The Cult of Handrich is the primary religious organisation dedicated to the worship of Handrich, the god of trade, commerce and merchants in the Old World. Handrich is also known as Haendryk in Marienburg, Mercopio in Tilea, O Prospero in Estalia, and in Bretonnia as Affairiche.[1b]
Kalita is the Kislevite approximation of Handrich. However, since gold is the metal of Dazh, the god of fire and the sun, and silver of Tor, the god of thunder, Kalita is associated less with money and more with trade goods and materials.[3a]
Handrich's legends are many and contradictory: the official dogma of the cult in Marienburg is that he is a son of Manann, the god of the sea, a reasonable view given how much of Marienburg's trade depends on the sea. Others claim that he is the less imaginative brother of Ranald, the god of luck. A variation holds that he was Ranald's mortal brother who bought his way to divinity by offering the gods a deal they couldn't refuse -- and, unlike Ranald, Handrich kept his word.[1b]
The average Marienburger claims that Handrich was born in their city; more than one of the wealthy merchant families, even among the ruling oligarcy of the Directorate, have hired scholars to trace their lineage back to "Papa Haeny." He is normally shown as a plump and prosperous merchant in vigorous middle age. Gold is the dominant colour of his clothing and he always has a gold coin between his thumb and forefinger. Followers see earthly prosperity as a sign of the god's favour. A smart businessman "has Haendryk whispering in his ear," or so the saying goes.[1b]
History[]
Origins[]
Stories regarding Handrich's origins are many and conflicting. Some scholars state he originates in Estalia and Tilea, making his way to the Old World alongside Myrmidia, the goddess of strategy. He enjoys a strong following there, especially in Tilea where mercenary armies make a god of coin a popular figure. Others place him within the Old World's established pantheon as either the son of Manann, or the less flamboyant brother of Ranald, the god of fortune and rogues who eschewed his sibling's dishonest quest for godhood, instead presenting the gods with an offer they could not refuse.[4a]
Legends of the Wasteland[]
Marienburgers contest all of these tales, and as this city acts as the Cult of Handrich's main seat, their telling has become the most prevalent. According to Wastelander lore, Haendryk, as they call him, was once a mortal man and citizen of Marienburg. The son of a trader, he accompanied his mother on many great expeditions, and found the world of commerce opening before him like a flower. The mortal Haendryk proved himself a financial genius and many stories are told of his great skill as a trader, selling stone to Dwarf miners or inventing whole systems of banking.[4a]
Wealth poured into Haendryk's coffers and with this he elevated Marienburg, turning it into the bustling Old World trade hub it is today. At last, his skill in mercantile matters transcended mortal ability. The gods allowed Haendryk into their ranks, naming him the god of coin and commerce.[4a]
Importance of Haendryk in Marienburg[]
Marienburgers cling to the story of Haendryk's ascension to divinity with fierce pride. Many of the city-state's most well-respected merchant families claim descent from him, backing this up with (very expensive) family trees and genealogical records. The story gained further popularity after the Wasteland's secession from the Empire, granting the burgeoning new nation a much-needed sense of legitimacy.[4a]
His cult capitalised on this, ascribing their foundation to those merchants Haendryk taught as a mortal. Marienburg became the centre of his cult, his followers carrying his strictures with them along the various trade routes. Their god's story, and their city's story, show the transformational powers of trade and wealth, something which they argue anyone can achieve should they only put in the effort.[4a]
Its small size not withstanding, the Cult of Haendryk is the second most important in the city of Marienburg, behind that of Manaan, because it governs Marienburg's very reason for existence: the making of money, hand over fist. Its high priest, Simon Goudenkruin, is both a Director of the city and the only priest to sit on the Governing Board of the 'Change. The lesser priests act as witnesses to contracts, arbitrators of commercial disputes, moneylenders and advisors to merchants who request their help. Always for a fee, of course.[1a]
The cult is close to many of the merchant concerns of Marienburg, not only for spiritual reasons, but because many families contribute their younger sons to the priesthood. Because of these family connections and their duties as advisors, priests of Haendryk are privy to many secrets, commercial and otherwise. Confidentiality and discretion have thus become one of the chief virtues of the cult, and cult priests are valued as go-betweens, trusted with delicate information and secret messages.[1a]
The cult is most associated with the upper and middle classes in Marienburg, for it teaches that prosperity is a visible sign of the righteous life. Haendryk favours the virtuous with success in the mortal world. If you're poor, you must have done something to deserve it -- it's a sign of your moral weakness. Understandably, the cult's presence in the city's lower-class districts, like Suiddock, is weak.[1a]
In recent years, though, the sect has fallen into some disrepute with Marienburg's more morally conservative factions because it has become more obvious in its quest for wealth. Simon Goudenkruin is openly allied with Jaan van de Kuypers, an alliance from which the cult profits greatly. More disturbingly, church offices and positions are now for sale to the highest bidder. Goudenkruin has put forward the doctrine that, since wealth is virtue, the cult should take on the virtuous as priests and make a profit from it -- which has lead some to complain of the "heresy of Simony."[1a]
Organisation[]
The Cult of Handrich organises itself into fraternal groups and secret societies, composed of merchants and wealthy burghers. These groups' goals include fostering a spirit of competition, forcing competitors to capitulate in business, and the spiritual enlightenment that comes from communing with both comrades and the deity.[2a]
These groups are extremely hierarchical, with many initiations that must be passed before moving closer to the inner circle. Many members believe they are simply joining some form of guild, oblivious to the machinations occurring behind the scenes. The inner circle, however, works to set prices, lower taxes, and raise more money for the building of temples, and expanding the word and influence of Handrich. It is rumoured that high-level members dabble in ritual magic to increase their fortunes.[2a]
The cult of Handrich is on good terms with most Old World cults, save that of Ranald. It particularly disapproves of the relatively new sect of Ranald the Dealer, which it sees as a competitor. Oddly enough, many lay members of the cult also worship Ranald, hoping for good luck in their business dealings. Cynics aren't surprised by this -- to them, Handrich and Ranald are just two sides of the same coin.[1c]
Handrich in the Empire[]
Handrich fell out of favour among the people of the Empire after the Wasteland seceded. To a certain sort of mind, his worship was an affront to the Empire's bruised dignity and during that time he was often paid little more than lip-service. Instead, worship of Ranald, the god of luck, filled the void, worshippers turning to the trickster god in his persona as the Dealer.[4a]
Though many might consider the two gods diametrically opposed, some people still follow both in equal measure, viewing them as two sides of the same (possibly fraudulent) coin. This has even led to speculation Handrich may simply be Ranald playing the long con, something hotly denied by his priests.[4a]
The Cult Prospers Anew[]
In recent years, the Cult of Handrich has been gaining support and popularity in the Empire. Many traders see the success of the cult in Marienburg as a sign and seek to emulate Handrich's worship in their own business practices. The priesthood have also shown themselves invaluable to anyone conducting matters of business. They offer their services as both financial advisers and overseers, acting as a third party whenever an agreement requires witnessing. This has allowed the cult to gain a great deal of influence, and they are well compensated for their efforts.[4a]
As the desire for Marienburg's coin overcomes patriotic pride, more shrines and temples to Handrich can be found across the Empire's bustling trade routes, though only the largest cities boast dedicated temples. Instead, places of worship are combined with established guild meeting houses or banks, with guild leaders carrying out religious duties when no ordained priest is present.[4a]
Growth Potential[]
Yet the cult remains relatively small due in part to opposition from the Empire's nobility. Handrich's cult teaches a path of upward mobility through wealth, and in this the merchants disrupt the status quo which keeps the nobles in power. Many go out of their way to undermine the cult's efforts to establish itself, though most address their ire towards the merchants who worship Handrich, rather than the god himself.[4a]
Beliefs[]
For Handrich's followers, wealth is the ultimate signifier of a life well-lived. However, money earned through trickery or toil is not enough, it must be gained through their patron's most prized traits: wit, honesty, intelligence, and ruthlessness. Handrich expects his followers to pursue profit with all their guile and cunning, while staying within the strictures of honest business.[4a]
Handrichans believe their god is present wherever negotiations take place. The give and take of commerce, the quick wit of its practitioners, these bring a person closer to Handrich, and haggling is as much an act of worship as prayer. However, his followers never expect his assistance. Handrich demands independence, but he is happy to reward those who please him. A particularly successful transaction is considered a sign he enjoyed a worshipper's performance.[4a]
For negotiations to have meaning, both parties must be speaking truth. Conning someone makes a mockery of the whole affair, and Handrich's worshippers shun anyone found dealing in falsehoods. Yet, while Handrich expects honesty, he also demands no quarter be given. Only one's own wealth matters, and acting in any way not for your own ultimate good, such as giving someone a generous rate due to family ties, is frowned upon. Exploiting those same ties to get a better deal, however, is encouraged.[4a]
Finally, Handrichan tenets justify pursuit of individual wealth as the means by which all society is elevated. Riches mark intelligence and the right to hold office. If someone had the strength of mind to accumulate such wealth, this is proof they are best equipped to distribute it. Commissioning art, funding military expeditions, even charitable concerns: through these, Handrich's favour trickles down to all people. Losing wealth, though, is a sign Handrich has forsaken you, so his followers are exacting in their savings.[4a]
Symbol[]
The primary symbol of Handrich is a gold disc, commonly interpreted as a coin. The coin is not engraved -- it is blank, representing all the coins of the world, which all belong to Handrich. Cultists often carry a blank coin in their pocket or worn about their neck to show their devotion to their god. Wealthy followers will have small gold coin blanks worked into jewellery, such as a pendant or a cloak clasp.[1b][2a]
Another symbol of Handrich is a hand with its fingers crossed -- the same symbol commonly associated with Ranald. This has proven a serious bone of contention between cultists of Handrich and those of Ranald the Dealer, for each lay claim to the symbol. In Marienburg, cultists of Handrich show this secret symbol to fellow cultists by using their right hand, while cultists of Ranald use their left. Confusion abounds, however, and more than a few altercations have occurred when opposing cultists use this sign, assuming the other person belongs to their particular cult, only to be mistaken.[2a]
Two hands clasped in a handshake to represent a fair deal is also popular among Haendryk-worshippers in Marienburg.[1b]
Worshippers[]
Handrich's cult attracts anyone concerned with trade and coin. Merchants are his primary supplicants, but those who work with gold, such as jewellers, also honour him, while caravan guards pray to him to protect their charges.[4a]
Haendryk's cult caters to merchants, traders and peddlers -- in some areas, over 90% of the local cult. It is very unusual for anyone to be accepted into the cult who has not followed some sort of mercantile career. Within the cult, success at business is the main determinant of one's standing: prosperity is a sign of the god's favour, after all.[1c]
Minting houses, banks, and well-established shops have shrines to Handrich kept on a shelf. The first coin made each day is considered Handrich's, and is placed on the altar in the belief that what is given to the god will be returned twice over.[4a]
It is rare to find followers among the lower classes. Instead, the cult recruits from established merchant families or guilds. Many such families seek positions for their young scions to secure favourable treatment, and the cult accepts anyone for a fee.[4a]
Initiation Rites[]
The Cult of Handrich's initiation rites have been undergoing changes. Since its inception, prospective initiates presented an offering to a local priest. The priest then set a mathematical examination to ensure they would be able to better themselves (some speculate the difficulty of this depended upon the offering). Once the priest was satisfied, the initiate was instructed in Handrich's tenets, before being placed in a trade caravan to experience commerce for themselves.[4a]
Once they finished this period of travel, the initiate returned to the temple and presented the priest with a greater offering. They then faced one final test. Usually, they completed a difficult business deal, such as selling fish to fishermen, or persuading a priest of Sigmar to sell their hammer. This earned them a full place within the order, just as Handrich earned his godhood.[4a]
High Priest Simon Goudenkruin recently introduced "The Pyramid of Gold." Those who hold great wealth, he argues, already have Haendryk's favour, and it is hubris to set such blessed people further tests. Therefore, in return for a far larger offering, a person may join the cult and become a full priest without undergoing the trials. Should they wish to advance, however, they need to introduce others to the cult, who must also buy their way in. This has tripled the temple's profits in Marienburg, and families even outside Marienburg are sending children to secure advantageous positions. Some worry such practices are unsustainable, but so far it has proven a great success.[4a]
Sacred Sites[]
There are very few dedicated temples to Handrich, save in the largest cities and trading ports of the Old World. Those which do exist serve a dual function as both site of worship and bank or meeting place, and follow the same basic layout: a central hall with semi-circular apses where donations can be displayed or private meetings held.[4a]
Imperial temples of Handrich tend towards frugality, their finery deliberately understated to convey financial sensibility. The Wasteland temples of Haendryk, however, prefer to keep their wealth on display in imitation of the high temple in Marienburg.[4a]
Areas of Worship[]
Marienburg is the centre for the Cult of Haendryk in the Old World and perhaps in all the Known World. The largest temple to the Lord of Commerce and Prosperity is there in the Wasteland -- its two closest competitors (in Miragliano and Magritta) are nothing more than pale imitations from the point of view of the people of Marienburg. Elsewhere, such as in Bogenhafen in the Empire (where the god is known as Handrich), temples of Haendryk are staffed by successful merchants who act as lay-deacons.[1a]
Outside of Marienburg, Handrich is primarily found within the largest cities of the Empire. There is a small temple in Altdorf, although plans exist to expand on the building or create a new, larger structure in the future. In other cities, shrines to Handrich are found around public markets and within the homes of merchants. Devout cultists of Handrich are happy to spread his word while they go about their daily business of buying and selling for profit.[2b]
Handrich is also popular in Estalia, Tilea, and some of the city-states of the Border Princes, and this popularity is increasing steadily. Those towns and cities that distrust or persecute members of Ranald's cult are far more likely to allow cultists of Handrich into their gates. For this reason, cultists of Ranald sometimes steal the pendants from Handrich worshippers, in an effort to pass themselves off as "legitimate."[2b]
Haendryk is known by many names in the Old World, depending on the local dialect of Old Worlder. In the Empire he is "Handrich," in Bretonnia "Affairiche," in Tilea "Mercopio," in Estalia "O Prospero" and in Kislev "Kalita." His worship is not popular in Norsca (he's too much of an urban god), while the Arabyans disapprove of his association with usurers and have banned his cult. Elves and Imperial Dwarfs have no equivalent, while a few expatriate Dwarfs who live among Men worship him in his local form. He is almost exclusively worshipped in large towns and cities, though country markets will set up a shrine to him.[2b]
Temples[]
Only temples in large cities have regular priestsof the cult -- services at other temples and shrines will be overseen by a lay brother, usually a senior member of the local Merchants' Guild. Temples consist of a main hall with a semi-circular apse holding private chapels and an offertory where offerings are displayed.[1c]
Few towns have a temple of Handrich, but there will be a chapel attached to the Merchant's Guild. Private shrines are also common in the homes of merchants and traders, or on a pedlar's can. A common type of shrine is a small model warehouse of clay or wood, with doors that open to reveal a small statue of the god.[1c]
The Counting House[]
The High Temple of Haendryk in Marienburg, known locally as the "Counting House," shows what wealth can accomplish when unbound by frugal practicalities or, some say, good taste. In structure, it follows a similar footprint to other Handrichan temples, but once inside, worshippers are assaulted with an array of decorations in gold and silver.
Exquisite paintings cover the walls, while stained glass windows tell stories from Haendryk's life in Marienburg, often featuring discreet signs explaining which mercantile family sponsored their creation. Watery light pours down from the central dome, its own glass depicting the tragedies which might befall one at sea. Most suspect this to be a nod to the cult's relationship with Manaan's, but in truth it was donated by an insurance company.[4a]
All through the day, the temple is filled with the quiet murmur of commerce, punctuated by the discreet clink of coin. Sermons are rarely held in the central meeting hall, save on festival days, instead being relegated to side-chapels. The main space is given over to desks, each with their attendant priest. For a fee, supplicants may seek either financial advice or a loan from the temple. All clergy members see it as their duty to help in such matters, and for a large enough sum one can even secure an appointment with the high priest himself.[4a]
As the temple fills with the hustle and bustle of Marktag, the heads of Marienburg's most influential merchant families make their way, one by one, to a private chapel watched over by attendant priests. Rumour has it that this meeting will set the course of trade in Marienburg for the coming year and only the very favoured are allowed to attend.[4a]
Relics[]
It is said that, upon Handrich's ascension to divinity, every coin he touched in his lifetime took on his finger print. These coins -- almost invariably gold, though lower-value ones have been reported too -- are much prized by the cult and are kept in ornately jewelled reliquaries, or worked into talismans worn by high-ranking priests. The standing rule is that any cult member who finds one must return it to the High Temple in Marienburg, but there are more than a few distant chapels which find possessing one a good draw for pilgrims.[4a]
The Imperial practice of honouring the skulls of saints did not at first find much favour among Handrich's followers, given that theirs is a god entirely devoted to the material life. Such relics have since begun to grow in popularity as a means of showing off the wealth achieved over the course of one's life. Many merchants leave vast sums to have their skulls prepared with silver and set in dedicated ossuaries, where anyone who sees them will know here lies someone who truly followed Handrich's example.[4a]
Even merchants who don't request this treatment may find themselves decorating a chapel shelf, their families realising it is useful to be seen as influential and wealthy enough to afford such an honoured place for the dearly departed.[4a]
Holy Texts[]
Handrich's cult recognises very few religious texts, but follows the science of "economicks" closely. Die Kunst der Gier, by the Altdorfian philosopher Anja Rosenbaum, recently caused quite the stir, calling for trade free from oversight and in service entirely to one's self. Many Handrichans now keep a copy of this text, citing it in taxation disputes.[4a]
Philosophies of Commerce[]
The Cult of Handrich is not large enough to sustain the separate orders that other cults divide themselves into. However, there are various schools of thought in relation to the best ways to carry out the deity's will which followers gravitate towards.[4a]
School of Coin[]
Favoured by bankers and money lenders, the School of Coin believes the path to knowing Handrich comes through accumulating wealth. The more coin one holds, the closer one comes to Handrich's blessed ascension. Those who follow this school tend towards thriftiness, keeping careful track of every coin spent and received. The popular caricature of the miserly Haendrykian in Wastelander satirical dramas originates from this school.[4a]
School of Commerce[]
The School of Commerce of the cult teaches that trade is how societies become civilised. Just as Handrich elevated Marienburg through his patronage, these students elevate all society through buying and selling. The school attracts traders and caravan guards, though there is an emerging argument that physical goods are not required to ensure trade continues. Priests have begun experimenting with speculative futures markets, trading in the promise of goods such as flowers which have yet to be grown.[4a]
School of the Hand[]
Favoured by skilled craftsmen and jewellers, the School of the Hand argues that money is only good for what it can accomplish. Money is a worthless dream, a mass hallucination, important only for the beauty it brings to the world, and followers believe it was with this realisation Handrich truly achieved ascension. Patronage of artists is held as a grand ideal, as is providing funds to civic concerns. There is talk of this school's followers separating from the Marienburg cult, something High Priest Simon Goudenkruin wishes stamped out.[4a]
Holy Days[]
In port towns, the first day of the spring sailing season is traditionally a day of sacrifice to Handrich, in expectation of a good year of trading. Marktag ("Market Day") is a common day of worship for Handrichans, and fairs and market days regularly begin with a ceremony for the local merchants at a nearby chapel.[1c]
Handrich teaches success is possible for everyone, providing they have the drive and intelligence to seize it. Despite this, the common folk rarely have much to do with the god of commerce and, should someone of lesser means enter a Handrichan temple, they usually find themself under suspicion. Marktag is the exception.[4a]
This day celebrates Handrich's ascension and sees the temple doors, if not flung open, then at least left ajar to allow traders of all ilks to sell their wares. These festivals differ from traditional market days in that produce and livestock are rarely sold. Instead, jewellery or clothing are favoured. Marktag is a lively event, and some commoners save up to purchase small luxuries here, it being considered good fortune to carry such an item until the next Marktag.[4a]
Priests keep a careful eye over the proceedings, offering blessings and spreading Handrich's message of improving one's station in life through the acquisition of wealth. Meanwhile, favoured merchants are invited into private chapels, where larger auctions and negotiations are held.[4a]
Strictures[]
Devout worshippers of Handrich are almost invariably merchants or involved in some form of profit-making business. As a result, many of their strictures would not sound out of place in a merchants' guild, although cultists take their duties much more seriously.[2b]
The cult forbids false dealings, though sharp deals are okay. An oath is required to deal with members of the cult, and members must not let a day pass without making a profit. Charity is blessed, but not driving a hard bargain because of charity is not orthodox.[1c]
Handrich's worshippers are encouraged to interpret his strictures as they will, keeping to their letter while working to exploit their loopholes. This, they say, encourages the flexibility of thought one needs to succeed in business. The cult's critics consider it trickery in the open, dishonesty masquerading as a lawful contract.[4a]
No Day Without Profit[]
A follower of Handrich must ensure the day is profitable. Coin is preferred, but profit can mean many things depending on the person. The important thing is the worshipper should act for their own net gain, whether this be closing an important trade deal, or getting one's fellows to buy the next round of drinks. It is understood that the greater a person's station, the more Handrich demands of this stricture.[2b]
Help Those Who Help Themselves[]
Handrich earned his godhood and looks down on anyone not willing to do the same. While Handrich's followers are called to share their earnings to benefit society, it must not be in a way which Handrich views as encouraging laziness.[4a]
A priest of Handrich would never give a beggar money for shelter, for example. Instead, they might direct them to a workhouse to earn their keep and contribute to the running of the institution.[4a]
Some in the cult interpret this as a condemnation of taxation, which they view as governments taking money not rightfully theirs. They fulfil this stricture by lobbying political figures to enact tax cuts, allowing them to distribute their money as they see fit.[4a]
Always Get the Best Deal[]
Trading is a holy act, a pure competition of wits with only one victor. Therefore, a follower of Handrich must always get the best possible deal, regardless of circumstances. If a person is looking to buy grain, they must pay for it. The fact that their village is starving should not warrant merciful treatment.[4a]
However, the best deal does not always mean the most profitable. After all, if you take everything a person has, then who will trade with you next time? Sometimes, the best deal is one which builds relationships and leaves everyone happy, so that more profit can be extracted in the future.[4a]
Deal in Truth[]
The Cult of Handrich forbids false dealing, as trickery erodes the trust all trade is based upon. Followers cannot obscure the value of their wares, nor sell something they have no right to.[4a]
While they must deal truthfully, this is not the same as dealing honestly. Followers are free to exaggerate benefits, neglect to mention complications, or use information at their disposal to get the upper hand. Lying to gain an advantage would be in violation of this stricture, but using insider knowledge of a competitor's financial situation would not.[4a]
Other Strictures[]
- If you form a partnership in trade with a person, an oath must be sworn.[2b]
- Give charitably, but within reason.[2b]
- Never use violence for gain.[2b]
- Do not get caught in a lie until you have left town.[2b]
Relationships with Other Cults[]
Handrich's cult has positive relationships with worshippers from other cults, and Handrichans often serve as their financiers. Amidst the grand iconography of many churches can be found inscriptions honouring the god of coin's contributions.[4a]
The cult holds particularly strong ties with the Cult of Manann, especially in Marienburg where priests of both deities bless voyages to ensure crew and cargo's safety. Priests of Manann visit Handrich's High Temple to make use of the cult's collection of up-to-date trade gazetteers, while Handrich's priests study the charts in Manann's temple, ensuring they can advise their clients of trade routes and risks.[4a]
The cults of Rhya and Myrmidia have rather odd relationships with that of Handrich. Arguments between Rhya's and Handrich's priests are not uncommon, given the latter's dismissal of the "simple" labour of agricultural peasants. However, they come together on market days, and small shrines to both deities stand in such places.[4a]
Handrich's followers feel a certain kinship with Myrmidia's cult. They argue battlefield tactics can be implemented in matters of business, and financing military engagements is an acceptable form of charity within Handrich's strictures. Followers of Myrmidia, for their part, are happy to associate with Handrichans, but many find their constant assurances of fellowship aggravating.[4a]
Handrich and Ranald[]
A strained relationship exists between Handrich's and Ranald's followers. This is a surprise to those peasants who consider them the same being with different names, except one expects you to shake his hand and thank him for fleecing you. But to Handrichans, Ranald's dishonesty cannot be tolerated.[4a]
Many merchants still choose to honour Ranald alongside Handrich. While they may follow Handrich's strictures, sometimes one needs a few extra tricks. Some worshippers, upset with the cult's current direction, have begun turning to Ranald in his aspect as the Dealer, a persona which Handrich's high priest calls a mask the trickster god uses to con people away from the true artistry of trade.[4a]
The Brotherhood is a secretive order dedicated to Ranald. Little is known about its members, including whether they are an actual organisation or just a loose association. On ocasion they use the practice of business to bring down pompous individuals. Most are honest merchants who call upon Ranald for bounty and improved commerce, although there is a seedier side. The Brotherhood teaches the tenets of cooperation and competition -- help your brother when he needs it -- but through competition, the best elements rise to the top.[4a]
Mischievious elements of the Brotherhood enjoy targeting followers of Handrich. Impersonating the god of coin's priests is a favoured tactic, allowing them to get closer to their prey and eroding trust in the cult. The Defenders of Capital go to great pains hunting down any of the Brotherhood they hear about for this reason.[4a]
Priests of Handrich[]
Though not as common in the Old World as the clergy of other cults, Handrichan priests are sought after for their financial sense and discretion. Many do preach sermons, teaching Handrich's tenets of self-reliance and the glories of material wealth, but they more often serve in private capacities, overseeing transactions to ensure honesty or offering financial advice. Most tend to temples found in large trading centres, or join caravans and trade expeditions as part of their service to Handrich.
Divine Lore of Handrich[]
Handrich, the god of merchants and commerce, is well-known in the lower stretches of the River Reik. His cult is well-organised, and teaches the same prayers and rites to all of his priests. The following list represents these.[2c]
All of the spells in the Lore of Handrich use money or commodities as ingredients. These are sacrificed to "buy" Handrich's blessings. Handrich is concerned with spreading money, so sacrificing usually entails spreading wealth by giving to the poor, although handing in a sacrifice to a Handrichan temple will suffice. Uniquely, Handrich's priests do not need to have an ingredient when casting the spell, just the intent to use it. Thus, as each spell is cast with the benefit of an ingredient, a debt to Handrich will be created.[2c]
- A Deal's a Deal[4a]
- Carry My Burdens[4a]
- Shake On It[4a]
- Supply and Demand[4a]
- Trickle Down[4a]
- Twist of Fortune[4a]
- Bought Loyalty - The priest prays to Handrich to bless their transaction, binding all parties to their agreements.[2c]
- Burgher Acquisition - The priest pleads with their god to make sure that there will be a local merchant willing to deal with them.[2c]
- Eye for Profit - The priest prays to Handrich asking his aid to judge the true worth of a commodity.[2c]
- Gilded Tongue - The priest mutters prayers to the Merchant God and every transaction seems to go their way.[2c]
- Time is Money - The priest begs Handrich not to curse the target of this blessing for not paying their debt to Handrich, reasoning that the longer the target takes to pay, the greater the sacrifice the god will earn.[2c]
- Word of Mouth - The priest's prayers cause the target's competitors and allies to speak well of them. All individuals within range of the blessing talk well of their past dealings with the target, no matter how bad they may actually have been.[2c]
Notable Cultists of Handrich[]
Wavemaster Sullandiel ‘Fartrader’ - An Elf merchant-poet who lived before the War of the Beard. He served as ambassador to Karaz Bryn and was granted the epithet "Fartrader" as recognition of his exploits.[4a]
Armanda de Pantaleon - A Tilean trader and devotee of Handrich who, inspired by stories from the famed Tilean explorer Marco Colombo, introduced paper money to the western nations.[4a]
Katja de Teuling - Founder of the Defenders of Capital, the closest Handrich's cult has to a knightly order. Katja served as a caravan guard, investing her fees into her own mercenary company. This she dedicated to protecting Handrich's servants as they kept the arteries of trade open. For a price.[4a]
Simon Goudenkruin - Jokingly nicknamed "Haendryk's Profit," Simon Goudenkruin, Marienburg's current high priest of Handrich and the de facto head of the entire cult, is a controversial figure under whose leadership the cult has grown dramatically in power and influence.[4a]
Sources[]
- 1: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 1st Edition: Marienburg, Sold Down the River (RPG)
- 2: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 2nd Edition: Tome of Salvation (RPG)
- 3: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 2nd Edition: Realm of the Ice Queen (RPG)
- 3a: pg. 42
- 4: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 4th Edition: Archives of the Empire III (RPG)
- 4a: pp. 39-47, "The Cult of Handrich"