Brotherhood of the Sundered Shield
Many of the people of the Twin Worlds have a great deal of respect for holy warriors, such as the Order of the Steel Heart in service to Colrum. They often see them as champions of goodness and light, even in those moments when they fall short of these lofty ideals.
The worshippers of Selai, goddess of valor, rarely fall short, however. They are held to a very high standard, sworn to courage, nobility, and compassion. Among the paladins and priests that serve her is the Brotherhood of the Sundered Shield, an order often hailed as heroes across Amaun.
Structure
The Brotherhood of the Sundered Shield is a very organized fighting force. It is similar to a military in its rank structure. The lowest of the rank structure are simply referred to as Brothers or Sisters. Most are priests or paladins, but some are simply warriors who serve through force of arms alone.
As the order's members gain experience and skill, they can be promoted to the rank of Knight-Sergeant. These people lead divisions, that are effectively units in name only. They are typically made up of individuals that go on their own quests and embed themselves in military units and adventuring parties.
These divisions are grouped together into chapters led by Knight-Captians. There are only seven of these chapters based in different regions of Vald. These are nearly independent entities that work towards their own ends, although they never work at cross purposes even despite political boundaries.
The entire faith is led by a single Knight-Champion. This person is elected by the Knight-Captians, and serves almost more like a mentor than a military commander. His role is to guide others in the service of Selai. While traditionally the Knight-Champion is a lifetime position, they rarely serve for life, instead stepping down when they are no longer fit to fight.
History
While Selai has had followers throughout the history of the Twin Worlds at least as far back as the days of the Ancient Elven Empire, the founding of the Brotherhood of the Sundered Shield is a relatively recent event. Before this, most Selaians were actually a part of the military units they served with.
These worshippers became more coordinated during the Third Rising, closing ranks aid those endeavoring to stop the mind flayers. They did not manage to fight the Overbrain, but they did manage to save many lives until Larrison and Avela Darkwood were able to strike the killing blow.
After the Rising was ended, the Selaians saw the benefit of cooperation, founding the Brotherhood. From there, they have carried on much the same as the Selaians of old. They have helped others in their battles, keeping them safe, but not fighting battles of their own.
Tenets of Faith
The people of the Brotherhood are sworn protectors, guardians of the innocent and protectors of those that protect others. This is effectively the very purpose of their being, and they take this role very seriously. The Selaians would rather die, themselves than allow others to come to harm.
They are protectors of life, itself as well, ensuring that violence doesn't spread too far or to too many that don't deserve it. This can even sometimes include their enemies. They do not kill lightly, or without cause. Doing so is considered to be nothing less than a sin against Selai.
Worship
Many of the most important Selaian rites are performed on the eve of battle. These are prayers meant to encourage Selai to watch over warriors before battle. Even when divine magic is not involved, the effect on troops' morale is undeniable. As such, Selaian chaplains are in high demand among armies.
There are also rituals involved regarding protection. As a guardian accepts someone as their charge, these rituals formalize the occasion. Many of these services also double as weddings. As rituals celebrating guardianship and love, these prayers invoke Eariden, goddess of love as well as Selai.
Priesthood
The membership of the Brotherhood of the Sundered Shield is surprisingly inclusive for an order of such vitue. Recruits can come from rich or poor families. Even criminals are offered forgiveness in exchange for faithful service, so long as their desire for redemption is an honest one.
The life as a Brother of the Sundered Shield is famously a hard and selfless one. Due to the incredible commitment involved, those who join tend to be very dedicated. Many easily have the faith required to become priests and paladins. Still, even those who only bear arms are given the same honor and opportunities as those who wield divine power.
