The Guardians Order of Xdripia
Introduction
The Guardians Order of Xdripia represents the defensive and judicial arm of the kingdom. These elite warriors and judges protect the realm from external threats, maintain internal order, and interpret the law in accordance with the Tablets of Destiny.
Historical Background
The Guardians Order was established in the early days of Xdripia, during the Time of Turbulence, when threats from beyond the planar boundaries first emerged. Queen Lyrianna the Vigilant formed the first company of Guardians — warriors bound by oath to defend the realm against all dangers, both physical and metaphysical.
Over the centuries, the Order evolved to encompass not only military defense but also the administration of justice and the enforcement of the Jus Imperii throughout the realm. The Reformation of 2789 formally integrated the Judiciary Corps into the Order, cementing their dual role as both protectors and judges.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Defend the borders of Xdripia against external threats
- Maintain order and peace within all districts
- Administer justice according to the Jus Imperii
- Investigate violations of cosmic law
- Protect the Tablets of Destiny from misuse
- Train new recruits in combat, ethics, and planar navigation
- Conduct diplomatic missions to potentially hostile realms
Ranks and Hierarchy
Grand Guardian
Supreme commander of the Order, appointed by the Sovereign. Serves on the Royal Council and oversees all operations.
Sentinel Captains
Veteran Guardians who lead specialized divisions such as the Planar Patrol, the Judiciary Corps, and the City Watch.
Shield Bearers
Experienced Guardians who have proven their valor and wisdom. Often serve as judges in local courts or commanders of frontier outposts.
Guardians
Fully trained members who have completed their trials and sworn the Oath of Vigilance. They form the backbone of the Order's forces.
Initiates
Recruits undergoing rigorous training in combat, law, ethics, and planar theory before taking their full oaths.
Notable Figures
Commander Valerian Stormheart – Grand Guardian
A legendary warrior who repelled the Void Incursion a decade ago. Known for his strategic brilliance and unwavering sense of justice.
Judge Seraphina Trueword – Sentinel Captain of the Judiciary
Chief administrator of courts throughout Xdripia. Her ability to discern truth from falsehood is said to be supernaturally acute.
Ranger Thorne Voidwalker – Captain of the Planar Patrol
An expert in interdimensional travel and first contact protocols. Has mapped more uncharted planar territories than any Guardian in history.
Connection to the Tablets of Destiny
The Guardians Order draws its authority from the Second Tablet of Destiny, which speaks of "vigilance against the darkness that threatens balance."
Each Guardian carries a token derived from this Tablet, serving as both a badge of office and a focus for their sworn powers. The Grand Guardian's staff contains a significant fragment of the Tablet, allowing them to perceive disturbances in the cosmic order and direct the Order's resources where they are most needed.
Headquarters and Facilities
The Citadel of Dawn
The central fortress of the Order, located at the highest point of the capital. It houses the training grounds, the armory, the archives, and the administrative chambers.
The Hall of Justice
The primary courtroom where major trials are conducted. Its architecture channels the energy of the Tablets to compel truth from all who speak within its walls.
Boundary Watchtowers
A network of fortified outposts positioned at key points along Xdripia's planar boundaries, serving both as defense and early warning systems.
Equipment and Artifacts
The Aegis Shield
A standard-issue shield granted to all full Guardians. Forged from ethereal alloy, it can be attuned to counter specific planar threats.
The Justice Blade
A ceremonial sword that serves as both weapon and symbol of authority. It is said to cut through deception and reveal hidden truths when wielded by a skilled Guardian.
The Astral Compass
A navigation tool used by the Planar Patrol to track their position across dimensional boundaries and find their way back to Xdripia.