The Order of Scilthax

The Order of Scilthax is a dedicated priesthood within the Cynndracan Conclave of the Dragon Trinity, serving as the religious arm of Scilthax's faith. Comprised of clerics, paladins, scholars, and protectors, this order is united by their unwavering devotion to the Platinum Dragon's ideals of goodness, justice, protection, and logic.
Description: Members of the Order of Scilthax are often recognized by their distinctive platinum or silver armor, adorned with symbols of justice and protection. They are known for their sense of duty, unwavering commitment to righteousness, and their active role in promoting justice in the mortal realm. The order's members are often called upon as mediators, protectors, and champions of those in need.
The Platinum Paragons of the Gilded Giver: Within the Order of Scilthax, there exists a distinguished paladin order known as the Platinum Paragons of the Gilded Giver, often referred to as the Platinum Paragons for brevity. These paladins are exemplars of valor, honor, and selflessness, embodying Scilthax's virtues in their daily lives. They are trained to wield both weapons and divine magic in the service of justice, often leading in the defense of the weak and the pursuit of truth.

Public Agenda

The public agenda of the Order of Scilthax extends beyond its own members and encompasses the broader society. Key aspects of their public agenda include:
Protection of the Vulnerable: The order is dedicated to safeguarding the weak, oppressed, and marginalized members of society. They actively involve themselves in defending those who cannot protect themselves, whether it be from physical harm, injustice, or oppression.
Promotion of Justice: The order seeks to be a beacon of justice in the kingdom of Cynndraca. They are often involved in mediating disputes, ensuring fair trials, and advocating for equitable laws and regulations.
Educational Outreach: The order is committed to educating the public about matters of ethics, morality, and justice. They frequently organize lectures, seminars, and public discussions on these topics, encouraging society to think critically about right and wrong.
Interfaith Dialogues: Members of the order engage in interfaith dialogues and diplomatic missions to foster understanding and cooperation with other faiths. They aim to bridge divides and promote peaceful coexistence among different religious groups.
Diplomacy and Peacemaking: The order actively participates in diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts both within Cynndraca and with neighboring nations. They are known for their commitment to peaceful solutions and their role in preventing and mediating disputes.
Charitable Work: The order engages in charitable activities, such as providing food, shelter, and support to the needy. They also oversee initiatives to aid those affected by natural disasters and social crises.
Military Service: Many members of the order serve in the Cynndracan military, where they carry their dedication to justice and protection into the defense of the kingdom. They act as moral leaders within the armed forces.
Overall, the Order of Scilthax plays an active and influential role in the kingdom of Cynndraca, seeking to create a just and harmonious society where the values of goodness, justice, and protection prevail. Their culture and public agenda are aligned in their mission to make the world a better place through their unwavering commitment to the Platinum Dragon's teachings.

Tenets of Faith

Nobility of Purpose: The members of the order believe that their calling is a noble one, and they carry themselves with dignity and honor. They see their mission as a sacred duty to protect the weak and ensure that justice prevails.
Intellectual Pursuits: The pursuit of knowledge, especially in the realms of logic and theology, is highly valued. The order's culture encourages intellectual growth and the study of ethics and morality.
Discipline and Training: Training in martial combat, magic, and theology is an integral part of the order's culture. Members are expected to be disciplined and skilled, whether they are clerics, paladins, scholars, or temple guardians.
Community and Solidarity: The order fosters a strong sense of community among its members. They support one another emotionally and spiritually, forming bonds akin to those of a closely-knit family.
Chivalry: Paladins within the order follow a code of chivalry, which includes principles such as courage, compassion, honor, and protection. This code shapes their behavior and moral compass.

Worship

The practices and worship of the Order of Scilthax are centered around their devotion to justice, protection, and the Platinum Dragon's teachings. Here's a detailed description of their religious practices:
Vestments:

• Clerics: Clerics of Scilthax wear vestments of silver and platinum hues. Their robes are adorned with intricate patterns and symbols of justice and protection. A platinum dragon emblem is often displayed prominently on their attire.
• Paladins: Paladins don suits of gleaming, finely crafted silver and platinum armor. They bear the emblem of Scilthax on their shields and tabards, signifying their allegiance to the order.
• Scholars and Scribes: These members wear scholarly attire, often including robes or tunics in neutral colors. They carry tomes and scrolls filled with the teachings and history of Scilthax.
• Temple Guardians: Temple Guardians don ceremonial armor, often polished to a brilliant sheen. Their attire is functional and protective, symbolizing their role as defenders of the faith.

Day-to-Day Worship:
Members of the order begin their day with a moment of reflection and prayer, seeking Scilthax's guidance and protection for the day ahead. They often engage in intellectual pursuits, studying sacred texts, ethical philosophy, and theology. This pursuit of knowledge is seen as an act of devotion. Throughout the day, they perform acts of kindness, provide aid to those in need, and uphold the principles of justice and morality. Members are encouraged to live by the code of chivalry, demonstrating courage, honor, and compassion in their interactions with others. They engage in regular meditation and self-reflection to align themselves with the order's core values.
Important Ceremonies:

• Dawn Vigil: At the crack of dawn, members of the order gather to witness the first light of the day. They offer prayers for guidance and protection, symbolizing the dawning of justice and the defeat of darkness.
• Justice Tribunal: This ceremony is held in cases of conflict resolution or when disputes need mediation. A council of clerics and paladins presides, working to ensure fair and just resolutions.
• Day of Giving: On this day, the order distributes food, clothing, and support to the less fortunate in the kingdom. It is a day of charity and acts of kindness.
• Ascension Rite: Paladins undergo this rite to advance in rank. It involves a solemn oath of dedication to the order's principles and a pledge to protect the innocent.
• Platinum Dragon's Blessing: An annual ceremony in which the faithful gather to receive blessings from the Platinum Dragon, symbolized by the High Prelate. It is a day of renewal and spiritual connection.

Places of Worship:

• The Temple of the Grasping Dragons: This grand temple in Cynndraca serves as the central place of worship for the order. It is adorned with platinum dragon imagery and is a hub of religious activity.
• Chapels and Shrines: Smaller chapels and shrines dedicated to Scilthax are scattered throughout the kingdom. These serve as places for daily prayers and reflection.
• The Palace of the Golden Wreath: This grand complex houses the order's leadership and is home to their Council of Elders. It features chambers for scholarly study, training, and governance.
• The Fortress of the Giving Dragon: This fortress is where the Order of the Giving Dragon conducts military training and preparations for protecting the kingdom. It also serves as a center for charitable efforts.

The practices and worship of the Order of Scilthax are designed to promote the values of justice, protection, and goodness both within their ranks and in the broader society of Cynndraca. Their ceremonies and rituals reflect their dedication to these principles and their commitment to making the world a better place.

Priesthood

High Prelate: The High Prelate is the highest-ranking member of the priesthood and serves as the spiritual leader of the Order of Scilthax. They are responsible for setting the overall direction of the order, interpreting Scilthax's teachings, and ensuring the faithful adhere to the tenets of faith. The High Prelate also represents the order in matters of diplomacy and may advise the queen or rulers of Cynndraca on religious affairs.
Prelates:
Prelates are senior members of the priesthood who oversee specific regions, cities, or provinces within the realm of Cynndraca. They act as intermediaries between the High Prelate and the local chapters of the order. Prelates are responsible for maintaining the spiritual health of their assigned areas, conducting ceremonies, and providing guidance to local clerics and paladins.
Council of Elders:
The Council of Elders consists of experienced and respected members of the priesthood who offer counsel and guidance to the High Prelate and Prelates. They play an advisory role, providing insights on theological matters, doctrine, and the implementation of the order's goals and missions.
Clerics of Scilthax:
Clerics are the spiritual leaders and healers of the order. They conduct religious ceremonies, offer spiritual guidance, and provide assistance to those in need. They often serve as diplomats and negotiators in matters of conflict resolution.
Paladins of the Platinum Paragons:
The paladins are the martial arm of the Order of Scilthax. They are responsible for protecting the weak, upholding justice, and serving as champions of the order's beliefs. Paladins are often the first to respond to threats against the innocent and act as enforcers of the order's principles.
Scholars and Scribes:
Scholars and scribes are responsible for recording and preserving the teachings and history of Scilthax's faith. They research ancient texts, maintain libraries, and educate both the priesthood and the broader public on matters of faith, justice, and morality.
Temple Guardians:
Temple Guardians ensure the security and safety of places of worship and important religious artifacts. They are skilled protectors who safeguard the sanctuaries dedicated to Scilthax, ensuring that the faithful can worship in peace.
Novices and Acolytes:
Novices and acolytes are initiates and students within the order. They undergo training and education in the ways of Scilthax and work to prove their dedication and commitment to the faith. Novices eventually become full-fledged members of the clergy or the martial order.
Missionaries:
Missionaries are responsible for spreading the teachings of Scilthax to regions where her faith is less established. They travel to distant lands, engage in interfaith dialogues, and work to convert non-believers to the faith of Scilthax.
Chaplains:
Chaplains serve the spiritual needs of military units, providing guidance, performing religious ceremonies, and offering support to soldiers who serve both the order and the kingdom of Cynndraca.
The organizational structure of the priesthood ensures a clear hierarchy and division of labor, allowing the Order of Scilthax to function efficiently while promoting the values of justice, protection, and goodness within Cynndraca and beyond.

"By Scilthax's light, Justice is our shield, goodness our sword."

Type

Religious, Holy Order

Parent Organization

Cynndracian Conclave of the Dragon Trinity

Deities

• Scilthax

Location

Temple of the Grasping Dragons