11.2 Divine Orders
(See also: HELP GODS, HELP OFFERINGS, HELP SHRINES) The most important and special way in which a mortal may interact with a God is by pledging his or her life to the God. This is done by joining the God's Divine Order. An honour not to be taken lightly, this is accomplished by speaking with the relevant God and establishing a rapport with him or her first. Eventually you may feel that you are worthy of following this God, and ask for acceptance into his or her Order. On the other hand, the God may first decide that you would make a good addition to his or her Order, and invite you in. You are, of course, free to refuse, but understand that everything in life has consequences, be they trivial or large. What Is A Divine Order? ----------------------- Orders are groups of adventurers of Achaea who have formally declared their worship of, and dedication to, a particular Deity. Most, but by no means all Immortals of Achaea have Divine Orders. HELP GODS lists the Gods whose Orders you may wish to learn more about. Also make sure to check HELP <godname> for additional information about individual Gods. Finding and Joining an Order ---------------------------- There is no single manner of finding or joining a Divine Order. Perhaps you simply need to seek out a member of the Order and ask. Some Divines require that you diligently seek a special place, such as a temple or Holy Grove. There may be quests or trials to undertake. What's Good About Membership? ----------------------------- Many find membership in a God's Order to be one of the most important parts of their experience in Achaea. Membership gives a sense of belonging, and a sense of being watched over by a Deity who is sympathetic to you, and whose involvement may prove vital to success in the realms. Leaving A Divine Order ---------------------- Membership in a Divine Order is not an irrevocable decision. You can RENOUNCE PATRON to leave a Divine Order, though you should consider this decision carefully before making it. Ranks ----- A Divine Order may have as many as ten ranks, in addition to the position of Order Head. Your God grants or withholds promotion based solely on whatever criteria He or She may choose. It is considered extremely rude to ask for a promotion. Each Order rank carries with it its own special powers, from viewing a list of the enemies of your Order to calling down the wrath of the Gods upon them. ORDER PRIVILEGES (or just ORDER PRIVS) will show you your order-related commands. See HELP SHRINES for more on this. Lay Membership -------------- Orders have the option to use lay membership to formally mark adventurers who are pursuing that particular Order. This designation does not come with a communication channel or newsboard; most Orders have clans for this purpose. You may RENOUNCE LAY MEMBERSHIP if you no longer wish to be considered a lay member. (See also: HELP GODS, HELP OFFERINGS, HELP SHRINES)