The Inquisition
The Founding of the Inquisition:
During the early years of Empyria’s rise, the lingering influence of Demons and the fear of another catastrophic war led to the formation of the Inquisition. Established as a powerful arm of both the church and state, its primary mission was to eradicate heresy, combat dark Magic, and protect the faith. What began as a force of protection, however, quickly became an instrument of fear, paranoia, and brutal justice.
The Age of Fear and Persecution:
The Inquisition’s influence grew rapidly, and so did its ruthless methods. Any magic perceived to be drawn from darkness—regardless of intent—was branded as heresy. Even those accused by mere suspicion could face imprisonment, torture, or execution. The infamous witch hunts began during this era, where entire villages were purged in the name of faith. Burnings, drownings, and public executions became the norm, striking fear into mages and commoners alike.
The Fall of the Inquisition:
As the Inquisition’s cruelty escalated, the people of Empyria began to turn against them. Their unchecked power led to widespread unrest, with riots breaking out against Inquisitorial forces. In time, the cries of the people reached Emperor Empyrias, who stepped in to break their dominance. Under his rule, the Inquisition suffered a massive reduction in power, its influence cut tenfold. The emperor’s reforms included: Banning public executions without royal or church approval. Dismantling certain branches of the Inquisition, especially those involved in torture. Restricting their ability to act independently, forcing them to answer to imperial officials. Exiling the most extreme Inquisitors, ensuring the worst offenders would never regain power. Over time, the Inquisition was a shadow of its former self. Many believed it would eventually fade into obscurity.
The Inquisition’s Survival:
Despite their decline, the Inquisition never truly vanished. Many of its members retreated into secrecy, maintaining clandestine operations within the church and state. Others found new roles, shifting from persecutors to advisors, scholars, and monster hunters. The organization adapted, but its more fanatical members continued to harbor resentment, waiting for the right moment to rise again.
The Return of the Inquisition:
Recent years have seen the Inquisition slowly regaining power. Several factors have contributed to their resurgence: A rise in supernatural threats, including rogue mages, heretical cults, and rumors of demonic stirrings. Political shifts favoring stricter control over magic, with some nobles secretly supporting the Inquisition’s return. A growing fear among the common people, who, despite their hatred of past brutality, now desperately seek protection. Though they have not yet regained their former dominance, the Inquisition is once again a force to be reckoned with. Whether they will serve as protectors or repeat the mistakes of the past remains uncertain.
The Shadow Council:
The Inquisition was led by a clandestine group known as the Shadow Council, composed of the highest-ranking Inquisitors and influential church figures. The council's decisions often shaped the course of Inquisition actions, and its members wielded considerable political and magical influence.
The Black Dungeons:
Beneath the great cathedrals and fortresses of the Inquisition lie the Black Dungeons, an intricate network of ancient tunnels, chambers, and vaults that stretch deep underground. These dungeons serve as prisons for dark individuals, including: Heresy-branded mages whose powers were too dangerous to be executed. Cultists of forbidden gods who refused to renounce their faith. Undead creatures restrained through powerful wards. Fallen Inquisitors, those who betrayed their oaths or delved too far into the darkness. Some prisoners have remained sealed away for centuries, their crimes lost to time. It is whispered that some souls never truly die down there, their tormented echoes still lingering in the stone. Few who descend into the deepest levels ever return.
The Eternal War Against Vampires:
Among the Inquisition’s most relentless campaigns was their war against Vampires. Unlike rogue mages or heretics, vampires were considered an absolute evil, unnatural beings that corrupted the world by their very existence. For centuries, the Inquisition waged war, hunting vampires across the land. However, vampires proved more resilient and cunning than expected. Many adapted, infiltrating Empyrian politics, noble houses. While the Inquisition still hunts vampires today, their efforts are no longer as unquestioned or absolute. In the modern era, the existence of noble vampire houses remains an unspoken truth, tolerated as long as they do not threaten the empire. The Inquisition, however, still remembers the old war—and some of its members seek to rekindle the flames."Vigilance in the Shadows"
Founding Date
3991 AD
Type
Religious, Inquisitorial
Training Level
Semi-professional
Veterancy Level
Veteran
Ruling Organization
Notable Members
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