1st of The Grand Harvest, 1745

The sun slowly rose in the distance as morning light would cascade across the gates of the mali’ame city, stretching higher and higher until it washes over the top of each plateau. As it would cast upon the connecting bridge that leads to the Aureon Plateau, an armored figure would be seen reaching the edge to step down on the cobblestone path. A chilling breeze would rustle the various trees and grass while the elfess passed by, causing her crimson colored cloak of a Sanguine Hunter to flutter about behind her person. Upon reaching the front of the Aureon Manor, Andria would grasp ahold of Mahae’leh Riv, a spear crafted of her own design with markings along the shaft telling the story of the Tresery Seed and at the top resting a ferrum spearhead. It was then that she would rise it high then with a quick stroke, slams the bottom of it firmly upon the ground while her maw would then part to speak. The elfess’ s voice heard booming out in a determined and commanding tone.

“Lyemar Aureon, High Prince of Irrinor, Head Druid of the Ame’ikurn, The Emerald Prince, and Blessed Descendant of Elenwe,

 As a Priestess of El’Narnesa’ame, Lion of Tresery, Bearer of the Mark of Emerald, and a Hunter of the Sanguine Fire Creed, I call upon and challenge you for the position of High Priest.” The Elfess would then pause before continuing on with her speech.

 “We both care deeply for our people. We both walk the path of the Aspects and Demi-Gods of the Wilds. I hold respect for what you have done thus far as High Chieftain as we have moved onward even in our darkest hours. Yet as well, I will not stand idly by and blindly allow this to continue. You take on a weight now that I know you have no idea how much of a responsibility it truly is. How much Brother Hawk had to endure and lift up just with this position alone so our people’s culture and way of life can continue. You called upon at first meeting because of the stagnation of the religion as of late. The war and the rebuilding having swallowed many of us into trying to push on and create a better life. A stagnation that we ALL agree upon that must be changed and yet, many voices were lost. Those that could’ve help, stand up, and take on the mantle removed as you put yourself as a placeholder.” The Elfess pauses once again, taking in a breath before she states her conclusion.

“It is why I stand here now. My voice will be heard. I know the Ways of Emerald. I walk the path of Sanguine. I studied that of Ichor and heard the voices of Sage. I listened to the wisdom of Awaiti, Kairn, Nivndil, and many others along my journey to understand the various different viewpoints of Druidism. I was taught by Priestess Layla Arvellon of what it means to be a Priest. I travel the druidic path under the guidance of the Autumn Prince Miklaeil Arvellon. I’ve gained the position of Priestess of Mahae even when the odds were against me. I know of the rituals, ceremonies, rites, and prayers of the Aspects, Mani, and culture of the ‘ame as well as performed such multiple times before. I have the means of upholding this position and so I stand here and seek to claim it.” 

It is with that that the Elfess would lift her spear up some once again before firmly slamming it down upon the solid stone beneath her feet, ending her statement as she waits for the High Prince to reveal himself and respond.

((OOC: This was made given the server is quite frankly being lame and half the time, DCing people or not allowing them to get on. This can continue IG should @Kaelanwish, but I will state that this is by location within Irrinor and who would be normally in the area at the time of when this happened. Only those who would be realistically around may comment on this post. The rest will be taken down/hidden. 
 

Issued the 4th of the First Seed, 1745

Blessed be Brothers and Sisters of the Naelurir,

It has been quite some time since the Priesthood of the Mali’ame has gathered. Our groves have been absent of collective laughter, of words of praise, and of hushed tones speaking of our people’s history. 

I fear we have fallen stagnant - idle in our duty that we have sworn to enact. Sloth are we in the education of our kin on their people’s histories, in rooting out imbalances that threaten our realm, and in the guiding our people towards a bright future. 

Perhaps such a decline can be pinned on the withdrawal of the High Priest of the Naelurir in recent years. His sudden disappearance has left many without direction, wandering this tumultuous world blind and without guidance.

Or perhaps the failing of the Naelurir can be placed with the division of the drui’ and the rise of the creeds. The Priesthood has failed to adapt to include those who have taken to either extreme: those who wish to praise and revere the Mani and those who continue to hold the Aspects above all. To have them exist in harmony through the common ground of the balance is necessary for our people. 

Brothers and sisters, I have given it much thought over the past few years. I have been a Priest of the Naelurir, guiding our people and teaching them of the elnarnsae'ame for much of my life. Since the days of Linandria, I have served alongside those who have dedicated themselves to the faith as I have. 

Yet many of them are gone, likely never to return. 

I do not advocate for the dissolution of the Naelurir. I advocate for quite the opposite. I advocate for the Priesthood to revitalize and serve a purpose in this new world, and for those who have sworn themselves to the faith and received the gift of attunement to once more resume their duties. I wish for our groves to be filled once more with songs of praise and talks of faith and balance.

I find myself compelled to take action to bring this hope to fruition. As such, with an agreement between the two creeds of Irrinor, I step up to assume the position of High Priest of the Naelurir. A title that I shall safeguard until such a time that there is one amongst us who can assume the position. One who is to be unbiased in the ways of our faith, to accept our creeds and our ways, and to nurture the Mali’ame. One who is accepted by all.

With this agreement, Brother Hawk Artimec Caerme’onn is relieved of his duty as High Priest of the Naelurir after his many years of service. Should he return to his kin once more, he shall assume his place as a Priest of the Naelurir. 

It has also been agreed upon as being appropriate for the Archdruids of the Naelurir to be relieved of their positions. Sister Raven Chieftess Layla Arvellon and Brother Moonlight Eryn Aureon are to assume positions of Priests of the Naelurir. 

Brothers and Sisters, many changes shall come to the Priesthood over the next couple of years. I do pray that you will support these changes and join us in our endeavours

Signed,

Lyemar Aureon, Blessed Descendant of Elenwë, High Prince of the Forest Realm of Irrinor, Sovereign of the Mali’ame, Protector of the Hou-zi, Emerald Prince, Chieftain of the Sovereign Seed of Aureon, Brother Red Panda, High Priest of the El’Narnsae’ame, Head Druid of the Ame’ikurn

Miklaeil Arvellon, Autumn Prince of Irrinor, Blooded Herald of the Sanguine Fire, Chieftain of Wildcats, Brother Leopard, Priest of the El’Narnsae’ame, Chosen of Felixii

Layla Arvellon, Architect of Irrinor, Blooded Herald of the Sanguine Fire, Chieftess of Wildcats, Sister Raven, High Priestess of the El'narnsae'ame, Chosen of Kwakwani

A Season of Hope

The leaves rustled softly overhead as the cool breeze swept through the valley of the forest realm. Many ‘Ame lay in the shade of their mighty tree, watching the leaves turn golden and eventually cascade to the forest floor. The faint clink of hammer on steel and the strenuous grunts of the devote Okarn’ame training could be heard, softly echoing across Irrinor before dissipating. Others stood around the square, discussing various topics ranging from Druidic tradition to making dinner plans. They were a resilient people, steadfast and ever vigilant in the face of danger. But they were not as joyous as they once were. The welcoming chirps of the birds seemed lost, drowned out by the sound of the wind. The laughter and song became muddled with the sounds of steel. The conversations turned to nothing more than idle chitchat, a social chore. 

But they were not yet without hope.

A young elf climbed up onto one of the roots of the great tree, a few eyes casting sideways glances at them as their movement briefly distracted them from their conversations. He brushed the dirt from his pants, crouching down as he rummaged through a small leather pouch he kept on his side. He pulled out a beautifully crafted war-horn, fashioned from an onyx-colored rams horn. The few rays of light that peaked through the trees bounced off the polished black surface and the band of steel, engraved with tribal patterns of the Emerald Way, that covered the outer lip of the horn. He put the horn to his lips and blew into it three times. The ‘Ame around him lept in surprise, several hands dropping to their waists as they reached for their weapons. But this was not a sound of war. The noise that resounded from the horn was an elegant tone, piercing the looming silence as it was blown three times again. Perhaps merely disturbed by the sound of the horn, the forest suddenly felt more alive. The birds felt more numerous, and the wind not as brisk and stiff.

Slowly a small crowd formed at the foot of the great tree, standing in its glorious shadow. The elf gave one final blow into the horn, holding the note for several seconds as the pure sound slowly trailed off until it was merely an echo deep within the forest.

“Brothers, Sisters! What is it that plagues your minds? What is the cause of your melancholy? Do not let the fruitless war from our impotent ‘Aheral cousin damped your spirits. Do you think we have naught to be happy for? Look around you, llir. Breathe in the forest in its eternal glory, she still flourishes under our tender care. Look to your neighbor, smile upon seeing their face. They would lay down their lives to protect you and this forest realm, just as you would for them. Yet they still stand here; proud, resilient and very much alive. 

I come with a task for you all today. Bring song again to this forest. Take two Elven weeks to write a song and we shall throw a celebration for the forest. Songs shall be sung, drinks will be drunk and festivities will be held. Go forth and draw your inspiration. I await your joyous songs.”

“Blessed be those whose life was breathed by Cerridwen, whose path is laid forth by Cernunnos. Blessed be those chosen by the Aspects.” - (???)

Birthed from the followers of the Emerald Way, the first creed of the Wild Faith; the Druidic Order of Ame’ikurn exists to restore the true glory of the Aspects. In recent years have the lesser gods called Mani been pushed to the front of worship, casting aside the Aspects who are the true core and foundation of the Wood Elven faith. 

Core Values

“Like the roots of a tree, we are charged with upholding life itself. For without us, the vessels that Cerridwen fills with the water of life are left to crumble and shatter. The cycle of life and death is left broken and imbalance runs rampant.” - (???)

The teachings of the Emerald Way give to us the foundations to build ourselves upon. While the Oracle Awaiti calls on us to forge an Indomitable Will, to hold Great Courage, to have Emotional Resilience, and hold ourselves to Foresight, the Aspects and the balance that we are duty-bound to uphold demand more from us than they do followers of the Emerald Way alone. 

We do not cast aside the teachings of Awaiti for she writes many undeniable truths. Rather, followers of the Emerald Way who pledge themselves to the Ame’ikurn uphold the values set forth in Awaiti’s writings and demand more of themselves to be the force that guides the lost to the ways of Emerald and reshape the world in the name of the Aspects.  

Iron Resolve

“Do not let the fleeting pleasures of this world sway you from the path of restoring the glory of the Aspects. The path that you have chosen is one of pain and suffering, of little thanks. Recall the oaths you have given, sealed in blood as witnessed by your kin. Remember what awaits those who selflessly serve and walk the path set forth by Cernunnos and Cerridwen. Do not lose sight, and do not sway.” - (???)

Unwavering Courage

“The world is not one born of kindness. Rather, there is a loose and wild order to the way it operates. The Father may guide a deer to a clearing where the grass has overgrown under the attentive watch of the Mother. It is there that it will feast upon the boons of the Mother’s blessings, ripping the life that has taken root as it carelessly grazes.
The Father may then see it fit to turn the nose of a wolf onto the deer, letting loose the beast who will end the life of the deer in a bloody mess.
The children of the Mother, while they may flee to save themselves, do not do so out of fear. For they know that if they are caught, the Father had destined for such to be done and that their remains will feed new life. That the waters of life will be passed by the Father to a new vessel shaped by the Mother.
Remember young drui’, nothing in nature fears death for all beings who understand the ebb and flow of nature know that every action is just a part of the cycle. and that the end of this turn does mean the end of forever. For there is never truly death, there is only the transfer of life.” - (???)  
 

Resolute Faith

“Life will naturally make you suffer, llir. It will tear at your foundations and take all those you love away from you. However, while the world may shift around you the one thing that will remain constant is your duty and your faith. Give all of yourself to the Aspects, trust in their will, and you shall be rewarded in eternal glory in their halls.” - (???)

Crystalline Sagacity

“Wake each morning with a mind clear of the woes of yesterday. Do not let your judgement become clouded by the short term squabbles of yesterday. Instead, look to the future without fear and rise to meet the challenge ahead.” - (???)

Philosophy of the Ame’Ikurn

The druii of the Ame’Ikurn are devout followers of the teachings of the Prophet Awaiti Aureon of the Emerald Way. However, their beliefs on some matters deviate from her teachings as they have ascended in their understanding of their purpose.

On Mani

“The priests of the Wild Faith would have us believe that the Mani are the minor gods of our faith, above even you and I. Wild animals chosen by the Aspects to be blessed with the boons of the gift of attunement.

It is a mistake to regard the Mani in such a manner. For while they do indeed possess the gifts bestowed upon them by the Aspects, they are not greater than any druii who bares the blessings of the Aspects. They deserve no more praise than any other druii who carries with them the will of the Aspects.
Do not dismiss the existence of the Mani, for they do indeed exist. Rather cast aside any perception of importance, of any greater being, and instead regard them as your equal. For that is what they are, the druii of the Mother’s creations”
 

Death

“The concept of death is often misunderstood. When one mentions death what immediately rushes to mind is a permanent end. The idea that nothing else exists once life has left your body.
We, however, know such to be false as all beings of nature do not experience true death for they are all connected to the everlasting ebb and flow of the Aspects. Death instead serves to exist as a label to explain the passing of life’s waters from one vessel to another. It is with the Father’s skillful hands that he pours out the contents of one vase into that of another that has been tended to by the Mother. 
It is with this understanding that we come to realize that there is no such thing as death in the world moulded by the Aspects. There exists only change.”
 

Will

“Those blessed with the gift of attunement by the Aspects are charged with the bringing of change for we exist as an extension of their will. It is guided by Cernunnos that we bring about change on this mortal plane and see to the transfer of life’s waters. It is with the strength bestowed upon us that we assume our positions as guardians of the children of Cerridwyn and ensure that the vessels she creates do not shatter.

In order to enact change one must possess within themselves an unbreakable will. When we are born we do not come out clad with armour and armed to the teeth with tools of warfare. We are born bare, soft and helpless. With time one might build the physical strength to weather the most brutal of physical punishment. And our wills are much the same, remaining weak should we not tend to them. In order to forge an unbreakable will one must first break. It is only through suffering, the tearing and clawing away from us what we love, that the foundations can be laid. Only through loss does one truly learn the value of life and possess the capabilities for change.

Change is brought to fruition by those who possess will, the will is forged through suffering. ”

The Emerald Halls

“Those of the Ame’Ikurn believe that deep within the Eternal Forest in the Twilight Bound lands there lies a grand hall carved into the trunk of a giant tree by the Aspects themselves. It lays there as an eternal home for those who devoted themselves to the Aspects in life, and will now be rewarded in death. In this forested Valhalla it is believed that there lies endless knowledge on all aspects of the world. Every thesis written, book published and law enacted line the walls of the grand hall.”

The Use of the Void

“Tainted are those who have been touched by the void. Cursed are those who sling the magic so carelessly. Among druii, the presence of voidal slinging is a known source of imbalance. There is nothing natural about the process, for if it was to be natural the Aspects would have control of the domain and bless their followers with such abilities.

No, the use of voidal magics is an imbalance, both in nature and of the person. There is no path of recourse for those who taint themselves in such an unnatural way for there will always be an imbalance carried within the person. The only avenue of correction for such affliction is death. Let their remains feed the grass that grows under where they lay. Let the wolf feast upon their flesh. From this taint upon the world, let good come of death and new life take root.”

Grove Hierarchy

Head Druid

The Ellaureh'Yulntaynei is the leader of the Grove, chosen by his peers as an exemplar of their faith. The only inherent power he has over the other druids of the Grove is the power to banish the heretical or impure.

Druid

Taliheial’ikurn (Of the Iron Council)

All who complete their training under a Druid are then welcome to the Grove as a fully-fledged Druid themselves. They may now elect to take on Aspirants to give them their trials and teach them. They join an honorary council and aide in overseeing the Grove and ensuring the faiths will is enacted.

Dedicant

The Dedicants of the Grove are those who have successfully completed their trials and have dedicated themselves to the cause of the Grove. It is at this point that they will begin their studies under a Druid, being taught the intricacies of their faith and magic in full.

Aspirant

One who is labelled an aspirant is someone who hopes to one day become a druid, and at this point must undergo a set of trials to prove their worth and dedication to the Grove. Those who are considered purely social members of the grove would also be labelled as such.

Aspirant Trials

“Not all are meant for the path of Emerald. For we are the few who push change in this world, who ensure that the vessels remain full and that the water of life passes on.” - (???)

In order to prove their worth to the Order, all Aspirants must undergo a set of trials. There are 5 mandatory trials for all Aspirants, however, their patron Druid may choose to have them undergo additional trials at their discretion. These trials must be given to the Aspirant by the patron Druid who has chosen the Aspirant, but the completion of the trials may be overseen by any Druid. A final Grand Trial is typically given by the patron Druid, however, it is not mandatory should the Aspirant prove their worth above and beyond what is expected.

Trial of Faith

The Aspirant must write a piece on the concept of balance. The piece will be judged by their patron Druid, the head Druid and another randomly selected Druid. Should all three Druids believe the piece shows the Aspirant understands the basics of the concept and the scope of what balance can entail, the trial will be complete.

Trial of Strength

The Aspirant must fight 6 Druids or Dedicants, one of which must be their patron Druid. The Aspirant is not expected to win every fight; however, they must show mental resilience in defeat and must not showboat in victory.

Trial of Endurance

The Aspirant must climb to the top of the Grove Tree in the quickest time they possibly can. This is to show both mental and physical endurance and strength. Should the Aspirant fall they will be expected to restart the entire climb.

Trial of Perception

The Aspirant must look introspectively a forge or craft something that represents them and that will be used as an extension of the Aspects will. Should the patron Druid feel that the Aspirant’s creation will not be helpful in enacting the Aspects will the Aspirant will need to restart the trial.
 

Trial of Resolve

The Aspirant is given some type of drug that causes them to become disoriented. They are then taken to a relatively remote location, only armed with a dagger. They are expected to hunt and survive on their own for 3 days before making their way back to the Grove. Should they seek help during this trial they will be disqualified and forced to start it over.

Grove Tattoos

The Druids of Ame’Ikurn do not shy from tattoos, most showing their devotion to the Aspects proudly on their skin. Dedicants may be given tattoos relevant to their training, accomplishments during their training or that resemble their values by their superiors. The tattoos of the grove are more tribal in nature, more closely resembling Somoan tribal tattoos. Even stand-alone tattoos would be made in a manner than more could be added on later, flowing into each other to create a grand masterpiece that reflects the Dedicant or Druids soul and devotion.

Upon becoming a Druid and earning a seat upon the Iron Council a Druid will be given a tattoo that engulfs either a full arm or leg, depending on any already existing tattoos the Druid has. While not every tattoo will be identical, they will all represent the same ideas and concepts. They may not necessarily be as Tribal as the “accomplishment” tattoos that Dedicants may receive.  These tattoos will represent the Aspects, either through direct depictions of them or through symbols and motifs that represent them. Should these Druid tattoos be on the arms they will stop just short of the hands so that Cerridwen’s Vines or the Horns of Cernunnos may be added to the Druids hand should they so wish.

Despite the Orders preference of Aspects and slight aversion to Mani, there are two circumstances in which they may go out of their way to tattoo Mani symbols on their bodies.  Some Druids may opt to receive Ohowaki’s Crest to represent their pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the world. The second instance in which a Mani symbol will be tattooed on a Druid is when the Head Druid of the Grove wishes to bestow honour upon a Druid for their servitude and devotion and will have them receive Morea’s Teeth. 

The Chosen of Cerridwen & Cernunnos

Listed below are Mali who have pledged themselves to the Druidic Order of Ame’ikurn. Those whose life has been breathed by Cerridwen and who are guided by Cernunnos. The followers of the Emerald Way who enact the will of the Aspects and ensure the scales of life and death do not sway. 

Druid Lyemar Aureon | Kaelan__

Druid Eryn Aureon | Whiteknight119

Dedicant Ra’akul | Lackless_

Aspirant Kalius Tresery | Sykogenic

Aspirant Errvan Cin’darer | Evonpire

kae y'heial'Maliame myumier halere, ehya oem siimah'maehr ay kae'leh lye.

kae taelualne naelue, ehya kaean'leh Talonnii'ito myumiere karin'ento.

taliiynan parn Elehaelun'ehya Elemaln, kae ochulne ormyumierene

haleralan parn kae'leh naerin'sae, kae ochulne ormyumiere

kae ay'eleheial'druian, Mali'onn Elefin'Malin ehya Elenaelurir halere

kae halere, Eletaliynan kae annilerih

Purpose

The Naelurir is the priesthood of the Wood Elven peoples, and is an order comprised largely of Elven Druids and their students. Their mandate is to keep the Wild Faith and tribal culture of the Woodland Peoples alive through conversion, prayer, festival, dance and song. 

Origin

Culture

Trials

Mani Cults

Oathed Naelurir

The current members of the Naelurir order, these druids actively perform their duties mainly in and around the town of Irrinor, but also in lands beyond, wherever Wood Elves and Alderfolk dwell.

High Priest

Brother Hawk - Artimec Caerme’onn (iLeoyz)

Archdruids

Sister Raven - Layla Arvellon (Numiyra)

Sister Horse - Lavinia Aureon (ImmaHorseRidda)

Priests

Brother Leatherback - Kairn Ithelanen (Excitedly)

Brother Red Panda - Lyemar Aureon (Kaelan__)

Brother Moonlight – Eryn Aureon (MrWhiteKnight19)

Brother Rainbow - Skylar Taliame’onn (LaffenOutLoud)

Sister Orison - Awaiti Aureon (NomadGaia)

Brother Leopard - Miklaeil Arvellon (ThumperJack_)

Sister Robin - Tevi Yelvairine (Trinn_)

Sister Lotus - Alydril (EagleEyeKK)

Sister Bean - Vaishnavi (Koshkaa)

Sister Sun - Amaryllis Taliame’onn (SorairoDays_)