Historical and Fictional Context of Secret Societies and Belief Systems in a Video Game Franchise

Core Fictional Conflict

The central narrative revolves around a perennial struggle between two clandestine organizations: the Assassin Brotherhood and the Templar Order. This conflict spans millennia and is portrayed as a battle for control over humanity's destiny.

The Assassin Brotherhood

This group advocates for free will and individual liberty. They believe humanity should be allowed to choose its own path, even if it leads to chaos or mistakes. Their methods often involve covert operations, stealth, and the elimination of those who seek to control or oppress others. Their symbols, rituals, and tenets are rooted in historical and philosophical influences, particularly the tenets of the real-world Ismaili sect known as the Hashashin.

Key Tenets and Philosophies:

• Advocacy for free will and autonomy.
• Opposition to tyranny and control.
• Use of stealth, assassination, and sabotage.
• Dedication to a creed that values freedom above all else.

The Templar Order

This faction believes that humanity requires order and control to achieve lasting peace and stability. They seek to impose their vision of a structured society, often through manipulation, coercion, and the acquisition of powerful artifacts. Their ideologies and ambitions are presented as a misguided attempt to create a utopian world, even if it means sacrificing individual liberties. They also draw upon historical influences, representing a fictionalized version of the medieval Knights Templar.

Key Beliefs and Philosophies:

• Belief in the necessity of order and control.
• Desire to establish a structured and stable society.
• Willingness to sacrifice individual liberties for the greater good (as they perceive it).
• Pursuit of powerful artifacts and influence.

Ancient Civilizations and Artifacts

The narrative incorporates elements of ancient civilizations and powerful artifacts of indeterminate origin. These artifacts, sometimes referred to as "Pieces of Eden," grant extraordinary abilities and possess the potential to shape the course of history. The struggle to control these artifacts fuels much of the conflict between the two orders.

Examples of Artifacts:

• Swords with reality bending properties
• Apples that alter perception and control the masses

Historical Settings and Figures

The overarching storyline is interwoven with historical events and figures from various periods and locations across the globe. The games explore significant moments in history, allowing players to interact with prominent historical characters and participate in pivotal events. These events are often reimagined through the lens of the Assassin-Templar conflict, providing a fictional explanation for real-world occurrences.