The Guardians
The Guardians are the elite warriors tasked with the defense of the Great Caers in the desolate and dangerous region known as the Wastes. These formidable protectors have a storied history that traces back to ancient orders of Neustrian and Rividian Crusader armies. These Crusaders, having fought valiantly to repel the Maw incursion, chose to remain in the Wastes even after the conflict had ended. Their decision to stay behind laid the foundation for what would become the revered and feared Guardians of the Great Caers.
The Guardians are renowned for their distinctive appearance, which sets them apart from other warriors. Clad in meticulously crafted articulated plate armor, they present an imposing and almost otherworldly figure on the battlefield. Their armor, designed for both protection and mobility, allows them to withstand the harshest conditions and the fiercest opponents. Each piece of armor is a work of art, often personalized with intricate engravings and symbols that reflect the warrior's lineage and achievements.
Adding to their fearsome presence are the Beast Helms that they wear. These helmets, crafted to resemble the visages of powerful and mythical creatures, serve not only as protective gear but also as symbols of their unwavering strength and courage. The sight of a Guardian in full battle regalia, with their Beast Helm gleaming in the sunlight, is enough to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies.
The role of the Guardians is multifaceted, encompassing more than just combat. They are the stalwart defenders of the Great Caers, fortresses that stand as bastions of safety and order in the otherwise chaotic Wastes. These Caers are strategically located to offer protection to the inhabitants of the Wastes and to act as strongholds against any threats that may arise. The Guardians' duty is to ensure the security of these fortresses, defending them against marauding bands, rival factions, and the ever-present dangers of the Maw.
The Guardians are also responsible for maintaining law and order within the Caers and their surrounding territories. Their presence deters criminal activity and ensures that the rule of law is upheld. They are respected and admired by the inhabitants of the Wastes, who look to them for protection and guidance. The Guardians' leadership and sense of duty foster a sense of community and resilience among the people they protect.
The training regimen of the Guardians is rigorous and demanding, designed to produce warriors of unparalleled skill and discipline. Recruits undergo years of intense physical and mental conditioning, honing their combat abilities and learning the strategies and tactics that have been passed down through generations. This training also instills in them the values of honor, loyalty, and self-sacrifice, which are the cornerstones of the Guardians' ethos.
In addition to their combat prowess, the Guardians are also skilled in the use of various weapons and armaments. They are proficient with swords, spears, bows, and other traditional weapons, as well as more advanced technologies. This versatility allows them to adapt to different combat scenarios and to face a wide range of adversaries with confidence.
The Guardians' reputation as elite warriors is well-earned, and their only true rivals are the Tilan Legionari, Ostland Berserkers, Weyland Blademasters, and Rividian Hoplites. These other elite forces are respected for their own unique skills and traditions, but the Guardians hold their own as equals on the battlefield. The mutual respect among these warrior groups underscores the high esteem in which the Guardians are held.
In summary, the Guardians are the elite warriors who defend the Great Caers of the Wastes. Their origins in the ancient Neustrian and Rividian Crusader armies lend them a rich and honorable history. Distinguished by their articulated plate armor and Beast Helms, the Guardians are a formidable force, both respected and feared.