C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
The temple doors are pure gold, two stories high, with elaborate friezes portraying the gods that founded and protect the city. Bright gems and sections of polished silver enhance the richness of the doors. The walls that flank them are stark, finely-polished white marble, rising 30 feet to a golden roof with elaborate vines and decoration visible along the edge. The Temple of Trithereon is built of durable stone and is well able to resist attack. It is always built with an eye for defense and contains a massive bell tower from which the faithful can be called to worship.Most of the time, the great doors are closed and a smaller, human-sized door to their right is used for people entering and leaving the temple. The odor of incense wafts out the door every time someone opens it, perfuming the whole area.
A fortress-cathedral that preaches liberty and retribution—yet also serves as Verbobonc’s grandest symbol of free worship, for its outer shrines honor every god (even the dark and racial powers), while the inner heart belongs to Trithereon. It is where oaths become weapons, where crowds can be kindled, and where the city’s enemies learn that faith may ring like a bell… and strike like a mace.
The Golden Doors
Most folk pass not through the great doors—those remain shut as a judge’s mouth—yet a smaller door to the right opens and closes in a steady rhythm. Each time it gapes, incense spills forth and sweetens the square, as though the building itself doth exhale prayer. A mailed priest—chain marked with the rune of pursuit—steps into thy path and lifts two fingers in greeting.
“Friend,” quoth he, “com’st thou to worship, to swear, or to seek justice?”
Majestic Architecture
The Cathedral of Trithereon, standing prominently in the heart of Verbobonc, is a masterpiece of religious architecture, combining divine inspiration with formidable defensive features. Its design not only reflects the grandeur of its worship but also the protective strength of its deity.
- Grand Entrance: The cathedral's entrance is marked by towering gold doors that reach two stories high, intricately decorated with friezes depicting the gods who founded and protect the city. These friezes are adorned with bright gems and polished silver, creating a dazzling display of craftsmanship and devotion.
- Elaborate Exterior: Surrounding the magnificent doors are walls of finely-polished white marble, which rise 30 feet to meet a golden roof. The roof itself is an art piece, edged with elaborate vines and decorative motifs that catch the light and the eyes of all who approach.
Layout & Key Areas (DM-ready)
1) Temple Square & Steps
A broad paved square, often with itinerant merchants—yet it can swell to hundreds or thousands during holy days and processions. The wide stairs are pink marble, and the crowd-press here is its own hazard. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
2) The Nave (Public Worship Hall)
Soaring arches, stained glass throwing colored light, voices climbing the vault and falling back in solemn thunder. Three dozen rows of pews (or more), facing a squat marble altar carved with ancient rites. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
3) The Shrine-Ring (Freedom of Worship)
The outermost areas hold small shrines to every deity—including racial and dark gods—framing the cathedral’s public claim: in Verbobonc, worship is a choice, not a chain. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
4) The Inner Chambers (Trithereon’s Heart)
Here the militant character sharpens: training talks, rites, oath-taking, and the Freedom’s Harangue—sermons that remind folk they must be ready to defend their liberty. Church of Trithereon
5) Chapter Offices & Restricted Reliquaries
Off-limits sections for church business and sacred relics: protected by wards, glyphs, guards, and traps. The clergy assumes spies exist—rival faiths, cults, or political hands seeking secrets. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
History & Relics (Use for campaign gravity)
Rebuilt After the Long Siege
The original church fell during the Long Siege; the present cathedral rose after a divine vision and civic resolve, becoming a monument of renewal and defiance. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
Fragarach, “The Answerer” — The Lost Burden
Upon the cathedral’s completion, the holy sword Fragarach was entrusted to the High Priest—legend says it could compel truth and cut through deceit. It later vanished with Prince Thrommel IV, a wound that still aches in cathedral memory and rumor. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
Clergy, Orders, & Daily Life
Vestments & Look
Priests favor purple or dark blue robes trimmed in silver or gold, bearing the pursuit rune; when traveling they may wear marked mail and carry arms meant for distribution to the defenseless. Church of Trithereon
Hierarchy (simple, merit-forward)
From Hopeful Initiates to seasoned High Fathers/Mothers and wider regional leaders; the faith prizes divine favor and personal worth over fussy bureaucracy. Church of Trithereon
Signature Practices
- Bell rites: at sunset, and every hour on Godsday—a constant reminder that vigilance is worship. Church of Trithereon
- Hopeful Initiates Parade: new converts presented publicly—faith as a chosen banner. Church of Trithereon
- Weapon displays & ceremonial flame: martial readiness made holy. Church of Trithereon
- Self-defense training: especially the spear, Trithereon’s favored arm. Church of Trithereon
The Favored Ones (great NPC tag)
Some undergo a trial by fire—those who endure are honored as Favored Ones, often tattooing the pursuit rune wreathed in flame.
Meeting Cornelius
“Well now,” quoth he, voice roughened by years and sermons, “here be folk with road-dust on their hems. Tell me plain: who hath wronged thee… and what wouldst thou do about it?”
Interior Splendor
Inside the Cathedral of Trithereon, visitors are greeted by an atmosphere of reverence and beauty, designed to uplift the spirit and underscore the solemnity of the worship space.
- Vaulted Ceilings and Stained Glass: The interior boasts soaring stone arches that carry the eye upward to vaulted ceilings, where light filters through stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns across the nave. Each window tells a story of saints and heroes, with Trithereon often depicted among mortals, guiding and protecting them.
- Sanctuary and Altars: The main nave leads to a raised dais where a squat marble altar stands, inscribed with ancient rites and prayers. This altar is the heart of the cathedral, surrounded by rows of pews that can accommodate hundreds of the faithful.
Aromatic and Sensory Experience
The sensory experience within the cathedral is carefully curated to create an environment of peace and contemplation.
- Incense and Perfume: The air inside the cathedral is rich with the scent of incense, which wafts out each time the smaller, human-sized door beside the main entrance is used. This aroma fills the surrounding area, extending the sacred atmosphere beyond the physical boundaries of the cathedral.
Voices within the soaring stone chamber carry up to its vaulted heights before descending, reverberating in a way both pleasant and overwhelming. Ceiling-height windows of stained glass depict saints and heroes in their most desperate hours, Trithereon descending to treat with mortals. Alcoves occupy the space between these windows, and within each stands the towering statue of a heroic figure. Rows upon rows of pews—three dozen at least—lead to a raised dais, upon which stands a squat altar of marble, inscribed with ancient rites. Great gnomish, elven, and human architects, several mages, and the priesthood of Trithereon all contributed to its construction, making it one of the true wonders of the Flanaess.In addition to serving as the center of worship of Trithereon in the Flanaess, it symbolizes the diversity of Oerth's deities as well as the individual's freedom to worship any of them. As such, small shrines make up the outer-most areas of the temple, one devoted to every god or goddess, including the racial and dark gods. The inner chambers are mainly for worship of Trithereon and the vaulted ceilings are an incredible mosaic depicting the diversity and balance of all the known pantheons in the Flanaess. Pilgrims from across the Flanaess flock to Verbobonc just to see it, and none have ever left disappointed.
Historical Significance
The story of the Cathedral of Trithereon's current standing begins with a vision of grandeur and divine providence following the destruction of the original church during the Long Siege in 412 CY. The city and its people were in desperate need of spiritual and communal rebuilding, and the vision for a new, formidable temple served as a beacon of hope and renewal.
- Foundational History: Rebuilt after the original church was destroyed during the Long Siege in 412 CY, following a divine vision.
- Proposition by Crneyh Longspear: At a time when the city was still reeling from the siege's devastation, Crneyh Longspear, the then Lord Mayor and later known as the Right Worshipful Mayor, proposed the ambitious project of reconstructing the cathedral. His leadership and foresight were instrumental in rallying the community and resources necessary for such a monumental endeavor.
The Entrustment of Fragarach
Upon the completion of the Cathedral, a significant event marked its consecration and underscored its importance in the region's spiritual and political realms.
- The Holy Sword Fragarach: Known as "The Answerer," this legendary sword was entrusted to the High Priest of the Cathedral. Fragarach was more than a symbol of divine authority; it was believed to possess actual powers, capable of compelling truth and cutting through any deceit or armor.
- Role of Fragarach in the Cathedral: Kept within the Hallowed Sanctum of Trithereon, the sword was not only a relic of immense power but also a symbol of the High Priest's duty to uphold truth and justice, core tenets of Trithereon's teachings.
The Loss of Fragarach
The narrative of the Cathedral is also marked by moments of significant loss, notably the disappearance of Prince Thrommel IV along with the holy sword.
- Prince Thrommel IV’s Role: As Marshall of Furyondy, Prince Thrommel IV was a key figure in the allied forces during the battles at Emirdy Meadows. His leadership and valor were instrumental in several victories, and his possession of Fragarach was seen as a sign of divine favor.
- Disappearance and Impact: The loss of Prince Thrommel IV and Fragarach was a tremendous blow to the forces of good. Not only did it mean the loss of a revered leader and a sacred relic, but it also signified a significant spiritual setback for the Cathedral and its community. The circumstances of his disappearance remain shrouded in mystery and speculation, adding a layer of legend to the Cathedral’s history.
Religious Influence and Activities
As a major religious hub, the Cathedral of Trithereon plays a crucial role in the spiritual life of Verbobonc and the surrounding regions.
- Center of Worship: Serves as the primary venue for worshiping Trithereon and hosts major religious ceremonies.
- Ecumenical Harmony: Includes small shrines dedicated to various deities, reflecting the cathedral’s commitment to freedom of worship.
Relationships and Community Role
The Cathedral’s influence extends beyond its physical boundaries, impacting local politics and community dynamics.
- Religious Leadership: Guided by a high priest who is a key religious figure in the city.
- Interfaith Relations: Maintains a cooperative stance towards other religious institutions, despite historical rivalries, notably with the Church of St. Cuthbert.
Pilgrimage and Tourism
The Cathedral of Trithereon is a beacon for pilgrims from across the Flanaess, drawn by its religious significance and architectural beauty.
- Pilgrimage Site: Attracts thousands of pilgrims yearly, eager to witness the cathedral’s splendor and seek spiritual solace.
- Cultural Impact: Boosts local tourism, contributing to Verbobonc’s economy and cultural heritage.
Relationships and Notable Figures
Relationships Within the Community
The Cathedral of Trithereon in Verbobonc is not just a religious landmark; it is a central hub for spiritual guidance and political counsel within the city and beyond. The relationships fostered by the cathedral's clergy with local authorities, other religious groups, and the community at large are pivotal to its role in the civic and spiritual life of the region.
- Advisory Role: The high priest's counsel is frequently sought by the Viscount Wilfrick Verdanhart of Verbobonc, highlighting the cathedral's significant influence in local governance.
- Community Engagement: The cathedral and its clergy are actively involved in the community, participating in public events, providing aid, and working collaboratively with other religious organizations to promote peace and unity.
Clergy and Staff
The Cathedral of Trithereon is staffed by a dedicated group of clergy who play various roles in the functioning of the cathedral and its wide array of services.
- Priestly Cohort: At any given time, the cathedral houses 40 priests, with numbers swelling to over 300 during pilgrimages and major religious festivals.
- Roles and Responsibilities: These priests are not only involved in the day-to-day activities of the cathedral but also engage in missions across the region, keeping an eye on the balance of power and ensuring that no lawful authority oversteps its bounds.
Visitor Engagement and Tourism
As the largest attraction in the city, the Cathedral of Trithereon draws a diverse array of visitors, making it a bustling nexus of activity year-round.
- Diverse Visitors: The cathedral's open policy allows worshipers of all deities to find solace and sanctuary within its walls, attracting tourists, pilgrims, and faithful from across the Flanaess.
- Public Spaces and Activities: The areas surrounding the cathedral are always teeming with activity, hosting everything from religious ceremonies to public discussions and cultural exchanges.
Goods & Services (big DM utility menu)
Free & Public Works
- Daily soup kitchen: conjured food and water for the poor. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
- Weekly Godsday mass for the ill: cures and restorations (disease, blindness, light wounds noted among the works offered). C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
Adventurer-Facing Services
- Divine item identification (especially divine magic). C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
- Spellcasting up to 5th level at 90% of standard PHB service rates (expect queues and wait-times). C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
- Raise Dead / Resurrect offered in monthly sessions at a discount (other days cost more). C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
- Divine potions & scrolls: can produce any; 50% chance a requested item is immediately available, else a one-day wait. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
The Archives of Many Gods (roleplay gold)
The cathedral keeps rhetoric, prayers, and edicts across the pantheons—useful for research, heresies, and “who would twist this doctrine?” investigations. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
Security & Consequences
(run it like a living power)
Defensive Design (Trithereon’s doctrine made stone)
The cathedral is built to endure attack: durable construction, defensive intent, and a massive bell tower that can summon the faithful—or signal danger—swiftly. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
Restricted Areas
Reliquaries and inner offices are guarded and warded; treat intrusion as a major crime and a religious affront. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
Response Clock (when trouble starts)
- 0–1 minute: clergy ushers close ranks; acolytes bar side corridors.
- 1–3 minutes: bell-tower alarm; armed priests move; doors begin to seal. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
- 3–6 minutes: Vigil Wardens arrive in force from the Civic Centre lanes (and they will demand jurisdiction).
- After 10 minutes: the Cathedral chooses: public mercy (de-escalation) or public example (detainment, accusation, trial-by-crowd pressure).
TOEE Hooks (built for your 576/579 sandbox)
- The Forged Writ: An “official” seizure order is being blessed as righteous—yet the seal is wrong. The cathedral archives can confirm the doctrine, not the legality.
- The Buried Confession: A penitent confessed to moving supplies “through a riverside village” (Nulb), then vanished.
- The Relic-Rumor: Someone is selling “answers” about Fragarach—drawing pilgrims and treasure-hunters… and cult attention. C1 Cathedral of Trithereon
- The Favored One’s Scar: A priest bears the trial-by-fire mark, but flinches at a particular name—someone has leverage on them. Church of Trithereon
- Street Justice Gone Wrong: Trithereon youths plan to “punish” a supposed cultist tonight. The target may be guilty… or framed.
Verbobonc Locations Referenced by Type
C1. Cathedral of Trithereon
“The Golden Doors”
Type: Cathedral / Great Temple (fortified)
District: Civic Centre
Founding Date: 412 CY (rebuilt after the Long Siege)
Owner: High Priest Cornelius Arx
Owning Organization: Church of Trithereon
Faction Pull: Trithereon faithful, pilgrims across the Flanaess, civic hardliners, self-defense militias, Vigil Wardens, advocates seeking “moral testimony,” and (quietly) anyone hunting leverage through confession, oaths, or relic-lore.
High Priest Cornelius Arx (Key NPC)
Cornelius Arx leads the cathedral and stands among the most influential Trithereon clergy in the Flanaess. He came to Verbobonc from Greyhawk in 550 CY and has guided the temple for decades, expanding services and acting as a respected counselor in civic affairs.
Goods and Services at the Cathedral of Trithereon
Religious Resources and Artifacts
The Cathedral of Trithereon in Verbobonc is a treasure trove of religious artifacts and resources, offering comprehensive information and services related to all recognized deities under one roof.
- Diverse Religious Items: An extensive collection of church rhetoric, divine prayers, and gods' edicts is available to the public, facilitating a deeper understanding and practice of various faiths.
- Identification Services: The cathedral offers services to identify any manner of divine magic items, aiding adventurers and worshippers in discerning their properties and uses.
Restricted Areas and Sacred Artifacts
While the Cathedral is open and welcoming in its public spaces, it also contains restricted areas dedicated to more sensitive church matters.
- Access Restrictions: Certain sections of the cathedral are off-limits to the general public, used exclusively for church business and housing sacred relics.
- Security Measures: These areas are protected by robust security measures including wards, glyphs, guards, and traps to safeguard the holy items contained within.
Community Support Services
The Cathedral not only serves as a place of worship but also as a center for community support, offering a variety of services to assist the needy and the afflicted.
- Soup Kitchen: Operates a daily soup kitchen providing conjured food and water, free of charge to the poor.
- Health Services: Hosts a weekly mass for the ill, offering divine interventions such as curing diseases, blindness, and light wounds on 'Godsday'.
Magical and Clerical Services
The Cathedral provides extensive magical and clerical services to the community, making divine interventions accessible to a broader public.
- Spellcasting Services: Offers a wide range of spells (up to 5th level) to be cast by the priests at 90% of the standard Player's Handbook (PHB) prices, though patrons may experience long waiting times.
- Resurrection Services: Conducts monthly sessions where 'Raise Dead' and 'Resurrect' spells are offered at a discounted rate, with other days priced higher to manage demand.
Potion and Scroll Production
In addition to its spiritual services, the Cathedral also engages in the production of divine potions and scrolls, catering to the specific needs of its congregation.
- Production Capability: Can produce any divine potion or scroll, with a 50% chance that specific items are immediately available, otherwise requiring a one-day wait.
- Cost Structure: Items are priced at average cost, making them accessible to a wide range of patrons.
Security and Surveillance
Despite its open approach in public areas, the Cathedral maintains a vigilant stance against potential threats and espionage from various quarters.
- Vigilance Against Spies: Aware of the possibility of espionage from other religious groups, the Cathedral takes precautions to monitor and counteract any such activities.
- Anti-Cult Measures: The city's concern over the emergence of evil cults leads to stringent measures to prevent their establishment, with the Cathedral playing a crucial role in these efforts.
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