Masters of the Way

Every temple of Terak must have a commander, but it is also incomplete if it lacks a master. Almost every temple and shrine of Terak has training grounds where masters of the Way teach the arts of war. The masters of the Way is one of the most practical holy orders of any church, and one of the oldest.
The masters of the Way predate the soldiers and crusaders.
Their abilities, which they call “the Way,” were first given to mortals during the Third Epoch, when the gods taught various tricks and crafts. When the first temples of Terak were built, the masters of the Way were his priests. Today they are the temples’ teachers. The masters of the Way learn to use every weapon they can get their hands on, and then instruct others who are prepared to pay for lessons in the arts of combat. Most of the fee goes to the temple, but masters keep enough of it to support themselves. The Way is a martial art focused on using a warrior’s weapons. Masters of the Way know every form and stance, and best of them make deadly foes.

Priesthood

Weapons Master

Weapons experts might seek out senior masters from whom they can learn the secrets of the Way. Many of these secrets are still beyond their ken, but when they can explain them, they become weapons masters. A weapons master is addressed as “master” and introduced by full title.

Senior Master

With experience, weapons masters become strong enough to “live in the Way.” They seek out grandmasters and receive further training to become a proper master of the Way, taking on the title of senior master. A senior master is still addressed as “master,” and introduced as such.

Grandmaster

Senior masters possess nearly legendary skill at weapons and must eventually put their training to the test. One must seek out three other senior masters and best them all in duels. Then they must seek out a grandmaster—usually the same grandmaster who made them senior masters. The grandmaster gives them a grueling test of physical prowess and spiritual fitness, the passage of which entitles the senior master to become a grandmaster. They are henceforth addressed and introduced as “grandmaster,” such as, “Grandmaster Matthius of the temples of Terak.” Joining the Masters of the Way

Joining the Masters of the Way

Becoming a weapons expert requires extensive training in the Way—years for most, less time for a few prodigies. Upon reaching a minor degree of accomplishment (usually a level as a fighter or monk) a weapons master refers to her student as an expert. Weapons experts are called “expert” by students and to clarify their holy order, but do not use their titles otherwise.
Most masters are monks who follow Way of Iron or fighters (battle masters) who are more interested in the artistry of combat than in merely doing what they must to survive. Any other class that might be interested in mastering the art of weapon use can become a master of the Way, but it is rare for anyone other than fighters and monks to join the order.

Type

Religious, Holy Order

Parent Organization

Holy Orders of Terak

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