Secret Societies
In the superstitious world of 12th Century Europe, secret societies abound. You need to choose one secret society, either from this list or invent your own. Some of the entries are generalized and may be fleshed out by the player.
The Apostate Hermit: There’s a local hermit who teaches some radical beliefs (the Church is a fraud, the Pope is a fiend, the cardinals are demons, etc.)
Enemy: Pope Alexander
The Beggar’s Brotherhood: Concealing themselves behind a façade of need, this organization is the closest thing that the world has to a criminal empire, a thieves’ guild. Moreover, they have the shocking belief that the poor actually matter, and support those who are downtrodden.
Enemy: Any local noble
The Cathars: A quasi-gnostic sect, centered near Toulouse. The Cathars believe the god of the Old Testament is the devil and that Christ is the messenger of Love that's come to save us from him. There is no hell or purgatory, but souls are reincarnated until they reach a state where they're worthy of heaven. Needless to say, the Church doesn't like them.
Enemy: Pope Alexander
Folk Belief: This is the watered-down version of paganism that now survives. You uphold odd superstitions and participate in pagan festivals like the crowning of the May Queen and the burning of Wicker Men at harvest time, most of whose direct meaning has been lost. Some priests might consider these practices blasphemous and persecute you when they can, but you have no problem reconciling them with your faith.
Enemy: Henry, Bishop of Bordeaux
Gypsies, Jews, or Moors: You’re secretly a member of this faction, but you hide the fact from the world. Because you keep your heritage a secret, your Standing bonus is only +2, but you suffer no penalties.
Enemies: Noble faction of your choce.
The Masonic Brotherhood: This secret society is also linked with the order of St. Francis. You’re a society of artisans dedicated to advancing your craft. You also want to start a Third Crusade and recapture the Holy Land. Some within the Church harbor suspicions that you’re in league with the Dragons, or the Dark (you’re not). The Knights Templar are associated with them.
Enemy: Henry, Bishop of Bordeaux
The Protectors of Secret Knowledge: Your order knows a secret, ancient knowledge which in the wrong hands, be it a renegade mage or the Dark. You want to improve security for your item, bring death to those who threaten it.
Enemy: Noble faction of your choice, The Dark.
The Secret Tribunal: Justice is corrupt, but good men and women can do something about it. You and your fellows wear hoods and go out, capture suspected criminals, hold your own trials, and execute them.
Enemy: Local noble faction of your choice.
Return to:
1166 Campaign Home Page
Character Generation