Volupta

Volupta follows the goddess Ariana, once known under the guise of Grendafel, and the tenants of desire. At its core it is a community-based religion that, like their goddess, doesn't actively seek to convert so much as provide space and service for all who seek it. It is focused on fostering and encouraging desire in others and themselves. Desire is understood to be the want of anything. In this way, every person has desires, everyone wants something, no matter how big or how small. Volupta exists to help people see this in themselves and, in some cases, to pursue these desires. It is, however, never expected that a member of the religion fulfills the desires of another. That is more the realm of Wish and there is belief that the desire in and of itself is more important than the gratification. Volupta is typically accepting and promotes diversity and inclusion. It seeks to be a safe space for all, often offering its temple halls as refuge for many in times of need. This could be seen as self-serving as those in need typically harbour many desires, even ones so basic as for safety and peace.

Gold, Crimson, Lavender. The scent of honeysuckle and lilac. A dagger.

Ariandor

None known

We do not moralize. While acting on desires can have moral or ethical implications, the having of desires is neutral. We do not judge those desires though we may steer some away from acting upon them. - We do not betray trust. Desires are deeply personal. We are the holders of this knowledge for those who entrust us. - The having of desire is to be encouraged. Fan the flames of desires you identify in others whenever it is safe to do so. - Obtain enthusiastic consent when taking actions with others. This falls under the same realm as trust. - Want. Desire. Deeply and unceasingly.

Volupta was once the religion of Grendafel, who, historically, did not actively seek followers. The creation of the temple was the result of the ambitions of Arezou and her interactions with the goddess Grendafel over a long period of time. Initially, Arezou was an accomplished mage, even as she sought to represent Grendafel and a fledgeling religion. This changed after an unfortunate turn in a battle took Arezou's life. Grendafel rebuilt the hanyou's body, changing only the woman's wings, and Arezou turned her skills to embracing divine magic. She also turned her attention more fully to Volupta and the construction of a temple.

Since that time, the religion has had a few different leaders, though it often ends up back in Arezou's hands. Grendafel is, as is her tendency, a distant goddess and does not typically change that aspect for Volupta or the temple, though she does make her presence known when she deems it necessary. There is much growth to be had by Volupta as it settles into a niche of its own making. When Grendafel shed her mask and revealed herself as Ariana, the Goddess of old, little changed in the religion, their purpose still set.

Volupta has no overt alliances, though they have also avoided cultivating any enemies.

Joining Volupta is a relatively simple process. Once one shows interest, they can speak with any member to get more knowledge. If they confirm they would like to join, the are brought into the religion on a trial period.

Desire is paramount. As such, common forms of worship include indulging in one's desires, sparking desire in others or fanning those flames, and placing objects of desire at altars at the temple or other places of worship.

Volupta is also prone to throwing gatherings and parties where various common subjects of desire are available. This can be broad and include things like food, drink, sex, gambling, and comfort, or it can be more specific such as book clubs for knowledge and social desires and other such activities.

within the religion are still being tweaked however some roles are clearly defined.

Deva - The leadership role within Volupta. Confessors - They listen to the desires of others. They may also offer advice if sought, but their primary role is to listen. Acolytes - These are general members. They have few direct responsibilities but may assist where needed. Initiates - New members in their trial period.

Joining Volupta is a relatively simple process. Once one shows interest, they can speak with any member to get more knowledge. If they confirm they would like to join, the are brought into the religion on a trial period. This is a time meant to get to know other members and to learn more about Volupta, Desire, and Ariana. At the same time, the Initiate will be observed and members are to get to know them. This time period differs per individual. If they believe Volupta is a good fit for them and Volupta feels the same, then they are promoted to an Acolyte. If either party does not feel this is a good fit, then the membership is ended with no expectations or penalties.

Members are free to leave at any time of their own free will, after all, not desiring to be in a religion of desire tends not to work out well. Any conflicts or missteps by members are sought to be resolved and remedied within the religion, but if the occurrence happens repeatedly and with frequency, or if the initial occurrence was egregious enough, members can be removed by senior ranks.