I've been waiting for this, and I've to say, I'm most definitely not disappointed! :D

Before I start on a character, though, I'd just like to confirm the technology level and whatnot, since I'm more than likely going to play a guardsman or at least some soldier-noble. Do firearms and the like exist in the world, or is it still more towards a pike-and-shot sorta thing?

Also, for the nations, do we have much leeway to play with the histories? Like coming up with some historical events and whatnot to flesh out our characters?

Thanks!