Creed
The Creed acts as independent law enforcement to protect Erenel from spellcasters sick with Tetherbane. As the only “recognizable” force of order against the threat, the Creed Spellbreakers possess the combined power of judge, jury and executioner when dealing with unruly magical threats.
In Erenel, spellcasters "tether" into the bond, accessing raw magic left over by the creator, Al'Madoon, to cast spells. While tethered, magic users manipulate the very fabric of the bond for their desired outcome. Unfortunately, tethering into the bond has a real and immediate price, leaving a mystical residue on the spellcaster's life essence. This residue leads to a condition known as Tetherbane, and as the condition worsens, spellcasters begin to lose control.
The magic they once skillfully wielded becomes chaotic and uncontrollable. A simple light spell could result in a random burst of magic, devastating a city block. To protect Erenel from the dangers of Tetherbane, the Creed acts as independent law enforcement for Tetherers and magical entities. The Creed’s general neutrality makes it a trusted body by most nations, and while they would rather eradicate all use of the Bond, they understand the importance of world politics.
Tetherbane Explained
Tethering into the Bond to cast spells exacts a tangible and immediate cost. When an inhabitant of Erenel casts a spell from one of the eight schools of magic, the Bond leaves behind a mystical imprint on their life essence. Over time, this imprint manifests as an ethereal aura encasing the individual, widely recognized throughout Erenel as Tetherbane.
Those skilled at peering into the Ethereal Plane can perceive both their own and others' Tetherbane. Initially, a Tetherbane aura appears vibrant, glowing in hues such as green, red, or silver, each unique to the individual. However, for experienced Tetherers or those exposed to immense surges of magical energy, the aura darkens over time, warping into a corrupt and sinister form. Unfortunately, there is no known remedy for Tetherbane.
As Tetherbane worsens, its effects grow increasingly dire, often proving fatal. The Bond turns volatile, lashing out unpredictably against the Tetherer. What begins as a harmless light spell could erupt into an uncontrollable surge of magic, wreaking havoc on the caster and their surroundings. Entire city blocks can be leveled by such chaos, and those afflicted by advanced Tetherbane are often viewed as outcasts, societal threats, or even terrorists.
The Creed Court
The creed court is a massive, complex organization with outposts in each of Erenel's capital cities. Members of the Creed live in close kinship as they dedicate their lives to the cause, beginning as an apprentice.
Arbiter
One Arbiter leads the Creed from the militaristic city Uazios, which borders the Scabbard Wastes and the Ranquem Dynasty. While the position is voted on by all Creed members, the Arbiter title is generally given to the longest-tenured Creed member, who serves until death. The Arbiter makes executive decisions, sets protocols and presides over cases of great importance. Their decision is always final.
Knights Arcana
A small unit of proven Spellbreakers, the Knight's Arcana investigates any allegations of corruption, unjudicial conduct or treason within the Creed. Often tasked with rooting out Creed members who overstep their boundaries, the presence of the Knights Arcana helps persuade government leaders of the Creed's good intentions. Members of the Knights Arcana are distinguished by an impressive sash infused with magical negating properties.
Spellbreaker
Most Creed members begin as apprentices and end their service as Spellbreakers. Spellbreakers are considered the Creed's enforcers and practice efficient and merciful methods to end a Tetherbane threat. In addition, they work as investigators to uncover potential risks and must track their targets once identified. It is a grueling position requiring the utmost dedication. Luckily, Spellbreakers are handsomely funded by the Arbiter.
Founding Date
386 EoIF
Type
Alliance, Generic
Training Level
Elite
Creed Tenets
- Do not harm the innocent while in pursuit of providing judgment.
- Never give in to the temptation of using the Bond if stricken with Tetherbane.
- Honor the decisions of Arbiter. They have walked the world longer than most and grown wise.
- Punishment cannot be appropriate to the deed; the sentence must far outweigh the crime.
Tetherbane
by Dean Spencer
Judicial Education
When becoming a member of the Creed, an apprentice is required to join the Arcane Court. Located in Uazios, graduating from the Arcane Court requires 10 years of training, although exceptional students can graduate earlier. Apprentices attend regular classes on all aspects of policing, poring over ancient lore and expanding their knowledge of spellcasting habits.
The Arcane Court is a self-contained environment for prospective Spellbeakers to live and train physically and mentally. Over the 10 years, Arcane Court Cadets are extensively tested before graduation and regional placement.
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