The Origins of the Order

Six Centuries of Sacred Tradition

The Founding Vision

According to tradition, The Scrotery was founded in 1423, when the wanderer and mystic Sir Reginald Ballsworth III received a divine revelation.

While meditating in a dimly lit monastery cellar, deep in contemplation of the mysteries of existence, Sir Reginald beheld a vision that would change the course of history. Before him appeared two luminous orbs, suspended in perfect harmony, glowing with an ancient and unknowable energy.

"Support us, and we shall support you."

— The Orbs, speaking to Sir Reginald, 1423

Sir Reginald emerged from his meditation transformed. He had witnessed the eternal truth of duality—two forces in perfect balance, each supporting the other. From this revelation was born the doctrine that would become known as The Hanging Faith.

The Spread of the Faith

Sir Reginald's teachings spread swiftly through the networks of medieval society. In taverns and inns, he spoke of Balance. In noble courts, he preached Bravery. In monasteries and guild halls, he demonstrated the principle of Support.

The symbolism resonated deeply. Every man, he taught, carries dual burdens—not merely physical, but spiritual and philosophical. These burdens represent the fundamental duality of existence: strength and vulnerability, courage and caution, action and patience.

1423

The Revelation

Sir Reginald Ballsworth III receives the vision of the two luminous orbs.

1428

The First Lodge

Baron Montague Sackleton designs and builds the original Scrotorian Lodge in London.

1432

The Book is Written

Canon Theodore Scratchley completes the first manuscript of The Book of Scrotomany.

1724

The Great Lift

A watershed moment in Scrotorian history, commemorated annually by members.

1888

The Expansion

The Order establishes international chapters in seven countries.

2025

The Modern Era

The Scrotery continues its sacred mission, now spanning the globe with 243 initiated members.

The Formation of the Order

By 1428, the informal network of believers had grown sufficiently that formal structure became necessary. Sir Reginald gathered his most trusted disciples—including the brilliant architect Baron Montague Sackleton and the scholarly Canon Theodore Scratchley—to establish what would become known as The Scrotery.

The name itself is derived from the Old English "scrotere," meaning "one who supports" or "keeper of the burden." It was chosen to reflect the Order's fundamental philosophy: that in supporting one another, we support ourselves.

The Sacred Lounge

Behind the brass-handled doors of The Scrotery lies its inner sanctum. This is not merely a gathering place, but a temple of contemplation and ritual.

The Inner Sanctum

  • Deep brown leather sofas, worn smooth by centuries of use
  • Portraits of the Grand Hangers in golden frames
  • Amber lamps casting pools of warm light
  • The scent of polished wood, aged whiskey, and history
  • Ceremonial artifacts preserved under glass

Here, members gather not for idle recreation, but for philosophical discourse, ceremonial observances, and the sacred work of maintaining the Order's traditions.

The Purpose of the Order

Despite its esoteric origins, The Scrotery serves a genuine and profound function. It is:

  • A refuge from the chaos and cold of the modern world
  • A brotherhood (and sisterhood) bound by shared understanding
  • A philosophy that teaches balance, courage, and mutual support
  • A tradition that connects the present to six centuries of wisdom

The Order teaches that even the heaviest burdens can be carried with grace—so long as one has loyal companions, clear principles, and a place of sanctuary.

"The Scrotery is both absurd and profound. Both ancient and immediate. Both exclusive and universal. It is a reminder that the sacred and the mundane are forever intertwined."

— From the Preface to the Third Edition of The Book of Scrotomany

The Order Today

Six centuries after Sir Reginald's revelation, The Scrotery continues its sacred mission. With 243 initiated members across the globe, the Order maintains its traditions while adapting to the needs of the modern world.

Membership remains by invitation only. The Council deliberates in shadow. Sponsors are chosen with utmost care. And behind those heavy mahogany doors, the work of the Order continues.

Those who seek to join must demonstrate understanding of the principles, commitment to the philosophy, and above all—the courage to carry one's burdens with dignity.

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