Chosen of the Gods

rejecting the Balance that has corrupted this empire for so long. We are that burning hammer-all of us-and it is our god-granted duty to strike wherever we can and purge the evil that remains among us.

“There shall, then, be a new Knighthood,” he concluded, the crown blazing, “an Istaran Knighthood, that shall be the vanguard in this holy war. It shall be open to all who would see the end of wickedness, and Cathan MarSevrin shall be the first of its number.”

As citizen, Knight, and cleric alike looked on in amazement, Beldinas raised the sword high, lowering it to touch Cathan’s shoulders with the flat of the blade-left, then right, then left again.

“Fe Paladas cado, bid Istaras apalo, tarn Gidam codo,” he declared.

In Paladine’s name, with Istar’s might, I dub thee Knight.

“Rise, Sir Cathan, of the Order of the Divine Hammer.”

Cathan got to his feet, his eyes brimming with tears. The Kingpriest handed him his sword and the people of Istar cheered anew, their shouts rising into the brightening sky.