Monks of the Golden Lord

The only organised religious order native to An-Teng

Novices

For at least the first year those who wish to join the order serve as Novices, expected but not required to observe the same restrictions as full monks. Not ordained, they assisst in religious ceremonies, learn and teach theology and perform manual labour.

Monks

Sworn to obedience, chastity and poverty and adopting a new name with no family component all Monks are ordained priests of the Golden Lord. Serve at a single monastery, can only transfer with the permission of both Abesses.

Hierodeacon

A monk who has also been ordained to another god of An-Teng. More closely monitored by the Immaculate Order than other monks. Wear a silk stole embroided with iconography of the particular god.

Elder

A monk who has served for at least 25 years and then been summoned in their dreams to take a pilgramige to the Pinnacle of Wisdom where they are accepted by the Golden Lord. Most who travel to the mountain fail, having heeded the call of their heart rather than their god. Title is Beloved and other monks refer to them as Elder, though they continue to call other Elders brother and sister. Wear a heavy short coat over their robes.

Are God-Blooded of the Golden Lord, typical Charms include:

• dunno

Abbess

Controls a monastery, answering to an Archimandrite. Typically elected by the momks of the monastery. Male form is Abbot. Referred to as Father or Mother.

Archimandrite

Highest rank in the order, oversee multipe monasteries. Currently around 20 in the order. Referred to as Grandmother or Grandfather.