Iron Angels
Among the Qoatl, it is believed that the gods, and Vespis in particular, sometimes act upon the world indirectly through messengers and spiritual guides. Dubbed 'Angels', these beings were believed to intercede in matters where mortals needed them most, whether they knew it or not. Inspired by these beliefs, a charitable organization was set up, known as Los ángeles de Ixa, or "Ixa's Angels". On behalf of their goddess of truth, they served as intermediaries between any parties who might need them. Warring nations, feuding houses, even between the two halves of the world. During their early years, they found themselves drawn to do more than simply carry messages, particularly when their flights took them over battlefields or deadly regions of the world. The leadership of the Angels believed that it was their duty to remain utterly apart from the world, serving it only in their singular capacity as carriers of words and truth. Others felt differently.
The schism that formed among the angels was a messy one, which shattered their once-holy order into a number of disparate groups, each with their own permutations of the original goals they'd begun with. One group, called 'bleeding hearts' and 'hopelessly naive', saw a brighter path for the Angels. One of truth and words, yes, but also of compassion and aid for those in need, whatever need that might be.
Shortly after this branch of the Angels began operation, their focus shifted almost entirely from being messengers to being medics, as their chosen home base was quite close to several islands that were constantly warred over by the humans of Stirge and Duwallen. Word spread quickly among both armies about their medical skills and selflessness, and the Angels were quickly recognized officially as non-combatants by both sides. So long as they never took sides, they would be allowed to do as they wished on the battlefield, even if it was to come to the aid of wounded enemy soldiers. And much to the surprise of the Angels themselves, this also began to earn them volunteers.
Today, members of any sapient species are allowed to aid the cause. Workmen on-site craft a personalized set of metal wings for everyone who passes a number of competency tests, marking them as part of the organization and allowing them to keep up with their Qoatl comrades. These wings have earned the entire order their modern name: The Iron Angels.
Structure
The Iron Angels operate without tiers or ranks. While veteran members are frequently leaned on for training and organizational purposes, anyone who passes the tests to become an Angel is trusted to be able to forge their own path, whether that mean finding people in need of their own accord or assisting their brothers and sisters.
Public Agenda
Though they do officially maintain their roles as messengers, the Iron Angles are primarily medics these days, and combat-trained medics at that. During armed conflicts, they will watch and wait from the periphery, swooping in when hostilities cease to offer their services to any wounded folk who have been missed or left behind by their fellows. In times of peace, some will instead loan themselves out to hospitals or clinics throughout the world, while others roam the countryside, eyes peels for travelers or adventurers in need of a helping hand.
Assets
On top of basic medical supplies, all Angels are supplied a pair of enchanted wings to allow them to fly alongside any naturally-winged allies, with those already gifted with flight generally being offered armor or the like so as not to leave them wanting. Those operating on battlefields or in dangerous regions will often be granted a sidearm or other small weapon, but individuals are free to refuse to carry a weapon or acquire one of their own as they see fit.
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