History and Practices

It is said that none but the Lord Protector of the Blood Red Rose knows how the Order began. Some say it was founded by three siblings who wished for justice in their world and started the three Orders. Others say the Rose are the remnants of an ancient kingdom lost to war and corruption. All agree that they have been around for a very, very long time.

No matter its beginnings, the Blood Red Rose has been known since time immemorial as a force for good in a dark and unfair world. The Rose can be found wandering Arthos as Knights-Errant, or stationed in small towns and major cities. Members of the Rose believe in one thing: the protection of those that cannot protect themselves. They act as the guardians of humble farmers and labourers against governments or forces that would oppress or abuse them. This help comes in a variety of forms. The Rose may act as the peasants’ representative on local government councils to ensure their needs are being met, or take arms to defend them against all that would wish them harm. In travelling the continent, it is not uncommon to see a Knight bearing the Rose upon their tabard, in full heraldry and armament, plowing fields, tending to livestock, or standing vigil outside a farmhouse. The same can be said for towns and cities, where Knights will create a local chapter house and attend court, silent save where it comes to the needs of the people.

Adventurers often hear members of the Rose speak of the safety and treatment of ‘the People’ and ‘the Innocent’ and are surprised when a Knight stands by and offers no help when a fight breaks out. The Rose protects those who have not devoted their life to adventure, treasure and glory. They are the caretakers of those who spend their lives providing food for tables, miners who never see the light of day, tradesfolk who craft essential tools, and so on; people who are taken for granted, and without which civilisation would crumble. The Rose believes that when you don armour and take up the sword to stake a claim in the world, you must be capable of defending of yourself. There are exceptions, of course. It is not unknown for Knights to provide supplies and wisdom to those setting off for the first time to make their mark on the world.

One of the biggest misconceptions about the Rose is that it is part of the Church of Light. It is, in fact, a secular organization. The Rose operates not to appease the Gods or Dragons but to bring goodness and hope into the world. Members come from all walks of life, united by the desire to make life better for the weak. These beliefs are similar to the tenets of some Gods and Dragons; worshippers of Roland and followers of Tezoth, for example, are common within the Order’s ranks. The Rose is one of the few places where one might find followers of the Light and the Draconic working in near harmony. In the end, recruitment is based on merit and character, not Divine or Draconic ambition.

Geography

The Rose is everywhere – though it is not always welcome. The Blood Red Rose operates out of “Chapter Houses” found in many cities and towns across the continent. Their most active presence, though not their home, is in the Kingdom of Tiefanue and the newly formed White Raven Alliance, where they share many goals with the Church of Light and help in the fight against the Undead. These lands, however, are not those the Rose calls home.

In the year 2058, the Rose was based in a vast and fertile region to the south of Mjoll, known as the Bastion. The Bastion was renowned for its elegant architecture and peaceful, prosperous peoples. At the height of its glory, overseen by the Lord Protector and Knight-Commanders, it was known to be a land of knowledge and unparalleled equality for all. This came to an end with the arrival of the Church of Darkness in the year 2065.

During a particularly long drought in the summer of 2065, the armies of Daelrion entered the lands of the Bastion without warning. In a few short weeks all the farmland had been put to the torch and the once fertile fields salted. Untold thousands of peasants were slain or driven from their fields. Despite the efforts of the Knights and the remaining peasant militia, they were eventually pushed back into the Bastion fortress itself. There they endured a siege lasting two full years. Though well versed in the art of siegecraft themselves, and ever diligent in keeping their granaries full, the Bastion was doomed to fall.

To this day, there are still surviving members of the Rose who remember those terrible days, and are loath to speak of them. What little can be gleaned is that the Lord Protector unleashed unknown magics in one final gamble to save the Rose. When the gates of the fortress were finally thrown open and the last portcullis pulled from its moorings, the Church of Darkness and its Generals of Daelrion marched into empty halls. Not a single soul was to be found.

The Order of the Rose had been decimated, but not destroyed. How the meagre handfuls of the Rose escaped remains unknown to this day, and none of the survivors are shedding any light on the matter.

Decades later, a new Bastion has been built, far to the west of Mjoll in the dense mountain terrain. Its exact location is kept secret to those who have not obtained Knighthood within the Order. Gone are the gleaming towers and masterful architecture that the great fastness was once known for. In its place is a fortress of unrelenting stone and steel where Knights continue to train and the Knight-Commanders keep vigil over the world at large. The Lord Protector lives in the Bastion, never venturing out – at least as far as outsiders are aware

Rules, Law & Conduct

In order to maintain the trust of the people and ensure their integrity, members of the Rose are required to swear an oath for life upon becoming a Knight and make numerous vows which govern their behaviour. Only those who abide by these oaths and vows can be considered worthy of the people’s faith and trust. Aspirants are not required to swear these vows until they receive their Knighthood, but are expected to act in a way befitting a Knight of the Rose at all times.

The Vows of the Rose

Vow of Service

As a Knight of the Order, I pledge my sword, my shield, and my life to the Blood Red Rose. My brother and sister Knights shall be as blood kin and their families as mine to protect and assist when called upon. I swear my loyalty to the Knight-Commanders and the Lord Protector for as long as life is granted to me. Though I may travel far from the sight of home and hearth, ever shall the Blood Red Rose and the Bastion hold my fealty.

Vow of Duty

I swear to ever defend the common folk; the labourers and farmers, the poor and forgotten, those who cannot defend themselves. When those that would be leaders claim rulership over the peasantry, I shall stand with the people as their strong sword arm, ever vigilant shield, and voice to rise above all others. Ever shall I heed the Order of the Rose, serving where they will. Should no directive be given, I will seek out those oppressed folk of Arthos to grant freedom and prosperity.

Vow of Honour

I shall be a Knight all other Knights seek to emulate. In honour I will be without peer, in dedication to duty unmatched. I shall not partake in drink to excess, so I may remain ever vigilant. I shall never gamble in goods or coin, for there are ever those who live without. I will not hoard or collect conspicuous wealth; there are always low folk whose life I may improve. I shall be humble and courteous wherever I go, not boasting or talking overmuch, but neither shall I be silent altogether. Should I fall into the company of those who speak with disrespect of goodness, I will show with gracious words that it pleaseth me not, and depart.

Vow of Purity

Ever shall I stand against corruption and the darkness of evil. I shall protect the people from the dangers of the Undead, Demonic, and Dark. Neither shall I seek the aid of such, nor abide its usage upon my person or others of the Order. But should the peoples I would protect place their faith or devotion in the dark gods or evil dragons, either by culture, heritage, or choice, still will I defend them from oppression. Never shall we be tyrants.

Vow of Good Will

My fealty and allegiance is ever and only to the Blood Red Rose. In my travels to other lands and Kingdoms, I will stand in accordance with local law and respect the local leaders, in so far as they are fair, just, and keep the needs of the peasants foremost in their hearts. Upon entering the lands of another, I will present myself to the government with all due haste, and assure that whilst partaking in their hospitality, will behave in ways befitting my station. My intentions in their land will be announced in all honesty, devoid of obfuscation or hidden agenda. Should the government be ignorant of the ways of the Order, I will tell them of our ways and doctrines. I will declare my intent to stay within their lands to aid the peasantry, but am unable to swear allegiance or fealty as I have sworn a life-oath to the Order. Should my reception be cordial, I will vow to behave as a citizen with all the responsibilities required, but will not violate my vows and oath to the Blood Red Rose. I will accept no position of authority, control, or leadership, if asked or demanded by popular acclaim, to ever ensure my devotion to the people. To this government I may only serve as an advisor, if requested, but accept no wage or remuneration.

Vow of Protection

Should I reside as a visitor in a land where a government or ruling body lays claim, or should I be travelling abroad on errands and duties of the Order, I will always be prepared to answer the call of the Knight-Commanders and Lord Protector to muster to action, regardless of location or convenience. Should the land I reside in be deemed by the Knight-Commanders or Lord Protector to be tyrannical and oppressive, or otherwise dangerous to the peasantry, I will assemble with my fellow Knights and prepare for any actions deemed necessary by the Order of the Rose. I will remain in compliance with the local laws, so long as they do not impede my sacred vows or endanger the peasantry. In the event that the Blood Red Rose chooses to intervene in local governance, I and my fellow Knights will inform the low folk and prepare for the coming conflict.

Vow of Unity

Should it be determined that a Knight of the Blood Red Rose has broken their vows or life-oath to the Order, the Knight-Commanders and Lord Protector will declare them Withered, and enemy of the Rose. In such an event, I will devote all my energies to the capture of the disgraced rogue, wherever they may be, and return them to the Bastion for judgement. The Order of the Rose may also pass summary judgement on the individual and empower Knights to deliver the rogue to their Final Death.

Organization

Heraldry

The Blood Red Rose is heralded by a red triangle bisected by a red rose. This symbol is recognised across Arthos, though many are unaware of its origin and meaning. The three sides of the triangle represent the three Orders of the Blood Red Rose: the Shield, the Sword, and the Rose. The story has it that the Lord Protector of the Order once came across a field of white roses that has been stained crimson with the blood of peasants and swore never to permit such atrocity again; from this the symbol was born.

Orders

The Blood Red Rose is broken down into three Orders. Based on their skills, Knights select either the Order of the Shield or the Order of the Sword. The Order of the Rose is filled exclusively by the leadership of the Blood Red Rose.

The Shield

Knights that choose to follow the Shield are the diplomats of the Rose. Often found within cities and small towns, they serve as the voice and will of the peasantry. They forever advocate for the safety and prosperity of the people, and often serve as advisors to local government.

The Sword

Followers of the Order of the Sword are the militant branch of the Rose. They serve as the physical defense of the people and view their protection as a sacred duty. When the weak are threatened, they respond in force. As the Sword leans towards more aggressive personalities, they are often found in encampments outside of towns and cities, ever training and patrolling.

The Rose

The Order of the Rose is composed of 14 Knight-Commanders. Rarely seen, they assess risks to the populace and dispatch Knights accordingly. The arrival of a Knight-Commander is almost universally seen as a bad omen, as they only appear in times of great need.

Recruitment

Recruitment into the Rose is highly selective. The individual must meet exacting moral and ethical criteria, and be aware of the great sacrifices that must be made. A person may be recruited in one of two ways.

The most common, but arguably the more difficult, is to petition a Knight to be trained in the ways of the Order. Should the Knight know this individual well and believe that they represent the ideals of the Rose, it is possible that they will accept the aspirant as a Page immediately. Far more likely, however, is that Knight will inform the newcomer that they must enter a period of testing: the Trial of Acclaim.

Whether or not the applicant accepts this trial, the petitioned Knight will begin a period of observing the individual and speaking with others regarding them. They will watch to see how they interact with the citizenry, what noble deeds they perform, and if the people feel they are a trustworthy and noble sort. Ultimately it is up to the Knight to decide how long this trial will last. Stories of the first trial range from days to years. It is as much a test of devotion as it is a test of character.

Regarding Oaths, Religion & Devotion

The Blood Red Rose draws members from many different walks of life. From the lowliest of peasants to the most seasoned adventurers, they all have the same goal: to protect the weak and innocent. But for many, having to forswear their old oaths is an impossible task, for a variety of reasons. Many different races and cultures view oath-breaking as an unforgivable offense, punishable by death. The most common example of this is found in the Einher. Few other races value a person’s word and oath more than the Einher, and to break a sworn oath to a Jarl would just as soon have your head removed from your shoulders.

An even more dangerous situation exists: worship of the divine and devotion to the dragons. Neither seeking the favour of a patron Deity or Dragon, nor already having been granted said favour, is a situation to be taken lightly. There have been many times in the past where an aspirant wished to join the Order, but feared the wrath and retribution of the God or Dragon to whom they swore fealty.

The Order often makes concessions for such situations. To achieve Knighthood, one must swear the seven sacred vows and the life-oath to the Rose. This does not, however, mean that they cannot still honour oaths they have already made. One may still be a member of Rose, but be sworn to a Jarl to defend home and country. A devotee of Ll’yandra may never put anyone before their tribe or their woods, so it would behove them seek a station near Elven settlements or amongst the woods. The Rose would never ask a follower of Sybil to remain in a single spot, away from the wilds; they would far better serve as a Knight-Errant, following the tenets of their God but also upholding their Oath to the Rose.

In the end, the Blood Red Rose does not judge one’s capacity as a Knight hopeful by what sphere of magic their God or Dragon gives them, or the oaths they have sworn to kinsfolk and country. Aspirants are judged by their actions and devotion to the peasantry of the world in accordance with the seven vows, to which a Knight of the Rose must swear their life.

Retirement

In a world where life can be cheap and cruel, few Knights will live to see old age. For those few who endure the endless dangers and hardships of being a protector of the People, there is the Final Vow.

While the Blood Red Rose is composed of many different races and peoples, sooner or later even the strongest and most dutiful grow weary and old. It is at this time that the most rare of occurrences will take place. A Knight-Commander will arrive at the dwelling of the Knight, providing him or her with a set of plain, durable clothing and a homespun white tabard, devoid of symbol or heraldry. Together they will walk the lands that the Knight has protected, and then slowly they will turn north and head towards the ancestral home of the Rose – the Bastion.

Along their journey, word will spread amongst the Rose that a Knight is preparing to give his Final Vow and is heading home for the last time. In an organization such as the Blood Red Rose, seen by many as stoic and austere, what happens on this journey might seem surprising to an outside observer. Chance meetings of Knights on the roads or unexpected guests, bearing the heraldry of the Rose, arrive late in the night, joining the small fire and humble meal. Fellow members of the Order will seek them out and act as both an honour guard and a troupe of companions for their celebrated comrade. Over the days and weeks as the Rose marches home, the retinue will grow, now resembling a host of battleworn warriors returning from the field of battle. But amongst them there is not a demeanour of military austerity, but light-hearted companionship. All through the days they will talk of old adventures, good deeds done, people met, and adventures had. Late into the night they will gather around a large bonfire, drinking humble wine and beer but, as always, not to excess. For the Knight taking the Final Vow, it is an unparalleled honour, for it is a wonderful thing to be amongst comrades in arms, not marching to war and death, but celebrating a life lived in devotion to others.

At the journey’s end, the parade of Knights will be met by the Knight-Commanders at the gates of the Bastion and the group will disperse, returning to the lands they call home. The retiring Knight will then be lead by the Knight-Commanders to the inner sanctum of the Lord Protector, deep within the fortress. There they will all share a humble meal, and at its conclusion the Lord Protector will speak.

What is said differs for each Knight. The Lord Protector informs the Knight that a plot of land will be purchased in any Kingdom or Territory that the Rose holds a chapter. There they may live out the remainder of their life in the fashion of those they swore to protect – a farmer, a labourer, a peasant. From humble origins they came, and so they shall return. In exchange for being released from the life-oath of service, the Knight must swear the Final Vow.

It is a powerful contrast from the ceremony and prestige experienced on the trek to the Bastion. Once concluded, the released Knight is given ample supply and coin to return to the new place they will call home, and escorted from the Bastion.

The transition from the life of a Knight to that of a peasant is never the same for anyone. To some, the quiet life of a farmer is paradise, for they have seen the worst the world can offer them; violence, tyranny, oppression. But even a retired Knight of the Rose is a potent force to be reckoned with. Should you find yourself in a quiet tavern one day, and above the mantel hangs a well kept sword or shield, bearing the faded insignia of the Blood Red Rose, know that you are in the company of one who has devoted their existence to the service of the people, in a world where life is cheap and cruel… and lived to tell the tale.

The Final Vow

In life I have sworn my service to my fellow Knights, and my duty to the Order of the Blood Red Rose. I have sworn to be honourable and pure in action, deed, and all things. I have sworn my good will to those around me, and sworn protection to the weak and helpless. I have sworn my unity to my brother and sister Knights unto death.

Before the Lord Protector of the Blood Red Rose, I stand released of my duties and Knighthood, and shall return to live among the people I have protected. But in this I swear my Final Vow.

I swear I shall forever lay down my arms, save in defense of life and family, and embrace a life of peace. I shall no longer don the heraldry of the Blood Red Rose. I shall wear my bare tabard with pride, knowing my vigil is now ended. Yet even unto my death shall I remain a beacon of honour and purity, holding the ideals of freedom and kindness above all else, and stand as a symbol of everlasting defiance against the darkness.

Even as I swear this vow, I know that my life-oath has not ended. Should the day come that unstoppable evil arises and chaos threatens to bring death to all we hold dear, I shall unsheath my sword, fasten my shield, bear again the sacred Rose of the Order, and await the call of the Lord Protector.

To this, my final and greatest vow, I swear now and forever.

Ranks

Page

Should a petitioner be acceptable as a Page by a Knight, their education will begin in earnest, though they are not yet considered a full member of the Order. A Page is expected to accompany their sponsoring Knight on all errands for the Rose, be they as humble as assisting in the plowing of fields, or removing an enemy presence. The Page will frequently be tested on their knowledge of what has been passed along, or asked for suggestions on how a situation should be handled.

A Page does not have the authority to speak on behalf of the Blood Red Rose in any capacity, but should not be shy in making it known that they are seeking membership and act accordingly. At this point they have not been granted permission to wear the vestments of the Order.

In many ways, being a Page is a continued test of devotion, but also an opportunity to put the affairs of their old life in order. While they are still permitted to hold a civic position, such as a town guard, they are forbidden from holding any position of authority, leadership or rule. In this fashion does the Page begin separate themselves as a part of local government and rulership and embrace becoming a true servant of the people.

Squire

There is no pomp or ceremony once a Page is elevated to a Squire. Their petitioned Knight will present them with the tabard of the Order and declare them a Squire and full member of the Blood Red Rose. While they may assist a Knight in educating a Page, they may not yet take on a Page of their own. A Squire may hold no position within the area they live or accompany their patron Knight to.

The responsibilities of a Squire can be daunting. While still expected to accompany the Knight that gave them station, they are expected to begin working independently and to use their own judgement. They will often be tasked with watching over a specific farm or family and ensuring their safety and stability. Squires often work as scouts for the Knights at large, seeking out the weak and oppressed and reporting back when matters are too grave for them to handle on their own. Squires will also be expected to attend any meetings of the Rose, to improve their understanding of how the Order functions in the world at large.

The Squire will also be expected to begin deciding which Order in the Rose to join: The Shield or the Sword. While there is no difference in command structure, it will dictate the expectations on them should they achieve the status of Knight. It is also the individual’s last opportunity to freely leave the Rose without consequence.

There is no guarantee that a Squire will reach the rank of Knighthood. It is a long and arduous journey in which they must become a true exemplar of the Order of the Blood Red Rose. As with much in the Rose, there is little ostentatious ceremony to this elevation. A Squire may only be elevated by the agreement of two Knights. Tales of deed and merit will be shared between them, and a decision will be reached. Should the Squire be considered a true boon to the low folk of the world, they will swear the Oath of the Blood Red Rose. Should the Oath be taken, a Shield or Sword will be presented to the newly Knighted individual. On it will be inscribed the Knight’s name and deeds worthy of memory.

Knight

A Knight of the Blood Red Rose is given great freedom in their quests and duties. They may choose to wander the world as a Knight-Errant, pick an area to survey and stand guard over, or accept a placement from the leadership of the Rose and remain stationed. Having been given the title of Knight, the Rose confers faith in their judgements and actions, and as such a Knight may train Pages and hold up to three Squires.

A Knight is expected to be personally responsible for the safety and well-being of the peasantry, which can often cause friction with local governments. That is not to say the Knight serves as a ruler with authority, but as one that watches over the people as a tireless guardian, keeping them safe from oppression and tyranny, and serving as their voice when they go unheard. In this, the Order of the Shield and the Sword differ in practice.

Knights of the Shield are often found living within towns and cities. Though prohibited from holding any position of civil authority, in ideal circumstances they serve as advisors to the local leadership. It is expected of a Knight of the Shield to be diplomatic and level headed at all times, bringing the needs and fears of the people to the ears of the government. They assist in the day to day needs of their stationed lands, but make it no secret that they only truly serve the welfare of those that cannot defend themselves.

Another duty of the Shield is to gather resources in times of need and ensure the peasantry are as well supplied as possible. Should war break out and supplies be diminished, they will sell the clothes off their back to ensure that a family doesn’t go hungry. Though not as militant as the Sword, a Knight of the Shield should always be prepared to take in the wounded or provide shelter and assistance to those in need.

A Knight of the Sword is far more militaristic in deed and presentation. When stationed to a particular area, they will typically set up a heavily fortified camp on the outskirts of towns or cities and, by and large, keep away from the politics the Shield embraces. They and their Squires will constantly patrol the more rural areas where the farmers and labourers take up residence. Should events of great danger and upheaval occur, such as the dark nights of All Hallows, the encampments of the Sword will open to the peasantry. Food, shelter and safety will be provided and, if needed, the Knights will defend the people to their dying breath. Many are the tales told in Arthos of a lone Knight standing alone amid the corpses of monsters to save a single family.

The Sword also serves another more drastic function. Should the diplomacy of the Shield fail and the people be in true danger from their leaders, the Sword will intervene. Depending on the situation, the Sword and Shield will work together and rally the people against their leaders. The most common solution is for the Sword to supply the people and begin rigorous combat training. Rough weave and pitchforks will be replaced with hardened leather and sharpened steel. Within a few days, all food and goods production for nearby towns will have stopped, and a peasant militia will form. At this point even the most stubborn of leaders will usually be open to more civil discussion. A city is nothing without those that feed it, and when starvation sets in even the adventuring citizens will quickly turn on those that would govern with no heed to those that feed and clothe them.

In the most dire circumstances, the Order will gather in full force under the leadership of the Knight-Commanders and remove unfit rulers from power. Overnight, farms and workshops will be abandoned and the Rose will evacuate the peasantry to safer lands. History remembers many times when the morning sun brought hundreds, if not thousands, of Knights proudly bearing the Rose on their chest to stand side by side with the peasants, now outfitted for battle – and by sunset, a corrupt Baron or tyrannical Duke would be dead or have fled.

Knight-Commander

The position of Knight-Commander is the highest rank a member of the Blood Red Rose could hope to aspire to, but there are few that are willing to seek it. Members of the Rose take great pride in knowing that they have devoted their lives to the safety of others. Many prefer to die as a Knight in service or live long enough to embrace old age and retire to a quiet farmstead.

This is not the life of those who leave the Order of the Shield or Sword for the Order of the Rose. These people serve as the leadership of the Blood Red Rose and will serve until they die. At any time there are only 14 Knight-Commanders. Half spend most of their time in the Bastion, going over the endless reports from the Knights around the continent, and the other half are scattered across the continent, incognito, performing unknown errands. Based on the information they receive, they will issue orders for stationing to individual Knights, or will order a large gathering of strength to face a great threat.

Leaderships and governments view Knights of the Rose in different ways. Some welcome them with open arms, for their presence is always a boost to the morale of the peasantry. Most view them as busy-body nuisances that threaten their rule. By and large, the Knights are tolerated because they make the people feel safe, with one exception. A Knight-Commander arriving in anyone’s lands is seen as a storm crow of the most terrible sort and will be met with suspicion, fear, and often outright hostility. When the banners of the Knight-Commander come into view, it means the army of the Rose marches behind them – with deadly purpose.

Lord Protector

None besides the Knight-Commanders know who, or what, the Lord Protector of the Blood Red Rose is. When asked, they say that the Lord Protector is the soul of the Blood Red Rose itself. There is no known instance of this position changing hands, or of the Lord Protector ever leaving the Bastion. Younger members of the Rose often like to speculate on the nature of the Lord Protector, musing that it could be anything from a God or Dragon, to the manifest will of an Orb of Power, to the first human, or perhaps nothing at all.

Roleplaying Tips

The Blood Red Rose is epitome of the romanticized chivalrous knight, protector of the innocent. They seek to do right and correct wrongs for the common people. Though they don’t always look like a knight in shining armour, they have devoted their lives to making the world a better and safer place to live for people who have little control over their lives.

Knights of the Rose are not required to wear their tabard at all times, and their true numbers may surprise outsiders. If you show yourself to be a true champion of the people, you may find yourself approached by a Knight when you least suspect it.

Remember! You don’t need to follow a Light God to be a member of the Rose. The tenets of some of the Light Gods are very similar to the beliefs of the Order, but being a divine follower is not a prerequisite, as the Blood Red Rose is a secular organization.