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 Posted - 09 Jun 2005 : 00:33:17
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| Like I expanded upon the various families of the noble houses I've begun collating information about the various church priesthoods. |
Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
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Posted - 09 Jun 2005 : 00:36:27
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Urth Orthodox
The Hinayana and Mahayana are by far the most widely spread and renown branches of the UO. This is due to their highly political influence and agenda. However there are smaller branches of the Orthodoxy, rarely mentioned outside of the Order. Together they comprise of about 25% of the entire Order.
The Hinayana
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Leviticus of Holy Terra
Adherents
~37% of the Order
The Hinayana School is the Orthodox branch of the Orthodoxy. Its name, meaning 'lesser vehicle,' was originally a pejorative term the Mahayanists used to describe it. The Hinayana branch tends to be more exclusive and authoritarian; most of its followers believe that only humans possess a soul mirror untainted enough to reflect the Holy Flame. Most Hinayana believe that aliens have warped and smudged soul mirrors, that reflect the Pancreator's light in obscene ways. They believe that few aliens, if any, will ever receive any measure of divine grace. The Hinayana have dominated the Church for the past 90 years and have been largely successful at cementing their power on most worlds. This power base has begun to fracture somewhat over the last few years. Many of them blame this on Emperor Alexius and his 'permissive' reforms.
The Hinayana philosophy holds the nature of the Soul Mirror to be Sacrosanct. They hold that the Pancreator chose to reveal himself to Zebulon, as humanity holds a sacred place in the order of the universe. Aliens are unreflective sentients and will twist or pervert the light of the Pancreator in strange ways. They staunchly defend against alien ethics and cultures dirtying the ethics of the pure human spirit. They refuse to recognise Ven Lohji as a Disciple of the Prophet, and suffer with minimal tolerance the inclusion of her writings in the Omega Gospels. They have petitioned on many occasions to defrocking all members of the church who are aliens and even the disestablishment of any alien sect, particularly the Obun and Vorox varieties.
The Mahayana
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Sammorah of Leagueheim
Adherents
~34% of the Order
Mahayana draws its name from an ancient Urth philosophy and means 'greater vessel'. The Mahayana tend to be more inclusive and egalitarian in their faith. They believe the Pancreator's divine light exists in all sentients and that the Church must be a vehicle large enough for all believers, even aliens. The Mahayana have been out of power since the beginning of the current century, though they have recently enjoyed an upswing since the end of the Emperor Wars. The Mahayan school generally have sway in urban areas, and on more cosmopolitan worlds such a Criticorum, Istakhr, Leagueheim and Byzantium Secundus.
The Mahayana philosophy advocates the advanced and optimistic nature of humanity. They are advocates of human rights and the general sanctity of all sentient life. They have a highly progressive attitude towards human civilisation, and more than one priest has been found guilty of the republican heresy and advocates of serf emancipation. Yet these fatalistic idealists are often weeded out early in their career and only the most politically astute, or indeed discreet rise to the ranks of power. They have, of necessity, become powerful mediators within the church and among other human spheres of activity. The Mahayana are often called upon to use their political and diplomatic acumen to oversee treaties between nobles or to sight important events of political or cultural importance. The Mahayana have been on many occasions allied with Sanctuary Aeon with intersecting interests. The Mahayana are one of the few voices of moderation with significant authority in the church to advocate alien and psychic rights. Indeed a few notable Mahayana have taken places on the Inquisitorial Synod to ensure that its authority is not excessive and properly executed.
The Theravada
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Amon-Ret of Mars
Adherents
~18% of the Order
The Theraveda are puritans as suggested by their name which means, "voice of the elders". They adhere to strict and formal interpretations of the Omega Gospels. Although the Hinayana are the most Orthodox, it is their concern that the Second Republic forever influenced the politics of the Church and that both the Mahayana and Hinayana have lost sight of the original meaning of the Gospels. The Theraveda tend to be hardliners and fundamentalists of the Doctrine. Although they may abide by modern reforms for political reasons, they often think of Post-Fall Doctrines as invalid or impure.
The Theravada tend to have priests and missionaries who avoid large cities and communities. They see the influence of city life as inherently disruptive to the reception of the grace of the Pancreator as the environment is surrounded by the technological hubris of the republic. The Theravada cast strong doubt over the Doctrine of the Privilege of Martyrs and consider that even nobles, priests and guildsmen are corruptible by the sins of technology, and their pride of “extreme penance” makes them all the more susceptible. The Theravada rarely like to use any technology greater than 4 in their personal lives, but will accept the necessary evil of technology for the purposes of star-travel, interstellar communication and other things that make the world go round. The Theravada are perhaps one of the strongest opponents in the orthodoxy to the sanctioning of the Merchant Guild, seeing them as an inherently corrupt organisation. While not so fanatical as the Temple Avesti, they use their political influence to block and disrupt the influence of the League and will rarely recognise the professions of piety from any leaguer.
The Vajrayana
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Mendack of Gwynneth
Adherents
~6% of the Order
Of the two monastic branches of the Orthodoxy Vajrayana is slightly larger and more prolific, it name means "The Diamond Branch". These two groups have removed themselves largely from the politics of the Orthodoxy and instead dedicate themselves to living the philosophy of the Order. The Vajrayana dedicate themselves to the development of their own being through the tenets laid out by the conversations between Ven Lohji and Zebulon especially the Way of Illumination. The Vajrayana are less concerned about hierarchy compared to other branches and believe that the Descent of Grace is best gained through personal transmission.
The Vajrayana have a deep respect for the ritual and ceremony of the church. Their entirely lifestyle revolves around a daily worship to the Pancreator and they place a great reverence on the necessity of daily prayers and communion with the divine. The Vajrayana have a strange voice within the Orthodoxy. They have the position of touched mystics. Their daily dedications and worship carries with it the perception of being one step closer to the Pancreator than the average priest, but this likewise distances them from the realities of humanity. The Vajrayana are highly respected on mystical and supernatural dialogues, but more often then not completely ignored on temporal matters of politics and congregation. Of all the orthodox groups, the Vajrayana have the most expertise with theurgic ritual. The Vajrayana see themselves as the guardians of theurgic lore and attempt to collect its pearls of wisdom from across the globe. They tend to have a greater access to different rituals than other members of the clergy, but have a habit of sharing the lesser secrets of their lore in exchange.
The Dhyana
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Serenity of Manitou
Adherents
~5% of the Order
This is the other Monastic branch of the order its name means "meditation branch". Unlike the other Orthodox groups there is less focus on ceremonial worship of the Pancreator and a focus on the discovery of being part of the Pancreator. While many in the church have cast an askance eye at their practices with the words heresy on their lips, the Dhyana very verbally make a clear distinction that such a method is not the Universalist Heterodoxy, but simply a more expanded version of the Doctrine of Universal Grace. While their main monastery lies on Manitou, they have a number of facilities across the Known Worlds, noticeably, Pandemonium, Pyre, De Moley and Aylon.
The Dhyana are the most ascetic of all branches. Their major assertion is that the sins of Technology are not just due to their convenience, but because all material possessions are distracting from spiritual enlightenment. This is the path of Sansara, the absolution of material wealth and comforts. Indeed the Dhyana seek to attain this state of pure thought by transcending physical and material concerns. The Dhyana are renowned for creating various riddles, techniques and other practices designed to help the priest clear his mind of thought to be in this pure state. From the Dhyana perspective this creates a void within the mind free of the darkness of the Abyss through which the light of the Pancreator can descend more easily. This is considered to be the best way to receive grace. Priests of the Dhyana find it far easier to resolve conflicts of faith and are less susceptible to Hubris.
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Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
http://www.kittensofdarkness.net/renaissance.htm
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Posted - 09 Jun 2005 : 00:38:41
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Brother Battle
Although the Brother Battle are all one large happy family, there are different traditions within the order itself. Throughout its history, the Brother Battle has absorbed many military bodies into its order, including the original military of the Church. Each tradition is headed by one of the few grandmasters of the order and their history and lore has been as taught from generation to generation. Although the Order is interdisciplinary they give an indication as to how that Brother Battle was trained and what aspect of the Order's mission they are to fulfil. These Disciplines also represent different methods of martial training within the order. Each Discipline may be considered to be a different petal of the same flower.
Gladius Spiritus
Commander
Grandmaster Rastarim of Holy Terra
Adherents
~23% of the Order
This group was founded by the original military chaplains of the Mother Church in the Ukar-Human war in 2857, making them the oldest military order within the Church. It was established when Mantius refused to stand with Palamedes as the general of his armies and instead Palamedes chose a noble of House Alecto with deep faith to lead this charge. Long before the Hall of Lextius was established this order was dedicated to the protection of the Mother Church from the military threats of first the Ukar and then the other powerful groups who sought power afterwards. Since their absorption into the Brother Battle with its founding, they have been charged with the defence of Churches and other holy lands from the military threats of their neighbours.
The Gladius Spiritus (often simply called Swertbroder) are fuelled with a strong faith and passion for the church and are quick to the call of its defence. They practice a discipline known as Via Tigris Ungui (the way of the tiger claw), and is a most ferocious discipline. This Order prefer to meet the enemy head on and break all resistance with powerful and dynamic strike-force. They are often employed for assaults onto difficult or simply used to overwhelm an enemy. This Discipline more than others prefers to employ hand to hand or melee combat. It needs to be up close and personal. More Tigers find themselves involved in the Heterodoxy of the Rule of Battle than any other discipline. However they are fiercely loyalty and a sense of honour (a large number of nobles learn this style). They are the unstoppable force.
The Society of Excalibur
Commander
Grandmaster Valca of Vril-Ya
Adherents
~15% of the Order
In 3852 the Universal Church established a small Monastery outside of Verden City, in hopes that they might learn more about the inimicable group known as the Vau. This society was officially establishes as a form of border patrol for the city limits to ensure that the populace didn’t wander into places they shouldn’t and confiscate stolen Vau technology (which they returned after a period of study). This of course covered their true mission to spy on the Vau and their technologies. It is known that blaster technology was adapted from Vau technology acquired from this monastery, and the brother battle were the first to utilise it. Their exposure to the powerful destructive forces of Vau technology lead them to understand what a powerful force they had to contend against and since then strove to develop themselves as a para-military organisation, only to be absorbed by the Brother Battle in 4101. While their mission is now to guard the border against incursions of Vau influence, their subtle style is often called upon where force would not be the best method.
The Excalibrites have developed a discipline known as Via Ophiuchus Abditus (the way of the hidden snake). It is often whispered that Vril-Ya’s proximity to Decados space has been a strong influence as this discipline bears all the hall marks of their culture. The art of deception and guile is frequently employed and the Excalibrites will avoid conflict if necessary (sometimes to the distaste of the other disciplines). They prefer not to meet opponents head on, but will carefully assess a situation and look for the weakest point, then strike with devastating efficiency. The Excalibrites are most frequently used in strike teams or hostage rescues.
Sanguine Pyrrica
Commander
Grandmaster Nadri of Stigmata
Adherents
~13% of the Order
Better known as the Cleansing Blood, or the Sanguinae. The Sanguinites claim heritage to some of the earliest converts of St. J’waltan of Stigmata. The sacrifice of St. J’waltan and the mythos of Stigmata have become deeply imbedded into the Order and a devout mystical following inspired many of his followers to devote themselves to the mysteries of blood and divinity. The order’s philosophy holds a special significance for the ritualism and symbology of blood, and they consider that the praxis of faith infuses a flow of divinity into their own, allowing them to utilise the flow of divine powers. The Sanguinae of necessity developed into a military order that served to protect the Agniite pilgrims and then later other devout members of the Church. However, the Sanguinae initially resisted being joined up with the Brother Battle, and it wasn’t until heavy church censure that they capitulated and integrated into the order in 4212. Their main mission has been to provide places of sanctuary for pilgrims in hostile territory, such as barbarian space with religious sites.
The Sanguinae are follow a deeply mystical and spiritual discipline known as Via Lux Dracori (way of the light dragon). It is unsurprising that emphasis on Theurgy is as common as emphasis of Martial Skills. It is rare for anyone who does not demonstrate Theurgic abilities to be accepted into this order, except for those who demonstrate a clear and profound spiritual connection to the Pancreator. However, because of this their fighting styles are said to suffer. Thy have no specialisations in fighting and are sometimes considered the least martial of all disciplines. Of course most people who say that haven't met them on the battlefield after being razed by several rows of divine lightning.
Chapterhouse of Mazdek
Commander
Grandmaster Zek of De Moley
Adherents
~26% of the Order
The chapterhouse of Mazdek was the original school set up by Malcolm Xavier Justinian and Gregory de Moley on the planet now known as De Moley, this chapter-house is the organisation commonly perceived by the populace when they think of the Brother Battle. Its origins began with the de Moley family, a house minor whose had bought out the planet of Mazdak. With the New Dark Ages the de Moleys felt fear for the safety of the jumproutes to Yathrib. Geoffery and Malcolm swore to protect the jumproutes from closing. Later lead by other descendants of de Moley they failed to keep the jumpgate open. Some blame is laid upon various practiced heterodoxies, perceived as a failed test of their faith. They have carried a sense of guilt ever since and much of their work serves as penance. The Mazdek chapterhouse also maintains the de Moley bank, which is the main reservoir of their wealth. The Mazdek are charged to enforce the diplomatic agenda of the Battle, or else to assist in the collecting of Tithes for the Church.. The majority of noble scions are sent to join this order over the others.
The Mazdek follow the discipline developed by Jackson now known as Via Volatilis Guid (the way of the flying crane). The philosophy is inner mastery before outward mastery. The Mazdek never loose their temper or cool and will respond to all situations in a calm and balanced manner. Often found deep in meditation or with an intense focus to any of their tasks. Their style is highly polished and graceful, intending to allow the other person's own power to be used against them. They are the immovable object.
The Hall of Mantok
Commander
Grandmaster Goldari of Bannockburn
Adherents
~24% of the Order
The Order was originally an off-shoot of a Muster paramilitary organisation that scoured the deep jungles of Bannockburn for Anunnaki artefacts known only as the 4th division. Over the centuries they managed to amass a large amount of preternatural relics and artefacts, one of which was appearantly a Codex of Martial arts written by St. Mantius. The 4th division began practising these arts and quickly earned a reputation as one of the most powerful armed forces of the Muster, their participation would often decide a battle. Their fate would change during the barbarian invasions. A hoarde of Vuldrok swept in and raided their hostels, stealing their artefacts and razing their barracks. Their leader, Francis Juliani was swept up with an angry fervour and lead his division on a mission to recover these stolen artefacts from the barbarian territories. Their crusade is now a story of legend as they overcame many hardships and obstacles. They returned changed by their experiences and dedicated themselves to a life of piety and sanctity under the auspice of the Church. They are charged with participating in crusades in barbaric lands and recovering lost artefacts in enemy territory.
The Mantokans are known for their discipline called Via Agilis Panthera (the way of the quick panther), and is often considered the original form of the Mantok martial arts. Speed, agility and dexterity are the hallmarks of the Panther. With an incredible emphasis on quick movement and quick thinking they are known for being very mercurial and sometimes a little erratic. Not only this but their co-ordination and agility has often made them suspect of supernatural abilities not condoned by the church.
ed note: changed shattenjager to hall of mantok |
Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
http://www.kittensofdarkness.net/renaissance.htm
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956 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jun 2005 : 01:09:22
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Teufeljager? Given that the Church would consider anything outside its schema of the universe as demonic in origin. Or is that too absolutist or Kalinthi in derivation?
Like the idea of panther style Mantok though. Time to rethink my take on martial arts again.
More goodness Luxifer! Give us more! [:D] |
"The truth is too important to waste on every fool who asks."
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Posted - 09 Jun 2005 : 01:53:05
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I'll have Eskatonics and Temple Avesti ready for tomorrow
the eskatonics are being divided into styles of medieval mysticism (kabbalistic, Heremetic, old skool pagan, arabic mysticism and death cults).
the temple avesti I've had some fun stuff looking up varieties of the forms of the inquisitions, and used Dark Ages: Inquisitor as some inspiration, I must admit I'm a bit of an apologist for the Avestites. I like making them more than just fanatics. |
Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
http://www.kittensofdarkness.net/renaissance.htm
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Posted - 09 Jun 2005 : 16:35:19
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quote:
[i]Originally posted of Luxifer
The Hinayana
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Leviticus of Holy Terra
Adherents
~37% of the Order
The Hinayana School is the Orthodox branch of the Orthodoxy. Its name, meaning 'lesser vehicle,' was originally a pejorative term the Mahayanists used to describe it. The Hinayana branch tends to be more exclusive and authoritarian; most of its followers believe that only humans possess a soul mirror untainted enough to reflect the Holy Flame. Most Hinayana believe that aliens have warped and smudged soul mirrors, that reflect the Pancreator's light in obscene ways. They believe that few aliens, if any, will ever receive any measure of divine grace. The Hinayana have dominated the Church for the past 90 years and have been largely successful at cementing their power on most worlds. This power base has begun to fracture somewhat over the last few years. Many of them blame this on Emperor Alexius and his 'permissive' reforms.
The Hinayana philosophy holds the nature of the Soul Mirror to be Sacrosanct. They hold that the Pancreator chose to reveal himself to Zebulon, as humanity holds a sacred place in the order of the universe. Aliens are unreflective sentients and will twist or pervert the light of the Pancreator in strange ways. They staunchly defend against alien ethics and cultures dirtying the ethics of the pure human spirit. They refuse to recognise Ven Lohji as a Disciple of the Prophet, and suffer with minimal tolerance the inclusion of her writings in the Omega Gospels. They have petitioned on many occasions to defrocking all members of the church who are aliens and even the disestablishment of any alien sect, particularly the Obun and Vorox varieties.
Now, Luxifer, don't try to paint all Hinayana orthodox as wanting to exclude aliens/non-humans from the Universal Church. Some obviously do, but not all
quote:
The Mahayana
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Sammorah of Leagueheim
Adherents
~34% of the Order
Mahayana draws its name from an ancient Urth philosophy and means 'greater vessel'. The Mahayana tend to be more inclusive and egalitarian in their faith. They believe the Pancreator's divine light exists in all sentients and that the Church must be a vehicle large enough for all believers, even aliens. The Mahayana have been out of power since the beginning of the current century, though they have recently enjoyed an upswing since the end of the Emperor Wars. The Mahayan school generally have sway in urban areas, and on more cosmopolitan worlds such a Criticorum, Istakhr, Leagueheim and Byzantium Secundus.
The Mahayana philosophy advocates the advanced and optimistic nature of humanity. They are advocates of human rights and the general sanctity of all sentient life. They have a highly progressive attitude towards human civilisation, and more than one priest has been found guilty of the republican heresy and advocates of serf emancipation. Yet these fatalistic idealists are often weeded out early in their career and only the most politically astute, or indeed discreet rise to the ranks of power. They have, of necessity, become powerful mediators within the church and among other human spheres of activity. The Mahayana are often called upon to use their political and diplomatic acumen to oversee treaties between nobles or to sight important events of political or cultural importance. The Mahayana have been on many occasions allied with Sanctuary Aeon with intersecting interests. The Mahayana are one of the few voices of moderation with significant authority in the church to advocate alien and psychic rights. Indeed a few notable Mahayana have taken places on the Inquisitorial Synod to ensure that its authority is not excessive and properly executed.
This branch of the Orthodoxy must include the remnants of liberal sects of the Universal Church that thrived during the 2nd Republic but were disbanded in the New Dark Ages. the Mahayana, in addition to cooperating with the Amalthean branch of the UC, must also at times find common ground with the Eskatonic and Obun/Ven Lohji branches of the Church.
quote:
The Theravada
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Amon-Ret of Mars
Adherents
~18% of the Order
The Theraveda are puritans as suggested by their name which means, "voice of the elders". They adhere to strict and formal interpretations of the Omega Gospels. Although the Hinayana are the most Orthodox, it is their concern that the Second Republic forever influenced the politics of the Church and that both the Mahayana and Hinayana have lost sight of the original meaning of the Gospels. The Theraveda tend to be hardliners and fundamentalists of the Doctrine. Although they may abide by modern reforms for political reasons, they often think of Post-Fall Doctrines as invalid or impure.
The Theravada tend to have priests and missionaries who avoid large cities and communities. They see the influence of city life as inherently disruptive to the reception of the grace of the Pancreator as the environment is surrounded by the technological hubris of the republic. The Theravada cast strong doubt over the Doctrine of the Privilege of Martyrs and consider that even nobles, priests and guildsmen are corruptible by the sins of technology, and their pride of “extreme penance” makes them all the more susceptible. The Theravada rarely like to use any technology greater than 4 in their personal lives, but will accept the necessary evil of technology for the purposes of star-travel, interstellar communication and other things that make the world go round. The Theravada are perhaps one of the strongest opponents in the orthodoxy to the sanctioning of the Merchant Guild, seeing them as an inherently corrupt organisation. While not so fanatical as the Temple Avesti, they use their political influence to block and disrupt the influence of the League and will rarely recognise the professions of piety from any leaguer.
This Church faction has to have some close ties to Avestites and Inquisitors and must include many of the advocates of a Known Worlds theocracy.
quote:
The Vajrayana
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Mendack of Gwynneth
Adherents
~6% of the Order
Of the two monastic branches of the Orthodoxy Vajrayana is slightly larger and more prolific, it name means "The Diamond Branch". These two groups have removed themselves largely from the politics of the Orthodoxy and instead dedicate themselves to living the philosophy of the Order. The Vajrayana dedicate themselves to the development of their own being through the tenets laid out by the conversations between Ven Lohji and Zebulon especially the Way of Illumination. The Vajrayana are less concerned about hierarchy compared to other branches and believe that the Descent of Grace is best gained through personal transmission.
The Vajrayana have a deep respect for the ritual and ceremony of the church. Their entirely lifestyle revolves around a daily worship to the Pancreator and they place a great reverence on the necessity of daily prayers and communion with the divine. The Vajrayana have a strange voice within the Orthodoxy. They have the position of touched mystics. Their daily dedications and worship carries with it the perception of being one step closer to the Pancreator than the average priest, but this likewise distances them from the realities of humanity. The Vajrayana are highly respected on mystical and supernatural dialogues, but more often then not completely ignored on temporal matters of politics and congregation. Of all the orthodox groups, the Vajrayana have the most expertise with theurgic ritual. The Vajrayana see themselves as the guardians of theurgic lore and attempt to collect its pearls of wisdom from across the globe. They tend to have a greater access to different rituals than other members of the clergy, but have a habit of sharing the lesser secrets of their lore in exchange.
This Church faction, if it actually closely follows the teachings laid out in conversations between Zebulon the Prophet and his Obun disciple, it must be influenced by the Ven Lohji/Obun sect of the Universal Church, and even include both humans and Obun among it's clergy.
quote:
The Dhyana
Priesthood Leader
Archbishop Serenity of Manitou
Adherents
~5% of the Order
This is the other Monastic branch of the order its name means "meditation branch". Unlike the other Orthodox groups there is less focus on ceremonial worship of the Pancreator and a focus on the discovery of being part of the Pancreator. While many in the church have cast an askance eye at their practices with the words heresy on their lips, the Dhyana very verbally make a clear distinction that such a method is not the Universalist Heterodoxy, but simply a more expanded version of the Doctrine of Universal Grace. While their main monastery lies on Manitou, they have a number of facilities across the Known Worlds, noticeably, Pandemonium, Pyre, De Moley and Aylon.
The Dhyana are the most ascetic of all branches. Their major assertion is that the sins of Technology are not just due to their convenience, but because all material possessions are distracting from spiritual enlightenment. This is the path of Sansara, the absolution of material wealth and comforts. Indeed the Dhyana seek to attain this state of pure thought by transcending physical and material concerns. The Dhyana are renowned for creating various riddles, techniques and other practices designed to help the priest clear his mind of thought to be in this pure state. From the Dhyana perspective this creates a void within the mind free of the darkness of the Abyss through which the light of the Pancreator can descend more easily. This is considered to be the best way to receive grace. Priests of the Dhyana find it far easier to resolve conflicts of faith and are less susceptible to Hubris.
This branch of the Orthodoxy must work closely with some of the Hesychast sects, orders, and monasteries in the Church. |
www.yahoogroups.com/group/alternateuniversewithouthumans note: on this blog, I'm known as fadingsunsjvj I'm also a member as newmarduk on the Steve Jackson Games forums [url]http://forums.sjgames.com[/url] I also have a Web site combining Fading Suns with Babylon 5: [url]http://geocities.com/fadingsunsjvj/babylonfivefadingsuns.html[/url] [url]http://geocities.com/fadingsunsjvj/b5fs2.html[/url] [url]http://geocities.com/fadingsunsjvj/b5fs3.html [/url] [url]http://geocities.com/fadingsunsjvj/b5fs4.html[/url] |
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Posted - 09 Jun 2005 : 21:26:10
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A quick semantic note, I might consider calling these Theological Schools; as they seem to be theological movements within the sects. The Orthodoxy also already has a white/red priesthood division in the fluff books; I'm not entirely sure where this fits in your schema.
Alternately, some of these could be Hesychast orders/movements allied to the the sects. The church is kinda wacky among the major powers because it has such a small number of sects, but movements (Chorali, Kalinthi, Inquisition, etc.) which cross the sectarian boundaries. I guess, with further thought, I'd loby for a cohesive plan for the church, so that any additional sects, intra-sectarian theological schools, and inter-sectarian movements are arranged into a logican plan.
I wasn't too keen on this at first, but its growing on me. I think its reaching the levels of too much detail though, as I can't see using it in my own games unless I was able to get an all-ecclesiastical game going... Which would be the coolest thing since sliced bread. |
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Posted - 09 Jun 2005 : 22:27:45
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| Nice! An Eskatonic, an Orthodox Kalinthi(?), an Avestite and an Amalthean, all with their different theological and ideological positions. Get the right players and you'd have a really intense horror/metaphysics/politics FS campaign. Potentially never a gun fired! [:)] |
"The truth is too important to waste on every fool who asks."
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Posted - 10 Jun 2005 : 00:43:01
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quote:
Originally posted by newmarduk
Now, Luxifer, don't try to paint all Hinayana orthodox as wanting to exclude aliens/non-humans from the Universal Church. Some obviously do, but not all
I wasn't going to originally, but the canon text explicitly states that the hinayana consider aliens to have perverted soul mirrors and not worthy of the reflected grace of the Pancreator.
quote:
This branch of the Orthodoxy must include the remnants of liberal sects of the Universal Church that thrived during the 2nd Republic but were disbanded in the New Dark Ages. the Mahayana, in addition to cooperating with the Amalthean branch of the UC, must also at times find common ground with the Eskatonic and Obun/Ven Lohji branches of the Church.
Yes, that is implied. Since it's mentioned in the canon texts I omitted it there.
quote:
This Church faction, if it actually closely follows the teachings laid out in conversations between Zebulon the Prophet and his Obun disciple, it must be influenced by the Ven Lohji/Obun sect of the Universal Church, and even include both humans and Obun among it's clergy.
It's more THEIR interpretation of original scriptures, think of it more fundamentalist literal interpretation of scriptures than anything else. While agree with you they'd probably recognise Ven Lohji and be more tolerant of aliens in their group, they'd probably expect them to assimilate to their standards.
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This branch of the Orthodoxy must work closely with some of the Hesychast sects, orders, and monasteries in the Church.
Well they are a monastic order, as is the Vajrayana. I'm imagining something similar to the franciscans and dominicans for these two. They're the scholarly monks who are still considered orthodox. |
Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
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Posted - 10 Jun 2005 : 00:47:31
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quote:
Originally posted by Zuranity
A quick semantic note, I might consider calling these Theological Schools; as they seem to be theological movements within the sects. The Orthodoxy also already has a white/red priesthood division in the fluff books; I'm not entirely sure where this fits in your schema.
Alternately, some of these could be Hesychast orders/movements allied to the the sects. The church is kinda wacky among the major powers because it has such a small number of sects, but movements (Chorali, Kalinthi, Inquisition, etc.) which cross the sectarian boundaries. I guess, with further thought, I'd loby for a cohesive plan for the church, so that any additional sects, intra-sectarian theological schools, and inter-sectarian movements are arranged into a logican plan.
I wasn't too keen on this at first, but its growing on me. I think its reaching the levels of too much detail though, as I can't see using it in my own games unless I was able to get an all-ecclesiastical game going... Which would be the coolest thing since sliced bread.
Yeah semantics are a hard thing :) I was considering calling them chapters, or schools, I'm even using the term cancellarius for the Eskatonic divisions. Agreed, a lot of this is very background and might not get used a lot, I use it a lot in my games because it causes the players to fine tune their concepts about the stereotypes (I'm not just a Decados, I'm a member of the Antonivov Family... or I'm not just an Eskatonic, but I'm a Gemmatrion).
It also helps me define more the NPCs that the players come across, and provide variety in what is essentially an interstellar church with many many subdivisions.
In terms of the pan-sectarian groups I consider them offices of the Patriarch, and the Patriarch I consider to be a Pansectarian individual rather than the Head of the Orthodoxy. |
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Posted - 10 Jun 2005 : 02:22:26
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Eskatonic Order
The Eskatonic Order has brought together many different mystery cults under its aegis. These chapters must abide to the scriptures and doctrines of the Orthodox church. While there is a consideration by the masses to label any kooky priest of bizarre origins as an Eskatonic, there is a particularly distinct element behind the various groups now recognised as part of the Order.
Ankhimia
Cancellarius Leader
Presbuteros Kevah of Aylon
Adherents
~18% of Order
In 3912 a mystic named of Haswas al-Gharb founded the University of Light in the capital of Yathrib. Here was studied the mystical phenomena associated with the vision of the Holy Flame. The philosophers sought to create 'entelechy' or the perfect being, and often experimented with genetic engineering. They sought to infuse sequences representing holy light into genes, desiring to manifest theurgy. With the Fall the church banned the practices forcing it underground. This catalysed a transformation in the group's outlook, and they turned from science to occultism. They codified there works and eventually fled to Pentateuch during a pogrom in order to protect their writings. They were one of the leading groups in the revolution that lead to the Pentateuch Concordat.
Central to the Ankhimia is ‘entelechy’, the idea that that a sentient is a microcosm of the Pancreator. By seeking their godhood, the sentient can attain perfection. Their philosophy creates a personal relationship between the individual and the Pancreator to attain as much of his image as possible through the path of illumination. The Ankhimia states this inherent perfection reflects the Empyrean, and that the individual must realise this state. Their practices highly subtle, preferring to work in in quiet contemplation. They are masters of the sacred sciences of alchemy, astrology and psychology, having a deeply spiritual understanding of sacred geometry, mathematics and light. They tend to distance themselves from the study of theurgy, however, as they see theurgy as the mastery of the external worlds rather than the internal. The Ankhimia are also known as the Order of the White Cancellarius.
Gemmatrion
Cancellarius Leader
Presbuteros Luria of Pentateuch
Adherents
~23% of the Order
The Gemmatrion's origins lie with the pre-reflective religion known as the Children of Xian (pronounced Zi-on). This group was part of the original waves of colonists in the early 2300's. The Xian held a number of sacred texts they claim was inspired through conversations with angelic beings, that spoke of the mysteries of the universe. Although the Xianists originally settled on Sathra's Boon they relocated twice eventually settling on Daleth-4. During the Age of Miracles, the Children of Xian rejected Zebulon in favour of their sacred writings in their search for divinity. They were shaken out of this complacency when Doramus terraformed their world. Observing the mystical transformation they were inspired and began proselytising only to be suppressed by the Church. When the church tried to convert them, their cosmological insights rang true and the Xian eventually helped forge the Pentateuch Concordat. To this day they are one of the leading theological groups in the Known Worlds.
The Gemmatrion form the main body of the Eskatonic Order. Their philosophy colours many aspects of church doctrine, cosmology and pneumatology. They are given special reverence by other mystics through their study of the Supernals, the Empyrean and the ten Sephira. The Gemmatrion hold a special significance for the written word and sacred language of Enochian. They study Enochian in the desire to find the harmonics correlations between all things in order to perceive the underlying reality of the world. They are the most academic of all the orders, seeking to study the Pancreator as revealed in sacred texts and numbers. The Gemmatrion are also known as the Order of the Green Cancellarius.
Sadhana
Cancellarius Leader
Presbuteros Kahlah of Manitou
Adherents
~17% of the Order
The Sadhana have held an inauspicious history by the church’s standards. Their origins on Manitou stem from the first Lotus eater, who during her first experience held a transformative experience, where she found her inner eye had opened. Though her name is forgotten her practices were carefully passed down from master to student through the ages. The use of Lotus Juice was a rare privilege, to be used at the height of a person’s spiritual journey, not to attain it. The cult practiced sex magic, yogic asanas, sensory indulgence and bacchanals to transcend their normal perceptions. From these practices the first forms of Bharata zho Veda came. One of their greatest practitioners was Doramus of the Mountain, who lead the cult to Pentateuch. After his revelation they lent their martial prowess to the defence of their brethren groups on Pentateuch and were admitted into the Concordat.
The philosophy of the Sadhana focuses on the awakening of the theurgic energies from the depth of the flame. As this flame grows hotter, it causes the chakras (lit: wheels of fire) to open providing greater insights to the universe. Theurgy becomes the vehicle by which an aspirant may become more like the Pancreator. This is done mostly through the sacred sciences of psychology, somatology and pneumatology and physical mastery through Fa-Do. The Sadhana are known as the Order of the Blue Cancellerius.
Trismegistus Magi
Cancellarius Leader
Presbuteros Tevari of Madoc
Adherents
~22% of the Order
The Trismegistus have origins in a conclave of Natural Philosophers from the University of Khayyam. They studied the religions of the pre-diaspora Urth in an attempt to glean knowledge of the ancient secrets of humanity, in order to find some sort of commonality. When St. Horace returned after the Prophet’s death he revealed the gospels of the Pancreator to them which was the final key. Over the next decade they watched in awe as Horace scribed his apocryphal texts. The conclave delved into these and other arcane texts of arcane lore and began codifying some of the first arts of theurgy, earning a reputation as powerful magi. During the height of the Republic they were a widespread collective across many planets searching for alien, dark and otherwise new texts of lore to acquire. With the Fall much of their lore was deemed odious to humanity forcing the Trismegistus to study in secret. This drew them to the Eskatonic revolution, bringing with them the many lost texts of St. Horace.
The Trismegistus have divided their knowledge into faith, reason and gnosis, studying the sacred science of geomancy, astrology and alchemy. They are considered powerful magi who sometimes dabble in forces too dark for mortal man. Through coded symbols, ceremony and ritual they have become the archetype of Gnostics, with sacred wisdom as the epitome of enlightenment. Purporting that sentience is gift to bring understanding in the Pancreator not just blind belief. To seek through wisdom is an act of spirituality. The Trismegistus are also known as the Order of the Grey Cancellarius.
Apocalypta
Cancellarius Leader
Presbuteros Shin of Sutek
Adherents
~20% of the Order
When Nicodemus received the vision of the Eskaton on St. Horace’s deathbed (supposedly on Sutek, but some contend this), he was profoundly moved by this vision of the end of all times speaking of a darkness that would swallow the suns. Nicodemus took his message to the masses with doom saying and fatalism, calling for the end-times. Through history this group was marginalised and it wasn’t until the last century of the Second Republic that is began to gain hold with the millennialism of the Fading Suns. Although they were only given passing credibility by the Church they continued to speak of the end times, often quite loudly on the streets. The Apocalypta played a critical role in catalysing the Eskatonic Revolution. Their passionate fervour for the Eskaton became a rallying cry. While first they were labelled the Eskatonic Movement as a pejorative, the allied organisations took it as their own name with the Concordat.
The Apocalypta attempt to teach that death is a natural order in the universe and not to be feared. Their message is one of acceptance, and preparation, to accept the fate of your destiny and to find peace within your spirit. The following has more than a reputation for an obsession with death, fatality and doom. This group more than the other have given the Eskatonics a reputation for being kooks and crank-pot paranoids. The members of the Apocalypta are often called to this group after some sort of visionary experience, and many have developed seer-like abilities, practising eschatology, psychology and geomancy. They espouse that with such a sort life we should develop a deeper appreciation of the creation, that we might know its creator through it. The Apocalypta are also known as the Order of the Brown Cancellerius.
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Posted - 10 Jun 2005 : 04:14:48
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Temple Avesti
The fanaticism of the Temple Avesti is certainly its most legendary attribute. Indeed many within the higher echelons encourage this image, as it allows them to put on a public face that the peasantry and allow them to conduct their own work with quiet and deliberation. The Temple Avesti work is twofold, to punish the wicked that they may cleanse their sins, or to combat the forces of darkness lest they taint and corrupt the innocent.
The Assembly of Agni
Chapter Leader
Primate Vindicar of Pyre
Adherents
~32% of the Order
As the largest chapter of the Temple Avesti, they are the ones that bear the face of the Avestites. This chapter claims a heritage from the original Vestic traditions and are the remnants of the pyrrhic extremists. In 4235 when they submitted to patriarchal authority they were forced to change their name to reflect their status as a sect of the church. Over the years they have attempted to bring their vision of the Holy Flame to the masses, to warn them of their wicked ways lest they fall into sin. While they still display the traditional red of their heritage, few will carry a flame-gun anymore, preferring to burn as bright example to call those in the darkness back to the sacred fire of the Pancreator.
The Assembly of Agni have a main mission of spreading the faith, and they do this by bringing a light to the darkest places, reading the fervitudes in public places to proselytise and kindling hope among the masses that there is a light in the dark. They deliver missives to the people to warn them against their sins and are vigilant against the peasantry being corrupted by the hubris of technology. They are not unkind, but firm. The Assembly are not so much Inquisitors, as watchdogs against sin. Many members of the Known Worlds find the faith of Temple Avesti to be a cathartic experience and purifying. In times of darkness people tend to huddle a little closer to the fire. Their fiery passion for faith and to protect the flock will lead them boldly into places where the Orthodoxy fears to tread. Many peasants in barbarian lands, the Symbiot front or on Pandemonium are thankful for the sheer faith that burns brightly in these priests.
Oculi Ardentes
Chapter Leader
Primate Romanus of Cadavus
Adherents
~12% of the Order
In an unusual twist of fate, one branch of House Decados, the Ivanovas, developed an unusual piety and fanaticism. This largely stemmed from the high levels of psychic activity within their family and their subsequent close relationships with the Church. When the Doctrine of the Cleansing Flame was passed as a bull the Ivanova commissioned the use of their spy networks (some even psychic) to police their own for signs of sin and heresy. After the pyrrhic revolution the Ivanova developed a close relationship with Temple Avesti, inviting them in for many cleansings. Eventually the Temple Avesti gained control of this spy network and put it to their employ. They became the Oculi Ardentes and have spread their agents across the known worlds. They have become the eyes and ears of Temple Avesti.
The Ardentes (or eyes of fire) are some of the most subtle of all the Avesti, often calm and collected and very frequently raised in a monastic lifestyle from a young age. They have a strong faith, but they know the wisdom of keeping secrets. Their mission is to watch all of humanity and report every sin, every blasphemy and every heretical action and bear witness to it. This information is collected by the Church and used against the accused in ecclesiastical trials. The Ardentes will often wear a simply black robe, or a priestly cassock without order insignia. Sometimes they even resort to mufti and are well trained in the arts of intelligence gathering and deception. The Ardentes are very much aware of the dark nature of their trade, but consider it a necessary evil and tend to use flagellation and cinctures to remind them of their faith.
The Malleus Maleficarum
Chapter Leader
Primate Jana of Stigmata
Adherents
~18% of the Order
Over the years, the Temple Avesti has collected many heretical tomes, grimoires and assorted rituals of dark and profane natures. They are sealed away in the vaults of many a cathedral. It used to be a practice that such works would be committed to the flames, not so since Abbot Ignatius the Red. He was originally a Penitent psychic who, in 4580, prostrated himself before the Temple Avesti beginning to serve the church in their fight against sin. His self-loathing would eventually lead him to the development of Odium, an anti-psychic path that made him a powerful psychic hunter. His success led several to believe that it was potential to turn maleficium against those who would use it.
The Malleus Maleficarum use their arts to find, determine and understand the occult threats towards humanity. They actively attempt to acquire as much dark lore and heretical works as they can and carefully catalogue their notes on psychic powers, hedge magic and demonic activity. Their research has proved invaluable for the Kalinthi and other demon hunters, such as the Shattenjäger. Yet their delving into the dark arts is not without its repercussions. Many who dark glimpse into the abyss are often afflicted with maladies and dementia, and slowly become more and more paranoid of things around them. Never-the-less, the Malleus are among the most powerful theurgists who use their arts to drive back the darkness or exorcise demons. Flame symbology is frequent in their ritual, almost to the extent of pyromania.
The Shattenjäger
Chapter Leader
Primate Arganath of Holy Terra
Adherents
~24% of the Order
The Shattenjäger are the most martial of all the Temple Avesti. They have taken it upon themselves to bring the fight against the darkness to them. Often allied with the Kalinthi, who investigate occult activity, the Shattenjäger make it their mission to destroy by whatever means possible any occult threat to humanity. The Shattenjäger began during the New Dark Ages as a nomadic group claiming descent from a mixture of Romany and Louisiana heritage. Having colonised on Kish in the Diaspora, they were hunted by the dark servants of the Demonic Li Halan. Nearly wiped out the Shattenjäger swore to the Pancreator to bring down these evil tyrants and waged an insurrection against them. When the Temple Avesti became officially accepted into the fold of the Church, it began secretly sponsoring their work against the Li Halan until the Cardanite conversion. Since then, the Shattenjäger have taken on a greater role of fighting the dark creatures across the Known Worlds.
The Shattenjäger are often solitary priests, lone gunmen on their own personal crusade against the dark. They are trained to fight them both militaristically and mystically. It was the Shattenjäger who originally began the tradition of using Flameguns and Asbestos Robes, though many now prefer leather or other thick padding. Most Shattenjäger spend years training and honing their skills that some say rival even those of the brother battle. Many of the Shattenjäger have learned a number of holy theurgic rites to use against the abyss, and those who are not so blessed are often given extensive use of a number of holy relics. While some bring only a candle to the darkness, they bring a blaze.
The Eumenides Priory
Chapter Leader
Primate Malachai of Kordeth
Adherents
~14% of the Order
Their chief weapons are fear and surprise and a fanatical devotion to the Pancreator. The members of the Eumenides Priory (often simply called the Erinyes) were originally a large female following of St. Maya after the Martyrdom of the Prophet. They followed her and payed careful note to her doctrines. When she was Martyred by a Decados noble, they were overcome with fury and rage at this affront to the Pancreator. Since then it has been the personal mission of the Erinyes to right wrongs that go unpunished. To bring retribution to the wicked and to bring vengeance to those who would bring suffering, especially to the peasantry. The Erinyes were not officially admitted into the Temple Avesti until 4550 with the assassination of Vladimir and the following outcry. Their inability to uncover the identity of his assassins is considered one of their greatest failures.
While the Erinyes are largely females, a fair number of men join this chapter. The Erinyes often work closely with the Oculis Ardentes to uncover secret crimes that are not able to be punished by the Church either because of political or social restraints. The Erinyes mission is to visit Karma upon those who go, with impunity, evade rightful prosecution by the Ecclesiastical courts. They have a special hatred for the nobility who abuse their status of privilege and bring suffering to the peasantry. While their actions are not officially condoned by the Patriarchy, they are taught in such a way as to use discretion, and will often use murder only for the most heinous crimes as they abide by the code Lex Tallionis (eye for an eye).
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Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
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Posted - 10 Jun 2005 : 04:25:13
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I will not have time to do the Amalthean Chapters until next week as I am hungry must go and eat, plus I must write the adventure for my troop who is playing on monday :) Though I have some wicked ideas.
I've got a wonderful image of "Mother Confessors" a la sword of truth as Amaltheans. |
Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
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Posted - 10 Jun 2005 : 05:15:55
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quote:
Originally posted by Luxifer
The Eumenides Priory
Chapter Leader
Primate Malachai of Kordeth
Adherents
~14% of the Order
Their chief weapons are fear and surprise and a fanatical devotion to the Pancreator.
...and the comfy cushions! [:)]
No, on a more serious note. I like all the church doctrines(?) you've presented here. It finally gives the Avesti a semi-official write-up that makes them something other than religious pyromaniacs. Yeah, you hear about the scholarly Avestites, but I don't think I've ever seen them written up as other than a footnote.
Luxifer adds value again!
But shame on you for needing food! Weakling [:p] |
"The truth is too important to waste on every fool who asks."
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Posted - 10 Jun 2005 : 13:39:17
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quote:
Originally posted by Zuranity
A quick semantic note, I might consider calling these Theological Schools; as they seem to be theological movements within the sects. The Orthodoxy also already has a white/red priesthood division in the fluff books; I'm not entirely sure where this fits in your schema.
PotCS actually calls them Schools. Collegias or Theovia rings for me - but then I just like making up words. |
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Posted - 11 Jun 2005 : 21:59:40
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Sanctuary Aeon
With its beginnings as the Church of Amalthea, Sanctuary Aeon would expand to cover many different worlds. Its own power was to rival the power of Palamedes church, only the Ukar-Human war would dramatically shift the balance of power in Palamedes’ favour. While some of the worlds once claimed by Sanctuary Aeon are now lost, including Draxus, Kailas and Swan’s Way, Sanctuary Aeon’s interplanetary congregation saw a multiplicity of its mission throughout the centuries.
The Ayurvedic Congregation
Ministry Leader
Doyen Franchesca of Artemis
Adherents
~39% of the Order
The Ayurveda consider themselves to be the inheritors of the Avalokitesvara (their name for Amalthea) and is largely a term used to distinguish the main congregation of Sanctuary Aeon with the other chapters of the Order. The Ayurveda began with the founding of Amalthea’s Church, and was originally a moniker used by Amalthea to describe them all as potential healers. Under Amalthea’s leadership they were to spread across many worlds creating a strong powerbase on many worlds. Despite Amalthea’s beloved following, the Ukari wars would see Palamedes’ church take dominance.
The philosophy of the Ayurveda is to find worship in the sacred texts of Amalthea’s Leiposophy. They espouse an ideology of personal faith, and universal healing through a revised version of the Omega Gospels, many of their praxis revolve around concepts of empathising with the suffering of others that you might understand them better. With this pain comes understanding and the first step to universal healing. Once the nature of suffering is understood it can be transcended. From there the ceremony uses symbology of water and poured from a sacred cup to purify pas sins.
The priests of the Ayurveda tend to have some sort of emotional complex. It becomes difficult for them to experience an emotional repertoire without a perspective of pain and suffering. Sometimes they become detached and other times they develop a martyr complex for bearing the pains of others. Only those who reach a middle path between the two ascend the ranks of power with the remainder sent out to do the field work and learn from these lessons.
The Veritas Analecta
Ministry Leader
Doyen Daevi of Grail
Adherents
~15% of the Order
In 4713 an Amalthean scholar by the name of Alera Dante wrote an expansive book known as the ‘vade mecum praxim confessariorium’, often just called the analects. It was an expansive volume on ethical and moral guidance especially for how those who are subject to the Doctrine of the Privilege of Martyrs should live as an example for those below. It became the definitive guide for providing guidance to the Privileged within Sanctuary Aeon. Its main suggestion is that confession is a form of healing, and the more responsibility held, the greater the weight of confession. It places the responsibility of gaining confession upon the priest and even permits the use of theurgy if it will help them release such a confession.
The Analects draws upon many sources for guidance. Their initial philosophies of human elevation have since been sublimated into a strong sense of humanitarian ethics. They are continuing advocates of such things as unalienable human rights, though they are erudite enough not to call for serf emancipation. Their heightened sense of ethics allows them to walk a fine line between the real worlds and their ideals. The Analects have learned to use the arts of charisma, presence and even guile to bring about a confession. Indeed, many of them have positions on the Inquisitorial Synod to aid in their actions (these Inquisitors are known as the Compassionate Confessors). In their pure white robes they can command both respect and awe when they walk into a room through their powerful personas alone. They are by far some of the most proficient Amaltheans at theurgy outside of the healers
Hospice of Ambrosia
Ministry Leader
Doyen Hellen of Shaprut
Adherents
~12% of the Order
Since the Fall, Sanctuary Aeon has attempted to maintain a modicum of medical standards across the Known Worlds. As it stands, Artemis is one of the few worlds left with a medical standard even comparable to the Republic, most places rely of Charnel Houses, and Hospices. The Hospice of Ambrosia was originally the last remaining hospital in the capital city of Tabriz. When the Annalinists broke away against Madost’s corrupt regime in the 4300s the Annalinits used the hospital for a centre of operations. During the insurrection, they created an expanded network throughout the Known Worlds of Hospices as a cover for their underground operations. When the schism was over and the Annalinists were reaccepted in, this existing network was charged with maintaining this network for the bakhtis (wandering medics) and as centres of sanctuary throughout the Known Worlds.
The Ambrosians are what most peasants think when they think of the Amaltheans, wandering medics, charnel houses and merciful technicals. It should be acknowledged that the luxury of theurgic healing is not that common, and instead many of the Ambrosians are some of the most scientifically educated of all priests, with extensive knowledge in healing and medicine, some even joint collaborations with the Apothecaries guild. A peasant can easily wander into a hospice to find herbalism and energy healing being performed alongside surgery and pharmacology. The motto of the Hospice is that cleanliness is next to saintliness. Each charnel house is often tinted with a pungent odour of antiseptics and the smell of illness. Being highly aware of the issue of sanitation, they frequently endeavour to have nobles build and maintain forms of urban sanitation, pointing out that plague thrives on squalid conditions.
The House of Our Lady of Rhapsody
Ministry Leader
Doyen Iago of Delphi
Adherents
~19% of the Order
Several individuals have held great celebrity with the populace throughout history, a number of these are Amalthean. The House of Rhapsody has drawn a heritage from many of these figures. This following began in 4388 in the wake of Eleanore Amarande, one of the most beloved healers on the Order. Her styles of teaching were especially euphoric and ecstatic, a rare sight in these dark times. As she travelled many wandering medics would met up with her on frequents occasions to share mass and ceremony. The regularity of these meetings drew many more peasants, seeking respite, succour, healing and a rare moment of divine rapture. Bearing a message of hope, many of these medics would take this new message across the known worlds especially in places low in spirit to revitalise the faith in the Pancreator. Since then the Priests of this chapter have earned a reputation for being charismatics, and revivalists. Their movement is known to spark the flames of faith in whatever town they move in.
The philosophy of the Rhapsody is to emphasise the love of the Pancreator as a moving and empowering spirit. They hold that the despair that grips the Known Worlds can only be lifted with a true inner joy. Of the practices of the Ecstatics it is not uncommon to have remarkable displays of divine power to inspire faith and joy. The priests are known to perform displays of theurgic healing for the sick, have prophetic visions and speak with the voices of the angels. It is quite common for their churches to be full of vibrant music, light and dance during ceremony. Ironically, while they may be popular with the peasantry, few nobles, or indeed freemen find their services to their taste.
The Emissary Benedictus
Ministry Leader
Doyen Hecete of Tethys
Adherents
~15% of the Order
During the Second Republic, several break-away philosophers of the Sanctuary Aeon sought to progress humanity with a wide-spread eugenics programme, eventually elevating the whole of humanity. With the Fall these ambitions largely fell into ruin and instead the Benedictus sought to create a perfect leader from among the nobility. They began a long-term breeding programme, negotiating inter-house marriages. Eventually they claim this lead to the creation of Vladimir, only to see their plans thwarted with his assassination. The group eventually settled on Tethys, where they developed a strong relationship with House Hawkwood. After centuries of effort they also claim that Emperor Alexius was a result of their work. During the Emperor Wars, they were instrumental in reducing the over-all tension and negotiating several cease-fires. Their neutrality in the wars earned them sufficient credibility to mediate the peace accords between Alexius and Houses Decados and Hazat. This effort has recently admitted them as an order back into Sanctuary Aeon.
Today the Emissary Benedictus work to produce, through breeding, unique individuals performing at the peak of their abilities (the Inquisition has even accused them of psychic and changed programmes). Their drive to perfection is true of themselves, as they have a dedicated regimen of physical exercise, meditation and discipline, and are often quite competent at theurgy. They have developed an extremely diplomatic sensitivity, cultivated by their negotiations. They have, of course, developed a substantial political clout in both ecclesiastic and political circles. Their mediative skills are used across the Known Worlds to hammer out various peace treaties. On many occasions they have burst into unruly diplomatic meetings only to chide the combatant nobility for their infantile behaviour like an errant mother to wayward children.
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Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
http://www.kittensofdarkness.net/renaissance.htm
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Posted - 11 Jun 2005 : 22:02:21
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Well I kinda surprised myself by writing the amaltheans in between writing the characters of my game, background and modifying some mechanics... darn me and my obsession. :)
Maj: Colleges could possibly work, but so far Chapters still rings the best in my mind, but that's a personal preferenec.
BS: Thanks for the compliments, I had lots of fun writing the Avestites. I really think there's some interesting hooks in them to make them appealing for PCs to play. I also had some fun doing the Emissary and Rhapsody for the Amaltheans, I love the idea of "bene geserit" amaltheans and charismatic revivalist churches as part of the sanctuary :) |
Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
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Posted - 11 Jun 2005 : 23:19:52
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quote:
Originally posted by Majester
quote:
Originally posted by Zuranity
A quick semantic note, I might consider calling these Theological Schools; as they seem to be theological movements within the sects. The Orthodoxy also already has a white/red priesthood division in the fluff books; I'm not entirely sure where this fits in your schema.
PotCS actually calls them Schools. Collegias or Theovia rings for me - but then I just like making up words.
Theovia - is that a horrid cludge of Greek & Latin (like the word television - *shudder*) meaning "Way of God", or am I just over-analysing again? |
"The truth is too important to waste on every fool who asks."
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Posted - 12 Jun 2005 : 01:32:13
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Heh, if we're coining awkard phrases you could go with Theodo (or Theodao for the middle-kindomites among us) to incorporate some asian wackiness into it.
Seriously, "schools" is concise. You don't have to pick schools, but I'd loby for something consistant and concise without sounding too esoteric. |
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Posted - 13 Jun 2005 : 09:28:47
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I think schools is an abbreviation of Schools of Theology. My only concern is that Chapters may be confused with Orders which consist of Chapters.
Boss, you're right. I took Theology and catevia, and blended the parts I wanted. A very scientific methodology. |
WARNING: May contain nuts. http://www.geocities.com/lrudling
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Posted - 13 Jun 2005 : 23:00:36
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| schools could work, though I imagine the esoteric eskatonic may call theirs something scribbly and the bb something military. |
Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
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Posted - 13 Jun 2005 : 23:48:45
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quote:
Originally posted by Luxifer
schools could work, though I imagine the esoteric eskatonic may call theirs something scribbly and the bb something military.
Br Battle: Divisions, Preceptories, Commanderies, Chapterhouses, Langue (languages - from the organisation of the Knights of Malta), Kreis (Circles in German)...
Eskatonics: I'll just run screaming from the mystical esoterica at this point. What was that Sanskrit word for branches that Luxifer was going on about in his Eskat's write up? I'd use that as being symbolic of their recognition that they are all but branches of the single universal tree of wisdom. |
"The truth is too important to waste on every fool who asks."
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Vote for EPT at http://www.rpggateway.com/cgi-bin/wyrm/rate.cgi?ID=2224 |
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Posted - 13 Jun 2005 : 23:54:54
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| Cancellarius is actually something used in the rosicrucians... |
Boyar Lucifer Decados cordially invites all Fading Suns fans to attend the new and improved Renaissance website.
http://www.kittensofdarkness.net/renaissance.htm
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Church Priesthoods