Codex: Stormguard

A neo-pagan religion whose roots can largely be traced to Terra, the Stormguard are best described as a warrior-cult. They advertise themselves as dedicated to honor, prowess, and a connection to nature, wherein they believe the gods lie.

Stormguard priests teach that holiness is found in one's strength. Because of their eagerness to prove their prowess, Stormguard have developed something of a mercenary reputation on the frontier, as they are commonly hired on as muscle by private security and planet rusher groups. Those who do not venture into the void in search of battles are often found on the most hostile and storm-wracked planets in the galaxy, which they view as being the closest places to their mercurial gods.

The most prominent Stormguard temples are found on the Venusian colonies, in the Taizen system, and on the moon Uveto VII . Unlike many modern religions, the stormguard make their temples like homes (or perhaps more accurately, like castles), with dozens of members living and training within them at any one time. In addition to religious instruction, Stormguard temples provide combat and survival training.

Some errant warriors, called Storm Lancers, travel on the frontier in search of worthy foes to prove themselves against in honorable duels. Others join adventuring companies or mercenary units for the same reasons, eager to see the most dangerous places of the galaxy.

History

The Stormguard were formed sometime before the current era of Planet Rushes, with the earliest references to their culture dating back to around the time of humanity's First Contact with the ausar and other pre-Confederacy races. Along with the Church of One and several other early human religions, the Stormguard spread quickly across the galaxy, though limited by their small numbers and comparatively few resources.

The Stormguard of Uveto in particular are a hardy faction, having established themselves before the full corporate takeover of the world. Ever since the Camarilla and other corporate interests have taken control of the planet, the Stormguard temple there has fought tooth and nail within the legal system, exploiting religious protection acts to prevent their eviction from the frosty world. Lucky for them, they've created a symbiotic relationship with the ausar colony on Uveto, acting as scouts, guides, and beast-hunters for the otherwise pacifistic inhabitants.