Council of Archbishops
The supreme clerical authority guiding the faith and politics of the Holy Church.
The Council of Archbishops serves as the highest governing body of the Holy Church of the Six Saints, overseeing religious doctrine and the administration of the Kingdom of the Holy Church. Composed of the most senior clerics from across the land, this council acts as the bridge between the divine will interpreted by the priesthood and the political realities of the human world. They are responsible for managing the Church's vast resources, directing the activities of the Knights of the Holy Church, and maintaining order in a world threatened by monsters. While they claim to act in the name of the Saints, their decisions often reflect a complex mix of genuine faith, bureaucratic caution, and political maneuvering, particularly when dealing with anomalies like Will.
Quick Facts
- Affiliation
- Holy Church of the Six Saints
- Primary role
- Governing Body & Religious Authority
- Location
- The Holy Church Capital (Main Cathedral)
- Key function
- Oversight of Doctrine and Knightly Orders
- Status
- Active
Lore & Background
Deep within the grand cathedrals of the capital, the Council convenes to discuss matters that shape the fate of humanity. They are the custodians of the Six Saints' teachings, tasked with interpreting scripture and ensuring that the Church's influence remains unchallenged. Their authority extends far beyond spiritual guidance; they command the loyalty of the military orders and hold significant sway over the kingdom's laws. However, the Council is not a monolith of perfect unity. Internal factions often clash regarding how to handle threats like the monsters or the undead, with some advocating for aggressive expansion while others prefer defensive postures. Their relationship with the Knights of the Holy Church is one of command and expectation, though they sometimes struggle to control the more independent-minded warriors who operate in the field. The Council's greatest challenge often arises when their rigid doctrines meet the unpredictable nature of the world. When Will, a boy raised by monsters yet blessed with immense power, enters their sphere, it forces them to confront the limitations of their understanding and the potential flaws in their long-held beliefs about purity and salvation.
Reader's Guide
The Council of Archbishops operates as the central nervous system of the Holy Church, aiming to preserve human civilization against monster threats while maintaining religious orthodoxy. Their hierarchy is strictly stratified, with individual archbishops often representing specific dioceses or specialized orders within the church. Key members include high-ranking clerics who manage the day-to-day operations and strategic planning for the Knights of the Holy Church. While they do not always fight on the front lines, their decrees determine where resources are sent and which battles are prioritized. Their relationship with Will is complex; initially viewing him as an anomaly or potential threat due to his upbringing, they eventually come to recognize his unique role as a protector. In the broader world conflicts, the Council acts as both a stabilizing force and a source of political friction. They often clash with secular rulers who seek independence from Church influence, yet they rely on these alliances for military support. Ultimately, their goal is the preservation of faith and order, even if it requires difficult compromises.
Did You Know?
- They are responsible for the official canonization process that determines which heroes become recognized saints.
- Despite their high status, individual archbishops often have differing opinions on how to handle the undead and monster threats.
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