Order of the Gauntlet

The Order of the Gauntlet is a relatively new organization dedicated to smiting evil wherever it lurks and without hesitation. The Order understands that evil wears many guises, playing games and tricking others in order to spread. That is why its members act on their own authority, identifying threats and smashing them before they can grow.
Because the seeds of evil are nourished in the shadows, the Order of the Gauntlet rides out to the most dangerous dungeons, the darkest caverns, and the foulest pits to weed out wrongdoers. But the Order is keenly aware that the shadow of evil lies within everyone, waiting for a moment when it can gain a foothold on their souls. Thus its paladins, monks, and clerics spend long hours deep in prayer to keep their inner eye vigilant and focused on their own thoughts and emotions. In this way they purify themselves from within before taking up their swords to cleanse the world.
The Order of the Gauntlet believes that all sentient beings must come to the light of reason and goodness of their own volition. That is why it is not interested in controlling minds: it focuses only on deeds, setting an example to the world in hopes of inspiring and enlightening others. The Order holds that faith in one’s god, one’s friends, and one’s self are the greatest weapons in quelling the hordes of malice.
With such devout conviction, the Order’s members can be depended on as a source of strength to themselves and others, a bright light against the darkness. They are not preemptive bullies, though. A strict code of honor allows them to strike only when evil deeds are being committed. Thus, the Order of the Gauntlet is hypervigilant, using every resource at their disposal—both divine and mundane—to know where and when dark deeds will occur.

Structure

The Order is primarily an alliance of common cause between several religious groups including the followers of Helm, Torm, Tyr, and Ilmater. Though most of their members come from a religious background, the Order embraces any with a sense of honor and trustworthiness. Within their unified hierarchy, there are five ranks which are shown in descending order of authority:

• Righteous Hand - These high lords of the Order are typically powerful warriors in the fight against darkness. They are often leaders of churches of Torm and Tyr. 
• Vindicator - These knights are seen as champions of the Order and often lead dangerous crusades against evil. 
• Whitehawk - Proven warriors and honorable knights, these soldiers are devoted to the cause and are often sent on dangerous missions.
• Marcheon - Marcheons are capable soldiers and are active combatants in the battle against the forces of evil.
• Chevall - These recruits are required to prove themselves by taking part in a quest for retribution or vigilance against potential dangers. 

Culture

The Order of the Gauntlet preaches honor, justice, and vigilance. The majority of the organization are zealous clerics and paladins. For all their zeal, the Order is strictly opposed to preemptive measures, preferring to vindication and retribution.

Public Agenda

The goal of the Order of the Gauntlet is to seek justice for those who have been ravaged by the forces of darkness. They are vigilant and honorable defenders of goodness and light. They enforce justice and take retribution against those who act with evil intent.

"Armed and vigilant against the darkness of evil."

Type

Religious, Holy Order