Eris Alder
Lord Commander Eris Alder (a.k.a. Blade of the Creeping Stillness)
Eris’s moniker, “Blade of The Creeping Stillness,” reflects his mastery over summoning silent, precise weapons designed to decimate his foes before they could react. His combat style was defined by his ability to manipulate the rhythm of battle, lulling enemies into a false sense of control before striking with unerring precision.
Signature Weapons from the Arcane Vault
- Stillfang – A longsword that silences the area around it, preventing spells and muffling sounds within its radius.
- Ebon Veil Daggers – Dual daggers that leave trails of shadow in their wake, confusing and disorienting enemies.
- Spectral Sentinel – A summoned construct that acted as both a shield and a companion, protecting Eris and intercepting enemy attacks.
- Aetheric Spear – A weapon he famously used in the final moments of the Battle of the Silver Plains, piercing through the Quazadun warlord’s defenses to secure victory.
Combat Style
Eris's ability to adapt his weaponry mid-battle made him a force to be reckoned with. Whether commanding armies from the front or engaging in duels against Mist Walkers, his calm, methodical approach to combat made him one of the most dangerous individuals on the battlefield.
Role in the Quazad-Leona War
The assassination of King Leona 30th by a Mist Walker assassin in 1120 ATC set off the chain of events that led to the Quazad-Leona War. As tensions rose, Eris Alder, then only 22 years old, stepped into his role as a warrior and tactician.
Timeline of Contributions
- 1121 ATC - Early Days of the War
Eris quickly gained recognition for his heroics in Red Hollow, where his mastery of the Arcane Vault allowed him to turn an imminent defeat into a decisive victory. - 1122 - 1124 ATC - Rise to Lord Commander
Eris was promoted to Lord Commander after orchestrating the defense of Ironwatch. His strategic mind and ability to inspire troops became invaluable during this phase of the war. - 1125 ATC - The Final Push
During the Battle of the Silver Plains, Eris faced the Quazadun warlord and several Mist Walkers. His legendary summoning of the Aetheric Spear ended the war, but not without cost. Many of his comrades, including childhood friends, fell during this conflict, leaving a lasting mark on his psyche.
Reflection on the War
Eris never glorified his actions, emphasizing the sacrifices made on both sides. He often spoke about the devastating impact of war, which shaped his decision to focus on diplomacy and education in his later years.
Later Years
After the war ended in 1125 ATC, Eris remained in service to United Leona as a trusted Royal Council Member for two decades. In 1165 ATC, he retired from political life and founded the Alder Academy of Weapon Summoning in Afield, the original capital of United Leona. The academy became the leading institution for summoners, blending rigorous combat training with philosophical teachings on the Arcane Vault’s responsibilities.
Relationship with the Mist Walkers
The Mist Walkers of Quazadun were the perfect counterbalance to the Weapon Summoners of United Leona. Eris Alder’s encounters with Mist Walkers were among the most challenging moments of his career. Their ability to manipulate the battlefield through stealth and mist-based illusions forced Eris to push his abilities to their limits.
Despite being adversaries, Eris respected the Mist Walkers for their discipline and skill, even acknowledging that their actions during the war were driven by their own sense of duty and loyalty.
Legacy
Eris Alder’s legacy is not one of conquest but of preservation and knowledge. He ensured that the art of weapon summoning would be accessible to future generations while maintaining the secrecy and sanctity of the Arcane Vault.
Key Accomplishments
- Mastermind behind several pivotal victories in the Quazad-Leona War.
- Founding the Alder Academy, which remains a cornerstone of magical education in United Leona.
- Advocating for diplomacy and cooperation post-war, laying the groundwork for peace between United Leona and Quazadun.
Philosophy
Eris often stated that the Arcane Vault was more than a tool for war—it was a testament to the summoner’s character. To him, weapon summoning represented not just power but responsibility, balance, and the will to protect rather than destroy.
Famous Quotes
- "The Arcane Vault is not ours to wield—it is ours to safeguard."
- "Even the sharpest blade must be guided by a steady hand."
- "Respect your enemies. Only through understanding them can we truly know ourselves."
The Duality of the Quazad-Leona War
While neither United Leona nor Quazadun was inherently "good" or "evil," both sides fought for what they believed was just. Eris Alder’s journey reflects this duality, showcasing a warrior who understood that victory comes with a price. His efforts to bridge the divide between the nations after the war remain a shining example of his enduring wisdom.
