The Arethian Order is a prestigious knightly brotherhood devoted to the legacy of Areth Drakenfel, the Dragonborn paladin whose sacrifice shaped the Empire’s foundations. Rooted in the teachings of Bahamut, the Order embodies draconic justice, honor, and moral clarity. They operate as both protectors and arbiters, believing that true authority must always be tempered by righteousness rather than enforced through fear or blind obedience.
The Order teaches that justice is not merely law, but truth guided by wisdom and compassion. They uphold Bahamut’s ideals—honor, protection of the innocent, and the destruction of tyranny. Members are expected to question authority when it strays from righteousness and to act as living examples of moral discipline. They believe that strength must serve justice, not dominate it.
The Order is comprised of few individuals, each a proven arbiter of true justice and highly skilled. At the head of the Order stands the Platinum Paladin, who interprets the will of Bahamut and the legacy of Areth Drakenfel.
Knights of the Arethian Order wear polished platinum-colored armor that reflects light with a near-silver brilliance. Bright yellow capes flow from their shoulders, symbolizing the light of justice. Their weapons are finely crafted, often bearing draconic motifs or inscriptions invoking Bahamut’s name.
The Order is widely respected as incorruptible and principled, though some imperial officials view them as dangerously independent. Among the common folk, they are seen as true protectors—knights who serve justice with a merciful hand.
They maintain strong ties with temples of Bahamut and respect orders such as the Order of the Gauntlet of Steel, though tensions arise when law and true justice diverge. They are wary of political authorities and openly hostile toward corruption, including the influence of The Outfit.
Within Altdrachen, the Arethian Order acts as a moral counterweight to imperial authority. They investigate injustices, arbitrate disputes, and intervene where law fails to protect the innocent. Their presence is both reassuring and unsettling—justice made visible.
The Trial of the Platinum Scale is the rite of ascension into the Order. The initiate must stand before a scale bearing symbolic weights of law and mercy while recounting a moral dilemma they have faced. They are judged not on outcome, but on reasoning and integrity. Upon acceptance, they don their first yellow cloak and swear to uphold justice above all else.
The Oath of the Fallen Flame is performed when a knight dies or fails in their duty. Their armor is placed upon a stone dais and illuminated by radiant light as fellow knights recount their deeds. Each member then renews their vow, acknowledging that justice is a burden carried across generations, never perfect, but never abandoned.