“Ohowaki maehran, Ellaurir ay’Ibaran.

lyun ito heya’leh orrarnan,

kaenan’leh ortilrun nae illerae

Kaean’leh Sirame aynae’leh lye myumierae

Oh Ohowaki ormaehr, ehya leyuan, nae’leh ahern kae illera.”

"The Owl of Knowledge and Wisdom reaps the skies with silent wing beats. 

Those who follow under her masterful guidance pride themselves upon their dedication to both learning and teaching; the scholars of the world. 

It is with the Maehr’uhier that such scholars may find a home, a commune to foster their knowledge and bring unto them new heights."

⋆⁺₊⋆ ━━━━⊱༒︎ • ༒︎⊰━━━━ ⋆⁺₊⋆
Titles of the Maehr'uhier

The Maehr'uhier Seed is one of many principals, ones present in the owl Mani of Ohowaki.
The names of those within the seed have many, each passed down throughout the stages of one's dedication to the seed.

While respect for those above you is often seen as law, all those within the seed must treat each other with dignity.

Those with title of Chieftain or Elder gain those titles through dedication and commitment.

Sohae'maehr - The Chieftain

The leader of the seed, and the ones who guides those of their kin. They lead ceremonies, and hold the values of Ohowaki at the forefront of their mind. Sohae'maehr are chosen, a role passed by one Chief to another when they are ready. Once they have stepped down, they become an Elder.

Mar'maehr - Elder of the Seed

An elder, one who has earned the title because of the knowledge they have kept and passed. In the absence of the Sohae'maehr, a Mar'maehr is more than capable of welcoming a seedling into membership. The Sohae'maehr must give this title to those who have proved themselves within the seed. Another way to put it is that they have exhibited the qualities and values of Ohowaki.

Inder'maehr - The Book-keepers

A role that is freely taken, and not so often given. The Book-Keepers are those in charge of holding and protecting the knowledge stored by the clan. This requires conviction above all else, those who see the knowledge of the seed as nothing short of sacred. Though, knowledge is not measured by physical material. If it is between a life and a book, seed is most important.

Maehr'onn - Members
The members of the seed are those that have passed the trials of initiation. They have proved their worth to join the seed, and their patience and wisdom to portray the values. Patience applies to those within the seed, not bound to the values by law. Each and every one of us must one day exhibit growth of some kind, as long as your heart is set on the values of the seed, you will always be given another chance.

We are family.

"It is with the Maehr’uhier that such scholars may find a home"

Wyn'maehr - Children of the Seed

Fi'maehr - Seeker
Those who seek to join the seed, and recognize the trials before them.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ━━━━⊱༒︎ • ༒︎⊰━━━━ ⋆⁺₊⋆

The Values of Ohowaki

Knowledge
Wisdom
Teaching
Patience
Curiosity
Growth

⋆⁺₊⋆ ━━━━⊱༒︎ • ༒︎⊰━━━━ ⋆⁺₊⋆
The Trials of Initiation

Those seeking to join the seed all must undergo the same trials, as did the members before them. 
Even those born under members of the Maehr'uhier will face this when they come of age, though with an advantage if taught well.

The Trial of Knowledge
The first task that must be completed by the Seeker is that of knowledge. It's simple, in principal. This requires the seeker to return to the seed with knowledge not yet stored within the collection of the Maehr'uhier. This can be in nearly any form, though it must be documented in some way. If they're unsure of what is collected, the seeker is encouraged to ask and discover the meaning for themselves.

The Trial of Sight
The Fi'maehr is now tasked with seeking out those who hold knowledge of the many magics around the world. There is little to no limit on what this entails, even the most dangerous of mages should be understood. The seeker must find at minimum four different practices of magic, and ask them questions. They must ask what they are, How long they've perused this path, why they chose it, and above all, how this has affected their view on the world and philosophies.

The Trial of Understanding

With their first two tasks behind them, now comes a trial of patience. The Fi’maehr must find a person who they disagree with strongly in any capacity, due to personal reasons or morals, and come to a mutual agreement on something together. This cannot be something surface level like a favorite food, but rather on something deeper and meaningful. The purpose of such is to learn from those whom you do not see eye to eye, and realize value in all perspectives. 

The Trial of Independence

For one year, or an elven week, the Fi’maehr must make themselves home within the wilderness. In this time, they may not speak, write, or communicate with any words to anyone. The Fi’maehr may be around others, but asking for help is prohibited. Like Ohowaki, they will be silent. Proof of such endeavors will be a record of things they see and hear during this time, all observations of descendants and nature they deem interesting enough to note.

The Trial of Wisdom
To conclude the trials of the Maehr’uhier, the Fi’maehr must come to learn of the Mani in which they will study under. Return with an apt description of Ohowaki, her teachings, how to pray to her, and so forth. This final act will tie in to the following celebration of your acceptance. Continually, recitement of her primary prayer must be accomplished successfully. It is advised that items of worship are collected during this time, as they will be needed further on.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ━━━━⊱༒︎ • ༒︎⊰━━━━ ⋆⁺₊⋆

Rites of Passage



The Fi'Maehr or Wyn'Maehr has now become a Maehr'onn.

This comes with rites of passage, denoting a member coming into the seed as those before them have.

Rite of Flesh
In times of old, those who would become apart of the Maehr'uhier would decorate their skin in the fashion of their others. instead of a specific set of patterns, the barer of the tattoos must find a way to incorporate Ohowaki, and a pattern that represents the seed in a way of their choosing. 

Rite of the Talon
While combative ability is hardly revered as something sought out, the ability to navigate combat with cunning and wit is something that is encouraged within the Maehr’uhier seed. Because of such, the secondary rite of passage into the seed is to bear a custom forged blade designed by the Fledgling Maehr’onn, forged by themselves or a chosen smith. Typically, the blade is to bear the image of an owl in some form, via feathers, an owl head, or another viable option.

Rite of Binding

An important rite of community and devotion to seedmates. Wrapping one's wrists and forearms in bandages that have been dipped in herbs of healing, this rite is dedicated not to oneself but those around them. The Maehr’onn wears these bandages to protect their most vital veins upon their wrists, they’re to be worn at all times, however may be changed and rewrapped in private. To remove such bandaging is an action of incredible importance, and is only encouraged to be done exclusively when aiding another who’s in dire need of the healing herbs that aid in recovery. 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ━━━━⊱༒︎ • ༒︎⊰━━━━ ⋆⁺₊⋆
Rituals of Celebration

✦ . ⁺  . ✦ . ⁺  . ✦
Celebration of a Fledgling Maehr'onn

When a Fi’maehr, those who commit to taking the trials of the Maehr’uhier, complete their tasks and are fully accepted into the Seed, a celebration is to be held in honour of their accomplishments.  A show of gratitude too for the new knowledge they may offer.

Prayer
The celebration shall begin with an offering of thanks to Ohowaki for granting a new scholar to the Seed. 
Each Maehr’onn and above will gather together in silence bearing an item of offering in their hands. The ceremony is to be led by the Fledgling with the aid of the Seeds Sohae’maehr, location subject to change based on how the Fledgling wishes to orient their ceremony. 

Practice
Following the ceremony, the Seed may reconvene in another location or remain in that of their prayer. In either resulting setting, the newly graduated Maehr’onn is to share the results of their trials with the Seed so that they may provide knowledge and teach others what they have learned, displaying one of the Seeds Rites

Party
To conclude the celebrations, the formal endeavors may break into a party. The Seed may do so in any way seen fit or preferred by the Fledgling, however the aspect in which a new Maehr’uhier is celebrated for their accomplishment is pertinent.

✦ . ⁺  . ✦ . ⁺  . ✦

Orrar’parmayilu

Celebration of Partnership

When a wedding is to occur between a Seed member and another of any origin, they may opt to take part in the Maehr’uhier tradition of an orrar’parmayilu, or in common tongue, a bridal hunt. Brought from Bwadi culture into ‘ame, the hunt is to not only act as a premarital celebration, but to build upon existing friendships between both the bride and groom’s companions and further unify the pairs' lives.
Both teams are to be in matching disguises, their appearances hidden from the opposition.

(Participants may be same or opposite sex, in the result of a homosexual couple, they must agree on who is given which role.)

Mal'mayilu

The side of the groom is effectively in the dark, made reliant on their cunning and problem solving skills to endure the event. 
The Mal’mayilu meet in an enclosed location of their choosing to drink and plan their course of action, while awaiting the end of the prehunt time. 
Following the beginning of the hunt, the Mal’mayilu bear a single task; find the bride. However, doing so comes with challenges to be faced. Members of the Lari’mayilu may be found running about the hunt location, and can be halted by Mal’mayilu to be interrogated. The option of a riddle is presented to the hunter, however engaging in combat may also be chosen should it be wished. If either engagement is successful, the Mal’mayilu is to be given another riddle that pertains to the location of the bride. 
If the Mal’mayilu are successful in locating the bride, they must return her to the husband
In the instance that they are successful in doing so, the Orrar’parmayilu  will be completed and further celebrations such as drinking may ensue.

✦ . ⁺  . ✦ . ⁺  . ✦

Lari'mayilu

The side of the bride is that of misdirection, one must utilize skills in outwitting others to keep hidden. 

Prior to the hunt beginning, the Lari’mayilu are to hide the bride away in a secret location, to which they must comprise a series of hints to provide given they are beaten by the mal’mayilu. The bride herself is permitted to leave this location and join the hunt, disguised as another member of the Lari’mayilu, however must return at certain points to maintain function of the hints.The Lari’mayilu are each given a riddle to tell if they are caught by an opposing Mal’mayilu, however are noted to be prepared for combat.  In the instances in which they are beaten in either scenario, they must both give a hint to their combattant, as well as unmask themselves so that opposing Mal’maiylu don’t pursue them a second time. If the bride is found by members of the Mal’maiylu that are not the groom himself, the Lari’maiylu are tasked with hindering their attempts at transporting the bride via combat or other forms of misdirective trickery! If they fail to do so, the Orrar’parmayilu will be completed and further celebrations such as drinking may ensue. 

 

⋆⁺₊⋆ ━━━━⊱༒︎ • ༒︎⊰━━━━ ⋆⁺₊⋆
 

In Memorium, Falleon Maehr'uhier
May your wings soar within the eternal forest.

Blessed Be, Teacher
 

✦ . ⁺  . ✦ . ⁺  . ✦

The purpose of this lore is to modernize the original, and reformat it so there isn't so many broken image links.

Credit to the original Author: Periphonics

OG post:
 

"You will walk the wilds as you once walked to my arms—bare and unshielded, but never lost. You must listen to the wind, trust the roots beneath your feet, and when you return, you will not be the same”

“What will I be?”

“Whole." 

Isilynor Oscura to Liriana Oscura

THE FIRST MONTH

The days were long, and the silence of the wilds was deafening. Liriana moved through the dense forest with careful steps. The wilds were a living thing—unforgiving, yet full of wisdom. It was a rhythm she would need to learn anew.

The first nights were the hardest. She tried to stay hidden behind trees or in caves. She seeked comfort from the warmth of her campfires. Still, it did little to ease the ache in her chest. She had forgotten most of living in the wilds, but the memories of her past lingered, engraved in her mind.

At the end of the first weeks, the hunger set in. The rain had begun to fall in steady sheets, turning the earth to mud. Liriana moved slower, the weight of the trial and the memories of her past pressing heavier on her shoulders. The first sign of a hunt—a deer too quick, a bird just out of reach—left her frustrated. But she pressed on, remembering what her father always told her, “The wilds will never bend to your will. Therefore you must bend to theirs, oem’ii.” She lifted her spear and moved further into the forest.

One night of the third week, she woke to find her clothes soaked through by the heavy rain of the previous night. She had not slept well, her dreams filled with the echo of her past. "You will rise. You will grow." It felt impossible. But she refused to let the wilds break her. So she had no other choice but to rise.

By the end of the month, a deep resolve had taken root. She was still alone, still uncertain of what lay ahead, but Liriana knew that she would not turn back. The wilds had begun to teach her, in its quiet, relentless way.

 She was not the same. But was she whole? Not yet… no not yet, she thought, and ventured further in.

THE THIRD MONTH

The further in she went, the more familiar the forest became. Slowly but surely, she began to remember the way of the wilds. Yet, she was far away from done.

The cold morning air forced her awake. Her stomach rumbling from hunger. She got up and lurked around the trees, hoping to find an animal still asleep. She felt it before she saw it - a presence in the trees. Then suddenly, before she could react, the silence broke. 

It took her a while to realise the strange, sharp cry was hers. A searing pain spread across her left side. She looked down, to see blood stained her clothes. A scratch by four claws had marked her, deep enough to scar. 

She gripped onto her spear tighter, as her other hand pressed against the aching pain. Confused, she stumbled around, until her eyes spotted the attacker. A Screowl. She tried to focus on her breathing, calming down, a habit she had taken up from her mentor, Illynora. 

As she raised her spear, tragedy hit her. The Screowl let out a cry of their own - its wing was outstretched but unable to lift. It had been hurt, just like her. 

She moved closer, hoping to help, an action the Screowl hissed at. She stepped back, but she did not give up. Carefully, she approached once more.

She had scratches on her arms as it nibbed her skin harshly. Soon, its strength faded as she aided him. “Ceru, I will call you” she hummed, before the creature passed out from the pain.

She carried the Screowl with her, hiding at a quiet place for the night. She made a fire, cooking one of the birds she had caught and the other she passed toward the creature once it woke. The Screowl hissed, yet it sniffed the meat. It hesitated, but accepted the offer, moving away with a slightly softer hiss. It did not attack, and kept its distance. Yet, it did not flee.

She had survived for months. She was hurt, but she lived. She was not the same. But was she whole? Not yet… no not yet, she thought, and ventured further in.

THE ??? MONTH

Liriana liked staying up late at night. She would wait until she could see the moon. But she did not look at its luminosity. No, instead, she looked at its shadows. At her Zylgren, the shadow of the moon.

She knew it was morning when the birds sang, that it was day when the sunlight pushed through the treetops , and night when it was dark and still. 

She had lost count of how many days it had been. All she knew was the words the Matriarch had told her. “Return once you feel you are ready.”  

Was she ready? She glanced at Ceru, who perched beside her as he stretched his newly healed wings. He had fought her at every turn, hissing and biting at her. Yet here he was. Not owned, not tamed. Yet he stuck around by choice.

And then, she finally understood. 

She had come to the wilds bare and unshielded just as her mother had said. She had not conquered anything, nor had the wilds broken her. She had simply adapted to its ways, becoming a part of it.

From lost to whole, she had walked the wilds, though the wilds had not walked with her. And she understood that now, she understood as to why the wilds could never be tamed.

Was she ready now? Yes, yes she was.

Ahernal ito,

–════ 𓆩⟡𓆪 ════–

SHRINETENDERS OF ELD

Among Malin’s children was Seldras the First, who parted ways with the rest of his siblings. He traveled to an ancient weald far removed from the Eaves of Malinor. There, he toiled, carving into the massive redwoods which thrived within the forest, and chiseling into the stones which bore their way from the earth. Seldras’ devotion, year by year, gathered more of his wandering, clanless brothers and sisters in that heavenly wood. To his growing number, Seldras taught the values of the written word to portray their spiritual beliefs. Their community attracted those who desire the role of shrine wardens, protectors of holy lands in which those of the Wild Faith place their worship. 

Those who seek to stand before the sanctums of both Aspects and Mani, willing to lay their lives, became known as the Alhanavir; Dedicated individuals who used their expressions of faith to provide liturgy to the ancient culture in which they maintained. As their shrines and faithful creations amassed, they dubbed their sacred weald ‘Dhru’an’dahlen’, or in common ‘the temple-woods’, for the towering redwood trees that housed countless shrines;  massive murals and prayer tablets carved into the trunks of the sacred trees, and the proud, scattered Menhir– Standing stones, in which holes were carved in such a way that they would sing when a breeze passed through them. 

Through the wood meandered a mighty river, dubbed Lan’dahlen, Blood of The Forest. This river was considered a giver of prosperity, of which the Seed sought their very livelihoods, the food they ate and water they drank sourced there. And, as such, developed a culture of river hunters. The Alhanavir were, by all accounts, the holy guardians of  the Dhru’an’dahlen.

–════ 𓆩⟡𓆪 ════–

W A Y S  O F  L I F E

GROOMING & HYGIENE

As a people, the Alhanavir have always put value in their presentation, partially to pay tribute to the imposing mantle of antlers of the Stag. As such, the ‘crown’ of their head and their heads in general are extremely important to them. 

Hair is a holy part of the Alhanavir as it is said to contain all the experiences and memories of the body. Hair ornamentation and personalization is highly encouraged as it allows each member of the seed to express themselves whilst still paying tribute to their Patrons. Braids, beads, patterns, and hairstyles are all practices that are emboldened to make each member stand out on their own. As such, one’s physical upkeep and expression was considered their own worship to their Patrons and to the world around them - groups of Alhanavir would have joined together as a community by the riverside to take care of each other, typically reserved between family, partners, or close friends. Oils were also used as their version of ‘perfume’ - rubbed into the hair, temple and skin. These oils were often derived from plants and trees in the area, both meant to smell more appropriate as well as mask their own scent while hunting, blending in with the forest to bolster the element of surprise. 

Elders typically wear their hair the longest - a symbol of their experience and their longevity. In times of tragedy such as death, or mourning, their hair may be cut as an offering or sacrifice - offering pieces of themselves along with the dead.

–════ 𓆩⟡𓆪 ════–

EXPRESSIONS OF FAITH

AV’IN AMELAN

The scrolls passed down among the remaining members of the Alhanavir have been difficult to decipher. One may note that their strange words are written in a language far removed from typical Elvish. A sharp, deep script formed of straight lines and dots that arose from the etching of letters into wax and wood, before they were marked in ink. Tender’s Cant was devised by the Alhanavir to communicate with one another without the prying eyes of humans who had learned the greater elvish speech, the same humans the Seed viewed as the cause for the gradual decline of Mali’ame ways and traditions. While it doesn’t have an official name in the greater Elvish language, they have prescribed themselves their own title - Av’in Amelan - Tongue of Keepers, referencing their sacred duty of the Keepers of traditions and the ways of eld.

TITLES & HONORIFICS

NUMBERING

USEFUL WORDS AND PHRASES

[By Brennan Massicotte]

THE RAS’ADAHL

The Smoking Tree, or more commonly known as Ras’adahl or Raell’vulsulin, is considered an integral part of the Alhanavir practices. Every year upon the day of the summer solstice, every member of their seed will migrate from their northern Redwoods and rivers to travel south, towards the scorched and yellowed grasslands. Here, is where the ame’lie tree is most common and most abundant. Each group of Alhanavir may have their own grove within a special part of the savannah, used for rituals or a graveyard for the deceased.

There, they will spend a week in the warm climate, collecting the sacred bark and powder referred to as Alas’ala Nisathe, or Desert Powder in the Common language. During this process, they treat this opportunity to teach those about the effects of the tree and their significance to their traditions. The Alhanavir use the warping psychedelic powers of the collected powder in their seed trials and in the creation of stories, by using the visions as a guide to whatever tale they may spin. 

This powder is also used in their funeral rites, where the body is laid down on a bed made of the tree’s bark and is thoroughly coated with the alas’ala nisathe, before it is burned. There, the ashes are used in ink - used to scribe further tomes and stories pertaining to that who passed, so that their memory may continue to live on. This ink is also smeared upon the roots of the tree where the bed of bark came from, marking it akin to a headstone. The process is done and repeated for all of those who had died within the year as the pilgrimage only happens annually - should the true body already be too decomposed to make the trip, belongings of the fallen will be burnt instead.

CALL TO OMENTAHU

Given the ability for the Alhanavir’s singing stones to stay standing for such a long period of time, they were delegated with the responsibility of being the callers of the sacred ‘ame tradition of Omentahu. Due to the songs emanated from the many megaliths scattered across the forest, the wind blows through the stones like one would blow a horn - calling to those who hear it to follow the noise to the heart of the meetings. Due to such a method of summoning, the winds are typically the strongest in the springs, in which the Omentahu are to be called.

–════ 𓆩⟡𓆪 ════–

T R I A L S

THE GRANTING

The final ‘rite’ of a trialgoer is to learn the most important art of all, that of marking one’s skin. Stories that do not fit on parchment are meant to be written upon the flesh in the form of ilmyumier and tattoos - one of the most important and distinctive traits of a true Alhanavir. It’s a deeply intimate process as the trial leader and their acolyte bond together over conversation and teaching, acting as a final fortification about the importance of the traditional and community values that were learned throughout the aspirant’s quests and trials. The name serves as both a ‘granting’ of the sacred skill of marking, but also ‘granting’ the aspirant themselves the name, the mantle and the tattoo of the Alhanavir.

ILMYUMIER

The truest mark that denoted a Mali’ame as a member of the Seed was known as the ‘Crowned Sun’, a bleeding and radiant glyph adorned with a rack of antlers and the marks of a tiger. Typically, it was worn on the back, but was able to be placed anywhere; On the shoulders and biceps, or even upon the stomach. Faint prayers were inscribed along the larger body of the marking in a pigment slightly darker than the mark itself, only able to be read standing extremely closely.

The Crowned Sun

Mark of the Alhanavir

–════ 𓆩⟡𓆪 ════–

CREDITS

None of this would have been possible at all without the writing and conceptual efforts of @marslol and @Periphonics , who wrote large portions of this lore with me. Also, thanks to bioware for your language, I guess!

Oathsworn of the Sun

-= Creation of the Seed =-

The Aurë’naerï are a Seed that follow the Old Aspectist Rites, revering the Mother and Father of the Eternal Forest as opposed to the Mani of the Wild Faith. Founded in the year 1963 FA | 167 SA by the Sun Druid Avyndriel Vaeloryïs, the Aurë’naerï primarily serve their kin through scribing tomes and historical annals, providing education on the Aspects, and serving Malin’s children as needed.

Matrons of the Forest

The Matrons are the two individuals whose teachings guided and inspired the first Matriarch, Avyndriel, in the creation of the Aurë’naerï. These former Druii now serve the Aspects in the Eternal Forest, with only their memory and writings remaining in the material world. The Matrons are not figures to be revered within the Seed, but instead acknowledged as cultural Elders who guided Avyndriel upon her path resulting in the creation of the Aurë’naerï.

Awaiti of Emerald

Renn of Wisteria

-= Aurë’naerï Philosophy =-

The Aurë’naerï are free to follow any philosophy they seek, or even none at all, though the Seed itself closely follows the ideals and morals of the Ways of Emerald and the Mother. Thus, most members of the Aurë’naerï follow one of these two sects.

Way of Emerald

Indomitable Will | Great Courage | Emotional Resilience | Foresight

Way of the Mother

Societal Balance | Loyalty & Duty | Universal Respect | Purity & Healing

-= Aurë’naerï Principles =-

Loyalty
To remain faithful to Seed and kin.
 

Resilience
To rise as the Sun does, regardless of how many times it sets.
 

Devotion
To acknowledge the Aspects’ as the true Deities of the Forest, and revere them above all others.
 

Knowledge
To scribe and recite all knowledge, ensuring all that are lost are never forgotten.
 

Patience
To retain control without emotional restraint.
 

-= Seed Tenets =-

I. Aurë’naerï have sworn an oath to uphold the Aspects’ Will, protect and educate the Children of Malin, and to scribe knowledge for the libraries of Mali.
 

i. To uphold the Aspects’ Will is to retain the balance of nature. Aurë’naerï must never forget that the Aspects’ reside above all others in the Eternal Forest. It is them who must be revered foremost, though Aurë’naerï are free to worship Mani or other Aenguls as well.
 

ii. Conflicts between the Children of Malin are natural, as all siblings fight. Aurë’naerï are permitted to serve those they have sworn fealty to, but must never permit such conflict to come between Seed Members.
 

iii. Recording and reciting all knowledge is paramount to ensuring the lost are never forgotten, and the past is never repeated. A Mali that lives a millenia is not expected to remember every breath. We must scribe to ensure all is never lost.

II. The Aurë’naerï are devout Oathsworn, having passed trials and earnt their Ilmyumiers. As such, the name “Aurë’naerï” may not be inherited through marriage or birth.
 

i. Any descendant may become Aurë’naerï, though they will remain oathsworn to Malin’s Children regardless.
 

ii. A descendant belonging to another Seed may also join the Aurë’naerï, as long as the tenets are adhered to. The Aurë’naerï will encourage loyalty to both Seeds, as per their Principles.

III. To associate with darkspawn, without just cause, or possess any form of corrupt Magicks is to break one’s Oath and betray the Will of the Aspects.
 

i. Justification of one’s crime of association will be judged by the entirety of the Seed, requiring a majority vote.

-= Ilmyumier & Appearance =-

Ilmyumier & Markings

The Aurë’naerï Ilmyumier is a very simple golden sun inked in the location of the Aurë’naerï’s choosing. The most common locations for this ilmyumier are the forehead, neck, or shoulders. It may only be granted by an Elder of the Aurë’naerï, or the Parriarch themselves, upon the completion of the Initiate Trials.

Other sun-themed imagery may be added around this ilmyumier to create a larger image, such as a full sleeve upon the arm or leg. Bardmancy is also often utilised to make the ilmyumier glow akin to the sun.
 

Clothing & Accessories

The Aurë’naerï often don their own individual styles and outfits, though during formal events may choose to represent their Seed more directly. Iconography representing the Aspects and Sun are typically most prominent, in the form of fabric colours, embroidery, and headdresses.

Symbolism relating to their selected Way, such as Emerald or the Mother, may also be present in a subtle form. More devout Aurë’naerï may even go as far as to paint their skin with similar designs, and weave flora and jewels through braids within their hair.

-= Aurë’naerï Household =-

Seed Echelons

Seed Parriarch

The Aurë’naerï Seed is led by the Parriarch; an Elder selected through a high majority vote by all members of the Seed. This Parriarch is responsible for approving the completion of all Initiate trials, handling conflict both within and regarding the Seed, and representing the Seed in all formal affairs. The Parriarch must never act alone, and must always seek the council of their kin.

The First Seed Parriarch was Avyndriel Vaeloryïs, the original founder of the Seed. 

Elders

Elders of the Aurë’naerï are those who have been part of the Seed for a notable length of time, have demonstrated their application of the Seeds’ Principles in all facets of life, and have upheld the tenets consistently. These Aurë’naerï are honoured with the rank of ‘Elder’, and are permitted to conduct trials for Initiates to join the Seed.

Aurë’naerï

All who have been granted the name of Aurë’naerï have completed their trials and sworn their oath. All Aurë’naerï are equal, bar the Parriarch themself, though even the Parriarch is not permitted to act alone without seeking council first. 

Architecture & Lifestyle

While the Aurë’naerï Seed lacks a Patron Mani, the members themselves hold a close affinity with animals due to their Aspectist culture. Within the primary homestead itself, where the Parriarch resides, only small creatures are permitted within - and often of a more feline nature. This tradition began due to Avyndriel herself favouring her ginger cat Ser Augustus, and requiring all larger creatures to remain outside to cater towards the feline’s sensitive nature.

The homestead itself is often constructed with high ceilings and open, spacious balconies. The walls are almost entirely shelved and filled with a variety of tomes, relics, and other curious items. The Aurë’naerï home is typically compared to some form of museum due to its contents, with murals built into walls depicting historical events overlooking lounges prepared for tea and entertaining. The members’ rooms are always tucked away beneath the main halls, allowing the home to be relatively open for visitors and exploration.

-= Initiate Trials =-

Trial of Devotion

The first trial of the Aurë’naerï is a discussion to assess their intent and reasoning for seeking the Seed, and their level of knowledge on the Aspectist faith and Ways of Emerald and the Mother. The Initiate is given a book to scribe notes on the conversation held, and tasked with studying the Aspects further if their knowledge is found lacking. 

Trial of Knowledge

The Aurë’naerï are scholars and scribes, adding to the libraries of Mali to ensure knowledge is spread, and histories are not forgotten. For this trial, the Initiate must write a sizeable tome of twenty pages or more, on a topic that has not already been covered in great detail. They must present this tome to the Elder residing over their trials, and then donate direct copies to all libraries of Malin’s kin.

Trial of Loyalty

The Final Trial of the Aurë’naerï is to demonstrate their loyalty to their future kin by protecting and defending them against all threats. The Initiate must embark on a short journey with an Aurë’naerï, facing some form of threat to their home and culture, be it an encroaching predator, severely scarred and blighted land, or some other great threat. The Elder residing over their trials must approve of the severity of their task.

-= Aurë’naerï Rites =-

Cerridwen’s Harvest

Oath of Matrimony

Setting of a Sun

Artist: Morgan Rogers

Author: Amayonnaise

Looking for the Roots

The Search for the Aureons

[!]

A Red-Tailed Hawk would deliver scrolls containing the following information to the Aureons living in the woodlands around the realm

“Brothers and sisters, sons and daughters of the Ikurnamon, I seek your wisdom. I wish to know more about my roots. I carry the name and blood of my father but I know not of what it means to be an Aureon. I wish to bring honor to our seed and respect the traditions of our forefathers. 

If you are out there I wish to invite you to the Vale of Nevaehlen. I wish to present you with the opportunity of setting down roots, bringing our seed to a new home, a home where we will grow strong. As strong as the Ironwood whose secrets were mastered by our ancestors.

It would be my honor to learn The Way of a true Aureon. I pray to Cernunnos this message will find you and bring you to our new home.

-Thordir Aureon”

OOC:

Symbols of the Vulnrith

Home of the Foxes

Keepers of Memory

In order to become an official member of the Vulnrith, and receive the mark of the golden fox, there are six trials that must be completed. These trials were created with the intent of helping the vuln’ii face whatever obstacles and traumas they may have experienced, learn how to move past them, and guide them towards a new life of peace and fresh opportunities. Over time, as these trials were administered and completed, the Matriarch of the Vulnrith found herself doodling shapes in the dirt - Symbols whose swirls and points represent the sacred trials and the ideals they sought to impart. While not much, for the Matriarch is no true artist, these simple shapes began to mean something to those of the Foxhole; symbols that represented what the Vulnrith worked through, and what they continue to work towards.

[Seed Post]

Now, these symbols can be found littered across the Vulnrith Hall, and on those who bear the mark of the fox. Carved into staffs and weapons, painted on jewelry, stitched into clothing - The Vulnrith take these precious shapes with them as a reminder to keep moving forwards, no matter what storms may come.

Test of Trust

Can be Interpreted As:

A Handshake

Linking a Chain

The Expansion of the Self
 

Acceptance of the Past

Can be Interpreted As:

Branching of Thought

Finding the Mind’s Eye

Looking Ahead

Befriending the Vulpine

Can be Interpreted As:

The Fox

Pointing Inwards

Two Becoming One

Forged Anew

Can be Interpreted As:

An Empty Bowl

A Link Completed

Persistence and Work
 

To Hunt and Provide

Can be Interpreted As:

The Taking, The Giving

Their Weapon’s Use

The Necessity of Life
 

Honoring the Dead

Can be Interpreted As:

Creation from our Past

Respectful Celebration

The Knowledge you Shall Impart

The Wavemen

“Amidst the ocean’s rhythmic dance we sail, where stars above and wave below prevail.

We Mali’ame, wavemen strong and true, bound by mani, our voyage we pursue.”

Art by Matt Lara

The currents of Sequana led the Wavemen’s canoe to a new island, which they named Taroa. It was an as yet untamed land, and not suitable for the Wavemen. Their leader, Nagatori, warned the canoe away from landing until he had tamed its Mani. He took a smaller canoe to the island and set it upon the shore. There, he called upon the Mani of the island to come to him. Two appeared. The first, Vao, was the Mani of the Winds upon Taroa. The other, Po, was the Mani of the Tide that moved to and from Taroa’s shores. They told Nagatori that he was not welcome upon the island and to return whence he came.

Yet, as always, Nagatori was cunning, and he bargained with the Mani. “Tell me what I must do,” he said, “in order to prove that I am worthy to rest my head upon this land.”

“There is nothing you have or can do that would help you, Wave-Tamer,” the Mani replied. “If you do not depart from these shores, we shall withhold from you the cool breeze and your skin will bake. If you do not depart from these shores, we shall pull back the tide and the fish will be prevented from coming to the shallows.”

Nagatori raised his hands in a gesture of friendship. “Surely, beings of such manum as yourselves can do all that you promise. But you do not know the power I wield and that I am more powerful than you. Do what I say, let my people land on these shores and live upon and from the land, and I will do no harm to you.”

“You have no power over us,” the Mani laughed.

“Then let me prove my manum to you,” he pleaded. “Set upon me a challenge. Ask me a question that no man could answer.”

The Mani scoffed. “Very well. No man has ever been allowed on these shores and so, no man has ever known our names. If you can tell us our names, we will let you and your people stay.” And with that, Po turned into a fish and swam away, and Vao turned into a monkey and scampered away.

Nagatori began to work and fashioned rod, line, and hook. He placed the rod into the sand on the beach, the hook in the water, and then hid in the trees. Po came to investigate the hook, but Vao scampered onto the beach, yelling “Watch out, Po! The man is trying to catch you!” So, Po swam away, but Nagatori learned the name.

In the same way, he fashioned a snare and placed a banana as bait, then hid amongst the rocks. As Vao roamed close to investigate, Po shouted out from the sand bar, “Vao, watch out! The man is trying to catch you!” So, Vao scampered away, but Nagatori learned the name.

The next day, Nagatori found the Mani resting on the beach and he called them out with their names. They turned in wonder. “But how did you know?”

Nagatori laughed. “I told you that I had much manum, but you did not believe me. Indeed I have far more manum than you, for I know your names and you cannot tell me mine.” And indeed, Po and Vao knew it not.

Nagatori smiled and told them, “Since I have proven my manum, not only will you allow us to live here, but you will also give us the cool breeze daily, Vao, and bring much fish in on the tide, Po.” The two Mani agreed and the deal was struck, and so Nagatori settled with his family upon the shores of Taroa.

“Voyaging through Aotearoa” from The National Library of New Zealand 

Background

The Ngaruera seed is new to Aevos, but originated from a long established culture of seafarers, divers, and fishermen in isles far from shore. The Ngaruera ride the waves on their narn’mataliarme, which are large, twin-hulled ocean-faring canoes. These canoes are captained by established linannilers, or wayfinders, adept at navigating by the current and the stars. As wavemen of the ocean, the Ngaruera devote themselves to the the three cetacean Mani: Sequana, Stalashaan, and Hamatsa. Together, the seed embodies the following pillars:

Seek Always Adventure

Act with Courage

Live with Passion

Respect the Calm

Embrace your Destiny

Manum

The Ngaruera are deep believers that each being and each place is endowed with a certain amount of manum. The definition of manum is difficult to place into a single word, but it can mean at times power, strength, authority, influence, status, and dignity. A being can gain manum from his ancestors, his deeds, his inherent power and strength, his position in society, and any number of different ways. Just as it is possible to gain manum, so too is it possible to lose it. A being or place’s manum is sacred to them, and to purposefully or negligently take manum away from someone or someplace else is reason enough for violence. For this reason, a Waveman will always take his shoes off at another’s dwelling, so as not to taint a place’s manum with the foul places he may have tread. A Waveman will also wash his hands as he leaves a place, so that any manum he may have accidentally gathered from that place will be left there.

Dagrannyern,  the ‘War Dance’

Before physical combat or during moments of great emotional purpose or turmoil, the Wavemen participated in the Dagrannyern, or the ‘War Dance.’ This ceremonial performance used the whole of the body, hands, arms, legs, feet, eyes, and tongue to express the manum of the performer and the importance of the event. Often accompanied by chants or dramatic cries and grunts, the entire body would seemed to shimmer and vibrate as the dance continued. This vibration was meant both to mimic the quivering appearance in the air on extremely hot days on the ocean, and also to show the performer’s mastery over his muscles.

Welcoming Ceremony

As Wavemen from different islands came upon one another’s shores, an elaborate ritual in three parts began to take shape. This ritual, now more ceremonial than practical, was meant to convey the intentions of the parties upon meeting. The people on the arriving canoe would begin with the Song of Arrival, a melodious telling of who they were and why they were traveling. Often elaborate and highly personal in the most important of situations, a simple song has been adopted for more common use:

We are voyagers

Summoned by the Mani

Of this mighty ocean to come

We take up the good challenge

We understand the ways of the sea

We look to the stars and other signs

To find our way, to find new lands

To make our home

In response, from those who welcomed the newcomers, came at least one Dagrannyern, but often several, performed by powerful people from the new island. This would symbolize the power of the place and the people that would be wielded against the newcomer should they steal any of the manum there while they were guests. If both parties found the other agreeable, the would come together, lean their heads close to each other, and breathe heavily, performing the Exchange of Breath in friendship and welcome.

Weapons and Clothing

For lifetimes, the Wavemen lived on small islands and on their narn’mataliarme, unable to conceive of the great and mighty works in the cities of other Mali. Their weapons and clothing were marked by this rustic existence and, even today, with the wealth of Aevos open to them, they still embrace this part of their rustic roots. Wavemen clothing is made from woven grass, reeds, and flax. A special article of clothing was a cape of woven feathers. This cape was worn only by those of importance or those with much manum, and usually only for ceremonies of special significance. Their weapons are made of jade, a form of greenstone found on the islands, along with wood and whalebone. Their most iconic weapon is the Aelanah’wy, a close-quarters staff with a flat, wide surface on one end for blunt strikes and a sharpened stabbing end on the other.

Art by Matt Lara

Trial of Sequana

Sequana is the Mani of the ocean in its entirety. By his currents are the wavemen carried on their great journeys. This is true both on the sea and in life. In this trial, an aspirant to the Ngaruera Seed must let the current of life carry him for a year and a day, traveling the world to discover and learn more about the world and himself. In the wilds, he will learn to seek out adventure, but also to recognize the pull that destiny has upon him.

Trial of Stalashaan

Stalashaan is the Mani of the ocean’s chaos and turbulence. By his power do the waves rise high and the maelstroms draw down deep. A Waveman must master this chaos, both without and within. An aspirant to the Ngaruera Seed must show his passion to his companion, gathering together a war party to take part in a whale hunt, where he will learn to steel his courage and stare the beast down as he casts his harpoons into the great animal.

Trial of Hamatsa

Hamatsa is the Mani of the ocean’s calm and tranquility. By her power does the ocean lay at rest, offering supreme peace, but also the deadly duldrums. A Waveman must understand this peace and tranquility and respect that it is both a blessing and a curse. An aspirant to the Ngaruera Seed must sail to a place where no land is in sight. There, they must seek out and witness the Witchfire alight upon the mast during a storm at sea. The true test lies in maintaining calmness and tranquility amidst the tempestuous weather. As the winds howl, and the waves rise, the aspirant must harness their inner serenity to navigate through the storm without losing focus or being overwhelmed by fear. They must read the signs of the sea, interpret the patterns of the weather, and trust their instincts to find the elusive and ethereal Witchfire.

The Heralds of Wisdom

(Could not find the artist, but credit to whoever did this amazing art piece!)

Scholars, politicians, sentinels. Though always having been small in size, those of the Acaele'thil Seed have achieved much in their storied history. Whether it be the taming of gryphons in the Era of Ancient Seeds, to securing the crown in modern times, they have never cowered in the face of a challenge.

Wisdom
Loyalty
Cunning
Guidance
Knowledge
 

Following his abdication of the throne, Aenor Calithil, the current Chieftain of the Seed, wandered the wilds for many, many seasons. In his travels, he managed to discover tomes regarding some of the more ancient Seeds, his own included. What struck him as most interesting is that ‘Calithil’ was a butchering of the original elven name of the Seed: Acaele’thil. Over time, he managed to piece together a more cohesive history of his progenitors and garner new insight into the lives of his ancient kin.

With the resurgence of both Aspectism and the Seed Culture in Vailor, Aenor was among the first members of Wood Elven culture to re-establish their Seed, alongside the likes of Caerme’onn, Tresery, Aureon, and Terin. While most Seeds welcomed any into their fold, the Acaele'thil were the only ones who maintained their Seed through blood relations or marriage after seeing what troubles could arise from accepting anyone eager to join. The Acaele'thil Seed quickly established themselves as scholars, librarians, and forgemasters within the Dominion, lending a hand to numerous political situations that arose in such convoluted times. This continued on for many, many decades, well into Axios as Aenor eventually rose to the position of High Prince, even possessing a most sacred relic for some time; The Falchion of Malin. With the valuable assistance of his granddaughter, Carellith, who was Lady of Stewardy, Aenor led the Dominion to the best of his abilities until the position eventually took its toll. With the Dominion stagnating further and further with each passing year, despite efforts to have it be otherwise, Aenor signed the Dominion over to Oren as a protectorate before answering the call of the wilds.

During Aenor’s time in the wilds, much transpired in the world of the Elves without his knowledge. The Dominion he left behind soon began to splinter due to infighting, and likewise, the Acaele'thil Seed started to drift apart as well. Aenor’s first son, Kairn, dissatisfied with the path the Dominion was currently on, founded his own splinter faction, frequently vying for control of both the throne and military. This eventually became known as the Bronze Rebellions and Kairn succeeded in his endeavor, accepting the title of “Tyrant” during his time leading the Elves. He also joined the Ithelanen Seed in this timeframe. However, power was something Kairn grew weary of, for the mantle of King was a heavy one. Eventually, Abelas took the throne after Kairn decided to abdicate, and yet, eventually all leaders fall. Following the Death of Abelas, Renn was made Queen by Kairn, for the elf did not desire that power again, or so he thought. Eventually, Kairn was once more displeased with the weakness of the Elves following a distressing defeat at the hands of the September Prince. Due to this, Kairn eventually opposed Renn and succeeded in subjugating the Dominion, vassalizing it and dubbing it Irrinor.
 Towards the winter years of Atlas, Aenor’s granddaughter passed on to the Eternal Forest, the news eventually reaching the grizzled Elf and causing him to withdraw further into the wilds. 
Yet, also during these times, one of Aenor’s daughters, Anya, wandered the realms as a War Cleric as Tahariae until the Aengul withdrew from the realm, leaving His followers without a path in life. Both father and daughter would reunite in Almaris, in the city of Yong Ping. With reluctant hesitation, due to his history with the Wood Elves, Aenor eventually ventured to the Vale of Nevaehlen, where the Acaele'thil would re-establish themselves amongst kin, and have remained there to this day. 

Much like other Seeds, the Acaele'thil have no qualms seeking the wisdom of all Mani. However, there are two that they seek guidance from above all others. 
The first of these two is Ohowaki, Princess of Owls, who embodies not only wisdom, but the pillars of patience and knowledge. These traits are highly revered by the Acaele'thil, who have always had a thirst for discerning the unknown and broadening their minds. It was, and still is, not uncommon for Acaele'thil to pray to Ohowaki for the wisdom necessary to guide those who rely upon them. Many Acaele'thil in the past, and even in the present, have carried an effigy or carving of the Princess of Owls on their person, invoking the Mani to, in turn, guide them when the time comes for such intervention.
The second of these two Mani is Sonnos, Prince of Foxes, who, above all else, personifies cunning. An Acaele'thil has always required a quick mind, both sharp and attentive, in order to strategize the best path to tread in many circumstances, whether it be during something as simple as a hunt, to a more intense situation such as a political conclave. While most might associate prayer and worship to Sonnos with those who are politicians, or even merchants, a cunning mind can be useful for all descendants. But what’s more, is that Acaele'thil have found that a cunning mind must be tempered with wisdom, for knowing how to convey something is just as important as knowing what to say, hence the dual worship of both Ohowaki and Sonnos.
 

While the ancient Acaele'thil art of gryphon taming has become lost to the ages, the symbol and status the gryphon conveys still resonates deeply with all Acaele'thil. Majestic, mighty, and wise, these companions were greatly valued by the ancient Acaele'thil who managed to gain a gryphon’s respect. While there were smaller variations of these beautiful beasts in Axios that were able to be bonded with, no such creature has been found in the lands following. However, the meaning behind bonding with a creature is still revered, and thus, one trial of the Acaele'thil is to earn the respect of a beast, whether it be screowl or feline, duffle or canine.

With knowledge being a pillar of Acaele'thil values, it comes as no surprise the Acaele'thils have gathered quite a collection of tomes and scrolls over the centuries. With the intent of continuously expanding their collection, one simple, yet vital trial of an aspiring Acaele'thil is to obtain new information from whatever lands they may reside in. They may gather a single tome, or many, or simply whispers they may find in their travels. When they return, they should be ready to discuss what they have found, for intimately knowing the knowledge one has found is just as important as possessing it in the first place.

The Acaele'thil were once purgers of blight and aberrations that arose from such taint, seeing it as their calling in life and their part in upholding the Balance. While only Druids are truly capable of purging blight from tainted lands, those without the Gifts can still contribute. And so, one of the trials for an aspiring Acaele'thil is to find a beast that is tainted beyond saving, whether it be something as small as a hedgehog, to something as mighty as a caravachorn. Upon finding the beast and tracking it, the aspiring Acaele'thil must offer it up as a sacrifice to the Aspects, for cleansing nature of such taint is admirable in the eyes of the Horned Man and Green Lady.

This trial varies between each individual, and is usually saved for the latter part of the trials, once the Acaele’thil in charge of the trials begins to learn the strengths and weaknesses of the Aspirant. The aspiring Acaele’thil will be thrust into a difficult, or even dangerous, situation at an unknown point in time, requiring them to overcome what obstacle is placed in their path. It might be a physical trial, or one involving the mind. The vagueness of this trial is imperative, for an Acaele’thil must be prepared to face down challenges at a moment’s notice, using their honed mind to overcome the tribulation.

Following the Aspirant's success in their trials, they are allowed to scribe their name in the Acaele’thil Book of Deeds. This tome holds the names of many prior Calithil and what they accomplished in life, once more stressing the importance of not allowing knowledge to be forgotten.

(Credit to Numirya for both)

Having both ‘ame and ‘aheral blood, the clothing of an Acaele'thil has been influenced by such and varies greatly. From the furred garbs of the Wood Elves, to the refined clothing of their fair skinned cousins, they find comfort in donning either variety. Yet, the most distinguishing trait of the Acaele'thil is their dual-colored hair. For those of Acaele'thil blood, it is inherited, though many Acaele'thil in the past, either through marriage or joining the seed, have voluntarily dyed part of their hair white, though it is not a requirement.
 For those blood Acaele'thil, it seems all share the stark white locks of their ancestors, yet the second color is determined by their same-sex parent. A daughter will have white hair with the secondary color of their mother, while a son would bare the white locks with the secondary color of their father. Very rarely though, the secondary color may be that of a vibrant, fiery orange, once seen as a blessing, a symbol of an ancient Acaele'thil whose story is known by all within the Seed.

(Credit to Numirya)

The Acaele'thil Seed differs from most due to the fact that it technically has two markings, though only one was required by the members of the Seed. The official ilmyumier of the Acaele'thil Seed is an ever evolving token and story of the Acaele'thil’s life and endeavors. When first inked upon the Acaele'thil, it takes the form of a circular, hollow mass of white roots bearing blue leaves throughout its entirety, representing the Lentin’celia, or the Starlilly Tree. From here, momentous occasions that shape and form the Acaele'thil in life are added to the ilmyumier in the form of branching roots. At the end of these branching paths, a single item is interwoven into the ends of the roots that represents these character defining moments. No two ilmyumier are the same, though many might hold similar items depending on the path in life an Acaele'thil takes. 
A single item that represents the Calithil at their very core takes up the space within the center of this original, circular mass of roots. It is for this very reason that the space might remain empty for decades, or even centuries for many Acaele'thil. 
The second ilmyumier stems from that original group of Mali’aheral that those Acaele'thil hunters of old happened upon. They were the original scholars of the Seed, and many within knew to approach these individuals whenever they required answers they did not have, or simply wished to have a moment in their lives immortalized in writing. Others who also took this path afterwards decided to ink it upon their skin in respect for those scholars who came before them, and it took the form of a runic tree. Most individuals had it span the entirety of their backs, with roots spindling down their arms and hands, though there was no decree as to where it had to be upon one’s body. There were some who ever inked it upon their visage, symbolizing their dedication to knowledge.

(Art By Miss_Confined)

“Our history is what created us, but it is our future that will define us. Work hard and with honesty, be brave and faithful, for that is the path we walk.” 

⊱≊⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯≊⊰

As goes the tale….

For as long as the mali’ame have walked the lands, there have been the Norodiir kin. Whilst their story has not been one of too much note, part of modern history is written with their name detailed within. 

Stood proud the realm of Aegis was Laurelin, the prized city of the Princedom of Malinor which was headed at the time by the High Prince Native and his council. Through its twists and turns in history, Malinor saw its various mali children come and go, though it also saw rise to various prolific individuals and families. One such individual went by the name Lirinya. An elfess of no particular note, she settled herself along the outskirts of Laurelin and brought rise to an inn within the treetops. With the inn so deeply situated within the woodlands, oft brought to her door were those wounded from the night's hunt- creatures within the shadows terrorised those unprepared.

For years she served the princedom as its tavernkeep and its healer, until the High Prince took note. He welcomed the tavern under his protection and so it continued to thrive as a beacon to all mali for what felt like centuries. Her prolonged support of the mali kin was consistently noted, and in thanks, the High Prince awarded Lirinya a seat on his council. Unfortunately,  however, corruption soon fell upon Malinor…

The undead wreaked havoc through the lands of Aegis, and Malinor was not spared. Their claws hooked the souls of the unsuspecting and pulled them into darkness. The tavernkeep was no exception, and she soon found herself within the service of the Undead. Tragedy befell the princedom, and Malinor was eventually destroyed as the descendants began to make their plans to flee Aegis.

It is believed by some that Malin himself saw fit to forgive the elfess for her transgressions, and saw fit to rid her of the undead corruption in thanks for the service she once offered to the mali of the realm, for she continued to live a fruitful life well into the lands of Asulon.

The Norodiir kin continued to flourish into the lands thereafter. Be it by blood or by bonds, those who took up the name ensured that they remained following the same compassionate path that their ancestors had once done. 

It was not until Athera that the family took up its more tribal roots, in following the ways of their ‘ame kin the Caerme’onns. With a union tied between Caermeo’nn and Norodiir through the marriage of Artimec and Ash’ya, the elfess began the transition with her talonnii’s faith and culture. From this union came the rise of the Norodiirs first druid, Toren. The Bull Druid.

The talonnii faded to obscurity until well into the second age, which is where the story continues….

⊱≊⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯≊⊰

Traditions and Faith

Traditions

Each and all of the Norodiir kin follow their own paths, but all remain learned and practised in the core foundations of the kin. The children are taught to hunt as is befitting for an ‘ame cub, but they were also taught the importance of medicine. Whilst able to often rely on the magical abilities of some, a salve and a stitch can be crucial in a pinch.

There are six key pillars in which the seed operates its core teachings from. These pillars are as follows. 

Loyalty

Compassion

Resolution

Empathy

Knowledge

Faith

Seed ilmyumier

Whether tied by blood or by bonds, the Norodiir kin all share a common ilmyumier. Upon the upper half of the dominant arm was where a curved oceanic wave of blue wrapped around the entire bicep. Several crests of the wave were left unconnected from the remainder of the ilmyumier, to allow for further additions where needed,  whilst others joined to form a complete pattern- to signify the everlasting bonds of the seed.

Faith

Whilst the faith of the Norodiir kin has been sketchy at best, their core beliefs have always been the ways of the aspects. It was not until more recent times did the younger kin develop a better understanding for the wild faith and the pillars. 

With their history and teachings pointing more towards medicine, it is only natural that the Mani of Dolphins, Hamasta, has been the one which the kin have sought throughout their prayers and blessings. 

Opting for compassion and harmony, the younger kin of the seed oft sought out the way of the sage, for its understanding and accepting nature resonated with those who walked with Hamasta in their prayers.

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Appearance

As the Norodiir kin first set foot upon Aegian soil, it is safe to assume that their appearance has varied exponentially throughout history. With the original descendants sporting paler skin to the more recent boasting a more sun-kissed complexion, their only telling features were their consistent hair colour, and eye colour. 

Eye colours as a standard were green or blue, with blue being the rarer of the shades. For hair, anything from a deep auburn to a rich brown were standard. They were average if not somewhat below in height, usually capping somewhere around 5’8”. 

(Artwork by Wolf Fram)

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Trials

The trials serve to build a bond between seed and kin, to not only guide the individual down the path in which the seed follows, but also to ensure the correct fit. 

To Build Bridges

The initial task is that of introduction and education. The joinling is expected to seek out the history of the seed they intend on building bonds with. Books, discussion- whatever it may be. Be it history from ancient texts or more recent pieces of information gleaned from a conversation with a mutual friend. 

To Heal the Wounded

Once the joinling is certain that this is the correct path, they are tasked with obtaining, and practising some basic medical knowledge and skills. This can be done in several ways, and should they already have some medical knowledge, they are already halfway there. 

However, there is no magic allowed in any form, only the use of salves, tinctures, and other mundane tools.  The joinling is asked to seek out a situation in which their medical knowledge can be put to practise. 

To Follow Faith

With faith one of the key pillars of the seeds teachings, it is no surprise that it plays front and center in its trials. The joinling must take off on a hunt alone, taking with them the medical knowledge they acquired previously. Guiding the hunt in honour of Cerunnonns, they should be prepared to not only successfully hunt a creature to offer as food of the settlement, but should also be ready to mend their own wounds significantly enough to guide themselves home once more.

(For practical purposes this can be done as solo RP, or with someone playing the creature to be hunted, or even as a small RP story/post.)

To Give Honor

With what remains of the creature slain for the previous task, the joinling must create a minimum of three items; trinkets, weapons, clothing etc in honour of the creature and the sacrifice it gave. These items can be forged, stitched, or inlaid with other natural materials, but the remains of the hunted creature must be centrepiece.

To Celebrate 

In celebration of the joinlings completion of the tasks, a feast in the honour of Hamasta will be held within the settlement and blessings will be given by a priest or priestess of the Wild Faith. In an exchange of thanks, the joinling will offer the crafts made to the people of the settlement, to those they hold particularly highly in regard. The Priest/Priestess will be asked to offer a blessing to the joinling on their journey of their chosen path- and celebrations will be allowed to conclude naturally.

Vulnrith

The Foxhole

Home of the Orphaned, Widowed, and Outcast

Keepers of Memory

The Vulnrith Seed was formed in Year 1 of the Second Age on the land of Almaris, under the name Vuln’miruel. However, after a great wave of passing from many of the seed’s original members, and a vast change within the Founder’s mentality, Sonna believed it time for her kin to be given a new purpose. While the foxhole would forever remain a home for the outcast, a place for the troubled to redeem themselves and find peace, an emphasis on remembrance and teaching was now implemented. 

The Matriarch had suffered many losses, a grief that trapped her within her own mind for several decades. It was only when faced with the death of her final parental figures that Sonna realized it was her turn to stand up and guide the next generation, just as her many guardians had done for her. Armed with a great want to keep the spirits of those gone alive, the elfess fashioned a new duty for her and her kin to fulfill: To remember the dead, and to keep their stories known.

Purpose

“They will not be forgotten.”

The Vulnrith serve as guides to the lost, keepers of memory, recorders of history, and guardians of artifacts. Their highest priority is ensuring that stories live on, learning from the past, and shepherding those who need it. Nearly no soul is beneath redemption, if they are earnest in seeking it, and no dead shall be forgotten, for better or for worse. 

Currently, the Vulnrith reside in the Watcher's Grove on Aevos, where their Matriarch Sonna presides over the Glade of Hileia. The Glade serves as a monument to the Wild Faith and the fallen, filled with shrines to the Aspects, statues of the Mani, and graves of the dead. As Keeper of the Glade, Sonna and her family ensure that the statues and tombstones are well taken care of, as well as hold public remembrances for the dead who rest in the Glade.

Philosophy

“With wit and grace, we weave through the obstacles of life.”

The main patron of the Vulnrith is the Fox Mani Sonnos, Prince of Vulpines. He represents cleverness and wit, traits valued by the seed and seen as necessary to combat whatever life may throw at you. The Founder also believes in a folk tale she heard growing up that if you follow after a fox’s fleeting tail, it will lead you to good fortune. Overtime, as the Vulnrith's mission evolved, two more Mani become representative of the Seed's values and mentality. These two added patrons include Siss'siru, Prince of Serpents, who represents redemption, and Kholibrii, Princess of Hummingbirds, who represents hope. 

[Sonnos Lore]

The official religion of the Vulnrith is elnarnsae’ame, The Wild Faith, and members of the family are encouraged to follow it. However, it is not a requirement, and kin are free to practice whatever they wish as long as it does not disrupt or harm Nature. As long as the Vulnrith respect the wilds and what the family’s patron represents, they may choose what to believe in.

[The Wild Faith]

The seed’s ilmyumier is that of a fox, typically winding up an arm or across a back in shades of gold. However, those who follow the path of the Ichorian may choose to receive the ilmyumier in red. Of the Vulnrith who become druids, they are typically taught to follow either the path of the Ichorian or that of the Sage, as the founder was guided through both. The Vulnrith are also taught to bear a mistrust for magic other than Druidism. All magic outside of those given by the Aspects are generally looked down upon by the Matriarch, with the Matriarch having a final say on a case by case basis, and may warrant disownment depending on the type of magic should it harm Nature. Though the worst offender to the family is becoming or harboring a voidal mage, which will immediately result in disownment, and in some instances death.

Trials

“Trust in us, and we will trust in you.”

Prospective members of the Vulnrith will be called Vuln’ii until they complete their trials. Those who are elders of the seed and well-versed in its values may become Keepers, and are the only ones permitted to conduct the trials other than the Matriarch as well as share in the responsibility of maintaining the Glade.

Test of Trust

When someone first wishes to join the family, they must first face the tragedy they have endured in the past, whether internalized or not. They do this by forming a relationship with the Matriarch or Keeper, until they trust them enough to open up to them and share their past experiences. The Matriarch or Keeper will then help the Vuln’ii work through such, and give advice along the way.

Acceptance of the Past

Once the Vuln’ii has opened up to the Matriarch or Keeper, they will then be tasked with moving on. The past should never be forgotten, but it should also not hold one back. This task may be the most time consuming, as the Vuln’ii may not yet be ready to let go of what haunts them. The Matriarch or Keeper will guide them through this process, and ultimately, when they are ready, give them a task with the goal of leaving that shadow behind them.

Befriending the Vulpine

Over the centuries, the Founder has found many lifelong companions in her chosen animal: the fox. Thus, she believes that every member of her seed deserves a loyal companion like she has. After completing the first two trials, the Vuln’ii will be sent into the forest to find a lone fox or orphaned kit to befriend. They are not allowed to capture the animal, as they must gain its trust naturally until the fox follows them willingly.

Forged Anew

Now halfway through their trials, the Matriarch or Keeper will then take the Vuln’ii to the Forge of the Father located within the Glade of Hileia. There, they will learn how to work Ikurnamon, more commonly known as Ironwood, and will craft a weapon out of such material. They will engrave their chosen weapon with motifs expressive of their character, as well as receive various cultural lessons as they work.

To Hunt and Provide

With their weapon crafted, the Vuln’ii will then be tasked with hunting game of their choosing using said Ikurnamon tool. They must do this alone, with only their vulpine friend to accompany them. The Vulnrith do not hunt for sport, only necessity, and so it is expected that the kill be clean and quick, and that only one animal is taken. They will then bring their hunt back to the family hall for the Matriarch or Keeper to inspect, and will go on to use every piece of it so that nothing goes to waste. The hide may be used for clothes and blankets, the meat to feed the family, and the bones for various accessories or decorations.

Honoring the Dead

The final trial is seen as the capstone of the Vuln’ii’s journey, and is regarded as the most important. Other than Acceptance of the Past, this trial is also expected to take some time as it should not be rushed, and a lot of effort is expected to be put into it. The Vuln’ii will pick one of the fallen, whether one they personally knew or one who is not commonly remembered, and will be tasked with doing something in their memory. Whether that be constructing a new tombstone in the Glade, writing a book on their life, or creating a piece of art in their honor. The Vuln’ii will then hold a public rememberance for their chosen fallen where they recount the person’s life and display what they did to honor them. After such, the Vuln’ii will be marked with the family’s ilmyumier by the Matriarch or Keeper, and become a full-fledged member of the family. From here on after, they will be known and recognized as a Vulnrith.

If you are interested in joining the Vulnrith, or learning more about it, visit the family hall in the Glade of Hileia, and/or find the Matriarch Sonna!

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THE STROLL OF THE BEAVER AND THE AZURE TIMES

The Valyronn seed long prospered far from the eyes of the other Mali’ame that roamed the realms. In the earliest times of Malin, they were already a solitary and nomadic seed that traveled along the riversides to places where nature provided sufficient resources for their members to prevail. Interactions with the other children of Malin were rather parsimonious and often only occured when their survival utterly required such. Even during the great battle against Iblees, those of the Valyronn seed mostly kept to themselves. Despite this, they often took care of the warriors that had sustained injuries during these periples before sending them back on their way to rejoin their civilisations. 

After the first migration, the walkers of the Riverside once more returned to their nomadic ways until the Chieftain of those times spotted a beaver carrying a lusty bunch of branches. The entire seed followed the beaver, the favored kin of their patron Mani - Meracahe -, for days in the hopes of finding an abundant grove of life where they may settle. But days passed and the beaver never settled, if not to rest for the night and regain its energy; as early as dawn, the rodent once more picked up its pace on the vast swaths of land. The Valyronn, bewildered by the strange occurrence and steadfast in their beliefs, continued pursuing the animal, certain it was a messenger sent by the Beaver Prince himself. The journey would be known to younger generations as the ‘Stroll of the Beaver’ and to this day, only approximations of its duration are known. What is certain though, is that which the Riverwalkers found at the end of their unexpected voyage. 

The Beaver had led them to a land that was ripe for construction, easily some of the most plentiful and promising forestlands that these ‘ame had ever seen. The Chieftain took this as a sign to build their settlement there and announced that their nomadic days had come to an end. It is said that they built artificial islands alongside the beaver and its companions on which they would settle. These favorable conditions allowed for a multitude of crops to flourish : they grew wheat, potatoes, corn and many other flora in such amounts that it was sufficient to provide for themselves and the critters they had befriended while still allowing for leftovers. The settlers grew accustomed to their newly found sedentary lifestyle and continued relying on the area’s resources to fuel their constructions and designs. For a long period, roughly spanning 50 years, referred to as the ‘Azure times’, the Valyronn continued to prosper on their own with relatively little known chaos

THE ERA OF ISOLATION AND THE GREAT DECLINE

As was to be expected, such prosperity eventually attracted the attention of the realm’s crooks and brigands. But one could not reasonably blame these plunderers for preying on the Valyronn for their abundance had made them lazy and easy to pillage. Over the course of weeks, attacks on the seed’s settlement multiplied, throwing the lives of the men and women of the clan into disarray. The Chieftain that had once led the people of the River to greatness, now shivered before an enemy that he was no longer confident in being capable of confronting. In a desperate attempt to restore order, the Head of the seed ordered all of his people to strengthen the defenses in a move that would effectively isolate the Valynnor even further from the machinations of the realm. Weeks of labor would pass before the constructors laid their final hands on the great wall that would usher in the ‘Era of Isolation’. Wherever they would move, whatever realm they encountered, the Valynnor would wander off into the wild and erect their great bubble to disconnect themselves from the realm. 

Over the course of time, resources dwindled in numbers. The Valyronn, in their efforts to maintain a protective bubble, had only ruined their own opportunities for innovation and growth. Generations passed and younglings were born without ever having known the luxuries their ancestors had bathed in. The companions of Meracahe had long abandoned the seed for more promising lands where they would be able to live without being disturbed. In the face of the downfall of their once great seed, the clansmen and women grew weary. Disputes contaminated the minds of all, and simple ill-will slowly grew into acts that showed themselves to be gradually more violent. A grouplet within the seed, seeing the decay, deemed it necessary to take action against the Chieftain that they considered to be at the source of all their banes. Their zeal culminated in one fateful night during which some of their more fanatic partisans snuck into the Chieftain’s chambers and pierced his heart with a sly sweep of their daggers. The corpse, contrary to customs and honor, was not offered a proper funeral and the Chieftain’s names were scrapped from all the records. He would only be known to younger generation’s as “The Disgraced”. 

Upon learning of the assassination of their Chieftain, a grand fight broke out between the different parties that had formed within the village. One side spoke of scandalous behavior and could only feel disgust towards the actions of these rogue seedlings. The other considered their actions to be the just enactment of balance in reaction to the degeneration of their once plentiful society. It matters very little to know which cause was most righteous, for the Valyronn disbanded and scattered all over the realm only very little time before the children of the four brothers moved to the lands of Almaris. 

What was left of the Valyronn traveled the lands in small groups, reflecting on the events that had transpired and caused them to fall so deeply. For they knew deep within that their tale was a cautionary one - one that would be used to teach when balance was lost. Many of the lost ‘ame delved themselves deeper in their devotion of their patron mani hoping for atonement and for a new era of abundance. Others yet, finally decided to break the cycle of isolation they had become a prisoner of. One such being was Avalos Valyronn, who came to the Vale to seek for a new home with the hope of a better future. 

This is the story of how the Valyronn landed within the Vale of Nevaehlen.

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PATRON MANI - MARACAHE - THE PRINCE OF BEAVERS, GOD OF ARTISANS, HARMONY AND INNOVATION, GUARDIAN OF RIVERS

The Clansmen and women of the Valyronn Seed are faithful to Meracahe. 

MARACAHE'S COMPANIONS

While Meracahe is revered by all those of the Valyronn seed, many other beings roamed the Riverside in Meracahe’s presence. Much like their shepherd, these creatures, while not being mighty and impressive, each have an important role to play in the Beaver’s great schemes. It’s common practice for those of the Valyronn seed to seek the favor of a specific companion to the River Guardian, usually according to their own role within the seed and within society on a larger scale.

CORE VALUES

Craftsmanship - Those of the Riverside usually indulge themselves in the arts of creation; this creation may manifest itself in very diverse ways : be it through the smithing of a sword, the construction of a building, the organization of a feast, or the brewing of a potion. All such projects are equally regarded in the eyes of the Valyronn for they put their creativity, logic and organization to the test.

Orderliness - The Valyronn, unlike any others, show a great attachment to the idea of Order and consider it of utmost importance that all beings know their place in the grand hierarchy of things. Every being, every plant, every object has a role to play alongside the River of life. 

Piety, and a deep respect for the Beaver Prince and its companions are another by-product of this particular attachment to order.

Humility - The greatest quality of the Beaver resides in its humility, regardless of the utter importance of the labor he performs. The Valyronn are utterly aware of their place within the world but also hold the wisdom that without the participation of others, such a world would cease to function. They rarely seek for glory or recognition, for they consider their part in the grand mechanism to be only natural and necessary.

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TALL TALES

These are several of the documented tales that were transmitted from generation to generation within the Valyronn seed. Their recounting is still part of current day education.

ILMYUMIER

The Ilmyumier are a recent apparition amongst the Valyronn. Mostly explained by them getting accustomed to the ways of the other Mali’ame, the Riverwalkers have come to embrace the Ilmyumier as to mark their identity so that they may be identified by their kin.

The Beaver’s tail - The mark of any fully fledged member of the Valyronn seed is the Beaver’s tail tattoo. It is created with a dye extracted from different plants, most notably juniper berries and butterfly peas, which is etched onto the Valyronn’s face. This highly symbolic marking is to remind all Riverwalkers of the Beaver’s greatest tool : the tail it uses as a rudder in swimming, as a way to maintain balance while working on land and to signal danger when slapping it on water.

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THE TRIALS OF MERACAHE

The Artisan’s trial

Those who wish to live amongst the people of the Riverside have to show of their capacities first by crafting an item, be it through woodwork, smithing, sculpting or nurturing a plant. During this trial, the aspiring elf is expected to show of their capacity of elaborating intricate works of art.

After passing this trial, the aspirant may officially bear the clan name but they will have to pass through the other two trials of initiation in order to be considered as a fully fledged member of the seed. In a notable manner, their vote does not hold weight during seed moots. It is to be noted that children born to the Valyronn seed are often not expected to pass this trial, but may only pass the others at the ripe age of 40 years.

The Servant’s trial

The second trial is the trial of the servant. In this task, the seed member is assigned to another person by the Chieftain. They could choose another member of the clan or someone that is exterior to it. The youngling is expected to follow the person they were assigned to in their daily life and journal their every day needs and obstacles. 

Upon returning to the Riverside, the Valyronn newcomer is expected to invent something that might benefit the person that they shadowed.

The Dreamer’s trial

During the last trial - the trial of the Dreamer -, the almost fully integrated Valyronn is expected to come up with a project of grand scale : the organization of an event, the construction of a new building, etc. The project must display the Valyronn’s understanding of Meracahe and his companions and the ways of the Seed.

The Chieftain is expected to approve the project before it is executed. If it is succesful, the seed will gather and perform the rite of marking to show the newly gained status of the Clansman or woman.

SEED STRUCTURE

The Chieftain

Avalos Valyronn ((IGN : Paleo))

The Chieftain is the guardian of the seed and preserves its traditions and tales. They can call Seed moots when required and generally watch over the well-being of all clansmen and women. They see to the education of the Valyronn and all that are interested by the ways of the River walkers.

Only the Chieftain may decide if someone is to be allowed to pass the trials of initiation.

The Marked

The Marked are those of the Valyronn that are of adult age and have passed all of the rites of initiation, having proven their comprehension of -  and devotion to - the ways of the Beaver Prince.

The marked may be called upon by the Chieftain to perform special task, conduct certain important rites and has a vote during Seed moots.

Walkers

Walkers are those who have completed the trial of the Artisan and can thus count themselves amongst the Valyronn. They are expected to become familiar with Meracahe and his companions and still have much to learn about the ways of the River walkers. 

They are regularly invited by clan elders to participate in rituals and clan activities so that they may learn more of the traditions.

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INTERESTED IN ROLEPLAYING A VALYRONN ?

Contact @Paleo through discord @ Paleo#1196

CREDITS 

WORK IN PROGRESS

CHANGELOG

The Tresery Seed

 Lion’s Pride

I. History

With the disappearance of Malin that led to the era of the tribal Seeds forming, one such Seed took to the great savannahs to live a nomadic life. Led by Leric Tresery, this tribe lived away from their kin, towards the harsher plains of the savannah where they were free to live and prosper in the wilds. The game was abundant and so were the predators, allowing the Seed to hone their skills and take on great challenges in order to survive. It was here where the legend of the Great Lion Spirit began and became cemented in the Seed's history and culture.  

Legends expanded across the savannah wilds, from orc to human, of the Tresery Seed.  A beast who killed without cause terrorized the region, leading to the disappearance of hundreds over the centuries. One day legend became fact as a Tresery child had gone to gather water and never returned. The hunters of the Seed took up arms and tracked down the beast.  Their efforts led them to his lair where they found themselves surrounded by hundreds of descendant corpses in varying stages of decomposition. The beast, overcome with rage, attacked the hunters as they entered his cave and a fight began, forcing the hunters to work together to slay the great beast. When the beast finally collapsed onto the floor the reason for its actions became known. A foul blight had overtaken its mind and caused the centuries-long destruction that unfolded. A fog then crept into the lair, revealing a set of glowing golden eyes within the darkness. A silhouette of a massive lion then revealed itself and the hunters felt within them a sudden surge of pride and courage. The fog slowly dissipated, leaving the hunters in an otherwise empty cave. But a  blessing had been placed on the Tresery Seed for generations to come. 

Throughout the centuries thereafter, the story of what had happened with the Great Lion Spirit was kept safeguarded within the Tresery Seed, giving reverence and praise to the mysterious wild God. Such examples extend to the past centuries, and the deeds of Leric Tresery. Having begun life within the White Rose to where he became one of Xan's chosen, The Keeper of Order. His son Tristin took to aiding that of their own kind, having fought as a warrior and leader to the standing of High Prince and the first labelled King within the Mali'ame since that of Malin himself. His presence re-ignited the Tresery Seed and its standing as a Royal Seed during Vailor when a Druid named Artimec brought back the lost culture of the Mali'ame people. 

With Tristin's disappearance, the Seed itself fell into the pages of history once again. Those that still held the bloodline scattered and pursued their own path of courage and prideful valor. It was in this time that Andria Tresery, daughter of Vailoen Winterleaf and Leric Tresery, returned to the Mali'ame people of Irrinor. With her determination and resolve, she set out on reviving the clan and restoring some of its former glory. She was reunited with her cousin, Kalius Tresery who soon became Chieftain as she was called elsewhere. Over time the clan gew stagnant again, that was until Kalius was appointed Warden of the Elven Pale, where the seed now formally resides, though it has members living in many places such as within Siramenor and within the Druidic Grove.

Modern Status

The Seed currently resides within the Elven Pale where Kalius Tresery leads as Chieftain in attempts to revive the Seed. With this new era of the Seed's History comes a change in its tattoo along with more spiritual guidance and an emphasis on finding one's way in the world. A warrior status is highly revered in the Seed, and teachings revolve around physical strength just as much as mental fortitude.





II. Customs & Practices

Seed Values

Pride - A trait that all Tresery possess, Pride is revered most of all within the Seed. Pride in oneself emits from within and pushes forward through all hardships of life. Even in failure pride does not sway or falter, a Tresery gets up, learns from their mistakes, and pushes forward until they achieve their goal. Pride in family radiates as the Seed stands and moves together as one. Those that insult, disrespect, or harm ones of this Seed are met with barred fangs and a mighty roar in return.

Courage - Courage is the willingness to stand up in the name of what is just in the face of danger and judgement from others. A Tresery does not back down and does not let fear consume them to where duty fails. It is the call of the warrior, the guardian, the protector and the leader. It is an unmistakable urge to stand up and fight for their ideals and virtues. This however should never be mistaken for foolish ventures, for even a lion knows when to strike and when to retreat to fight another day. 

Leadership - Leadership runs deep with the history of this Royal Seed. The lion’s power to command and lead is instilled within each member. It is the combination of courage and pride that shows a Tresery's presence as one not to be trifled with, and in turn, it is not uncommon for one of this Seed to assume a leadership role. A Tresery, when placed in a follower position behind a strong leader, will acknowledge and respect such to where they gain the Lion's protection in regards to safety and alliance. 

Loyalty - Loyalty must lie within the soul of every Tresery. Every member is entrusted with being able to uphold and stay true to the noble history of the seed. Loyalty also can extend towards individuals or other clans and Seeds as a Tresery will be undeniably loyal to their friends and compatriots. Though this falls in turn should one betray a member of the Seed as they would be met with ferocity and fervor. This trait is displayed through action and announcing towards the group or individual of the Lion standing by their side. 

Ilmyumier Tattoo 

The Ilmyumier of the Tresery Seed is that of a golden lion's head. The gold not only represents the animal itself, but also the seeds' reverence of pride and the royal history of the Seed. The tattoo is worn only on the upper chest, symbolizing the courage of their worth and proudly displaying their identity. Exceptions are very rarely made, generally only if a severe injury in that area prevents it being placed or if another symbolic tattoo is there. If such occurs, it is allowed then to be placed somewhere usually visible, such as the arms, head or face.

Worship

The viewpoints of this Seed extend back to its earliest roots, having been both spiritually and physically devoted to the wilds and that of the people. The Wild Faith holds a dominant role in worship, seeing more relation to that of the Mani and their symbolism of nature's strength. The Aspects are acknowledged as either guardians over all of the natural world or different parts of nature itself that shows areas of life and death. The Great Lion Spirit and its story is what is followed mostly given how closely it relates to the values of this Seed. It isn't uncommon however to see one also worshipping or following Xan, with many of this Seed being Paladins. The Aengul of Order and Guardianship is highly respected in this Seed, showing duty above all else. This is seen in the paladins throughout history, depicted as holy warriors of courage and pride, dispatching enemies that wish to harm descendants. Common Druidic Ways that a Tresery might follow would be Emerald or Ichor Way. The Emerald embodies dedication and resolve to one's self in order to achieve their goals. The Ichor Way stirs actions through passion and strength in order to take down the challenges before them. Other deities that display a warrior or protector spirit are highly regarded as well. This includes Cernunnos, Morea, Moccus, Bolomornaa, etc. 

The Ritual of Mahae

The ritual is performed as a tribal dance where one person plays the lion and the rest of the participants play the hunter(s). The dance begins with the lion displaying his predatory prowess, encircling the group. Each step is elegant, hands striking towards the hunters to mimic claws. The hunters in turn dance in reaction, mimicking the dodging of blows and striking back in turn. Only bows or spears are permitted as weapons for the hunters. After a few circles around the hunters, the lion changes the dance where they lunge at the hunter in a much more aggressive manner.  The hunter dances back, and goes on the aggressive themselves, then uses striking motions with a spear. The lion acts like it is struck and the dance ends as the lion then bows down completely to the hunters. The prayer is then spoken as the hand remains on the chest, displaying the blessing that was given long ago. Music of drums or other tribal instruments are used to tell this tale that follows along with the dance and ends when the prayer is spoken.

Prayer

"ellaurir ay'Ame, kae Mahae nae sanere.

cerun okansaen'ehya ito heya'leh myumin,

kaean nae'leh Sirame ahern'onn adonterae,

iyul kaean hiylun myumierae.

Marhiylun maehae'onn, nae'leh iheiuhii il'kae ahera."

"Prince of the Wild, I name you Mahae.

Whose charge is strength and guardianship,

We ask for your blessing of honour,

That we may take up your spirit hereafter.

Great Spirit of the Lion, bless us with your voice."

Trials of the Seed  

Trial of Devotion - This trial done shows commitment and loyalty to the Seed. It begins with pledging oneself and undergoing the Acceptance Rite Ceremony that allows the person into the Seed as an acolyte. This is done through the performing of the Mahae dance and ritual. The acolyte plays the hunter and the seed member plays the lion. Through this dance, the seed member judges the acolyte's actions and display. If deemed worthy by the end of the dance, the Seed member will then paint the acolyte's chest with a paw symbol, showing a cub like status and now under the protection of the Seed. The paint colors allowed are gold, orange, or brown. Once done, the acolyte are both protected and a responsibility to the members to follow and uphold the values and ideals of the Seed during their training.

Trial of Combat - Pride and Courage doesn't come from mere words. It shows most through action and prowess. A warrior's worth is from experience and dealing with hardships throughout life so they can push towards their goals and climb higher. It is why for this trial, it commands the acolyte to prove their worth as a warrior by challenging  members of three different groups or backgrounds to a duel, and winning. The challenge declared is a sign of utter respect towards those challenged, showing that the Lion acknowledges them as a warrior and worthy challengers. 

Trial of the Lion - When the acolyte is seen as having their other trials complete, it is then they undertake the final. To prove they are a true Tresery and worthy of the Ilmyumier, the acolyte shall take on the challenge of the hunters from generations ago. They embark on a hunt to fight and kill a lion. A member of the Seed will follow on this journey yet will not interfere as they are the symbolism of the child and descendants that were killed in the story and what gives courage to take on such a foe. A spear and/or bow is all that is permitted as a weapon, ensuring equal grounds for the predator when issuing a challenge to it. Should the acolyte succeed, the remains are used to craft an ornament to proudly wear or a weapon to use. The rest of it is offered to Mahae, the Great Lion Spirit as a symbol of respect towards the beast. It is then that the acolyte shall be given the tribal marking, now becoming a full Tresery Seed member. 

  



III. Bloodline Appearance

The physical attributes from the Tresery Bloodline extend far down through many generations, holding a dominant gene when offspring are born. This is mostly seen from the bloodline of the Tresery males, having the trademark ebony colored hair, peak physical build, and tanned colored skin. From females of this bloodline it is less so yet the ebony hair color still seems to be a more dominant gene when offspring are born. A Tresery often has high, defined cheekbones. 

Clothing wise, the colors used by the Seed are golden, orange, brown, or any mixture of the three. This is usually seen with fabrics and decorations that are shown in the Tresery Seed Hall. Armor falls with the individual, though members of the Seed are gifted with a set that has engravings and style that is symbolic towards the Tresery Seed and that of the Great Lion Spirit Mahae. 

((OOC: Contact Sykotic#1867 for more information)) 

I N T R O D U C T I O N

Centuries of war, death and misfortune have granted the Tresery lineage irrefutable prestige. On the far south-western apogee of Almaris, overlooking a vast and peaceful forest of untrampled earth. Wrought from the founding belief that our soul has a multitude of senses unreached, five manifest in a stunted, uninformed manner that avoids much of the deeper nature of life. Tresery are bound to centuries of servitude, towards eachother and the realm.

A home to return to after battle, a shoulder to mourn upon and a voice to console their most desperate concerns. Mali’ame are cursed with eternal life, ridden with heartache and torment. Yet, Tresery choose to rejoice in failure and success alike, life and death. All Tresery share deep appreciation for their traditional artistry— tattoos, paintings, patterns, textiles and shrines brightened with hundreds of gradients to compliment the symbology of colour amidst the clan-members.

At first, the Tresery bloodline were not creatures of extravagant indulgence or fortune. Life was simple to them. Alas, over centuries of comfort in the fighting-pits, the lineage found themselves upon the high seats of council— representing entire nations, their livelihood and protection from harm. Thus, the Tresery have a simple method to explore ethics; that everything with purpose is worthy. Emotions are neither positive, nor negative; rage is determined amidst its experience and motive behind it. Our realm is viewed as a blank canvas, each experience as a pigment within the image. What is the purpose of the colour blue? Is it right, or wrong? Neither, but a part of the composition.

Modern times have dawned and most recent Chieftain, Laedrad Tresery has accepted fate as leader of the clan after the sudden disappearance of the Lioness, Andria Tresery. Most clan-members are oft bound to the duties of their settlement and the druidic path. As has been habitual for centuries, the lineage are venerated for warriorship and continue to be protectors of the realm for n, and the populace of their newfound refuge.

The Wardens of Mahae, whose hearts beat in defiance to corruption.

ORIGIN HISTORY

THE BEGINNING...

At the awful moment Malin disappeared amidst battle, mali’ame searched for new methods of survival, finding refuge in different climates, continents and customs of tales. Vecimus, the first Chieftain, guided the inaugural-clan towards the most expansive savannah of the realm, hopeful for a lifetime of abundance and good fortune. He governed the adults, educated the children and founded rituals for centuries ahead of them.

THE WARDENS OF MAHAE,

A tale centuries old, that spanned the continents. A beast that murdered without cause, that frightened the mightiest warriors, responsible for the disappearance of hundreds during their most fragile times. Until the awful night that legend became truth. A cub assigned the quest of gathering water for the tribe, who failed to return. At the next sun-rise, all hunters gathered and embarked on the quest to find the child, or bring their spear towards the heart of whatever harmed them.  A bright sunset threatened, then an evening painted in warm tones of orange and gold. A pale crescent-moon shone over the horizon, creating delicate shadows that led the group towards their target, a cavern ridden with an awful stench and the decomposing descendants that created it.

THE DOWNFALL OF TRESERY,

Aegis found most recent presence of the bloodline, clan members were known to paint their eyelids white, as a boastful declaration of their detachment from sight. As one of the least important senses, clan members found it to be the most extreme ascension to power. And so, the tribe held equal respect to their pride and chronicles. As time elapsed, details of their eccounter with Mahae weren't shared outside the bloodline, protected amidst its members and short catalogue of chieftains. At most, others could find clan members honouring the wild spirit in the forests of Malinor.

THE REBIRTH OF TRESERY...

It had been centuries. As time transpired, Andria bound herself to restoring prestige the bloodline once had, returning it to former fame and renown amidst the mali’ame populace. The Warden, Kalius Tresery and his adolescent brother, Laedrad Tresery joined the Lioness at the rapture of Axios and found refuge in Almaris with the few members that remained alive. Kalius found comfort in the teachings of Xan upon their arrival and Laedrad was guided in the druidic path, heeding to the teachings of the Lioness.

LIFE & CUSTOMS

A shadow is cast in the presence of the realm, possessed of value and substance. Yet black is the presence of something or anything. White is the representation of ultimate order, a state of indefinite existence, of realism without form. Ancestors have dedicated centuries to procure meaning and purpose for these, listed below.

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

THE RITUAL OF MAHAE

Centuries ago, the Tresery created a tribal dance as an eternal offering of gratitude to Mahae. The Lion granted the bloodline each of their most esteemed values — pride, courage, guidance and allegiance — and each member is entrusted to uphold and progress the noble tales of the bloodline. A Tresery is the embodiment of Mahae, bound to its strength and eternal wisdom.

EDUCATION & CHILDHOOD

The Tresery children or acolytes (most commonly referred to as cubs) are often taught to hunt, fight, craft and paint from their parents — how to create art from the tragedies and hardships of life — guiding them into a worthwhile ascension into adulthood. For centuries, no formal structure had been established for educational customs, until the announcement of seed trials available to members of the bloodline, or aspirant mali’ame. A Tresery acolyte must be taught the questions, reservations and qualms of life. One is expected to aid them in development of ancestral knowledge and practical hobbies that lead to prosperous professions. 

TRESERY TRAITS & TRIALS

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

TRESERY TRIALS

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

At the successful completion of their induction into the bloodline, cubs are recognised as official members of the clan and able to participate in all boons of the seed. Elder members of the lineage gift them an armour-set worn in the most severe battles, centuries past. A limited number of pieces were created during the plague that conquered Vailor, granted to the strongest warriors of the bloodline and upkept to perfect conditions. All members of the lineage who adorn this golden suit are considered guides and teachers amongst their kin.

[A missive is posted upon the doors of chieftains and seed halls throughout the Vale!]

THE GREAT NEVAEHLI BREW-OFF

The Seeds of Nevaehlen, or those brave enough, are each invited to put forward a brew of their peoples’ craft. The best shall be determined by attendees to this year’s vineyard celebrations, and spoils to the victor.

(Spoils being bragging rights and perhaps the leftover booze.)

TERMS OF PARTICIPATION

Each seed may only enter one brew, signed by their chieftain and brewed only by their recognized seedkin.

(Exceptions will be made for seeds with Chieftains away.)

Any seed who attempts to sabotage the brew of another shall be disqualified.

A quarter-cask, or sixteen bottles, of the seed’s drink must be deposited in the marked barrel within the Antler within a day of the festivities.

Bottles are available outside the Iron Antler.

-W.

[ Amayonnaise ]

Tāmatsu | Kalii’mari

The Caer’duin primarily worship two Mani of the Seas: Tāmatsu the Crab Princess of debris and new reefs, and Kalii’mari, the Squid Prince of companionships and hope. In their honour, the Caer’duin strive to aid in the restoration of nature and creation of unbreakable bonds.

Caer’duin are known for their skill in artisanry, as their Patron Mani possess a profound appreciation for handcrafted, colourful, and shimmering offerings. These can include simple shells, wood carvings, handcrafted trinkets, jewellery, or even intricately carved rowboats or entire ships; sunken to the seabed to aid in Tāmatsu’s endless work.

[ Various Pinterest Art ]

An old, wrinkled woman separates fish from net upon a short pier; barely glancing at the approaching stranger. She didn’t need to, she knew why they had come. Why they all come.

“So, you wish to learn of the Formidable Fools? Aye, alright.. Here’s how the story goes”

In honour of their Patron Mani, Caer’duin often craft a multitude of items in preparation for rituals and rites, ceremonies and festivals, and general day-to-day offerings and prayers. These crafts can vary from basic wood carvings to jewellery and gems, or to engraved and intricate rowboats.
 

As Kalii’mari blesses and watches over unions, companionships and friendships alike, Caer’duin take great care in forging new relationships. As most Caer’duin begin to form their own crews to voyage the Great Realm together, they seek to collect their own kin as opposed to favouring blood ties. They believe in the combination of varied experiences to build strength and fortune, rather than growing from the same branch and falling from the same tree.

As Tāmatsu aids in the construction of new reefs to decorate and mend the ocean’s seabed, Caer’duin uphold a similar duty in the restoration of blighted, corrupted, damaged, or otherwise unnaturally affected earth and sea. In the same vein, Caer’duin are often not overly violent individuals, unless the sanctity of nature is being threatened.

It should be noted that Caer’duin are not generally known for their talents in mundane medicines, as their work is more oriented towards the restoration of earth and flora.

True to their Origin, Caer’duin are a seafaring Seed at heart. All are encouraged to form crews, no matter how big or small, and explore the Great Realm to deepen their bonds and find afflicted nature to restore. Any true Caer’duin are most at ease upon the waves, and are capable of embracing their fears of the depths to bolden their bravery, much like the Formidable Five during their maiden voyage.
 

[ Amayonnaise ]

The Caer’duin Ilmyumier, rather than being a single symbol, depicts numerous images in a singular sleeve situated upon one or both arms or legs. The sleeve can almost be read like a story; the mountainous seabeds around the base rising into dreadful seas that give way to crashing waves and bountiful flora. Within the sky above rests numerous clouds and a compass to guide the Caer’duin’s paths.

This Ilmyumier can be inked in one or more colours of the Caer'duin's Crest; deep blue, aqua, orange, yellow, or white.

[ looji ]

The Caer’duin typically dress in an assortment of bright, patterned fabrics decorated with shells, ribbons, or jewellery. Their hair is often decorated with similar items beaded or woven within, though when voyaging the Caer’duin tend to lift their hair into an assortment of braids and dreadlocks to better preserve it against the salty sea air.

The colours of their clothing range from deep blues and aquas to bright yellows, oranges, and whites; to reflect the beaches and oceans where their Seed originates, and their Patron Mani.
 

Caer’duin Rites and Traditions are often hosted and led by the Seed’s Farseers, due to their experience as Green Priests. However, any Caer’duin is welcome to host, and may either conduct the rites themselves or ask a Farseer to step in for the ceremonial portion of the rites.

The Trial of Craftsmanship challenges the recruit’s ability to craft and tinker, creating an item to depict not only their path thus far in life, but also the key events that define their reasons for joining the Caer’duin.

A journal is required to be kept throughout this trial, reflecting on their initial ideas and inspirations, and how they developed into the final item created and what its features represent.

The Trial of Companionship challenges the recruit’s ability to develop bonds of trust and loyalty with those around them, both Descendant and Fauna.

The recruit must keep a journal to write about their interactions with at least three strangers. One of these strangers must be a wild animal. They must write each new thing they learn and discover about their newfound companions, and how their relationship changes from stranger to friend over time. 

At the completion of this trial, they must bring these newfound friends to their Chieftain. The Descendant Companions will be asked for a small, brief interview about their experience, and the animal companion will be inspected for signs of distress or anxiety.

The Trial of the Shipwright challenges the recruit’s craftsmanship once more, though this time in the form of large-scale crafting.

They are required to construct a small sailboat with an ornate figurehead. This boat must be completely seaworthy, though it can be designed however the recruit wishes - though they will be required to explain their choices to their Chieftain.

The sailboat must be larger than a rowboat, and fit a max crew of five. 

The Trial of the Seafarer is the final task for a Caer’duin recruit, compiling everything they’ve learnt from their previous trials on a much grander scale. 

The recruit is required to form a crew of three to five people, themselves included, and sail around the Great Realm for a year in discovery of new lands, unnatural afflictions needing intervention, damaged nature requiring restoration, and generalised new experiences to broaden their perspective. They must utilise the sailboat constructed in their Shipwright Task, and may bring along their companions from the Companionship Task. 

The day before the recruit embarks on their voyage, the Rite of Embarking may take place to celebrate their final Caer’duin Trial. The recruit can opt to host and lead these festivities themselves, to display their prowess as a potential Caer’duin, though it isn’t required.

[[ It is highly encouraged to seek out an ET to host a small event or eventline of some kind for the group, however a small story is also acceptable as long as it is written with the input of the other players, and their permission to use their characters. ]]
 

 [[If you’re interested in the Caer’duin Seed, please find me IRP (Amayonnaise) or on Discord (Bree#0895)]]

Author: Amayonnaise

Advice & Feedback: LatzMomo | WestCarolina

“Through our duty, we find our faith.”

Chapter I. The Beginning

          The Norväyn trace their roots as far back as the earliest recorded histories in the First Age and when the earthly king of Elves himself, Malin, walked amongst his children through the leaf strewn lowlands of a vast woodland realm. They were devoted to serving the Elf-King’s word as soldiers in the most trying of times during his reign. Much of their bond grew in the ancient Ibleesian conflicts where their leader, Torr, led his wolf-mounted cavalry deep behind the lines of undead advances to attack supply chains and burn equipment meant to siege the strongholds of Elvendom.

          They were known only as El’Chirran in these early days. The Wolves of Malin. Grey Riders. Dogs of the Frontier. Bes’bevar. Their green striped banners flew high above their heads and the howls of both dire wolf and Elf would soar out long before their arrival. For them, few could match the pride with which they handled their duties nor the strict adherence to the orders they were given. Honorable acts in the presence of their Elven kin went hand in hand with ferocious violence in the company of the enemy. 

          As the years went by and the war against Iblees dragged on, the Wolves of Malin began to lose their shining Elven steel armor and began wearing the bones of their undead foes, the chitin of large insects, and pelts taken from their hunts. Their banners would be used as robes, bandages, and other substitutes for cloth as their time away from home would go for much longer and their rations dwindled further with each excursion. War took its toll on the Wolves and by the time Iblees had been defeated, the Elven warriors returned to their woodland home as strangers to their people.

Chapter II. Family

          Time passes on and the war of Iblees faded into history for the younger lived races of the realm. Yet for their leader and harbinger, it was a memory of yesterday. Torr found himself wracked with nightmares that forever reminded him of the horrors he witnessed in war’s embrace. The dreams grew so terrible that he began to believe them to be omens of a coming calamity for his people, rather than the vestiges of trauma. He confided in his closest friends, Galfast and Eowyn, about what he saw and the trio agreed to rally their warriors in preparation for whatever was to come.

          Alas, what Torr feared would come was not an enemy of flesh or dark magic but one of circumstance. Their beloved lord and liege, Malin, disappeared without any trace to follow and sent Malinor into chaos. Unrest spread like a rampant disease before Elves began to depart from their once serene kingdom into the world to seek out a purpose beyond their forefather’s creations. The Golden Pools, the Ancestral Spirits, and Irrin Sirame. Yet Torr, Galfast, and Eowyn refused to depart from the site of their liege’s throne for many years. It was not until the final remnants of Mali’ame began to trickle from the city that Eowyn convinced the others to accompany the nomads. They agreed under the perception that they were protecting the last of Malin’s chosen in his absence.

          Into the deep wilds of the realm, the Wolves met with Irrin’s flock and became entranced by the faith that she had discovered. It was Irrin Sirame and the Mali’ame who taught the three leaders of the Wolves the value in living not just for Malin’s legacy but for a legacy of their own. With this in mind, they turned to each other and their warriors to create a new bond amongst themselves with a new name: Norväyn.

          From then on, they began to learn to craft and create things that would last beyond their long lives. Weapons that depicted the battles of their youth, armor that melded Elven steel with bonemold and chitinous accouterments. They honed their natural mind for tactics and warfare to suit the needs of hunting and providing for their new home in the wilds. The Norväyn took their striped and reused banner cloth and turned them into a badge of identity. 

          For the trio of captains turned chieftains, their lives took new turns. Galfast became known as a war hero of epics, becoming so enthralled by the status that he delved out into the world months at a time in search of new beasts to slay and new tales to tell. Torr and Eowyn, however, turned to one another and found love. They settled down with the rest of the Irrinites to have a child that they named Ellewyn.

Chapter III. The Fall from Grace

          Calamity would strike the hardened kin of the Norväyn once more in the form of Garthon, an archdruid of considerable renown and dark ambition. Since the disappearance of Malin and the fall of his kingdom, Garthon had coveted the newly opened seat of power that had been left empty in honor of the Elven forefather. As history would tell it, the archdruid wished for the mali’ame to ascend to a status above that of their golden and ashen brethren and for himself to claim the Elf-King’s seat above them all.

          Through the means of deceit, murder, and blackmail did the snake writhe his way into a position of power amongst the Mali’ame tribes. He began to quietly rally support of his upcoming campaign until the likes of Irrin Sirame and Taynei’hiylu, the Green Dragon herself, caught wind of his affairs. They began, with their own manner of subtlety, organizing what seeds they could to convince the others and Garthon to not go through with this.

          For the Norväyn, they were unaware of any such stirrings amidst their wild home until Garthon himself approached the trio of Elven veterans. He pleaded toward their love of Malin and the kingdom they once served, telling them that by aiding in his quest they would have Malinor restored. Torr and Galfast reluctantly agreed that it was worth the risk even as Eowyn slowly pieced together the lies in the archdruid’s story. The Norväyni men told her that it would not come to civil conflict and that the other Mali’ame would understand the desire. Oh, how wrong they were.

          On the eve of winter’s embrace, Eowyn stepped outside her home to find the followers of Garthon rallying with weapons drawn and armor donned. They claimed that the Irrinite loyalists had done the unthinkable and begun attacking. The Norväyni chieftess knew that this was not right and sent Ellewyn away to find Galfast, who had departed for another of his ventures only an hour prior. Eowyn hurried to find her husband.

          Torr was already at the front of the Garthonic force alongside a host of confused Norväyni warriors, adorned in their bonemold and steel and asking their chieftain questions that he had no answer to. He told himself that he was still a soldier and that soldiers follow orders. This was his way. This had always been his way. So then, why did he feel such fear in his chest? Where did this guilt that clawed through his heart come from? He did not have an answer for this either.

          Only after, when the forest wilds of the Mali’ame burned and both Garthonic and Irrinite peoples wept over the dead did Torr realize what had happened. Only when he found his wife, his Eowyn, laying dead with a Norväyni blade stuck from her chest did his questions find answers. They were, all of them, deceived.

Chapter IV. Exile

          In the aftermath of Garthon’s uprising, the Norväyn were pardoned and forgiven by Irrin Sirame for their part in the ordeal. She saw them for who they truly were and understood that the price they paid for trusting the Archdruid’s lies were more than enough. The Norväyn did not see it this way. Torr disappeared into the deepest reaches of the wilds out of shame and regret, Galfast embarked across the sea in search of a tale that would bring some measure of redemption to his soul, and the rest of the seed split up amongst their inner families to wander the roads aimlessly on the backs of towering insect stilt striders.

          In this time away from all others but themselves, they began to rely heavily on the values learned from Irrin Sirame. Legacy became not just a want, but an absolute for their people’s survival. They began creating traditions of storytelling and honed their crafts further to relay memories of the past in an effort to never let the next generation forget the mistakes of their ancestors. Each Norväyni youth would know the story of Garthon by heart and could tell even the most foreign of passerby the epics of Galfast without skipping a beat.

          Ellewyn became the de facto chieftess of the seed in the absence of her mother, father, and uncle. She took upon her dire wolf and spent the next hundred years traveling between Norväyni families to keep the seed in touch with one another. She wished to remain alone with her grief and her duty to the seed until meeting a Mali’ame craftsman by the name Arondir. The two would marry and begin traveling in their own caravan as the rest of the Norväyn did. Together, they wrote their own history and spun tales upon the road that even Galfast would laugh or cry at hearing. 

          Ellewyn would have a child later in their lives, naming him after the mother that she had lost: Eonan. The boy grew up being taught to spin stories and survive by his mother, how to craft and create by his father, and how to live for himself by the both of them. Only a few decades after the birth of his sister, Euphemia, would the young Eonan strike out into the world to write his own story and add it to the annals of Norväyni history.

Faith and Practice

Religion

          Ever since their initial meeting with Irrin Sirame and the rest of the Wild Faith’s first followers, the Norväyn’s religion has been based firmly in the pantheon of the Aspects and in Morea, the Wolf Prince. They view the Aspects as ever changing forces of nature that may appear as Man and Woman. Beast and Plant. Wind and Rain. Cernunnos is revered primarily as the force behind one’s instinct to survive and persevere through hard times. Cerridwen is expressed as a warm embrace, filling all those devoted with a sense of loyalty and love. Morea is the focus for all these views. The Wolf Prince hones the Norväyni faith into a more singular worship that best shows their most treasured values and traits.

          Another part of Norväyni religion is the concept of ancestor worship. Unlike the ancestor spirits that the Mali’ker give themselves to, the Norväyn praise their ancestors through more mundane means that are intended to show respect for the trials and lessons learned in the past as well as providing proof that their legacies lives on.

To be draped in Wolf's Fur

Art by nikadonna

          The Norväyn carry a very distinct and recognizable appearance apart from their other Elven kin. While any type of Elf may be seen wearing Norväyni attire and markings, the most common would be Mali’ame with dark, chocolate roots that uniquely fade into an almost sandy or golden blonde at the ends of their hair. Their eyes tend to be either a piercing topaz, evergreen, or woodland brown hue. Their apparel tends to be less tribal than the rest of the Mali’ame, more often than not sporting the dark green striped robes, sashes, headbands, or any other cloth adornment known as alii’gai [ah-LEE-guy].

          The wolf-mark ilmyumier that is carved into the flesh of every member is characterized by a grey-green wolf’s skull printed upon either the shoulder or the forearm. The snout is surrounded by daubs of color and the top of the skull grows into a canopy of interweaving branches, growing up the arm and shoulder before creeping along the chest and back. These branches are intended to be added onto throughout a Norväyn’s life, leaving permanent tales of their life upon their very skin.

The Bestiary

          The first and more docile of the creatures would be the towering Stilt Striders that are used as beasts of burden and living carriages. Most Norväyni families have had the same bloodline of Stilt strider since they were first acquired on the seed’s first excursions into the wilds, more particularly the arid regions of the world. Upon learning that the beasts could survive in most climates and were quite accepting of the elves cleaning them of acquired moss and vegetation, the Norväyn took them on. Each time the striders produced new spawn, the family would keep one of the young to replace the parent when it died. When the strider did pass on, its shell would be used to craft armor, tools, shelter, and other sorts while the meat would keep the family fed for many days.

          The second would be the Dire Wolves that serve as spiritual and living companions to the Norväyn. As a part of a young Norväyn’s trials, they are to raise a wolf pup and train them to be a lifelong companion. However, the wolves live a fraction of a fraction compared to the lifespan of an Elf. This led to the concept of companion bloodlines. A companion bloodline is an ancestry of dire wolves that have all been born from a Norväyn’s previous wolf and raised to take the parent’s place when they pass or grow too old to ride. It is said that the spirit of a Norväyn’s first wolf travels from descendent to descendent, always remaining beside their rider.

Wolf's Tongue

          Storytelling is an integral part of the Norväyni culture. As one might expect, the need for legacy means that one must tell both the legacy of their ancestors as well as their own to be passed down to the next generation. Forever teaching the lessons, triumphs, and failures of the seed. Some Norväyn choose to do this as simple storytellers, be that through word of mouth or written upon parchment. Others decide to pass their stories on through song or more material artistry like painting or craftsmanship.

The Rite of Song

          A tradition created by Eonan in the twilight hours of Almaris and fleshed out in the morning dew of Aevos. The Rite of Song references the Caerme’onn tale of Faeinn and the Tree Singers. It is a ritual that Norväyn may conduct during sessions of craftsmanship or artistry as a means of connecting with their ancestors, their gods, or simply telling a story through their passions. The ritual can be as simple as singing a prayer while one works or arranging an entire ceremony for the craft with candles, participants, and other parts.

The Fledgling Trials

Ellewyn’s Welcome

          For the youth of the Norväyn to begin their trials of adulthood, they begin with experiencing the rounds that Ellewyn once made to each of the wandering Norväyni families upon the wide roads of the world. The fledgling will seek out different members of the seed to greet and get to know, learning about their place in the family. 

Garthon’s Folly

          Before a fledgling may go any further into their trials, they must hear and understand the story of Garthon and the tragedy that the Norväyn faced at his hands. They will then use what they learned from the story to commit a deed that rights a wrong in another’s tale. It can be as grandiose or as mundane as they wish.

Galfast’s Epic

          With a wrong righted, the fledgling may now prove that they can tell stories as compelling as Galfast’s epics. They will reach into the lives of their ancestors or their own experiences to find a story that teaches a moral or lesson that may be passed onto newer generations.

The Companion’s Tale

          Now that the fledgling wields the strength of stories, they are given the opportunity to raise a dire wolf companion of their own to share in the experience. They will be taught the meaning behind the companion bloodlines cherished by Norväyni riders.

Torr’s Proving

          The final step in a fledgling’s journey to acquiring their wolf-mark ilmyumier is Torr’s Proving. They will take their grown companion, their kin, and their wit into the wilds to perform a great hunt that will feed the Mali’ame and provide material for the coming weeks. After which, the fledgling will compile a new story in the form of a campfire tale, a poem, or a piece of art that depicts what happened.

          Once the story is retold, they will be taken to receive their wolf-mark ilmyumier and take the oath as the Wolves of Malin did under Torr’s eyes.

Sons and daughters of the three captains,

We are their legacy, they who served the earthly lord.

Through our honor, we prove our fidelity,

Through our patience, we best our quarry,

Through our duty, we find our faith.

We are the will of the Wolf, Malin’s favored hounds,

The harriers of invasion.

The Lore of the Forestborn

Haelun Mali’ame. The mother of Wood Elves and Seeds as we know them today. Long ago, when Malin first ruled the Elves under one united Kingdom, Irrin Sirame was born. She bore no noble blood, and lived amongst the common folk. In her earlier days, she served the Kingdom as a sentinel, quickly rising through the ranks as she defeated foe after foe, and claimed victory after victory for the Elven people. Seeing her prowess, the Elvenking himself granted her a place upon the High Council of Malinor, the first of common-blood to ascend to such an honored place at Malin’s table.

When the days of the great Elven schism bore down upon Malin’s Kingdom, Irrin Sirame led her followers into the wildlands, deep into the woodlands of the world. These folk would soon be known as the Mali’ame. Under her guidance, they spread over the wildlands, claiming their homes among the forests, the plains, the coasts. The mother of Mali’ame spent many years traveling between these places, appointing chieftains of the tribes that settled throughout the land, creating the first Seed of the Mali’ame. To these Seeds, she passed on her devotion to the Aspect, and ensured that the memory of Malin’s teachings would endure for centuries to come.

Despite bringing the Seeds of the Mali’ame into existence, she had no tribe of her own, none to carry on her ideals beyond the Seeds she helped make. Irrin vowed to take no husband, to mother no children. No tribe can claim her bloodline, for there are none in all the land that carry it. But now, centuries later, a simple ‘ame and her family seek to continue her legacy.

The Sirame were founded in the year 1760, as a tribe of ‘ame who seek to emulate the mission of Irrin Sirame- to preserve the sacred worship of the Aspects, and to carry on the ways of the Mali’ame through times of peace and war alike, through the prosperous, or grave. Many are priests, or devout- studying the ways of the Mali’ame culture, teaching them to all who may seek to know the ancient ways. Wherever the forest folk roam, they seek to nurture and guide the future generations.

Beliefs and Traditions

Religion

“May the mother give me the grace to spread life and light through this land, and may the father grant me the strength of spirit to protect it...” - An excerpt from the prayers of the mali’ame

Following in Irrin Sirame’s footsteps, the Sirame hold a steadfast belief in the Aspects, as was the faith of the elvenking himself, and of the mother of Mali’ame herself. To them, the Mali’ame are inseparable from the ways of the wild faith- their way of life is entirely dependent on the wilds, as it should remain.

While the Seed primarily worships the Aspects, their attention is not solely focused upon them. The Seed knows that the Mani, the animal spirits of the wild, hold an important place in the natural world, and will sometimes lend their prayers and offerings to them and respect those that follow them. The Seed holds no patron Mani themselves, as many Seeds do.

While traditionally, ‘ame have sought to bring others into the fold through sermon and teaching, the Sirame are the sort to lead through their own example. They believe that only action will truly bring faith to the other Mali’ame, and remain fiercely devout through all, showing the power of faith in this world.

Values

Tradition sits at the heart of the Sirame, as their purpose is to continue the life’s work of Irrin Sirame. Their values and beliefs line with the old ways of the Mali’ame, and of the forestborn herself. 
 

Faith
One of Irrin’s most steadfast pursuits in her lifetime was the spreading of the worship of the aspects. The Elvenking himself was devout in their worship, although he was no Druid. As one of his faithful lieutenants, Irrin followed in his steps. When the others turned their back on the worship of the huntsman and the mother, none were more furious than she. She dedicated her life to keeping the faith of her people alive, and so the Sirame adopted this hallowed belief. 

Unity
The most prosperous days of the Elven people have been in the ages of unity, when ‘ker and ‘ame and ‘aheral stood side by side, marching forwards into the coming dawn. Malin knew this, and thus his people knew peace and prosperity like no other. Irrin Sirame believed in this too- in the memory of the united Kingdom. While no King can lead again, the seed of Sirame believes in a united Elven people all the same.

Stewardship
To always ensure that there is a safe home for the Mali’ame, no matter how the world may look. There must always be a place where the culture of the forestborn may endure, free from the shackles of others. Safe. Free. and Balanced. The Sirame must lead others to this home, if necessary.

Fortitude
We are long lived. Our eyes take in centuries of life, and with it, centuries of hardship, and loss. As Mali, we must have the resilience to endure all that the arduous road of life has to offer in our long lived days. This does not mean to remain untouched, or unbothered, but to bounce back- to tackle life with renewed vigor once you fall. 

Connection to the Wild
Above all else, the Sirame believe in a deep, spiritual connection to the wilds around them. The forests are a sacred land, and all the life in them as well. They hunt, as their ancestors did, and pay homage to their fallen spirits. To fell a tree is to kill a piece of the forest, and so they live in burrows, intertwined within their roots, surrounded and protected by them. A Canonist prays in a temple, and a member of the Sirame prays deep within the woods, far from the sight of civilization, shaded by the branches of the trees that they so deeply revere.

Appearance and Ilmyumier

Dressings, Clothes
Members of the Seed can come from many various walks of life, though they typically dress in traditional Mali’ame attire, seeking to be role models to other ‘ame. Robes, tunics, and other dressings of greens, reds, and even yellows. They wear no shoes, seeking to be connected to the earth and the world around them. Oftentimes, they will incorporate pieces of nature into their attire as well- flowers, leaves, and others. 

Ilmyumier
The Sirame takes the mark of Taynei’hiylu, the green dragon spirit, using it as their symbol and ilmyumier. The depiction of the green dragon wraps up and down one arm entirely, snaking over the flesh in flight. The ‘ame may adorn themselves over the rest of their body in viridian flame, should they wish to, but it is not required. The mark of Taynei’hiylu mark is meant to represent wisdom and strength, and their connection to the forest. Another mark members may receive however, is the spring mother's wreath, a mark placed upon the palm of an ‘ame, meant to represent the peaceful ways of the tribe, and the harmony that they seek. However, this mark is not exclusive to members of the clan, and may be offered by the clan as a status tattoo to a peacekeeper.

Stranded By The Tides

Journal Entry One
If this was going to be a trial, I felt it needed to be a terrain I haven't been in for a long time to hold an experience in. So I could gain the experience and learn from it. After pondering for a time I recalled a place nestled within the sea, and the thought came to me. Why not take the time to experience what it’s like living out in the ocean? To learn of the life one holds when they are lost outside of their realm, and have time to adapt? It shall be an experience for certain! Though I admit I didn’t head out there empty handed, I brought my tools for crafts, to work on a project I had while out there. A bucket, for it is a precious item that is so very useful. Some flint and steel, and a fishing rod. Perhaps this is a little more prepared than I was meant to be for this trial, but as no limits had been set I felt some simple tools for this long month and something to work on while out here

Finishing etching the first entry into his journal Roylan glanced around his surroundings. The splashing waves flowing against the sandy shore of the small island that he was sitting upon. The grassy patches behind him leading to towering spears of stone that made him curiously glance up to them. Pondering how the mountain could have naturally formed in such a way. “The wear of time from crashing waves?” He mused to himself, pondering for a moment under the blazing heat as the straw hat on his head kept the sun from burning ever so hotly against his skin. He reminded himself to thank Miven next time he saw them as he turned to his items, fetching the fishing rod and sending the fishing line out into the waters. “But first, breakfast!”

  Journey Entry Two
An issue aroused my attention easily, something that I didn’t even need to worry about in the Rimveld, for there were always branches and twigs that had been pulled from trees by the snow storms that could be found and collected. And that was my ability to create a fire here. There is nothing that can be used to create a fire on this island, and I find that the sea water is undrinkable. Which means that my ability to gather water has also been crippled. Perhaps I can drink the blood from the fish if all else fails? Though I do not know if that would work. The fish at least I could eat raw, the scales collected, and the bones gathered for potential use. The rest I buried within the green patches of land to give nutrients to the plant life here. I need to think of a plan if I am going to survive here.

The highlander felt the chill of danger of his choice as he gazed around the land around him. Realizing the sheer threat that a land like this could for the first time. His plans for creativity melted away and settled into a more hardened state of ‘Survival’ as his eyes swept over the surroundings around him. To the island that was his home for a month as his mind raced. What could he do for water? What could he do to survive? “What to do…what to do…”

Journal Entry Four
Eureka! I didn’t even know what that sound means, but it's how I’m feeling! My eyes. My eyes saw what I needed to see. Giving me inspiration. Sure, I have shredded up the cloth I wore, but that doesn’t matter! The fish. They held water. The eyes against my teeth. The spines cracked my jaws and slurped out. I can have water!

A delirious fluck of emotions poured through his mind, poured through his heart and body as he laughed while almost manickly etching the words into the journal. Three days with no water, three days only eating soft white flesh of fish. Only to realize that he had missed a source of that was right before him!

Journal Entry Five
The previous two days have been..enlightening, though it’s good to have regained clarity instead of the crazed state I was slowly sinking deeper and deeper into. I can barely believe that one of the answers never crossed my mind, yet it was right in front of me. And here I had been creating bowls with the cloth of garb, the scales of the fish, and their bones. Scattering them around in hopes that they would collect rain should it come along with the bucket I had brought. Yet the rain has yet to come. Calmer now, I can plan ahead on this stranded island. The hunt for now shall guide me here.

Roylan sat as his eyes glanced at the collection of bowls and buckets that glistened under the sun as they rested upon the stony walls of the spires around them. He had a plan in mind, he had water, enough to survive. “The hunt…I’m always guided back to the hunt aren't I?” With a calm mind he chuckled and picked up his rod, moving back to the waters edge as he let the hook fly out towards the waters.

Journal Entry Eight
Rain had come, increasing my supplies of water by quite a degree. Surprisingly the waves have washed to shore pieces of wood and shells that I can make use of out here, which I fashioned into a spear with the shell acting as the ‘piercing’ tip. Hunting fish has become easier now that I can venture into the waters myself to hunt. Though I did learn one thing while diving into the waters, blood attracts sharks. Not something I had known before one had taken a bite into my leg. More surprising was the fact that a single punch to the snout was enough to make the shark let go and flee into the waters. I’d have to guess that these predators are not used to having resistance in their hunts. Either that or their snout is a weak spot. A good thing to remember for future encounters, though there is no need to hunt such a large beast for a single man. It would be a waste and an act of greed.  Though for now it's the shoreline while my leg recovers.

With those words said the man winced for a moment, his eyes glancing down to his leg that was wrapped up in what remained of his cloth. Using it as a bandage to staunch the wound as he could still feel the sharp sting of the shredded shark teeth against his leg. The pain spiking as he attempted to move his leg and felt a tremble aching through it. “Well I ain’t gonna be working right for a while am I?” Using the spear he had created he stabbed the butt of it into the sands and hoisted himself back to his feet. Limping over to his bowls to collect his water for the day.

Journal Entry Ten
The sting on my leg has grown less, though I am still limping now. But with time on my hands I have started to take time in craft. The bowls I made to collect water have been improved, and added upon. Patterns of the rather enchanting luna sky and the glistening patterns of stars have been added to the bowls using scales, sand, shells and stone. Trying to keep the pattern of the skies that I have witnessed as they have changed captured upon the bowls during my stay here, while engraving the vision of the shark that had caught me within the water along the length of the spear I have been wielding. It brings a certain touch of comfort, and clarity to me to work on crafts like this nowadays. Etching experiences, feelings, and memories into place that will tell their own tale in time.

The man wrote down, using the blood of the fish as ink upon the pages as he recalled the memories of his feelings through the act, through the creation and decorations he had placed upon the creations of his within this stranded island. Yet, he made sure it was only on the items themselves he had made. He never tried to score memories upon the stone mountain, to score the land with memories of his existence. Only letting his creative spirit move upon what he had made, and what he had brought with him.

Journal Entry Fourteen
With the hot blazing sun gazing down over the island, I have noticed that patches of grass seem to die out and dry under the heat, with new grass growing underneath it. Carefully, not wanting to take away too much that the grass in this island uses to fertilize itself, I’ve been collecting threads and pieces of the grass, gathering them up together. Creating a fire to sterilize the water allowed me to have a fresh drink and clean my leg,  washing the healing wound and with what was left over of the threads, a protective covering to help shade from the burning sun. Which makes my stay here more comfortable, I will admit.     
    
With the ever present blaze of the blistering sun turning his skin red and building up an unwanted tan upon his body, he found himself relieved under the soothing shade he had managed to create after staying upon the island for half a month. His eyes sweep over the experience as his mind looks back, and reflects on what he had learnt here. The lessons that nature had gifted him, learning of survival, and yet still able to take in the beauty of the place and the nature that filled them. It was a surprisingly pleasant experience, that much he could admit despite the hardships. “I could have done without being bitten by a shark though..” He muses to himself.

Journal Entry Seventeen
A storm swept over the ocean and I experienced what it's like on this sole island within the middle of the sea when a storm hits. The waves that crashed against the island threatened to sweep everything away into the ocean rolling waves. With little in the way of options or shelter I grabbed what I could carry and put it on my body before climbing up the great spires, pulling myself up to the top of the rocky spires as the waves swept everything away below. Many of my bowls were carried away into the ocean, the boat I had arrived here having been swept away and carried off into the water. I was now fully stranded here until I managed to make some kind of craft to help me ferry myself along the waters. How long will it take for driftwood to be carried along the waters to the beach I wonder?

Hiding within the tall pillars that rose up, he gazed down and watched the rolling waves that swept over the land, that crashed against the sandy shores and swept over the pillars that were below him. Washing through them and spilling out onto the other side. The glistening bowls he had carefully made started to be washed away, With only one resting with his bucket as he saw the waters of nature reclaiming everything in a simple action. His boat rose with the waters, with the storm, and pulled away into the distance as he watched on. Considering what he was going to add to his journal as he watched on through the dark skies, and the crackling flash of lighting sparking across it.   
 
Journal Entry Twenty
The storm had finally passed and I have weathered the downpour, and the heavy crashing waves without being stolen away by the water. Though I can’t deny that I am exhausted right now after everything. I have barely slept as falling asleep risked falling from the stones into the sweeping waters below, where I doubt I would have been able to survive for long: Either swept across the rocks or drowned within the storm itself. It was a perilous few days, thankfully finding fish to eat and water was easy with the waters carrying them by. So I had no risk of threat from them. But right now, I need to rest. Before the weight on my shoulders drag me under.

The shattered man etched the last words in with a trail off the end as he took a deep breath, now back upon the sandy shores as the glistening glow of the sun shined down upon him from above. With a single glance up he grasped the tattered shade protection he had made, now waterlogged and soaked, and carefully pulled it over himself as he fell into the sands in a dead faint.

Journal Entry Twenty Two
Refreshed, dry, and no longer feeling like the weight of the world was resting on my shoulders, I have begun to prepare for my departure from the island. Gathering what driftwood I could find and gathering the dried grass to turn into twine to bind the wood together. It's a slow progress, especially with me needing to rely on waves to bring the wood to me. But I am hoping that  I will be ready for when the time comes. Though I might go over the time I had planned to spend on the island, there's nothing wrong with that. I will just need to be patient.

With a relaxed mind he glanced over to the two pieces of driftwood he had managed to gather. The small bush of dried grass rested together before he reached out and grasped at the grass. Slowly starting to work the pieces together within his hand as he worked to create twine, rope. A simple binding that he would be able to use to collect the pieces together.

Journal Entry Twenty Five
There’s only been a single piece of driftwood that has arrived so far, so I am rather certain that I will go the planned time that I had set for myself. Thankfully with the storm having passed the sands of the beach had been littered with debris of many different kinds which kept me busy. From stones, metals, to shells and battered creatures that the waters had been unkind too. The flesh of the crabs, the meat of the fish, along with their eyes and shells were all gathered together for use. While the parts I didn’t use were added into the soil for the grassy patches of this small island to help the plants grow here. What might be even more surprising was the fact that nature didn’t seem affected by the storms at all that crashed through it, the grass still thriving without issue. They’re resilient, I'll give them that.

Roylan glanced over to the debris that he had gathered together after cleaning the beach, not wanting it to pollute the sands and affect any life that travelled along the sands here like his beloved hermit crabs. Pondering for a moment what to do with it all. Especially not wanting to throw it back into the ocean. His eyes gazed upon them for a good long moment as his mind raced with possibilities.

Journal Entry Twenty Seven
I had a surprise visitor appearing at the island once more. It was a shark again, though this time they didn’t seem too interested in hunting me as we went through the waters together. Perhaps it was due to the fact that there was no blood in the waters? The shark just swam on, unphased by my presence within the waters. The dolphin that followed after however was quite persistent in spending time with me. So much so that I ended up riding the waters with them for a time before I found myself back on shore. It was a child-like experience I had not been expecting. Reminding me of youth with its almost innocent actions. As for all the debris I had gathered, I found a use for it. Combined the pieces together to form a monstrous, and rather ugly looking raft. One that truly shouldn’t exist, at least from view alone. It did however function by floating despite itself. Strangely this isn’t the first time I’ve made something combined with many different elements. Though I would say this is much uglier than my personal armour.

He turned his head and looked upon the raft, the battered raft that was made of different pieces of wood tied together. The shells, the shrapnel, the general junk and floating pieces of cloth tied together into a hazardous and scarred raft that looked as though it had just come straight out of a nightmare. Yet. It was floating within water. It was functional. It filled the roll it was needed and the scrap and pieces were put to use, instead of made to waste.

Journal Entry Thirty
The final day of the trial, at least planned. I look back on this month where I have learnt the dangers of going out into the sea, and what you can do to survive within the dangerous nature of the sea when you don’t have the resources with you. I have created crafts to mark the memories of my time here, some which were lost by the waves, while others are still with me in the form of my shell spear with a shark engraved pattern,  a single fish bowl with decorations of the moon in full lustre, and the raft. Crafted from debris that was scattered along the beach after the storm to make use of it while cleaning up the beach. I have learned how to survive while being stranded at sea, through a willing experience. Gained a new experience through a fault and danger I wasn’t aware of. And held some happy, innocent memories that brushed my mind. I look back to the island, and all marks that I was ever here now rest upon my raft, ready to leave with me. 

With his supplies, or what was left of them added into the raft, his eyes swept back over the island, seeing the glistening shine of the moon filling the air and peeking over the twin spears of the island he was resting on. A final scene, a final memory to fill his mind. With a push of the raft into the waters he climbed on and began on his way. Back to the land, back to the den he had been away from for so long.   

Sigil by Twilight

“The ink upon my skin, the fire within my spirit, the deeds of my faith, these are which bind me to my ancestors.”

Caerme’onn is one of the oldest known seeds of the mali’ame, dating back to the early days of the Princedom of Laureh’lin and is built upon the beliefs and qualities of hunters, protectors, and leaders. Caerme’onn is devoted to defend and uphold the mali’ame culture. Compared to any other seed, the Caerme’onn are vastly skilled and knowledgeable people of the forest with strong connections to nature. Many of the members of Caerme’onn have taken up roles of leadership and/or have been notable within the mali’ame culture weather that be under the titles of Archdruii, Princes, Chieftains or community role models.

Throughout the years, the Caerme’onns have developed advanced techniques of tracking and hunting, making them excel both at hunting large game, or tracking smaller game. Along with these advancements they have also been known to hone their survival skills, as it may be required to spend days in the wild while upon a hunt. 

The seed originated in the ancient era of the nomadic seeds, out of a marriage between a seed whose name is lost to time, and a clan of elves from far away. In their union, they took the name “Caerme’onn”, meaning ‘born of destiny’. The Caerme’onn were one of many seeds who fought alongside the Green Dragon Taynei in her war against Garthon, the draoii usurper.

Unfortunately, the name faded into obscurity as with many others following that ancient war and the death of traditional mali’ame culture that followed. But, come the 16th century of the Common Era, one Artimec “Camoryn'' traced his lineage back to his ancient tribal roots, and brought his tribe and its customs into the modern era, paving the way for a pan-wood elven cultural revival, with clan Caerme’onn being at the forefront of this. 

 

Loyalty

Piety
Dauntless
Strength
Determination

Ambition

Leadership

Along with the path of becoming an Aspectist, a Caerme’onn delves into the teachings of the wild animal spirits, the Mani. Of the many worshipped and prayed to, the two established Mani of worship in the seed are the Patron Amaethon and Matron Bolomormaa. 

Amaethon, The Stag Prince and Sovereign of all Cervidae, is the God of Regality. In times of leading, we pray to Amaethon, the ruler of the herd, who displays dignity and Leadership qualities. The Stag is full of benevolence when bearing protection over his herd and aiding in survival. Additionally, Amaethon resembles that of justice and fatherhood, those who do wrong must meet their punishment and his young follow his lead so that they too can lead their own herds one day. We follow Amaethon for not only his guidance in leadership but also compassion. As a family, we must chief our young to follow our beliefs and values, so that one day they too can lead our kin. 

Bolomormaa, The Wild Princess of Bears and Bear Mother, is the Goddess of Protection and Guardianship. She does not seek out conflict and she is not aggressive, rather, Bolomormaa is sincere and gentle. If one is to threaten her kin, however, the bear will fight with ferocity. Bolomormaa plays an important role in motherhood, where we may pray to her for her strength and vigour. With leadership comes the duty to protect and guard -- a symbiotic blend between the two Mani. As a seed, we follow Bolomormaa for her guidance in protecting our kin and fellow mali’ame. It is expected of the Caerme’onn people that we are pragmatic, and have a sense of composure when leading our lives.

Art by Jaromir Hrivnac

The initiate is rigorously taught of the Aspects, what they stand for, and the various ways to worship them. This is done through the various members of the seed, it being encouraged to expand out and learn such from different clans and people collectively. Once the initiate has learned of the Aspects and what they represent, they must give an item of significant value as an offering, while swearing an oath to never hold any deities or powers above them.

The initiate is to be instructed and shown the various things that Mali’ame have been raised from, and around. The trial is up to the subject’s interpretation, having to make something that represents an aspect of the culture. Many examples of this would be befriending an animal companion, making a shelter, carving an object from wood, or even making a weapon. This will then be presented to a Chieftain to see if it is worthy.

The initiate is to seek out another member of the community and take them on as an apprentice. One key aspect in leading is to have patience. The trial does not have to be explicitly stated as to what the initiate is expected to teach. The Chieftess will deem the trial completed with observations of the relationship between initiate and apprentice, as well as sufficient evidence provided that the individual taken on has successfully learned a lesson.

The initiate is to go out on their own, or preferably with fellow Caerme’onn on a hunt for an animal. This is to show capability on how to hunt, track, and most importantly survive by one’s self. The trial will be completed once they have successfully slain an animal, and have utilized the entire body, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

The initiate is to show a sign of leadership in their person through a variety of ways. This can be shown by something small, such as leading a small hunt or foraging expedition, or something large, such as a battle against a threat to the Mali’ame. To ensure completion, either a Chieftain or someone chosen by them will accompany the initiate on their hunt to observe their prowess.

The initiate is to defeat another member of Caerme’onn, preferably an Elder or Chieftain in one on one combat as their final trial. The requirements for the fight to be fair is that the two must be unarmed to ensure neither have specific advantages. The way that the initiate will pass is by either proving their expertise in battle by knocking their opponent to the ground for an extended period of time, or showing that they are a competent enough fighter to hold their own in a fight.

** All trials are subjective and may change throughout the role-play depending on the initiate. These changes may only be dealt by the Chieftan or Chieftess. 

Art of Kaelwyn, Miven, Awaiti, Taeral, Lavinia, & Elle'nora by Nikkadonna

After one has gone through their trials to join the Caerme’onn, the first rite that one will most likely take part in is the crafting of their personal weapon. This weapon of their choice will solely be theirs, not to be wielded by another. Suggestions can be made as to what they should make, but it is ultimately up to the user as to what they wish to be created, it being required that their weapon be made from Ironwood, decorated at their will. The user will carve their weapon, and then assist in tempering it alongside a member who knows how to do such without fail. Once forged, the Chieftess of the seed will bless the weapon in the blood of a fresh kill. It is highly encouraged that they take this into any fights or hunts they take part in, if not, it being deemed meaningless by the rest of the family.

Once every four years a feast will be lead by the Chieftains and members of the Caerme’onn. The day prior to the feast, a large expedition will be held in which the members of the Clan head out to gather food; be it foraging, or by hunting and sacrificing an animal. Such will be brought back to the manor, where as a family they will prepare the food and arrange decor for the following day. The purpose of the feast is to connect with members of the seed, and tell the story of Faeinn.

As one successfully completes all six of the initiation trials, they are to be blessed with the rite of marking. The individual decides where they wish to wear their seed tattoos, be it under their eyes, on the chest or along their arms. The member is inked with sanguine dyes before the entire seed. This process is what welcomes them to the seed, and an official means of taking on the name Caerme’onn.

Art of Abelas Caerme’onn (Lockages) by DreeaDraws

Art of Artanis Caerme'onn (Taufirewarrior) by Val

Art of Miven by Nikkadonna

Current standing Chieftess: Miven Caerme’onn ( @WestCarolina )

Returning Chieftan: Abelas Caerme’onn ( @Lockages )

[[Any interested in the seed or wishing to join, feel free to interact IRP or PM me on discord! Carol#7747]]

Special thanks to @Lockagesfor all the help!

Bound by Honour, not Blood

The Modern Seed;

As the founder of the modern Aureon seed, Elvrohir Aureon, who believed to be the last of his lineage, sought to breathe life back into his seed by indoctrinating outsiders of the same mindset and beliefs as his own.

After many decades and having borne no offspring himself, Elvrohir established a wide diversity of Mali within his seed. While the Aureons of old were striking in appearance with their longer than average ears, light russet skin tone, vibrant green eyes, and reddish-brown hair, the Aureons of today share a wide range of characteristics. As the beginning members of the modern seed consisted of Aelthus, a fair skinned mali’aheral, Veravia, the elegant sister counterpart to the ‘aheral, Fawynn, a bronze skinned mali’ame, and Katar, a copper haired wood elf, the diversity was already in the works. While some bear the tell tale blonde hair and violet eyes of the mali’aheral, others show off their dark locks and deep set brown eyes. Most, if not all, come from various backgrounds and traditions, but one thing unites them all: their devout loyalty to one another. For while only a few Aureon’s are related by blood, their bonds are no less stronger. Each member proudly calls the other brother or sister, and treats them as no less.

Throughout modern Elven history, members of the Aureon Seed have been found in prominent roles in Wood Elven society. Made up of a vast majority of skilled warriors, dedicated druidic priests, and skilled craftsmen, these Aureons served in almost every area of Wood Elven society. From the time of the Principality of Laureh’lin to the later birth of the Dominion of Malin, the Aureon’s influence was ever present in the shaping of the modern Mali’Ame. During the time of the Dominion of Malin, the Aureon Seed bore the title of a Princely Seed, having held seats on the council that governed the nation and at one point rising to lead the nation. Later with the fall of the Dominion of Malin and the later rise of the nation of Irrinor, the Aureon Seed returned once more taking up council seats and once again led the Mali’ame people, their influence present once more.

Founded by Elvrohir Aureon, the Aureon Seed is currently governed by the chieftain, Lyemar Aureon, a longstanding priest, former warrior, and former Prince of the Mali’ame. With a firm hand, he leads and guides his family in the ways of their people and culture.

Elenwë, the First Maiden of Malin

Ancient History;

While the world was still young, Malin lead the elven people, and a particular mali’ame woman held his favour. Elenwë, a fearless and honourable warrior strove to help guide her people in the ways of the forefather. Her skill with the blade and eye for the bow outranked many of her compatriots, establishing her within the sights of Malin himself. Pleased with her skill, he bestowed upon her his own spear, encouraging her to continue leading her people with a firm hand.

With the disappearance of Malin and the division of his people, Elenwë remained in the location of his disappearance, along with the people entrusted to her. Choosing instead to rest in one location, they were the first of the seeds to live in a non-nomadic lifestyle. Her, along with others, then began the formation of the seeds.

Settling into permanent lodgings, a concept unheard of in this time, Elenwë, and a few steadfast individuals, supplemented their life to hunting and gathering with the blessing of the Aspects. As the years passed on, they mastered the art of tree harvesting. The Home Trees provided them with shelter, the Iron Barks produced superior hunting bows, and the fruit trees bore a surplus of food. This artificial forest, called Ame’lie, grew in tune with nature, and served the Aureon Seed well. And in this way, they existed through The Era of Seeds.

Elenwë, Chieftain of the Aureon Seed, resided over her people for many peaceful years, sustaining leadership even when her strength and vitality had began to fade. She was a beloved grandmother to her kin, and no one could find it in themselves to question her.

Unfortunately, the Uruk did not share this affection. Now despite being exceptional hunters, the Aureons were not soldiers. When the time came, they could do little against the ironclad Raiders of the Uzg. Elenwë died in battle, and her spear was taken, leaving the Aureons without a leader and without a mother to guide them.

Without the steady hand of Elenwë to guide them, in the span of a couple years time the Ame’lie the Aureons called home would grow silent as the Seed drifted apart.

The Aureon seed marking, Ame’lie

Ilmyumier;

As the ancient history of the Aureons spoke of their ties to the Ame’lie, it held a deeper meaning to them. For the Aureons, the Ame’lie meant the difference between surviving and perishing. Without the Ame’lie, they would have had no homes, no food and no means of continuing on. And so, the Aureon’s became known as the protectors of the Ame’lie, helping guide their forest in tune with the Balance of Nature. The Balance relays the cycle of life, of existence and death, of fruitfulness and rot. And thus, the illmyumier of the seed relates just that message.

Traditionally tattooed in a visible area of the body, the Aureon seed members bear their markings with pride, telling the tale of how their ancestors helped keep the life growing, not only in the Ame’lie, but within themselves too.

An Aureon hunts a beast that enters the Ame’lie he patrols.

Core Beliefs and Initiation;

While the Aureon seed is a notable and honorable seed, tradition is held highest among its members. With the ever growing family, it came to the attention of the wife of the chieftain, Lady Steward and Naelurir Archdruid Arahaelth Aueron, that those wishing to incorporate themselves into the fold would need to prove themselves to the existent family. After many years of delving into the ways of the seeds and teaching her dedicants the Balance and Aspectism, she created a structured manuscript detailing the key values of the seed, along with how aspiring members would prove these values to the Aureons. These values and trials are as follows:

Faith - The culture of the mali’ame is deeply rooted within the teachings of the Aspects, Cernunnos and Cerridwen. While many of the wood elven people are at least aware of the deities of the forest, many more are ignorant to the tradition. With this, the druii are the most reliable source of teaching. With a number of Aureon members being attuned druii, the aspirant is required to be taught the mali’ame ways from one of said druii. Once the teacher is pleased with the aspirant’s intake of knowledge, the are required to sit with the Chieftain and relay all they have been taught. Should they succeed in pleasing them with their new found knowledge, they may continue on with their trials. Should they fail, they will be required to continue their learning and will be re-tested.

Kinship - Family ties run deeper than blood within the seed. And thus, it is required for an aspirant to prove they can meld with the life of a family. Along with the observation of the elders, the aspirant will need to prove, through action, word and deed, that they can set family before themselves. Should brother turn on brother, or sister turn on sister, the whole family suffers. As the aspirant begins their initiation within the seed, they will be kept under continuous scrutiny by all the existing members.

Honor - Reputation and dignity go hand in hand with the Aureons. With many of the members being dignified soldiers, reputable clerics of Tahariae, and even political figure heads; the way an Aureon is viewed by outsiders is of the utmost importance. While the aspirant will not only be looked upon by the Aureons, most civilians and other seeds will scrutinize. Should the aspirant be viewed as dishonorable to the seed by Seeds and Clans viewed favourably by Aureon, along with the ‘Ame people, their chances of entering the seed are drastically lowered if not obliterated. 

Cohesion - Without unity, there can be no community. And with no community, relationships can not be formed. That being said, it is well routed within the ways of the mali’ame that working together is the most prosperous and efficient method of getting things done. For the aspirant, they will be pushed to many limits in order to prove that they can, in fact, work together with their counterparts and establish cohesion with their brethren. Depending on the aspirant, their first of many trails in this value may consist of harvesting and bringing the family a fallen tree (accompanied by at least one other member), hunting large game, aiding in the teachings of the Aspects (should they have completed the trial of faith) or any other trial deemed appropriate for the aspirant. While it is important for the aspirant to be tested, both physically and mentally, the Aureon’s are not cruel and will help find a balance when it comes to the position of the individual.

Self Worth - Personal integrity is an important aspect to the uniqueness of an individual. It is this uniqueness that makes each malii their own person. With this value, the aspirant must demonstrate what makes them who they are. While many of the Aureons are established craftsmen, a common method of proving self worth is to construct an object of importance on their own. Should an aspirant be an unskilled artisan, there are other methods such as transcribing stories, learning old elven ballads or even inventing new ideas and concepts for architecture, weaponry, battle strategies and the list goes on. No one is without individualism, and this characteristic is important to creating a sense of self and belonging.

Knowledge - While some may argue that the traditions of the mali’ame and the ways of the Aspects are one, the Aureon’s do not believe this is so. Just as the druii must be educated when it comes to The Horned Lord and The Green Lady, any aspirant of the seed must be educated in the culture and history of the people. In this trial, the aspirant must not only research and study the mali’ame, but they must also go out into the world and interview the notable figures, asking to learn in the ways of oral tradition.

While these values are held high and are considered of the utmost importance to the Aureon household, there are many others that the aspirant may be required to prove. While initiation into the seed may take time, the time that they spend and the devotion they put into it will be taken into account and be appreciated by all.

An Aureon Aspirant sits awaiting a verdict from the Seed regarding her trials.

Oath of Initiation:

Once an aspirant has successfully completed their given trials, they will be sworn into the Aureon seed by declaration of an oath and sealing said oath in blood. Not unlike that of a dedicant agreeing to pursue in the tasks of a student, the aspirant will promise their life unto the seed through words and through the offering of their life source in the sight of the Aspects. The oath, transcribed by Leo Aureon, is as follows:

Let the blood that hisses within these flames be my word.

Let the flesh that I tear bind me to the troth I make today

Nay, be the blood, for the troth runs deeper.

My body is the shield of my kin.

For my brothers and sisters I will lay down my being if need be.

With passion in my heart I strive.

I strive to protect my family.

My bow stays true for the Father.

My heart stays true for the Mother.

Here, I become an Aureon. Here, I become one of Elenwë. 

Kae halere; I swear
 

Watchers in the Autumn Woods

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“From our trees of red, gold, and orange do we watch.”

The Autumnal Lore

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    The Arvellon Seed is one of the smaller and lesser known tribes amongst the first migration of Mali’ame. Whilst others adorned themselves in unique and colorful markings and apparel, the Wood Elves of the Arvellon were only identifiable by their shared physical traits and their name. Yet even this left them confused with the seedless brothers and sisters.

    However the Mali’ame of the Arvellon did not mind this for centuries to come. They enjoyed the ease in which they could meld within the rest of their tribal society, watching and listening as the Wildcats of Felixii do. Little is known concerning their worship of the Wildcat Princess, as is most things with the feline mani. Similarly shrouded is the seed’s later adoption of worship to Kwakwani, the Trickster Raven. Though they took to these new ways and meshed them with that of Felixii’s, creating the unique and unknown culture that they are in the modern age. 

    In the times of Malin and the nomadic Mali’ame, the Arvellon were led by a man known as Carsul’il. Known among his kin as the Laughing Lynx for his hearty attitude and his peculiar style in hair. Carsul’il was the first to take on the name of Arvellon, and the founder of their ame’lie, a grove considered to be only myth and named the Harvest Wood for some said it was a place of perpetual autumn that was always bathed in a copper and gold light from the rays of sun shining through the canopy. Many thought the grove was a legend for rare few knew of its name, much less of its existence.

    While most of the tales sprung from this age, and of Carsul’il specifically, are considered myth and the true events that happened are lost to the winds of time, the more modern era of the Arvellon is easier to recollect if similarly unknown to anyone but the Arvellon. Carsul’il eventually disappeared into the wilds as most ancient mali’ame do, leaving behind his ways for his second child, Merriel Arvellon. Unlike her father, Merriel did not have many daring adventures. She preferred the quiet and watchful side of their ways, living her life upon a simple farmstead with her mate and listening to the breeze for all manner of news and secrets until the day she had her first and only child, Miklaeil.

    Miklaeil was bound to take after his grandfather from the day he began to walk, always grinning and dashing about from one adventure to the next with the clever wit of a cat. Only his mother could truly tame his lust for the thrill and unknown, until the day he came of age for manhood. Miklaeil gathered what few things he owned and set off into the world, leaving a supportive but deeply saddened Merriel behind. Years passed and the young Arvellon found himself in what was known as the Dominion of Malin.

    It was here that Miklaeil decided to first attempt securing a steady life after thirty or so years of travel, though doing so cost him the identity of his ancestors within him. He donned bronze and silver platemail, shouted cries of war in the name of various princes and princesses, and even took on the name and beliefs of another seed entirely in his patriotic vigor. He began to look less and less like that of Carsul’il, and his letters to his mother grew less and less filled with wonder and joy but instead with grim and dark experiences. It was about this time that Merriel Arvellon died, caught in an accident with farm equipment.

    Years passed and Miklaeil gradually fell back into the old ways of his grandfather, Carsul’il. His constant grin and cheeky quips became his trademark, and his vigilant and cat-like eyes always watched with a certain mischievous glint. Twas long after the Dominion collapsed when he became a Lord upon the council of Aegrothond, then yet more until he met the lovely Empyreal Princess of Alderyn, Layla Le’Cai. It was not long after noticing the same playful glint in her eyes that he fell in love and returned fully to the ways of Carsul’il. Between the two of them, the Arvellon seed’s history and culture were reborn into something both new and old.

    Several decades pass and the Arvellon are now grown and changed beyond what they were upon Miklaeil’s reclamation. It was around this time that the seed was begrudgingly convinced to join the fledgling Forest Realm of Irrinor. The reluctance of the seed’s chieftains to take such a step proved correct when the Aspectist nation fell to infighting, leaving the Arvellon to flee back to the Talus Grove. Disillusioned with the politics of greater elven nations following the fall of Irrinor, Miklaeil declared the rite of Maya’meracahe to prevent more misfortune befalling the Arvellon.

    Several families were born and brought into the seed’s warm embrace following its departure from Irrinor, allowing the group to spread out and diversify amongst themselves as they chose according to the rite of Maya’meracahe. Despite this rebound, Layla and Miklaeil were left tired and in need of a respite from the civilized places of the world. A moot of the seed was held in the Talus Grove where Eretria and Nerrin were chosen to be the next chieftains, allowing Layla and Mikaeil to delve into the deep wilds of the world for the next decade.

Beliefs and Values

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The ways of the Arvellon are deeply rooted in Aspectism and the Mani pantheon, basing most all their various styles and values upon that of the old ‘ame teachings.

Religion

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“Given a wink from the Wildcat and a grin from the Raven, Carsul’il set off into the wood.”

    Aspectism and the Mani pantheon are both well-cherished parts of the Arvellon culture, most everything about them being divined from these practices. However, like most other Seeds, the Arvellon worship a select few Mani in particular. Those being Felixii, Princess of Wildcats, and Kwakwani, Princess of Ravens.

    Both of which heavily influence the day-to-day lives of the Arvellon, making for Elves with an odd mixture of secretive yet colorful personalities, flitting back and forth with words and actions like a cat or bird at play. Oftentimes these Elves make offerings to both Mani in the form of tricks and pranks upon those deserving of it, or merely for the fun of it.

    With regards to Felixii, the Wildcat is seen as the head of a lesser pantheon of her own that includes the other feline Mani gods. The Lion, Tiger, and Panther Mani all fall into this grouping though are not quite so revered as the Wildcat herself. Many decide to incorporate the teachings of these individual Mani princes into their worship of Felixii. Those Arvellon particularly devout to Felixii tend to tread through life with care put toward their own actions, yet are not afraid of the spontaneous. Witty, clever, and watchful are the best descriptions for an Arvellon Wildcat follower. It is taught that a proper Wildcat follower should remain ever vigilant for what knowledge they can collect or what whispers they may hear. This is usually referred to in regards to one’s own pursuits or craft, meant to encourage learning and growth in the mind. 

    The Trickster Raven teaches her followers in the Arvellon the ways of artistry, beauty, and fun-loving attitudes. Those devout to Kwakwani are often the most playful of the seed prone to pranking their family and friends when it is least expected, or developing skill with their hands in the way of arts and craft. Many Arvellon take up trades in things such as painting, jewelry, writing, or even blacksmithing and woodworking. Their work is done with the intention of creating beauty with their very own hands, worshipping the Raven in the act alone. 

Appearance

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“Touched by the season of Autumn in body as well as mind.”

    Elves born of the Arvellon typically share the same set of physical traits, depending on the circumstances of their birth. An Elf carrying the traits of the Arvellon would be bronzed or tan in skin tone, usually a warm hue of some sort. Their hair tends to be curly or unruly in varying shades of red and brown. This coupled with brown or green eyes make them quite suitable for their favorite season, Autumn. Although, not every Arvellon is born from the autumnal bloodline. The modern generation of the seed is a wide variety of adopted members and members who married into the seed with the proper rites taken. This means that one could find most any Elf of any mix of traits donning the autumn paints of an Arvellon.                                                                                                                                                                                                       

    Their apparel tends to reflect the colors of Autumn- Red, gold, yellow, and orange in various shades- to symbolize the changing and colorful personalities of the Arvellon and to acknowledge the natural cycle.

Values

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“Live your life to the fullest, my child. Raise your boy, love your family, and see them flourish as I have.” - Carsul’il to his daughter, Merriel Arvellon

    When the Arvellon realized that the world is much too dangerous to face alone, they began to stick closer and closer together to ensure safety and prosperity despite the ordeals that the Descesdent world is prone to endure. Thus their ideology grew over time to incorporate values based upon the creation and protection of family. 

• Family is treasured above all else to Arvellon. To protect and provide for one’s family is the highest priority and one that each Arvellon is expected to see done. Providing for the family also includes having children with which to fill it and continue the legacy. Due to the elven curse of infertility, adoption is not unheard of amongst the seed and is even considered honorable. With family comes Love. It is a sacred emotion connected to the very soul of a person that shapes them as it grows and evolves over time’s passage. An Arvellon couple is accepted as an eternal bond and a testament of passion and loyalty for such long-lived people as the elves. To break off that bond is a break of trust that many consider to be deserving of no less than a shun or, if the cause of division is so revolting, death. Love does not extend only to romance either. An Arvellon finds love in anything that they wish to look for it in. Some pursue trades and crafts to pour their passions into.
• Trust is built through experience and time together. An Arvellon without the trust of their kin is an Arvellon surrounded by the hounds of darkness, bound for an early rise of elven madness. Along the same vein of thought, Unity within the seed is expected by all its members to uphold fervently. According to the rite of Maya’meracahe, the Arvellon should never allow the frivolous squabbles of greater elvenkind and the Descendent world as a whole to divide them. 
• Cheer and light-heartedness are seen as desirable traits among the Arvellon. Being a fun-loving people, they seek it out with a Lust for Life that goes unheard of among many other elven cultures and even in the mali’ame themselves. Adventure, pranks, good fun amongst their kin, all this and much more are the deep thoroughfare to an Arvellon’s heart. 

Traditions

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Tradition in the Arvellon seed is developed over the course of time and experience, its members learning new ways to adapt to their environment and adding to their ways to fit.

Ilmyumier

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Tattoos designed and drawn by the wonderful Numirya

    A recent and modern addition to the rites of the Arvellon is the ilmyumier, thought up and designed by Layla. The tattoo implements three of the most prevalent parts of the Arvellon’s unique culture with the head of a Wildcat, the wings and feathers of a Raven, and the colors and symbols of their beloved season Autumn. 

Along with the primary ilmyumier that is found on the dominant arm, Arvellon of this age are known to wear a stripe of paint across their eyes as a sign of luck to attract good fortune for them and their families, or during times of war and unrest in the world as a whole.

Miruel’ame

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    The “Red Trees” of the Arvellon forests that once served as the living, subtle guardians to their ancestral ame’lie known as the Harvest Wood. The cultivation of these trees, once a closely guarded secret held by the main bloodline of Arvellon, has since been passed down to the seed to reintroduce the tree into the world. The tree releases an ever present fog that surrounds its immediate vicinity and is considered to be the reason the Arvellon remained wrapped in mystery in the early eras of the world.

Maya’meracahe

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“The bonds of family wave no flags.”

    In the ancient times of the Arvellon, when they lived in the depths of the Harvest Wood with their homes safely hidden from the turmoil beyond, the autumnal elves practiced what they called Maya’meracahe. This ‘redeeming balance’ was put into place by Carsul’il after a near disastrous confrontation within the seed between two brothers living in separate nations from each other. Carsul’il decided that the Arvellon seed would not serve as a political entity among the rest of Elvenkind, though it would not limit its individual members from taking part in what nations they chose to reside in.

Mallir'hiylun

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“To be an Arvellon man is to have only half a mind. His wife has the rest.”

    Love is sacred and precious to the autumn Elves of the Arvellon, an emotion and act held dearly since the days of Carsul’il and the Harvest Wood. Making such a declaration toward another Elf is a grand and life changing event for the Arvellon. To them, there is only one such person to be found in their lives and it is an irreversible, unbreakable bond through both mind, body, and spirit.

    While not used until later in the seed’s existence, there is a binding ritual used to cement this connection between two Elves. Before an altar of Felixii and Kwakwani, the two would arrive in secret during the height of a Harvest Moon. Both would wield ceremonial aurum blades to cut the others palms. After the blood flows from both hands on either lover, the bloodied blades are laid crossed upon the altar before the two clasped hands to mix the blood of their palms and in doing so, intertwining the essence of their bodies and spirit. Once the ritual is complete, it’s said that the mates develop a true and absolute bond. While it’s not known whether this is merely firm belief, or if something truly binds the souls of the lovers, it works. These Arvellon lovers remain together until death, and even then it is said that their spirits pass on as one.

Hunt of the Harvest Moon

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    Every year during the Harvest Moon, when the night is bathed in strong orange light, the Arvellon host a ceremonial hunt that begins at moonrise and ends at sunrise of the next day. While the setting is an ominous and foreboding one, filled with shadows cast by the Harvest Moon’s light, the Elves who partake in it are filled with a playful vigor in their hunt. Typically, they will hunt until they find the largest game that they’re able to fell and bring it back to wherever the others are camped. There they wait until all the other hunters return with their prizes, to which a grand feast is held in honor of the peculiar phase of the moon.

Rite of the Karin

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    When an Arvellon comes of a certain age, or is adopted into the seed, they are allowed the gift of a twin-tailed, crystal antlered Karin cat. All Arvellon have one of these friendly cats as companions, given as mere kittens before they eventually grow to their full size of about a cougar. Due to the lifespans of these cats being much shorter than that of the average Elf, an Arvellon may have multiple different karin companions over the course of their life. Typically each new companion is a descendent of the previous, making for different bloodlines of Karin amongst the Arvellon.

Interested in joining?

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PM DrinkPesticide#3970, Mewliet#6297, Numirya#5929, or ThumperJack#1536 on Discord if you’re looking to join the seed! They’ll explain how it’s done and what may work for you!