Choranian clerics

While anyone can technicaly become a cleric from the general population, Soulweaver, a type of Soulbound Mage, are overwelmingly over-represented in the role, and in all ranks above it. Soulstriders and Necromancers are also readily accepted into the post, but don't usualy get elected at the highest offices. Shapeshifters are actively discouraged from becoming clerics, as according to religious doctrine, they are supposed to become moon knights. In many places with low shifter populations, it is seen as taboo to have one as a cleric.

To become a cleric, one must first have participated in and completed an Ascension Ritual before, by successfuly reached The Ether. Then, they must be chosen as an apprentis by the local cleric and accepted by the regional High Cleric. An apprentis becomes cleric when his mentor dies or retire, or when another nearby cleric dies or retires without an available successor. For a cleric to ascend to a higher rank within the organisation, age, experience and magical abilities are all important. Generaly, to become High Cleric, decades of experience are needed, and the only way one can become Herald is by becoming a high cleric and be chosen among all other High Clerics.

Choranian clerics, and especialy the Herald themselves, are seen as a direct spiritual link to not only The Ether, but beyond, to the Stary Halls and to Halin. With this spiritual link, they can help the people and guide them onto the path that Halin chose for them.

Clerics are highly respected by the general population, as they are seen as not only just a religious leader, but also as a community leader, especialy in small towns and villages. Higher ranked clerics also hold great sway on state politics, as their institution have a lot of influence in both the general population and the rulers.

Objects

Most clerics, who are able to afford it, work with a Talismans, but some also have talismans that contain amethyst crystals. In fact, earlier in history, some herald wore a bronze crown encrusted with amethist crystals, but this went out a favour during the Third Age.

Garments

Clerics are known for, and easily spotted by, the blue robes and bronze-coloured belts they wear. The robe is worn over the shoulders and contains large sleeves for the arms and an oversized hood that must be worn a particular way to fit. The belt, which is worn just over the hip and serves to close the robes, is made of leather strips, interwoven with a bronze chain. Higher rank clerics in large cities often have other bronze accesories on their robes, such as buttons or other smaller chains.

Clerics work in Suriats, which are large places of worship that act as an important community gathering spot for villages, towns and even cities. Some clerics also work in what are called High Suriats, which are larger suriats located in the mountains that are dedicated to The ritual of Ascension.

Clerics primarily offers spiritual guidance to the masses, as well as support for any who may need it. They lead the monthly prayers in Suriats, and assist in marriages, funerals and various coming of age ceremonies. Most are also better educated than the average population and take on educating their congregation as a field of work, working primarily with young children.