The Blue Guard

There are always 11 Blue Cloaks

Commander

This individual is the leader of the Blue Guard, being not only the most skilled fighter, but also a brilliant tactician and strategist. They are responsible for the training and deployment of the entire unit.

The Sentinel Guard (4)

These are the primary bodyguards of the Steward and his family. Two of them are always within proximity, while the other two act as immediate relief or an advance for potential travel or public appearances.

The Shadow Guard (4)

These are meant to be intelligence and reconnaissance specialists. They operate covertly and keep a patrol of Kaer Mauin, the ancestral residence of House Rylin, and other common areas of Mauribon. They must be highly skilled in stealth, tracking, and information gathering.

The Elemental Guard (2)

These two Elves are specialized in magic and lore. Their primary role is defensive, using their knowledge of Relics and other magical creatures to provide cover and protection.

Elven Steel Armour

These ancient pieces of armor include a breastplate, arm guards, and a helmet. The rest of the armor is filled in with other well designed armor pieces unique to each member of the Blue Guard.

Dark, Shimmering Tunics

Underneath their armor, they wear tunics of dark midnight blue made of a unique design. It is stronger than typical fabric and slightly resistant to elemental energy.

Blue Cloak

A cloak of solid blue, emblazoned with the Maiden's Star. These cloaks are universally recognized as the symbol of the Blue Guard.

Elven Sideswords - These are an evolution on traditional arming swords, with a more rapier-like hilt protection and thrusting emphasis. These are meant to offer a balance of speed, versatility, and close-quarters effectiveness. These are made out of mithril infused steel.

Elven Falchions - These shorter, concealable blades are good for decisive surprising strikes.

Whenever they are travelling around, they utilize their personal horses for travel, and a requisitioned wagon as needed.

There is an appointed Captain of the Blue Guard that is appointed, traditioned after being nominated by a majority of the serving Blue Cloaks. The Captain is charged with maintain the duty roster, and coordinating equipment. The Steward of the Season is the authroity of unit and each member takes orders from him/her.

Rigorous Selection

Candiates are drawn from the Elite Warrioers in the Elemental Enclaves. The Selection involved not just combat prowess, but also mental fortitude, loyalty, and a deep understanding of the Enclaves' politics and threats.

Integrated Training

Once selected, Blue Guards go through intense specialized training regimen:

Synchronized Combat:

The 11 Blue Guards learnt o fight as a seamless unit, anticipating each other's movements.

Displomatic Protocol:

They understand the nuances of protecting a monarch, including appropriate behavior in various courtly and diplomatic settings.

Threat Assessment:

In-depth study of known enemies, potential assassination methods, and counter-surveillance techniques.

There is a staff of 10 who provides logical support to the Blue Guard.

The Blue Guard has operational authority over any knight that is in Mauribon, and any of the Elemental forces in the Enclave.

Founding

The Blue Cloaks first developed as the original defenders of Mauribon. They made a name for themselves by single-handedly staving off several raiding raidings from the Vikings of the North, the Wildmen, and eventually the Fallen's Orcs. These eleven warriors were the original Elven Knights, and when the Fallen marched on Mauribon, they fought side by side with Mauri and Auradir to defend the town. After the Battle of Mauribon ended in an Elven victory, these 11 warriors were officially knighted by Mauri herself. Then they followed her as she joined the push against her brother. They were present in the Battle of the Celestials, where Mauri and Kroin were struck down, and the Fallen were imprisoned. After the War, the Knights returned home and vowed to protect the new Steward of the Seasons until the return of the Maiden.

Establishment as the Honor Guard

Auradir established them as the guard of Mauribon, and the Steward's Seat soon into his reign.