The Matriarch (High Priestess)

Role: The Matriarch is the supreme leader of Midorihama’s faith, often believed to be chosen by the goddess herself. She serves as the spiritual guide for all followers, interpreting the will of Midorihama and leading the faith with wisdom and authority.

Duties:

• Oversee all temples and religious practices dedicated to Midorihama across Shenyun.

• Lead major rituals and ceremonies, especially those related to fertility, sorcery, and significant family events.

• Act as the chief advisor to rulers and influential families regarding matters of fate, sorcery, and divine favor.

• Maintain the sacred teachings and oversee the training of new priestesses and priests.

Symbol: A golden staff topped with the symbol of a lotus flower entwined with a snake.

The Serpent Guardians (High Priests/Priestesses)

Role: The Serpent Guardians are the leaders of major temples and regions, acting as protectors and enforcers of Midorihama’s will. They are well-versed in both divine and arcane knowledge, serving as mentors to the clergy and the community.

Duties:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of their temples, ensuring the proper conduct of rituals and teachings.

• Lead community rituals related to family, fertility, and sorcery, as well as serve as intermediaries between the goddess and her followers.

• Train and initiate new members of the clergy, particularly in the ways of sorcery and divine magic.

• Provide protection and guidance to those who seek Midorihama’s favor, particularly in times of crisis or uncertainty.

Symbol: A silver serpent coiled around a lotus stem, often worn as a pendant or carried as a staff.

The Weavers of Fate (Priests/Priestesses)

Role: The Weavers of Fate are the primary clergy members who interact directly with the community. They are responsible for performing daily rituals, offering guidance, and spreading the teachings of Midorihama.

Duties:

• Conduct daily prayers and rituals, focusing on fertility, family harmony, and the proper use of sorcery.

• Offer blessings and guidance to families, particularly during births, marriages, and other significant life events.

• Educate the community on the importance of balance in sorcery and the significance of serpents in Midorihama’s teachings.

• Maintain the temple and its sacred spaces, ensuring that all who enter feel the presence of Midorihama.

Symbol: A simple silver ring or bracelet with a serpent motif, representing their role as weavers of destiny.

The Coilbearers (Acolytes/Initiates)

Role: Coilbearers are the novices and apprentices within the faith. They are in training to become full priests or priestesses, learning the sacred rites, arcane practices, and the deeper mysteries of Midorihama.

Duties:

• Assist in temple duties, including the preparation of rituals, maintenance of sacred spaces, and tending to the needs of the community.

• Study the sacred texts, magical practices, and the lore of serpents and fertility.

• Participate in minor rituals and begin their practice of divine magic under the guidance of more experienced clergy.

• Serve as messengers and attendants to the Serpent Guardians and the Matriarch.

Symbol: A small, coiled snake emblem, often worn as a brooch or carried as a charm, symbolizing their journey towards full understanding and mastery.

The Devoted (Lay Worshippers)

Role: The Devoted are the everyday followers of Midorihama who integrate her teachings into their daily lives. They may not hold formal positions within the clergy but are dedicated to honoring the goddess through their actions.

Duties:

• Participate in communal rituals, festivals, and ceremonies dedicated to Midorihama.

• Honor the sacredness of family, fertility, and the wisdom of serpents in their personal and communal lives.

• Support the temple through offerings, service, or the practice of sorcery in line with Midorihama’s teachings.

• Spread the teachings of Midorihama, emphasizing the importance of balance, family, and the power of sorcery.

Symbol: A simple piece of jewelry, such as a ring or necklace, featuring the lotus and snake motif, representing their devotion to Midorihama.