Descriptions and Duties of The Philosophy
Followers of the Philosophy of War believe that War is necessary and
that military prowess should be revered. Clerics of War are noted
for their military abiltity and are often advisors to powerful rulers on
matters of military importance. Every Cleric of War realizes the
importance of War in the resolution of political conflict and trains
others as well as him/herself for survival in battle.
There are three branches of the Philosophy divided by ethos:
- Good followers believe that war is a necessary tool to be used when
other channels have failed. They also believe that War should be
honorable and brief, coming to a brief conclusion for the benefit of all
involved.
- Neutral follower believe that War should be studied and
perfected and used when necessary to maintain the balance between
warring states.
- Evil followers believe that War should be used by the stronger
people to enforce their control over weaker people. War
should be cherished and the state strengthened by it's conquests.
Most War Clerics tend to be Lawful due to the honorable aspect of War.
However, there are many notable Neutral and Chaotic Clerics whose
inventive tactics and plans are studied and praised by Lawful Clerics.
Each branch has a grudging respect for the other branches, even if their
ideals don't match exactly. Clerics of War will often fight very
honorably against other Clerics of War, regardless of alignment.
The Philosophy's Standing
The Philosophy of War is very powerful in the lands of Idellian.
Although King Manchester doesn't actively
support any religious organization, it is said that he views the Clergy
of War in very high standing due to various services the
Lady Sif has done for him. Lady Sif is the
undisputed authority of War within the borders of the land.
The Philosophy's Abilities
Special Notes:
- I tend to give Clerics a wide variety of spheres and abilities to
keep them interesting to play. However, I strictly enforce the
role-playing of their belief. Any serious deviation from their
beliefs results in the loss of power from the Philosophy.
- I don't use the Tome of Magic spheres unless they fit *extremely*
well in the philosophy as developed.
- I generally don't bother with minor access. Feel free to downgrade
some of the spheres to minor access if you would like.
Feel free to alter these powers to fit better into your campaign.
Clerics of War may cast from the following Clerical spell
Spheres:
All, Charm, Combat, Divination, Elemental, Guardian, Healing,
Necromantic, Protection, War (TOM), Weather.
War Clerics are limited to normal Cleric weapons with two exceptions:
- War Clerics may take one non-blunt weapon proficiency.
- War Clerics gain "familiarity" with all weapons and only have a -1 to
hit when using unfamiliar weapons they are not proficient with.
War Clerics may use any armor and shield.
War Clerics may roll for exceptional Strength for Strength/Muscle if the
score is an 18 at time of character creation.
In my Birthright setting, War Clerics loyal to the king will get their
troops paid for by the king as per Warriors.
War Clerics have NO power to turn/control Undead.