Firetender

The trees must burn if they are to grow.

— Dyiiladuunawa proverb

The Firetenders of Qiliind are those in the northern reaches of Thurásin who tend to the literal bonfires of their patron deity, as well as the fires within the hearts of their community as advice givers and trusted confidants. Despite the admiration and respect accorded to them in the north, there are very few in other parts of the continent, and travelling as one openly can be fraught.

Duties

A Firetender's first and most important task is to tend to the fires of Qiliind, which often burn for years at a time under their care. Representing the strength of the sun and used to burn offerings to the god, allowing one of the immortal fires to die out is a grave crime, and one the firetenders avoid at all costs. In smaller communities with fewer resources, these fires might only burn during the cold and sunless winter months, but they are no less revered.   Being a simple task easily accomplished, especially with many firetenders for one flame, the second duty is to tend to the fires of their community, both literally and metaphorically. In frozen winters, firetenders will brave the snow to deliver wood to homes, and will see to the spiritual and emotional needs of the occupants. This often takes the form of practical advice for how to look after yourself, as well as lending a confidential ear to the needy.

Reputation

Within the ice fields of Xaqulbijwa, where firetenders are most prominent, they are treated with great respect and admiration. Most are pillars in their communities, which are typically rural and semi-isolated, and even in neighbouring communities they are recognised as hard workers and people of great faith.   This reputation does not precede them outside of the frigid north, with opinions of them marching in lockstep with opinions of their patron deity, Qiliind. Regarded by those on the continent as a 'false god', firetenders are thus considered heathens and false prophets, and are met with scorn and derision at best, and outright violence at worst. As a result, firetenders will rarely identify as such outside of their home towns, keeping their faith close to the chest.