Bladesworn

To become a Bladesworn, a candidate must undergo years of rigorous physical, mental, and spiritual preparation. They must first distinguish themselves as an exceptional warrior within the regular elven military, demonstrating not just martial skill but unwavering discipline, composure under pressure, and loyalty to the ideals of Grendellar. Candidates are selected by senior Bladesworn and subjected to brutal trials that test their endurance, strategic thinking, resilience, and ability to resist magical influence. Beyond battlefield excellence, a prospective Bladesworn must complete a pilgrimage to the sacred shrines of Rasadoth, seeking visions that confirm their worth in the eyes of the god of war. Only those who emerge from these trials stronger, unbroken, and spiritually affirmed are granted the right to swear the binding oath that transforms them into Bladesworn, forever severing them from ordinary civilian life.

Originally, candidates for the Bladesworn were required to be of pure elven royal blood, descendants of the original god-blessed elves of Adavallir, ensuring that only those with the closest ties to the ancient divine lineage could take the sacred oath. Over time, however, the devastation of wars, population decline, and the slow erosion of strict bloodlines forced the order to expand its selection pool. Now, while noble blood is still highly favored and pure lineage remains a mark of prestige, it is no longer an absolute requirement. Any elf who demonstrates exceptional martial prowess, unwavering loyalty to Grendellar, and spiritual devotion to Rasadoth may be considered eligible, regardless of their ancestry. This shift, though necessary for survival, is still a point of quiet resentment among traditionalists within the order.