Moonpriestess
So called Handmaidens of the Empress, the Moonpriestesses lead the Yvalian Faith throughout the Yvalian Empire. hey exercise considerable power both spiritually and politically, and their word is said to be second to only the Immortal Empress herself. Each provincial governor of the Empire is appointed a Moonpriestess to guide them and ensure their loyalty.
Requirements
Priestesses are hand picked by the Immortal Empress, and, as far as is known, all are Moon Elf females. Tradition holds that they are all members of the Empress's inner circle, though less kind depictions report the women as her slaves, concubines, or sexual playthings.
Duties
Beside each ruler of each province of Yval, a priestess in appointed to make sure the leaders follow a proper path, holy in the eyes of Lyndranel and do not violate the trust of the Empress. Rumors say that these women are frequent bedmates of powerful leaders, as well as spies and, if need be, assassins at in the service of the Empress.
Responsibilities
Moonpriestesses are expected to tend to the religious needs of their locality, as well as to find and nurture promising acolytes within their personal households.
Benefits
As a direct representative of the Empress and divinity within Yval, these priestesses represent the highest echelons of Yvalian society. Moonpriestess lineages follow a naming convention that sets them apart from the rest of Yvalian houses. When an acolyte is taken by the faith, she becomes part of her mentors lineage, and it is considered a great honor for their former family. Officially, a Moonpriestess, even one in training, is above her former house and is expected to cut all ties with her former family as she enters into her mentor's lineage; though noble houses that have sired many priestesses seem to benefit greatly from having politically powerful offspring.
Although little is known about what goes on within, it is common practice for each governor to build their respective priestess a mansion, temple, palace, wing, etc. with many governors competing to prove their loyalty by building the most elaborate tribute to their faith and their monarch.
Notable Holders
- Seriarias Sorrowheart - advisor and confidant to the Immortal Empress.
- Lethirea Shadespear - High Priestess of the Grand Duchy of Che, considered a heretic and traitor.
Type
Religious, Clerical
Form of Address
Holiness, Blessed
Alternative Naming
Handmaidens of the Empress
Source of Authority
Divine Mandate
Reports directly to
Related Organizations
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