Cults

There are some among the many revered ancestors who have not only earned the undying respect of the coming ages with their exemplary deeds but have also passed some uniquely designed and valuable knowledge onto their descendants. The selected few individuals who devote themselves to preserve this heritage build up the gatherings that are what we know as a Cult.
Other than these secrets that the Cults have in their grasps, another of their key features is how fanatically they tend to guard them. Before they would be let in on anything at all, the very first sacred oath an initiate is compelled to make is to keep those secrets away from outsiders at the cost of their lives. Most likely at the cost of the outsiders' live as well.
Naturally, this had led and still leads to a great many wild speculations among the people such as abductions tied to them, Beast Kings worshipped disguised as ancestors, the practice of sorcery, conspiracy against the state, perverse rituals. Some of these allegations were proven right over the years with some cults, but the rest still remains to be fairly untouchable.

- - -

Because they are the only ones who are aware of and can practice their special traditions, a Cult may easily become a significant power, depending on the level and nature of their secret knowledge they may even achieve a leading role in some part of society.
The wide-spread reputation of Greater Ancestors allows the Cults that are formed around them to be better recognized by the public and to boast with a high number of cultists. Anyone who feels a strong connection with the ancestor may apply for membership, and if they successfully prove themselves, they will gain entry along with all the benefits.
Family Ancestors may also have Cults of their own but obviously, these are a lot more elite. The cultists must strictly be of the ancestor's bloodline, or perhaps even a restricted few within. Rarely any outsiders may be admitted into these Cults but if they do, it means a lot more than joining an organization, it is becoming a part of the family. Family cults may also achieve power sometimes, and in comparison to the Common Cults, them being lesser-known grants them the advantage to do their job in secret.