The Order of Elven Cavaliers

The elves are often viewed as a peaceful people.  This misconception has cost many an interloper his or her foolish head.  Though even the average elf usually has some knowledge of magic, the bow, or the blade, there are some who make it their Way; these elite warriors, rangers and mages transmute War into Art.  Such elves are called back to the realm.  Elves willing to train their fellows, to lead them into battle, and to victory.  Are you worthy of the challenge?

The Order of Elven Cavaliers is made up of three sections, the Knights of the Yew, the Knights of the Mind and the Knights of the Sun.  Entrance into these noble orders involves a difficult set of trials and qualifications.  Every knight is expected to own and care for a horse; it is a symbol of the order.  Cavaliers will be given titles based on their achievements, and are expected to aid in the training of younger elves.  When war comes, they shall be the ones at the forefront.  Though our elected officials may lead us in word, it is the Cavaliers that shall lead us in decisive action.

Knights of the Yew
Knights of the Yew are the unrivaled masters of the bow.  They lead the great hunts, and serve in defense of the land.  In order to join, they must meet the following stringent requirements: Archery 85+, Tactics 85+, Tracking 50+.  Knights of the Yew also have  at least some skill in Tailoring and Bowcraft.  Qualified applicants must also pass the following trials:

1. The applicant must venture into the woods with only a hatchet and a sewing kit, andmust fully equip themselves with a bow, arrows, and leather or studded armor. This proves their ability to track game, and equip the young archers of the Velt.
2. With the equipment they have created, they must track and slay an Ettin.  Thus do they prove that they are capable of defending the Velt, and slaying the evil that threatens it.
3. The final test is the most challenging.  The Velt has many enemies, chiefly among the Drow.  The council shall name such an enemy, and they applicant will bring the council the foul subject's head.  Once done, the applicant will ascend into the ranks of the Knights of the Yew, and enjoy all the rights and privileges of an Elven Cavalier.

Knights of the Mind
Not all knights bear arms.  The Knights of the Mind are every bit as potent in combat, wielding powerful magics instead.  In addition to serving in war, they serve as a repository of knowledge for those who would learn the art that the Knights of the Mind have mastered.  The requirements for application are: Magery 85+, Inscription 65+, Item ID 40+, and Int 80+.  Tests are as follows:

1. Create three spellbooks with all spells of circles 1-4.  Donation of these proves the applicant's dedication to the cause of Elven Magery.
2. Donate a powerful magic item, in each of the following categories: Armor, Weapon, and Wand/Staff.  The knowledge of magical items is important; seeking such artifacts is a task that the Knight of the Mind excels at.
3. Slay a lich in single magical combat.  Once a mage can best these most powerful of undead, he is worthy of the Knighthood.

Knights of the Sun
This select order of warriors is comprised of knights in the traditional sense; members of this ancient order are the only Elves allowed to wear plate armor.  The sight of a Knight of the Sun, clad in gleaming golden or silver plate has caused many a mighty foe to turn tail and flee.  The requirements of application are met by few elves indeed: Melee Weapon 85+, Tactics 85+, Str 60+.  Those that can pass the tests are fewer still.

1. The applicant must recruit three new elves into the Velt.  This proves the charisma of the applicant; a valuable asset to one in such a respected position.
2. These three recruits will serve as the applicant's "squires" for a period of one week.  The applicant will endeavor to provide for every aspect of their training, as they will be crucial in the third and final test.  Such intensive training proves leadership, which shall be proven shortly thereafter.
3. The applicant and his squires will journey deep into the earth, and through careful tactics and skill in warfare, they shall slay a Drake.  Such a noble quest is worthy of tales to be told for years to come.

If you think yourself worthy of the challenge, please send word to Elder Azrael.  He will arrange for your trials to begin.