Exorcists

Success in the field of exorcism will only come after a long and arduous process of learning and studying. Seldom is someone born with an innate knack for it, and few have the empathy to discern the spirits that lie in plain sight. Among those that can see the spirits, few have the wisdom to judge them accordingly, or they simply lack the mental fortitude to retain control over themselves without relying too deeply on an anchor, leaving both in danger. An anchor can be used to tether the Exorcist. However, some spirits recognize the anchors as the weak point in their guard.

The path of an Exorcist, however, is open to interpretation. Each Exorcist utilizes their control over spirits in a unique, often flashy way. It is never enough to simply be efficient at this line of work. People need to witness something beyond what they'd normally see, a display of force that stands out from among the others. It is the wonder that brings customers. Yet, for all the showboating, all Exorcisms follow a set of relatively basic laws, taught in the most prestigious schools among Trel.

Through diligent training under a master Exorcist, any student can, hypothetically, master the arts of spiritual protection, enchantment, and redirection. However, the funds needed to enter such an institution of learning are something only the wealthy can afford. While there are times when an entire community saves funds for a child who shows potential, such things are a rare occurrence. Instead, many Exorcists offer an apprenticeship-like program, wherein their students receive 'on-the-job' training, and they act as stewards and anchors for their master. Those who become Exorcists this way rely more on intuition and reflexes than careful planning and studying.

Due to the open-ended nature of this profession, there are many charlatans. It is, sadly, a common sight in most cities. Some, through laziness or pride, abandoned their studies to prove themselves to the world. Others claim the mantle of an Exorcist without any skill or learning. Many of these frauds will cling to each other, backing one another up and belittling those with genuine ability.

Many have the qualifications of an Exorcist, though they do not bear the title. Magistrates across Trel are taught of the spirits, and have an elementary understanding of how to confront the creatures they encounter daily.

Those taught in the schools of Trel are often employed as government workers. Some, with a rudimentary knowledge of the spirits, find the path of a magistrate, using their power and grades to help support their position and ensure that they are placed somewhere worthwhile. Someone who scraped by does not need the comforts of larger cities and is often relocated to the less-than-favorable areas of Trel, where their lack of knowledge and skill will be of little effect.

Exorcism is often proven to be vital for Officers and similar vocations. Strength, charisma, and the drive to lead people against an uncertain future are benefited by a knowledge of spirits and the power to use them. Rumors have spread that high-ranking Officers are given tools of war, with certain spirits bound within the metal. Their power is found within these spirits. Controlling the urges, and

Those who identify as an Exorcist are free to come and go as they please, similar to the wandering priests. Those who've been taught in the schools, especially those with the greatest potential, are kept close, often hired by the government to accompany influential magistrates, or to be stationed in areas with high outsider activity. Others find themselves as merchants in their own right, founding their own Exorcism practices or attaining work in one of the many offices to be found across Trel. However, an equal number retain the old ways of the wandering Exorcist, roaming the land in search of employment. Although the practice is looked down upon, many will venture into other countries, seeking ways to aid the common folk from the things that terrorize them.

There is no set pay for any of the Exorcists. An hourly rate is unheard of; the payment depends on the complications and the severity of the Outsider they're interacting with. This allows the fees to be flexible and subject to change should further issues arise. A dwindling number of traditionalists refuse payment altogether, instead taking the offerings of food and shelter from those whom they aid.

Incense from the Arasani Trees, the sap of the Ever-Growth, and the purifying flame are common for those who engage with the spirits, as these things are a bane unto them. Ink, scrolls, and religious text are common, for they are the tools needed to bind the spirits, and are essential for any Exorcist outside Trel.

Greater Outsiders require anchors; living beings that tether the Exorcist to this realm, as they are often forced to traverse their bodies, engaging with the horrors on their own playing fields. These anchors are sought after, though many desire additional exorcists rather than someone who isn't versed in the teachings or trained in protecting their souls.

Exorcists are as varied as the snowflakes, though there are components that each one must adhere to. A tool to weaken the hold of the Outsiders. A second to entrap a portion of the Outsider, if not the whole being. Lastly, there must be tools to cleanse the room, or area, of its unholy presence, lest it attract others like it.

Banishing, trapping, and communicating with the Outsiders are the main services offered by the Exorcists. However, many are adept at comforting and consoling those who've had the ill fortune of encountering an Outsider.

Interacting with the Outsiders is dangerous. Death is a constant, while there are many more who inherit a fate worse than death. Possessions are not uncommon, and a vengeful Outsider that is not properly dealt with can haunt the Exorcist and their offspring for generations.