Holy Flame

The Holy Flame is a divine faith that emerged amidst the oppression of the Ethyri Empire, guided by the Lord of Light. This monotheistic religion was founded through the heroic acts of three prophets: Elysara, Isendur, and the Mystic Theurge, who were chosen by divine forces to lead a rebellion and establish a new order based on the principles of compassion, justice, and knowledge. The religion emphasizes the Eternal Flame as a symbol of divine guidance and light, with core tenets represented by the Hearth, the Lantern, the Torch, and the Candle. Each symbol speaks to important aspects of the faith such as community, truth, duty, and hope. The Holy Flame continues to inspire its followers to live righteous lives in pursuit of divine wisdom and justice.  

Background

In the sprawling empire of Ethyri, ruled by tyrannical mage-kings and upheld by the arcane-infused Umbraeum Order of the Ethyri Empire, three unlikely heroes arose, chosen by the divine entity known as the Lord of Light. Their destinies intertwined on a fateful journey that would ignite a rebellion and birth a new faith—The Holy Flame.   Elysara: The Beacon of Compassion. Elysara's story began as a tale of oppression and servitude within the Ethyri Empire. Born into slavery and conscripted into the military, her unwavering spirit and innate leadership propelled her through the ranks to become a revered general. However, her moral convictions led her to defy an imperial order deemed genocidal. After slaying the Emperor in a bold act of defiance, Elysara fled, guided by mystical voices to a beacon of light atop a sacred mountain. There, angels proclaimed her the chosen leader of faith, destined to spread the teachings of compassion, wisdom, and resilience. Her journey through the empire, performing miracles and championing the downtrodden, earned her a devout following and a place in the hearts of many as a maternal figure of the faith.   Isendur: The First Paladin. Isendur's origins were marked by his noble birth within a mage family, yet he was a rare soul untouched by magical gifts. His quest for justice and honor led him into the military, where his path crossed with Elysara. After her flight, he was tasked with her capture but found himself also led to the mountain’s beacon by whispers of destiny. Here, Isendur was ordained by the angels as the divine agent of honor and justice. Taking up the mantle of the first Templar, he wielded his sword against the corruption of his own people, inspiring a legion of Holy warriors. His capture and subsequent martyrdom became a rallying cry that only strengthened the resolve of the Holy Flame's adherents.   The Mystic Theurge: A Paradox of Faith. The Mystic Theurge, an enigmatic figure whose past was lost to the ages, represented the union of arcane and divine. Also drawn to the mountain by mystic whispers, they were declared the chosen of knowledge and counsel. Their dual nature as both priest and mage challenged the traditional teachings of the Holy Flame, making them a controversial yet pivotal figure in the faith. As the primary author of the Book of Light, the Mystic Theurge chronicled the teachings and miracles of the prophets, weaving a sacred text that would guide generations. Their disappearance after completing this holy scripture left a veil of mystery that would intrigue and puzzle scholars and believers alike.   The Formation and Spread of the Holy Flame. United by divine fate, the three prophets traveled the lands, their teachings gaining traction among those yearning for liberation from the Ethyri Empire's oppressive rule. While Elysara led as a spiritual beacon, Isendur commanded the burgeoning army of the faithful, and the Mystic Theurge strategized the rebellion’s moves, recruiting mages and gathering intelligence. Their combined efforts culminated in a robust resistance that gradually eroded the Empire's power.   Legacy of Martyrdom and Rebellion. Tragically, both Elysara and Isendur met their ends at the hands of the Empire—Elysara through a self-sacrificial act to save thousands, and Isendur through torture and execution that only fueled the flames of revolt. Their deaths, coupled with the Mystic Theurge's cryptic disappearance, left a legacy that transcended their mortal lives. The Holy Flame continued to spread, its followers clinging to the hope and righteousness instilled by their prophets. The Ethyri Empire, shaken to its core, could not withstand the tide of change ushered by these divine agents, eventually leading to its collapse.   The Lord of Light. The Lord of Light is a divine figure, representing an omnipotent and omniscient deity. This god chose the prophets and directed their angels to impart divine knowledge and missions upon them. The Lord of Light's teachings oppose the arcane practices of the Ethyri Empire, promoting a doctrine that values personal sacrifice, the pursuit of justice, and the spread of divine knowledge.   Cultural and Religious Impact. The rise of the Holy Flame significantly undermined the Ethyri Empire's hold on power. By promoting ideals that opposed the Empire's foundations, the Holy Flame facilitated a widespread rebellion. The faith continues to grow, driven by the martyrdom of its prophets and the ongoing legacy of their divine missions. The Book of Light remains a central religious text, guiding the faithful in a continuous struggle against remnants of arcane authoritarianism.

Core Beliefs and Tenets

The Holy Flame, a religion rooted in the divine teachings of the Lord of Light, embodies a doctrine centered around the Eternal Flame—a symbol of divine guidance, light, and goodness. This celestial force does not personify a deity but represents a transcendent divine power that inspires adherents to live virtuous lives. The core tenets of the Holy Flame are expressed through four principal symbols: The Hearth, The Lantern, The Torch, and The Candle. Each symbol encapsulates a fundamental aspect of the faith's teachings, guiding followers in their spiritual journey and interactions with the world.

• The Hearth: Compassion and Community. The Hearth represents the warm, nurturing heart of the Holy Flame. Followers believe in spreading compassion actively—feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and comforting the suffering. The spiritual warmth of the community is intensified when gathered before the Holy Flame, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. This tenet emphasizes the importance of togetherness and the collective responsibility to care for one another, reflecting the light of the Holy Flame through acts of kindness and benevolence.
• The Lantern: Truth and Understanding. Symbolizing illumination and clarity, The Lantern guides adherents to seek and uphold the truth. The light of the Lantern reveals what lies hidden in darkness and leads to greater understanding. Followers are taught to cherish truth, shun falsehoods, and enlighten others with honesty and integrity. This commitment to truth not only guides personal actions but also shapes the ethical foundation of the community, ensuring that its members walk a path illuminated by the Holy Flame.
• The Torch: Justice and Duty. The Torch is a call to action, a reminder of the duty to confront and dispel evil. It compels followers to actively oppose corruption, stand against injustice, and combat the forces that foster selfishness, greed, and hatred. The Holy Flame teaches that indifference allows darkness to flourish; thus, each adherent must carry the Torch to illuminate the dark corners of the world and fight for a just and righteous society.
• The Candle: Hope and Redemption. Representing the flickering yet persistent light of hope, The Candle is a symbol of mercy and the possibility of redemption. It teaches that no soul is lost so long as the light persists. Followers are encouraged to offer forgiveness and guide those in darkness towards the light. The Candle embodies the belief in the transformative power of the Holy Flame to redeem even those who have strayed farthest from the path.

Cosmology and the Afterlife. The universe, according to the Holy Flame, was born from the primal clash of light and shadow, creating the elements from which the world was formed. Mortals, beings of both light and shadow, strive toward righteousness but often falter, reflecting their dual nature. Upon death, souls journey to the cosmos, where they wander until they reconcile their nature—joining the Divine Light or succumbing to the Darkness. The Divine Light, manifesting as the sun and stars, is the eternal beacon guiding souls toward dawn in the afterlife, symbolizing hope and the eternal fight against chaos and darkness.   View on Other Religions. The Holy Flame is stern in its doctrine regarding other deities, particularly the Old Ways, whom it labels as lesser dieties to the Lord of Light, or even servents of the Lord of Light. This viewpoint is rooted in historical conflicts and theological disputes, casting followers of the Old Ways as, at best, misguided and, at worst, active proponents of darkness. This perspective fosters a cautious and sometimes adversarial stance towards other religious practices, aligning with the faith’s overarching narrative of an eternal struggle between light and shadow.

Common Sayings of the Faith

"Flame be with you.” This saying is a common valediction among followers, expressing a wish for divine guidance and protection. It is akin to hoping that the light and warmth of the Holy Flame accompany a person wherever they go, guiding their actions and comforting their spirit. This phrase is used in both everyday farewells and at the end of religious ceremonies.   "From shadow to light." Used often as a word of encouragement or redemption, "From shadow to light" reflects the belief in personal and communal transformation through the Holy Flame. It is especially poignant in contexts of forgiveness or conversion, symbolizing the journey from a state of ignorance or malevolence to one of understanding and righteousness.   "By the Beacon, we see." This saying underscores the value of truth and enlightenment in the faith. It is commonly invoked when seeking clarity or wisdom, either in personal decision-making or in communal deliberations. The phrase highlights the role of the Holy Flame—as represented by the Beacon of Truth—in revealing the true nature of things and guiding the faithful.   "Hold the Torch high." Encouraging active involvement in justice and community service, "Hold the Torch high" is a call to action for the followers to not merely stand by in times of moral crisis. It invokes the image of the Burning Sword and the Torch, reminding adherents to uphold justice and actively combat corruption and evil.   "Every ember warms the heart." This saying is a reminder of the importance of small acts of kindness, akin to the tenet represented by The Embers of Kindness. It is often used to encourage charitable actions, suggesting that even the smallest deed can contribute to the greater warmth and cohesion of the community.   "In the Glimmer, find grace." Reflecting the tenet of the Glimmer of Hope, this saying is used to instill a sense of optimism and mercy among the faithful. It is often spoken in times of despair or when offering or seeking forgiveness, promoting the idea that redemption is always possible under the light of the Holy Flame.

Symbols

The Triad. The Triad is a central icon within the Holy Flame’s religious practice, serving as a vivid representation of the interconnected roles of the three primary sects and the individual followers within the overarching structure of the faith. Composed of three colored triangles—red, golden, and blue—each color and shape represents a specific sect:

• The Top triangle is golden and represents the Radiant Flame sect, gold symbolizes enlightenment and wisdom, reflecting the sect’s role in spreading the faith’s light. The Radiant flame is the embodiment of the Prophet Elysara.
• The Bottom left triangle is fire red and represents the Cleansing Flame sect, focusing on honor, justice, protection and purification, with red symbolizing strength and urgency. The Cleansing Flame is the embodiment of the Prophet Isendur.
• The Bottom right triangle is ethereal blue and represents the Mystic Flame sect, indicating depth and knowledge, highlighting the sect’s dedication to spiritual exploration and arcane understanding. The Mystic Flame is the embodiment of the Prophet the Mystic Theurge.
• The center of the Triad is an empty triangle pointing towards the individual follower’s place at the heart of the faith, emphasizing personal spiritual growth.
• The larger triangle formed by the arrangement of the three smaller triangles is depicted as ablaze with the Holy Flame, symbolizing the Lord of Light and the dynamic, all-consuming nature of the faith that unifies and empowers all aspects of the community.

The Eternal Flame. A continuously burning fire, the Eternal Flame symbolizes the unending presence and power of the divine. Positioned often at the center of temples or shrines, it acts as a reminder of the faith’s commitment to guiding and purifying its followers.   The Flaming Sword. Symbolizing the active defense against spiritual corruption, the flaming sword is particularly revered by the Cleansing Flame sect. It represents the readiness to protect the purity and sanctity of the faith against all threats.

Places of Worship and Holy Sites

The Grand Cathedral of Serentiy. Located in the heart of Serentiy, the capital of Ardania, the Grand Cathedral stands as the towering spiritual epicenter of the Holy Flame faith. Architecturally grandiose and steeped in divine symbolism, this cathedral is home to the Eternal Flame—a perpetual fire that burns brightly, symbolizing the unending divine presence and spiritual enlightenment provided by the Holy Flame. Beneath the soaring arches of the cathedral lie the catacombs, a sacred resting place for the remains of Prophet Elysara. The cathedral is not only a venue for the faith’s most significant religious ceremonies, including the revered annual Festival of Flames but also acts as a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual connection and personal renewal. The Grand Cathedral’s atmosphere is charged with a profound sense of history and sanctity, making it a pivotal destination for pilgrims and followers seeking to deepen their faith.   The Mystic Tower. On the serene outskirts of the city of Serentiy stands the Mystic Tower, once the personal mage tower of the Mystic Theurge. Today, it has been transformed into a prestigious school of arcane arts, managed by the Order of Weavers. This institution is at the forefront of blending spiritual teachings with arcane knowledge, reflecting the dual nature of the Mystic Theurge. The tower itself is adorned with enigmatic symbols and artifacts of the Mystic Flame sect, embodying the intersection of divine wisdom and magical study. The Mystic Tower serves as a beacon of advanced arcane learning and spiritual education, attracting scholars and mages who seek to explore the deeper mysteries of the Holy Flame within the framework of their magical pursuits.   The Temple of Fire. Perched on a commanding hilltop with sweeping views over the city of Serentiy, the Temple of Fire is a fortified monastery dedicated to the memory and teachings of Prophet Isendur. Maintained by the Sect of the Cleansing Flame, this temple venerates Isendur's enduring legacy of vigilance and martial prowess in the protection against spiritual corruption. The Temple houses invaluable relics and ancient manuscripts that chronicle Isendur's life and teachings. It also serves as a rigorous training facility for adherents who aspire to emulate Isendur's path as warriors of the faith, focusing on the martial disciplines and righteous warfare of the Holy Flame. The sacred grounds also hold the remains of Isendur, making the Temple of Fire a site of pilgrimage for those devoted to the ideals of justice and duty as embodied by the revered prophet.

Chapels

Village Shrines. In smaller villages, the presence of the Holy Flame is maintained through humble shrines. These are typically centered around bonfire pits, often encircled by stone slabs that may bear engravings of key tenets or sayings of the faith. These simple structures serve as communal gathering spots where villagers come together to offer prayers, sing hymns, and seek guidance from the flickering flames. The modesty of these shrines reflects the faith's emphasis on the light itself as the source of sanctity, rather than the grandeur of its surroundings.   Town Chapels. Most towns boast at least one chapel of the Holy Flame, strategically placed at the community's core. These chapels are architectural embodiments of the faith, with domed structures built around a central, hallowed brazier. The brazier burns with a golden, continual flame, symbolizing the ever-present guidance and protection of the Holy Flame. It is a deeply held belief that the extinguishing of this flame would portend dark times ahead, making the maintenance of the flame a solemn duty for the town’s faithful. These chapels are not only places of worship but also of communal decision-making, reflecting the guiding light of the faith in both spiritual and civic matters.   City Cathedrals. In larger cities, the cathedrals dedicated to the Holy Flame are nothing short of architectural marvels, designed to awe and inspire both the faithful and visitors alike. These grand buildings are often adorned with intricate murals, breathtaking stained-glass windows, and statues of saints and martyrs, each element crafted to tell the storied history and values of the faith. The altars within these cathedrals feature large stone basins where magical oils—said to be blessed by the prophets themselves—are burned to sustain the impressive central flames that light up the interiors day and night. These cathedrals are hubs of religious activity, hosting major ceremonies, festivals, and a continuous stream of pilgrims.   Community and Worship. Across all these sacred spaces, from the simplest shrine to the most elaborate cathedral, the Chapels of the Holy Flame are designed to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose among the faithful. They are places where the community's worries, hopes, and dreams are brought before the light of the Holy Flame, where the teachings of the prophets are echoed in sermons and prayers, and where individuals find solace and strength in their communal identity and faith. The ongoing care and reverence for these chapels reflect the deep-rooted belief in the guiding light of the Holy Flame, ensuring that its teachings illuminate the lives of its followers, guiding them from shadow to light.

Rites and Worship

Daily Practices

Morning and Evening Prayers: Followers begin and end their day with prayers to the Holy Flame, seeking guidance, giving thanks, and reflecting on the light it brings into their lives. These prayers are often accompanied by the lighting of a small flame, symbolizing the presence of the divine in everyday life.   Meditation and Reflection: Regular meditation on the scriptures and teachings of the Holy Flame is encouraged, allowing followers to deepen their understanding and application of the faith's tenets. Reflective practices also include journaling or discussing insights with others in the faith community.   Acts of Kindness and Service: Living out the tenets of the Holy Flame through acts of kindness, charity, and service is considered a form of daily worship, embodying the faith's values in practical, impactful ways.

Communal Rituals

Weekly Worship Gatherings: The faithful gather weekly at their place of worship to pray, sing hymns, receive teachings from the clergy, and participate in rituals that reinforce their communal bonds and dedication to the Holy Flame. These gatherings are pivotal for communal worship and spiritual replenishment.   Festival of Light: An annual festival that celebrates the divine revelation of the Holy Flame to its prophets. It involves processions, lighting of fires, communal feasting, and the recounting of the faith's founding stories. This festival reinforces the unity and shared purpose of the faithful.   Rites of Passage: Special ceremonies mark significant life stages and transitions, such as initiation into the faith, marriage, and memorial services. These rites are imbued with symbolism from the Holy Flame's teachings, providing spiritual context and support for life's key moments.   Pilgrimages: Making pilgrimages to the holy city of Serentiy and its sacred sites related to the Holy Flame's history or its prophets is a tradition that many followers undertake at least once in their lives. These journeys are seen as opportunities for spiritual growth, reflection, and deeper connection to the divine.   Offerings and Sacrifices: Making offerings or sacrifices, whether material or symbolic, as gestures of devotion, gratitude, or penance, is a tradition that allows followers to express their piety and support the faith community.

Hierarchy of the Holy Flame

The faithful of the Holy Flame are guided by a deeply structured hierarchy within both the clergy and the knightly order, each with distinct roles and responsibilities. At the pinnacle of this structure are the Divine from the clergy and the Pontifex from the knightly order. These figures not only represent the highest spiritual and martial leadership within the faith but also serve as the primary guides for the faithful, embodying the divine principles and teachings of the Holy Flame.

Leaders of the Faithful

The Divine: As the spiritual head of the faith, the Divine is the primary guide for the faithful's spiritual journey. They interpret the sacred texts, oversee major religious ceremonies, and set the overall spiritual direction for the faith. The Divine embodies the highest ideals of wisdom, compassion, and leadership as taught by the Holy Flame.   The Pontifex: The supreme commander of the faith's military forces and a key spiritual figure, the Pontifex ensures the protection of the faith and its followers. They guide the knightly order in living out the principles of justice, honor, and chivalry, serving not only as a military leader but also as a moral exemplar for the knights and the wider community.   Appointment Process

• The Divine is typically chosen from among the Revered, selected through a combination of divine signs, the consensus of the faith's highest clergy, and sometimes even input from the faithful. This process is deeply spiritual, seeking affirmation from the Holy Flame itself to confirm the chosen individual's suitability to lead.
• The Pontifex is appointed from among the Justicars, often based on their martial prowess, leadership qualities, and deep commitment to the faith's teachings. The appointment is ratified by the Divine, the Prophetic Council, and senior members of the knightly order, ensuring that the Pontifex is not only a formidable warrior but also a spiritual leader.

Spiritual Aura: It is believed that both the Divine and the Pontifex carry a unique spiritual aura, a visible manifestation of their deep connection to the Holy Flame. This aura not only distinguishes them from other members of the faith but also serves as a source of inspiration and reverence among the faithful.   Authority and Responsibilities: The roles and responsibilities of the Divine and the Pontifex are distinct from those of other clergy and knights. They are involved in the highest levels of decision-making, spiritual guidance, and the defense of the faith, reflecting their ultimate responsibility for the well-being and direction of the faith community.

Hierarchy System

The hierarchy within the clergy and the knightly orders of the Holy Flame offers a detailed view into the structured hierarchy and roles that define the spiritual and martial arms of the faith. Each rank signifies not just a position of authority but also a deeper commitment to the principles of the Holy Flame and a distinct set of responsibilities and duties. Each rank within the clergy and the knightly order is marked by distinctive regalia, symbols, and duties, reflecting the individual's growth and commitment to the Holy Flame. Together, these ranks form the backbone of the faith's structure, guiding and protecting the faithful as they navigate their spiritual journeys.   Distinguishing Features Regalia and Symbols: Both the Divine and the Pontifex wear unique regalia that signifies their high rank within the faith. This includes specific garments, symbols of the Holy Flame, and other insignias that are reserved for their use alone. These visual markers set them apart from the rest of the flock and signify their authority and sacred duty.   Clergy Chains: In the Faith of the Holy Flame, each clergy member wears a chain that not only signifies their rank within the order but also embodies their divine power, or spell power. This power is a reflection of their spiritual connection to the Holy Flame, their capacity to perform divine acts, and their role in guiding and protecting the faithful. The chains are meticulously crafted, with each element—from the material to the design—imbued with symbolism and enchantments reflective of the wearer's divine mandate.   Service Stripes: In the martial arm of the Faith of the Holy Flame, the knightly ranks distinguish themselves not only through their deeds and valor but also through the service stripes they wear. These stripes denote their "righteous power," a measure of their prowess, honor, and the divine favor they carry into battle. Righteous power reflects a knight's ability to inspire, lead, and protect, drawing from the virtues of justice, courage, and the Holy Flame's sanctity. These service stripes, worn with pride by the knightly ranks, visually convey each knight's journey, achievements, and the divine favor they carry into their sacred duty. They are a constant reminder of the knight's vows to protect, serve, and uphold the righteous principles of the Holy Flame.

Clergy Ranks

Acolyte: The initial rank for those who have dedicated themselves to the priesthood. Acolytes focus on learning the doctrines of the Holy Flame, assisting in ceremonies, and providing basic pastoral care under the guidance of higher-ranking clergy.

• Chain Link: The basic chain of the Clergy is a simple, unadorned iron chain. The iron, while sturdy, signifies the Acolyte's foundational status within the clergy, symbolizing their commitment to the path of the Holy Flame.
• Divine Power: As the initial rank, Acolytes have yet to unlock divine power. Their journey is one of learning and spiritual growth. Acolytes are only capable of performing cantrips.

Keeper: Keepers are responsible for the maintenance of temples and sacred texts. They also begin to take on more responsibilities in teaching and guiding the faithful, as well as participating more actively in the rituals and ceremonies.

• Chain Link: A bronze chain link enhanced with a small pendant that holds a flickering flame, perpetually alight but never consuming the pendant. This symbolizes the Keeper's dedication to preserving the faith's teachings and the beginning of their spiritual empowerment.
• Divine Power: The Keeper's divine power is nascent, allowing them to perform minor blessings and healings as a sign of their growing connection to the Holy Flame. Keepers are capable of performing up to 2nd-level spells.

High Keeper: High Keepers have shown exceptional dedication and understanding of the faith. They oversee multiple temples or sacred sites and are involved in the strategic planning of spiritual education and the preservation of holy texts and relics.

• Chain Link: A silver chain link with a pendant that encases a sacred text miniature, symbolizing their responsibility for the faith's knowledge and lore. The silver reflects their purified intentions and heightened spiritual commitment.
• Divine Power: High Keepers have access to more significant divine powers, enabling them to perform protective wards and more complex blessings. High Keepers are capable of performing up to 4th-level spells.

Bishop: Bishops are charged with overseeing the faith in a specific geographical area or community. They ensure that the teachings of the Holy Flame are adhered to and that the clergy under their jurisdiction are fulfilling their duties to the community.

• Chain Link: A gold chain link, engraved with symbols of the Holy Flame. At its center hangs a medallion depicting the bishop's specific jurisdiction within the faith, signifying their authority and the divine trust placed in them.
• Divine Power: Bishops wield considerable divine power, capable of invoking the Holy Flame to perform miracles of healing and divine insight. Bishops are capable of performing up to 6th-level spells.

Cardinal: Cardinals hold significant authority within the faith, often overseeing entire regions or specific aspects of the faith's administration, such as missionary work, theological research, or interfaith relations. They are key advisors in the faith's leadership and play a major role in shaping its direction.

• Chain Link: A chain link made of platinum, intertwined with strands of gold and silver, reflecting the unity of the faith's teachings and the Cardinal's role in overseeing them. The chain is adorned with precious stones, each representing a different aspect of the Holy Flame.
• Divine Power: Cardinals possess powerful divine abilities, including the power to cleanse evil, provide divine visions, and shield the faithful from harm. Cardinals are capable of performing up to 8th-level spells.

Revered: The Revered are a select group of clergy who have demonstrated extraordinary spiritual insight and leadership. They serve as the faith's moral and ethical compass, providing guidance to both the faithful and the faith's leaders in times of moral quandary or spiritual crisis.

• Chain Link: A chain link crafted from electrum, a blend of silver and gold, symbolizing the balance between spiritual wisdom and divine action. The chain features a large, central gem that radiates light, embodying the Revered's deep connection to the Holy Flame.
• Divine Power: The Revered are among the most powerful in the clergy, able to perform grand divine acts that can affect entire communities or regions, showcasing the might and mercy of the Holy Flame. Revereds are capable of performing up to 9th-level spells.

Divine: The highest rank within the clergy, the Divine serves as the spiritual head of the faith, akin to a high priest or pontiff. They are believed to be chosen by the Holy Flame itself to guide the faith, embodying the principles of wisdom, compassion, and leadership. The current Divine is Mersaya.

• Chain Link: Composed of a divine material not found on this earth, glowing with an inner light that pulses in rhythm with the Holy Flame itself. This chain bears no pendant, for its entire length is a testament to the highest spiritual achievement and unity with the divine.
• Divine Power: The Divine stands at the pinnacle of divine power, capable of miracles that can alter the course of history, protect the faith against its greatest threats, and commune directly with the Holy Flame. Some Divines are said to have been capable of performing up to 10th-level spells.

Knightly Ranks

Aspirant: The entry level for those seeking to join the knightly order. Aspirants undergo rigorous training in combat, the teachings of the Holy Flame, and the virtues of chivalry. Their dedication and skills are tested continuously as they prepare for knighthood.

• Service Stripe Feature: As the initial rank, Aspirants wear a plain, unadorned band on their arm, symbolizing their commitment to the path of knighthood and their nascent connection to the Holy Flame.
• Righteous Power: Aspirants are at the beginning of their journey, focusing on training and learning, with the potential for righteousness yet to be realized. Aspirants are incapable of casting spells and only some may be able to cast cantrips.

Knight-Templar: Knight-Templars have been fully initiated into the order after proving their valor, skill, and dedication to the principles of the Holy Flame. They serve as the faith's protectors, defending its followers and interests against threats both mundane and supernatural.

• Service Stripe Feature: A single, solid stripe adorns the Knight-Templar's arm, typically in a color that reflects their dedication to the Holy Flame, such as a deep crimson or gold. This stripe signifies their successful initiation into the knightly ranks and their commitment to upholding the faith's virtues.
• Righteous Power: Knight-Templars possess the initial stages of righteous power, capable of inspiring those around them and demonstrating the Holy Flame's virtues through their actions. Knights are capable of performing up to 1st-level spells.

Jannisary: Jannisaries are elite knights who specialize in offensive tactics and operations. They are often deployed in challenging missions, including the expansion of the faith's territories or the protection of pilgrims in hostile regions.

• Service Stripe Feature: Two stripes mark the Jannisary's arm, indicating their advanced status and special role within the knightly order. These stripes are often interwoven with patterns that symbolize the Jannisary's achievements and the battles they've endured.
• Righteous Power: Jannisaries have honed their righteous power, enabling them to lead in battle and protect the faithful with both skill and divine favor. Knights are capable of performing up to 2nd-level spells.

Tribune: Tribunes hold command over military units or garrisons, responsible for the strategic planning and execution of military campaigns in defense of the faith. They are also involved in training and mentoring lower-ranked knights.

• Service Stripe Feature: Three stripes, each broader and more intricately designed than the last, signify the Tribune's rank. The stripes may include symbols of leadership and valor, such as crossed swords or a protective shield, highlighting their role as commanders.
• Righteous Power: Tribunes wield significant righteous power, able to command larger units with wisdom and strength, drawing from deep reserves of courage and faith. Tribunes are capable of performing up to 3rd-level spells.

Lictor: Lictors are senior commanders with authority over larger sections of the faith's military forces. They are skilled in both warfare and diplomacy, often serving as the faith's envoys in negotiations with external entities.

• Service Stripe Feature: Four stripes decorate the Lictor's arm, crafted from materials that reflect their prestigious position, such as silk or fine leather. These stripes are adorned with symbols of justice and the Holy Flame, underscoring the Lictor's authority and sacred duty.
• Righteous Power: Lictors are formidable leaders, capable of decisive action and profound protection, their righteous power safeguarding the faith's principles and its people. Lictors are capable of performing up to 4th-level spells.

Justicar: Justicars are the highest-ranking military officers, serving as the right hand of the faith's leadership in matters of war and peace. They are revered for their unwavering justice, strategic acumen, and the ability to lead by example.

• Service Stripe Feature: Five stripes, each more elaborate than the last, symbolize the Justicar's supreme rank and righteous power. These stripes may be embellished with gold thread and precious stones, representing the pinnacle of knightly virtue and divine sanction.
• Righteous Power: Justicars are the epitome of righteous power within the knightly order, champions of the Holy Flame whose presence on the battlefield can turn the tide of conflict and inspire unparalleled bravery and sacrifice. Justicars are capable of performing up to 5th-level spells.

Pontifex: The Pontifex is the supreme commander of the faith's military forces and a key advisor to the Divine. The role symbolizes the union of martial prowess and spiritual guidance, ensuring that the knightly order's actions are always in alignment with the teachings of the Holy Flame.

• Service Stripe Feature: Instead of stripes, the Pontifex wears a unique insignia that combines all elements of the knightly virtues into a single, magnificent band. This insignia is a blend of all colors and symbols previously worn, encapsulating the totality of the knight's journey and their embodiment of the faith's highest martial and moral ideals.
• Righteous Power: As the highest rank, the Pontifex's righteous power is beyond the traditional scale, embodying the Holy Flame's martial spirit and serving as the guardian of the faith's most sacred tenets. The Pontifex is capable of performing up to 5th-level spells.

Sects of the Holy Flame

The Holy Flame faith is divided into several influential sects, each adhering to specific tenets and practices inspired by the teachings of the original prophets. Each sect of the Holy Flame serves a unique purpose within the faith, catering to different aspects of the divine mission set forth by the Holy Flame. Together, they encompass a comprehensive religious structure, ensuring the faith's teachings are upheld, expanded, and integrated into the lives of its followers.

The Cleansing Flame

The Cleansing Flame is a militant and zealous sect dedicated to upholding the martial and moral disciplines exemplified by Prophet Isendur. Drawing inspiration from historical orders like the Templars and Confessors, this sect emphasizes the purification of sin and the defense against spiritual corruption through rigorous training and the enforcement of justice.   Beliefs and Practices. Members of the Cleansing Flame are often seen as the sword arm of the Holy Flame faith. They are tasked with protecting the faithful from both external threats and internal heresies, operating under a strict code that blends divine law with martial prowess. Their doctrine emphasizes the eradication of evil, viewing the battle against spiritual darkness as a holy war that requires both physical and moral strength.   Role in Society. The sect operates out of fortified monasteries and temples, most notably the Temple of Fire. These establishments serve as both garrisons and training grounds for future warriors of the faith. The sect also plays a significant role in judicial matters within the religious community, often intervening in cases of heresy or corruption.   Symbolism and Iconography. The iconography of the Cleansing Flame features swords enveloped in fire, symbolizing the purifying power of their justice. Statues and frescoes within their temples often depict Isendur and other martyred saints wielding flaming weapons against shadowy figures.

The Radiant Flame

The Radiant Flame focuses on the spiritual leadership and community welfare aspects of the Holy Flame faith. Inspired by the roles of Crusaders, Prelates, and Priests, this sect is dedicated to the spread of the faith’s light through preaching, healing, and charity.   Beliefs and Practices. This sect embodies the tenet of The Embers of Kindness, emphasizing the nurturing aspects of the faith. Its members are involved in missionary work, education, and the administration of sacraments. They are also the primary caretakers of the poor and sick, providing both spiritual and physical aid.   Role in Society. The Radiant Flame operates many of the faith's chapels and is heavily involved in the organization of religious festivals and community gatherings. They are often the public face of the faith, interacting with the wider community and leading efforts to integrate the teachings of the Holy Flame into daily life.   Symbolism and Iconography. Their symbols often include a sunburst or a lantern radiating light, representing their role in illuminating the path for the faithful. Their vestments are typically adorned with golden threads to signify their connection to the divine light.

The Mystic Flame

The Mystic Flame is the most enigmatic of the sects, focusing on the integration of arcane knowledge with divine wisdom, much like the role originally played by the Mystic Theurge. This sect attracts those who seek to understand the deeper mysteries of the universe through both magical and spiritual means.   Beliefs and Practices. Members of the Mystic Flame are both scholars and mystics, delving into ancient texts and exploring the boundaries between the divine and the arcane. They maintain a balance between their spiritual duties and their studies, often serving as advisors on matters involving magic and the supernatural.   Role in Society. The Mystic Flame is primarily centered around the Mystic Tower, where they conduct research and teach. While they are less involved in direct missionary work, their efforts in understanding the cosmos and the nature of the Holy Flame contribute to the theological and philosophical depth of the faith.   Symbolism and Iconography. The sect uses symbols that blend magical and divine motifs, such as an open book with a flame rising from its pages or a staff encircled by both thorns and flames. These icons reflect their dual focus on knowledge and spirituality.