"If you can see the Lantern Watch, you’ve already said too much."
– Sir Sorek Redmarch, when asked about them
The Lantern Watch is the kingdom's most secretive and least understood royal institution. Officially, it serves as an investigative corps under the authority of the crown, responsible for internal threats, high treason, and matters deemed "sensitive to the realm." Unofficially, it is whispered to be the king’s eyes, ears, and—when necessary—his shadow.
“Lanterns don’t just light the way. They reveal what hides in the dark.”
– Traditional saying, origin unattributed
Mandate & Function
The Lantern Watch operates directly under the Crown’s authority. They are not bound to any duchy, city, or council. Their jurisdiction includes:
- Investigating potential threats to the realm or the royal family
- Quietly observing nobles suspected of disloyalty
- Rooting out infiltrators, spies, or agents of the Dominion
- Investigating cult activity and forbidden magics
Lanterns do not wear uniforms. They do not carry crests. Most do not even identify themselves. Their authority is invoked only when necessary—and often, only after the matter is resolved.
Symbolism & Identity
The emblem of the Lantern Watch is a
dark iron lantern with a silver flame, rarely seen in public. Their name derives not from actual lanterns, but from their purpose:
to reveal what must be seen, not by all—but by the right eyes.
There are no ranks publicly known, and Lanterns refer to one another by codenames. Most nobles do not know how many exist. Some suspect not even the king knows their full number.
Cultural Perception
The Lantern Watch is neither openly feared nor publicly celebrated. Instead, they are regarded with
tense respect. Among commoners, the phrase “the lantern’s light finds all” is muttered during moments of suspicion. Among nobles, it is a reminder to keep one's tongue in check.
Known Operatives
Most members are unknown. Rumors occasionally swirl about certain advisors or clerks who vanish from court only to return with strangely silent authority. A few names appear in multiple whispers, but nothing ever confirmed.
It is believed that agents are selected for loyalty, intelligence, and discretion—above rank or blood.
Relationship to the King
While the Lantern Watch serves the crown, it does not always report directly to the king. Trusted intermediaries manage operations to preserve plausible deniability and shield the monarchy from political backlash. The current king has upheld their use, but with caution and restraint.
Their existence is not a tool of tyranny—but of vigilance.
In-World Rumors
- Some say there are no former Lanterns—only those still listening.
- A known Lantern was once seen walking side-by-side with a condemned traitor... who was never tried.
- One noble house keeps their windows shuttered at all times, claiming light draws them.
- They have a secret sign marking their safehouses. [DM NOTE] - a very subtle black lantern carved into a doorframe, with a tiny silver stud as its flame.
Quote Block
"They do not knock. They do not accuse. They simply arrive... and after that, nothing is ever quite the same."
– Anonymous magistrate, shortly before retirement
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