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"If we die, we will die wielding our swords, for there is no better death for a warrior. We will sit at Sigmar's banquet like the heroes of old and our names will be remembered in the songs of our people till the end of time!"

—Emperor Karl Franz speaking to the Imperial troops before the Third Battle of Black Fire Pass, 2519 IC

Karl Franz, also spelled Karl-Franz,[37a] formally Emperor Karl Franz I Holswig-Schliestein, bearer of the titles "Protector of the Empire," "Defier of the Dark," "Sigmar's Heir," "Emperor of the South," "Emperor Himself," and "Son of Emperors," is the current Emperor of the Empire of Man,[1a] the Elector Count of Reikland, the Prince of Altdorf and the greatest statesman and general the Empire and perhaps the entire Old World has seen in many centuries.[1b]

Patriarch and head of House Holswig-Schliestein, Karl Franz, who was elected to the Imperial throne in 2502 IC, followed in his father Luitpold I's footsteps, and was hailed as a patron of the arts and sciences, as a military innovator and as a valiant general.[2a]

Thanks to his tireless efforts on behalf of his people, the Empire flourished during his reign as never before: the Imperial School of Engineers in Altdorf grew, the Colleges of Magic thrived and his armies marched from victory to victory.[2a]

The emperor frequently took personal command of his troops, wielding Ghal Maraz, the fabled magical warhammer given to Sigmar himself by the Dwarf High King Kurgan Ironbeard over two thousand five hundred years ago, or his Runefang sword, and riding atop Deathclaw, his Griffon mount of many years, alongside his second-in-command and personal friend Reiksmarshal Kurt Helborg.[3a]

Quick Answers

What is the significance of Karl Franz's speech during the Third Battle of Black Fire Pass? toggle section
Emperor Karl Franz's speech at the Third Battle of Black Fire Pass was a rallying call to his troops. He inspired them to stand against Warlord Vorgaz Ironjaw's hordes. Karl Franz, atop his Griffon, led the Imperial army, successfully blocking the Greenskin warriors at Black Fire Pass, and personally slaying Ironjaw. His words and actions are remembered as symbols of his courage and leadership.
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Who is Sigmar and why is Karl Franz considered his heir? toggle section
Sigmar, a figure likened to Charlemagne and the Father of Europe, founded his Empire akin to the rise of early medieval European kingdoms. Karl Franz, the current Emperor of the Empire of Man, is deemed Sigmar's Heir. Despite Sigmar having no true heirs, Karl Franz's leadership and strategic acumen, coupled with the belief in his reincarnation as Sigmar, affirm his status as Sigmar's Heir.
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What are the titles held by Emperor Karl Franz I Holswig-Schliestein? toggle section
Karl Franz I Holswig-Schliestein, also known as Emperor Karl, holds several titles. These include 'Protector of the Empire,' 'Defier of the Dark,' 'Sigmar's Heir,' 'Emperor of the South,' 'Emperor Himself,' and 'Son of Emperors.' Further, he is the Elector Count of Reikland, the Prince of Altdorf, and the patriarch of House Holswig-Schliestein.
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What is the meaning behind the phrase 'I will fall with the emperor' in the context of Karl Franz? toggle section
In the context of Karl Franz, 'I will fall with the emperor' represents the Empire troops' commitment to their leader. This sentiment was evident during the Third Battle of Black Fire, where Karl Franz's weakening was mirrored in his troops. The phrase suggests that the Empire's destiny is linked with their Emperor's fate, indicating their shared triumph or defeat.
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What is the significance of the 'franz' name in Karl Franz's character? toggle section
The 'Franz' in Karl Franz's name aligns him with Prince Karl Franz of Prussia from the House Hohenzollern. In Warhammer, Karl Franz is a respected statesman, patron of arts, and a brave warrior. He established the Order of the Griffin and has Schwarzhelm as his servant. The League of Karl Franz, the oldest student fraternity at the University of Altdorf, is named after him.
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History

"Will you not die for your Empire? Will you not fight for your families? Sally forth then, into the jaws of death and cry havoc this day, that you may live within the annals of history."

—Emperor Karl Franz[4a]

Early Years

In 2470 IC Emperor Luitpold I and his infant son, Karl Franz, were ambushed in the Reikwald Forest by Beastmen. The Reiksguard bravely defended their lord, but they were butchered by a trio of Ghorgons. Just when it looked as if the emperor and his son were about to fall to a Minotaur's axe, Wood Elves burst out of the forest and came mysteriously to their rescue, cutting the Beastmen down in a hail of arrows, before vanishing back into the trees.[1d]

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Karl Franz takes the fight to the Beastmen astride his Griffon mount Deathclaw.

Luitpold I died in his sleep in 2502 IC and in a close vote of the Elector Counts, Luitpold's son was elected to replace him, and was crowned Emperor Karl-Franz I in the High Temple of Sigmar in Altdorf.[28a]

After ascending to the Imperial throne, Karl Franz wished to prove to his beloved subjects that he was not a man of decadence or greed, but a man that would lead his people in their darkest of times. The emperor decided that a show of military force could only strengthen his position as the new emperor, and so he began a military campaign to clear the wilderness of enemy threats. Ever since the Great War Against Chaos in 2301 IC, the number of Beastmen and Chaos cults had steadily increased over time. The emperor's advisors had told him that in the north the Winds of Magic blow strong once more, and dark omens abounded of a terrible storm that would engulf the world in war. It would take several years or even decades, but the forces of Chaos would inevitably return, driven by the expansion of the Chaos Wastes and the call of their Dark Gods.

This resulted in a steady increase in Norse raids along the Empire's coastlines and the northern border, growing bolder and ever more numerous with each passing day, creating fear and havoc amongst the many towns and fishing villages along the coast of the province of Nordland. In response, the first act Karl Franz took as the new Emperor was to march his way north at the head of a massive Imperial Army and reinforce the armies of Elector Count Theoderic Gausser. None of his generals or advisors had any way to predict when or where the Norse would strike next, and so he had to rely on his cadre of powerful Celestial Wizards to aid him in his planning, whose members possess the mystical ability to foretell the future by observing the heavens.

When the next massive raid came upon the northern shores of Nordland, the ravenous Chaos marauders were welcomed by a volley of bullets and crossbow bolts fired by a battle-line of Imperial troops. With the carefully concealed longships of the Norsemen sunk by a frightening barrage of Imperial gunfire and cannon batteries, the Norsemen had nowhere to run. Hundreds of the marauders died without a fight, their bodies driven to the bottom of the sea by the heavy bulk of their ships, and those who managed to reach the shores were met by a disciplined line of swordsmen, spearmen and halberdiers. The raiders were massacred to the last and the Emperor himself led the charge against the final shield wall of the Norse's last and most battle-hardened warriors.

Since his election, Karl Franz has won victory after victory and conquest after conquest, taking command of his troops personally whenever possible, bringing with him the legendary Ghal Maraz and his fellow Griffon companion Deathclaw. It was Karl Franz who led the decisive charge of the Reiksguard Knights against the Knights of Bretonnia at the Battle of Norduin in 2502 IC. On the legendary Field of Blood, it was the courage of the Emperor's own heroics that steadied the Imperial line against the thunderous charge of WAAAGH! Spleenrippa. In his war against the Eastern Hordes of Morkhal-hai the Savage, he personally led his Greatsword regiment into the very heart of the enemy army and broke the skull of the Chaos Champion with a single swing of his mighty warhammer.

There is little doubt that Karl Franz was one of the greatest generals of his time. He stood at the forefront of the battle against those that would have seen his beloved homeland torn asunder, a responsibility that weighed heavily upon his shoulders.

The emperor often rode into battle mounted on his loyal companion Deathclaw, the Griffon he himself raised since it was a mere egg, a noble and majestic beast that is reputed to be the mightiest Imperial Griffon to have ever lived. A powerful bond existed between the Griffon and the Emperor, one forged in countless battles and many adventures. As the years passed, the Empire continued to grow in power and influence, and Karl Franz engaged in major projects to improve the well being of his subjects and the common people. Reikmarshal Kurt Helborg fulfilled the will of the Emperor without question, leading the Imperial armies in combat against the Ogre bandits of Tyrant Breaskus, Greenskin raiders of the Broken Tooth tribe and the Skaven that infested the Howling Hills, site of the famous victory of Mandred Skavenslayer during the Skaven Wars.

Massacre along the Weiss (2504 IC)

When a great warherd of Minotaurs threatened to cross the Grey Mountains into Athel Loren, Ariel bade her Spellweavers divert the swollen waters of the River Weiss and force the beasts back into the Empire. It was then that the Emperor Karl Franz did that which none of his forebears had ever done — he walked beneath the eaves of Athel Loren to seek aid. The great council were little inclined to accede to the Emperor’s demands, for they perceived that his greatness was worn as a mantle, rather than flowed from a source within. Yet nor could they deny the logic of his plea.[26a]

So it was that Orion led the Wild Hunt over the mountains and to the Empire’s aid. Whilst Karl Franz rallied the embattled army of Wissenland, Orion and Naieth the Prophetess led the swiftest riders of Athel Loren far afield and struck at the warherd’s flanks. Following the path of carnage left by their king Glade Riders and celebrants of Kurnous carried their spears deep into the heart of the Minotaurs’ formation. Soon after, the King in the Woods slew the Doombull whose bloodrage had begun the rampage.[26a]

Decimated by disciplined handgun volleys, torn bloody by cannon fire and their most ferocious warriors felled by the fury of the Elves, the Minotaurs shrank back. Seeing their foes quaver, the men of the Empire gave out a great cheer; but they did so too soon. The wind shifted, and the scent of blood it carried drove the Minotaurs into afresh frenzy. Suddenly beset by an enemy they had thought beaten, the brave men of Wissenland suffered greatly. Regiments of Halberdiers and Greatswords were hacked apart, filling the air with yet more blood-spoor and driving the Minotaurs ever more berserk. Karl Franz moved to reinforce the line, but was swept from the back of his horse by a Cygor’s boulder.[26a]

Even from the other side ofthe battlefield, Orion’s keen eyes saw the Emperor fall. The King in the Woods was tom. He was weary, having been sorely wounded in battle with a colossal Ghorgon, and cared little for Karl Franz’s survival. As far as Orion was concerned, the human’s puny life mattered nought in the wider context of the Weave. Even if the Wissenlanders were routed from the field, the Wood Elves could simply withdraw behind the floodwaters of the Weiss once more. Sensing Orion’s indecision, Naieth quietly reminded her liege that the fate of the world rested on more than just those born to godly mien. It did not matter, she said, if the Emperor’s reach exceeded his grasp; what mattered was the nobility of his cause. Orion rounded upon Naieth with an expression so full of fury that the seeress feared for her life. Then Orion laughed and sounded his great horn so loud that its winding was heard as far away as Athel Loren.[26a]

As one, the Wood Elves charged forward once more, this time towards the human lines and the fallen Emperor. Lost in a haze of bloodletting the Minotaurs did not realize their danger until it was too late. Bows sang spears thrust forward and the Minotaurs soon found the tide of battle turned against them.[26a]

The King in the Woods fought his way to the downed Emperor, planted his hooves either side of the wounded man, and bellowed a challenge that the blood maddened warherd could not deny. By the time the Minotaurs finally realized their plight and fled, near three score of their greatest champions had fallen to Orion’s spear. The King in the Woods had been sorely wounded in exchange — his godly ichor flowed freely from a dozen ragged wounds — but Karl Franz had not suffered so much as a single blow during the hours in which Orion had stood guard over his unconscious form. Not that the Emperor had any opportunity to thank his rescuer, for as soon as it was clear the Minotaurs had no stomach for further battle, the Elves retrieved their dead and left the field.[26a]

A month later, an emissary from Athel Loren was admitted to the palace of Altdorf. He gave no name, but delivered both a gift and a message. The gift was a single Griffon egg retrieved, said the emissary, from the highest peak in the Grey Mountains. The message was simple, brought in friendship, but ominous nonetheless: "We will be watching."[26a]

Königswald Affair (2505 IC)

After the death of Elector Maximilian von Königswald, Karl Franz came personally to the estate of the Königswalds to express his condolences to young Oswald, Maximilians heir. The Emperor reminisced that it was thanks to Maximilian that the original vote of eight to four against him had been overturned into support from all Electors save one. [33a] He also told Oswald that he was like a father to his own son, Luitpold, and that he would gladly come to the play of his friends great victory over Constant Drachenfels, the Great Enchanter. [33a]

Taking the Imperial Court with him, the Emperor enjoyed time in the field, with friends and family around him and ignored warning signs such a dream of his son Luitpold with levitating monks that warned him to not come to Castle Drachenfels as fancies.[33b] As he watched the play, he came to realize that the events displayed there were far too realistic to be the work of mere threatre and sought to leave, but was hindered by Oswald, who forced him at knifepoint to remain.[33c] As Oswald von Königswald saw his plan to resurrect the Great Enchanter foiled by Detlef Sierck, he cut Karl Franz throat and sought to flee, but was slain.[33c] The Emperor survived, but could only speak in a whisper for a few months. During this time, the Königswalds were stripped of their titles, which were given to the von Tassenincks.[33c]

The Doppleganger Conspiracy

During the winter, when the Emperor returned from his stay in Talabheim, a devious plot from the Skaven to replace Karl Franz with a doppleganger puppet was sprung. Members of the palace guard of the Imperial Palace had been complicit on the plot, as they had been corrupted by the Slaaneshi Cult of the Jade Sceptre.[34a] This plan had been engineered by the Tzeentchian Champion known as Skullface. The Emperor had been taking captive by the Grey Seer Gaxar within the Imperial Palace and would have died if he hadn’t been saved by the Ostland warrior Konrad and the grace of Sigmar. When his own corrupted guard tried to turn on him when the attempt to replace Karl Franz failed, Konrad, the renegade wizard Litzenreich and the knight Wolfgang von Neuwald defended him. The Emperor, although weakened, promised to honour them and was escorted by two of the Templars of Sigmar to safety.[34b] Karl Franz declared Konrad a hero and his crimes forgiven, but neither he nor his companions could be found again to be honoured.[25a]

Turmoil of 2512 IC

Beginning in 2512 IC, the emperor made a series of decisions that made some people question his sanity. Through the Reikland Diet, an emergency decree was passed which annexed Ubersreik. Its ruler, Sigismund von Jungfreud, was stripped of his title and forced to flee into his ancestral lands at the Duchy of Black Rock. Ostensibly, Karl-Franz responded to recent tensions between the duchies of Wallenstein and Ubersreik. Indeed, the bill placed before the Reikland Diet in the small hours of the morning cited Graf Sigismund’s belligerent and aggressive military build-up that challenged the limitations of his ducal rights as a primary reason for his removal.[27a] The Emperor acted on intelligence provided by his uncle, Immanuel-Ferrand, who had been fed false information by the Black Chamber, which had been secretly infiltrated by Chaos cultists of the Purple Hand.[23a]

While lesser families were keen to capitalise on the power vacuum, more astute politicians feared for future stability. After all, if the Emperor could supplant and challenge a powerful, well-established family like the Jungfreuds, what was to stop him seizing the lands of any other noble house?[27a] Trust in the Emperor was damaged and nobles throughout the Empire sought to expand their retinues of soldiers in order to defend themselves.[23a]

At the same time, the Emperor began to suffer from a mysterious ailment that bound him to his bed and kept him ill and disoriented. A double was needed to keep the appearence of strength.[21a] As his mind was clouded, Shallyan reformers were able to persuade him to draft an edict that made persecution of mutants an offense, inciting the Cult of Sigmar as well as numerous Electors against him.[23b] Unrest followed in various cities of the Reikland, including Bögenhafen and Wittgendorf.

As the situation worsened and the Sigmarian Heresy flared up again in the northern provinces, the Council of State and the Grand Theogonist decided to end them by a public union - the marriage of Crown Prince Wolfgang von Holswig-Abenauer with Katarina Todbringer, daughter of Graf Boris Todbringer of Middenheim. Unfortunately, the wedding was interrupted by the attempted assassination of the Middenheimers through a Nordland separatist. In an emergency Electoral Conclave, Karl Franz was too sick to attend and had to be represented by a double. The Conclave became heated and in it, Boris Runefang clashed with Ghal Maraz and shattered it, revealing it to be copy. The destruction of the most treasured symbol of imperial unity caused the conclave to fail and Imperial authority to be permanently weakened, paving the way to civil war.[23c]

A group of heroes managed to retrieve the true hammer from a cavern in the Blackfire Pass where Sigmar had once battled an Exalted Lord of Change by the name Sheerargetru. Unknown to all, this was part of a ploy concoted by the daemon to free itself. As the ceremony was conducted, magical rifts opened over Altdorf, Bögenhafen, Ubersreik, Middenheim, Talabheim, Bechafen, Averheim, Nuln and Remas, unleashing daemonic hordes upon them.[23d] Only with great sacrifices could the daemon be defeated and the Purple Hand and their sinister plans for an Empire dominated by Chaos be thwarted. With the clouding fog of poison and sickness behind him and the true Ghal Maraz in his hand, Karl Franz went on to reunite the Empire.

In an Electoral Conference, the largest reorganization of the Empire since Magnus the Pious was passed. Hochland and Ostermark were restored as Electoral Provinces, with Sudenland and Middenland becoming parts of Middenheim and Wissenland. Talabheim and Talabecland were reunited as one province, while those who had been loyal to him were rewarded, like Marius Leitdorf and Valmir von Raukov.[24a] The revelation that Graf Boris' former wife, the daughter of the Baron of Nordland, had been a Slaanesh cultist, caused a short war in which Ostland, Averland, Ostermark, Talabecland, Wissenland and nthe two Arch-Lectors of Sigmar supported the recreation of an Electoral province Nordland under the rule of Theoderic Gausser.[24b]

Vampire Uprising

At some point following the Turmoil of 2512 IC, the Empire was shaken by civil unrest after the revelation of Vampire covens in Nuln. Carroburg was torn by riots, Kurt Helborg and his Reiksguard had to put down riots in Middenheim and from Streissen to Sauerapfel, the southern Empire was in turmoil. Indeed, many claimed that the emperor himself had become a Vampire. To calm the situation, the emperor intended to visit Nuln.[39a] Altdorf itself had been shaken with riots after a terrible pox had ravaged much of the population, targeting those who were affiliated with the Lahmian Sisterhood.[39b]

Grigor von Messinghof, the mastermind behind this disease and a member of the von Carstein Vampiric bloodline, planned to have the emperor assassinated at Arschel. Karl Franz had been infected with the very same pox and one of Elector Countess Emmanuelle von Liebwitz's physicians, Doktor Gaebler, was to cure him. Von Messinghof planned to paint Gabler as a Lahmian catspaw and the Elector Countess as a Vampire. He hoped to initiate a civil war between Reikland and Wissenland that would result in a four-sided conflict with Middenland and Talabecland that would leave the Empire a weakened ruin.[39c][39d]

The plan went awry when the von Carstein forces were attacked by Lahmians at Castle Ambossstein, with parts of their army destroyed and the fighting drawing the troops of the emperor to them before he had reached Arschel.[39e] As Karl Franz prepared to attack from the rear, the emperor and Ludwig Schwarzhelm were challenged by Ulrika Straghov. The Emperor's Champion easily defeated the Vampire in a duel, while Karl Franz insisted that she had to be taken alive.[39f] When a new host of Lahmians arrived, the emperor retreated, foiling von Messinghof's plans.[39g]

Karl Franz, thus alerted, marched directly upon Nuln.[39h] When Ulrika was captured again, Karl Franz questioned her, revealing himself far more well-informed about the amount of influence the Lahmians maintained in the Empire and the infighting that plagued the Vampire bloodlines than any normal person should be. It was then that von Messinghof struck, collapsing the bridges to the Iron Tower and launching an assault.[39i]

As Karl Franz and Schwarzhelm tried to flee from the isle aboard a barge, Grigor von Messinghof attacked them personally and the sickened emperor fought the Vampire Count. Despite his weakened status, Karl Franz fought well, wounding the Vampire several times. He was saved by Ulrika Straghov, who killed von Messinghof after his past treacheries had been revealed to her. Karl Franz took Ulrika captive, once again demanding answers. The Vampire warned the emperor of a darkness that was rising in Sylvania and of the return of the Vampire Lord Mannfred von Carstein. In exchange for this warning, Karl Franz allowed Ulrika to go unharmed.[39j]

Third Battle of Black Fire Pass (2519 IC)

"Black Fire Pass has seen the best of us and it has seen the worst as well. Its history is written in the blood of our people, and though it makes us rich I still hold that we have paid a heavy price for our proximity to that bleak and terrible place."

—Ludwig von Hoss, A History of the Province of Averland, Volume XIX.[5]
Third Battle of Black Fire Pass

The infamous Third Battle of Black Fire Pass

It was in that same year that Marius Leitdorf warned the Emperor when a new Greenskin Waaagh! poured out of Black Fire Pass and threatened to overrun the province of Averland. He responded personally to this call and went to face the horde before it was too late, culminating in what would become the Third Battle of Black Fire Pass. The Imperial army arrived just in time to block the entrance of Black Fire Pass from the onrushing hordes of Greenskin warriors.

With a battle-line of Imperial soldiers holding the enemy at bay, a barrage of Imperial artillery rained down cannonballs and grapeshots upon the tightly packed enemy horde. The first few waves consisted mostly of Goblins and a handful of Orcs, but the appearance of a berserking Giant would soon threaten the Imperial Line. Karl Franz, upon his Griffon, personally fought the massive behemoth, but in the process, Deathclaw was injured and was forced to retreat back to the command post.  

Empire Marius Leitdorf a caballo

Marius Leitdorf during the Battle of Black Fire Pass.

With his Griffon returning to the comforts of Altdorf, the Emperor watched as the battle continued its course. Time and again, the Greenskins crashed against the disciplined ranks of the Imperial army like a wave upon a cliff. After many hours of fierce fighting, a clamour arose to the north-east as a wave of Greenskin warriors riding upon massive boars appeared from nowhere and tore through the Imperial artillery. Lead by Warlord Vorbad Ironjaw, the Greenskin cavalry smashed into the left flank of the Empire battle-line. Entire regiments were caught while turning their formation to face the new threat and were easily routed and butchered. A few units broke ranks and fled, as panic started to spread through the Imperial army. The Goblins at the front-lines were ruthlessly trampled to death as a new wave of heavily armoured Orc warriors and massive Trolls joined the fray.  

In a short amount of time, the Empire lines were in tatters, with only the right flank conserving some sense of its former order. Upon the centre of the battlefield, a small knot of determined Greatswords stood alone in a sea of Greenskins as they fought side-by-side with Marius Leitdorf. Warlord Vorbad drove his gigantic mount through the Greatswords company, tossing them aside like dolls, and made his way towards the Count himself. Marius came forward to meet the monster, dodging the charging beast as he swung his Runefang in a deadly arc. The massive boar was disembowelled by the magic sword and its rider fell to the ground. When the Warlord rose to his feet, he smashed the Elector Count into submission within mere seconds. The Warlord grabbed the Count by the throat in a powerful grip, and after a few seconds of struggle, the Count's strangled snarl was cut short by the chilling noise of bones snapping. In that instant, Marius Leitdorf was dead.  

Desperate to hold the enemy back from ravaging the beautiful countryside of the Empire, the Emperor lead one final assault upon the Greenskin hordes. Upon his warhorse, the Emperor lead his Reiksguard Knights in a massive cavalry charge that tore through the enemy ranks. As the Emperor faced the Warlord, Vorbad made a charge. Karl Franz dodged his assault and struck back with Ghal Maraz. The hammer hit the Orc on the shoulder, and the pain sent the Orc Warlord into a berserk fury, attacking Karl Franz with bestial ferocity.  

KarlFranzVSVorgazIronjaw

Karl Franz's climactic battle against Vorbad Ironjaw.

As the two fought, the battlefield around them soon stood silent as each army stopped and watched the two leaders fight it out. Though the Emperor was a magnificent warrior, Karl Franz could not overcome such a massive opponent. His strength was waning as time and again the blows began to take its toll upon his body. Finally, the Emperor began to give ground and eventually fell to one knee. At that sight, a cry of pain came from the Empire troops. Tasting victory, the Warlord savoured the moment before he prepared to deliver the killing blow. Karl Franz was overwhelmed with pain, but in his heart he wished to continue for, should he have fallen that day, the lands of the Empire would be ravaged by war, plundered and its people murdered. Deep down in his heart, he prayed for deliverance, for the strength to overcome his foe just like Sigmar had done all those centuries ago. His silent prayer was sincere and was not ignored.  

In that instant, a blinding aura shimmered around the emperor's body as the Hammer glowed with a fierce golden light. All of a sudden his pain was gone, his muscles became filled with unearthly strength and a primal fighting spirit blossomed in his heart. As the emperor rose to meet the huge Orc once more, the Warlord stopped in his tracks as the Emperor's appearance changed into a gigantic barbarian dressed in fur. The man shouted a loud battle cry that boomed amongst the mountains as it had done so all those centuries ago:

"Unberogens!"

At that sound, the instincts of the warlord were overcome by memories inscribed in the soul of his race; memories of mighty barbarians defeating the Orcs in a war for the dominion of the rich plains, and driving them to the desolation beyond the mountains. In those times, these Men were led by this very same champion, he who had denied the possession of this land to the Greenskins. In that moment and for the first time in his life, the Warlord felt the coldness of fear upon him. The Warlord stood dumbstruck, a split second of hesitation that would cost him everything.  

The Barbarian King swung his giant warhammer at the Orc's skull and, with a thunderous crack, smote the beast down. The events of Black Fire Pass were re-enacted and the Greenskin horde panicked and fled the battlefield at the sight of their Warlord's fall. As the Warlord's life drained from his body, he saw again through his bloodied eyes the wounded man in black armour, and not the god-like enemy that had vanquished him. The Warlord could not understand, and in defiance, he raised a claw in one last futile attempt to fight back, but all his strength was gone and his arm fell back, powerless, before his life left him. From that day on, the name of Karl Franz has been pronounced in the Empire with even greater pride, for all heard tales of the duel. And even though in years to come the stories about the battle were embellished and exaggerated, everybody always agreed that on that day, Sigmar himself had fought alongside his descendant.

Relations with the Dwarf High King

"These are nice drawings. They are by your children, yes?"

—Reputed remarks of High King Thorgrim Grudgebearer, on being presented with a copy of the notebooks of Leonardo da Miragliano by the Emperor Karl Franz[35a]

Emperor Karl Franz has tried throughout his career to cement his and the Empire's relationship with the High King of the Dwarfs, Thorgrim Grudgebearer, even presenting him the precious notebooks of Leonardo da Miragliano, though it is unknown if this was intended to be a gift, or if he was in search of guidance. Unfortunately, Grudgebearer was not impressed and mocked the works of Humanity's greatest artist and engineer, believing them to be the works of Human children.[35a]

End Times

"Tyrion saw the light, and with it the revelation of a truth that he had known since his return from the dead. Karl Franz had not been reborn during the fall of Altdolf. His body had been restored, true enough. However, the will that drove it was not his, but that of Sigmar Heldenhammer, whose spirit had been trapped within the Wind of Heavens for more than two thousand years..."

—Karl Franz's sacrifice.[18]
Warhammer End Times Karl Franz Rebirth

The rebirth of the God-King Sigmar during the End Times through the possession of Karl Franz's body.

During the events of the End Times, the emperor proved his true devotion to his homeland and people by giving his life to hold back the hordes of Nurgle during the forces of Chaos' horrific Siege of Altdorf.[17]

Just as his old ally, Louen Leoncoeur, fell fighting Ku'gath Plaguefather and his Daemonic hordes, so too did Karl Franz fight the Glottkin onto death...[17]

Outside the palace gates, Ghurk Glott locked his tentacle around Deathclaw's neck as his brother Otto approached the Emperor. Karl Franz was making his last stand, somehow standing bolt upright with an expression of grim determination on his features. The Emperor of the South, holding a runesword in his off-hand as his severed right arm squirted blood onto the gravel. He was pale, but determined to die with dignity.[17]

His opponent, Otto Glott, was about to attack his foe once more when a crescendo of galloping hooves gave him pause. He darted to the right, and narrowly avoided having his head bisected as a white-haired warrior with elaborate plate armour hammered past with blade outstretched. The rider rose right the way around the palace fountain in a spray of gravel, coming up behind his master with a sword almost identical to that wielded by Karl Franz himself.[17]

The Emperor did not take his eyes from Otto Glott's, even as the warlord's giant brother fought to suppress the manic struggles of Deathclaw. Karl Franz's voice was steely under the pain as he greeted the Reiksmarshal who had galloped to his side. The moustachioed officer also eyed Otto with wary contempt. There was a crack of stone as Ghurk hurled Deathclaw into the nearby fountain. The tension snapped, and all three warriors laughed at once.[17]

Otto Glott's scythe arced down onwards Karl Franz's chest, all the force he could muster behind it. The Emperor's runic blade came up awkwardly, but he was too slow. It was his bodyguard Helborg that blocked the blow, his Runefang hooking around the scythe's wooden neck and wrenching it from Otto's grip to send it spinning across the courtyard. Growling, Otto whipped out the rusted sword at his waist before backhanding Helborg with such force that the Reiksmarshal stumbled to the ground.[17]

Bought a precious second, the Emperor plunged his Runefang hissing into Otto's chest, but his lunge missed the warlord's heart by a finger's breadth. Otto twisted and kicked, yanking the runesword from his foe's grip and punching his own blade at Karl Franz's throat. The Blow never landed. Helborg's hand grabbed the blade tight, blood seeping from his grip as the Emperor staggered back. Otto simply ripped the rusted blade free, severing three of the Reiksmarshal's fingers before lunging forward. The tip of the filthy sword punched into Helborg's eye socket with such force that it smashed out the back of his skull.[17]

Helborg stutered out a plea for forgiveness in the name of Sigmar, before his corpse slid from the rusted blade onto the floor.[17]

Laughing, Otto rounded on the one-armed, swordless Emperor, spinning the stolen Runefang up in the air in an arrogant display of swordsmanship. With Deathclaw pinned in the fountain by his immense bulk, Ghurk also turned to loom over the southern lord.[17]

Lightning flashed overhead as Otto raised his stolen Runefang and swung it down with a roar of triumph. A thunderclap boomed high above as Karl Franz raised his good arm to deflect the blow. The blade severed it without slowing and plunged deep into the Emperor's chest. The world seemed to freeze in fear for a brief second. Karl Franz sank to the flagstones with the Glottkin triumphant above him.

With his final breath, the Emperor called for his god one last time, and the world was changed forever.[17]

At that moment, the searing Twin Tailed Comet that was souring the sky overhead, smashed onto the lifeless body of the Emperor, and from the impact, an aura of blinding light was unleashed that saw the eradication of the unholy taint that had plagued the besieged city.[15][17]

From the light burst forth a tall, powerful man wielding an ancient, crackling warhammer, and with a mighty swing of his weapon, Sigmar struck the Glottkin brothers and sent them back to the Realm of Chaos, never to return...[15][17]

Storm of Chaos

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This article or this section of the article contains information regarding the Storm of Chaos campaign and its aftermath, which is now considered a non-canon, alternate timeline.


"The hour is at hand when all men true to the Empire must stand firm against the darkness that befalls us. A host has gathered in the north to dwarf the mightiest armies of old. We are divided, broken apart by fear and doubt. If we allow this to continue, we will fall, and with our passing will come a new age of terror and shadow. An age that has not beset the world for two and a half thousand years."

—Karl Franz, Emperor[30d]

In the alternate timeline of the Storm of Chaos, a large Chaos host assembled in the north in 2521 IC, lead by the renegade former Templar and thirteenth Everchosen Archaon. Before the Everchosen, an army of Grand Theogonist Volkmar the Grim fell, the spiritual leader of the faith of Sigmar being left to rot. Beset by dark omens, the population of the Empire descended into hysteria. Mutants and worse were being discovered even in the larger cities and the fields were abandoned as people chose to become flagellants instead of tending the fields, causing the crops to rot and threatening the Empire with famine.[31a]

At Mitterfruhl, Karl Franz called for a conclave in order to address the threat, summoning the Elector Counts, as well as the Patriarchs of the eight Colleges, ambassadors from Marienburg as well as dwarfs from the Karaz Ankor. The suggested courses of action differed -- Helmut Feuerbach suggested a defensive course of action, while Boris Todbringer argued for a swift and decisive strike against the horde. Others suggested bribing the various chiefs that lead the tribes making up the army, while others suggested razing parts of the northern Empire in order to starve Archaon and his armies. The wizards under Balthasar Gelt instead suggested building a wall of wards and hexes to drain the Winds of Magic of their potency and weaken Archaons daemonic hordes.[31b] In all of this, the emperor sat silent, only once he subtly berated Theodoric Gausser for complaining about Norscan raids upon his coast and accusing him of apathy. More dire news came from the north, from Kislev and Karak Kadrin, telling of ever larger armies of Chaos warriors amassing against the Empire. Ar-Ulric and Grand Theogonist Esmer III accused each other of weakening the Empire in order to advance their own agenda. As the Emperor still did not act, some hoped to depose him. This was strictly opposed by Middenland, Averland and Nordland, pointing to the fact that no emperor had ever been deposed while in power. It was instead decided to send additional emissaries to Bretonnia and the Border Princes. On the thirtieth day, Teclis of Ulthuan arrived, promising the aid of the Phoenix King against the hordes of evil. And after this, Karl Franz finally decided to action, sending the Asur to patrol the Sea of Claws and the dwarfs to continue to defend the mountain passes, with the aid of the armies of Wissenland and Stirland. The armies of Ostermark and Ostland would join the defense of Kislev, while the other provinces were marshaled and to meet the Chaos horde in battle. [31c]

In 2522, Luthor Huss lead Valten to Altdorf, despite being decried as a heretic by the Grand Theogonist. For three days, Huss and Valten had to camp before the closed city walls, before Karl Franz chose to admit them. [30b]Before his throne, Huss again declared that Valten was Sigmar Reborn and that the Imperial Throne was his by right. He entreated Karl Franz to follow his faith and relinquish it to the rightful ruler. When Karl Franz addressed Valten to ask him what he would have him do, the young smith answered that he was a servant of the Empire and of Mankind, and would have him do what was right for both of them.[30c]

In the end, to avoid civil war and religious schisms, Karl Franz called for the Grand Theogonist to bring him Ghal Maraz, which he offered to Valten to acknowledge him as Sigmar’s Chosen. He himself, however, was still the Emperor, with the other Elector Counts having sworn their oaths to him.[30d]

Karl Franz’ lead the forces of the Reikland together with Valten, arriving at Talabheim, planning to fall Archaon’s army in the back while they sieged Middenheim. They arrived when Archaon, unable to take the city, was forced to retreat and recuperate his forces. Marshaling his forces at Grimminhagen, Karl Franz’ later heard that Valten and his troops had been attacked and rode forth to aid Sigmar’s Chosen. The Everchosen had retreated to the village Sokh, where the final battle of the Storm of Chaos would take place. Here, the armies of the Empire met those of Chaos.

In the aftermath, Valten was wounded, but Archaon defeated, being forced to flee thanks to Grimgor Ironhide. This resulted in religious strife, as some claimed that, as he had been defeated, he could not have been Sigmar’s Chosen, while others claimed that he should be crowned Emperor as was his right. As disputes arose whether Volkmar should reassume his position or if Esmer III should stay, Karl Franz invited them, as well as Ar-Ulric and Luthor Huss to a private council, which was ended prematurely when news came that Valten was dead, murdered by unknown forces.[32b] Some speculated that Valten had been assassinated by Karl Franz to maintain his position, others that a dark, glowing serrated blade had been found within his heart.[32c]

Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning

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This article contains information regarding The Age of Reckoning, a series of novels and short stories produced by both the Black Library and Mythic Entertainment for Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, that follow an alternate timeline for the mortal world that diverges from that of the End Times.


In the alternate timeline of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, at some point in Emperor Karl Franz's reign, a Chaos-infused plague spread from the north, which transformed its victims into ravening mutants. By the time the Emperor issued his first quarantine order, the vile disease had already spread across most of his lands. Social order broke down, with Militiamen in plague-wracked cities being forced to combat the hordes of Chaos mutants roaming their streets, leaving their walls undefended against threats from without. Emboldened gangs of brigands roamed the countryside, looting, burning and killing at will.[29]

This served as herald to a darker force- a Champion of the Great Changer, Tzeentch. Additionally, the Witch King of Naggaroth foresaw that the invading Chaos host would force the Empire so seek aid from their allies. Seeking to weaken the Karaz Ankor so that the Emperor would have no choice but to call upon Finubar for aid. An eclipse heralded the arrival of Tchar'zanek and his Raven Host and causing terror in the cities. As the dwarf realms come under assault from a Waaagh! lead by the Bloody Sun Boyz, Karl Franz was forced to honor the ancient pact between dwarfs and Men by sending parts of his own troops to support his allies, while Nordland and Ostland came under assault. Seeing no other way to save the Empire, an emissary was sent to the Phoenix Court to entreat Finubar for aid. In the moment the main fleet of the Asur left, the Druchii assaulted their shores. [29]

Recognizing that the only way to counter the threats arrayed against them will be to combine their strengths, the leaders of the Empire and the nations of the Dwarfs and the High Elves convened a great Council of Wisdom in the Imperial capital of Altdorf. At this summit, the three rulers forged a pact that their peoples shall fight as one and strike back at the enemies who would conquer their homelands.[29]

In order to combat the threat, Karl Franz founded the Order of the Griffin, a military force made up of highly skilled soldiers, Wizards and devotees of Sigmar's cult who will be charged with facing the gravest threats from within and without.[29]

Personality

"Truth will prevail."

—Heraldic motto of Emperor Karl Franz I.[13a]

Karl Franz was the greatest statesman in the Old World, a great patron of the arts and sciences, innovator in military matters and a valiant warrior of great courage and tenacity. Through his efforts, the Empire prospered under his reign. The Imperial School of Engineering developed new and deadlier war machines for the benefit of the Imperial army, while the Colleges of Magic grew in strength and size, aiding the Imperial army in victory after victory. Karl Franz showed more skill and character than even the greatest of his predecessors and he kept his promise to establish a strong government under a just and moral standing.  

Karlfranzban

Karl Franz's coat of arms.

Under his guidance, he skilfully managed to manoeuvre around the Cults of Sigmar and Ulric in their attempts to win his favour. When a crisis arose between the Elector Counts of Stirland and the Elector Counts of Talabecland over a dispute that dated back to the Time of the Three Emperors, other Elector Counts waited anxiously to see which side Karl Franz would support in an event that would decide the outcome of both parties. The Emperor, however, would have none of it, and decided to go to Talabheim to negotiate peace terms between the two factions. 

His talents as a spokesman with tremendous patience were put to the test to solve the issue, but the two rivals finally gave in to his terms and the civil war was avoided by his political genius. Other similar conflicts such as this had since been resolved by the intervention of Karl Franz, his position strengthened by the reassuring and imposing presence of Ludwig Schwarzhelm himself. The mere sight of the personal champion of the Emperor's "Sword of Justice" was enough to make the other Elector Counts far more accommodating and cooperative than they would have been. From what historians and scholars could understand, Karl Franz used a political tactic that would ensure that the agreement would be "mutually acceptable by both parties". With his superior understanding of current politics, the Emperor won many victories by giving the people not what they wanted but what they did not want the others to have. By using this clever political tactic, he managed to convince the Merchant Guilds of Altdorf to sign the famous Convention of the Stink Act in 2506 IC, from which they were required to pay huge fines and exorbitant fees not because they believed in the concept of a cleaner Altdorf, but because they hoped that this agreement would ruin their rivals' own finances. 

Another notable event of his great political skill was the time when the territorial ambitions of the aggressive Theoderic Gausser upon the neighbouring province of Hochland were countered by the intervention of the Supreme Patriarch of the Colleges of Magic, Balthasar Gelt, by Karl Franz's order. Balthasar travelled to the capital city of Salzenmund, the home of Count Theoderic as an ambassador of the Emperor, hoping to dissuade the Elector Count's ambitious dream of expanding his territories. Thanks to the Supreme Patriarch's magical powers of the Winds of Chamon, Balthasar secretly transmuted the gold used for the mercenaries under the Counts employ into lead. Without the gold to finance his expedition, his army would not march with him, forcing Theoderic to relinquish his claims to the lands of Hochland. However, once he discovered what had happened, Theoderic unsheathed his powerful Runefang Crow Feeder, determined to behead the sorcerer for what he had done to his precious gold. But the sorcerer was never found, for he had quickly fled the Nordland capital on his pegasus after finalising his work in the Nordland treasury.  

Family

Warhammer Karl Franz family

Karl Franz's family

For the longest time, the Emperor presented the facade of chastity and disattachement, in order to keep the Electors hopeful for a dynastic match. Rumours claimed that he had an affair with the niece of Arch-Lector Aglim or Duchess Elise.[25a] In fact, despite not being officially married, the Emperor had two children with his distant cousin and childhood friend Maria-Luise von Walfen, Luitpold and Alia. Luitpold was legitimzed and made into the heir as the Prince of Altdorf,[25a] while his daughter Alia was officially legitimized following his marriage with Maria-Luise after the Turmoil and made into his heir as the Elector Countess of Reikland.[24a]

Baroness Ludgera is a distant cousin of the Emperor Karl-Franz.[38a]

There were also rumours that Voland was none other than the bastard son of the Emperor. Voland himself never sought to affirm or contradict any of these tales, which consequently grew even more elaborate and unlikely over the years.[19a][*1]

Wargear & Abilities

Karl Franz is bestowed by his title as Emperor with some of the most powerful magical weapons and armour in the Old World. Although his greatest strength is masterful statesmanship, Karl Franz is nonetheless a formidable warrior. He often leads troops directly in battle — whether on horseback amongst the Reiksguard or atop his loyal griffon, Deathclaw.

  • Ghal Maraz (Skull Splitter) — The legendary hammer of Sigmar and one of the most potent magical artefacts in the entire world. This rune-encrusted weapon has been the symbol of the Emperor's office ever since the founding of the Empire.[1e]
  • Drachenzahn, Dragon Tooth (Reikland Runefang) — As the Elector Count of Reikland, Karl Franz has the right to wield his Runefang in battle. When he does so, it is almost always to make a political statement, namely that his actions are done in his capacity as the ruler of his province, and not the Empire as a whole. [1e] Speaking a word of power ignites a bright red flame along the blade.[16a]
  • Karl Franz's Armour — Forged by the Dwarf smith Dalbran Fellhammer, pieces of this armour were originally worn by Magnus the Pious at the Battle of Kislev. It is made of black gromril and is richly gilded — adorned with runes and symbols of power.[14a][*2]

Election of Karl Franz

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This article contains information regarding story elements of Total War: Warhammer, its subsequent entries as well as associated short stories and other media. Some of the lore presented in the games diverges from main canon, following a different storyline than the one set up in the End Times.

Karl-Franz of House Holswig-Schliestein was born the only son of Emperor Luitpold I and his wife. In 2470 IC, when he was still a babe, he accompanied his mother, father and sister Isabella along with the Imperial retinue as they travelled the Drakwald Forest, being forced to stay at an inn fifteen miles from the capital of Altdorf. That night the inn was attacked by a group of Beastmen, who, despite the efforts of the Reiksguard and the Reikscaptain Kurt Helborg, came close to slaying the Imperial family. However, they were saved by the timely intervention of a group of Wood Elves, who slew the approaching Beastmen. One of the Wood Elves asked Helborg to speak with the Imperial family, who agreed. The elf showed no care for the Emperor’s gratitude and fixed his emerald eyes on the baby held by his mother. Claiming he wouldn’t harm the child for “he is far too important”, the elf called the child "Harathoi Koiran", meaning "Young King" in their language, and placed a finger lightly on the baby’s forehead before giving him a cryptic message: “Do what your kind does best… break it... then make it whole again.” The Wood Elves then left the inn without a further glance at the Imperial family.[6]

Franz was raised in Altdorf, the capital of Reikland and the Empire, as Luitpold's heir. During his youth, he gained a reputation coveting taverns and gambler's dens, as well as having a poor attendance record to the Temple of Sigmar, although his behaviour changed with his marriage and the birth of his son, named Luitpold for the boy's grandfather. He was trained at fighting by the Emperor's Justice, Ludwig Schwarzhelm, but his martial ability was still seen as unproven by the time he was thirty-two.[6]

The Prince of Altdorf

Emperor Luitpold I died in the year 2502 IC, leaving Karl Franz, the new head of House Holswig-Schliestein, with the titles of Prince of Altdorf and Elector Count of Reikland and with Dragon's Tooth, the Reikland Runefang. However, both Sigmar's warhammer Ghal Maraz and the Emperorship was to be determined by the votes of the fifteen Electors: ten Elector Counts who ruled the Imperial Provinces, including Franz, the Elder of the Moot, the Ar-Ulric of the Cult of Ulric and the Grand Theogonist and two Arch Lectors from the Cult of Sigmar. Only a week after his father's funeral had all the Electors gathered in Altdorf to choose who among the Counts was to rule the Empire. At thirty-two, many believed that Franz was still too young and unproven in comparison to some of the more experienced Elector Counts, a belief shared by Franz himself. Karl was content to live a comparatively tranquil life with his family as ruler of the Reikland, and while he voted for himself he made it clear he did not want the throne. Nevertheless, Franz still gained four votes while three abstained. The rest of the Electors voted for Boris Todbringer, the Elector Count of Middenland, a battle-hardened and experienced warrior who spent years fighting Beastmen in the Drakwald Forest. However, with eight votes Boris was two votes shy of being electable, and thus it was decided the second round would be held a fortnight later. Franz almost got into a confrontation with the abrasive Todbringer, until Maximillian von Königswald, the Elector Count of Ostland and an old ally to Franz's father, defused the situation before it escalated into a fight between Elector Counts.[6]

Franz left Altdorf along with Helborg and a group of Reiksguard and Halbediers, wanting to patrol the forests surrounding his new city. There, Helborg assured the new Prince that the Reiksguard was personally loyal to Franz's dynasty and that Todbringer was likely to replace them as the royal guard anyway if elected. But Franz insisted that their job was to protect whoever was elected, not to him. However, the group was interrupted by an attack from a group of Forest Goblins. The Imperial troops managed to hold against the Greenskins, until a Forest Goblin Shaman riding an Arachnarok Spider attacked them. Franz met the creature in battle with his newly acquired Runefang, slaying both the Shaman and the Arachnarok thus causing the Forest Goblins to flee. The Reiklander troops rallied to their new Prince, and one of the remaining Reiksguard approached Franz with a hidden dagger. The tired Karl avoided the first blow, but he would have been stabbed were it not for an ethereal, green figure parrying the blade and slaying the assassin.[6]

This figure, the Green Knight, was a spirit from the neighbouring Kingdom of Bretonnia. He revealed that he had been sent by his Goddess, the Lady of the Lake, to summon Franz to a meeting with the Bretonnian King before a new Emperor was chosen. He warned the young Prince that if the Empire and Bretonnia could not forget their old grudges, the "Three-Eyed King" would claim victory over both, vanishing before Franz could ask further questions.[6]

Returning back to Altdorf, Franz told Helborg that he would meet with the Bretonnians, but he was still unsure about trying to claim Emperorship. He believed that, if the Empire was facing such a great threat, it would need someone of experience like Todbringer, but Helborg defied the Prince's choice. Many Electors, he said, were greedy old fools that had not seen as much battle as Franz despite their age. Helborg said that his wish to refuse the throne was a selfish one, for Franz saw the heavy toll that power took on his father. Karl could have a relatively peaceful life with his family tending to the Reikland, but, Kurt argued, that would be a waste of his skills as a statesman, especially with the challenges the Empire was to face.[6]

The King of Bretonnia

"You are right to try to avoid it. Only fools seek the chains of governance. But for men like us, it is our responsibility."

—King Louen Leoncoeur, to the young Karl Franz.[6]

Karl prepared to meet with the Bretonnian King, leaving Helborg in Altdorf to keep the peace between the scheming Elector Counts. Maximillian, reaffirming his friendship to Franz and his father, offered to accompany the Prince due to his distrust of the Bretonnians. Protected by a small retinue of Halberdiers and Reiksguard, the two Elector Counts journeyed to Helmgart, the fortress that guarded Axe Bite Pass between both realms. Upon their arrival, the pair discovered that the Bretonnians had set up a grand encampment nearby.[6]

Meeting with King Louen Leoncoeur and two Bretonnian Dukes in his tent, the King of Bretonnia insisted on talking with Franz alone. Relaxing his arrogant demeanour, Louen, himself only two years into his reign, explained that Franz would learn to play the role for his vassals soon enough, once he took his own throne. He explained that he had not summoned Karl, for the Green Knight did not answer to him, but to his Goddess the Lady of the Lake.[6]

Not long after Emperor Luitpold's death, King Louen explained, he was granted a vision of prophecy by the Lady. He saw the Old World in ruins, with the forces of Chaos reigning supreme. He understood that Bretonnia needed an equally strong neighbour to form a bulwark against the predations of the Dark Gods and their followers in the north. The Empire, however, was weak, and only stood a chance with Emperor Karl Franz on the throne. If humanity was to overcome Chaos, the Lady said, "something must be broken, shattered, before it can be remade anew".[6]

However, King Louen and Prince Karl were interrupted by an attack of Orcs from the Necksnapper Tribe. Fighting back-to-back, the pair managed to hold the beasts off until their subjects dispatched the Greenskin horde. With the threat defeated, Louen told Franz to return to his capital and win the election, not for himself, or for Louen, but for the Old World.[6]

The Electors

Convinced by Leoncoeur's words, Franz and Maximillian travelled back to the capital with the intent of convincing Todbringer's supporters to vote for the Prince of Altdorf. With only four days to go, Franz went to the Grand Temple of Sigmar to talk to the Grand Theogonist Volkmar the Grim for his and his Arch Lector's votes. In theory, their votes were independent of each other, but in practice, they always acted as a block of three that acted in the Cult of Sigmar's interests. They had backed both Franz' father and grandfather in their elections, just like the Ar-Ulric had always backed the Elector Count of Middenland. Volkmar, however, explained that he doubted Franz's piety and remembered the reputation for debauchery he had gained in his youth. He and the Arch-Lectors had abstained, as they would vote neither for Franz nor for an Ulrican, but he insisted he was open to hearing more from Karl. But when he tried to tell him about the Lady of the Lake's prophecy, Volkmar snapped at him. Enraged that Franz would listen to some foreign deity before Sigmar, the Grand Theogonist expelled him from the Temple.[6]

Resorting to gain by cunning what he couldn’t gain by faith, Franz arranged a meeting between himself and Maximillian with Marius Leitdorf, the Elector Count of Averland, and Hisme Stoutheart, the Halfling Elder of the Moot, in order to negotiate for their votes. They meet at the back room of the Haunted Calf, a seedy tavern near the Reiksport, Marius, known as the “Mad Count” for his eccentric demeanour, was happy to meet with them, although Hisme was far less jovial about their meeting. He expressed that he had voted for Todbringer last time and saw no reason not to do it again, seeing him as far more experienced. Franz tried to remind the Elder that the Moot always backed a southern Emperor because of their closeness to them, only for Marius to taunt and downright threaten the Halfling, telling him that Todbringer won't care about the Moot once he gets into power. Franz stopped Leitdorf, wanting to rule by gaining the Elector's trust rather than their fear, and insisted that Stoutheart name his price. Hisme explained he would change his vote if Franz placed a tally tax in the River Stir, forcing the Moot's rivals at the League of Ostermark to send their wool, mutton and beer trade south Stirland and the Moot to the River Aver on their way to Nuln and Altdorf. Such a move would benefit both Averland, Stirland and the Moot, while alienating the Chancellor of Ostermark. Karl agreed to this cost and he, Maximillian and Marius left for their chambers, the Elder staying to drink from the beer he would soon take a cut from. On their way home, the Electors were confronted by a group of Middenland thugs, who came to the city for the election. Marius responded with glee and attacked them first, shocking their attackers, though he was almost killed but for Franz's help, all while Maximilian ran to call the city watch. Before going their separate ways, Franz asked Marius if he had voted for him in the previous round, which the Avarlander confirmed insisting Karl was destined for greatness.[6]

The next day Franz meet with Alberich Haupt-Anderssen, the Elector Count of Stirland, in his private chambers in the Imperial Palace for breakfast. Alberich was far more aggressive than the previous Electors Franz meet, berating his late father for remaining inactive while Stirland starved. Stirland, Alberich explained, was the Empire's bastion against the Undead of Sylvania, who have long gone unchecked. Franz had thought that the threat of the Vampires was no more, earning the mockery of Haupt-Anderssen, who explained that the Vampire Counts still ruled in Sylvania, exploiting the people who rightfully belonged to the Empire. Once he had finished his rant, Franz assured him that if elected, they would deal with the Undead threat together. He also offered Alberich to tax the River Stir to force Ostermark to move their trade through Stirland to help with their food situation, not mentioning that he had already compromised to the tax. With this, the Elector of Stirland's vote was his. After finishing breakfast, Karl met with Helmut Feuerbach, the Elector Count of Talabecland and a rival of Ostermark, offering him part of the glory of defending the northern border to Talabecland troops along with any trade opportunity with Kislev that Ostermark refused, which was enough to get his vote. A few hours later Franz had lunch with Wolfram Hertwig, the Elector Count of Ostermark. Franz told Hertwig about his plans to tax the Stir, but offered to make the tax dependant on distance to the capital. That way, Talabecland would be affected worse than Ostermark. He also offered to force Talabecland to help defend the border with Kislev, once again playing the Electors by offering something he has already promised, thus securing Ostermark's vote.[6]

Finally, Franz met with Theoderic Gausser, the Elector Count of Nordland at the Celestial College just a few hours before the election. While Nordland and Middenland were allies, Franz found out no ploy was needed to change Gausser's vote, only the promise that Karl's first edict would be to expel Norse raiders from Nordland's coasts. Todbringer, confident in his victory, had kept on his quarters and relied on his followers swarming the city to intimidate the Electors rather than meeting with them. The two of them made their way back to the palace when they came across a confrontation between Sigmarite and Ulrican mobs outside the Temple of Sigmar. Determined to stop them, Franz made his way to the middle of the crowd where, seeing their faces full of desperation and fear, all doubt that his duty was to be Emperor was gone. In a grand speech he reminded the crowd how both Ulric and Sigmar were warrior gods of humanity, and only together could they hope to overcome the coming storm. Satisfied with the crowd's cheering, Franz left for the Imperial Palace.[6]

Making his way to the voting chamber, Franz was ambushed by an Arabyan assassin but was saved by Volkmar the Grim, who killed the assassin with his warhammer. Unmasking his assailant, Franz recognized a mark on his neck which the Grand Theogonist identified as the mark of the Chaos God Tzeentch, the Great Deceiver. Realizing where he had seen it before, the two of them ran towards the Volkshalle, with Volkmark telling him that his speech showed he was ready. Acknowledging the possibility of Sigmar communing with the Bretonnian's Lady, Volkmar told Franz even he had problems seeing Sigmar's divine will, giving him his support.[6]

The Emperor

The election was a short affair, with all votes bar one in his favour, Prince Karl Franz von Holswig-Schliestein, Elector Count of Reikland, was declared Emperor. In the end, both Todbringer and the Ar-Ulric voted for him, both because Boris saw the way the table was turning and because he wanted a strong, united Empire more than he wanted the Emperorship. Boris was the first to bow to him, as a show of respect and extended an offer of friendship. However, since he turned all of Todbringer's voters and Marius and both the Elector Counts of Hochland and Wissenland had supported him from the start, this meant the only one who could have voted against him was Maximilian, his so-called ally. Franz appeared to not be bothered by this and the ceremony proceeded in the Throne Room. Nobles from across the Empire came to swear fealty, priests from all major religions blessed him, and finally, Volkmar placed Sigmar's warhammer Ghal Maraz on his hand, crowning him as Emperor.[6]

As his first act as Emperor, Franz ordered Maximilian to come forward and promptly brought down Ghal Maraz on his head. The court was outraged, until "Maximilians" corpse began to liquefy into a grotesque paste, showing mutations and needle-filled mouths. As the abomination bubbled away Karl found among its clothes Maximilian's brooch, which bore the mark of Tzeentch, and destroyed it. The real Maximilian had been killed before the election, replaced by a servant of Tzeentch who was behind the many attempts of Karl's life. Emperor Karl Franz gave the title of Elector Count of Ostland to Valmir von Raukov, whose family had long been loyal to his dynasty, before leaving the Throne Room. Franz wished to go to his private chambers, wanting to spend time with his wife and son before his time was overcome by the ruling of the Empire and military campaigns. But he was informed of the need of a tour across the Reikland. Hesitantly, Karl accepted and left for his new turbulent life.[6]

Empire in Flames

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This article or section may contain older content that is now considered non-canon.


In Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 1st Edition: Empire in Flames, Karl Franz was assassinated during a Conclave of State. Having been sick for a prolonged period of time, the Electors expected him to abdicate in favour of his nephew, Crown Prince Wolfgang.[9a]

Instead, he proclaimed slightly delirious that his doctor, Ludwig von Ente, had cured him with exotic ingredients from the moons. Before any Electors had a chance to speak, one of Karl Franz bodyguards plunged his blade into his back, proclaiming the mutant-lover dead in the name of Ulric, before taking his own life with poison.[9b]

While the Ar-Ulric and Grand Theogonist Yorri XV could prevent outright violence from erupting, tensions and accusations between Ulricans and Sigmarites ran high. During the following election, the Crown Prince was revealed as a mutant that killed Boris Todbringer.[9c] The result was a vicious civil war between Ulrican and Sigmarite provinces, until heroes managed to retrieve Ghal Maraz from the Black Mountains. The new Emperor, Heinrich X of the Ulrican faction, married Emmanuelle von Liebwitz from the Sigmarite faction to ensure peace.[9d][36a]

Notes

*1 Voland's lore doesn't specify which emperor he could be the son of, but due to a rumors about a Karl Franz son in The Enemy Within Campaign, he is more probable than his father Luitpold I.

*2 Karl Franz's armour is not a part of Karl Franz's tabletop profile. It has been included for the sake of completeness.

Trivia

Karl Franz shares an identical name with Prince Karl Franz of Prussia, a member of House Hohenzollern, the ruling dynasty of the German Empire, who died in 1975.

Miniatures

Sources

  • 1: Warhammer Armies: The Empire (8th Edition)
    • 1a: pg. 3
    • 1b: pg. 13
    • 1c: pg. 14
    • 1d: pg. 15
    • 1d: pg. 16 (timeline)
    • 1d: pg. 17
    • 1e: pg. 54
  • 2: Warhammer Armies: The Empire (5th Edition)
    • 2a: pg. 67
  • 3: Warhammer Armies: The Empire (6th Edition)
    • 3a: pg. 49
  • 4: Warhammer Invasion (Card Game)
  • 5: Thunder in the Mountains
  • 6: The Prince of Altdorf (Short Story)
  • 7: The End Times: Glottkin -- p. 120 - 127
  • 8: The End Times: Nagash
  • 9: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 1st Edition: Empire in Flames (RPG)
    • 9a: pg. 14
    • 9b: pg. 15
    • 9c: pg. 28
    • 9d: pg. 105
  • 10: Beasts in Velvet (Novel)
  • 11: Genevieve Undead (Novel)
  • 12: White Dwarf #325 (UK Edition)
  • 13: Uniforms and Heraldry of the Empire
  • 14: Warhammer RPG 2nd Edition: Old World's Armoury
  • 15: Warhammer: The End Times Collection
  • 16: Grimblades (Novel) by Nick Kyme
    • 16a: Chapter 28
  • 17: Warhammer: The End Times - Glottkin p. 317 - 319
  • 18: Warhammer: The End Times - Archaon p. 506
  • 19: Warhammer Armies: Dogs of War (5th Edition)
  • 20: Drachenfels (Novel) by Jack Yeovile
  • 21: Warhammer RPG 4th Edition: The Enemy Within - Enemy in Shadow
  • 22: Warhammer RPG 4th Edition: Enemy in Shadow Companion
  • 23: Warhammer RPG 4th Edition: The Enemy Within - Empire in Flames
  • 24: Warhammer RPG 4th Edition: Empire in Flames Companion
  • 25: Warhammer RPG 4th Edition: Altdorf -Crown of the Empire
  • 26: Warhammer Armies: Wood Elves (8th Edition)
  • 27: Warhammer RPG 4th Edition: A Guide to Ubersreik
  • 28: Warhammer RPG 4th Edition: Core Rulebook
  • 29: Age of Reckoning (archived)
  • 30: White Dwarf #288 (UK Edition)
  • 31: White Dwarf #280 (UK Edition)
  • 32: Darkness Rising: A Complete History of the Storm of Chaos (Supplemental Book)
  • 33: Drachenfels” (Novel) by Kim Newman
    • 33a: Act 3, Ch. 11
    • 33a: Act 3, Ch. 11
    • 33b: Act 4, Ch. 2
    • 33c: Act 5, Ch. 15
    • 33d: Act 5, Ch. 15
    • 33e: Envoi
  • 34: Warblade (Novel) by David Ferring
  • 35: The Empire: Iron Comapny (Novel) by Chris Wraight
  • 36: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 1st Edition: Death's Dark Shadow (RPG)
  • 37: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 4th Edition: Death of the Reik Companion (RPG)
  • 38: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 4th Edition: Archives of the Empire Vol. III (RPG)
  • 39: Ulrika the Vampire - Bloodsworn (Novel) by Nathan Long

Gallery

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