Venatores Custodum

# The Venatores Custodum

The Venatores Custodum, translated as the "Hunter Guardians" in the ancient Kishan tongue, is an order of knights deeply rooted in Kishan and Pre-Kishan history. This venerable organization consists of eleven legions, each led by a Custodi or Custodum, depending on their gender. These knights are revered as paragons of martial prowess, guardians of the realm, and possessors of extraordinary abilities, including the Gift of Vigor. Some among them even manifest additional Gifts of Light or neutrality, further enhancing their combat prowess and versatility.

## The Structure of the Venatores Custodum

The Venatores Custodum is divided into eleven distinct legions, each bearing its unique heraldry, traditions, and battle tactics. The legions operate independently and are assigned to different regions of the realm, allowing them to respond swiftly to threats.

### Custodi and Custodum

At the helm of each legion stands a Custodi or Custodum, an esteemed knight possessing unparalleled martial skills, strategic acumen, and mastery of the Gift of Vigor. These leaders are chosen based on their exceptional valor and unwavering dedication to the order's principles.

### Gifted Knights

Every member of the Venatores Custodum is Gifted with the potent ability known as the Gift of Vigor. This gift endows them with superhuman physical strength, endurance, and regenerative capabilities, making them nigh invulnerable on the battlefield. Some knights also exhibit secondary Gifts of Light or neutrality, further enhancing their combat abilities. These secondary Gifts might include control over elemental forces, heightened agility, or the power to manipulate the battlefield's terrain.

## The Code of the Venatores Custodum

The knights of the Venatores Custodum adhere to a strict code of honor and chivalry. Their principles include:

### Protection of the Realm

The primary duty of the Venatores Custodum is to safeguard the realm and its people from external threats. They are the first line of defense against invaders, rogue Gifted individuals, and supernatural creatures.

### Mastery of the Gift

Knights are expected to hone their Gift of Vigor to its fullest potential through rigorous training and discipline. This mastery not only enhances their combat abilities but also allows them to heal grievous wounds.

### Unyielding Valor

Venatores Custodum knights are renowned for their unyielding courage in the face of danger. They are trained to stand resolute even when outnumbered or facing insurmountable odds.

### Code of Conduct

The knights uphold a code of conduct that emphasizes humility, integrity, and compassion. They are expected to protect the innocent, aid those in need, and maintain the highest ethical standards.

## The Battle Versatility of the Venatores Custodum

Due to their diverse array of Gifts and training, the Venatores Custodum are exceptionally versatile on the battlefield:

### Gift of Vigor

The core ability of the Venatores Custodum, the Gift of Vigor, grants them unparalleled strength and endurance. They can withstand mortal wounds, recover from injuries swiftly, and perform feats of great physical prowess.

#### Secondary Gifts

Some knights possess secondary Gifts of Light or neutrality that complement their combat style. For example, a Custodum might wield the power of Light to create protective barriers, while another might manipulate the neutral forces of the Loch to reshape the battlefield to their advantage.

### Strategic Prowess

The Custodi and Custodum are not only skilled warriors but also brilliant tacticians. They develop battle strategies that leverage the strengths of their legions and exploit the weaknesses of their adversaries.

### Specialized Legions

Each legion has its unique specialization. For instance, one excels in siege warfare, while another focuses on hit-and-run tactics. This diversity allows the Venatores Custodum to adapt to a wide range of threats.

## The Venatores Custodum in Hadeon

Within the upper layers of Hadeon, the Venatores Custodum maintain a stronghold that serves as a refuge and a strategic point for controlling the flow of people and resources. This stronghold provides safe passage between the upper layers of Hadeon, allowing the Custodum to patrol the realm and ensure the safety of its inhabitants.

As one ventures deeper into the layers of Hadeon the presence of the Venatores Custodum becomes increasingly scarce.

The resources available in the deeper layers are scarce, making it difficult for the Custodum to establish a permanent presence.