OddOllie123 255 Share Posted July 26, 2021 (Music to listen to while reading) The Harmony Of Manitari Introduction This group and culture is only starting out. We are hoping to expand more in every way we can, get into more detail lore wise, and hopefully cultivate an active RP experience full of everyone's ideas and passion for the group itself. (Cottagecore and spirituality could be words used to somewhat reference the culture.) Origin During the beginning of Almaris a musin named Shroom found contact with the new goddess Manitari. During this period of time Shroom spread the word of this new found religion, however this led to not just the religion spreading. But an entire culture who all bounded together to live on with their new found ideals. All banding under the name; the Harmony of Manitari. History Shroom found herself with a higher purpose when Manitari, goddess of mushrooms, spoke with the small musin, and in turn blessed her. This is where the ideology of Manitari formed. And soon it lingered on and festered within Shroom's mind. Not long after this all of the ideas given to the mushroom wearing musin were spread between many races. There was no discrimination when these ideas were spurted and thus very swiftly a group named the Harmony of Manitari, or the Harmony for short, was formed with Shroom as the mouth piece of the goddess herself. But without a dwelling the group found themselves spread thin for a short amount of time. This rather prominent issue was soon fixed however when Shroom came in contact with the rather chaotic Porkpie, a young forest beardling, who offered both his crazy mind and lazy hand to both design and build the dwelling where the Harmony reside. Also known as Helice, the hollow of fungi. And for this act Shroom blessed the beardling with joining the group as her hand and Igetis of Nanos, lead protector of the forests of Urguan. However the beardling refused to join the religion due to his loyalty to dwed culture. Despite this the beardling agreed to help protect and aid with the Harmony. Becoming a stand out member of the group. This was the turning point of where the group went from a faint whisper among the wind to a fully fledged group. Building themselves and their residence of Helice up into a strong group to ensure the Harmony were strong enough to protect the forests and their own. Cementing themselves as both a progressive group and a true refuge for all, with absolute no discrimination. Physical Appearance Due to the rather rash and swift recruition of the Harmony many members show off diverse appearances. Especially with the mixture of races who reside within the grove. However despite natural appearance being rather unset. Many members tend to end up allowing their hair to grow extremely long, only cutting it or letting it fall out when they believe the time is natural to do so. This tends to come by when it's an extremely hot day. Or when they need to rush into an urgent situation of protecting their kin or forest. Sometimes it gets so long; they braid it, despite gender. Clothing The Harmony tend to wear simplistic clothing. Handmade by their own people using exclusively natural material. With most putting comfort and practicality over appearance. Common garments worn by the group are flowing trousers, dungarees, shores, scarves, gloves, button up shirts, jumpers, dresses, skirts, flat caps, bonnets just to name a few common garments seen when entering Helice. Another common act with clothing is the inclusion of nature itself. An act viewed to bring the being closer to nature itself. And therefore bind their purpose to protecting nature. As Manitari intended. Combat Fighting is a sacred taught skill within the Harmony. Despite them being neutral and passive for most of their existence. The group takes their role of protecting nature and the balance of life very seriously. Some training for their entire life just to end up never needing to use it. A few common taught techniques are: Common: is the normal way of fighting learnt by many of the group. Its derived from other ways of fighting. With the edit of close ranged bows and smaller shields to allow the shorter members of the group to have a better chance in battle. (A feudal tactic used by the Welsh). This technique's origins are derived from common fighting with a natural twist for dwarves and musins. Most likely formed within the group for Porkpie and Shroom to name a few more stout members. Close Hand Fighting: is the other more commonly taught battle style. Members of the group used weapons such as ‘fist thorns’ (Knuckle dusters) And ‘mole gauntlets’ (Heavy wooden gauntlets with a claw like aspect.) To achieve a brutal carefree approach to fighting. This technique's origins are unknown. Stick Fighting: is a more rare form of battle learnt within the Harmony. This is where the fighters pick up short sticks which are usually 95 cm in length and weigh about 100 grams. These are used in strict fashion of horizontal and downwards hits. With just one hand. This technique originated from Porkpie Grandaxe. (Canne De Combat, a French fighting sport using minimized walking sticks made of wood) Traditions THE SLUG SUPERSTITION Rather often people who follow the goddess Manitari know the superstition of the slugs. It's a rampant superstition within the religion of Manitari and the group; the Harmony. Despite the origin of this ideology being unknown. It often shows itself within conversations of the group or simply the minds of them. Whether left unspoken or spoken. It is a common practice to know of this. And when a member is knowledgeable of this, many look down upon them or teach them through tongue and literature. Tongue made by history of conversation. And the literature from well wrote cursive which sits in a well kept book. Made from rough crocodile skin with dozens of home-made parchment intertwined with harsh vine to hold it all together. However from first glance it is a normal book, as there are no labels, title or blurb. SLIME AND SYMBOLISM, THE SLUG SUPERSTITION. SLUG FORTUNES, Eater of fungi, the creatures mean more than presumed. If: One slug is seen: The spotter will have a day of sadness and unluckiness. Two slugs are seen: The spotter will experience a day of joy and goodluck Three slugs are seen: The spotter shall lose something. This may be a favorite item such as a weapon, a memory of a loved one or friend, or even an idea which had been brewing for months. Though these are only examples. Four slugs are seen: The spotter shall experience a gift. This can come in the form of a revelation, a physical gift of money, a wish being granted. Among other things. However many other gifts are viable for this fortune. Five slugs are seen: The spotter could be pregnant, or have a pregnant lover. This could also mean that a friend or animal is pregnant. Sometimes even insinuating that a plant is about to spread. Six slugs are seen: The spotter will experience dying or harm. This could mean tripping over, to a near death experience, or death itself. Though this doesn’t necessarily mean the spotter. Perhaps an animal, plant, or friend will experience this. Slug Rituals, Slugs should only be naturally found. For better or for worse. However there are two rituals which can swade fate but still maintain the natural order of things. These consist of: The Fungi Wreath: A common practice to persuade slugs to come to light is often done by preparing a wreath made of intertwined wood and vines, often decorated with fungi of all kinds. This should then be left outside the door of the person hoping to experience more fate telling the day before they wish for the effects to occur. depending on emotes to make or place the wreath: (1 emote = +1) (2 emotes = +2) (3 emotes = +3) (max out at 3) all to the original number, rounded to nearest fortune.) The Salt Bowl: Another common practice is to place a wooden bowl with half of it filled with salt just outside the intended person's door. Around this bowl should be two rings of salt which should amount to fill the bowl. This represents water rippling outwards. Warding off any slugs. Depending on emotes to make or place the salt: (1 emote = -2) (2 emotes = -4) (3 emotes = -6) (max out at 6) All to the original number, rounded to the nearest fortune.) CRYSTALS AND GEMS Purpa gem (Amethyst) A Mystical looking stone, occurs in primary hues from a light lavender or pale violet, to a deep purple. about half the size of a descendant's hand, and is believed to give off a calming aura to the beholder which relieves stress, strain, fear, anxiety and anger. It is also said that the Purpa gem activates spiritual awareness, opens intuition and enhances psychic abilities. Rosea stone - rose quartz A stone of pale pink coloring and a translucent transparency and a vitreous luster. It also has a hexagonal crystal system. The meaning of the Rosea stone is love and compassion. The other name for which Rosea is known is as The Heart Stone. This crystal is often used in helping the heart heal from the pain or trauma left from deep emotional wounds. Rosea is also used as a calling card for those who crave more love in their lives. This doesn’t always need to take the form of romantic love, but more in finding a deep sense of compassion and care in this world – especially if it comes from one of the most important sources who can bring it – oneself. Virida gem (Jade) Known for its green varieties, though it appears naturally in other colors as well, notably yellow and white, this gem is believed to be a protective stone, Virida keeps the wearer from harm and brings harmony. Varida attracts good luck and friendship. It stabilises the personality and promotes self-sufficiency. Soothes the mind, releasing negative thoughts. Albus stone - white quartz A hard, mostly clear crystal like stone. Albus is believed to be the stone of master healing. This means that it has a heightened capacity to deal with disorders of all kinds. For example, physical ailments or spiritual maladies. The Albus stone helps people by absorbing negativity and disease-causing energies. It also helps release them into the environment. This crystal is particularly useful in neutralizing different kinds of evil energies. Especially those who come from envy or jealousy of your success. Along with this it is known as the universal crystal. Leading many to use it in conjunction with other crystals to enhance their abilities. MANIFESTING Manifesting is the act of writing down a wish or desire. By doing this act it's viewed as if the writer has put part of their heart and brain into the ink. Once this is done the paper is to be neatly creased into a flower-like object and then let go gently into a bedding of water. Once this is done the person must work hard towards their goal and with this manifestation it is believed to come true. NAMING CONVENTIONS Due to the abrupt beginning of the group and the fast recruitment naming convention has never been a keen topic for those under the groups name. Though a common trend seen within the residence and members tend to be that of less typical things. No James’s or Charlottes. More physical things cut down into an abbreviation or simply left on its own. For example members such as Porkpie, a real food and Shroom, a shortened version of mushroom. And for more examples names like Rose, Leaf, Emerald, Kat, and Dandy (from Dandylion) would be seen. Last names are the same as the common convention. Though some members do not use one. (Naming isn’t necessary, you can join with any name so please don’t feel you can’t! This is a simple extra detail to add layers into the lore. Please use any name you feel comfortable with.) WEDDING/MARRIAGE Marriage within the Harmony is viewed as a tedious task. Those who participate within the group or reside within the guarded grounds of Helice are often scolded if they go to run off with a loved one. As everyone is believed to already be married to nature itself. So if one is to get married it has to be what is professed as true love; and there has to be a promise made during the ceremony that the pair will either stay, or visit the Harmony's dwelling. Other than that small sentence marriage ceremonies tend to stick similar to other races and cultures religions; the halflings for example. The bride or groom walks in whilst their soon to be partner arrives. The person binding the pair tends to be the high Dasi or close friend of the couple. They must accept their will and say their oath. After that the couple are pronounced married as soulmates. This being the chance to bind their last name to another. A large party then tends to be celebrated in Helice. By all the people, even strangers. Drinks are given, pipe-weed is handed out, and then gifts are exchanged. This commonly falls into the list of; a poem, a hand carved item, a piece of jewellery, a garment, a weapon. However other gifts are also known to be given. FUNERAL/DEATH When a Sylvain or other member of the Harmony passes they are wrapped in willow leaves. Covering their entire body except their eyes. Then flowers of all kinds are sprinkled atop the leaves. An incense is also commonly done to mask the smell as this practice occurs. Once everyone has sprinkled a flower over the body it is brought over to Manitari’s forest, often carried on horse or by foot by loved ones of the deceased. Once it is there it is laid under the tallest tree with the most shade and left to rest. The body being sapped into the roots of nature itself to live on in another life. GAMES A common game played by predominantly younger members of the Harmony of Manitari, or uncommonly older members, is called three in a row. (Tictactoe) This is where there is a grid of 3 by 3. Commonly marked on a wall with chalk. Then the players must each take a turn to attempt to create a row of 3! They do this by placing a sapped block of wood with an X or O carved in it onto the grid. (Using heads in game which are spread about already to play with!) Diving, although not always classed as a game, is a common enjoyment within the people of Manitari. Players will often strip down to a simple undergarment and dive off one of the two diving boards almost always made at a dwelling. During this time they must do their best trick within the air, whether that be a spin, roll, or divebomb. Points are then given to the one who created the least water to upsplash. This happens three times and the person with the most points wins! (/Roll 20, highest one wins, best of three) Smoke Shapes is another game played often within the tavern. This is where the players must bring their own pipes and smoke, inhaling pipeweed into their lungs, holding it there before puffing it through their lips. Attempting to create a shape. The player who creates the best shape, judged by others around, wins! (/Roll 20, highest roll wins or players around judge description.) Social Ranking Keeper of Dasi - A passed down title, originated from the time Manitari blessed Shroom with the title, any who holds this title has the responsibility to watch over the forests of the realm and therefore its protectors. Igetis of a forest - The title of a Sylvain who has the responsibility to watch over one of the 7 forests, the Igetis of the Elkdi forest would be called ‘Igetis of Elkdi’. Sylvain - The title of a Resonant that has completed all trials successfully . Resonant - The title of a Descendant who is on the path of the Harmony. Novice - The title of a Descendant who wishes to follow the Harmony Religion Overall the religion of Manitari is more of a debt to life. Protecting one and all of the 7 forests for their entire eternity. This means usually that members will not class this as their religion. And more their life's purpose. Meaning more strict cultures such as dwarves may still join the group without consequence. The realm has been divided into 7 forests each one with different attributes. (click for ->) Forests Map During the 3rd trial the resonant in training will pick out the forest that mostly relates to them so they have a greater connection with it so they can more easily protect it. Poulia forest Elvennesse "This forest showed growth and love, sprawling with fauna and lush vegetation, home to great trees and exciting animals." Andras Forest Sutica "This forest included a mangrove The forest and dry terrain gave me a sense of wisdom and curiosity. I was eager to know more, it houses the mysterious blue ladybug." Ork Forest Krugmar "I wandered through this forest and I became overwhelmed with strength and tactility. Orcs hail from the centre of this forest, leaving behind the remains of war." Nanos Forest Urguan "Nanos forest is the home of the dwarven city, they construct excellent inventions and beautiful cities, their creativity and skill spreads throughout the root network of the trees." Sapon forest Oren "Beautiful blue skies cover the Sapon forest during the day spreading agility, at night dark, starry skies absorb the forest, spreading quick thinking." Elkdi Forest Haense "Elkdi forest is home to the city of haense and Knoxville, both inhabit the kindness and unity of their people, the forest emits this in a calming aura." Kyro Forest Norland "The cold and harsh climate creates a need for survival and fitness, the forests are scattered with cute but deadly animals that will rip you to shreds for a meal." Manitaris’ forest "When a Sylvain has passed onto the next life they are carried to Manitaris’ forest, full of lush fauna and cute, caring fauna, Manitaris’ forest is a haven for Sylvans until they are ready to be one with the forests and their spirit is absorbed by the roots of the flora." Trials of Manitari 1 - Trial of Manitari The task is to create a small offering to Manitari, but it has to be something Manitari represents, an offering representing Growth, The Forests or Unity. 2 - Trial of Flora The task is to create an informative piece on any type of flora, the piece must include the uses if it has any, where it can be found and its appearance. (A minimum of 2 paragraphs is required.) 3 - Trial of The Forest This task is about evaluating the forests and choosing which one to protect when you have completed your trials. To do this the task taker must wander into each forest to decide. Once chosen they must spend a month (1 day ooc) in the forest, living off the wilderness. 4 - Trial of Loyalty The task is to hand in your most precious collectable/item to be put within Helice. A symbol of giving up a piece of their mind and body to the forest. This can be earned back by completing a task specially set out by the Dasi or Igetis. 5 - Trial of Song The task is to create a poem dedicated to the forests of the realm, Manitari or nature as a whole. This must be at least 3 paragraphs. Fine Arts ARTS AND MUSIC Art and music is an over presented thing within Harmony but one which is often talked about. Many tend to play wind instruments as they walk; such as the flute. And others choose to create art with charcoal and berry dyes in the confinement of their own home. However if you’re lucky you may see some masterpieces hung up around. This tends to be because the Keeper of Dasi or a high number of people take a liking to it at a showing or presentation of the piece. However the most viewed art of the Harmony is their knack for carving items out of the cheapest wood into the most elegant of designs. Though unlike the carvings, murals painted on cave walls are overly presented. A large mural of Manitari herself standing on one. FOOD AND AGRICULTURE Most food is gathered by hand in the grove where there are plentiful farms and animals lingering about. However food is a prime debate within the culture. A divide between veganism and carnivores. This leads to many actually hiding what they eat. Though a few recipes are known to be sold in the tavern. Slug stew: A sloppy slug slimed stew mixed with lettuce, tomatoes, and Manitari knows what else, it looks like gunk. Baked Cakes: Simple baked cakes are often made to be sold. Usually made with berries such as blueberries and raspberries. There are many more recipes but secrecism in the cooking sector is a key aspect. Chefs within the Harmony all keep their mouths zipped so they can wow at events and be crowned the best chef by the talk of the town. ARCHITECTURE Architecture is a prime part in protecting nature. Knowing how to both enhance nature without destroying it with the ability to create buildings. Therefore to do this much of the architecture incorporates own grown woods. With plants grown around it. and secure it. Along with using natural given trees and caves. A lot of the inspiration of the architecture is taken from both the top two founding members' races; Shroom, a Musin, and Porkpie, a half forest dwarf. This leads to spreaded housing across different levels, burrow-like buildings down in the ground, tight spaces, crowded areas, and lots of nature all amongst it. All with an emphasis on communal living. ‘ Language and sayings Once again due to the rather fast coming together of the group with their diverse amount of races. Language is often disregarded as being specific to the culture. Instead they assume they speak the common tongue although many speak Elvish and Blah too. Residence [Current] The first dwelling of the Harmony of Manitari: Helice, hollow of fungi Designed and built by both Shroom and Porkpie. Helice was and currently is the very first dwelling of the Harmony, located in Elvenesse. The terrain Helice is settled on is fairly flat. Towering spruce trees are scattered around it. And a few lakes nestle nearby. Overall the area is lushous and full of both fauna and flora. Especially enlarged mushrooms which are dotted about the place. Helice, classed as just a settlement, Other times referred to as a village, is built into two separate sections: The Grove: Secluded by trees and mushrooms the Grove is the hidden dwelling of the wailing willow. And the prime section to Helice. This is where many find themselves when following the path. Noticing the enlarged willow tree towering over the often busy farms, populated stage, and other notable places such as the marketplace where traders from all over Almaris gather to trade goods. Such as the ones carved and forged in the back of the Grove. The Hollow: Once you enter the wailing willow you may take a gander at the notice board on the left, leave a donation and finally find yourself down to the bottom vere the rooted moving platform. Or as some call; an elevator. Once down there is a large protective gate amongst other precautions. However once through you are greeted by a mystical cave of crystal and mushrooms. Labour workers work hard at work mining out the precious gems, harvesting mushrooms, and congregating over by the fire fit and other areas. To the left there is a small cave full of doors. Each leading to personal abodes with entrances to the community storage and bunker left in the middle. Back to the right of the centre plaza there is a library esc communal area, and below that a garden and tavern. Named the Tiny Toadstool. This is where most labour workers come to drink and smoke after a long day's work, A prized part of Helice itself. Due to all of this the Hollow is known to be highly protected for the precious resources, and therefore also a more sacred and holy space for the Harmony. (Image of the Tiny Toadstool Tavern. One of the more cramped n communal spots.) [As of this moment 26/06/2021 the build is not pasted in as we are still obtaining the mina to fulfill the cost.] However we are excited to welcome more people into this community we are building. So if this culture interests you shoot me or Luxcio a dm in game or on discord at: Luxcio / OddOllie123 Luxcio#8321 / olly#8553 If you got this far, thanks for reading! And here's a cookie <3 and please +1 if you liked reading this! Special thanks to Luxcio for helping with creative brainstorming, help writing and building too, and Kaiser who proof read. Along with everyone else who took a look at both the post and build for me! 11 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
KaiserJacobII 1048 Share Posted July 26, 2021 Really interesting, and unique looking culture! +1 from me! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
OddOllie123 255 Author Share Posted July 26, 2021 1 hour ago, KaiserJacobII said: Really interesting, and unique looking culture! +1 from me! Thank-you! One of our goals was to distinctly set ourselves away from other cultures which the main back bone of this culture could be compared to. So I'm glad you think its beginning to shape up as unique! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tetho 139 Share Posted July 29, 2021 Mhm, encountered one of them on both of my characters(though I am only observing) and after learning more about it, it looks pretty interesting and a very unique culture in the server for me at least. Would love to see more of you guys. +1 for me. 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts