Gustando

I personally think a canon magic would be cute if it was simply composed of a few really neat rituals (I.E blessing a river or something) and other stuff like that, emphasizing less on CRP and moreso just the aesthetic of holy/god Tho i wish good luck on this! I definitely think a sort of cannonist magic would add much needed depth for priest rp which is already cool.

tawkin*

tawkin*

I initially wrote it the way it is in my attempt to make the lore more concise and easier to understand, omitting most of the fluff that could make it more vague, as it was one of the primary reasons for the the eventual shelving of earlier iterations. It is made to be within the same realm as Tawkin due to the general aesthetic and function of the lore, as it heavily emphasizes mutation and change of the body alike Tawkin does, thus similar processes are used in order to create/remove it. It simply made sense to me that they would, both, originate from a similar source, which also i hoped to create more world-building through its origins, and the intertwining of the two. The multi-aesthetic function of the lore serves to allow players to fulfill fantasies that otherwise are not possible without a separate write. It does not have a concise 'niche', but that is the very essence of the prima incola - you can be a crab guy, or some freaky mutant. This is what made the prior iterations of the lore so inspiring to me, and also my personal experience with it. Greatly appreciate the feedback, I will see to the suggestions you have made, and attempt to fix them. Add me on discord (gustizas) if you have any further questions!

whatever the opposite of SLOP is. +1 : D

need more court of wizards that review omens and ponder the orb and less rgb mages (they are different)

TABLE OF CONTENTS Section I: Exegesis;…………………………………………………………………………………………….. Section II: Creation;.......................................................................................................... Section III: The Mind;...................................................................................................... Section IV: The Body;....................................................................................................... Section V: The Soul;.......................................................................................................... Section VI: Hunger;.......................................................................................................... Section VII: Weaknesses;.................................................................................................. Section VIII: Removal;...................................................................................................... Section IX: Core Abilities;................................................................................................. Section X: Divergence;...................................................................................................... Section XI: Progression;............................................................................................ ___ “Bound by hunger, side by side, In every tear, we both confide, My body yields, my will is gone, In this twisted dance, we're one.” -A Llullian Material Alphabet Poem It is said that long ago, in an epoch lost to the winds of time, a civilization of unparalleled grandeur flourished. This society was governed by a wise and benevolent Philosopher King, whose boundless wisdom forged a world engrossed in science and the arts—the realm of Llull. In this utopia, sickness had been vanquished, famine was unknown, and evil had never taken root. Even the simple act of sleep had been perfected, while industry thrived in harmony with nature. Over countless years, a tower of immense proportions was built, wrought of ivory and gold - rising so high that its peak was said to scrape the very heavens themselves, it was known as the great Tower of Llull - embodying the wisdom of these people. The Great Construct of Legend. The Tower As God granted them the knowledge of the earth, seas and heaven - these people were overcome by zeal and greed. Sickness and Vice began to fester within their minds and bodies. They had become corrupted, inhumane and had disregarded the very wisdom they shepherded. The few fair souls who had not yet succumbed to corruption - a Cabal of Alchemists - driven by fear and ambition, sought to blend the natural and supernatural in secretive chambers far below the ancient tower of Llull, to fuse man with the very essence of cosmos. They believed that by harnessing the knowledge that God had given them, they could transcend their mortal limitations and restore their civilization. These Cabal of Alchemists - The Hermetica Sanctum - had understood the necessity of their survival. Through their understanding of the bio-alchemic - the art of Tawkin - and by harnessing the elements of the sky, earth and cosm’, the Cabal convened and devised a magnum opus so potent that it would exceed the human limit, allowing them to save themselves from impending doom - The Prima Incola. Yet, the creation of the Symbiote, the object of their salvation, came at a great cost. They were too late. Their people, the Tower, and all knowledge was destroyed, crumbled into the deep fires of the earth. The knowledge had to be preserved. The first progenitors traveled far and wide into the Cosmos, harnessing and spreading the remnant knowledge that remained of Llull. With each coming - each generation - it changed. The symbiote began to decay, it became solely reliant on its host for its survival. Inhabited by scarce few, it had become a myth within the alchemical world. A depiction of the symbiote. The Prima Incola is a bio-organic parasite that seeks refuge in the body of a descendant and creates a symbiotic relationship. Seemingly otherworldly, the symbiote does not communicate in a direct manner with its host- the only means of communication is when the recipient chooses to utilize its abilities for their gain. Reaching symbiosis is a harrowing journey, one that unfolds in distinct phases over the initial three months (equivalent to 3 OOC days). At first, it's a deceptive onset, akin to a lingering fever that wraps the host in discomfort: chills, persistent headaches, and aches rippling through the muscles. However, as the clock ticks past the two-month mark, a shift sets in. Cravings besiege the host, transforming mere hunger into an insatiable ravenousness. Unrestrained, this may lead to consumption of raw meat, and possibly cannibalistic behaviors – lulling the vessel into the climax of the harsh metamorphosis. Finally, the Vessel will fall into pseudo-psychosis, wherein they may begin to experience antisocial behaviors such as manic episodes, schizophrenia, pathological lying, violent behavior and more. Finally, as the Vessel endures the hardships of symbiosis - at the fourth month mark, the psychological and physical effects begin to dissipate - psyche returning to normal. The symbiosis is complete. The recipe for an entirely new, fabricated version of the symbiote: Base: Liquid mana - Yellow bile x1 - Black bile x1 - Phlegm x1 - Recipient’s Blood x1 - Earth: Connection x5 - Earth: Life x7 - Water: Growth x6 - Water: Swiftness x6 - Air: Balance x8 - Air: Clarity x5 The Mind As the symbiote establishes itself within one’s body, multiple inherent traits of the symbiote begin incorporating into how one thinks – influencing the behavior of its host. As the relationship between host and symbiote deepens, one would be more inclined to listen to their gut – perhaps reasoning it as the symbiote adding their two cents. The vessel is more prone to acting on intuition, though a calm mind will not immediately become reckless In regards to the Void, the vessel may feel cautious, distrustful, or even antagonistic towards an exposed Voidal Mage, or magicks pertaining to it as they are subconsciously affected by their Symbiote’s need to survive, and instincts, as it is an alchemical creation. Furthermore, approaching or interacting with strong sources of Voidal Magic, such as obelisks, hollows and more would be met with an overwhelming mental deterrent. This includes but is not limited to feelings of intense dread, disorientation, hallucinations, and potentially lasting psychological trauma. The Body Due to the Symbiote being inactive for a vast amount of time, the vessel finds that their boons are more limited than generations prior as it spends more of its time converting energy. This amalgamation of both Alchemy and Biology has been sculpted to join a relationship between the bearer, and themselves. Soon after ingesting the concoction, the Symbiote infects every organ, muscle , nerve and the very soul of the vessel, strengthening the bond between it and the host as it does so - becoming one. The Symbiote, however, does not augment one’s body to a standard above what it currently is, there are no anatomical changes, as it only works with what it's given. The symbiote’s ability to enhance the body of its host is limited. With each ability that it enacts upon its host’s body it also takes away. For the symbiote to give it must take, straining the body and requiring great nutritional intake and energy absorption The abilities of The Prima Incola are far and varied - it is a cacophony of mortal transfiguration that afflicts the vessel’s very being. Their arms may twist and rip into weapons wrought of a sickening fusion of organic tissue and macabre weaponry, body lay scattered in vile platemail resembling that of ghastly chitin. A creature far from magical, yet seemingly inhumane and unnatural. The aesthetic limit to their form and function is nearly limitless - the form and shape they bear represents their very being. The examples of aesthetic capabilities are listed below; THE WENDIGO One could gradually transform into a creature of unspeakable horror—a wendigo. The hands elongate, fingers extending into gnarled, beastly claws. The head undergoes a grotesque metamorphosis, the skull distorting into a twisted, bone-like structure. One’s feet would turn into hooves, thick fur permeating the body. THE MUTANT The body twists and contorts in ways that seem impossible, as if struggling against some unseen force. What remains of its dilapidated flesh is littered in chemical burns, reeking of acrid herbal concoctions. Tumors and grotesque growths litter its surface, where boils, pustules, and festering blisters twist and writhe. THE SKINWALKER A tall, humanoid lanky creature of horrific proportions. Its bones appear as they are about to pierce the skin that is so tightly glued onto its gaunt body, giving the impression of a walking skeleton draped in a thin layer of flesh. The skin itself is mottled and stretched, showing signs of decay and desolation. Its teeth rigid and sharp, jaw hanging akin dislocated in search of prey.The creature moves with a disjointed, unsettling grace, each step echoing with a creaking sound The Soul Upon bonding with the vessel’s body that it inhabits, the Symbiote’s innate need to survive intertwines with their very soul itself. Passively, the Symbiote begins to devour upon the generated mana that is perpetually expelled from the soul of the inhabitant. This constant need to sustain itself comes at a cost – its vessel's capability to utilize magic that is mana-based. Due to this reason, the vessel is incapable of utilizing all forms of magic that rely on the user’s mana-pool, for the vessel practically has none. Hunger The consequences of starvation for a vessel are both intricate and ghastly. Initially, the first signs manifest as psychological shifts. The vessel becomes notably more irritable, progressively displaying a heightened level of frustration and agitation in their demeanor. As the deprivation continues, these psychological changes intensify, leading to a profound alteration in behavior. The vessel may exhibit erratic mood swings, heightened anxiety, and the inability to concentrate. In the second stage of starvation the vessel experiences pronounced physical transformations. Their skin takes on a pallid hue, while their facial features become noticeably sunken and gaunt. Alongside these changes, they grapple with a substantial depletion of energy, feeling persistently fatigued and weakened. The body's lack of nourishment becomes evident, manifesting in a general decline in physical strength and vitality. In the final phase of starvation, the symbiote, desperate to sustain itself, resorts to a horrifying act of self-preservation. It viciously rends and consumes the vessel individual's organs from within, gruesomely feeding upon its host as a final, desperate attempt to prolong its own existence. The macabre scene unfolds as the symbiote voraciously devours the deteriorating body, perpetuating a nightmarish cycle of consumption and decay from within. Weaknesses The Void - As The Prima Incola is an alchemic creation, The Void serves as its antithesis – both direct and indirect contact with potent sources of voidal activity (I.E connected mages, atronachs, obelisks, hollows, tears, etc. .) serve as mental deterrents. Being exposed to such for [5] consecutive emotes, be it in battle or outside of, will result in temporary psychosis – this may range from, but not limited to, mild behaviors such as pathological lying, to more harsh such as uncontrolled anger. Malflame - In regards to Malflame, as the vessel’s abilities are composed of primary pseudo-organic tissue, thus it is susceptible to the soul-inflicting effects of Malflame. Being struck on an altered or augmented appendage via infernal flames would deem true - burning and harming the vessel until the Malflame has been extinguished. Argentum - In regards to Argentum, Augmented Armor can be easily pierced by Argentum weaponry. Removal If a vessel wishes to get rid of the symbiote, there is a method to accomplish such. As the symbiote is a being born from alchemy, so can it be removed with alchemy. A peculiar concoction must be created in order to ‘flush’ said symbiote out, which has already existed for many years. This being the Transmutation Elixir - a potent concoction, known for its effects in manifesting Alchemic Mutations within a living organism. By adding additional alchemical compounds, you may physically ‘flush’ the symbiote out of one’s body. The removal of the symbiote is an arduous process for the host. Having formed a symbiotic relationship, such being torn is akin to losing a fragment of oneself. This, the symbiote understands, and upon the very moment the concentrate enters one’s body - a malevolent shift sets within the Symbiote, in a final act of desperation and survival, it tears the inside of its vessel, consuming and straining the body from within to the point where one would be too frail to bear any magical arts forever. In an act of delusion, or perhaps instinct, the host in question would fall into a state of under-consumption. Any and all food or drink, apart from water, the ex-vessel would find nauseating, even to the point of vomiting if such would be forced upon them. This initial stage occurs due to the host being acclimated to eating double than what an ordinary body could handle, in a sense ‘awakening’ and realizing the effects such left upon it. Alongside this, they find that all their senses (i.e sight, hearing, smell and touch) would be dulled, they might find more difficulty in completing every-day tasks, such as engaging in conversation, recognizing faces, hearing people if they’re quiet or whisper to them, and often appear as if daydreaming. All of this lasts for the initial [1] OOC week following removal. After such a period of time passes, the individual would find themselves eventually recovering– their senses slowly returning to them, food and drink becoming manageable. TRANSMUTATION ELIXIR BASE: Recipient’s Blood Water | Any [x2] Mundane | Connection [x7] Mundane | Life [x5] Mundane | Growth [x4] Mundane | Endurance [x3] Mundane | Separation [x2] Mundane | Reduction [x3] Mundane | Death [x1] The Prima Incola is a peculiar affliction. On one side, the Symbiote is a weak and craven creature, solely relying on its host for survival, whilst on the other - it holds prowess that transcends human limitation, granting purchase to mortal transmutation and unsightly horror that surrounds it. As it relies on coexistence with its bearer, it may only be used - or exerted - for so long before it ultimately falls inert and recedes, where it’d recuperate and feast on the vessel’s nutrients. Ultimately, it is a tool, an extension of oneself to conduct to one’s own volition. [GENERAL REDLINES] “You complete me.” [Passive] [Non-Combative] Description Lacking any personality or consciousness of its own, the Symbiote expresses itself through its host’s identity and self-awareness. This leads to subtle changes in the appearance of mutations specific to the individual [Combative] [1 connect + 2 cast] Description Bile permits the vessel to propel the acidic contents within one's stomach outwards. Whilst oft harmless, this opens up an avenues for swiftly mending wounds, or dazing an opponent for a short period of time. [Non-combative] [1 connect + 1 cast] Description The vessel harbors a robust immunity against commonplace poisons, a safeguard facilitated by the Symbiote shouldering the bulk of the damage, effectively shielding the host from harm's way. [Non-combative] [1 connect + 1 cast] Description With a deliberate exertion of their abilities, the vessel can intensify a single sense at their volition, elevating its acuity beyond natural limits. This enhancement grants them an extraordinary depth within that chosen sense, unveiling nuances and details far beyond ordinary perception. [Non-combative] [1] connect + [1] cast Description Enhancing and altering one’s vocal chords, Mimic allows the user to change the sound of their voice at will. “Better suit yourself, if only for a short while.” [Combative/Non-Combative] [1 connect + 1 cast (for one distinct part of the body) + 1 (for another specific piece of the body.] A depiction of a vessel, utilizing his symbiote to produce a whip-like appendage. Description Acting as one of the two primary capabilities within the Symbiote’s arsenal, Bodily Alteration emphasizes reshaping and altering the body of the Vessel. This unsettling prowess unfolds as the wielder's flesh undergoes a visceral process, breaking and reconstructing itself to suit whatever shape or structure is deemed necessary for the situation at hand. “We, men, are monsters now.” [Combative/Non-Combative] [1 connect + 2 cast (for one distinct part of the body) + 1 (for another piece of the body.)] A vessel augmenting their skin to protrude spikes from it. Description Named aptly, bodily augmentations involve enhancing the body, while bodily alterations entail changing its fundamental structure. This ability parallels transmutation, allowing for the creation of additional limbs and armor. “To associate with the malevolent is damnatory, nor will I correlate with the overly zealous, no- we strike our own accord.” [Non-Combative] [Passive] Description Aesthetics entail a full visual change through the use of Bodily Augmentation and Alteration. This allows for the Vessel to appear relatively beastly in a chosen field. ___ Description In efforts to perform full symbiosis with its vessel, the Symbiote’s ability to enhance the body of that which it inhabits adapts to the vessel itself. This peculiar trait allows for the vessel to attain pathways to abilities that are unique to them - categorized into two different sub-sections; the Juggernaut and the Prowler. THE PROWLER AND JUGGERNAUT VARIANTS As the Symbiote achieves complete symbiosis with its Vessel, their abilities become an extension of their very essence. In other words, one's personality and thoughts directly influence the powers they can unlock through Divergence, manifesting as either The Prowler or The Juggernaut. THE PROWLER The Prowler emphasizes indirectness and dexterity. Those who adopt this variant might be viewed as tricksters or dishonorable combatants, wielding the abilities of Pounce, Quill, Cling and Camouflage. THE JUGGERNAUT The Juggernaut embodies straightforwardness and relentless determination. Those who adopt this variant tend to confront all challenges head-on, wielding the abilities of Stinger, Volvation and Autotomy. ___ Pounce [Combative] [1 connect + 2 cast] Description Whilst fully altered, a peculiar ability manifests within the vessel’s arsenal. Pounce allows to transfigure one’s legs to resemble the shape and function of a grasshopper, allowing them to jump forth in extreme ranges. Quill [Combative] [1 connect + 1 cast (+1 for additional Quill) + 1 propel] Description Quill allows the vessel to augment porcupine-like spikes upon their person, extending roughly 10 centimeters outwards from any part of their body that one wishes to. The Quills are then able to be propelled as projectiles, capable of piercing the likes of gambeson, cloth and leather. Cling [Combative/Non-Combative] [1 connect + 2 cast] Description Cling allows the vessel to form a frog-like pad structure upon the base of their palm and feet, covered in a slimy and sticky substance. This substance allows the vessel to effectively latch onto surfaces and remain stationary whilst so. Camouflage [Non-Combative] [1] connect + [3] cast Description Camouflage allows the Vessel to root their flesh into a vertical surface, and flatten themselves similarly to a flounder fish. Their skin and attire would begin to reflect the color of the surface fused to - effectively camouflaging. ___ Stinger [Combative] [1 connect + 3 cast] Description The Stinger ability allows the vessel to manifest a chitin-covered scorpion tail-like extension from their tailbone. This protrusion can extend up to two blocks in length. At its very tip, a spike forms, coated in a potent venom produced within the vessel's body. Volvation [Non-Combative] [1 connect + 2 cast] Description Volvation enables the user to develop a protective, armadillo-like chitinous covering on their back. This allows them to curl into a defensive position, offering protection against various elemental hazards. Autotomy [Combative] [1 connect + 1 cast] Description Serving as both a self-defense and regenerative mechanism, Autotomy allows the vessel to detach a limb of their own volition. This peculiar prowess allows to escape, or otherwise minimize the damage that the vessel has suffered through combat. A depiction of an uruk, his limb altered to be a crude curved blade In total, The Prima Incola only has [3] tiers. The vessel has access to every ability upon reaching tier one. >The very first tier is attained following the initial acceptance of your CA. At this stage the symbiote’s abilities cause the vessel a high amount of pain and struggles to produce. You are limited to using [3] abilities per 24 hours- attempting more would cause one to collapse and be rendered inert for the duration of the encounter. >The second tier is attained after 2 weeks following the acceptance of your CA. At this stage they now begin adapting to bodily alteration, and the pain and struggle that occurs when attempting such now is at a lesser degree. You are limited to using [6] abilities per 24 hours. >The third tier is attained after 4 total weeks or approximately a month following the acceptance of the CA. At this stage they have now adapted to bodily alteration and all its elements. The pain, whilst still present to some degree, is greatly lesser than it originally was. You have access to all of the abilities that are available. [General Redlines] -The mental changes brought on by the vessel only serve to shift their personalities and perceptions and do not bring about any changes in the individual’s intellect or ability. -The symbiote's abilities cannot be used for any sort of sexual intercourse (obviously). -Prima Incola is a CA, and thus needs a valid Creature-Application in order to use it. -Clarity, or Focus, is seen as a moment of time wherein the vessel is not interrupted amidst the alteration of their limb. As long as they are not interacted with physically, or with the use of potions, they are able to continue. Mundane sharp, or shrill noises do not count as interruptions. -A TA can only be made after [3] OOC months, requiring a valid Tawkin FA and the recipe to be taught IRP. Compatibility: The following cannot be inflicted with the Symbiote: All Mana-Based magics and transformative CA's. Necromancy Mysticism Naztherak Voidal Magic Heralds – The Feat, and the Magic Arcane Scions Blood Mages Golemancers Malchediael Templars Druids Klones Homunculi Kani Housemagery The following can be inflicted with the Symbiote: Alchemy Feat-Level seer Animii Crafting Arcane Displacement Tawkin Smoggers Credits https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/156929-%E2%9C%97-afflicted-adversity-of-alchemy/ https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/188746-%E2%9C%93-further-alchemy-affliction-loregames-rewrite/ https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/169197-shelvedafflicted-the-second-coming/ https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/198584-%E2%9C%93-alchemic-lore-tawkin-%E2%80%94-take-ii/ -Gustando (Author) -Zarsies (Major Consultation, Ideas) -FunTzu (Consultation) -Femurlord (Consultation) -SourDoh (Consultation/Ideas/Original lore writer) -Sorcerio (Tawkin lore/Llull lore/Dividers) -Aldukhan (Consultation) -Ulmo (Consultation) -Mordu (Previous writer) -Hexe (Previous writer) -Skylez (Original lore writer) CHANGELOG; -Fixed issues regarding ability cooldowns not being specified on certain abilities. (2024/9/7) -Fixed formatting issues. (2024/9/7) -Reformatting for easier reading. (2024/9/18) -Stinger and Cling changed variants (2024/9/19) -Durability clarification for Stinger. (2024/9/19) -Emote reduction for Volvation, added redline (2024/10/13)

reserved [selling cleric lore first page comment space 5 usd]

Jeff de wees shed a tear for his lover.

abjured with kani too @gaijin

ORIGINS The Wind Temple, nestled in the western region of Braevos, serves as a dedicated school for Martial Arts and the study of the Material. Within the sacred grounds of the temple, under the guidance of instructors, pupils strive to achieve Cigam Udrom. This state, often considered the pinnacle of mind-body duality, is marked by the separation of consciousness from the body. In this state, martial instincts take over, allowing the practitioner to move and react without thought or emotion. ___ Wu-De 武 德 - The Martial Way Light, dark and balance. The domains of the deific, the necrotic and the arcane. The members of the Wind Temple operate in the material crossroads of the trio - the centre - confined to the signs: Water, earth, fire, air and aether - the rational energies - free from the volatility of order, life, creation, chaos, destruction and death. I. “One must not flaunt, misuse, or otherwise ‘show off’ their arts by any means. Talent is not a source of personal glory but rather a sacred responsibility. Members are encouraged to use their powers only when necessary and with the utmost respect for the natural order. They are admonished against using their arts to seek personal aggrandisement.” II. "In this realm, we stand not above the common man, but beside them, bound by the shared threads of our humanity." “This fundamental tenet lies at the very core of our order's teachings. It embodies the principle of humility that we hold in the highest regard. As members of the order, we understand that our abilities do not elevate us above our fellow descendants. Instead, they grant us a unique responsibility.” III. "You shall take no action which would reflect poorly upon the order. Conducting yourself with utmost respect and stature, you are the embodiment of our order's principles and values. Your actions are a mirror that reflects the honour and dignity of our order. In all your dealings, let integrity be your guiding light, and let your behaviour be an inspiration to all who witness it.” IV. "You will not take part in any political matters, for the purity of our ideals must not be tainted by the agendas of worldly powers. Our purpose is to research, create and better ourselves. We shall remain neutral observers lest forced otherwise.” V. "You will wear the appropriate uniform at all times befitting your standing in the order. Your attire is not merely a reflection of personal style, but a symbol of your commitment and place within our sacred fraternity. By donning the designated uniform with pride, you honour the traditions of our order and demonstrate your dedication to the ideals we hold dear. Your attire is a badge of honour, and it should be treated as such.” VI. "You will treat your superiors with respect, addressing them by their proper rank in the order. This practice reflects the hierarchy and discipline that underpins our organisation, fostering an environment of order and mutual understanding. In the spirit of camaraderie and unity, your respect for those who lead by example reinforces the cohesion of our order. Let your interactions with superiors be marked by courtesy, humility, and a readiness to learn, for in doing so, you uphold the traditions that have guided us through the ages." VII. "In our hallowed order, mastery is the fruit of tireless effort and unwavering commitment. Seek not to be given knowledge but to attain it through the crucible of your own endeavours. Each skill, each secret, each facet of our ancient arts must be diligently pursued and earned. It is a journey of self-discovery, a path illuminated by your own determination. As you strive to ascend the ranks of The Flaming Fist, remember that the truest power lies not in what is given freely but in what is earned through sweat, sacrifice, and unwavering resolve. This is the code by which we rise, and it is by this code that we shall prevail." _______________________________________________________________ THE FOUR STANCES The four stances of the Western Wind temple represent the primary forms of combat one undertakes across their journey to Cigam Udrom. They are represented by four beasts: the Dragon, The Turtle, The Tiger, and lastly Qilin. Each form possesses unique aspects that are ingrained in their form of combat. Pupils of the temple are often assigned the path they will undertake through means of random selection - fate being the driving factor for what they will practice, rather than opportunity. ___ THE WAY OF THE DRAGON 龍 _______________________________________________________________ "In the grand dance of strategy, the most impenetrable shield is fashioned not from passive resistance, but from the relentless surge of an unyielding offense." - Chapter taken from a wayward monk’s dictate. The stance of the Dragon is primarily composed of an unyielding, offensive mentality, wherein the monk seeks to put consistent pressure onto their opponent by steadily advancing forwards. This stance is defined by keeping a high guard position of their hands, often utilizing their forearms to parry or deflect various attacks coming to them. The user’s back is usually kept upright, as opposed to slightly bent - this particular trait allows for the user to conserve more energy in the course of combat, whilst also allowing to maintain a consistent high guard. ___ THE WAY OF THE TURTLE 龜 "In the art of conflict, the most profound offence arises from an impenetrable defense, where resilience and fortitude render any attack futile and thus become the greatest form of aggression." - Chapter taken from a Turtle sage’s dictate. The stance of the Turtle is primarily defined by its aptitude in defensive measures. Those that undertake the path of the Turtle are taught extreme patience, coolness of the mind nonetheless under pressure. This particular style of combat emphasises waiting for the opportunity to strike, whilst taking minimum damage unto themselves. The style is characterized by keeping one’s arms close to themselves, utilizing shoulders as bases for protecting themselves from various blows, this is known as the “Turtle Shell”. _______________________________________________________________ THE WAY OF THE TIGER 白虎 “Heed these words, my pupil. The essence of mastery lies not in the initial strike, but in the poised and artful riposte that transforms defense into a symphony of triumph." - Chapter taken from a master of the Tiger stance's journal. The core aspect of the path of the Tiger’s teachings is decisiveness. Those of this path are apt in interception, deflection and finally counter-attacking. This path serves as the middle-ground of the path of the Turtle and Dragon, a delicate balance between offence and defence. This is characterised by the user always keeping distance from their opponent, intercepting incoming blows with their own by deflection, and committing counter-attacks to penetrate the opponent’s guard via precise attacks. _______________________________________________________________ THE WAY OF THE QILIN 麟 Unlike the three paths that are available, the Path of the Qilin is reserved to only the most prestigious martial-artists of the Wind Temple. This is a set of techniques that one may undertake after having achieved mastery over Cigam Udrom. Whilst it does not offer a unique method of combat similar to its counterparts, it serves to enhance the path that a pupil has undertaken via the way of Resonant frequencies, and their attunement to the natural energies that such path unlocks. _______________________________________________________________ THE EIGHTFOLD PATH OF CIGAM UDROM __ The Eightfold Path is a series of practices, and in their own right trials, that a pupil of the temple undertakes in their path to martial mastery. The eightfold path is represented by a wheel, each limb marking a set of trials that one undertakes in their path to Cigam Udrom. Whilst a portion of the Temple’s practices emphasises the advancement in one’s raw martial arts, the eightfold path serves as a guiding factor for the exploration of one’s inner sanctum, betterment of their spiritual clarity and understanding of the material crossroads. The Gate Of Observance 遵守 - The very first gate of the eightfold path. Arguably one of the most meaningful trials that a pupil undertakes in their journey. The pupil is to set out and acquire an object of any kind. Then, with ink and quill, they must write ten appliances of the object that it could be used for. This teaching emphasises one to think outside the box, necessitating creativity of the mind without relying on reason and logic. The Gate of Sacrifice 牺牲 - The second gate of the eightfold path. This gate emphasises acceptance, and detachment from earthly tether. The pupil will have to choose at their own volition an object which they hold dear to them, and discard it forever in the presence of others. The Gate of Descent 血统 - The third gate of the eightfold path. This gate emphasises one’s courage and virtue, a test of their will and determination. Under a precise ritual that targets one’s psyche, the pupil will undergo hallucinations within the domain of their own mind, necessitating acceptance of that which cannot be controlled. The Gate of Endurance 耐力 - The fourth gate of the eightfold path. This gate emphasises on the collective fortitude of one’s psyche. Without food and minimal water, the pupil will undergo a week of starvation. Each day, they will be required to write with ink and quill onto paper their experiences and thoughts, then present it to the presiding grand-master of the temple for inspection. The Gate of Humility 谦逊 - The fifth gate of the eightfold path. This gate emphasises the importance of cultivating genuine humility and recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. By embracing humility, one learns to shed the ego, understand their place in the world. The pupil will be set on a path to ask for alms, to beg others for food and charitable donations without prejudice. The Gate of Vice 副 - The sixth gate of the eightfold path. This gate emphasises the understanding of earthly vices and the strength to resist them. The pupil must identify their own personal vices—such as greed, anger, lust, pride, gluttony, envy, or sloth—and confront them directly. This process involves three stages: Identification and acknowledgement, temptation and resistance, and lastly reflection and transformation. The Gate of Illumination 照明 - The seventh gate of the eightfold path. This gate emphasises the pursuit of knowledge and the enlightenment of the mind. The pupil must embark on a journey to learn about a subject entirely new to them, something outside their usual interests or expertise. They will immerse themselves in this subject for a month, reading books, engaging with experts, and participating in relevant activities. At the end of the month, they must present a comprehensive and creative project that showcases their new understanding and how it connects to their personal growth. The Gate of Cigam Udrom 刃文 - The eighth and final gate of the eightfold path. This gate emphasises the complete mastery of the path and its virtues. The pupil will embark on an arduous journey across the cosmos. They must utilize the accumulated wisdom and skills from their previous trials to overcome the myriad dangers they encounter. This journey is not only a test of their physical and mental prowess but also a demonstration of their ability to integrate and apply the teachings of the eightfold path in real-world scenarios. _______________________________________________________________ THE CEREMONY OF YǍNBI ___ ___ A matrimony to one’s accomplishments, the ceremony of Yǎnbì signifies not the end, but rather the beginning of a new journey in worldly endeavours. This rite marks the ascension from pupil to master within the temple hierarchy. The pupil stands in the centre of an alchemical diagram drawn in the sand within the temple's inner sanctum. Here, they are granted the mask of Jīngtōng—a testament to their sacred status. From this moment, they are recognized by the Temple not as a pupil, but as a master. Such status casts a mark of responsibility unto the individual, making them the caretakers of the sacred Haganeki, and entrusted to forever keep to the Temple’s Wu-De, ushering a new generation of martial mastery.

The grand-master watched from afar, hidden beneath a veil of snow as his pupil-to-be completed his climb.

Hello schizo rpers Nozcon is cancelled this year. Hope to see you next year. - Kind regards, the Nozcon administation.

Jeffrey de Wees of the western wind temple overheard the chatter of his pupils on the news of the GOAT. Intensifying his kani training on his mu ren zhuang