Congregation of Ishtar

The only religion permitted under the Tocurian Dynasty, the Congregation of Ishtar are based out of Wuulstead on the western coast. Ishtarans hold that the gods, brothers Ishtar and Etimir, have existed for eternity, and were once the only beings in a sea of nothingness. Many thousands of years ago, they believe, the brothers fought for some unknowable reason, and eventually Ishtar triumphed, slaying his brother in a rage. Once this anger faded, he was distraught at what he had done. In his grief, he used the bones of his fallen brother to create the foundation of Amion, sculpting his flesh into the land atop them, and Etimir's blood became the seas, lakes and rivers across the world. He now protects the land, treating it with the love and care he still harbours for his brother.
The creation of mortal life is a debated topic amongst the Congregation, with the majority of the faith believing each race was handmade by Ishtar, to populate the world and receive the love he once held only for Etimir. However, there is a minority that speak of all the creatures and even races in Amion as being descendants of parasites and similar creatures that existed on Etimir before he was slain and crafted into the world.   While the worship of Ishtar is not forced upon the populace in most of Tiarun, the city of Wuulstead is a different story. The Congregation's presence is so strong and ingrained, they actively police the attendance of services, and stop citizens in the street to check their 'devotion', publicly punishing those who fail the tests. Elsewhere in the country, religious laws are more relaxed, though those wishing to worship other gods inside Tocuria's borders are forced to do so underground and in secret. Heartsport is perhaps the most lax city in the region, with influence from across the world owing to its port, allowing people of all walks of life to mix. While the Congregation still encourages them to worship in secret, they do not openly punish those of differing faiths.   Ishtar is an inherently neutral god, and governs all aspects of life and death. Worshipped by many from all walks of life, each adherent sees the aspect of him they desire. Those of less reputable lifestyles focus their worship towards the wrathful, vengeful side of Ishtar who slew Etimir, while those of purer or more lawful demeanour see him as the creator of Amion, and giver of life and balance to the universe.