Chapter One
The Dragon's Citadel is a reminder of an ancient might that had sculpted the towering spire from the very heart of a mountain. Three centuries ago, a truly extraordinary Dragoon-Mage harnessed their formidable powers to carve the Citadel from the massive spire, turning a magnificent architectural masterpiece of a forgotten, glorious age into an impregnable bastion of honour. And within that bastion, a newly promoted Dragoon Knight known as Drakonsarius found himself immersed in the relentless dance of combat training. His red and white plate armour, adorned with the emblem of the Order of the Dragoon, glistened under the flickering light of the braziers as he sparred with a fellow knight. The clash of blades reverberated through the sparring arena. Drakonsarius, his movements fluid and precise, feinted backwards to avoid a slash from his opponent before lunging forwards into a thrusting attack that connected with his parters armour with a loud clang, his opponent retaliating with a diagonal slash that Drakonsarius block with his shield, the block was poorly executed and left him open to the follow up attack that glanced off his armour. The Drillmaster's voice cut through the sounds of the sparring match, calling out commands that echoed off the stone walls. "Drakonsarius! Formations are crucial. Your shield is an ally; let it be an impenetrable barrier against the foes we face."
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Drakonsarius nodded, there was a bright sheen of sweat on his determined face, His opponent pressed forward with a series of aggressive strikes, seeking to exploit any opening in his defence, Drakonsarius blocked the heavy blows easily, he lunged forward into his partner, striking him with his shield, knocking the other knight off balance, seizing the opportunity, he disarms his opponent, leaving the other knight stunned.
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The other knight, acknowledging defeat, exits the sparring arena. The seasoned Drillmaster approached Drakonsarius, the latter standing at attention with a sheathed sword, awaiting the words of wisdom or scathing critique that were sure to follow. "Drakonsarius," he began, "Your dedication shines brightly, but being a Dragoon Knight involves more than just skill with blades." "Strict adherence to the Code of the Dragoon at all times and unwavering loyalty to our realm are absolutely crucial."
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Drakonsarius, still catching his breath, nodded in understanding. The Drillmaster continued, delving into the philosophy that defined the life of a Dragoon. He spoke of the significance of the crimson and white plate, emphasizing that they symbolize not only strength but also the weighty responsibility carried by its wearers. "Your recent promotion speaks to your skill, but it also signals the challenges ahead. Let every strike of your blade echo the lessons of the past, and let your every move reflect the legacy you now carry."
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As the sun casts long shadows across the mountainous landscape, the Drillmaster shared tales from his own journey as a former Dragoon-Captain, leading his own squad of Dragoons each from one of the three sub orders. He recounted both triumphs and tribulations, revealing what shaped the evolution of the Code of the Dragoon - a set of principles that emerged centuries ago to guide the Order's members in their duty.
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"In the early days of the Order, the Code was forged out of necessity to ensure that the order did not become a threat to the realms we are sworn to protect. The Code was expanded to encompass a broader understanding of duty, virtue, and the delicate balance between power and responsibility. As the threats faced evolved, so too did the Code, adapting to the challenges of each era. It became a living doctrine, a reflection of the Order's commitment to safeguarding not just the physical realm but also the moral integrity of its protectors. Through three centuries of trials, the code exists to help all of us stay uncorrupted through the complexities of a world constantly threatened by unseen shadows."
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The Drillmaster's words carried the weight of experience in assisting in the preservation of the realm. "Remember, Drakonsarius, the true measures of a Dragoon are discipline and nobility of the heart. Rest now, for the challenges ahead may demand more than physical prowess." With that, he exits the training room with its sparring area. Drakonsarius, while absorbing the wisdom, takes in the breath-taking sights of Cerulea that the Citadel offered.
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