After a successful conversion, a Candidate becomes a Wanderer – the default status of all Novel Universe Cult members – and may apply to become a Freeman, Civilian, or Citizen; but in the meantime, remains a Wanderer, a ward of the River. Unless physically inside a Body of Water, the status of Wanderer requires only that a member identify as such. Wanderers are free to associate among each other in any number of ways, so long as they do not violate the laws of any Cult Body. However, there are no formal Bodies, organizing Pillars, ritual practices, or social structures of any kind associated with Wanderers, existing in isolation as symbols of the Spiral. They may seek assistance from their attached sites, but are not guaranteed to receive more than a minimum level of support. River Sages are encouraged, but not required, to take a personal interest in their assigned Wanderers, as these relationships can be seminal for the Wanderer, who may not have any other close Cult contacts.

Additionally, Wanderers may provide their time and effort to their River sites as volunteers, helping in a manual or professional capacity, but they also may be hired by the site and paid for their work. The Cult encourages Wanderers to seek out Water and Rock Bodies to join, but also understands that some member’s greatest value to the Cult and wider world will be to remain a Wanderer, impartial and detached, able to view the Novel Universe from that unique Mixture of both Love and Power.

Read our philosophy to better understand our Creed.