Order of the Veiled Truth

The Order of the Veiled Truth is devoted to Umbra’s teachings of knowledge, wisdom, and justice. Its members are tasked with uncovering hidden truths, ensuring that justice is meted out through fair and balanced consequences, and protecting the secrets of the universe. They are both scholars and judges, using their knowledge of the world’s mysteries to maintain the balance between light and darkness. Their motto is: “From the shadows, truth emerges.”   Temples dedicated to Umbra are often constructed in places where shadows naturally dominate—hidden valleys, mountain caves, or forested clearings. They serve as places of study, where scholars and judges can contemplate, research, and debate the consequences of knowledge. The main temple in Eouma is said to be beneath a city, carved into the stone of the mountains, where natural shadows serve as a reminder of the balance between light and dark.

Structure

  1. The High Inquisitor:
  2. The leader of the order, responsible for guiding its members in both spiritual and practical matters. The High Inquisitor is often an elder figure known for their wisdom, judgment, and deep understanding of Umbra’s teachings. They are seen as a representative of Umbra's will on earth, interpreting signs and guiding the order toward maintaining balance.
  3. Inquisitors:
  4. The Inquisitors serve as the order’s judges and seekers of truth. They travel across the land, uncovering hidden secrets, ensuring that wrongdoers face consequences, and mediating disputes. Inquisitors are well-versed in both law and knowledge, and they are often called upon to settle difficult legal cases or dispense justice in the name of Umbra. Their ability to see through deception makes them formidable in uncovering truths that others might miss.
  5. The Veiled Scholars:
  6. The Veiled Scholars are devoted to the pursuit of knowledge. They work in the temples and libraries of Umbra, studying the ancient texts, documenting the laws of the land, and guarding the hidden knowledge of the universe. Scholars often act as advisors to rulers, sharing their wisdom to ensure that actions are taken with careful thought and understanding of the consequences.
  7. Shadowblades:
  8. The Shadowblades are the warrior branch of the Order, trained in both combat and stealth. Their mission is to act as agents of retribution, silently enforcing the will of Umbra. They are sent to deal with those who evade justice or manipulate the law for personal gain. Shadowblades are feared for their lethal precision and their ability to strike without warning, appearing and disappearing as silently as shadows.
  9. The Initiates:
  10. New members of the order, Initiates undergo rigorous training in law, philosophy, and the art of consequences. They are taught to balance their judgment with wisdom and are expected to uncover at least one hidden truth before they can ascend to full membership in the Order. This often involves a pilgrimage to a site associated with Umbra’s influence or solving a difficult mystery within their community.

Public Agenda

The Order of the Veiled Truth publicly stands as the guardian of justice and knowledge, acting in service to Umbra. Their goals are clear: to ensure that truth prevails, and that justice is delivered fairly and without prejudice. They operate under the belief that every action has consequences, and their primary mission is to uncover hidden truths and hold individuals accountable for their deeds.   The Order serves the kingdom of Eouma by acting as impartial judges and advisors, providing guidance to rulers and ensuring that laws are justly enforced. They believe that true knowledge is often hidden and that understanding the unseen consequences of one’s actions is crucial to maintaining the balance between light and shadow, good and evil, and order and chaos.
  • Upholding justice by ensuring every action, good or ill, meets its rightful consequence.
  • Safeguarding knowledge, protecting ancient texts, and seeking out hidden truths to benefit society.
  • Mediating disputes, both political and personal, to maintain fairness and equality within Eouma.
  • Advising rulers, guiding leaders with their wisdom and knowledge of justice to prevent corruption or imbalance.
  • Dispensing judgment when needed, especially in cases where corruption or deception have hidden the truth.

History

The Order of the Veiled Truth was founded in 287 HE by a group of scholars and judges dedicated to Umbra, the god of knowledge and consequences. The founding was a response to a growing need for an unbiased body that could act independently from the ruling class, ensuring justice and truth remained paramount. The Order’s founders believed that true knowledge, much like shadows, was often hidden and required diligent search and study to reveal.   Today, the Order of the Veiled Truth continues to operate not only in Eouma but also across Tanaria, offering its services to any who seek justice, knowledge, or balance. The Order has maintained its reputation as fair and incorruptible, dedicated to uncovering hidden truths and ensuring that actions have consequences. Its members, whether traveling Inquisitors, warrior Shadowblades, or scholars in distant temples, remain true to their motto: “From the shadows, truth emerges.”

Mythology & Lore

According to Tanarian myth, Umbra was born from the divine essence of Solarius, the god of light, life, and the sun. As Solarius spread his light across the world, shadows emerged where the light could not touch. These shadows coalesced into Umbra, a deity who embodied balance, wisdom, and the consequences of actions. Though born of Solarius’ light, Umbra represents the understanding that knowledge is incomplete without the ability to recognize its impact—every action casts a shadow, and those shadows hold the weight of consequences. The Order of the Veiled Truth teaches that Umbra’s creation symbolizes the necessity of duality—just as light reveals the world, the shadows hide secrets and knowledge that must be uncovered and understood. Umbra is not a deity of darkness as corruption or evil, but rather the one who reminds mortals that truth must often be found in the places most hidden.   The most central myth within the Order is the story of the Veil of Shadows, said to be a gift from Umbra to mortals. In the early days of the world, knowledge was unrestrained, and mortals began to grow arrogant, believing they could understand all things. To teach mortals the value of wisdom and humility, Umbra created the Veil of Shadows—a metaphysical barrier that obscures the deepest truths of the world, hiding them in shadow. The Order of the Veiled Truth teaches that their mission is to help lift this veil, guiding mortals toward understanding the hidden knowledge that lies beyond, while also reminding them that wisdom must be earned, and every truth has its price. The Veil symbolizes the natural limitations of knowledge, and only through the careful study of consequences can it be fully understood.  

The Trials of Umbra

An ancient myth holds that mortals were once subjected to a series of trials by Umbra to prove their understanding of justice and their ability to learn from their actions. The Trials of Umbra are recounted in the holy texts of the Order and are believed to be reflected in the duties of those who follow the god:
  • The Trial of Knowledge: Mortals were given the task of uncovering a hidden truth, but they could only do so by understanding the impact of their actions on others. This trial symbolizes the Order’s pursuit of truth through justice.
  • The Trial of Reflection: Umbra asked mortals to look upon their past actions and see the consequences they had caused, both good and bad. This trial reflects the Order’s core belief that all actions have consequences, and mortals must face them to grow.
  • The Trial of Judgment: Those who passed the first two trials were asked to judge those who had wronged them, balancing mercy with fairness. This symbolizes the inquisitorial role of the Order, seeking justice through thoughtful and deliberate means.
The trials were a reminder that wisdom comes from experience, and that actions—no matter how small—can ripple through the world with unexpected results. Members of the Order often meditate on these trials, using them to guide their decisions as they uncover hidden truths and deliver justice.  

The Prophecy of the Gathering Moon

A prophecy, well-known among the scholars of the Order of the Veiled Truth, foretells a time when Umbriel will shine brighter than Solarius for one night—a celestial event that will mark the arrival of a great reckoning. During this time, all who have avoided justice, twisted knowledge, or hidden the truth will be forced to face their consequences, and Umbra’s chosen will rise to deliver judgment across Tanaria.   This prophecy has shaped much of the Order’s teachings. They believe it is their duty to prepare for this event by guiding mortals toward balance, ensuring that when the Gathering Moon occurs, they are ready to face the full weight of their actions.

Divine Origins

The worship of Umbra, the Shadowed God of Knowledge and Consequences, began as a quiet reverence among early scholars and judges in the kingdom of Kamulos. The origins of the faith are deeply tied to the kingdom's ethos of fairness, balance, and the pursuit of knowledge, but the true teachings of Umbra developed after key historical events that revealed the need for hidden truths to be uncovered and consequences to be enforced.  

The Shadowed Epoch (100–200 HE)

The faith of Umbra began to emerge in the 100s HE, during a time known as the Shadowed Epoch in Kamulos's history. During this period, Kamulos was undergoing rapid expansion and prosperity, but corruption began to take root among its nobility and ruling families. The consequences of unchecked power led to a gradual decline in trust and fairness, with knowledge and justice being obscured by political maneuvering.   At the height of this corruption, the scholars of Kamulos, who had long revered the dual forces of Solarius and Callen (light and creation) and Umbra (shadow and consequence), turned increasingly to the worship of Umbra. They believed that justice had been forgotten and that the kingdom had fallen out of balance with the natural order of light and shadow. These early scholars recognized the need for consequences to be meted out for actions that disrupted the kingdom's unity.   The first sacrosanct rituals of the Order were simple—night vigils where the faithful would meditate under the light of the moon Umbriel, seeking clarity and wisdom in the shadows. These early practices were less formal, but over time, they became more structured as the scholars began to formalize their beliefs and practices.  

The Founding of the Order of the Veiled Truth (287 HE)

In the year 287 HE, a group of scholars and justices—led by a renowned judge known as Elyon the Veilborn—came together to create a formal institution dedicated to uncovering hidden truths and restoring balance to the kingdom of Kamulos. They believed that by embracing the teachings of Umbra, they could prevent the mistakes of the past from happening again.   Elyon and the founding members of the Order of the Veiled Truth set up the first temple, the Crescent Court, which became both a sanctuary for knowledge and a court of justice. The Order drew upon the teachings of Umbra, specifically focusing on his role as the god of consequences and the need for actions to be met with judgment. Over time, the temple became the central hub for uncovering hidden truths, and the Order developed a reputation for being impartial arbiters in the kingdom’s most sensitive disputes.   The rituals, such as the Veil of Consequences and the Silent Oath, were created to reflect the belief that knowledge is power, but it is also dangerous when wielded irresponsibly. Followers of Umbra learned to carefully consider the consequences of their actions and were trained to be guardians of justice.   The worship of Umbra and the creation of the Order of the Veiled Truth emerged in response to a growing need for justice and balance in a time of political corruption and decay in Eouma. From simple night vigils in the Shadowed Epoch, the faith evolved into a powerful force for truth and accountability. As the Order spread its influence across Tanaria, it became a central institution for enforcing consequences and maintaining the balance of light and shadow—not only in Eouma but throughout the continent.

Tenets of Faith

The tenets of faith for the followers of Umbra emphasize the pursuit of truth and knowledge, while recognizing that justice and consequences must be delivered with balance and wisdom. These tenets guide the faithful in their everyday lives, encouraging them to seek knowledge, face the consequences of their actions, and maintain a delicate balance between light and shadow.
  1. All Actions Have Consequences Every action, whether done in the light or in the shadows, must be met with its due consequence. Followers of Umbra believe that no deed goes unnoticed, and justice must always be served. Even good intentions, if executed carelessly, can cause harm and must be accounted for.
  2. “No deed, no matter how small or grand, is free from consequence.”
  3. Truth Lies in Shadows Knowledge is often hidden, and the true nature of the world is veiled in shadows. Followers of Umbra are encouraged to seek out hidden truths, to question what is presented, and to recognize that understanding comes from seeing both the light and the dark.
  4. “Do not take what is seen for truth—seek beyond, for only in shadow is wisdom revealed.”
  5. Justice Must Be Blind The faithful of Umbra must deliver justice impartially, without favor or prejudice. Justice is not about personal gain or vendetta; it is about ensuring balance is maintained. The scales of justice weigh all equally, and no one is above the law.
  6. “Judge with clear eyes and an open heart; let the scales tip only by the weight of truth.”
  7. Seek Knowledge, But Respect Its Weight Knowledge is powerful, but it is also dangerous. The followers of Umbra must seek wisdom and uncover hidden truths, but they must also recognize the consequences of possessing such knowledge. Wisdom must be used responsibly, never for personal gain or to manipulate others.
  8. “The pursuit of knowledge is sacred, but only the wise understand its burden.”
  9. Balance Light and Dark Umbra’s followers recognize that light and dark, truth and shadow, creation and consequence, are all part of a delicate balance. To live in harmony with the teachings of Umbra, one must maintain balance within themselves and in the world around them. Excess in any form leads to imbalance and chaos.
  10. “Do not shun the darkness nor embrace only the light; balance is the path to wisdom and truth.”
  11. Face the Truth, No Matter How Painful One of the core tenets of Umbra’s faith is that truth must be faced, even when it is difficult or painful. Followers are taught to confront their own mistakes, learn from their failures, and understand the consequences of their actions. Avoiding the truth leads to corruption, while embracing it brings growth and wisdom.
  12. “Do not fear the truth, for it is through pain that one learns.”
  13. Protect the Veil, But Know When to Lift It The faithful are guardians of the Veil of Shadows, the metaphorical and mystical barrier that hides the deepest truths of the world. While it is the duty of Umbra’s followers to protect this veil from those who would abuse the knowledge hidden within, they must also know when the time is right to reveal these truths for the greater good.
  14. “Guard the Veil from corruption, but do not hoard knowledge in selfish silence.”
  15. Justice is Not Vengeance The faithful of Umbra understand the difference between justice and vengeance. Justice seeks balance and fairness, while vengeance is driven by personal anger or desire for retribution. Umbra’s followers must ensure they are guided by reason and truth, not by emotional impulses.
  16. “Deliver justice with a clear heart; vengeance serves only itself.”
  17. Consequences Cannot Be Escaped Umbra’s faithful hold that no one can truly escape the consequences of their actions, no matter how far they run or how much they hide. Even the most powerful beings, be they mortal or divine, must answer for their deeds in time.
  18. “In the end, all must face the weight of their actions, for consequence is inescapable.”
  19. Humility Before Knowledge Though followers of Umbra are encouraged to pursue knowledge and truth, they must do so with humility. Arrogance and pride can blind even the wisest, and so every discovery, every truth uncovered, must be approached with reverence for the unknown and an understanding of its consequences.
  20. “Seek knowledge humbly, for even the wisest know that shadows hold more than can ever be known.”

Worship

Rites and Practices

The Veil of Consequences

A ritual in which members of the order meditate on past actions and their outcomes. During the ceremony, the participants don black veils to symbolize their willingness to confront the unknown and uncover the hidden consequences of their actions. The ritual is performed before a major decision or judgment, ensuring that wisdom and clarity guide their choices.  

The Night of Reflection

An annual festival dedicated to Umbra, where followers gather under the light of Umbriel, the moon that Umbra created. During this night, members of the order and the faithful reflect on the consequences of their actions over the past year and ask for guidance for the future. It is a time of introspection and seeking forgiveness, but also a time for celebrating the pursuit of knowledge.  

Judgment of Shadows

A sacred trial held when someone is accused of a grievous crime or treason. The accused must face a panel of Inquisitors who use their insight and knowledge of both the law and the accused’s history to determine the appropriate punishment. These trials are held in the temple's shadowed halls, where truth is believed to reveal itself.  

The Silent Oath

When a member rises to the rank of Inquisitor or Shadowblade, they take the Silent Oath, vowing to uphold the teachings of Umbra and enforce consequences where needed. The oath is taken in complete silence to symbolize their dedication to uncovering truths without pride and executing justice without need for recognition.

Priesthood

The priesthood of the Order of the Veiled Truth is composed of scholars, inquisitors, and judges who have devoted their lives to Umbra's teachings of knowledge, balance, and consequences. These individuals serve as the spiritual guides, arbiters of justice, and guardians of hidden truths for the faithful. The priesthood is distinguished by its commitment to maintaining the delicate balance between light and shadow, ensuring that both the pursuit of knowledge and the delivery of justice remain central to the faith.   Priests in the Order of the Veiled Truth are not chosen based on birthright or wealth but rather through a rigorous process of selection and training. Prospective members must demonstrate not only a commitment to Umbra’s teachings but also a deep understanding of justice, balance, and consequence.   Individuals are often recruited into the Order at a young age if they show a natural inclination toward law, ethics, or philosophical thought. Some are chosen after having undergone significant personal trials or after showing promise in other aspects of Eouma’s justice system. Every initiate undergoes years of training in both scholarly pursuits and spiritual discipline. Their education focuses on the study of law, history, philosophy, and the sacred texts of Umbra, such as the Scrolls of the Veil. They must also pass the Trials of Knowledge and Judgment, which test their ability to maintain balance and their understanding of consequences.   Upon completing their training and trials, initiates are elevated to the rank of Veiled Scholar or Inquisitor depending on their skills and interests. This elevation is a sacred rite, performed under the light of Umbriel, the moon associated with Umbra’s power. During the ceremony, initiates take the Silent Oath, vowing to serve justice and truth without arrogance or personal gain.

Granted Divine Powers

Priests and followers of Umbra are granted a variety of supernatural abilities that align with the god’s domain over knowledge, shadows, and consequences. These powers emphasize the Order’s focus on uncovering hidden truths, delivering justice, and ensuring that consequences follow every action. These abilities can vary in strength depending on the individual’s rank and dedication within the Order.  
  1. Shadow Step
  2. The most common divine power granted to priests and devout followers is the ability to move through shadows. Those blessed by Umbra can slip between areas of darkness, effectively teleporting short distances. This allows them to evade detection, bypass obstacles, or swiftly move to places where they are needed.Effect: The individual can instantly travel between two areas of shadow, up to a certain range. This ability is often used by Inquisitors during investigations or by Shadowblades in combat.
  3. Truthsense
  4. As Umbra is the god of hidden knowledge, those who serve him are often gifted with the ability to discern truth from falsehood. Truthsense allows the faithful to detect lies, deception, or illusions that obscure reality. This power is invaluable for Inquisitors when determining guilt or innocence and for uncovering hidden motives in their judgments.Effect: The individual can sense when someone is lying or when there is an illusion at play, often accompanied by a feeling of unease or a flickering in the vision when deception is near.
  5. Veil of Shadows
  6. Priests and powerful followers of Umbra can call upon the Veil of Shadows to obscure themselves or others from view. This power allows them to become nearly invisible when standing in darkness or shaded areas, blending seamlessly into the shadows. This ability is often used by the priesthood during sacred rituals or by Shadowblades during covert operations.Effect: The individual can become nearly invisible in low-light or shadowy environments, allowing them to remain undetected as long as they remain still or move carefully.
  7. Judgment of Consequence
  8. One of the most feared powers granted to the Inquisitors is the ability to invoke the Judgment of Consequence. By invoking Umbra’s will, an Inquisitor can cause a person to experience the full weight of their past actions, both good and bad. This often manifests as a sudden, overwhelming sense of guilt or remorse, forcing the individual to confront the consequences of their deeds.Effect: The target experiences an overwhelming surge of emotion tied to the consequences of their actions. This power can either cause them to repent or drive them to despair depending on their actions.
  9. Cloak of Midnight
  10. Followers of Umbra can summon a protective cloak of darkness that shields them from harm. The Cloak of Midnight appears as a shimmering veil of shadow that envelops the user, making them harder to hit or injure. This protective power is often called upon during times of great danger or conflict, shielding the priesthood from both physical and magical attacks.Effect: The individual gains a protective shield of shadows, which reduces damage from attacks or makes it harder for enemies to hit them. The cloak can also absorb magic, dispersing energy directed at the wearer.
  11. Memory of the Veil
  12. A more subtle but invaluable power, the Memory of the Veil allows the priesthood to access forgotten knowledge or obscured memories. This gift can be used to recall details that have been deliberately erased or suppressed, both in themselves and others. It is especially useful for Veiled Scholars researching ancient texts or Inquisitors investigating hidden crimes.Effect: The individual can call upon Umbra to uncover forgotten knowledge, restore lost memories, or reveal information that has been hidden or erased, either in themselves or others.
  13. Warding Shadows
  14. Priests of Umbra can summon shadow wards that serve as protective barriers. These wards can be placed around sensitive areas such as temples, courts, or holy sites to prevent entry or alert the priesthood of intruders. The shadows will react to movement, sound, or hostile intent, making them an ideal defensive measure.Effect: The individual can create a warding barrier of shadows that alerts them to the presence of enemies or intruders. The ward can be set to trigger alarms or trap enemies within the shadows.
  15. Shadowmend
  16. Reflecting Umbra’s connection to consequence and balance, followers are granted the ability to use Shadowmend—a form of healing magic that restores the body but leaves behind a reminder of the pain or wounds. Shadowmend can heal injuries, but the individual will always carry the memory or scar of the wound as a reminder of the consequences they have faced.Effect: The individual can heal wounds or alleviate suffering, but the person being healed will carry a lasting scar or sensation of the injury, symbolizing the consequence of their pain.
  17. Eclipse Sight
  18. One of the rarest gifts from Umbra is the ability known as Eclipse Sight. This power allows priests to see through all forms of magical darkness and to peer into the spiritual realm to uncover secrets that others cannot see. Those blessed with Eclipse Sight can see into the past or glimpse hidden forces that influence events.Effect: The individual can see through magical darkness, invisibility, and even illusions. They can also peer into the spiritual realm to uncover secrets hidden from mortal eyes.
  19. Consecration of Shadows
  20. The highest-ranking priests and High Inquisitors are able to invoke the Consecration of Shadows, an incredibly powerful ability that sanctifies a place, object, or person in Umbra’s name. This can be used to bless temples, protect holy sites, or imbue a chosen follower with Umbra’s direct protection. These consecrated shadows provide both blessings and protection, but they also mark the area or person with Umbra’s presence.Effect: The individual can consecrate a location, person, or object, protecting it from corruption, chaos, and dark magic. Those who are consecrated gain Umbra’s favor, making them immune to certain magical effects or granting them increased wisdom and understanding.

Political Influence & Intrigue

The Order of the Veiled Truth, while ostensibly a religious institution dedicated to justice and knowledge, exerts a subtle but profound influence over the political fabric of the kingdoms and organizations it touches—especially in its homeland of Kamulos. The Order’s neutrality and dedication to truth allow it to operate within multiple spheres of power, often making it a power broker or arbiter in political matters.   The Order’s reputation for uncovering hidden truths and ensuring fair consequences makes it a sought-after mediator in political disputes. Leaders from various kingdoms turn to the Inquisitors of the Order to settle feuds, particularly when the parties involved do not trust the local courts or systems of justice. This role gives the Order considerable sway over the outcomes of diplomatic conflicts or inter-kingdom negotiations, as their impartiality is often unquestioned.
  • Example: When two noble houses or kingdoms are in dispute, they may ask for the judgment of an Inquisitor, knowing that the decision will be based on unbiased investigation and the truth, rather than favoritism or political gain.
In regions where the Order of the Veiled Truth is prominent, its teachings often influence the local laws and judicial practices. Rulers and lawmakers consult with the Veiled Scholars to ensure that the laws they pass are just, balanced, and reflect the belief that every action has consequences. The Order’s members may serve as advisors or even as judges in royal courts, shaping the legal systems in ways that align with Umbra’s tenets.
  • Example: In the kingdom of Kamulos, where the Order is most influential, many high-ranking members of the Order serve as advisors to the monarchy. They help draft laws and oversee judicial reforms, ensuring that impartial justice is maintained.
  The Order is a repository of hidden knowledge and secrets—information that many powerful figures seek but fear. By holding such esoteric knowledge, the Order can exert influence without direct confrontation. Rulers or noble families often come to the Order for advice or to seek clarity on sensitive matters, knowing the Order’s members have access to knowledge that could tip the scales of power. This dependency on the Order’s knowledge gives it leverage over political decisions, even in kingdoms where it has no formal authority.
  • Example: A ruler might secretly seek the Order’s assistance in uncovering treachery within their court, knowing the Order’s Truthsense abilities can reveal deceptions that traditional spies cannot. However, this makes the ruler beholden to the Order for both the information and the consequences that might follow.
While the Order publicly disavows involvement in political manipulation, their focus on consequence and balance means that they often intervene when a kingdom or political faction grows too corrupt or imbalanced. By supporting one faction over another—often in subtle ways, such as withholding key knowledge or exposing hidden truths—the Order can shift the balance of power within a kingdom without direct involvement.
  • Example: If a ruler grows tyrannical, the Order may discreetly support a noble faction or rebellion, revealing damning secrets about the ruler’s past actions or orchestrating the exposure of corruption. In doing so, they restore balance without ever directly taking sides.
  One of the Order’s greatest political tools is the fear of exposure. Since the Order is known for its ability to uncover hidden truths and secrets, many powerful figures in politics tread carefully around the Inquisitors and Veiled Scholars, knowing that any misstep or hidden crime could be revealed. This fear often leads to self-regulation among nobles and rulers, who ensure that their actions are balanced and within the bounds of law to avoid the Order’s scrutiny.
  • Example: A noble family seeking to manipulate political rivals might hesitate to engage in deception or corruption if they suspect the Order’s Inquisitors are watching. The mere presence of the Order in the kingdom encourages transparency and honesty out of fear of consequences.

Sects

The Silent Judges

The Silent Judges believe that absolute neutrality and detachment are central to Umbra’s teachings. They hold that justice should be delivered without personal bias, and the Veiled Scholars and Inquisitors should never involve themselves in the political intrigues of the world. They emphasize that the Order’s role is to observe, uncover hidden truths, and pass judgment, but never to directly influence the balance of power.   The Silent Judges are stoic, unwavering in their commitment to impartiality. They prefer to distance themselves from royal courts and political factions, instead focusing on the purity of their role as impartial arbiters. While they are respected for their adherence to the core tenets of neutrality and justice, some within the mainstream faith see the Silent Judges as rigid and inflexible. Others believe that their refusal to engage in political matters may cause them to miss opportunities where the Order could prevent injustice on a larger scale.  

The Shadowed Hands

The Shadowed Hands are the most pragmatic and politically active sect within the Order. They believe that true justice can only be achieved by manipulating the political landscape. The Shadowed Hands do not shy away from engaging in political intrigue and believe that the Order of the Veiled Truth should play a more direct role in guiding kingdoms and rulers toward balance, even if it means taking covert action.   Members of this sect are often seen as shrewd and calculated, willing to do whatever is necessary to ensure that justice prevails. They are experts in espionage, manipulation, and covert diplomacy, and some within the sect believe that shadowy intervention is a necessary evil to prevent greater injustices. The Shadowed Hands are viewed with suspicion by more traditional members of the Order, who believe their willingness to intervene in political affairs contradicts the ideal of neutrality. However, the sect has its supporters, who argue that in a world filled with corruption, the Order cannot afford to be passive.  

The Keepers of Umbriel

The Keepers of Umbriel are a deeply spiritual and esoteric sect that places a greater emphasis on knowledge, mysticism, and the cosmic significance of the moon Umbriel. They believe that Umbra’s true power lies not in justice, but in the revelation of hidden truths. The Keepers focus on uncovering the deepest mysteries of the universe, often turning their attention toward arcane knowledge, prophecy, and divination.   This sect is more scholarly and mystical than others. They often operate in isolation, spending most of their time in temples or hidden sanctuaries, studying ancient texts and interpreting omens. They believe that Umbriel holds the key to uncovering the ultimate truths of the universe. The Keepers of Umbriel are often seen as aloof and detached from the everyday workings of the Order. While their knowledge is respected, many believe they focus too much on cosmic matters and theoretical truths, losing sight of the practical needs of justice in the mortal realm.  

The Wraiths of Umbra

The Wraiths of Umbra are a radical sect that believes that justice must be enforced with absolute finality. They adhere to the belief that no one can escape their consequences, and they take this to an extreme. Wraiths are known for their harsh and often lethal judgments, believing that only through severe punishment can the world be truly balanced. They reject the idea of mercy, holding that forgiveness allows injustice to persist.   The Wraiths are seen as merciless enforcers, often working in secret to hunt down those who have escaped justice. They view themselves as Umbra’s executioners, tasked with bringing ultimate punishment to those who have violated the balance of light and shadow. The Wraiths are considered dangerous and fanatical by the mainstream Order. Many within the Order reject their extremism, arguing that justice should always be tempered with mercy. Though their dedication to Umbra’s ideals is unquestioned, their methods are often condemned as brutal and unforgiving.  

The Crescent Eyes

The Crescent Eyes are a sect focused entirely on surveillance and the gathering of information. They believe that the Order must always be aware of the hidden truths in the world and should act as the silent watchers of society. While they do not actively intervene in politics or deliver justice themselves, they see their role as collectors of knowledge—ensuring that the Order is always equipped with the information it needs to act when necessary.   The Crescent Eyes are stealthy, methodical, and observant. They often operate behind the scenes, using networks of spies, informants, and agents to gather information from across Tanaria. They are seen as the watchful eyes of the Order, ensuring that no secret goes unnoticed. The Crescent Eyes are respected for their dedication to uncovering hidden truths, but they are also viewed with wariness by some within the Order. Their methods—often involving espionage and covert operations—are seen by some as morally grey, though they are highly effective in keeping the Order well-informed.

"From the shadows, truth emerges."

Founding Date
287 HE
Type
Religious, Holy Order
Alternative Names
The Crescent Court, Umbra’s Inquisitors
Demonym
Veilborn
Deities
Divines
Related Professions
Notable Members

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