Breimian Religion

Religion has always been an important part of Breimian life, and the herd as a whole tends to be rather spiritual. That said, both the Umare and Kawaru have vastly different approaches to religion as well as varying practices and views.

## Religion and the Umare

Religion and spirituality are a huge part of Umare life, with most equines not only having small in home shrines, but also regularly visiting larger shrines as well as Nariah's six temples. Because of this, prayer and worship are integrated into the daily lives of most Umare, as well as a multitude of superstitions.

### Prayer and Worship

The Umare hold onto the traditions of the old ways, praying regularly for health and good fortune. Even as more horses acquire shrines in their homes the crowds at the temples continue to thrive. Because of this, Priests have begun to specialize the services they provide, making each temple rather unique in what they bring to the herd.

In-home shrines are very common in Breim, even with the temples so close. They are especially popular outside of Nariah as one's journey to any of the larger temples can take up to a week or more. Most, if not all, homes will have some sort of shine dedicated to the God(s) of their choice. These displays are often simple and small, as not to crowd the small houses typical of the Umare, ranging from the size of a drinking glass to the size of a bookshelf. A figurine is placed at its center and surrounded by items that represent the chosen god. For Argus, bells, incense, and arcane symbols are often used. Cascade is represented by a plant used for healing, a bowl of blessed water, or a river stone. Kaia is represented by gemstones, a small jar of dirt from the temple grounds, or a flower. Alya is represented by feathers, a wind chime, or a candle which is only lit during prayer.

While individual prayer is up to the equine, the traditional way to pray is to kneel forward, knees against the ground. Heads are brought down until the forehead rests against the floor between the knees. Small pillows are often used to make the position more comfortable but are not required. Group prayer uses a similar position. The whole body is set on the ground, knees folded under. The head is again brought forward until the forehead rests against the floor. Equines will sit in this position in small circles consisting of 3 to 5 horses a piece.

Agnostics can and do exist within Breim, though it is very rare and far between. Those who deny the gods or are apathetic to them are not shunned for their decision so long as they respect those who do worship the gods.

### The Six Temples of Nariah

#### **Argus' Northern Temple**

Located in the Housing Quarter of the Old District, Argus' Northern temple is recognized for its sheer size compared to the other temples of Nariah. It can hold up to 10,000 equines at a time, often reaching its limit during the most sacred holidays of the year. It's temple can sleep up to 200 equines at a time, often sleeping magi and travelers alike. At the forefront of the shrine are the prayer rooms, 3 of 6 being open at all times of day for public use. Behind them, the sleeping quarters and a small tea room are located, followed by the Priest/priestess quarters in the far back. Surrounding the main building is a large garden with a koi pond, tended to by the magi. At the back is a large 5 story pagoda that towers over the grounds and at its base a large bell in which prayer goers use to carry their message to the spirit world. It is also the home of Nariah's cemetery and the final resting place of the majority of the Royal Family, it also seems to be a favorite spot of wisps.

Argus' Northern temple is the center point of all Breim's main holidays. The Priest/ess in charge is expected to lead and carry out the responsibilities for hosting the events as well as organize what the other temples are expected to do during that time. This level of organization ensures that no shrine is overwhelmed during holiday events, where services are held for all of Breim to participate in.

#### **Argus' Central Temple**

The second shrine to Argus can be found among the schools and libraries of Education Heights. It is quite small and can only hold up to 200 equine at a time. While the magi of this shrine can choose to live on the grounds, many choose to keep a home close by given only 3 rooms are available (not including the Priest/ess quarters). With 1 prayer room and one private visitors room, only a few visit this shrine on a regular basis leaving the grounds quiet. A small rock garden is located behind the main building with a sitting area for those who wish to meditate. Incense can often be smelt wafting from the prayer room, giving the neighborhood a relaxed atmosphere. Still, it is a popular stop for students seeking peace of mind before an exam, or looking for a bit of divine knowledge, Argus's central temple is almost always populated with those perusing knowledge and education.

#### **Kaia's Temple**

Popular among students looking for a fresh start at the beginning of the school year, or needing a moment of rest after a harrowing test, Kaia's temple is surrounded by a beautiful garden filled with plants and gemstones from all across Hireath. The garden itself has a small pond at the center of it's heart, stocked with beautiful fish that visitors often feed. The temple itself is relatively small, with only a single prayer room open to the public. Surrounding the building itself is the temple's true claim to fame - a small forest whose leaves seem to be constantly changing, as if the seasons were moving rapidly through the area on a regular basis. Upon entering, you are brought into a tea room which opens up into a larger prayer room in back. The walls of the prayer room have been removed, leaving nothing but supports so visitors can view the garden that flows into the back. To the left is the living quarters of the Priest/ess and the magi, enough to sleep 5 equines at a time. Beyond the garden is the shrines greatest treasure: a small forest that extends a good 500 feet back. The leaves of the trees have been enchanted to change color with the seasons, with spring bringing pink buds and fall turning the trees all shades of red and orange.

#### **Alya's Temple**

The second greatest shrine of Nariah, Alya's shrine is located in the north, reaching towards the heavens and towering over much of the city with it's sheer height alone. It is truly a sight to behold. While its grounds are smaller than Cascades, it is the building that awes those that visit. As you enter, a large statue of Alya greets you at the entrance, towering over all that stand beneath her. Her wings are outstretched and wrapped around, encircling those who bask in her shadow. As Breim sees Alya as an all powerful protector, her statue seems to threaten those with evil intention. Beyond the statue is the Main building, taking up the majority of the grounds. A 7-story pagoda stands tall above the main door and as you enter, you can look up to see its vast height. This is the prayer room, where small pillows and mats are placed along the wall for visitors to use. Behind the main building is a smaller one, in which magi and visitors can stay (enough to sleep 100 guests plus the Preist/ess quarters). There is little in the way of grounds aside from the Main building but the courtyard surrounding the statue is large enough to hold a service of 800.

#### **Cascade's Temple**

The second largest shrine in terms of temple grounds, Cascades shrine is known as a place to go to relax. As the god of peace and healing, Cascade's temple is quite at home nestled within the confines of the healing ward. The temple grounds emulate a sense of peace and relaxation, often providing a much needed respite for those visiting the temple. Able to hold up to 5,000 equine at a time and sleep up to 300, the temple of Cascade stretches back behind the main building. As you enter, the large wooden doors of the temple greet you carved intricately with an image of the sea Goddess. They open up into a large prayer room lined with books, shelves heading up into the ceiling of the building. To the left is a tea room and to the right, a study (pillows scattered across the floor). For as busy as the temple is, it is surprisingly quiet, silence cut only by the sound of a fountain that you can see out back. As you move to the yard, you are greeted by a statue of Cascade draped in water, a small pool at her feet. Some lay beneath the waters edge, resting their front hooves in it (after having cleansed them in the small well to the left so as not to taint her purity). Surrounding the resting area is a small garden, colored by hydrangea bushes and spotted with small ponds.

#### **Argus' Southern Temple**

The smallest of Argus's temples, it is the most frequented by outsiders, as it acts as a small distribution center for those who haven't registered for or received a family seal. Its also the most accessible temple for those living in the Commune. Built on an incline, Argus' Southern Temple sits at the top of a long stairway surrounded by a line of trees. It is the southern most temple in Nariah, built against one of the cavern walls and supported by stone beams. The grounds are long and narrow, but large enough to hold about 100 equine on the platform carved into the rock. The temple is small, large enough for only a Priest/ess quarters and 2 magi to sleep. Prayer is done in the small garden at the front of the building, a bell hanging from its roof. To pray, visitors need only ring the bell and bow their heads. There is a small sitting area surrounded by shrubbery and a few flowers where one can relax as well.

### The Gods

While the majority of the Umare praise Argus, it is not uncommon for horses to praise other gods alongside him. Praying to multiple gods is quite common, as each of the gods are thought to have their own specialties and purposes. It is both known and taught that without all the deities life would not exist and thus, each god should be thanked. While this also holds true for Ignacio and his place in the world, he is considered a forbidden subject of which Umare do not speak of, as he is hated and feared by the majority of the herd.

* **Argus-** The patron god of the Breim, Argus is loved and respected by all within the herd. He is known to be gentle yet firm, paternal in how he cares for and loves his children. She is often depicted as an a much older Andalusian type horse in warm grays and pale purples, her third eye represented by a gemstone in her forehead. Almost all Umare pray to Argus in some way, shape, or form, with three of the six temples of Nariah dedicated to their patron god. While Argus is known to be agender with a fluid nature, they are often referred to as male due to such depicting in popular media. Argus is often a representation of knowledge, empathy, and spirituality.
* **Alya-** A powerful goddess among the Breim, Alya is known for protection. She is often called upon when using protective and good luck talismans. At her temple, a large statue of her can be seen at the entrance, wings outstretched to encircle those who stand before her. Birds can be seen perched in the rafters of the pagoda tower and visitors can relax in the open spaces of the rock garden. Alya is always depicted in a powerful stance, to ward off evil. Often she is painted in pale blue and white hues, mimicking the skies of her domain. She also displays a crest of feathers instead of a mane or tail. Alya is worshiped by any looking for support, ranging from pregnant mares wishing for a safe birth to those about to travel long distances.
* **Kaia-** The earth is one thing Breimian know well, as they were constantly surrounded by her cavern walls for generations. Kaia, mother of the earth, often represents life and love, her power to grow encapsulating her definition. She is often depicted as having a coat made of golden topaz, giving the god of the earth the appearance of a finely cut gemstone. Her horn and hooves are amber with her eyes having the appearance of tigers eye. She is worshiped mainly by miners among the Umare who know she holds the earth together but also by lovers who seek her power of growth. Many newly weds will come to Kaia's shrine in hopes she will bless and grow their marriage. But even as a beacon of love and life, Kaia is said to be very powerful; a figure one should deeply respect lest a rock fall on their head. Her shrine is encircled by a garden of beautiful flowers and decorated with large, raw cuts of gemstone, many having been imported from other lands. But beyond the garden is a small forest of sturdy trees, a symbol of Kaia's strength and grip on fate.
* **Cascade-** The goddess of water is a considered a peaceful, if aloof spirit to the Breim, representing serenity and healing. Many who pray to the goddess are healers or those seeking healing. Because the Breim are located far from the sea, the underground rivers are what Cascade is known for; gently flowing through the rock and considered the Labyrinth's source of life. Cascades temple is graced by a quiet fountain where worshipers come to relax and often read. The goddess herself is seen as a flowing spirit, beautiful and gentle like a mermaid. Her colors are pale and warm, sometimes even white to emphasize her serenity.
* **Ignacio-** Fire is one thing all Breimian fear. It is a symbol of death and destruction, of power and sin. Ignacio is not praised in Sirith, at least not openly and those that do are shunned by their families and the herd. Praying to Ignacio is like practicing dark magic; done in secret to summon evil upon those you wish to curse. While some aspects of herd life require fire to craft (metalworkers and blacksmiths being the main culprits) they are encouraged not to praise the fire lord, as maintaining a healthy respect of his power is all that is deemed necessary. Ignacio is not depicted in visual Umare art, as doing so is said to give the deity more power. When he’s mentioned in artistic works, it brief and shrouded in fear.

### Superstitions

Superstition among the Umare is high, with most horses believing that spirits and monsters exist throughout the world. These stories and beliefs are often used to explain things that were once thought to be un-explainable. While some of these beliefs have since been explained through science or other informative sources, the stories still persist.

* The number 4 is considered lucky because it is a representation of the gods (excluding Ignacio for obvious reasons). It is also an even number, symbolizing equality among equine; something the Breim have always striven for. When giving gifts, it is good luck to gift 4 of something and says to the receiver that you wish them well. Multiples of four are also considered lucky.
* Doorways are thought to be similar to portals, transporting an individual from place to another. Walking through a doorway often carries some significance because of this. Doorways to homes are like portals into the lives of those who reside there, and are often intricately decorated with family symbols. The doorway into a theater holds special significance, as theater is meant to transport one to another world. Upon entering a theater, patrons are expected to remain silent, as speaking is thought to disrupt the magic.
* Though rare, twins are thought to bring good luck, and are thought to be representative of Argus's duality. As such, many parents pray for twins upon learning they are with child.
* Conjoined twins and children born with additional eyes are considered to be touched by the arcane and are thought of as a good omen.
* Just as the Breim fear Ignacio, so too do they fear fire and those that represent fire. Kirin are said to be a source of great power and anger, and are believed to be demon-like in nature. They are the source of many ghost stories and nightmares used to scare foals into obedience.
* Even speaking Ignacio's name is thought to bring bad luck.

## Religion and the Kawaru

### Religion

The Kawaru aren't anywhere near as suspicious or openly religious as the Umare, preferring instead to show their dedication to their patron deity with progress. That said, small in home shrines are popular among the Kawaru, and visits to the Temple of the Gods in Sterling are not entirely uncommon. Monks also frequently go out into public spaces to hold prayer meetings for those who can not or do not want to make the trip to the temple.

### The Temple of the Gods

The Temple is located in the northernmost part of Sterling and is built up into the cavern wall with ramps leading up to it's entrance. Upon entering the temple, three statues can be seen towering over all who enter. To the right is a depiction of the goddess, portrayed as a single hybrid being. To the left is Ignacio, bent over an anvil with a hammer held between his teeth. In the center, standing taller than the other two, is Argus, beckoning all who visit to seek out the knowledge they have to give.

An equine known as the High Priest oversees the temple and it's care while directing and mentoring the monks who work under them. These monks may dedicate themselves to a single god or all three depending on their personal preferences. Though the majority of Kawaru citizens choose to find work outside the temple, there are a few dedicated individuals who continue to work in service to the gods.

### The Gods

* **Argus:** Seen as the god of science and progress, Argus is typically depicted with magi-tech parts, such as prosthetics or other additions to emphasize their perceived duality of magic and science. They are depicted as gender fluid and are thought to be the sibling of Ignacio and the goddess.
* **Alya, Cascade, Kaia:** All are thought to be one in the same, embodying nature, life, and healing. They are generally depicted as a single entity, though these depictions are few and far between. When depicted, they are often fused to create a hybrid like deity with wings, fins, and a horn, though they can also be seen as solely a unicorn, pegasus, or hippocampus respectively. Their names are used when in reference to a specific aspect (Kaia for life, Alya for nature, and Cascade for healing) , though most often they are collectively referred to as the goddess. She is thought to be the sister of Argus and Ignacio.
* **Ignacio:** Deeply feared but respected, Ignacio is seen as the god of the forge, volatile and quick to anger, but industrious in his ways. He is thought to be the brother of Argus and the goddess, and is often known as the betrayer.

As there are only three physical deities among the Kawaru, they often use the number three and group things in trios, unlike the Umare propensity for the number four. They are also a bit more welcoming of the idea of Ignacio than the Umare, and though he is still feared and distrusted, he is not treated as taboo, as his fires are often necessary for industry and progress. As such, it is common for those who require his blessings to praise the deity out of fear and necessity rather than a true sense of dedication.

A bi-product of the goddesses' depiction as a hybrid has led to true hybrid equines often being thought of as carrying the blessing of the goddess. As such, parents of hybrid children will often offer up small gifts in thanks upon the birth of said child.