Paladins

Introduction

The Paladins of Westingham are an elite force sworn to protect the monarchy and enforce the king's law. Their legendary deeds have shaped the realm's history, earning them a reputation unmatched by any similar orders in neighboring nations. These warriors are deployed only for the most critical and perilous missions, serving also as the king's personal guard.

Weapons and Armor

The Paladins are famed for their twenty-four unique longswords, crafted from pure folded mithril., and hey are adorned with intricate gold-plated crossguards . But what makes these swords stand out from all the other fancy weaponry in the world, are the ancient runes decorating the blade and they feature a distinctive black glassy orb as the pommel, which glows a soft blue from the infused magic.
Their armor is equally remarkable, forged from custom-fitted mithril plate. Each suit bears the crest of the Paladins engraved on the chest, while their helmets are designed as personalized masks, reflecting the individuality of each warrior.

The Inner Workings of the Order

The Order is strictly limited to twenty-nine members. When a Paladin falls, their apprentice takes their place, inheriting their blade and duties. In rare cases where the apprentice is deemed unready, another Paladin steps in to complete the training. During this time, the corresponding sword remains unused.
New recruits are selected through rigorous trials held in the capital. Promising candidates are chosen based on their skill, strength, magical ability, and dedication to the Order's ideals. Magical aptitude is critical, as the Paladins' power relies heavily on their ability to channel and wield magic.

Duties and Leadership

The Order is led by its most senior member, who also commands the king's guard. At any given time, eight Paladins are stationed near the monarch, with four guarding him in rotating shifts. The remaining members take on various missions, from defending the kingdom against supernatural threats to serving as bodyguards on diplomatic assignments.

History

The order was founded by the human factions of the Yavinian plains preceding the events of the holy wars, and each of the twenty-nine factions provided a paladin, and their blades were constructed, the exact technologies required to make such blades have since been lost to history.

Magical Practices

The Paladins mostly focus on protective, regenerative, and self-enhancing types of magic.