Knights of the Silven Order

[Animael 1500]

 

<OOC> This lore is known only within the City of Leyu'sil through internal circular. Some OOC segments are included for ease of roleplay.

 

Knights of the Silven Order

“There is no end to improvement.”

 

“Overcome ignorance with the light of knowledge.

Let knowledge kindle the fire of passion.

From passion, draw the power of strength.

With strength, offer the grace of compassion.

Through compassion, forge the bonds of unity.

In unity, discover the harmony of peace.

From peace, let the essence of joy flourish.

Through peace, nurture the warmth of love.

In peace, sow the seeds of a lasting future.”

 

The Order

 

The Knights of the Silven Order are a revered formation renowned as a formidable vanguard force, Knights of the Order dedicate themselves to the protection and service of the nation. Only those who demonstrate unparalleled skill, unwavering loyalty, and the highest moral character are chosen to become squires of the Order. That is to say that amongst the people of Celia'nor, members of the Silven Order are close to living weapons, physically bettered through training, and often brought to the very peak of what is possible for Mali' kind through the Arcane. It is this training and distinct power that requires a strict process for identifying new recruits. Those of stalwart mind and character. The Knights of the Silven Order are expected to have a base understanding of the Talyiinist Faith, as stalwart defenders of their people, culture and faith - knowing right from wrong in even strenuous complicated scenarios.

 

Upon their nomination, aspiring squires are introduced to the sacred oath often for the first time and undergo the initiation rite. This marks the beginning of their journey, culminating in a formidable trial. During this trial, the squire must choose and hunt a mighty creature or undertake a significant challenge. A token from their conquest, or the essence of the trial itself, becomes integral to the crafting of their Tal’dagre: a weapon designed to reflect their identity and fulfill their needs in battle.

 

The life of a squire is one of relentless preparation. They hone their combat skills, study the arcane arts, and reflect deeply on their personal values, committing them to writing as a safeguard against losing themselves in the trials ahead. When a squire feels ready, they choose one of three distinct paths leading to knighthood, each path shaping their destiny within the Order.

 

Upon selecting their path, the squire is elevated to the rank of Knight Errant - a transitional phase marked by further trials that test their resolve and readiness to ascend to full knighthood.

 

Achieving the title of Knight of the Silven Order signifies elite status within the Celia’Diraar. While Knights do not possess formal authority over officers or company leaders, their experience and leadership qualities often position them as natural guides in critical moments. Their role is one of inspiration, diplomacy, adaptability, and courage, embodying the very ideals of the Silven Order.

 

Structure

• Grandmaster of the Order - The Lord Marshal & Councillor for Military Affairs
• Knight Paramount of the Order - Lord Commander responsible for strategic planning, leading major campaigns, and overall direct command of the Order. 
• Knight Commander of the Order - Oversee knights, select squires, organize trials,  and project capability through operational command. 
• Knight of the Order - Mentor and train Squires as well as provide taskings to assigned Knight Errants. 
• Knight Errant - Newly promoted Knights tasked .
• Squire - Selected elites from the ranks of the Divadri. Learn & complete trials.
• Cleric
  • Clerics of the order are members of the Talyiinist Faith who assist with charity or medical work and other such non combat roles. They need not being employed full time but can indeed be considered full members where desired. Their work can range from taking notes at meetings to purchasing things on behalf of the order, to giving out gifts and managing the treatment of a village stricken with plague.

 

 

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Culture

 

Within the Silven order, there is no true hierarchy, though some are responsible for the order. Everyone within cares for each other. Maintaining who they are and each is responsible for one another. That is to say that it is very much a brother and sisterhood, and added titles of grandmaster or protector are merely there to signify individuals who are beset with additional responsibilities typically for paperwork or speaking with politicians.

 

The power a knight wields is great, therefore a squire will be taught to understand the responsibilities. These responsibilities are what drives the Silven Order. A knight is also expected to be responsible as to not create political problems for the Celia’norian nation. 

 

“Ne’estel vull’talii ah'haelun, Tillun'ae ay'allim”

 

Talyiinism is a spiritual and cultural set of notions widely accepted within the Silven Order and Celia'nor at large. The central belief is based on the cosmological difference between a hidden creator god and malevolent outer gods consisting of Aenguelaemonic existences. Believing that the status of the creator is disturbed, the Talyiinists shun salvation offered by Aspects, Spirits, and Aengudaemons in favor of a deeper understanding of their inner divinity and the shattered state of the cosmos. Talyiinists do not deal in sin nor virtue, but rather self enlightenment, and battling ignorance. Often, the greatest representation of Talyiinist doctrine is reflected by the moon and the stars, which represent the fractured creator and the veiled madness of absolution.

 

Through the cross reference of philosophers and historians of yore, it was concluded that the one creator above all was fractured, a cosmic titan asleep and from their broken mind gave birth to reality. It is viewed that all life bears a piece of this great creator, capable of influencing their creations and blessings of magic and power, and explaining Aenguldaemonica’s need for the continued existence of life, despite their obvious power. Given the root power to resist the influence of others 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.

 

One of the most intrinsic symbolic features of Talyiinism is the night sky, which reflects the infinite yawning maw of chaos, the madness of illusion reflected by the moon, and the hopeful enlightenment viewed as the many stars in the night sky. It is viewed that the stars in the sky reflect the broken and fractured mind of the dreaming Creator and that upon closer viewing gathers insight into the depth and scale of the soul. However, the dark spaces between the stars are often viewed with taboo apprehension, as it is often viewed that the darkness not only reflects ignorant chaos but is said to be the silhouettes of infinite voidal horrors beyond the stars. The moon however is viewed much more timidly, as it is viewed as the source of madness and disillusionment, a malevolent eye that watches the souls of the land.

 

Traditionally, gestures using ash or soot often relate to blessings of disguise, in which the foreheads of a devout will be marked with an ashen mark to signify protection against the moon, by emulating its own surface color. This practice is often reserved for holy services and events, but is sometimes practiced on a daily occurrence by Knights and significant religious figures of the Talyiinist Faith. The Canonist faith's god is that of the Talyiinists, the creator, and its members are to be treated with respect where respect is due. Knowledge should not be sought at the behest of breaking one's oaths or discarding morality.

 

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The Paths

The first is to continue as they are and train further, adopting new mundane techniques, alchemical solutions and enchantments into their combat prowess. Those that follow this path must be keen of mind and ever developing new ideas and awareness.

 

The second is the path of the Arcane Knight, whereupon one undergoes great sacrifice to ensure that their body remains physically strong and yet capable of wielding the arcane arts bestowed. To maintain their physical strength. Those who follow the Arcane will be named an Arcane Knight. To aid with casting the Silven Order uses casting chants in more difficult situations and teaching.

 

The third path is to choose to sacrifice their strength and fully develop their comprehension and utilisation of the arcane. Those who follow the Arcane will be named an Arcane Knight. To aid with casting the Silven Order uses casting chants in more difficult situations and teaching.

 

Forbidden are the paths that stalk the void. To fully draw it into ones self and open ones self to the horrors within compromises the integrity of the mine and is known to impede an Arcane Knights duty whilst also being morally reprehensible.

 

 

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Incantations of the Arcane Arts

Designed as both a method of teaching magic in a structured fashion, and as a more controlled and standardised method of casting arcane magics utilising the essence of the void, Arcane Ecriture is a technique that looks and feels a lot like runic magic in a very loose manner. Unlike where a mage might uncontrollably summon their will to project and fling forwards a fireball, a practitioner of Arcane Ecriture casting instead uses verbal and physical components to increase its efficiency, versatility and safety.

 

Because of the verbal and physical components of this training type, a mage cannot benefit from it should they be missing their limbs and tongue. At least one free hand (or an arcane focus) and the ability to speak is required in order to cast the spell arrays utilised by the mage to bring about their magic upon the mundane plane. This is a purely optional casting technique that grants rigidity and structure to magic whilst providing minor variations to how spells are cast as a result.

 

The process of Imbuing a Glyphic Foundation is done through the act of meditating by a Voidal Obelisk after fully acquainting ones self with tomes on the magic type that is to form the basis of the foundation. For example, a student seeking to learn fire magic and create a Glyphic Foundation for Fire Evocation would meditate via an Obelisk after reading and studying tomes on Fire Evocation.

 

During the meditation process the student must consume crushed Focus Crystal powder/liquid. Maintaining a connection throughout. The teacher is then required to assist the student in forming the intricate Glyphic Foundation, by helping to guide the mana of the student with their own. Holding hands or otherwise making physical contact, the teacher pushes their mana into the student and wills it to take the shape of the Glyphic pattern, usually on either the chest or forearms. The purpose of this foundation is to provide a protective bedrock for Spell Arrays to be conjured from, minimising corruption and improving efficiency. Upon the completion of this imbuement ritual, the student when connecting to the void will have this Glyphic pattern glow in the colour of their aura upon their skin or hovering slightly away from them as though drawn into the air. Now that the student has reached this point, it is possible for them to begin learning the first circle incantations. These are verbal components that will be recited in almost all spells cast by the mage from this point onwards, with the mage utilising first circle incantations as the foundation of their spells just as the accompanying glyphs suggest.

 

First Circle - Verbal Components

First Circle verbal components are spoken on the first emote of casting a specific spell after connecting. (In the case of a Cast/Connect they're included in the cast emote). Technically speaking, verbal components can be altered to reflect other languages or different variations of similar words. What is important is the casters understanding or intent of the language, or at least what is meant to come about as a result of chanting the incantation.

 

Single/Self Void-Anchor; “Kae seth’lin ito ker’onn asimulum”

This incantation is utilised in order to reduce the risk of backlash to the caster should their spell be interrupted. If the caster targets another living entity with an anchor and are interrupted then they will face backlash.

 

Single Void-Anchor; “Oem seth’lin ito ker’onn asimulum”

This incantation is utilised in order to reduce the risk of backlash to the caster if they have a single target that doesn't include themselves. If the caster targets themselves or multiple other targets with an anchor and are interrupted then they will face backlash.

 

Multiple Void-Anchors; “Iylanh’onn sethlin ito ker’onn asimulum”

This incantation is utilised in order to reduce the risk of backlash to the caster if they have multiple targets and/or including themselves. If the caster has only one anchor then they will still face backlash if interrupted.

 

Environmental Void-Anchor; “Lye seth’lin ito ker’onn asimulum”

This incantation is utilised in order to reduce the risk of backlash to the caster and the environment should their spell be interrupted. By utilising this variation, the void essence corrupting the mundane plane is vastly decreased/nullified and doesn't corrupt nearby Fauna & Flora. Should this incantation be used and the Spellcaster is interrupted mid spell, then the caster is likely to receive considerable backlash.

 

Second Circle - Verbal Components

Second Circle verbal components are spoken on the first emote of casting a specific spell after connecting, after the first circle verbal components. (In the case of a Cast/Connect they're included in the cast emote).

 

Low Range; “ana kulin’ito”

All anchors created are within five metres. Of the mage. If the spell is interrupted and their anchors are outside of this range then the mage will face backlash.

 

Medium Range; “ana telu’ito”

All anchors created are within ten metres of the mage. If the spell is interrupted and their anchors are outside of this range then the mage will face backlash.

 

Long Range; “ana telu’itone”

All anchors created are outside ten metres of the mage. If the spell is interrupted and their anchors are outside of this range then the mage will face backlash. 

 

Third Circle - Verbal Components;

Third Circle verbal components are spoken on the first emote of casting a specific spell after connecting, after the Second Circle verbal components. (In the case of a Cast/Connect they're included in the cast emote). Technically speaking, verbal components can be altered to reflect other languages or different variations of similar words. What is important is the casters understanding of the language, or at least what is meant to come about as a result of chanting the incantation.

 

Offensive Spell; “maehr lom’ailer llythal”

For spells behind which the intent is to be offensive. Spells that are not explicitly offensive, cast using this verbal component will cause backlash if interrupted. This is largely intent based, meaning that it depends if the intent behind the spell is to act offensively or not.

 

Defensive Spell; “maehr lom’ailer’evaral”

For spells behind which the intent is to be defensive. Spells that are not explicitly defensive, cast using this verbal component will cause backlash if interrupted. This is largely intent based, meaning that it depends if the intent behind the spell is to act defensively or not.

 

Utility Spell; “maehr fer’ailer”

For spells behind which the intent is to be utility based, neither explicitly offensive nor defensive. Spells cast using this verbal component will cause backlash if interrupted, if the spell is offensive or defensive in nature. This is largely intent based, meaning that it depends if the intent behind the spell is to act for a miscellaneous non offensive or defensive Spell.

 

Casting

In order to cast a spell using this casting technique, the mage must utilise verbal components (incantation), and physical components (spell arrays), in order to compose it. One or the other can be sacrificed and still made to work, but at decreased efficiency. The mage first must connect to their well of mana and intermingle it with Arcane essence, letting their glyphic foundation imbuement be projected either upon their body or slightly away from it. Drawing upon their mana with their will, they must force it to flow through their glyphic foundation before drawing out lines of mana into the shape of the spell array’s circles, depending on their spell of choice. Once the array is complete, void essence is flooded through the glyphic foundation and spell array whilst their incantation guides their intent. The effect of their spell taking place upon reality.

 

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Tali’kae-eyha dagre

The Tali'Kae-ehya Dagre, or simply the Tali'dagre, is more than just a weapon to the Elves of Celia'nor, but rather a symbol of their enduring spirit, a testament to their resilience, and a reflection of their unique bond with the natural world, their minds and souls, and signifies their willingness to put their lives on the line to fight for what they believe in.

 

When one is walking their path to become a knight they will get their own special weapon, tailored to fit their fighting style. These weapons tend to be unique to have multiple purposes, some will be made of Arcanium and enchanted to provide additional fighting prowess. For mages without physical strength the weapon will be more limited but will still help them in their duty. When a knight has obtained a great feat i.e. saving the princess from imminent danger, the weapon will be inscribed to mark this. The process is arduous, requiring not only skill and craftsmanship but also a deep connection to the land. The elf must journey to sacred sites, gather materials imbued with ancient energy or artefacts, and perform intricate rituals to awaken the weapon's latent power. Carving scenes of their victories, achievements and even losses unto their weapon, detailing everything that makes them unique.

 

The Tali’dagre can be anything from a blade, to a pike, to a wand or a staff. It can even be a shield or piece of equipment. However, what remains true is that it is beside that elf for the majority of their life, a lifelong partner in strife and combat. Despite technically being possible for it to have any shape, it typically follows the standards set by the Order to maximise effectiveness.

 

Once forged, the Tali'dagre becomes an extension of the elf, growing and evolving alongside them. As the elf's skills improve, so too does the weapon. The Tali'dagre can be reforged, its blade sharpened, its hilt adorned with intricate carvings, and its enchantments strengthened. Over time, it becomes an almost living, breathing entity, a testament to the elf's journey and their place in the world. 

 

The Tali'dagre is not merely a tool of combat but also a symbol of identity. It is passed down through generations, carrying the history and legacy of the elf's family. It is a source of pride and a reminder of the elf's commitment to their people and their way of life. Those that have existed by an elves' side for over three centuries are almost mythical objects, often so impressive and embellished that they could pass off as legendary artefacts.

 

In the heart of every Knight of the Silven Order; the Tali'dagre is more than just a weapon; it is a part of their soul, a reflection of their spirit, and a testament to their enduring connection to the land and their people. To lose their Tali’dagre is a great tragedy, almost equal to being killed themselves. Unless lost in protection of another, or in service to the Royal Family of Celia'nor, in which case it is a sign of honour. Broken Tali'dagre should have the scraps reclaimed and reforged or used for the new weapon.

 

 

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Rituals & Meditation

Initiation Ritual:

The Procession:

The Initiate, wearing formal wear or uniform, is led into the chamber by a Knight of the Order. The procession moves slowly, accompanied by a somber dirge played on a single instrument.

 

The Oration:

The Knight Commander addresses the Initiate, reciting a solemn speech about the history, values, and responsibilities of the Order. The speech emphasizes honor, courage, loyalty, and the protection of the innocent.

 

The Enlightened Prayer) “Grant us eyes o’ creator, give us insight to which we make gaze unto thee, o’ Lord” - “Iller’ae sulii’an, Acaele; Iller’ae Maehr’sulier’a, Acaele”

 

The Oath:

The Initiate kneels before the Knight Commander and recites the oath.

 

End ignorance with knowledge.

With knowledge, have passion.

With passion, have strength.

With strength, show compassion.

With compassion, there is unity.

With unity, there is peace.

 

Through peace, there is joy.

Through peace, there is love.

Through peace, there is a future.

 

The Investiture:

The Knight Commander places the insignia of the Order often in the form of a cloth around their shoulders, upon the Initiate. Each Knight of the Order may then touch the Initiate's shoulder, signifying their acceptance and support of a new brother or sister amongst them.

 

The Vigil:

The Initiate is left alone in the chamber to meditate upon their newfound responsibilities. This period of solitude may last for several hours or even an entire night. Within the chamber they must transcribe all that they are upon a stone tablet. Carving into it the values, dreams, goals and ideals that they are composed of. 

 

The Awakening:

A Knight of the Order re-enters the chamber and awakens the Initiate. They will show the knight their tablet, and if deemed acceptable the Initiate is welcomed back into the company of the Knights, now a full member of the Order.

Heading to battle:

On heading out to battle, the knights gather together and speak the following prayer, for the protection of the creator and to settle within their hearts any doubts. Gripping the shoulders of one another, or grasping forearms is similarly a method of ensuring that other knights of the Silven Order know that you have their back.

 

Protect us) “O creator, protect us from evil spirits, guide us through the night.” -  “O Acaele, Evar’eyha Ailer, Annil’eyha narn’ker”

 

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Foundation Training

<OOC>: Very few people actually enjoy training rp when it isn’t a fun exercise. As such, the following information is what your character would be expected to ‘offscreen’, with the occasional scene referring to their gruelling intensive training that they experienced. In return, some more exciting training exercises should occur periodically to keep the agents ‘refreshed’.

 

First Week; Periods 1 and 2, in addition to ropework with standard climbing kit, and preliminary groundwork.

Second Week; Periods 2, 3 and 4, in addition to ropework with standard climbing kit, and preliminary groundwork.

Third Week; Periods 4, 5 and 5, in addition to ropework with standard climbing kit, advanced groundwork, landing from heights and horsework.

Physical Training Explained

The program's physical preparation is gradual and leads up to the final tests based on endurance and intelligence. The main purpose is to enhance the overall physical fitness of trainees to enable them to undertake the full curriculum with particular emphasis on the following:

• Physical exercises - P.T. and games to increase all round bodily fitness.
• Tumbling - To break the fall when landing from any reasonable height.
• Ropework - To strengthen the arms and in particular allow students to pull themselves up and lift their own weight.
• Crossing of obstacles - So that men/women shall either not be held up when approaching their objective, nor when withdrawing.
• Hill Work - Incidental to all training but ideal for strengthening ankles.

 

The schedule for these exercises varies based on the time of year and current season. The training program finishes with an obstacle course that includes specially crafted and natural barriers positioned throughout the course, with trainees periodically performing demonstration firing exercises at dummy targets while adhering to specific scenarios provided by their instructor.  For instance, a scenario could involve infiltrating an adversary's base to gather intelligence for allied organisations or knights.

 

The Honourable, Laura'vir Luciiael Silveira, Lord of Mount Kaelin,

Royal Arbiter of Magical Affairs and Protection of the Realm,

Knight Commander of the Silven Order,

 

The Honourable, Viro’nir,  Reuen’thal Ithradryl, Lord Marshal of the Celia’Diraar,

 Grandmaster of the Silven Order, Lord Justicar, High Councillor for Military Affairs of the Principality of Celia’nor
 

His Lordship, Aganar Kalgan-Silveira, Patriarch of Kalgan,

Lord Commander of the Celia’Diraar, Lord Paramount of the Silven Order 

 

 

 

[Metamancy 1782]

"So the Knights are, like, an actual thing now?" Myraela Kalgan spoke upon hearing of the details of the Silven Order. "...cool." 

[Cheeseycereal 829]

The Akaln'riv stood there, upon hearing the details, before letting out a huff. An idea sparked in her mind, but only a sigh escaped her lips as she walked away, carrying various farming tools and a few other items.

[StingyParrot 1628]

"You mean they don't use material components? How are these 'Living Weapons' supposed to cast a trusty old Water Shield without the prerequisite rainbow trout's scale dusted in sea salt?" Grumbles a middle-aged Artificer.