Ashguard Riders
The Ashguard Riders are the elite mounted cavalry of Steeds Crossing, renowned across Yohir for their mastery of horseback combat and their role in defending the city from threats, particularly the Dragonborn of the Ashlands. Formed in the wake of the Dragonborn Uprising, the Ashguard Riders were established to patrol the dangerous Trail of Ash and protect Steeds Crossing from incursions through the Pass of Elthoril. Over the centuries, they have become a symbol of the city's strength, discipline, and deep connection to its horses.
Trained at the prestigious Ironspur Academy, each rider undergoes rigorous training in mounted combat, endurance riding, and cavalry tactics. Their skill in using both lances and curved sabers while on horseback is unmatched. The Ashguard Riders are also known for their ability to fight effectively in the harsh, mountainous terrain surrounding Steeds Crossing, using their superior horsemanship to outmaneuver enemies.
Led by the Warden of the Wall, currently Odrin Fellharn, the Ashguard Riders serve as both the city's primary defensive force and a symbol of its resilience. During times of war, they act as shock troops, charging into battle with devastating force, while in times of peace, they patrol the city’s borders, keeping the Trail of Ash safe for traders and travelers.
The warhorses they ride, bred from the finest stock in Yohir, are nearly as famous as the riders themselves, known for their strength, speed, and loyalty. Together, the Ashguard Riders and their steeds embody the indomitable spirit of Steeds Crossing.
Structure
The Ashguard Riders are a highly disciplined and hierarchical military force, with a clear organizational structure that reflects their elite status and the importance of cavalry in Steeds Crossing. Below is a breakdown of the organization’s structure:
1. High Rider
- Position: Overall Commander
- Current Leader: Thalon Ashmar
- Role: The High Rider is the highest authority in Steeds Crossing and the ultimate commander of the Ashguard Riders. While primarily responsible for city governance, Thalon Ashmar directly oversees the Riders' overall strategy, ensuring they remain the city's foremost military force.
- Position: Military Commander of the Ashguard Riders
- Current Leader: Odrin Fellharn
- Role: The Warden of the Wall is the day-to-day commander of the Ashguard Riders, responsible for their training, deployment, and battle tactics. The Warden leads the Riders into combat and oversees defensive operations along the Trail of Ash and Steeds Crossing's borders.
- Position: Senior Officers
- Role: Captains command individual battalions of the Ashguard Riders. Each battalion consists of around 50–100 Riders. Captains report directly to the Warden of the Wall and are responsible for executing battle orders, maintaining discipline, and ensuring the readiness of their troops.
- Position: Junior Officers
- Role: Lieutenants assist Captains and command smaller squadrons within the battalion, typically leading groups of 10–20 Riders. They handle day-to-day operations, including patrol rotations and training exercises, and serve as field commanders during minor skirmishes.
- Position: Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs)
- Role: Sergeants are experienced Riders responsible for maintaining discipline among the troops and ensuring the training of junior members. They lead smaller teams during missions, oversee patrols, and act as liaisons between Lieutenants and rank-and-file Riders.
- Position: Elite Troops
- Role: Veterans are Riders who have survived several battles and proven themselves in combat. They are trusted with leading smaller squads during critical missions and mentoring younger Riders. Veterans are often candidates for future promotion to Sergeants or Lieutenants.
- Position: Standard Cavalrymen
- Role: Riders are the core of the Ashguard, trained in mounted combat, endurance, and battlefield tactics. They are tasked with patrolling the Trail of Ash, engaging enemies, and protecting Steeds Crossing from external threats. Each Rider is assigned a warhorse, bred from the city's renowned stables.
- Position: Recruits and Trainees
- Role: Apprentices are new recruits who are still undergoing training at Ironspur Academy. They have yet to earn their place as full Riders and are typically assigned to assist with logistics, care for warhorses, and participate in training exercises until deemed ready for battle.
History
- 3900 AoU: The Ashguard Riders are founded in Steeds Crossing, shortly after the city's evolution from a military outpost into a permanent settlement. Their primary purpose is to defend the city and patrol the Trail of Ash.4000 AoU: The Ashguard Riders establish their reputation by defending trade routes from bandits and raiders in the Cragspire Mountains, cementing their role as the city's elite cavalry force.
- 4300 AoU: The Annual Horse Market Fair is introduced, boosting the city’s economy and providing the Ashguard Riders with the finest warhorses bred specifically for combat.
- 4500 AoU: The Ashguard participate in a major conflict with the Wild Clans of the Cragspire Mountains, successfully defending Steeds Crossing and further solidifying their status as an elite force.
- 4721 AoU: During the infamous Redscale Siege, the Ashguard Riders, led by Warden Odrin Fellharn, play a crucial role in breaking the Dragonborn assault on Steeds Crossing, becoming legendary for their bravery and tactical precision.
- 4725 AoU: In recognition of their service during the siege, the Ashguard Riders are granted expanded authority to patrol beyond Steeds Crossing, enforcing security over the entire region.
- 4750 AoU: The rise of the Arcane Mountsmiths introduces enchanted warhorses into the Ashguard's ranks, adding new capabilities but creating tension between traditionalists and proponents of magical innovation.
- 4770 AoU: The Ashguard Riders continue to serve as Steeds Crossing’s elite military force, tasked with defending the city’s borders, patrolling the Trail of Ash, and upholding the city’s legacy of equestrian and military excellence.
Iron in the Saddle, Fire in the Heart.
Founding Date
3900 AoU
Type
Military Order
Demonym
Ashguardians
Leader
Ruling Organization
Leader Title
Parent Organization
Location
Notable Members
