Vega's Plots

[Vega]

TP

Thunder Priesthood

The Thunder Priesthood is one of the three most powerful factions in the city of Rharne. This female-dominated faction was created by Ilaren’s first female Champion during the 280th arc to unite the Immortal’s supporters. Their overarching directive is to govern religion in Rharne, gather intelligence across Idalos, and advance Ilaren’s goals in the Immortals War. There are between 1500-1600 active Priesthood members spread throughout Idalos at any one time, with about 600-700 of those living in Rharne. As of Saun in Arc 718, following the discovery of traitors in the Thunder Priestesses at the very core, a shake-up of the faction occurred and, with that 'clean sweep', a few men began to join. It is harder for them to gain acknowledgement from their peers, as the Priestesses are very well established, but the Thunder Priests have begun to be seen.

Within Rharne, the Thunder Priesthoos is viewed as Ilaren’s eyes and ears. It is rumoured that they see all and know all through their network of intelligence gatherers spread across the many regions of Idalos, and many Rharnians see them as the city’s champions and protectors. If the Lightning Knights are the city’s sword, then the Thunder Priesthood is the city’s shield.

The Priesthood is split into four branches, each with its own specialization:

• The Clerics oversee religion and healing. They are the day-to-day face of the Priesthood in the city, and work with the Lightning Knight Guardians
• the Stormwatchers work to bring order and healing to the stormlands and the surrounds of Rharne. They work with the Lightning Knight Justicars
• the Emissaries act as ambassadors for Rharne, and work with the Lightning Knight Inquisitors
• the Warriors act as Ilaren’s personal agents and tend to work alone

While the Priests in each branch have varying skillsets, the faction is widely known for its prowess in Unarmed Combat, regardless of specialization. All members are taught defensive combat skills in order to protect themselves and each other should the need arise.

A member of the Thunder Priesthood can usually be recognized by their attire. Novitiates wear white robes, while Priests and above wear dark purple robes. Inside the Lightning Cathedral, the robes are always worn unless one is visiting or leaving. Outside the Lightning Cathedral, the robes are sometimes traded in for more practical clothing. Emissaries often choose to wear attire that aligns with the city they are visiting, whereas Warriors tend to dress in armour as appropriate. A symbol of Ilaren is often worn, showing allegiance even when the robes are not practical.

The Oath: Upon joining the Thunder Priesthood, a new member must swear an oath of allegiance to Ilaren and the Priesthood, in which s/he promises to place the mission and goals of the faction above their own self-interest. After the oath is sworn, the new member is required to complete the ritual with a shot of whiskey.

The oath is repeated as follows:

“I pledge an oath of loyalty to Ilaren and my brothers and sisters in the Thunder Priestesses and the Lightning Knights.

I swear to place the interests of my brothers and sisters above myself, to serve Ilaren with integrity, and to show bravery in times of fear. I further swear to faithfully support, protect, and defend my brothers and sisters in both the Lightning Knights and Thunder Priestesses and the citizens of Rharne against those that wish us harm.

May I always find courage in myself, strength in my brothers and sisters, and faith in Ilaren.”

Members of the Priesthood are allowed to marry, though this is discouraged since a partnership and/or family is considered a distraction from the faction’s directive.