The Doctrine of the Last
The Doctrine of the Last is a complex and mystical religion developed in Taua. This realm was inhabited primarily by dwarves and drows, two races who, despite their differences, share a deep reverence for survival, endurance, and the forces of destiny that shape their lives in the unforgiving environment. The religion centres around a mysterious deity known as The Last, a god who is believed not to be the final being but rather one who will witness the end of all things — a paradoxical entity who waits for the ultimate end but does not himself end.
Core Beliefs
The Last is the Witness, Not the Final Being
The Last is a god of great wisdom, ancient and eternal, but not the one who will bring about the end of existence. Instead, the Last watches as all things inevitably decay and die, waiting to bear witness to the final act of the cosmos, when only one being — something else entirely — will remain. This divine figure is thought to have knowledge of the entire lifespan of existence, from its birth to its dissolution, but is paradoxically fated to not be the final entity standing.The Endurance of All
Dwarves and drows who follow the Doctrine of the Last believe that survival in the present is a test, and that all living beings are given the chance to endure as long as they can, striving for greatness in their craft, their wisdom, or their strength. The ultimate goal is not immortality, but rather to persist long enough to leave a meaningful legacy in the face of inevitable decline.Cycle of Decay and Renewal
A key teaching of the doctrine is that everything, no matter how strong or eternal it seems, will eventually decay, even the gods themselves. However, out of that decay comes renewal. Followers believe that after every fall — whether it be of civilizations, gods, or individuals — something new arises. The Last embodies this truth, not as the cause of endings but as the divine witness to their cyclical nature.The Quiet Vigil
The Last is thought to be a patient, silent god who does not intervene in mortal affairs but watches over the living as they struggle to make their mark in the world. He is a symbol of endurance, silent observation, and acceptance of the cosmic cycle. His followers, particularly in the mountain kingdom, value contemplation, perseverance, and the quiet accumulation of knowledge and skill.The Final One
While The Last is not the final being, the Doctrine holds that there will come a mysterious entity, often called The Final One, who will be the last remaining creature at the end of existence. The nature of this being is hotly debated among scholars of the doctrine — some say it will be a mortal who transcends the end, others believe it will be a god, and a few suggest it could be a being that has not yet been born. The followers are taught that one’s actions in life may allow them to be part of the legacy the Final One carries forward.Tenets of Faith
Symbols and Imagery
The Mountain
The Tihi Atea mountain, also known as Dragon’s Head, became the central symbol of the religion, representing the unyielding and ancient aspect of existence, rising above time itself. It symbolises The Last’s constant, quiet observation of the world, a mountain that has stood since the dawn of time and will remain until the end.The Dying Flame
An important religious image, representing both life and the inevitability of its fading. In their temples, dwarves and drows tend to flames that are carefully controlled to dwindle and die out during worship ceremonies, symbolising the passage of time and the role of The Last in witnessing the end of all things.The Silent Mask
Statues and effigies of The Last often depict him wearing a mask, with no facial features visible. This reflects his distant, inscrutable nature and his role as a silent observer. His face is said to be unseen because he does not show emotion or intervene in mortal affairs, only observing them as they unfold.Ethics
Stoicism and Endurance
The Doctrine’s teachings shape the culture of the mountain kingdom. Both dwarves and drows embrace a stoic mindset, accepting hardship and loss as part of the inevitable cycle. They are known for their resilience, whether in battle, craftsmanship, or dealing with personal tragedy.Respect for Time and Legacy
Craftsmanship, writing, and artistic expression are deeply connected to religion. Dwarves and drows both seek to leave behind something that endures. Buildings, tools, weapons, and art are made with the idea that they will one day fall into decay, but until then, they must serve as a legacy of the creators.An Acceptance of Death
Death is not feared in this society but is viewed as a natural progression. Warriors, artisans, and elders alike prepare for their final moments, seeing death as the final part of their personal journey toward The Last’s vigil at the end of time.Worship
End of Day Vigil
At the end of each day, followers gather to silently reflect on the events that have passed, meditating on the inevitable decay of everything they have seen or created. This vigil is often held at dusk, when the light is fading, symbolising the gradual approach of the end.The Final Work
Craftsmanship is deeply tied to religion. Dwarves, known for their great skill, and drows, with their artistic and intricate craftsmanship, believe that every work they create is part of a grand cycle — it will one day decay, but in its decay, it becomes part of something greater. Some artisans dedicate their lives to a Final Work, a masterpiece they hope will endure longer than they do and that may be remembered even at the end of time.The Last Walk
A unique and sombre ritual is the Last Walk, where elders who feel their time is near make a solitary pilgrimage into Dragon’s Head, walking alone into the harsh wilderness. It is believed that The Last himself watches over them during this journey. Those who return are often seen as blessed with insight or wisdom, while those who do not are thought to have joined The Last in his eternal vigil.Communion of Silence
Major religious ceremonies, held in large underground temples carved into the mountains, involve long periods of silent prayer and meditation. Participants sit in silence, contemplating the cycles of creation and decay, and trying to attune their minds to the quiet vigilance of The Last. Unlike many religions, there is very little chanting or speaking in these services, reflecting the god’s own reticent nature.Priesthood
The Silent Ones
The religious leaders of the Doctrine are known as The Silent Ones. They wear black robes and veils or masks, mirroring The Last’s own faceless, quiet nature. These priests and priestesses lead the community in rituals and teach the doctrine’s tenets, but they are forbidden from speaking except during rare, important moments. They communicate mostly through gestures and written words.Watchers
A lower order of monks known as Watchers devote themselves to learning and quiet observation of the world around them. They maintain the temples, care for the dying flames, and document the kingdom’s history and lore, believing their records might one day be of use to the Final One.The Vigil Keepers
These dwarves and drows are responsible for guarding the religious sites, such as the Black Mountain and the holy shrines dedicated to The Last. They see themselves as guardians of the past, present, and future, protecting these sacred spaces from destruction, in line with the religion’s emphasis on endurance.
Type
Religious, Organised Religion
Permeated Organizations
Deities
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