The Brotherhood of the Blessed Anvil

They hold the conviction that every weapon and tool is imbued with divine essence, demanding reverence in their handling and use. They believe that each creation is crafted with a specific intent, and to neglect or misuse an item is to dishonor its inherent purpose.

Some members hold the view that magical artifacts are too potent for common hands and should only be wielded by those who themselves possess significant magical prowess. This opinion has sparked vigorous debate within the ranks, highlighting a divisive issue among the faithful.

The Brotherhood mainly follows the teachings of Gond, the god of the forge. But there are no restrictions on following other similar aligned gods or lesser deitys. And it is an open group they recognise that Elves or Orcs may be more inclined to follow their own fabrication or Smithing gods. 

As long as you follow the overall teachings of the Brotherhood you are welcome.

The members of the Brotherhood follow very simple daily practices. They must protect the sanctity of any tools, weapons and armour they are able to.

They must also try and further their knowledge every day.

The Pilgrimage of Preservation 

Once a member is ready they must venture out and devote themselves to a group or cause. Learning their knowledge. Keeping their sacred tools and equipment in working order and if they are determined to be worthy they may join them until they cannot smith anymore. 

The Festival of the Anvil

An annual festival that celebrates the divine blessing of craftsmanship. It includes public demonstrations of skill, the sharing of secret techniques among members, and the trading of specially crafted items that are believed to carry blessings for the year to come.

Ritual of the Twelfth Hammer

This less frequent but highly revered ritual occurs once every twelve years, where a sacred artifact known as the Twelfth Hammer is used to craft a masterpiece that will be offered to the gods. This masterpiece is then placed in the Hall of Echoes, a sacred site where only the highest-ranking members can enter.

A simple symbol of an Anvil is mostly what adorns followers of the Brotherhood. For any fancier displays a hammer in the middle and a flame above the anvil will also decorate the design.

There is no strict dress requirements for the followers but as many of them are smiths they often wear workwear and belts filled with tools. As there are no real class restrictions in the Brotherhood they allow members to wear cultural significant attire or battle practical armour to. As long as they bear the symbol out in the open it is accepted 

There are some artifacts that the Brotherhood keep the the mysterious Hall of Echos. Only accessible by the highest value members.

Some of the known ones are :

The Hammer of Echos

This legendary hammer was crafted during the  first Ritual of the Twelfth by the founding 12. It can resonate with the very essence of the materials it strikes, allowing the wielder to reshape metals and enchantments as if they were clay. The hammer is kept in the Hall of Echoes and is used only during sacred ceremonies.

Lantern of Revealing Light

This lantern, crafted from translucent crystals and rare metals, emits a light that reveals hidden enchantments and magical properties within objects. It is especially useful in uncovering counterfeit or cursed items, making it a valuable tool for the brotherhood during their fabrication ceremonies.

Aegis of the Artisan

A powerful shield forged from celestial bronze and inlaid with silver runes, the Aegis of the Artisan is said to protect its bearer from any harm that might interrupt their craft. It is believed that this shield chooses its owner, appearing to craftsmen of great virtue and dedication at times of need. It has yet to have chosen its owner in over 200 years 

Their home base is located in a town at the base of the mountains. 

A small mining town that has access to plenty of raw materials and ore from the mines. 

They slowly built their small Temple around one of the forges. Over the years the Cult and temple grew into the mountainside. Soon having many rooms cut into the stone and the well protected Hall of Echoes where they started storing their most holy of artifacts. 

It now sits as a pilgrimage site and massive trade boost for the town. Being extremely well integrated into the goings on of the town

Grand Artisan: The highest-ranking member, responsible for overseeing all operations of the brotherhood, including the direction of craft and magical research. The Grand Artisan is also the main figure in leading major rituals and making decisions on the strategic direction of the brotherhood. Chosen to lead by the Masters

Masters of the Forge: These 12 senior members who specialize in various aspects of crafting—such as metallurgy, enchanting, and gem cutting. They report directly to the Grand Artisan and are responsible for training and overseeing the work of junior craftsmen.

Council of Hammers: A group of experienced members who advise the Grand Artisan and help in the administration of the brotherhood’s affairs. They play a crucial role in mediating disputes, setting standards for craftsmanship, and planning the festivals and members.

Hammersmiths: Members who have completed their initial training and are proficient in their craft. They work under the Masters of the Forge and are expected to contribute to the brotherhood’s projects while continuing to refine their skills. They are either yet to begin the Pilgrimage or are currently on their Pilgrimage 

Embers: New members who are in the early stages of their training. They are assigned to a Master or Hammersmith and learn the basics of their chosen craft, along with the rituals and traditions of the brotherhood.

Acolytes of the Anvil: These are the initiates who are yet to prove their skill and commitment to be accepted as full apprentices. Their training involves both the practical aspects of crafting and the spiritual teachings of the brotherhood.