Solarism

Solarism is a major religion that is worshiped by much of Erdesia. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but Athurian theologists believe that the worship of Aurelia predated the Elders themselves, though their claims have yet to be confirmed.

The religion is divided into two official sects -- the Aurelian Solarism and Orthodox Solarism. They are led by the High Cardinal and the Arch Patriarch respectively. The two churches maintain a tense relationship with each other as the scars of the Great Schism are still fresh. Nevertheless, despite their difficult pasts, the churches share their disdain for Aenhesytes, who preach the return of Aurelius in the Elven prophecy for the 'End of Days'.

Ascension of Aurelius
In the First Age, the Lorantine Republic was shaken by a sudden coup d'etat when a slave overthrew the Senate with only a flick of his hand. He was crowned as the Emperor of Lorant, and he abolished the senate in favour of the Hekmonian Guard.

His swift rise to power was a major concern for the neighbouring nations, who saw the 'slave-emperor' as a threat to the stability of their realms. A coalition was formed against the newly-established Lorantine Empire, cornerning the Empire within a small peninsula. Miraculously, Aurelius led a valiant campaign against the coalition, conquering almost all of the realms that declared war on the Empire in less than ten years. When the war ultimately ended, he allowed the monarchs of the realms he conquered to keep their position as kings as long as they convert to Lorantine culture and pay a vassal tax to the Lorantine Empire.

Aurelius would unite the Erdesian continent under the Lorantine banner. His most fearsome enemy, the Elves, resisted his invasions for five years until they were betrayed by Aeovith, the first High King of Anhosia.

His death is shrouded in mystery, but it is said that on his death bed, the sun shone on his body, and the Emperor of all Erdesia slowly faded away.

Overview
Solarism is divided into three sects, each with their own unique customs and interpretations of the teachings of Aurelius. These sects are Aurelian Solarism, Orthodox Solarism, and Aenhesyte Solarism.

Overview
The Aurelianist believes that Aurelius was the Sun-God incarnate. Generally, they follow the whims of the High Cardinal, who is considered to be the heavenly representative of all the races on Merekath. The High Cardinal has ultimate say on matters regarding religion and is the only title capable of calling for a crusade against the infidels.