Navarr groups

2019-04-08T16:20:28Z

Kazzycartwright:

==Overview==
There are many [[Steading|steadings]] and [[Striding|stridings]] across [[Navarr]], but only a comparative handful are involved in the affairs of the Empire (that is, attend the seasonal summits at [[Casinea#Anvil|Anvil]]. The influence of these steadings and stridings can wax and wane, and involvement in Imperial affairs is not always a reflection of their influence within the nation itself.

==Steadings==
===Brackensong===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Brackensong.jpeg|title=The song of the wind through dry bracken; our voice raised against the wild.|caption=Brackensong steading.|align=right|width=200}}
Formed (along with Splitroot striding) some time before the death of Empress Britta from members of the Foxden steading, the wooden palisaded Brackensong Steading is the first line of defence against the Vallorn in East Broceliande. It is situated in the former home of Whispering Dray in Elerael, where its position grants it an eye over the movements of the husks, miasma, and the giant insects that roam the area.

To date, the steading is the largest to come out of Broceliande to the Imperial Summits. As befits its vigil against the Vallorn, Brackensong is the home of the Voice of the Quiet Forest, one of the larger covens within the Navarr. Additionally, the constant threat from the more physical agents of the Vallorn has given rise to a core of hardened Thorns, ready to stand against the evils that lurk in the forest and beyond.

Since the Interregnum, the Brackensong have worked to bolster the living heart of the nation, using the Dance of Navarr and Thorn to repair and nurture the Trods, and playing host to songs, stories and revelry long into the night of every Summit.

===Foxden===
{{CaptionedImage|file=foxden.png|caption=Foxden Striding|align=right|width=200}}
Foxden Steading was founded a few hundred years ago by a changeling Navarr, Jhessail Cedny and a draughir Navarr, Rymel Cedny. The two had met on a trod, as their stridings passed each other. Jhessail and Rymel travelled north with those who wished to follow them, to where the boundaries between Varushka and Wintermark met, into the lands of Hercynia. Here, in the place where in winter the darkness is great, and in summer the light seemingly never-ending, they came upon a hill clearing with sparse forest around it. In this region of Summersend atop the hill sat a vixen with her cubs, looking down upon the pair. She yipped, and then trotted away into the trees with her cubs. Here is where they built the steading of Foxden, its eyes watchful to the North and to the Vallorn of Hercynia.

The steading is a place where the Navarr, and other nations, can come to rest, trade news and goods, and seek guidance on the many paths on which life takes them. Here is a place dedicated to preserving history and stories, music and art. A place to gather and organise against the Vallorn. It is the home of an ever growing information network set in place by Jhessail and Rymel to ensure that the Empire is upheld against the many forces that oppose it.

Foxden is a diverse steading with many different focuses; it has produced many a fine thorn, vate, broker, guide and brand. It is a home to any in need, and is willing to accept any into its fold, provided they bring no harm to it. Over the years the steading has produced a number of stridings, as the Dance of those within has dictated. Strong ties still bind a number of these groups together into a collective of stridings and steadings, who regularly get together at Anvil to share information and the like.

===Whispering Dray===
The Steading of Whispering Dray stood sentinel in Elerael, the eyes of it people turned always towards the shrouded desolation of Terunael, protecting the Trods and driving back any Vallorn creature that stumbled into the untainted woods.

What happened to the steading is not currently a matter of record, except that their homes are now inhabited by the Brackensong, and in recent years a number of individuals named Whispering Dray have been found guilty of Treason and Sorcery.

'''OOC Note:''' Whispering Dray are an NPC steading

==Stridings==

===The Eternal Family===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Eternal family.jpg|caption=Eternal Family|align=right|width=250}}
The Eternal Family is an old striding, so old it is claimed that their roots trace back to the days of Terunael. Whether this is true or not is unclear but it is clear that the striding is very old. The Family is made up of an extended group of both blood relations and adopted individuals who are collectively recognised as family.

Highly active as a group, those able to travel journey widely along the [[trods]] and beyond. They offer support to those in need and explore old ruins, trying to find out all they can about the history of their people. Those unable to travel live in and run a [[wayhouse]] in [[Miaren#Goldglades|Goldglades]], in the [[territory]] of [[Miaren]].

In recent years the Family has became known for the core of the striding being a strong [[coven]] specialised in the magic of the [[Day magic|Day realm]] and the [[Spring magic|Spring realm]]. Something very unusual happened around 378YE, however, and the ritualists’ affinity for Spring magic has changed markedly. Today, the Eternal Family are known to be powerful practitioners of [[Summer magic]], in addition to their mastery of the arts of Day.

Alongside their use of ritual magic, the Family use all skills at their disposal to help their nation and the Empire. On the battlefield they are reputed to fight defensively, using shields, medical skills and magic to support frontline warriors.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Splitroot Logo.jpg|caption=Splitroot Striding|align=left|width=250}}
===Splitroot Striding===
Formed a year or so before the death of [[Empress Britta]] alongside Brackensong Steading from members of Foxden Steading, Splitroot has since grown to be a sizeable group. The striding walks the trods of Broceliande, using Elerael as a home base, and venturing into Dark Ranging. Previous to the declaration of war in Winter 378YE, they were one of the few stridings to trade with the Orcs of the Barrens, and still maintain close ties to the Great Forest orcs.

Splitroot comprises of an eclectic mix of skills and personalities, including all manner of bards, brokers, vates, thorns, ambassadors to foreign nations, and fire dancers. As befitting a group so closely associated with Brackensong and Foxden, many of it’s vates are members of the Voice of the Quiet Forest.

===Tarw===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Tarw.PNG|caption=Tarw|align=right|width=250}}
Compared to many steadings and stridings, the striding of Tarw are young. Formed in the heat of battle in Reikos by former elements of stridings, mercenaries, and desperate soldiers of many nations of the Empire, the striding has arisen from the mud of the field to seek a better life. Exactly what that better life is depends on the thorn asked, be it in loot, pleasure, drink, or a better future.

It was on the muddy, blood-drenched battlefields that the striding was formed, a collection of broken souls seeking vengeance, hope, glory, a future, or a fellow warrior to watch their backs. Many folk from all the corners of the Empire can be found in the striding of Tarw, be they once Varuskhan, Highborn, Dawnish or League: any Imperial without a home to call their own is welcome to travel with the striding as part of finding their place in the Dance.

More a Thornborn than a typical striding, the companions are unrelenting, and fierce in battle. Often the striding of Tarw take contracts to support their striding or other thorns economically, as they have no land with which to grow herbs, or gather resources, just sharpened blades and a will to wield them. A true striding, home is the open trod, unbound by the restrictions of house or hearth. The striding always looks to the future, forging their own path in the Dance no matter its bloody tune.
When not on the field of battle, members of Tarw can be found seeking out work with the Iron Raptors, honing their skills, or chatting to their many extended friends or family across the Empire, building skilled networks of alliances, such as the Black Scar Thornborne, to reclaim lost Imperial territories
{{CaptionedImage|file=Umbral path.jpg|caption=The Umbral Path|align=right|width=200}}
===Umbral Path===
The Umbral Path Striding is a secretive group with their origins in Dark Ranging in Brocéliande, where they have long fought to protect the Empire from the threat of Vallorn and barbarian alike with their mastery of Night magic and other tools.

Since the barbarian incursion into Elerael, The Striding has begun to more regularly range out across the Empire, spending time with all manner of citizens and learning what they can of all they encounter, whilst always maintaining a presence in Dark Rangings. The Striding rarely stay in one place long and often splinter into smaller groups in order to seek out anything that they feel will help them achieve their goals.

Members of this Striding are adept at blending into the crowd except when they choose to be seen and their presence at Anvil was first noticed in Anvil in Spring 380YE, as a new Empress was chosen.

===Y’Basden===
'''Striding Symbol:''' Three Thorns 
Y’Basden Striding traces its roots back to the earliest days of the Empire and was first established by three Navarr outcasts (The Three Thorns) who banded together out of a mutual and visceral dislike for each other and a desire to both ‘one up’ and profit from each other’s failures.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Y'Basden.jpg|caption=Y'Basden Striding|align=right|width=250}}
Their bond was later cemented by an event known as “The Battle of the Black Woods” - an incident where reputedly they destroyed (and looted) an entire raiding contingent of a hundred barbarians whilst outwitting a pursuing force of [[vallorn]]. Official Imperial records cast doubts around the stories of this alleged event.

The story drew like-minded citizens and the striding grew in relation to their reputation (or notoriety) throughout the Empire. It is not uncommon in bars for many tall tales to be told of The Three Thorns' exploits with [[eternal|eternals]] or adventures across battlefields. It is assumed that most of these tales are allegorical in nature as many conflict with established Imperial historical records (or are simply too far fetched to be believable).

In the intervening years, the direction of the striding went through many changes in both role, name, and attitude. These ranged from fringe outcasts to established traders, mercenary bands and even a period outside of Imperial territory… allegedly.

Y’Basden Striding was the eventual result. A disciplined fighting force led by a trio of leaders; The Wit, The Wisdom and The Brand in honour of the original Three Thorns. They consider themselves serving soldiers who will give anyone, including non-Navarr, a chance to travel with them awhile and they take pride in their ability to scout into dangerous, even vallorn, territory. Their reputation as an aggressive and effective fighting force on the battlefield has yet to be disproved.
Visits to Anvil are considered opportunities for rest and relaxation and as a result they can seem a little less refined than the average Imperial citizen but tend to treat allies as firm family regardless of nation or circumstance.

The last decade has had them at the lead of insurgency actions in [[Liathaven]] where they have helped found the Black Scar Thornborn along with the support of other Liathaven stridings and steadings.

==Steadings and Stridings in Play==
This list is by no means exhaustive; efforts are made to keep it up to date but due to the sheer amount of work involved the onus lies with the Navarr players to ensure the information is correct and current.

The majority of steadings and stridings listed here represent player-character groups. It should go without saying that you should not create a character who is part of one of these groups, or has personal history with one of them, without first clearing it with the appropriate players. You should also check before including other players' groups in your background. The background team are unlikely to approve a background that significantly impacts or involves another player character group without their permission.

Included above are a handful of prominent NPC steadings and stridings - you may be able to create a character associated with one of these, but the situation will depend very much on your background and the group in question. It is unlikely that a player character will receive additional benefits for belonging to an NPC steading or striding, and may find their game limited - the leaders of these houses are likely to remain NPCs for example, and are unlikely to give player characters much attention.
[[Category:Navarr]]

Navarr groups

2019-04-08T16:19:31Z

Kazzycartwright:

==Overview==
There are many [[Steading|steadings]] and [[Striding|stridings]] across [[Navarr]], but only a comparative handful are involved in the affairs of the Empire (that is, attend the seasonal summits at [[Casinea#Anvil|Anvil]]. The influence of these steadings and stridings can wax and wane, and involvement in Imperial affairs is not always a reflection of their influence within the nation itself.

==Steadings==
===Brackensong===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Brackensong.jpeg|title=The song of the wind through dry bracken; our voice raised against the wild.|caption=Brackensong steading.|align=right|width=200}}
Formed (along with Splitroot striding) some time before the death of Empress Britta from members of the Foxden steading, the wooden palisaded Brackensong Steading is the first line of defence against the Vallorn in East Broceliande. It is situated in the former home of Whispering Dray in Elerael, where its position grants it an eye over the movements of the husks, miasma, and the giant insects that roam the area.

To date, the steading is the largest to come out of Broceliande to the Imperial Summits. As befits its vigil against the Vallorn, Brackensong is the home of the Voice of the Quiet Forest, one of the larger covens within the Navarr. Additionally, the constant threat from the more physical agents of the Vallorn has given rise to a core of hardened Thorns, ready to stand against the evils that lurk in the forest and beyond.

Since the Interregnum, the Brackensong have worked to bolster the living heart of the nation, using the Dance of Navarr and Thorn to repair and nurture the Trods, and playing host to songs, stories and revelry long into the night of every Summit.

===Foxden===
{{CaptionedImage|file=foxden.png|caption=Foxden Striding|align=right|width=200}}
Foxden Steading was founded a few hundred years ago by a changeling Navarr, Jhessail Cedny and a draughir Navarr, Rymel Cedny. The two had met on a trod, as their stridings passed each other. Jhessail and Rymel travelled north with those who wished to follow them, to where the boundaries between Varushka and Wintermark met, into the lands of Hercynia. Here, in the place where in winter the darkness is great, and in summer the light seemingly never-ending, they came upon a hill clearing with sparse forest around it. In this region of Summersend atop the hill sat a vixen with her cubs, looking down upon the pair. She yipped, and then trotted away into the trees with her cubs. Here is where they built the steading of Foxden, its eyes watchful to the North and to the Vallorn of Hercynia.

The steading is a place where the Navarr, and other nations, can come to rest, trade news and goods, and seek guidance on the many paths on which life takes them. Here is a place dedicated to preserving history and stories, music and art. A place to gather and organise against the Vallorn. It is the home of an ever growing information network set in place by Jhessail and Rymel to ensure that the Empire is upheld against the many forces that oppose it.

Foxden is a diverse steading with many different focuses; it has produced many a fine thorn, vate, broker, guide and brand. It is a home to any in need, and is willing to accept any into its fold, provided they bring no harm to it. Over the years the steading has produced a number of stridings, as the Dance of those within has dictated. Strong ties still bind a number of these groups together into a collective of stridings and steadings, who regularly get together at Anvil to share information and the like.

===Whispering Dray===
The Steading of Whispering Dray stood sentinel in Elerael, the eyes of it people turned always towards the shrouded desolation of Terunael, protecting the Trods and driving back any Vallorn creature that stumbled into the untainted woods.

What happened to the steading is not currently a matter of record, except that their homes are now inhabited by the Brackensong, and in recent years a number of individuals named Whispering Dray have been found guilty of Treason and Sorcery.

'''OOC Note:''' Whispering Dray are an NPC steading

==Stridings==

===The Eternal Family===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Eternal family.jpg|caption=Eternal Family|align=right|width=250}}
The Eternal Family is an old striding, so old it is claimed that their roots trace back to the days of Terunael. Whether this is true or not is unclear but it is clear that the striding is very old. The Family is made up of an extended group of both blood relations and adopted individuals who are collectively recognised as family.

Highly active as a group, those able to travel journey widely along the [[trods]] and beyond. They offer support to those in need and explore old ruins, trying to find out all they can about the history of their people. Those unable to travel live in and run a [[wayhouse]] in [[Miaren#Goldglades|Goldglades]], in the [[territory]] of [[Miaren]].

In recent years the Family has became known for the core of the striding being a strong [[coven]] specialised in the magic of the [[Day magic|Day realm]] and the [[Spring magic|Spring realm]]. Something very unusual happened around 378YE, however, and the ritualists’ affinity for Spring magic has changed markedly. Today, the Eternal Family are known to be powerful practitioners of [[Summer magic]], in addition to their mastery of the arts of Day.

Alongside their use of ritual magic, the Family use all skills at their disposal to help their nation and the Empire. On the battlefield they are reputed to fight defensively, using shields, medical skills and magic to support frontline warriors.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Splitroot Logo.jpg|caption=Splitroot Striding|align=left|width=250}}

===Splitroot Striding===
Formed a year or so before the death of [[Empress Britta]] alongside Brackensong Steading from members of Foxden Steading, Splitroot has since grown to be a sizeable group. The striding walks the trods of Broceliande, using Elerael as a home base, and venturing into Dark Ranging. Previous to the declaration of war in Winter 378YE, they were one of the few stridings to trade with the Orcs of the Barrens, and still maintain close ties to the Great Forest orcs.

Splitroot comprises of an eclectic mix of skills and personalities, including all manner of bards, brokers, vates, thorns, ambassadors to foreign nations, and fire dancers. As befitting a group so closely associated with Brackensong and Foxden, many of it’s vates are members of the Voice of the Quiet Forest.

===Tarw===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Tarw.PNG|caption=Tarw|align=right|width=250}}
Compared to many steadings and stridings, the striding of Tarw are young. Formed in the heat of battle in Reikos by former elements of stridings, mercenaries, and desperate soldiers of many nations of the Empire, the striding has arisen from the mud of the field to seek a better life. Exactly what that better life is depends on the thorn asked, be it in loot, pleasure, drink, or a better future.

It was on the muddy, blood-drenched battlefields that the striding was formed, a collection of broken souls seeking vengeance, hope, glory, a future, or a fellow warrior to watch their backs. Many folk from all the corners of the Empire can be found in the striding of Tarw, be they once Varuskhan, Highborn, Dawnish or League: any Imperial without a home to call their own is welcome to travel with the striding as part of finding their place in the Dance.

More a Thornborn than a typical striding, the companions are unrelenting, and fierce in battle. Often the striding of Tarw take contracts to support their striding or other thorns economically, as they have no land with which to grow herbs, or gather resources, just sharpened blades and a will to wield them. A true striding, home is the open trod, unbound by the restrictions of house or hearth. The striding always looks to the future, forging their own path in the Dance no matter its bloody tune.
When not on the field of battle, members of Tarw can be found seeking out work with the Iron Raptors, honing their skills, or chatting to their many extended friends or family across the Empire, building skilled networks of alliances, such as the Black Scar Thornborne, to reclaim lost Imperial territories
{{CaptionedImage|file=Umbral path.jpg|caption=The Umbral Path|align=right|width=200}}
===Umbral Path===
The Umbral Path Striding is a secretive group with their origins in Dark Ranging in Brocéliande, where they have long fought to protect the Empire from the threat of Vallorn and barbarian alike with their mastery of Night magic and other tools.

Since the barbarian incursion into Elerael, The Striding has begun to more regularly range out across the Empire, spending time with all manner of citizens and learning what they can of all they encounter, whilst always maintaining a presence in Dark Rangings. The Striding rarely stay in one place long and often splinter into smaller groups in order to seek out anything that they feel will help them achieve their goals.

Members of this Striding are adept at blending into the crowd except when they choose to be seen and their presence at Anvil was first noticed in Anvil in Spring 380YE, as a new Empress was chosen.

===Y’Basden===
'''Striding Symbol:''' Three Thorns 
Y’Basden Striding traces its roots back to the earliest days of the Empire and was first established by three Navarr outcasts (The Three Thorns) who banded together out of a mutual and visceral dislike for each other and a desire to both ‘one up’ and profit from each other’s failures.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Y'Basden.jpg|caption=Y'Basden Striding|align=right|width=250}}
Their bond was later cemented by an event known as “The Battle of the Black Woods” - an incident where reputedly they destroyed (and looted) an entire raiding contingent of a hundred barbarians whilst outwitting a pursuing force of [[vallorn]]. Official Imperial records cast doubts around the stories of this alleged event.

The story drew like-minded citizens and the striding grew in relation to their reputation (or notoriety) throughout the Empire. It is not uncommon in bars for many tall tales to be told of The Three Thorns' exploits with [[eternal|eternals]] or adventures across battlefields. It is assumed that most of these tales are allegorical in nature as many conflict with established Imperial historical records (or are simply too far fetched to be believable).

In the intervening years, the direction of the striding went through many changes in both role, name, and attitude. These ranged from fringe outcasts to established traders, mercenary bands and even a period outside of Imperial territory… allegedly.

Y’Basden Striding was the eventual result. A disciplined fighting force led by a trio of leaders; The Wit, The Wisdom and The Brand in honour of the original Three Thorns. They consider themselves serving soldiers who will give anyone, including non-Navarr, a chance to travel with them awhile and they take pride in their ability to scout into dangerous, even vallorn, territory. Their reputation as an aggressive and effective fighting force on the battlefield has yet to be disproved.
Visits to Anvil are considered opportunities for rest and relaxation and as a result they can seem a little less refined than the average Imperial citizen but tend to treat allies as firm family regardless of nation or circumstance.

The last decade has had them at the lead of insurgency actions in [[Liathaven]] where they have helped found the Black Scar Thornborn along with the support of other Liathaven stridings and steadings.

==Steadings and Stridings in Play==
This list is by no means exhaustive; efforts are made to keep it up to date but due to the sheer amount of work involved the onus lies with the Navarr players to ensure the information is correct and current.

The majority of steadings and stridings listed here represent player-character groups. It should go without saying that you should not create a character who is part of one of these groups, or has personal history with one of them, without first clearing it with the appropriate players. You should also check before including other players' groups in your background. The background team are unlikely to approve a background that significantly impacts or involves another player character group without their permission.

Included above are a handful of prominent NPC steadings and stridings - you may be able to create a character associated with one of these, but the situation will depend very much on your background and the group in question. It is unlikely that a player character will receive additional benefits for belonging to an NPC steading or striding, and may find their game limited - the leaders of these houses are likely to remain NPCs for example, and are unlikely to give player characters much attention.
[[Category:Navarr]]

Navarr groups

2019-04-08T16:19:00Z

Kazzycartwright:

2019-03-08T15:30:58Z

Kazzycartwright:

==Overview==
There are many [[chapter|chapters]] in [[Highguard]], but only a small number are involved in the affairs of the Empire and send representatives to seasonal summits at Anvil. Prominent chapters may have significant involvement in Imperial affairs, but that is not always a reflection of their influence within the nation itself.

This list was compiled by Ahzrukhal of the Suns of Couros after the Summer Solstice 381YE. Original text provided by Robert Leigh
{{CaptionedImage|file=Reumah's Redoubt.JPG|caption=Reumah's Redoubt|align=right|width=250}}
==[[Bastion]] Chapters==
===Reumah's Redoubt===
'''Chapter colours:''' Red, white and black 
'''Chapter symbol:''' White tower on a red field 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Loyalty 

The founding of Reumah’s Redoubt occurred during the [[Highguard_history|Patrician War]]. Reumah, daughter of Atunama, was a notable patrician who chapter history tells sided with [[Permion]] instead of the Council. When the killers came for Permion and his family Reumah offered sanctuary but only one of Permion’s children made it to the home of Reumah. The rest of the Council besieged the home in order to take the child and Reumah by force – fortunately the response of the chapters was swift and during the battles for Pharos an escape was effected to a more fortified position near what is now Bastion and affectionately known as the Redoubt. From here Reumah, her family and friends, fought against the Patrician’s Council alongside the chapters, notably providing weapons and armour for those in need, until she fell in battle herself during the destruction of Pharos. Her cousin, Abarrane, formally founded the chapter with oaths said in front of the other [[Highguard_leadership|exarchs]] present “To provide for the war”. Since then that is all the chapter has striven for, to provide for the nation and chapters. Sometimes members of the chapter have asked whether the oath has been fulfilled already – often the question is dismissed as being caused by a lack of understanding of the histories.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Cohort of the Winter Bear.jpg |caption=Cohort of the Winter Bear|align=left|width=250}}
===The Cohort Of The Winter Bear===
'''Chapter colours:''' Blue and black. 
'''Chapter symbol:''' The outline of a bear's head, in profile, marked with the rune Ophis on its cheek. 

The Cohort is a military unit dedicated to the defence of the Empire. Citizens join from all over Highguard, leaving their chapters and families for a life of war with the cohort. They have no settlement to call their own with the exception of Bear's Hold in which is the chapterhouse in which they are officially based. This is a crumbling ruin of an old fortress built into the wall of the White City itself, granted to the Cohort for their service in times past.

The Cohort was formed in the early days of The Way - before the founding of the Empire - when Bastion first began to draw pilgrims from across the land. A group of cataphracts who had come to Bastion swore to remain and defend the pilgrim routes around the city. Since then the area has long become safe but the Cohort has remained, instead defending the Empire itself as the home of The Way.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ravensfall.jpg |caption=Scions of Ravensfell|align=right|width=250}}
===Scions of Ravensfell===
'''Chapter colours:''' Green, White and Black 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Black shield with a white raven on a quartered green and white background 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Courage, Vigilance and Loyalty 

Ravensfell is situated north of the city of Bastion near the Reikos border, on a rocky outcrop overlooking the river Couros.

The chapter takes its name from the battle of Ravens Fell. Shortly before the Patrician War, Balthazar, a young [[Highguard_military_concerns|cataphract]] commander was sent on a suicide mission to take a barbarian stronghold known as the Raven's Crest. The crest had repeatedly held out against the Highborn due to its steep slopes, rocky outcrops, and deep ravines, which had prevented the cataphracts' war horses from being effective. Balthazar ordered his troops to dismount and fight on foot and although the brutal tactics of the orcs inflicted a high price, the Highborn were ultimately victorious.

Five and half centuries on, the Scions of Ravensfell chapter house stands on the ridge that was once thought impossible to tame, extending its protection across north-western Bastion. Its white granite hall and imposing battlements glimmer in the sunlight and shelter a vigilant martial community founded by the survivors, bound together in an unbending approach and a resolve in the salvation of the Virtues.

In recent years Ravensfell has been on the front line of the defence of the Empire, serving as a refuge for Highborn driven from Reikos and preventing [[Druj]] incursions down the river Couros to Bastion city. The chapter now operates a wayhouse for Imperial citizens on pilgrimages to Bastion and is working with Tabernacle Traders to re-establish trade routes with Reikos.

<ic>We are the Scions of Ravensfell - Courage, Vigilance, and Loyalty empowered Balthazar the Unbending to drive the Orcs from the Raven's Crest. We will uphold the Empire in faith, in steel and in blood and protect it from enemies both within and beyond its boundaries.</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Jachins Legacy.jpg|caption=Jachin's Legacy|align=left|width=250}}
===Jachin's Legacy===
'''Chapter colours:''' Maroon and Black 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Stylised torch enclosed in an octagon 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Ambition 

Forged among the chaotic conflict of the reconquest of Reikos, Jachin's Legacy are a young chapter dedicated to [[Ambition]] and based in the White City of Bastion itself. They take in the unfortunate and ill-equipped, and inspire them with the Ambition to go on to achieve greatness. This is the core tenet of the oath of Jachin's Legacy - to help others help themselves to achieve their Ambitions (although naturally as pilgrims themselves they each have their own Ambitions to pursue as well).

Though the founding members came from all walks of Highborn life, these days the Legacy are more focused towards providing a band of unconquered, as well as supporting magic with Spring rituals on the battlefield, tactics learned from fighting against the Druj for so long.

In Anvil, they are, unsurprisingly, most dedicated to preaching the virtue of Ambition in the Synod, although there are members with interests in almost every aspect of the Anvil summits.

==[[Casinea]] Chapters==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Woodwych Harts.jpg |caption=Woodwych Harts|align=right|width=250}}
===Woodwych Harts===
'''Chapter Colours:''' Grey, White, Black 
'''Chapter Symbol:''' White antlers on a field of grey 

Hailing from Casinea’s great woods, the Woodwych Harts are a fairly reclusive chapter with a hazy history. There are few large towns in [[Casinea#Woodwych|Woodwych]] (most people live in self-sufficient homesteads) and no great cathedrals (worship tends to be based around family shrines or modest chapels). The members of the chapter tend to the lightly-armoured [[unconquered]], true to their forest roots, and are from the lower end of Highguard civility. They have a reputation of being reserved, yet are friendly when approached, and tend to focus on the job in front of them rather than concern themselves with grand philosophical questions of the Empire.

Their current exarch was once a fierce fighter but a serious injury curtailed his military career. Resentful about his own perceived lack of use to the Empire if he cannot contribute on the battlefield he withdrew from Anvil summits and has only recently been convinced to send envoys back to engage with the Empire as a whole.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Felix's Watch.jpg|caption=Felix's Watch|align=left|width=250}}
===Felix's Watch===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and gold 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Golden crossed keys 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Wisdom and Vigilance 

The chapter was founded a generation ago by Felix (once Felix Yagoda of [[Varushka]]) and Shelomit, daughter of Obadiah, with a focus on protecting the Empire from internal threats. Felix was not comfortable with the 'compromises' (as he saw it) that were necessary to survive in Varushka and came to Highguard to live. Shelomit was a wealthy and charismatic woman from Bastion who brought with her several years of senatorial experience, as well as an ancient relic, the skull of the [[Highguard_history#The_horses_of_Highguard|horse]] Susa.

The chapter house was built high up on Mount Uphaz, utilising the isolation of altitude while remaining close to the heart of the Empire. The buildings cling to the edge of the mountain, surrounded by deep crevasses and precipitous drops to the plains below.

Within a short time, the chapter also became a hostel for those who require guidance according to the chapter's particular take on virtue and life in general. A 'probationer' system was put into place to allow people to join the chapter for a temporary period, combining hard work with an opportunity to study. This then expanded to offer some probationers the option of joining the chapter permanently.

Felix's Watch is politically active and, since the death of [[Empress Britta|Britta]], have been regulars visitors to Anvil. Militarily, the chapter is small but focussed on emulating the 'cavalry' of years long gone, waiting for an opportunity, striking hard and then withdrawing in good order to repeat the process.

Since coming to Anvil, the chapter has become more involved with magic and the [[Conclave]], working hard to protect the Empire from dangerous behaviour within the Hall of Worlds and trying to encourage greater Wisdom and Vigilance in dealings with eternals.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Cantiarch's Hold.jpg |caption=Cantiarch's Hold|align=right|width=250}}
===Cantiarch’s Hold===
'''Chapter colours:''' Red and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A white horse rearing on a red background 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Loyalty, Courage and Pride 

Cantiarch's Hold took their name during the Patrician War, before then they were The Greys and can trace their heritage back to coming over on the boats.

The red colour scheme comes from [[Magister]] Cantiarch's sacrifice for his chapter, where he brought down a rock fall in the hills to protect the rest of the chapter from the patrician army, losing his life in the process - reminding the chapter of his loyalty, courage, and pride.

The main chapterhouse is still south west of Anvil in the hills of Casinea.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Adina's Charge.jpg |caption=Adina's Charge|align=left|width=250}}
===Adina's Charge===
'''Chapter Colours:''' Blue with silver/white trim 
'''Chapter Symbol:''' A white/silver wave on a blue shield 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Pride and Loyalty 

Adina's Charge was founded by the defection of a cavalry regiment during the Patrician War. It has long remembered this proud history, and retains many of the traditions of the old regiment.

Today it has a large contingent of historians and archivists, declaring that to build a proper future, one must do so on the foundations of the past. "We shall build our future in stone."

The chapter suffered a major military defeat in 374YE, in which the majority of her forces perished holding a ford in Reikos, many from drowning.

They have been rebuilding ever since, and the survivors of the Daintree have banded together with a sort of fierce Pride and Loyalty to one another.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Storms Fury.jpg|caption=Storm's Fury|align=right|width=250}}
===Storm’s Fury===
'''Chapter colours:''' Burgundy and black with some white 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A hand holding a red lightning bolt which splits into four bolts 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Loyalty 

The chapter that would become Storm's Fury came into existence around the same time as many of the original chapters who left the city of Pharos. They initially built their stronghold in Syrwatch but the resulting events after the assassination of Permion the Lawmaker led to one of the high-ranking chapter members attempting a coup, as they planned to side with the patrician forces against the chapters.

The other high ranking members of the chapter, including the exarch, killed the one responsible for the coup and the chapter members who sided with him. Any chapter members that were tricked or forced into helping the coup were allowed to rejoin the ranks. That stormy battle was when Storm’s Fury was born: the shouts of the chapter loyalists could be heard over the sound of the roaring thunder, and their armour shining brightly in the lightning.

As a result of the coup the chapter’s name, beliefs, structure, and doctrine were changed, and Loyalty became the most important virtue to the chapter. Even to this day potential initiates are judged on their views on Loyalty. When the majority of the eastern regions were controlled by the patrician forces after the assassination of the Lawmaker the chapter abandoned their home and headed for Greatwood to join with other chapters. The choice was motivated by loyalty to the chapters of Highguard after the attempted coup. Details regarding the chapter which Storm’s Fury originated from have for the majority been deliberately lost (including the chapter name) in an attempt to forget who they were before becoming strengthened by lightning.

The chapter now resides in Casinea. They attend the Anvil summits as often as possible; members sometimes take on extra roles and responsibilities if some members cannot make the summits.

The chapter welcomes anyone who is interested in becoming a chapter initiate as long as they show that they hold Loyalty as an important ideal.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Feather.jpg |caption=The Archivist's Rest|align=left|width=250}}
===The Archivist's Rest===
'''Chapter colours:''' Red, Black and Gold 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Golden Quill Pen 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Loyalty, Vigilance and Wisdom 

The Archivist's Rest (sister chapter to the Suns of Couros) is a home from home for many. Based a few miles outside of Anvil, it offers a respite for the weary traveller heading to and from the summits.

The first view that travellers approaching from along the Syrene-Anvil road gain of the Archivist's Rest is of a huddle of low-lying, fortified stone buildings and a single watchtower with eyes looking out over the road. Upon entering, an arched gateway leads into a wide courtyard surrounded by storehouses, barns, bunkhouses, a small inn, and other chapter buildings.

The placement of this Archivist's Rest is no accident, having grown up around a centre of learning which welcomes those who are unable to stay long at [[Casinea#Syrene|Syrene]] due to their lineage. It has been the waypoint for many draughir visiting the [[Casinea#The_Pool_of_Syrene|Pool of Syrene]].

The Archivist's Rest in more recent times has become the site of the new [[Anvil_Library|Anvil Library Press]], and a storehouse for its publication distribution centre.

==[[Necropolis]] Chapters==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Cenotaph.jpg |caption=The Cenotaph|align=right|width=250}}
===The Cenotaph===
'''Chapter colours:''' Blue and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Mausoleum with a black keyhole in the centre 

The Cenotaph is based within the city of Necropolis itself and is primarily a chapter of [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Stewards_of_the_dead|stewards of the dead]]. The chapter was originally founded after the death of [[Emperor Barabbas]], whose body was never found, and was dedicated to finding him and recording his story. The Cenotaph’s remit has now widened to collecting the stories of those worthy of being counted heroes as well as helping the unquiet dead move on to the Labyrinth. Many members of the Cenotaph are skilled in priestly skills such as [[exorcism]] or investigation magic.

The chapter is more outgoing than most based in the Necropolis and as such is often first port of call when someone at Anvil wants a loved one to be buried in the Necropolis.

The more military minded members of the chapter tend toward following the unconquered style of fighting and most of the chapter do their military service in the [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Seventh_Wave|Seventh Wave]] as scouts, combat exorcists, and magisters.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Chantry of the Silver Skull.jpg |caption=Chantry of the Silver Skull|align=left|width=250}}
===Chantry of the Silver Skull===
'''Chapter colours:''' Blue and silver 
'''Symbol:''' Stylised silver skull surrounded by wheat 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Prosperity 

The Chantry is an old chapter, established shortly after the burning of [[Necropolis|Pharos]]. Dedicated to Prosperity, the priests of the Chantry act as stewards of the dead, providing lavish funerals and interments to those who merit it. The chapter also displays marble tombs, preserved remains, and related grave goods to inspire the many visitors to Necropolis. The Chantry is notable for taking in orphaned or abandoned children, including [[lineage|lineaged]], tutoring them in the ways of Virtue. It is home to an original Virtue Theatre, and maintains a strong musical tradition.

While the chapter itself remains immaculate, the ancient tombs and catacombs are now so sprawling that it is nigh impossible to keep track of all their contents. There is a fair population around the Chantry, most of whom are connected to either funeral services or maintaining the chapter itself. The local traditions are extremely Prosperity-based, and outsiders can sometimes find this a little unnerving as residents will both give and expect generosity as a matter of course.

At one time the Chantry was quite a powerful chapter, but over time it became more insular and began to withdraw from political affairs. Upon the recent death of Exarch Agatha the Chantry Council moved to begin attending Anvil again for the first time in a generation.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Dauntless Light.png|caption=Dauntless Light|align=right|width=250}}
===Dauntless Light===
'''Chapter Colours:''' Blue and yellow 
'''Symbol: '''Stylised beacon with radiating beams of light 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Vigilance and Wisdom 

The chapterhouse of the The Dauntless Light stands on the coast of Necropolis, just south of [[Necropolis#Sanctuary_Sand|Sanctuary]]. The focal point of the chapterhouse is the lighthouse at the top of the cliff but there is a small town and docks at the bottom, where the majority of the chapter live. The lighthouse itself is one of the first structures built when the Highborn arrived in the Bay of Catazar. Traditionally, the lighthouse was surmounted with a a fire brazier, but fifty years ago this was replaced with an immense Urizeni lightstone and cunning mithril mirrors.

The founders of the chapter remained somewhat neutral during the Highguard civil war, providing aid to those who had lost their homes and livelihoods rather than focusing on the war with the patricians. This focus on the wellbeing of the innocent made them natural custodians of the lighthouse, and today the main purpose of the chapter is to keep the lighthouse running to guide ships around the rocky waters at the coast of Necropolis. They also provide ship burials to the rare few Highborn who wish to be interred at sea rather than in a tomb. The modern chapter is made up of a mixture of stewards of the dead and fleet captains but anyone is welcome to join. They attract a lot of followers of Vigilance, but there has been a recent push to include more devotees of Wisdom in an attempt to mitigate a problem with over-zealous members who see threats at every corner.

They pride themselves on having a number of friends across the Empire. In particular, they have good relations with the Eternal Family in [[Navarr]], who are regular visitors to the docks below the lighthouse.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Raven's_Watch.PNG |caption=Raven's Watch|align=left|width=250}}
===Raven's Watch===
'''Chapter colours:''' Purple, black and white 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A white raven's skull with the flame of Ambition on its forehead on a divided circle of purple and black 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Ambition 

An old chapter based in [[Necropolis#Sanctuary Sands|Sanctuary Sands]] in a chapterhouse atop the cliffs, Raven's Watch is a chapter dedicated to Ambition.

The chapter had been in decline for many years until it was recently revitalised by new blood: assorted refugees from settlements in Reikos joined up with the Raven's Watch, making a new start for themselves and the chapter.

Raven's Watch specialises in [[Winter magic|Winter]] realm magic, offering rituals to the local area and to others in Anvil.

Their warriors support the groups of other Highborn chapterhouses on the field and their priests and traders do what they can to assist the Highborn and the Empire politically and economically.
{{CaptionedImage|file=SilentTide.jpg|caption=Silent Tide|align=right|width=250}}
===The Silent Tide===
'''Chapter colours:''' Blue and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' The Drowned Man and/or Sea-Horse 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Loyalty 

The Silent Tower (the chapterhouse of the Silent Tide) stands on a remote rocky island at the mouth of the River Couros.

Their chapter enshrines Loyalty as their focus, and holds a number of key tenets as being paramount - the idea of redemption through ordeal, and enlightenment through suffering. Those that fall from the way, say the Silent Tide, can be brought to the Tower and return to the Way of virtue.

Their chapter oath - "''Loyalty, Steel, Judgement, Death; Drowned man's oath my final breath''" is considered a little grim by some but encapsulates their focus and their esoteric teachings.

==[[Reikos]] Chapters==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Suns of Couros.jpg|caption=The Suns of Couros|align=left|width=250}}
===The Suns of Couros===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A black sun and a white moon rising behind a black tower 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Vigilance and Loyalty 

The Suns of Couros were for centuries an institution and safe haven for [[draughir]], so that those who were given up, cast out or unwanted could find refuge with others like them and pursue virtue in meditation and isolation from the world that rejected them. Under non-lineage leadership for most of its history, it was a secluded chapter situated in [[Reikos#Haros_Water|Haros]] at the northern end of the Couros river, only really known to some informed magisters as having an extensive library of Winter magic and several crystal [[mana site|mana sites]] nearby.

When Reikos was first invaded by the [[Druj]] in 367YE the chapter endured countless raids and sieges, with many of the original soldiers and leaders falling in its defence. In the crucible of war a new generation of leaders arose, many of them the formerly meditative draughir. The chapter now is made of up of the surviving original residents and those Reikos refugees who decided to not abandon their territory any further, bound together through years of hardship and taciturn determination.

With Reikos reclaimed, the chapter is once again a sanctuary for lineaged but also for any outcast or dispossessed residents of Highguard. Still based in Haros, the chapter is noted for its focus in Winter magic, its pursuit of [[Vigilance]] and [[Loyalty]], and the ruthlessness with which it opposes the Druj and any other enemies of the Empire.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Unbound.jpg|caption=The Unbound|align=right|width=250}}
===The Unbound===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black with red highlights 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Triple tower on fire above a full sun 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Pride 

The Unbound chapter was formed in 377YE from a group of disparate Highborn who banded together for survival after escaping the Druj's conquest and destruction of Reikos. The Unbound sought temporary accommodation in [[Casinea]] where they worked tirelessly for the liberation of Reikos.

After the liberation of [[Reikos#Chalcis Mount|High Chalcis]], the Unbound relocated to Tabernacle in [[Reikos#Riverwatch|Riverwatch]] where they settled as a permanent chapter and started the reconstruction efforts including the [[Reikos#The_Unbound_Steel_Hall_of_Lost_Chapters|Hall of Lost Chapters]] commemorating all the chapters destroyed by the Druj.

The chapter, dedicated to [[Pride]], remains one of the strongest voices against trusting the eternal realms and in favour of [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_Eternal_Schism|exclusionism]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shattered_Tower.png|caption=The Shattered Tower|align=left|width=250}}
===The Shattered Tower===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and Green. 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Three white towers surmounted by green halo 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Vigilance and Loyalty 

The Sentinel Towers, a chapter of High Chalcis which traced its formation back to the Revelation, were virtually wiped out during the fall of Reikos in 367YE. A handful of refugees and chapter members who were not present at the destruction of the chapterhouse came together at the chapter's hostel in Bastion. There, they swore a new oath, under the leadership of Exarch Ishmael, to retake Reikos; to prevent it falling again; to root out the corruption that led to the fall. They named themselves the Shattered Tower.

For over a decade, the chapter operated out of Bastion, before reclaiming a ‘changed’ chapterhouse, the so-called ‘Shining Towers’ as their home, when Reikos was retaken.

Unlike Highborn traditionalists, the chapter frowns upon the practice of unveiling, instead relying on an obscure principle called bonding to help its lineaged achieve a truly virtuous life.

In Anvil, the chapter is politically active and has a presence in all bodies of state.

The chapter espouses a martial bent, fielding a significant force of cataphracts (dubbed 'The White Death') supported by various auxiliary unconquered & battle magisters. The heroes of the chapter who pass through the Sentinel Gate to fight for the Empire are renowned for their successes… and their high body count.
{{CaptionedImage|file=GrayWatchers.jpg|caption=Grey Watchers of Peytaht|align=right|width=250}}
===Grey Watchers of Peytaht===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and white 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A white tower on a black field with a white flame above it 
'''Chapter Virtues:''' Vigilance 

The Grey Watchers of Peytaht are descended from some of the first Highborn scouts to drive out into the east searching for land to claim in Highguard's name. Formed when the borders of Highguard were wild and untamed, they have long patrolled the Eastern borders of Highguard, pressing into the [[Great Forest of Peytaht]] between [[Brocéliande]] and [[Therunin]]. Their chapterhouse, Beacons Rock, stood at the very northernmost tip of Reikos, further north even than Exile. Atop the tallest spire was a beacon light, erected to warn the Empire of the very direst dangers from the east.

When the Druj came through the Great Forest, they caught everyone unprepared, even the defenders of Beacons Rock. It has always been the way of the Grey Watchers to stand fast and defend with Vigilance and Valour but there was no Wisdom in throwing hundreds of lives away to defend a losing position. Beacons Rock was ruined, and it was with great sadness that the remaining Grey Watchers were forced to abandon their post and fight a retreat into the darkness. This was a matter of great shame to the remaining Watchers and they vowed that whilst the Druj remain in Reikos they would not rest until they have reclaimed every mile taken by the barbarians.

==Prominent Chapters in Play==
This list is by no means exhaustive; efforts are made to keep it up to date but due to the sheer amount of work involved the onus lies with the Highguard players to ensure the information is correct and current.

The chapters listed here represent player-character chapters. It should go without saying that you should not create a character who is part of one of these chapters, or has personal history with one of these chapters, without first clearing it with the appropriate players. You should also check before including other players' chapters in your background. The background team are unlikely to approve a background that significantly impacts or involves another player character chapter without their permission.

==Other Chapters==
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[[Category:Highguard]]

2018-08-20T09:53:40Z

Kazzycartwright: image upload

==Overview==
There are many [[chapter|chapters]] in [[Highguard]], but only a small number are involved in the affairs of the Empire and send representatives to seasonal summits at Anvil. Prominent chapters may have significant involvement in Imperial affairs, but that is not always a reflection of their influence within the nation itself.

This list was compiled by Ahzrukhal of the Suns of Couros after the Summer Solstice 381YE. Original text provided by Robert Leigh
{{CaptionedImage|file=Reumah's Redoubt.JPG|caption=Reumah's Redoubt|align=right|width=250}}
==[[Bastion]] Chapters==
===Reumah's Redoubt===
'''Chapter colours:''' Red, white and black 
'''Chapter symbol:''' White tower on a red field 

The founding of Reumah’s Redoubt occurred during the [[Highguard_history|Patrician War]]. Reumah, daughter of Atunama, was a notable patrician who chapter history tells sided with [[Permion]] instead of the Council. When the killers came for Permion and his family Reumah offered sanctuary but only one of Permion’s children made it to the home of Reumah. The rest of the Council besieged the home in order to take the child and Reumah by force – fortunately the response of the chapters was swift and during the battles for Pharos an escape was effected to a more fortified position near what is now Bastion and affectionately known as the Redoubt. From here Reumah, her family and friends, fought against the Patrician’s Council alongside the chapters, notably providing weapons and armour for those in need, until she fell in battle herself during the destruction of Pharos. Her cousin, Abarrane, formally founded the chapter with oaths said in front of the other [[Highguard_leadership|exarchs]] present “To provide for the war”. Since then that is all the chapter has striven for, to provide for the nation and chapters. Sometimes members of the chapter have asked whether the oath has been fulfilled already – often the question is dismissed as being caused by a lack of understanding of the histories.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Cohort of the Winter Bear.jpg |caption=Cohort of the Winter Bear|align=left|width=250}}
===The Cohort Of The Winter Bear===
'''Chapter colours:''' Blue and black. 
'''Chapter symbol:''' The outline of a bear's head, in profile, marked with the rune Ophis on its cheek. 

The Cohort is a military unit dedicated to the defence of the Empire. Citizens join from all over Highguard, leaving their chapters and families for a life of war with the cohort. They have no settlement to call their own with the exception of Bear's Hold in which is the chapterhouse in which they are officially based. This is a crumbling ruin of an old fortress built into the wall of the White City itself, granted to the Cohort for their service in times past.

The Cohort was formed in the early days of The Way - before the founding of the Empire - when Bastion first began to draw pilgrims from across the land. A group of cataphracts who had come to Bastion swore to remain and defend the pilgrim routes around the city. Since then the area has long become safe but the Cohort has remained, instead defending the Empire itself as the home of The Way.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Ravensfall.jpg |caption=Scions of Ravensfell|align=right|width=250}}
===Scions of Ravensfell===
'''Chapter colours:''' Green, White and Black 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Black shield with a white raven on a quartered green and white background 

Ravensfell is situated north of the city of Bastion near the Reikos border, on a rocky outcrop overlooking the river Couros.

The chapter takes its name from the battle of Ravens Fell. Shortly before the Patrician War, Balthazar, a young [[Highguard_military_concerns|cataphract]] commander was sent on a suicide mission to take a barbarian stronghold known as the Raven's Crest. The crest had repeatedly held out against the Highborn due to its steep slopes, rocky outcrops, and deep ravines, which had prevented the cataphracts' war horses from being effective. Balthazar ordered his troops to dismount and fight on foot and although the brutal tactics of the orcs inflicted a high price, the Highborn were ultimately victorious.

Five and half centuries on, the Scions of Ravensfell chapter house stands on the ridge that was once thought impossible to tame, extending its protection across north-western Bastion. Its white granite hall and imposing battlements glimmer in the sunlight and shelter a vigilant martial community founded by the survivors, bound together in an unbending approach and a resolve in the salvation of the Virtues.

In recent years Ravensfell has been on the front line of the defence of the Empire, serving as a refuge for Highborn driven from Reikos and preventing [[Druj]] incursions down the river Couros to Bastion city. The chapter now operates a wayhouse for Imperial citizens on pilgrimages to Bastion and is working with Tabernacle Traders to re-establish trade routes with Reikos.

<ic>We are the Scions of Ravensfell - Courage, Vigilance, and Loyalty empowered Balthazar the Unbending to drive the Orcs from the Raven's Crest. We will uphold the Empire in faith, in steel and in blood and protect it from enemies both within and beyond its boundaries.</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Jachins Legacy.jpg|caption=Jachin's Legacy|align=right|width=250}}

===Jachin's Legacy===
'''Chapter colours:''' Maroon and Black 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Stylised torch enclosed in an octagon 

Forged among the chaotic conflict of the reconquest of Reikos, Jachin's Legacy are a young chapter dedicated to [[Ambition]] and based in the White City of Bastion itself. They take in the unfortunate and ill-equipped, and inspire them with the Ambition to go on to achieve greatness. This is the core tenet of the oath of Jachin's Legacy - to help others help themselves to achieve their Ambitions (although naturally as pilgrims themselves they each have their own Ambitions to pursue as well).

Though the founding members came from all walks of Highborn life, these days the Legacy are more focused towards providing a band of unconquered, as well as supporting magic with Spring rituals on the battlefield, tactics learned from fighting against the Druj for so long. In Anvil, they are, unsurprisingly, most dedicated to preaching the virtue of Ambition in the Synod, although there are members with interests in almost every aspect of the Anvil summits.

==[[Casinea]] Chapters==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Woodwych Harts.jpg |caption=Woodwych Harts|align=right|width=250}}
===Woodwych Harts===
'''Chapter Colours:''' Grey, White, Black 
'''Chapter Symbol:''' White antlers on a field of grey 

Hailing from Casinea’s great woods, the Woodwych Harts are a fairly reclusive chapter with a hazy history. There are few large towns in [[Casinea#Woodwych|Woodwych]] (most people live in self-sufficient homesteads) and no great cathedrals (worship tends to be based around family shrines or modest chapels). The members of the chapter tend to the lightly-armoured [[unconquered]], true to their forest roots, and are from the lower end of Highguard civility. They have a reputation of being reserved, yet are friendly when approached, and tend to focus on the job in front of them rather than concern themselves with grand philosophical questions of the Empire.

Their current exarch was once a fierce fighter but a serious injury curtailed his military career. Resentful about his own perceived lack of use to the Empire if he cannot contribute on the battlefield he withdrew from Anvil summits and has only recently been convinced to send envoys back to engage with the Empire as a whole.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Felix's Watch.jpg|caption=Felix's Watch|align=right|width=250}}
===Felix's Watch===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and gold 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Golden crossed keys 

The chapter was founded a generation ago by Felix (once Felix Yagoda of [[Varushka]]) and Shelomit, daughter of Obadiah, with a focus on protecting the Empire from internal threats. Felix was not comfortable with the 'compromises' (as he saw it) that were necessary to survive in Varushka and came to Highguard to live. Shelomit was a wealthy and charismatic woman from Bastion who brought with her several years of senatorial experience, as well as an ancient relic, the skull of the [[Highguard_history#The_horses_of_Highguard|horse]] Susa.

The chapter house was built high up on Mount Uphaz, utilising the isolation of altitude while remaining close to the heart of the Empire. The buildings cling to the edge of the mountain, surrounded by deep crevasses and precipitous drops to the plains below.

Within a short time, the chapter also became a hostel for those who require guidance according to the chapter's particular take on virtue and life in general. A 'probationer' system was put into place to allow people to join the chapter for a temporary period, combining hard work with an opportunity to study. This then expanded to offer some probationers the option of joining the chapter permanently.

Felix's Watch is politically active and, since the death of [[Empress Britta|Britta]], have been regulars visitors to Anvil. Militarily, the chapter is small but focussed on emulating the 'cavalry' of years long gone, waiting for an opportunity, striking hard and then withdrawing in good order to repeat the process.

Since coming to Anvil, the chapter has become more involved with magic and the [[Conclave]], working hard to protect the Empire from dangerous behaviour within the Hall of Worlds and trying to encourage greater Wisdom and Vigilance in dealings with eternals.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Cantiarch's Hold.jpg |caption=Cantiarch's Hold|align=right|width=130}}

===Cantiarch’s Hold===
'''Chapter colours:''' Red and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A white horse rearing on a red background 

Cantiarch's Hold took their name during the Patrician War, before then they were The Greys and can trace their heritage back to coming over on the boats. The red colour scheme comes from [[Magister]] Cantiarch's sacrifice for his chapter, where he brought down a rock fall in the hills to protect the rest of the chapter from the patrician army, losing his life in the process - reminding the chapter of his loyalty, courage, and pride. The main chapterhouse is still south west of Anvil in the hills of Casinea.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Adina's Charge.jpg |caption=Adina's Charge|align=right|width=130}}
===Adina's Charge===
'''Chapter Colours:''' Blue with silver/white trim 
'''Chapter Symbol:''' A white/silver wave on a blue shield 

Adina's Charge was founded by the defection of a cavalry regiment during the Patrician War. It has long remembered this proud history, and retains many of the traditions of the old regiment. Today it has a large contingent of historians and archivists, declaring that to build a proper future, one must do so on the foundations of the past. "We shall build our future in stone." The chapter suffered a major military defeat in 374YE, in which the majority of her forces perished holding a ford in Reikos, many from drowning. They have been rebuilding ever since, and the survivors of the Daintree have banded together with a sort of fierce Pride and Loyalty to one another.
{{CaptionedImage|file=HoWS.jpg |caption=Hostelry of the Winter Sun|align=right|width=250}}
===The Hostelry of the Winter Sun===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' White Tower and Sun on Black Background 

The Hostelry of the Winter Sun is a home from home for many. Based a few miles outside of Anvil, it offers a respite for the weary traveller heading to and from the summits.
The first view that travellers approaching from along the Syrene-Anvil road gain of the Hostelry is of a huddle of low-lying, fortified stone buildings and a single watchtower with eyes looking out over the road. Upon entering, an arched gateway leads into a wide courtyard surrounded by storehouses, barns, bunkhouses, a small inn, and other chapter buildings.
The placement of this hostelry is no accident, having grown up around a centre of learning which welcomes those who are unable to stay long at [[Casinea#Syrene|Syrene]] due to their lineage. It has been the waypoint for many draughir visiting the [[Casinea#The_Pool_of_Syrene|Pool of Syrene]].
The Hostelry in more recent times has become the site of the new [[Anvil_Library|Anvil Library Press]], and a storehouse for its publication distribution centre.

==[[Necropolis]] Chapters==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Cenotaph.jpg |caption=The Cenotaph|align=right|width=250}}
===The Cenotaph===
'''Chapter colours:''' Blue and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Mausoleum with a black keyhole in the centre 

The Cenotaph is based within the city of Necropolis itself and is primarily a chapter of [[Highguard_religious_beliefs#Stewards_of_the_dead|stewards of the dead]]. The chapter was originally founded after the death of [[Emperor Barabbas]], whose body was never found, and was dedicated to finding him and recording his story. The Cenotaph’s remit has now widened to collecting the stories of those worthy of being counted heroes as well as helping the unquiet dead move on to the Labyrinth. Many members of the Cenotaph are skilled in priestly skills such as [[exorcism]] or investigation magic.

The chapter is more outgoing than most based in the Necropolis and as such is often first port of call when someone at Anvil wants a loved one to be buried in the Necropolis.

The more military minded members of the chapter tend toward following the unconquered style of fighting and most of the chapter do their military service in the [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Seventh_Wave|Seventh Wave]] as scouts, combat exorcists, and magisters.
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===Chantry of the Silver Skull===
'''Chapter colours:''' Blue and silver 
'''Symbol:''' Stylised silver skull surrounded by wheat 

The Chantry is an old chapter, established shortly after the burning of [[Necropolis|Pharos]]. Dedicated to Prosperity, the priests of the Chantry act as stewards of the dead, providing lavish funerals and interments to those who merit it. The chapter also displays marble tombs, preserved remains, and related grave goods to inspire the many visitors to Necropolis. The Chantry is notable for taking in orphaned or abandoned children, including [[lineage|lineaged]], tutoring them in the ways of Virtue. It is home to an original Virtue Theatre, and maintains a strong musical tradition.

While the chapter itself remains immaculate, the ancient tombs and catacombs are now so sprawling that it is nigh impossible to keep track of all their contents. There is a fair population around the Chantry, most of whom are connected to either funeral services or maintaining the chapter itself. The local traditions are extremely Prosperity-based, and outsiders can sometimes find this a little unnerving as residents will both give and expect generosity as a matter of course.

At one time the Chantry was quite a powerful chapter, but over time it became more insular and began to withdraw from political affairs. Upon the recent death of Exarch Agatha the Chantry Council moved to begin attending Anvil again for the first time in a generation.
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===Dauntless Light===
'''Chapter Colours:''' Blue and yellow 
'''Symbol: '''Stylised beacon with radiating beams of light 

The chapterhouse of the The Dauntless Light stands on the coast of Necropolis, just south of [[Necropolis#Sanctuary_Sand|Sanctuary]]. The focal point of the chapterhouse is the lighthouse at the top of the cliff but there is a small town and docks at the bottom, where the majority of the chapter live. The lighthouse itself is one of the first structures built when the Highborn arrived in the Bay of Catazar. Traditionally, the lighthouse was surmounted with a a fire brazier, but fifty years ago this was replaced with an immense Urizeni lightstone and cunning mithril mirrors.

The founders of the chapter remained somewhat neutral during the Highguard civil war, providing aid to those who had lost their homes and livelihoods rather than focusing on the war with the patricians. This focus on the wellbeing of the innocent made them natural custodians of the lighthouse, and today the main purpose of the chapter is to keep the lighthouse running to guide ships around the rocky waters at the coast of Necropolis. They also provide ship burials to the rare few Highborn who wish to be interred at sea rather than in a tomb. The modern chapter is made up of a mixture of stewards of the dead and fleet captains but anyone is welcome to join. They attract a lot of followers of Vigilance, but there has been a recent push to include more devotees of Wisdom in an attempt to mitigate a problem with over-zealous members who see threats at every corner.

They pride themselves on having a number of friends across the Empire. In particular, they have good relations with the Eternal Family in [[Navarr]], who are regular visitors to the docks below the lighthouse.
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===Raven's Watch===
'''Chapter colours:''' Purple, black and white 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A white raven's skull with the flame of Ambition on its forehead on a divided circle of purple and black 

An old chapter based in [[Necropolis#Sanctuary Sands|Sanctuary Sands]] in a chapterhouse atop the cliffs, Raven's Watch is a chapter dedicated to Ambition. The chapter had been in decline for many years until it was recently revitalised by new blood: assorted refugees from settlements in Reikos joined up with the Raven's Watch, making a new start for themselves and the chapter.

Raven's Watch specialises in [[Winter magic|Winter]] realm magic, offering rituals to the local area and to others in Anvil. Their warriors support the groups of other Highborn chapterhouses on the field and their priests and traders do what they can to assist the Highborn and the Empire politically and economically.
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===The Silent Tide===
'''Chapter colours:''' Blue and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' The Drowned Man and/or Sea-Horse 

The Silent Tower (the chapterhouse of the Silent Tide) stands on a remote rocky island at the mouth of the River Couros. Their chapter enshrines Loyalty as their focus, and holds a number of key tenets as being paramount - the idea of redemption through ordeal, and enlightenment through suffering. Those that fall from the way, say the Silent Tide, can be brought to the Tower and return to the Way of virtue.

Their chapter oath - "''Loyalty, Steel, Judgement, Death; Drowned man's oath my final breath''" is considered a little grim by some but encapsulates their focus and their esoteric teachings.

==[[Reikos]] Chapters==
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===The Suns of Couros===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and White 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A black sun and a white moon rising behind a black tower 

The Suns of Couros were for centuries an institution and safe haven for [[draughir]], so that those who were given up, cast out or unwanted could find refuge with others like them and pursue virtue in meditation and isolation from the world that rejected them. Under non-lineage leadership for most of its history, it was a secluded chapter situated in [[Reikos#Haros_Water|Haros]] at the northern end of the Couros river, only really known to some informed magisters as having an extensive library of Winter magic and several crystal [[mana site|mana sites]] nearby.

When Reikos was first invaded by the [[Druj]] in 367YE the chapter endured countless raids and sieges, with many of the original soldiers and leaders falling in its defence. In the crucible of war a new generation of leaders arose, many of them the formerly meditative draughir. The chapter now is made of up of the surviving original residents and those Reikos refugees who decided to not abandon their territory any further, bound together through years of hardship and taciturn determination.

With Reikos reclaimed, the chapter is once again a sanctuary for lineaged but also for any outcast or dispossessed residents of Highguard. Still based in Haros, the chapter is noted for its focus in Winter magic, its pursuit of [[Vigilance]] and [[Loyalty]], and the ruthlessness with which it opposes the Druj and any other enemies of the Empire.
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===The Unbound===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black with red highlights 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Triple tower on fire above a full sun 

The Unbound chapter was formed in 377YE from a group of disparate Highborn who banded together for survival after escaping the Druj's conquest and destruction of Reikos. The Unbound sought temporary accommodation in [[Casinea]] where they worked tirelessly for the liberation of Reikos. After the liberation of [[Reikos#Chalcis Mount|High Chalcis]], the Unbound relocated to Tabernacle in [[Reikos#Riverwatch|Riverwatch]] where they settled as a permanent chapter and started the reconstruction efforts including the [[Reikos#The_Unbound_Steel_Hall_of_Lost_Chapters|Hall of Lost Chapters]] commemorating all the chapters destroyed by the Druj. The chapter, dedicated to [[Pride]], remains one of the strongest voices against trusting the eternal realms and in favour of [[Schisms_and_Heresies#The_Eternal_Schism|exclusionism]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shattered_Tower.png|caption=The Shattered Tower|align=right|width=150}}
===The Shattered Tower===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and Green. 
'''Chapter symbol:''' Three white towers surmounted by green halo 

The Chapter of the Shattered Tower was born during the fall of Reikos, primarily from survivors of the Sentinel's Tower they gathered in Bastion to protect the Empire from threats within and without.

Since the liberation, they have returned home to a changed land and worked to restore it to its former glory.
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===Grey Watchers of Peytaht===
'''Chapter colours:''' Black and white 
'''Chapter symbol:''' A white tower on a black field with a white flame above it 

The Grey Watchers of Peytaht are descended from some of the first Highborn scouts to drive out into the east searching for land to claim in Highguard's name. Formed when the borders of Highguard were wild and untamed, they have long patrolled the Eastern borders of Highguard, pressing into the [[Great Forest of Peytaht]] between [[Brocéliande]] and [[Therunin]]. Their chapterhouse, Beacons Rock, stood at the very northernmost tip of Reikos, further north even than Exile. Atop the tallest spire was a beacon light, erected to warn the Empire of the very direst dangers from the east.

When the Druj came through the Great Forest, they caught everyone unprepared, even the defenders of Beacons Rock. It has always been the way of the Grey Watchers to stand fast and defend with Vigilance and Valour but there was no Wisdom in throwing hundreds of lives away to defend a losing position. Beacons Rock was ruined, and it was with great sadness that the remaining Grey Watchers were forced to abandon their post and fight a retreat into the darkness. This was a matter of great shame to the remaining Watchers and they vowed that whilst the Druj remain in Reikos they would not rest until they have reclaimed every mile taken by the barbarians.

==Prominent Chapters in Play==
This list is by no means exhaustive; efforts are made to keep it up to date but due to the sheer amount of work involved the onus lies with the Highguard players to ensure the information is correct and current.

The chapters listed here represent player-character chapters. It should go without saying that you should not create a character who is part of one of these chapters, or has personal history with one of these chapters, without first clearing it with the appropriate players. You should also check before including other players' chapters in your background. The background team are unlikely to approve a background that significantly impacts or involves another player character chapter without their permission.

==Other Chapters==
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{{CaptionedImage|file=Tamar'sRest.jpg|caption=Tamar's Rest|width=125}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Virtue'sFire.jpg|caption=Virtue's Fire|width=125}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Zephania'sLament.jpg|caption=Zephaniah's Lament|width=75}}
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[[Category:Highguard]]