🌲 A Pocket Guide to Amaethea - The Jewel of Elvenesse 🌲

[Princedom Of Elvenesse 353]

Spoiler

In no particular order, the amazing character & emblem art in this post was done by the following artists:

Dreea

Numirya

Josey

Trinn
Nikadonna

And a couple of commission artists from off-LOTC

Amaethea - The Elkwood Glade

Amaethea, a name roughly translating to “elkwood”, is the largest city of the Elven people on the continent of Almaris. Nestled deep within the mighty Orocarne mountains, and well hidden redwood pines of the forest of Dorthonion, its glades are rich with wild game, and its river and shores abundant with aquatic life, making for overall prosperous living. The Elves here devote their lives to maintaining a personal harmony with the wilderness around them, living simple, naturalistic lives while observing the rich tapestry of rites revolving around their wild Gods.

 

Location & Directions

Spoiler

Amaethea is located in the southwest quadrant of the Almaris continent. To get there, head to the fast travel hub in cloud temple, and click on the warp sign that leads to “hub west”. From there, follow the road signs that read “Aegrothond” or “Elvenesse” until you reach your destination.

 

The entrance to Dorthonion forest.

 

The entrance to the city of Amaethea.

 

 

Peoples and Cultures

Elvenesse is the principal homeland of two distinct, yet similar peoples. The Wood Elves, also known as the Irrinites, and the Sea Elves, also known as the Almenodrim. While they make up the majority of the glades’ citizens, a sprinkling of other transient elven races live in Amaethea as well.

 

Irrinites - Wood Elves

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Irrinites are more commonly known as Wood Elves, or mali’ame. The demonym ‘Irrinite’ comes from the mythical Irrin Sirame, the ancient warriorress said to be the mother of all wood elf tribes. Irrinites are shorter in stature and darker in skin than their Almenodrim cousins. They tend to have darker shades of hair ranging between black, brown or copper red. They wear clothes woven from naturistic materials like soft bark, leathers, furs, and silks. Most Irrinites are tattooed in colourful markings called ilmyumier, which usually represent their naturalistic Gods, or their tribes.

 

Mali’ame practice their naturalistic rituals in their native woodlands

 

Above all else, wood elves base their lifestyle around maintaining a perfect harmony with the natural world on a personal and community level. Wood Elves maintain this balance in their everyday lives, striving to have as an impact on their beloved forests as possible. In gathering food for example, they prefer hunting and natural foraging to farming and raising livestock. To avoid harming the wild, Irrinite tribes have developed advanced methods of tree cultivation and wild herd management to ensure they always have enough resources to survive, while maintaining the lush sanctity of their woodland realms. 

 

 

Almenodrim - Sea Elves

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The Almenodrim, commonly known as Sea Elves or less often Grey Elves, are a constituent People among the folk of Elvenesse. The name “Almenodrim” comes from their legendary homeland Almenor, wherein their forebear Sylvaen Everflame reigned as Prince. Sea Elves tend to be taller and more broad-shouldered than their Wood Elven cousins, with hair generally tending between blond, red, and black and only rarely deviating. They are typically fair-skinned, but as interbreeding with Wood Elves is not frowned upon there are some darker shades among them.

 

Almenodrim ships are a common sight on the open seas

 

Of all the peoples of Elvendom the forge-craft of the Almenodrim is widely considered chiefest and greatest. The steel wrought of their forges is considered to be among the best in the world, and is prominently reinforced with woven natural magics and other, more secret arts which are taught only to few. The citadel of Aegrothond is one of the only places outside the Dwarven mountains in which one might encounter the legendary art of Rune Smithing. As suggested by their name, Almenodrim are incredibly skilled ocean-going seafarers. The ships wrought by the Sea Elves are famously swift, made with arts passed down through the generations.

 

 

Other Elves

Spoiler

While the Wood Elves and Sea Elves make up the lion’s share of population in Amaethea, a smattering of other elven peoples live among its lush hill villages and coastal vistas. The most prominent of these are the Evarsae’ker, a community of dark elves that live peacefully in the hills of Dorthonion. Present also is a small community of High Elves, mostly expats from the Silver City of Haelun’or. Finally, some of the last remaining Snow Elves, a race on the brink of extinction, have made their home amongst the forests.

 

The Wild Faith [x]

 

Spoiler

While followers of most religions are welcome in Elvenesse, the primary form of spirituality adhered to by most of its people is elnarnsae’ame, the wild faith. This faith revolves around the ritualistic worship of the Aspects, a divine pair of wild gods that keep the whole natural world in balance. They are Cernunnos, the father of winter and autumn, and Cerridwen, the mother of summer and spring. It is believed that these two imbue their opposite energies into all living things, creating a perfect balance of life and death in the natural world. 

 

A sacred shrine of the Aspects, an autumn maple tree depicts the Horned Lord, while a spring cherry blossom tree represents the Springmother.

 

Directly under the Aspects are their immortal children: the Mani. Primal fae gods, each one the immortal Prince of a species of animal. These Mani imbue the Wood Elves with their spirit and gives them purpose in life. Mali’ame warriors for example channel the energy of Morea the Wolf God, and Moccus the Boar God. Healers and wise women will pray to Hamatsa, the gentle Prince of the Sea, while scholars and lorekeepers will devote themselves to Ohowaki, the wise Owl Prince. 

 

A collection of shrines to various mani spirits. From left to right: Sonnos the Fox, Amaethon the Elk, Morea the Wolf, Hamatsa the Dolphin.

 

Many elves with a specific patron mani will bare tattoos that resemble stylistic depictions of whatever Mani on their skin, in order to show their devotion. 

 

An Irrinite warrior with the sacred marking of the Raven, a symbol of artistry, and an Almenodrim Princess inked with sacred marking of the Wolf Prince, a symbol of leadership.

 

 

Institutions

Elvenesse is full of opportunities for ambitious young elves. Whether one is inclined to be a warrior, a healer, a craftsman, or an artist, there are many guilds and organizations to join. The most prominent institutions in the Realm of Elvenesse are listed below.

 

The Circle of Healing [x]

 

Spoiler

The wise women and medicine men of the Almenodrim and Irrinites are the finest healers in the world, tending disease and mending flesh with powerful herbal remedies and ancient druidic magics. In Elvenesse, healers are represented by the Healing Lodge. The Healing Lodge is the foremost school of medicine in the continent of Almaris, where aspiring young healers learn from master physicians in the ancient ways of elvish medicine. 

 

A wood elven healer baring two tattoos, the vines of Cerridwen and the dorsal of Hamatsa, the Dolphin Prince, sacred marks denoting her as a healer.

 

The healing lodge is ran by four medicine men and wise women:

Medli Amaeden (RainbowRoad1234)

Skylar Taliame’onn (LaffenOutLoud)

Evar’lae Amayril (Cmmdr_Jester)

Aedrie Sirame (searose143)

 

 

The Father Circle [x]

 

Spoiler

Druids are everywhere in the land of pines. They use their supernatural powers to serve as healers, teachers, and can be found in nearly every other level of elven society as well. Most Druids in Elvenesse belong to the Father Circle, the largest sect of druids in the Woodland Realm. The Father Circle practices a form of druidism that is notably more war-like than other Druidic circles. However, they also espouse virtues of kinship, tradition, guardianship and spirituality. Father Circle druids train to be warriors, using their supernatural gifts as a weapon to eradicate the world of all beings they deem unnatural and harmful to nature. 

 

The Druids of the Father Circle

 

The Father Circle is led by four Raitheans, one of Spring, Summer, Winter, and Fall.

Miven Caerme’onn (WestCarolina)

Andria Tresery (Nightcastor)

 

 

 

 

The Green Priesthood [x]

 

Spoiler

The Green Priesthood is the clergy of the Wild Faith in the realm of Elvenesse. They spread and maintain the rites of the Aspects and the Mani, and serve as the principal form of education for young elves in the realm. They are spiritual and cultural teachers, torchbearers of the traditions and wisdom of the tribes that came before. It is their duty to pass on the ancient traditions, and way of life to new mali'ame. These semi nomadic priests perform ceremonies, blessings, festivals, funerals, and all other public rituals pertinent to elven spirituality.

 

A high priest of the Green Priesthood, immersed in prayer.

 

The Green Priesthood is led by three High Priests. 

Sonna Sirame (Junoix)

Aedrie Sirame (searose143)

Medli Amaeden (RainbowRoad1234)

 

 

The Emerald Guard [x]

 

Spoiler

The Emerald Guard of Elvenesse are the main fighting force of Amaethea. Comprising battle hardened veterans, as well as fresh recruits. The Guard are ready and able to deploy in a wide range of combative environments. Whether it be the frigid peaks of mountain ranges, all the way to the open seas. Each standing Guardsman holds a level of competence in any environment. The Emerald Guard stands as the acting guard force within the borders of Elvenesse. They are the enforcers of law and order and maintain a level of peace.

 

A warrior of Elvenesse.

 

The Emerald Guard is led by Lord Commander Celiasil (Kalehart)

 

 

The Tea Ladies

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The Tea Ladies are a loose social network in Amaethea, who gather for meetings, socialite activities and gatherings for charity works. Their sole purpose for the group is to gather the community's ideas without it being too formal, a chance for them to speak up. This experience is for anyone, as the Tea Ladies regularly invite guests to their meetings regularly and hold votes on civil community, cater for events and hold classes for any hobby. They are also folk who love reading and enjoy having family surrounding them.

 

 

To join the tea ladies, contact the following people:

ElevenJellyBeans//Maddie#6884 - Arlayna 

Olviaaaahr//olivia.#1268 - Lavinia 

Cxrley//carleyyy#1611 - Arle 

Okidokiboomer//Mewliet#6297 - Tanila 

MrMineLoveDude//MrMineLoveDude#1404 - Ara’nora

 

The Bardic Spirits

 

Spoiler

The Bardic Spirits are a group of traveling performers of all shapes and colors, from 'ame to Hou-zi! They reside in Sanctuaries dedicated to teaching and learning all forms of arts, including sound, word, aesthete, and movement. Though primarily residing in Elvenesse, the troupe often travels far to other cities of diverse cultures, spreading song and joy before returning, like colorful birds of a flock. Their spiritual connection towards the arts fosters a community open to all with the passion to learn, so long as their intentions are pure.

 

An elven actor wreathed in the mists of theatre.

 

The bards college is led by a pair of headmasters:

Aerilith Oakenarrow (Phoenixshot3)

Revin Songbird (True_Jay)

 

 

Government [x]

Spoiler

 

The High Prince

Feanor Sylvaeri | (Wandiferous)

The Realm of Elvenesse is led by an elected Royarch, chosen by a set of interim votes within the council, and the broader seed community. The current reigning High Prince is Feanor Sylvaeri.

 

However, the majority of the realm’s affairs are handled autonomously by the Council, a body of representatives acting on behalf of the Royarchy, chosen based on merit, skill and loyalty to the realm. The council members of Elvenesse are listed below.

 

The Citizen’s Warden 

Evar'lae Amayril | (Cmmdr_Jester)

The Citizen’s Warden, also known as the Head Steward, is tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of the housing and upkeep of the population of Elvenesse. New migrants to Amaethea are encouraged to approach them for a home within the glade.

 

The Lord Exarch

Evar’tir Oranor | (Bhased)

The Lord Exarch is the lawspeaker and judicial authority in Elvenesse, serving in the capacity of judge and interpreter of the Crown Law. They primarily ensure that the Law is maintained to reflect the betterment of the Elven People, and that it is not flaunted within the bounds of the Elven Domain, assisted by members of the judiciary.

 

The Lord Marshal

Celiasil | (Kalehart)

The Marshal is the paramount master of military forces in Elvendom, the leader of the Emerald Guard and overall commander of the White Fleet, as well as any other auxiliary units that come under the auspices of military action on behalf of the Crown. 

 

The High Priestess

Medli Amaeden | (RainbowRoad1234)

The Wild Faith of Elvenesse, and its united priesthood, is represented upon the Inner Council by an individual known as the High Priestess of Elvenesse. The Faith is responsible for the spiritual health and education of the united Elven people, for the upkeep of shrines and for the holding of Festivals within the bounds of the Elven Lands.

 

The Lord Diplomat

Cullas "Blackstar" Sylvaeri | (KaiserThoren)

The High Diplomat is Elvenesses’ main liaison to the other peoples of Almaris, establishing friendship and working relationships with the various Kingdoms of the races of Dwarves and Men.

 

The Father Circle Raithean

Miven Caerme’onn | (WestCarolina)

As the official Druidic Circle of Elvenesse, the Father Circle enjoys a Grove and protected status under the auspices of the Crown of Elvenesse, and thus are represented on the Princedom’s council. One of the Father Circles’ sitting Raitheans serves this role. 

 

 

Seeds & Houses

Nothing is more important to the elves than kin, and society in Elvenesse is principally organized along family lines. These take two main forms, the Great Houses of the Almenodrim Sea Elves, and the Seeds (or Tribes) of the Irrinite Wood Elves.

 

Almenodrim Houses

Traditionally, Almenodrim society is divided amongst a small group of ‘Great Houses’. These Houses are almost exclusively derived from ancient bloodlines that trace their lineage back to the semi-mythical land of Almenor, a Province of the prehistoric Kingdom of Malin, in which the Sea Elves were born as a race. 

 

Sylvaeri

Spoiler

The House of Sylvaen, often known colloquially as the House Sylvaeri, is an ancient Elven bloodline which traces its furthest roots to the ancient homeland of Malinor. Alongside the other Houses, they serve as representatives of the Elder Bloodlines upon the Continent. While the extent of their early history is best told in the Lay of Aegrothond and other tales, they have made their mark upon modern Elven history as well; many have served as High Princes, Princes, and Lords in Old Malinor, the Old Dominion, and Elvenesse.

 

The House of Sylvaeri is led by the Crown Prince, Feanor Sylvaeri (Wandiferous | wanderous#8112)

 

Telemnar

Spoiler

The House of Telemnar (Mar'lin Telemnar) is a family of sea-elves whose roots trace back to the firstborn son of Malin, Sylvaen Everflame. Highly regarded as able mariners, they claim their elder descent through the bloodline of Telemnar Sylvaeri, whose fierce confrontations with ancient Kaeronin corsairs established a legacy partitioned from his venerable siblings.

 

The House of Telemnar is led by Olorin Telemnar (GildedDuke | Gilded#1905)

 

Kaeronin

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The ancestors of the Kaeronin trace their ancient roots to the High Elves of Haelun’or. However, these hearty seafarers rejected the urban lifestyle of the silver city, and made their fortune as free-roaming corsairs of the sea. As a result, they quickly developed a bond with the Almenodrim, and today are recognized as one of the great houses of the sea elves. Today, Kaeronins accept elves of all races into their ranks, all of whom are taught the essentials of sailing and shipwrighting.  

 

The House of Kaeronin is led by Kailu Kaeronin (Voop | Voop#2394)

 

Hawksong

Spoiler

Hawksong is the common and well known name of the collectrive children of the House of Andaeren, or Tahorran'len. While they are by and large categorized as Almenodrim, they bear a unique and ancient-born culture that bridges the gab between the elves of Almenor and the Irrinite Elves. It has been said that the Twilit Folk of this House fathered music itself, and you will find no better cavalry in the known world. The family has also served the elves as High Princess, Princess, Lords and Ladies in Old Malinor and the Dominion

 

The House of Hawksong is open to any new elves who wish to join, and is led by Titania Hawksong (SargassoWolfen | Twilight#0595)

 

Wood Elf Seeds

Wood Elven society is divided into many tribes called ‘seeds’. Unlike Almenodrim houses, Seeds can be both ancient and new, and are open for any worthy elf to join. Each Seed has a tattoo that all its members have inked onto their skin. The tattoos differ from Seed to Seed and usually resemble the Gods that the Seed worships. Elvenesse is home to almost all of Almaris’ Wood Elven Seeds, with only a few exceptions.

 

Sirame

Spoiler

The Sirame are in many ways a mother Seed to all the wood elves. Founded by the wisewoman and druidic priest Awaiti, the Matriarch of Siramenor, the tribe devotes itself to maintaining the culture and traditions of all wood elf kind. Being a priestly Seed, the Sirame take their name from Irrin Sirame, the ancient warrioress and forebear of the wood elven people. The tattoo they bare on their flesh resembles Taynei’hiylu- the Green Dragon, who for many centuries was the divine prophet of the mali’ame people.

 

The Sirame seed is open to any elves who wish to join, and is co-led by Chieftainess Aedrie Sirame (searose143 | searose143#3190) and Chieftain Oyl Sirame (epicworld123 | Wellens#6846)

 

Arvellon

Spoiler

The Arvellon are a seed of Autumnal tricksters, historically dwelling in secluded groves of eternal fall, they have since joined the rest of their kin, on whom they often play devious escapades on. The Arvellons worship Felixii the Wildcat, patron of stealth and silence, and Kwakwani the Raven- who on top of being a patron for poets and musicians, is also the Chief Trickster god.

 

The Arvellon are open to any elves who wish to join, and are led by Chieftain Nerrin Arvellon (DrinkPesticide | DrinkPesticide#3970) and Chieftainess Eretria Arvellon (Mewliet | Mewliet#6297)

 

 

Caerme’onn

Spoiler

Like the Sirame, the Caerme’onn are a tribe that historically have devoted themselves to druidic and priestly duties, vis a vis the maintenance of mali’ame traditions. They worship the Stag Prince Amaethon, who represents fatherhood, and the Bear Spirit Bolomormaa, the naturalistic matron of motherhood. Caerme’onn value kinship ties above all, as represented in their patron Gods. In recent years, they have gravitated more towards warriorship as many of their members have joined the father circle.

 

The Caerme'onn are open to any elves who wish to join, and are led by Chieftain Abelas Caerme'onn (Lockages | Lockages#7000) and Chieftainess Miven Caerme'onn (WestCarolina | Carol#7747)

 

 

Vuln'miruel

Spoiler

The Vuln'miruel seed was founded by Sonna during a dark time in her life, a time when she felt orphaned, betrayed, and unfit. She created the seed for descendants such as herself who experienced similar tragedies. The seed was named Vuln’miruel after the founder’s totem and Sonnos is their patron. Their colors are red, gold, and green and their mark is of a golden red fox wearing a crown of twisted branches. The religion of the seed is elnarnsae’ame, The Wild Faith, however, members of the seed are free to practice whatever religion they wish as long as it is not a dark religion, or involve dark and voidal magic. It is the ultimate mission of the seed to ensure that no elf is left without a family to come home to.

 

The Vuln'miruel are open to any elves who wish to join, and are led by Chieftainess Sonna Vuln'miruel (Junoix | Junoix#6201)

Tahorran

Spoiler

The Tahorran are a river tribe, and are most at home on the waters. They follow the annual salmon runs that go up the rivers of Elvenesse, and their expert boatmen and women bring in many tons of salmon catch every season, which they smoke dry to preserve for the rest of the year. Tahorran primarily worship Nemglan, the Eagle Prince- known also as the Thunderbird and patron of travel and freedom. They also venerate the spirits of the river: the Frog and Salmon Spirits. In recent times, the Tahorran have taken to ocean-going, particularly whaling, for they believe that whales are the noblest foes, and thus the greatest prize.

 

The Tahorran are open to any elves who wish to join, and are led by Chieftainess Rylleah ap Tahorran (RayofPotatoes | RayofPotatoes#4201)

 

Taliame’onn

Spoiler

Taliame’onn is a tribe of artists, painters and expressionists. They value colour and vibrancy over all other things. As such the Taliame’onn form what could be defined as the artistic backbone of wood elven society. They worship Kholibrii, the Prince of Hummingbirds and patron of artists, and Kwakwani, the Prince of Ravens and patron of musicians and poets.

 

The Taliame'onn are open to any elves who wish to join, and are led by Chieftain Skylar Taliame'onn (LaffenOutLoud | pathetic aesthetic#1931) and Briar Taliame'onn (alex2271 | alex2271#2965)

 

 

Csarathaire

Spoiler

Steel and fire are the twin creeds practiced by a Csarathaire, and serve as the only lives which they lead. Steel in action. A scion of the phoenix weaves the cutting steel of a close assault weapon, such as a vicious sword or axe, into a dance of death which brutally cleaves and slashes any foe who might pose a challenge, or a threat to him or any of Malin’s loyal sons and daughters... Fire in reverence. A bearer of the phoenixian tattoo views flame as a purifying force to burn away corruption, a rejuvenating catalyst for the nurturing of future life and a tool of terrible vengeance. In short, the Csarathaire are righteous Elven crusaders with a penchant for and expertise in inflicting violence, and only violence.

 

The Csarathaire are led by Chieftain Avius Csarathaire (iMattyz | Matthias#3960)

 

 

Terin

Spoiler

A true seed of stewardship, either for that of the land or the people. Many Terins have found themselves through their lives as either Druids or Caretakers of the wild, or as domestic administrators within elven lands. The seed is often known for considering everyone to be family in some sort of way. Despite the seed itself being rather small, members prefer to value actions louder than words.

 

The current Chieftain of the Terin is Ara'nora Terin (MrMineLoveDude | MrMineLoveDude#1404)   

 

 

Tresery

Spoiler

The Tresery are a Seed which originate in the harsh, sun-baked savannah, an environment which has shaped their culture as a tribe. They are proud hunters and fierce warriors. Their sacred patron being Mahae, the Great Lion Spirit, who they believe blessed each member of their tribe with Courage and Pride. Much like the Lion, Treserys live their lives around the principles of courage, pride, loyalty and leadership. While they may have gotten their start as hunters running down ibex on the open plains, they now serve in every level of Elven society as warriors, healers and priests. The Treserys are a wandering seed, with members living both in the Pale of Aldemar, and in Elvenesse.

 

The Tresery are represented in Elvenesse by the warrior-druid Andria Tresery (Nightcastor)

 

 

Minor Families

These are old tribes, clans and houses that once had a larger presence within Elvenesse, but have since faded into the background. Nevertheless, these smaller families all still maintain a presence within the land of pines, and can be found and interacted with!

 

Songbird

Spoiler

The Lenetta, known more commonly as the Songbirds (which is what Lenetta means in Elvish) are performer peoples. They revel in song, dance, story telling, and stunt acts. Songbirds are gypsies in every sense of the word, each member of the clan is trained from a very young age to master a performing art, be it an instrument, dance, or some sort of daredevil act. Predictably, they worship mainly the Raven spirit. 

 

Silma

Spoiler

The Silma are unique, in that they are a cultural blend of Irrinite and Almenodrim traditions. Some of their members worship the Aspects of the mali’ame. However, their principal culture is rooted in Almenodrim rites. Their primary reverence is to Malin, the forefather of all elves. In their clan hall they keep a brazier burning, known to them as the eternal flame, which it is their duty to ensure never dies out. 

 

The Silma are led by Ail'ere Silma (Evonpire | Evonpire#0044)

 

Oranor

Spoiler

The Clan of Oranor is a Mali'ker lineage tracing back to Mithras Sylvaeri, Paladin of the Brotherhood of the Golden Lion. They are a Xannic-inclined line, though are well versed in the art of warfare, tactic, and siege engineering. Once populating the Dominion bastion of Talareh'sae, there are roots connecting to the Corrin lines, but are primarily known for their administration of Elven nations.

 

The head of Clan Oranor is Evar'tir Oranor (Bhased | Chase#2597)

 

Edited April 6, 2021 by Princedom Of Elvenesse

[Lockages 489]

hey I like the name, it’s p neat, good job gamers

[TwilightWolf 883]

Fantastic job! Thank you for your hard work!

[Potatatoes 168]

Great job! I love the name, ty frien.

[LaffenOutLoud 352]

so much flavor in one post