Scholarium Newsletter: #2

[Animael 1500]

 

<The following missive is available only to Celia’nor citizens. If you have feedback that can be given, please do so in DM’s!>

 

Scholarium Newsletter

Published by the Talyniist Scholarium

Edited by Talyniist Scholarium Scribes

11th of the Grand Harvest, 197SA

 

Military

New Mordu’lar

The new Mordu’lar of Celia’nors esteemed Divadri has been announced as of the early hours of the 10th Grand Harvest. His Royal Highness Illthrak Ibarellan has once more taken up the mantle in a bid to revitalize the Diraar and see to it that its roster is once again bursting at the seems, with each member of Celia’nors military upholding justice and honour within their noble positions.

 

Aneh’wy: Mathi Lensul’em

Aneh’why: Yera Silveira

Parir: Sylvin Cerusil, Sylvir Cerusil, Aganar Kalgan-Silveira, Adrianus Cerusil.

Okar’sohae: Brandy Millwell, Uriella Amethil, Ronan Acaln’sae

 

The Bastion of Celia’nor Prevails: (Click Here For More)

The bridge of Celia’nor lay littered with debris from battle. Strewn glass from potions, marks from blasts, burns from flame and water from the melted ice of Frost-Witches. Yet despite all that carnage and destructions, all that debris and mess… There were no bodies of Celians present. There were no innocents or martyrs littering the bridge in pieces. Instead, only the undead, the demonic and the icily imbued caked the environment, decimated at the hands of a united front against these vile creatures in their misguided laughable attempts. The holy men that assisted in fighting off these vile creatures left a note visible for the darkspawn to see should they have dared return under cover of night.

“You appear to not match up to the Red Lich’s example. Mine predecessors within the clerics would find it a good-omen for the war against ruin to see you so weak.”

 

Talyiinist Scholarium & Talyiinism

https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/239105-the-talyniist-scholarium/

 

“Given the root power to resist the influence of meddlers is considered to be insight or knowledge, it is viewed that Elvendom is more capable of this endeavor as a grand mission to bring knowledge down from the heavens, and bring it to the mortal world.”

 

World Kaktuz

Spoiler

Godwin Maiheiuh: “I intended to inform you, as well as any potentially interested parties-” He turns then to the group, “That there has been a shift in the winds. Farseers, myself included, are being fed whispers of the return of the World Kaktuz.” He crosses his arms, “The exact nature of this Kaktuz is… well… it is somewhat shrouded in mystery. I believe it could be a source of great spiritual power, and unlocking it, or harnessing its use could be greatly beneficial to the shaman community here in Kaelin.” He nods, “I would request the ability, with the assistance of both the alchemist's guild as well as the magis present, to be involved in any such blooming of the World Kaktuz.”

Following the representative of the shaman's speech within the Grand Vault of the Scholarium upon Mount Kaelin, the guildmasters of the Silveira Sect, Ak’vei and Acal’turri all proclaimed their willingness to support and work alongside the Shamans, incorporating their potential benefits into following expeditions and research regarding the World Kaktuz. It has been posited that properties of the Kaktuz or its flowers may prove vital to alchemical advances or healing treatments.

Peace within the Scholarium

Spoiler

Throy: “As the representative of House Acal'turri, although we have remained quiet on these matters, we are quite pleased with our current situation.” Godwin: “I will be asking the Ak'vei to assist in any required botany, as well as any useful disguises for participation in such a major event.” He nods cordially then to Naith, “Apart from that, construction on the Shamanic Sect is going swimmingly. I adjourn myself.” He knocks on his desk and sits. Naith: “Lovely. I'd like to see the details on this mission soon.” Naith spoke, tipping her chin to the front- she rose from her seat, “No grievances, though likewise, I've gotten ahold of a matter that might greatly benefit Kaelin- if we put our efforts toward it.”

As of this moment in time the Scholariums’ guilds and inner workings are greased and working together smoothly. There are no current conflicts, and only possibilities for further cooperation are currently being discussed.

The One Piece

A Scholar of the Scholarium had detailed that during their expedition, they managed to gain a foothold within the great hunt happening across Aevos, that is taking place on account of Gashadokuro’s announcement, about his hidden treasures. They have detailed that the largest threat at this point in time, with the biggest head start in the race is the ice demons, inferi and undead.

 

The plan as it stands, in participating in the hunt, is to gather the necromantic artifacts so that they cannot be utilized by the infernal and undead, then destroy them cooperatively with the use of holy magics presented by some of the realms of mundus. To do this, ships are already under construction via the Ak’vei within the Scholarium and a team is being assembled.

Loot Contract

Mister Throy of the Acal’turri has taken on the duty of creating a standardised ‘loot’ contract to provide adventurers, mercenaries, and other groups of individuals with a fair and easy way of managing who gets what when it comes to discovering artefacts and treasure.

Spoiler

Parties:

• Adventurers : [Name]

Recitals:

• The esteemed [Organizing Party] has commissioned the aforementioned Adventurers to embark on a perilous expedition.
• Having triumphed over trials and tribulations, the Adventurers have secured a trove of valuable items, artifacts, and treasures (collectively referred to as "Loot").
• The Adventurers, in the spirit of camaraderie and fairness, wish to establish a binding agreement for the just distribution of said Loot.

Agreement:

1. Definition of Loot:
   • For the purposes of this Agreement, "Loot" shall include all treasures, artifacts, relics, and other valuables recovered during the Adventure, whether of material or arcane significance.
2. Method of Distribution:
   • The Loot shall be apportioned equally among the Adventurers, with each receiving an equitable share, reflecting the risks undertaken and contributions made during the Adventure.
3. Valuation of Items:
   • The value of each item shall be determined by the collective wisdom and mutual agreement of the Adventurers. In cases of disagreement, the Adventurers shall seek the counsel of a recognized appraiser, sanctioned by the [Organizing Party], or another mutually agreed-upon expert.
4. Division of Loot:
   • The division of Loot shall take place at the earliest convenient moment following the completion of the Adventure, within the hallowed halls of the [Organizing Party] or another agreed-upon location. The method of division shall be determined by the Adventurers, whether through a lottery of fate, a rotational selection process, or any other fair method deemed fitting by all parties.
5. Exorcism:
   • Should any Adventurer discover that an item of Loot is cursed, malevolent, or otherwise imbued with dark forces, said item must be immediately relinquished to the [Organizing Party] or overarching governmental body responsible for the [Organizing Party]  for safekeeping. To undertake the necessary rituals to purify or contain the item, ensuring it poses no further danger. The value of such cursed items shall be excluded from the Loot division, with the [Organizing Party] offering a suitable reward or compensation at its discretion.
6. Dispute Resolution:
   • Should any discord arise under this Agreement, the Adventurers shall first strive to resolve such disputes through reasoned discourse and negotiation. Failing this, the matter shall be submitted to binding arbitration, in accordance with the ancient and just rules of the [Organizing Party] or superceding governmental judgement in which the main body of the [Organizing Party] exists.

Entire Agreement:

• This Agreement constitutes the complete and final accord between the parties, superseding all prior or contemporaneous agreements, understandings, or communications, whether oral or written.

In Witness Whereof, the Adventurers, under the auspices of the [Organizing Party] and Talyiinist Faith, hereby affix their signatures below, acknowledging their commitment to the terms herein as of the date first written above.

[Signatures of Adventurers]

Norland Darkspawn

Marlon Pell, who’s fate was handled by Numendil after his betrayal of the living; The man selling out a group of knights and magus to the undead and infernal that later went on to kidnap and harass members of the Numenost royalty. Revealed upon former capture that his contacts frequently used Norland's sewers, having alleged that the place was crawling with such beings within its shadows. Whether this holds any ground remains to be seen, however investigation is likely prudent. An additional contact has alleged that a coven of Vampyr makes this location one of their frequent haunts, one of which being an alleged famous author. The Scholarium would like to make it clear that they have no interest in encroaching upon the territory or sovereign dominions of other nations, and highly doubts that Norland has any darkspawn living beneath it that aren't being investigated or dealt with by the proper authorities at this time.

Internal Darkspawn Testing

Following this new period, internal darkspawn testers have been hereby assigned; Doctor Marrow & Miss Arielle. Their directives within the Scholarium are to test its members to reduce the chance of infiltration via darkspawn, or darkspawn influence. All members of the Scholarium are subject to testing, including Guild Leaders and the Chairman.

Chairman of the Scholarium

Spoiler

Lady Yera: “Great. Next… The Chairman of this council. I have taken the role via default this time around. But it is my intention to prove that I am not some dictator of the Scholarium. That it really is led by a collaboration. Thus I believe that we should have a voting period to determine the chairman, every ten years or so.” Lady Yera: “We are, in effect, essentially a university comprised of multiple colleges. And this is the board of education, so to speak. Whilst my position as landowner cannot change, the individual that hosts meetings, interacts with others and helps organize the different guilds can.” Lady Yera: “Anyway, does anyone object to a nomination system for a chairman or headmaster, of Kaelin?” Godwin Maiheiuh decides against his next statement, looking towards the center of the room, “I agree to an election cycle.” Naith Loa'chil: “Agreed.” Naith called out, leaning back again. Lady Yera: “Perfect. And the Acal'turri?” Throy: “Well, I'm pretty sure the house won't disagree on that matter; we're good. As long as I don't get elected, hahaha! I hate standing out.” Lady Yera: “Then, on the year two hundred of the Second Age, we'll announce the new headmaster of Kaelin. That gives each guild three years to come up with nominees and make a case for them.”

Upon the year 200 SA, a new chairman shall be decided upon to both celebrate the new century and to mark the start of a nomination cycle for the chairman/headmaster position over Kaelin’s joint coalition of guilds that make up its university like structure.

 

The chairman's duties shall be to secure necessary permits from the landowner of Kaelin for construction or renovation projects, as well as securing mina funding. Facilitate cooperation and communication between different guilds within the academic community. Assist in planning lessons or arranging teacher assignments, host regular meetings to discuss school matters and make decisions, contribute to establishing the schools’ overall vision and goals, participate in creating and implementing Scholarium policies with the council, represent the Scholarium in the community and foster positive relationships and performing frequent risk management as they identify and address potential risks to the Scholariums’ operations. The chairman is expected to maintain high ethical standards and act in the best interest of the Scholarium and its students.

 

Members of the Scholarium that are interested in representing it as its Chairman/Headmaster are advised to reach out to their respective guild heads to make their case known. They have until 200 SA’s summit meeting.

Lessons

Spoiler

Lady Yera: “The last topic that I'd like to raise….” Lady Yera: “Is one of communal or advertised lessons. I'd like for the guilds to pool together a bit more, and to encourage its teachers to throw some lessons for others to join. Whether that's first aid, how to start fires, a lecture on monsters. Anything.” Lady Yera: “Ultimately everyone here besides Miss Arielle is capable of sharing knowledge, so I would appreciate it if there was one or two between you each year.” Naith Loa'chil: “..Well! I'm sure that we can cobble together a lesson or two for that time. Everyone knows something that is good for passing on- be it.. Cobbling shoes, or cooking, or so on.” Doctor H'M: “. . .Other-know. Ledge. Can be. Taugh. Taught. . .Few. Person. Know -- hand-speech. Instance.” Naith Loa'chil: “If you don't,” She motioned to Arielle, “Then, a lesson might involve taking a bunch of people out- and learning something together.” Doctor H'M: “. . .Other-know. Ledge. Can be. Taugh. Taught. . .Few. Person. Know -- hand-speech. Instance.” Naith Loa'chil: “That's true, too.” She added, with a snap of her fingers, “Sign language is a crucial skill that many sorely lack.” Lady Yera bobs her head. “Indeed. Are the guilds here willing to speak to their members about this? If we can communally encourage everyone into a twenty percent chance of throwing an event… And we have over forty five members… That's nine potential events.” [Parir] Aganar Silveira: “I can look into some, but the diraar is also in need of stuff happening.” Throy: “For the Diraar, we could consider doing some demonstrations or public training. Maybe even a parade? It might attract new recruits as well.” Lady Yera: “Invite the Diraar too. Consolidate.” Naith Loa'chil: “Maybe we can go out and gather some things to make blackpowder again..” Naith Loa'chil: “Ah, it won't hurt.” Naith paused, “I'll talk with them- though, Ak'vei is going to be pretty busy prepping for this hunt.”

The Scholariums’ summit discussed the idea of communal or advertised lessons, suggesting pooling resources and encouraging teachers to share their knowledge with others. Topics ranging from and including first aid, fire starting, fauna or flora lore, practical skills and more. They also proposed the idea of group learning and study experiences alongside expeditions and hunting trips.

 

The collective guild heads agreed to consider these suggestions and explore ways to implement them, with the Diraar being invited along to participate in various lessons and public demonstrations of training as a way to attract new members. The Alchemical guild detailed that they intend on carrying out expeditions for blackpowder acquisition and more in addition to their already planned expeditions involving the World Kaktuz and the ‘One Piece’.

 

Politics

There have been few developments in politics. New laws are in the process of being written by her Royal Highness Illyria Ibarellan once more as she returns to the task, with the assistance of Illthrak Ibarellan who has equally taken the position of Mordu’lar once more. There have been rumours of riots or protests taking place in response to allegations made against a specific member of the Diraar who has not been named in this issue to protect their wellbeing and avoid needless slander. 

 

Betrayal of Lucius

"In the annals of the Holy Blades, few names evoke as much contempt as that of Lucius. Once a trusted brother, a stalwart member of Holy Bladess, in the rank of a New Blood, sworn to uphold the sacred oaths of our Order, Lucius has become a symbol of treachery, a man who chose ambition over honor, and knowledge over loyalty. His betrayal cuts deep, for it is not just the betrayal of his fellow hunters, but of the very principles that bind us together. He fled to a distant land, a nation not our rival in arms but one shrouded in perpetual shadow, overrun by the malevolent force we know as the Darkspawn. These twisted creatures, born of corruption and malice, have long been the enemy of all that is pure and just. The Holy Blades have fought tirelessly to keep their influence at bay, purging the taint wherever it emerges. But this nation, plagued by darkness, has become a refuge for the very evil we seek to destroy. It is here that Lucius has sought asylum, not out of fear, but out of a thirst for power. The High Council of the Holy Blades, in their wisdom, has decreed that Lucius must be brought to justice. This is not merely a mission of retribution, but a dire necessity. Lucius’s betrayal is a wound that must be cauterized before it festers further, and the knowledge he seeks must be kept from falling into the wrong hands. His actions have placed the entire realm at risk, and it falls upon us, his former brothers and sisters, to stop him before he brings about the ruin of all we hold dear. The hunt for Lucius is a grave and dangerous task. He is no ordinary fugitive; he was once one of our own, trained in our ways, privy to our secrets. Now, he walks among the shadows, in a land where the Darkspawn’s taint seeps into the very earth. Lucius, once our brother, now our enemy, your days are numbered. The Holy Blades come for you, and with us, we bring the wrath of your treason. Prepare yourself, for there will be no mercy. The hunt is on, and we will not fail."

 

Lady Elora Amethil went on to pardon Lucius following new information brought to light, however, he remained barred from participating as a member of the Holy Blade within the Talyiinist Faith.

 

"After thorough deliberation and the revelation of new evidence, the Council of Holy Blades has reached a final decision regarding Lucius, formerly a New Blood of our esteemed Order. As many of you are aware, Lucius fled our stronghold and sought refuge in a distant nation plagued by the Darkspawn. Initially, this act was perceived as a grave betrayal—a pursuit of forbidden knowledge that posed a significant threat to our Order and the realm we protect. The Council of Holy Blades decreed that Lucius must be brought to justice, viewing his actions as a severe breach of the sacred oaths he swore to uphold.   However, recent investigations have brought to light critical information that has altered our understanding of Lucius’s motivations. In light of these findings, the Council has decided to amend Lucius’s punishment. Rather than pursuing his execution or continued exile as an enemy, we have chosen to strip him of his rank and membership within the Holy Blades. Effective immediately, Lucius is expelled from our Order. He is no longer permitted to bear the uniform of the Holy Blades, and all privileges associated with his former position are hereby revoked. Let this missive serve as a formal notice of the First Hunters' decision. We trust that all members of the Holy Blades will continue to uphold the principles of our Order with unwavering dedication."

 

Misjudged or misguided?

A call has gone out towards those who hold the title of cursed. Those that ultimately hold no powers or infernal desires allegedly, but outwardly show the scars of tragedy in the warping of their mortal coils. The writer Ceres Dralguna had the following to say:

 

“To my accursed kin, I write this in search of those of our kind that seek progression.    For many years now our very presence has been treated as a bane to these lands.  And none can scarcely blame the citizens of this realm for feeling such rooted hatred when so many of our kind actively seek and practice violence and bloodshed in their lands. Such practice should actively be shunned in consideration of how we and our ancestors have suffered to violence.    I call upon you to aid me in pushing for change, to find a greater purpose to prove we are compassionate, wise and worthy of respect. We are intelligent and knowledge-seeking people, let us not allow our reputations to be tainted by those who sow injustice in our name.    Let us gather, Children of the Curse, to find a greater solidity of community and to settle upon a common cause. Let us reject and shun those of us that seek discord over more abundant, peaceful ways. Let us gather and generate higher goals where we may achieve as a collective power toward acceptance.    Should my words strike your interest, send me a bird so that the cogs of progress can begin their melodic whirring once again.”

Academic Trouble: Professor Ribbdiggery

Professor Ribbdiggery, in giving a lecture to several individuals in the city to highlight the dangers of the Earth Eater and what to do if one were to encounter them in the wild, ventured into the city with a captive Earth Eater. His lesson began with him lecturing on their eating habits, their appearances, weaknesses and how they saw the world even, his expertise in fauna physiology showcased - and in a risk assessed manner he had the children watching throw food into the cage for the creature to consume without any issue.

 

It was at this point however, once the creature had been fed that trouble struck. The ground rumbled, and much to the professors' chagrin, a torrential twenty foot long earth eater erupted and wreaked havoc upon the populace causing a number of small injuries. During the chaos, one of the civilians attempted to break free the smaller earth eater and suffered grievous injuries for the effort. As the brave men and women of Celia’nor came together, a collective effort of polearms, blades and some intelligent usage of the previous lecture managed to bring the great worm down. The Professor was tackled and arrested by the Diraar following suit, and dragged off to the cells whilst pleading his innocence. With the Royarch and a member of the Royal Council taking interest in the situation, Professor Ribbdiggery was released without further incident to remain in house arrest for the foreseeable future until an investigation can take place.

 

"I do not know why the adult Earth Eater appeared, but I can only suspect sabotage. These creatures do not have familial bonds, nor do they feel any kind of kinship with one another. Their only intent is to devour and become larger. That is it. I shall clear my name and resume lectures within the city post haste!" - Professor Ribbdiggery

 

Culture

The key beliefs of Celia’nor are not to be ignored. A Celian high elf is very different to that of those that live in the woods or far south. Harbouring individualism certainly they also unite with one another under the following values which stem from the Celian philosophy of: ilMaehr’sa Ilkun’ehya.

 

Knowledge-Seeking: A good Celian must be well educated. This can often mean that they also practice the arcane arts, seeking progress through knowledge and educating their neighbour. They care for the arts just as they do the natural sciences, with astronomy and magic being especially popular amongst the educated elite as both represent the stars.

 

Militarism: One who does not understand the value of the military is often considered a fool who will never rise through the ranks nor gain social prestige. Scars are seen as something of worth, showing one’s endurance and willingness to survive.

 

Monarchy: The Celian nation was founded upon what they deemed a failed democracy which led the High Elves into ruin and stagnation. Sleepily trudging along at best. Hence, elections are something deeply frowned upon, whilst the monarchy of the Ibarellan family is revered.

 

Meritocracy: Those that work hard and behave properly rise. That is the way of Celia’nor.

 

Decency: A proper Celian is well-behaved. They do not scream, fall to alcoholism or overly reveal their skin. They do not run around jumping for hours on end instead of interacting with one another. They address aristocrats as “Lord” or “Lady”. Romantic decency is equally expected, with public kissing being frowned upon. Sullying one’s bloodline by spawning children twice cursed is considered a severe crime additionally.

The Willow Maid (Click Here For More)

As the sun set gently within Leyu'sil, an idea dawned within the great stage of Celia'nor, marking a new opportunity for those that wished to see their blossoming acting careers bloom. A grand play was thrown, featuring various mali, non-mali and more under the artistic direction of Lady Eir Maor, her royal highness Illyria Ibarellan and Lady Ciradyl Akaln'riv. This script and story was beautifully crafted by Lady Eir Maor herself.