Valnoc (VAL-NOCK)
The Valnoc is, in its simplest terms, the mustered form of the usually-reserve and private military forces of Kiva. It is only a Valnoc if it has been initiated first by a kega. It primarily consists of koza or horse cavalry, but may also contain infantry.
The base requirement is that the forces be from at least half the tribes or more (though smaller musterings may attempt to label themselves a Valnoc in a reach for morale), but the total number can be as few as one person from each tribe. This is largely steeped in the Kivans' warring history wherein a 'to the last man' attitude was prevalent.
Valnocs are rarely ascribed to individuals; in referring to them as "the [year] Valnoc", the corresponding kega and by whom it was called is known without it having to be spoken -- in this manner the Valnoc more appropriately belongs to everyone who participated.
Notable Past Valnocs:
- The 985AC Valnoc, from the Zalesper Kega (50th Day of the Season of Waiting, 985AC). The Valnoc served in the Host of Selephise under the Violet Accord during the War of the Six. The initiating kega was called by Hezath Zalesper.
- The 978 Valnoc, from the Tasa'mil Kega.
Composition
Vehicles
Typically horses or koza
Structure
The internal tribe structure is retained -- with Head Tribesman overseeing their tribe as captain, occasionally with one or more Crests for lieutenants if necessary -- and, if the Valnoc is not part of a larger force with non-Kivans, decisions are made by all head tribesman by vote. If they are part of an allegiance, one or two head tribesmen are chosen to represent the group, but private conferrals still occur with the other head tribesmen where possible.
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