Zaveron
An empire which stands as the beacon of light within the continent containing the self imposed responsibility of suppressing the endless tide of Iraeidin. Within this nation are knights which can dispatch Iraeidin with the help of neither Spirits or Irae Energy, but rather rigorous training and a stalwart will. Zaveron is a long standing nation with centuries worth of achievements throughout its existence, with The knights of Zaveron representing their pride and glory. Every individual who manages to obtain the title of Knight gains a rank equal to a noble of other countries, but such a title is no easy feat to obtain, as these knights are put through hellish training as early as 6 years old in order to learn and master the secret fighting style of Zaveron called the Aeternum, or more commonly referred to as Knight Arts by the rest of the continent.
Zaveron is ruled by a king, who has absolute control over the entire empire of Zaveron, however, unlike nations of old, this king is not decided by blood and inheritance, but rather power and tact. As such, a special tournament is held once every five years, in which the five Zavrisian generals who serve the king combat one another in a round robin style tournament, the victor is then allowed to challenge the king should they believe themselves confident. Should the king be defeated they will become an aid to the new King in order to teach them about the responsibilities and powers that the King holds, after a year of which, the previous king then fills the new king's previous position. The current King Luthor Helferich, who is relatively young, and allegedly had relations to the previous king "Lucas", whose actions has lead to the citizens and knights of Zaveron alike to refer to him as the "traitor king".
Some Nations and Humans on the mainland do not view the Spiritfolk favorably, however, Zavrisians don't mind the humanoid creatures and in fact trade with Spiritfolks of the fire element as with their inclination of fire they are told to be some of the best smiths within the world, through these Spiritfolk Zaveron gains exceptionally well crafted swords and armor to be given to their knights.
History
The story of Zaveron begins centuries ago, as in the long distant past all of what was Zaveron was originally controlled by an evil empire, whose name was lost to history after the cataclysm. Those who are now known as Zavrisians were all originally slaves of this empire, they toiled doing all the manual labor of the empire. Furthermore, when the empire faced any sort of conflict whether from rampant beasts or another target of conquest many Zavrisians were put on the frontlines as shields for the far better equipped soldiers of the empire. Due to the extreme prosperity of the empire, they had taken their domination over half the world as granted, and rested many of their legendary military practices, including lowering recruitment and training requirements. This in turn allowed a chance, only as large as a crack in a boulder, but a crack nonetheless, around the year 310, the Zavrisians started a Rebellion and lead by an individual called Harvund the Hero, who would be later known as the first king and Soulblade of Zaveron.
Even though the empire had unparalleled equipment the soldiers were shells of what the empire had once been, and even if a single soldier could easily dispatch 10 Zavrisians the Zavrisians had unparalleled resolve and a spite towards their former slaves that allowed them to keep fighting no matter the losses. Records of the battles mention that it was a common sight to see a Zavrisian fighting on even after losing a limb and having enough gashes and lacerations to kill most beasts. The attitude of these rebels formed what would later be considered the spirit of Zaveron for their descendants, but for their opponents, they held a hatred so deep it may have well come from the darkest abyss of the ocean, it was akin to fighting aquatic monsters of this abyss who would never relent until every single one of them were dead. This quickly caused a loss of morale for the opponent and the empire had many cases of early retreats, surrenders, or even desertion. After a little over a decade, the Zavrisians had successfully removed the empire from a large portion of where most Zavrisians resided, they would declare the creation of the Kingdom of Zaveron in 322, with Harvund as their first king. Over the next two decades after the creation of Zaveron, the empire would lose all of their remaining footholds on the mainland due to other nations and some minor conquests from Zaveron and be forced to their continent of origin, which is now known as the Irae Wastes.
Throughout the war Harvund had used a simple longsword, but through his extraordinary strength and battle sense, he was able to outperform even the most highly equipped and trained of the empire's military. However, after the war ended, as a sort of symbol to the people of overcoming their greatest trial, he had swapped from using the longsword to using fortified steel gauntlets for combat, his longsword has ever since been enshrined as an artifact of the nation. Harvund's tale as king, while regarded as one of the greatest, did not effect Zaveron much after its creation, as while Harvund was as exemplary general and warrior, he knew little about laws, management, and administration, but he did his best to make the people happy and passed on his crown after only 8 years.
The second "king" of Zaveron was Meshana of the Steel fist, she was the daughter of Harvund the Hero and 27 at the time of becoming "king". Although she became "king" officially through inheritance, behind closed doors she had a bet with her father that he would let her become "king" if she beat him in a fight, she would later declare the law that would later be refined into the current process for becoming the King of Zaveron. Originally the populace was cautious about a fairly young "king" but Meshana gained her place as one the renowned kings of Zaveron by leading the charge to conquests of the remaining footholds of the empire with her steel gauntlets. Through her conquests it formed the territory into essentially the modern day territory of Zaveron. Between Meshana and Harvund, many young warriors began using fortified gauntlets for combat, a weapon with dangerously small reach, but can utilize a large amount of the wielder's inherent power.
Several kings and about a century after the founding of Zaveron a king came about called August Dawkin the Knight. August was originally an orphan who was raised by one of the founding families of Zaveron, he respected the family to an extreme degree due to this, and made his last name that of one of the families ancestors. When August defeated the then current king and became king himself, he decided to create a method to bolster the military of Zaveron based on his experience as an orphan, thus he created the system of "Knights" and "Houses". To help popularize this concept, he spent many of his years as king personally teaching and training orphans within the Dawkin house, alongside having many who helped him as additional instructors for the house. Furthermore, because August lived in a period of relative peace and had an exceptionally intelligent mind alongside his knack for combat, he was able to fully stabilize the economical situation of Zaveron so that Zaveron could finally start to stand as one of the major powers of the world. As the concept of Houses were popularized many longstanding warrior families would go on to open Knight Houses, turning their passed down family fighting style into legends that would be remembered throughout the ages, the first of which (other than Dawkin itself) being Glordaci, Rustöter, Ingran, and Gordon.
Around a century after the rule of August, is when the "cataclysm" occurred, this sparked the event that would forever scar the world, and cause the existence of Iraeidin to become commonplace knowledge throughout the world. The event was so destructive, that it spelled the end for an entire continent, alongside the empire and all its people who still lived on the lands. Zaveron was in especially dire straits, as the only land bridge to the continent which now birthed Iraeidin at an astronomical rate, lead directly into Zaveron territory, worse yet, the capital, Zröhaus. The king at the time, Varrick Rustöter, is praised by future historians at his swift decision making in concentrating manpower throughout Zaveron at Zröhaus towards the construction of a wall to completely separate Zaveron and the continent which following the cataclysm was named the Irae Wastes. This wall stood at 50 meters tall and ran 8000 kilometers in length, a majority of the wall was directly attached to Zröhaus as for a rapid resupply of soldiers and weaponry/armor, the wall took a decade to complete. After the completion of the wall Varrick had earned the praise of all of Zaveron, alongside many leaders from nations outside of Zaveron, but for Varrick, it was only the start, as he would soon be named Varrick the Spiteful. Many of those within the direct lineage of the Rustöter house held a deep seated grudge against the empire, additionally, Varrick held even greater hatred, blaming the empire for the Iraeidin that streamed out of the Irae Wastes and caused the deaths of thousands of civilians, soldiers, and knights. To this extent, while the world was still in a state of panic due to the Iraeidin being spawned seemingly out of thin air, he conducted raids across all the Mainlands with a singular goal in mind, the eradication of history. Varrick sought to erase the name of the empire, to rid the empire of the pride and glory that lead them to crimes and horrors beyond comprehension on Zavrisians and especially those of Rustöter. Varrick attended this task with relentless determination, that some even believed his spite to give him strength, as Varrick held onto the crown for 43 years, far longer than any other King of Zaveron, only finally being beaten once the name of the Empire had become lost to history. Afterwards, Varrick stood as a fairly divisive king, some saw him as justified and praised his construction of the wall, others questioned if his actions made him equivalent to the empire he hated so deeply.
Many kings came and went throughout the 2 centuries following the rule of August, some would refine laws and the structure of Zaveron to what is seen today, whilst others would live on the frontlines, defeating any who dare to challenge Zaveron. That was until a king came along only a decade ago, however, instead of being respected and revered, this one lives in infamy, known now as the "Traitor King". Originally known as Lucas, this king was part of an extremely well renowned house and was a prodigy likened to that of the heroes and knights of old. Lucas was able to become king at the age of 28, a young age compared to most kings, he immediately set out to exploring new methods of fighting against the ever present threat of Iraeidin, however, on this path he began down dark corridors delving in Irae magic similar to that of the mages from Stisedo which was already considered a major taboo in Zaveron. Not many of the specifics of his methods are recorded as in the process Lucas had killed hundreds of knights over three years and earned the ire of the Zavrisians, especially highly traditional knights. While the fight for the kings crown occurs at a tournament there was a coup led by 2 Zavrisian generals that ambushed Lucas and his royal guards. It was a bloody and unfortunate battle that neither side truly desired, but was ultimately necessary. One of the generals had died, alongside a little below a hundred knights and the entire Knight house from which Lucas had come from, but Lucas was dead, and the surviving general would go on to become king. Luthor Helferich, the name of the surviving general and now king, Luthor is the current King of Zaveron, but when crowned was the youngest ever king, being crowned at the age of 21, garnering caution from many of the knights below him. Originally, Luthor came from the destroyed house which heralded Lucas, he decided to throw away the last name and take up the last name Helferich upon taking up the crown, as it is a name within Zaveron said to inspire kindness and redemption. So far Luthor is regarded relatively well within Zaveron, as he has built a tight relation with those from Heaven's Alliance, and has managed to ward off Stisedo from any particularly egregious acts.
Hierarchy
King :
The leader of Zaveron beloved by their people and respected by their soldiers, how one becomes king, and the power the king holds, epitomizes the ideals of Zaveron as a country. The King is chosen by a special round robin tournament that only the Generals may join, the victor of the tournament is then allowed a match against the king, should they succeed they will become the king. The previous king will then become an aid to the new King in order to teach them about the responsibilities and powers that the King holds, after a year of which, the previous king then fills the new king's previous position. Should the current king die before the tournament either the Generals come to an agreement for a temporary king, or, in times of relative peace, the tournament is held immediately. While the king's responsibilities primarily consists of administrative work, such as making sure the training regiment of soldiers and knights are adequate. Nonetheless, the King as the strongest Zavrisian other than the Soulblade holds the important task of defending against the most dire of threats from Iraeidin.
Soulblade :
A living legend, said to hold the soul of all that represents Zaveron contained within their blade. It is said that the Soulblade is chosen amongst a Zavrisian child, this child will come across a blade which they will carry with them their entire life, and in a time of crisis, the blade will shed its form and grant its wielder monumental power. Not much is known about the exacts of the Soulblade, but it is believed that the moment a Soulblade dies, the next has already been chosen, and the moment the blade grants its wielder power, that power is with the wielder forever, and grows exponentially. The Soulblade is the only Knight capable of magical abilities, but do not let this downplay their martial skill, it is said that each and every Soulblade could easily defeat the king of their time, but in respect Zaveron which they truly cherish in their hearts, they remain to be commanded by the king. Under command of the king the Soulblade has no true power to command or order others, while to some this may seem cruel, it is so that the Soulblade can spend as much time as physically possible training and fighting, instead of being bogged down by paperwork or the responsibility of a high position. Despite this, the respect and admiration of a Soulblade is so astronomically high within Zaveron, that should the Soulblade ever declare a Command, all nearby Zavrisians will obey it without a second thought, regardless of their previous orders.
General :
The apex of knights who serve directly underneath the king and lead his armies, alongside having a chance to become king themselves. There are always 5 generals, the number of generals never exceeds this, and should a general die, he is replaced with a fitting successor, the five generals are given the following titles : General of Blades, General of Bows, General of Steel, General of Insight, and General of Impact. A general is chosen by the previous general, either through a will should they die, or by direct proclamation while they live. Alternatively, should no successor be chosen, or should the successor prove incompetent, the king himself will choose an individual to become general.
Order Captain :
The head Knight or Commander who leads a particular order, these individual are often extraordinarily strong and intelligent, only bested by the Generals, the king, and of course the Soulblade. These individuals each command roughly a battalion of knights and commanders who have at least reached the pawn rank, each of the individuals is trained and specialized to suit the needs of the order, such as the order of the spear which specializes in lightning strikes often going outside of Zaveron.
Rook Class Commander :
Commanders who reach this rank represent those who plan the destruction of every major Irae, the defense of every 24 hours on the wall, and the integrity of the boarders and internal safety against Stisedo and the emperor. Leaders and Sworn allies by this point have become prominent members within orders that best fit their regiments.
Rook Class Knight :
An extremely skilled and seasoned Knight, most cities other than the capital will only have a single digit number of these knights, whereas a Cavalier class Knight is equivalent to 3 pawn class knights a rook class is equivalent to 10. Occasionally, when a Knight reaches this rank, they will be commanded to meet with the king, the king will then give the Knight an offer to become the lead instructor of their house (assuming the role is currently empty) if they believe the Knight fits the personality needed to be the lead instructor, although at times this may be ignored if the house has been missing a lead instructor for a long time.
Cavalier Class Commander :
When a Commander has shown clear combat and tactical excellence they are promoted to this rank, for leaders and sworn allies they are simply evaluated as more valuable similar to a cavalier class Knight, however, for captains the promotion offers a variety of opportunities. For one captain may be given the chance to be in charge of larger cities/forts that are frequently attacked by Irae, while they are primarily their for organizing strategies, supplies, and requesting the appropriate amount of forces necessary, they also fulfil a role similar to that of Nobles but on a larger scale. Additionally, some truly exceptional captains upon the wall may be given squadrons of knights to command and serve as shock troops for when things become dire in sections of the wall.
Cavalier Class Knight :
A Knight at this rank has proven to be combat capable to be roughly evaluated as equivalent to three average pawn class knights and as such, promoted to the rank of cavalier. As per their evaluation of skill, Zavrisian Generals or Strategists will deploy squads of Cavaliers against Iraeidin which would presumably take triple the amount of pawn class knights (for example if they assume a Irae would take 18 pawn class knights to take down, this is a large number of knights who may not all be able to work together perfectly, as such, 6 cavalier class knights are far more tactically apt).
Noble :
There are two ways to become a noble within Zaveron, the first is when a Knight or Commander who has proven themselves takes the option of retirement. The second are individuals who have served in Zavrisian administration for at least 10 years and then pass a written exam which on average takes 4 hours to complete (should the written exam be failed it can be attempted again after 2 years). Unlike nations of the past there are no ranks of nobles, as nobles are always given the same level of authority and amount of territory. As for this territory and authority, a noble is either placed in charge of a collection of villages that are close to each other, with their abode within one of these villages or close to the center of them all, or placed within a smaller town. As a noble they are responsible for enforcing Zaveron law, collecting a minor tax, and alerting larger towns/cities about new Irae threats. Nobles have the authority to command any military personal below cavalier class knights/commanders and may utilize them for ridding threats within their territory.
Pawn Class Commander :
The level of Commander upon being promoted from a Commander Novice through merits obtained through combat excellence, or just a consistent degree of performance over the years. Nonetheless, upon being promoted the Commander is given two options, to retire and become a noble, or to spend the majority of the rest of their life within the military, most choose the latter. Upon choosing the later the Commander is given a gift depending on their particular regiment, in the case of a sworn ally regiment the Commander will be given a B rank weapon, and their chosen creature will be given B rank armor custom fitted for it. In the case of a leader regiment, they are given a B rank weapon and armor similar to knights. Lastly for captain regiments, the C is given B rank armor, and their chosen elites are given C rank weapons and armor. After the promotion the exact role or position given to the Commander largely depends on their regiment, however, in general most captain regiment commanders are kept on the wall or in garrisons to lead soldiers.
Pawn Class Knight :
The level of Knight upon being promoted from a Knight Novice through merits obtained through combat excellence, or just a consistent degree of performance over the years. Nonetheless, upon being promoted the Knight is given two options, to retire and become a noble, or to spend the majority of the rest of their life within the military. Some knights chose to become a noble either because they feel as if they have hit a wall or perhaps they sustained a critical injury right before their promotion, which would make it impossible to fight further, nonetheless, most Knights choose the latter. Upon choosing the later the Knight is gifted a weapon and armor made from B rank metals that best suit their Knight house. After the promotion the Knight will often have the choice of applying to one of the various orders within Zaveron, continuing to be stationed at the wall, or requesting to become an instructor at their Knight house.
Civilian :
Smiths, chefs, farmers, effectively anyone outside of the military is considered a civilian within Zaveron.
Commanders
Commander Regiments
Knights
The pillar that has proudly held atop the nation of Zaveron, Knights are expertly trained and highly specialized soldiers who are some of the only individuals who can competently face off against the Irae menace. Knights are initially as children by officials or Knights who scout the local populous of a city/town/village from promising children, these children are most commonly recruited between the age of 6-8. The exact aspect that is desired for would be Knights differs from one Knight house to the next, some prefer honest and courage, while others prefer a determination and brutality, nonetheless, all these children will be deemed Knight Cadets once recruited. While recruiting any children other than orphans requires the consent of their parents, although, due to the honor that comes with becoming a Knight, parents who turn down this offer are extremely scarce. After around a decade of training the Knight Cadets are then given a test before being promoted to a Knight Novice, it is at this point that they are sent to the wall.
Knight Houses
Major Houses
Some houses, often those credited with the successful knightage of many high level knights, or even knights who obtain the rank of general or king. Begin to be heralded as a Major household, distinguishing them from other households as their tactics, training, and Knight arts, are solidified as among the best and most successful.
Ardentis
Versatile, powerful, relentless, and "akin to a blaze of glory streaking across the battlefield". The following are common words and phrases used to define house Ardentis, a major household which has gained renown through countless champions of the battlefield. Of all the houses, it could be said that house Ardentis is the most physically demanding from the second one is recruited to be trained, as the warriors of Ardentis dual wield a kriegmesser together with a poleaxe, this unwieldy combination requires extreme strength and dexterity from its user to not become a bumbling nuisance on the battlefield. However, once this combat style is perfected and the user's body adapts to its rigorous requirements, they join the ranks of knights who hold the title of the most rapid destruction of Irae across all of Zaveron.
House located in the city of Grennet
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/Gz24U0w.png
Dawkin
The longsword, one of the oldest, most versatile, and deadliest weapons within the entire continent. For one to say they like to use a longsword, is akin to one saying they like to breathe air, but for one to say they excel at using a longsword, is to say one is a Knight of house Dawkin.
House located in the city of Zrohaus
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/JAcVEbP.png
Ingran
The way of the bow (either longbow or shortbow), and the first Knight house to explore its usage heavily against Irae. In the past many houses and knights were of the thought process that anything besides the bloodiest of melee fights were dishonorable and not worth consideration. Ingran trained knights and created Knight arts to prove that wrong. Knights of Ingran can sometimes come off as cold and rude, but this is mainly due to harsh training which insists on a logical method to approach any situation, from how to calculate the exact location an arrow would land at any distance and under any weather, to how to deal with a Irae that can close in nearly instantaneously.
House located in the city of Viernesse
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/6lbh7b0.png
Mcgisker
One of the three oldest and most venerable of the Zavrisian houses, the Mcgisker built their reputation during the rebellion as being the only individuals capable of piercing the nigh invincible armor of the now fallen and despised empire. While Mcgisker is not nearly the strongest house such as Reynolds, or the one containing the most force such as Akriel, they by far have the highest amount of penetrative power amongst all the houses. It is for this reason that when the wall of Zaveron is faced with Iraeidin with incredibly thick natural armors. The helmet of knights of Mcgisker are stylized to appear like that of a beetle, unlike Crimen, this has no combat advantage, however, it is done out of respect, as the house was once almost destroyed centuries ago, only surviving due to the protection group of beetle esque earth Spiritfolk. The Mcgisker house primarily uses Lances, Partisans, and Fauchards.
House located in the town of Emrend
(image example)
https://i.imgur.com/FaHQLSy.png
Penval
House which focuses on raw and primal aggression is symbolized by its unique decision to have its knights as dual wielders wielding an arming sword together with a bastard sword. Despite their occasional berserker tendencies outside of combat they are often calm and stoic, if not a tad unnerving from how quiet they can be. From a young age Knight apprentices often acquire the aggressive tendencies through specific training that calm and defensive techniques would easily get one killed, because of this, they are one of the few houses that has a mortality rate above what most would consider accidental, roughly 45%. At times atop the great bastion, there are times when an offense is required the knights of the Penval house are the first to volunteer and the first to reach the fight, however, due to the lack of a heavy or penetrating weapon they often require to out speed or out skill any Irae they come upon.
House located in the city of Ehrese
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/u5sGf5n.png
Reynolds
A house known for producing large knights all with robust daunting bodies in order to wield and properly utilize the Zweihander. While fierce powerhouses in combat, those of house Reynolds are known for being rather friendly and kind. When these knights are given breaks, they are often seen taking on low ranking quests that are overlooked by most or even completing requests for free for those without enough Dreons to post a request.
House located in the city of Harstad
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/PdEA6Fg.jpeg
Tayus
The name Tayus is sung throughout all of Zaveron for being one of the most successful houses in Zaveron, this success comes from how not less than the last 3 Soulblades of Zaveron have all been from the house of Tayus granting them immeasurable power and respect. The house of Tayus is one of the most versatile houses, as they teach how to use any sword, however, after a number of years of becoming familiar with all different types of swords, recruits within Tayus must then choose two swords to specialize in (however they are not dual wielded).
House located in the city of Zrohaus
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/7KHGmVt.png
Minor Houses
Akriel
Akriel is known for being humble yet respected among their peers and treating their students fairly well, Akriel specializes in Warhammers, maces, and mauls. Famous for their unparalleled destructive force, nothing stands in-between an Akriel and their foe, as with a single swing of their blunt tool of destruction, they can fell an entire building.
House located in the city of Strattenborough
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/pGmuHTt.png
Blayves
A fairly unusual house, whereas most houses focus on the weaponry of Zaveron, Blayves is a rather new house that likes to train their knights in the usage of tools, from bombs and throwing knives, to the “firearms” primarily found within Stisedo. However, their knights are often trained in the usage of an arming sword, as their primary weapon for foes who do not require their tools, or for when they run out. However, due to their usage of tools, the training and acquisition of their preferred weaponry can be rather expensive, so they require any Knight apprentice applicant to submit an entrance fee upon joining. Blayves is considered a black sheep within Zaveron, a majority of citizens not even knowing they exist, and amongst other knights they are constantly discriminated against for their "unknightly" choice of tactics and weaponry.
House located in the city of Helmburg
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/k97qsQl.png
Jonac
A terrifying world of kill or be killed, the house of Jonac has the highest mortality rate of any other house, as their training from day one has the possibility of killing recruits, additionally, recruits are allowed no hands barred sparring where many students compete for superiority, killing one another in the process. Jonac specializes in poleaxes and halberds, and in times where their ferocity grows uncontrollable, they are known to break the shafts of these weapons, to render them close to axes for closer combat. The only reason Zaveron allows for the methods used by the Jonac house is that those who survive become extremely deadly knights, albeit, with problems working with others.
House located in the city of Viernese
(Image example)
https://imgur.com/jOHXbCD
Osmadiel
An arrogant house, one that only accepts children from already established Knight families or other nobility, they teach the use of the Ranseur and Lucerne as they believe it to be the most elegant form of weaponry. The only reason this house is even able to still operate is the reputation of knights is enough that some nobles or former knights may be willing to part with some Dreons in order to make sure their child is able to become a Knight when most wouldn’t even consider them. Despite their bad reputation, those who earnestly train the Knight arts and advantages of these weapons become quite the force to behold, utilizing odd and perplexing strategies with their weapon of choice.
House located in the city of Strattenborough
(image example)
https://i.imgur.com/WNK9qDr.png
Rustöter
Back in the times when Zavrisians were majorly slaves groups of hardy men were forced to exterminate Sarwixs in the local area, they were not given any armor but instead given a blade custom made to help kill the creatures called the Winged Head Sword, alongside a hook to stop any retreat when used by multiple of these men. After the Zavrisians revolted and formed the nation which later became Zaveron, these men had passed down what they had learned through continuous hardships to their families in their now calm and peaceful lives. After around a century their teachings and techniques became refined enough to be referred to as seasoned Sarwix hunters, as such, it wasn't long before the king of the time sought them out with the offer for them to turn their combat style into a Knight house. As knights these warriors are quite stalwart, very rarely dodging and preferring to take on any Irae or monster head on, after all, although their signature blade is good at felling beasts its range is lacking even compared to that of an arming sword. Furthermore, when a group of Rustöter knights go to take down a creature, unless it is of truly gargantuan size, it will not be able to escape their hooks.
House located in the city of Harstad
(Image example minus the spikes)
https://imgur.com/RXaRaaM
Crimen
A house with the crest of a rhinoceros and troops often clad in heavy spiked armor with a large horn-like addition to the front of the helmet. The Knights of house Crimen often fight utilizing heavy spiked gauntlets, they fighting style usually revolves around a brawler type of moves, but in a moment of worry they can utilize some grappling techniques that do not require extreme flexibility, with a signature move of the house being a headbutt which only few have survived. When deployed to a battlefield they are the first to charge into battle, even amongst knights their bravery, and subsequently… recklessness is miles beyond the rest. As those of house Crimen are often the brutish type they are usually only deployed when no questions or investigation is necessary, only extermination.
House located in the town of Eringrad
Image example (although with spiked armor mainly on knees/gauntlet/shoulders/back)
https://i.imgur.com/b7d40zI.png
Gastol
A house whose knights utilize a jack of all trades weapon style, while Blayves focuses on consumable weaponry and unorthodox weaponry, Gastol focuses on training with every tried and true weapon in Zaveron. Their training ranges from the simple longsword, to a measly dagger, to the largest of great swords, and even bows. While this type of training grants the benefit of being prepared for realistically any scenario, they do not excel in any particular scenario, which has led their house to being a small, yet still respected house. However, a frequently found quirk of the knights of Gastol, is that all the knights are rather eccentric and in some way or form.
House located in the town of Knoxsel
(Image example)
Talek
A house who trains knights in the use of javelins, both for ranged combat and melee combat. Those of house Talek are known for incredible survival skills, this is due to part of their training requiring they survive for weeks on end by themselves and required to craft their own javelins in order to hunt. However, while they are often known for this skill, in the open they are recognized by carrying large sacks easily holding around a hundred javelins.
House located in the town of Leipbruck
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/niwnIi1.png
Aldman
All knights are used to the concept of cooperation and teamwork, however, those of house Aldman focus on concentrated and perfected teamwork within a 5 man squad. Every Knight within this squad will use the same weapon, of which is a polearm of the squads selection. No matter where these knights originated from, by the end of their training the squad will treat one another like brothers, and their strategies change and adapt without a single word said. The greatest cause of concern, is if the squad is drawn apart from each other, or if one of the squad members falls in combat, while their training does include this potential and strategies for 4, 3, and 2 man squads, their combat potential drops significantly.
House located in the town of Ballac
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/5KkxulG.png
Utarm
A house which prides itself upon being the first bulwark of defense in any attack in which they are related to. This house specializes in the utmost of defense utilizing armor modifications to make their armor even more durable and defense oriented at the cost of a massive decrease to mobility, in terms of weaponry the house uses no real weapons, instead the knights wield dual tower shields. In times where an offensive capability is required, the knights of Utarm will equip an unusually large 1 handed warhammer instead of one of their tower shields. While most knights are expected to be selfless, they are also expected to be logical, if saving five or six peasants would cause their death, they should see it as an unfortunate sacrifice and prioritize their own safety. A majority of the armaments used by Utarm, but specifically their armor, is custom made by their local blacksmiths, in particular their armor is far thicker and larger than the average full plate. The knights of Utarm however, place such a high emphasis on the protection of Zaveron and its people, that they would without a moment's hesitation lay down their lives.
House located in the city of Grennet
(image example)
https://i.imgur.com/wjz2eKY.png
Spirache
Knights of house Spirache are known for being extremely kind, to an outright detrimental degree. They believe that regardless of birthplace and race that all should be treated equally, because of this the house is seen as quite naïve as they will often approach Irae Sorcerer and Stisedans without a hint of caution and treat them like any normal Zavrisian citizen. Even after a tumultuous combat leaving others heavily injured or even dead, they will plead with their opponents for them to surrender and atone for their misdeeds, for this reason, they are never allowed within the order of the spear. Despite how gentle those from this house appear, it should not be assumed that they carry this personality into combat. Whilst in the midst of combat the wield two handed short spiked peasant flails, they implore a variety of Knight art to build up a dangerous momentum which exponentially increases the power of their attacks, they are often viewed as relentless grinding their opponents down until they surrender (or die in the case of a Irae).
House located in the town of Knoxsel
(Image example)
https://imgur.com/JkRCzJP
Rex
Within Zavrisian houses are expected to deploy their knights to the frontlines or to take care of Irae related threats throughout the country. This makes the existence of house Rex an oddity, for due to their weapons of choice of a sword breaker and punching dagger, they are not suited for fighting against Irae who often aren't armed and have a tough hide which those weapons would struggle against. This is because House Rex serves a specialized role, comprising the majority of the ranks of the order of the spear, one of the several orders of knights within Zaveron. This order is the only force within the Zaveron military which is often given permission to leave the borders. The order often deals with skirmishes with other countries upon conflicts and tensions, alongside bandit camps who lay just barely outside the borders, with the order utilizing a lightning strike to complete their task before any problem could arise. To summarize, house Rex is not a Knight house which seeks to kill Irae, it is a house which seeks to kill people.
House located in the town of Leipbruck
(Image example)
https://i.imgur.com/NYrebUw.png
Magian
A house of scouts, lightly armored and eyes wary for any threats to notify the rest of. Those of house Magian wield a arming sword, together with either a dagger or hand crossbow, this leads to a swift fighting style that can quickly receive most threats at a moments notice. Additionally, those of this house often bring multiple spare hand crossbows to be able to rapidly deal with ranged threats without time wasted on reloading. While not the strongest or most efficient knights, the house is still respected for the skills they specialize in.
House located in the town of Eringrad
(image example but with an arming sword)
https://i.imgur.com/Xe5WEw0.png
Powell
A house not known for any Knight in particular but rather duos of knights, as all knights of house Powell are trained to work as a duo. The duo are split in terms of weaponry to maximize the duos potential through utilizing different weapon sets with different strengths. The first will often use a tower shield together with a polearm, whilst the second often uses a two handed hammer whilst also being armed with a bow and backup dagger.
House located in the town of Ballac
(Image example of 1st and 2nd respectively)
https://i.imgur.com/9qdpCtc.png
https://i.imgur.com/xElXI1N.png
Gordon
Brash and brutish the knights of house Gordon do not have a highly thought of reputation but their ability to take down enemies with naught but armored gauntlets. Even with the attitude and negative reputation of this house their sheer power cannot be denied, although it does not reach the level of those from house Reynolds, the fact that it is of a comparable level speaks volumes. The gauntlets themselves of house Gordon are quite intricately designed devices, to the point that some speculate the founder might have been Stisedan, a truly blasphemous rumor. Although to an extent all Knight arts can be considered equal, house Gordon fames themselves on three Knight arts that serve as the pride of their house: Lock, Pierce, Destroy.
House located in the city of Helmburg
(Image example)
Glordaci
The only still living house to exist since the very inception of Zaveron, existing even before the concept of Knights or Houses. Over the centuries Glordaci has produced countless geniuses as they are willing to accept any possible applicant even those who are poor, given that they have the required physique and mindset to become a Knight. The Glordaci house specializes in the tried and true weaponry tactics of the one handed double edged arming sword, although some knights of this house are also seen wielding a shield alongside it.
House located in the town of Tallengard
Acies
A mostly enigmatic minor house which a lot is not known about, most within Zaveron have never even heard of the house, never mind meeting a Knight from one. Nonetheless, those from house Acies wield war scythes and are seen fighting within mountains and forests, although due to their non-existent fame, these reports quickly devolve into rumors.
House located in UNKNOWN
Knight Orders
Despite being called Knight orders the orders are comprised of the most exceptional knights and commanders ranking within at least Pawn Class. How a Knight or Commander joins a knight order is that upon being promoted to the rank of Pawn class they will be able to personally visit and apply to an order of their choosing, should they succeed, they will join the order, be given additionally training and then be sent on missions. Should they fail, they will be sent to back to the wall at the capital, the individual will later on be able to have another attempt as Orders allow a re-attempt every 2 years. However, the process of application often revolves a series of tests for the unique order in question, the raw combat prowess or strength of a knight is often of little concern to most of the orders. Lastly, below is an insignia of the knight orders, this insignia is most commonly seen painted on a knights cape and embossed on the chest plate. The insignia is added to any Knight or Commander who served in an order, they keep the insignia even after retiring, unless one was dishonorably discharged from the order.
Order of the shield
primarily garrisoned to protect cities, towns, or even villages of importance.
Order of the Spear
handles threats outside Zaveron's boarders, while they are known to leave Zaveron's boarders they are rarely gone for long as every mission is performed as a lightning strike.
Order of the Hammer
handles the most dangerous Iraeidin within Zaveron (that aren't at the wall)
Order of the Owl
Revolves around surveillance and scouting for Zaveron, especially used to keep Zaveron notified on Stisedo.
Order of Dawn
An extremely secretive order, outside of those of the order fewer than 100 people know of the existence of the order, depending on the individual, even a general of Zaveron may not know of them.
