Human spiritual beliefs are most interesting in that they have evolved into charitable orders with close ties to the monarchy. Each of these three orders serves the spiritual needs of its people while also providing important social support. They are autonomous groups, although they must still answer to the king on matters that involve government. There is an unspoken pact of support between the three orders, as well.
Human male
The White Order is most prevalent in the eastern territory of Larocia where its members promote health and well being among the populace. It is their mandate to provide food, clothing and shelter to those who are unable to provide for themselves. The poor and destitute often flock to White Order churches where they are fed and treated for sickness by the presiding clergy. Priests of the White Order preach kindness and mercy to all who need it and, because of this, they are often viewed as pacifists. Such is not the case. While they will usually seek non-violent solutions, they are also trained to defend themselves and their flock from harm. White Order priests are known to display selfless and unmatched fury in the defense of the weak.
The Blue Order is an order of knights who collectively keep the peace in the human kingdom. As the most rigidly structured of the three human orders, the Blue Order both enforces the law and serves as a standing army. Its doctrine dictates many knightly virtues, including martial strength and honour, protection of the weak, and obedience to the law and to those of superior rank. Blue Order priests generally have a strong sense of duty and are taught to earn the respect of those under their jurisdiction. It is considered part of their duty to always provide a positive example for the people but when the law is broken, they waste little time in apprehending the offender by force if necessary. Upper ranking officers of the Blue Order serve as judges, as well, and are responsible for declaring outlaws whenever necessary. |
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The Red Order deals mainly with education and entertainment and operates under a very loose internal code. Its members prefer to remain free and unlimited by an overabundance of rules and regulations for fear of stunting the ever-important creative energy they revere. Red Order priests are often teachers, historians and artists who value the preservation of knowledge above all else. Many bards count themselves as part of the order, as well. While Red Order priests can be found teaching in libraries or schools, many of them also opt for a life of travel. By moving from place to place, they collect and share a great deal of news and information. Through these travelling members of the Red Order, citizens of Larocia can send letters to one another and keep in touch over great distances. Aside from education, the Red Order also provides entertainment for the masses. Troupes of high-profile Order performers host festivals on official holidays. Smaller, less well-known groups tend to travel from place to place, performing shows for a nominal fee.
Human female
The three orders have existed for many centuries and have developed into a fairly efficient government support system. It is not uncommon to find appointed officials from any of the three churches serving in the king's court as well. Their connection to the people comes through work and direct association rather than the heavy doctrine that can be found in some other belief systems. In this case, the interdependence of church and state has strengthened both for the good of the entire human territory.
- Kitterwen, Chief Historian of Ignilly University |
