King Ernst Gesselring

reigned 681-721 vS

King Ernst maintained the tradition of martial strength instituted by his uncle. He focused the attention of his officers and troops on three threats: the Kzinti who held "the southern province," the Elves of the Aelvenwode, and the bandits and Kenku that harassed travelers. While the first two enemies remained strong throughout King Ernst’s reign, the bandit problem was considerably reduced. Strong patrols eliminated human bandit activity along major roads and hunted down Kenku nests with some success. Kenku became very wary of playing their tricks near settled lands.

The king also encouraged trade with Kyriabor and the study of the magical Arts. He knew that Smeisserand could never retake its lost southern territory until it could meet the Kzinti on equal magical terms. He imported excellent horses from Kyriabor’s Vargas province to serve as breeding stock and mounts for his knights and cavalry. He also permitted the merchant houses to do business without a noble sponsor, if they chose to do so. Most had come to a comfortable understanding with their patrons, who allowed them considerable leeway, so the actual business effect of this edict was small. While little changed in practice, however, much was gained in popularity. King Ernst never felt that he had enough magical talent to defeat the Kzinti. He passed this problem on to his son, Ruger Gesselring, upon his abdication in 721vS (LY 2080).

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