''The Organization of the Ordo Ignis''

# ***''The Organization of the Ordo Ignis''*** --- #### Serve the living, care for the wounded, honor the fallen and uphold the Virtuous Flame. > >Motto of the Ordo Ignis. ## Overview At the heart of the Church of the Eternal Flame lies the Ordo Ignis, often translated as the Order of Fire. Revered for their adherence to what the modern world perceives as archaic rituals, preserving their traditions within their ranks. ### Branches Within the dual arms of the Ordo Ignis, its purpose is resolutely defined. Firstly, the *Milites Ignis*, also known as the Light-Bearers, stand as a noble order of knights and acolytes wholly devoted to the eradication of all shadows and malevolence. Secondly, the *Sacerdotes Ignis Sacri*, or the SIS priesthood, predominantly comprised of women, undertake the sacred duty of tending to the Eternal Flame, serving as spiritual caretakers across the distant expanses of space. These revered priests of the *Sacerdotes Ignis Sacri* are entrusted with the guardianship of temples and shrines, ensuring the Eternal Flame continues to burn bright, casting its divine glow upon the cosmos. ### The Milites Ignis #### In Your boundless grace, O Lady, I offer myself as Your instrument, a blade of righteousness and a bastion of Your Eternal Flame. Grant me the strength to withstand the encroaching shadows, to be a steadfast refuge for the downtrodden, and a guardian for those who falter in the darkness. May my actions be a testament to Your unfathomable compassion and infinite mercy. May Your Eternal Flame guide and illuminate our path. > Pledge of the Knight Amidst the resolute arm of the Ordo Ignis lies a cadre of stalwart souls, their mission spanning the far reaches of known realms. Tasked predominantly with relief endeavors across the cosmos, they embody resilience in the face of adversity. Periodically, they assemble in daring expeditions, venturing into uncharted territories to reclaim them for sentient habitation—an endeavor known as "pushing back the darkness." Their standard deployment consists of a cohesive unit comprising five to seven Knights, bolstered by the presence of a Warden and a priest, ensuring spiritual fortitude amidst the trials of their missions. From the earliest years of their upbringing, Knights are steeped in the sacred art of wielding the Eternal Flame in combat, alongside specialized rituals that augment their prowess, rendering them formidable adversaries in battle. Within the hierarchy of the Milites Ignis, comprised of four tiers—Knights, Wardens, HonorGuard, and Lords—advancement is earned through merit, where experience and valorous deeds serve as the yardstick for rank ascension. ### The Sacerdotes Ignis Sacri #### I offer my heart, my mind, and the fervent heat of my soul unto Your Sacred Flame, that it may blaze within me and illuminate my every deed. I solemnly pledge to be a steadfast teacher of the Laws and sacred customs bestowed upon us by our divine Lady, to uplift rather than diminish, to ignite the flames of unwavering faith within the hearts of our flock, and to stand as a beacon of inspiration for all who gaze upon me with fervent devotion. May Your Eternal Flame guide and illuminate our path. > Pledge of the Priestess Within the gentle boughs of the Ordo Ignis, where the heart of the church beats in harmony, one finds the indispensable presence of the priesthood; for they are inseparable companions in this sacred journey. It is they who tend to the sanctuaries, the altars, and even the hallowed flames that adorn our celestial vessels. Given their vast reach and diverse responsibilities, this branch defies easy classification, serving as the very sinew that binds the infrastructure of our faith. Their hierarchical structure, though modest in its distinctions, intricately intertwines with the fabric of our Church. At its base are the Acolytes, humble initiates into the mysteries of our Order; followed by the Priests, the diligent laborers of our sacred cause. Ascending the ranks, one encounters the Hierophants, venerable guides who have proven their steadfast devotion and seasoned experience. Beyond them stand the Sages, the apex of our priesthood, entrusted with the spiritual stewardship of their flock. And at the zenith reigns the Oracle, the revered head of both Ordo Ignis and Church, the sole conduit through which the divine will of the Lady is divined.