The Swords of Justice ((Cobalion/Terrakion/Virizion/Keldeo))

[Vernon]

Note: While reading, it is important to remember that these are the teachings of this religion as they have been passed down. People always have and always will have their own interpretations of these subjects, which means these do not have to be strictly followed if that is something your character would not do. These descriptions are not comprehensive, meaning that players have a lot of wiggle room when it comes to behaving however they’d like as a follower of a religion. For totally specific viewpoints on certain social issues, please contact a member of the Lore Team directly.

Swords of Justice

History: The following surrounding the Swords of Justice began during the same period when kings and queen were most prominent. The faith began in Avalon, at a time when chivalrous knights were not to be found. In response to this lack of honor, the church of Arceus dubbed Knights “A member of the Swords”. What this meant was the Knight embodied what the beings Terrakion, Cobalion, Virizion, and Keldeo represented. In addition, these Knights were held in a higher regard than their non-Sword brethren, and created a widespread change in Knights as a whole. Today the religion of the Swords is a major minority in terms of Religion, and is often overshadowed by its parent Arceism.

Beliefs: While the Swords religion started out as a way to keep Knights in check, its beliefs are sound. For the most part, it shares beliefs with Arceism, being a sub-branch of the religion itself, however it has specific practices that one is expected to follow. One is expected to represent the Four Swords and what they each stand for.

• Virizion, who represents kindness and beauty. Representing Virizion means showing others their own inner beauty with kindness.
  Terrakion, who represents strength and power. The representation of Terrakion means standing as a pillar, which involves being strong, and supporting others in their times of need.
  Cobalion, who represents leadership and wisdom. To represent Cobalion, one must understand what it means to lead others, but also understand how to follow. It means to make the right choices, ones that benefit others, even if it is a self-sacrificial choice.
  Keldeo, who represents youth, and what power it can bring. To represent Keldeo, one must recognize that those who are younger must not be treated lightly, and help guide them to greatness, for one day they can become much stronger than one could imagine.

In addition, a member of the Swords religion will be aware of where the Swords of Justice stand in terms of Arceus’ court. They’re his loyal knights, his envoys of justice. Where Arceus finds injustice, he will instruct the Four Swords to go help his followers, rather than interfering himself.

Lastly, when a follower of the religion comes of age, it's customary for them to travel to the birthplace of the religion, Avalon, to receive replicas of four blades used by four of the Great Knights, all four of whom were told to embody one of the four swords. These holy symbols are to be displayed proudly, as a symbol to one who dedicates their life to the religion. In present day, those who wish to do this is expected to pay their own way, and purchase the replicas with their own money.

Place of Worship: Similar to Arceism, religion of the Swords can be practiced anywhere, but most gather in churches. Arceus is worshiped and praised for creating the world and keeping it protected from Giratina and Darkrai, with the hope that they will ascend directly to heaven, and the Swords of Justice are revered for protecting the world from disaster, and ensuring justice prevails always.