The History of Dhelcrist and The Knights Templar

The Knights Templar of Dhelcrist:

The History of the Templar Knights of Dhelcrist is one of a distant origin on a different plane of existence. Millennia ago in a land known only to Templar historians by the enigmatic name as the Kingdom of Heaven, the Poor Soldiers of Crist and of the Temple of Solman, commonly known as the Knights Templar or the Order of the Temple, were among the most famous of the military orders of that land. The organization existed for approximately 200 years. It was founded in the aftermath of a great holy war, to ensure the safety of the many who made pilgrimage to a holy city called Gerisalum after its conquest.

Officially endorsed by the Church of their God, the Order became a favored charity across many lands and grew rapidly in membership and power. Templar knights in their distinctive white mantles with red cross were among the best fighting units of the times. Non-combatant members of the Order managed a large economic infrastructure throughout many kingdoms, and built many fortifications across the Holy Land.

The Templars' success was tied closely to the holy wars then called the Crusades; when the Crusaders suffered defeat and lost the Holy Land, support for the Order faded. So great was the power of the Templar at this time that even kings became jealous of them and feared them. Rumors about the Templars' secret rites created mistrust, and a King, who's name is lost to history, and was deeply in debt to the Order, began pressuring the Leader of the church to take action. The King had many of the Order's members arrested, tortured into giving false confessions, and burned at the stake. The Church, under continuing pressure from this King, disbanded the Order.

The King thought that he had won, that the Templar treasure would be his, and as he raided the Templar headquarters, he found that all the records and more importantly the treasure had been removed. His deputies, as they moved to seize the Templar fleet, the largest in all the known lands, had already set sail. Where either had gone was a mystery.

The truth of the matter is that the Templar were taken from those lands and transported to the world of Otara by the God Moranthis. Dhelcrist, a land of the followers of Moranthis had been beset by attacks for nearly 2 centuries and could not hope to survive much longer. Their god decided to take a hand in their salvation and searched for a means to safeguard his people. He found those means in the Order of the Knight Templar.

Assuming a more familiar form that the Templar would recognize, he appeared in the dreams of the knights and indeed they did recognize their god. He told them that he had watched the plight that had befallen them and that their sacrifices in his name would not be in vain. He promised that he would deliver them unto a new land where they would be free of the persecutions of those who had betrayed them. He commanded that all that remained of the order as well as their treasures and amassed wealth be gathered and their Fleet set sail. He then told them that upon the third day of their voyage, he would deliver them to their new land. He then told them that although their salvation was at hand, there was a price to be paid, but one they were overly qualified to pay. They must save the peoples of the promised land from the ravages of the invading monsters and demons that threatened to destroy them and the lands they would soon inherit, and then once saved they must rule over the lands in fairness and kindness and help them prosper. Each knight of the order thus visited agreed. Within 2 weeks the vast fleet of the Templar, loaded with the entire wealth of the templar and it's knights, save for those incarcerated and unable to join their brethren set sail as instructed. 3 days later a massive rift was opened before the mighty fleet and the ships sailed through and found themselves on a vast ocean near the coast of a strange land.

That they were indeed on a new world was immediately evident as this world had several moons. They looked upon the land before them in wonder and Moranthis appeared before then in the skies and cried down to them.

“Here now the voice of your God. This is now your place and the lands you see ahead are the holy lands of Dhelcrist. In this land I am called Moranthis. From this time forth you too shall call me such. Go forth Holy Templars of Moranthis and save my peoples and thus be one with this world.”

Within seconds many of the knights and priests fell to knees in awe as the power of Moranthis filled them. When they arose they knew that they had been accepted as the first Paladins and Priests of Moranthis. The order to make for the Land and dock were given and the vast fleet came finally to rest.

Within 5 years, Dhelcrist was saved and the Templar began the task of rebuilding.

Dhelcrist lies between ominous wilds and celestial destiny, bordered to the north by the Horrorspan Forest, a twisted expanse of black pine and moss-choked ruins where malformed beasts and curses dwell. The southwest is hemmed in by the Sharenwald, a dense and ancient forest still haunted by pre-Templar spirits and fae remnants. To the east, the imposing Barrier Mountains rise like a divine wal, jagged, snow-capped and unnavigable except through the few sacred passes held by Templar watchtowers. Beyond them lie monster-filled wastelands and the ruins of the once-glorious Elven Empire Kael. The God’s Reach River flows from the mountains, its water said to be blessed by Moranthis himself, winding west through the kingdom until it reaches the sea. Settlements like Greenrest, Heshu, and Nerut draw spiritual energy from its banks, while bridges and shrines span its crystal flow.

Capital: Dherusalem is a grand city built in the likeness of Jerusalum, the holy city they once defended. It is home to the Temple of Moranthis and the ruling headquarters of the Knights Templar.

Royal Family of Dhelcrist: The Templars rule with a theocratic monarchy. The King, a position held by the highest-ranking member of the Order, serves as the ruler of Dhelcrist.

• King Regulus Moranthe

  Title: King of Dhelcrist, Sovereign of the Holy Lands

  Appearance: King Regulus is a tall, broad-shouldered man, with a commanding presence. His sharp features are softened by a dark beard that frames his face, and his intense green eyes convey an air of determination and wisdom. He typically wears regal armor adorned with symbols of Moranthis, with a flowing white cloak that signifies his royal and spiritual role.

  Personality: Regulus is a deeply pious ruler, utterly devoted to Moranthis and the holy mission of the Knights Templar. He is known for his stern leadership, not tolerating any form of dissent, particularly when it comes to matters of faith. His rule is marked by a combination of diplomacy with other kingdoms and ruthless enforcement of Templar law within Dhelcrist's borders.

• Queen Aeliana Moranthe

  Title: Queen of Dhelcrist, High Priestess of Moranthis

  Appearance: Queen Aeliana is of striking beauty, with long silver hair that flows freely when she appears in court. Her skin is pale, but her violet eyes are intense, radiating both wisdom and an almost otherworldly aura. She often wears a crown of holy crystal, symbolizing her sacred bond with Moranthis, and her attire is a mixture of regal elegance and the ceremonial robes of a high priestess.

  Personality: Queen Aeliana is the spiritual heart of Dhelcrist, often revered not just as a monarch, but as a divinely chosen intermediary between the people and Moranthis. While her husband Regulus rules with iron, Aeliana is known for her calming presence, offering guidance, healing, and spiritual counsel to both the royal family and the common people. She has a deep connection to the gods and often acts as the oracle of Moranthis, receiving visions that guide her people's decisions.

The Religion of Dhelcrist

The Holy Trinity

The Dhelcristian Religion Knopwn as the Dracian Faith is based on the worship of the Holy Trinity: Io, Moranthis, and Bahamut, with each deity playing a distinct and vital role in the spiritual and physical well-being of the kingdom of Dhelcrist.

• Father: Io, the Eternal Dragon

  Io is the Father, the ancient and divine dragon that embodies wisdom, strength, and justice. His influence shapes the moral foundation of the kingdom, guiding its rulers and warriors in the ways of righteousness.

• Son: Moranthis, the Divine Savior

  Moranthis is the Son, the savior who brought salvation and divine intervention to the people of Dhelcrist. His teachings of sacrifice, compassion, and redemption serve as the moral compass for both clergy and the faithful.

• Holy Spirit: Bahamut, the Celestial Protector

  Bahamut is the Holy Spirit, embodying divine protection, guidance, and courage. Bahamut's presence is felt in the battlefield, healing, and spiritual strength, offering the faithful the courage to fight and persevere against evil forces.

These three deities make up the core of the Dracian Faith, a faith that permeates every aspect of life in Dhelcrist. The people believe that their gods' favor is key to maintaining the kingdom's strength and purity, especially as they fight against the malevolent forces of Styphon, the embodiment of evil and chaos.

Church Structure

The Hierarchy of the Church

• Grand High Priest (Arch Prelate)

  The Grand High Priest serves as the supreme spiritual leader of the faith and the kingdom, acting as the earthly intermediary between the gods and the people. They hold absolute authority over all religious matters, including the interpretation of divine will and the sacred texts.

• High Prelate (Cardinal)

  High Prelates, often referred to as Cardinals, serve as the leading bishops of the Church, overseeing vast regions of the kingdom. They manage the Church's temples, sanctuaries, and religious activities, ensuring that the doctrine of the Holy Trinity is followed faithfully.

• Prelate (Bishop)

  Prelates are high-ranking clergy who manage the religious and administrative affairs in each city and region. They conduct ceremonies, provide spiritual guidance, and supervise the lower-ranking priests within their territories.

• Priest/Priestess

  Priests and Priestesses are the backbone of the Church, tending to the spiritual needs of the people and performing religious rites. They are tasked with delivering sermons, officiating at marriages, and maintaining the religious observances of the kingdom.

• Novices

  Novices are those who are training to become full members of the clergy. They undergo both religious and practical education to prepare them for future service as priests or temple servants.

The Knights Templar of Dhelcrist

The Hierarchy of the Templars

• Grand Master

  The Grand Master is the highest-ranking member of the Templar Order. They wield supreme military and spiritual authority, commanding the loyalty of all Templars and leading the kingdom's defense against evil. The Grand Master is also the ruler of Dhelcrist, combining the roles of monarch and spiritual leader.

• Deputy Grand Master

  The Deputy Grand Master is the second-in-command to the Grand Master. They carry out the orders of the Grand Master and oversee various regions or sectors, ensuring that the Templar Order runs smoothly and that the kingdom's military and religious needs are met.

• Marshal

  The Marshal is responsible for all military operations of the Templars. They command the knights in battle and organize the strategic defense of Dhelcrist. The Marshal is also responsible for the training and discipline of the knights.

• Seneschal

  The Seneschal oversees the day-to-day administrative and financial operations of the Templars. They ensure that the Order's estates and wealth are properly managed, and handle the logistical aspects of Templar operations.

• Preceptor

  A Preceptor is in charge of a commandery, a regional base where Templar knights are stationed. Preceptors are responsible for both the military and religious operations within their commandery and act as leaders of local defense efforts.

• Knight (Equites Templari)

  A Knight is a fully initiated member of the Order. Knights are trained warriors who have taken sacred oaths of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They serve as the core fighting force of the Templars, using both martial prowess and holy magic granted by Moranthis.

• Sergeant (Sergeant Templar)

  Sergeants are non-knightly members of the Order who serve in logistical or supporting roles. They may serve as light cavalry, infantry, or in specialized tasks such as managing supplies, maintaining equipment, or enforcing law and order.

• Brother (Brother Templar)

  Brothers are non-combatant members of the Order who have taken the same sacred vows as the knights but are focused on spiritual, administrative, or support roles. They might serve as chaplains, healers, or temple caretakers.

• Novice

  A Novice is a candidate who has not yet achieved full membership within the Templar Order. They undergo rigorous training in both religious and military disciplines to prepare for their future as knights or other Order members.

The Knights Templar of Dhelcrist operate as the kingdom's military elite. They are renowned for their fierce combat prowess, disciplined structure, and zealous protection of their faith. They are organized into ranks, including knights, priests, and non-combatants who maintain the economic infrastructure, oversee their wealth, and manage local populations. The Order's military force is the largest in the known world, built on honor, loyalty, and an unwavering belief in their divine mission.

Culture and Society

• Religious Zealotry

  Faith is the center of Dhelcristian society. The people are taught to revere Moranthis above all, and the Knights Templar are seen as the divine agents of his will. There is little room for deviation from religious orthodoxy, and any who are suspected of practicing forbidden magic or following Styphon are persecuted with extreme prejudice. Public executions of heretics and those accused of being Darkfriends are common and serve as a reminder of the Order's unyielding authority.

• Feudal Structure

  The kingdom's society operates on a feudal system, where the land is divided among noble families who pledge loyalty to the Knights Templar. In return, they are granted land and wealth, but they must maintain the moral integrity of the kingdom and fight against Styphon's forces. These nobles often control local regions and serve as military commanders when called upon by the Templars.

• Public Perception

  The people of Dhelcrist have a complex relationship with the Templars. While they are largely protected from external threats and internal instability, many fear the Templars' authoritarian rule. Their zealotry can be oppressive, especially for those who do not share their exact faith. However, there is also a deep respect for the Templars as saviors of the land and defenders of the holy faith.

Economy and Industry

• Agriculture

  The kingdom is largely self-sufficient, with a focus on agriculture, farming, and mining. The Templars have built vast fortifications around the kingdom, which have also turned into economic centers where they extract valuable resources.

• Trade

  Despite their insular nature, the Templars do engage in trade with neighboring kingdoms, especially for rare resources. However, this trade is heavily regulated and controlled to maintain their dominance. They maintain a vast fleet, which is used not only for defense but also for trade and exploration of other lands.

• Templar Wealth

  The Knights Templar maintain immense wealth from the treasures they brought with them from their previous existence as well as those acquired since. Their economic infrastructure is vast, extending to far-off kingdoms. This wealth is often used for religious purposes, including the building of grand temples, maintaining the military, and funding various charitable acts. The Temple of Moranthis in Dherusalem is the richest religious institution in the world, overseeing vast treasures.

Key Locations

• Dherusalem: The capital city, home to the Dracian Temple and the Grand Master's residence, and of course the royal palace, is a center of both political power and religious worship, housing the largest military citadel in the kingdom.
• Savior's Landing:

Dhelcrist's Population Breakdown

• Humans: 100% (6,054,300) Dhelcrist is a kingdom populated only by humans. The society remains entirely under the guidance of the Knights Templar, and the people follow the divine path set by Moranthis. The population lives in cities, fortifications, and rural settlements, each focused on maintaining the kingdom's religious and military obligations.

Capital: