Origin:
The inception of the Firekeepers of Liao can be traced back to a pivotal period in the history of the Nagan Empire during the beginning of the fourth age when the veneration of Liao, the god of Death, Fire, and Autumn, underwent a profound and radical transformation. Initially, this movement began as a fringe belief held by a mere handful of devout individuals within the Nagan Empire's vast and diverse population.
At its core, this small group was captivated by a notion that stood in stark contrast to prevailing beliefs: they saw death not as an inevitable end but as a profound metamorphosis—a transition from one state of existence to another. It was the seed of this unconventional idea that drew them together, uniting them in their exploration of the mysteries of life, death, and the eternal flame that burned within them.
As time progressed, the core group of believers evolved into a community of like-minded individuals who, rather than growing more tempered in their beliefs, became increasingly fanatical. Their dedication to the cause deepened, and they began to embrace practices that appeared extreme and unorthodox to the broader society of the Nagan Empire. These radical rituals and sacrifices, which were designed to express their unwavering devotion and to appease Liao, marked the birth of the Firekeepers of Liao as a distinct and fervent religious sect within the empire.
Dogma:
The core dogma of the Firekeepers revolves around the belief that Liao is the most powerful and significant deity among the Five. They view death as an integral part of life, a natural cycle of transformation. Sacrifice, particularly through ritualistic burning, is seen as the ultimate act of devotion, a way to honor Liao and ensure a smooth transition into the afterlife. They believe that through these sacrifices, they can harness the power of death and fire to protect and guide their society.
Organization:
The Firekeepers are organized into a hierarchical structure reminiscent of a religious order. At the lower levels are novices and initiates, who learn the rituals and doctrines. Above them are priests and monks, who conduct the ceremonies and guide the faithful. The highest echelons consist of the Inner Circle, a select group of leaders who hold considerable sway over the sect.
Leadership:
The Inner Circle is shrouded in secrecy, and their identities are known only to the highest-ranking members. They are believed to receive divine revelations from Liao and play a pivotal role in interpreting signs and visions. Their decisions can lead to extreme actions within the sect.
Activities:
The Firekeepers engage in various activities that revolve around their beliefs. These include elaborate funeral rites where the deceased are honored through ritualistic burnings, public ceremonies that involve self-harm to demonstrate devotion, and pilgrimages to sacred sites associated with death and fire. They are also known to seek out signs and visions in the natural world, often misinterpreting them, which has led to unnecessary deaths and destruction.
Symbols & Signs:
The primary symbol of the Firekeepers is a stylized bonfire, representing both the deity Liao and the act of burning as a form of sacrifice. They also incorporate autumn leaves into their symbolism, signifying the season associated with their god.
History:
The Firekeepers' history is one of radicalization within the Nagan Empire. What began as a small and unconventional belief has transformed into a dangerous sect known for its extreme rituals and interpretations of divine signs. Their presence has been met with growing concern and suspicion within the Empire, leading to their banishment from the capital city of Nagadao. Despite their notoriety, they continue to operate clandestinely, seeking new recruits who are drawn to their message of devotion and sacrifice.