Warriors
By Jack Shaeffer, with additional notes by Amber Wittlief
Alterian Scholars
"The most important battles are waged off of the field."
Alterian Scholars take the roles of diplomats and healers. Though they are also trained in combat, the Scholar's vow prevents them from engaging in most battles. Their doctrine follows the ideals of pacifism and mercy. There have historically been fewer Scholars then Warriors, primarily because there has been less of a need for them. The Scholars are generally associated with the concepts of Light and Moderation. All rites and festivals pertaining to Scholars occur at the midsummer celebration. All vows and rites taken by Scholars are guided by the high priest, Mithros. The Scholar's most valued task is preserving life and spirit. They are required to obey the High Priest and the Alterian Scholar's Code. The Alterian Scholar is restricted from participating in any unimportant battles and is also forbidden from striking someone in anger. breaking these vows require atonement, usually chosen by the High Priest or a Mithran Disciple. The only way a Scholar will fight is if he is protecting someone, defending himself or ordered to do so by Mithros. Their usual place on a battlefield is healing the Warriors or wounded. Sometimes a Scholar will heal an enemy so that she does not die. The Traditional Costume of the Scholar is a form fitting white jacket which reaches to the knees, pale gold trousers, and a pin on the right side of the chest which identifies them as a trained Scholar. This lack of camoflague is acceptable because it is normally considered very bad form to attack a Scholar. Normally, the cuffs of the sleeves are colored to indicate the level of the Scholar (the colors range from red to gold). When the Scholar reaches the level of Mallorn, the upper third of the left ear is cut off. The City of the Eleven Lights was once the home city of the Scholars. It is built of rose quartz and marble and resides in the East. Most of the city is overtaken by sprawling gardens, libraries, and temples. Since the forceful takeover by the Elegecam Alliance, entry to it has been forbidden. (Note: Many Scholars use the underground tunnels to gain entry to the temples).
Alterian Scholar Code
1) Protect those weaker than yourselves, and otherwise realize that there is no other reason for battle. 2) Never strike first. 3) Be merciful; kill only as a last resort 4) We are personally responsible to ourselves and the families of the enemies we kill. 5) Never take a life for monetary profit. 6) Know your own faults and weaknesses. 7) Never forget that you are mortal; spend your life improving the lives of others. 8) Focus and keep your mind clear; for battle is mental. 9) The Warriors are our allies. It is our duty to heal their hearts and bodies as they protect ours. 10) Practice the art of diplomacy. 11) Forgive others as we would wish to be forgiven.Ranks
The Scholars ranking begins with Tharn as the lowest, and progresses to Brethil as the Highest. Tharn Tharn-Min Tharn-Tad Tharn-Neled Mallorn Mallor-Min Mallorn-Tad Mallorn-Neled Brethil
