Priesthood of Orth

Lore & Background

The Priesthood acts as the bridge between the mundane world of Orth and the terrifying mysteries of the Abyss. While they present themselves as benevolent shepherds guiding souls away from danger, their archives contain restricted knowledge regarding artifacts and the true nature of the Curse that they rarely share with the public. This duality defines their existence. They must balance religious doctrine with the scientific reality of the Pit’s power. Throughout history, they have collaborated with Great Researchers while simultaneously hiding the full extent of descent risks to prevent mass panic or unauthorized expeditions that could endanger the town's survival.

In Their Own Story

The candlelight flickered against the stone walls of the Abbey archive. The high priest adjusted his spectacles, reviewing a ledger of lost explorers. Outside, the wind howled from the Pit’s mouth, carrying whispers of the depths below. He closed the book gently, knowing that some truths were too heavy for the town to bear, and placed it back on the shelf where only the faithful could find them.

Reader's Guide

The Priesthood functions as both a religious institution and a regulatory body for Orth. Their leadership operates through a hierarchical structure centered within the Abbey, prioritizing town stability over full transparency regarding Abyssal dangers. Morally, they occupy a complex space; while they genuinely wish to protect citizens from the Curse’s lethal effects, they also suppress critical knowledge about artifacts and descent mechanics to prevent societal collapse or reckless expeditions. Their impact on the plot is foundational. By controlling access information and managing the orphanage system, they shape the lives of future explorers like Riko. They serve as gatekeepers who know more than they reveal, often acting as silent observers to the Great Researchers’ legacy. This secrecy creates tension when protagonists uncover truths that contradict official doctrine, forcing a reevaluation of whether their protection is benevolent or merely controlling.

Did You Know?

• The Priesthood manages the orphanage where Riko grew up before her journey began.
• They maintain historical records of expeditions and artifacts recovered from the Abyss.
• Their authority extends to overseeing the trials required for obtaining Explorer Whistles.