Clan Vel’obv

[Zhikarta 4064]

 

ȶαʅʊɦռψ ʋɛʅ’¤ɮʋ

The return of those guided by the sea

♫ ♩ ♬♩ ♫

└─────────────────┘

 

ðawn broke upon the lands of Aevos. An armour-clad figure made his way up the steps he had climbed so many times before. Aithlin laid his eyes upon the gates of Celia’nor, the place that he and his family once called home. With a crumpled parchment held in his hand he set out to seek refuge once more, the rest of his kin nowhere to be found.

He had failed them as he had so many times before. This time however, the emerald eye’d ‘ker set out to make things right. His people were exiled and lost, and he would restore them to their former glory.

 

Perhaps it was for the better, perhaps it was time to rewrite history. As he was alone in this world, he could shape the future of his bloodline for generations to come.

 

The original publications of his kin’s history, culture and traditions held no regard for the changing of times. He knew that all too well. Things were different now, and they would have to learn to adapt. Long gone were the days of their monopoly of Kruhso trade, long gone the days of a proud sea-faring people. Clan Val’taelu was no more, the common tongue of the other Mali served no purpose for Aithlin. From now on, he and his kin would be known as the vel’obv.

 

Taluhny vel’obv trace their origins back to the far away lands of Ramasar. As described in various publications, including that of Clan Val’taelu. They were a once proud clan of sea-traders, eventually exiled from their lands. For a short period of time, they had gained a notable presence within the Principality of Celia’nor, who rewarded their contributions to the state with a plot of land, where a drydock was built for their then still unnamed vessel. It however never saw the open seas. The ship got scrapped after the head of the clan, Aithlin’s mysterious dissapearance. Without his guidance, the rest of the clan left Celia’nor, spreading all throughout the lands of Aevos.

 

 

ȶraditions & customs

ȶhe vel’obv cherish and take pride in their traditions, which have been passed down from their Ramasar ancestors. They stand as a resemblance of a testament to their deep-rooted connection and heritage.

 

Appearance & clothing

Green eyes, gray skin, and platinum hair have given the Vel’obv a distinct look, unique to most other clans of their kind. Although variations in tone and hue aren’t uncommon, most, if not all Vel’obv seem to share these features.

 

 

The Vel’obv are known for their colorful garb, often seen in tasteful shades of blues, greens, violets, reds, and even golds on occasion. As the corals and creatures of their beloved waters display vibrant hues, this clan of Mali‘ker seek to dress themselves in attire inspired by what is so dear to them. Alongside these colourful garbs, brooches, pins and other ornaments are often seen as well.

 

Vae-yultbael

Each member of the vel’obv clan carries with them an intricate bottle, engraved with a hydra. At the birth of a new clan member, a flask is filled from the nearest body of water. The ‘ker is expected to hold onto the flask for the rest of their lives, as it symbolises their eternal bond with the seas, and serves as a reminder from where they came from and where their people once found their glory. Unlike other items commemorating their lineage, the vae-yultbael is the same for each vel’obv, serving also as a symbol of unity amongst their kin.

 

 

Shuryn’vae

The Shuryn’vae, is a wooden statue given to parents of a newborn vel’ob at birth. It represents the child through the depiction of a seaborn creature, which one depending on the month the child was born in. In the base of the figurine, the initials of the newborn are engraved by the taluhn-okeryma.

 

The Shuryn’vae, roughly translated to the statue of birth, is of great importance to the ‘ker. Until the age of fifty, they carry the wooden figure with them everywhere they go, every moment of their day. Seeing it damaged, or even worse lost is considered to be a big shame within the Clan, and could see the ‘ker who did so shunned for long periods of time.

 

Upon the age of fifty, the taluhn okeryma, together with the now adult Vel’obv make their way to a body of water, building a small fire near it. When completed, the Shuryn’vae is burnt, and its ashes are scattered into the waters. Afterwards, a golden figure, representing that which they had burnt is presented by the Clan Elder. Just as the Shuryn’vae, they are expected to carry this statue with them throughout life, and must protect it at all costs.

 

  

Trade & crafts

The tradition of trade, although harder to sustain when moving from home to home and city to city, has never been lost within the family. Wherever they find themselves at home, the Vel’obv make it their mission to sell their wares to the natives. Ranging from ceremonial weapons and jewelry to custom-made clothing true to their own tradition and culture. Foods, and especially fish-based dishes are often sold in combination with these wares. Gastronomy stands central within the Vel’obv culture, as for many generations they have relied on seaborn fauna as a source of food.

 

Some examples include:

 

Scallops with caviar sauce

Freshly caught, these scallops were browned in a nutty oil and topped with a spritzy sauce consisting primarily of butter and champagne. The richly creamy sauce was flavored with thyme and shallots, a lingering taste of lemon and crème fraïche danced on your tongue as you ate the seafood. Black caviar, harvested from a Beluga Sturgeon, melded to the sauce harmoniously. Minced green onions crowned the dish with a peppery undertone.

 

Shuryn’vae

This exquisitely crafted wood-carved turtle figurine embodies the essence of patience and longevity. Each curve and contour of the turtle's shell is meticulously detailed, showcasing the artisan's dedication to capturing the natural beauty of this revered creature. The smooth, polished wood radiates a warm, earthy charm, while the turtle's serene expression evokes a sense of peace and wisdom. A symbol of resilience and stability, this figurine is a graceful addition to any space, inviting a touch of nature's tranquility into your home.

 

Serpent's Elegance

Featuring a detailed serpent intricately carved into its band, this striking ring symbolizes transformation and wisdom. The elegant design blends strength and mystery, with the serpent's winding form adding a sense of fluidity and intrigue. Crafted with precision, this ring is a bold statement piece that exudes both power and grace.

 

 

 

 

Matrimony

Should a member of the Clan have taken interest in a particular ‘Ker, and seek to pursue marriage with them, the potential spouse must first be brought before the Taluhn Yokeryma. They shall approve, or disapprove of their kin’s chosen partner. In the case of the former, the ceremony of matrimony shall be allowed to proceed. Both their origin, faith, and cultural beliefs are taken into consideration before a verdict is given. The potential spouse is expected to marry into the Clan and will have to take on the Vel’obv name.

 

Before the wedding itself, a few preparations are expected. The location for the ceremony, be it either on a ship or near a body of water is chosen by the Vel’obv wishing to marry. The to-be spouse is expected to bring an offering with them, an item of great value to them and their kin alike, to give to the waters.

 

Once an offering is brought forth, the Tyuth’szyr’mo overlooks the ceremony itself. The ceremony consists of various prayers to honor the couple, and the ancestors of the betrothed alike. These vary from couple to couple, and are chosen by the Tyuth’szyr’mo. After each wedding of a Vel’obv, a grand feast is hosted where various delicacies and drinks from Ramasar are served.

 

Calendar

The vel’obv make use of an adaptation of the standard Elven calendar, having a different naming scheme for the various months. Their year and day count however remains the same. It is not uncommon for clan members to use both notations interchangeably. The usage however is encouraged, and always used when it comes to written documents, regardless of who they may be destined for. More often than not, these months are also written in the Vel’luah alphabet, as opposed to that of the Common tongue.

 

In practise, the months used by the clan are as follows, starting with what is known in the Elven notation as the Sun’s Smile:
 

Tur’obvule Suae’tur - Lilly’s bloom

Lukhule har’luthana - Rain’s conquest

Thet’uzhule suae’u - Tide’s rise

Duroun-myxet - Eternal flood

Tat’uk-Woadol - Great drought

Vehmym-kynva - Golden smile

Suae’tur-Woadol - Great Bloom

 

Death

 

Upon death, a ceremony of remembrance is held. The Vel’obv care a great deal about remembering their kin through death and bringing praise to them even after they have left the physical world. A deceased Vel’obv is remembered just as fondly as any, more notable ancestor. Within each home, a shrine dedicated to their fallen kin is found. Here, they often bring offerings, large or small, to honor and remember those they lost.

 

Upon passing, the ‘Ker is laid within a solid sarcophagus, and transported to a nearby, albeit large body of water. Here the entire Clan will gather. The Tyuth’szyr’mo will begin the ceremony by retelling the tale of the deceased Ker's life, in both positive and negative light. After such, each member of the Clan is expected, but not forced to give praise to their fallen relative. It should be noted however that if anyone does not take the opportunity to do so, it is highly frowned upon within the Clan.

 

A prayer and a blessing are spoken out over the coffin by the Tyuth’szyr’mo, before being pushed into the body of water. It is the Clan’s belief that they should give back their mortal shells to the very waters that gave them life and prosperity in their homeland. The Shuryn’vae, along with any other trinkets or jewelry are within the coffin, accompanying the ‘ker on their final journey.

Clan structure

Before, when they had recently left Ramasar the Clan would use formal positions and a set in stone leadership structure, to ensure the long term stability of the family. While most formal positions are no longer set in stone, nor currently occupied, there are still traces of them present within the clan’s foundations. The only position that has been carried over from the Ramasar days of the clan, is its leader.

 

ȶaluhn-okeryma, more commonly known as the Clan Elder is a title passed down to the oldest of the main family line. A hereditary title, the taluhn-okeryma is the de-facto leader of the vel’obv. 

A few titles have seen recurrent usage throughout the clan’s history. While not set in stone, they could be considered notable positions, often appointed by the taluhn’okeryma should it be deemed a necessity to delegate certain tasks.

 

ȶyuth’vehm, referred to more commonly as the Golden Councillor, is the one in charge of all money related matters within the Clan. They hold onto the Vel’obv wealth, and are tasked to also carry through their merchant traditions.
 

ȶyuth’szyr’mo, referred to more commonly as the Ancestor’s Councillor, is the appointed relic holder within the Clan. Religious ceremonies held in honor of the ancestors, as well as weddings and the like are to be organized and practiced only by the Tyuth’szyr’mo.

In the case that no tyuth’szyr’mo is appointed, all ceremonial duties are taken over by the taluhn-okeryma.

ȶyuth’kasy, referred to more commonly as the Cultural Councillor, is the councilor tasked with carrying out various events and aminting traditions. Sayings, recipes and the like that have been documented throughout generations are all kept and maintained by the Tyuth’kasy.

 

 

Beliefs

The Vel’obv do not adhere to a strict religious code or follow a specific faith. Rather, they follow a collection of principles, guiding them along. Even though no specific faith is followed, heresy is certainly a concept familiar to them, and certain beliefs are found to be more acceptable than others. Every member of the clan, whether they are considered an honorary or were born into the bloodlines are expected to adhere to these principles, lest they wish to be cast out.

 

The Principle of Preservation

 

The central notion that vel’obvzh find themselves striving to abide by is the preservation of the clan. This is one of the highly regarded principles of the Clan, as without such preservation there is the threat of Clan dispersion and loss of integrity. All other principles find themselves indirectly abiding by this one. The value of preservation also ties into ideas of unity and solidarity within the clan, meaning that every member is responsible for the actions of the whole clan. If one member is wronged, then it is seen as wrong against the entire clan. Conversely, should one member revolt against another value or member of the clan, it is seen again as a wrong against the entire clan. The Clan and its unity take priority above all else.
 

The Principle of Purity

 

Those within the clan are expected to maintain the integrity of the bloodline and heritage. It is a belief that the purity of lineage is paramount and any dilution of the bloodline is vehemently opposed– such as through interbreeding with other races. Notably, to most Vel’obv, this notion includes intermingling with Mali’ame and Mali’thill. Such instances are seen as a diminishment to the crucial Mali‘ker pride of the clan, and thus a diminishment of a cornerstone of their identity. Furthermore, such unions dilute and weaken the connection to ancestors. Children who are the result of such unions are not cast out by the Clan, nor are they to be treated as lessers. The Clan believes that there is no point in punishing the child, but, should they choose to live within the ranks of the Vel’obv will prohibit them from procreating further.

 

The Principle of Faith

 

Clan Vel’obv, while not allowing unrestricted worship of any deity, is still considered lenient when it comes to religious freedom. Their merchant tradition has long seen their kin pick up on various religious traditions, and learn from other faiths and cultures alike.

 

They however firmly reject the prospect that the ancestors of the Ashen Folk are the same as the ancestral spirits worshiped by some ‘ker, but mostly Orcs. Instead of accepting that the notable Dark Elves of the past have made their way into Stargush, they consider such notions, or anything even hinting at this belief to be heresy and a sin against not only their ancestors but the Ashen Folk themselves. So long as a Clan Member worships and values the Pantheon and any other Mali’ker ancestors who did not clash with the Principles, they are also free to worship other entities, beholden to some restrictions. Ancestors such as Renelia, Velulaei, and Uradas are most commonly worshiped by the Clan.

 

Other than the strong, and often vocal opposition to traditional spiritualism, in equal amounts is the worship of demons or any entities linked to the dark arts strictly prohibited. Any Vel’obv found to be worshiping any such entities is to be banished from the ranks of the Clan immediately.

 

Tied into the Principle of Faith is also the restriction on magic. The only schools that see direct opposition within the Clan are those considered to be dark arts, or deity magics directly contradicting the Clan’s teachings, such as shamanism.

 

The Principle of adaptation
 

Unlike in the past, Clan Vel’obv no longer limit themselves to live near bodies of water. They have in recent years taken on a far more nomadic approach, moving between various nations, regardless of biome or location depending on their needs. It is seen as highly important that members of the clan easily adapt to new environments. It is therefore not unusual for various members of the clan to be split around the world, as opposed to all living near each other. A vel’obv is expected to be resourceful, and willing to put themselves outside of their comfort zone, should it be required to further aid their clan.

Members of clan vel’obv are often cunning, 

 

 

Language

Unlike most Mali, the vel’obv do not seem to use Elven, neither in writing nor when speaking. Instead, they have started to adopt vel’luah, the ancient tongue of the Dark Elves. Throughout many generations, they have begun to create or alter words not found in the current language. It explains why certain words, or even sayings do not seem to appear within any present day documentations of the language. The frequency of usage of vel’luah seems to depend heavily on who they are speaking to. In conversation with other ‘ker, regardless if they are known to them or not they seem to favour vel’luah over Common.

 

In written documents, at least when made publicly available vel’luah becomes more of a formality, used to describe matters specific to their culture (see, titles, dates, etc.). Although not required, some members of the Clan ensure their names contain only letters found in the vel'luah alphabet.

 

It should be noted that it is considered disgraceful towards a tongue they consider elegant, if spoken to a non-ker. It is also why, even when asked by someone seen as a close ally of the clan, a vel’obv will rarely be seen teaching their language to anyone not Maehr. In the cases where a member of the Clan is seen speaking Vel'luah to a non-Maehr, it is almost exclusively to insult or belittle them.

Vision for the future, the Vel’obv

All these traits, traditions and beliefs lead to a very specific vision for the future, not only for the clan itself but for the Mali’ker as a whole. Various interpretations of this vision are found throughout the clan and their closest allies

 

What was once the pursuit of a home, has now become the pursuit for unity. It is understood by all that the Mali’ker have become a people split apart, no longer guided by a single banner. The vel’obv see this as a collective issue they must face together, often seeking out like-minded ‘ker throughout the world, hoping to one day put an end to the isolation of their people.

 

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Spoiler

Hey, wanna play a dark Elf?

 

Due to various reasons I wasn't able to give this project all the time and effort I think it deserved. So I decided to take the post, change what I didn't like and expand upon what was previously written.

 

(the original post can be found here )

 

Currently I'm just looking for a merry bunch of Dark Elves, see where it goes. If anyone is interesting in playing a character, slots are open. Or if you're just interested in meeting up irp, feel free to reach out through whatever channels you are able to.

 

Credits to @lalo, @annanicole__ @HIGH_FIRE for proof reading this and/or helping with some content inside the post itself.

 

Below sources for images and various other content:

https://www.anticstore.art/102792P

https://pics.craiyon.com/2023-10-06/ef6173f9508a492f80e74febdf9663ab.webp

https://www.factorydirectjewelry.com/gold/gold-diamond-cut-coiled-serpent-snake-emerald-birthstone-ring-available-in-yellow-rose-white-gold/

 

https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/209286-%E2%9C%93-world-lore-ramasar/

https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/224981-the-dark-elven-language/

 

Special thanks to @Amyy for making the clan COA, it's finally seeing use!

[Crevel 7557]

Spoiler

 

Go Marb!