Deaconry of the Great Church
The deaconry is the third great holy order of the Great Church, dedicated to political and secular matters. Deacons work with prominent members of the community to further the Church’s goals and are experts at diplomacy, languages, and the subtle arts of intrigue, all learned in the name of the gods’ good works. Deacons are addressed as “deacon,” while archdeacons are addressed as “archdeacon.” The order works to secure the Great Church’s secular position, influence political leaders, and steer historical events. Deacons are often expert diplomats, performing missions abroad for their bishops. The greatest archdeacons have the ear of The Supreme Patriarch or Matriarch, and work closely with him.
Deacons have access to resources and wealth to spread the Church’s influence. They are generally influential, smooth and clever speakers, and experts at getting people to see things their way without resorting to ugliness. Many famous adventurers over the years have been made deacons, and eventually archdeacons, for bringing back great treasures and giving them to the Church—or simply for aiding the Church greatly in times of crisis. Upon becoming deacons, archdeacons or the bishops send these agents to perform diplomatic missions in the name of the Church, so every deacon must possess some diplomatic ability.
Deacons have access to resources and wealth to spread the Church’s influence. They are generally influential, smooth and clever speakers, and experts at getting people to see things their way without resorting to ugliness. Many famous adventurers over the years have been made deacons, and eventually archdeacons, for bringing back great treasures and giving them to the Church—or simply for aiding the Church greatly in times of crisis. Upon becoming deacons, archdeacons or the bishops send these agents to perform diplomatic missions in the name of the Church, so every deacon must possess some diplomatic ability.
Perception
Social Status
As a deacon, you are an important figure in the Great Church and as such enjoy privileged status. You need never pay for food or lodging at a Great Church chapter, and you receive significant discounts from merchants who are faithful to the Great Church. You can access the Great Church’s extensive libraries, including many secret collections. Finally, when you ask for audience with political figures, you will only be rejected if that political figure wishes to alienate the Great Church.
As an archdeacon, you enjoy even greater benefits. Not only do you receive all the benefits from being a deacon, but you also enjoy free spells and possibly loans of magic items from the Great Church larder, subject to availability of course. Merchants faithful to the Great Church are unlikely to charge you for smaller items. Important political figures might invite you to their courts if they hear you are nearby.
Personal Guard
Because you are extremely valuable to the Church, you receive special protection from the Church’s clergy and paladins. If you find yourself in difficulty, you can call upon the Church for help and receive it at the GM’s discretion. As well, you are provided a retinue of bodyguards from the Church. You have the protection of 8 guards if you’re a deacon, or a detail of 64 guards if you’re an archdeacon. Your bodyguards are loyal to you, but their primary purpose is to defend you against harm. They obey your commands, but they reject any order that would put you in danger, or excessively trouble their consciences. Fallen guards can be replaced in any city loyal to the Great Church.
Joining the Deaconry
The deaconry recruit candidates from all backgrounds, though they tend to bestow the title of deacon onto political allies or grant it in exchange for a sizeable donation. Potential deacons must demonstrate some skill at intrigue and they cannot be members of different orders within The Great Church. Finally, openly evil individuals, or those with evil reputations, are never considered. Bishops or higher officials in the Great Church might bestow the title of deacon as a reward for some great service performed in the church’s name. It can be a title only and left at that, with no special powers attached to it. It is quite possible to be a full-time politician and dedicate no time to one’s order—the deaconry welcomes members who are out in the world, influencing events. People can also earn the title by donating time and money to the Church, though monetary donations must total 10,000 gp or more. The completion of a significant quest, such as the recovery of an artifact, or donations of 100,000 gp or more, might earn an individual the title of archdeacon.
Alternative Names
Deacon and Archdeacon
Other Associated professions
Related Locations
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