Originaly posted on the TSR online message board (www.tsr.com) by John Hare on 31 July 1998.
These knights and priests are sent out to gather intelligence from other countries. They are considered a secret in the Order, but most rulers realize someone in each group of envoys is actually a spy. They are quite willing to bribe, threaten and damage people for information. Depending on the individual styles vary quite considerably. From brutish to extremely subtle techniques they are effective as those who have survived have refined their techniques into an art.
These individuals are all excellent swordsmasters, just incase something goes wrong and the nearest friendly border is quite a distance away. It is thought that several of this sect have carried out assassination orders but that could be just rumor.
On a side note when these warriors are in home/friendly garrisons they report any subversive activities to the Inquisitors and let them deal with it. A matter of jurisdiction.