The Knights of the Solitary Gaol are an order whose discipline is, even by Realm of Shadow standards, austere. Their armour set, chest, gauntlets, greaves, helm, all named 'of Solitude', repeats the same dedication line : 'a heavy armor set that covers the whole body in overlapping plates of steel.' The order's purpose is recorded in the Greatsword of Solitude flavour text without softening : 'Steel greatsword wielded by the Knights of the Solitary Gaol. Through a secret rite, they relinquished their hearts for heightened battle prowess. Next, they engraved their blades with two crests : one depicting the light of birth, and the other, solitude.'

Where they came from is hinted at by the nameless mausoleums scattered across the Realm of Shadow. The armour text states : 'The nameless mausoleums of the realm of shadow are said to hold the spirits of warriors who lost their names, or their hearts.' The Solitary Gaol Knights are very likely the warriors interred in those mausoleums, soldiers who survived the Hornsent persecution and Messmer's war by giving up the part of themselves that could mourn or refuse. The two crests on their blades are the canon's gentlest framing of their bargain : born once, alone forever.

◆ Sources

WeaponGreatsword of Solitude

Steel greatsword wielded by the Knights of the Solitary Gaol. Through a secret rite, they relinquished their hearts for heightened battle prowess. Next, they engraved their blades with two crests: one depicting the light of birth, and the other, solitude.

ArmorArmor of Solitude

Steel chest armor of the Knights of the Solitary Gaol. The nameless mausoleums of the realm of shadow are said to hold the spirits of warriors who lost their names, or their hearts.