Serathi of the Twelve

In the World of C'naelia, where the gods and goddesses shape the destiny and tradition dictates the path of most women, the role of the Serathi - she who is sanctified in spirit - is both revered and feared.

The Serathi, or Priestesses of the Twelve, are women who serve in the Convents of the Nine, spiritual institutions spread across the Southern Kingdoms, dedicated to the Twelve Gods and Goddesses of the C'Naelian pantheon. These convent range from serene sanctuaries of enlightenment to grim places of penance, depending on the kingdom and the leadership within. Some are cloistered in marble halls where birdsong echoes in tranquil courtyards, other are stone fortresses nestled against jagged cliff echoing discipline and silence.

Priestesses fall into two castes:

• The Chosen Priestess: Serathi-Valen (sanctified by will)
• Disgraced and turned devout: Serathi-Kaen (sanctified through pain)

The Chosen Serathi - Serathi-Valen

Women who freely dedicate themselves to a life of duty to the Nine are known as Searthi-Valen. They are respected across most cultures as spiritually enlighten figures.

Often they are granted magical abilities tied to the deity they serve. Those who serve all Twelve are granted higher powered magic.

These women undergo rigorous training in theology, philosophy, ancient languages and ceremonial rite. Their words carry weight in courts, and their presence is often requested at noble births, funerals or key political negotations to invoke divine blessings.

Their entry to the Convent is seen as a noble calling, a sign of favour from the gods and goddesses. In some rare cases, these women rise to become High Serathi, guiding entire regions in spiritual affairs and wilding considerable influence - even among the male-dominated courts.

The Bound Serathi - Serathi-Kaen.

Far more common, though less spoken of, are the disgraced women - the Serathi-Kaen. These woman are sent to Convents by force, often after failed marriages (especially in Kingdoms like Phaedorin where if a women does not produce an heir after two years of marriage the man can have the marriage annulled and pursue another wife), a lack of suitors, perceived 'waywardness' or as punishment by patriarchal families seeking to uphold 'honour.

Unlike the Chosen, the Serathi-Kaen are seen as burdens or broken vessle to be 'redeemed' through harsh training, isolation, and often public shame.

Their path is punishing. Many are assigned menial, backbreaking tasks - scrubbing temple floors, preparing ritual fires, or fasting to 'burn away sin'. Only those who survive these ordeals, show unshakable devotion, and prove their spiritual worth are eventually granted the chance to rise within the order. If a disgraced woman completes her spiritual trials and undergoes the 'Serakai' - the 'Reforging Flame', she may be recognised a True Serathi-Valen. Such redemption is rare and often used as a symbolic victory by the High Priestess who oversees it - her prestige rises with each soul she claims to have saved.

However, the truth behind such redemptions is often more complex. Some High Priestesses abuse the system for power, ensuring only a few ever ascend. Other genuinely seek to he broken spirits. But all are bound by the Convent's unyielding hierarchy.

Differences between the Castes within the Community: Chosen vs. Disgraced.

Although all Serathi are equal in devotion, their origins influence how the are treated and the specific ways in which they serve.

The Chosen Serathi

These Serathi are often seen as holy woman, blessed from birth or early life. Their roles tend to be more ceremonial, public and authoritative.

They often:

• Hold High positions in temples and majors convents.
• Serve as High Serathi, or regional spiritual leaders.
• Represent the gods at royal courts, often along side Aetheri or Nobility.
• Lead initiate training overseeing younger or disgrace Serathi.

The Disgraced

While their path is one of hardship, many Disgraced Serathi become the quiet backbone of communities. Though viewed with suspicion at first, those who prove their devotion often become deeply respected for their humility, endurance and widom.

They often:

• Tend to orphans, widows and abandoned woman.
• Work in herbal gardens, kitchens, and infirmaries, preparing salves and food for the poor.
• Are offered up as free labour when needed within the community.