The Ishtari

The Ishtari is a mystical religion of monks in Ashar and Ossea. The Ishtari's mystic warriors train for decades to hone body and mind through meditation, studying and combat. Monks of the Ishtari seek enlightenment and transcendence through might and magic.
The Isthari are followers of the Third Path, which teaches inner peace, tranquility and harmony with nature.
== History ==
== Culture ==
The Ishtari believe that to transcend the shackles of the mortal realm one must first give up all mortal possessions and desires. To the Ishtari, life and death, light and darkness are mere illusions. They believe that the observable reality is a limited perspective, and that through meditation and training one can enter altered states of consciousness, defy the laws of reality and transcend the dimensions of existence. In Ishtari teaching the body is merely an extension of the mind, and by reinforcing the mind the body can defy its constraints. Ishtari have been known to have increased longevity, mastery over fire and enhanced healing due to these practices and rituals.
There are three dharmas that dictate the Ishtari's principles and tenets. The three dharmas are strength of spirit, mind over matter and force of will. The Ishtari teach that through strength, mind and will, all doors can be opened and all chains can be broken.
The Ishtari believe that emotions weaken one's will and purpose. Only through stoicism and conviction can fear, anger and longing be overcome. Because of this, romantic relations are strictly forbidden by the Ishtari.
== Organization ==
Ishtari monks are recruited at a young age, from between six and twelve. Once they are recruited, the children are trained and educated in the Ishtari way.
== Ranks ==
* Monk
* Sage
* Cenobite
* Ascetic
* Mystic
* Awoked Eye
* Enlightened One