“As we aged, I saw my brother becoming the man, no—the Lord, he was meant to be...and I was proud. I knew, however, that I could never walk in his shadow. My spirit burned too brightly to be content with that. As a young woman I felt called to the academy - and the potential of a full and fearsome life. I wanted then, and still want now, to be a student of justice, strength, mercy, and wisdom. I am called to know the power of words, the fierceness of a sword, and the strength of small kindnesses. I am called to this knighthood, to these oaths and this path. Make sure young trainees that this is your calling also— the faint of heart will not succeed.”

- An excerpt from Captain Kestrel’s opening speech to her students at the academy

The second child of an Eo noble house, Kestrel was drawn to the honor, integrity, and dignity inherent in the order of the Kingsmen. At a young age she left her family’s home and enrolled as a student at the Academy. While there, she developed deep friendships with her fellow students and gained a reputation as a strong warrior with a diplomatic perspective. Her passion and desire to serve drove her to excellence in both her scholastic and her martial studies (it was during her time at the academy that she befriended the Kingswoman Vinette).

After her training at the academy concluded, Kestrel served as a guard along the southern border of Olaran for several years gaining combat experience and earning the rank of Captain. Upon returning to the capital, she taught at the academy focusing on Philosophy, diplomacy, and other classes dedicated to the virtues of strength and wisdom. When her friend Vinette was granted a noble title— Kestrel offered to serve her as both guard and advisor. Realizing the dire need for an elite guard to the crown, Kestrel resurrected the long-forgotten order: The Shield of the Just. These warriors, generally called “Shields,” swore additional oaths to protect the honor, strength, and wisdom of Olaran’s ruling class - while offering their lives as protection for the kingdom’s law-makers. The Shields unique position on the right hand of the nobility make discretion, discernment, and personal integrity compulsory qualities. As the captain of this group, Kestrel now serves as the primary guard to her friend Vinette. She, and her fellow knights, are uniquely positioned to advise and observe the ruling nobility in this time of political turmoil.

As tensions in Olaran’s political realm continued to escalate, she was asked to leave her position at the Academy and assume a position of Commander directly beneath Justicar Marrius. While she still maintains oversight of the Shields, she has promoted a new captain to continue the work of the guard. Her new focus lies in preserving the unity of the Kingdom of Olaran; she believes that the Kingsmen, driven by their ancient code and following in the footsteps of their founders, are uniquely positioned to advise and observe the ruling nobility in this time of political turmoil.