THE GRAND OLD

LORE: THE KNIGHTLY ORDERS

GRAND OLD LORE EXPANSION

Knightly Orders of Valeria

The shattered remnants of the old Valerian Empire gave rise to knightly orders in each of its successor states, embodying the ideals, cultures, and ambitions of their regions. Once united under the imperial banner, these orders now serve different masters, reflecting the fractured nature of Valeria.

Order of the Frostborne Knights (Western Valeria)
Hailing from the frigid lands of the Western Valerian Imperium, the Frostborne Knights are loyal to Prince Farengar. They are known for their unwavering loyalty and brutal efficiency, much like their ruler. Wearing dark armor infused with runes believed to offer protection from both the elements and sorcery, these knights are feared for their relentlessness.

Training in the tundra, they endure extreme conditions, and their mounts, frost-bred direwolves, are as intimidating as the knights themselves. Though their oath is to Farengar, many whisper that they secretly long for the restoration of a unified Valerian Empire, with them at the helm of its armies.

The Dawnsworn (Eastern Valeria)
under the rule of Empress Lava in the east, the Dawnsworn are known for their virtuous conduct and devotion to protecting the innocent. Unlike the Frostborne, the Dawnsworn prefer diplomacy and aid to violence, intervening only when it is absolutely necessary. Their armor is silver, trimmed with gold, reflecting their status as defenders of justice and mercy.

Though they pledge their allegiance to the Empress, many members of the Dawnsworn are quietly frustrated with the Senate's manipulation of her rule. Some believe that they will one day be called upon to restore balance to the Eastern Valerian Empire, and perhaps even restore true authority to their beloved Empress Lava.

The Emberguard(Southern Valeria)
The Emberguard knights of the Southern Valerian Kingdom serve Theodorus and are a blend of tradition and practicality. With their crimson banners symbolizing both the fire of renewal and the flames of Valeria’s past, they are often viewed as mediators between the hardline traditions of the west and the more diplomatic leanings of the east.

They guard the southern cities, ensuring the safety of the rich merchant caravans that pass through Theodorus' prosperous lands. As skilled in economics as they are in combat, the Emberguard are essential to the flourishing of Southern Valeria. However, there are those among them who worry about the looming threat from the east and west, fearing that the day will come when their swords must be raised in defense of their burgeoning kingdom.