The Society of Sword is a loose organization of beings dedicated to perfection in the use of swords.
Everything about swords is fascinating in such a degree that they devote their lives to the study of swords and their use. Members have a ranking system that they use to gauge their progress against other who share their interest. Much like a martial arts style they are spread across the world with the most skilled among them famous even to non-swordsman. At higher levels of expertise they match themselves against each other in order to gain more skill and prove who is the best. The lethality of the combat is left to the individuals involved, but most are satisfied in proving their skill by defeating opponents and achieving higher rank and status. Stature is indicated by tattoos or designs of various birds on their clothing, with the Swan being the top rank.
Most (if not all) show their dedication to skill with the sword by learning various swordsman maneuvers throughout their training. (battle master class or feats)
Master of Four Swans is the highest rank, and there is usually only one or less of those.
Levels 1-4: Hawks
Levels 5-8: Falcons
Levels 9-12: Herons
Levels 13-16: Cranes
Level 17: Swans
Level 18: Swordsman of Swans
Level 19: Master of Swans
Level 20: Master of Four Swans