Lady Sultana Erishka Khalimat
Auroran Knight

Knighting of the Eastern Sacraments

Scythia Square — The Guardian's Hearth

Motes of everbright stardust coalesce into the lambent grace of the Lightbringer.

Placing an open hand over his heart with solemn grace, Myrddin's scintilla blazes with empyrean radiance, ethereal Light cascading from its hallowed core as he bows his head in reverent recognition towards Aurora.

The soldiers and guards of the Hearth rise as one, gauntleted fists striking their chestplates in a thunderous salute. The sound rings across the square like a single note from a great bell. Then, as if moved by a single will, they kneel before the Lightbringer, heads bowed.

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "Guardians."

Emergent from midnight splendour is the waxing form of Ourania, Thrice-Blessed.

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "My beloved Guardians. A most honoured occasion. The Moon comes to witness."

Aurora flashes Ourania a joyous smile.

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says to Aeowynn, "It seems like just yesterday you were trapped as the Eternal Squire."

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says, "How far you have come."

Aeowynn smiles and says, "I must ensure my Squire is not trapped as one, herself."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says to Ourania, "Eternal? I thought a few decades was but a blink of the eye to You."

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says, "Indeed."

Aurora smiles softly, Her skin shimmering with a soft lustre.

Myrddin says to Ourania, "Your presence is most welcome here Lady Moon."

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says to Aurora, "From how her mentor spoke of it, it sounded like centuries."

Aurora's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Aurora, the Lightbringer says to Erishka, "Was it centuries?"

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says, "And blessings to you all, children of Targossas."

Aodfionn says to Aeowynn, "Likewise, Lady Banazir. The Guild of Knights is greatly heartened by the hard work of both you and your Esquire, and we are mightily pleased to be able to bear witness to her accolade."

Aeowynn nods, her cowlick briefly defying gravity before falling back into place.

Those who were knelt rise to their feet in preparation. The square breathes in collective anticipation, the silence before ceremony.

⸻ ✦ ⸻

Aeowynn says, "Knighthood is a commitment to cause and country, the embodiment of a nation's ideals, and the answer to a nation's needs."

Aeowynn says, "By deed, by duty, by action, we show the world that the path of Good, of Righteousness, and of Light, is the right path for all of Creation."

Aeowynn says, "Knighthood too, is a commitment to Chivalry, to advance a cause by Honour, never by subterfuge. To serve with courageous Duty, never with cowardice. To embrace idealism, and never cynicism."

Aeowynn says, "Once sworn, a Knight's oath is unchanging and eternal, certain as the night gives way to dawn."

Aeowynn says, "So we declare that Paradise is the right path for all — that is the heart of the Eastern Sacraments."

Aeowynn turns towards Erishka and says, "I have found a worthy Chevalier. One who has lived the cause of Good, and the Code of Chivalry."

Aeowynn says, "A Knight begins life as a page, studying the cause they serve, the arts of battle, and the Seleucarian ways."

Aeowynn says, "As a Page, she entered the Guild of Knights, and was challenged, not once, not twice, but over, and over. She accepted each time, with valour befitting a Knight. When the city pushed for Empire, it was her, as Judicator, who gathered and rallied their ranks. Under her lead did the Hearth spread our influence over the lands."

Aeowynn says, "It is in her humility, too, that such holdings, her greatest feats, were also relinquished. Purposefully, not taken, in knowing that it is not what Creation needs. An act of great Sacrifice and Humility, for the sake of Creation."

Aeowynn says, "When the Centennials came around, it was in her pagehood that Erishka donned her armour and took to the field. Unhidingly fearless against Knights double, triple her age and experience, and bringing great Honour to the Eastern Sacraments."

Aeowynn gives Erishka an appraising look, then nods approvingly.

Aeowynn says, "As Squire, she has never walked astray. In her own Growth she has continued pushing, challenging herself to go further, whether it be in matters of combat, in hunting, in rallying the Hearth."

Aeowynn says, "Unmatched in determination, an inspiring radiance for all Targossians to follow. Culminating to her ascension to Sultana. I always hear from my fellow Knights — your Squire is tenacious, she never stops!"

Aeowynn scans her gaze through the crowd, and nods once more.

Aeowynn asks, "Do any others wish to speak on this Esquire's behalf — of her virtues or vices? Please step forward."

⸻ ✦ ⸻

Ante steps forward.

Ante says, "After the abomination of the last World Games, the Sultana was one of the hardy folk who stuck around and kept the future of the Hearth bright where many of the old guard slumbered. Her efforts within the Games themselves speak volumes to her ability to adapt and overcome the adversity of Sapience's focus against Creation. I cannot speak much on the Guild or its values, but every now and then as an aging creature I can recognize talent and ability within youth. I am proud to say the Sultana has met and exceeded even my unrealistic expectations."

Constanstia steps forward.

Constanstia says, "I started my journey here in the Hearth as a Candidate for Redemption and from the very start our Sultana has been open and willing to help me along my path. She is unstoppable in her daily pursuit of Good. I have fought with her in battle and have seen her capability when leading our group against the enemies of the Hearth. She has become a good friend and I am happy to see everything that she has done. I am inspired by her to push myself further."

Myrddin says, "I will keep it brief."

His eyes sparkle with amusement towards Aurora.

Aurora casts a skeptical glance at Myrddin before clasping Her hands gracefully.

The guards within the Hearth bow their heads in solemn unison as Myrddin, Seraph of Light and Voice of Lady Aurora, prepares to speak.

"There is something rare in Erishka. Not merely courage, which is common enough among those who fancy themselves warriors, but the kind of grounded, purposeful faith that turns conviction into action without losing itself in pride."

"She does not serve the Light because it is glorious. She serves it because she knows, bone deep, that it is right."

"Erishka has chosen the harder thing, to become an instrument of Her will, to let that sacred charge reshape her."

"To stand between the darkness and those who cannot yet stand for themselves. That is not a small thing. That is everything."

"She is, in the truest sense, exactly what a Knight of the Dawn should be."

Myrddin's scintilla flares in holy exultation, striking him with a sense of warm grace as Her essence flows forth into the air around him.

"Valour dwells in the heart, strengthening the stomach and steeling the spine. It is to turn aside fear, to bear what cannot be borne, to fight when others falter, to stand when so many fall and avow — I will not yield... we shall not yield."

His spoken words resound with crystalline clarity as he supplicates the Goddess of Light for fearless Valour. Whispering a quiet prayer, he begins to inscribe the sigil into the air before him.

He traces a smooth, flowing circle in the air, a lingering glow left in the wake of his movements. Guided by the Light, he slashes across the sigil with a diagonal line, cutting back to form a sharpened point that glows with low incandescence. Finally, he finishes with a myriad of swirling lines above the straightened edge — the licking flames of a scimitar ablaze, writ upon the Auroran sigil.

In a blaze of molten-gold radiance, the sigil of Valour shatters into a thousand refulgent motes, circling through the air in a glowing maelstrom. Whirling around him, the burnished motes slowly adhere to his flesh, girding him in blazing luminosity.

Aeowynn says, "And yield, we shall not."

Aranos steps forward.

Aeowynn says, "Aeloran."

Aranos says, "The Sultana is relentless in all her pursuits as you have said, but none of them are without cause or purpose. The recent crusade against the Underworld was proof of this. I did not get to witness the entirety of her journey, but what I did witness was not only a determination to fulfill the tasks set before her, but to work her faith into them to grow in more ways than one. Her drive inspires the Guardians, and her vision is clear. May she serve the Sacraments as well as she does the Hearth."

Aurora nods solemnly.

Evelia steps forward.

Evelia says, "I have known the Esquire since we were both novices, and from the very start, she was determined to succeed. Everything she has told me she would do, she has, and never for a moment have I doubted that she could."

Evelia says, "The fire that burns inside her heart is more than equal to any task given her by Hearth or Bloodsworn, or any other who asks something of her. The only vice I could suggest she has is when her confidence flags at times, but even then, she uses it to be an example to us all, of her dauntless mind and heart, shining brightly in all that she does, and casting an illumination with her leadership that inspires us all to be better."

Evelia says firmly, "She walks at my side in all that I do, and she shares that courage, devotion, and fierce determination with all of you, too."

Aeowynn turns towards Aodfionn and says, "Arbiter."

Aodfionn nods once.

Aodfionn says to Erishka, "I do not come to offer the warm tidings of friendship that your comrades offer. I come to bear witness, but to share the perspective of one who is your sworn enemy."

Aurora gives Aodfionn the once-over, eyeing him suspiciously.

The Moon nods approvingly.

Aurora peers at Ourania dubiously.

Aodfionn says solemnly, "There are few things more knightly in custom and deed than to live and to act in such a manner that even your foes must respect you. It is this lofty goal that we are each striving for as we climb the tree of knighthood, and it is rare that any of us achieve and maintain such things."

Aodfionn says solemnly, "Yet, you have. As Vassal, as Page, as Squire, you have lived as a knight should and must. Your deeds upon the field of battle and your bravery give you few peers, and you have earned the respect of even your most hated enemies."

Aodfionn grunts noncommittally at Erishka.

⸻ ✦ ⸻

Aeowynn bows her head before Aurora and says, "My Lady."

Aurora's mouth turns up as Her face breaks into a smile.

Aurora glances meaningfully at Erishka.

Erishka smiles softly at Aurora.

Once-Judicator — the ambitious youth who wrought Justice upon Creation on behalf of the Hearth. Erishka.

Radiant Imperator — the warrior conqueror who strove to establish dominion, an Empire, in the name of Light and Fire. Erishka.

Sultana — entrusted by Bloodsworn and Guardians alike to lead; to forge forth in the name of Fire and Light; to be a beacon of Hope and Judgement upon Creation. Erishka.

Harbinger of Light — one of the youngest to ascend to such heights of honour among the Aarash Kheyr; one who bears the duty of shaping the Warriors of Light. Erishka.

Khalimat — one named by Myself; one whose destiny is forever entwined with Justice and Light, whose very name demands Verdict, unerring clarity. Erishka.

Erishka. Knight. Lady.

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "While I do not deem this accomplishment to be the apex of your achievements, it is the continuation of titles well-earned."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "You are among My Chosen. My Beloved."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "You are among those upon whom I place the burden of Hope and Growth. Of Perfection."

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says, "Beautifully spoken, Sister."

Aurora turns Her full attention and Her piercing gaze upon Erishka.

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "Erishka Khalimat, your knighting only proves among mortals what I have always known: You are Worthy."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "Honourable."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "Just."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "You strive for the Perfection of Creation in a way that is unmatched by most mortal souls."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "And in you I am well pleased."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "In you I lay My trust."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "My Hope."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "My ambition."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "In you, the Eastern Sacraments beats for the work of Light."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "May you bear it with unerring perseverance and wisdom."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "My beloved. My Chosen. My Harbinger of Light: Lady Erishka."

Aurora smiles gently at Erishka before nodding solemnly at Aeowynn.

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says, "And even more beautiful once actually finished."

Erishka lowers her head respectfully before Aurora.

Erishka says to Aurora, "I shall carry all you place upon me to the Paradise you see for Creation, my Lady."

Aurora smiles softly, Her skin shimmering with a soft lustre.

⸻ ✦ ⸻

Aeowynn says, "For these virtues and triumphs, and those unspoken, Erishka is fit to wear that hallowed mantle: Knight of the Eastern Sacraments."

Aeowynn says, "For a Knight's Accolade does not create the Knight. It merely recognizes one who already walks among us."

Aeowynn says, "It is time, Esquire. Kneel now before liege and country. Make your oath now for all to hear."

Aurora smiles, nodding with pride towards Erishka.

Ivory-hilted Dawnblades rise as one into the air above the gathered soldiers. For a breathless moment they hang there, catching the light, before each warrior catches the falling blade mid-descent in a smooth reverse grip, rewielding with fluid grace. Every soldier quietly bends to kneel, heads bowed, in silent honour of the moment.

Erishka nods her head solemnly as she soon draws herself down to kneel, head bowed in a brief moment of readiness.

The Oath of Erishka Khalimat — Knight of the Eastern Sacraments

Before the Light and Fire, I kneel.

Before my city, order, kin, and land.

Here, where Dawnlight splits the tempered steel.

I pledge my soul to divine command.

My duty first, and ever sworn.

To safeguard the Purity of Creation.

And in that charge, let Paradise be born.

Growing ever toward unyielding Perfection.

I shall not flinch from guilt nor flee from consequence.

Let neither enemy nor duty give me pause.

Steadfast I stand in Creation's full defense.

Let no death, nor dread, nor dream, turn me from my cause.

And should I waver, may my comrades stand.

As Humility bids me to rise with grace.

And guide once more, my faltering hands.

And brave the trials of Ninefold Fire, I yet must face.

Through ruin, hardship, shadow or flame.

May Devotion be my shield, and Wrath my blade.

By Duty, Honour, and Chivalry's name.

Let Light be my oath — and my oath be made.

Thus I swear to Fire and Light.

In furthest reaches, where the sun first woke.

On my Targossian Honour, as Sacrament Knight.

A vow of sacred steel, an oath unbroke.

Aeowynn says, "Hold this oath as votive, not in vain. Honour the Nine and hold to Chivalry. On bent knee, bear these blows and no others."

Wielding an Auroran mace, Aeowynn gently taps Erishka's left shoulder, and then her right. The square holds its breath.

Aurora smiles softly, Her skin shimmering with a soft lustre.

Aglow with lucent starfall, the heavens bask in ethereal lustre and banish darkness to naught, anointing Erishka in hallowed Light.

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says, "Well done, child. Though I know little of you, the way your friends and enemies alike speak of you says much."

✦ Hail Lady Sultana Erishka Khalimat, Auroran Knight, of the Eastern Sacraments ✦

Erishka says to Ourania, "Thank you, Lady Moon. May that impression endure."

Erishka will now be known as Lady Sultana Erishka Khalimat, Auroran Knight.

Aodfionn's voice rings across Scythia Square in formal proclamation, the words carrying the full weight of the Guild of Knights' recognition.

Lady Erishka Khalimat — knighted by Lady Aeowynn Banazir of the Eastern Sacraments, knighted by Sir Metzger de'Nakat of the Wardens,
knighted by Dame Aeryi Thellhawk of the Runewardens, knighted by Sir Unwin of the Runewardens,
knighted by Lady Raia Thellhawk of the Runewardens, knighted by Lady Czanthria Zuiho_sho of the Paladins,
knighted by Lady Aldair D'Vast of the Paladins, knighted by Sir Zaklin Thekeleth of the Templars,
knighted by Sir Agamemmnon of the Templars, knighted by Sir Gawain of the Templars, the first adventurer-knight!

Aodfionn says imperiously, "The Guild of Knights celebrates your entry into the realm of knighthood, and welcomes you with open arms."

Sir Aodfionn Wintermourne, Knight Arbiter, lets his voice carry across the Hearth: "May the realms remember the day that Lady Erishka Khalimat, Knight of the Eastern Sacrament, took her oaths as the Bloodsworn's newest knight!"

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says thoughtfully, "Those names bring back memories."

⸻ ✦ ⸻

Aeowynn says, looking down at a stone in her hands, "There was a time in her Pagehood, that Lady Erishka stood for days in the Silverveil river, panning for silver. Silver that she would smelt down, and combine with rubble from the Dawnspear."

Aeowynn says, "There was a time in her Squirehood, that she too, sat and engraved with her own two hands this pendant, the mark of our Chapter."

Aeowynn proudly shows off a silver-seamed nonagram pendant:

Smoothed by the relentless current of the Silverveil, this weathered sandstone pendant lies cool to the touch. Pierced fully through its core, interwoven lines shape a symmetrical nine-pointed form, marked by patient refinement and the quiet resolve of the crafter's hands. Soot remains embedded upon its surface, a dark remnant of the fiery ruin from which it was reclaimed. Where crack-scarred edges once marred the stone, veins of silver now fill the fractures, tempering imperfection with strength renewed. The circle that frames the star is left incomplete, its broken arc an intentional symbol of duty yet unfinished.

Aeowynn says, "May this stone ever remind you of your unwavering fortitude, and unfaltering dedication to our cause. When you waver, remember that even the darkest nights are cleaved by Dawn. Even as Shallam falls, does the Dawnspear rise, and when the Dawnspear is severed into Memory, rises again as Hearth."

Aeowynn says, "Remember that silver that runs in the cracks of the stone, like the Light that runs in your veins."

Aeowynn gently raises a silver-seamed nonagram pendant once more for all to see, and then affixes the sash around Erishka's torso, the mark of a Sacrament Knight.

Aeowynn says, "The day is yours."

The guests in attendance — citizens, soldiers, and Knights alike — break into applause, the sound rolling across Scythia Square in warm waves. The great banners surrounding the square unfurl in the breeze, each bearing the crest of the Eastern Sacraments, their colours brilliant against the light.

Aurora's gaze fixes upon the nonagram pendant for a long moment, before being drawn to the sash upon Erishka's torso.

Aurora, the Lightbringer says to Aeowynn, "A fitting symbol."

Ourania, Goddess of the Moon says to Erishka, "May the stars watch over your already luminous path."

Waning into midnight dark goes the Thrice-Blessed Moon, Her absence stark totality.

Aurora gazes skyward upon the Moon's retreat, a smile gracing Her features.

Aeowynn says to Erishka, "Do you have anything you wish to say?"

Erishka says, "My victories are not only my own, but through all the years I've been a Guardian with all of my comrades in the Hearth. You've all shaped me into the person I could possibly be."

Erishka says, "So let me in turn carry the banner for us all. Let me raise the promise that Targossas gives to Creation and that, through honour and everlasting resolve do we continue to strive so that Creation might flourish."

Aurora smiles and nods in agreement.

Erishka says, "I vow to show the best of us, the best Targossas can be, so that when those who remain yet lost in their way, they will find Hope and find not fault in our words."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "I shall leave you all to the celebrations. But know this: I expect you all to rise to the apex of Honour and determination as Guardians of the Hearth. However, this day we honour the dedication of Sultana Erishka."

Aurora, the Lightbringer says, "May you fight well for Creation, all of you."

The Lightbringer disperses into a scintillating nimbus of star-bright motes, a warding radiance warm and golden, lingering in Her wake long after She is gone.

⸻ ✦ ⸻

HAIL THE EASTERN SACRAMENTS

Targossas — Scythia Square, Guardian's Hearth — The Order of Light

Lady Sultana Erishka KhalimatAuroran Knight

Lady Sultana Erishka Khalimat
Auroran Knight