The Crimson Order

The Cult of Capirax

Capirax’s followers, known as the Crimson Order, are devoted to spreading his influence through bloodshed and sacrifice. They are feared throughout the land, not only for their brutality but for their disturbing rites. Their doctrine teaches that Capirax’s strength lies in the blood of his followers and their victims. To them, blood is more than a liquid—it’s a conduit, a living connection to their god that can be harnessed for power, healing, and even resurrection.

The cult’s motto, “Blood for the Blood God,” echoes through every ceremony and battle they undertake. They view death not as an end but as an offering, a way to return one’s life force to Capirax. This cycle of sacrifice and rebirth gives Capirax and his cult a disturbing immortality; even when followers are slain, they often return, warped by their god’s influence and reborn with newfound strength.

Rites of the Crimson Order

The cult practices various blood-based rituals, each designed to glorify Capirax or bring them closer to his power:
1. The Blood Feast:
A violent initiation ceremony, where new members must offer blood—either their own or a victim’s. This sacrament is believed to strengthen their connection to Capirax, and it marks their first step into true devotion.

2. The Scarlet Baptism:
A ritual that grants members enhanced strength and endurance. Cultists bathe in the blood of those sacrificed to Capirax, believing that they absorb a fraction of his power through this process.

3. The Devouring Maw:
This rare and terrifying ritual is performed for those on the brink of death. The dying cultist’s blood is collected, and through chants and sacrifices, their essence is offered to Capirax. If he finds them worthy, he absorbs their soul, preserving it within himself. Those absorbed are then granted the chance to be “reborn” if Capirax deems it necessary or advantageous.

The Absorption and Rebirth of Devotees

One of the most disturbing aspects of Capirax’s worship is his ability to absorb the souls of his most devoted followers, effectively granting them a twisted form of immortality. Those who undergo the Devouring Maw ritual are taken into Capirax’s essence upon death, merging with his consciousness. They become part of the Blood God, experiencing his power but also losing their individuality as they dissolve into the vast, pulsing energy of his being. For some, this is the ultimate honor; for others, it is a fate worse than death.

Rebirth and Resurrection

When Capirax chooses to rebirth a follower, he expels a fragment of his own power, essentially “reconstituting” the devotee’s form. These reborn cultists return to the mortal world as twisted, more powerful versions of their former selves. Their bodies often show signs of the transition—blood-red eyes, darkened veins that pulse visibly, or a faint aura of blood mist around them. This process is not a true resurrection but a rebirth; they are still part of Capirax, bound eternally to his will.
Reborn devotees are granted new abilities reflecting their connection to the Blood God. They become avatars of his wrath, carrying fragments of his dark power within them, which manifests in abilities like blood magic, enhanced physical prowess, or even a regenerative factor tied to bloodshed. However, this comes with a price: their minds and souls are bound more tightly to Capirax, making them little more than extensions of his will. Any personal motivations or individuality they once had are suppressed, overridden by an unwavering urge to serve their god.