The Aurelians - Empyrean Knights
The Aurelians are a human subrace that epitomizes honor, discipline, and a balance between martial prowess and intellectual pursuit. Towering figures of chivalry and enlightenment, they have established advanced societies centered on knightly orders, scholastic institutions, and architectural marvels. Though less magically inclined than the Vaelari, they possess a noble culture driven by a blend of tradition, philosophy, and dedication to the defense of their realms.
Height and Build
Height: 2 to 3 meters
Aurelians are grand in stature, their height and muscular builds reflecting their physical training and the nobility of their presence.
Physical Characteristics
Appearance:
Skin: Fair to tan, often with a healthy, sun-kissed glow from their outdoor pursuits and training.
Hair: Varied shades of blond, brown, and auburn, with hairstyles often reflecting their knightly status or scholastic discipline.
Eyes: Light hues such as blue, green, and gray, radiating clarity and wisdom.
Build:
Strong and athletic, their imposing physique is tempered by an air of grace and refinement.
Culture and Society
Knightly Orders:
Aurelians are organized into knightly orders, each devoted to a particular cause such as defending the weak, preserving knowledge, or waging holy wars against darkness.
Each order adheres to a strict code of chivalry, emphasizing virtues like honor, courage, and justice.
Beliefs and Philosophy:
The Aurelians follow a philosophy of Enlightened Discipline, which values the pursuit of knowledge, mastery of the body, and a harmonious society.
Many worship The Sunlit Father, a deity representing light, protection, and the strength to vanquish evil.
Way of Life:
Their cities are architectural marvels, featuring towering castles, grand libraries, and training grounds.
Education is a cornerstone of their culture, with academies teaching history, philosophy, martial strategy, and the arts.
Abilities
Physical Endurance:
Their training as knights grants them exceptional endurance and strength, allowing them to excel in prolonged combat or physical challenges.
Tactical Mastery:
Skilled in battlefield strategy, the Aurelians are adept at leading armies and organizing defenses.
Limited Magical Affinity:
While not as magically inclined as the Vaelari or Nyxari, some Aurelians possess minor divine magic, granted through devotion to their gods or rigorous training.
Weapons and Armor
Weapons:
Longswords, polearms, and lances are their preferred weapons, often crafted with intricate designs and symbols of their knightly orders.
Many wield enchanted weapons, though these are rare and often heirlooms of great significance.
Armor:
Aurelians wear ornate plate armor designed for both protection and aesthetic grandeur. Their armor is often adorned with crests, engravings, and symbols of their allegiance.
Relationships with Other Races
Elves:
Aurelians admire the Vaelari’s pursuit of knowledge but often view their dominance over magic with suspicion. They maintain cordial relations with Sylvan Elves due to shared respect for tradition and order.
Dwarves:
They value the Dwarves’ craftsmanship and often trade for finely made weapons and armor, fostering mutual respect.
Humans:
Seen as leaders among humans, Aurelians often serve as mediators between subraces and protectors of human interests.
Cultural Practices
Chivalric Tournaments:
Grand events where knights compete in jousting, swordplay, and other martial challenges to display skill and honor.
Rites of Ascension:
Aspiring knights undergo rigorous trials to prove their worth, including tests of strength, wisdom, and morality.
The Candlelit Vigil:
A tradition where knights and scholars alike meditate in silence, seeking guidance from the Sunlit Father before significant battles or decisions.
Notable Traits
Embodiments of discipline, courage, and intellectual pursuit.
Renowned for their towering, noble presence and their dedication to justice and enlightenment.
Their cities are bastions of learning, strength, and culture.
