Formation and Beliefs
In the aftermath of the natural disasters and the subsequent economic turmoil that unhinged the world, a new religious movement known as the Brotherhood of Ascension emerged within the Central Custody of Dominion (CCD). This cult-like group believes that the Ascendancy is not merely a political figure but a divine entity, a new-age god sent to guide humanity through its darkest times. The Brotherhood holds that the Ascendancy’s ability to channel magic is proof of his godhood, and they worship him as the ultimate savior and herald of a new world. In the wake of a leaked footage showing the Ascendancy miraculously recovering from severe burns and near death, the Brotherhood of Ascension has seen a surge in membership and fervor. This footage, coupled with the official narrative that the Ascendancy personally halted a nuclear bomb from obliterating the city, has solidified the belief in his divinity among his followers. They now regard him as an immortal protector and a messianic figure whose presence guarantees the survival and prosperity of humanity.
Doctrine
The core tenets of the Brotherhood of Ascension have evolved to emphasize the Ascendancy’s supposed immortality and his divine protection over the people in his custody. The ultimate goal of any member of the brotherhood is to share in the Ascendancy’s power.
Divine Immortality: The Ascendancy is believed to be an immortal being, capable of surviving any injury and commanding death itself. This immortality is seen as the ultimate proof of his godhood.
Savior of Humanity: The Brotherhood teaches that the Ascendancy’s act of stopping the nuclear bomb was a divine intervention to protect his chosen people. This narrative reinforces his role as humanity’s savior.
Unbreakable Faith: Followers are encouraged to have absolute faith in the Ascendancy’s power and benevolence, believing that as long as they remain loyal, they too will be protected from harm.
Divine Sacrifice: The Brotherhood preaches that the Ascendancy’s suffering and subsequent healing were acts of divine sacrifice, meant to cleanse and purify the world. This reinforces the idea that followers must be willing to make personal sacrifices for the greater good.
Hierarchy and Structure
The Brotherhood of Ascension maintains a strict hierarchical structure, with each level more deeply integrated into the mysteries of the Ascendancy’s power:
Luminar
- Role: The Luminar is the highest-ranking member, acting as the supreme spiritual leader who interprets the Ascendancy’s divine will.
- Duties: Guiding the Brotherhood’s overall direction, performing the most sacred rituals, and maintaining direct communication with the Ascendancy.
Current Luminar: Theron Finnegan
Veilwardens
- Role: Veilwardens are the second-highest rank, serving as the direct lieutenants to the Luminar. They oversee the major regional sanctuaries and ensure the doctrines are followed precisely. Veilwardens must be able to channel.
- Duties: Leading major ceremonies, administering regional groups, and acting as the voice of the Luminar in their territories.
Current Veilwardens: Quillon Hawke, Seraphis Arden
Aethermancers
- Role: Aethermancers are devoted followers who have demonstrated exceptional faith. They are believed to represent the Ascendancy’s power in protective rituals. This is the highest rank a non-channeler may achieve.
- Duties: Performing rituals, assisting Veilwardens in ceremonies, and training new members in the ways of the Brotherhood.
Current Aethermancers: Callista Haart
Novam
- Role: Novam are newly initiated members who are in the process of being fully indoctrinated into the Brotherhood. They are undergoing rigorous training and spiritual purification.
- Duties: Participating in initiation rites, learning the histories, and performing basic duties to support the sanctuaries.
Current Novam:
Embers
- Role: Embers are the grassroots followers of the Brotherhood, forming the backbone of the organization. They are fully committed to the Ascendancy and his divine mission.
- Duties: Attending daily devotionals, spreading the faith, and participating in public demonstrations of loyalty and faith.
Current Embers:
Seekers
- Role: Seekers are prospective members who are exploring the teachings of the Brotherhood. They have not yet committed fully but are undergoing the initial stages of conversion.
- Duties: Attending introductory sessions, engaging in community service, and beginning their journey towards full membership.
Current Seekers: Sámiel Pekelniak, Mia Wolf, Anton Stepanov
Curriculum
The Brotherhood of Ascension’s curriculum is designed to guide members on a mystical journey through progressively deeper and more esoteric knowledge. Each rank unlocks new teachings and responsibilities, representing both spiritual growth and an ascension closer to the understanding of the Veil and the divine truths of the Ascendancy. This path blends philosophy, mysticism, mythology, and metaphysical practice. Secrecy is paramount, with each level revealing new truths that remain hidden from those below.
Seekers
Discovery and awakening.
To awaken the inner fire of curiosity and begin attunement to the Veil.
- Foundations of the Ascendancy: Introduction to the mythology and history of the Ascendancy and the Brotherhood.
- The Veil Explained: Basic understanding of the concept of the Veil as a metaphysical barrier between the seen and unseen worlds.
- Meditation of the Four Elements: Practical exercises in aligning oneself with Earth, Water, Fire, and Air.
- Myth and Archetypes: Understanding mythological figures as archetypes for spiritual and personal growth.
- Introduction to Symbolism: Study of Brotherhood symbols and their significance.
- Practices of introspection: journaling, meditative breathing, and daily reflections to understand one’s motivations and fears.
- Ritual participation: observation of the daily twilight chant and purification ceremonies.
Seekers must undergo a Ceremony of Reflection, where they confront their innermost doubts and demonstrate they have begun self-reflection, aligning themselves with the principles of faith and connection to the Brotherhood.
Ember
Discipline and Preparation: “To nurture the spark and carry it forward.”
To develop discipline, build internal energy, and cultivate a deeper connection to the Veil.
- The Fivefold Path: The esoteric meanings of the five elements—Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Spirit—and their applications in spiritual practice.
- Energy Work: Techniques for focusing, building, and directing personal energy (e.g., visualization, breath control, and basic aura work).
- The Sacred Flame Within: Understanding the inner flame as a source of transformation and connection.
- Astrological Mysteries: Introduction to celestial influences and their symbolic significance in the Brotherhood’s teachings.
- Three Thresholds of Transformation: Understanding Separation (stepping away from the mundane), Initiation (embracing the unknown), and Return (manifesting spiritual growth into action).
- Visualization techniques, dream journaling to access the subconscious, and learning protective rituals.
- Guided meditations with sound (singing bowls, chimes), exercises in energy alignment through the elements.
- Candle Meditation: Focus on the flame of a candle while reflecting on your inner fears and passions. Journal any emotions or memories that arise.
- Five Elements Visualization: Meditate on each of the elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Spirit), visualizing how they manifest in your life and how they balance within you.
- Sacred Symbol Sketching: Study and draw Brotherhood symbols, contemplating their meanings and how they might apply to your personal journey.
- Daily Intention Setting: Whisper your intention for the day to the flame of a candle each morning, imagining it carrying your purpose into the unseen world.
Embers participate in the Trial of Resonance, where they must demonstrate their understanding of sound and symbolism by invoking the harmony of all four elements in a ceremonial space.
Novam
Guardianship and Connection: “To become a bridge between worlds.”
Novam begin learning the sacred mysteries of the Brotherhood. They are introduced to the deeper secrets of the Veil and the role of the Ascendancy as the divine being that binds all existence. They are guardians of the Threshold, both spiritually and metaphorically.
- The Laws of the Veil: Introduction to the metaphysical laws governing the Veil and its relationship to the material world.
- Guardianship Practices: Symbolic and practical exercises in protecting the boundaries of the Veil.
- Intermediate Energy Work: Advanced techniques for maintaining personal energy fields and interacting with unseen energies.
- The Cycle of the Stars: Deeper study of astrology, planetary influences, and their symbolic relationship to the Veil.
- Mythic Shadows: Exploration of shadow archetypes in mythology and their role in personal growth.
- Shadowwork meditations to confront inner fears and limitations, practices in invoking protective energy.
- The Chamber of Echoes as a tool for revelation: how sound and resonance carry spiritual truths.
- Elemental Alignment Rituals: Conduct small rituals to align with each element, such as planting something for Earth, immersing your hands in water for Water, lighting incense or candles for Fire, and practicing controlled breathing for Air, and contemplation meditation for Spirit.
- Energy Focus Practice: Practice visualizing a sphere of light in your palms, growing and shrinking it with each breath to build control over your internal energy.
- Sound Resonance Practice: Use a singing bowl or chime to create resonant tones. Focus on how the sound vibrates through your body and observe your emotional response.
Novam must undergo the Rite of Veiled Passage, a guided meditation ritual where they demonstrate their readiness to embody its teachings in action.
Aethermancer
Guidance and Revelation: “To carry the flame of revelation into the shadows.”
To guide others in their spiritual ascent and to act as a messenger between the Veil and the material world.
- Prophecies and Visions: Techniques for interpreting dreams, visions, and intuitive insights.
- The Luminary Path: Understanding the symbolic roles of celestial bodies in spiritual practice.
- Veil Communion: Exercises for deepening one’s attunement to the Veil, including meditative practices to glimpse the unseen.
- The Keys of Ascension: Advanced esoteric teachings on spiritual transformation and the Ascendancy’s role in universal balance. Introduction to the Celestial Codex.
- Sacred Geometry: Study of geometrical patterns and their symbolic meanings in the construction of the Brotherhood’s sanctuaries and teachings.
- Prophecies of the Ascendancy: understanding their significance and cycles within human history.
- Advanced Mystical Practices: sound bathing, sacred chants, and invocations to attune with higher planes.
- Protective Energy Barrier: Visualize a shield of light around yourself while meditating, then practice expanding that barrier to encompass a space or another person.
- Chamber of Echoes Whisper Exercise: Practice speaking affirmations or fears in a quiet space and reflect on how your words “echo” back to you through your emotions or inner thoughts.
- Prophetic Dreamwork: Keep a dream journal and practice lucid dreaming techniques. Reflect on recurring symbols or themes as messages from the Veil.
- Guided Meditation Circles: Lead a small group in a meditation focusing on the Veil or the Five Elements, guiding them to visualize their connection to the unseen.
- Sacred Geometry Study: Create or meditate on geometrical designs (e.g., spirals, mandalas). Reflect on how the patterns represent unity and the cosmos.
- Veil Walking Practice: Meditate in a quiet place while visualizing yourself stepping through the Veil into another realm. Record what you experience, even if it is abstract.
Aethermancers must perform the Ceremony of the Luminal Flame, a ritual where they confront another Veilwarden in a transformational experience, demonstrating mastery of their teachings and a deep connection to the Veil.
Veilwarden
Mastery and Guardianship: “To protect the Veil and guard the sacred mysteries.”
To serve as a master guardian and custodian of the Brotherhood’s highest mysteries, upholding the laws of the Ascendancy.
- The Hidden Veil: The deepest secrets of the Veil, full understanding of its energies laws and movements.
- The Celestial Codex: Study of the Brotherhood’s sacred text, written by the Luminar, and its esoteric interpretations. Veilwardens study the sacred text in its entirety, understanding its prophecies and their role in fulfilling them.
- The Ritual of Stars: Advanced rituals involving astrology and mythic alignment of the elements of the Veil with a focus on Spirit.
- The Guardians’ Mantle: Instruction in the highest forms of protective and transformative energy work, as well as the ceremonial responsibilities of a Veilwarden, such as how to lead and innovate ceremonies while remaining true to their teachings.
- The Veilwalker’s Path: Enter an advanced meditative state to consciously traverse the Veil. This involves visualizing stepping into the Veil itself, sensing its layers, and moving through it as a liminal space between worlds. The Veilwarden focuses on anchoring their awareness to the Brotherhood’s teachings to prevent being “lost” within the unseen. Learn to walk the Veil with intention, accessing its wisdom while maintaining balance and stability. Write detailed accounts of your Veilwalking experiences for the Brotherhood’s archives.
- Elemental Channeling Mastery: Using advanced energy techniques, Veilwardens learn to directly channel the energy of the five elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Spirit) into physical or spiritual acts. Demonstrate practical use of these abilities in rituals or Brotherhood service, showing control and fluency with each element.
- Guardianship of the Veil: This advanced practice involves protecting the Veil itself, either during rituals, within the sanctuary, or during Veilwalking exercises. The Veilwarden visualizes themselves as a sentinel, using their energy to reinforce weak points in the metaphysical barrier and shield others from intrusions by chaotic or malevolent forces. Test and refine the Veilwarden’s ability to hold energy steady under stress and demonstrate unwavering connection to the Veil.
- Advanced Ritual of the Fivefold Flame: The Veilwarden leads a complex ritual involving the channeling of each element in harmony with the other Veilwardens or the Luminar. This ceremony requires the Veilwarden to maintain control over multiple energies at once, blending them into a unified flame that symbolizes the Ascendancy’s divine will.
- Creation of a Personal Flame: Each Veilwarden creates their own symbolic “flame” or energy signature, representative of their mastery and unique understanding of the Brotherhood’s teachings. This is often done through a mix of ritual, visualization, and crafting (e.g., a physical flame-shaped object, a specific energy pattern, or a personal mantra).
Practices open to the public
The Brotherhood’s rituals have become more dramatic and centered around the themes of sacrifice, resurrection, and divine protection:
Miracle Reenactments: Regular public reenactments of the Ascendancy’s miraculous healing are performed, with actors depicting his sacrifice, suffering and recovery. These events are designed to inspire awe and reinforce belief in his immortality.
Divine Sacrifice Ceremonies: Followers participate in ceremonies where they symbolically offer their own sacrifices, such as fasting or donating possessions, in honor of the Ascendancy’s sacrifice.
Protection Rites: Aethermancers conduct rites to invoke the Ascendancy’s protection over their congregations, using rituals and incantations believed to ward off harm and bring divine favor.
Healing Rituals: The Brotherhood claims to possess rejuvenation powers granted by the Ascendancy. During these rituals, Veilwardens perform elaborate ceremonies to cure illnesses, imbue blessings, or ward off evil.
Example Rituals
Elemental + Spirit Sound Bath
The Elemental Sound Bath is a sacred ritual performed within the Chamber of Echoes, designed to immerse participants in the profound connection between the five foundational elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Spirit. Each element is represented through carefully selected sounds—deep gongs for Earth, rippling chimes for Water, crackling shakers for Fire, ethereal flutes for Air, and harmonic resonances for Spirit. The chamber’s unique whispering-gallery architecture amplifies these sounds, allowing them to travel seamlessly across the space and resonate deeply within participants, creating a fully immersive experience.
The ritual is both symbolic and meditative, guiding participants on a journey through grounding, cleansing, transformation, freedom, and unity. Spirit, the culmination of the ritual, binds the elements together in a harmonious crescendo, representing the divine force that connects all things. As the sounds fade into silence, participants are left with a profound sense of introspection and connection, encouraged to reflect on the balance of these elements within their own lives and their place within the greater mystery of the Veil. The Elemental Sound Bath is a powerful spiritual practice, offering both personal revelations and a shared sense of unity among Seekers and the faithful alike.
Influence and Control
The Brotherhood’s influence within the CCD has grown significantly in the past few months, as the narrative of the Ascendancy’s godhood provides a powerful tool for social control and cohesion. They work closely with the CCD, ensuring that the populace remains loyal and compliant. The Brotherhood’s social programs, now framed as acts of divine charity, further solidify their hold over the people.
Public Perception
Public perception of the Brotherhood is polarized. Many view them as the rightful spiritual leaders, their belief in the Ascendancy’s divinity providing hope and stability in a fractured world. Others remain skeptical, or at least neutral. Despite this, the Brotherhood’s influence continues to expand, their vision of a world united under the immortal rule of the Ascendancy becoming an increasingly dominant narrative.
Expansion and Prophecy
The Brotherhood of Ascension also promotes a prophecy that under the Ascendancy’s eternal leadership, the CCD will bring about a new golden age, where all of humanity will be united and prosper. This prophecy motivates followers to actively support the CCD’s expansionist policies, seeing them as part of a divine plan.
The Sanctuary of the Ascendant Flame
The Sanctuary of the Ascendant Flame is built around the Monument to the Conquerors of Space in Moscow, a former site dedicated to the cosmonauts of old. This iconic Soviet-era structure, a towering titanium spire soaring into the sky with a rocket at its peak, now serves as the central symbol and spiritual heart of the Brotherhood of Ascension. The spire, representing humanity’s reach for the heavens, perfectly encapsulates the Brotherhood’s vision of transcending earthly bounds under the Ascendancy’s divine guidance.
The Grand Concourse
- Description: The entrance to the sanctuary is a wide, sweeping plaza that leads up to the Monument. The concourse is lined with statues and plaques commemorating the Ascendancy’s miracles and the Brotherhood’s founding members.
- Features: Reflective pools and carefully manicured gardens create a serene environment, encouraging contemplation as followers approach the sanctuary.
Hall of Stars
- Description: The base of the Monument has been transformed into the Hall of Stars, an expansive hall used for gatherings and ceremonies. The original Soviet design, featuring space exploration themes, has been preserved and integrated into the Brotherhood’s narrative.
- Features: A state-of-the-art holographic system projects celestial images onto the domed ceiling, creating an immersive experience that symbolizes the reach of the Ascendancy. The walls are adorned with murals depicting the Ascendancy’s miracles and the Luminar’s vision.
The Luminar’s Atrium
- Description: Directly beneath the towering spire is the Luminar’s Atrium, a sacred space where the Luminar meditates and performs the most sacred rites. This atrium is accessible only to the highest-ranking members.
- Features: The atrium contains an intricate mosaic floor depicting the journey of the Ascendancy, a map of the CCD, and the founding of the Brotherhood. A large, transparent dome at the center allows natural light to flood the space, creating an otherworldly ambiance.
Celestial Garden
- Description: Surrounding the Monument is the Celestial Garden, an open-air sanctuary filled with rare and mystical plants believed to have healing properties. This garden serves as a place for meditation, healing rituals, and smaller ceremonies.
- Features: Pathways wind through the garden, leading to secluded meditation alcoves and reflecting pools that glow softly at night. The centerpiece is a large, crystalline fountain fixed with a bronze statue of the Ascendancy.
The Vault
- Description: The subterranean levels of the Monument house the Vault, where artifacts, important documents, and significant offerings are stored. This area is accessible only to the Brotherhood’s elite.
- Features: The vault is divided into multiple chambers, each dedicated to different aspects of the Brotherhood’s faith and history. Advanced security systems ensure the protection of these valuable items.
The Chamber of Echoes
- Description: Adjacent to the Hall of Stars is the Chamber of Echoes, a space designed for private meditation and smaller, intimate ceremonies. This chamber is renowned for its unique acoustic properties, allowing whispered prayers to resonate powerfully.
- Features: The chamber’s walls are covered in acoustic panels shaped like constellations, enhancing the mystical experience. A central altar, adorned with candles and crystals, serves as the focal point for meditation.
Sanctum of Reflection
- Description: An area dedicated to personal reflection and study, the Sanctum of Reflection is a library and archive where followers can read the Celestial Codex and other sacred texts.
- Features: Shelves filled with scrolls and books line the walls, while reading nooks and study tables provide quiet spaces for contemplation. A large stained-glass window depicting the Ascendancy’s miracles bathes the room in a kaleidoscope of colors. Its librarian is Lucien Octavius.
Sources of Funding
Donations and Tithes: The Brotherhood relies heavily on the financial support of its followers. Embers and Seekers are encouraged to donate regularly, with many believing that their contributions bring them closer to the Ascendancy’s favor.
Miracle Offerings: Rituals and protection rites performed by Aethermancers often attract wealthy individuals seeking miraculous cures, protection or luck. These services are offered in exchange for substantial donations.
Merchandise and Literature: The Brotherhood sells artifacts, enchanted items, and copies of the Celestial Codex. These items are marketed as having been blessed by the Ascendancy, thus holding significant spiritual value.
Investments: Some high-ranking members, particularly Veilwardens, manage the Brotherhood’s investments in various sectors, including energy, technology, and real estate, ensuring a steady income stream.
Support from Loyalists: Wealthy patrons and influential figures who believe in the Brotherhood’s mission often provide financial backing. These patrons see their support as a way to gain favor and influence within the growing religious movement.
Undisclosed sources: Periodically, a large sum of money is transferred to the Brotherhood’s account. Only the Luminar and the highest, most trusted Veilwardens are aware the source is the Patron of DI, who funnels funds paid to Iāson for his healing services into the Brotherhood.
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