They also make use of a lot of mercinaries, invariably including Tileans. Also, the Knights of the Blazing Sun are the most important Knightly Order in Averland.

A special detachment of the Mountainguard named the Bergjaegar are trappers and hunters and excellent rangers. Also the many Halflings are part of the army, especially since the invasion of Gorbad Ironclaw who's forces devastated the Moot.

Sources

Warhammer Armies: The Empire. 5th ed. Baltimore: Games Workshop Ltd, 1996.
Warhammer: The Empire. 6th ed. Glen Burnie: Games Workshop Ltd, 2000.
Warhammer - Empire - unofficial Empire fansite