County of Hainaut (State of the Holy Roman Empire)

Nestled between the counties of Flanders and Brabant, the County of Hainaut sits at the crossroads of several important trade routes. With its strategic location and fertile land, Hainaut has a long and storied history, dating back to the Roman Empire.

• Coat of arms/Flag: The coat of arms depicts as a golden lion rampant on a black field.
• Status: The County of Hainaut is a feudal county under the jurisdiction of the Holy Roman Empire.
• General Alignment: Neutral
• Capital City: Mons
• Other Settlements: Charleroi, Binche, Ath, Leuze-en-Hainaut
• Common languages: Walloon, French
• Religion(s): Roman Catholicism
• Demographics: The County of Hainaut is a diverse region, with a mix of Walloon and French cultures. The population is predominantly Roman Catholic.
• Government: The county is ruled by a Count who serves as a vassal of the Holy Roman Emperor.
• Legislature: The Count is advised by a council of nobles and officials.
• Population: The population of the county is approximately 200,000.
• Places of interest: The County of Hainaut is home to several historic castles and fortifications, including the Castle of Beloeil and the Citadel of Namur. The city of Mons is also known for its belfry and the Sainte-Waudru collegiate church.
• Current Ruler: Jacqueline of Bavaria
• Other Notable residents: Gilles Binchois, a composer
• Notable places:
  • Mons: The capital city of the county and home to the belfry and the Sainte-Waudru collegiate church.
  • Castle of Beloeil: A historic castle in the town of Beloeil, known for its extensive gardens and collections of art and antiques.
  • Citadel of Namur: A massive fortification overlooking the city of Namur, which played a key role in the defense of the region throughout history.
  • Pairi Daiza: A large zoo and botanical garden in Brugelette, known for its extensive collection of exotic animals and immersive exhibits.

The county’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and fertile plains, making it a haven for farmers and hunters alike. The Sambre and Haine rivers flow through the region, providing a vital source of water for irrigation and transportation. Hainaut is also home to several ancient castles and fortresses, including the imposing Château de Binche, which dominates the skyline of the eponymous city.

In addition to its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Hainaut is also known for its rich folklore and legends. The region is said to be home to several creatures, including the terrifying loup-garou, a werewolf-like creature that preys on unsuspecting travelers and the ferocious wyverns said to dwell in the deep forests and the terrifying Nachtzehrer said to stalk the graveyards at night. The forests and rivers of Hainaut are also said to be home to water nymphs, faeries, and other supernatural beings.

Despite its idyllic setting, Hainaut is a land beset by conflict and strife. The county has been fought over by various factions for centuries, from the Roman Empire to the Frankish kingdoms, to the Burgundian dukes. In recent years, Hainaut has become a battleground for the warring factions of the Hundred Years’ War, with French and English armies vying for control of the region.

The County of Hainaut stands at a crossroads, both geographically and politically. As the tides of war shift and alliances are forged and broken, the people of Hainaut can only hope for a peaceful and prosperous future, free from the ravages of war and the horrors of the supernatural.