Spirit of Competition

Challengers of Marishi

The spirit of competition lives within hearts of many. It takes form in the spiritual plane by one of the many Empyreal Lords. Athletes, Fighters, and even less physical competition are the purview of Marishi, the Empyreal Lord of athletics, contests, and sports. Today we look at three possible sects of this powerful azata.

As always, let us imagine we are sitting at our theoretical gaming table. Our imaginary GM sets out the rules for the game that we will play. In this game, we are to make a follower of Marishi. The character does not need to be a divine caster, just a devotee of The Festival Queen. What character do you make?

For more information on Marishi

Marishi’s Pathfinder Wiki Page 

Marishi’s Archives of Nethys Page 

The Competitors

Some compete in the events at the Serpent’s Run. Others fight for blood in the town of Arena in the Shackles. However, every true competitor knows that the real sport is among The Competitors. Only the best competitors will be accepted into the sect and only those who are in it for the competition and not the glory.

The sect has scouts that travel to every arena and colosseum on Golarion. Prospective members are scouted for days or even weeks and then the scout personally tests them in competition. In arenas where the would-be member is a slave, the scout will stage a rescue if he believes the competitor is worth it.

The Stirrup Born

The Shaonti tend to worship the spirits of nature and their ancestors, but some choose one of the many divine beings of their world as a patron. Among the horsemen of the Cinderlands there is a group of riders who have dedicated themselves to Marishi. The Stirrup Born are in constant contest to determine who is best in the saddle.

Members of this small sect within the Shaonti Horseman are usually young and bold. They are chosen by former members purely for the need to test their skill against them. Rank within the sect is determined by the contests that the riders perform in. Although not all are bonded in some way to their horse,  many members of this sect are ranger, druids, or cavaliers.

The Apex Court

Not all competition is physical. Within the halls of the Taldan nobility many young scions are in constant competition with each other. Who can make the next big deal? Who can win a young lady or lord’s affection? Who can rise the fastest? The Apex Court embodies this, and is actually encouraged by the older members of the Taldan nobility to keep their next generation sharp.

Only the most ambitious young nobles can become a part of The Apex Court. New recruits are chosen by the older members who have achieved their goals and are no longer active in the sect, but still retain ties. Although most members are those who remain in court, young nobles who can boast a grand adventure can move up faster than those who make their names in the backrooms and ballrooms of Taldor.

In the name of their lord her followers celebrate with friendly competition. Who is your disciple of Marishi? Why have they chosen to dedicate themselves to The Festival Queen? Where does their devotion come from? Let me know in the comments.

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