Bladebrethren Elite

The Bladebrethren are the iron fist of every matriarch, enforcers of her will both in war and in peace. Their title is earned, never given—a mark of blood, discipline, and survival.

To join their ranks, one must first rise as a duelist of renown, and then survive the Trials of Anras—a series of deadly rites unique to each underworld city. These trials are never the same twice: labyrinthine arenas, hunts through pitch-dark tunnels, duels against summoned horrors. From hundreds of aspirants across Thenion, only a handful emerge victorious each year—their number rarely exceeding the count of both hands.

Those who survive become the personal guard and sword-arm of their queen—her protectors, commanders, and envoys. Their loyalty is absolute, their authority unquestioned.

A Bladebrethren can be recognized by a distinct articulated pauldron, more a badge of office than armor. The tradition dates back to the Crimson Ages, when Thenrin duelists would take the harness plates of fallen Alarian knights and forge them into marks of honor. Each pauldron still bears that echo of conquest—a relic of pride and defiance worn openly by those who have earned it.