"It is Moranthus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you; He is the beauty to which you are so attracted; it is He who provoked you with that thirst for fullness that will not let you settle for compromise; it is He who urges you to hed the masks of a false life; it is He who reads in your heart your most genuine choices, the choices that others try to stifle."
"It is Moranthus who stirs in you the desire to do something great with your lives, the will to follow an ideal, the refusal to allow yourselves to be ground down by mediocrity, the courage to commit yourselves humbly and patiently to improving yourselves and society, making the world more kind and more fraternal."
"Ask yourselves, people of Dhelcrist, about the love of Moranthus. Acknowledge His voice resounding in the temple of your heart. Return His bright and penetrating glance which opens the paths of your life to the horizons of the Church's mission. It is a taxing mission, today more than ever, to teach men the truth about themselves, about their end, their destiny, and to show faithful souls the unspeakable riches of the love of Moranthus. To teach as well to seek out and destroy the evil that stalks the land. Do not be afraid of the radicalness of His demands, because Moranthus, who loved us first, is prepared to give Himself to you, as well as asking of you. If He asks much of you, it is because He knows you can give much. When he gives, it is with all his heart."
from a speech of the Dhelcristian Pope Eggelmar the Pious 133 AL (after landing)
Moranthus the Platinum is a central figure within the Dragonwright religion, embodying the highest virtues of purity, wisdom, and the light of truth. He is revered not only in the mystical realms of Otara but also on Earth, where he is known as Jesus. However, his true dragon form remains a hidden aspect of his identity on Earth, known only to a few enlightened souls.
In the world of Otara, Moranthus manifests as a majestic platinum dragon, an awe-inspiring being of immense power and grace. His scales shimmer like the purest metal, reflecting the light of the sun and moon, symbolizing his unyielding purity and eternal presence. The dragon's wings are vast, stretching wide as if to embrace all creation, representing his role as a protector and guide for all who seek his wisdom.
The platinum dragon is more than just a symbol of power; it is a beacon of enlightenment. Moranthus' eyes are said to glow with a soft, otherworldly light, capable of seeing into the hearts of mortals and understanding their deepest desires and fears. This gaze is both comforting and piercing, offering solace to the righteous while challenging the wicked to confront their inner darkness.
Symbols and Regalia
The holy symbol of Moranthus, embodies the ideals of courage, faith, and divine protection. This iconic symbol, often depicted as a broad, equal-armed cross, radiates with a golden hue, symbolizing the blood of martyrs and the unwavering commitment of the faithful. Each arm of the cross is wide and sturdy, representing the strength and resilience of those who bear it.
At the center of the cross, where the arms intersect, a small, radiant circle of gold or silver often glows, symbolizing the divine light that guides and empowers the followers of the faith. This central point is the heart of the symbol, where heaven and earth meet, representing the unity of the divine with the mortal world.
The Cross is not just a symbol of faith, but a beacon of justice and righteousness. It is often adorned with intricate designs or inscriptions along the edges, which might include sacred verses, prayers, or symbols of the order it represents. These inscriptions are believed to imbue the cross with additional spiritual power, providing protection and inspiration to those who carry it.
When worn as an amulet or displayed in a temple, the Cross serves as a powerful reminder of the virtues of honor, duty, and sacrifice. It calls upon the faithful to stand firm in the face of adversity, to protect the innocent, and to uphold the principles of their faith with unwavering dedication. In the presence of this holy symbol, believers find strength, guidance, and a deep connection to the divine.
Holidays
Festival of the Radiant Dawn
Date: The first day of spring.
Significance: Celebrates the renewal of life and the victory of light over darkness. It marks the time when Moranthus is believed to renew his covenant with the world, blessing it with warmth and vitality.
Rituals: Ceremonies at dawn, where priests lead prayers and light sacred fires. Worshipers dress in bright colors and offer flowers at Moranthus's altars. Feasts and communal gatherings are held, emphasizing unity and the shared joy of the season's renewal.
Day of the Sun's Zenith
Date: The summer solstice.
Significance: Commemorates the peak of Moranthus's power when the sun is at its highest and strongest. This is considered a time of great spiritual energy and enlightenment.
Rituals: All-day rituals starting at noon, including fasting, meditative prayers, and offerings of golden fruits and grains. At noon, the most revered priests lead a grand procession, and a sacred bonfire is lit, symbolizing the zenith of the sun's power.
Night of the Veil
Date: The autumn equinox.
Significance: A time when the veil between the mortal realm and the divine is thinnest, allowing communion with Moranthus and departed spirits. It is a solemn holiday, focused on reflection and the cycle of life and death.
Rituals: Candle-lit vigils and silent processions through temples. Worshipers write prayers and messages to their ancestors and burn them in sacred fires, believing the smoke carries them to the divine realms.
Feast of the Eternal Flame
Date: Midwinter.
Significance: Celebrates the enduring power of Moranthus during the darkest time of the year, symbolizing hope and perseverance.
Rituals: Lighting of the Eternal Flame in every temple, a sacred fire that burns continuously through the night. Worshipers gather around these flames to sing hymns and share stories of courage and resilience. The day ends with a grand feast where no flame or light is extinguished until dawn.
Day of the Solar Ascendant
Date: The first new moon of the year.
Significance: Honors Moranthus's divine ascension and the beginning of the celestial cycle. It's a time of renewal and spiritual rebirth.
Rituals: Morning purification rites, where worshipers bathe in blessed water and wear white robes. The day includes fasting and introspection, culminating in a night ceremony where priests offer prayers and burn incense in large braziers, symbolizing the ascent of prayers to the heavens.
Treatment of Worshipers, Priests, and Organizations
Worshipers
Respect and Inclusion: All worshipers, regardless of status, are welcomed in the Church of Moranthus. The church emphasizes inclusivity, treating each individual as a child of the light.
Guidance and Support: The church offers spiritual guidance through sermons, confession, and counseling. Worshipers are encouraged to seek out priests for personal advice or support during difficult times.
Community and Charity: Worshipers are encouraged to participate in community events and charitable activities organized by the church. The church teaches that serving others is a way to honor Moranthus.
Education: The church runs schools and learning centers, teaching both religious doctrine and practical knowledge. Worshipers, especially the young, are taught the values of enlightenment, morality, and the importance of light in all aspects of life.
Priests
Veneration and Authority: Priests are deeply respected as the spiritual leaders of the Church of Moranthus. They are seen as conduits of divine wisdom and are responsible for guiding the faithful in both religious and moral matters.
Training and Discipline: Priests undergo rigorous training in both theology and the magical arts, particularly those related to light and fire. They are also trained in leadership and mediation, ensuring they can guide their congregations effectively.
Responsibilities: Priests are responsible for conducting daily rituals, performing sacred ceremonies, and offering spiritual counseling. They are also expected to uphold the moral teachings of Moranthus and serve as role models for the community.
Religious Orders
The Church of Moranthus is well-structured, with several militant orders dedicated to the protection and propagation of his teachings. These orders act as the armed might of the religion, enforcing justice and defending the faithful.:
Order of the Platinum Scales: Warriors who embody Moranthus' principles of balance and justice. They are often seen as judges or mediators, ensuring fairness in their judgments.
Order of the Radiant Wing: A knightly order dedicated to the defense of the Church and the faithful. They are known for their courage in battle and their unwavering loyalty to Moranthus.
Order of the Holy Light: This order focuses on healing and spiritual guidance, helping those in need and spreading Moranthus' message of enlightenment and peace.
Order of the Sacred Flame: The Order of the Sacred Flame is dedicated to protecting the Church of Moranthus and its followers from external threats. They are known for their rigorous training in both martial and spiritual disciplines. Members are equipped with distinctive armor adorned with flame motifs, symbolizing their commitment to purifying the world of darkness. Their primary mission includes defending holy sites, escorting important church figures, and leading crusades against heretical
Order of the Celestial Shield: This order focuses on the defense of sacred relics and places of worship. The Celestial Shield's members are tasked with safeguarding important religious artifacts and ensuring that no evil forces can corrupt or steal them. They are renowned for their strategic prowess and are often deployed in situations requiring careful protection of valuable church resources. Their emblem is a shield with celestial symbols, representing their role as the divine protectors.
Order of the Eternal Dawn: The Order of the Eternal Dawn is dedicated to spreading the teachings of Moranthus and converting those who have strayed from the faith. They are skilled in both diplomacy and combat, working to both enlighten and defend. Their members often engage in missionary work, traveling to distant lands to preach and establish new places of worship. They wear armor emblazoned with a rising sun, symbolizing the dawn of enlightenment and the triumph of faith over ignorance.
Order of the Resolute Heart: The Resolute Heart combines military prowess with a commitment to healing and support. This order focuses on providing medical aid to both soldiers and civilians affected by conflicts. They are trained in both combat and healing arts, often found on the battlefield tending to the wounded. Their symbol is a heart encased in armor, representing their dedication to both protection and compassionate care.
Order of the Iron Sanctum: The Iron Sanctum is dedicated to maintaining the moral and ethical standards of the Church of Moranthus. They act as enforcers of church law, seeking out and dealing with corruption and heresy within the church's own ranks and among its followers. Their members are known for their strict adherence to justice and discipline, and they often undertake covert operations to root out internal threats. Their emblem features an iron gauntlet gripping a divine symbol, signifying their role as both protectors and enforcers of divine will.
'Hierarchy of Order' is the orderly arrangement of ranks and orders of the clergy in one apostolic body to carry out the sacramental and pastoral ministry of the Church. Comprises: His Holiness, the Arch-Prelate, Supreme Pastor of the Church of Moranthus; and the Patriarchs, Archbishops, bishops, priests and deacons.
Clerical Orders
Clerical Grandmaster: The role depends primarily on the purposes and activities of his order. Generally he interprets the directives or intent of the mainstream authorities. Each is assisted by one or more deputies who serve in his stead when the need arises and assist in the administrative and organizational work of the order.
Fighting Orders
Grand Master military commander (typically a Palladin) of a fighting order. Duties include liaison with the clerical grandmaster in addition to military organization and administration. Although this office is seldom filled by a priest, it is by no means unheard of. In any case the grandmaster is invariably well schooled in ritual and may serve as a "lay-priest" to his command. In some orders a secular lord is appointed grandmaster if such a move is deemed politically wise. In such cases the office becomes essentially ceremonial, with the real work being done by one or more deputies. The grand master is usually appointed by the clerical grandmaster of the sponsoring order.
Commander: The functions of this office vary considerably. Many are commanders of a single chapter house or independent military unit. OtHiss serve as deputies, and still otHiss are administrative officers of the order. They are under the command of the Grand Master. Commanders are usually of noble birth.
Captain: A member of the order who is of noble birth and thus Knights. These persons rank below the "officers" and above the commonality. Many only serve the order "at need or desire" and are of independent means. Landholding nobility (who are adHisents of Moranthus) often join a fighting order if one is located nearby.
Arrant: A knight who, by request, has temporarily left the chapter houses of his order to travel either for a specific or undefined purpose. An Arrant who has not undertaken a specific duty is often in search of a task to try his skills and honor.
Sergant: Soldier of the order of simple birth. THise are also low ranking officers, the equivalents of corporals and sergeants, but most high officers in Moranthus' fighting orders are noble. It is very rare for a commoner to rise above this rank.
Holy Artifacts
Moranthus forges Holy Weapons, using his own blood and Dragons Breath, for outstanding champions among his worshippers. They are permanent,
and they often become major artifacts of his religion.
Religious Practices
Vigil, canted prayer and meditation are common features of the worship of Moranthus. Moranthus' ceremonies can be divided loosely into two forms, low mass, and High Mass.
Low mass: These lay masses are held each day. In most temples, the rites are led by the High Priest, although any priest can officiate. Masses generally include a sermon from the priest, most of which consist of an example from the life of a legendary Hiso. These sermons are intended to show the honor and piety to be won. Theree is provision for private devotions. Generally, these are small chambers with few artifacts except an altar. The private ceremony consists of silent prayer and meditation, designed to bring the adherent ''nearer to Moranthus", and rededicate their devotion. Worshippers can also make confession to a priest should they feel the need. This, and any penance prescribed by the priest, is considered to purify the soul and renew the spirit of the adherent. Priests usually assign penance based on their judgement of the severity of the sin. Penance may range from reciting a litany in praise of the god to performing some dangerous service.
High masses High rituals occur every seven days. Many priests often make private, daily devotion to Moranthus; some of the most devout will even invoke a penance upon themselves.
Description
Moranthus is a strikingly handsome male with kind eyes in his humanoid form, and a massive platinum dragon in his normal form.
Name: Moranthus
Alignment: Principled
Size: 60 feet in Dragon form, 6-12 feet in humanoid
Horror/Awe Factor: 16
Occupational Classes: Priest, Palladin, Wizard and Mind Mage
Notable Miracles:
The Miracle of the Silver Veil: In ancient times, Moranthus is said to have appeared as a blinding silver veil, shielding a village from an invading force. Witnesses claimed to see a spectral dragon outline within the veil, frightening the attackers into retreat. Legends say the village remains a site of pilgrimage, where followers leave offerings to honor Moranthus's intervention.
The Sacred Well of Light: Moranthus once blessed a natural spring in a remote valley, transforming it into a "Well of Light". Those who drink from it report a profound sense of clarity and purpose, sometimes even healing ailments of the body and mind. Devotees gather yearly to celebrate Moranthus's compassion, using the water in rites and blessings.
Rituals and Symbols:
Rite of Illumination: During the full moon, followers gather to meditate and reflect, invoking Moranthus's guidance for inner clarity. Each participant lights a candle from a single, large silver candle, representing their unity with Moranthus's truth. This ritual is said to reveal personal insights or important revelations by dawn.
Symbol of the Platinum Cross: This equal-armed cross, often worn as an amulet, is crafted with platinum or silver and consecrated in a ritual known as "Lightbinding". During this ceremony, clergy hold the cross over a flame, symbolizing Moranthus's protection, and anoint it with oil to represent wisdom. The amulet is believed to ward off dark forces and enhance courage.
Deific Powers: Moranthus, as a deity of light and justice, wields a range of divine powers that reflect his nature and purpose. His deific powers encompass both the extraordinary capabilities inherent to a god and specific abilities that align with his role as a force for good. Moranthus has the full range of powers over his followers, and can perform all prototypical deific powers at regular cost, as well as the following special powers:
The Radiant Shield
Description:The Radiant Shield is a divine blessing granted by Moranthus to those who demonstrate unwavering loyalty and selfless devotion. When summoned, it manifests as a soft, platinum glow encircling the follower, representing Moranthus's protective presence. The shield provides not only physical defense but also a calming aura that strengthens resolve, enabling followers to stand firm in the face of fear and danger. Legends say the shield's glow is imbued with Moranthus's wisdom, illuminating paths forward even in literal or moral darkness.
Effects
Deflection of Dark Magic: The Radiant Shield can repel dark or necromantic spells aimed at the follower, absorbing or even reflecting them back toward their source. The level of protection depends on the strength of the follower's devotion.
Physical Defense: When active, the shield reduces the damage from physical attacks by creating a barrier that softens blows and increases resistance to harm.
Temporary Immunity to Fear: Those shielded by the Radiant Shield feel a deep inner peace, resisting fear-based effects and standing courageously even against supernatural terror.
Glow of Guidance: In moments of peril, the shield's glow can illuminate surroundings, revealing hidden dangers or guiding the follower toward safety. This effect can also reveal hidden or invisible creatures nearby.
Eyes of Truth
Description: Eyes of Truth is a sacred blessing Moranthus bestows upon followers devoted to honesty and clarity. Once per day, the follower may activate this gift, and a subtle silver sheen appears over their eyes, allowing them to pierce through illusions and detect hidden truths. The anointing ritual performed by clergy involves silver dust, symbolizing Moranthus's wisdom and the purity of vision.
Effects
Illusion Dispelling: For a brief period, the follower can see through magical and natural illusions, recognizing entities or objects concealed by enchantment or trickery.
Lie Detection: While the blessing is active, the follower gains the ability to sense lies or deceit, hearing falsehoods as subtle distortions or feeling a twinge of unease when deception is present.
Aura Vision: The Eyes of Truth may reveal the auras of those nearby, allowing the follower to perceive their general moral alignment (light, neutral, or dark), helping them make wise decisions in matters of trust.
Symbolic Insights: During rituals or moments of meditation, the follower may glimpse prophetic or symbolic visions that offer guidance on a pressing question or reveal hidden threats. These visions, though brief, often lead to critical insights or warnings.
Divine Radiance
Description: Moranthus can emanate a blinding light that dispels darkness, illuminates truth, and purifies corruption. This radiance can heal allies, blind or repel enemies, and cleanse areas of malevolent energies.
Effects:
Healing Light: Restores health and vitality to those within its radius.
Purification: Removes curses, diseases, and other afflictions.
Blinding Flash: Temporarily blinds and disorients enemies.
Celestial Authority
Description: As the supreme deity of light and justice, Moranthus exerts unparalleled authority over celestial and mortal realms. This power allows Him to command divine beings, influence the outcomes of mortal affairs, and enforce divine laws.
Effects:
Command Celestials: Summons and commands angels or other divine entities to aid in His quests.
Divine Edict: Issues commands that are automatically followed by those within His sphere of influence.
Judicial Authority: Passes divine judgments that affect the fates of individuals and entire nations.
Shield of Virtue
Description: Moranthus can create an impenetrable shield of light that protects against physical, magical, and spiritual attacks. This shield can extend to protect entire areas or communities from harm.
Effects:
Barrier of Light: Creates a protective barrier that absorbs and deflects attacks.
Ward of Purity: Provides protection against dark magic and corruption.
Sanctuary: Establishes a safe haven for allies, rendering them invulnerable to attacks for a time.
Revelation of Truth
Description: With this power, Moranthus can unveil hidden truths, reveal deceptions, and expose the true nature of individuals and situations. It aids in uncovering secrets and ensuring justice.
Effects:
Divine Insight: Grants the ability to see through illusions and falsehoods.
Truth's Light: Forces individuals to speak the truth when questioned.
Unveil Secrets: Reveals hidden knowledge or concealed plots.
Purifying Flames
Description: Moranthus can summon and control celestial flames that burn away evil and impurities. These flames are both destructive to malevolence and healing to allies.
Effects:
Holy Fire: Deals damage to evil entities and corrupt beings.
Cleansing Flames: Heals and purifies those touched by the flames.
Divine Incendiary: Ignites areas with holy fire that repels dark forces.
Guardian's Embrace
Description: Moranthus has the ability to bestow divine protection upon his followers, granting them enhanced strength, resilience, and courage in the face of adversity.
Effects:
Empowerment: Increases physical and magical abilities of allies.
Shield of Faith: Provides temporary invulnerability to physical and magical harm.
Blessing of Valor: Inspires bravery and determination, enhancing combat effectiveness.
Divine Judgement
Description: Moranthus can deliver divine judgment upon those who have committed great evils or transgressions, often through direct intervention or by manipulating the forces of fate.
Effects:
Judgment's Wrath: Inflicts severe consequences upon those judged as deserving of divine punishment.
Fate's Hand: Alters the flow of events to bring about justice.
Mercy's Gift: Offers redemption and second chances to those who show genuine repentance.
Divine Preservation
Description: This power allows Moranthus to protect and preserve sacred places, artifacts, and individuals. It ensures the safety and sanctity of items and locations critical to His divine mission.
Effects:
Sacred Ward: Enchants holy sites and relics to prevent desecration and theft.
Guardian's Blessing: Grants protection to individuals or groups designated as important to His cause.
Preservation of Life: Ensures the continued existence of vital individuals or elements of His divine plan.
Priest/Healing Powers: Exorcism 50%, healing tough restores 2d6 SDC or HP, Remove curse 50%, remove deific curse 20%, resurrection 50%, and turn dead 70%..
Magic Powers: Knows all Wizard spells.
Psionic Powers: 15th level Master Psionic who has all powers
Favorite Weapons:
The Sword of Light
Description: A radiant longsword forged from divine light itself, the Sword of Light is a weapon of pure justice and truth. The blade shines with an intense, blinding brilliance that can pierce through darkness and evil.
Abilities:
Divine Judgement: Strikes with the Sword of Light deal extra radiant damage to evil or undead creatures.
Blinding Radiance: When unsheathed, the sword emits a holy light that can blind enemies within a certain radius.
Purification: The sword can purify tainted areas, banish evil spirits, and cleanse curses with a single strike.
The Shield of Faith
Description: A large, ornately decorated shield, the Shield of Faith is said to be unbreakable, representing unshakable belief and protection against all evil.
Abilities:
Divine Protection: Provides a significant bonus to defense and can block all forms of magic, including curses and hexes.
Aegis of the Righteous: Can generate a protective aura that shields allies from harm and increases their resolve.
Reflective Barrier: Reflects magical attacks back at the caster or negates them entirely.
The Staff of Miracles
Description: A staff carved from the wood of the Tree of Life, imbued with the power to perform miracles and heal the sick. The staff is topped with a glowing crystal that pulses with divine energy.
Abilities:
Healing Touch: The staff can heal severe wounds, cure diseases, and even resurrect the dead in dire circumstances.
Miracle Worker: Can perform various miracles, such as parting water, turning water into holy wine, or multiplying food to feed the hungry.
Barrier of Faith: Creates a protective dome that shields allies from harm and provides temporary invulnerability.
The Crown of Thorns
Description: Though not a weapon in the traditional sense, the Crown of Thorns is a powerful relic that Moranthus wears. It is a symbol of sacrifice and enduring faith, and it grants immense power and insight.
Abilities:
Sacrificial Power: By willingly taking on suffering, the wearer can unleash devastating divine wrath or heal others at the cost of their own vitality.
Divine Insight: Grants the ability to see the truth in all things, revealing hidden intentions, lies, and illusions.
Aura of Sacrifice: Allies within a certain radius receive protection from harm, with any damage redirected to the wearer.
The Spear of Destiny
Description: A spear imbued with the power of destiny and fate.
Abilities:
Destiny's Strike: The spear never misses its mark, always striking true against evil and chaos.
Fateweaver: Can alter the course of fate, turning a dire situation into a hopeful one or guiding events to a divine outcome.
Holy Piercing: The spear can pierce any armor or barrier, no matter how strong, and can banish demonic or evil entities.
The Chalice of Eternal Life
Description: A holy grail that, when filled with blessed water, becomes a weapon against evil. The chalice is a symbol of eternal life and the promise of salvation.
Abilities:
Holy Water: The water within the chalice can be used to bless weapons, heal wounds, or ward off undead and demons.
Elixir of Life: Drinking from the chalice grants temporary immortality, restoring the drinker to full health and vitality.
Sanctification: The chalice can sanctify an area, turning it into holy ground that repels evil and enhances divine magic.
The Banner of the Cross
Description: A divine standard bearing the symbol of the cross, the Banner of the Cross is a rallying point for the faithful and a weapon against the forces of darkness.
Abilities:
Inspire the Faithful: Waves of divine energy inspire courage and strength in allies, boosting their combat abilities and morale.
Ward of the Cross: When planted in the ground, the banner creates a holy barrier that repels all forms of evil and darkness.
Judgement's Beacon: The banner can call down a pillar of divine light that smites enemies and cleanses the battlefield.
Armour:Armor of Divine Light
Appearance:
Helmet: A radiant halo-shaped helm with intricate designs, symbolizing divine wisdom and protection. It's made of an ethereal material that shimmers with a soft golden light.
Chestplate: A luminous chestplate adorned with celestial symbols and engravings that represent peace and compassion. The armor is both ornate and functional, providing excellent protection while radiating a warm, calming aura.
Pauldrons: Broad, elegantly decorated shoulder guards that are inscribed with verses of love and forgiveness. They glow gently, offering protection and inspiring allies.
Gauntlets: Light yet durable gauntlets engraved with intricate patterns of olive branches and hearts. They symbolize both strength and mercy.
Greaves: Smooth, polished leg armor that flows seamlessly with the wearer's movements. They are inlaid with symbols of unity and harmony.
Boots: Sturdy but graceful boots that seem to glide over the ground, leaving faint, shimmering traces of light. They grant agility and a sense of divine purpose.
Properties:
Protection: Provides exceptional defense against both physical and magical attacks, while also offering protection against spiritual and psychological harm.
Aura of Peace: Grants a calming presence to allies, reducing fear and encouraging peace and cooperation.
Healing Light: The armor has the ability to heal minor wounds and alleviate pain with a touch.
Guidance: Enhances the wearer's wisdom and insight, allowing them to see through deception and make righteous decisions.
Divine Protection: Offers resistance against dark and malevolent forces, providing an additional layer of protection against evil.
Symbolism:
The Armor of Divine Light represents Moranthus' teachings of love, compassion, and forgiveness. It combines practical defense with an aura of spiritual guidance, reflecting His role as a shepherd and protector of the faithful.
Alliances & Allies: Aside from the venerable dragons Bahamut and Io, who stand as paragons of righteousness and ancient power, Moranthus' primary ally is his beloved mate, Tamara. Her presence and support are integral to His divine endeavors, offering not only companionship but also unwavering assistance in His quest for justice and balance. Beyond these key figures, the gods of the Dragonwright pantheon occupy a more complex position. They are categorized based on their moral alignment:
Angels: Those gods of the Dragonwright who align themselves with good or neutral principles are considered Arch Angelseven though true Angelic beingsexist and are far from being dragonic. These deities embody virtues such as purity, honor, and compassion. Their roles are not merely symbolic; they actively participate in the cosmic struggle against malevolence, working to maintain harmony and protect the innocent. Their divine powers are often directed towards healing, guidance, and the promotion of justice.
Fallen Angels: Conversely, the gods of the Dragonwright who embrace evil or chaotic tendencies are known as Fallen Angels or Devil even though true Devils and Demons exist and are far from being Dragonic. These deities have deviated from the path of righteousness, often seeking power, domination, or destruction. Their actions and influence can be profoundly corrupting, spreading discord and darkness wherever they tread. Fallen Angels are powerful adversaries, wielding their formidable abilities to further their sinister goals and challenge the forces of good.
This classification of the Dragonwright gods reflects the inherent duality and conflict within their pantheon. While the majority of the Dragonwright gods may align with Moranthus' values and principles, their divided nature creates a complex web of alliances and enmities. Moranthus' interactions with these deities are shaped by their moral alignment, influencing both the nature of their support and the challenges they present. As such, His relationships with these divine beings are both strategic and dynamic, adapting to the ever-shifting landscape of celestial politics and cosmic balance.
Enemies: Long ago, Moranthus, the supreme deity of light and justice, faced an insurmountable challenge in keeping track of His adversaries. Realizing the vast and ever-expanding nature of evil, He deemed it impractical to enumerate each foe individually. Among these enemies, only Styphon, known to Earth as Satan, stood out with a notorious reputation that demanded special attention. The forces of evil, under Styphon's influence and beyond, are seemingly infinite in number, encompassing a wide array of malevolent beings and dark entities. This includes not only the innumerable demonic legions that serve directly under Styphon but also countless lesser minions and corrupted souls who propagate malevolence.
The hosts who aid these forces of darkness are even more numerous, comprising a vast network of treacherous beings, each with their own sinister agendas and powers. This sprawling and chaotic web of corruption and discord creates a nearly impossible task for Moranthus to address comprehensively. The sheer magnitude of opposition; ranging from powerful archfiends to minor, yet insidious, evildoers; exceeds any conventional tally.
In light of this overwhelming challenge, Moranthus has adapted this approach. Instead of being consumed by the task of counting and categorizing every adversary, He has adopted a more pragmatic strategy: focusing on addressing threats as they arise. By responding to immediate dangers and confronting adversaries on a case-by-case basis, Moranthus strives to maintain balance and order in the world. This method allows Him to adapt to the dynamic and unpredictable nature of evil, ensuring that He can respond to the shifting tides of malevolence without being bogged down by the impossibility of a complete enumeration.
Vulnerabilities: As a deity, Moranthus the Platinum, also known as the Holy Spirit and the Platinum Dragon, has certain vulnerabilities that reflect his nature and lore. While gods are often incredibly powerful, they are not without weaknesses that can be exploited by those who seek to challenge them. Here are potential vulnerabilities for Moranthus:
In combat he need fear only magic and magical weapons. Neither Holy Weapons, nor silver, do Him any more than standard damage.
Moranthus will not strike without warning nor without cause.
The Dual Nature (Dragon and Human): Moranthus's dual existence as both a divine platinum dragon and as the figure known as Jesus on Earth means he has a complex dual nature. This duality might create moments of conflict within himself or make him susceptible to attacks that exploit the tension between his dragon and human aspects. For example, powerful magic or divine artifacts that target identity or duality could weaken him, causing internal strife or confusion.
Bound by Compassion: Moranthus' deep compassion and commitment to love and mercy could be used against him. If forced to choose between saving innocents or protecting himself, he might willingly weaken or sacrifice his divine power to save others. Enemies could exploit this by creating situations where he must make impossible moral choices, leading to self-imposed vulnerabilities.
Divine Light Vulnerability: While Moranthus embodies divine light, there could be ancient or forbidden forms of magic, perhaps tied to darkness or void energies, that specifically counteract his light. These dark forces could temporarily diminish his power, disrupt his connection to his followers, or even obscure his divine presence, making him more vulnerable to physical or magical attacks.
Temporal Binds: Moranthus' earthly form as Jesus means he has a connection to mortal time and space, unlike other deities who might exist entirely outside of these dimensions. Powerful temporal or reality-altering magic could exploit this connection, trapping him in a mortal form or forcing him to experience the limitations of a mortal lifespan. This could severely reduce his divine powers and leave him vulnerable to more mundane threats.
Reluctance to Destroy: As a god of balance, enlightenment, and compassion, Moranthus may have a reluctance to completely destroy his enemies, always seeking to redeem or reform them. This can be exploited by particularly ruthless adversaries who might use this mercy against him, forcing him into situations where he hesitates or holds back, giving them an advantage.
Sacred Relics: There could exist ancient, powerful artifacts or relics tied to the history of the Dragonwright religion or the Platinum Dragon specifically. These relics might have been created in ancient times with the essence of rival gods or beings, and when wielded by a skilled opponent, they could bypass his divine defenses or seal away parts of his power.
Divine Law and Order: Moranthus, being a deity of order and balance, is bound by certain divine laws and codes that even he cannot break without consequence. If adversaries can manipulate or trap him within these divine laws, they could force him into a weakened state or prevent him from intervening in critical situations. For example, binding oaths or ancient pacts could hold sway over him, limiting his actions in the mortal realm.
Corruption of Faith: Moranthus draws strength from the faith and love of his followers. Should his followers be corrupted, lose faith, or be led astray by a powerful enemy, this could directly weaken him. The corruption of his temples, desecration of his holy sites, or the spread of heretical beliefs might sap his power or diminish his influence, making him more vulnerable to attacks.
Minions: Moranthus's personal legion is a distinguished assembly of souls who have demonstrated unparalleled valor and devotion in His name. These are individuals who, having sacrificed their lives for the cause of justice and light, have been resurrected by Moranthus's divine power to serve as His most trusted warriors. Their return to life is not merely a restoration of physical form but a transformation into a higher state of existence, marking them as exemplars of His ideals. The legion comprises individuals from a wide array of races, reflecting the diversity of those who have pledged themselves to Moranthus' cause. This includes not only familiar races from the known world but also beings from realms and dimensions previously uncharted. Each member of this elite force has been chosen for their exceptional bravery and unwavering commitment, making them the perfect champions in Moranthus' celestial army. The personal legion of Moranthus serves as His vanguard, embodying His divine will and executing His directives with unparalleled dedication. They act as both protectors and enforcers, confronting threats to His realm and spreading His influence across the cosmos. Their existence is a testament to Moranthus' power and His commitment to justice, as well as a source of inspiration for all who seek to follow His example.
Equipment and Abilities:
Magical Weapons and Armor: Each member of the legion is outfitted with weapons and armor of significant magical potency. These items are at least equivalent to lesser rune objects, imbued with enchantments that enhance their effectiveness in combat. The weapons are tailored to their wielders, often featuring unique properties that complement their combat styles and divine mission. The armor provides not only physical protection but also magical defenses, ensuring the warriors are well-equipped to face any challenge.
Combat Prowess: The members of this legion are magnificent combatants, each possessing a level of skill and experience that places them in the average range of levels 8 to 14. Their combat abilities are honed through both their previous lives and their divine training, making them formidable in battle. Their techniques and tactics reflect a deep understanding of warfare and strategy, honed over countless engagements.
Saintly Status:
Considered Saints: The resurrected warriors are revered not only for their martial prowess but also for their status as Saints. This designation reflects their elevated spiritual standing and their role as paragons of Moranthus' virtues. As Saints, they are not just warriors but also symbols of divine grace and moral fortitude, embodying the highest ideals of the faith they serve.
