The Vigilants of Wyrvun

[Remziel 54]

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Music

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“ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴜꜱ, ᴛʜᴇ ᴠᴏɪᴄᴇ ᴏꜰ ɪꜱᴠɪɴ ꜱᴏᴜɴᴅᴇᴅ, 

ᴀɴᴅ ᴡʏʀᴠᴜɴ'ꜱ ᴍᴏꜱᴛ ᴅᴇᴠᴏᴜᴛ ɢᴀᴛʜᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏꜱʜʀɪɴᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ”

-Proclamation of Conclave-

 

 {❆}

 

༺⊰ P R E F A C E   A N D   I S V I N I T Y⊱༻

 

Among the Snow Elves of Fenn, the most faithful to Wyrvun gather around an ancient order of priests.

Bound together by oath, they serve and uphold the Aengul of Sorrow's teachings. 

 

 “ᴛʜᴇ ᴏʀᴅᴇʀ ᴏꜰ ᴠɪɢɪʟᴀɴᴛꜱ” 

 

Through the religion of Isvinity and their position as Fenn’s main religious body, they labour to ensure that Wyrvun’s influence over the realm and its people remains unyielding and that the Wyrvunic Concord is respected. The Concord is the underlying binding contract that all Mali’fenn are subject to. Wyrvun restored the sanity of the Mali’fenn and bestowed upon them the divine right to rule over the lands of Fin’hesin, the realms of eternal winter upon the mortal world, as its protectors. In this capacity, it is the duty of the Snow Elves to protect Fin’hesin, nourish the life within, and stave off any who wish to corrupt those lands. Upon the deaths of the Mali’fenn, their souls are to travel to Fin’ciwn, the Aengul’s own realm of eternal winter, also known as Isvin, where they might rest forever in eternal slumber alongside Wyrvun. In return, they are to impart upon Wyrvun the collective wisdom of their lived experiences and most importantly, pass on the names of those many deceased so that they can be remembered.

 

In this day and age, the order is deeply interwoven in Fennic society and its members are heavily respected. They take the role of Priests, archivists, healers, warriors, teachers, and monks, among many others, as they guide the Fennic people through the many hardships that life in the frozen tundra can offer. 

 

Though they are now established, this was not always the case, as their long history can attest.

 

“Cold Preserves. Cold Purifies. Cold Remembers.”

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༺⊰ H I S T O R Y ⊱༻

 

AELTHOS’ BAND BELOW AND THE INJURED ONDNARCH FLYING ABOVE

 

 

The Order of Vigilant’s lengthy history spans back around a thousand years, its earliest documented event happening not long after the corruption of Aelthos’ Band.  It is said that the Fennic diaspora in their addled state gave worship to the corrupted dragon Ondnarch, forming the predecessor to the actual order. Their methods are since lost, but it was not uncommon for some of the ‘fenn to follow him into battle against the Dwarves. 

 

Eventually, the battle against Ondnarch was won and the freed form of Wyrvun was released. The Concord was struck between Wyrvun and the ‘fenn, where in return for restored sanity the Mali’fenn would give worship to Wyrvun and watch over his realm of Fin’hesin while he was too weak to do so. The ‘fenn fulfilled these duties, but the religion was disorganised, appearing in many forms because none could come to a decision on the correct way to revere him. To remedy this, Wyrvun delivered a message to Siol of the Atmorice Bloodline; it is said that in a dream Wyrvun appeared before Siol and directed her to shepherd the ‘fenn and not allow them to become corrupted like him. This event was followed by the establishment of the Priesthood of Wyrvun, where under Siol the ‘fenn established the temples and wayshrines that have littered the domain of Fin’hesin since.

 

This form of worship usually consisted of ceremonies, offerings, and pilgrimages at and to the various Wayshrines. A ‘fenn was expected to go on countless such journeys over the years, especially at important parts of their life. In a similar manner to the Princedom of Fenn, the Priesthood would fall upon hard times with the destruction of Tahu’lareh and the dispersion of the Fennic population. It was not until the time of Vytrek Tundrak that the Mali’fenn were reunited as one and the city of Ikur’fiyem was established, and as such, discussion of the Priesthood was brought up once more, where it underwent a reformation into the Order of Vigilants that we see today.

 

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༺⊰ M O D E R N ⊱༻

 

WYRVUN APPEARING IN SIOL’S DREAM

 

 

“ɪᴛ ɪꜱ ᴏᴜʀ ᴅᴜᴛʏ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇᴍᴇᴍʙᴇʀ. ᴛᴏ ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ ꜰᴏʀɢᴇᴛ ᴛʜᴏꜱᴇ ᴡʜᴏ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ɢᴏɴᴇ.”

-Teachings of Wyrvun-

 

Formed during the time of the Fennic Remnants, the Vigilants represent the most devout followers of Wyrvun. They are an order of Priests bound by oath to serve the Aengul of Sorrow. Recognized by their typically white robes and adorning metallic dragon horns, these faithful are responsible for upholding the Wyrvunic Concord, serving the Fennic people, and defending the wayshrines scattered around Fin’hesin. However, even now the Vigilants go through countless reformations as the Mali’fenn slowly uncover more information about Wyrvun, and new revelations in the land of Azuras have led to new paths being formed and old ones abandoned. 

 

The Order recognizes four main pillars that each represent a facet of Wyrvun’s teachings and coincides with the Cycle of Death, the Fennic way of life: Death, Deliverance, Solace, Remembrance. A wayshrine is dedicated to each path and individuals of said path are charged with its defence and upkeep, and a Vigilant is assigned a path by Wyrvun himself, which is reflective of who they are as a person.

 

 

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 ❆[ The Path of Death ] ❆

“ᴡᴇ ᴍᴜꜱᴛ ᴘʀᴏᴛᴇᴄᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴇ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ʟɪꜰᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ”

Wyrvun teaches us that in the end, all are greeted with the cold embrace of death. It is the great equalizer where all ‘fenn, having lived a faithful life, are welcomed into the realm of Isvin. As such, Vigilants who embody this path seek to protect the sanctity of death, those who pass, and the souls of those yet living so they may be granted a peaceful rest. Morticians, Crypt Keepers, Exorcists; as ice quiets, so too do Vigilants of Death.

 

 ❆[ The Path of Deliverance ] ❆

“ᴡᴇ ᴍᴜꜱᴛ ɢɪᴠᴇ ᴅᴇʟɪᴠᴇʀᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴏꜱᴇ ᴡʜᴏ ꜱᴜꜰꜰᴇʀ”

Wyrvun teaches us that there are those who live in constant suffering, tainted and corrupted, and that even they are deserving of empathy and mercy, as are all beings. As such, Vigilants who embody this path are tasked with ending the suffering of those afflicted by the many evil curses of the world and are expected to act with grace and decorum while doing so. Warriors, Healers, Purifiers; as ice numbs, so too do the Vigilants of Deliverance.

 

 ❆[ The Path of Solace] ❆

“ᴡᴇ ᴍᴜꜱᴛ ʙʀɪɴɢ ꜱᴏʟᴀᴄᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴏꜱᴇ ɪɴ ᴅᴇꜱᴘᴀɪʀ”

 

Wyrvun teaches us that sorrow is an integral and inescapable part of life and that it is your duty to your kin to shoulder the burden, as Wyrvun did for the ‘fenn. As such, Vigilants who embody this path are expected to be heavily involved in Fennic society with a focus on relieving the pains of their Mali’fenn kin. Coordinators, Friends, Confidants; as ice weeps, so too do Vigilants of Solace.

 

 ❆[ The Path of Remembrance ] ❆

“ᴡᴇ ᴍᴜꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴍᴇᴍʙᴇʀ ᴛʜᴏꜱᴇ ᴡʜᴏ ᴄᴀᴍᴇ ʙᴇꜰᴏʀᴇ”

 

Wyrvun teaches us that we must remember those who came before and preserve knowledge of past events so it may be passed down through generations and never forgotten. As such, Vigilants who embody this path dwell on times long past and put a particular focus on being witnesses to events ongoing. Archivers, Historians, Storytellers; as ice preserves, so too do Vigilants of Remembrance.

 

 {❆}

 

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༺⊰ S T R U C T U R E ⊱༻

 

As with any religious order, the Vigilants follow a strict hierarchy.

From the highest of ranks to the newly joined, all are expected to respect the structure of the order. 

 

 

 

❆⊱ ᴠɪɢɪʟᴀɴᴛ - This title represents the majority of those within the order. They are the devout of Wyrvun, his priests in the mortal realm, whose mission is to uphold his beliefs and teachings. One attains this rank after completing many trials and going through a selective recruitment process. Only when such trials are completed and acknowledged does one become a Vigilant. 

There are Vigilants of each Path. Each tends to their specific Wayshrine and has different roles and responsibilities.

Upon attaining vigilancy, one will be granted a moniker that represents a value or attribute related to their path. The title, carefully chosen, is granted to one who represent the value or attribute best, above all others, and is expected to serve as both example and correction to the faithful. 

 

An example would be Vigilant of Discipline, under the Path of Deliverance, the title given to one who embodies this attribute better than any other.

 

❆⊱ ᴀʀᴄʜᴠɪɢɪʟᴀɴᴛ - Standing above the Vigilants are four Archvigilants, one for each path, that hold dominion over their respective wayshrine and the Vigilants bound to it. No more than four may be recognized at any given time, and so, it is a position passed down through generations and held until one steps down or perishes. It is a station of leadership and great responsibility, as together, their council serves as the final authority in matters of faith. It is a powerful position in Fennic society.

 

Upon taking the position, the Archvigilant is entrusted with ancient relics held by their predecessors, each path having different relics.  They must safeguard these items and ensure that they are passed on to their successor.

 

When ascending to Archvigilancy, one would have to let go of their previous moniker to be simply referred to as their path. For example, “Death” or “The Archvigilant of Death”, as they now represent the path in its entirety. 

❆⊱ ʜɪɢʜ ᴠɪɢɪʟᴀɴᴛ  - The highest rank within the order, the role of High Vigilant serves as the overseer to the Vigilants and can only be achieved when directly chosen by the previous High Vigilant after many years of faithful service to Wyrvun. They have the power to call the conclave, a meeting between all the Vigilants where a wide range of topics can be discussed and, in rare situations, they have the ability to break a tie in Archvigilant votings. In general, they serve as a figurehead for the Vigilants and are there to offer advice for both the Order of Vigilants and the populace alike.

 

VIGILANTS GATHERING FOR A CONCLAVE

 

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J O I N I N G

 

Joining the Order of Vigilants is no easy feat. To be one with Wyrvun’s most devout, an aspirant Vigilant must go through two rounds of trials and prove themselves to those already in the order. Entry is very restrictive and only a few ever make it to the final trials. Therefore, attaining Vigilancy is seen as a great accomplishment among the ‘fenn.

 

❆⊱ ᴘʀᴏꜱᴘᴇᴄᴛ  - The first step in the path of Vigilancy, a Prospect is one above the age of 18 who has expressed their wish to join the order. If a Vigilant accepts them, they may commence the process of trialing the Prospect to see if they are worthy of progressing to the next rank. 

A Prospect must complete a set of four trials, each representing the different paths, in a specific order, preferably under the watchful gaze of a Vigilant of that path. 

 

[Trial of Remembrance] -  The first trial, to test one’s capacity to research, remember and accurately transcribe knowledge. The Prospect must write a chronicle recounting the life and achievements of one of the many deceased, preferably a Snow Elf. It is a most sacred and daunting task where one must research and put to paper a biography of the chosen dead, immortalising them. Effort, quality, and accuracy are expected. Should the work be of exceptional writing, it may be displayed next to the tomb of the deceased and/or the library should they not be in the crypts.

 

[Trial of Solace] -  The second trial is to test one’s capacity to form connections, understand others, and create. The Prospect is tasked with meeting a person they aren’t acquainted with, chosen by the examiner, and must then proceed to form a bond. Then, the aspiring Vigilant must craft an item based on said person and their understanding of them. In the end, the examiner and the chosen person will judge the creation, both in its quality and its likeness to them. Should the item meet the standards, it may be gifted to the chosen person or displayed in the Vigilant halls for all to see.

 

[Trial of Deliverance] -  The third trial, to test one’s willpower and their capacity to adapt, survive and triumph. The Prospect is tasked with venturing into the tundra on their lonesome. Equipped with nothing, they may use whatever they find to craft tools and weapons necessary to surviving in the frozen wilderness. Only when they slay a worthy beast, may they return to the Wayshrine of Deliverance, where their examiner awaits, and offer their prize as a sacrifice to the Aengul, if it meets the evaluator’s standards. A trophy may be kept by the Prospect, be it a cape fashioned from the creature’s fur or a dagger from its claws, talons, or even bones, to remember the hunt.

 

[Trial of Death] - The fourth and final trial is to test one’s faith, devotion, comprehension, and capacity to improvise even when pushed at the brink of death. The Prospect is tasked with bathing in a frozen lake, where, under the watch of their examiner, they will allow themselves to be ritually drowned in ice cold water. It is believed that when the sweet embrace of death is only inches away, the things most important to an individual flashes before one’s eyes. These visions are thought to be a dream sent by the Aengul of Sorrow himself, that the Prospect must recount and make sense of to their examiner once awakened from their near death experience. It is this vision, if properly understood, that will determine their path, should they succeed.

 

❆⊱ ɴᴏᴠɪᴛɪᴀᴛᴇ  - Only when a Prospect completes the trial of Death, may they be considered to become a Novitiate by an Archvigilant.

 

It is when one ascends to a Novitiate that the true trials begin. Assigned to an already established Vigilant or Archvigilant, preferably of the same chosen path, a Novitiate is expected to learn under their new mentor, effectively squiring under them. In turn, the mentor will constantly be judging their apprentice, handing out trials as they see fit in order to make sure they have what it takes. At any given point, should the examiner deem their student unworthy, they may fail them, effectively barring them from continuing on the path to Vigilancy, until it is deemed otherwise by the council. However, should the opposite be true, and a Novitiate aces all their trials and lessons, the aspirant would be presented to the Archivigilants for review, where a final inspection will determine if they are accepted into the order or not.

 

Should the answer be positive, the Novitiate ascends to Full Vigilancy. It is at this point where their mentor, after their long and careful examination, would bestow upon the new Vigilant their moniker, which would have been chosen based on how one acted during their tenure as a Novitiate.

 

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In the name of Wyrvun, Aengul of Sorrow

I pledge my devotion for all to know

The Frost beckons and I answer the call

A Vigilant rises, pray I never fall.

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༺⊰ R O L E S ⊱༻

 

 

Once a Novitiate ascends to Vigilancy they are given many new responsibilities and are expected to fulfill a number of roles in Fennic society. From simple day to day tasks to more occasional grand events, these roles are separated by path. Though every Vigilant may perform every task, it is encouraged that Vigilants of a Wayshrine tend in priority to the roles of their specified path. 

 

 

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༺[ Vigilants of Death ]༻

A Vigilant of Death is the invisible thread that holds the order together. A more esoteric path, those who join these ranks focus on spirituality and the inner workings of Snow Elven society and its faithful. They are a reserved group, tasked with the most sacred duty of guarding the boundary between life and death.

 

▪ ʜᴏɴᴏᴜʀɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴇᴀᴅ ▪ When a Fennic life ends, the body is entrusted to those on the Path of Death. These ‘fenn are are sworn crypt keepers, bound to protect the halls of their ancestors as they rest entombed in ice. They are also responsible for ceremonies related to death.

▪ ʀᴏᴜᴛɪɴɢ ᴏᴜᴛ ʜᴇʀᴇꜱʏ ▪ Tasked with safeguarding the souls of those destined to rest in Fin’ciwn, those of Death take particular care in making sure the ‘fenn do not stray from his teachings. In the case that they do, Vigilants are expected to redeem those who commit sin.

▪ ᴅɪᴠɪɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴ & ᴇxᴏʀᴄɪꜱᴍ ▪ Most attuned with folklore and all that which is unnatural, those of Death understand the hidden meaning of things. They divine from dreams messages from Wyrvun, and ward unsuspecting evils through the creation of charms and trinkets.

 

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༺[ Vigilants of Deliverance ]༻

A Vigilant of Deliverance is the shield of the Order and the Mali’fenn. To be on the path of Deliverance is to know danger and combat. They are trained and disciplined warrior-priests who specialize in supporting the warriors of the Ivae’fenn and fighting the unholy: those that corrupt death & demons.

 

▪ ᴘᴜʀɢɪɴɢ ᴅᴀʀᴋꜱᴘᴀᴡɴ ▪ As Wyrvun regards those tainted by the corruption of Iblees as suffering beings, it is the duty of those under the banner of Deliverance to put an end to that  suffering. As such, they train and acquire knowledge, standing as the Fennic vanguard against the forces of darkness.

▪ ʀᴇʟɪᴇᴠɪɴɢ ꜱᴜꜰꜰᴇʀɪɴɢ ▪ The faithful know that suffering must be relieved. The Vigilants on the path of Deliverance are deeply familiar with the despair and anguish that comes from war and battles. Known to practice medicine, they seek those in pain, offering relief as best they can.

▪ ʙʟᴇꜱꜱɪɴɢ ᴡᴀʀʀɪᴏʀꜱ ▪ Dutyful and driven by faith, those on the Path of Deliverance are tasked with supporting the warriors of Fenn. They are familiar with many war chants and practice the sacred tradition of battlepainting. They may also fabricate charms believed to bring luck to those in battle.

༒︎⊰⊰• ────༻❆༺ ────•⊱⊱༒︎

 

༺[ Vigilants of Solace]༻

A Vigilant of Solace has a vital role within the Order, for they are the very heart of the Mali’fenn. When life is filled with despair and sorrow, it is they who would extend a shining hand. These Vigilants are focused outward and always have the people at heart.

 

▪ ᴜᴘʜᴏʟᴅɪɴɢ ꜰᴇɴɴɪᴄ ᴍᴏʀᴀʟᴇ ▪ As all ‘fenn learn growing up, life in the frozen lands is never easy. It is a grueling survival and most often, many sink into a state of mental fatigue. Those of Solace seek to allow those suffering from despair to embrace and grow from it, often by offering council and bringing comfort.

▪ ꜰᴏʀᴍɪɴɢ ᴄᴏɴɴᴇᴄᴛɪᴏɴꜱ ▪ Centuries of living on the edge has taught the Snow Elves that the group survives better than the individual. As such, forming and maintaining connections is paramount to these Vigilants, be it in or outside the ‘fenn. This makes them excellent diplomats.

▪ ʟᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ ꜰᴇꜱᴛɪᴠᴀʟꜱ ▪ In order to bring the community together, those on the path of Solace have found that there is no better way than by organising festivals and gatherings. In that regard, they are often seen working together to bring these moments to life for all to enjoy.

 

༒︎⊰⊰• ────༻❆༺ ────•⊱⊱༒︎

 

༺[ Vigilants of Remembrance ]༻

A Vigilant of Remembrance is the backbone of the Order, tasked with safeguarding knowledge that has been preserved through generations. They are archivers, focused on accumulating knowledge and teaching it. They also spread the story of Wyrvun to both the Mali’fenn and any would-be listener.

 

▪ ᴛᴇᴀᴄʜɪɴɢ ᴏꜰ ɪꜱᴠɪɴɪᴛʏ ▪ Though Wyrvun lies at the core of Fennic beliefs, it is possible that there may be those who are yet unfamiliar with his teachings. Vigilants of Remembrance serve as guides, instructing those who have yet to learn. This may extend onto other subjects.

▪ ᴜᴘʜᴏʟᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʀᴀᴅɪᴛɪᴏɴ ▪ As time passes, history may find itself forgotten and tradition may lose all meaning. As shepherds of the elves of Fenn, it is a Vigilant’s duty to teach their kin of history and correct the course should any fall astray, ensuring the knowledge does not get lost.

▪ ᴄʜʀᴏɴɪᴄʟɪɴɢ  ▪ The lion’s share of a Vigilant of Remembrance’s time is spent on the sacred task of chronicling. By writing books and archiving, they document the lives of the Mali’fenn, ensuring that their stories live on forever. This also extends to events.

 

 {❆}

 

 

 

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༺⊰ C E R E M O N I E S  &  F E S T I V A L S ⊱༻

 

The ‘fenn are a spiritual and traditional people and as such much of their day to day revolves around ceremonies, blessings, and rituals, and the Vigilants are the medium for this, frequently leading said ceremonies and hosting a myriad of Fennic Festivals with different goals.

 

༒︎⊰‿̩͙⊰• ❆•⊱‿̩͙⊱༒︎

C E R E M O N I E S

 

❆⊱ ʙɪʀᴛʜ

While in many cultures Birth is something of a celebration. In Fennic society, birth comes along with fear and worry; how can one celebrate life when so frequently does a Fennic life come to an end brutally?

 

The Ceremony of Birth occurs at the Wayshrine of Sorrow. There, family and friends present the newborn to a Vigilant. They bring an animal offering. Before it is offered to the flames, the presiding Vigilant paints the newborn in its blood, a reminder that theirs is a people born in blood. The animal is then offered to the flames where it is said to impart its protection upon the newborn; the stronger the offering, the stronger the protection. The newborn is then cleaned at a frozen lake, bathed in Wyrvun’s tears, as a reminder of the Concord and Wyrvun’s purification of the ‘fenn.

 

❆⊱ ᴍᴀʀʀɪᴀɢᴇ

 

Within Snow Elven society, marriage is one of the most significant possible events, as it shows that even in times of despair, connections can still be formed and love can flourish. Two loving souls wishing to bind themselves together under the watchful gaze of Wyrvun may do so by following a set of traditions that together encompass the marriage : the proposal, the hunt, and the actual ceremony.

 

Spoiler

Like any marriage, a marriage in the faith of Isvinity begins with a proposal. A couple may plunge into an icy lake together, an attempt to be as close to Wyrvun as possible so he can bless the union. Upon completion of this, the couple meets on the shore to exchange their cloaks; symbolically, this is seen as each laying claim to the other, offering their protection and warmth, and guaranteeing mutual support.

 

In the days before their marriage, the couple are to depart civilization together for a hunt. Families and well-wishers typically send them off amid much jubilation, and with naught but each other and the belongings necessary to their survival, the couple engage in a hunt for big game. If successful, a portion of the animal shall be offered to Wyrvun in thanks and in hopes of securing protection, and what is left of the animal will be served at the wedding feast. The hunt itself is a trial to test the couple’s partnership; if they succeed in capturing their prize, and maintain good relations in the process, it proves that they will be capable of weathering whatever storms they encounter in their marriage.

 

The actual marriage ceremony is typically officiated by a Vigilant of the Sorrow Path, and it takes place at their wayshrine, where friends and families gather to spectate. The couple is to walk toward the Wayshrine, holding their offering: the heart of their hunted animal. Then, the Vigilant smears blood from the heart upon their thumb and imprints upon each of the couple’s foreheads. The partners follow suit, smearing a single line of blood upon both of their partner’s cheeks. This ceremony symbolizes the shared blood that the couple is cementing beneath Wyrvun’s guidance. Afterwards, the heart is placed in the offering fire. Then, it is customary for the bride and groom to exchange weapons; whether a relic, a personal weapon being traded, or a new weapon, this gift is meant to hold some sort of special meaning to an individual’s partner, as it symbolises the protection that the couple will accord one another. A custom set of vows are then exchanged, during which special pins are produced, which they use to fasten the cloak of their partner, finalizing the act. Thereafter, the Vigilant may pronounce the couple married, they may kiss, and all attendees are thus ushered off to the feast and festivities.

 

❆⊱ ꜰᴜɴᴇʀᴀʟ

 

A funeral is among one of the most sacred ceremonies of the Mali’fenn. A people so in tune with death and sorrow would have deep reverence for the dead and their journey to Isvin, making this an event that is  protected to the point of fanaticism. Funerals are held by a Vigilant of Death and are separated in multiple stages that always end with the body of the deceased frozen and entombed in the Fennic Crypts.

 

Spoiler

The ‘fenn understand that all life will end someday, sooner rather than later for them, and so, they build crypts wherever they settle, guarded by the Vigilants of Death. These sacred halls of the dead, built underneath the temple and Wayshrine of Death, hold the deceased ancestors, friends, comrades, and loved ones all preserved in icy caskets. When the people are displaced, it is tradition to bring the bodies along.

 

When a Snow Elf passes, Vigilants on the path of Death may begin the funeral process. The ceremony is carried out in stages over the course of several days, and is as follows: The Wake, the Embalming, and the Entombment. 

 

 

The wake begins the moment a death is declared. The  body is retrieved by the vigilants and, should the Mali’fenn die in battle, carried to the temple upon their shield, Their weapons and armour are to be retrieved and entombed with the body. There, upon their shields, they are placed before the Wayshrine of Death - wounds visible to all. They remain in this manner for a night, shielded from decay by the cold and guarded by several Ivae’fenn or Vigilants. Come morning, the body is taken to the crypts. 

 

 

The embalming is a crucial step before the main ceremony, ensuring the body is ready to be entombed.  In the crypts, the process begins with the preparation of the body. The deceased will be drained of blood and have certain organs removed, depending on when the burial is planned. Then, it will be treated with specific oils and herbs, ensuring preservation. Next, the deceased will be cleansed and made presentable, with bones being set and visible injuries being covered as well as possible. Once that is done, the casket will be filled with spices native to the tundra and kept in this state until the ceremony. The family and close friends may request to visit at this stage.

 

 

On the day of the burial, the funeral will commence before the Wayshrine of Death, where a public memorial will be held. The Vigilant heading this funeral will begin with a short speech followed by a recounting of the deceased’s life by their closest companion. The ceremony will then descend to the crypts, gathering around the coffin. Here, friends and family will be given the opportunity to speak and tell stories about the deceased, burn offerings, and deliver a final eulogy. Items may also be placed within the coffin, to rest with the departed. Finally, a warm, specially knit cloak is placed over the body - a representation of comfort for their eternal slumber, and then their tomb is sealed - the casket filled with water and left to freeze for preservation. 

 

 

Thereafter, the mournful tone of the Voice of Isvin sounds once, before falling silent - heralding to Fin’ciwn the arrival of a new spirit. It is common for families to leave offerings to Wyrvun at the Wayshrine of Death on the anniversaries of their loved one’s passing.

 

 

VIGILANTS PREPARING A RITE

 

❆⊱ ʙᴀᴛᴛʟᴇᴘᴀɪɴᴛɪɴɢ

 

In the hours before a battle is expected to take place, Vigilants of Deliverance may perform a rite known as ‘Battlepainting’. It is a sacred ceremony where those prepared to lay their lives gather alongside family and friends in the center of the city. Using ash gathered from the Wayshrine of Deliverance, soldiers would have their arms and faces intricately painted, with each color of paint holding different meanings.

 

Spoiler

The ceremony would proceed as such. Ash from the wayshrines is gathered by the Vigilants, who, through a process known to them, fill and mix pots of paint using the ash and various dyes. During the ritual, they would distribute the paint to those preparing for battle. The soldiers would choose between several paints and then let the Vigilant apply the chosen colour or colours on their arms, neck and face, drawing intricate and beautiful patterns. They also call upon close friends or family to help in the painting, offering one last heartwarming moment before their life may be taken.

 

▪ ᴛᴇᴀʟ ▪ Teal paint is the most commonly used colour. It is usually applied to warriors in need of courage, a promise to themselves and others that they will overcome despair, no matter the odds.   ▪ ᴘᴜʀᴘʟᴇ ▪ Purple paint is not a colour that is chosen but rather awarded by the Vigilants. It is given to those who have shown particular strength and valor in a previous fight. An immense pride to wear.

▪ ɢʀᴇʏ / ᴡʜɪᴛᴇ ▪ Grey or White is applied to warriors who swear an oath of protection. Those promising to safeguard their brothers and sisters in arms. They will cover any retreat, to the last remaining.   ▪ ɢᴏʟᴅ ▪ Gold paint represents one's aim to seek glory in the upcoming battle. A very visible colour, it invites challenge. Often worn by those who have something to prove or wish to achieve a feat.

▪ ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ ▪ A terrifying colour, black would represent the ultimate sacrifice. These warriors accept that they are not likely to survive to see another day and ask only for a good death. [PK]    ▪ ʀᴇᴅ ▪ Red is very personal. Those in crimson fuel themselves through rage and fury. It may have a very personal meaning such as a grudge, and signals to others that they must step aside if asked to.

 

 

❆⊱ ᴛᴀᴛᴛᴏᴏꜱ

 

As remembering is a key component to Isvinity, it should not come as a surprise that many Snow Elves decide to mark important memories and elements significant to them onto their own skin. This is done through ritual tattoos, where a Vigilant, most often one on the Path of Remembrance, is asked to permanently mark upon their skin symbols, patterns or motifs using a special ink. A Mali’fenn is proud to show off their tattoos as it is a sign of a life well lived. Though Snow Elves have tattoos wherever they wish, forearms, hands, and fingers are the most common areas first inked.

 

Spoiler

Tattoos are an important part of Snow Elven culture for they represent memories etched forever in skin. One does not simply mark their skin with anything, however; everything must have a meaning, as abstract as it may be. What is tattooed depends entirely on the person getting it done, for it is a very personal ceremony, though its meaning must be conveyed to the Vigilant before the ritual.

As tradition demands it, the tattoo would require the use of a special ink made by the Vigilants as well as a traditional needle made using animal bones, and is done by poking the needle into the skin for hours.

 

[OOC Mechanics]

 

Any patterns, motifs and symbols are for the player to decide, though one would have to ask if it fits the traditionalistic culture of the rugged tundra-bound Snow Elves. A note item with the description of the tattoo, signed by the Vigilant, could also be given at the end.

 

 

 

༒︎⊰‿̩͙⊰• ❆•⊱‿̩͙⊱༒︎

F E S T I V A L S 

 

❆⊱  ᴛʜᴇ ꜰᴇꜱᴛɪᴠᴀʟ ᴏꜰ ɪꜱᴠɪɴ’ꜱ ᴅᴀᴡɴ

The advent of the Concord is the day Wyrvun saved the Mali’fenn people, curing them from their madness and allowing them to live normal lives. With this a massive festival spanning multiple days is hosted and usually starts with a hunt led by the Vigilants for a legendary beast, one worthy of Wyvrun. Said beast, alongside countless other offerings, is then given to Wyrvun on a massive pyre in the town square where the festivities can truly commence.

 

Spoiler

 

Possibly the most important festival, this has involvement from each path of the Vigilants and is a joint effort between everyone in Mali’fenn society to honour Wyrvun and his choice to save the Fennic people. The festivities begin with a [ST led] hunt for a fearsome beast to offer to Wyrvun as reaffirmation in the promise of the Snow Elves to protect his domain of Fin’hesin, the one who strikes the killing blow will be allowed the privilege of joining the High Vigilant and the Archvigilants in lighting the pyre to come.

 

The Pyre contains countless offerings given from all corners of society, from animals to trinkets and even important heirlooms. It is then set ablaze where the ensuing flames are said to reach high into the sky, the resulting light signalling the new dawn, a reminder that the Mali’fenn will continue to survive as long as their dedication to Wyrvun remains strong. The heart of the beast is then passed around the congregation a chance for each to take some of its blood and wipe it across their cheek , a symbolic marriage to Wyrvun himself.

 

 

The festival will then conclude with a speech from the Council of Archvigilants, a piece on the history of the Concord and then following up with their intentions of staying true to Wyrvun and guiding the Mali’fenn forward. It is then not uncommon for the gathering to break into smaller groups where they exchange gifts and vows to each other and to Fenn. It is then encouraged to attempt to keep the pyre lit for as long as possible.

 

 

Overall, this festival is about remembering the past and committing to the future.

 

 

 

PREPARATION OF A PYRE

 

 

❆⊱  ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀɴᴅʟᴇʟɪɢʜᴛ ꜰᴇꜱᴛɪᴠᴀʟ

  

Also known as the “The Night of a Thousand Candles”, “The Eve of Mourning” or “Solstice of Death”. It is said that every so often there is a waning between the barriers of Fin’ciwn, the realm of the dead, and Fin’cuith, the realm of the living, signaled by a day that remains night, and thus it is on this day that the people are the closest to the deceased. To honour the dead, the Mali’Fenn hold a grand festival where they light hundreds of candles throughout the city, leading into the Crypts where the graves are visited, cleaned and the deceased remembered.
 

Spoiler

One of the most important festivals in Isvin Culture. It is a collaborative effort between the Vigilants of Death and those of Sorrow to honour and remember deceased friends and honored ancestors. During this date, every resident of Fenn is encouraged to light candles in the streets. These candles are assembled in a specific way, following a path leading from the front gate into the crypts. Some believe that the spirits are able to cross the barrier and revisit their loved ones on this night and so this ‘path’ of candles symbolises guiding them into the city. 

 

Though it is a very spiritual festival, stalls and entertainment may still be lined up following the candlepath, allowing for the sale of charms, trinkets, memorabilia, or anything else related to the dead. Another practice is selling or giving away old, forgotten items from those who pass. Remembering the items, sharing their story and offering them a new chance to be used and cherished by someone else.

 

 

A special drink is brewed on this night and drunk the next time the festival occurs, creating a perpetual cycle, where the ‘fenn promise to host the event once again to honour their deceased.

 

 

 

❆⊱  ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴀʏ ᴏꜰ ᴄʜᴀᴍᴘɪᴏɴꜱ

 

The people of Fenn haven’t always been a martial people; rather, it was thrust upon them by the many cataclysms and countless wars that have plagued them since their creation. From the days when Ondnarch’s corruption forced sibling against sibling, to the more recent Sixth Cataclysm in Arcas that led to the fall of the last Principality of Fenn. As such the Vigilants have decided to honour the lives of those lost in the countless battles by hosting a grand day of fighting and competition.

 

Spoiler

A rather minor festival but an important one nonetheless, run by the Vigilants of Deliverance they believe that training is vital to the preservation of the Mali’fenn people, allowing them to survive future cataclysms while also serving Wyrvun’s mission. The festival will usually consist of three main sections; a tourney, a forging contest and a grand feast.

 

The Melee [PvP] will consist of a Best of Three bracket style tourney where the winner will be showered in glory and gifted a Purple Cloak, said colour associated with power and protection, as well as the honourable title of ‘Champion of Wyrvun’ until the next tourney is held. 

 

Following such there will then be a chance for all the smiths of the Mali’fenn to show off their renowned work to the Vigilants, the greatest of the lot will have their creation blessed by the High Vigilant and they will be named ‘The Hand of Wyrvun’ and be given a free stall in the city, until the next contest is held.

Finally, the day will close with a grand feast where the people will then begin to drink, eat and revel in celebration of our champions, the third and final champion being crowned and dubbed the ‘Liver of Wyrvun’ after a drinking competition to round out the day. A rather lighthearted title meant to end the festival with laughter, the portrait of the winner perhaps finding its way on the tavern wall accompanied with occasional free drinks.

 

 

 

༒︎⊰‿̩͙⊰• ─────────────────────────────⊰[༻❆༺]⊱─────────────────────────────•⊱‿̩͙⊱༒︎

 

O O C

 

Spoiler

 

With the return of the Snow Elves and the Fennic settlement, a rewrite of our lore was long overdue. While the Fenn have had a long history on the server we felt as though it needed a fresh coat of paint to be up to date with the current state of today’s playerbase & the direction of LOTC as a whole. 

 

Religion has always been a central part of Snow Elven culture and while the previous iteration had many ideas, it lacked a lot of direction and structure. With this rewrite we hope to provide a new, more organised, perspective for those who wish to do religion RP, one that is more interwoven with the culture and more in tune with the current version of Wyrvun. This post is the first of multiple others concerning the Snow Elves, as we slowly clean and refine what it means to be ‘fenn in the big ‘26 and beyond.

 

This document will be updated over time with other changes and ideas so stay tuned ! :)

 

Referenced Snow Elven megadoc that will slowly be re-written : Link

 

 

ᴄʀᴇᴅɪᴛꜱ :

⊱ Remziel - Writing & Formatting

⊱  Callum - Writing

 

⊱ Johann - Consultation

⊱ Zarsies - Consultation

⊱ MmmMonkee - Consultation & Proofreading

 

⊱ Bluejaeb - Brainstorming

⊱ Cats - Brainstorming

⊱ HummytheHamster - Brainstorming

⊱ LobsterLarry - Brainstorming

⊱ Turnipian - Brainstorming

 

⊱ Fenn & Beyond - Continual Support

 

 

[SirBlocklips 192]

I LOVE WYRVUNPOSTING!!!!!

Edited Friday at 10:44 PM by SirBlocklips

[Wyrvun 1808]

its so cool?????? but where is my jumping over fire roleplay????

[Callum 1009]

1 minute ago, Wyrvun said:

its so cool?????? but where is my jumping over fire roleplay????

Snowers snow

[LobsterLarry 1514]

SNOWERS SNOW

[BlueJaeeb 32]

I freaking love Wyrvun

[Moumins 378]

... Hmmm... This is cool... I guess