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Duke Philippinus von Boink

Hard to tell what he was more known for - his numerous martial accomplishements or being able to populate entire castles with his offspring alone.
Imperial aristocracy has always been very hierarchical. During the golden age of Ardenian Empire and height of its dominance - ever more so. Every noble was only allowed to have a certain number of men-at-arms at their disposal, depending on their rank and lineage. So what do you do when you cannot get more soldiers but you really want to? A slight hint - family members of noble origin do not count as soldiers.   In fact, that is how Philippinus became a duke to begin with. Starting as a humble baron but always willing to pick a fight with a neighbour, his career has skyroketed throughout the exceptionally long life for a man of such passions. Speaking of passions - duke was also infamous for not just adopting dozens of children but fathering just as many of his own, with women from all walks of life. Enough so that whoever dared to cross Philippinus would soon find themselves "paid a visit" by his numerous sons and grandsons.

Mental characteristics

Personal history

One day a newborn child was brought to the doors of Philippinus, then still an heir to a minor barony. The young man took pity on the orphan and took him in. And then it happened again, and again. It would seem everyone in the region soon knew that there is plenty of generous spirit in the barony, and within years it became a de facto shelter for unwanted kids.   It is unclear whether this was Philippinus's intent from the start, or he was merely driven to action by the fact that one barony would seldom be enough for several dozen noble scions. Regardless of his motivations, the baron undertook a campaign of expansion - and a rapid one. Always under the guise of personal disputes and a good legal pretext, of course, and never by means of something as crude as paid soldiers. A whole new ducal title was created for Philippinus!
Honorary & Occupational Titles
The reasoning behind why Philippinus was appointed the Duke of Boink are still a topic of hot debates amongst scholars and nobles alike. Some say it is after his particularly strong hand, and the loud sound heard for miles whenever Philippinus would land a good strike on an opponent's helmet. Others claim it was a jab at Philippinus's love for women, inspired by some of the "crude words" of the peasantry. Yet others reference the emperor's renown for mischievous humour, saying it might as well be both at once if not a third reason altogether.
Children

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Cover image: WorldAnvilCover_Generic-Character by Vertixico

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