Axes of Aedelfirth

The Axes of Aedelfirth are a military unit within the Commonwealth of Lorenthal, a force of axe-wielding warriors dedicated to the memory of Aedelfirth the Bold. They fought alongside the revolutionary forces during the Lorenthalian Civil War, composed largely of traditionalists eager to see the Ignis' presence gone from their homeland. In battle they are fierce fighters, wielding two-handed axes in the Vasteran style and donning heavy shirts of mail with plate segments. They work themselves into a mental frenzy prior to battle, freeing themselves of the doubt and pain that shackles most men. This makes them a dangerous tool, able to carve a bloody swathe through enemy formations while roaring praises to their gods and routing entire units. Wise commanders use them at critical moments in battle, holding their charge until the resounding crash and following carnage will cause a mass rout.

Induction into the Axes of Aedelfirth is a selective process, possible warriors hand picked by the leadership and put through several weeks of training to see if they are worthy of serving. They are challenged physically and mentally in a sort of hazing at the hands of their future brothers, allowed respite only when their fortitude is deemed acceptable. Those that finally do join their ranks consider each other brothers, and they fully believe themselves to be the children of Aedelfirth. Regardless of the nature of their ceremonies, they are fearsome warriors that shun the usual defensive tactics of Lorenthalian forces.