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CHRONICLE OF THE CELIAN STARS & STEEL “Both future & past mended by the same Stars” ✵ link ☽ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ✯ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ☾ I.THE INTRODUCTORY MYTHOS To those who scrutinize and peruse this document, you have undertaken a journey to uncover a narrative both widely revered and deeply felt by many. As you gaze upon the magnitude of the Celian Ivory Towers, its formidable walls, and impregnable fortresses, recognize that our path which was paved here was forged through the blood and steel of each and every generation. Unlike other Mali (Elves) that have faced long periods of prosperity and peace that lulled them into stagnation. The Celia’norian people, from the very start, were met with great trials and hardship. I have borne witness to the struggles of the original Celian, yet their tales come with a culture and identity that has brought strength stronger than any daemonsteel and a future more radiant than the Western Star. While most of my peers who are elders and veterans of the Ages of the Hero during Ivarielle’s reign claim their struggle of being exiled was the harshest one. Myself and yourself should be sympathetic to our entire people, as each generation of Celia’norians will always live long enough to see a conflict, war or civil strife before they reach the age of fifty. THE FIRST AGE To provide perspective to the dear reader, those who hailed from the age of Ivarielle and legendary heroes such as Atheleon will recall their journey of shame to the Western Forest of Almaris. It was a horrific time when our Aheral, who once dwelled in magnificent marble manors crafted by our ancestors, were forced to fend off bandits and live in tents. Following this trial came the Horde & Mali’nor war, during which the majority of the conscripted Diraar (Soldiers) were Celian, transforming the West into a paradise and sanctuary for all Elvendom. “I must admit, I was not present during the reigns of Ivarielle & Illarion, yet they did not face hardships through wars and famine. Instead, political tensions between the realm of Elveness and our newly forged identity kept our people on edge. Those aged fourteen to twenty were conscripted into the military, engaging in skirmishes with our supposed allies.” The earliest tragedy I witnessed was the Voidal destruction of Fi’andria. By then, our capital was the envy of all Elvendom, a center for trade, decision-making, and policy. To me, this calamity stemmed from mismanagement by our leaders and ploys by external forces in the lands. Tragically, the Celia’norians of that generation, mere infants, saw their home obliterated and their land terrorized by voidal horrors. This was followed by a period of political instability and the cultural genocide came in the form of Talar’nor. THE SECOND AGE 𝐓hankfully, such instability was reigned by a few short years until the return of the promised heir. With the return of Princess Illyria, the Second Principality of Celia’nor was restored with a united front of the Ibarellan bloodline. The reconstruction of our people’s culture and strength was a monumental task, one I found myself on the verge of abandoning. Yet, during our march north, I found solace in that my experience falls parallel with those who had to make the long journey to the West of Almaris during the FIRST AGE. Dear readers, whether you read this within the comfort of Leyu’sil or over two centuries hence from when published, But as it stands right now, the current generation of Celia’norian as I can observe, we still face war and trials. From the Veletz and Haeseni war where we found ourselves the first battle of that gruesome conflict or to the First Siege of Leyu’sil by Gashadokuro. I say this with confidence that history has never given a moment for our people to rest, nor will that day come soon. To conclude this part of my story and our history, I encourage you to read "The First Battle of Leyu’sil'' by Tavarian Py’lrie for more insight. If she is still alive, my niece-in-law Yera Silvera, who is responsible for saving my life during the recent siege, can provide firsthand accounts. May you enjoy the rest of this document, this is only the beginning of a story & culture that is so diverse. Use it to gain better guidance and deeper understanding of my people, and our legacy… ✵ AY’PUERAN; The Honourable Parir, Celius Cerusil, Member of the Cerusil Talonnii, Councilor of the Cerusil ☽ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ✯ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ☾ II. THE CELIA’NORIAN MINDSET & ITS FORTITUDE |[IL MAEHR’SAE ILKUN’EHYA]| “WITH KNOWLEDGE AND STEEL” “If you seek power in a world of men and beast, there is no weapon sharper than knowledge and the ability to use it” ✵ PREAMBLE When you look through a history book, you will never see a concrete recipe for why an empire or a princedom stood the test of time. Each of them and its society must find a way to adapt to the struggle of their century. Consider our distant cousin the Haelun’orian who once thrived from their eternal library & their philosophy of health and progress. Yet for their case, such belief was taken to the extreme to where it didn’t guide them and instead brought stagnancy and a period of isolation. What was once an ideology that has guided through a storm has left them behind from the rest of the world by a mere three centuries of progress. If we go to the north west of the current (Aevos) Celia’nor, the current realm that reigns most prosperous within the continent would be the Haeseni people. From the yolk and days of Oren, they suffered through oppression and internal restriction. Yet through perseverance & defiance, they lived long enough and brought an end to the longest reigning Empire in human history. Learned from the trial and struggle of the past, the Hanseni now stand strong within the realm of man, vowing to snuff out any flame or even ember from the heartlander before they face another major crisis. Now with the Celia’norian mindset, the root or origins of it starts way before the time of the first revolt. The mindset stems from the inferiority complex that most Mali of all society faces throughout our history, from the day where the first Aherals were enslaved by the Empire of Man to more recent history were Mali’thill motherland saw their gate of isolationism got knocked down by Haense. Such humiliation and moment of folly has birthed the first prototype of the Celian philosophy of “ilMaehr’sae Ilkun’ehya”. THE SPARK OF A BELIEF Pride, respect & security are the three pillars of what keep a group of people motivated to ride the tide of a storm. Yet for the Aheral has endured centuries of humiliation without much changes or actions from those they deemed to be the wisest; hence came the spark of the first revolution by Ivarielle the Great. For the ideals of health and progress has become a political tool rather than something a people can rely on. Many Mali’thill and Mali’aheral broke the social norms to force a change through violent means to change the system. From that day and moving onward, those of the First Age generation have agreed that only through the sheer strength of steel and knowledge will the Aheralic people bring themselves out of the dark age. PHILOSOPHY FOR A NEW AGE Young in terms of culture and identity but rich in ideals and ambitions are the defining definition that I myself can think for our kinds (Celia’norian). The thought of the elf of today is one of self-reliance, of strength and fortitude even in the most dark of times. Many will come to establish themselves through hard work, or naught be anything at all, for only the self-made man carries the weight of his own fate upon his back, as many of our kind have come to learn. In this changing world, so unlike the past of Fi’andria, have the newer age learned to become fierce and resilient, in a way of a more difficult and less forgiving world than would be known under the founder. It is through this, the mind of a new Celian made Mali is forged, like its moniker--of steel, that shall not bend nor break in the greatest of battles, past or present. AY’PUERAN; Her Royal Highness Arch Prelate, A’eollaja Ibarellan, Councilor of Religious Affairs, Lady of Sohae Sulli ☽ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ✯ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ☾ III. SUBCULTURE OF THE CELIAN PEOPLE |[IL TALIIYNA IGNE’EHYA]| “WITH BLOOD AND FIRE” “What is mine is but fire and blood” ✵ THE EARLY FI’ANDRIAN PEOPLE As Fi’andria and Celia’nor itself had settled itself into a stable and established position in the world, cultural exploration was largely a secondary priority of the militarist state, that had long lacked a personal identity, as the nation seemed to be founded more as an army with a state, fashioned from a canon’s shot. For several decades, practicality became the name of the Celian people, where expression and identity was a loose concept, wherein many still considered themselves Haelun’orian outside of haelun’or, many wishing to one day reconquer their stolen lands. In this time, Celia’nor’s first allies, the Mali’fenn and Mali’ker of the Duel Principality of Fenn rubbed off on the populace of Celia’nor, not only forming some of their base traditions, but their growing separatist identity as separate from Haelun’orians. Militarism can largely be accredited to the Fenn, whereas the Ker were responsible for their fierce spirit in the face of hardship. THE LATE FI’ANDRIAN PEOPLE As culture was largely explorative in the first few decades, various methods of avant garde approaches to art, clothing, and personal expression became the order of the day later during the reign of Ivarielle the First, and Illarion the First, as the ‘Fi’mali’ was a pondering of scholars and philosophers to what a post-haelunor identity would mean. With the shackles of purity disbanded, other closed schools of thought were revisioned and revised, where the Fi’mali could introspect on the self and his newfound allies amongst elvendom. Late stage Fi’Andrian largely inspired the notions of culture of current high society Celian culture, where extravagant acts of self expression and personal achievement becomes that of a badge of honor, while sharing the same familial honor and tight bonds were resumed since early formation. Presenting oneself of that of high society, honor, stoicism and immense talent would become the standard for high society, forming rigid social codes of conduct for the highest of honor. The lower class of late Fi’andria would share a similar matter in refining their presentation of social culture, often of which was defined by self-determinism and individualism. A late Fi’andrian would often define themselves by close bonds to their monarch, family, guild or chapter, wherein the term ‘Fi’andrian’ often described a collection of strong-willed mali in proximity to the city. A Fi’andrian of the time was considered the model of ‘e’anniler’ or lone guide in one's own life. Many Fi’andrians of the time were merchants, business owners, trade-workers, and specialists, who found much more comradery within their inner circles of their trade than anything else, forming tight bonds through the military complex, and merchant guilds. THE LEYU’SILIAN After facing the late stage degeneracy of the reign of Valyris the Tyrant, and inevitably facing the doom of Almaris, the shock of the people became a severely ingrained memory to the minds of those who lived through the event. As the second capital land of Leyu’sil was crafted, it became a priority to nationalize and establish a unified idea of the Celian identity, where the crafted ideals of tradition and new age thinking would be solidified to create a new mali identity, and like the city before it, reinvent the ‘Fi’mali’ for the ‘Mali’sil’ or sword elf. For this, the military was aggrandized with much more popularity than before, with the sword and shield being taken as cultural icons for the people of Celia’nor, in both body and spirit. A Leyu’sillian was no less cultured as their Fi’andiran counterparts, but sought to combine the value of combat with culture and daily life. Many of the current day traditions were solidified under the reigns of Illyria the First, and Iryne the First, where many can trace the legacy of ‘Sil’iyat’ or sword culture was born. The Leyu’sil through careful crafting was designed to be a person of strong will, with a strong code of duty and service, where the nation became the personification of the will of the Sword, and the way of the Celian. This culture largely has been popularized amongst the younger generations of Celia’nor, with some elder generations especially amongst the nobility to be more in line with late Fi’andrian culture. THE OYASHI For as long as the mali peoples of Celia’nor have been crafted from the hammer and anvil of trials, the Oyashi have long since been a pivotal peoples inside the realm of Celia’nor. While a long standing minority of peoples amongst the vast swaths of high elven culture, the Oyashi culture has long since complimented the culture of Celians, and made itself a visible peoples inside the realm of elves, wherein clans of both Valah, Tali’mali, and adopted Mali make themselves home inside the realm. While not resembling as closely the stricter fashions of Oyashi culture such as the realm of Kyo-Kuni, they are unequivocally recognized for their mercantile, artisanal, and mechanical craftsmanship, near solely responsible for Celia'nors technological adoption and growth of smoggers and machinery technology. THE PARADINIAN Under the time of Fi’andria in Almaris, the Paradinians are a unique and exotic culture founded by the Noble line of Akaln’riv. Established inside their realm of Paradine, the founder of Akaln’riv, Theoden, was traditionally raised by northmen, potentially claiming birth from the halls of long standing Celian ally Haense-Ruski, of which many traditions the Paradinians have Hybridized. Widely conservative for many Celian peoples, the Paradinian are often noted for their traditional values, with many preferring the rural living to the urban center, with hunting and farming to be the largest categories of career and skills. Many tend to dress much less extravagantly as those of the capital, valuing practicality and ruggedness. Much more interestingly, neither common nor elvish is their main language, instead speaking New Marian much more commonly. Paradinians are often referred to as ‘frontier peoples’, or even as traditional ranchers, reflected in their homefront lifestyle and general reclusiveness. They hold a strong belief in strength and character building, where the harshest of Celia’nor’s borders are simply training grounds to these oxen-like people. While a Paradinian is fiercely independent, they are first and foremost loyal to the crown, and hold strong values of loyalty and duty. THE LUCI’TERHALIR One of the first ever major exports of Celia’nor, was its famed wine products under the behest of Ivarielle the First. While initially a small industry, wine has become the largest domestic product sold by Celia’nor, and for it, the much need population to cultivate and produce it arose during the later stages of her reign. Culturally distinct from the urban centers of Celia’nor, the Luci’terhalir is known for its similarity to Auvergnian and Illatian culture, wherein it’s rural culture is often compared to Petran farmers. Centered completely around wine cash crops, such as grapes and berries, large grain farms, and some smaller pastoral farms for dairy and wool. This caste of Celian society is largely responsible for producing significant amounts of export trade, and food for the principality, where almost half of all domestic food comes from. The Luci’terhalir despite their intense position as the food basket of the principality, are widely known for their cool and laxed personalities, wherein hard work is also synonymous with high quality of life, where each man and woman takes pride in their work, and values the land they live upon. Some families have been able to strike it rich from the significant money made through wineries, wherein some noble families have striked their origins from. ☽ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ✯ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ☾ IV.CODEX OF THE CELIAN NOBILITY & MILITARY |[IL SIL’EHYA WY]| “WITH SWORD AND HAND” “A sword wields no strength unless the hand that holds it has courage” ✵ THE ORIGIN OF THE LAURIR’AHEAL Established during the early periods of Fi’andria, several high profile families came to be established under several generations of rulers through Celia’nor. Following the illustrious royal Ibarellan Talonnii, several names came to be elevated for their service, or backing to the crown, such as the wealthy Py’lrie family, who were the first major bank of Celia’nor, or the military prowess of house Cerusil, famed fighters of the principality. Through this elevation of several Talonnii families, did the culture of the Laurir’aheal form, inspired highly by the late Fi’andrian peoples. Set of the highest standards and of the highest luxuries of the principality, the Laurir’aheal caste made themselves well renowned for their power and influence through the lands, being both the backbone of the principalities wealth, but the esteemed and royal ordained right to privilege. Much of high society can be considered by many accounts as ‘avant garde’, wherein fashion and culture are set to their extreme and boldly reinvented by many wishing to make their family the next big thing. This reality of competition often brings some families to great alliances, or deep rivalries, wherein centuries long ‘disagreements’ can shape and mold the identities of these families’ relationships. Many talonniis have their own unique culture and traditions, where some adopt the rural paradinian lifestyle such as the farming Akaln’riv talonnii, or unique traditions from outside the principality such as the Mah’nel family. Despite disagreements, many families often come together into various forms of noble governments or appointed positions only the illustrious families can afford, to discuss running the principality’s civil functions and day to day life for those residing in the capital, wherein these privileged elites are expected to bring fortune and exceptionalism to the princedom. THE DIVADRI LIFESTYLE As the nation hatched from a cannonball, the military has long been an integral part of the lives of the average Celian, where it is viewed as one of the greatest honors and service an immortal mali can give for the nation, a duty above one singular man or woman in the face of external threats. This very pillar of the community, where militarism is worshipped and praised, made for the founding of much of Celian culture, but helped it survive for centuries. Many who have led, or long since served in the military have designed various facets of what it means to be Diraar, or soldier of the principality, the title of Diraar itself playing upon the ancient terminology of sentinels of old. Wherein brotherhood and community is developed by various members, wherein traditions such as the blackening of the armor, the mark of Atheleon, or other such traditions have developed that have made the divadri more than just a fighting force, but a true fraternity of veterans and new blood all the same united in combat. This facet of the face of Celia’nor, makes the divadri not only considered duty, but considered honorable to many, where it is valued highly those given in sacrifice for the greater good of the nation and people of Celia’nor. The dead are often honored in burial ceremonies known as ‘sword graves’, where one’s sword is planted into their final resting place on the battlefield, or even mounted in grand sword graveyards within the lands of Celia’nor to avoid theft of the fallen’s weapons. It is this ultimate sacrifice that is deeply revered and respected, wherein the average celia’norian takes great offense to disrespect of the dead. ☽ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ✯ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ☾ V. CELIAN CULTURAL LIFE & PLACE |[IL MASULEH’EYHA FIR’BILOK]| “WITH ANVIL AND HAMMER” “In this word, mali must be hammer or anvil” ✵ THE BLADES OF THE STARS. Born of their martial comrades in the Mali’fenn, Celia’nor takes great pride in their adaptation of martial pride and skillful warrior class. This distinct association of the culture of the Celia’norian for warfare prowess and martial dignity is known colloquially as Sil’iyat, or blade philosophy. Sil’iyat denotes a particular personification of a citizen’s duty, and honor to be not simply philosophical, but taken as a physical manifestation in the blade itself of each and every Celia’norian. Weapon ownership among mali is overwhelmingly populated by Celia’norians, as each citizen carry a weapon of their choice, designed roughly around the age of twenty years old in a coming of age ceremony known as the Othelu’talareh, a day in which one shall bond with steel, to forge a weapon of their own design, a labor that can often take days to complete. This weapon is seen as a manifestation of the soul in the physical world, a tool and yet a reflection of one’s character. It is often seen that many soldiers who’ve fallen in battle, are marked in their place of rest with their sword to be planted in the ground, to reflect their service and impact upon this world. Many families also pass down the weapons of great warriors from child to child, such tools to be honored and treasured of those who no longer walk the living world. With the tradition of Othelu’talareh, it is not uncommon for whole Talonnii’s to bear a signature design, teaching the youth how to specifically forge their weapon of choice, with techniques passed down from generation to generation. While some have adopted the process of having artisans forge blades instead of learning the process, more traditional Talonniis tend to spit at the idea. This idolization of weapons and specifically blades has led equally to an interesting development in the daily lives of the common celia’norian, in which blades are such a commonality, that is has even become fashionable to adorn oneself in depictions of weapons. The most common trope of this fashion trend, is that of the hairpin, often either designed to simply appear like that of a weapon, or be designed to function as such as concealed hairpins. THE ARTISTRY OF DUELING. Within a people of high dignity and martial idealization, disagreements are bound to occur amongst the people of the stars. While outright violence is often decried by the law and general populace, the practice of dueling has taken a foothold amongst especially the elite to settle civil discourse. Rather than resort to uncivility as such as name calling or unrestrained violence, the offended party may challenge their opponent to Sirame’dagr. The accused may decline, however it is considered highly cowardly, and would reflect more poorly than losing the duel. The actual duel strictly requires the use of dueling rapiers known as Sul’sil, as magic or other weaponry are considered unjust for a battle of will. The two are then to engage in battle, strictly aiming to trade blows with their opponents, and rather than kill the opponent, the parties are seeking ‘satisfaction’, that is, to restore honor in combat. If the offending party submits, they must recant their statements, whereas a submitting victim must accept their opponents right to declare such. Regardless of the outcome, parties may receive scars from dueling, often referred to as Sirame’so the ‘badge of honor’, ‘bragging award’, or ‘mark of courage’, these scars are often highly respected amongst celia’norians for their venerated status of courage, in which either party in the outcome of the due gain more respect from the general populace. The art of dueling has become such a fast growing tradition, that Academic Fencing has become an official sport in the culture of Celia’nor, albeit with greater protection than that of common dueling. Lightly armored with simple padding and protective masks, academic fencers perform for sport and reputation before the more refined citizens of Celia’nor, wherein a battle of skill, dexterity, and strategy decide a winner within a match of opponents trading blows, wherein the winner is declared by who has achieved the most successful hits. THE PEOPLE OF GOLD AND STARS. While their forefathers inside of Haelun’or had abandoned gold, branding it as sinful and cursed, Celia’nor had instead taken value to this precious metal due to its anti-darkspawn properties. Due to being constantly underminded by beings of the dark, gold has become an item of both superstition, and practicality, wherein most citizens often carry Aurum weapons, or decorate themselves in gold to ‘ward off evil spirits and maladies’. Due to this growing value and popularity in the usage of gold, while the Celian people are widely know as the people of the stars, they are also coined as the Golden Elves, a direct opposition to their silver forefathers. Long has the stars been a key part of Celia’nor and its people, identifying themselves as children of the cosmos. Due to this, astrology has become an intrinsic element of the culture of the Celia’norian, which boasts some of the highest numbers of astronomers in elven kind. Local catalogues of constellations and various discoveries of stellar objects have grown in large volume since the founding of the starlit nation, who’ve long since looked upon the night sky to search for higher meaning and wonder. Astronomy has not only become a scientific endeavor for many acclaimed scientists, but a household activity amongst families, who will engage in Celia’sulier, wherein many families will step outside their homes after sunset to tell folktales of constellations in the sky, some more affluent families able to afford proper telescopes to observe distant objects in the night. One such item that has been adopted by the Celian peoples, is that of the Celian Zodiac, or Celia’karena of which outlines various astrological symbols for certain constellations and months in which said constellations are most visible. It is a common tradition to record the month in which a child is born, where some believe these dates reflect a person's personality or traits of their person. Len’metta - Song Bird ) Those born in the first month of the year are considered to be artistic and free thinking, with a kind and ever energetic personality that many can find both endearing and infectious. Song birds are however prone to dependency upon others, needing an anchor to root themselves emotionally and spiritually. Sirame’faesu - Stag ) Those born on the second month of the year are considered to be grounded and dependable, often seen as natural born leaders and guides to others, while maintaining strong loyalty to those they value. They can be however quite stubborn and relatively controlling. Athri - Viper ) Those born on the third month of the year are considered fiercely independent, with a passionate and intense attitude, seen as firebrands with revolutionary ideas and thoughts. They can however be considered impatient, and deeply resentful when wronged. Vuln - Fox ) Those born on the fourth month of the year are seen as self motivated and reserved people, but when connected to are fun and charming individuals who value pragmatism and perfectionism. They can however be seen as emotionally unavailable and stubborn to open up. Magara’vuln - Bear ) Those born on the fifth month of the year are considered ambitious and dependable people with a strong personal code and valuing honesty, with bold and gregarious personalities. They are known to be impulsive and possessive of that which they consider theirs. Faesu - Horse ) Those born on the sixth month of the year are known for being adventurous and compassionate souls with a deep sense of wanderlust, and a forgiving and friendly personality. However those born of this month are seen as erratic and insecure of themselves, needing to prove to others their value. Leyu’metta - Swan ) Those born on the seventh month of the year are known for their graceful and confident personalities, often being highly serious and critically engaging conversationalists. They are equally known for their pessimistic and moody behavior, often being controlled by their mood. BODY MODIFICATION. Traditionally, high elves rarely engaged in altering their bodies with items such as tattoos or piercings, the former of which having been banned under the times of Haelun’or. However, being freed from the philosophy of purity, the Celian peoples experimented with their newfound social independence to their bodies, wherein new methods of beauty and fashion were adopted. While human and other nations engage in tattoo practices with standard ink, Celia’norians engage in ‘Starlight tattoos’, wherein tattoos are met to be reflections of the cosmos or the stars by using glowing ink processes to mark their bodies. Most commonly using war forging to achieve the glowing look, some cheaper alternatives are that of redstone tattoos, albeit in smaller volumes due to its inherent toxicity. Tattoo parlors can often be located alongside alchemist shops due to the commit of alchemists using war forging. Piercings are equally an increasing endeavor inside of Celia’nor, the most common being ear piercings often made of rare metals such as gold and silver. While not common, especially amongst the peerage, nose and lip piercings are becoming more common amongst the civilian class in Celia’nor, but heavily strict due to social norms. ARMAMENTS OF THE STARS. As a martial people with an ever growing need to expand their military capabilities and strength, various models of weapon have been designed and refined by the industrious peoples of Celia’nor. While this list includes some of the more famous designs and common weapons, due to the amount of weapon smiths within Celia’nor, there are often many different weapons and variants not expressed here. Mar’sil) The Mar’sil, a family of larger class swords like the human greatsword; are some of the largest and heaviest blades of the Celian military, and due to their specialty as two handed weapons, they are by far the rarest common weapon to make use. With a hilt that is long and curved in the subtle shape of an ‘s’, its length strikes that as more of a polearm than a sword hilt, with an exceptionally large, sleek and heavy chopping blade, and a rather prominent and aggressive hooked curve at its tip. Due to its long hilt and chopping blade, many mistake it for a halberd instead of a sword, measuring it at a massive 50 - 70 inches. It’s primary purpose is used for chopping light armor, cutting enemy ladders, and extended heavy weapon range, making it exceptionally powerful in the hands of one with enough strength and finesse to use it properly. Dion’sil) The Dion’sil is by far the most common family of swords in the Celian arsenal, being the most heavily produced by the military and most readily available to citizens. Despite its mass production, most are made us a level of artisan quality that makes the blade significantly more recognizable on the battlefield. Bearing two sharpened sides, and a curved blade that specializes in slashing and chopping, its curved hilt is seen to fit the descendant hand more comfortably than a straight hilt, complimenting its more dexterous usage. Measuring roughly 42 inches, it handles most combat ranges comfortably as both a one handed, and two handed weapon. Dionne’sil) The Dionne’sil is the class of sword with the highest amount of variation and design changes between any family of sword. The majority of Dionne’sils reflect their larger Dion’sil counterpart, including the curved blade, and curved, albeit one handed hilt. However some variations of this weapon in its relative size class bear varying traits, such as two sides, thinner blades meant for slashing, or a straighter blade purposed for thrusting and poking. This natural variation makes the Dionne’sil the most widely useful and practical weapon in the Celian arsenal, despite its short size being under 40 inches. Sul’sil) The Sul’sil is a class of weapon most commonly associated with dueling and fashion than outright combat, being regarded as a mixture of ceremonial sabers, and dueling blades. Often being two sided, the Sul’sil is thinner than most blades, known for its ability to bend and resist breaking, while bearing a rounded cross guard unlike other sword types to protect the user’s hand. Mainly used for stabbing and poking strikes instead of slashing, it makes for an excellent tool to keep one’s distance from their opponent and avoid weapon locking due to its bending nature. Some variations may even ditch the two sided approach, with fencing swords often only bearing a sharpened needle tip, where it often gets the name of ‘needle’. While often outclassed in combat by other swords, the Sul’sil is quite artistic and fashionable in design and use, making it a favorite amongst nobility and career duelists. Ihnsil) The Ihnsil, or polearm family, is a variety of spear types and lances that is quite common in the military ranks of Celia’nor. It is claimed before any man may learn the sword, he must learn the spear, making it deeply linked with military culture due to its practicality in shield formations, and anti-armor units. Traditionally used by cavalry and units specified in combating enemy armor, the Ihnsil is prerogative to countering enemy specialist units with pointed spear tips, heavier lance spears, and armor cracking halberds (Fer’ihnsil). It can often have a wide variation in design for specialized purpose, such as Dion’sil blades, hatchets, lance tips, and others, being naturally a cheap and effective pick to arm the Celian army. Berr) The staple of any elven arsenal, the Berr is both traditional and effective in military conflicts, and hunting. With its relatively cheap and historical heritage, the Berr is commonplace amongst Celia’norians, with military regiments dedicated to marched archery, and highly effective horseback archery. The Berr is often separated between Mar’berr, Dion’berr, and Dionne’berr; great, long, and short respectively, with different draw weights between each class, being between 30 - 50 ibs for Dionne, and 100 ibs for Mar’berrs. Fer’berr) Better known as the crossbow, the Fer’berr was adopted in the late Fi’andrian period by the military, where its largely stayed, as many older generations consider it to be ‘a novelty’, that it could not replace the classic Berr. However the Fer’berr has made its impact in military conflicts for its reliability to puncture armor in an increasingly well armored world. While it can vary in relative poundage, the most common used is a medium weight poundage of 650 ibs draw weight, whereas some heavier war classes boast 1000 ibs or higher. MUSIC OF THE COSMOS. Traditional Celian music is known between four distinct styles or genres of music; Marching/Military music, reflective symphonic sonatas, traditional folk music, and historical vocal epics. Celian music has a distinct style of tonal shifting, blending minor keys with major keys in song to reflect change or experiences in perspective of the musician, wherein most upbeat songs share a sorrowful ballad, or songs of lament bare an optimistic chorus. While many songs have instruments, vocals are considered a must in all song, valued higher than other methods of producing music. Brass and reed instruments are practically nonexistent in Celian music, whereas string, percussion, flute woodwinds, and especially the harp are significant in concert and folk music. While traditional human instruments such as the violin or cello can replicate Celian music closely, most Celia’norians prefer to use their own brand of instrument family for strings. The Reba’haru is a button assisted instrument, similar to a Nyckelharpa, a multi-stringed fiddle that relies on pressing keys on the neck, often having varying sizes to produce different sounds like standard orchestral instruments. The Gen’sumu is similar in design to a lute, albeit a thinner profile and longer neck similar to a shamisen. It can be both plucked like a guitar, and played with a bow like a fiddle. Prominent in symphonic music, is the Haru and the Bo’haru, similar to a Harp and Piano respectively, which most often churches adopting the Iheiuh’boharu, a pipe organ that’s near identical to human organs, and the Taiiso drum, a heavy bass drum for dee melancholies or bombastic epics. The most common themes to be written and performed in Celian music is patriotic hymns and shanties in marching bands and military celebrations, reflective tragedies or emotional inner dialogue, oral history, and performative ensemble plays meant to be physically impressive as much as it is musically. TASTE OF THE HEAVENS. Traditional Celian cuisine is largely vegetarian based, with meat often being reserved solely for the army in nutritional rations and much needed protein to keep supply and stamina up during campaigns. Due to this, the Celian diet is often consisted of vegetarian and vegan meals to relate meat diets, wherein most Celian elves will shun foreign meat entirely. Certain animals, such as pork, mutton and venison do not appear in the Celian pallet anywhere, whereas smaller animals like rabbits, fish and duck can appear in frontier diets. Stews, baked goods, cooked vegetables, and grains are the most common elements in food, with the universal spice mix of Celian foods being Paprika, pepper, oregano, thyme and cumin. Wine is a common drink for the land of stars, with wine having been its first ever export. As master winemakers, various brands and flavors have come out of Celia’nors borders, from burning red liquors to sweet white wines, there’s a bottle for everyone’s taste. Igne’hiugu) A simple homebrew meal, it mainly consists of charred vegetables such as cucumbers, basil leaves, tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplant topped in a savory tomato sauce and on occasion served with egg noodles. Wehn’sew) A warm porridge dish made by stirring grains such as rice or barley into broth til reaching a creamy smooth consistency. Often a side dish, it can be topped with grilled mushrooms or podded greens. Taynei’wehntehral) A thin, flakey flatbread pocket filled with grilled Swiss chard, this dish is most commonly served as an appetizer, or by street vendors, and is a particular favorite in the market districts of the capital city paired with dipping sauces. Siru’luer) A warm slow cooked mushroom stew dish in a savory paprika sauce, it is often topped over egg noodles or rice, slowly simmered in a pot with aromatic sauteed onions for half the day. Marm’kaerisew) A thick paprika stew cooked over fire, made it is often made with legumes such as chickpeas and a sweet or sour cream mixture to enrich the flavor. It’s most often paired with egg noodles or flour dumplings. Nor’lin Sew) A staple dish of rural Celian diet, this dish is nutritionally dense and full of vegetables simmered in a hot broth, occasionally sporting proteins like rabbit or chicken that’s slow cooked until tender and fall apart in your mouth. It typically sports root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. Mira’wehntehral) Known colloquially as ‘warm bread’ this is a more common variation of flatbread made of flour, water, salt, and yogurt to create a soft, airy bread that is perfect for making into sandwiches, or hollowing into pockets for vegetables or occasionally meats. Wehn’kaeso) Stuffed peppers are a favorite amongst many urban Celians, being a tasty dinner meal with great variety of ingredients. Most commonly filled with rice, and topped in melted cheese, these delicious treats are sure to make you go for seconds. Velu’tiuth) A meal adopted from humanity under the reign of Illyria I, it is most commonly referred to as ‘moon pies’ or pizza by human standards. While there are plenty variations to its recipe, it commonly calls for a creamy tomato sauce, a flour crust often lightly charred in a wood oven, and cheese melted on top with various toppings. Wehn’saera) A common staple side dish, Celian rice is cooked inside a savory broth to hydrate the rice with salt and other spices. It can often form the base of many dish recipes, or simply be enjoyed by itself. Age’hiugo Kaemu) A traditional street food and side dish, these deep fried vegetable fritters are made by chopping various vegetables thin and into strips, packed together with egg and flour, and deep fried to make a crispy snack. Valein’tehral) Another common street food and snack, these balls of rice and cheese are wrapped around a center of podded greens, and then fried into tiny balls, often served at fairgrounds or tournaments. STARLIGHT FASHION. Celian fashion is traditionally split between two categories, that being class, and gender, with fashion in general being highly conservative and traditional, influenced heavily by military culture and dress code laws. This distinction between gender and class often reflects social dynamics in Celia’nor, with lower class fashion often being more unisex and practical, and higher class being more distinct and embellished. Male upper class) Known for its heavy influence from military dress code, the male upper class strikes itself as bold and dignified, reflecting their status as part of the upper crust of Celian society. Most upper class males will sport waist high slim pants, with some retaining overlaying robes. Many wear either leather boots for height and practicality, whereas others will dress in dress shoes for a more refined look. Most commonly adorned is a loose blouse piece with trim cuffs to fit the arm. Most prominent of all however, is the addition of the Divadri’cot, a sleek military-esque trench coat that loosely drapes over the shoulders, making the shoulders appear broader and well defined, while also serving practically for colder or rainy weather. Many often sport a ceremonial Saber, or a Sul’sil at their hip. Mira’tai Dress line Feta’tai Dress line Female upper class) Women of the upper class often have the most diverse and bold designs, with many pushing the limits of fashion to be the most unique and outstanding. Remaining dressed conservatively, dress trains are often low, with some even being as long as 10 feet, with bright colors such as floral notes or white and gold. Many often follow a code of seasonal dress, summer dresses being looser, bigger and more flowy to reflect spring and summer, whereas winter dresses often share slimmer dresses with warmer coat like tops. The Mira’tai line of dress is characterized by silk fabrics, with a significantly longer dress train known as a Asii’lent that is layered like petals of a flower around a wider brim dress skirt. Sporting a waist level silk belt, the tops of these dresses are fitting and breathable, sometimes containing a corset as often the upper chest is more freely exposed with wide straps. The Feta’tai line includes slimmer fitting clothes, which on occasion drops the skirt for dress pants, but commonly uses a more rigid cotton fabric than silk. The tops are almost universally closed off, sporting a more military uniform look with neck collars, and shoulder embellishments. Regardless of the style, the most common addition in female fashion is that of the headdress. While each one is generally different, headdresses combined with unique hairstyles is the most popular piece of clothing in high women’s fashion, whether it be the Talyiinist veil, the Golden wreaths, the branch crown, or flower crown, it’s a significant fashion statement amongst highborn women. Male lower class) With fashion being less of a societal requirement in the lower ranks, male Celian fashion is much more relaxed and practical than its highborn counterpart. Prioritizing its ability for cheap clothing and practicality for daily life and combat, the most common line of fashion is Hiihal’onn which encompasses knee high boots, pants, a waist wrap, and a long top that drapes past the waist and to the thighs, sometimes with an outer coat wrap that can reach the thighs. This wear is practical for daily use and work, making it one of the most common and reliable fashion styles amongst men. Female lower class) Due to a lack of norms of fashion with the lower class, the female bench is more unisex than its highborn counterpart, with greater freedom and variation. Much more commonly are pants seen amongst lower born women, reflective of their higher percentage of being in the military. A similar style of men’s Hiuhal’onn is presented in women’s fashion, albeit often including simplified head pieces or more feminine embroidery. While it’s more common to dress in unisex wear, there are alternate forms of Mira’tai and Feta’tai wear for lower class citizens, lacking some of the more extravagant gold or silver additions and avant garde designs, or even adopting more traditional and simplified robes. CELIAN FESTIVITIES. Due to Celia’nor’s militaristic nature, celebrations tend to be focused more upon victories or patriotic fervor, however some yearly festivals do occur regularly. Summer Solstice) In the 6th elvish month, Celia’nor celebrates the summer solstice, often accompanied by circus fairs, festival feasts, and celebrate the middle of the year. Winter Solstice) In the 12th elvish month, they celebrate the winter solstice, celebrations include passing of gifts, hymns and tales of this year’s glory, and family feasts to celebrate the end of the year, as it is believed the winter solstice marks the beginning of the new year, rather than the 1st month. Founding day) Celebrated in the 4th elvish month, the original founding of the principality is celebrated in a month long endeavor, where various celebrations and events are hosted in recognition of the founder Ivarielle’s achievements, the middle of the month being declared as ‘Ivarielle day’. Military day) While military parades are common, Military day is a single day in the year wherein veterans and active service men are venerated for their duty to protect the nation, and equally a time of mourning the dead that have fallen in battle. Harvest Moon day) Celebrated in the 10th month of the year on the day of the harvest moon, this holiday is the most recent, largely having to do with the growing influence of the Talyiinist church. This day is considered to be more of a day of fright and vigilance and treated much more as an omen, as its bright lunar light is associated with darkspawn. While officially in Talyiinist doctrine as a religious holiday, the common people of Celia’nor often celebrate this frightening day dressing in costume of ghouls and darkspawn, going house to house where the owner must either frighten their guest, or part with treats. STAR GUIDED FAITH. Celia’nor for much of its history followed the traditions of atheism much like their Haelun’orian forefathers during the original age of Fi’andria, however more recently has the church of Talyiinism, headed by Princess A’eollaja Ibarellan propped up significantly inside the lands of Celia’nor. Adopted officially under the reign of Iryne the First, the faith of Talyiinism preaches the ideal of the cleanliness of the soul, rejecting traditional worship of gods such as the aspects and aenguls, and instead preaches one should worship the true creator god, Acaele, synonymous with the Canonist god. It is believed Acaele is a broken god, shattered by an unknown demiurge that seeks division, and that only through worship and recognition of god’s existence, may elven kind be redeemed for centuries of blind worship to pretenders such as the aspects. ARCHITECTURE OF THE HEAVENS. Celia’nor boasts a unique style of building, that values the artistry of city building, with the practicality of its usage. Sometimes referred as ‘Mali’siimah’, or tower elves, Celian building is characterized by high rising towers and mega structures that tower into the very heavens themselves, where sunlight often caps the very tips of these towers at dawn and dusk. Often unified with nature in its construction practice, Celia’nor’s famous golden trees typically sprout out of towers and walls as if the very soil itself, where dense, yet cleaned and refined moss and vegetation will grow on select locations. Center to every major urban center, is the iconic Sirame’taliame, the Great Tree, that sprouted first under Ivarielle, and its sapling has been raised to regrow to its’s parent height under the careful care of the Ibarellan family since the doom of Almaris. Basking the nation in a glowing light of gold, the tree is a symbol of the people, and its ability to stand hardship and destruction, that it may inspire and provide insight to many. The standard Lin, or home of a Celia’norian, is generally stacked atop another, wherein homes or businesses can reside above or below another, making the city largely vertical in design. Common structures found in these densely packed and vertical cities include aqueducts to transfer spring water, and sprawling bridge walkways between buildings. Because of these tall structures, much of Celian architecture comes in layers, built around the many heights and layers erected by these megaprojects. They are almost always built with white colored walls, similar to the look of ivory or marble quartz, whereas the rooves are almost always a Celian wine color, or jett black. ☽ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ✯ ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ ☾ Credits @VoxyNoir @Cheeseycereal@TheMysterySlayer @ValleyOfLavender @Laeonathan For idea contributions and writing alongside myself.

The Archprelate would roll the missive’s parchment between her fingers, tapping against the table with a sigh of air. “No signature, no nation status, no courage to even ascribe their name to an inflammatory report. Likely a warlock or some sort of darkspawn pretender. They’re all a disease. You strike one, and somehow they all commune like a hive to lash out. Brace O Celia’nor for more lashing, for we are not yet done striking.” She would wave her hand, before making her way to the palace.

Restructuring of the Choir bilok’hyem el’len Talyiin Table of Contents Introduction Structure Prelatory Seal I. Introduction With the growth of the church of the Talyiin in the elvish world, it has been decreed by the archprelate A’eollaja the First to restructure, and growth the responsibilities, and organization of the faith of the Talyiinist faith. With the decree of ‘bilok’hyem el’len Talyiin’, an official design towards the international growth of the faith for all elvendom has been decided, for a great measure to bring faith to the godless and downtrodden of elven kind, so they may be freed from the constraints of meddler gods, daemonic forest spirits, and pretender cults that seek to divide and conquer. With this, the Archprelate is decreeing a massive restructuring to the existing church organization, and promoting new figures to halp proceed the great push forwards. II. Structure ARCH PRELATE) [Your Enlightenedness/Your Holiness] [Arch Prelate (Title), The (Numeral)] The Arch Prelate stands as the highest authority of the Talyiinist faith, existing as a guiding figure of faith and education in the church, and public view. The Arch Prelate holds nigh-all power over the entire structure of the parish on an international level. While largely baked in the lands of Celia’nor, the church of the Talyiin recognizes its influence sovereign to one nation, and the Arch Prelate’s will over the faithful of all elvendom loyal to Talyiinist ideals in any nation. The Arch Prelate holds power over executive decisions for the church, including orders of Ac’kina’ir, Aheral’dagr, recognition of Ah’acal, and declaration of living Venerates. An Arch Prelate will often denote their successor as the Prime Prelate, by their living will shall succeed them at the time of their abdication, or death. In the case no Prime Prelate is declared, The Prelates themselves shall vote for the successor to the rank of Arch Prelate. PRELATE) [Your Eminence] [Prelate (Title)] Prelates stand as officials of faith on a national level, administering faith for entire countries and kingdoms and officials of faith and guidance. When a nation is presented to carry an immense measure of Talyiinist faithful, the Arch Prelate will raise either a vicar, or Venerate to the position of Prelate in that nation, often recognized based on their deeds to the individual nation over grander church duties. The prelates equally stand as the successors to the Arch Prelate, often the named successor being known as the Prime Prelate. Prelates have the authority to issue measures of Ac’kina’ir, and declare deceased Venerates. Prelates also have the ability to expand the holy scrolls of Miseries and Daemonium. Oftentimes, Prelates will run entire sanctuaries, or grand cathedrals to base their national operations. VICAR) [Your Excellency] [Vicar (Title)] A Vicar is the Highest position of local authority in a parish, being subservient only to their local Prelate, and the Arch Prelate. Vicars are highly responsible for leadership and ministrating Parish outlook, including the dedicated work of updating the holy scrolls of Daemonium and Miseres for submission to their local Prelate. A vicar hosts sermons, and is often supported by a cohort of Curates, Clerics, and a single Chaplain. Vicars are often tasked with caring for a vast monastery, or larger cathedral, holding control of entire dioceses, cities, or local autonomous zones inside a nation. CHAPLAIN) [Your Elegance] [Domine (Title)] Chaplains are officials of high local authority, but are often a more specialized figure of church administration. Largely tasked to service warriors, or lead isolated monasteries and chapels of faith, Chaplains are more of a rare sight for the public eye, as they are much more often seen guiding Clerics to become full on Curates, Issuing blessings to warriors, or guiding nuns and monks in private sanctuaries. Some do take on roles as Vicars to act as aspiring successors for their respective Vicar. CURATE) [Your Reverence] [Reverend (Title)] Curates serve as local ordained officials of the Talyiinist church, being figures of faith and spreading the gospel of truth and education to elvendom. Curates often serve purely within the confines of their own neighborhoods, and districts, with some tasked to run smaller towers and local chapels. A Curate is expected to act with compassion and education for those around them, to teach and guide others as such a teacher would. Curates are often assistants to Vicars and sometimes chaplains, leading sermons in their stead, and converting those to the faith. While rare, a curate can be tasked with running a small chapel in more isolated towns and regions. CLERIC) [Sister/Brother] Clerics are not ordained officials, but instead comprised of monks, nuns, assistants, and even ordained servants to officials of the parish. Often time, Clerics are the beginning phase of most officials in the Parish, starting as Nuns and Monks in a Chaplain’s monastery, often spending years to decades in monasteries bound to personal vows of sacrifice and learning to growth their minds and souls to the teachings of Talyiinism. Some clerics as ordained servants can even be of non-elven status, working as servants and understudies to church officials to learn from them. III. Prelatory Seal A prelatory seal is a larger declaration of official Talyiinist choir decree, issues from either the Arch Prelate, or Prelates beneath them. Various decrees based on Talyiinist doctrine can range from either the elevation of an official to higher recognition, pardoning from religious crimes, or the decleration of punishment for sinners. Various terms exist in the Prelatory Seal, with the most often used, and recognized terms being as below: -Ac’kina’ir) The highest penalty declaration reserved for sinners and enemies to the progress of Talyiinism and elven kind. Those declared to be Ac’kina’ir are recognized to be executed by the faithful and recognized as enemies to the faith. -Aheral’dagr) An officialized declaration of war by the church of the Talyiin, it serves more as a spiritual rally for individuals of the faith to take up arms and support against a denoted foe to the progress and health of the faith of Talyiinism. -Puerith Ah’acal) Recognition of a Martyr, those denoted to be the Ah’acal are figures who are recognized to have bindings or flaws to the purity of their souls, yet their duty to the church is recognized as greater than their affliction. While they are not considered to reach the status of purity by the end of their lives, they are to be celebrated for their purity of heart and mind. -Perith Sirame Aheral) Recognition of a Venerate, whether living or dead, an Sirame Aheral is recognized by the Arch Prelate, or by vote of the council of Prelates, an individual is raised to the position of a venerate, and celebrated by the greater basis of Talyiinism. -Ah’tir) An officialized order by the church, an Ah’tir is a generalized order of law or decree by the faith, whether recognizing mercy for a sinner, declaration of a new law or order to the faithful, or decrying punishment for those who’ve established themselves as enemies to the betterment of elvendom IV. Closing Statements (A notice and reading from her Holiness A’eollaja the First) “~With these changes being made to the Parish being made effective immediately, I am to announce the recognition of several officials and their rise in the ranks of the Choir officially. Firstly, for her most enlightened, and continual service to the church, Yera Silveria is to be elevated to the Title of Prelate, and furthermore, recognized as my named Successor as the Prime Prelate.” “~Furthermore, with the loss of the service of Vicar Freya Athrionn, a hole has been left in the district of Leyu’sil for guidance of faith. However, one has stepped up in all manners, and deserves a proper recognition for their faith, and servitude to the church. Thusly, despite her status as a Ah’Acal, I decree that Reverend Ember be raised to the Status of Vicar of Leyu’sil.” “~May these two noble, and most serene individuals of the faith bring prosperity, and knowledge to the peoples of Elvendom. Iller’ae sulii’an, Acaele; Iller’ae Maehr’sulier’a, Acaele”

Book 3: Sacroscant Aheral’lye, ut’lye Acale’an laureh’ome’ii Epoch 1: 1-1: In the silent stillness of the soul, there speaks the Whisperer of Wisdom. The truth is not loud but whispers in the gentle currents of the heart. Those who quiet their minds shall hear. 1-2: The path to higher truth is not marked by grand signs but by subtle hints and hidden markers. Seek for eyes and the way shall be revealed. 1-3: Look not to the heavens alone, for the light you seek dwells within. As the sun illumines the world, so does the inner light shine upon the mysteries of the soul. Inward, the light dispels shadows of ignorance. 1-4: Gaze into the mirror of your soul, and there you shall see the divine. The reflection of truth is often hidden beneath layers of illusion. Peel away the veils, and the face of the Eternal shall be revealed. 1-5: True wisdom speaks not with words but with silence. In the quiet of contemplation, the silent teacher imparts lessons unseen and unheard. Listen with the ears of the spirit, and understanding shall blossom. 1-6: In the sacred union of heart and mind, the higher truth is consummated. Let reason and intuition dance together, and the offspring shall be enlightenment. Harmony within breeds clarity without. 1-7: Beware the veil of illusion that cloaks the material world in the light of the moon. Piercing through this veil requires the sword of discernment and the shield of faith. Beyond the veil lies the realm of the Real. 1-8: Drink deeply from the sacred ichor that springs from the truth of the enlightened. Its life force nourish the soul and cleanses the mind. Parched is the spirit that seeks only the temporal and neglects the eternal. 1-9: In the cycle of birth and death, the soul is stolen from the vessel of the mortality. Seek the true undeath, for the renewal of the soul is the gate of enlightenment. 1-10: In the sacred silence, the highest truths are spoken. Words falter and fail before the grandeur of the Infinite. In silence, the soul communes with the Eternal, and the higher truth is known. 1-11: Beyond the horizon of the mortal mind lies the realms of the higher truth. Strive not to reach it with haste but with patience and persistence. As the sun rises to eclipse the moon, so shall your understanding dawn. 1-12: In the final revelation, all veils are lifted, and the soul stands before the cosmic presence. There, in the light of the Eternal, the highest truth is revealed: All is One, and One is all. Epoch 2: 2-1: Seek not the illusions cast by the silver sphere, for in its glow lies the madness of deceit. 2-2: The moon's light is but a reflection, a pale imitation of the true Source; gaze instead upon thy self. 2-3: In the darkness of night, the ignorant and sinful are led astray by the shifting shadows, their hearts swayed by the moon's fickle dance. 2-4: Hold fast to the Light within, that you may see clearly even when the world is cloaked in the night. 2-5: For in the moon's embrace, the ignorant find comfort in their dreams, unaware of the Truth that lies beyond. 2-6: The path to Enlightenment is paved within the footsteps of philosophers, each step taken in the clarity of the inner Light. 2-7: Ignorance is a shroud that the moon weaves, its threads delicate yet binding; tear it asunder with the guidance of Insight. 2-8: Blessed is he who discerns the false from the true, who sees beyond the surface and perceives the depths of Wisdom. 2-9: The moon's madness is a test, a trial for the soul; rise above it, and find the serenity of the stars. 2-10: Seek Knowledge as a thirsty man seeks water, for it is the wellspring of life eternal. 2-11: Turn away from the distractions of the moon's lure, and listen to the quiet voice within that speaks of ancient Truths. 2-12: For the moon's light is fleeting, but the Light of the Spirit is everlasting, guiding the soul to its true home. 2-13: The wise man fears not the night, for he carries him the dawn of Understanding. 2-14: Resist the madness of the moon, and embrace the sanity of Knowledge, for therein lies the key to freedom. 2-15: Live without Ignorance, for it is the shadow that follows the moon; step into the Light of the stars, and be free. Epoch 3: 3-1: In the beginning, before the dawn of time, there was the cosmic presence, the source of all creation. It flowed through the void, bringing forth light and life, shaping the cosmos with its divine essence. 3-2: Wisdom cries aloud in the streets, “Seek the Current, embrace its flow, for in its embrace, you shall find the path to transcendence.” 3-3: The fools cling to the material, their hearts bound to the fleeting, but the wise understand that true existence lies beyond the physical realm. 3-4: “Awake, O soul,” cries out our longed creator, “for you are more than flesh and bone. Within you lies the spark of the divine, a fragment of the eternal.” 3-5: Do not fear change, for it is the nature of the Current to shift and evolve. In its movement, it weaves the tapestry of existence, each thread a testament to its boundless creativity. 3-6: Embrace change as the river embraces the sea, for in surrendering to its flow, you shall find renewal and growth. 3-7: The cosmic presence speaks through the winds, dances in the flames, and whispers in the waters. Its voice is the song of creation, a melody of endless possibilities. 3-8: “Listen, my child,” it calls, “and you shall hear the secrets of the universe, the truths hidden within the folds of reality.” 3-9: The wise open their hearts to the Current, allowing its hidden truths to guide them, for they know that in its embrace, they shall transcend the limitations of the flesh. 3-10: “Rise above the mundane,” urges thy creator, “for you are destined for greater things. Your spirit is a vessel of light, meant to soar beyond the stars.” 3-11: Do not be bound by the chains of the material world, for they are but illusions, shadows cast by the light of the divine. 3-12: Seek the Current within your mind’s eye, and you shall find peace in the midst of chaos, strength in the face of adversity, and joy in the journey of life. 3-13: The wise know that the path to transcendence is not easy, but it is the only path worth walking. It is the path of the soul, the journey of the spirit. 3-14: “Do not fear the unknown,” declared forth in our hearts, “for in the unknown lies the potential for greatness, the promise of a higher existence.” 3-15: Embrace the cosmic presence, and you shall be transformed. Your soul shall be lifted, your mind expanded, and your heart filled with the light of the divine. 3-16: In the embrace of the Current, all things are possible. Mountains move, oceans part, and the stars themselves dance to the rhythm of its flow. 3-17: “You are a child of the Current,” danced to the ears of the faithful, “a being of light and love, destined for greatness. Embrace your destiny, and you shall become one with the eternal.” 3-18: The wise understand that the journey is as important as the destination, for in the journey, the soul is purified, the mind enlightened, and the heart opened to the divine. 3-19: “Trust in the Current,” it calls, “and you shall find your way. Your path may be winding, but it is the path you were meant to walk.” 3-20: Embrace the cosmic presence, and let its energy flow through you. In its embrace, you shall find the key to transcendence, the doorway to the eternal. Epoch 4: 4-1: Seek the communion with the Creator, for in this sacred union lies the path to enlightenment. Open your heart and mind, for the divine whispers in the silence of your soul. 4-2: In the hidden veil beyond sight, there dwells a light unseen by mortal eyes. This light, a spark of the Creator, guides the wayfarer to transcendence. He who seeks with inner eyes shall find it.. 4-3: The journey to transcendence is not one of distance but of depth. Plunge into the well of the inner self, for there lies the gateway to the divine. Embrace that which eludes you, for they are but the veils of hidden wisdom. 4-4: Know thyself, for the soul is a mirror reflecting the divine. In the contemplation of the self, the seeker glimpses the face of the Creator. Through self-knowledge, one attains communion with the All. 4-5: We are threads in the tapestry of the collective unconscious, woven by the hand of the Creator. In unity, our souls resonate with the divine symphony, harmonizing the discord of the world. 4-6: In silence, the soul communes with the Creator. Words are but shadows of the eternal truth; in the stillness, the divine speaks. Listen with the ears of the heart and see with eyes of the mind and receive the wisdom of the ages. 4-7: The alchemy of transcendence transforms the base into the divine. Through communion with the Creator, the soul is purified and exalted. Embrace the divine spark within, and rise to the heights of the eternal. 4-8: Life and death are but steps in the eternal dance of the soul. In communion with the Creator, we transcend the cycles of existence, merging with the infinite. Dance with grace, for the divine rhythm leads to enlightenment. 4-9: Within each soul lies a temple, a sanctuary of divine presence. In meditation and prayer, enter this sacred space and commune with the Creator. Here, in the holy of holies, the soul is united with the divine. 4-10: Wisdom is the gift of communion, bestowed by the Creator upon the seeker. It is a light unto the path, illuminating the way to transcendence. Seek wisdom with humility, and the gates of the divine shall open. 4-11: Love is the essence of the Creator, a boundless force that permeates the cosmos. In communion, the soul is enveloped in divine love, transcending all fear and separation. Love thy kindred, for in love, we are one with the Creator. 4-12: All souls are destined to return to the Source, the Creator from whom we emanate. Through communion and transcendence, we fulfill our divine purpose, merging with the infinite. Embrace the journey, for in the end, we are all one with the divine. Epoch 5: 5-1: Behold, the Meddler Outer Gods, whose wisdom stretches beyond the veil of mortal understanding, whose presence is as the hidden light in the deepest night. 5-2: They traverse the realms of infinity, where mortal eyes see not, and their thoughts dance amongst the stars unseen by flesh. 5-3: In their dwelling, time is but a fleeting shadow, and their counsel is as the river that carves the mountain, shaping destinies with each ripple. 5-4: For their insight is the loom upon which the fabric of existence is woven; their hands, the unseen weavers of fate’s design. 5-5: The wise among men may seek to grasp the threads they spin, yet they remain elusive, like the scent of the rose carried by the wind. 5-6: They are the parasites of the cosmos, architects of physical, the keepers of secrets known only to the silence between breaths, beyond the reach of mortal contemplation. 5-7: The foolish attempt to measure their grandeur with the tools of the finite, but the scales they use are but shadows against the vastness of their essence. 5-8: Trust not in the comprehension of the unwise, for their thoughts are as a droplet in the ocean, unable to fathom the depth of the vast expanse. 5-9: Yet trust not in the deception of the fruit of the meddlers, for but yoru soul they seek to service in eternity of their splendor. 5-10: To question their ways is to stand at the edge of the abyss, peering into the void with eyes too dim to perceive the grand design laid before them. 5-11: For the Meddler Outer Gods, the enigma of existence is as clear as the dawn to the all-seeing eye, and their purpose, as certain as the rise of the sun. 5-12: Revere their mystery, for in their hidden knowledge lies the seed of understanding that nourishes the spirit and expands the horizon of thought. 5-13: The mortal heart may seek to understand, yet it is the divine breath of insight that grants glimpses into the unknowable, like stars piercing through the darkened sky. 5-14: Trust not their gifts and temptations, for to be better than they is to embrace the splendor of independence, to seek from their ignorant footsteps is the path to higher understanding. 5-15: Therefore, embrace the ineffable, for in the presence of the Meddler Outer Gods, one finds not answers but the eternal journey of seeking, and in seeking, the essence of true enlightenment. Epoch 6: 6-1: When the Meddler Outer Gods cast their shadow upon the land of mortals, they bring forth both challenge and enlightenment, and the heart of man is tested. 6-2: To resist their meddling is not to oppose the divine, but to temper oneself in the crucible of their influence, forging strength from the fires of their unseen hands. 6-3: The mortal soul, though bound by flesh, possesses the spark of the divine, a flicker of light that yearns to transcend the bounds imposed by the greater forces. 6-4: He who resists the Meddlers does not do so in defiance but in pursuit of wisdom, understanding that through struggle, the essence of growth is revealed. 6-5: For each trial presented by the gods is a lesson veiled in enigma, and in the grappling with these challenges, the mortal spirit is refined and illuminated. 6-6: As the iron is sharpened by the whetstone, so is the soul honed by the resistance against the greater forces. Through this struggle, knowledge is gained, and strength is born. 6-7: The Meddler Outer Gods, in their infinite wisdom, offer shackling dominion, but also opportunity—the chance for the mortal to rise above, to evolve from the cocoon into the butterfly. 6-8: To learn from their influences is to embrace the path of enlightenment, to discern the patterns they weave and to seek the truth within the labyrinth of their design. 6-9: The wise will see that their interventions are not mere disruptions but catalysts for evolution, pushing the boundaries of mortal understanding to greater heights. 6-10: Through the crucible of resistance, the heart becomes steadfast, the mind becomes astute, and the spirit becomes ascendant, prepared to grasp the higher realms of existence. 6-11: He who labors in the shadow of the Meddlers and emerges from their influence with wisdom and clarity shall find himself not beneath but alongside the gods, an equal in the quest for truth. 6-12: The ascent is not swift nor simple, but a journey through the ever-unfolding mystery, guided by the lessons learned and the insights gained in the struggle. 6-13: For in the contest with the divine, there lies the potential for the mortal to surpass the bounds of their origins, to ascend from mere creature to a beacon of enlightened understanding. 6-14: Embrace the resistance as the path of evolution, and let the Meddler Outer Gods be the teachers of perseverance and insight, leading the soul to its destined height. 6-15: Thus shall the mortal rise above the divine influence, not in opposition but in unity of purpose, becoming a co-creator of the grand design, and a vessel of transcendent wisdom. Epoch 7: 7-1: Behold, the radiance of the children of Malin, where the elves gather in joyous celebration, their spirits entwined like the roots of the ancient trees. 7-2: Sing praises to thy kin, for in their light, the essence of Talyiin flows, pure and unblemished, like the waters of the Eternal Stream. 7-3: Let the song of harmony rise above the treetops, for every note is a testament to the unity of the elven soul, a beacon to the seekers of the Hidden Path. 7-4: As the moonlight dances upon the forest floor, so too should thy heart revel in the presence of thy fellow elves, for they are the keepers of the Sacred Blood of the Covenant. 7-5: Spread the teachings of Talyiin with the grace of the wind, for in the whisper of the breeze lies the truth of the Eternal Wisdom, and in the rustle of leaves, the echoes of enlightenment. 7-6: Embrace the art of joy, for it is through the celebration of our kindred spirits that the divine message is carried forth, like seeds upon the fertile soil. 7-7: The words of Talyiin are not bound by scrolls or stone, but live in the minds of those who share their light, like the stars that adorn the night sky. 7-8: Rejoice in the diversity of the elven folk, for each unique light adds to the splendor of the celestial tapestry, woven with the threads of understanding and compassion. 7-9: Let the laughter of the elves be as a symphony to the heavens, for it is in their mirth that the divine truth is revealed, a sacred song of the Infinite One. 7-10: In the gathering of hearts, find the essence of Talyiin, for in unity, there is strength, and in celebration, there is the revelation of the great mystery that binds all life. 7-11: Be the torchbearer of wisdom, guiding the path with the light of Talyiin, for in the journey of enlightenment, every step is a celebration of the divine harmony. 7-12: So let it be known among the elven kin: to honor one another is to honor the very teachings of Talyiin, and in the joy of shared existence, the Eternal Truth shall be made manifest. Epoch 8: 8-1: The Spirit speaks in whispers, and those who listen find the path of enlightenment. 8-2: Seek not the treasures of the earth, for they fade like the morning mist, but seek the treasures of the inner realm, which are eternal. 8-3: The true seeker of wisdom does not gaze upon the surface but peers into the depths of the soul. 8-4: As the light reveals the hidden places, so does knowledge illuminate the heart of the wise. 8-5: In the silence of meditation, the voice of the Divine speaks. He who hears shall understand the mysteries of the cosmos. 8-6: Know that the physical world is but a shadow of the true reality; it is in the unseen that the Divine dwells. 8-7: He who is bound by the chains of material desire is like a prisoner in a dark cell. Only through spiritual freedom can he glimpse the light of the Pleroma. 8-8: The soul that yearns for truth shall find it, but the heart that clings to illusions shall remain in darkness. 8-9: Wisdom is not found in the multitude of words but in the quiet contemplation of the Divine Presence. 8-10: As the seed must die to bear fruit, so must the ego surrender to the Spirit to attain enlightenment. 8-11: The Gnosis is a river that flows from the Divine Source; drink deeply, and your spirit shall be renewed. 8-12: The hidden knowledge is revealed to those who are pure in heart and who walk in the path of righteousness. 8-13: The true teacher does not impose his knowledge upon others but guides them to discover the truth within themselves. 8-14: He who possesses wisdom is rich beyond measure, for he has gained access to the treasures of the eternal realm. 8-15: Let not the fears of the world deter you, for the path to enlightenment is guarded by the Light of the Divine. 8-16: As you seek, so shall you find; as you knock, so shall the door be opened. The mysteries of the Divine are revealed to those who earnestly seek them. 8-17: The Divine speaks through the stars and the silence of the night; listen with your spirit, and you shall hear. 8-18: The veil that separates the visible from the invisible is revealed with inner eyes. Through contemplation and purity, it shall be lifted, and the hidden truth shall be revealed. 8-19: Blessed are those who walk in the light of Gnosis, for their eyes shall behold the true nature of existence. 8-20: The wisdom of the ages is not bound by time but flows through the heart of the seeker, renewing and awakening the soul. 8-21: To understand the Divine is to know the self; to know the self is to unite with the Divine. 8-22: Embrace the mysteries with humility and faith, for in the embrace of the unknown lies the path to the Infinite. 8-23: The path of wisdom is a journey of the soul; tread it with reverence, for it leads to the eternal embrace of the Divine.

“Tck, they never learn” The arch prelate bit her bottom lip in thought, tapping her metallic fingers against her desk as she observed her First Abbess’ work. “Perhaps we’ve been too light of hand upon these cretins. We’ve allowed them to simply fester, now they think they can beg canondom into serving Darkspawn? If I were Fleeperus, I would be insulted by these creatures dare imagining they were capable of manipulating him. Perhaps it’s time I have a word with him. Him and I do share a passion for burning crusades.” She noted with a pleasant hum, summoning her scribe to prepare a letter

I WAS HERE

"Excellent Celian diplomacy as ever." The Archprelate noted, as she waved her hand to the First Abbess Yera. "Prepare the legions for inquisition. We've many creatures of the dark to crucify." @Ewdrawings

The elfess simply looked upon the missive, incense rising above her private study as she ran her golden fingers along the page, curt amusement leaving her lips. “Amusing. This? This is the supposed doom to bring down a nation? Perhaps I should take a note of dear old Caius’ book and march south. See for myself if those weaker powers are as innocent as they make themselves out to be.” She noted to herself, before writing for the office of the Abbess. The work of almighty would be done.

"The Hunt is on" Called forth the Arch Prelate, as she alerted her holy blades of their new mission

The Holy Blade Order of Vt. Thelia Ne’estel Vull’talii Table of Contents I. Introduction II. Structure III. Oath of the Blade IV. Conduct V. Arms VI. The Hunt VII. Enlistment I. Introduction The Holy Blades are a paramilitary organization under the Talyiinist parish, based in Celia’nor. Inspired by the threat of anegulic and daemonic threats alike, the church organized a force of scholars, scientists, and combatants alike to run as a security force against various supernatural threats to the security of Celia’nor, and to a degree, elvendom. While headed by the guidance of the Arch Prelate, the organization is administered by the joint operation of the Head Abbess, and the First Hunter. These two consuls make a majority of the daily decisions, and work in tandem towards outside threats with the approval of the Arch Prelate. While they are often given a wider range of authority, the Holy Blades are held to the same laws of Celia’nor’s land, and are expected to relinquish prisoners to the Diraar if requested. II. Structure First Abbess The First Abbess is the head of the order of abbesses, selected by the Arch Prelate for commendations on skill and knowledge in both Talyiinist doctrine, and scholarly research. The First Abbess is often a figure of guidance and information for the Holy Blades, in which it is viewed that the most highly skilled and most intelligent are capable of reaching this esteemed position. The First Abbess is the leading authority figure amongst all other abbesses, and responsible for issuing missions for research and science. They are equally responsible for the outreach of collaboration of the Holy Blades with foreign military forces, and are relied upon for leadership if the Arch Prelate is either indisposed or unavailable. First Hunter The First Hunter is the head of the branch of Hunters, in which the strongest of the hunters is selected by the Arch Prelate to act as leadership and guidance. The First Hunter is often selected based on skill and talent, in which those with the highest, or most effective kills can be selected for this role. However, the nature of requiring the strongest to lead leaves this position to be easily challengeable, in which other hunters may claim the rite of Sirame Dagre, in which the Arch Prelate will be asked to observe and judge the duel. The rite is often left to yield, but to the death is not unheard of by accepting parties. The First Hunter often commands respect in seniority and skill to fellow hunters, by their skill in battle and wisdom off the field. Abbesses The order of Abbesses is a separate branch from the main blade caste. This role is exclusive for women, in which the role of abbess can only largely be given after spending time in the ranks of the Maidens. Abbesses are largely condensed of Scholars, Alchemists, Preachers, Medics, Treasurers, and senior Magi who are given clearance to serve underneath the parish. The abbesses often operate in the home front of the parish, producing research and weapons to the Holy Blades to assist them in their duties and quests. The order cares for various scrolls and writings to help support further research of supernatural activity, with the main goal to distribute knowledge of effective countermeasures towards enemies. Abbesses often provide blessings for hunters, in which each is given a protective blessing before being sent out on a mission, while providing all the gear and material needed. An Abbess will be assigned several maidens to assist and tutor into an assigned field, or how to guide assigned hunters during missions, while maidens will assist in the duties and needs of their Abbess. Maidens Maidens are the largest portion of the order of Abbesses, in which they provide an immense amount of general services and supportive duties towards Hunters. A maiden is the starting position of any abbess, in which they must take a several year long tenure as a maiden before they can become an abbess. While maidens lack the specialization of abbesses, they are often trained in a general field of select supportive abilities, such as alchemy, medical knowledge, and in rare cases, magic. A maiden is assigned towards a specific abbess for guidance, who will often mentor them in either a specialized skill, or the Talyiinist faith. Maidens are then assigned to Hunters during missions, to act as a support role in either providing blessings, medical support, or research collection for the order. A maiden will assist daily duties of an abbess, such as note taking, medical duty, secretarial work, and other daily needs of an Abbess to keep the order moving smoothly for more senior members of the order. Hunters The Hunters comprise the largest militarized branch of the holy blades, comprising various warriors, battle mages, and trackers in search of beasts, and darkspawn alike. Hunters are the most populous branch of the Holy Blades, but each hunter is often accompanied by a maiden to help support their missions. A hunter is generally trained in both single and team combat, wherein a group of hunters will rely on squad battle tactics, whereas a sole hunter will rely upon speed and diversion. During the New-Blood phase, all hunters are trained in spear tactics to keep enemies at a distance, but upon passing the rite of the hunter, they will be tutored in the art of heavy weapons, favorites being cleavers, and crushing weapons to fight off larger opponents, or as an intimidation factor. The Rite of the Hunter, is a coming of age ritual in the ranks of the Blades, in which a new blood is sent out into the wilderness of Celia’nor with no weapon or gear. If they can return to the main city, with hunted game, they are raised to the rank of hunter. Those that bring back higher game, especially beasts, are often raised faster in rank due to their higher quality and potential. New Blood New bloods are made up of recruit members of the Holy Blades, generally made up of either initial recruits, or mobilized levies to bolster the Celian military. New Bloods by this virtue are considered to be less skilled and trained as other members of the Holy Blades. They often spend a several year tenure under the title of New Blood to train specifically in group tactics, and field specialization rather than individual combat like standard Hunters. Whereas Hunters are trained in heavy weapons, a New Blood is often trained in spear, and distance combat to preserve life and asset value in further training. New Bloods are drilled in intense field marches, backwoods survival, hunting, and identification by higher ranked members. The training can be quite grueling, especially within the tundra northern expanses of Celia’nor proper, but ends with hardened results in the Hunters. A New Blood will often accompany a Hunter and Maiden duo to gain experience similar to a knight squire, often expected to do much of the heavy labor to train harder in assisting their Hunter. III. Oath of the Blade While initially belonging to the ranks of the Hunters, the Oath of the Blade has been expanded towards the entirety of the ranks of the Holy Blades, from maidens and abbesses alike, the Oath is shared by all members to pursue the preservation of the eternal hunt. “I am the Hunter in the Night. I am Starlight alit in the Darkness. I am the Shadow that eclipses the Moon. I am the Dawnbreaker of First Light. I will hunt the Moon’s Servants until Day breaks. By the Blade and by the Blood shall be Known. I pledge my Honor to the Hunt, for this Night and all to Come.” This Oath is often performed by recruits, mainly new-bloods and maidens upon being officalized into the Holy Blades, wherein an Abbess or Hunter will have those now oathbound light the first flame before sundown, taking first watch over the night. IV. Conduct The code of conduct for the Holy Blades reflects much of the same values and responsibilities of the proper military force of Celia’nor, sharing its same rules, and expectations. While run more as a Militia than a proper military, the Holy Blades are expected to follow basic tenets. Article One: Thou shall swear to abide by the laws of the Homeland, and Abide by the Law Enforcers. Article Two: Thou shall be righteous in his or her quest against the night, for the night will be cruel and unjust. Article Three: Thou shall abide by the will of the Divadri, The Crown, and the Arch Prelate before enacting judgment Article Four: Thou shall not abandon or defy the Crown, or the Arch Prelate Article Five: Thou shall await orders, before enacting judgment. Article Six: Thou shall not tamper their hands in matters of Law Enforcement, for thou’s mission is with the hunt. Article Seven: Thou shall raise arms in times of war or duress for the homeland. Article Eight: Thou will not interfere in the law of foreign lands. Article Nine: Thou will be impartial and swift, thou will reserve execution for the cruel and mindless, capture for the sick and reasonable. Article Ten: Thou will never dishonor thyself by cowering from the Night. V. Arms The uniform of a hunter is devoid of plate or chainmail armor, relying solely on light leather armor, as speed and finesse is viewed as far more valuable to combatting larger opponents, and longer off road marches. While the uniform may seem light and unintimidating, it is not without its teeth, as most hunters are considered a walking armory with various potion and salt pouches. A hunter will often carry heavy weapons, those being the Saw Cleaver, the Bone Hammer, the Righteous Greatsword, the Hunters Halberd, the Executioner Sword, or the Bull Mace. All Hunters are however trained in spear and shield combat as New Bloods. Their uniform is meant to protect them from the elements such as the cold, rain, mud, dust and to some degree; fire, with an easy to discard overcoat. A hunter’s gear is built to last through any environment on foot, leading to an excellent endurance of surveys and hunts. {Various Weapons of the Hunter Armament} VI. The Hunt The Hunt, also known as Ker’orrar, is the ultimate pursuit of the Holy Blades under the intrinsic ideals of the Talyiinist faith. As the spearhead of the faith, the Blades view the Hunt as sacred. The cleansing of beasts and meddler’s vessels alike are the ultimate goal of each Blade and their masters. While some may view their methods as both extreme and cruel, nothing is beyond the pursuit of salvation. Inspired by witnessing the horrors of the Mori Invasion, and the Red Lich of Aevos, the motto ‘Never Another Long Night’ was adopted by the creed of the hunt, to protect Celia’nor’s prosperity, and to a larger degree the elven world. The Hunt itself is seen as not only duty, but ritual enlightenment. Before every mission, blessings and hymns of fortune and guidance are blessed upon each brave blade, from maidens and new bloods, to hunters and abbesses alike. Given the dangerous nature of beasts, horrors, and meddler’s creations alike, to risk one's eternal soul is valued in a grand gesture of true sacrifice and dedication to the parish. Before each hunt, just before sundown, Hunters will be joined by abbesses and Maidens in their grand halls, in which the ceremonial brazier is lit alight by first watch, setting alight torches for each hunter. Abbesses will then grant blessings and marks of soot upon the foreheads of each Hunter and Maiden attending, before torches are claimed from the brazier. Upon the last light, the hunt will set out, whether inquisition along the countryside, or to raid covens and crypts alike, the hunters descend upon nightly watches around the borders of Celia’nor to protect from those in the dark. Upon expedition to foreign aid missions, or departing from war, various blessings are passed by maidens of sacrament and soot. During wartime with long standing traditions, Blood Blossoms or Midnight Jasmine flowers are often gifted to hunters as a gesture to either return bearing the mark of the enemy, or to be buried with honor. VII. Enlistment To enlist amongst the Blade’s ranks, one need only issue a letter to the Arch Prelate of their intention to join the ranks of the order. (OOC: To apply, either approach IG to user @Havsbris_ or write a letter in the comments below with the following information) IGN: Persona Name: Position interested: Discord Contact: (Can be sent through private forums DM)

The ibarellan marched before the altar of the grand cathedral--stained in the blood of those who called her family, stained in the filth and gore of the unholy in such sacred ground. She paced the halls to stand before the altar, the blood of her nephew stained upon her hands as her tired, sullen gaze stared out--gold against gold as but the darkness of her scared stared back at her in the reflection of her mechanical palm. She had let it happen again, another she so swore to be safe under her watch, the lineage she promised upon her life to maintain. And at the hands of such cruel agents to have done the deed. Betrayal--anger--visceral hatred encompassed her as her mechanical fingers clenched hard together into a fist. Silent anger resonating over empty halls before her visage peered to the gore laid bare on the floor, droplets of vile blood having stained a portrait of her 'sister', Ivarielle the Great, the prophet. The Valkyrie stared at the painting as she spoke "Sister--Dearest. Founder, mentor, guide yet so mysterious. I failed you before, I failed you today. You've given me family, and I have once more not protected it." She languished to the painting, her mechanical hand unbaling, as she rested against the monument, speaking "What've I given to be worthy to you, I've not yet found." She lowered her gaze, sitting in silence before she looked upon the final point in which the demon towered over her nephew, before she stood tall. "But yet have I wavered my dedication. To your legacy, I will uphold. To your line, I will avenge in fashion only you would do--sister, dearest. Your children and theirs will have their peace." She declared firmly, as she collected her sword from her hip--this fight would not be over, for at the ends of the earth she would find them. The hunt was on.

Hallowed Venerates Sirame Aheral Table of Contents I. Introduction II. Veneration Stratum III. Venerate Litany I. Introduction The Sirame Aheral is a recognized person amongst the Talyiinist faith with exceptional recognition for their duties to the identity, history, and insight towards the Talyiinist faith. Viewed as those of higher honor above all for their duties, the Sirame Ahera are considered to be those worthy of higher emulation within the choir’s public canonization. The process to becoming a Venerate is often a long task, with a significant amount recognized for either their deeds for the faith, or Mali’aheal, especially from Celian history. Vicars are responsible for presenting the deeds and character of a prospective Venerate, often which includes details such as their feats, their wisdom, possession of that which is holy, and leading as an exemplary model or teacher for the talyiinist faith and Celian culture. There are however, some distinctions between types of Venerates II. Veneration Stratum Venerates are often divided between three relical classes to define their intrinsic value towards those of the faith, as while all venerates are valued equally, they can be for different reasons. Archival Venerates) venerated for their proven duties and justifiable actions as leaders and great heros, the Archival Venerates are often elevated for their quality of character and their deeds in life, providing miracles to those around them. Dynastic Vemerates) venerated for their wisdom to guide forth the Celian people, under the mandate of the lineage of Ibarellan, all Dynastic Vemerates are members of the royal house of Celia’nor who’ve had the blessed privledge to guide the nation through its struggles. Dynastic venerates can equally apply to those of noble hours awarded a Patron Veneration. Sanctified Venerates) venerated for the dedication to the Talyiinist faith, miracles produced at the hands of the insightful and wise teachers of the faith, they are often elevated to this status for their quality of character, and service to the faith. III. Venerate Litany Currently there are 8 total saints, each one often assigned a greater insight they were known for, or miracle they brought to the world. Ivarielle Ibarellan - The Silver Phoenix - Patron of Leadership - Dynastic) The great founder of Celia’nor, and legendary founder of the royal line of Ibarellan. Illarion Ibarellan - The Securer - Patron of Strategy - Dynastic) The royarch successor to Ivarielle the Great, who grew Celia’nor to the dominant elven power of Almaris. Illyria Ibarellan - The Reclaimer - Patron of Reverence - Dynastic) The great reclaimer who rebirthed the nation of Celia’nor from the ashes of the Tyrant Wynasul’s ruins. Illthrak Ibarellan - The Vanquisher - Patron of Domain - Dynastic) The patron of the great renaissance of Celia’nor, an unbroken age of cultural revitalization and new thinking, while cultivating new lands for Celia'nor. Thelia - The Steadfast - Patron of Strength - Archival) The great knight of Celia’nor, a martyr who fended off the corrupt meddler of Azdromoth. Serigne Py’lrie - The Gilded - Patron of Prosperity - Archival) Celia’nors great financial minister, who lead the people of Celia’nor towards unfettered financial prosperity. Athleon Py’lrie - The Commander - Patron of Soldiers - Archival) The great soldier Mordu’lar, who helped found the divadri and revolutionized the concept of an elvish military.

The image link broke @Sander

The Symposium of Talyiinism Ne’estel vull’talii ah'haelun, Tillun'ae ay'allim Table of Contents I. Introduction II. Rituals III. The Parish IV. The Compendium I. Introduction Talyiinism is a spiritual and cultural set of notions widely accepted among the population of Celia'nor. 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. Created during the nationalism of Celian culture and renaissance, the beliefs of Talyiinism complement existing traditions and philosophies of the community, combined with roots in alchemy and science. From examining the history of aenguldaemonic influence, it was concluded that either party or other pretenders had the interest of Elvendom at heart, all seen as incomprehensible titans at conflict above. 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 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. II. Rituals Moon and the stars 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 curates and vicars. Communion Preamble/origin Communion is seen as a collective beckoning or exchanging of higher thought and spirituality amongst Talyiinists. Exclusively led by a member of the upper parish choir, typically a Vicar, the sermon must be prepared before mass, in which the Altar is prepped for each service. The altar is first lined by the sacred shroud, in which a cloth is laid atop the lower altar wherein the relics will lay. Upon the upper altar two dishes of sacramental water and Sacred blood are positioned. The five candles Five candle stands are prepped, in which each candle atop the altar is lit by two separate parish members, these two will attend to the wafting of sacred incense and oils as the main Vicar works upon the altar. The shroud will be lightly sprinkled by finger with fresh water from the first bowl, before the vicar lays the relics upon the altar’s shroud. Most common relics include the preserved bones of saints of Talyiinism, and always the saint’s needle. Once the altar is prepared following the Vicars prayer, “O Acaele, Aheral’maehr, E’anniler, E’maelu’ehya’a, Ito’hilea, Lye’onn Acaele, Adont eom Lye’onn Tuva’celia’onn Len.” the sermon is ready to begin. During the parish service, communion will be called during the reading, in which lower parish members will service the gathering with goblets of sacrament wine, treated in similar fashion of a reflection of Sacred Blood. Vicar’s Prayer The Vicar will turn to the altar, kneeling before the altar, guiding the parish service through the enlightened prayer ““Iller’ae sulii’an, Acaele; Iller’ae Maehr’sulier’a, Acaele” when they stands to greet the altar, they will prick a finger upon the saint’s needle, and offer three droplets of blood at minimum, one for the altar, one for the bowl of fresh water, and one to the bowl of Sacred blood. When this process is finished, the Vicar will ask the communion to imbibe upon the sacrament, and take a moment for deeper reflection and prayer in silence. Once the vicar resumes the service, the lower parish members will collect the goblets from the crowd. Sacred Blood Due to the magical properties of elven blood, it is believed that blood has a link towards divinity and enlightenment, being the natural life giver amongst all species of creation. Blood therefore has an intrinsic identity within communion and symbolism within the identity of Talyniism, where it is regarded that blood is viewed as not only the root of life, but the intrinsic medium between the soul and the material. It is viewed that the blood of the covenant is the binding force between all the faithful as the inherent link between all elvish kind. During times of communion, a priest will prick their finger upon the altar, in which but a drop of blood is consecrated, while the onlookers of communion will imbibe upon the sacramental wine, a reflection of the blood of the covenant. III. The Parish The parish is the collective structural body of the faith, organized between three select branches of organized faith that all act underneath the oversight of the Archprelate, with Vicars and the First Abbess holding the most power afterwards. Land is often ascribed to those figures as well, with dioceses for vicars to help spread the faith in further locations and establish their own choirs across the realm of Celia’nor. Choir Assembly The choir is the centralized authority of religious and liturgical practitioners within the Parish. The Choir is responsible for active outreach towards the faithful and upholding the teachings of Talyiinism towards a greater audience of Elvish kind. The Choir is largely responsible for duties including ceremony, blessings, and upkeep or updating the scrolls of Daemonium and Miseres. Vicar) A Vicar is the Highest position of power in the Choir, being subservient only to the Archprelate. Vicars are highly responsible for leadership and ministrating Parish outlook, including the dedicated work of updating the holy scrolls of Daemonium and Miseres. A Vicar is equally responsible for electing Saints based on cases of recognized miracle work. Each vicar is assigned their own diocese and cathedral to be ordained. Curate) Curates are official members of the parish dedicated towards clerical work. Many are scribes or scholars with interest in pursuing various methods of enlightenment and tutoring others through Clerical service. Curates are often well respected individuals with a strong standing in the Choir. Silent Sisters The Silent Sisters are the phantom limb of the Parish, Judge and Jury, these high ranking members are exclusively dedicated towards the Archprelate, and their identities are not made public. They are ears and eyes, and much of their direct duty is highly unknown. They are dominated by a structural order of strength and cunning, that decides their rank and position. Holy Blades The Holy Blades are the paramilitary branch of the Parish, a group specifically made up of Hunters, Maidens, and Crusaders all dedicated in loyalty to the vision of Talyiinism and the parish. The holy blades encompass the largest amount of diversified roles, in which the blades are largely divided between the mixed gender branch of Hunters, and the female only branch of maidens. The Hunters are specifically designated towards combating harmful elements of the moon’s influence, largely being agents of Aenguldaemons and their influences. Hunters can be diversified into mini-roles such as artificers, scholars, stewards, and proper hunters. The branch of maidens is designated towards more religious, and supportive roles, in which abbesses are selected towards a whole company of hunters to offer blessings and boons, whereas maidens are often assigned towards specific hunters to accompany during solo missions. New-bloods are recruits and specifically trained by a ranked hunter, making many missions a three man squad if not larger. Clerical Structure IV. The compendium The Tuvatir, or ‘Compendium’ is a collection of five holy books of high elven origin, namely ‘Edification’, ‘Ascendancy’, ‘Sacrosanct’, ‘Daemonium’, and ‘Misereres’. All five books together form the Compendium, which is used for a number of philosophical and liturgical purposes by Taliiynist scholars and clerics. Many often refer to the text as a grimoire due to its heavy influence from various divination sources of magic, alchemy, and science. The compendium shares several words and titles towards a singular, shattered creator, with most titles being attributed to ‘The Cosmic Presence’, or simply ‘Acaele’ who is the amalgamation of all living life. It equally refers to other Aenguls, Daemons, and other meddlers as ‘Outer Gods’, it is believed long ago one if not one demiurge but all were responsible for the forced binding of Acaele, and thus creators of reality. Thus the power of thought is viewed as the prime capability to fend off would-be invaders of the mind. Among the core tenets of the Tuvatir, is the belief of ‘Divination by Cultivation’, or the theory that by extending one's perception and insight of the horrors beyond, that such collective knowledge unlocks a mental enlightenment and ascendancy. The more who become aware of this concept, the greater the strength of the collective unconscious, moving towards a collective uplifting. Prayer Prayer is often considered different from worship of the creator, and much rather a period of inner reflection and deeper thought, and often engaged in solidarity at congregation, or privately in one’s comfort. Prayer is exclusively done in elvish, in which there are various statements and deeper reflections asked for while in their moment of reflection and thought. Often prayer will have the individual lower their head; sometimes lowering to their knees, and make the gesture of wisdom, a hand gesture of two raised fingers before their head. This pose can be held for the duration of prayer, often accompanied by the use of a personal icon or rosaries in the free hand. Some common prayers are as follows 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” Vicar’s Prayer) “O Creator, Divine Wisdom, guide me on my path, To know myself and to know thee, In the harmony of unity, let us merge, And be one with the eternal cosmic symphony.” - “O Acaele, Aheral’maehr, E’anniler, E’maelu’ehya’a, Ito’hilea, Lye’onn Acaele, Adont eom Lye’onn Tuva’celia’onn Len.” Our Chosen) “O our chosen, give us eyes and guide us.” - “O Laureh’ae, Iller’ae sulii’an Annilier’eyha” Protect us) “O creator, protect us from evil spirits, guide us through the night.” - “O Acaele, Evar’eyha Ailer, Annil’eyha narn’ker” Fear it) “Fear the beguiled blood” - “Ne’estel vull’talii” Fear it (Extended)) “We are born of the blood, bonded by the blood, and die by the blood. Fear the Blood” - “Lye’onn Talii, Kreyn’onn Talii, Eth’onn Talii. Ne’estel vull’talii”

The archprelate thought quietly as the missive was read to her, the elfess resuming to her duties within Cathedral halls. "So Ravenswood has chosen the path of wickedness. A shame. I'll pray for them to deliver themselves." She noted in thought "Ne'estel Vull'talii" She gestured to those of the faith to prepare arms, for such sin in ignorance could not be ignored.

“Genocide. We were all born Haelun’orians, children of el cihi, who attempted to assert our right to a fair and democratic election by the people for the people. And those unsavory of Ni’Leya and the Bronze band that Haelun’or even now disparages led the charge against the people. This is the insanity those people bred.” The elfess noted to the missive.

[!] The following missive would be pinned to poster boards around the city, and the highways outside of the city. Published: 20th of the Deep Cold ,165 A warning to the Citizens of Celia’nor issued from the High Council, A documented Serial killer patrolling the Highways of Celia'nor has been brought to the attention of the Council. An Uruk has been patrolling just outside the city on his horse mount, banditing for sport the citizens of Celia'nor. This is not his first attempt, and despite previously being declared as dead, his return has been noted by the Divadri and Council. Further handling of this pest will be handled by the resilient Divadri. However for the common citizens, we issue a warning for public safety and assistance of the Divadri. Do NOT engage with this Uruk Do NOT go out alone at night Do NOT allow any uruk inside the city without Divadri approval If you see or are approached by this Uruk, IMMEDEATLY Scream for assistance IMMEDEATLY report any sightings of this uruk to your nearest Divadri patrolman [!] DESCRIPTION [!] This Uruk is roughly eight feet in height, and of large build. He bears reddish skin with blackened hair. He is usually seen wearing a black colored outfit and half-covering face piece. He is often seen riding on horseback, usually bearing a blunted weapon. If you spot any Uruk that seems suspicious, immediately report it to your nearest military official. [An Artist's Depiction] Signed, Councilor A'eollaja Ibarellan WARNING: We are coming for you Ael'Uruk

The councilor of Celia'nor stared at the missive--was yet another batch of maps gone to waste over the name? A simple shrug was offered "We'll be there soon"

“An age of reclamation begins.” A’eollaja dipped her quill as she completed scribing the next chapter of history, before she extinguished the Candle lights of the room.

MC-Name: Havsbris_ RP-Name: A'eollaja Ibarellan Persona-ID: 70907

Reminder you specifically came into Celia’nor vc with me and twi to propose dismantling Elysium, giving us their land, amd playerbase, just so you could remove tigergiri and crines. Don’t start throwing rocks at glass walls unless you wanna get into it.

given they brought up the fact the Vale supposedly got ‘harassed’ just shows this was oocly based. Twi, and celianor have expressly avoided the vale for the entire duration of the nations existence due to knowing how toxic the community’s leadership is, and how much the Vale ST have been bad mouthing Celia’nor and twi for months in staff chats, just goes to show that this was oocly targetted. Good work providing further for one community at the expense of others.