These Orders are sometimes wrongly linked with mercenary troops, particularly the numerous Fighting Orders, but this denigrates the standards and recognition which belong to Orders. Responsible Orders range from long-standing organizations hired as guards to free-ranging Paladins affiliated only by their commitment to the same vows. They tend, with a few significant exceptions, to be less prestigious than the Honourary Orders and less well known, but much more common. Missing the social element which the Honourary Orders can boast, and usually offering fewer rewards, Responsible Orders are the "working character's" second home. Responsible Orders also offer training and access to certain Class "Kits" which are otherwise unavailable (i.e. the only way to become a Medician Paladin is to belong to the Order of the Red Robe).
The most common of all Orders are the Responsible Fighting Orders, due to the ever present need for strong arms to defend and ward locations or against incursions by enemy forces. Many of these Orders have long histories, and have been the source of heroes known Trishore-wide.
Order of the King's Medallion - When the Ocean Tribes won their freedom from Schew there were many nobles who took it personally: they were offended that someone would want to leave their good graces, and mortified that they had lost. With the express purpose of reuniting the two nations, those that swore on their lives that they would tirelessly work towards that end were granted a "King's Medallion" signifying their honorable intent. Some today (although old and seeing little real action) are still from the original outraged few, but most are now drawn from a pool of more common warriors who seek the notoriety and honor of serving and Order with so lauded a goal. They are not so much bloodthirsty as driven, and wear their Shield Device with obscene pride. They are well equiped and well paid for by the government of Schew, and of virtually any degree of martial expertise. All that is required is deep commitment to the cause. There are presently 64 members.
Order of the Wooden Ring - Named for the round wooden tables about which all member of this Order are always welcome, these fighters and their fabled "Hall of Heroes" are staunch defenders of the series of forts and castles which line the Ocean Tribes southern border. Limited to women only, they are selected by current members. In many cases they are wives or mothers (albeit skilled warriors in every case) of warriors in the army. Some believe that by serving the Order, which is sponsored by the rulers of the Ocean Tribes, that they can strike back at a foe which has killed other family members. Others serve so that it allows them to be closer to loved ones. And others serve in the hope that by protecting these forts they provide a sanctuary should their loved ones need to fall back at some time. Whatever the reason, their devotion is unbreakable despite a minimal wage. They serve alongside male members of the regular army, and in the sexist Ylthic world they are sometimes mocked or abused for their role. This usually ends quickly when they either defeat in a brawl, or save their lives in a battle after initially turning their back on the abuser: such is their commitment to the Order. There are 111 members today, but the number rises and falls with virtually every battle.
Order of the Smiling Warrior - This Braccios-sponsored fighting Order is based out of Endela, where they guard the various temples and shrines. This is a delicate and dangerous task, for these sites act as a sort of refuge and a source of revenue at the same time. In effect, the Braccios Priests offer sanctuary -- for a price. Escaped slaves that can pay are aided, those who can not are turned away. The Priests argue that without this revenue they would not be able to afford the bribes that keep the slavers and rulers of Endela at bay. Members of the Order must outwit, and sometimes outfight slavers and members of the Order of the Iron Arm. Sometimes this happens at the very doors of their temples, but more often it happens when they deliver "freed" slaves (only the very richest of course) back to their homelands. Thus, the gold they generate provides some degree of authority and legitimacy, but the mercenary warriors who make up this Order would say they earn every copper piece of their high wages. There are presently 84 members scattered across almost a dozen sites.
Order of the Iron Arm - Gold is the lifeblood of Endela, and slavery is the beating heart that drives the metal through its veins. There are many who dislike this, not the least the countless Burdue who are enslaved every year: they will use whatever means available to flee or even overthrow the government. Thus, the rulers of Endela resort to all means to support themselves, and in this case they sponsor an Order dedicated to protecting the state of Endela, upholding its laws, and destroying its foes. These "heroes" are not well known, and their private lives well shielded (having your implacable foes know where you live is a sure way to wake up with a knife in your ribs), but they do as they are asked. To ensure surprise and privacy, they bear no Shield Device or common marking. Some of the most senior and long-serving members have a "black fist" or "Iron Arm" tatto on their shoulder. Members of the Order are creative and merciless in destroying escape routes, rooting out anti-slavers, recapturing escaped slaves, and uncovering networks designed to free them. They are the "Iron Arm" in protecting Endela's interests, and are selected from the normal armed forces or mercenary troops who show exceptional skill and devotion in their duties. They are at least 6th level, usually LE, and will not be swayed from their tasks by gold or soft words. There are presently 37 members.
Order of the Great Defender - the well known and easily recognizable fighting Order sponsored by virtually every temple to Federdall, these all male L.G. fighters with their trusty +1 long swords and white-robe covered scale mail are solid warriors of both church and goodness. Relatively common in both the Andron Kingdom and the Kingdom of Cadorna, they are found in front of every temple to Federdall in the Denlor Plains, but are rare in the Hill Cantons. They are all well paid and trained, with a special focus on "weapon and shield" style specialization to parry attacks. Membership is gained through a series of trials which vary slightly from temple to temple, but usually test alignment (L.G.), strength (min. 15) and level (minimum lvl. 2). Benefits include the armour to wear while on duty, the +1 sword (although other long swords may be used if of better quality) and a monthly salary of 20 gp/month/level. Current membership is though to number over 200, but exact numbers are not known due to the large number of temples in several different countries.
The Grave Dancers - a fighting arm or Order sponsored by the priesthood to Necros in the Calandesian Countries. They are charged with the defense of the few temples that exist, but more importantly act as bodyguards for roving priests and seek out human sacrifices for the priests to use. Little more than cut-throats and brigands in most cases, the terror their name alone can strike in the hearts of even brave Calandesian warriors about to go Viking, gives them recognition usually only accorded to much more established Orders. There are over three hundred members, but most are zero- or low-level. Their pay is a minuscule 5 gp/month/level, and they receive few other benefits except the right to pocket as much coin as they can from any unfortunates they capture or terrorize. They are more a "pack" than an "order". Membership is open to any who want to join, but anyone who is not sufficiently tough, intimidating, brutal and corrupt is quickly thrown out (or worse).
Order of the Stone Hammer - most of the demi-human Orders listed here are little known outside of the respective demi-human's homeland, but this Order is an exception, and unique for its inclusion of only dwarves or humans. The Stone Hammer has ancient roots, for it was founded by the brave few warriors who stood to defend Stonewall to the bitter end during the Elemental Wars and the Yetdark. The key requirements are passing a series of arduous tests of strength and stamina (Str. minimum 17, and Con. minimum 16), and spending two years on duty in Stonewall (and only probationary membership) before full admittance. Benefits include a salary of 25 gp/month/level (in gems), and access throughout the Hillgarth Clans. There are currently 18 active members in this Order.
Order of the Timid Maid - The worship of Syphide is frowned upon by most established citizens in the Magedom of Dalmask, and even amongst the disenfranchised her worship is shunned as sign of weakness or passivity. Both her temples and the few worshippers who furtively worship there are targets for sudden and unannounced "tax raids", extortion and worse. Thus, while the this sponsored fighting arm of the Dalmaskian temples is afforded little respect in the community, they are greatly appreciated and well rewarded by the Priesthood. In return for guarding the Temples and escorting the Priests on their duties these trusted warriors are paid 25 gp/level/month, receive free room and board at their assigned Temple as well as a "uniform" of a pale green tabard with Syphide's holy symbol embroidered on it for wearing while on duty, and are not charged for any Healing spells they require for injuries received in the line of duty. Membership is limited to those proven to worship Syphide, and they must also get the approval of both the Order's Captain and the senior Priest of the given Temple.
The Bone Shield - charged with guarding the Magedom of Dalmask's border with the mountains to its north, this is one of very few warrior troops accorded any respect in the magic-heavy Magedom. Various members of the Magedom's ruling elite enjoy having these skilled fighters at their beck and call, and relish "playing" with their "toy soldiers"...not withstanding the fact that the Bone Shield plays an active and important role in securing this potentially monster infested region. Although they put up with a lot of hassles from Angalore, membership is hotly contested as magical items are sometimes offered as pay for the troops. Membership is limited to those positions vacated by death or retirement every year, and settled by three days of tests, contests and battles (sometimes to the death) during the annual Harvest Festival in Snelport to the N.W. of Angalore. Benefits include the aforementioned magical items, a set of personalized field plate, and monthly wages of 35 gp/level/month. Organized into five squadrons of 20 warriors each, one squadron per month rests on a rotational basis while the other four patrol. Each squadron is led by the highest level member, and skilled warriors are spread evenly among the five by agreement of the leaders.
Order of the Full Chalice - a fighting Order sponsored by the Priests to Braccios in the Jade Freehold, many worshippers of other gods scorn them as the "Order full of drunkards". This stems from their propensity for engaging in the worship of Bracchios at all hours, and being very ardent in their support of the revels during holy days. The Braccios Priests support the Order since it frees them from guard duty and patrolling their Temple grounds, and they actually encourage the Order's wild behaviour. This is because it masks the fact that they have amassed a large number of very skilled warriors under their control, and reduces the benefits and wages which they must pay their guardians. Duties and risks to members of the Order are both very small, with limited shifts on duty and the low danger of guarding a popular temple in the Jade Kingdom. To become a member one must be at least 3rd level, of any good alignment, and pass a series of initiation rites. These have evolved over the years, and are quite complex and lengthy (takes over 6 months), but consist of many parties (minimum Con. of 15), brawls (minimum Str. of 15) and gaining the support of more senior members of the Order (minimum Chr. of 12). Benefits are as noted above, plus a monthly salary of 15 gp/level/month, a shield and duty-jerkin with the Order's insignia, and free lodging at one of the guard posts near each temple. Current the Order is fully staffed with 90 members of various levels.
Warriors of the Broken Horn - named after a warrior who gave his life to continue sounding the alert during the Bornuvian assault that began the first war with Ocba, thereby saving countless lives, this elite troop continues to base itself along Ocba's western border. Membership is open only to those of good alignment who have served the Ocban military for at least five years, and are at least fifth level. Selection is based upon a series of tests which require a breadth of non-weapon skills (swimming, riding, etc.) as well as warrior prowess, followed by a vote amongst the current members, with the senior officers having a final veto power. Noted for their skills as light skirmishers, each new member is fitted with a personalized composite long bow and a provided with a trained light war horse. All senior officers of the Order carry an iron-bound and engraved war horn, some of which are known to have magical powers. Other benefits include a +1 reaction bonus from all NPC Ocban citizens and a monthly wage of 20 gp/level/month. As befits light skirmishers the Warriors of the Broken Horn are not organized into formal units other than their senior officers, but are known to number 185 warriors at last count.
Order of the Battle Lord - somewhat put out (although they would never admit it in public) by the Ocean Tribe's matriarchal ways, the church of Kolya in the Ocean Tribes sponsors a very macho all male fighting order. They are all skilled fighters (minimum 4th level), and renown for their tremendous strength (minimum 17). They serve as guards, escorts and frequently perform in mock combats to honour their god (and promote the church) at festivals and tournaments. Benefits include room and board, and a 10 gp/level/month wage, but the biggest incentive is the chance to win prize money at the mock combats.
Order of the Sextile - Lysturge fighting order in Venelland. Known throughout the Geldron peninsula, these warriors are famed for their loyalty and bravery, and are highly respected in their homeland. They are less well loved by the neighboring Magedom, for these Lysturgian "Keepers of the Peace" have often thwarted nefarious Magedom plots. Final selection is done only in the Primate's temple in Lyonir, but applicants may be sent by any Lysturgian Priest. Applicants are tested for skill (min. 3rd level), loyalty (LG/NG/LN alignment - Lysturge worshippers preferred), and intelligence (min. INT 13). They are then assigned to guard troops and based in or near Lysturgian temples throughout Venelland, reporting directly into the Preistly hierarchy at their assigned temple. In times of need, this reporting structure is changed to allow these troops to work directly with the Venellese army. They are well compensated financially (25 gp/lvl/mo.), and receive free room and board, not to mention a +1 reaction bonus from all Venellese NPCs.
Warriors of the Gentle Lady - In a country where generosity for its own sake is often suspect for hidden agendas or a catch, recipients of truly generous gifts are often overwhelmed by the kindness. Such is the case in the Drinen Federation and the Free City of Sogambrium when someone is healed by a priestess to Syphide who risks themselves or asks for nothing but gratitude after giving of their spells. Not uncommonly the recipients of healing are warriors from one or another of the troops of the wealthy families, and they respond (without being prompted) by pledging their skills to their benefactor and her goddess. This is the foundation of the Order which is a fighting arm sponsored by the church. They are not the sole source of protection at any temple, but mingle freely with any hired watch or Priests on guard, basing themselves at whatever temple their benefactor calls home. Entry is voluntary and pay is low, but room and board is always free for these protectors.
Order of the Headless Helm - Skilled fighters who have committed a crime punishable by death in the Kingdom of Cadorna are sometimes given a choice: face the executioner or join this Order until they die or win their freedom. Thus, they have nothing to lose and much to gain, for if they perform adequately in defense of the realm, their death sentence may be commuted. While not revered or even greatly respected, the Order itself has resulted in enough great feats over the years that those wearing its insignia are treated well enough for felons. Useful as shock troops or filling a breech, these fighters have fanatical morale and live as much as they can in any time they may have left on this world. Their forward base is Grant Keep, while many more are "stationed" in a very secure prison/ training centre just outside of Spelock. The only "benefit" to membership is the potential that one's punishment may be commuted, but all 144 current members consider that ample "reward".
Order of the Golden Tower - Braccios fighting order in the Golden Realm of Pelorm. They serve as the innermost and most trusted guards to the main temples and ranking Priesthood. They are expected to remain clear-headed, alert and reliable even during the most unbridled worship. Given the defenseless state of their charges during high holy days, the standards for entry to the Order and gaining Priestly trust are very high, but the rewards are more than ample in the end. Pay is very high, and retirement is fully covered.
Order of the Bear - based out of Thumbar in the Hillgarth Clans, this Dwarvish Order is respected throughout their lands, but considered odd at the same time. They form a sort of cavalry, mounted on specially trained brown bears, and can quickly reply to enemy incursions anywhere in the Clans (see Rapid Response Rider as Dwarvish PC Kit). Membership is through invitation by vote of the Order's senior officers, and usually only extended to Dwarvish fighters of at least sixth level. Dwarvish nobility has been known to recommend a new member, but this is rare. However, unlike some other Dwarvish institutions this Order will accept female members. Benefits include free training on bear riding, and the mount itself. There are 4 divisions of 25 riders each in the Order, with 2 on patrol, 1 on base duty, and the last in reserve/leave at any time.
The Wall of Eyes - usually serving as the Andron Kingdom's roving border warriors, these revered and battle-hardened veterans are actually found across northern Trishore. This is because they believe they can serve their Kings best by seeking out enemies rather than waiting for them to appear. Thus, they gather information, attack supply lines, and infiltrate enemy camps. Warriors of any class are welcome, members being nominated by one of the six senior officers, with final approval being granted by the Kings themselves. Benefits include room and board for up to one week at any military base (castle, keep, etc.) or encampment at any time, and immediate access to any officer or leader of up to double the characters level. Moreover, once per year members may request a light or medium war horse for their personal use, which is then provided at no cost. A salary of 15 gp/level/month is supplied, but it is sufficient for these wide-ranging warriors. There are 228 members currently on the roster of the Order.
Order of the Swift Horse - One of the few non-partisan groups in all of the Denlor Plains, these fast-riding messengers are accorded much the same respect as the ancient Terran Heralds. In effect they are a cross between postmen and Heralds, riding their mounts to carry messages both to the far-flung elements of a family's empire and between the feuding families and their factions. Magic provides faster service, but by age-old custom any message carried by a member of this Order is inviolate and strictly private. Historically, those guilty of breaking this trust are tied between two of the Order's horses and torn apart. Members are paid 25 gp/level/month, gain +2 bonus to all Denlorian NPC reaction rolls, and perhaps most richly, are granted the use of a Denlor League Horse while they are on duty. They must be at least 3rd level and of LG or LN alignment. Moreover, they need to be at least 30 years old, be married and have a family, and (most challengingly) must receive unanimous approval from the top two families in each of the three provinces. Finally, warriors of the "big and burly" type need not apply: members must weigh less than 150 lb. There are presently 32 members.
Order of the Lone Watchman - Endela
Order of the Leafed Bow - all elves revere archery, and none excel in this art more than the members of this Order. Members are based throughout Lithorindinum, and even found wandering Trishore, looking to ensure that elvish lives and interests are protected. Every five years a contest is held near the Ethilfrith Mere, where elvish archers (see Archer as Elvish PC Kit) vie to sever a single gilded needle from a Yew tree from 100 meters away without otherwise touching the tree. Only those successful on the first attempt are eligible for membership. There are but 23 members at this time, and many of them are no longer in their prime.
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