The Tathvir Bloodline
History
The Tathvir Bloodline traces its roots to the icy, mountainous reaches of Wyrvun’s domain, where the Princedom was founded. The lineage was founded by Amara Tathvir, a matriarch renowned for both her courage in battle and her care for her people. She fought alongside her frostborn kin to defend their homes from threats, establishing a legacy of valor amongst the mali'fenn.
Under Amara’s guidance, the Tathvir flourished. Many scions became healers of great renown, while others took up arms of blades, bows, and spears alike to protect the Princedom in its wars and crises. The bloodline’s influence grew, not merely through strength, but through great commitment to the wellbeing of the Fennic people.
Amara’s death marked a turning point. Bereft of her guiding hand, the Tathvir experienced a brief period of uncertainty and internal strife. Yet even in this, the values she instilled endured. From this moment arose the tradition of electing an Archon, a senior Tathvir entrusted with leading and upholding the responsibilities of the bloodline.
Through the centuries, the Tathvir have evolved from defenders of the Princedom to the living embodiment of Fennic unity. They became mediators, first responders, and guardians, ensuring that no conflict festers and no soul is left uncared for. Their history is not measured merely in battles won or enemies defeated, but in the countless lives touched and protected by their enduring efforts.
Modern Leadership: Elyndra Tathvir
In the present age, the Tathvir lineage is guided by Elyndra Tathvir, who has assumed the mantle of Archon with an ambitious vision. Recognizing the need to adapt the bloodline’s traditions to a changing world, Elyndra has dedicated herself to the revival and unification of the Fennic people, seeking to ensure that the values of the Tathvir remain relevant for a modern era.
Under her leadership, the structure of governance has been reformed. Elyndra has overseen a thorough reorganization of the Fennic state, revising the Ivae’fenn to better reflect the expected principles of structure. Her reforms are not merely administrative, they are deeply cultural and redefine what it means to be a proud member of Fenn in a time where the survival of the people demands adaptability as much as tradition.
Elyndra has also updated the standards and the goals of the bloodline, emphasizing accountability, compassion, and presence in new and tangible ways. She has expanded the scope of the Tathvir’s duties, reinforcing the expectation that each member actively contributes to the wellbeing of the community while remaining a living embodiment of justice, guidance, and support.
Beliefs
The Tathvir believe that the strength of the Mali’fenn lies not in dominance, but in unity. To them, Wyrvun’s domain is not merely the frozen north, it is the endurance of a people bound together against it. Survival is not an individual act, but a collective one.
They do not see themselves as chosen above others, nor as the strongest among their kin. Instead, they believe they are responsible. They are responsible for:
The wellbeing of their people.
The resolution of internal conflict.
The safe integration or removal of outsiders.
Values
Unity Above All
No pride, feud, or ideology outweighs the survival of the people.
Compassion as Duty
Kindness is not optional, it is expected.
Fair Justice
Every voice is heard, every judgement is considered.
But once decided, it is upheld.
Presence
A Tathvir does not abandon others, physically or emotionally.
Understanding Before Action
To act without knowing is to risk harming one’s own.
Traditions
Ceremonial Traditions
Life Celebrations
When a child is born, the bloodline gathers to honor the new life and parents.
Prayers of protection and wellbeing are offered, gifts are exchanged, and a communal feast is held.
A book is passed around for members to write encouragement, wisdom, or memories for the child to read when they come of age.
Death and Remembrance
Members may choose burial in the crypts or cremation.
Cremated remains are partially solidified into a colored marble and added to the Mural of Lost Souls, a wooden plaque shaped like an otter, with initials etched on the front.
A blessing and a commemorative feast follow, ensuring every life is honored.
Marriage
Couples must survive together in the frozen woods of the tundra for a month, demonstrating endurance and unity.
Upon returning, they present an offering to the Archon and bring a slain beast as proof of their ability to provide.
Only then may the union be formally celebrated, symbolizing shared responsibility and commitment.
Moral & Social Traditions
The Open Hearth
Regular gatherings where any ‘fenn may voice grievances.
Tathvir mediate as guides, refusing to hear another is considered a failure.
Judgement Circles
Disputes are settled in the presence of witnesses.
Both sides speak, and a Tathvir (or group) renders judgement with a focus on resolution.
The Taking-In
A sacred act in which a Tathvir formally assumes responsibility for another—orphans, lost ‘fenn, or even outsiders.
Once taken in, they are considered family, reinforcing the bloodline’s role as guardians.
The River Vigil
Before major decisions, a Tathvir retreats to solitude, often near water, to reflect and prepare judgements.
The Promise of Presence
Abandoning someone in need is a deep cultural failing.
Acts of atonement follow if this principle is not upheld, emphasizing steadfastness and support.
Combat Style
The Responders
The Tathvir do not fight for glory, they fight to end conflict with minimal loss.
The Hearthguard
Defensive fighters
Protect allies and control space
Use short spears, shields, and bows
The Wayblades
Agile skirmishers
Focus on mobility, disarming, and disabling
Use light blades and bows
Combat Philosophy
End fights quickly
Protect others first
Kill only when necessary
“A victory that costs your people is no victory at all.”
Characteristics
Among the Mali’fenn bloodlines, the Tathvirs stand apart as the most distinct from their kin. Tracing their lineage back to Amara Tathvir, the family is notable for its members’ more compact physiques. As with many Mali’fenn, silver hair is common, often paired with turquoise eyes. On rare occasions, these eyes are accented by a faint ring of gold.
Known as the most welcoming of the bloodlines, the Tathvir are characterized by their warm, approachable nature and a keen emotional awareness of those around them. Their temperament is marked by patience and attentiveness, though they are fully capable of firmness when the situation demands it.
Clothing
The Tathvir distinguish clearly between their daily attire and that worn during ceremony, reflecting the nature of their role among the ‘fenn.
Daily Attire
In their day-to-day lives, the Tathvir dress in muted, practical tones of grey, worn whites, and soft earthen colors. Their clothing is layered, durable, and unassuming, meant for long hours spent among others.
They do not seek to stand apart in appearance, instead they aim to be approachable and familiar, a presence others can turn to without hesitation.
Ceremonial Attire
In contrast, during gatherings, rituals, and moments of unity, the Tathvir don brighter colors: blues, teals, whites, and accents of gold.
These garments are not worn for status, but as a symbol.
Blue and teal represent the flow of community and connection
White reflects shared identity among the ‘fenn
Gold accents signify the value of unity and the bonds between people
Accessories
River-worn beads or polished stones
Subtle jewelry symbolizing bonds with others
Relations With Others
The Tathvir carry themselves with an open warmth that sets them apart from many of their kin, though this kindness is never without intention. They do not see the other bloodlines as rivals to be measured against, but as parts of a whole that must remain in balance. Where others may approach with caution or pride, the Tathvir approach with understanding, seeking not to judge immediately- but to listen, observe, and guide where able.
To the other Mali’fenn, the Tathvir are often seen as approachable and dependable, if at times overly lenient or idealistic. Their willingness to hear all sides and extend patience can be mistaken for softness, though those who know them well understand that their resolve, once set, is not easily shaken. They are not distant, nor aloof- instead, they are present and often place themselves at the center of tension to ease them.
When interacting with other bloodlines the Tathvir favor small, meaningful gestures over grand displays. A steady hand placed upon a shoulder in reassurance, an offered seat by the fire, or the simple act of remaining to listen long after others have left- these are the ways in which they show respect. They do not demand recognition, nor do they seek to assert dominance. Rather, they foster trust through consistency, ensuring that their presence is felt as supportive.
Though they strive to maintain harmony among all, the Tathvir are not blind to the differences between bloodlines. They understand that some are harsher, more rigid, or more insular than others. Even so they do not turn away, but remain steadfast in their belief that unity is not found in sameness, but in the willingness to stand beside one another despite it.
Politics
The Tathvir are Malinist, but with a distinct interpretation:
They avoid unnecessary foreign entanglement, but will act when the safety of Fenn is threatened, internal unity begins to fracture, or when outsiders disrupt the balance of their people. They serve as mediators between bloodlines, gatekeepers for outsiders, and stabilizers in times of unrest.
Trials
The Three Charges of the Tathvir
A Tathvir is not recognized by age, nor by blood alone, but by what they are willing to carry. Before one is named fully trusted among the Tathvir, they must undertake three charges, each reflecting a pillar of the bloodline. These are not trials to be passed, but responsibilities to be borne.
The Charge of Presence
The purpose of the Charge of Presence is to test whether or not the Tathvir truly embodies compassion, patience, and emotional strength. The charge places the initiate in charge of caring for someone in need over a set period. This could be an injured ‘fenn, a grieving individual, an outcast, or anyone in need of assistance.
This tests their ability to stay when uncomfortable, their ability to listen to another’s complaints or worries, and their commitment to others. Reasons for failure can include abandoning their responsibilities, treating the task as a burden, or acting dismissively or impatiently.
Completion is not measured by outcome, recovery, or success in any conventional sense. Instead, the trial is judged by a single question:
Were they truly present?
The final word is given by the one who was cared for, or by an overseeing elder who does not ask whether the initiate performed well, but whether they remained with sincerity, patience, and care when it would have been easier not to.
The Charge of Judgement
The purpose of the Charge of Judgement is to test the Tathvir’s fairness, wisdom, and control. The trial places the initiate in the middle of a real or staged dispute. They must hear all sides, ask questions, and deliver a judgement.
This tests their ability to listen fully, their ability to avoid bias, and their ability to remain calm under the stress of a hard choice. There is never a perfect answer, and failure or completion is entirely dependent on the situation as every dispute is different.
The final word is given by a senior member who reviews the reasoning why the judgement was given, as flawed judgement made with care is more important than a perfect one made blindly.
The Charge of Burden
The purpose of the Charge of Burden is to test the Tathvir’s leadership under pressure, their capability for self-sacrifice, and their ability to act in crisis. The charge places the initiate in a high-pressure scenario such as escorting a group through danger, responding to an attack, or protecting multiple people with limited resources.
This tests their fight or flight, their prioritization skill, and their choice of self-preservation. Again, there are no perfect answers to this, and completion is based upon their explanation of who they chose to protect, why, and what they would do differently if they had the chance.
The Naming at the Hearth
After all three charges, the initiate Tathvir stands before their kin. An elder or Archon asks three questions:
“Will you stand when others fall?”
“Will you listen when others shout?”
“Will you remain when others leave?”
If they answer and are accepted, they are named a recognized Tathvir. Symbolically, this is represented with either a marking or tattoo of their choice, or a worn piece of jewelry given after completion.
The Trial of Union (Marriage)
The purpose of the Trial of Union is to ensure that couples intending to marry understand endurance, shared responsibility, and the bloodline’s values. The pair is tasked with surviving a month in the tundra, providing for one another, and presenting an offering to the Archon accompanied by a slain beast.
Completion is judged on survival and whether the couple demonstrated cooperation, compassion, and the ability to bear hardship together.
The Trial of Guardianship
The purpose of this trial is to prepare a Tathvir for formally taking responsibility for another whether it be an orphan, lost ‘fenn, or an outsider. The to-be guardian is tasked with caring for an animal for a set period, responsible for providing shelter, training, and protection.
Completion is judged on the condition of the animal following the duration of the trial, and focuses on consistency, empathy, and responsibility.
The Trial of Leadership
The purpose of this trial is to test whether a Tathvir is ready to hold formal authority or guide others. The to-be elder or leader is placed in a scenario requiring decision-making over multiple members of the bloodline, resolving disputes, allocating resources, or responding to crises.
Completion is judged on one’s fairness, clarity of judgement, accountability, and the ability to balance compassion with practicality.
Bloodline Relics
Mural of Lost Souls (REMADE)
A wooden plaque shaped like an otter, with initials etched on the front. While it had been lost after the fall of Fenn, it has been remade by Elyndra Tathvir to recognize those who forged what exists today.
Sword of Skalaer
A grey-tinted blade sitting at roughly 3’ in length, connected to a dark leather-wrapped handle through a silver crossguard. The crossguard is decorated to resemble the outspread wings of an eagle. While the blade bore many scuffs and scratches from its years of use, its edges are still sharpened and well-kept. This blade has been passed through generations of the bloodline, always handed down to the strongest Tathvir. The wielder of the blade is tasked with defending the bloodline.
Lost Relics
Ring of Skalaer - A faint glow resonates from this silver ring when held in the light. The ring itself depicts a small wyrm wrapping itself around the wearer’s finger before consuming its own tail. This elegant relic has been passed down from generation to generation, always worn by the eldest Tathvir.
Wax Otter Seal - The elegant looking wax seal is a small stamp decorated with an otter inside of an intricate wooden box. Alongside the stamp sat a small jar of red wax. The Archon would typically use these tools to mark official documents and seal letters.
Quill of the Tathvir - This quill is devised of two components - the stem and the feather. The feather is interchangeable and as such, the owner of the quill can pick a feather that represents their personality. Once picked, the feather is attached to a small copper stem, which has a small otter carved alongside the name Tathvir underneath. The quill is gifted to the one who assists the Archon in writing reports and documents.