Theocracy Titles

Subject: Theocracy Titles Wed Feb 25, 2015 7:38 pm

The following is copied (and amended) from the Pardus Forums -> Player Created Content -> History and Stories (IC / OOC) -> > Theocracy of Kai-Rang, Lore Center thread. (Actually, it might be an idea if all the Lore sections were copied over to this forum?).

Many of the titles are explained in the original, but many are not. I've suggested some amendments / additions. I have tried to add some structure and 'career progression' in line with the Runic Pilgrim quests. I present these for discussion - none of it is 'official' as yet.

The following can be considered a draft for later submission to the Orion 'Alliances' forum.

=============================

Formerly an alliance, the Theocracy of Kai-Rang can now be considered as a kind of 'unofficial syndicate'. It's main purpose is to provide pilots with new challenges, role playing opportunities and 'something different'. Consequently the Theocracy is open to members of all factions (or none) and all syndicates, though Theocrats are expected to consider aiding their brothers and sisters in Kai-Rang when called upon to do so.

The Theocracy believes that the universe was created by Kai-Rang, the Sky-God Dragon. It mainly revolves around worshipping the Space Dragon Queens (big red ones) by releasing them temporarily from their mortal forms (i.e. defeating them in combat). But the other two dragon types are important as well.

When encountered in certain Dragon Dens across the pardus universe, Theocrats call these Space Dragon Queens "Matriarchs". Matriarchs are the Wives of Kai-Rang, and the only divine beings that can be visited and communicated with. Kai-Rang the Sky-God Dragon rarely appears, mostly only when Summoned by the Rune Master.

Becoming a Follower of Kai-Rang is simplicity itself: Pilots merely have to declare the intention to embark upon a Pilgrimage at some point. (Details of Pilgrimages can be found here: http://forum.pardus.at/index.php?showtopic=65154&st=0[ )

When this pledge to embark upon a Pilgrimage is made good, either by beginning a Standard Pilgrimage or successfully completing a Runic Quest, Followers are awarded the title of Acolyte.

Acolytes and above (i.e. Adepts, Priest/esses and High Priest/esses) have doors to a number of 'career paths' within the Theocracy opened for them. They may become Templars, charged with keeping the pilgrimage routes safe for Pilgrims, if they fulfil the requirements. (See Templar Titles below). Templars and those above them in the military heirarchy of the Theocracy may become Guardians of specific Matriarchs. (See Guardian Titles below). Acolytes may also adopt the 'Drachenjäger' (Dragon Hunter) titles below provided they meet the criteria.

A Pilot who has been an Acolyte for 60 days OR has completed a Standard Pilgrimage OR completed 8 Runic Quest is awarded with the title Adept (Disciple). Adepts are eligible to become Priest/esses and move on to become High Priest/esses when they fulfil the required criteria.

The Theocracy is governed by the Runic Council, made up of the High Priest/esses of the 16 Temples. The Runic Council chooses one of their number to be the Rune Master/Mistress, who leads the Theocracy, organises the Festivals, keeps track of the Cycles, and guides the Pilgrims on their Pilgrimages.

The Rune Master appoints two Rune Scholars from the remaining members of the Council. Their duties are to safeguard the Codexian Archive of Theocratic Lore and act as deputies to the Rune Master.

All Templars and Templar Knights are members of the Theocracy's Red Dragon Fleet whose commander, the Grand Master, is also appointed by the Rune Master from the ranks of the Templar Knights.

A full list of Theocratic Titles, with details of how these titles are bestowed, appears below.

These titles are in sections in the order the titles are arranged before or after a Theocrat's name, with each section arranged in progression order.

'Postumous' Titles, sometimes given to followers who have departed the galaxy (either permanently or temporarily) and entered the Runic Halls of Kai-Rang

•Sage >>> Respected followers of Kai-Rang that have been retired or inactive for over 3 months while part of the Theocracy.

•Archon >>> inactive/retired followers of Kai-Rang that have meant a lot to the Theocracy and have transcended to the Runic Halls. This is voted for by the Runic Guardians and the Rune Master.

Pilgrimage Titles

•Pilgrim >>> A pilot that has completed the standard Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang. Those holding titles requiring the completion of the Standard Pilgrimage drop the Pilgrim title.

•Runic Pilgrim >>> A pilot that has completed the Runic Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang.

•Obsidian Pilgrim >>> A pilot that has completed the Runic Pilgrimage and then gone on to complete the secret Obsidian Pilgrimage.

Templar Titles

•Templar >>> Protectors and fighters of the Theocracy tasked with keeping the pilgrimage routes safe for Pilgrims, these pilots are acknowledged to be skilled and willing to fight for our cause. In order to gain the rank of Templar a pilot must hold the title of Dragon Slayer or above and complete the Quests of Koo-Kengen (Power ~ Combat Rounds), Koo-Sahas (Courage ~ First Kill), Koo-Chippujana. (Earth ~ Ribbons) and Koo-Hon (Fate ~ Survival).

•Templar Knight >>> Protectors and fighters of the Theocracy, these pilots are capable of leading an operation to protect or conquer important Theocratic assets. In order to progress from Templar to Templar Knight a pilot must have completed the Standard Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang, hold the title of Dragon Guard or above and have completed the Quests of Koo-Kaj (Fire ~ Building Combat), Koo-Rir (Wrath ~ Kills), Koo-Adauchi (Vengeance ~ Bounty Hunt) and Koo-Pakanga (War ~ Conflict). The Quest of Koo-Pakanga must be completed by fulfilling the 100 War Points criterion.

•Grand Master >>> The Templar Knight who is the Miliary Commander of all Theocracy Forces in times of conflict. Appointed by the Rune Master.

Religious Titles

•Acolyte >>> New follower of the Theocracy of Kai-Rang. Standard title if no other has been acquired. Title followed by '...of [Matriarch]' being the name of the Matriarch freed from mortal form in the course of the Acolyte's first Runic Quest or the first Matriarch freed in the course of a standard pilgrimage.

•Disciple >>> A Theocracy follower for at least 30 days who has completed at least one Runic Quest. Title followed by 'of [Matriarch]'. If not comfortable with their current Matriarch Disciples may choose another by announcing their intention and freeing the new Matriarch from her mortal form.

•Priest(ess) >>> Disciple of a Dragon Temple devoted to a single Matriarch of choice. In order to enter the Priesthood, a Disciple must hold the rank of Dragon Executioner or above and have completed the quests of Koo-Koura (Gold ~ Credit Balance -Earn 2,500,000 credits by any means possible), Koo-Kotinga (Harvests ~ Resources / Trade) and Koo-Waimiz (Water ~ Recruitment). The Disciple must then choose a Matriarch, who the Disciple must then release from her mortal form three times in succession to the exclusion of all else without taking a pod ride in the process - so as to demonstrate the Matriarch's favour. The Disciple may then adopt the title of 'Priest/ess of {Matriarch's Name]'. Priests/Priestesses are expected to aid their High Priest/ess in religious duties and protect their temple from unbelievers in case of need. There is no limit to the number of Priest/esses which may serve a Matriarch.

•High Priest(ess) >>> Leader of a Dragon Temple, devoted to a single Matriarch of choice who has the Sacrificial Rank of Dragon Slayer and has completed the Standard Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang and the quests of Koo-Chahana (Love ~ Popularity) and Koo-Its (Peace ~ Faction/Competency Rank).

There are a maximum of sixteen temples, one in each Dragon's Den in which Matriarchs have chosen to reside. They take the form of Energy Wells, offering shield recharges for a maximum of 5 Cr/point so as to aid pilgrims in their quests.

If no temple exists in a Dragon's Den, an existing Priest/ess of the Matriarch who fulfills the above criteria may build one.

As with Guardians below, Priest/esses at existing temples who also fulfill the required criteria and have a spare building slot may challenge their High Priest/esses for the honour, a maximum of once per cycle, as follows:

- The Challenger announces the challenge
- The Rune Master (or next highest ranking Theocrat if the Run Master is indesposed) informs the Challenger and incumbent High Priest/ess of the exact time at which the challenge will begin
- The Challenger and incumbent determine who the Matriarch most favours by releasing her from her mortal form. The High Priesthood is bestowed on the first of them to release the Matriarch three times.

If the Challenger is successful, the former High Priest/ess must destroy the existing Temple so that the Challenger can replace it.

•Priest(ess) Elder >>> A former High Priest/ess who has been replaced by a successful challenger.

Guardian Titles

[NB In order to increase cohesion and prevent the creation of 'cliques', Matriarch's operated a 'fosterage' system where Guardians are concerned. In other words a Matriarch's Guardian will always be a worshipper (Disciple / High / Priest / ess) of another Matriarch].

•Guardian >>> A Templar or above that has been accepted as the Guardian of a Matriarch, but has not yet claimed the Rune of his or her Matriarch during or after the Ascension. In order to become a Guardian, a Templar must announce his or her intention and designate a Matriarch (which cannot be the same one the Templar is a Disciple / Priest of). The Templar must then free the chosen Matriarch from her mortal form three times in succession without suffering a death, in order to demonstrate the Matriarch's favour. If successful, the Templar may then challenge the current Runic / Guardian to a duel to the death for the honour of the title. The Templar winning the duel becomes / remains the Matriarch's Guardian. If there is no current Runic / Guardian, the Templar becomes the Matriarch's Guardian after freeing her for the third successive time without incident.

•Runic Guardian >>> A Guardian who has gone on to claim the Rune of his / her jMatriarch during their Ascension. These pilots have an unusually powerful connection to their Matriarch and Aspect.

•Champion >>> A Theocracy follower that has already been a Runic Guardian of a Matriarch but has been overtaken by a challenger.

Other Titles

•Writer/Musician of the Theocracy >>> Pilots that have completed the Quest of Koo-Kangenraga (Music ~ Music / Writing & Poetry.).

•Artist of the Theocracy >>> Pilots that have completed the Quest of Koo-Paibisundarat. (Beauty ~ Art)

•Rune Scholar >>> One of two deputies appointed by the Rune Master from members of the Runic Council.

•Rune Master >>> Member of the Theocracy of Kai-Rang who organises the Festivals, keeps track of the Cycles, and guides the Pilgrims on their Pilgrimages.

Drachenjäger Titles

(Drachenjäger Titles are always followed by 'of Kai-Rang')

•Dragon Executioner >>> Theocracy follower with at least 100 YSD kills.

•Dragon Slayer >>> Theocracy follower with at least 100 ESD kills and 500 YSD kills.

•Dragon Guard >>> Theocracy follower with at least 100 SDQ kills, 500 ESD kills, and 1000 YSD kills.

•Obsidian Guard >>> Theocracy follower with at least 100 Solar Banshee kills, 500 SDQ kills, 1000 ESD kills, and 2500 YSD kills.

Subject: An Example Career Progression Fri Feb 27, 2015 1:47 pm

An Example Career Progression

Camille, an Imperial Countess, decides to join the Theocracy and already has over 100 YSD and over 500 ESD kills under her belt. Her full titles are

- Countess Camille, Acolyte and Dragon Executioner of Kai-Rang

The first Runic Quest she completes is the Quest of Koo-Chahana, Matriarch of Love, in the course of which she also kills her 500th YSD. So her titles become

- Countess Camille, Acolyte of Koo-Chahana, Dragon Slayer of Kai-Rang

After 30 days, during which she completes the quests of Koo-Koura (Gold) and Koo-Kotinga (Harvests ~ Resources / Trade), Camille automatically becomes a Disciple of Koo-Chahana. She decides to leave off Runic Quests for a while and attempt the Standard Pilgrimage, in the course of which she changes her allegiance to Koo-Waimiz (Water ~ Recruitment). At the successful conclusion of the Standard Pilgrimage her titles become

- Countess Camille, Pilgrim Disciple of Koo-Waimiz, Dragon Slayer of Kai-Rang

Camille then goes on to complete the quests of Koo-Paibisundarat (Beauty ~ Art) and Koo-Waimiz (Water ~ Recruitment). Completion of the latter quest makes her eligible for the Priesthood. She announces her application and successfully releases Koo-Waimiz from her mortal the required three times without incident. Her titles now become

- Countess Camille, Pilgrim Priestess of Koo-Waimiz, Artist and Dragon Slayer of Kai-Rang

Camille next goes on to complete the Quest of Koo-Kangenraga (choosing the Music option) and the quest Koo-Its (Peace ~ Faction/Competency Rank), which makes her eligible for a High Priesthood. Since there is currently no Energy Well in Koo-Waimiz' Dragon Den, she builds a temple there and adopts the title of High Priestess. (Since this title requires completion of the Standard Pilgrimage, she now drops the Pilgrim from her list of titles).

- Countess Camille, High Priestess of Koo-Waimiz, Musician, Artist and Dragon Slayer of Kai-Rang.

Not wishing to neglect the Military aspects of the Theocracy completely, Camille now completes the quests of Koo-Kengen (Power ~ Combat Rounds), Koo-Sahas (Courage ~ First Kill), Koo-Hon (Fate ~ Survival) and Koo-Chippujana (Earth ~ Ribbons) - the latter by taking the Dragon Guard option. This gains her the title of Templar. She also increases her Imperial rank to Princess. Her titles thus become

- Princess Camille, Templar High Priestess of Koo-Waimiz, Musician, Artist and Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang.

Camille leaves Runic Questing behind now in order to concentrate on her priestly duties and, after successfully defending he position of High Priestess for a number of years, finally sinks into the obscurity of the Great Void (ie retires from Pardus). Temporal titles (like Princess) are meaningless at this stage, and she is soon replaced as High Priestess. Thanks to her dedication, however, she is postumously awarded the title of Sage. Thus she goes down in the annals of the Theocracy as

- Sage Camille, Pilgrim Templar Priestess of Koo-Waimiz, Musician, Artist and Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang.

Subject: Another Example Career Progression Sat Feb 28, 2015 2:52 pm

Another Example Career Progression

Vasco, a Federation Admiral, already has over 1000 YSD, over 500 ESD and over 100 SDQ kills under his belt, so joins the Theocracy as

- Admiral Vasco, Acolyte and Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang

The first Runic Quest he completes is the Quest of Koo-Kengen (Power ~ Combat Rounds), so his title becomes

- Admiral Vasco, Acolyte of Koo-Kengen, Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang

He quickly follows up this quest with the Quests of Koo-Chippujana. (Earth ~ Ribbons - automatic since he's a Dragon Guard) and Koo-Hon (Fate ~ Survival). The Quest of Koo-Sahas (Courage ~ First Kill) poses a bit of a problem given his extensive previous NPC combat experience, but he eventually finds a Gloprawn on which to make a first kill. Since this completes all the Quests needed to become a Templar, his titles are now

- Admiral Vasco, Templar Acolyte of Koo-Kengen, Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang

After 30 days, when he becomes a disciple, his titles become

- Admiral Vasco, Templar Disciple of Koo-Kengen, Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang

He now decides to leave off Runic Quests for a while and attempt the Standard Pilgrimage at the successful conclusion of which his titles become

- Admiral Vasco, Pilgrim Templar, Disciple of Koo-Kengen, Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang

The Matriarch Koo-Pakanga (War ~ Conflict) currently has no Guardian, so Vasco announces his intention to fill this role and successfully frees her from her mortal form the required 3 times, becoming

- Admiral Vasco, Pilgrim Templar, Disciple of Koo-Kengen, Guardian of Koo-Pakanga, Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang

Vasco then goes on to complete the quests of of Koo-Kaj (Fire ~ Building Combat), Koo-Rir (Wrath ~ Kills), Koo-Adauchi (Vengeance ~ Bounty Hunt) and Koo-Pakanga (War ~ Conflict), the latter by fulfilling the 100 War Points criterion, which qualifies him for the title of Templar Knight. On the way he also claims the Rune of his Matriarch during their Ascension. His titles become as follows, dropping the 'Pilgrim' since this a requirement of his new Templar rank:

- Admiral Vasco, Templar Knight, Disciple of Koo-Kengen, Runic Guardian of Koo-Pakanga, Dragon Guard of Kai-Rang

Vasco goes on to complete the Runic Pilgrimage and follows this up with sufficient kills to become an Obsidian Guard. He then becomes commander of the Theocracy's forces during a dispute with an alliance trying to prevent access to one of the Matriarchs. His titles become:

- Admiral Vasco, Runic Pilgrim Grand Master, Disciple of Koo-Kengen, Runic Guardian of Koo-Pakanga, Artist, Writer and Obsidian Guard of Kai-Rang

After this, since he has completed the required quests already, he decides to devote some time to the priesthood, becoming in turn the Priest then High Priest of Koo-Kengen in the manner described above. At the same time, he is successfully challenged for his office office of Runic Guardian. His titles thus become

- Admiral Vasco, Runic Pilgrim Grand Master, High Priest of Koo-Kengen, Champion of Koo-Pakanga, Artist, Writer and Obsidian Guard of Kai-Rang

After successfully defending his position of High Priest for a number of years, Vasco finally sinks into the obscurity of the Great Void (ie retires from Pardus). Temporal titles (like Admiral) are meaningless at this stage, and he is soon replaced as High Priest and Grand Master. Thanks to his dedication, however, he is postumously awarded the title of Archon. Thus he goes down in the annals of the Theocracy as

- Archon Vasco, Runic Pilgrim Templar Knight, Priest of Koo-Kengen, Champion of Koo-Pakanga, Artist, Writer and Obsidian Guard of Kai-Rang

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Sun Mar 01, 2015 1:09 am

Hierarchy, so you can use that:

Theocracy
- Runic Guardian of Kai-Rang
- Rune Master of Kai-Rang (Or just Rune Master in short)
- Rune Scholars
- Rune Council (the 16 Runic Guardians)
  - Hall of Glory (name up for debate)
    - Archon
    - Sage, Champion, Grand Templar
    - ◘ Runic Pilgrim, Obsidian Pilgrim, Obsidian Guard
    - ◘ ◘ Pilgrim
  - Warrior Temples (Rir, Kaj, Pakanga, Adauchi)
    Warrior Temples are united in their desire for combat and mayhem for the Theocracy. During wars and conflicts, they unite as the Red Dragon Fleet, led by the Grand Templar, appointed by the Rune Master or Runic Guardian of Kai-Rang, or a majority vote by the Rune Council.
    - Templar
    - ◘ Warrior Priest
  - All Temples have these titles:
    - High Priest. Named Templars in the Warrior Temples.
    - ◘ Priest. Named Warrior Priests in the Warrior Temples
  - Temples of Light (Chahana, Kotinga, Kangenraga, Paibisundarat, Koura)
    Temples of Light are united in their desire to build, create, cooperate, and prosper.
    - Writers, Artists, Musicians.
  - Hunters
    - Dragon Guard
    - Dragon Slayer
    - Dragon Executioner
  - Initiates
    - Disciple
    - Acolyte

The further down and/or to the right, the less prestigious/influential the title.
"◘" means that this title is as prestigious as the most prestigious title in the category below.
"Pilgrim" has two ◘◘, meaning that in this case, it's on par with a High Priest.

... I wrote a whole post with feedback and lost most of it because of forum screwing it up.
Will try to write it again soon. Not now Smile

Also, to clarify the above, I changed some titles, and added one more.
Rune Scholar = assistant of the Rune Master. Might be an idea.

Grand Master -> Grand Templar
Templar Knight -> Templar
Templar -> Warrior Priest
Reason being that I would like to avoid "Rune Master" and "Grand Master" confusion.
And "knight" is too imperial. It's rashkir. Use "warrior" instead. Warrior Templar didn't sound catchy, so changed it to Warrior Priest.

(the below is code for formatting the above list. Otherwise the forum screws it up.

Code:: [list][*]Theocracy

[list][*]Runic Guardian of Kai-Rang
[*]Rune Master of Kai-Rang (Or just Rune Master in short)
[*]Rune Scholars
[*]Rune Council (the 16 Runic Guardians)

[list][*]Hall of Glory (name up for debate)

[list][*]Archon
[*]Sage, Champion, Grand Templar
[*] ◘ Runic Pilgrim, Obsidian Pilgrim, Obsidian Guard
[*] ◘ ◘ Pilgrim[/list]

[*]Warrior Temples (Rir, Kaj, Pakanga, Adauchi)
Warrior Temples are united in their desire for combat and mayhem for the Theocracy. During wars and conflicts, they unite as the Red Dragon Fleet, led by the Grand Templar, appointed by the Rune Master or Runic Guardian of Kai-Rang, or a majority vote by the Rune Council.
[list][*]Templar
[*] ◘ Warrior Priest[/list]

[*]All Temples have these titles:
[list][*]High Priest. Named Templars in the Warrior Temples.
[*] ◘ Priest. Named Warrior Priests in the Warrior Temples[/list]

[*]Temples of Light (Chahana, Kotinga, Kangenraga, Paibisundarat, Koura)
Temples of Light are united in their desire to build, create, cooperate, and prosper.
[list][*]Writers, Artists, Musicians.[/list]

[*]Hunters
[list][*]Dragon Guard
[*]Dragon Slayer
[*]Dragon Executioner[/list]

[*]Initiates
[list][*]Disciple
[*]Acolyte[/list]

[/list][/list][/list]

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Sun Mar 01, 2015 12:15 pm

I'll wait for Solarix' second attempt at getting his comments here before answering the above fully (I hate it when that happens -that's why I always write stuff for forums in notepad then copy and paste it). I'd like to make a few comments / observations in the meantime though.

- Hall of The Chosen sounds more appropriately 'religious' to me, rather than Hall of Glory ?

- I'm not sure about attaching such weight to those who have only completed the Standard Pilgrimage. Pilots can complete the Standard Pilgrimage as a mere diversion - as I'm sure has happened in the past - without making any claim to following the Ways of Kai-Rang at all. Why should they be accorded such prestige in the Kai-Rang heirarchy? Only those who have completed at least one Runic Quest have demonstrated their commitment to The Way. Consequently, I'd tend to favour just having completion of the Standard Pilgrimage a requirement for the higher ranks in the heirarchy, as originally suggested, rather than placing mere Pilgrims above High Priests and Templars.

- Although I kinda like the 'Warrior Temples' / 'Temples of Light' etc. distinction, in practical terms this means that followers have to choose between becoming Priests OR becoming Templars. In the original posts everyone could aspire to be both eventually.

It also means that only the Warrior Temples are going to have warriors to defend them, whereas ALL temples could offer places to warriors in the original outline. This will be exacerbated by the fact that Warrior Temples are deemed to be the most prestigious, meaning that those attached to other temples will come to be viewed as 'second class citizens'.

On the nomenclature front, how about replacing 'Hunter' with 'Drachenjäger'? Sounds more 'Teutonic Knight' and imposing, somehow. (It means 'Dragon Hunter' in German).

The word 'Templar' comes from the Knights Templar, members of the religious military order on which the Kai-Rang Templars are surely based? Their ranks were broadley Serjeant -> Knight -> Grand Master. I don't have a problem with Grand Templar for the latter - though I think fears of confusion between Grand Master and Rune Master are unfounded.

Knight _isn't_ an Imperial title - that's actually 'Sir' (though I agree it should be Knight) and 'Warrior Priest' will be confusing if, as I suggest, the Templar and Priesthood progressions are separated for the reasons given above. I'd favour the Templar progression to be Templar -> Templar Knight -> Grand Master (or Grand Templar but, again, Grand Master sounds more imposing). It may have begun as Rashkir, but I'm a Keldon - as is Sir Whoa ;-) Surely we're looking to recruit followers from all races now ? As a clincher, didn't the revered Codex Delphi once describe the Theocracy as " a little bit Knights of the Round Table" Smile

I see you've ameneded the order of Acolyte and Disciple from your original posting, Solarix :-) Disciple is a little nebulous. How about substituting the title 'Adept' for Disciple ?

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Tue Mar 03, 2015 1:16 pm

- The lower on this diagram, the less prestigious the title.

Still have to work out some stuff. Anyway, the 16 temples are further divided in Temple Groups.
Each individual temple has Priest -> High Priest -> Champion -> Runic Guardian ranking, where "Champion" is the former Runic Guardian that has been overtaken.

Temple Groups have unique titles respective to their common purpose. Temple Groups are led by a single Champion OR Runic Guardian of the temples part of the group.

Red Dragon Fleet = P vs P group. Consists of Rir, Adauchi, Pakanga, and Kaj.
Codexian Library = art/story content group. Consists of Kangenraga, and Paibisundarat.
Hunting Lodge = P vs Dragon/NPC group. Consists of Sahas, Chippujana, Hon, and Kengen.
Golden Dragon Guild = Trader group. Consists of Koura, Kotinga, and Chahana.
Blue Dragon League = Diplomacy group. Consists of Waimiz, Vayu, and Its.

How to obtain the special titles for GDG and BDL is something to be worked out.

New: general titles.
They are prefixed with "Theocracy *title*"
ie: Theocracy Acolyte.

Follower = self-acclaimed title. Just be interested in the Theocracy and you can call yourself this.
Acolyte = your membership has been noted by the Rune Master and/or Runic Guardian(s). If you have started a pilgrimage, you can call yourself an Acolyte. Once Acolyte, you can move to become a Priest in one of the Temples.
Disciple = an Acolyte that has been a member of the Theocracy for 60 days or more. (changed from 30)
Elder = a Disciple that has been a member of the Theocracy for 360 days or more. (new rank)

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Tue Mar 03, 2015 3:35 pm

Well, we're kind of getting there, but we do seem to be working at cross purposes to an extent.

What I'm aiming for is a clear progression ("if you do 'A' you secure the title 'B') that can be posted in the Alliance Forum to 'sell' (ie get more pilots involved in) the Theocracy to the Orion community. (Sorry, I used to work as a games designer many years ago and feel that clear rules and career progression are pretty crucial). The diagram is a bit nebulous and seems to imply both that the Priest is the lowest of the low and that pilots have to be become priests (but we still don't know how) in order to progress any further (except where Pilgrims, Hunters and the 'General' titles are concerned).

The General titles are all 'religious' in nature anyway and should logically progress upwards towards Priests. At the moment, the diagram implies that Disciples are superior to Priests, where logically pilots should be required to become disciples before they can progress to be Priests.

I don't see much point in the Elder title, unless the term is used for former High Priests who have been replaced - like former Guardians are termed Champions.

I think Templar, ie "Warrior in the Service of Kai-Rang" is far superior to plain 'Warrior'. Anyone who has fought in a war is entitled to call themselves warrior. Templars belong to the Theocracy only.

And I don't really see the need to split the temples into groups - needless level of complication certainly, and possibly ultimately divisive? I can't help but feel that such added complexity is likely to put potential recruits off. Have the Red Dragon Fleet, commanded by the Grand Master, by all means. But this should be comprised of Templars from ALL temples, not just four of them.

The other main point is that this is the Theocracy of Kai-Rang, not the Militocracy of Kai-Rang. The High Priest of any temple should be just that, the Head Honcho, not subservient to a warrior who may or may not have any religious calling. The Runic/Guardians/Champions of a Temple should be on the level of Priests and, like them, under the instruction of their High Priest rather than the other way around. The function of Templars / Guardians should be to keep the pilgrimage routes safe for Pilgrims, just as it was for the Knights Templar in mediaeval times, surely? And all temples will need templars to keep the passes open, not just the designated four...

Following on from this, the Runic Council should really be made up of the 16 High Priests rather than 16 Runic Guardians (though there should be nothing to stop the High Priests being Runic Guardians too).

Similarly, I don't see why artists / musicians, hunters etc. should be exclusive to certain temples. Surely anyone who has completed the relevant quests / secured the required dragon kills should be awarded the title?

Finally I just don't see the point of the 'Theocracy' prefix. Why 'Theocracy Acolyte' when no-one else has Acolytes anyway? Even if someone else did, the Theocracy probably wouldn't recognise them. It's up to imitators to use a suffix - a bit like the UK being the only country not to have the nation's name on its postage stamps (because they had stamps first and everyone afterwards is just copying).

> Follower = self-acclaimed title. Just be interested in the Theocracy and you can call yourself this.

I think a pledge to undertake a Pilgrimage / Runic quest in the future should be part of the qualification too really.

> Acolyte = your membership has been noted by the Rune Master and/or Runic Guardian(s). If you have started a pilgrimage, you can call yourself an Acolyte. Once Acolyte, you can move to become a Priest in one of the Temples.

It should be a requirement for Acolytes to become Disciples (or Adepts, which I think is a better title) before going on to become Priests if a logical heirarcy is to be maintained.

> Disciple = an Acolyte that has been a member of the Theocracy for 60 days or more. (changed from 30)

I don't see why the time requirement should be doubled. If it is, then 'or has completed a Standard Pilgrimage' or 8 Runic Quests' should be added.

> Elder = a Disciple that has been a member of the Theocracy for 360 days or more. (new rank)

As mentioned above, I don't really see the point in this title. Better applied to a former High Priest who has been ousted, I think, if it's used at all.

What I really need to know is whether the requirements for the various titles / positions mentioned in the first post can be officially accepted or not.

Addendum: I've edited the first post, incorporating the new titles / organisation etc. with a view to posting it on the Orion forums. Could we incorporate any further amendments deemed necessary then get this out there please ?

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Wed Mar 04, 2015 12:42 am

I do admit my last post made the Theocracy too complicated and divisive, you're right in that.
But as I said: brainstorming. It's just a draft, not a final version of the changes we'll make. Reading back, I'm actually going to discard most of my suggestions. No temple groups. Too difficult for something that should be easier.

Instead they'll be simplified in purpose based on which matriarch you feel the most affinity for. And yes, you can be a priest within multiple temples, it's your own choice. You can dedicate yourself to a single matriarch, or perhaps try to find balance in more Matriarchs if that suits your character.

Progression of a normal theocrat:

Follower -> Acolyte -> Disciple -> Priest of Matriarch(s) -> High Priest of Matriarch -> Guardian of Matriarch -> Runic Guardian of Matriarch.

High Priests are eligible to challenge a Runic Guardian because they have shown more affinity to that Matriarch than common Priests for the same Matriarch. If they win the challenge, they become a Guardian. After the Ascension Ceremony, all Guardians are given the Rune of their Matriarch, making them Runic Guardians. If they lose a challenge, they become a Challenger.
A Challenger may not challenge the same Runic Guardian again.
Champions are ex-Runic Guardians. Before an Ascension Ceremony, there might be a Guardian as well as a Runic Guardian of the same Matriarch.

The Runic Council is only available for Runic Guardians.

Affinity definition: affinity is shown by starting a Runic Pilgrimage with that Matriarch as the first Quest to be completed, or a normal Pilgrimage with that Matriarch as the first kill.

This is core of the Theocracy.
But there are three possible diversions. They run parallel to the core of the Theocracy, but are more specialised:

- To become a Templar, a protector of what the Theocracy stands for.
- To become a Dragon Guard, a saviour of dragon souls. (killing a space dragon releases its soul)
- To become a Pilgrim, an adventurer to live all of life.

then there's the special titles:
Obsidian Guard, Obsidian Pilgrim, Rune Scholar.
Writer, Musician, Artist
These are awarded by the Rune Master and/or voted for by the Runic Council.

Diagram, again. This time without prestige, just the titles.

Theocracy Titles Dto3tmA

______________________________________________

To reply to a few things that bothered me:

Quote :: Theocracy of Kai-Rang, not the Militocracy of Kai-Rang.

The Theocracy is Rashkir in origin. The Theocracy has been a Union war alliance for two consecutive wars.
The Theocracy has multiple titles in existence that reward combat, whether it's PvP or PvDragons.
Maybe not a militocracy, but it's definately a combat-oriented group.

Quote :: Following on from this, the Runic Council should really be made up of the 16 High Priests rather than 16 Runic Guardians (though there should be nothing to stop the High Priests being Runic Guardians too).

Nope.
That is another change to a core aspect of the Theocracy that is not going to change.
Runic Council consists of some of the highest ranks: 16 Runic Guardians: 1 for each Matriarch.
High Priests can become Runic Guardians, so you're not wrong, there's just an additional step in between.

Quote :: High Priest(ess) >>> Leader of a Dragon Temple, devoted to a single Matriarch of choice who has the Sacrificial Rank of Dragon Slayer and has completed the Standard Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang and the quests of Koo-Chahana (Love ~ Popularity) and Koo-Its (Peace ~ Faction/Competency Rank)

So, why exactly does the High Priest of Koo-Pakanga (for example) need to complete Quests of Koo-Chahana and Koo-Its?
Doesn't make sense.

Temple definition: A group of Theocrats that follow a specific Matriarch. It's not an entity in itself.
High Priest definition: A pilot that has proven to have an affinity for a certain Matriarch. A pilot can only have 1 High Priest title at a time.
(Read the "affinity" definition above)

Also, I don't like the "drachenjäger" thing. Doesn't fit in with the rest of the Theocracy.
_________________________

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Wed Mar 04, 2015 1:06 pm

I'm comining from the direction of clarifying and codifying what is already there, rather than brainstorming ;-) . I think we're almost there though ;-) .

Just a few clarifications please before I re-write the first post again.

> And yes, you can be a priest within multiple temples, it's your own choice. You can dedicate yourself to a single matriarch, or perhaps try to find balance in more Matriarchs if that suits your character.

I've never suggested that multiple priesthoods be held? In the original Theocracy Lore piece in the Pardus forums the definition is "•Priest(ess) >>> Member of a Dragon Temple devoted to a single Matriarch of choice." In fact I've never read anything in Theocracy Lore that suggests that holding mulitiple Priesthoods is even possible? It would be a total nightmare to keep track of and demonstrate a regretable lack of loyalty on the part of the priest/ess, wouldn't you say? I think Priests should be able to change the Matriarch to which they give their allegiance, until they find one that suits them, but they should only be Priests of one Matriarch at once - otherwise their list of titles will be ridiculously long: "Priest of Koo-Vayu, Koo-Chippujana, Koo-Waimiz, Koo-Kaj, Koo-Paibisundarat, Koo-Koura, Koo-Kotinga, Koo-Kangenraga, Koo-Sahas, Koo-Chahana, Koo-Adauchi, Koo-Rir, Koo-Hon, Koo-Its, Koo-Kengen and, last but not least, Koo-Pakanga"

Are you OK with the "The Disciple must then choose a Matriarch, who the Disciple must then release from her mortal form three times in succession to the exclusion of all else without taking a pod ride in the process - so as to demonstrate the Matriarch's favour." means of becoming a Priest/ess?

And are you OK with the suggested means of becoming / challenging a High Priest/ess?

> Progression of a normal theocrat:

> Follower -> Acolyte -> Disciple -> Priest of Matriarch -> High Priest of Matriarch -> Guardian of Matriarch -> Runic Guardian of Matriarch.

OK, an alternative progresession presumably being > Follower -> Acolyte -> Disciple -> Templar of Matriarch -> Templar Knight of Matriarch -> Guardian of Matriarch -> Runic Guardian of Matriarch

(Can we finally settle on the Templar nomenclature please ? You were fine with Templar Knight when you did the previous diagram. The traditional titles were Templar and High Templar. I suggested Templar and Templar Knight (since the Order of the Knights Templar was obviously the inspiration) with the addition of a Grand Master (the historical title of the Head of the Order) as the Theocracy's military commander in chief. You didn't like knight or Grand Master and determined warrior priest, Templar and Grand Templar. (I really hate 'warrior' - it conjures up hordes of Zulus, Vikings or Apaches for me and seems totally anti-thematic where the Theocracy is concerned). Then in the first diagram you went for Warrior -> Templar Knight -> Grand Master. Now we're back to Warrior -> Templar -> Grand Templar :rolleyes:

Can we settle on a comprise? Templar -> Templar Knight -> Grand Templar. Thematic throughout and totally 'Theocracy'. I can be a warrior - an untraditional title for the Theocracy anyway - anywhere. I have to become a follower of the Theocracy in order to become a Templar....

> High Priests are eligible to challenge a Runic Guardian because they have shown more affinity to that Matriarch than common Priests for the same Matriarch.

Suggest addition of "Templar Knights are also eligible to challenge a Runic Guardian because they have shown more affinity to that Matriarch than common Templars for the same Matriarch."

> If they win the challenge, they become a Guardian. After the Ascension Ceremony, all Guardians are given the Rune of their Matriarch, making them Runic Guardians. If they lose a challenge, they become a Challenger.

Shouldn't that be 'become a Champion'?

Also, I'd suggest the addition of something along the lines of "When challenged a (Runic) Guardian can choose either to settle the matter by PvP OR by some test appropriate the Matriarch in question" - as we discussed on chat yesterday.

> A Challenger may not challenge the same Runic Guardian again.
Champions are ex-Runic Guardians. Before an Ascension Ceremony, there might be a Guardian as well as a Runic Guardian of the same Matriarch.

OK

> The Runic Council is only available for Runic Guardians.

Ok, if this is how it has been traditionally then it's how it should continue. Bloody funny way of running a Theocracy ("A system of government in which priests rule in the name of God or a god") though ;-)

> Affinity definition: affinity is shown by starting a Runic Pilgrimage with that Matriarch as the first Quest to be completed, or a normal Pilgrimage with that Matriarch as the first kill.

OK, but are you OK with Disciples changing affinity as described in the first post ? By stating the intention then killing the relevant Matriarch? Let's face it, those releasing their first Matriarchs are not going to be particularly knowledgeable regards which Matriarch might suit them best...

> then there's the special titles:
Obsidian Guard, Obsidian Pilgrim, Rune Scholar.
Writer, Musician, Artist

Are you saying there is only one each of the above ? If so, fine, we'll just have completion of the relevant quest securing eligibility and the relevant High Priest / Runic Guardian awarding the title to one of those eligible.

> Diagram, again. This time without prestige, just the titles.

Nomenclature aside, I think the starting point for the Pilgrimage and Hunter progressions should be Acolyte rather than Disciple. It will be possible to complete the Standard Pilgrimage long before attaining the Rank of Disciple and someone who already has the Bronze YSD medal before joining the Theocracy (probably most people) shouldn't really have to wait until they get a totally unrelated title before being able to call themselves 'Dragon Executioner' I think.

Also on the diagram, Templar (hopefully now Templar Knight ;-) ) should feed into Guardian like High Priest does (if Templars are eligible to become Guardians too ?). As is the case now, Runic Guardian should feed down to Champion when successfully challenged, but I don't understand what Challenger is doing in the diagram...

______________________________________________

> To reply to a few things that bothered me:

> Quote :Theocracy of Kai-Rang, not the Militocracy of Kai-Rang. The Theocracy is Rashkir in origin. The Theocracy has been a Union war alliance for two consecutive wars.

I wasn't aware of this. Since it no longer exists as an alliance, however, I take that Theocrats will not be required to fight for the Union in future wars ?

> The Theocracy has multiple titles in existence that reward combat, whether it's PvP or PvDragons.
Maybe not a militocracy, but it's definately a combat-oriented group.

OK

> Quote :Following on from this, the Runic Council should really be made up of the 16 High Priests rather than 16 Runic Guardians (though there should be nothing to stop the High Priests being Runic Guardians too).Nope.
That is another change to a core aspect of the Theocracy that is not going to change.
Runic Council consists of some of the highest ranks: 16 Runic Guardians: 1 for each Matriarch.
High Priests can become Runic Guardians, so you're not wrong, there's just an additional step in between.

OK, didn't realise it was so traditionally entrenched.

> Quote :High Priest(ess) >>> Leader of a Dragon Temple, devoted to a single Matriarch of choice who has the Sacrificial Rank of Dragon Slayer and has completed the Standard Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang and the quests of Koo-Chahana (Love ~ Popularity) and Koo-Its (Peace ~ Faction/Competency Rank)So, why exactly does the High Priest of Koo-Pakanga (for example) need to complete Quests of Koo-Chahana and Koo-Its?
Doesn't make sense.

Well, in a RP context:

1. For the same reason all Theocrats embarking on the Runic Pilgrimage need to complete those quests: they are necessary steps on the Path to Enlightenment

2. Because in taking over the responsibility for a Temple the Priest/ess must have an understanding of nearby planets and the experience of his or her Acolyte, Disciple, Priest and Templar charges.

In a practical context, I took the Runic Quests to point the way to Theocratic advancement, making the 'warlike' quests requirements for Templars and the 'peaceful' quests requirements for Priests. Having different requirements for different temples would be a nightmare to keep track of and probably lead to aspirants being given the wrong information - something which is invariably annoying.

> Temple definition: A group of Theocrats that follow a specific Matriarch. It's not an entity in itself.

The Oxford Dictionary defination of Temple is "A building devoted to the worship of a god or gods."

That's why I suggested that Energy Wells (which need no upkeep and are really useful for shield charging, especially where inexperienced pilots are concerned) be built by High Priest/esses as physical Temples. There would be many advantages to this:

- You have to enter Energy Wells in order to charge shields, so the Welcome Screens would be a great way of publicising the Theocracy

- It opens the door for a lot of possible roleplay: building the temples in the first place, giving the followers of each Matriarch a 'base, removing subsequent e-wells built by 'blasphemers', giving anti-Theocracy elements something to attack (and our Templars the opportunity to exact revenge) and so on.

- Giving the Theocracy a widespread physical presence which could be turned to advantage. Remember the Gurus, an alliance whose members hacked for payment, which was made at a string of ewells built for the purpose? Since one of the Runic Quests is hacking, maybe we could do the same?

- Also, a string of widely spread ewells could be used for cash transfers by outiders, to raise further cash, a bit like G'kara's Interstellar Nexus. Those wishing to transfer cash across the galaxy could deposit it by buying energy and the recipients could withdraw it by selling energy at the other end. OK, there will no alliance fund to utilise for the transfers, but High Priests should be pretty well set up by the time they get the position and can keep track of what they owe to / are owed by other High Priest/esses. In fact, Pilgrims could be utilised to transfer debts in the course of their pilgrimages:-) . The exact details would have to be worked out, but offering this service would make the Theocracy a useful element in the fabric of Pardus (and hopefully help attract new followers). But we'd need that string of ewells even to consider it.

> High Priest definition: A pilot that has proven to have an affinity for a certain Matriarch. A pilot can only have 1 High Priest title at a time.
(Read the "affinity" definition above)

See above. As mentioned, I need to know if the suggested means of becoming a High Priest are acceptable.

> Also, I don't like the "drachenjäger" thing. Doesn't fit in with the rest of the Theocracy.

OK, we'll ditch "drachenjäger". 'Hunter' is very generic, however, and could refer to hunting absolutely anything rather than just Space Dragons. How about 'Dragon Hunter'? That seems to say 'Theocracy' much more effectively.

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Wed Mar 04, 2015 2:49 pm

There's a crapload of lore. And obviously, like all religions, lots of it is contradictory because of multiple people working and expanding on it.
So I'd like to make things clear and concise, as you do, but not throw away a lot of that lore. At the very least use it in some form, and this is where the brainstorming comes from.

My apologies if I came across as vague. I get carried away sometimes.

To reply to your post:

- Very well, just one Matriarch then for priests, but free to move between matriarchs. To become a Priest you should kill the mortal form of that Matriarch at least once, and send the log to the Runic Guardian of that Matriarch, or the Rune Master (if no Runic Guardian is available). He then admits you into priesthood for that Matriarch.

- "Temple" definition was intended for the Theocracy, not the oxford dictionary definition.
Much like how you call a group of dogs a "pack", while "pack" can also stand for packing your bags.
You call a group of priests, high priests, Champions, Challengers a "Temple", led by the Runic Guardian.

- Templar titles... I just threw some terms in there, my apologies. But what you suggested is fine: Templar, Templar Knight, Grand Templar.

- I forgot to mention the Sage and Archon titles. They'll fall in the Special category.
And there can be multiple pilots having the special titles. But they have unique requirements to obtain.

- A "Challenger" is explained in my previous post: it's a High Priest who challenged the active Runic Guardian, but lost the challenge. A challenger can not challenge the same Runic Guardian twice. But this title actually could be scrapped as well.

- Why not just scrap the Acolyte and Disciple titles altogether? Acolyte is an ingame Union rank anyway, based on the fact that the Theocracy was 100% Union in the past. I'd say remove that, make it a neutral thing. Disciple would work, but I actually start to think "Follower" is better.
reason being that Acolyte and Disciple, when you get down to it, are just theocracy members without much special accomplishments. Disciple is a time-based title, which is not very interesting. I also think "Theocracy Follower" is generally the term used already for people who are involved in the theocracy on pardus, no matter at what level. So are you okay if we'll do that?
So in short: make the base rank "Follower" instead of "Acolyte", remove Disciple.
From "Follower" you can be on your way to priesthood, pilgrim, dragon executioner, and templar. And from there you can "rank up" within that specific group.
Follower is just someone who has shown interest in the Theocracy. No ingame mechanical requirements. But yes, showing you have started a Pilgrimage of any kind, automatically makes you a Follower.

- The High Priest title is actually redundant. It was something I invented myself, intended to be the leader of a dragon temple, but I realised a while ago that the High Priest's role as leadership is already fulfilled by the Runic Guardian. This is one of those contradictory clashes I talked about. If it needs to stick around, something has to change. And my preferred method would be:
It won't be a leadership position, but it is a requirement to challenge a Runic Guardian (thus a leader of that temple). To become a high priest, you must have shown more affinity to that specific matriarch than others.
Maybe this can consist of a time-based requirement as well. 30 days of being a Priest, AND having shown more affinity to that Matriarch than others, you are eligible to become a High Priest. Then after another 30 days of being a High Priest, you can challenge a Runic Guardian for his title.
There should be no challenge for priests to become High Priests, as you mentioned in the original post. Instead this is displayed by showing affinity to that Matriarch.
Challenges are for High Priests that want to become (Runic) Guardian for that Matriarch. And those challenges are already heavily based on the Quests. But if time is an issue, a simple PvP fight can work.
I do think there can be multiple High Priests within a Dragon Temple.

- Yes, Dragon Hunters would be a good title for that group instead of the generic "Hunters".

- Templars in your original post are technically then a part of the religious progression to become a Runic Guardian. Templars were never intended that way. Templars are just theocracy PvPers, part of the Theocracy PvP group: Red Dragon Fleet.
They are generally also used in the "Hunt for the Fallen", which is a large bounty hunt for a single player.
As of now, there's not much use to that anyway, so that's why I proposed to have "Priest" of the matriarchs: Kaj, Rir, Adauchi, or Pakanga to be named "Templar", and "High Priest" of these matriarchs named "Templar Knight", which suits your progression idea.
Grand Templar would then be the leader of the Red Dragon Fleet which consists of all the Templars and Templar Knights. The Grand Templar is usually the Runic Guardian of either Kaj, Rir, Adauchi, or Pakanga, and is chosen to lead that fleet. Or, if those four Runic Guardians agree with it, they can promote a Templar Knight to act as the Grand Templar.

Does this all sound reasonable?

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Wed Mar 04, 2015 9:51 pm

[Responses in square brackets]

- Very well, just one Matriarch then for priests, but free to move between matriarchs. To become a Priest you should kill the mortal form of that Matriarch at least once, and send the log to the Runic Guardian of that Matriarch, or the Rune Master (if no Runic Guardian is available). He then admits you into priesthood for that Matriarch.

[OK, but...killing the mortal form of a Matriarch once is the requirement for changing allegiance. Shouldn't more be expected of Priests? Like the 3 times suggested ? ]

- "Temple" definition was intended for the Theocracy, not the oxford dictionary definition.
Much like how you call a group of dogs a "pack", while "pack" can also stand for packing your bags.
You call a group of priests, high priests, Champions, Challengers a "Temple", led by the Runic Guardian.

[Is it that you're not keen on the rp doors physical temples could open or rather that you feel sacrificing a building slot to the Theocracy would be too much of a burden to ask High Priests to take up? How about 'High Priests may build a physical temple in the den of the Matriarch in the form of an energy well to aid pilgrims on their way - but this is not mandatory'? ]

- Templar titles... I just threw some terms in there, my apologies. But what you suggested is fine: Templar, Templar Knight, Grand Templar.

[OK]

- I forgot to mention the Sage and Archon titles. They'll fall in the Special category.
And there can be multiple pilots having the special titles. But they have unique requirements to obtain.

[OK]

- A "Challenger" is explained in my previous post: it's a High Priest who challenged the active Runic Guardian, but lost the challenge. A challenger can not challenge the same Runic Guardian twice. But this title actually could be scrapped as well.

[OK let's scrap it]

- Why not just scrap the Acolyte and Disciple titles altogether? Acolyte is an ingame Union rank anyway, based on the fact that the Theocracy was 100% Union in the past. I'd say remove that, make it a neutral thing. Disciple would work, but I actually start to think "Follower" is better.
reason being that Acolyte and Disciple, when you get down to it, are just theocracy members without much special accomplishments. Disciple is a time-based title, which is not very interesting. I also think "Theocracy Follower" is generally the term used already for people who are involved in the theocracy on pardus, no matter at what level. So are you okay if we'll do that?
So in short: make the base rank "Follower" instead of "Acolyte", remove Disciple.
From "Follower" you can be on your way to priesthood, pilgrim, dragon executioner, and templar. And from there you can "rank up" within that specific group.
Follower is just someone who has shown interest in the Theocracy. No ingame mechanical requirements. But yes, showing you have started a Pilgrimage of any kind, automatically makes you a Follower.

[Well, Acolyte is actually a religious term that was borrowed by the Union in the first place ;-) (dictionary definition: a person assisting a priest in a religious service or procession / an assistant or follower). Agreed that the titles as they are don't mean very much, but attaining them helps new Theocrats feel that they are getting somewhere soon after becoming involved and will help prevent them getting bored and wandering off to do other things. I think it works as it is in the first post - and both titles are clearly mentioned in the chunk of old lore that started this discussion.]

- The High Priest title is actually redundant. It was something I invented myself, intended to be the leader of a dragon temple, but I realised a while ago that the High Priest's role as leadership is already fulfilled by the Runic Guardian. This is one of those contradictory clashes I talked about. If it needs to stick around, something has to change. And my preferred method would be:
It won't be a leadership position, but it is a requirement to challenge a Runic Guardian (thus a leader of that temple). To become a high priest, you must have shown more affinity to that specific matriarch than others.

[My first attempt at the first post in this thread was based on the fact that the existing titles/descriptions as listed implied two parallel paths - the Theocracy Priesthood and the Theocracy Military Arm (Templars). I kinda like this since it means the Theocracy can appeal both traders and fighters. The point we're at already is that when the doves reach High Priest and the hawks reach Templar Knight they can both make a stab at (Runic) Guardian. I don't see a problem with that and think it could work quite well]

Maybe this can consist of a time-based requirement as well. 30 days of being a Priest, AND having shown more affinity to that Matriarch than others, you are eligible to become a High Priest. Then after another 30 days of being a High Priest, you can challenge a Runic Guardian for his title.
There should be no challenge for priests to become High Priests, as you mentioned in the original post. Instead this is displayed by showing affinity to that Matriarch.

[Again this means a lot of timekeeping. Why not just keep it that when a Priest attains the High Priesthood - which will take time anyway - they are automatically eligible to make a stab at the Guardianship? Much easier to administer....]

Challenges are for High Priests that want to become (Runic) Guardian for that Matriarch. And those challenges are already heavily based on the Quests. But if time is an issue, a simple PvP fight can work.

[Well, yeah, that's why we decided to leave what option was taken up to the challenged party ?]

I do think there can be multiple High Priests within a Dragon Temple.

[I think multiple High Priests is totally anti-thematic. Historically temples have only ever had one High Priest, dioceses only ever have one Bishop and so on. Also, having only one restricts the numbers who can challenge (Runic) Champions - I don't think spending a lot of time fending off challenges would be particularly constructive.]

- Yes, Dragon Hunters would be a good title for that group instead of the generic "Hunters".

[OK]

- Templars in your original post are technically then a part of the religious progression to become a Runic Guardian.

[No, see above]

- Templars were never intended that way. Templars are just theocracy PvPers, part of the Theocracy PvP group: Red Dragon Fleet.
They are generally also used in the "Hunt for the Fallen", which is a large bounty hunt for a single player.
As of now, there's not much use to that anyway, so that's why I proposed to have "Priest" of the matriarchs: Kaj, Rir, Adauchi, or Pakanga to be named "Templar", and "High Priest" of these matriarchs named "Templar Knight", which suits your progression idea.
Grand Templar would then be the leader of the Red Dragon Fleet which consists of all the Templars and Templar Knights [Yep, already established this]. The Grand Templar is usually the Runic Guardian of either Kaj, Rir, Adauchi, or Pakanga, and is chosen to lead that fleet. Or, if those four Runic Guardians agree with it, they can promote a Templar Knight to act as the Grand Templar.

[The problem I see with this is that Theocrats can become Priest OR Templars - but not both. It also means that fighters will totally ignore 75% of the Theocracy's temples to concentrate on the 'fighting four'. I want to become High Priestess (and hopefully Runic Guardian) of Koo-Chippujana, Matriarch of Earth - primarily because Wolf is pretty well on my home patch and I could help non-imperial pilgrims with access. But I also want to become a Templar and fight with the Red Dragon Fleet if / when it goes to war. The way things are arranged in the first post I could do both. If the paragraph above is adopted I can only do one or the other. This makes the whole Theocracy far less attractive - and I'm sure that will be the case for others too.

With my suggestions, as modified by your last but one post, fighters can rise up to Runic Guardian without bothering with the religious side hardly at all. Then, if they want to go the whole hog with the Runic Pilgrimage afterwards, they can pick up the priestly titles on the way. Similarly, those less combat oriented can rise up the priestly ladder to become Runic Guardians, then pick up Templar titles if they want to go on to complete the Runic Pilgrimage. This was the whole point - to appeal to as wide a spectrum of pilots as possible in the hope of maximising the number of pilots taking an active part in the Theocracy.]

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Thu Mar 05, 2015 12:18 am

Quote :: [OK, but...killing the mortal form of a Matriarch once is the requirement for changing allegiance. Shouldn't more be expected of Priests? Like the 3 times suggested ? ]

Priest asks for a change of allegiance -> gets permission from that Matriarch's Runic Guardian -> kills that respective Matriarch's mortal form to seal the deal.

Simple. No need to two more kills. Do remember that SDQs are difficult to kill for lesser skilled pilots. Asking for three of them just for a change of allegiance is more of a punishment than a policy.

Quote :: [Is it that you're not keen on the rp doors physical temples could open or rather that you feel sacrificing a building slot to the Theocracy would be too much of a burden to ask High Priests to take up? How about 'High Priests may build a physical temple in the den of the Matriarch in the form of an energy well to aid pilgrims on their way - but this is not mandatory'? ]

I'll agree with that. But absolutely don't make it mandatory.
Maybe eventually we can reach for the stars and get some starbases in there.

Quote :: [Well, Acolyte is actually a religious term that was borrowed by the Union in the first place ;-) (dictionary definition: a person assisting a priest in a religious service or procession / an assistant or follower). Agreed that the titles as they are don't mean very much, but attaining them helps new Theocrats feel that they are getting somewhere soon after becoming involved and will help prevent them getting bored and wandering off to do other things. I think it works as it is in the first post - and both titles are clearly mentioned in the chunk of old lore that started this discussion.]

Let's scrap the dictionary definitions and real-life arguments, k? This is a fictional religion, in a fictional universe. Think out of the box.

Anyway, with my suggestion the road to Runic Guardian would look like this:

Follower -> Asks for priesthood, kills the respective Matriarch -> Priest -> 30 days of time and proving affinity to that Matriarch -> High Priest by decision of the Rune Master and the Runic Council. -> After another 30 days, has the ability to challenge a Runic Guardian for the title. -> If they win, they become a Guardian -> Ascension Ceremony happens 3-4 times a year, possibly less if not much new blood. Guardians get their Rune. former Runic Guardians become Champions.

But now we have to put in Acolyte and Disciple somewhere in there. For what purpose? What bridge of progression do those titles need to cross?

Quote :: [My first attempt at the first post in this thread was based on the fact that the existing titles/descriptions as listed implied two parallel paths - the Theocracy Priesthood and the Theocracy Military Arm (Templars). I kinda like this since it means the Theocracy can appeal both traders and fighters. The point we're at already is that when the doves reach High Priest and the hawks reach Templar Knight they can both make a stab at (Runic) Guardian. I don't see a problem with that and think it could work quite well]

They ARE separate parallel paths.
But why would Templar Knights be able to become Runic Guardians of, I don't know, Koo-Koura or something? With your idea that would be possible. With my initial idea (rename Priests and High Priests of Kaj, Rir, Adauchi, Pakanga to Templars and Templar Knights), Templar Knights would only be able to challenge the Runic Guardians of those four Matriarchs. Which would make sense, considering the role of the Matriarchs and the role of the Templar Knights.

You disagreed with that idea.

Then I pretty much explained how it currently worked: rank up in the religious progression to become a Runic Guardian. You CAN be a Templar Knight at the same time. But being a Templar Knight does not allow you to challenge a Runic Guardian.

So, to get to the gist of it: I reject your initial post, because I want High Priests and Templar Knights to be separate, while you want them to be similar. Presumably because of this:

Quote :: I want to become High Priestess (and hopefully Runic Guardian) of Koo-Chippujana, Matriarch of Earth - primarily because Wolf is pretty well on my home patch and I could help non-imperial pilgrims with access. But I also want to become a Templar and fight with the Red Dragon Fleet if / when it goes to war. The way things are arranged in the first post I could do both.

This is already possible without your changes.

What you want, is a change where you have to do less effort to get two titles: Templar Knight would then be able to challenge Runic Guardians. Basically hitting two birds with one stone. I disagree with that for obvious reasons, especially if the two titles are not even related to each other.

I then proposed for pilots to be able to have multiple priesthoods to make it possible what you want. Making a compromise on my side. Also denied by you.
Multiple high priests? Again a compromise. Also denied by you.

So what do you really want?

_________________________________________________

As for the requirements to attain certain titles you mention in the first post, I'll have my questions about that as well. Especially because the requirements you gave are not really related to the purpose of that title. I'll make a hybrid post tomorrow, combining your ideas with my own.

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Thu Mar 05, 2015 9:22 am

Quote :: As for the requirements to attain certain titles you mention in the first post, I'll have my questions about that as well. Especially because the requirements you gave are not really related to the purpose of that title. I'll make a hybrid post tomorrow, combining your ideas with my own.

OK, let's wait for that. The only comments I'd like to record are that

- I wasn't suggesting that followers had to kill a SDQ three times to change allegiance to another Matriarch - once should be enough for that as you say. I was suggesting that the three times kill should be a requirement for becoming a Priest. The whole religion is based on killing SDQs after all.

- All Temples will need Templars to keep the pilgrimage routes to their Matriarchs open.

As to what I wanted, as stated before that was to codify what was already there into a logical progression (so it was clear what needed to be done to become a Priest, Templar Knight etc) and link these to the Runic Quests to encourage people to embark on Runic Pilgrimages, and to make involvement in the Theocracy attractive to as wide a spectrum of pilots as possible. Each step on the progression should be achieveable without being too easy. I thought the initial 'Sample Career Progression' posts immediately after the first one would have made this clear.

Sorry Solarix, I can see your frustration here, but from my side it's seemed that every time we appeared to be getting close to a resolution you'd chuck in a grenade (adding new titles, grouping temples, multiple priesthoods, ditching ranks, making templars exclusive to certain temples whose nomenclature will be different from the rest etc.) requiring a fundamental re-write.

Over to you now - I've spent far too much time on this already. The code for the first post - should you wish to use this a starting point - appears below.

Code:: [color=lightblue]The following is copied (and amended) from the Pardus Forums -> Player Created Content -> History and Stories (IC / OOC) -> > Theocracy of Kai-Rang, Lore Center thread. (Actually, it might be an idea if all the Lore sections were copied over to this forum?).

Many of the titles are explained in the original, but many are not. I've suggested some amendments / additions. I have tried to add some structure and 'career progression' in line with the Runic Pilgrim quests. I present these for discussion - none of it is 'official' as yet.

The following can be considered a draft for later submission to the Orion 'Alliances' forum. [/color]

=============================

Formerly an alliance, the Theocracy of Kai-Rang can now be considered as a kind of 'unofficial syndicate'. It's main purpose is to provide pilots with new challenges, role playing opportunities and 'something different'. Consequently the Theocracy is open to members of all factions (or none) and all syndicates, though Theocrats are expected to consider aiding their brothers and sisters in Kai-Rang when called upon to do so.

The Theocracy believes that the universe was created by Kai-Rang, the Sky-God Dragon. It mainly revolves around worshipping the Space Dragon Queens (big red ones) by releasing them temporarily from their mortal forms (i.e. defeating them in combat). But the other two dragon types are important as well.

When encountered in certain Dragon Dens across the pardus universe, Theocrats call these Space Dragon Queens "Matriarchs". Matriarchs are the Wives of Kai-Rang, and the only divine beings that can be visited and communicated with. Kai-Rang the Sky-God Dragon rarely appears, mostly only when Summoned by the Rune Master.

Becoming a Follower of Kai-Rang is simplicity itself: Pilots merely have to declare the intention to embark upon a Pilgrimage at some point. (Details of Pilgrimages can be found here: [url=http://forum.pardus.at/index.php?showtopic=65154&st=0[]http://forum.pardus.at/index.php?showtopic=65154&st=0[[/url] )

When this pledge to embark upon a Pilgrimage is made good, either by beginning a Standard Pilgrimage or successfully completing a Runic Quest, Followers are awarded the title of Acolyte.

Acolytes and above (i.e. Adepts, Priest/esses and High Priest/esses) have doors to a number of 'career paths' within the Theocracy opened for them. They may become Templars, charged with keeping the pilgrimage routes safe for Pilgrims, if they fulfil the requirements. (See Templar Titles below). Templars and those above them in the military heirarchy of the Theocracy may become Guardians of specific Matriarchs. (See Guardian Titles below). Acolytes may also adopt the 'Drachenjäger' (Dragon Hunter) titles below provided they meet the criteria.

A Pilot who has been an Acolyte for 60 days OR has completed a Standard Pilgrimage OR completed 8 Runic Quest is awarded with the title Adept (Disciple). Adepts are eligible to become Priest/esses and move on to become High Priest/esses when they fulfil the required criteria.

The Theocracy is governed by the Runic Council, made up of the High Priest/esses of the 16 Temples. The Runic Council chooses one of their number to be the Rune Master/Mistress, who leads the Theocracy, organises the Festivals, keeps track of the Cycles, and guides the Pilgrims on their Pilgrimages.

The Rune Master appoints two Rune Scholars from the remaining members of the Council. Their duties are to safeguard the Codexian Archive of Theocratic Lore and act as deputies to the Rune Master.

All Templars and Templar Knights are members of the Theocracy's Red Dragon Fleet whose commander, the Grand Master, is also appointed by the Rune Master from the ranks of the Templar Knights.

A full list of Theocratic Titles, with details of how these titles are bestowed, appears below.

These titles are in sections in the order the titles are arranged before or after a Theocrat's name, with each section arranged in progression order.

[color=gold][b]'Postumous' Titles, sometimes given to followers who have departed the galaxy (either permanently or temporarily) and entered the Runic Halls of Kai-Rang[/b][/color]

[color=#9933ff]•Sage[/color] >>> Respected followers of Kai-Rang that have been retired or inactive for over 3 months while part of the Theocracy.

[color=#9933ff]•Archon >>>[/color] inactive/retired followers of Kai-Rang that have meant a lot to the Theocracy and have transcended to the Runic Halls. This is voted for by the Runic Guardians and the Rune Master.

[color=gold][b]Pilgrimage Titles[/b][/color]

[color=#00cc00]•Pilgrim [/color]>>> A pilot that has completed the standard Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang. Those holding titles requiring the completion of the Standard Pilgrimage drop the Pilgrim title.

[color=#00cc00]•Runic Pilgrim[/color] >>> A pilot that has completed the Runic Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang.

[color=#00cc00]•Obsidian Pilgrim[/color] >>> A pilot that has completed the Runic Pilgrimage and then gone on to complete the secret Obsidian Pilgrimage.

[color=gold][b]Templar Titles[/b] [/color]

[color=#9966cc]•Templar[/color] >>> Protectors and fighters of the Theocracy tasked with keeping the pilgrimage routes safe for Pilgrims, these pilots are acknowledged to be skilled and willing to fight for our cause. In order to gain the rank of Templar a pilot must hold the title of Dragon Slayer or above and complete the Quests of Koo-Kengen (Power ~ Combat Rounds), Koo-Sahas (Courage ~ First Kill), Koo-Chippujana. (Earth ~ Ribbons) and Koo-Hon (Fate ~ Survival).

[color=#9966cc]•Templar Knight[/color] >>> Protectors and fighters of the Theocracy, these pilots are capable of leading an operation to protect or conquer important Theocratic assets. In order to progress from Templar to Templar Knight a pilot must have completed the Standard Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang, hold the title of Dragon Guard or above and have completed the Quests of Koo-Kaj (Fire ~ Building Combat), Koo-Rir (Wrath ~ Kills), Koo-Adauchi (Vengeance ~ Bounty Hunt) and Koo-Pakanga (War ~ Conflict). The Quest of Koo-Pakanga must be completed by fulfilling the 100 War Points criterion.

[color=#9966cc]•Grand Master[/color] >>> The Templar Knight who is the Miliary Commander of all Theocracy Forces in times of conflict. Appointed by the Rune Master.

[color=gold][b]Religious Titles[/b][/color]

[color=#ff6633]•Acolyte [/color]>>> New follower of the Theocracy of Kai-Rang. Standard title if no other has been acquired. Title followed by '...of [Matriarch]' being the name of the Matriarch freed from mortal form in the course of the Acolyte's first Runic Quest or the first Matriarch freed in the course of a standard pilgrimage.

[color=#ff6633]•Disciple[/color] >>> A Theocracy follower for at least 30 days who has completed at least one Runic Quest. Title followed by 'of [Matriarch]'. If not comfortable with their current Matriarch Disciples may choose another by announcing their intention and freeing the new Matriarch from her mortal form.

[color=#ff6633]•Priest(ess)[/color] >>> Disciple of a Dragon Temple devoted to a single Matriarch of choice. In order to enter the Priesthood, a Disciple must hold the rank of Dragon Executioner or above and have completed the quests of Koo-Koura (Gold ~ Credit Balance -Earn 2,500,000 credits by any means possible), Koo-Kotinga (Harvests ~ Resources / Trade) and Koo-Waimiz (Water ~ Recruitment). The Disciple must then choose a Matriarch, who the Disciple must then release from her mortal form three times in succession to the exclusion of all else without taking a pod ride in the process - so as to demonstrate the Matriarch's favour. The Disciple may then adopt the title of 'Priest/ess of {Matriarch's Name]'. Priests/Priestesses are expected to aid their High Priest/ess in religious duties and protect their temple from unbelievers in case of need. There is no limit to the number of Priest/esses which may serve a Matriarch.

[color=#ff6633]•High Priest(ess)[/color] >>> Leader of a Dragon Temple, devoted to a single Matriarch of choice who has the Sacrificial Rank of Dragon Slayer and has completed the Standard Pilgrimage of Kai-Rang and the quests of Koo-Chahana (Love ~ Popularity) and Koo-Its (Peace ~ Faction/Competency Rank).

There are a maximum of sixteen temples, one in each Dragon's Den in which Matriarchs have chosen to reside. They take the form of Energy Wells, offering shield recharges for a maximum of 5 Cr/point so as to aid pilgrims in their quests.

If no temple exists in a Dragon's Den, an existing Priest/ess of the Matriarch who fulfills the above criteria may build one.

As with Guardians below, Priest/esses at existing temples who also fulfill the required criteria and have a spare building slot may challenge their High Priest/esses for the honour, a maximum of once per cycle, as follows:

- The Challenger announces the challenge
- The Rune Master (or next highest ranking Theocrat if the Run Master is indesposed) informs the Challenger and incumbent High Priest/ess of the exact time at which the challenge will begin
- The Challenger and incumbent determine who the Matriarch most favours by releasing her from her mortal form. The High Priesthood is bestowed on the first of them to release the Matriarch three times.

If the Challenger is successful, the former High Priest/ess must destroy the existing Temple so that the Challenger can replace it.

[color=#ff6633]•Priest(ess) Elder[/color] >>> A former High Priest/ess who has been replaced by a successful challenger.

[color=gold][b]Guardian Titles[/b] [/color]

[NB In order to increase cohesion and prevent the creation of 'cliques', Matriarch's operated a 'fosterage' system where Guardians are concerned. In other words a Matriarch's Guardian will always be a worshipper (Disciple / High / Priest / ess) of another Matriarch].

[color=#6666ff]•Guardian[/color] >>> A Templar or above that has been accepted as the Guardian of a Matriarch, but has not yet claimed the Rune of his or her Matriarch during or after the Ascension. In order to become a Guardian, a Templar must announce his or her intention and designate a Matriarch (which cannot be the same one the Templar is a Disciple / Priest of). The Templar must then free the chosen Matriarch from her mortal form three times in succession without suffering a death, in order to demonstrate the Matriarch's favour. If successful, the Templar may then challenge the current Runic / Guardian to a duel to the death for the honour of the title. The Templar winning the duel becomes / remains the Matriarch's Guardian. If there is no current Runic / Guardian, the Templar becomes the Matriarch's Guardian after freeing her for the third successive time without incident.

[color=#6666ff]•Runic Guardian [/color]>>> A Guardian who has gone on to claim the Rune of his / her jMatriarch during their Ascension. These pilots have an unusually powerful connection to their Matriarch and Aspect.

[color=#6666ff]•Champion[/color] >>> A Theocracy follower that has already been a Runic Guardian of a Matriarch but has been overtaken by a challenger.

[color=gold][b]Other Titles[/b] [/color]

[color=#00cc00]•Writer/Musician of the Theocracy[/color] >>> Pilots that have completed the Quest of Koo-Kangenraga (Music ~ Music / Writing & Poetry.).

[color=#00cc00]•Artist of the Theocracy[/color] >>> Pilots that have completed the Quest of Koo-Paibisundarat. (Beauty ~ Art)

[color=#00cc00]•Rune Scholar[/color] >>> One of two deputies appointed by the Rune Master from members of the Runic Council.

[color=#00cc00]•Rune Master[/color] >>> Member of the Theocracy of Kai-Rang who organises the Festivals, keeps track of the Cycles, and guides the Pilgrims on their Pilgrimages.

[color=gold][b]Drachenjäger Titles[/b] [/color]

(Drachenjäger Titles are always followed by 'of Kai-Rang')

[color=#cc6666]•Dragon Executioner[/color] >>> Theocracy follower with at least 100 YSD kills.

[color=#cc6666]•Dragon Slayer[/color] >>> Theocracy follower with at least 100 ESD kills and 500 YSD kills.

[color=#cc6666]•Dragon Guard[/color] >>> Theocracy follower with at least 100 SDQ kills, 500 ESD kills, and 1000 YSD kills.

[color=#cc6666]•Obsidian Guard[/color] >>> Theocracy follower with at least 100 Solar Banshee kills, 500 SDQ kills, 1000 ESD kills, and 2500 YSD kills.

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Thu Mar 05, 2015 11:43 pm

Alrighty.
This is that hybrid post.

The goal being to adopt some of your ideas. Or change them slightly to be more what I think is sensible.

Also scrap my comments about the additional titles.
They are currently not valuable to this discussion. Maybe when I work out the ideas a bit better, more titles can be added eventually, with you and anyone else's feedback of course.
Especially ignore that first flowchart diagram I posted, that thing is confusing as shit.

Title changes, in short:

- Disciple is scrapped completely.
- High Templar is renamed to Templar Knight.
- Temple Priest(ess) is renamed to High Priest(ess).
- Elder Priest(ess) is a new title.
- Grand Templar is a new title.
- Rune Scholar is a new title.

Titles:
______________________________

Acolyte
Full title: "Acolyte of the Theocracy of Kai-Rang."
Acolyte is the basic title for any Theocrat. You are acknowledged by the Rune Master and/or the Runic Council as part of the Theocracy.
To obtain the title, you must have shown an interest in starting any pilgrimage, or you must have shown allegiance to a specific matriarch or the Theocracy as a whole.
From Acolyte, you are automatically gaining the Dragon Hunter titles if you gain their respective ribbon requirements. If you are interested, you can become a Templar, and fight for the Theocracy.

Religious Titles
The religious titles are for when you eventually want to progress into becoming a Runic Guardian.
The Matriarchs all have their Temples. A Temple is a group of theocrats who have shown a progressively stronger allegiance to a specific Matriarch, with Runic Guardian being the embodiment of that Matriarch's "Aspect". (ie: Koo-Rir is the Matriarch of Wrath, making Koo-Rir's Aspect "Wrath")

Priest
Fully named: "Priest of *Matriarch*'s Temple" (for example: "Priest of Koo-Adauchi's Temple")
The Priest is a Theocrat who has shown allegiance to a specific Matriarch. To become a Priest of a certain Matriarch, an Acolyte must announce this, then kill the mortal form of that Matriarch 3 times, and send the logs to the Rune Master or that respective Matriarch's Runic Guardian (if applicable) to confirm the kills.
Once a Priest, the Priest can switch allegiance to any other Matriarch at any time they wish. To do so, they must inform the Runic Guardian of the Matriarch they want to switch to, and/or the Rune Master, and kill the mortal form of the Matriarch they want to switch to.

High Priest
Fully named: "High Priest of *Matriarch*'s Temple"

All Priests of a certain Matriarch can become a High Priest when they have done any or all of the following actions:
- obtaining the titles of Dragon Slayer & Pilgrim & Templar.
- Starting a Runic Pilgrimage with the Quest of the Matriarch that the theocrat is a Priest of.
- Starting a standard Pilgrimage with the killing of the mortal form of the Matriarch that the theocrat is a Priest of.

It is up to the Priests to communicate to the Rune Master and/or their Runic Guardian if they want to be a candidate for High Priesthood.
If there are multiple candidates, then the candidate who has killed the most Space Dragon Queens will be selected. If the Priest also happens to be a Templar or Templar Knight, then the amount of theocracy-endorsed PvP kills will also weigh in.
If there's still a tie, then a PvP fight between the competing Priests will ensue. But the chances of this actually happening are very slim.
Once a candidate has been selected, the former High Priest becomes an Elder Priest.
(new)If no Priests are eligible at the monthly selection, then a selection is made from the Elder Priests and Champions, guaranteeing a switch.
If no Priests are eligible, and there are no Elder Priests, then the current High Priest can keep their title indefinately.
Priests that are eligible but were not selected, may be selected in a future month, provided they don't change allegiances.

High Priests can challenge a Runic Guardian once a month. If they win the challenge, they will become a Guardian of their Matriarch.
If they lose the challenge, they will keep their High Priest title, but may not challenge the Runic Guardian again during the current month.

Elder Priest
Fully named: "Elder Priest of *Matriarch's Temple"
A former High Priest who overtaken by a Priest or an other Elder Priest or Champion during the monthly selection.
Multiple Elder Priests can be in the same temple.
Elder Priests are eligible to become a High Priest again if there were no eligible Priests to choose from.
If an Elder Priest switches allegiance, they will keep their Elder Priest title.(new)

Guardian
Fully named: "Guardian of *Matriarch*" (ie: "Guardian of Koo-Waimiz")
A Guardian is a High Priest who challenged and won from a Runic Guardian. Or, if there was no Runic Guardian, they are automatically promoted to become Guardian if the High Priest wants to take up that role.

Runic Guardian
Fully named: "Runic Guardian of *Matriarch*"
The religious leader of a Matriarch's Temple. A Guardian went through the Ascension Ceremony, and was given the Rune of his/her Matriarch during this event. The previous Runic Guardian then becomes a Champion.

Runic Guardians are also part of the Runic Council, which plays a big role in the Pilgrimages and Red Dragon Fleet. With the Rune Master, they make up the leadership of the Theocracy of Kai-Rang in the absence of the Runic Guardian of Kai-Rang.

Champion
Fully named: "Champion of *Matriarch*"
A champion is a Runic Guardian that was overtaken by a Guardian during the Ascension Ceremony.
They are eligible to become a High Priest again, much in the same way as Elder Priests. (new)
Champions can not change allegiance to a different Matriarch.

Religious Titles trivia
- High Priests or better, can build a physical Temple in their respective Matriarch's den, offering shield recharges to passing Pilgrims and other pilots who free dragon souls from their mortal forms. the general consensus is at 5 credits per shield point.
- It is perfectly okay in the Theocracy of Kai-Rang to kill offline pilots in Matriarch dens. The dens are sacred and loitering in these sanctuaries is not allowed. Of course, non-Theocrats may react aggressively.
- Because of the relative ease to become a High Priest at the first attempt, but it becomes significantly harder to become a High Priest multiple times, it is smart to not make a run for High Priest until you're ready.
- When a High Priest challenges the Runic Guardian

Pilgrimage Titles
Pilgrimages are fully explained in a different thread on the pardus forums: http://forum.pardus.at/index.php?showtopic=65154&view=findpost&p=1326403

A pilgrim has gathered the wisdom of the universe, and more. They have travelled the far reaches of space to understand the divine. They have completed Quests that would give them knowledge of all the different kinds of life in the universe.

Pilgrim
A theocrat who has completed a standard Pilgrimage in any order.

Runic Pilgrim
A theocrat who has completed a Runic Pilgrimage in any order.

Obsidian Pilgrim
A theocrat who has completed the Obsidian Pilgrimage. This is a secret pilgrimage, unlocked only for theocrats who hold the title of "Runic Pilgrim" and "Obsidian Guard".

Pilgrimage Title Trivia
- Runic Pilgrims act as an extension to the Runic Council, giving advice.
- Pilgrims and the Pilgrimages are under complete control of the Rune Master. The Runic Council serves to give advice.
- Runic Guardians, in discussion with the Rune Master, can suggest to modify the Quests of their matriarchs that need to be completed by theocrats on a Runic Pilgrimage.

Red Dragon Fleet Titles
Red Dragon Fleet is the Theocracy's military arm, dedicated to the hunting of bounties and theocracy foes, and protecting the pilgrims on their perilous journeys. Many priests, pilgrims, and dragon hunters, also are part of this group.

Templar
Protectors and fighters of the Theocracy tasked with keeping the pilgrimage routes safe for Pilgrims, these pilots are acknowledged to be skilled and willing to fight for our cause.
A Templar is a common member of the Red Dragon Fleet.

Minimum requirements to become a Templar: (new)
- Ship class of 4 skulls or more.
- Pilgrim and Dragon Slayer titles.
- Permission from the Grand Templar to join, or in the Grand Templar's absence: the Rune Master.

Templar Knight
A Templar Knight is a Templar who has proven to be more capable at PvP combat.
These pilots are able to lead multiple Templars into combat.

To become a Templar Knight, the Templar must have accomplished the following:
- At least Pilgrim & Dragon Guard titles.
- A ship with 4 skulls or better.
- Started a Runic Pilgrimage and completed the Quests of Koo-Kaj, Koo-Rir, Koo-Adauchi, and Koo-Pakanga. (new)
And at least one of these accomplishments:
- Successfully led any form of combat operation on their own initiative while being a Templar.
- Got the winning kill in a Hunt for the Fallen*
- Got 10 Theocracy endorsed kills*

Grand Templar
Leads the entire Red Dragon Fleet in unity. Is appointed by a majority vote of the Rune Master and the Runic Guardians of Koo-Rir, Koo-Kaj, Koo-Adauchi, and Koo-Pakanga.
Grand Templars are selected from these same Runic Guardians, as well as any active Templar Knights.

Templar title trivia
* Hunt for the Fallen is a bounty hunt which can be initiated by Templar Knights, Grand Templars, and the Rune Master. A bounty is set at any one pilot with this as the reason, and a group of Templars is assembled to hunt that pilot. In general, the pilot would be a theocracy-endorsed kill.
* Theocracy endorsed kills: Faction Bounties worth over 250,000 credits. Docked pilots in illegals. Offline pilots in Matriarch dens. Hunt for the Fallen targets. Theocracy public enemies.
- The Templars were largely created and designed by the pilot Camille.
- Switching to a trade ship while a Templar automatically removes that title from you. Switching back to a combat ship with 4 skulls or better reinstates the title you already had.

Dragon Hunter Titles
Dragon Hunters specialise in the destruction of Space Dragon's mortal forms, releasing their souls.

Dragon Executioner
Has 100 YSD kills.

Dragon Slayer
Has 500 YSD kills, 100 ESD kills.

Dragon Guard
Has 1000 YSD kills, 500 ESD kills, 100 SDQ kills.

Obsidian Guard
Has 2500 YSD kills, 1000 ESD kills, 500 SDQ kills.

Runic Halls of Kai-Rang Titles
These pilots are remembered by the Theocracy, with stories told about their actions.

Archon
inactive/retired followers of Kai-Rang that have meant a lot to the Theocracy and have transcended to the Runic Halls. Sages become Archons by a vote of the Runic Guardians and the Rune Master.

Sage
Respected followers of Kai-Rang that have been retired or inactive for over 3 months while part of the Theocracy.

Theocracy leader titles
As the name implies, these are the leaders of the Theocracy.

Runic Guardian of Kai-Rang
The absolute leader of the Theocracy of Kai-Rang. All other titles fall below him. Is the embodiment of Kai-Rang, the Sky God Dragon himself.

Rune Master
In charge of the Theocracy in the absence of a Runic Guardian of Kai-Rang.
Keeps track of the Cycles, organises Festivals, is the head of the Runic Council, and guides new theocrats on their pilgrimages.

Rune Scholar
These pilots assist the Rune Master in his task, and may become Rune Master themselves one day. Are hand-picked by the Rune Master. Can represent the Rune Master in his/her absence.
They study the Codexian Archives; the centre of all Theocracy lore.

Other titles
Writer: Someone who has written extraordinary lore for the Theocracy.
Artist: Someone who has made extraordinary visual art for the Theocracy.
Musician: Someone who has made extraordinary music for the Theocracy.

These titles are awarded by the Rune Master, with feedback from the Runic Guardians of Koo-Kangenraga and Koo-Paibisundarat.(new)

________________________

EDITs:
- High Priests will not longer lose the High Priest title if they challenged a Runic Guardian and lost.
- Elder Priests and Champions are eligible to become High Priests again if there are no eligible Priests.
- Elder Priests can switch allegiance, but will keep their Elder Priest title. (ie: an Elder Priest of Koo-Kotinga who changes allegiance to Koo-Waimiz, will be known as an Elder Priest of Koo-Waimiz.)
- Minimum requirement for Templars is changed. (Was: 300 Notoriety or 300 War Points). Now is: Titles of Pilgrim and Dragon Slayer and flying a ship class of 4 skulls or better.
- Requirements for Templar Knights is changed. (added the 4 Quests or Koo-Kaj, Koo-Rir, Koo-Adauchi, Koo-Pakanga to be completed as part of a Runic Pilgrimage, and the same ship class requirement as Templar)
- Clarified the special titles of writer/artist/musician.

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Fri Mar 06, 2015 4:01 pm

Hi Solarix,

Generally, the hybrid post looks fine. There are just a few of things I don't understand and/or would like to highlight possible problems with.

- Now that Follower, Acolyte and Disciple have been telescoped into just Acolyte there should surely be some kind of bar which needs jumping over to get the title? As it stands all you have to do is tell the Rune Master you plan to embark on a Pilgrimage at some point (though this may never actually happen). Then, all you have to do is kill a Matriarch 3 times and, hey presto, you're a priest without ever having had any real connection to the Theocracy. (This is where at least one intermdiate title would come in handy - in the original post there were time qualifications and/or Quest requirements taking some time to complete which had to be satisfied before gaining eligibility for the Priesthood).

- The High Priest section seems to repeat itself a lot. I think the first paragraph should read:

<<<
Priests can attempt to become the High Priest of their Matriarch when they have done any or all of the following actions:
- Obtained the titles of Dragon Slayer & Templar. [Pilgrim on its own is already good enough and covered below]
- Completed the Quest of the Matriarch in the course of a Runic Pilgrimage.
- Successfully completed a Standard Pilgrimage (in the course of which the relevant Matriarch will naturally have been released from her Mortal Form with all the others).
>>>

Once eligible, if there is no High Priest in office this is fine (language tidied up a little from the original):

<<<If there is no High Priest in office and only one candidate, then the candidate will be appointed High Priest on application to the Rune Master and/or Runic Guardian of the respective Matriarch.
If multiple Priests are eligible and apply at the same time, then the candidate who has killed the most Space Dragon Queens will be selected. In the unlikely event that mulltiple candidates have the same number of SDQ kills, then preference will be given to those who are also Templars. If there are multiple Templars at this stage then the one with the largest number of theocracy-endorsed PvP kills will be given preference.
If there is still a tie, then a PvP fight between the competing Priests will ensue. But the chances of this actually happening are very slim.
>>>

If there is a serving High Priest already, then there should be some sort of challenge involved when priests wish to replace them. (I suggested such a challenge in my first post). There should always be a challenge if there is a serving High Priest, rather than allowing priests to 'sneak past them' by just killing a few more SDQs...

There should also be a time delay before an unsuccessful challenger can challenge the High Priest for the title again - 3 months and / or completing a new Standard Pilgrimage, maybe ?

No problem with displaced High Priests being given the title of Elder Priest - but why this section?

"If they (High Priests) lose the challenge (against a Runic Guardian), they will also lose the High Priest title, and become an Elder Priest."

There might be no-one else eligible for the post, which means that the Matriarch will have to do without the services of a High Priest for perhaps a considerable period. I'd suggest ditching this.

Also, why this section? : "Elder Priests can not be selected to become a High Priest. With one exception: the last Elder Priest can be reinstated as a High Priest if there are no Priests to take up High Priesthood. Thus allowing a rematch for the Elder Priest."

This means that once a High Priest has been displaced, the chances are that they will never be able to regain their position. Why? This is only going to result in Priests changing Matriarchs and trying for High Priest again elsewhere. Why not allow them to challenge for their former High Priesthood after an interval has passed - maybe 3 months and / or completing a new Standard Pilgrimage, as suggested above ?

- There should be some details re how a High Priest challenging a (Runic) Guardian is handled. And does a successful challenger give up his High Priesthood if the challenge is successful? Presumably they do, otherwise no-one will ever be in a position to challenge them in turn.

- I also think that Champions should be able to challenge their replacements after a certain interval. Perhaps after 3 months and / or completing a new Standard Pilgrimage again?

- I think the bar on becoming a Templar is far too high. At the moment, the only way of doing this is to become a pirate or take part in a war (which may never happen). Templars shouldn't need to have fought in previous wars - just have reached a stage of sufficient competence to be of some use if they take part in future wars.

Rather than

"A Templar is a theocrat who wishes to join the Red Dragon Fleet, and has at least 300 notoriety or have gained 300 War Points during an official faction war.
Acolytes must ask the Grand Templar, or in the Grand Templar's absence: the Rune Master, to join the fleet."

I'd suggest

"A Templar is a member of the Theocracy's Red Dragon Fleet. To be eligible a Theocrat must have

- A Warship (Hawk class or above)
- DC3 and AB4
- Unmodified Tactics, Hit Accuracy and Maneuver scores of 60+

Theocrats must prove their eligibility to the Grand Templar (or, in his absence, Rune Master) before being accepted into the fleet. "

The war / notoriety point requirements can then be added to the qualification for Templar Knights, whoi _will_ need some prior experience of joint military operations. Suggest this amended to

" Templar Knight
A Templar Knight is a Templar who has proven to be both a capable fighter and able to lead military operations.
To become a Templar Knight, the Templar must have accomplished the following:
- At least Pilgrim & Dragon Guard titles.
- Gained at least 300 War Points during an official faction war OR Gained 300 notoriety and taken part in joint military operations on behalf of the Theocracy.

Additionally, one of these accomplishments must also have been gained:
- Successfully led any form of combat operation on their own initiative while being a Templar.
- Got the winning kill in a Hunt for the Fallen*
- Got 10 Theocracy endorsed kills* "

- It would be also useful to cover the eventuality of pilots leaving the Red Dragon Fleet (by jumping into a freighter for a time to raise some cash, for example). I'd suggest such pilots lose their Templar titles be given the title of Veteran. Returning Veterans regain their previous Templar rank upon rejoining the Red Dragon Fleet. Should the Theocracy find itself in a war with some alliance(s) or other, then Veterans can be recalled to the Red Dragon to fulfil a battlefield logistics role (though they might prefer to outfit a new warship and rejoin as Templars).

[NB I don't really deserve any credit for the Templar Section. My suggestion that the ranks be contingent on fulfilling specific Runic Quests has been thrown out completely anyway Laughing

]

- Why not just "Dragon Hunters" rather than the clunky "Dragon Huntsmen (and women)" in the Dragon Hunter Titles section?

- Finally, where the Writer, Artist and Musician titles are concerned, are these title now bestowed automatically on anyone who has completed the relevant Quests ?

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Fri Mar 06, 2015 8:34 pm

Well, I edited the hybrid post with some changes based on your feedback. Smile

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Fri Mar 06, 2015 9:17 pm

Some of the titles, once you've attained them and then lost them (or failed to gain them in the first place) you never get another chance to regain said titles, and I think this is a bad idea. Instead of that, maybe put a time limit on them? A couple months to a couple years if necessary, but I don't think the Theocracy should close off opportunities for its pilots forever.

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Fri Mar 06, 2015 10:16 pm

Captain Bacon wrote:: Some of the titles, once you've attained them and then lost them (or failed to gain them in the first place) you never get another chance to regain said titles, and I think this is a bad idea. Instead of that, maybe put a time limit on them? A couple months to a couple years if necessary, but I don't think the Theocracy should close off opportunities for its pilots forever.

The only case in which this happens is with Acolyte, the basic title from where you start. And Priest. which is a title that gives specific advantages when aiming for Runic Guardian. Every other title can be gained and regained.

some additional titles that may be fun:
- Pilgrim of the Xth Pilgrimage. Where X is a number of standard pilgrimages completed. Possibly, more pilgrimages completed gives you precedence in acquiring titles such as High Priest or Templar Knight.

- Dragon Hunter titles reworked and adding two or more titles to the progression, making them far much easier, but resulting in exponentially more difficult titles at the end.

- As per Camille's suggestion, maybe a title between Acolyte and Priest.

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Fri Mar 06, 2015 10:35 pm

Ah, I see. I must've read the wrong post. Possibly in the announcements forum there should be a post with the official title structure, which you can edit when necessary, so that people looking for the titles don't have to scroll through this thread to find the correct post?

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Fri Mar 06, 2015 10:40 pm

Of course! Once a finalized version is made, it will be posted in a new thread.

I'd say for the most close-to-final version, read my last big post in this thread. It combines some of Camille's ideas with some of my own.

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Sat Mar 07, 2015 12:58 pm

Just a few general observation re the edited hybrid piece.

> - As per Camille's suggestion, maybe a title between Acolyte and Priest.

What about Initiate, the requirements for which are having been an Acolyte for at least 30 days and completed at least one Runic Quest (some of them are easy enough for _anybody_ who can kill a SDQ to complete) OR having completed four Runic Quests as an Acolyte. Naturally, it would then be necessary to be an Initiate (rather than an Acolyte) in order to be eligible to apply for a Priesthood.

And actually, I'd have killing a Matriarch a condition of becoming an Acolyte - especially if the Novitiate idea emailed to you separately is taken up.

The High Priest section is still contradictory. The first requirement includes having to have completed a standard pilgrimage while the third requirment states that merely killing the mortal form in the course of an (unfinished) standard pilgrimage is sufficient. And I still think that High Priests should keep their titles until losing them as a result of a formal challenge. Having them lose their titles as a result of being outflanked by a Priest subordinate secretly going on a SDQ killing spree is not conducive to a happy Theocracy...

The Guardian section says " they are automatically promoted to become Guardian if the High Priest wants to take up that role."

I don't think High Priests should have a choice here. If they decided not to take up a vacant Guardianship then so long as they remain as High Priest no-one else can either...

And we still don't know for certain if Guardians lose their High Priest title upon becoming Guardians. (I think they must...)

Second challenges are serious matters. I think a monthly minimum between challenges is too short. I suggested 3 months. Compromise at 2 ?

- The problem with the 4+ skulls requirement is that it allows Wasps, Ficons and Marauders but not Mooncrushers - and I know which ship I'd rather be piloting in a fight ;-) If you want a skulls rather than 'Hawk or better' qualification for entry into the Red Dragon Fleet then it should be

3+ Skulls AND 450+ Armour

This will allow Hawks, Mooncrushers, Gargs (the serious combat ship with the lowest armour rating) and Nanos but keep out 'toy ships' like Wasps, Ficons and Interceptors.

I think the bar for Templars is a little low now, tbh. Pilgrim is an indication of dedication rather than military prowess and more approprite for Templar Knights (where it appears as a requirement again). I still think there should be some minimum skills requirement for Templars though. And I'm not happy about entry being at the whim of the Grand Templar or Runemaster. There should be measurable criteria that allow candidates to know whether they are eligible or not and, if they are eligible, entry into the Red Dragon Fleet should be automatic.

Templar Knight requirements are generally OK I think, though the The Quest of Koo-Pakanga should be completed by fulfilling the 100 War Points criterion (OR 100 Notoriety plus involvement in one Theocracy Joint Military operation. Maybe the notoriety option could be included in the Runic Quest requirements ?).

Might be better subsitute the word 'factoids' for 'trivia' ? The fact that floating around offline in Dragon Dens is likely to result in being podded isn't exactly trivial ;-)

Finally, I think the YSD requirement for Obsidian Guard should be reduced to 1000, so that the requirement becomes

1000 YSD kills, 1000 ESD kills, 500 SDQ kills.

Why? Because killing further YSDs at this level is just a grind which brings no benefit to the slayer (no further ribbons and the XP gains are minimal) BUT sweeping YSDs will probably lead to low level pilots needlessly failing assassination missions.

Would you like to submit a code version of your piece Solarix, so I can show you what it would look like with the above suggested changes ?

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Sat Mar 07, 2015 6:35 pm

Quote :: The High Priest section is still contradictory. The first requirement includes having to have completed a standard pilgrimage while the third requirment states that merely killing the mortal form in the course of an (unfinished) standard pilgrimage is sufficient.

Hmm... it's kinda double, yes.
Alright, scrapping the "anywhere in an ongoing Pilgrimage" part.

Quote :: And I still think that High Priests should keep their titles until losing them as a result of a formal challenge. Having them lose their titles as a result of being outflanked by a Priest subordinate secretly going on a SDQ killing spree is not conducive to a happy Theocracy...

I will not add another challenge system that will undoubtedly be extremely similar to a challenge between High Priest and Runic Guardian.
Doing this would make challenges less unique, which is not desirable in my opinion.

And you misunderstand how it works. Simply put: High Priests have term limits of 1 month. The SDQ kill count of the High Priest does not matter.

The term limit will always be 1 month if there are multiple theocrats in a temple with the title of Priest, Elder Priest, or Champion who are eligible and willing.
High Priest title can be indefinite if the above is not applicable. (ie: one Runic Guardian, one High Priest, and several Priests who are not eligible or willing.)

This means that if there are two non-Guardian theocrats in a Temple: one High Priest and one Elder Priest, then each month they will change places. (so, for the individual: one challenge is possible every 2 months)
Unless the Elder Priest doesn't want to become high Priest, in which case the current high Priest will keep the title for at least another month.
If there is one Priest (who is eligible and willing), one High Priest, and one Elder Priest, then the Priest becomes High Priest, and there will be two Elder Priests and no normal Priests next month. The best of the two Elder Priests is then selected to become the next High Priest the next month.

In other words: It's a cycle where Priests always become High Priests as long as they meet the minimum requirements. If there are no Priests, then the two strongest non-Guardian theocrats in a temple will become High Priest every other month until the cycle is broken in any way. (ie: the third-most-eligible pilot grew stronger than the second-most-eligible. / A Priest joined who was eligible and willing / A High Priest won a challenge / Etc.)

This gives a fair chance to everyone.

If neccesary, the term limits can be increased to more than 1 month, to make it more stable.

And yes, High Priests lose the High Priest title upon becoming a Guardian.

Quote :: - The problem with the 4+ skulls requirement is that it allows Wasps, Ficons and Marauders but not Mooncrushers - and I know which ship I'd rather be piloting in a fight ;-) If you want a skulls rather than 'Hawk or better' qualification for entry into the Red Dragon Fleet then it should be

3+ Skulls AND 450+ Armour

This will allow Hawks, Mooncrushers, Gargs (the serious combat ship with the lowest armour rating) and Nanos but keep out 'toy ships' like Wasps, Ficons and Interceptors.

I think the bar for Templars is a little low now, tbh. Pilgrim is an indication of dedication rather than military prowess and more approprite for Templar Knights (where it appears as a requirement again). I still think there should be some minimum skills requirement for Templars though. And I'm not happy about entry being at the whim of the Grand Templar or Runemaster. There should be measurable criteria that allow candidates to know whether they are eligible or not and, if they are eligible, entry into the Red Dragon Fleet should be automatic.

Entry levels are intentionally low. To say it bluntly: Templars are the "grunts", the bulk of the force.
The truly capable fighters are Templar Knights.

As for Mooncrushers: Maybe just make it 3+ skulls requirement? This will add in only the Mooncrusher and Blood Lanner. Both of which are capable combat vessels.

"Toy" ships can still play a role. The Theocracy is supposed to be accessible to veterans as well as new pilots.

Quote :: Templar Knight requirements are generally OK I think, though the The Quest of Koo-Pakanga should be completed by fulfilling the 100 War Points criterion (OR 100 Notoriety plus involvement in one Theocracy Joint Military operation. Maybe the notoriety option could be included in the Runic Quest requirements ?).

Why? Why would the "Warrior Soul" not be a reasonable completion?

Quote :: Finally, I think the YSD requirement for Obsidian Guard should be reduced to 1000, so that the requirement becomes

1000 YSD kills, 1000 ESD kills, 500 SDQ kills.

Why? Because killing further YSDs at this level is just a grind which brings no benefit to the slayer (no further ribbons and the XP gains are minimal) BUT sweeping YSDs will probably lead to low level pilots needlessly failing assassination missions.

I was actually thinking about this:

Dragon Executioner: 100 YSDs + 100 ESDs.
Dragon Slayer: 500 YSDs + 500 ESDs.
Dragon Guard: 1000 YSDs + 1000 ESDs + 100 SDQs
Obsidian Guard: 1000 YSDs + 1000 ESDs + 500 SDQs

so, it's kinda like what you suggest, but the ESD amounts are increased.

Quote :: Would you like to submit a code version of your piece Solarix, so I can show you what it would look like with the above suggested changes ?

Click the "Quote" button at the top of the post. Should quote the entire post in quotation box. To remove that box, remove the [quote ] tag at the beginning, and the [/ quote] tag at the end.
Copy and paste it and make your changes Smile

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Sat Mar 07, 2015 8:04 pm

After skimming through this, I find that this is a discussion I must weigh in on... when I have more time on my hands.

A few questions I got regarding some titles:

Solarix wrote:: Rune Scholar
These pilots assist the Rune Master in his task, and may become Rune Master themselves one day. Are hand-picked by the Rune Master. Can represent the Rune Master in his/her absence.
They study the Codexian Archives; the centre of all Theocracy lore.

Since I have guided aspiring Pilgrims and Runic Pilgrims while you were gone, does that qualify me as a Rune Scholar? Or are there other qualifications I must fill? I have no wish to conceal that one day I want to become Rune Master Smile

Solarix wrote:: Obsidian Guard: 1000 YSDs + 1000 ESDs + 500 SDQs

Does that still require a super secret Obsidian Dragon kill? It is not specified.
As a whole, I like this change. I am already at the point of 1-round killing YSDs and I believe it'd be a waste to have to kill 2500 of them.

Oh, Camille> I love your enthusiasm for the Theocracy a lot Very Happy

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Sat Mar 07, 2015 8:48 pm

Camille wrote:: •Artist of the Theocracy >>> Pilots that have completed the Quest of Koo-Paibisundarat. (Beauty ~ Art)

This isn't necessarily true. I completed the quest of Koo-Paibisundarat with an offering that wasn't my original art, but rather a screenshot of a beautiful location.

Subject: Re: Theocracy Titles Sat Mar 07, 2015 9:00 pm

Quote :: Alright, scrapping the "anywhere in an ongoing Pilgrimage" part.

I was thinking more along the lines of taking the Pilgrimage requirement out of the first part...

High Priests: OK, I understand better what you have in mind now.

Quote :: Entry levels are intentionally low. To say it bluntly: Templars are the "grunts", the bulk of the force.
The truly capable fighters are Templar Knights.

Well, yes, I agree that Templar Knights are the ones who should be leading operations, but the material they have to work with shouldn't be too shabby. Currently, the ships of those on the ToKR forum are

Himmelsgabe - Hawk
Nolandman - Son, so presumably Scorpion
Solarix - Horpor
Sir Whoa - Harvester
Camille - Liberator
Captain Bacon - Rover

Of the above, only Bacon's Rover wouldn't make the 3+ skulls AND 450+ Armour requirement - but the Reaper he presumably gets next would qualify.

The fact is that when pilots are at the stage where they can splash SDQs without too much trouble, their ships are going to be in this bracket anyway, so why not formalise it? (This is another reason for making proof of splashing a SDQ a requirement for Acolyte. How can anyone seriously consider a pilgrimage otherwise ?)

Let's face it, if the Glorious Red Dragon Fleet is made up largely of 'toy ships' the only way to beat our enemies is to hope they die laughing Wink

Quote :: Why would the "Warrior Soul" not be a reasonable completion?

Because the "Warrior Soul" consists of individual tasks. As potential leaders Templar Knights need real experience of taking part in - and preferably leading - group operations.

Glad we're agreed on reducing YSD kills needed for Obsidian Guard to 1000 but what's the point of making Dragon Executioner more difficult? Pretty immaterial, I expect, where those joining at Acolyte level are concerned as most will have 100 YSD and 100 ESD kills under their belts already.

The only people it will affect are Novices, if we go for that, who would have a very much longer wait for any kind of Theocracy 'badge' if this was instituted. Counterproductive without serving any useful purpose IMHO. Suggest we stick with

Dragon Executioner 100 YSD kills.
Dragon Slayer 500 YSD kills, 100 ESD kills.
Dragon Guard 1000 YSD kills, 500 ESD kills, 100 SDQ kills.
Obsidian Guard 1000 YSD kills, 1000 ESD kills, 500 SDQ kills.

Quote :: Oh, Camille> I love your enthusiasm for the Theocracy a lot Very Happy

Thanks for your kind words Sir Whoa Smile

.

Sir Whoa wrote:

Camille wrote:: •Artist of the Theocracy >>> Pilots that have completed the Quest of Koo-Paibisundarat. (Beauty ~ Art)

This isn't necessarily true. I completed the quest of Koo-Paibisundarat with an offering that wasn't my original art, but rather a screenshot of a beautiful location.

I think this has been cleared up anyway....

Quote :: These titles are awarded by the Rune Master, with feedback from the Runic Guardians of Koo-Kangenraga and Koo-Paibisundarat.(new)

» A Theocracy Novitiate