Sanctia

Some things are understood, practiced, or found in all of the territory.   Three times daily, all citizens pause for public prayer: at sunrise, highsun, and dusk. Ordained Luminaries lead these. All are expected to kneel in the direction of Ishalis, whispering oaths of obedience and gratitude to Radiant Mother Isha. Missing prayer is a minor heresy, often punished with public penance or extra tithes.   Each city and town in Sanctia maintains a Wall of the Faithless. Bodies of executed blasphemers are hanged for public viewing. Executions are theatrical and public. Luminaries read the sinner's sins while Confessors execute capital penance. This may be hangings, burnings, or radiant explosions in extreme transgressions. Held weekly as needed, all are expected to attend.   All citizens must pay tithes; those unable or unworking are made to work at state-sanctioned labor facilities in penitence shifts for 10% of the month. Festivals or holy days require tithes of greater value, not monetarily but spiritually. Commonly given tithes are flesh, valuable heirlooms, and hair.   Citizens are expected to confess monthly to luminaries and accept and perform any penance given. Refusal to confess is grounds for suspicion of heresy (capital offense) or consorting with the wicked (capital or banishment)   Divinely marked automatons stand silent in all cities. Most only have 2-3, with the exception of Ishalis having dozens. They take all orders from commanding Confessors.   Healing magic is a sacred and esoteric practice. Only those sanctioned by the church and Mother Isha or one of her higher Luminaries may utilize healing magics. It is regulated and unrestrained or unsanctioned use of healing magics is punishable by revocation of magical rights, hanging, banishment, or worse.   Light is holy, and fire is judgment. Candles burn constantly in all places of worship, and darkness is sacrilege. Homes are inspected for proper lighting and must have, at minimum, a candle burning in the home at all times. Many wear small radiant charms.