<![CDATA[Chronicles of Eternia - Approved Lore]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/ Sat, 06 Jun 2026 21:07:44 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Leucothea and The Selkie]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-18338.html Mon, 17 Jun 2024 13:18:16 +0000 Dandeli]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-18338.html [Image: lewcothe.png] Leucothea
Leucothea was the first of Sirenia, made by Yama's hand. She was born with a beautiful voice which could pacify woe and bring around peace. It wasn't until the war between Land and Sea, caused initially by Inki provoking the Land Gods, that she died after being kidnapped by Inki. She was cursed with the fur of land mammals, and her ability to breathe underwater was taken away. In the last weeks of her life, she lived in deep fear, leaving her children behind to brace the seas in an attempt to find Yama and stop the war, drowning in her attempts.

Since her death, she has taken the form of an undying deity. She resides within a desolate part of Uraheim, residing atop a sheet of ice that separates Land and Sea. She is situated above a reflection of Yama, who guards the coral gates all sirenians must pass through in death. She accepts a tragic version of existence wherein she considers herself 'reunited' with him regardless of the separator between them, forever sorrowfully longing for his reassuring word and guidance, while professing deep within herself that she is 'by his side.'

Following the example of Yama, but also regretting the abandonment of her children greatly, she wishes to watch her children in life, just as Yama watches her children in death. Bound to the desolate realm she inhabits, she is unable to watch her children in their myriad numbers, and laments each and every story she is unable to chart. Worshippers of Leucothea often learn about Sirenia and the Selkie, sing a song about their stories, and then drop a stone into the water with hopes that it will sink and find her in a symbolic re-enactment of her drowning.

Leucothea's domains are Love, Sacrifice, Sorrow and Empathy.
 
 
Inki’s Curse
When Inki inflicted a curse upon her long ago which took her gills, a piece of his vengeance joined her. He intended to weaponize it, trying to lure Yama to the surface with her imprisonment on land. It was unsuccessful, as he did not foresee her trying to reach Yama regardless of her lack of gills. When she died, she died in great agony, and shut away the self-destructive part of herself in fear it would rebound and cast pain onto others. When she did this, that want for vengeance was locked away too. In their sealing, these emotions gradually rose and compounded upon themselves, their desolation like an echo-chamber.

In a ritual on Nereides in Delphina headed by Leucothea's chosen priestess in 2123AC, this curse was unleashed on the shores of the island. The repressed part of the spirit was unsealed, with the priestess given the task of cleansing it with her song in exchange for a greater connection with the spectral and herself. Inki's vengeance threatened to overtake the repressed spirit of Leucothea, which was a coalescence of self-destructive grief. After the combined efforts of individuals from all corners of Meranthe, including magi from The Frontier, Gloomlight and Ten's Citadel, much of the damage to the island's Temple of Yama was prevented after Inki's vengeance sought to destroy it. The repressed spirit was appeased and faded after a combined song from the priestess and others in attendance, empowered by a blessing from Nemea, specifically in the form of channelling of Her aspect of grief, invoked by King Camino de Caewynn.

 
The Selkie
The Selkie are the children of the first Sirenian, Leucothea.

Nearly all Selkie live inland, in rivers and mainly the swamp. Their creatures are of aquatic mammal nature, seals, otters, walruses, manatee. Sea Selkie often have traits of orcas or dolphins, and are the rarest of all Sirenia. They are the only Sirenia who cannot breathe underwater.

The Selkie previously found it easier to take up practices of dark magic such as occult, attributed to the fact Leucothea drowned in the sea after her gift of water breathing was taken away. Her despair was so great that all of her children were affected, the Selkie prone to sadness and longing, but also exceptional kindness and a want for peace. 

Occult magic of the Selkie often involved the gathering of energies formed by Leucothea’s grief, but since the self-destructive, repressed part of Leucothea’s spirit was appeased and faded, those occultists have found it harder to grip ahold of the dark practice. Many now struggle to attune to occult through her grief.


The First’s Wardens
A highly niche sect of religion within Sirenia. 

It is the direct worship of Leucothea, the first Sirenian. Believers perceive Leucothea as a martyr of love, sacrifice and empathy, and sympathize with her want for resolution of hurt and suffering. 

Wardens aim to be her eyes and ears, ritualistically overlooking the Selkie and Sirenia, upholding her desire to watch her children in life, as her Father, Yama, looks over her children in death. 

Wardens are guardians of the land in essence. So that the Selkie may thrive in-land, they pursue peace. Wardens practice scholastic pursuit of the land's many truths, so that there can both be education and mediation. For the Selkie, especially one that is bound to the land predominantly by their curse, the world is full of different cultures and people deriving from the very Land Gods that Inki encouraged to wage war. To continue mediation and empathy through understanding, knowledge of them is important. 

Wardens also have an appreciation of inland swamps and rivers, and may collect various artifacts from them, alongside meditating within their confines. Protection of them is paramount. 

Like how a worshiper of Yama might send one's soul to him so that they may help him count the stones to weigh the sins of life with, a worshiper of Leucothea often etches sentiments and memories into the face of stones and other artifacts of land, and casts them to the sea so that they may reach her drowned spirit and appease her with their story.

Wardens are often songstresses, songsters and bards, often looking to mitigate strife and chaos through song.]]> [Image: lewcothe.png] Leucothea
Leucothea was the first of Sirenia, made by Yama's hand. She was born with a beautiful voice which could pacify woe and bring around peace. It wasn't until the war between Land and Sea, caused initially by Inki provoking the Land Gods, that she died after being kidnapped by Inki. She was cursed with the fur of land mammals, and her ability to breathe underwater was taken away. In the last weeks of her life, she lived in deep fear, leaving her children behind to brace the seas in an attempt to find Yama and stop the war, drowning in her attempts.

Since her death, she has taken the form of an undying deity. She resides within a desolate part of Uraheim, residing atop a sheet of ice that separates Land and Sea. She is situated above a reflection of Yama, who guards the coral gates all sirenians must pass through in death. She accepts a tragic version of existence wherein she considers herself 'reunited' with him regardless of the separator between them, forever sorrowfully longing for his reassuring word and guidance, while professing deep within herself that she is 'by his side.'

Following the example of Yama, but also regretting the abandonment of her children greatly, she wishes to watch her children in life, just as Yama watches her children in death. Bound to the desolate realm she inhabits, she is unable to watch her children in their myriad numbers, and laments each and every story she is unable to chart. Worshippers of Leucothea often learn about Sirenia and the Selkie, sing a song about their stories, and then drop a stone into the water with hopes that it will sink and find her in a symbolic re-enactment of her drowning.

Leucothea's domains are Love, Sacrifice, Sorrow and Empathy.
 
 
Inki’s Curse
When Inki inflicted a curse upon her long ago which took her gills, a piece of his vengeance joined her. He intended to weaponize it, trying to lure Yama to the surface with her imprisonment on land. It was unsuccessful, as he did not foresee her trying to reach Yama regardless of her lack of gills. When she died, she died in great agony, and shut away the self-destructive part of herself in fear it would rebound and cast pain onto others. When she did this, that want for vengeance was locked away too. In their sealing, these emotions gradually rose and compounded upon themselves, their desolation like an echo-chamber.

In a ritual on Nereides in Delphina headed by Leucothea's chosen priestess in 2123AC, this curse was unleashed on the shores of the island. The repressed part of the spirit was unsealed, with the priestess given the task of cleansing it with her song in exchange for a greater connection with the spectral and herself. Inki's vengeance threatened to overtake the repressed spirit of Leucothea, which was a coalescence of self-destructive grief. After the combined efforts of individuals from all corners of Meranthe, including magi from The Frontier, Gloomlight and Ten's Citadel, much of the damage to the island's Temple of Yama was prevented after Inki's vengeance sought to destroy it. The repressed spirit was appeased and faded after a combined song from the priestess and others in attendance, empowered by a blessing from Nemea, specifically in the form of channelling of Her aspect of grief, invoked by King Camino de Caewynn.

 
The Selkie
The Selkie are the children of the first Sirenian, Leucothea.

Nearly all Selkie live inland, in rivers and mainly the swamp. Their creatures are of aquatic mammal nature, seals, otters, walruses, manatee. Sea Selkie often have traits of orcas or dolphins, and are the rarest of all Sirenia. They are the only Sirenia who cannot breathe underwater.

The Selkie previously found it easier to take up practices of dark magic such as occult, attributed to the fact Leucothea drowned in the sea after her gift of water breathing was taken away. Her despair was so great that all of her children were affected, the Selkie prone to sadness and longing, but also exceptional kindness and a want for peace. 

Occult magic of the Selkie often involved the gathering of energies formed by Leucothea’s grief, but since the self-destructive, repressed part of Leucothea’s spirit was appeased and faded, those occultists have found it harder to grip ahold of the dark practice. Many now struggle to attune to occult through her grief.


The First’s Wardens
A highly niche sect of religion within Sirenia. 

It is the direct worship of Leucothea, the first Sirenian. Believers perceive Leucothea as a martyr of love, sacrifice and empathy, and sympathize with her want for resolution of hurt and suffering. 

Wardens aim to be her eyes and ears, ritualistically overlooking the Selkie and Sirenia, upholding her desire to watch her children in life, as her Father, Yama, looks over her children in death. 

Wardens are guardians of the land in essence. So that the Selkie may thrive in-land, they pursue peace. Wardens practice scholastic pursuit of the land's many truths, so that there can both be education and mediation. For the Selkie, especially one that is bound to the land predominantly by their curse, the world is full of different cultures and people deriving from the very Land Gods that Inki encouraged to wage war. To continue mediation and empathy through understanding, knowledge of them is important. 

Wardens also have an appreciation of inland swamps and rivers, and may collect various artifacts from them, alongside meditating within their confines. Protection of them is paramount. 

Like how a worshiper of Yama might send one's soul to him so that they may help him count the stones to weigh the sins of life with, a worshiper of Leucothea often etches sentiments and memories into the face of stones and other artifacts of land, and casts them to the sea so that they may reach her drowned spirit and appease her with their story.

Wardens are often songstresses, songsters and bards, often looking to mitigate strife and chaos through song.]]> <![CDATA[Enobora: The City Mountains]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-17643.html Sun, 24 Mar 2024 23:16:57 +0000 PastaTM]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-17643.html [Image: myd5cl6lej4.png]
To the northern lands, a kingdom stands strong and proud. Its people live within the vast mountain ranges that cover the isles of the north, often nicknamed the City of Mountains, Enobora is home to many different types of life within its secluded walls of stone and sea. There is peace found here for those who travel, many who find the lands in the Mountains never truly leave its gentle embrace, and the people welcome all who come with open arms.

On the grassy planes, the agriculture community thrives with the crystal blue water, the mass droves of Sheep, Cows, and Chickens can be found scattered across the land. With wooden buildings mixed with stone plastered across the rivers, and most of all, the mountainsides. The lower one who goes into these lands will find a more barren aspect, while the life there grows it does not thrive as it does within the peaks of the mountains.

The population as well is a fine mixture of different species, though the most populated ones are Humans, Wolken [Sheepkin], Drakanites, and Sirens. The Human population leads at over 55%, whereas the Wolken comes close to 35%, the Drakanites with no more than 5% finally those who live in the lower planes the Sirens at a 5% population rate. These often fluctuate due to imports, and travelers however they remain within a 5% margin at any given time. Despite being different, there is rarely any racism found.. and if it is, swiftly is it dealt with by the heads of the cities.

In the deep lands of agriculture, the lands of Enobora are known for their large imports of Food and Livestock. Being anything from as simple as corn and wheat, to as special as the golden apples that grow within the highest peaks of the mountains. A rare import to be found and tightly secured to those of the Enobora people, it is possible to obtain such fruit upon formal dealings with the kingdom.

The land is ruled by a council, one from every species to speak for the people who live upon the land. Humans with the largest population are the heads of the council, ruling by decree and voting of the people.

Humanities current ruling house is the House Ealtew

Wolken current ruling house is the House Hannink

Drakanites current ruling house is the House Ioghiarth

Sirens current ruling house is the House Tyde
[Image: j7mmc8p8987.png]
Within the lands of Enobora a deep-rooted community can be found throughout the entire land. Through years of hardship, the people came together after the long-winded wars of the past, ones that the scars of the land can be found even today upon the planes. The people themselves are kind to outsiders, and none allow anyone within their community to go hungry, as long as someone lives within the scattered yet thriving mountain cities. They are never alone.

Yearly celebrations are deemed 'The Harvest' which allows those to show their thanks to their patrons of the land. In the hushed mountains, the winds speak of the thanks they give to their land. For there is something special within the culture of Enobora... what can be found is a small split of ideals among the people. They do not disagree but their outlook on life differs depending on which Path they take.

They are as stubborn as anyone can be, deeply rooted in their ideals and culture it is nigh impossible to remove it from anyone. Even those who are taken from their home do not ever truly leave it. So deeply ingrained into who they are and what they stand for, the lands of Enobora give thanks for their way of life, for the lands have given them much. To disrespect such a thing is seen as heretical.

As many cultures do, they too go against the Fel arts. Typically the Wolken have a vast hate for Demonic kind, but in some cases, they also take issue with certain types of Ookami. While it is not uncommon for the Wolken to insult Ookami, all of them if seen against a Demonic Wolf. Will ensure the threat is culled. Those who walk the path of Mortality take great pride in having the pelts of Wolfs. In Wolken-focused groups, their greatest of warriors wear a cloak made purely of the pelts of the arch enemy.

The Path of Permanence
One of the most common paths that one can take within the land of mountains. It is here that those who walk this path live a peaceful life, one focused on the well-being of others. Often those deeply rooted in the farming communities will follow this way of life, it is said that always if someone needs help of any kind. The Permanence will be there to help them in whatever it is they need. The greater aspect of mankind is to work as one towards a brighter future for the generations to come.

Those who walk this path do not typically partake in wars or conflict, but they will do all that they can to aid those who may be called to such things. The craft of Permanence is one of its stylizations. A blacksmith who walks this path will be known for the grand designs found on the armor or weapons themselves, those who may walk this path do not typically partake in wars... but they do aid their fellow brethren who do.

They see life as something to behold, to help grow into something more. To give to the next generations a greater life than they ever had, to build and harvest the lands around them with as much love as they can muster.

For all shall find peace through their craft.

The Path of Mortality
The second path. The darkened route that not all should follow, but some must. Where there is peace there too is the need for war, for the need of protection. It is said that those who walk this path focus on the defense of others, to ensure that their lands do not fall to the darkened embrace of other warring states that would wish to take their hard-earned land from them. These are often found within the more central cities within Enobora, Knights, Warriors, and Shepherds, are often the most common who take this path. It is said that they will defend their land until their dying breath and sometimes, even beyond.

Those who walk this path are called to war. For there is no greater honor in life than to embrace the ways of death. Through death is their life, through life is their death. They carry themselves with pride but also remain humble kind people, they never mistreat their enemies and will often at the end of battles come together to try and mend the wounded, and dying, and give them their last rites.

They do not see death as something to be afraid of, but as something to take celebration in. Giving back to the lands that raised them, to defend those that they love, there is no greater honor than that.

For all shall find peace through battle.

The Harvest
A grand celebration of the lands, it is here where the two paths meet as one. Their paths cross and their stories are told, typically a large feast is held with the celebration of the land itself. This is not typically a religious celebration but it can be one depending on the findings of the world. Sometimes it is used as a final send-off for those who must go to war and fight their battles away from the homeland.

It is here as well, where those coming of age are allowed to pick the Path they wish to walk. That of Permanence and Mortality once their choice is made is then given to the followers of such a path to guide their newest of the flock. This is a time for great happiness and celebration! The cities and communities come together to welcome a new cornerstone of life for their children, friends, and family.

This celebration is held typically once every four years. Though these can change due to the state of Enobora, times of War occur less often, and times of Peace occur more often. There's a total of four different harvests that happen throughout the changes of the seasons, though in truth the biggest change of it all is the food that is brought, as well as the lights that give thanks to the harvest itself.

[Image: 3yrgco2on34.png]
An uncommon pair is found among the faithful in Enobora, that of Hope and that of Death.

Typically those of the lands follow the two gods, Pylae and Caius.

It is more common for the general population to be that of the faithful Pylae, but for the Wolken, not a single one follows another god other than Caius. It is said in legend that Caius himself as a gift to Mortyl took a single cloud, molding it into the shape of the very first Wolken. His messengers. Caius would send the Wolken to send messages of love directly to the Lady Death, for they were as light as a cloud, as joyful as anything, but proud to carry the messages of the Lord of Death to his beloved...

Through such stories do the Wolken of Enobora find pride in being the keepers of life and death. Stubborn to think otherwise that they are the messengers of the God of Death itself, but more than that they usher in the final rest of those who have fallen, dying, and the sickly. They will do their best in the name of their patron god to ensure they do not suffer. Some may look to darker paths, some may reject the idea of the way of death.

Yet no matter what, they follow their god of Love, Death, and Rest.

As for the more general population, it is given that Pylae brought the very first man upon the mountains, for it was his favored land to eat the sweet golden apples. To rest upon the clouds that touch against the mountains, but more than that. Pylae blessed the lands with a bountiful harvest to allow his new children to flock among the lands. Giving their harvest in his name, the golden apples also speak of a connection to the God of Hope. Thus is it guarded in the highest of mountains.

Celebrations of Pylae can be found throughout the cities, typically in the summer months when the apples are the sweetest is festive in his name. Alongside this sermons are often held as typical as they can be in the name of the Hopebringer. The dark arts of Witchcraft and Demonology are forbidden to be even set foot upon the lands of Enobora and will be met by the Zealots of Pylae.

Shepherds of Caius
The most popular faith of Caius found within Enobra, the head of the church is always a Wolken. To think otherwise would be nothing short of insulting the great messengers of death. Their faith is all about how Love and Death connect, how the faithful provide the messages to Lady Death herself in all that they do. Some take a more passive approach and give their lives to helping those around them, in the name of Love.

Those who are of the utmost faithful are those found who tend to the Graveyards and crypts, as well as giving funeral rights to those around the lands of Enobra. It is almost unheard of to not have one of the Shepherds of Caius see over the funeral of a loved one or a fallen member of the community.

Typically they wear the garbs of black cloth, as well as harboring a Crook as the symbol of their devotion to Caius.

The Hopebringers
This is the most popular of all the faiths within Enobora, found to give the ideals of Hope directly to all of humanity. No matter the cost it may bring to themselves. To be selfless is one of the core ideals, as well as to bring joy to others when possible. In the name of Pylae it is not unheard of them to go to distant lands to try and spread the word of their lord, yet they do it in a way that symbolizes their people above all else.

Typically those of this faith adorn a yellow coloration to their articles of clothing, to mimic the coloration of the wings of Pylae. This can range from simple farm gear to the high-standing garbs found upon the council, yet all have the same meaning and faith towards their chosen patron. Some even take the time to cover their face in a darkened hood so that their actions speak louder than words.

Those who have been blessed by the god himself, though rare, are seen in high standings of the Council and Religious faiths.

Often they are found giving coin, helping with farms, as well as aiding in battle when they are called upon. Their armor typically has golden colorations of wings that press against the backplate, White and Gold.

In the Hopebringers name.
]]> [Image: myd5cl6lej4.png]
To the northern lands, a kingdom stands strong and proud. Its people live within the vast mountain ranges that cover the isles of the north, often nicknamed the City of Mountains, Enobora is home to many different types of life within its secluded walls of stone and sea. There is peace found here for those who travel, many who find the lands in the Mountains never truly leave its gentle embrace, and the people welcome all who come with open arms.

On the grassy planes, the agriculture community thrives with the crystal blue water, the mass droves of Sheep, Cows, and Chickens can be found scattered across the land. With wooden buildings mixed with stone plastered across the rivers, and most of all, the mountainsides. The lower one who goes into these lands will find a more barren aspect, while the life there grows it does not thrive as it does within the peaks of the mountains.

The population as well is a fine mixture of different species, though the most populated ones are Humans, Wolken [Sheepkin], Drakanites, and Sirens. The Human population leads at over 55%, whereas the Wolken comes close to 35%, the Drakanites with no more than 5% finally those who live in the lower planes the Sirens at a 5% population rate. These often fluctuate due to imports, and travelers however they remain within a 5% margin at any given time. Despite being different, there is rarely any racism found.. and if it is, swiftly is it dealt with by the heads of the cities.

In the deep lands of agriculture, the lands of Enobora are known for their large imports of Food and Livestock. Being anything from as simple as corn and wheat, to as special as the golden apples that grow within the highest peaks of the mountains. A rare import to be found and tightly secured to those of the Enobora people, it is possible to obtain such fruit upon formal dealings with the kingdom.

The land is ruled by a council, one from every species to speak for the people who live upon the land. Humans with the largest population are the heads of the council, ruling by decree and voting of the people.

Humanities current ruling house is the House Ealtew

Wolken current ruling house is the House Hannink

Drakanites current ruling house is the House Ioghiarth

Sirens current ruling house is the House Tyde
[Image: j7mmc8p8987.png]
Within the lands of Enobora a deep-rooted community can be found throughout the entire land. Through years of hardship, the people came together after the long-winded wars of the past, ones that the scars of the land can be found even today upon the planes. The people themselves are kind to outsiders, and none allow anyone within their community to go hungry, as long as someone lives within the scattered yet thriving mountain cities. They are never alone.

Yearly celebrations are deemed 'The Harvest' which allows those to show their thanks to their patrons of the land. In the hushed mountains, the winds speak of the thanks they give to their land. For there is something special within the culture of Enobora... what can be found is a small split of ideals among the people. They do not disagree but their outlook on life differs depending on which Path they take.

They are as stubborn as anyone can be, deeply rooted in their ideals and culture it is nigh impossible to remove it from anyone. Even those who are taken from their home do not ever truly leave it. So deeply ingrained into who they are and what they stand for, the lands of Enobora give thanks for their way of life, for the lands have given them much. To disrespect such a thing is seen as heretical.

As many cultures do, they too go against the Fel arts. Typically the Wolken have a vast hate for Demonic kind, but in some cases, they also take issue with certain types of Ookami. While it is not uncommon for the Wolken to insult Ookami, all of them if seen against a Demonic Wolf. Will ensure the threat is culled. Those who walk the path of Mortality take great pride in having the pelts of Wolfs. In Wolken-focused groups, their greatest of warriors wear a cloak made purely of the pelts of the arch enemy.

The Path of Permanence
One of the most common paths that one can take within the land of mountains. It is here that those who walk this path live a peaceful life, one focused on the well-being of others. Often those deeply rooted in the farming communities will follow this way of life, it is said that always if someone needs help of any kind. The Permanence will be there to help them in whatever it is they need. The greater aspect of mankind is to work as one towards a brighter future for the generations to come.

Those who walk this path do not typically partake in wars or conflict, but they will do all that they can to aid those who may be called to such things. The craft of Permanence is one of its stylizations. A blacksmith who walks this path will be known for the grand designs found on the armor or weapons themselves, those who may walk this path do not typically partake in wars... but they do aid their fellow brethren who do.

They see life as something to behold, to help grow into something more. To give to the next generations a greater life than they ever had, to build and harvest the lands around them with as much love as they can muster.

For all shall find peace through their craft.

The Path of Mortality
The second path. The darkened route that not all should follow, but some must. Where there is peace there too is the need for war, for the need of protection. It is said that those who walk this path focus on the defense of others, to ensure that their lands do not fall to the darkened embrace of other warring states that would wish to take their hard-earned land from them. These are often found within the more central cities within Enobora, Knights, Warriors, and Shepherds, are often the most common who take this path. It is said that they will defend their land until their dying breath and sometimes, even beyond.

Those who walk this path are called to war. For there is no greater honor in life than to embrace the ways of death. Through death is their life, through life is their death. They carry themselves with pride but also remain humble kind people, they never mistreat their enemies and will often at the end of battles come together to try and mend the wounded, and dying, and give them their last rites.

They do not see death as something to be afraid of, but as something to take celebration in. Giving back to the lands that raised them, to defend those that they love, there is no greater honor than that.

For all shall find peace through battle.

The Harvest
A grand celebration of the lands, it is here where the two paths meet as one. Their paths cross and their stories are told, typically a large feast is held with the celebration of the land itself. This is not typically a religious celebration but it can be one depending on the findings of the world. Sometimes it is used as a final send-off for those who must go to war and fight their battles away from the homeland.

It is here as well, where those coming of age are allowed to pick the Path they wish to walk. That of Permanence and Mortality once their choice is made is then given to the followers of such a path to guide their newest of the flock. This is a time for great happiness and celebration! The cities and communities come together to welcome a new cornerstone of life for their children, friends, and family.

This celebration is held typically once every four years. Though these can change due to the state of Enobora, times of War occur less often, and times of Peace occur more often. There's a total of four different harvests that happen throughout the changes of the seasons, though in truth the biggest change of it all is the food that is brought, as well as the lights that give thanks to the harvest itself.

[Image: 3yrgco2on34.png]
An uncommon pair is found among the faithful in Enobora, that of Hope and that of Death.

Typically those of the lands follow the two gods, Pylae and Caius.

It is more common for the general population to be that of the faithful Pylae, but for the Wolken, not a single one follows another god other than Caius. It is said in legend that Caius himself as a gift to Mortyl took a single cloud, molding it into the shape of the very first Wolken. His messengers. Caius would send the Wolken to send messages of love directly to the Lady Death, for they were as light as a cloud, as joyful as anything, but proud to carry the messages of the Lord of Death to his beloved...

Through such stories do the Wolken of Enobora find pride in being the keepers of life and death. Stubborn to think otherwise that they are the messengers of the God of Death itself, but more than that they usher in the final rest of those who have fallen, dying, and the sickly. They will do their best in the name of their patron god to ensure they do not suffer. Some may look to darker paths, some may reject the idea of the way of death.

Yet no matter what, they follow their god of Love, Death, and Rest.

As for the more general population, it is given that Pylae brought the very first man upon the mountains, for it was his favored land to eat the sweet golden apples. To rest upon the clouds that touch against the mountains, but more than that. Pylae blessed the lands with a bountiful harvest to allow his new children to flock among the lands. Giving their harvest in his name, the golden apples also speak of a connection to the God of Hope. Thus is it guarded in the highest of mountains.

Celebrations of Pylae can be found throughout the cities, typically in the summer months when the apples are the sweetest is festive in his name. Alongside this sermons are often held as typical as they can be in the name of the Hopebringer. The dark arts of Witchcraft and Demonology are forbidden to be even set foot upon the lands of Enobora and will be met by the Zealots of Pylae.

Shepherds of Caius
The most popular faith of Caius found within Enobra, the head of the church is always a Wolken. To think otherwise would be nothing short of insulting the great messengers of death. Their faith is all about how Love and Death connect, how the faithful provide the messages to Lady Death herself in all that they do. Some take a more passive approach and give their lives to helping those around them, in the name of Love.

Those who are of the utmost faithful are those found who tend to the Graveyards and crypts, as well as giving funeral rights to those around the lands of Enobra. It is almost unheard of to not have one of the Shepherds of Caius see over the funeral of a loved one or a fallen member of the community.

Typically they wear the garbs of black cloth, as well as harboring a Crook as the symbol of their devotion to Caius.

The Hopebringers
This is the most popular of all the faiths within Enobora, found to give the ideals of Hope directly to all of humanity. No matter the cost it may bring to themselves. To be selfless is one of the core ideals, as well as to bring joy to others when possible. In the name of Pylae it is not unheard of them to go to distant lands to try and spread the word of their lord, yet they do it in a way that symbolizes their people above all else.

Typically those of this faith adorn a yellow coloration to their articles of clothing, to mimic the coloration of the wings of Pylae. This can range from simple farm gear to the high-standing garbs found upon the council, yet all have the same meaning and faith towards their chosen patron. Some even take the time to cover their face in a darkened hood so that their actions speak louder than words.

Those who have been blessed by the god himself, though rare, are seen in high standings of the Council and Religious faiths.

Often they are found giving coin, helping with farms, as well as aiding in battle when they are called upon. Their armor typically has golden colorations of wings that press against the backplate, White and Gold.

In the Hopebringers name.
]]> <![CDATA[The Lost Land of Tosk]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-15760.html Tue, 08 Aug 2023 05:07:00 +0000 Quatral]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-15760.html "Zog see many thing. Terrible thing in Zog home. Great city empty, only dead live. Where corpse in charge, and eat meat of Zog people."
i
- Zog, the Wandering Warrior of Tosk
[Image: tosk3.png]
The Land of Tosk
i
Lost to Time and Mankind Alike
i
Some say it lies beyond the great oceans of the world, others would spin tales that the lost Land of Tosk sits on the other side of a vast and harsh desert. Few have ventured so far, and fewer still have returned from the archaic lands at the reaches of the world. Possessing almost a mystical quality, as it seems to perpetually lie just beyond the maps of Eternia... perpetually pushed further from the civilized lands which grace navigational charts. There are those scholars who're so foolish as to study the existence of Tosk, who propose that it sits on the junction of two planes. The material and... well, no one could quite say where else Tosk resides within the world at large.
i
Its quality of mystery is also what makes it such an attractive target for would-be explorers and those with a hunger for adventure. To discover more about the fringes of the map, and chart what appears as unknown to much of the world. For those who have gone so far and returned, they speak of a bleak land, ringed by mountains and pocked with arid deserts, occasionally interrupted by salted lakes which serve as home to migratory birds which sup from the saline waters. It is to say the least... inhospitable, which only makes it more of a marvel for those who have never been.
i
What grand treasures lie beneath the sands of Tosk? Surely some spectacular prize lies in wait for those brave enough to delve into the unmapped country, or so the circle of adventurers with the gall to attempt, would say of the place.
i
In truth? No great riches, wealth, nor artefacts have returned from the Lost Country. It remains a barren relic at the edge of the world, a stamp in time when the lands of Eternia were more ancient. As if Tosk had been frozen there... its monumental sandstone cities, now lay empty where many thousands might have once tread. Though that is not to say that the Land of Tosk is entirely without life, for there is some small population there... cursed with an existence to migrate from plain to plain. Eking out their livelihood from the thin vegetation which manages to grow amidst rocky outcroppings.
i
The Nogratii
i
The primary population which makes their home in the Land of Tosk, are the Nogratii. They are a materially poor and frugal people, who live out a nomadic lifestyle which carries them across the sparsely vegetated lands, skirting along the great dunes in search of what might sustain them. Primarily subsisting off of scrawny birds, meagre scraps of whatever root vegetables can be torn from the earth... and on occasion, each other. The Nogratii have adapted to this simplistic and harsh way of life, with drastically low metabolism and the capacity to live on as little as possible for as long as possible.
i
Though the drastic downsides of being forced into such brutal nomadic living are unavoidable, with the average lifespan of such a people often capping out in their thirties. Little else is known about the Nogratii, save what can be garnered from the few explorers who survived long enough to spend time in their camps. In truth, only the fringe elements of Tosk's people have been properly studied and observed, with tales told of ferocious warriors which make their home in the empty cities of the interior deserts. Though no name is given to them by the Nogratii people save for Urrac Bharr, or roughly translated to 'Fool Lords' in their plain, unwritten tongue.
i
The vast battlefields which serve as the playground for Tosk's malignant 'Corpse Kings'.
i
The Necromancer Warlords of Tosk
[Image: tosk2.png]
Word of mouth carries quickly and often exaggerates the truth, especially of those lands which are as fantastical and distant as Tosk. Yet time and again, the sparse survivors of those grand adventurers speak of cruel Undeath which rules over swathes of the inland deserts, doing battle with the base warrior tribes which make their home in the vast ruins of bygone civilizations. Those monolithic structures from which great Emperors and God-Kings might've surveyed the land, many towering stories in the sky.
i
Yet now, the plinths and spires crumble, and walls begin to sag beneath weight of time and corrosive desert sand. Lifeless save for the slouching march of corpses, in their perpetual battle for supremacy with savage warrior tribes of the sand seas. Those undressed and filthy primitives which pit themselves against the undead armies of Necromancer Overlords which scrape their domain from the ruins of the old order, raising their armies from the ancient corpses of Tosk's long-dead history. Shambling skeletons which do battle with barbaric skirmishers, ultimately reinforcing their hated foe upon death. Inevitably? The brave savages of the ruined civilization will no longer be, and only death will rule the land thereafter.
i
Little can be said of the egomaniacal rulers of these pockets of undead dominion. Some so weak that they disappear in a blink of an eye, others... so powerful that the sky itself seems to humble itself against them. Towers of bone and flesh which reach into the clouds above, beacons of fetid decay... what they beckon? No one can really say, only that they seem to grow higher in each passing year...
i
A Land in Ruin, A Land of Rebirth
i
As bleak and wretched as the lives of those who call Tosk home is, the savage and nomadic people there would have it no other way. Rare is it for the sturdy folk of Tosk to travel abroad, and perhaps rarer for them to survive a trip beyond the mountainous boundary of their homeland. An almost otherworldly anchor which keeps the inhabitants of that thrice cursed land, there forever.
i
Perhaps the tales are true however... and some great relic can be found within the deep vaults of decaying metropoli. Whether they might serve for good or evil, is a fact best left unexplored for now.
i
Who knows what lies in sleep beneath the sand?
]]> "Zog see many thing. Terrible thing in Zog home. Great city empty, only dead live. Where corpse in charge, and eat meat of Zog people."
i
- Zog, the Wandering Warrior of Tosk
[Image: tosk3.png]
The Land of Tosk
i
Lost to Time and Mankind Alike
i
Some say it lies beyond the great oceans of the world, others would spin tales that the lost Land of Tosk sits on the other side of a vast and harsh desert. Few have ventured so far, and fewer still have returned from the archaic lands at the reaches of the world. Possessing almost a mystical quality, as it seems to perpetually lie just beyond the maps of Eternia... perpetually pushed further from the civilized lands which grace navigational charts. There are those scholars who're so foolish as to study the existence of Tosk, who propose that it sits on the junction of two planes. The material and... well, no one could quite say where else Tosk resides within the world at large.
i
Its quality of mystery is also what makes it such an attractive target for would-be explorers and those with a hunger for adventure. To discover more about the fringes of the map, and chart what appears as unknown to much of the world. For those who have gone so far and returned, they speak of a bleak land, ringed by mountains and pocked with arid deserts, occasionally interrupted by salted lakes which serve as home to migratory birds which sup from the saline waters. It is to say the least... inhospitable, which only makes it more of a marvel for those who have never been.
i
What grand treasures lie beneath the sands of Tosk? Surely some spectacular prize lies in wait for those brave enough to delve into the unmapped country, or so the circle of adventurers with the gall to attempt, would say of the place.
i
In truth? No great riches, wealth, nor artefacts have returned from the Lost Country. It remains a barren relic at the edge of the world, a stamp in time when the lands of Eternia were more ancient. As if Tosk had been frozen there... its monumental sandstone cities, now lay empty where many thousands might have once tread. Though that is not to say that the Land of Tosk is entirely without life, for there is some small population there... cursed with an existence to migrate from plain to plain. Eking out their livelihood from the thin vegetation which manages to grow amidst rocky outcroppings.
i
The Nogratii
i
The primary population which makes their home in the Land of Tosk, are the Nogratii. They are a materially poor and frugal people, who live out a nomadic lifestyle which carries them across the sparsely vegetated lands, skirting along the great dunes in search of what might sustain them. Primarily subsisting off of scrawny birds, meagre scraps of whatever root vegetables can be torn from the earth... and on occasion, each other. The Nogratii have adapted to this simplistic and harsh way of life, with drastically low metabolism and the capacity to live on as little as possible for as long as possible.
i
Though the drastic downsides of being forced into such brutal nomadic living are unavoidable, with the average lifespan of such a people often capping out in their thirties. Little else is known about the Nogratii, save what can be garnered from the few explorers who survived long enough to spend time in their camps. In truth, only the fringe elements of Tosk's people have been properly studied and observed, with tales told of ferocious warriors which make their home in the empty cities of the interior deserts. Though no name is given to them by the Nogratii people save for Urrac Bharr, or roughly translated to 'Fool Lords' in their plain, unwritten tongue.
i
The vast battlefields which serve as the playground for Tosk's malignant 'Corpse Kings'.
i
The Necromancer Warlords of Tosk
[Image: tosk2.png]
Word of mouth carries quickly and often exaggerates the truth, especially of those lands which are as fantastical and distant as Tosk. Yet time and again, the sparse survivors of those grand adventurers speak of cruel Undeath which rules over swathes of the inland deserts, doing battle with the base warrior tribes which make their home in the vast ruins of bygone civilizations. Those monolithic structures from which great Emperors and God-Kings might've surveyed the land, many towering stories in the sky.
i
Yet now, the plinths and spires crumble, and walls begin to sag beneath weight of time and corrosive desert sand. Lifeless save for the slouching march of corpses, in their perpetual battle for supremacy with savage warrior tribes of the sand seas. Those undressed and filthy primitives which pit themselves against the undead armies of Necromancer Overlords which scrape their domain from the ruins of the old order, raising their armies from the ancient corpses of Tosk's long-dead history. Shambling skeletons which do battle with barbaric skirmishers, ultimately reinforcing their hated foe upon death. Inevitably? The brave savages of the ruined civilization will no longer be, and only death will rule the land thereafter.
i
Little can be said of the egomaniacal rulers of these pockets of undead dominion. Some so weak that they disappear in a blink of an eye, others... so powerful that the sky itself seems to humble itself against them. Towers of bone and flesh which reach into the clouds above, beacons of fetid decay... what they beckon? No one can really say, only that they seem to grow higher in each passing year...
i
A Land in Ruin, A Land of Rebirth
i
As bleak and wretched as the lives of those who call Tosk home is, the savage and nomadic people there would have it no other way. Rare is it for the sturdy folk of Tosk to travel abroad, and perhaps rarer for them to survive a trip beyond the mountainous boundary of their homeland. An almost otherworldly anchor which keeps the inhabitants of that thrice cursed land, there forever.
i
Perhaps the tales are true however... and some great relic can be found within the deep vaults of decaying metropoli. Whether they might serve for good or evil, is a fact best left unexplored for now.
i
Who knows what lies in sleep beneath the sand?
]]> <![CDATA[Alacritas, The Mother of the Lifestream]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-15692.html Sun, 30 Jul 2023 02:53:39 +0000 Bluebird]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-15692.html [Image: ezgif-3-e40a106110.png?ex=65efca97&is=65...3bfa119a9&]
A lady composed of silver, beautiful and graceful by nature; a Constant and one of the elder gods. And yet, not much seems to be known of her within texts and nations. Along with Nyssa did the two weave the mana of the world together, although the lifestream itself seems to flow directly from Alacritas herself.
Only the briefest of glimpses into old, sacred texts reveals her story and her purpose. One thing remains clear, however: Alacritas considers all who Live and wander the world as her children, no matter who they may come from. She is a being that reinforces self-love and love for your peers, who promotes kindness and acceptance of those who seek it and yet remain shunned by others. Life can be as harsh as it is kind, and those that follow her are inclined to promote goodness and love and care in every aspect in order to alleviate these challenges that may be offered.

The constants are aspects of the unseen laws, and the Divine Spirits are aspects of the more tangible ones. Mana is much more tangible and seen, and so it is that aspect that Nyssa governs; and yet that which remains otherwise, that of life and the stream, is governed by Alacritas.


This is the mana that creates and wraps around Eternia. It is how all Life within the vast universes remains clear and growing, for Alacritas purposely tends to it dutifully and thoughtfully to ensure that all have a chance to experience it's hardships and joys; as she is it's embodiment, it is always in abundance in one way or another.

As Mortyl is the direct opposition to her entire being, one may consider the two to be in strife more often than not, but this is not the case. Life and Death are two sides of a coin with a mutual respect for one another, and some ancient texts imply that Alacritas may even see Mortyl as her true sister - for when her children of Life inevitably pass, Mortyl accepts them as a gift to her.

For a time being, all was going well with the creation being done by both the Divine Spirits and the Constants with each working in tandem and harmony to create a universe both vast and full of potential.


[Image: 9c87c6a123a80f4557a655e8b2c8f77c.png?ex=...1428c5d13&]

Pylae is Hope, and the governing force that most heroes of man strive to be. It was Mankind that had fought alongside Pylae against Moros and his Marquis and other denizens of Helheim, and it was their hope and inner strength that empowered Pylae to do so.


Amier split amongst ten fractured Primordials to assist the first men to counter the tides of evil that Moros had wrought.

But it was Alacritas who had offered the blessing and gift of light; so that man may always retain a portion of it within their soul, so that no one could be irredeemable should they seek to make amends for their errors.

Man was also gifted Kindness and Love, so that they may show it to their brethren and all forms of life. The light that beats brilliantly within is a gift Alacritas bestows time and time again, even should Man cause her to shed tears.

Life that begins reaching it's end may begin to hear a gentle voice calling for them. Where Mortyl will eventually ferry them away, all end up seeing Alacritas before they must eventually part ways - to either deal with the reality of their sins in Hel, or to be allowed to move on peacefully.

As it is, and so it shall be:
Alacritas is the first Mother of all, for it is she who allows the souls to exit the stream of life to begin anew and to explore the world that the Divines and Constants made for mankind.

And it is she who naturally extends one final hand to those who pass.
"We all make mistakes, and yet does this mean we are devoid of hope? Devoid of love and compassion? For as long as Life flows freely, it is my wish that my children keep their arms open for one another; to shelter each other in times of hardship and to overcome their challenges together. It is my desire that they protect the Life that runs through them and the world, that they ensure not a single soul goes without one hand reaching for them."

It is of no surprise that the Goddess of Life and the God of Hope would inevitably be drawn to one another. It is her charisma and kindness that reminds him that mercy can be given even to those who may have done wrong in the past; and it is his determination that reminds Alacritas that often must one make a hard decision in order to save Life.


There is a great deal of mutual love and understanding between them, and it is not unheard of for many to worship the two together. From their union did they have one child who eventually found his way unto Meranthe from the sky, akin to a meteor--

-- Eleos Lux Aurea.
He is an embodiment of both of their ideals and aspects, Life and Hope made into one being. Although he had not been seen for some time, seemingly resolving to undergo a hibernation somewhere within the Institute itself.

Life is ever flowing. With each breath we take in do we feel invigorated; with every bit of warmth of sun that touches our skin do we experience renewal.
Alacritas lives within us all, and it is her desire and wish that we endeavor to secure that all may enjoy the life they lead - that they do not succumb to the despair and darkness Moros curses man with, that we instead foster our love and light so that we may overcome every bit of Life's trials.
If Life were easy, we would never know true joy. We would never create memories that last a lifetime that are held so dearly and lovingly to our chests.
To not forsake our fellow man, to uplift one another. To use our charisma and wisdom for the good of all, to foster life where life may have vanquished.
It is from Her that we are born, and it is through Her that we learn to accept and love Life for what it can teach us and what it can bring.
]]> [Image: ezgif-3-e40a106110.png?ex=65efca97&is=65...3bfa119a9&]
A lady composed of silver, beautiful and graceful by nature; a Constant and one of the elder gods. And yet, not much seems to be known of her within texts and nations. Along with Nyssa did the two weave the mana of the world together, although the lifestream itself seems to flow directly from Alacritas herself.
Only the briefest of glimpses into old, sacred texts reveals her story and her purpose. One thing remains clear, however: Alacritas considers all who Live and wander the world as her children, no matter who they may come from. She is a being that reinforces self-love and love for your peers, who promotes kindness and acceptance of those who seek it and yet remain shunned by others. Life can be as harsh as it is kind, and those that follow her are inclined to promote goodness and love and care in every aspect in order to alleviate these challenges that may be offered.

The constants are aspects of the unseen laws, and the Divine Spirits are aspects of the more tangible ones. Mana is much more tangible and seen, and so it is that aspect that Nyssa governs; and yet that which remains otherwise, that of life and the stream, is governed by Alacritas.


This is the mana that creates and wraps around Eternia. It is how all Life within the vast universes remains clear and growing, for Alacritas purposely tends to it dutifully and thoughtfully to ensure that all have a chance to experience it's hardships and joys; as she is it's embodiment, it is always in abundance in one way or another.

As Mortyl is the direct opposition to her entire being, one may consider the two to be in strife more often than not, but this is not the case. Life and Death are two sides of a coin with a mutual respect for one another, and some ancient texts imply that Alacritas may even see Mortyl as her true sister - for when her children of Life inevitably pass, Mortyl accepts them as a gift to her.

For a time being, all was going well with the creation being done by both the Divine Spirits and the Constants with each working in tandem and harmony to create a universe both vast and full of potential.


[Image: 9c87c6a123a80f4557a655e8b2c8f77c.png?ex=...1428c5d13&]

Pylae is Hope, and the governing force that most heroes of man strive to be. It was Mankind that had fought alongside Pylae against Moros and his Marquis and other denizens of Helheim, and it was their hope and inner strength that empowered Pylae to do so.


Amier split amongst ten fractured Primordials to assist the first men to counter the tides of evil that Moros had wrought.

But it was Alacritas who had offered the blessing and gift of light; so that man may always retain a portion of it within their soul, so that no one could be irredeemable should they seek to make amends for their errors.

Man was also gifted Kindness and Love, so that they may show it to their brethren and all forms of life. The light that beats brilliantly within is a gift Alacritas bestows time and time again, even should Man cause her to shed tears.

Life that begins reaching it's end may begin to hear a gentle voice calling for them. Where Mortyl will eventually ferry them away, all end up seeing Alacritas before they must eventually part ways - to either deal with the reality of their sins in Hel, or to be allowed to move on peacefully.

As it is, and so it shall be:
Alacritas is the first Mother of all, for it is she who allows the souls to exit the stream of life to begin anew and to explore the world that the Divines and Constants made for mankind.

And it is she who naturally extends one final hand to those who pass.
"We all make mistakes, and yet does this mean we are devoid of hope? Devoid of love and compassion? For as long as Life flows freely, it is my wish that my children keep their arms open for one another; to shelter each other in times of hardship and to overcome their challenges together. It is my desire that they protect the Life that runs through them and the world, that they ensure not a single soul goes without one hand reaching for them."

It is of no surprise that the Goddess of Life and the God of Hope would inevitably be drawn to one another. It is her charisma and kindness that reminds him that mercy can be given even to those who may have done wrong in the past; and it is his determination that reminds Alacritas that often must one make a hard decision in order to save Life.


There is a great deal of mutual love and understanding between them, and it is not unheard of for many to worship the two together. From their union did they have one child who eventually found his way unto Meranthe from the sky, akin to a meteor--

-- Eleos Lux Aurea.
He is an embodiment of both of their ideals and aspects, Life and Hope made into one being. Although he had not been seen for some time, seemingly resolving to undergo a hibernation somewhere within the Institute itself.

Life is ever flowing. With each breath we take in do we feel invigorated; with every bit of warmth of sun that touches our skin do we experience renewal.
Alacritas lives within us all, and it is her desire and wish that we endeavor to secure that all may enjoy the life they lead - that they do not succumb to the despair and darkness Moros curses man with, that we instead foster our love and light so that we may overcome every bit of Life's trials.
If Life were easy, we would never know true joy. We would never create memories that last a lifetime that are held so dearly and lovingly to our chests.
To not forsake our fellow man, to uplift one another. To use our charisma and wisdom for the good of all, to foster life where life may have vanquished.
It is from Her that we are born, and it is through Her that we learn to accept and love Life for what it can teach us and what it can bring.
]]> <![CDATA[The Fens of Annwyn]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-15669.html Fri, 28 Jul 2023 17:14:56 +0000 Enginseer-42]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-15669.html [Image: 360_F_561143246_AbhXAuzV9fxD4uiARJsmo8bG9PVLctTj.jpg]
The Fens of Annwyn

Annwyn is a realm of trackless swampland and fens, in the north-western region of the Blackwuld. Bordered on the north by Atrellya, and to the west by Aen, and separated from both by a mountain range. Annwyn is a realm inhabited by ferocious beasts and even more vicious people. While the swamps are quite rich in alchemically useful flora, the beasts dwelling in the swamp, many of demonic origin from Atrellya, make it a difficult land to profit from on any scale. Nonetheless several loose tribes make their home there. Braving monsters and a hostile environment to do so.

The Culture of Annwyn is one of vicious self-reliance and the pursuit of personal power as the highest calling. Many scholars in Aen have even called into question whether the practices of the Annwynites is even a culture, so fierce is their attachment to independence. Aside from family units, which typically crumble the moment the children are capable of fending for themselves or prove incapable of magic (A state of affairs that amounts to a death sentence for the unfortunate child, as they find themselves abandoned in the swamps when their parents part ways.), the people of Annwyn only rarely gather into something resembling a society. Adopting the habits of solitary predators, the Annwynites devote themselves to their path to power. Tracking greater and more dangerous beasts to fight until they finally meet one that kills them.

Occasionally, an Annwynite will leave the swamps in search of greater challenges, in this case they will typically seek out magi of renown, demons, dragons, or other beings they believe to be worthy foes. While sometimes this leads them to the battlefield, most Annwynites eschew warfare when possible. Preferring single combat to the chaos of open war.

While the people of Annwyn do have something approaching a religion, it is one unseen outside their borders, and only rarely spoken of directly in front of outsiders. Even its name is unknown to most, as the swamp folk rarely speak of specifics of faith outside of euphemism and suggestion. Nevertheless, they clearly know of the Pantheon of Meranthe, as well as the Primals, and hold the vast majority of them in contempt. None more so than Mortyl and Hel. The folk of Annwyn are known for hunting Nephilim descended from Mortyl regardless of personal valor or misdeeds, and it seems to be a core component of their faith, such as it is, that mankind is not only capable of slaying the Constant herself, but that the end of death at mankinds hands is an inevitability. With every child of Annwyn fighting with the dream of being the one to strike that prophesied killing blow.

Infamously, the folk of Annwyn seem to have few, if any, compunctions about killing or dying. To the people of Annwyn, survival is the privilege, and gift, of the strong. Reincarnation being a central facet of their faith, death is viewed as a temporary inconvenience on the path to power at worst, or a chance to walk the path from a different angle at best.

Annwynites have dwelt within the fens since the first age. Living and dying in relative solitude as they hone themselves body, mind, and soul without giving much regard to outside nations. Combined with the fiercely independent nature of most of Annwyn’s population, they by and large disregard the peoples outside of their swamps. This makes formal diplomacy nigh pointless, as you would have to charter treaties with each individual staking out a claim in the area.

The people of Aen have had infrequent contact with the people of Annwyn, And the Annwynites are widely regarded as ignorant and malicious savages by the empire due in no small part to their near universal rejection of Pylae.

Beyond the frontiers of Aen however, Annwyn is at best a travelers tale of a strange and deadly marshland filled with even stranger folk.]]> [Image: 360_F_561143246_AbhXAuzV9fxD4uiARJsmo8bG9PVLctTj.jpg]
The Fens of Annwyn

Annwyn is a realm of trackless swampland and fens, in the north-western region of the Blackwuld. Bordered on the north by Atrellya, and to the west by Aen, and separated from both by a mountain range. Annwyn is a realm inhabited by ferocious beasts and even more vicious people. While the swamps are quite rich in alchemically useful flora, the beasts dwelling in the swamp, many of demonic origin from Atrellya, make it a difficult land to profit from on any scale. Nonetheless several loose tribes make their home there. Braving monsters and a hostile environment to do so.

The Culture of Annwyn is one of vicious self-reliance and the pursuit of personal power as the highest calling. Many scholars in Aen have even called into question whether the practices of the Annwynites is even a culture, so fierce is their attachment to independence. Aside from family units, which typically crumble the moment the children are capable of fending for themselves or prove incapable of magic (A state of affairs that amounts to a death sentence for the unfortunate child, as they find themselves abandoned in the swamps when their parents part ways.), the people of Annwyn only rarely gather into something resembling a society. Adopting the habits of solitary predators, the Annwynites devote themselves to their path to power. Tracking greater and more dangerous beasts to fight until they finally meet one that kills them.

Occasionally, an Annwynite will leave the swamps in search of greater challenges, in this case they will typically seek out magi of renown, demons, dragons, or other beings they believe to be worthy foes. While sometimes this leads them to the battlefield, most Annwynites eschew warfare when possible. Preferring single combat to the chaos of open war.

While the people of Annwyn do have something approaching a religion, it is one unseen outside their borders, and only rarely spoken of directly in front of outsiders. Even its name is unknown to most, as the swamp folk rarely speak of specifics of faith outside of euphemism and suggestion. Nevertheless, they clearly know of the Pantheon of Meranthe, as well as the Primals, and hold the vast majority of them in contempt. None more so than Mortyl and Hel. The folk of Annwyn are known for hunting Nephilim descended from Mortyl regardless of personal valor or misdeeds, and it seems to be a core component of their faith, such as it is, that mankind is not only capable of slaying the Constant herself, but that the end of death at mankinds hands is an inevitability. With every child of Annwyn fighting with the dream of being the one to strike that prophesied killing blow.

Infamously, the folk of Annwyn seem to have few, if any, compunctions about killing or dying. To the people of Annwyn, survival is the privilege, and gift, of the strong. Reincarnation being a central facet of their faith, death is viewed as a temporary inconvenience on the path to power at worst, or a chance to walk the path from a different angle at best.

Annwynites have dwelt within the fens since the first age. Living and dying in relative solitude as they hone themselves body, mind, and soul without giving much regard to outside nations. Combined with the fiercely independent nature of most of Annwyn’s population, they by and large disregard the peoples outside of their swamps. This makes formal diplomacy nigh pointless, as you would have to charter treaties with each individual staking out a claim in the area.

The people of Aen have had infrequent contact with the people of Annwyn, And the Annwynites are widely regarded as ignorant and malicious savages by the empire due in no small part to their near universal rejection of Pylae.

Beyond the frontiers of Aen however, Annwyn is at best a travelers tale of a strange and deadly marshland filled with even stranger folk.]]> <![CDATA[The Land of Doria]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-13694.html Mon, 30 Jan 2023 01:20:36 +0000 Moloch]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-13694.html [Image: idk_doria.png]

Doria is a place of no modest history. Located in the south of the Greater Aen Empire, and limited by the whereabouts of the Silent Expanse, it works as a heavily militarized city-state under the vassalage of the crown. 

Its origins date to the age of myth, when the world was still young and humans were few. Legend calls it the place where Ualdir buried the first of his sons, whose ichor bled out past the thin and virgin soil and formed the river of Mardi — baptized after him —, from which the first Dorian man emerged. Whether the assertion is true or not, drinking from the stream of Mardi is a rite of passage for the few young men who survive their weathering and training.

The leftover blessings of the godchild, supposedly lethal to lesser men, are said to excite the fires of war and fury in a warrior's stomach, planting the seed of a perfect soldier in an otherwise mortal vessel. They who recover from the illness of Mardi's phantasm are believed to be fated to become heroes or generals of legend. It is said that men born in this land, fed on harvest grown from the soil that Mardi lay beneath, are unlike regular men. Their complexion is different, vibrant, and olive in color. Their eyes bear an iron-upon-sand tint of red, and their bodies are trained to withstand punishment and great strain.

Yet, few are the boys who ever make it to the point, for conscription is mandatory for all youths aged eight, and its drills are ruthless. It is the conditioning lapse with the highest mortality rate documented in all of modern Aegis, though its results make this excusable since it has made the city-state known for training the most ferocious, effective, and loyal infantrymen in the region.

Doria has never been documented losing a war, and is highly looked upon by the current Queendom of Irene II given their ability to successfully hold the front against Barsburg through the lands of the frontier for over sixty years. Their popularity (fame either good or bad depending on who refers to them) goes as far up as sainthood, for Saint Ignatius — after serving in a conjoined deployment upon Dorian soil — adopted many of their practices, and returned to his homeland bearing the banner of the Hoplites, held as a memento to ever recall their fellowship til the day he died.

They are not an area of great wealth, but their population is equally low to match. Its army is only ever constituted of a maximum of a couple of thousand, and despite the fact that its approach and equipment is rustic and upfront in nature, they seldom err out of athletic virtue, tenacity, and strategic knowhow.]]> [Image: idk_doria.png]

Doria is a place of no modest history. Located in the south of the Greater Aen Empire, and limited by the whereabouts of the Silent Expanse, it works as a heavily militarized city-state under the vassalage of the crown. 

Its origins date to the age of myth, when the world was still young and humans were few. Legend calls it the place where Ualdir buried the first of his sons, whose ichor bled out past the thin and virgin soil and formed the river of Mardi — baptized after him —, from which the first Dorian man emerged. Whether the assertion is true or not, drinking from the stream of Mardi is a rite of passage for the few young men who survive their weathering and training.

The leftover blessings of the godchild, supposedly lethal to lesser men, are said to excite the fires of war and fury in a warrior's stomach, planting the seed of a perfect soldier in an otherwise mortal vessel. They who recover from the illness of Mardi's phantasm are believed to be fated to become heroes or generals of legend. It is said that men born in this land, fed on harvest grown from the soil that Mardi lay beneath, are unlike regular men. Their complexion is different, vibrant, and olive in color. Their eyes bear an iron-upon-sand tint of red, and their bodies are trained to withstand punishment and great strain.

Yet, few are the boys who ever make it to the point, for conscription is mandatory for all youths aged eight, and its drills are ruthless. It is the conditioning lapse with the highest mortality rate documented in all of modern Aegis, though its results make this excusable since it has made the city-state known for training the most ferocious, effective, and loyal infantrymen in the region.

Doria has never been documented losing a war, and is highly looked upon by the current Queendom of Irene II given their ability to successfully hold the front against Barsburg through the lands of the frontier for over sixty years. Their popularity (fame either good or bad depending on who refers to them) goes as far up as sainthood, for Saint Ignatius — after serving in a conjoined deployment upon Dorian soil — adopted many of their practices, and returned to his homeland bearing the banner of the Hoplites, held as a memento to ever recall their fellowship til the day he died.

They are not an area of great wealth, but their population is equally low to match. Its army is only ever constituted of a maximum of a couple of thousand, and despite the fact that its approach and equipment is rustic and upfront in nature, they seldom err out of athletic virtue, tenacity, and strategic knowhow.]]> <![CDATA[The Twelve Saints]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-13577.html Tue, 17 Jan 2023 09:09:57 +0000 PillowChalk]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-13577.html [Image: r9egv2p.png]
Quote:
Saint Kraus
The Priest-King of Aen
[Image: NZPAZWE.png]

"Not to be confused with the divine archangel Kraus Eternia, this mortal king was crowned in the capital city at the age of fifteen, following the death of his father at the hands of rebellious vassals and the nefarious occultists that fed on their lust for the crown. He was described as a charming rapscallion with a penchant for turning literal concepts on their head for his advantage, tutors and even his own mother, serving as regent until he reached maturity, found it exhausting to argue with him on trivial matters. In spite of this, he had the peculiar habit of speaking the truth and a disdain for liars in his presence.


As a mature adult, the king dissolved recurring conflicts with some of his realm's most powerful nobles, who were compensating for more power after the annexing of several provinces within their respective territories. Simultaneously, fending off invasions from a notorious fel-dragon said to have housed itself in the northland mountain tops. For his victories, it was Pylae that first blessed with a divine right to rule ("Gras Gobaith yw Brenin/Brenhines" The Grace of Hope is King/Queen) legitimizing his legacy as the first saint in the Church of Twelve and his successors as conduits for Pylae's will."

Canonized/Celebration Day: 30th of Geist ⚶
Gemstone of the Month: Sapphire
Major Shrine: Within the capital city where the Church of Twelve is erected; the crown itself is considered a holy relic.
Cause of Death: Natural causes
Attributes: Keys to the Golden Land, King holding a golden-winged scepter while seated on the throne, the royal family crest, crown with halo in the background and the words "Arweinydd y Cwnsler Aur, gweddïwch drosom eich gobaith i Pylae." (Leader of Golden Counsel, pray for us your hope to Pylae)
Patronage: Leaders, philosophers, theologists, strategists, nobility, afflictions regarding the head, mental resilience.
Quote:
Saint Celestine
The Hawkeyed Trobairitz
[Image: AtKZRr3.png]
“As a girl we were introduced
Fifteen is when our love begun
Hopeful arrows could never be outrun
To these golden wings my heart profused

Sunlit visions guide my fingertips
Sweat drips down my forehead and my vision narrows
Hesitation breaks skin as I bit my inner lips
Eyes tightly shut I let go of the arrow

My mark is hit.

The heretic's ichor taints the soil red
His loud screams begging to keep head
Hope's love can erase any sins
Magitech breaks apart when a new life begins

Ever since that day I've seen this apparition
O Pylae, I understand my mission
War is where your love shines through
My bow I dedicate to you”


Canonized/Celebration Day: 22nd of Sae ♎︎
Gemstone of the Month: Amber
Major Shrine: The Church Forest of Dyfnant, north in the Aenite Highlands, where a sacred grove is protected from deforestation and Barsburg conflicts.
Cause of Death: Bled out on the battlefield by a chopped limb courtesy of a turncoat.
Attributes: Archer notching a golden arrow with the spirit of Pylae guiding her; archer with sword protruding through her torso courtesy of nondescript traitor; priestess holding out the sun with incorporeal wings outstretched; pierced heart.
Patronage: Love, mentally ill, against eye afflictions, dawn, marksmen, happy marriages, battle acquaintanced couples, and amputees
Quote:Saint Aquilina
The Mystic Doctor
[Image: 0hfvBNI.png]
"A rare and unfortunate circumstance, Aquilina was born a non-magi to a prestigious family, and often lived in the shadows of her magically gifted siblings. While she lacked innate mana circuitry, she made up for her curiosity of the world around her and book smarts; sufficient enough to forgo the traditional route of being married off to a nobleman and pursue a higher education in the field of medicine.

This was during the time after the defeat of Lord Moros, and he was cast into the depths of Helheim. Yet, his loyal followers and Hel-beasts continued to act. The field of medicine and sanitizations were not refined as they are today, and a plague began to sweep across the lands. Bacteria from our plane evolved from within the poorly disposed corpses of Hel-touched entities, and many began to die. Once infected, victims began to succumb to negative emotions, such as hatred, grief, despair, jealousy, and sometimes apathy that may lead them to unconsciously killing others; a dark mist veils their body and a black, tar-like ichor pours from their orifices. In its final stages, the mist will engulf them entirely and they vanish. This phenomenon was called Moros’ Spite.

The finest of doctors and scientists scrambled to find a cure, while religious scholars believed it to be a punishment from the gods because of their weakness of faith as deaths began to climb. Aquilina enlisted in the efforts by examining samples and studying victims in the last stages of the supernatural pestilence. It was then that a stroke of eureka came to her when she noticed a parishioner performing a prayer over a loved one; seeing the effects lessen if only for a little. Why not fight the occult with faith? She experimented with a form of penicillin blessed by the priests to administer to patients. The plan forced religion and science to collaborate wherein a treatment was created. It was during this time that Aquilina came into the faith and, as the Plague was counteracted, spearheaded the efforts for universal medical care and funding towards experimental research projects benefiting mankind."

Canonized/Celebration Day: 3rd of Hiero ♐︎
Gemstone of the Month: Bloodstone
Major Shrine: Saint Aquilina’s relics are kept in the sanctuary of the nonprofit, clinical teaching hospital that shares her name; located in the Aenite aligned city-state of Dunwich
Cause of Death: Natural causes
Attributes: Those who cultivate the natural sciences, medical technicians, philosophers, scientists, alchemists
Patronage: Book, quill, Aenite medic holding a sick person, plague mask.
Quote:
Saint Faustina
The Fatebreaker Paladin
[Image: DzRt7W6.png]
“Born in an Aenite territory in Gehenna, Faustina went on to join the Royal Imperial Guard in her mid-twenties. It was in spite of the cultural and racial divisions that she quickly rose amongst the ranks to become an esteemed General leading a division of holy knights that jointly protected the royal family from aggressors. During her service she had uncovered a prophecy wherein the great Helheim Knight known as Goethe would be summoned to lead a siege upon the imperial castle and bring about a period of darkness to the Empire. Unlike other Hel-borne entities, Goethe attacked from the realm of dreams, drawing from one’s greatest fears to bring about endless torment before killing their dreamselves– also leading to the death of their actual selves. To counter this, the Guard were split between two groups: one fending off the occultists in reality while the elite transcended into the realm of dreams to confront Goethe. Faustina spearheaded the latter.


In spite of their efforts, Goethe fed upon their deepest fears and insecurities with Faustina being the last one remaining. Channeling her faith to overturn this fate, Pylae bestowed her with blessed armor that allowed her to grapple his metaphysical form and bring him to the waking world. There were several accounts by soldiers that once Goethe was forcibly dragged out of the dream world he delivered a spine-chilling scream that snapped Faustina awake without skipping a beat to deliver the finishing blow; her armor said to have shined a radiant golden hue granted by the divinity of her unwavering Hope. After the dispatch of occultists and Knight, the prophecy had been overturned and Faustina hailed as a hero.”
Canonized/Celebration Day: 7th of Syph ♈︎
Gemstone of the Month: Beryl
Major Shrine: Located in Gehenna within the Aenite military base where she was born; shrine’s upkeep is managed by chaplains.
Cause of Death: Died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 120.
Attributes: Golden paladin armor; sleeping with hand clutching onto her spear; piercing through a knight shrouded in darkness with mentioned spear; Shasta daisies
Patronage: Wards against nightmares; military personnel; Guardian of the Royal Imperial Guard, longevity
Quote:
Saint Illuminata
The Sorrowful Sibyl
[Image: vSrsKzF.png]
"A seer who became a nun at an early age, Illuminata conducted many missions wherein she aided foreign neighbors often displaced because of the conquests of the Aehokar Empire. During an era of Reformation within the Church, a radical sect splintered from the main and encouraged an ethnic cleansing of these peoples. Disguising herself, she coordinated between the main church body and the displaced people to repel the unjustly crusades by opposition. She foresaw her demise by the sect’s hands and said to have wept deeply; not because of the fear of her death, but from it people unified to stamp out the sect. She was eventually captured, tied, and thrown into Lake Mercuil with stone weighing her ankles to drown. Aftermath of her death led to many converting to the Church of the Twelve and sparking socio-religious conversations on the leniency of views towards foreign nations."

Canonized/Celebration Day: 13th of Iberl ♒︎
Gemstone of the Month: Aquamarine
Major Shrine: Saint Illuminata Monastery located in a disputed border city of Baerney between Aen and Barsburg near Lake Mercuil, historically of the Aehokar Empire.
Cause of Death: Execution by drowning
Attributes: Purple loosestrifes, nun crying with hand obscuring her face save for one eye peeking through the gaps of her fingers, Lake Mercuil; martyrdom
Patronage: Revelations; epiphanies; peaceful council; missionaries; mediation; invoked against conspiracies and deception; immigrants; victims of water-related incidents
Quote:
Saint Paschal & Saint Cosmas
The Father of Ingenuity; the Integral Son
[Image: EPrHQ05.png]

"Saint Paschal & Cosmas were a father-son duo that began the still present stance against cybernetics and Barsburg synthetics. They were master and apprentice, father and son, and together they helped establish Aen’s stance on progress under Pylae’s guidance. Activists against the Coalescence and Barsburgian perspective on technology to the point they were targets of many powerful enemies within the fascist rival empire. Many everyday appliances and the origins of the modern nature of Aen can be traced back to their efforts in balancing technology with religion and the world."

Canonized/Celebration Day: 18th of Ios ♓︎
Gemstone of the Month: Alexandrite
Major Shrine: Parish of Paschal & Cosmas in Port Tanis, one of the largest ports in Aen and a region where artifice and construction is highly regarded. Many priests are also capable of enchantments and study some form of artificing.
Cause of Death: Assassinated by Barsburg agent for widespread activism against their method of technology and lack of religious care.
Attributes: Carpenter’s square or tools; Paschal holding his son as an infant; Adult Cosmas embracing his elderly father
Patronage: Creativity; caution in innovation; Magitechnicians that respect the human purity; inventors; wise solutions; anti-cybernetics activists; artificers
]]> [Image: r9egv2p.png]
Quote:
Saint Kraus
The Priest-King of Aen
[Image: NZPAZWE.png]

"Not to be confused with the divine archangel Kraus Eternia, this mortal king was crowned in the capital city at the age of fifteen, following the death of his father at the hands of rebellious vassals and the nefarious occultists that fed on their lust for the crown. He was described as a charming rapscallion with a penchant for turning literal concepts on their head for his advantage, tutors and even his own mother, serving as regent until he reached maturity, found it exhausting to argue with him on trivial matters. In spite of this, he had the peculiar habit of speaking the truth and a disdain for liars in his presence.


As a mature adult, the king dissolved recurring conflicts with some of his realm's most powerful nobles, who were compensating for more power after the annexing of several provinces within their respective territories. Simultaneously, fending off invasions from a notorious fel-dragon said to have housed itself in the northland mountain tops. For his victories, it was Pylae that first blessed with a divine right to rule ("Gras Gobaith yw Brenin/Brenhines" The Grace of Hope is King/Queen) legitimizing his legacy as the first saint in the Church of Twelve and his successors as conduits for Pylae's will."

Canonized/Celebration Day: 30th of Geist ⚶
Gemstone of the Month: Sapphire
Major Shrine: Within the capital city where the Church of Twelve is erected; the crown itself is considered a holy relic.
Cause of Death: Natural causes
Attributes: Keys to the Golden Land, King holding a golden-winged scepter while seated on the throne, the royal family crest, crown with halo in the background and the words "Arweinydd y Cwnsler Aur, gweddïwch drosom eich gobaith i Pylae." (Leader of Golden Counsel, pray for us your hope to Pylae)
Patronage: Leaders, philosophers, theologists, strategists, nobility, afflictions regarding the head, mental resilience.
Quote:
Saint Celestine
The Hawkeyed Trobairitz
[Image: AtKZRr3.png]
“As a girl we were introduced
Fifteen is when our love begun
Hopeful arrows could never be outrun
To these golden wings my heart profused

Sunlit visions guide my fingertips
Sweat drips down my forehead and my vision narrows
Hesitation breaks skin as I bit my inner lips
Eyes tightly shut I let go of the arrow

My mark is hit.

The heretic's ichor taints the soil red
His loud screams begging to keep head
Hope's love can erase any sins
Magitech breaks apart when a new life begins

Ever since that day I've seen this apparition
O Pylae, I understand my mission
War is where your love shines through
My bow I dedicate to you”


Canonized/Celebration Day: 22nd of Sae ♎︎
Gemstone of the Month: Amber
Major Shrine: The Church Forest of Dyfnant, north in the Aenite Highlands, where a sacred grove is protected from deforestation and Barsburg conflicts.
Cause of Death: Bled out on the battlefield by a chopped limb courtesy of a turncoat.
Attributes: Archer notching a golden arrow with the spirit of Pylae guiding her; archer with sword protruding through her torso courtesy of nondescript traitor; priestess holding out the sun with incorporeal wings outstretched; pierced heart.
Patronage: Love, mentally ill, against eye afflictions, dawn, marksmen, happy marriages, battle acquaintanced couples, and amputees
Quote:Saint Aquilina
The Mystic Doctor
[Image: 0hfvBNI.png]
"A rare and unfortunate circumstance, Aquilina was born a non-magi to a prestigious family, and often lived in the shadows of her magically gifted siblings. While she lacked innate mana circuitry, she made up for her curiosity of the world around her and book smarts; sufficient enough to forgo the traditional route of being married off to a nobleman and pursue a higher education in the field of medicine.

This was during the time after the defeat of Lord Moros, and he was cast into the depths of Helheim. Yet, his loyal followers and Hel-beasts continued to act. The field of medicine and sanitizations were not refined as they are today, and a plague began to sweep across the lands. Bacteria from our plane evolved from within the poorly disposed corpses of Hel-touched entities, and many began to die. Once infected, victims began to succumb to negative emotions, such as hatred, grief, despair, jealousy, and sometimes apathy that may lead them to unconsciously killing others; a dark mist veils their body and a black, tar-like ichor pours from their orifices. In its final stages, the mist will engulf them entirely and they vanish. This phenomenon was called Moros’ Spite.

The finest of doctors and scientists scrambled to find a cure, while religious scholars believed it to be a punishment from the gods because of their weakness of faith as deaths began to climb. Aquilina enlisted in the efforts by examining samples and studying victims in the last stages of the supernatural pestilence. It was then that a stroke of eureka came to her when she noticed a parishioner performing a prayer over a loved one; seeing the effects lessen if only for a little. Why not fight the occult with faith? She experimented with a form of penicillin blessed by the priests to administer to patients. The plan forced religion and science to collaborate wherein a treatment was created. It was during this time that Aquilina came into the faith and, as the Plague was counteracted, spearheaded the efforts for universal medical care and funding towards experimental research projects benefiting mankind."

Canonized/Celebration Day: 3rd of Hiero ♐︎
Gemstone of the Month: Bloodstone
Major Shrine: Saint Aquilina’s relics are kept in the sanctuary of the nonprofit, clinical teaching hospital that shares her name; located in the Aenite aligned city-state of Dunwich
Cause of Death: Natural causes
Attributes: Those who cultivate the natural sciences, medical technicians, philosophers, scientists, alchemists
Patronage: Book, quill, Aenite medic holding a sick person, plague mask.
Quote:
Saint Faustina
The Fatebreaker Paladin
[Image: DzRt7W6.png]
“Born in an Aenite territory in Gehenna, Faustina went on to join the Royal Imperial Guard in her mid-twenties. It was in spite of the cultural and racial divisions that she quickly rose amongst the ranks to become an esteemed General leading a division of holy knights that jointly protected the royal family from aggressors. During her service she had uncovered a prophecy wherein the great Helheim Knight known as Goethe would be summoned to lead a siege upon the imperial castle and bring about a period of darkness to the Empire. Unlike other Hel-borne entities, Goethe attacked from the realm of dreams, drawing from one’s greatest fears to bring about endless torment before killing their dreamselves– also leading to the death of their actual selves. To counter this, the Guard were split between two groups: one fending off the occultists in reality while the elite transcended into the realm of dreams to confront Goethe. Faustina spearheaded the latter.


In spite of their efforts, Goethe fed upon their deepest fears and insecurities with Faustina being the last one remaining. Channeling her faith to overturn this fate, Pylae bestowed her with blessed armor that allowed her to grapple his metaphysical form and bring him to the waking world. There were several accounts by soldiers that once Goethe was forcibly dragged out of the dream world he delivered a spine-chilling scream that snapped Faustina awake without skipping a beat to deliver the finishing blow; her armor said to have shined a radiant golden hue granted by the divinity of her unwavering Hope. After the dispatch of occultists and Knight, the prophecy had been overturned and Faustina hailed as a hero.”
Canonized/Celebration Day: 7th of Syph ♈︎
Gemstone of the Month: Beryl
Major Shrine: Located in Gehenna within the Aenite military base where she was born; shrine’s upkeep is managed by chaplains.
Cause of Death: Died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 120.
Attributes: Golden paladin armor; sleeping with hand clutching onto her spear; piercing through a knight shrouded in darkness with mentioned spear; Shasta daisies
Patronage: Wards against nightmares; military personnel; Guardian of the Royal Imperial Guard, longevity
Quote:
Saint Illuminata
The Sorrowful Sibyl
[Image: vSrsKzF.png]
"A seer who became a nun at an early age, Illuminata conducted many missions wherein she aided foreign neighbors often displaced because of the conquests of the Aehokar Empire. During an era of Reformation within the Church, a radical sect splintered from the main and encouraged an ethnic cleansing of these peoples. Disguising herself, she coordinated between the main church body and the displaced people to repel the unjustly crusades by opposition. She foresaw her demise by the sect’s hands and said to have wept deeply; not because of the fear of her death, but from it people unified to stamp out the sect. She was eventually captured, tied, and thrown into Lake Mercuil with stone weighing her ankles to drown. Aftermath of her death led to many converting to the Church of the Twelve and sparking socio-religious conversations on the leniency of views towards foreign nations."

Canonized/Celebration Day: 13th of Iberl ♒︎
Gemstone of the Month: Aquamarine
Major Shrine: Saint Illuminata Monastery located in a disputed border city of Baerney between Aen and Barsburg near Lake Mercuil, historically of the Aehokar Empire.
Cause of Death: Execution by drowning
Attributes: Purple loosestrifes, nun crying with hand obscuring her face save for one eye peeking through the gaps of her fingers, Lake Mercuil; martyrdom
Patronage: Revelations; epiphanies; peaceful council; missionaries; mediation; invoked against conspiracies and deception; immigrants; victims of water-related incidents
Quote:
Saint Paschal & Saint Cosmas
The Father of Ingenuity; the Integral Son
[Image: EPrHQ05.png]

"Saint Paschal & Cosmas were a father-son duo that began the still present stance against cybernetics and Barsburg synthetics. They were master and apprentice, father and son, and together they helped establish Aen’s stance on progress under Pylae’s guidance. Activists against the Coalescence and Barsburgian perspective on technology to the point they were targets of many powerful enemies within the fascist rival empire. Many everyday appliances and the origins of the modern nature of Aen can be traced back to their efforts in balancing technology with religion and the world."

Canonized/Celebration Day: 18th of Ios ♓︎
Gemstone of the Month: Alexandrite
Major Shrine: Parish of Paschal & Cosmas in Port Tanis, one of the largest ports in Aen and a region where artifice and construction is highly regarded. Many priests are also capable of enchantments and study some form of artificing.
Cause of Death: Assassinated by Barsburg agent for widespread activism against their method of technology and lack of religious care.
Attributes: Carpenter’s square or tools; Paschal holding his son as an infant; Adult Cosmas embracing his elderly father
Patronage: Creativity; caution in innovation; Magitechnicians that respect the human purity; inventors; wise solutions; anti-cybernetics activists; artificers
]]> <![CDATA[Aen]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-13545.html Thu, 12 Jan 2023 23:09:18 +0000 Chance]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-13545.html [Image: 4RPTm6j.png]
This is a summarized overview and some general lore for people to work with, free to be expanded on. Still adding to it as we go along, will post if there's an update.


GEORGRAPHY
➤Aen and Barsburg, among several other nations, were once known as the Aehokar Empire in the earliest of lores, an ancient civilization that splintered into several territories and cultures in the centuries that followed. Predominantly Aen and Barsburg were the largest of kingdoms in this region, with the latter's homeland at roughly 250,000 square miles and a population of 15 million.

➤The map is naturally quite complicated with various smaller nations either loyal to Barsburg or Aen, carving out barriers and border lines across a swathe of lands. It was not until the recent fall of Barsburg that this lessened (though various independent city-states emerged). This is a relatively recent event, just before the Year 2000, and is still developing in various shapes and forms. The Navy and power at sea is highly prized due to the great many isles and oceanic blockades - from spiral-like patterns to fractured lands, rarely is it a straight journey on horseback and carriage.


SOCIETY
➤A nationalistic people that have pride in their country and are also considered royalists. As of two centuries of rule, Queen Irene II of House Godwin is the head of state, overseeing her parliament and ordained by the Church of Twelve. Country-wide festivities are oft overseen by the royal family whereas the appointed reagents and lordling barons tend to manage the running of villages, towns, and cities. 

➤The kingdom boasts a high standard of living, enjoying wealth from trading prospects and foreign conquests. Many weaker city-states and countries have pledged their fealty to Aen in exchange for protection. Though while the inner cities may rarely see a beggar on the streets, further into the rural regions and out where crime is more frequent may see otherwise. Most fiscal investment goes towards these mega-cities and where the trading ports are rather than elsewhere.

➤Three years of military service is mandatory before the age of twenty-one, to serve in one of the many branches of military (including civil duty, such as the police force). 

➤Aen's population is almost entirely human (with 99%+ being so), compared to the worldly average of 75% humans. There have been a number of atrocities and a pro-human mindset over the centuries, believing that the Creator and Six Primals made men as they are, and that Beastkin are an aversion of this peak state. Wild, emotional, and barbaric, often exhibiting behaviours similar to their animal counterparts. It is not uncommon even today for Beastkin to be referred to as 'mutants'.  A similar mindset extends to Drakanites yet not quite as harshly. Races such as Nephilim (unless Mortyl or Caius), Giants, and Faeborne are not of the same thinking since they possess exalted ancestry of the revered Pantheon.

➤Occult magic and any other practice that corrupts the human condition is outlawed and severely punished.


RELIGION
➤Governed by the Church of Twelve Saints, the only role with judicatory authority over the Monarch in some areas is the Pope of Pylae. 

➤Pylae is one of the Six Constants - the supreme Primals of the cosmos - among them such as Aemir (Ymir), Memoria, Mortyl, Alacritas, and Hel. The embodiment of Hope and seen as the natural force of will that pushes people to rise with the morning sun and go about a productive day, as well as mental toughness during times of hardship. The all encompassing human condition and the Primal that managed to subjucate Hel during the mythical era. Golden wings that form a circle with the sigils of The Twelve form the Church's banner.

➤Of the Twelve Saints are numerous individuals throughout history of legendary status that performed great tasks on behalf of humanity, particularly of that of Aen, believed to have been truly harmonized with Pylae's will. They are the canonical Major Saints, though the Church also has many lesser Saints and stories told in its scripture.


[Image: srY3GJW.png]
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This is a summarized overview and some general lore for people to work with, free to be expanded on. Still adding to it as we go along, will post if there's an update.


GEORGRAPHY
➤Aen and Barsburg, among several other nations, were once known as the Aehokar Empire in the earliest of lores, an ancient civilization that splintered into several territories and cultures in the centuries that followed. Predominantly Aen and Barsburg were the largest of kingdoms in this region, with the latter's homeland at roughly 250,000 square miles and a population of 15 million.

➤The map is naturally quite complicated with various smaller nations either loyal to Barsburg or Aen, carving out barriers and border lines across a swathe of lands. It was not until the recent fall of Barsburg that this lessened (though various independent city-states emerged). This is a relatively recent event, just before the Year 2000, and is still developing in various shapes and forms. The Navy and power at sea is highly prized due to the great many isles and oceanic blockades - from spiral-like patterns to fractured lands, rarely is it a straight journey on horseback and carriage.


SOCIETY
➤A nationalistic people that have pride in their country and are also considered royalists. As of two centuries of rule, Queen Irene II of House Godwin is the head of state, overseeing her parliament and ordained by the Church of Twelve. Country-wide festivities are oft overseen by the royal family whereas the appointed reagents and lordling barons tend to manage the running of villages, towns, and cities. 

➤The kingdom boasts a high standard of living, enjoying wealth from trading prospects and foreign conquests. Many weaker city-states and countries have pledged their fealty to Aen in exchange for protection. Though while the inner cities may rarely see a beggar on the streets, further into the rural regions and out where crime is more frequent may see otherwise. Most fiscal investment goes towards these mega-cities and where the trading ports are rather than elsewhere.

➤Three years of military service is mandatory before the age of twenty-one, to serve in one of the many branches of military (including civil duty, such as the police force). 

➤Aen's population is almost entirely human (with 99%+ being so), compared to the worldly average of 75% humans. There have been a number of atrocities and a pro-human mindset over the centuries, believing that the Creator and Six Primals made men as they are, and that Beastkin are an aversion of this peak state. Wild, emotional, and barbaric, often exhibiting behaviours similar to their animal counterparts. It is not uncommon even today for Beastkin to be referred to as 'mutants'.  A similar mindset extends to Drakanites yet not quite as harshly. Races such as Nephilim (unless Mortyl or Caius), Giants, and Faeborne are not of the same thinking since they possess exalted ancestry of the revered Pantheon.

➤Occult magic and any other practice that corrupts the human condition is outlawed and severely punished.


RELIGION
➤Governed by the Church of Twelve Saints, the only role with judicatory authority over the Monarch in some areas is the Pope of Pylae. 

➤Pylae is one of the Six Constants - the supreme Primals of the cosmos - among them such as Aemir (Ymir), Memoria, Mortyl, Alacritas, and Hel. The embodiment of Hope and seen as the natural force of will that pushes people to rise with the morning sun and go about a productive day, as well as mental toughness during times of hardship. The all encompassing human condition and the Primal that managed to subjucate Hel during the mythical era. Golden wings that form a circle with the sigils of The Twelve form the Church's banner.

➤Of the Twelve Saints are numerous individuals throughout history of legendary status that performed great tasks on behalf of humanity, particularly of that of Aen, believed to have been truly harmonized with Pylae's will. They are the canonical Major Saints, though the Church also has many lesser Saints and stories told in its scripture.


[Image: srY3GJW.png]
]]> <![CDATA[Lore of Eternia]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-13056.html Tue, 08 Nov 2022 04:41:12 +0000 Chance]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-13056.html This covers the mythos of our world from the perspective of Meranthe, providing a summary on the grander aspects of creation and beyond. It is currently unfinished, but we aim to release a second part that will cover the Age of Black (Reign of Moros), The Divine Wars, the Primomarchy, the Kingdoms of Meranthe, and Folklore of Meranthe, as well as adding further detail to the current pages. (Credit to Raihex & Nozomi for the graphic design!)
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[Image: unknown.png]]]> This covers the mythos of our world from the perspective of Meranthe, providing a summary on the grander aspects of creation and beyond. It is currently unfinished, but we aim to release a second part that will cover the Age of Black (Reign of Moros), The Divine Wars, the Primomarchy, the Kingdoms of Meranthe, and Folklore of Meranthe, as well as adding further detail to the current pages. (Credit to Raihex & Nozomi for the graphic design!)
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[Image: unknown.png]]]> <![CDATA[Civilization, Law Magic & Contracts]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-10376.html Fri, 28 Jan 2022 10:39:06 +0000 Malek]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-10376.html Better the devil you know, than the devil you don't
[Image: azorius-knight.jpg]
Civilization & Magic: As the notion of civilization has continued to flourish in the world, it has developed into a powerful metaphysical concept, one which energy may be drawn from, and one people may capitalize on and control similar to other schools of metaphysical magic. The power and study is split into aspects that make up its whole, these are typically known as Architecture, Commerce, Culture, and Law... though it has been argued by some that the concept of Warfare also falls under the metaphysical concept of Civilization. 

Draoicathrach: The little knowledge we have on the concept of civilization comes from the 'Draoicathrach'. Essentially, these are druids of civilizations as opposed to nature. Ones that have studied the aforementioned field and attempted to grasp them, this field of interest would occasionally spring up and fade away from public attention due to the difficulty of cementing the magic into tangible results. Tales of those that would uphold themselves as pillars of civilization to combat chaos, occasionally being adversarial to druids, are few and far between yet they exist all the same.

Law Magic: Of the many aspects associated with civilization magics, it is Law Magic that is the most apparent in the current world. Binding oaths to Angels and stars, as well as contracts with Nethradin and creatures of Hel in exchange for power are known to exist. The current assumption is that these beings of tremendous holy or occult power can enact their will on the world freely... but if this were the case, there would be no tales of those that make these magical pacts being able to cheat those that have written them. The truth is that even the holy and the occult rely on Law Magic for these practices, and are as bound by it as those they bind. 

Both make use of Law, yet Law is separate to them. It is neither holy, nor occult. It is a power to bring about order or domination, a neutral and lawful party that may be sought out and used by even mortals. 

Contracts: Theoretically, there are many ways to use Law Magic. Oaths that bind a person to a certain path, Edicts that when given by a figure of authority compel the receiver to act them out, but most common at the moment in Esshar is the use of magically binding contracts. This is not only due to Nethradin presence, but also because of practitioners that sought to claim the ability to create these contracts themselves. 

LAWS OF MAGIC CONTRACTS
Note that a contract that deviates from these laws may not be physically impossible, only theoretically so. Contracts require tremendous energy to create and enact, and so by following these laws they may draw that energy from the metaphysical concept of Law. The basis and underlying theory of these laws has been prepared and developed by Taipan Lewra as of the year 1895 AC through several years of study. 

Producing a contract requires the means, the energy, and the tools to produce them. Weak Nethradin may still create contracts that bind souls in exchange for the powers of witchcraft, as they have the means and energy to do so with their link to Hel and the authority of the powers they serve... but unless they dedicate themselves to learning how to produce other contracts, they lack the knowledge to create them. 

1. Equivalent Exchange
Law is typically a facilitator for transaction. Though a contract CAN affect the natural world and possibly create, you can not rely on it doing so without something being given in return. A contract can not be signed to simply produce a piece of Chiron out of thin air, you may only receive an equivalent of what you are willing to give by creating and signing the contract. 

A good way to think of it is that a contract can be produced to transfer an injury from a person to another, however it can not heal an injury in any way without something being given up in turn. 

Despite this, it is not always necessary to receive. Contracts that limit a person's ability to lie can be freely taken, as they are giving away their ability to speak what they know to be false, so long as they willingly agree to it they need not receive anything in return. However, to receive something, something must be given.

2. Consent
Unlike edicts or some hexes, contracts can not enforce an action or will on someone against their will. For contracts to take effect, TRUE agreement from the signee is required. For this the signee must know what they are signing up for, they need not fully understand it. This means that a signee needs to know everything written in the contract. Invisible ink, illusions to change the appearance of words, illusions within the mind of the signee to make them perceive the words differently ALL RENDER SIGNATURES NULL AND VOID. Additionally, a contract signed under the guise that it is not actually magical will have no magical effects. 

Despite this, not fully understanding the ramifications of what you sign does not protect you from the effects of signing a contract. Not realizing for example that a contract did not include a date of termination of the conditions involved does not prevent the contract from remaining valid throughout your entire life. 

IN SITUATIONS OF DURESS: Someone being forced to sign a contract, such as by forcibly moving their hand to sign it, renders the contract moot as there is no consent involved. Despite this, having someone in captivity, tortured, or under threat of death does not NECESSARILY prevent someone from signing a contract as long as the signing is not directly resultant to them being robbed of choice in the process. For example, capturing someone and informing them that they will be killed should they not sign the contract is possible and permissible so long as they are aware they are given the choice between the two and are not in IMMEDIATE risk of death (i.e. currently asphyxiating with the only method of freeing themselves being the signing of a contract.). Torturing someone to get them to sign a contract is also possible, however enacting the torture as they sign the contract/agree to it renders it moot as attempting to flood them with pain to disable their rationality violates their ability to consent. Despite this, a contract that promises an end to torture can be presented when they are not actively being tortured. 

In order to avoid a contract being made null and void, it is recommended to only gain the consent of someone with no IMMEDIATE duress, and no perversions of the written word. That is the golden rule. 

3. Letter of The Law vs Spirit of The Law.
Magical contracts tend to favor the LETTER of the law, with some freedom of interpretation in regards to the spirit of the written word, however the spirit does have some influence and exists as a failsafe. 

For example, a contract with a clause that the signee must "Steal the heart of an Ogre" can be satisfied in multiple ways. For one, the physical heart of an Ogre may be stolen/obtained by taking one from an Ogre's body. Another method would be to make an ogre fall in love with the signee, as that interpretation also consolidates the clause as technically 'an Ogre's heart has been stolen'. 

Despite this, when the basis for an interpretation is shoddy, the failsafe of the spirit of the law activates. For example, "My friends and I use the word kill to mean kiss, therefore I can satisfy a contract to kill someone by kissing them" causes the contract to default to a perceived spirit of the law instead as the interpretation is not common enough to hold metaphysical weight to it, and therefore a kiss would not satisfy a kill clause. 

4. Proof of existence. 
A contract without direct physical AND magical proof of its existence no longer has any effect and is considered completely null and void. What this means is that if a contract is torn/destroyed, it no longer has any effect. This only applies to ORIGINAL copies of the contract, though multiple originals can be made to allow two parties to exit an agreement at will by destroying their version if it is included as a clause, destroying a nonmagical copy has no effect so long as an original still remains. 

To counter this, demonic/occult practitioners of law would occasionally write contracts they do not mind losing on the bodies of those that would sign them. Therefore in order to destroy the contract, the signee would have to destroy a part of their body in return. This is typically a sadistic practice done to drive a signee to destroy parts of themselves out of desperation. 

TYPES OF MAGICAL CONTRACTS 
Contracts are extremely malleable and these various types and clauses are possible to mix and match. The following list only includes that which the only known law mage on Esshar at the time of writing (Taipan Lewra) is aware of/has practiced the creation of. 

1. Contracts of Self Accepted harm:
These include contracts, that upon fulfillment, failure, or signing enact some harm on the parties involved with not much in return. These are easy to produce, and require novice law magic knowledge/tools. Still those that have not practiced Law Magic would be incapable of producing them. Despite their ease of production, getting someone to sign them typically requires advanced social manipulation or the providing of extra-contract incentives such as payment or punishment avoidance. 

This includes acceptance of injuries, and the loss property/abilities. It should also be possible to implant a basic compulsion into these types of contract such as 'failure to meet terms result in the signee being magically compelled to inform Taipan Lewra of their failure as soon as they are able'.

Contracts that prevent a person from lying also fall under this category, however they require an important note. Contracts of truth only prevent a person from speaking that which they know is false, they can still speak misleading truths or abuse interpretation.

Increased severity in harm/compulsions typically requires further knowledge and stronger tools to enact Law Magic. A novice likely can not create a contract that has a signee's death as a punishment for failure for example. 

2. Officiation of marriage/rank/title:
Though these are practices done beyond the use of law magic, having a law mage officiate your status as married, a noble, or "The best chef in Osrona" can have tremendous magical benefits. 

Contracts of these nature serve as conduits of energy that verify your bond or rank in the world and enshrine the concepts of your titles to the metaphysical. Getting a contract of this variety made allows you to have magical items created that draw on this energy.

For example, a married couple wishing to create a pair of rings that allow them to speak into each other's minds will require several rare magical ingredients, however the existence of a magical contract officiating their bond will likely decrease the cost as there is already an established magical basis. 

A weapon only wieldable by those of a noble family is typically going to be difficult to create, but MUCH easier with a magic contract verifying the noble status of the family. 

If you wish to create a magical dish with splendid properties, you will have a much easier time doing so with a contract cementing a title befitting your capabilities. 

Though these contracts are valuable, they can not be made without proof the recipients meet the criteria. A marriage contract is simple, typically only requiring a ceremony and some payment. Nobility however will likely require a proof of wealth, land, and deed and as such it might require a hefty sum be paid or a grand adventure/feat be undertaken. Someone who seeks to claim a title such as 'master chef' would likely be asked to provide a dish of quality that no other could replicate. 

Payment/proof is not absorbed by the contract, however giving something up to verify your claim would simply render your claim null and void if you expected it to simply be handed back.


3. Contract of Equivalent Exchange:
These contracts typically require a very practiced and dedicated law mage. A transaction is harder to produce than a contract of those who are willing to accept a limit or harm upon themselves. 

Through the creation of these contracts, injuries or ranks or theoretically even magic and knowledge may be transferred from one person to another. Once again contracts of higher severity require a better practiced law mage and stronger tools. For example, though Taipan Lewra believes himself capable of transferring temporary injuries, he was unable to fully transfer a permanent one and believes that is certainly possible with the improvement of tools/knowledge at the time of gathering this information. 

4. Contracts of Power: 
The contracts Nethradin are known to produce fall under this category, though without much practice they typically rely on the authority of Hel and the powers they may worship to enact and facilitate them... and due to their nature they are typically only aware of contracts of power that turn men and women into witches and warlocks. Oaths also fall under this, though cases of truly powerful oaths that grant power to those that take them are rare. 

As of now, the ability to understand the creation of these contracts and the production of tools that can replicate them is only a theoretical possibility. Though currently there are solid theories on how they function. A master law mage may be eventually be able to produce these. 

Essentially a contract can be produced to grant a modicum of power to the signee, though master manipulation of law magic and tremendous authority (acknowledged rank, such as that of a mage king, a marquis of hel, or a deity's backing). These contracts can not simply give out power, of course. A significant sacrifice must be made by the recipient of said power, the typical and surefire way of earning the power is the granting of one's souls to the authority upon death. Another is a decrease in lifespan. Theoretically it should also be possible to have lifelong servitude, or a lifelong adherence to certain principles and responsibilities be the sacrifices made in exchange for power, as evidenced by magical oaths. 

Powers granted by a contract are typically going to differ depending on the authority granting them, a being with no knowledge of witchcraft likely can not grant it. However general magic power such as 'increased lightning capabilities' should not be hard for any authority to grant so long as it is not a field they are naturally opposed to. The power can be granted, though the nature in which it manifests may differ. It is theorized that a powerful enough entity can use these contracts to fundamentally change the strengths of creatures such as demons and ogres, possibly creating new races altogether... though at this point that level of power is pure speculation rather than established theory. 
]]> Better the devil you know, than the devil you don't
[Image: azorius-knight.jpg]
Civilization & Magic: As the notion of civilization has continued to flourish in the world, it has developed into a powerful metaphysical concept, one which energy may be drawn from, and one people may capitalize on and control similar to other schools of metaphysical magic. The power and study is split into aspects that make up its whole, these are typically known as Architecture, Commerce, Culture, and Law... though it has been argued by some that the concept of Warfare also falls under the metaphysical concept of Civilization. 

Draoicathrach: The little knowledge we have on the concept of civilization comes from the 'Draoicathrach'. Essentially, these are druids of civilizations as opposed to nature. Ones that have studied the aforementioned field and attempted to grasp them, this field of interest would occasionally spring up and fade away from public attention due to the difficulty of cementing the magic into tangible results. Tales of those that would uphold themselves as pillars of civilization to combat chaos, occasionally being adversarial to druids, are few and far between yet they exist all the same.

Law Magic: Of the many aspects associated with civilization magics, it is Law Magic that is the most apparent in the current world. Binding oaths to Angels and stars, as well as contracts with Nethradin and creatures of Hel in exchange for power are known to exist. The current assumption is that these beings of tremendous holy or occult power can enact their will on the world freely... but if this were the case, there would be no tales of those that make these magical pacts being able to cheat those that have written them. The truth is that even the holy and the occult rely on Law Magic for these practices, and are as bound by it as those they bind. 

Both make use of Law, yet Law is separate to them. It is neither holy, nor occult. It is a power to bring about order or domination, a neutral and lawful party that may be sought out and used by even mortals. 

Contracts: Theoretically, there are many ways to use Law Magic. Oaths that bind a person to a certain path, Edicts that when given by a figure of authority compel the receiver to act them out, but most common at the moment in Esshar is the use of magically binding contracts. This is not only due to Nethradin presence, but also because of practitioners that sought to claim the ability to create these contracts themselves. 

LAWS OF MAGIC CONTRACTS
Note that a contract that deviates from these laws may not be physically impossible, only theoretically so. Contracts require tremendous energy to create and enact, and so by following these laws they may draw that energy from the metaphysical concept of Law. The basis and underlying theory of these laws has been prepared and developed by Taipan Lewra as of the year 1895 AC through several years of study. 

Producing a contract requires the means, the energy, and the tools to produce them. Weak Nethradin may still create contracts that bind souls in exchange for the powers of witchcraft, as they have the means and energy to do so with their link to Hel and the authority of the powers they serve... but unless they dedicate themselves to learning how to produce other contracts, they lack the knowledge to create them. 

1. Equivalent Exchange
Law is typically a facilitator for transaction. Though a contract CAN affect the natural world and possibly create, you can not rely on it doing so without something being given in return. A contract can not be signed to simply produce a piece of Chiron out of thin air, you may only receive an equivalent of what you are willing to give by creating and signing the contract. 

A good way to think of it is that a contract can be produced to transfer an injury from a person to another, however it can not heal an injury in any way without something being given up in turn. 

Despite this, it is not always necessary to receive. Contracts that limit a person's ability to lie can be freely taken, as they are giving away their ability to speak what they know to be false, so long as they willingly agree to it they need not receive anything in return. However, to receive something, something must be given.

2. Consent
Unlike edicts or some hexes, contracts can not enforce an action or will on someone against their will. For contracts to take effect, TRUE agreement from the signee is required. For this the signee must know what they are signing up for, they need not fully understand it. This means that a signee needs to know everything written in the contract. Invisible ink, illusions to change the appearance of words, illusions within the mind of the signee to make them perceive the words differently ALL RENDER SIGNATURES NULL AND VOID. Additionally, a contract signed under the guise that it is not actually magical will have no magical effects. 

Despite this, not fully understanding the ramifications of what you sign does not protect you from the effects of signing a contract. Not realizing for example that a contract did not include a date of termination of the conditions involved does not prevent the contract from remaining valid throughout your entire life. 

IN SITUATIONS OF DURESS: Someone being forced to sign a contract, such as by forcibly moving their hand to sign it, renders the contract moot as there is no consent involved. Despite this, having someone in captivity, tortured, or under threat of death does not NECESSARILY prevent someone from signing a contract as long as the signing is not directly resultant to them being robbed of choice in the process. For example, capturing someone and informing them that they will be killed should they not sign the contract is possible and permissible so long as they are aware they are given the choice between the two and are not in IMMEDIATE risk of death (i.e. currently asphyxiating with the only method of freeing themselves being the signing of a contract.). Torturing someone to get them to sign a contract is also possible, however enacting the torture as they sign the contract/agree to it renders it moot as attempting to flood them with pain to disable their rationality violates their ability to consent. Despite this, a contract that promises an end to torture can be presented when they are not actively being tortured. 

In order to avoid a contract being made null and void, it is recommended to only gain the consent of someone with no IMMEDIATE duress, and no perversions of the written word. That is the golden rule. 

3. Letter of The Law vs Spirit of The Law.
Magical contracts tend to favor the LETTER of the law, with some freedom of interpretation in regards to the spirit of the written word, however the spirit does have some influence and exists as a failsafe. 

For example, a contract with a clause that the signee must "Steal the heart of an Ogre" can be satisfied in multiple ways. For one, the physical heart of an Ogre may be stolen/obtained by taking one from an Ogre's body. Another method would be to make an ogre fall in love with the signee, as that interpretation also consolidates the clause as technically 'an Ogre's heart has been stolen'. 

Despite this, when the basis for an interpretation is shoddy, the failsafe of the spirit of the law activates. For example, "My friends and I use the word kill to mean kiss, therefore I can satisfy a contract to kill someone by kissing them" causes the contract to default to a perceived spirit of the law instead as the interpretation is not common enough to hold metaphysical weight to it, and therefore a kiss would not satisfy a kill clause. 

4. Proof of existence. 
A contract without direct physical AND magical proof of its existence no longer has any effect and is considered completely null and void. What this means is that if a contract is torn/destroyed, it no longer has any effect. This only applies to ORIGINAL copies of the contract, though multiple originals can be made to allow two parties to exit an agreement at will by destroying their version if it is included as a clause, destroying a nonmagical copy has no effect so long as an original still remains. 

To counter this, demonic/occult practitioners of law would occasionally write contracts they do not mind losing on the bodies of those that would sign them. Therefore in order to destroy the contract, the signee would have to destroy a part of their body in return. This is typically a sadistic practice done to drive a signee to destroy parts of themselves out of desperation. 

TYPES OF MAGICAL CONTRACTS 
Contracts are extremely malleable and these various types and clauses are possible to mix and match. The following list only includes that which the only known law mage on Esshar at the time of writing (Taipan Lewra) is aware of/has practiced the creation of. 

1. Contracts of Self Accepted harm:
These include contracts, that upon fulfillment, failure, or signing enact some harm on the parties involved with not much in return. These are easy to produce, and require novice law magic knowledge/tools. Still those that have not practiced Law Magic would be incapable of producing them. Despite their ease of production, getting someone to sign them typically requires advanced social manipulation or the providing of extra-contract incentives such as payment or punishment avoidance. 

This includes acceptance of injuries, and the loss property/abilities. It should also be possible to implant a basic compulsion into these types of contract such as 'failure to meet terms result in the signee being magically compelled to inform Taipan Lewra of their failure as soon as they are able'.

Contracts that prevent a person from lying also fall under this category, however they require an important note. Contracts of truth only prevent a person from speaking that which they know is false, they can still speak misleading truths or abuse interpretation.

Increased severity in harm/compulsions typically requires further knowledge and stronger tools to enact Law Magic. A novice likely can not create a contract that has a signee's death as a punishment for failure for example. 

2. Officiation of marriage/rank/title:
Though these are practices done beyond the use of law magic, having a law mage officiate your status as married, a noble, or "The best chef in Osrona" can have tremendous magical benefits. 

Contracts of these nature serve as conduits of energy that verify your bond or rank in the world and enshrine the concepts of your titles to the metaphysical. Getting a contract of this variety made allows you to have magical items created that draw on this energy.

For example, a married couple wishing to create a pair of rings that allow them to speak into each other's minds will require several rare magical ingredients, however the existence of a magical contract officiating their bond will likely decrease the cost as there is already an established magical basis. 

A weapon only wieldable by those of a noble family is typically going to be difficult to create, but MUCH easier with a magic contract verifying the noble status of the family. 

If you wish to create a magical dish with splendid properties, you will have a much easier time doing so with a contract cementing a title befitting your capabilities. 

Though these contracts are valuable, they can not be made without proof the recipients meet the criteria. A marriage contract is simple, typically only requiring a ceremony and some payment. Nobility however will likely require a proof of wealth, land, and deed and as such it might require a hefty sum be paid or a grand adventure/feat be undertaken. Someone who seeks to claim a title such as 'master chef' would likely be asked to provide a dish of quality that no other could replicate. 

Payment/proof is not absorbed by the contract, however giving something up to verify your claim would simply render your claim null and void if you expected it to simply be handed back.


3. Contract of Equivalent Exchange:
These contracts typically require a very practiced and dedicated law mage. A transaction is harder to produce than a contract of those who are willing to accept a limit or harm upon themselves. 

Through the creation of these contracts, injuries or ranks or theoretically even magic and knowledge may be transferred from one person to another. Once again contracts of higher severity require a better practiced law mage and stronger tools. For example, though Taipan Lewra believes himself capable of transferring temporary injuries, he was unable to fully transfer a permanent one and believes that is certainly possible with the improvement of tools/knowledge at the time of gathering this information. 

4. Contracts of Power: 
The contracts Nethradin are known to produce fall under this category, though without much practice they typically rely on the authority of Hel and the powers they may worship to enact and facilitate them... and due to their nature they are typically only aware of contracts of power that turn men and women into witches and warlocks. Oaths also fall under this, though cases of truly powerful oaths that grant power to those that take them are rare. 

As of now, the ability to understand the creation of these contracts and the production of tools that can replicate them is only a theoretical possibility. Though currently there are solid theories on how they function. A master law mage may be eventually be able to produce these. 

Essentially a contract can be produced to grant a modicum of power to the signee, though master manipulation of law magic and tremendous authority (acknowledged rank, such as that of a mage king, a marquis of hel, or a deity's backing). These contracts can not simply give out power, of course. A significant sacrifice must be made by the recipient of said power, the typical and surefire way of earning the power is the granting of one's souls to the authority upon death. Another is a decrease in lifespan. Theoretically it should also be possible to have lifelong servitude, or a lifelong adherence to certain principles and responsibilities be the sacrifices made in exchange for power, as evidenced by magical oaths. 

Powers granted by a contract are typically going to differ depending on the authority granting them, a being with no knowledge of witchcraft likely can not grant it. However general magic power such as 'increased lightning capabilities' should not be hard for any authority to grant so long as it is not a field they are naturally opposed to. The power can be granted, though the nature in which it manifests may differ. It is theorized that a powerful enough entity can use these contracts to fundamentally change the strengths of creatures such as demons and ogres, possibly creating new races altogether... though at this point that level of power is pure speculation rather than established theory. 
]]> <![CDATA[Drakelings]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-4790.html Mon, 19 Oct 2020 22:18:33 +0000 Apollo Densin]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-4790.html Quote:Drakelings are typically found in the colder climates generally favored by dragons and the Drakanites. Drakelings have the appearance of tiny dragons, about as big as a hawk would be in the more southern climates, although they are more thin and delicate compared to a full born dragon. Drakelings come in a variety of color of scales, some in bright and vibrant hues while others are more dull and drab.

Drakelings fill part of the ecological niche that most birds normally fill in the dragon dominated regions, hunting smaller game and scavenging meat from larger predators. Although some birds still remain in this niche as well. Some Drakelings are captured as pets, although they tend to not do well being locked in homes all the time, needing wide open spaces and ability to wander. Some Drakanites train them as birds of prey in order to help them hunt smaller game.

Separating Drakelings from dragonkind is lack of the ability to use magic or flames, delicate bones, and limited intelligence. In common with snakes, the drakelings typically shed their scales often, they scales prized for decoration in traditional drakanite crafts, from necklaces, embroidered into shirts and clothes, replacements for beads on clothes, and other uses. Some in the southern lands use the scales to sell off as fake dragon youngling scales, or grind them up into a powder in ointments to give the vigor of dragon kind.

Wanted to come up with a more fantastical creature to fit an ecological niche in the Dragonlands, one that can survive the volcanos and cold that typically dominate drakanite areas.]]> Quote:Drakelings are typically found in the colder climates generally favored by dragons and the Drakanites. Drakelings have the appearance of tiny dragons, about as big as a hawk would be in the more southern climates, although they are more thin and delicate compared to a full born dragon. Drakelings come in a variety of color of scales, some in bright and vibrant hues while others are more dull and drab.

Drakelings fill part of the ecological niche that most birds normally fill in the dragon dominated regions, hunting smaller game and scavenging meat from larger predators. Although some birds still remain in this niche as well. Some Drakelings are captured as pets, although they tend to not do well being locked in homes all the time, needing wide open spaces and ability to wander. Some Drakanites train them as birds of prey in order to help them hunt smaller game.

Separating Drakelings from dragonkind is lack of the ability to use magic or flames, delicate bones, and limited intelligence. In common with snakes, the drakelings typically shed their scales often, they scales prized for decoration in traditional drakanite crafts, from necklaces, embroidered into shirts and clothes, replacements for beads on clothes, and other uses. Some in the southern lands use the scales to sell off as fake dragon youngling scales, or grind them up into a powder in ointments to give the vigor of dragon kind.

Wanted to come up with a more fantastical creature to fit an ecological niche in the Dragonlands, one that can survive the volcanos and cold that typically dominate drakanite areas.]]> <![CDATA[Dragon Teeth]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-4713.html Thu, 15 Oct 2020 17:36:06 +0000 Apollo Densin]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-4713.html

Quote:Dragon's shed their teeth constantly as they age, growing a new tooth to replace the lost one shortly after. A typical shed tooth is highly damaged from being worn down from the meals and saliva of the dragon, further damaged by a dragon typically ingesting the tooth shortly after. A damaged tooth that is dropped by a dragon during a hunt is still highly prized by alchemists and smiths, either grinding it down into a powder to mix with potions or steel, or the tooth being forged into a dagger spear, or short sword, depending on its size. 

Pristine Dragon Teeth are rare, only typically acquired via slaying a dragon or one given to someone by the Dragon itself. Being granted a Dragons tooth is a great honor for most people. These teeth carry the full potency of a dragon part.


Essentially with this lore rework, dragon teeth found spawned on the map are of a lesser state than a Dragon's tooth given as an event reward. However it would mean that a Drakanite using a Dragon's tooth is not a manner of sacrilege in their religion due to Dragons shedding and regrowing their teeth throughout their life.]]>

Quote:Dragon's shed their teeth constantly as they age, growing a new tooth to replace the lost one shortly after. A typical shed tooth is highly damaged from being worn down from the meals and saliva of the dragon, further damaged by a dragon typically ingesting the tooth shortly after. A damaged tooth that is dropped by a dragon during a hunt is still highly prized by alchemists and smiths, either grinding it down into a powder to mix with potions or steel, or the tooth being forged into a dagger spear, or short sword, depending on its size. 

Pristine Dragon Teeth are rare, only typically acquired via slaying a dragon or one given to someone by the Dragon itself. Being granted a Dragons tooth is a great honor for most people. These teeth carry the full potency of a dragon part.


Essentially with this lore rework, dragon teeth found spawned on the map are of a lesser state than a Dragon's tooth given as an event reward. However it would mean that a Drakanite using a Dragon's tooth is not a manner of sacrilege in their religion due to Dragons shedding and regrowing their teeth throughout their life.]]> <![CDATA[Celestial Church Ranks Errata]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-703.html Mon, 09 Dec 2019 23:40:00 +0000 Peep 'Puff' Topia]]> https://chronicles-of-eternia.com/forum/thread-703.html Titles and Ranks

Quote: Wrote:Starseer:The speaker of the stars selected through the divine insight of the King & Queen. They are the direct ambassador of the star's will upon this plane and revered as highly as the stars themselves. To become a Grand Priest is the highest honor for any member of the church to hold.
Stellus: The executor of the Grand Priest's will and vision as dictated from the heavens above. There is a High Priest for each star within the Constellation of Leonaus, each held to the highest standards of faith and virtue. They function as the head of their particular branch, approving the entries into the codex and overseeing the operations of the faithful within their jurisdiction.
Bishop: A veteren and revered priest, the Bishop represents a mastery of knowledge of the faith and a powerful center of spirit. In times of need, they act as neutral judges when presiding over pressing legal matters. Further, they act as a point of escalation in religious disputes and resolve debates between other members of the faith.
Priest: A fully realized member of the the Faith. Priests hold a variety of duties, but most typically find their days lost in study, research, or direct action on behalf of the church. A priest acts as an administrator over Deacons, allocating their tasks and overseeing their charitable actions. Further, they also begin work on making new additions to the Codex Cosmos.
Deacon: An official member of the faith with all standing powers that it grants. Having mastered the codex and honed their spiritual center, a Deacon has successfully become a full-fledged member of the clergy. They now fully represent the church in their day-to-day actions and can host their own sermons / projects. It is not uncommon that Deacons are sent on missionary work to outside lands, or even to less well-off districts of Osrona itself in an effort to uplift the people.
Acolyte: An aspiring faithful of the stars. An acolyte is one with the drive to succeed but without the knowledge or experience to do so. Often younger, sometimes even barely into their teens, Acolytes spend much of their time that isn't locked in prayer or study following around older Priests and Deacons in an effort to glean experience from their day-to-day lives. Like a squire to a knight, an Acolyte is expected to support the clergy in all that they do and question few of their teachings. Many men and women fail the trials that face the acolytes with only a select few becoming deacons.
]]> Titles and Ranks

Quote: Wrote:Starseer:The speaker of the stars selected through the divine insight of the King & Queen. They are the direct ambassador of the star's will upon this plane and revered as highly as the stars themselves. To become a Grand Priest is the highest honor for any member of the church to hold.
Stellus: The executor of the Grand Priest's will and vision as dictated from the heavens above. There is a High Priest for each star within the Constellation of Leonaus, each held to the highest standards of faith and virtue. They function as the head of their particular branch, approving the entries into the codex and overseeing the operations of the faithful within their jurisdiction.
Bishop: A veteren and revered priest, the Bishop represents a mastery of knowledge of the faith and a powerful center of spirit. In times of need, they act as neutral judges when presiding over pressing legal matters. Further, they act as a point of escalation in religious disputes and resolve debates between other members of the faith.
Priest: A fully realized member of the the Faith. Priests hold a variety of duties, but most typically find their days lost in study, research, or direct action on behalf of the church. A priest acts as an administrator over Deacons, allocating their tasks and overseeing their charitable actions. Further, they also begin work on making new additions to the Codex Cosmos.
Deacon: An official member of the faith with all standing powers that it grants. Having mastered the codex and honed their spiritual center, a Deacon has successfully become a full-fledged member of the clergy. They now fully represent the church in their day-to-day actions and can host their own sermons / projects. It is not uncommon that Deacons are sent on missionary work to outside lands, or even to less well-off districts of Osrona itself in an effort to uplift the people.
Acolyte: An aspiring faithful of the stars. An acolyte is one with the drive to succeed but without the knowledge or experience to do so. Often younger, sometimes even barely into their teens, Acolytes spend much of their time that isn't locked in prayer or study following around older Priests and Deacons in an effort to glean experience from their day-to-day lives. Like a squire to a knight, an Acolyte is expected to support the clergy in all that they do and question few of their teachings. Many men and women fail the trials that face the acolytes with only a select few becoming deacons.
]]>