The History of the XVIIth
The Populares Party
The loss of Doma and Ala Mihgo, prompted the recall that led to the return of Stephano sas Samwell, a decorated war hero, back to Garlemald. However his return to Garlemald was not met with a reassignment or a new campaign to undergo. But an honorable discharge and an early retirement from military service.
Normally, it would have been met with a cheerful demeanor, but not Stephano. To him, he was stripped of direction.
However, he was approached by members of the Populares Party, whom had concerns regarding the direction and future of Garlemald.
The XVIIth Legion
Doma, Ala Mhigo, both city states that were under Imperial control. Both of them lost, in quick succession. It can easily be regarded as evidence to push for peace, that they had expanded too far to be able to maintain control and they need a quick end to the war. And let alone the fact that there are several uprisings across controlled lands, including the province of Dalmasca.
There was no doubt that the Imperial Courts were leaning more towards the Optimates Party, even after constant verbal battles between both the Optimates and the Populares. It is clear that the Optimates, whom are pro-war, were in the favor of the Imperial Courts.
Thus the air of civil war loomed, whether it be either side making the first move. And that first move, given the cut-throat nature of politics, with a calculated guess is that the Optimates or the Imperial Court will have the Populares removed from Garlemald.
It was this paranoia that led to certain members of the party to seek out individuals whose loyalty, was not to the throne but to the people of Garlemald. And Stephano was one of those selected and trusted individuals.
Unconventional Promotion
Every legion needs a leader, a Legatus to lead them through the battlefield and guide them to victory. However, all Legatus's in the history of Garlemald, have always been fully pureblood. Which is why the decision to make Stephano sas Samwell, into a Legatus, was a controversial decision , even among their own.
However, the decision was then justified, by the fact that Stephano did indeed have Garlean ancestry. The last surviving descendant of House Loup of Garlemald. A truth that had been brought forward by Slan nan Grymscythe, one of Stephano's dearest and oldest friends.
But the promotion wasn't totally based on the purity of his blood, rather it was for the fact that Stephano is a veteran of at least, three major wars; Dragonsong Wars, Doman Invasion, The War of Sucession, and the Doman Rebellion. His merits and achievements, warranted consideration for Legatus of the XVIIth Legion.
We are Legion
It is without question that every legion has been raised and amassed by the call of the Emperor. Now, this legion will need to be formed by the will and charisma of Stephano. A task that would prove daunting to others, likely to produce little to no results. However, faith was placed in him.
Yet, due to the unorthodox nature of how the XVIIth legion came to be. It is apt that they recruit unorthodox legionnaires without discrimination nor judgement from their peers in Garlemald.
By any means, they will be ready to answer her call when the time is right. Even in the light of the Populares Party having been excised from Garlemald by the Imperial Court, there are still influential members within.