Thornbound

The title of Thornbound is not easily won. It can only be claimed by those born of the Dawnwood Elves of Gorus. These sun-kissed warriors gather each year for the Solis Tournament, where only the finest rise to the ranks of the elite. To be named Thornbound is to walk the razor’s edge between devotion and destruction. The title emerged within the last century under the rule of the Queen’s Consort, Hawke Silverthorn, who founded the tournament to honor the greatest among his kin. His intent was twofold: to elevate the exceptional, and to ensure they would guide and protect those still rising through the ranks. For, like all who dwell near the Veil, the elves of Gorus live under constant threat—from the sea-bound Portcross Raiders, and the ever-present danger of being taken unawares from the shores.   The Solis Tournament is held each year on the summer solstice, lasting for two intense weeks. Male elves train for years to earn a place among the competitors, and many are sponsored by elder warriors or noble patrons to gain entry. It is said that during this time, some of the most beautifully crafted Cordivexes can be seen—adorned by warriors who stand on the brink of glory or death.   The day before the tournament begins, a quiet ceremony takes place just outside the gates of the Dawnwood Arena. Maidens gather in the twilight to meet their beloveds or those they are devoted to. There, the Cordivex is offered—a sacred bandolier woven with love, intention, and care, gifted to the warrior as a symbol of devotion. The warriors accept it in silence, bowing their heads as the Cordivex is tied across their hearts.   The tournament itself is grueling. Competitors face not only brutal combat but also trials of athleticism, tactics, and strategy. Each test is designed to push the warrior to their limits—mind, body, and spirit. It is well known that those who enter the arena may not leave whole… and some may not leave at all.   Position:

The Thornbound serves as a ceremonial protector, elite duelist, and spiritual exemplar. They are often chosen as the first to enter any trial, and the last to leave the field. They wear a Second Cordivex—a nearly unheard-of exception—bestowed by the elders and symbolizing not romantic love, but communal devotion.

  Second Cordivex (also called the “Cordivex of the Grove”):

This one is dyed in deeper, rarer colors—imbued with the pigments of forest resins and moonstone dust. It bears no hidden pocket, but each of its seven visible pockets contains offerings from every household of the Dawnwood: a charm, a feather, a carved rune. No single hand makes this Cordivex. It is a gift of the people.

  Combat Privileges: The Thornbound may challenge any warrior once per season, not out of rivalry but as a form of spiritual renewal. These duels are silent and symbolic—neither life nor limb taken. Loss or victory matters less than how one fights.  

May train and command elite warbands within the Dawnwood.

 

Has the right to speak before the Queen without summons.

 

May wear a Second Cordivex—crafted by the hands of the Eldermothers and dyed in moon-blood blue, representing devotion to the entire forest.

 

Serves one decade in silent service before returning to personal life (if they live)

 

Elders refer to the Thornbound as a "living oath."

 

Children in Dawnwood festivals wear braided vines and mimic the rituals of the Thornbound, symbolizing courage in the face of growing up.

 

The Cordivex of a fallen Thornbound is never burned. It is buried beneath the Stillroot, and its pockets are emptied one by one—each offering returned to its original giver with solemn blessing.

 

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