Guardians - Guardsmen
Guardians are volunteers who have proven their loyalty to the Emperor and Elrath. They always stand in the front ranks, protecting the Holy Empire, and are famous for their training and discipline. They have sworn an oath to protect their comrades with a shield, and if necessary, to give their lives for them. Their own protection they have entrusted entirely to Elrath.
Guardsmen, often called "Gold Cloaks" by the common folk, earned their honorary status through courage and fearlessness. They make up the personal guard of the Emperor and his dukes. Once a year, on the day of Elrath, a small number of the most worthy guardians are inducted into the guards. Those chosen for this honor must swear an oath to the Dragon of Light, pledging to sacrifice themselves if the common cause requires it. Their golden armor was originally intended to make an impression on both allies and enemies, but now the reputation of these elite warriors eclipses the brilliance of their armor.
Crossbowmen - Imperial Crossbowmen
Many legends tell that when Ronan of the House of Falcon defeated the chiefs of various clans and united the tribes into an empire, his only weapons were honor and courage. But it would be more accurate to say that the primary weapon of his victory was the crossbow. The empire's crossbowmen still strike fear into all corners of Ashan today.
Imperial Crossbowmen are skilled marksmen who, by tradition, guard the walls of Falcon's Nest, the capital of the empire. To join their ranks, candidates must demonstrate their skill in numerous trials. In one such trial, a candidate is sent hunting with a single bolt and must hit two geese with one shot. It is said that one of the most famous crossbowmen, Captain Borlu, found this trial too easy. He returned from the hunt having killed a bear and a wolf.
Nuns - Vestals
The acolytes of Elrath have dedicated their lives to the worship of the Dragon of Light. They possess a special spiritual gift, and their service brings light and warmth to all in need. All citizens of the empire love and respect the acolytes, not least for their willingness to go to the front lines during war to provide aid to the wounded.
The Order of Vesta originates from the widow of Emperor Ronan II. On the day her husband was killed, Vesta withdrew from public life and dedicated herself entirely to Elrath in hopes of finding the strength that would allow her to end all battles once and for all. Today, vestals often stand alongside troops on the battlefield; they soothe enemies so that other soldiers can finish them off. One cannot help but wonder if Vesta herself would have approved of such a turn of events.
Griffins - Imperial Griffins
Griffins came into being in the Age of Myths from an accidental magical fusion of a lion and an eagle. At that time, Dragon Veins ran across the entire surface of Ashan, and those animals that drank from these streams of magic dragon blood were changed forever. It is said that this species appeared as a result of an eagle's attempt to show compassion by saving a lion being swept away by the current.
In the days before the war between the elves of Tuidhana and the Holy Empire, both peoples enjoyed a long peace. During this time, the smiths of the elves were so impressed by the harmony between humans and griffins in the empire that they shared with them the secret of Star Silver. This metal is light yet very strong, and it could be used to craft durable armor even for flying creatures. The mysterious runes decorating the imperial griffin's armor remain the only reminder of this forgotten friendship.
Radiance - Luminous Radiance
Radiance are spirits that shine with the will of Elrath, the Dragon of Light, and their light is so strong that it can blind enemies. In the spirit world, these creatures inhabit the domains of Elrath in great numbers. Elrath often sends them as advisors or ambassadors to his most loyal followers. The generals of the Holy Empire soon found a combat application for their talents.
If a radiance receives the special favor of Elrath, it transforms into a luminous radiance. Gaining direct access to the pure aura of the Dragon of Light, they become the embodiment of justice. In battle, they inspire great fear, for to defeat one of these creatures, one must have strong moral grounds; otherwise, you will be struck by an eternal curse of guilt.
Sun Riders - Sun Crusaders
There are many knights in the Holy Empire, but only those whom Elrath himself deems worthy can join the Order of the Holy Sun. The knights of this order, known as Sun Riders, carry the Light while riding magical steeds summoned from the domains of Elrath in the spirit world. It is told that these steeds are capable of galloping along the thinnest beam of light.
A Sun Crusader is a Sun Rider who has taken sacred vows. He has entered into a personal contract with Elrath, usually requiring the killing of a specific enemy or the finding of a specific item. Once the oath is sworn, the crusader typically sets out on a journey and often becomes a wandering knight for a long time in search of his goal. In the event of war, the emperor calls all crusaders to defend the country. The defense of the empire is a duty recognized by all crusaders, and one that is more important to them than any personal vow.
Celestial Warriors - Seraphs
Intimidating in their physical and spiritual perfection, the angels of Light are messengers of Elrath and his shock troops in the world of Ashan. They are taller than humans, more beautiful, and carry an aura of power and confidence. Seraphs are slightly shorter and look more like humans. They began to appear after the creation of the Falcon Empire. No one knows their exact origin, but their loyalty to Elrath is boundless. They enter battle with two blades called "Retribution" and "Mercy".
Celestial Warriors are first among the seraphs. They are often given the names of legendary angels who fell in the Wars of the Ancients, and some priests believe them to be new incarnations of those souls, whom Elrath returned to provide help in a difficult hour. Whatever their true origin, they are exceptionally skilled in combat and fight with heroism and fearlessness worthy of a bygone era of legends.
