Tradition of protection has its roots in the guardians of Batesian, warriors that fought side by side to protect their kin, sacred shrines and mountain pass routes.
The practice has evolved over time into an art of discipline, a mastery of one's body and weapon for the benefit of others, not for individual glory.
In combat, this tradition was the wall that everyone rallied behind, and they were the first line of defense in the face of insurmountable odds.