Fantasy The Order of Seven - Overview & Lore

[SilverFlight]

Lore & Overview & Updates

​

Europe, 1850

Queen Victoria sits on England’s throne; the Prussian empire is strong and France is embroiled in political turmoil. The industrial age creeps up upon the unsuspecting, pushed forward by opportunists and those who barely understand the power they are beginning to command. Poverty is rife, as is the golden spectacular that is the aristocracy. This is a world of smoke, steam and electricity, of new machines and old traditions but most importantly, it is a world of change.

Strange happenings have always occurred: unexplained things, mysterious things. A set of hauntings, a string of murders, a series of disappearances. Not many pay them much mind…except a select few. There are some who can read the messages written in blood, or ghostly tales or the footprints of the unseen, some who can feel the waking of ancient slumbering things or sense a disturbance on the ethereal planes. Trouble is brewing, trouble of a supernatural character.

There is a single organization that is tasked with controlling these phenomena, to protect the unknowing and quell the angry thrashes of the unknown. These are the ghost hunters, the vampire slayers and demon killers. Those of mankind who delve into the darkness, and some who are even of the darkness themselves…

With the growing unease among the members of this group it was unanimously decided to create a task force, one that would investigate the elevated levels of supernatural events, silence the most harmful and track their source. The best and the brightest were called from all around the world to join forces and put a stop to the writhing evil that is beginning to wake.

 

[SilverFlight]

​

The Order

For as long as civilization has existed there have been those who fight the darkness. Our organization spans all of the known world and our members include many of the top-most experts from each and every region on the planet. Exorcists, troll-hunters, vampire slayers, demon killers. We all have lives we lead, every-day mundane jobs. Many of us are spiritual people, all of us are powerful. The Order of Seven employs anyone and everyone with the strength, will and spirit to rise against the forces that wish destruction upon the human race, and everything we hold dear.

We are protectors, the honour guard of humanity. As such we recognize that the ‘others’, the non-humans possess powers we cannot hope to control. Therefore, if such a one is willing to undergo a test of conviction, we allow them entry into our order. These trials are different for each race and presses their will, devotion and the control each individual possesses over their darker nature. Only once the trial is passed is the being granted membership. These beings because of their taint are unable to wield many of the weapons created by the order, so they must rely on their naturally-given strengths.

With the dawn of a new age for humanity it is becoming easier for our order to meet, it is also easier for our enemies to organize. This is the first time we have called for an international team and we are unsure of how precisely to do it. This will be an experiment. The people we choose may not be used to working with others, but as our enemy grows stronger, so must we grow closer, because only together to we stand a chance in stemming the dark tide.




Weapons of the Order

There are a good many weapons available to the members of the Order of Seven. Each hunter is given a blade of their choosing crafted of pure silver. They can also carry one or two pistols loaded with silver bullets, or bullets containing herb-infused or blessed oil. The hunter's own weapons may also be used however they must be registered by the Order's administration. It is these weapons and knowledge that make up the majority of the arsenal against the tainted and other enemies of the order.

Magic is used, though it is subtle, generally designed for binding, banishing or dispelling. Depending on the school practitioners can use symbols and circles, work with herbs or crystals or consult with the more worldly-detached members of the tainted. The more advanced practitioners in the order may be taught how to summon Djinn and other spirits to do their bidding. Magic of course can also be used by people outside of the order and these can become formidable opponents. The greatest defense against them are learned magicians within the order and loyal to it.

The Code

The order adheres to five fundamental rules, laid down at it’s beginning and these create the laws by which all members abide:

- The first duty is to protect
- There shall be no harm brought upon the innocent
- Resist inner evils
- Respect the laws of the protected
- Keep the secrets of the Order

As long as those rules are upheld, the order passes no judgement. You will not be looked at differently for your heritage, your social status, your choice of partner etc. The atmosphere in the order is much more tolerant than the climate of the industrializing world.

 

[SilverFlight]

The Tainted
A few words about the tainted as a whole can be said here:
Generally they are all susceptible to pure substances such as herbs, blessed oils or silver. They can be either bound, dispelled or injured by these items and the effect varies with the tainted race.
Generally no tainted can succumb to human illness and all tainted must undergo a trial if they are to join the order.
Tainted that do not have a natural human appearance must also be able to adopt a glamour to blend in to mundane society.​

• werebeasts
• Vampires
• Ghosts
• Spirits
• Demons
• The Fae
• Sphinx

• 
  
  
  There are many misconceptions about the werewolf, and here in this entry I will attempt to clarify what it truly means to be one.
  
  The wolf form can be taken at will and is the shape of a true wolf, only much larger, though a skilled werewolf can stop the transformation at any point and take a form that is half and half if they choose. The head of a full-form male werewolf reaches the shoulder of a man of average height, with females only slightly smaller. On two legs they stand at eight feet on average. Their strengths include all senses of their lupine inspiration, and they retain these traits even in human form (the ability to see in low light, a heightened sense of hearing and smell). Only in wolf form do they have an increased physical endurance and power. They heal much faster from any wound not made by a silver blade or any weapon not laced with purified substances. A human infected with lycanthropy does not gain any prolongation of their natural lives.
  
  The nature of this race is an eternal struggle against the primal instinct that inhabits us all. They are initially human, and inflicted either willingly or unwillingly with a very unique condition, passed on through a claw-made flesh wound anywhere on the body. The internal conflict of savage and civil is very much amplified in the werewolf. The struggle, becomes a war. If one loses the war the beast takes over, but not in any physical sense, for the human can change to wolf at will. The beast takes the mind and revels in the primal: in bloodshed and fear-mongering, rage and lust. Naturally one can take measures to weaken the hold of the feral beast upon the consciousness. Abstaining from the eating of meat, avoiding the moonlight, especially on nights when it is full. Practicing meditation and calming techniques that prevent the rise of anger. Avoiding romantic attachments and pledging celibacy. These are steps taken by those in control of the beast and holding the reigns of its power. The training is grueling and continuous throughout the life of the individual. Many do not opt for this difficult life and still more try and fail to adhere to the strict regimen that grants complete control. Oftentimes the werewolf can manage him or herself on any night save for the night of the full moon, when the beast is strongest. A weakness of the werewolf is undoubtedly silver. Like most tainted beings the pure metal burns like acid, corroding the flesh and causing extreme pain. A silver bullet must be extracted quickly or the individual risks death.
  
  Werecats:
  Similar in strength and ability however the beast form is more like that of a big cat. Werecats have a keener night vision where wolves have a slightly stronger sense of smell. They are also more adept at stealth and ambush attack. Werecats were revered in some ancient cultures as being emissaries from the gods, some of this reverence still exists today.
  
  Wendigos:
  Similar to other werebeasts only in their feral natures and animal-like forms. Wendigos can look more or less human and possess features that can be canine, cervine or human. The common trait is the emaciated body and long limbs which in no way reduces the strength of the form. They possess razor sharp talons on hands and feet. Losing oneself to far to the monster lurking within the afflicted person may resort to hunting, killing and eating other humans. If scratched by the monster the victim is slowly driven insane by a supernatural infection. On rare instances will the scratch turn the victim. Wendigos have the eerie ability to mimic human voices and if killed must be disposed of in the proper manner lest they come back to life.
  
  Werebeasts in the Order
  
  Those werewolves who have been able to keep to the strict training for a period of more than five years without incident of a relapse into a primal state of mind are offered an invitation to join the Order of Seven. These individuals earn the title ‘The Hounds of God’ and serve the order for the length of their natural lives, or until they lose the war against the internal beast. A single relapse is cause for expulsion.
  
• 
  For these shadowy denizens of the night there are a few particularities which must be observed: Vampires cannot tolerate direct sunlight for more than a few minutes without risking substantial damage. If out on a sunny day they must be fully clothed, often with tinted lenses and wide-brimmed hats. Clouds provide some protection, but not full cover. They have an aversion to silver like werewolves (though this is weaker) and are particularly delicate around the heart. A Vampire is obligated to consume a volume of blood once in a month and this can sustain the body at full activity each night. This can be taken from a human victim, but it can also be voluntarily given and if specific traditions are observed, no harm comes to the volunteer. Vampires can go without feeding for longer periods however as the time passes the need becomes stronger. Most cannot resist for more than 3 months, becoming savage monsters that may attack victims without pause. A victim that has not had the necessary preparations to either be turned or saved will die shortly after being bitten.
  
  Vampires are not distinctly pale as a rule and can be made of any human ethnicity, which dictates their skin colour more than their aversion to sunlight. Their appearance does not shift from what they were when they were human save for the slight elongation of the canine teeth.
  
  Their abilities are manifested only at night and they include a superior strength, the ability to see in extremely low light, heightened hearing and an ability to sense their own kind within a single mile radius. They are very light on their feet and generally much more quick and agile than any human would be. Generally they are the most organized of the Order’s enemies, existing in vast and collaborative guilds that transcend human borders. They are dangerous alone and deadly in larger numbers. Some who put effort into the skill can change themselves into bats, and though it is banned by the order, they have the ability to create thralls by way of an innate compulsion charm that can make their commands irresistible.
  
  Vampires in the order
  
  Vampirine members are rare as generally they are created to serve the guilds that have sworn to destroy the Order. Some defect. A period of three years must be spent under near constant vigil. All nourishment must be freely given within the first two years of the vigil followed by a full year fasting. Only after this year is the individual allowed to serve the Order. Generally the order provides the nourishment required for the vampirine members via an agreement for the volunteer to be bled and the blood stored for later use.
  
• 
  The Ghost can come in very many forms and their influence on the physical world (though always limited) is linked very tightly with the belief their opponent has in them. Supernatural beings can always see ghosts (if they wish to be seen) and be affected by their influences as well as physical attacks. To them, ghosts are as real as any physical, living human. For humans the story is slightly different. Humans often lack the perception to see or feel the entities fully, this can lead to them hearing only whispers or catching a small wisp in their sight. It can play to the advantage of the ghost as it often allows them to pass unnoticed among large crowds or when people are generally not looking for them. Their other strengths lie in being able to fade to invisibility when not looked at directly, to invade the dreams of any being that sleeps and to perpetuate a general sense of fear in their opponents. They are the only beings able to open doors to the other plane. One weakness of ghosts is that they can be bound in specific drawn circles or be prevented from entering places that are warded against them.
  
  Ghosts in the order
  
  These are a very useful addition to the Order’s forces and require only a proving of character as any human would require. Due to their faded physical manifestations they make excellent spies and many have the knowledge of hundreds of years. Ghosts are one of the few non-humans that do not require a trial as their character is generally discernable and beyond being dead, they behave much like humans do, free from any darker or savage natures.
  
• 
  
  Spirits can come from many places and are distinct from ghosts in that their origins are inherently non-human: nature, elements, man-made objects and even other planes of existence. Most spirits have no concern in the human world, and retreat even as cities expand. Occasionally spirits can become powerful enough to affect the physical world, this can be from worship or faith, for example, a temple adornment or idol, or from a natural place of great power, ocean spirits are common, as are forest spirits. Spirits have a wide range of talents that stem from their origin: Nature and elemental spirits have powers pertaining to their natural aspect or element, for example: an ocean spirit may have the talent of hydromancy, a funerary idol may have the ability to summon and speak to ghosts. Generally spirits are neutral, and will not harm humans, however, if there is a particularly brutal human disruption to their existence, spirits can become malevolent and dangerous.
  Spirits tend not to be as powerful as demons, and djinn are the most powerful of the spirits. World-bound spirits however, like elementals, nature spirits and object-spirits are not weak against silver, and can wield it if they choose to maintain physical forms. Special binding circles can be used to capture spirits, but oftentimes, the best way to stop them is to appease them, re-plant a burned forest, repair a broken idol etc.
  
  Spirits in the order
  Spirits in the order are rare, as they tend not to have any desire to help humans. On occasion a spirit can be recruited, and though they are not bound by contracts as Djinn are, they do have a patron in the order who monitors and is responsible for their actions. The patron will make sure the spirit adheres to the rules of the order and of human society in general, and is tasked with putting the spirit down if it deserts or betrays it's posting.
  
  
  Djinn
  
  A being of the ethereal plane. Djinn do not naturally live in the physical world and must be summoned. They are forced into a physical form and must be bound with very specific circles and rituals. Because they do not originally have a form they can take any form they choose that is no larger than a man and no smaller than a fly. The Djinn are generally neutral, though they often bear a great animosity to their summoner, whom they must obey until the contract binding them is fulfilled. Only humans untainted by darkness and well-versed in the art of summoning have the ability to summon and bind Djinn. Once bound a Djinn is not permitted to leave until the summoner releases them or the summoner dies. Though they cannot outright refuse commands, Djinn will often misinterpret instructions with the intention of causing mayhem or in ideal cases, the death of their summoner. Their goal is to return to the ethereal plane as fast as they can. Djinn are cunning and often ruthless and each has control over an elemental power: The ability to summon fire, or bend water to their will etc. They too are weakened by pure metals like silver and various herbs such as rosemary or sage. Being in proximity to these items prevents them from using magic and touching these items forces their physical form to dissolve, revealing them for what they are.
  
  Djinn in the order
  
  Are used very rarely as their neutrality tends to leave no room for loyalty. There have been histories recorded of Djinn becoming loyal to the humans they work with, but it has not happened in living memory. Djinn as they are bound against their will require no test or trial, they are simply the responsibility of the summoner and their actions are accounted for by said summoner.
• 
  
  
  The term 'demon' encompasses a wide range of generally malevolent spirits. As of yet there has been no concrete proof of these beings working for a larger entity known as the fallen angel Lucifer, though many of them claim it to gain trust and loyalty from the humans who would worship him. In essence they delight in bringing about the downfall of humans, striving to feed the most basal instincts and darkest thoughts of humankind. Occasionally there will be one who turns away from these stereotypical desires and strive instead for balance, this could be because of their own desires or to fulfill a bond-debt to one mortal they have a specific connection to.
  Demons have the ability to use strong glamours, creating illusions beyond themselves and use this ability to perform tricks or misdirection. They can use a little dark magic, though it is mostly steeped in deception and has little combative power on its own. Their strengths lie in their persuasiveness, manipulation and their cunning. Demons are highly susceptible to purified substances and can be trapped in binding circles and unlike Djinn they can be dispelled back to their plane with the proper rituals by anyone who manages to catch one.
  
  Demons in the Order
  
  An exceptionally rare occurrence as demons generally mean no benefit to the human race. If a demon is to join the order their 'trial' is never truly finished while they are a part of it. All demons must submit to a binding sigil placed physically upon their manifested forms. It is generally inscribed with magic onto the very essence of the spirit. If the demon is suspected of foul play or evil intent the sigil is activated and the demon is dispatched. The incantation can be said by anyone, though is specific to each sigil drawn and only known by high-ranking members of the order assigned to be the demon's handlers.
• 
  Fairies are spirits of the earth and bear no love for humans who have been exploiting their home for millennia. They, like Djinn often bear grudges though unlike Djinn they cannot be bound into service against their will.
  
  Faeries are bargain strikers and have a strict set of rules they are bound to on penalty of death or exile. It is rare for the Fae to openly consort with humans, even members of the order however they are a powerful people and order members are taught a healthy respect for them. Their society reflects a human construction with a monarch, nobles and the rest of the folk who are extremely loyal. Faeries can be killed, but they do not age and some have existed for thousands of years.
  
  Faeries depending on their rank are capable of generating illusions, changing their shape and bending plants and animals to their will. They can communicate to a certain degree with animals and though animals do not have intelligent thought, they can draw images from their memory making them powerful spies. Some have the ability to heal or to create mind-altering potions of varying effects. Their power is significantly weakened in areas where there is a distinct lack of nature, and is greatest in forests or wild spaces. It is forbidden for anyone but the faerie monarch to allow mortals into their realm, which exists beside the physical world but apart from it. The most dangerous aspect of a faerie is his or her devious intelligence. They trap victims into life-stealing deals by appealing to a mortal’s greed or ambition. Never make a deal with a faerie.
  
  Faeries unlike most tainted are not harmed by any herb, however silver does affect them. Out-witting a faerie is exceedingly difficult, but can gain you great advantages.
  
  Faeries in the order
  
  Generally they avoid any dealings with humans, though some may cooperate with the order to defeat common enemies or to fulfill debts or bargains. If a faerie approaches the order and pledges service they must be made to repeat several agreements tying them to the code and service of the order. The deal is fully binding to a faerie and cannot be broken.
• 
  
  There are very few creatures as old or powerful as the sphinx. They have existed alongside civilization for thousands of years and are said to be one of the original guardians of mankind, predating the order by millennia. The sphinx is more often than not a neutral figure in history, presented in texts as a guardian or protector and never as an unprompted aggressor. Sphinx are considered tainted by the order but are, in reality, not susceptible to silver or specific herbs. They can only be confined with binding circles derived from those used by the ancient Egyptians or their own word. Sphinx have an incredible physical strength that surpasses mortal man. They are immune to human diseases and can recover from injuries that would kill a human, however their greatest power lies in their knowledge of ancient secrets and understanding of the oldest magics in the world. The sphinx people therefore make valuable allies to the order.
  
  Sphinx in the order
  
  They do not require any special trail, only repeat an oath that will pledge them to the cause of the order. Their membership lasts the length of time specified in their promise and can vary depending on the wishes of the individual.

 

[SilverFlight]

Locations & maps

• Paris

• Spoiler: Map of Paris (1864 - closest I could get)

  
  
  In 1795 Paris was divided into 12 "arrondissements" (now 20 in our story), sections of the city which were then divided into quarters "quartiers". Oftentime a location in the city is referred to by it's arrondissement or quartier. Example: The first arrondissement "Louvre" where the famous art gallery was established from a converted garrison which was built in about 1190. The "Centreville" or city center is almost directly in the heart of the city, in and around a small man-made island which is home to Notre Dame Cathedral, completed in 1345. Another place of interest is the small hill-side annex of Montmartre, home to many salons and cafes open to those privaleged enough to afford them.