Valistal

Description of the Church

The Church of Valistal, known as The Radiant Order, is a knightly, deeply principled institution built on ideals of honor, justice, and noble sacrifice. It trains champions of law and virtue, who act as protectors, judges, and sometimes executioners for their realms.

Valistal is seen not only as a warrior but as the ideal hero—measured, restrained, fair. Followers believe in doing what is right even when it is hard, and that true valor is found in restraint, service, and selflessness.

Temples are built like strongholds or great halls, where law is spoken, oaths are sworn, and deeds are judged. The Church often plays a political role, mediating disputes and holding noble lineages accountable.

Core Beliefs

• Justice is sacred, but must be carried out with compassion.
• Valor is not recklessness, but the courage to do what is right.
• Chivalry is strength held in service to the weak.
• Oaths are unbreakable bonds.
• A sword held in defense is greater than one drawn for conquest.

Religious Structure

The Radiant Order resembles a militant monastery and court of justice.

• The Lord Palatine – Supreme voice of the Order, chosen from among the highest-ranking knights through a council of judgment.
• Sunshields – Knight-commanders of temples, responsible for doctrine and justice.
• Swordpriests – Clerics who uphold the sacred code and officiate rituals and oaths.
• Virtue-Wardens – Traveling champions who settle disputes and protect the vulnerable.
• Pages of the Flame – Novices undergoing training in both arms and philosophy.

Rituals and Practices

• Oath of the Flame – A sacred vow taken before battle or upon joining the Order.
• The Shieldfast – A rite in which one takes responsibility for another’s protection.
• Judgment in Light – A trial-by-honor to settle matters of justice without vengeance.
• The Day of Ascension – A knighting ceremony held at dawn, symbolizing service to the light.

Followers

• Knights, nobles, and warriors, bound by honor.
• Judges and diplomats, who strive to uphold fairness.
• Idealists and reformers, seeking a better world through sacrifice.
• Commoners, who rely on the Church as their shield against cruelty.

Temples

Temples are strongholds of stone and stained glass, adorned with banners of fallen heroes and relics of justice.

Features include:

• The Hall of Shields, where all defenders are honored.
• The Dawnforge, where oaths are sealed in sacred fire.
• The Judgment Ring, where disputes are heard and tried before the Light.

Conflict and Controversy

• Fierce enemies of Klavik, whose domination and tyranny are anathema.
• Strain with Aergethyr, whose legalism sometimes clashes with Valistal’s moral clarity.
• Internal debate between:
• The Bladeguard, who emphasize battlefield valor,
• and The Dawncode, who prioritize restraint and justice over glory.