Order of Helm
Though the Order of Helm (sometimes referred to as "The Order") is an old organization, it is not a large one. There are several monasteries scattered throughout Volinov Republic and Galvania. The Grand Master of Galvania resides in the retreat at Long Reach. Though considered a single order, each monastery governs themselves with near autonomy. The Order is devoted to living lives separate from from the general populace where they can focus on their studies.
Not much is known about the Order of the Helm. Indeed the average person may not even know of their existence. There remote heavens are out of the way, if not altogether difficult to get to. The members study religious texts, martial arts, and fine arts. Every monastery is thought to have a library rich with ancient texts which are well maintained and probably the only draw for those unrelated to the order; though access is restricted to only the most prestigious of visitors.
The membership is eclectic mixture of races, even for The Galvanias. Most new members are orphaned children brought into the fold at a very young age.
Tenets of Faith
The Order of Helm practices strict adherence to the pursuit of wisdom while training in skills that could be used to protect the common people. This includes relentless practicing of martial arts, but also the study of texts to increase wisdom of Helmians. A major belief is that a person's level of power must always be matched by the person's depth of wisdom. It is believed that those who seek power but not wisdom will inevitably be corrupted and their works will lead only to destruction. The level of their martial power is largely unknown as they make a point not to display their power outside the monasteries' walls. Their pursuit of wisdom, however, leads them to producing elaborate works of art which are sometimes sold to nobleman at a great price. Also, the fact they have existed for as long as anyone can remember without conflict with those around them shows their wisdom of itself.
Ethics
If one were to travel to one of the remote mountain villages that hosts a nearby abbey of The Order, as I have, and ask the villagers what they think of the Order, they would here no ill word spoken of the members. Instead you will hear various stories of how the monks and nuns have aided the village during a particularly severe winter, or donated a considerable amount to someone who had their barn burned down. I suppose it's fair to say the monastic is viewed as a boon for those who live nearby.
Granted Divine Powers
It is said many in the Order of Helm possess great divine power in line with that of their namesake. The long peace that the lands have enjoyed these past several hundred years has washed away any specific knowledge of what some in the Order may be capable of from all but the most well versed scholar.
Political Influence & Intrigue
It would appear the Order exist without conflict with the major political and religious powers that it is surrounded by. They make no attempt to rule anything other than their own small properties. The Church of Life seems to view The Order respect, and Queen Aurdra has ordered them to be treated with the rights of an official religion of the land.
Comments