The Jade Wardens are the eternal guardians of the Y’azi Empire, colossal animated statues imbued with the spirits of fallen samurai and warrior monks. These revered sentinels stand vigilant over the empire’s borders, their presence a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual connection of the Dragon Emperor Ryujin Hattori, who crafted them through knowledge imparted by the twin gods, Fujin and Raijin.
Origins and Significance
The creation of the Jade Wardens stems from Ryujin Hattori’s divine pilgrimage to the Unknown. There, Fujin and Raijin taught him ancient form of Rift Magic which stemmed from Ether-Rifting. This long-forgotten arcane art was believed to have been derived from the primordial wisdom of Unknown, the god of creation. This sacred knowledge enabled Ryujin to preserve the spirits of fallen Y’azi warriors, giving them an eternal purpose as protectors of the empire.
The Symbolism of Jade
In Y’azi culture, jade is a symbol of prestige, power, and permanence. Its incorporation into the Wardens reflects the empire’s reverence for its ancestors and the enduring strength of its people. Only the finest jade, mined from the Unknown, is used to craft these statues, ensuring that each Warden is both a work of art and a symbol of the empire’s resilience.
Construction and Design
The Jade Wardens are monumental in scale, towering between 60 and 100 feet, with intricate carvings that depict their former lives as samurai or monks. Their designs honor the traditions of the Y’azi and vary from warden-to-warden based on the fallen warrior whose spirit they emulate.
- Modeled after traditional kabuto helmets and do cuirasses, their armor is both functional and ceremonial, etched with motifs of clouds, lightning, and dragons.
- Each Warden wields a weapon, often a naginata, katana, or bow, all carved from jade and imbued with elemental power.
The Wardens' expressions are fierce yet dignified, embodying the courage and honor of the warriors whose spirits reside within them. When dormant, they blend seamlessly into the landscape, often incorporated into fortifications, bridges, and watchtowers.
The Eternal Vigil
The Jade Wardens stand as eternal sentinels along the northernmost borders and coastlines of the Y’azi Peninsula, forming a Great Vigil that protects the empire’s sovereignty and people’s livelihoods. Positioned strategically along the Great Y’azi Fireline, they are a constant reminder of the empire’s might and spiritual heritage.
Dormant and Active States
- Dormant: While at rest, the Wardens are indistinguishable from statues, their jade forms weathering the elements in silent watchfulness.
- Activation: Only the Dragon Emperor or an imminent threat can awaken the Wardens. Upon activation, their eyes blaze with emerald light, and their movements become fluid and purposeful.
When called to battle, the Wardens move with surprising speed and precision despite their massive size. They wield their weapons with devastating force, augmented by the Ether-Rifting magic infused in their forms.
Legacy and Mythology
Legends tell of the Jade Wardens rising in unison during times of great peril, such as during the Tides of Khaos, when they faced rampaging Khaos-spawned abominations. These battles are etched into the lore of the empire, where the Wardens fought with unwavering loyalty, their massive forms toppling enemies and turning the tide of war.
The Wardens are also deeply connected to the spiritual life of the empire. Their jade forms are not only defensive constructs but also monuments to the valor and sacrifice of the Y’azi ancestors, revered in ceremonies and honored in prayers.
The Jade Wardens stand as a testament to the ingenuity of Ryujin Hattori and the divine guidance of Fujin and Raijin. They embody the Y’azi Empire’s values of honor, resilience, and unity, serving as both protectors and symbols of the empire’s enduring spirit. Their presence ensures that the Y’azi people can live in harmony, knowing their ancestors watch over them with unyielding vigilance.