Knights of Luna

The Knights of Luna of Celene

The Knights of Luna stand as a beacon of elven nobility and martial prowess within the lush realms of Celene and beyond. Founded in the aftermath of the Battle of Emridy Meadows, this order dedicates itself to the preservation of Celene's monarchy and the ancient traditions that have long defined the elven way of life.

History and Lore

• Founding Era: Established in CY 570, in the wake of the Horde of Elemental Evil's defeat, the Knights of Luna were born out of a necessity to protect and uphold the noble elven values threatened by external malice.
• Monarchical Guardians: Their inception was closely tied to safeguarding the Celene monarchy, ensuring that the grace and wisdom of elven rule remain unchallenged.

Organizational Structure

The Knights of Luna, a distinguished order within the realm of Celene, exhibit a complex and nuanced structure that reflects their unique position in elven society. Here are key points about their organization and hierarchy:

• Leadership: While lacking a rigid hierarchy, the order is led by Melf, Prince Brightflame of Celene, a testament to their noble origins and their dedication to the elven royal lineage.
• Membership Diversity: The knights welcome not only the grey elves of the Grand Court but also high elves, half-elves, and a notable number of wizard-warriors within their ranks, embodying a blend of martial and arcane excellence.
• Leadership: Though lacking a strict hierarchy, the Knights of Luna recognize Melf, Prince Brightflame of Celene, as their leader. His wisdom and experience offer guidance, though he encourages autonomy among the knights.
• Authority and Rank: Seniority and experience command respect and authority within the order. Knights who have completed numerous quests and demonstrated valor have the privilege of taking on squires. These squires can be of any elven or part-elven lineage, reflecting the inclusive nature of the order.
• Quests and Advancement: The journey of a Knight of Luna often begins with quests. These missions, serving the ideals of the order, are a proving ground for younger members. Success in these endeavors allows for advancement within the ranks, and the eventual honor of mentoring a squire.
• Contribution and Support: Knights are expected to contribute a portion of their acquired treasures to the order. This tradition has become especially crucial in the aftermath of the Greyhawk Wars, with these contributions aiding the Knights of the High Forest and other allied causes.

Locations and Influence

• Celene's Heart: Primarily based in Celene, they are the silent watchers and subtle influencers, weaving through the political tapestry of the elven kingdom.
• Beyond Borders: Their presence extends into the Duchy of Ulek and Highfolk, signaling their commitment to a broader cause beyond Celene's verdant valleys.

Physical Characteristics and Racial Traits

• Elven Grace: Knights embody the quintessential elven grace, melding seamlessly into the forested landscapes of Celene and its environs.
• Arcane and Martial Blend: The order's members often display a unique combination of physical agility and potent spellcraft, reflective of their diverse backgrounds.

Political Relationships

The isolationist policies of Celene, endorsed by the fey queen and her councilors, pose a significant ideological rift not just within the elven communities but also between the Knights of Luna and the broader political entities they engage with. The Knights of Luna view this isolationism as detrimental to the broader cause of good, believing that engagement and cooperation among the races are crucial for the survival and prosperity of all. Their efforts to sway the policies of Celene towards a more open stance involve a combination of reasoned debate, diplomatic engagement with foreign dignitaries, and support for military actions that protect the borders and interests of Celene and its allies.

• Alliance and Isolation: While the Knights of Luna strive to foster alliances and counter Celene's isolationist tendencies, they often find themselves at odds with the fey queen's policies, advocating for a more open and engaging stance towards the other realms of the Flanaess.
• Viscount of Verbobonc: Their relationship with Viscount Wilfrick Verdanhart and the Lords of Verbobonc is complex, marked by a delicate balance of mutual respect and underlying tensions over Celene's insular policies.
• Knights of the Hart: While there is no formal alliance, the Knights of Luna at times collaborate with the Knights of the Hart, sharing common enemies and objectives.

The Knights' Creed

• Elven Leadership: They champion the cause of Good, asserting elven leadership as essential in guiding the lesser races towards a brighter future.
• Noblesse Oblige: A deep-seated belief in their responsibility towards not only their kindred but also those deemed lesser, driving their endeavors across the Flanaess.

In conclusion

The Knights of Luna embody the pinnacle of elven ideals, fiercely protective of Celene's heritage while boldly navigating the intricate web of inter-realm politics. Their legacy is one of valor, wisdom, and an unyielding commitment to the greater good, making them a formidable force in the ever-evolving tapestry of Greyhawk's history.

"In Moonlight, We Guard; In Shadow, We Guide. For Celene, For All."

Knight of Luna by 3orcs

Prince Melf Brightflame

Type

Military Order

Training Level

Elite

Veterancy Level

Decorated/Honored

Related Species

• Elves of Greyhawk

Related Ethnicities

• Grey Elves
• Half-Elves
• High Elves

Membership and Distribution of Knights of Luna

• Total Strength: The Knights of Luna number around 180, predominantly consisting of warriors, mage-warriors, and cleric-warriors. Their strength lies not just in their combat prowess but in their dedication to the cause of Good across the Flanaess.
• Membership: Initially composed of Grey Elves from the Grand Court of Celene, now includes many High Elves and Half-Elves, many of whom are also wizards and fighters.
• Half-Elves: Approximately one-third of the knights are half-elves. This subgroup is currently the focus for recruitment, highlighting the order's inclusivity and focus on diversity.
• Location: Half of the knights reside within Celene, embodying the essence of elven grace and magic. Many venture into the Welkwood and beyond, engaging in espionage, offering support to the woodsmen of the Gnarley and upper Suss forests, and bolstering the defense against threats to elven lands and allies.