House Blackstone
In the sprawling kingdom of Nicandria where titles are not bequeathed by birthright, but earned through deeds of valor, House Blackstone stands as a beacon of meritocracy and ancestral pride. Their noble lineage is etched into the very fabric of Nicandria's history, renowned for their unwavering commitment to the art of war.
The Blackstones have forged their reputation as formidable warriors on the battlefield thoughout countless generations. Their ancestral pride is deeply intertwined with their ability to wield blades with unparalleled skill and precision. From the founders to the newest children, each member of House Blackstone is raised with a profound respect for the art of combat, viewing the mastery of blades as both an honor and a duty.
The training grounds of House Blackstone are a testament to their dedication. Nestled within the imposing walls of their ancestral castle, aspiring members of the house undergo rigorous training regimens from a young age. Their centuries-old techniques and wisdom and passed down from the original founders, ensuring that the Blackstone legacy remains untarnished and continues to thrive.
However, not all of House Blackstone can carry the burden of their great legacy. All members of the family must have ventured out into the kingdom and made a name for themselves without the support of house Blackstone to have the right to return. Those that fail to make a name for themselves are disowned and removed from the house ledger, never to be mentioned again.
Structure
House Blackstone operates under a council composed of the most skilled and experienced members in various key categories. This council is known as the "Council of Blades and Wisdom," reflecting the two fundamental pillars that govern the house – martial prowess and strategic acumen. Each member of the council oversees a specific aspect of House Blackstone's affairs, ensuring a well-rounded leadership that can effectively manage the diverse challenges faced by the noble house.
Master of Blades:
The Master of Blades is the martial leader of House Blackstone, responsible for overseeing the military forces, training programs, and the overall defense of the house. This is typically the strongest of House Blackstone, renowned for their exceptional skills in combat and strategic thinking on the battlefield. On occation however this position has been held by the one with the greatest strategic thinking as the greatest warrior would be stuck on the frontlines during wars.Master of Wisdom:
The Master of Wisdom is the counterpart to the Master of Blades, focusing on matters of diplomacy and politics. This individual possesses a deep understanding of courtly affairs, economic dynamics, and the intricate web of relationships within the kingdom. Their role is crucial in navigating the political landscape and ensuring the prosperity of House Blackstone.Master of Coin:
Responsible for managing the house's finances, investments, and economic ventures, the Master of Coin ensures the financial stability and growth of House Blackstone. This role requires a keen understanding of trade, commerce, and resource management to maximize the house's wealth and influence.Master of Lore:
The Master of Lore is the custodian of House Blackstone's history, traditions, and knowledge. This individual ensures the preservation of the house's legacy and advises the council on matters related to ancestral wisdom, ancient artifacts, and cultural heritage.Master of Arcane:
Responisble for the greatest treassure of House blacksone, the Master of Arcane is in charge of any matter related to the House's ancestral blades. This includes taking care of the blades as well as distributing them among the many members of the family. The Master of Arcane is also responsible for the study and application of magical protection within House Blackstone.Culture
Blades' Heritage Ceremony
The event preceding the Rite of Honor, known as the "Blades' Heritage Ceremony", is a grand and revered tradition within House Blackstone. It marks the moment when the young members, ready to embark on their individual journeys during the Rite of Honor, are bestowed with the ancestral blades – weapons that carry the legacy and history of their forefathers. Additionally, this ceremony may include a special tournament where one of the founder's weapon, a symbol of the house's origins, is passed on to the most deserving and skilled heir.Rite of Honor
The great tradition of House Blackstone, known as the "Rite of Honor", is a rite of passage that occurs once every two decades. It involves the young members of the house, typically those who have reached the age of adulthood, embarking on a journey into the broader kingdom of Nicandria to prove their mettle and establish their individual names in the annals of the kingdom's history. This tradition is deeply rooted in the core principles of meritocracy and valor that House Blackstone holds dear. It is seen as a crucial step in the development of each member, forcing them to confront the challenges of the outside world and prove their worth beyond the safety of the ancestral castle. The Rite of Honor is not only a test of martial skill. Any demonstration power is seen as honoring the Blackstone household such of leadership, diplomacy, economy and strategic thinking – qualities essential for any great leader. As the young Blackstones venture into the kingdom, they often find themselves in conflicts with rival houses and even their own siblings and cousins, seeking to make a name for themselves as well. The intense competition for recognition can lead to duels, skirmishes, assasinations and more as the members struggle to show off themselves. The Rite of Honor becomes a melting pot of ambitions, where the future leaders of House Blackstone must navigate not only the physical challenges of combat but also the intricacies of courtly intrigue.History
The house was founded in 2562, long before Nicandria had come to power and before the the War for Midranor. They are one of only a handful of legacy Houses, those that predate the War for Midranor, within Nicandria. They have served as the generals of Nicandria countless times as their tradition of warriors have made them live their lives on the battlefields.
Honour is bred, Power is taken, Nobility is earned
Founding Date
2562
Training Level
Elite
Veterancy Level
Decorated/Honored
