Order of Hepra the Mace
The Hepra the Mace is an very mystical Agrikan clerical order, renowned for their ability to divine the future with remarkable accuracy and to summon Demons.
These summoning rites have given the order a fearsome reputation, as does the fierce fighting reputation of their sponsored fighting order, the Order of the Red Shadows of Hepra.
Structure
The order will accept male and female candidates of any age and unlike other Agrikian orders, skill in martial arts is not mandatory. Those born under auspicious stars or have a talent for divination are rapidly promoted.
Supreme Head of the Order of Eight Demons
Senesharil (Grandmaster)
He sets overall policy and manages political issues. The current grandmaster is Andraz Ernald, who has made "peace" with the Order of the Eight Demons and is currently planning a crusade against the Kubora Barbarians.
Temple Organisation
The Viriahan (High Priest)
The High Priests are the supreme rulers of each temple.
The Aperani (Master)
There are usually eight temple masters, each responsible for temple functions, ceremonies and dealing with the laity. Competition for positions and power is ceaseless. Aperani are appointed by the High Priest.
The Heruchai (Lieutenants)
These rank between acolyte and master and are assigned to assist one of the Aperani.
The Agnichari (Acolytes)
Acolytes are trained in martial arts, ritual, and divination although most of their time is spent on menial tasks.
The Anasi-Vir
Lay or honorary members of the order. These are experts in theology, astronomy, astrology, demon conjuring and some are said to be potent mages.
Assets
Major Temples
Kingdom of Rethem
Golotha - This is the Orders Headquarters. The High-Priest is Irbon Preth, is also a Deputy Grandmaster of the order.
Shostim - The temple situated in the King's primary domain, and the High-priest Andraz Ernald, is also the order’s grandmaster and important adviser of the King.
Ithiko - The temple's High-priest is Ban Charo, who advises of the Earl of Ithiko.
Menekai - Castle Menekai is held by the Order of the Red Shadow of Hepra.
Thardic Republic
Moleryn - This temple is popular with the Legions.
Telen, the Heprariccan - This temple has the support of the powerful Clan Nordaka.
The Order also has numerous small chapels and shrines, some of them clandestine.
History
301 to 565TR - The order originated are among the scholar-priests and astrologers of the Corani Empire.
640TR - When the Kingdom of Rethem was founded they took took their current form and earned generous patronage of the crown.
642TR - Founding of the Order of the Red Shadows of Hepra.
708TR - The order, after suitable portents directs the Red Shadows capture Themeson keep from the Thardic Republic. War was avoided.
714TR - A theological dispute will lead to the order splitting in two, with the formation of the Order of the Eight Demons. These traitors held Themeson and several key temples in the Thardic Republic.
717TR - The order makes peace with the Order of Eight Demons, at least on the surface.
Mythology & Lore
Arvasursusav’hir
A collection of ancient scrolls also known as “The Names of Our Lord’s Great Servants” in an archaic Azeryani script, for which the core of the orders belief stem. This knowledge allows them to commune and control demons well beyond the typical priest of Agrik.
The Mace
The Order reveres the star constellation of Hepra, which is in the shape of a mace. During certain times of the year, meteor showers pass through the mace, and it is said that the Orders divination powers are at their peak.
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