The Radiant Path
Name: The Emberguards
Deity: The Eternal Flame
Beliefs: The Paladins and Holy Warriors who walk the Radiant Path are devoted to The Eternal Flame, a deity of divine light, justice, and purity. The Eternal Flame, represents the unyielding force of righteousness that illuminates the world, driving away darkness and corruption wherever it takes root. Her followers are not merely warriors—they are beacons of hope and virtue, protectors of the innocent, and bearers of divine judgment.
According to their faith, The Eternal Flame, was born from the first light of creation, a flame sparked from the heart of the cosmos. Her purpose is to ensure that truth and justice prevail and that no shadow of evil is left unchecked. Followers of the Radiant Path believe that by taking up arms in The Eternal Flame, name, they become her living flame, burning away the sins and corruption that plague the world.
Teachings:
The Light Unyielding: The light of The Eternal Flame, cannot be extinguished. Her followers must strive to be the same—unyielding in the face of adversity, unbreakable in their resolve to do what is right.
Justice Tempered with Mercy: Though Paladins and Holy Warriors are tasked with punishing evil, they must also know when to show mercy. Forgiveness is as important as judgment, and redemption is always a possibility for those who seek it.
The Flame Within: The strength of a Holy Warrior does not come from their sword, but from their spirit. The flame of The Eternal Flame, burns within each of them, and it is through inner purity that they channel her divine power.
The Scourge of Darkness: Darkness in all its forms—whether it be literal, such as the shadows of the night, or metaphorical, like corruption and deceit—must be vanquished. The Eternal Flame, followers are sworn to hunt down evil wherever it may hide.
Practices:
The Flamebound Oath: Every Paladin or Holy Warrior must undergo the Flamebound Oath, a sacred rite where they swear lifelong allegiance to The Eternal Flame. The ritual takes place before an eternal flame, symbolizing the purity and everlasting nature of their duty. Once the oath is taken, the flame is said to reside in the warrior’s heart, granting them courage and strength in the darkest of times.
Rites of Cleansing: The Eternal Flame, followers regularly partake in cleansing rituals, where they seek purification from any sins or moral failings they may have committed. This often involves bathing in blessed waters or standing vigil through the night in silent prayer, with the goal of reigniting their inner flame.
The Dawn Crusades: Paladins and Holy Warriors frequently embark on Dawn Crusades—quests to bring light to dark corners of the world. These holy campaigns may involve vanquishing evil creatures, purging corrupted lands, or even confronting tyrants who oppress the innocent. Dawn Crusaders believe that wherever the sun rises, The Eternal Flame, justice must be delivered.
The Vigil of the Eternal Flame: At times of great strife, followers gather around an eternal flame—often kept in the heart of their temples. Here they stand in solemn vigil, praying for strength and guidance from The Eternal Flame. It is said that the longer a warrior keeps vigil, the stronger their connection to the divine flame becomes.
Sacred Symbols: The symbol of the Radiant Path is the Flaming Sun, an image of a radiant sun surrounded by a halo of flames. This symbol is worn by Paladins as a badge of honor, often emblazoned on their shields or armor. It signifies their role as bringers of light and justice.
Sacred Sites:
The Temple of the Blazing Dawn: Church of Taninsam The Sunspire: An ancient tower of unknown origin, the Sunspire is where Paladins go to take their Flamebound Oath. The eternal flame housed within is said to be directly linked to The Eternal Flame, herself, and those who kneel before it often leave with newfound power and divine purpose.
Hierarchy: At the top of the Radiant Path is the Flamekeeper, a spiritual and military leader who embodies the ideals of The Eternal Flame, The Flamekeeper is seen as the living representative of the Eternal Flame on Aedelore and holds the responsibility of guiding the order in matters of faith, warfare, and justice. Below the Flamekeeper are the Emberguards, experienced Paladins and warriors who serve as captains in holy campaigns, guiding their brethren in both battle and faith. They are also responsible for teaching new initiates and ensuring that the ideals of The Eternal Flame,are upheld without question. The initiates, known as Lightbearers, are new Paladins or warriors who are still learning the path of righteousness. They have yet to take their full Flamebound Oath but are already committed to the pursuit of justice and purity.
Core Tenets of the Radiant Path:
- Burn Brightly: Your life is a flame. Be a beacon of hope, an example of righteousness, and an unstoppable force for justice.
- Be Without Fear: Darkness cannot endure the light. Fear not the shadows, for The Eternal Flame, flame will always guide you.
- Deliver Justice: Evil must not be allowed to flourish. Act swiftly and decisively, but always temper judgment with mercy.
- Uphold Purity: Keep your heart and mind free from corruption. The flame within you must remain pure, so it may burn eternally.
Advantage: +1 in Endurance and Resistance
Disadvantage:
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