Order of Arelian

The Order of Arelian is a prestigious and world-renowned organization dedicated to preserving balance and protecting Tanaria from dark forces. Founded by the godly brothers Aurelian and Leohara during an era of chaos, the Order embodies their ideals of unity, strength, and responsibility.
At its heart, the Order relies on the sacred bond between Sahar—gifted magic wielders—and their Guardians—masterful warriors. Through rigorous training, divine guidance, and the strengthening of fate’s threads, these bonded pairs form an unstoppable force, combining magic and martial prowess to confront threats to the mortal realm.
The Order operates with unwavering neutrality, offering their services to kingdoms, rulers, and communities in need. Whether protecting leaders, resolving conflicts, or purging dark forces, the Order stands as a symbol of balance and unity, with its Sahar and Guardians revered as paragons of strength, wisdom, and sacrifice.
Despite their noble mission, the path to becoming a member of the Order is one of immense discipline and sacrifice, requiring innate gifts, unyielding conviction, and years of training. This exclusivity ensures that the Sahar and Guardians remain rare and highly sought after, cementing the Order’s status as both protectors and arbiters of Tanaria’s balance.

Structure

• Grand Sahar: The highest-ranking member of the Order, the Grand Sahar leads with unparalleled wisdom and power. They serve as the heart of the Order, guiding its mission to preserve balance and combat dark forces.


• The First Blade: The Guardian to the Grand Sahar, known as the First Blade, holds a position of equal significance. They are the Grand Sahar’s shield and confidant, embodying the pinnacle of martial discipline and leadership. As the highest-ranking Guardian, they oversee the training, strategy, and conduct of all Guardians in the Order.


• Council of Arelian: A group of veteran Sahar, Guardians, and scholars who advise the Grand Sahar and First Blade. The Council ensures that the Order remains true to its founding principles while guiding its long-term strategy and mission.


• Sahar: Innate magic users who undergo rigorous training to wield their powers responsibly. Sahar are paired with Guardians to form the Order’s core bonded units, balancing magic and might on the battlefield and beyond.


• Guardians: The elite warriors of the Order, Guardians protect their Sahar partners with unwavering loyalty and strength. The Guardian role emphasizes discipline, combat mastery, and tactical expertise, ensuring the safety of their bonded Sahar.


• Threadmasters: Priests and ritualists responsible for overseeing the Bonding Ceremony and interpreting the threads of fate. These members act as spiritual guides, maintaining the sanctity of the bonds and ensuring their strength.


• Spies and Scouts: Specialized operatives trained in reconnaissance and subterfuge. They gather intelligence on threats, magical disturbances, and political unrest to aid the Order’s strategic efforts.


• Guards and Warriors: Defenders of the Order’s temples, strongholds, and sacred sites. These members are the first line of defense, ensuring the safety of their brethren and the sanctity of their missions.


• Mages: Magic users within the Order who are not bonded to a Guardian. They dedicate themselves to advancing magical knowledge, developing spells, and supporting the Order through research and arcane expertise.


• Scholars: Historians, researchers, and chroniclers who study ancient texts, magical theory, and lore. Their work ensures the Order understands the past to safeguard the future, often uncovering forgotten knowledge that aids in combatting dark forces.


• Advisors: Strategists and emissaries who provide political and diplomatic guidance to leaders across Tanaria. Advisors act as the Order’s voice, ensuring its neutrality, ideals, and influence are upheld.

Culture

The Order of Arelian possesses a unique and deeply ingrained culture rooted in its divine origins, ideals of unity and balance, and the sacred bond between Sahar and Guardians. Its members—whether bonded pairs, scholars, or warriors—adhere to traditions, values, and a shared purpose that sets them apart from the rest of Tanaria.
The Order holds balance above all as its highest ideal. Members believe that power—be it magic, might, or knowledge—must exist in harmony to preserve the natural order. Any force that disrupts this equilibrium, such as unchecked magic, war, or corruption, is met with swift intervention. Unity is central to the Order’s philosophy, with the bond between Sahar and Guardian serving as the truest manifestation of this principle. To them, strength comes not from individual skill but through trust, sacrifice, and the ability to work in perfect harmony. Ambition is viewed with suspicion; members dedicate their lives to the Order’s mission, shunning personal glory or selfish desires. Political neutrality is equally sacred, and the Order intervenes only when balance is threatened, maintaining its impartiality to ensure its decisions remain free of worldly bias.
The traditions of the Order reflect its reverence for the bond and its divine roots. Chief among these is the Bonding Ceremony, the sacred ritual that strengthens the threads of fate between Sahar and Guardian. This ceremony is deeply spiritual, marking the bonded pair with permanent physical symbols of their connection. Prospective members must first endure the Trials of Worth, grueling tests of physical strength, magical ability, and mental fortitude, ensuring that only the most dedicated and capable candidates are chosen. Before bonding, Sahar and Guardians undergo the Veil of Threads, a mystical trial overseen by the priests of Velmorra, where they glimpse the threads of fate that tie them to their destined partner. Upon completing their training, members swear the Oath of Unity, a solemn vow to uphold the Order’s ideals and place their duty to balance above all else. The Day of the Founding is celebrated annually with feasts, tournaments, and ceremonial reenactments of the Order’s creation, honoring the godly brothers Aurelian and Leohara and reaffirming the members’ commitment to the Order’s mission.
The Order’s iconography is rich with symbolism, reflecting its ideals and divine legacy. Their emblem often features interwoven threads encircling a sword and sun, representing the unity of magic, might, and balance. Bonds between Sahar and Guardians are depicted as two intersecting circles, symbolizing harmony and connection. Sacred places and strongholds are adorned with motifs of threads, shields, and radiant light, reinforcing the Order’s role as protectors of balance. Members proudly wear their marks of rank, with Sahar often bearing robes inscribed with golden threads and Guardians donning armor engraved with subtle, intricate patterns that represent their role as shields and protectors.
Through these values, traditions, and symbols, the Order of Arelian fosters a culture of loyalty, sacrifice, and purpose. Every member, from the humblest scout to the Grand Sahar and their First Blade, serves as a living embodiment of the Order’s mission to preserve balance and protect the realm of Tanaria.

Public Agenda

The Order of Arelian is clear and steadfast in its public mission: to preserve balance, protect the mortal realm from dark forces, and ensure the responsible use of power—be it magical, political, or physical. While the Order operates independently, their goals are widely respected and align with the greater good, making them revered throughout Tanaria.
The Order publicly positions itself as a neutral force of protection and guidance, unaffiliated with any single kingdom, ruler, or faction. They offer their services to nations and leaders in times of conflict, serving as arbiters, protectors, and advisors, but they refuse to be tools of conquest or unchecked ambition. Their bonded pairs—Sahar and Guardians—embody the Order's ideals by acting as living symbols of unity and cooperation, balancing magic and might to restore harmony where it falters.
Another core aspect of their agenda is the eradication of dark forces and the corruption of magic. The Order actively seeks out necromancers, cursed artifacts, and those who violate the Law of Consumption, intervening when such threats endanger the natural order. This work often brings them into conflict with rogue mages, corrupt leaders, or creatures of shadow, but the Order remains resolute in its purpose.
Beyond direct intervention, the Order champions education and responsibility. They foster the understanding of magic through their scholars and unbonded mages, teaching its proper use and dangers. They also act as mediators, stepping in to resolve disputes between factions when balance or peace is threatened. The Order ensures its presence remains one of hope and stability, offering a counterbalance to chaos and greed.
To the public, the Order of Arelian is not only an institution of power but a symbol of integrity, wisdom, and unity—a force that rises when Tanaria’s harmony is at risk.

Assets

The Order of Arelian commands significant wealth and resources, amassed over centuries of service, patronage, and careful stewardship. Their assets reflect the Order's global influence, combining practical infrastructure, military power, and symbolic authority to uphold their mission of balance and protection.

Temples and Strongholds

The Order’s greatest physical assets are its temples, which serve as centers of training, research, and governance. These fortified structures are strategically located across Tanaria and are vital to the Order’s operations. Each temple reflects the unique environment in which it stands, blending utility with symbolism.

• Temple of Enlightenment (Ankhora, Dhuma): A beacon of magical mastery, renowned for its vast libraries and advanced arcane research.
• Temple of Valor (Kamulos): A fortress dedicated to combat training and strategic warfare, producing the Order’s finest Guardians.
• Temple of Unity (Isarnor): Sacred ground where the Bonding Ceremonies are conducted, strengthening the threads of fate between Sahar and Guardians.
• Temple of Embers (Ashen Peaks, Drakoria): A volcanic stronghold for resilience and survival training, forged in the crucible of extreme environments.
• Temple of Verdance (Elyndral Glade, Eithwyn): An integrated sanctuary deep in the Elvish forests, where harmony with nature and ambush tactics are perfected.
• Temple of Aegis (Aravelle, Thanris): A bastion of defensive strategy, siege warfare, and fortification magic, standing as a shield in times of conflict.

These temples double as fortified strongholds, protecting the Order’s archives, magical artifacts, and sanctuaries while providing secure bases for operations.

Military Assets

The Order maintains a disciplined and formidable military force, comprising:

• Guardians: Elite warriors trained in advanced combat techniques, forming the backbone of the Order’s martial strength.
• Chapter Troops: Non-bonded soldiers and guards who defend temples, accompany missions, and enforce security around critical locations.
• Spies and Scouts: Specialized operatives skilled in reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, ensuring the Order stays ahead of threats.

The Order also possesses a well-equipped armory of enchanted weapons, armor, and siege equipment, crafted or enhanced by the most talented mages and blacksmiths under their service.

Naval Power and Transportation

While the Order is not a naval organization, they maintain a fleet of transport ships and light war vessels for deployments across Tanaria’s seas and rivers. These ships, emblazoned with the Order’s sigil, are often used to ferry bonded pairs or troops to critical regions. In addition, the Order breeds and trains warhorses of exceptional quality, ensuring swift mobility in both combat and diplomacy.

Magical Artifacts and Libraries

The Order safeguards a vast collection of magical artifacts, ancient scrolls, and tomes housed within their temples and archives. These include:

• Enchanted weapons and armor wielded by bonded pairs and trusted warriors.
• Threadstones: Relics believed to hum with the threads of fate, stored in sacred chambers.
• Cursed or dangerous artifacts, carefully contained and guarded to prevent misuse.

The libraries of the Temple of Enlightenment and other major chapters are unmatched, containing invaluable knowledge of magic, history, and the threads of fate. Scholars and mages within the Order study and preserve this knowledge to guide future generations. Fortifications and Castles Many of the Order's fortifications are extensions of their temples, blending sacred architecture with defensive practicality. These castles and bastions serve as secure hubs for training, governance, and defense, ensuring the Order remains resilient against attacks or sieges.
Notable fortifications include the White Bastion of Aegis in Thanris and the Obsidian Hold of Embers in Drakoria.

History

The Early Years: Origins of the Bond

In the wake of ancient wars, where unchecked magic devastated entire regions, Aurelian (the god of magic and wisdom) and Leohara (the god of valor and strength) appeared to guide mortals toward balance. They taught the first Sahar to wield magic responsibly and the first Guardians to act as their protectors, emphasizing that neither magic nor might alone could stand against the darkness.
The earliest Sahar and Guardians forged their bonds instinctively through natural fated connections—an incredibly rare occurrence that the gods nurtured. These pairs became legendary heroes, celebrated for their unmatched power and unbreakable unity. The success of these bonds inspired the foundation of the Order, which formalized their training and purpose.

The Age of Rituals: Strengthening the Bonds

As the Order grew, it became clear that relying solely on natural fated bonds was impractical; the demand for Sahar and Guardians far exceeded the rare occurrence of instinctive pairings. The priests of Velmorra, Goddess of Death and Fate, devised the Ritual Bond, a method of identifying and strengthening latent threads of fate between compatible individuals.
This era saw the rise of structured recruitment, with the Annual Trials created to test and select candidates. The introduction of formal training elevated the profession to an art: Sahar became disciplined stewards of magic, while Guardians were honed into masterful warriors. The bonding process itself became a sacred ceremony, marked by physical symbols that served as testaments to the pair’s shared connection and purpose.

The War Years: Rising Demand

During Tanaria’s great conflicts—such as the Calamity Era and the wars between kingdoms—the Order of Arelian and its bonded pairs became essential to maintaining balance. Kings and leaders sought Sahar and Guardians as protectors, advisors, and warriors capable of turning the tide of battle.

• Guardians: Became synonymous with bravery and stability, rallying armies and shielding their Sahar in the heat of battle.
• Sahar: Served as symbols of wisdom and power, unleashing devastating magic while preserving balance and protecting their partners.

This era also led to the creation of specialized training for Sahar and Guardians to adapt to large-scale warfare, focusing on battlefield tactics, siege magic, and extended endurance. However, the increased demand led to concerns about overexploitation, with some kingdoms attempting to use the Order as political tools.

The Modern Era: Safeguarding Balance

In the present day, the Order of Arelian is a global organization, revered for its neutrality and dedication to balance. While the demand for bonded pairs remains high, the Order has reinforced its independence, only appointing Sahar and Guardians to missions that align with their principles.

• Guardians: Became synonymous with bravery and stability, rallying armies and shielding their Sahar in the heat of battle.
• Sahar: Served as symbols of wisdom and power, unleashing devastating magic while preserving balance and protecting their partners.

Technological and magical advancements have not diminished the importance of the bond; if anything, the reliance on Sahar and Guardians has only deepened as threats from dark magic and corruption persist. The bond remains a timeless force, unchanged at its core despite the evolving needs of the world.

Bound by Fate, Driven by Unity

Founding Date

6 HE

Type

Guild, Professional

Capital

Kha'Zadun

Alternative Names

The Threadforged Order, The Bonded Vanguard

Demonym

Arelians

Leader

Vela Starkissed

Leader Title

Grand Sahar

Founders

• Aurelian
• Leohran

Deities

• Aurelian
• Leohran
• Velmorra

Location

Kha'Zadun

Related Traditions

• Bonding Ceremony

Controlled Territories

• Temple of Unity

Notable Members

• Eredin Moonrider
• Tenzin the Valiant
• Vela Starkissed

Related Historical Events

• 454 HE
  Prophecy of Vela Starkissed

Allies

Order of Arelian

100

Dhuma

100

Friendly

Order of Arelian

100

Eouma

80

Friendly

Order of Arelian

100

Kamulos

100

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The Sahar and Guardians

Sahar

The Sahar are gifted magic wielders, chosen for their innate ability to manipulate arcane forces. Their training is both intense and scholarly, honing their raw power into a tool of precision and wisdom. Sahar act as conduits of magical energy, using their abilities to defend, heal, and restore balance where it falters. Though immensely powerful, their strength is amplified through their bond with a Guardian, who grounds and protects them.
Sahar serve as strategists, diplomats, and magical experts, offering their insight and abilities to resolve conflicts, combat dark forces, and safeguard the mortal realm. Their connection to the threads of fate grants them a deeper understanding of the balance that governs the world.

Guardians

The Guardians are elite warriors, trained to mastery in martial combat, tactics, and defense. Chosen for their discipline, strength, and conviction, Guardians serve as protectors of the Sahar and the physical embodiment of valor. While they possess only minor magical comprehension, Guardians are unmatched in their ability to shield their Sahar and hold their ground against overwhelming odds.
Their role extends beyond combat; Guardians are leaders, mentors, and symbols of resilience. The bond with their Sahar grants them a unique awareness of their partner’s well-being, allowing them to anticipate threats and offer unwavering support in even the direst circumstances.

The Bond Between Sahar and Guardian

The bond between a Sahar and a Guardian is sacred and central to the Order's strength. This connection is not merely physical but extends deeply into the mental and emotional realms. Through their bond, Sahar and Guardian share a unique and profound link, granting them access to each other's feelings, insights, and memories.
The bond allows both Sahar and Guardian to feel each other's emotions and gain insights into their thoughts. This deep understanding enhances their ability to work together seamlessly, making them an almost unstoppable team in combat and other challenges. The Sahar can draw on their Guardian's strength to amplify their magical abilities. This synergy allows them to perform feats of magic and valor that would be impossible alone. While not necessary for their dynamic, it is common for Sahar and Guardians to become lovers, deepening their bond and adding a layer of intimate connection to their already profound relationship.
The loss of a Sahar is devastating for their Guardian, often leading to a deep, unhealable wound. Guardians rarely survive the loss of their Sahar, as the bond is so profound that the emotional and mental toll can be too much to bear. Conversely, if a Guardian falls, the Sahar loses a crucial part of their strength and protection.
It is possible, though rare, for a Sahar to have more than one Guardian. Such arrangements are usually the result of extraordinary circumstances and are celebrated for their rarity and the exceptional power they bring.
The bond between a Sahar and a Guardian can be formed in one of two ways, each profoundly sacred and significant:

• Natural Fated Bond: This rare and treasured bond occurs instinctively when two destined individuals meet. Their threads of fate intertwine naturally, creating a connection so deep that no ritual is required. These bonds are considered a divine gift and are revered for their unparalleled strength and harmony.


• Ritual Bond: The more common method, this bond is forged through an elaborate ceremony overseen by the Order’s priests. Using the latent threads of fate that already exist between two compatible individuals, the ritual strengthens and solidifies their connection. This bond requires preparation, trust, and commitment, ensuring that both Sahar and Guardian are ready for the lifelong partnership.

Regardless of how it is formed, the bond is unbreakable and leaves a lasting mark on both individuals, symbolizing their shared purpose and unity.

The Bonding Ceremony

The Bonding Ceremony is the most sacred and closely guarded secret of the Order of Arelian. This ancient and intricate ritual is the cornerstone of the Sahar and Guardian partnership, where their threads of fate are strengthened and woven together, forging an unbreakable connection. Performed only within the hallowed walls of the Temple of Unity, the ceremony is overseen by the Order’s priests, known as Threadmasters, who ensure its sanctity and success.
Outsiders are forbidden from witnessing or understanding its details, and those within the Order speak of it only in reverent whispers. It is said that the ritual leaves physical marks—symbols of the bond—that manifest uniquely where Sahar and Guardian touch, further binding their souls and purpose. The secrecy surrounding the ceremony is a testament to its power and importance, for the true nature of the bond remains a mystery known only to those who experience it.

Notable Fated Bonds Throughout History

The bond between a Sahar and a Guardian is sacred and central to the Order's strength. These legendary partnerships have shaped the history of the Order of Arelian, exemplifying unity, courage, and balance.
Tenzin and Vela

• Tenzin: A Leonin Guardian known for his incredible strength and unwavering loyalty.
• Vela Starkissed: A member of the Seraphelle, descendants of Seraphis, blessed with exceptional magical abilities.
• Bond: Their partnership is the most recent and renowned, symbolizing the perfect unity of physical might and magical prowess.

Markus and Sabine

• Markus: A Werewolf Guardian whose ferocity in battle was matched only by his dedication to the Order.
• Sabine: A Human Grand Sahar, celebrated for her unmatched wisdom and leadership.
• Bond: Together, they guided the Order through times of great peril, their partnership becoming the stuff of legend.

Aiden and Lyra

• Aiden: An Elf Guardian with unmatched skill in archery and agility.
• Lyra: A Half-Elf Sahar whose profound magical abilities brought balance and harmony.
• Bond: Their connection united their peoples and strengthened the Order’s influence in the elven lands.

Gareth and Elara

• Gareth: A Human Guardian revered for his bravery and tactical genius.
• Elara: A High Elf Sahar whose mastery over elemental magic was unparalleled.
• Bond: Forged in the fires of conflict, their leadership led the Order to victory against overwhelming odds.

Kael and Mira

• Kael: A Dwarven Guardian famed for his resilience and unyielding strength.
• Mira: A Gnome Sahar with a deep understanding of ancient magical artifacts.
• Bond: Their partnership was a testament to the unity of diverse races within the Order, exemplifying cooperation, trust, and mutual respect.