The Loas' Suzerains
During the uprising of the 383rd year in Flamerule, when Captain Ashford Thorncroft re-emerged, a local tavern owner in Freckle Fiord, Jeb R. Samuelsen, had famously exclaimed, "Oi, when the old sea dog rises, ye know the seas will be rough! Grab yer rum and raise a toast, lads! For we are in for one hell of a storm! Thank the Loas for their chaotic blessings!" This statement underscored the respect and fear held for the legendary captain and reflected the chaotic harmony that the Loas' Suzerains and the residents of the Commonwealth shared.These are more than just names; they are the very essence of faith and spiritual guiding force in the Commonwealth of Prim Isla and Cabana Havana. Reflecting the chaotic and vibrant nature of the islands, the Loas' Suzerains are an array of distinct personalities, each governing a unique aspect of life. Kriminel, the Anarchist, embodies the lawless spirit, while Baron La Croix, the Bookkeeper, manages the distribution of wealth. Cimetière, the Undertaker, brings solace and company in death, and Bawon, the Merrymaker, ensures there's never a dull moment in life. Each of these divine figures holds a profound influence over the people of the islands, forming a complex but deeply significant aspect of the local culture. The Loas' Suzerains worship the Loas of Fate; a distinct pantheon from the main gods revered across Eastrix. They are worshiped in a more unconventional manner, embracing the diverse and spontaneous culture of the Commonwealth of Prim Isla and Cabana Havana. Each of these Loas serves as a guide in different aspects of life, and the inhabitants, or Suzerains, often invoke their favor depending on their needs and the situations at hand. This reliance upon the Loas is a deeply personal affair, with many islanders believing that their actions and decisions are guided by these powerful spirits. However, despite its profound impact on island life, the worship of the Loas, the religion is as unorganized as the Commonwealth itself. There are no grand temples or ordained priests, no rigid rituals or dogmas, and the faith is as fluid and ever-changing as the sea surrounding the islands. Residents may pay homage to Baron La Croix when seeking wealth, invoke Cimetière's solace when facing loss, or appeal to Kriminel's lawless spirit when treading outside the rules. The worship is not so much a structured religion but a way of life, a daily practice deeply woven into the fabric of the islands' vibrant culture. It's a chaotic, free-flowing faith for a lawless, free-spirited people.
Structure
The Fatekeepers, as they are alternatively called, lack a formal organizational structure. There are no traditional religious hierarchies, no grand temples, and no appointed clergy. Rather, the practice is more akin to personal spirituality. The few roles that exist within the faith are those of the Seers and Storytellers. The Seers are individuals believed to have a deeper connection with the Loas' Suzerains, often consulted for advice or divination. Storytellers, on the other hand, are the preservers of the faith, passing down tales and teachings of the Suzerains from generation to generation.
Culture
The culture of The Fatekeepers is as vibrant and diverse as the islands themselves. It thrives on individuality, freedom, and personal connection with the Loas. Storytelling and music are essential aspects of their religious practice, with songs, dances, and tales narrating the exploits of the Suzerains. An important tradition involves gathering around bonfires on the beach, exchanging tales, and singing praises of the Loas' Suzerains. This religion, more than anything else, celebrates life in all its chaotic glory, embracing every joy and tribulation as a part of the grand tapestry woven by the Loas of Fate.
Mythology & Lore
The foundational mythos of The Fatekeepers revolves around the celestial body, Pangara, and the soul river, the River Styx. The teachings narrate that long before mortals came to be, the moon of Himmia, Pangara, was a vibrant celestial plane brimming with fey-like creatures and chaotic energies. It was believed to be the playground of the Loas of Fate, where they reveled in their freedom and individuality. However, their chaotic essence was seen as a threat to the order of the Ten Heavens, causing tensions between Himmia and Pangara.
During this time, the Loas of Fate discovered the River Styx, a metaphysical current of energy and souls, flowing through Eastrix and into the infinite cosmos. Fascinated by this river of transient life, the Loas perceived it as the epitome of chaos and change - elements deeply cherished by them. In an attempt to protect the mortal souls and their vibrant essence from the structured judgement of Himmia, the Loas of Fate made a pact. They pledged to act as guardians of the River Styx, ensuring the free flow of souls, unobstructed by any divine judgement. This role of guardianship also serves as their way of subtly rebelling against the regimented tenets of the Ten Heavens.
This mythology forms the bedrock of the Loas Suzerains' faith. To them, the Loas of Fate's decision symbolizes the ultimate act of freedom, a stand against rigid order, and a commitment to safeguard the dynamic cycle of life and death. Hence, followers of the Loas Suzerains see themselves as part of this grand cosmic rebellion, living their lives in the spirit of freedom and cherishing the unpredictable nature of existence.
These conjectures have led to intriguing debates among scholars and followers alike. The speculation that the Loas are actually fey-like creatures from Pangara, rather than deities, has found resonance with a few sects within the religion. Proponents of this theory argue that the Loas' distinct deviation from the norms of traditional divine beings and their connection to Pangara supports this view. To them, the Loas are beings who exist outside the realm of conventional divinity, dancing on the blurred lines between the mortal and the divine.
Another theory is that the Loas are emissaries or agents of the Rider in the Night, King Yama, the God of Death in Eastrix. According to this belief, the Loas are performing a pivotal role in guiding souls to the moons, Pangara and Kul, the respective realms of good and evil. The Loas' function as guardians of the River Styx, ensuring the free flow of souls, lends credence to this interpretation. It raises questions about the deeper connection between the Loas and the cosmic balance of life and death, good and evil.
These theories, while not universally accepted, offer a rich diversity of interpretations, emphasizing the complexities and mystique of the Loas Suzerains and their enigmatic deities, the Loas of Fate. The multifaceted nature of their worship, the lack of strict hierarchies, and the openness to varied interpretations only add to the unique allure of this faith, capturing the imagination of scholars, followers, and onlookers alike.
Divine Origins
The origins of the Loas Suzerains can be traced back to the mysterious forgotten lands of Eastrix, before the Spellplague. The religion likely developed organically over centuries, with its beliefs and rituals shaped by the geography, culture, and folklore of the region. The River Styx, a key spiritual and geographical feature, likely played a significant role in the development of the religion. The folklore around the fey-like creatures of Pangara may have also contributed to the distinct pantheon of the Loas and their association with fate. The practices and rituals may have evolved to reflect these beliefs, with ceremonies focusing on the veneration of the Loas, the balance of life and death, and the respect for the natural flow of the world.
Cosmological Views
The Loas Suzerains' creation beliefs could revolve around the moons, Pangara and Kul, the representations of all that's good and evil. The world of Eastrix could be viewed as a balance between these cosmic forces, created from the energies of the moons clashing and mingling. It's conceivable that the Loas themselves are seen as divine orchestrators or facilitators in this process, guiding the souls through the River Styx and maintaining the balance of life and death, but due to the very nature of the religion, there is no definitive answer as it not seen as important as simplely enjoying life.
Tenets of Faith
Balance of Fate: Given the Loas of Fate's purview over the River Styx and their association with destiny, believers are often taught to understand and respect the balance of life, acknowledging that every action has a corresponding reaction.
Respect the Flow: As guardians of the River Styx, the Loas place great importance on respecting the natural flow of life and death. This includes accepting the inevitability of fate and not attempting to interfere with the cycle of life and death.
Respect for Nature and Life: Due to the speculated connection between the Loas and fey-like creatures of Pangara, followers of this faith are often encouraged to respect all forms of life and to live in harmony with nature.
Ethics
The core tenets of the Loas Suzerains revolve around balance, respect for life and nature, and the acceptance of fate. These principles would likely extend into many aspects of daily life. For example, in situations of conflict, adherents may strive for peaceful resolution that maintains balance. They might also dedicate themselves to preservation and stewardship of the natural environment, viewing such actions as a form of worship.
A pious act might involve acts of charity and goodwill, especially those that promote balance and harmony within their communities. Additionally, adhering to one's perceived fate, even when it's challenging, might be seen as an act of great devotion. On the other hand, any actions that disrupt balance or show disregard for the sanctity of life and nature could be considered sinful. Acts of hubris, like attempting to cheat death or fate, might be especially grave sins.
Worship
Regular worship in the Loas Suzerains could involve offering prayers to the Loas, participating in communal rituals, and performing acts that embody the religion's core values. They might have ceremonies dedicated to the phases of the moons Pangara and Kul, as well as rites for those passing away, to help guide their souls to the River Styx.
As this religion values nature and balance, many of its rituals might take place outdoors and involve elements of the natural world. For instance, followers might gather at the banks of the River Styx for certain ceremonies, or they may perform rituals under the light of the moons. Everyday practices might include meditation and introspection, acts of service to promote balance and harmony, and regular acknowledgment and respect for the forces of life, death, and fate.
Granted Divine Powers
The Loas might bestow blessings of insight, foresight, and balance upon their most devoted followers. The priests, or Loa-touched, could have the ability to interpret the will of the Loas, guide the fate of individuals, and ensure the natural flow of the River Styx. Some might even have the power to communicate with the fey-like creatures of Pangara, or with the souls passing through the River Styx.
In Freedom We Trust, In Chaos We Thrive
Type
Religious, Other
Alternative Names
The Fatekeepers
Deities
Divines
Remove these ads. Join the Worldbuilders Guild
Comments