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Enchiridion Valentia
See also: An
Introduction to the Enchiridion Valentia and Summoning.
Common Language Edition, Released in 5103
Translated to Common by Lady Hilthia Waterlyon.
Notes about this edition:
This abridged edition of the Enchiridion Valentia was
translated to Common in the year 5103 and is known
as the First Common Edition. It is based on the seventeenth
Faendryl edition released in the year 4407, abridged
by the Scholars of the Valences in 5103.
The initial chapters are not released as part of this
edition, as the Faendryl consider the wider population
of sorcerers unable to appreciate the nuances of the
art of summoning and interplanar travel.
Faendryl designations of demons and valences have been
maintained, as these are the terms most recognized by
all sorcerers, regardless of their race, and the terms
tend to be untranslatable into Common tongue.
Table of Contents
IV. Enchira Tyr: Grik'Tyr
V. Enchira Tyr: Shien'Tyr
VI. Enchira Tyr: Lorae'Tyr
IV. Enchira Tyr: Grik'Tyr
The Valence
Perhaps the best-documented of all the valences, Grik'Tyr
is marked by endless plains of boulders and slopes
of scree. Although no mountain ranges have been
charted, the terrain is uneven and precipitous cliffs
are not
uncommon. Charts stored in the repository show vast
spiderwebs
of shallow canyons cutting through the center of
the explored region. Most are inaccessible by trail or
pass, but easily navigated if a sorcerer enters
the
valence
in their midst.
Both land and air are remarkably dry -- no sources of
water have been found, and weather patterns involving
snow or rain remain unobserved. Constant, strong winds
batter the valence from ever-shifting directions, making
shelter difficult to secure for any length of time. The
sky possesses a flat, grey, overcast quality, with little
definition to indicate clouds or movement in the atmosphere.
"Our foray, although short, was filled with challenge.
Chesir and I were not able to enter Grik'Tyr through
the same point in the veil due to vagaries in our rituals.
We were not far apart, however, and use of the Light-endowed
wand in my pack led my companion to me. We found ourselves
in a small canyon, walls of blood red rock rising high
on all sides, with little hand and footholds to bring
us to its rim. When we did manage to scale the wall,
having had to return to the ground three times to retrieve
dropped gear we could not leave behind, we found ourselves
on a thin sliver of stony ground that dropped away on
two sides. As if our balancing act was not dangerous
enough, we discovered a band of grik reconnoitering the
area, presumably searching for other tribes. A small
outcropping down one side of our perch offered us the
cover we needed to avoid their attention, as we were
not equipped to do battle that day, although I would
have welcomed it after what had happened to my cousin." (Phentell
Ualian)
The grik, which lend their name to the valence, dominate.
They appear to be highly territorial, and most of the
observed areas have been marked by the various grik tribes
-- four have been counted -- with elaborate arrangements
of boulders and rock that roughly match the burns observed
on the thighs of these creatures. War appears to be a
constant, and most battles begin with one tribe defacing
or destroying the territorial boulders of another.
The other inhabitant of the valence, the imps, outnumber
the grik, but the grik's ability to fly within their
valence gives them the upper hand, and most imps have
been intimidated into abject servitude to their more
powerful neighbors. Imps have been used as pawns in the
grik wars, forced to fight each other and the grik of
the opposing side. Battlefield corpses of grik are usually
consumed by the victors, suggesting the ongoing wars
are motivated as much by the need for sustenance as territorial
maneuvering. Dead imps are ignored, as their corpses
melt into the rocky ground within a few minutes.
More strategically minded grik of the more powerful
tribes have been able to turn battles to their favor
by capitalizing on the imps' observance of the grik hierarchy,
luring away large groups of imps from their opposition
with well-placed orders and then slaughtering them.
"Our arrival brought us close to the shelter I
had discovered previously, a makeshift cave of fallen
stones that provided protection on three sides. How fortunate
that we were able to take cover so quickly, for the quiet
plain I had observed the week before was now awash with
battle at fever pitch. Rings of grik'pwal winged through
the sky, drifting over a standing army of hundreds of
grik'tval, who were accompanied by hordes of imps. Although
the tval outnumbered the pwal ten to one, the pwal were
clearly winning the campaign. One or another would leave
their sky-rings, diving to the edges of the army and
calling away the imps with rasping cries the imps seemed
helpless to ignore. The disintegration of the land-bound
mass came with much slaughter of grik and imp alike,
and the pwal cried victory with their ritualistic building
of a tiered stack of stone within three to four hours
of our initial observations." (Phentell Ualian)
The Inhabitants
Grik
The squat humanoid demons known as the grik are the
dominant inhabitant of Grik'Tyr and are identifiable
by their
broad, leathery wings and taloned hands. Their wings
sprout from their shoulder blades as arched, chitinous
frames that support stretched, translucent skin that
is heavily veined. Although the grik fly within their
own valence, they have not been observed to do so when
summoned, presumably because the environment is not
conducive to the act, or perhaps the control of the
summoning sorcerer
prevents it.
"The grik'tval became agitated this morning, and
I still do not know what upset him. He rose up on his
feet and stretched his wings -- I truly thought he would
alight for the sky. But after pausing there, trembling,
for a few moments, he gathered an irritated look about
him and set himself down again. Although I did not lose
him, he was unwilling to do most simple tasks for a time,
until I made my will most clear and he submitted again
to my control." (Silariun Renellia)
Their hands have no fingers, but instead a variable
set of sharpened talons. Usually two to five talons are
paired with one opposable talon, giving the grik the
ability to grip and manipulate items as well as spearing
them. Their skin has a slight sheen and is completely
devoid of hair.
The various types of grik demons differ in stature (although
none rise to the height of a Faendryl), the number of
talons on their hands, skin color, and eye color. Although
they are actually well-coordinated and quick, they can
appear to be lumbering and clumsy simply because of bulk,
a general tendency toward disinterest, and apparent physical
difficulties with the gravity of Elanthia.
Their eyes have slit pupils, which are particularly
reminiscent of some renditions of Fash'lo'nae's symbol.
The grik possess two eyelids that cover the eye in succession
when it blinks. The inner lid is translucent, while the
outer lid matches the hue of the grik's skin. When on
alert or perturbed, the grik will only blink with their
inner lid so as not to lose their vision.
They often can be seen moving their mouth as if speaking,
but the only noise generally heard, unless bidden otherwise,
is a deep-throated rumbling growl.
Four tribes of grik have been identified through summoning
and observations within the valence. These groups can
be distinguished by a distinctive set of brands on their
thigh, which correspond to the shelf-like tiers of stone
they build in their territories:
- Grik'trak - Single line branded on the thigh
- Grik'mlar - Two lines branded on the thigh
- Grik'pwal
- Three lines branded on the thigh
- Grik'tval - Four lines branded on the thigh
Grik have a tendency to ignore most of what occurs
around them when summoned. However, they do become agitated
in the presence of imps or grik who are not of their
tribe. They will occasionally attempt to wrest control
of an imp from the summoning sorcerer, which can be
dangerous
if the Faendryl is not practicing perfect control.
"I have seen the grik's influence on the imps without
having traveled to the valence. The imp was studying
a patch of mournblooms rather closely when Bolotyn allowed
the grik'pwal into the garden. When the grik spied the
imp, he spread his wings and barked a series of harsh
sounds. The imp was immediately taken and began to move
away from the plants ... had I not stepped between and
issued a strong command, who knows what the grik would
have done." (Shyrelm Darhlith)
From the Book of Records
The grik was first summoned by Abdullahi Hazalred Faendryl.
After several grik had been summoned, the tribal differences
among them were recognized by comparison of their description
and behavior when together. Because perfect records were
not kept, the summoning of each distinct tribal grik
is in dispute, but the record has been set down as such:
- Grik'trak was summoned by Thanris Nhartien Faendryl.
- Grik'mlar was summoned by Dimerian Upharduin Faendryl.
- Grik'pwal was summoned by Bolotyn Xendrem Faendryl.
- Grik'tval was summoned by Dimerian Upharduin Faendryl.
The first grik’s tribal affiliation is unknown,
as the pattern of burn marks was not recorded fully.
Imps
The imp is vaguely humanoid in appearance, although more
slender than any race, with a narrow torso and spindly
legs and arms. It is hairless, with chalky white to pale
grey skin that appears smooth, but gathers in wrinkles
around its joints and neck, as if its musculature has
shrunk. The majority of imps are quite short, not reaching
even halfling or dwarven height.
The face of the imp is featureless,
except when being studied or addressed by one of the
Elanthian races. At
this time, facial features will appear, usually as
a rough mimicry of whomever has most closely captured
its
attention. In general, this is usually the sorcerer
that has summoned it. Imps can shapeshift to any form
they
desire, but few have actually witnessed this occurrence,
as the imps are so impressionable by what is going
on around them that they are often jolted from their
activities.
It is not unusual, however, to observe partial shifts
or the molding of an arm or head into a different object
or being.
"Shyrelm turned to speak with me and I spied the
imp over his shoulder. It bounded to a tall urn formed
of grey-streaked marble. As I watched, his torso bloated
and his arms, which had been raised over his head, began
to meld and lengthen, then widen at the palms. Before
I knew it, there was an exact copy of the urn where the
imp had been. I bid Shyrelm to look, but my voice was
a startle and the imp was there again, cowering in the
shadow of the container." (Bolotyn Xendrem)
Unlike the grik, imps are rarely still and are constantly
moving about their environment, inspecting and studying
everything in their path. They are also unafraid of most
obstacles and creatures and often spend a great deal
of time mimicking their object of interest to understand
its nature.
Imps normally remain silent, but when bidden to speak
or particularly alarmed, a breeze will spring up around
them and spread outward in waves. This light wind carries
their voice, which can rise to a cacophony pitch, as
if many beings were speaking at once. Their message,
if any discernable one can be found, usually rings
clearest over the wave of noise.
"I had left my study for but a moment, when I heard
the most awful sound. It was a thousand speaking voices,
some loud and others soft, all competing to send some
message of sure horror. Trivalian, too, was screaming.
I returned quickly and found him lying on the floor,
hands clutched to his head, although the sound was gone.
His falchion had slid across the floor and beneath a
settee, most unusual as he is normally quite staid. The
imp stood next to my desk, utterly still save for a rhythmic
ripple passing over his skin. Trivalian refuses to speak
of it and, alas, I may need to release him from employment." (Shyrelm
Darhlith)
When in the presence of both a grik demon and
their summoning sorcerer, imps can become noticeably
agitated
due to a feeling of conflict regarding who should be
their master. Grik will often tease and taunt imps
on this valence, and when they are in the same room,
the
sorcerer has a higher risk of losing control over the
imp due to the conflict.
From the Book of Records
The imp was first summoned by Shyrelm Darhlith Faendryl.
The hierarchical affiliation with the grik was first
noted by Shyrelm Darhlith Faendryl and Bolotyn Xendrem
Faendryl, when one's imp was first observed with the
grik'pwal summoned by the other.
V. Enchira Tyr: Shien'Tyr
The Valence
The repository contains no maps or charts of this valence.
This valence, which takes its name from the first demon
summoned, is completely shrouded in darkness. Attempts
to study the area have been thwarted by the valence's
tendency to completely absorb and consume all available
light sources, both magical and mundane, within seconds.
Sorcerers have reported that, during those seconds, they
have been able to make out a dark, drifting haze and
a featureless ground. Further recollection of these features
has been unforthcoming, despite numerous attempts. Those
carrying parchment for immediate recording of their observations
are so disoriented by the absolute darkness that their
efforts are revealed later as nothing more than a collection
of blots and lines.
"Finally, I resorted to a torch which sputtered
almost immediately. Although I gained distinct impressions
of the air, I cannot now say what it was -- whether it
was cool or warm, moist or dry. But, it was dense with
a smoke-like substance that drifted constantly. There
never was clarity of vision, nor was I able to gain a
sense of depth to tell how far I could see ... I want
to say the light traveled away, but not of its own accord.
It was as if it was picked up like a corporeal form and
moved rapidly." (Stenlavian Gherdia)
"Rather than bother with sight, I sought to discover
what I could feel of the ground. It is strange, but I
knew what I touched then, but not now that I set ink
to parchment. It was assuredly smooth but other than
that, I am at a loss ... I took a few steps in several
directions but never encountered an obstacle of any sort." (Malieria
Whisperal)
Sorcerers who have focused on movement rather than sight
have discovered no features. Occasionally, a sensation
of traveling uphill will be reported, felt only in the
weakening of the calf muscles in the legs while walking.
The cant of ground is felt and observed in no other way,
and it is uncertain if it is real or imagined. On these
journeys, sounds from the valence are often heard, usually
in very close proximity to the sorcerer. When searching
for the source of these noises, which resemble the sounds
of a crackling fire or rapidly dripping water, nothing
has been found in the immediate vicinity, suggesting
that the emanations are from the atmosphere itself or
that sound travels great distances without losing its
timber or tone.
Returning sorcerers have difficulty readjusting. Most
report disorientation, acute sensitivity to sound, and
a loss of depth perception. All of these effects appear
temporary and abate gradually over time. Garments and
other items that accompany the traveling sorcerer often
change in appearance. Although the transformation is
not well understood, the effect is that of the removal
of light, or its inability to illuminate the item. Colors
turn dark, and contrast is reduced. Generally, the items
return to their normal state after a period of days or
weeks.
"It was a clear, clean white with bands of silver
when I left. Two days after my return it was dark grey,
and even with the direct light of the lantern I could
not make out the silver. Now, however, three weeks later,
it has returned to its former hue. The magic remained
wholly unchanged throughout." (Stenlavian Gherdia)
Because of the difficulties with sense upon this valence,
its inhabitants, the shien and the aishan, have never
been observed in their natural state. All observations
regarding these demons come from those who have summoned
them to this valence from theirs.
The Inhabitants
Shien
The shien, divided into two groups known as the
shadowlings and darklings, resemble the imps in general
shape,
but are shrouded in a haze that is either greyish
(shadowlings) or black (darklings). Both shadowlings
and darklings
occasionally appear with shrouds in hues of blue.
This haze is not dissimilar from that observed
on their
native
valence by sorcerers traveling there. Their form
is substantial, but shifting, and it is not unusual
to
see their limbs
or heads dissipate before a replacement coalesces
from their surrounding shroud. Instead of moving
their limbs
and head individually, they move and turn bodily,
the haze around them usually moving slightly faster
than
their substantial form, creating the impression
of an echo in their movement. Their actions are sometimes
slow,
but possess an elegance and deliberateness that
can
be quite hypnotic for onlookers.
"The shadowling was definitely walking, but the
drifting of its shroud gave it the appearance of hovering.
As it made its way from the doors to the desk, it ignored
the obstacles in its way. Parts of it would simply disappear
and then reform on the other side, with little excess
movement." (Fhenviel Waesvral)
The shien have an extremely acute sense of hearing due
to their existence in almost total darkness, and they
have developed the ability to use sound to their advantage,
both for standard communication and to disable or kill
perceived threats. Some shien have been able to hear
conversations at some distance and then "repeat" them
with perfect pitch and tone to their master.
They can also communicate with targets at a greater
distance than other demons or Elanthian natives because
of their ability to manipulate and direct sound. However,
in order to do this, they have to have heard their target
speak, so that they may locate them by listening and
then direct their message appropriately. Usually, sound
issues from them through their shroud, usually resembling
a cylinder or orb of smoke that, when it reaches its
target, wreathes the listener's head in haze as the message
is delivered.
"After my manservant had been by and left again,
I bid the darkling to deliver a message, something simple
regarding my cloak. The shien paused momentarily, its
haze drifting about it in a sort of circular fashion.
I was about to repeat the command with more force, when
a thin column of haze issued from it. The haze moved
out in deliberate fashion, ignoring the light breeze
that passed through my study. I did not see what happened
then, but my servant returned looking rather startled,
saying that my cloak was already being cleaned." (Fhenviel
Waesvral)
"My first instinct was to move away from the haze
as it drifted toward me, but, as there had been no conflict
previously, I elected to let it do what it may. The meadow
dimmed somewhat as my eyes were covered, but I could
still see well enough. I could make out whispered groanings
from all around me, which sharpened and focused into
a single thread of conversation. It was Fhenviel, relating
his story of his manservant this morning. It was as if
the conversation was just taking place, Fhenviel's voice
was mimicked so well." (Vindriala Ghormedia)
Although their faces have no features, they will often
exert an expression mimicking humanoids nearby. The shrouding
haze surrounding their heads will turn semi-solid with
the mimicked form and hold it momentarily before letting
it drift away.
Shien have very little interest in what goes on around
them. The presence of demons from other valences, rapidly
shifting environmental conditions, or even threat of
harm do nothing to the self-absorbed drifting of the
shien.
The similarities in appearance and abilities between
the shien and the imps have been noted numerous times,
but no definitive evidence exists to prove that they
are related. The theory has been advanced that one or
the other broke away from their native valence to the
other and were subsequently changed by their experiences.
That is, if the shien were once imps on Grik'Tyr who
somehow broke away to Shien'Tyr, they gained the haze
of their new valence and adapted their behaviors to its
nature. It should be emphasized, however, that these
are only theories. The origin of both demons, like all
the others, remains cloaked in mystery.
From the Book of Records
The darkling was first summoned by Muiltrelle Silvius
Faendryl.
The shadowling was first summoned by Nishmea Khalaron
Faendryl.
Shien of a dark blue shade were first thought to be
separate demons, and the record originally provided Fhenviel
Waesvral Faendryl with the first summoning honor. However,
the record was expunged after several dark blue shien
were summoned and studied in close proximity to true
grey and true black shien.
Aishan
The aishan inhabit Shien'Tyr side-by-side with the shien.
There does not appear to be any hierarchy between these
demons, as neither has any distinct advantage over the
other. In general, they ignore each other even when in
close proximity.
The aishan themselves closely resemble the wolves of
Elanthia, with some marked differences. They are substantially
larger in height and bulk and covered with coarse, yet
shiny, fur that is especially thick about the shoulders
and neck, forming a ruff. They vary in shade from red
to black, although, very rarely, an aishan will be all
white. The aishan's fur feels insubstantial when stroked,
the toucher's fingers sinking into and through the hair
with an associated feeling of envelopment. The aishan's
relation to its surroundings, however, indicates a fully
solid creature. It is felt that the fur is a more substantial
and permanent manifestation of Shien'Tyr's environmental
haze.
"My hand sank right through, and I pulled back
without thinking as it had disappeared up to the wrist.
The aishan was undisturbed, as always, staring straight
ahead. Even though the fur seems without substance, it
is solid. The breeze ripples it, and when in contact
with something unyielding, it is flattened and the aishan
cannot pass through. Only when I touch it does it seem
to lose its solidity." (Vaenrelle Xendrem)
The eyes of the aishan are entrancing. Large and pupilless,
the hue generally matches that of flames of various temperatures
-- yellow and gold to reddish black and light blue. The
irises shift constantly, giving the impression of fire.
Although the aishan are not blind, there is no indication
that they rely on their sight overmuch. Peering into
an eye of an aishan will provide a clear reflection of
the viewer, as well as his background. Some sorcerers
have reported disturbing visions in the eyes of the aishan,
such as their own deaths, visitations of the dead, or
some calamity of a personal nature. None have reported
that these visions have been found true, and the experience
is often explained away as an artifact of the perpetual
motion of the irises.
"I saw myself, as I am ... then my eyes were missing,
blood upon my cheeks, gore ... He was behind me, holding
a short dagger similarly coated with blood. I looked
behind me and there was nothing; I touched my face, nothing.
When I looked again into the aishan's eye, it was just
myself, as I am." (Nuriemdah Miensler)
Aishan, like the shien, have acute hearing as well as
a keen sense of smell. They tend to rely more upon hearing
and smell than upon sight and have a remarkable ability
to sense and act upon what their summoners typically
miss. Sorcerers who are suspicious of members of their
households, or even their Palestra guardians, will often
summon an aishan to coax out any wrong-doers.
Like their more domestic Elanthian counterparts, aishan
tend to be loyal to their summoner while on this plane,
even if mistreated. No other demon summoned has demonstrated
such loyalty without strong command. They are often observed
guarding the sorcerer, even when not bidden to do so,
and will take issue with anyone, even friends, who are
interpreted to bear ill will toward their masters. Their
bite is brutal and can cause illness, break bones, or
worse. Most aishan never close their jaws due to their
oversized maw of highly sharpened teeth.
From the Book of Records
The aishan was first summoned by Vaenrelle Xendrem Faendryl.
The lack of hierarchical relationship was confirmed
by Nishmea Khalaron Faendryl and Vaenrelle Xendrem Faendryl
when shien and aishan were summoned in concert.
VI. Enchira Tyr: Lorae'Tyr
The Valence
Travel to Lorae'Tyr is forbidden by the Basilica. The
seven sorcerers still present on this valence should
be brought, upon their return, to the Basilica
for questioning immediately. These sorcerers are: Levianthia
Sherula,
Wintherian Lontriel, Mleriand Lontriel, Finmielle
Thenryl, Chournd Dralhavaen, Gerphend Yourliand,
and Uritheam
Boltreade. Any sorcerer attempting to circumvent
Shieltine's Ward on Lorae'Tyr will be executed.
Lorae'Tyr possesses many features worthy of description,
but the most striking is its interpretation of time.
Traveling to this valence for even a short period of
time can result in the loss of years on Elanthia. While
within the valence, sorcerers have observed normal activity,
such as foliage growth or geological decay, occur at
varying rates, sometimes shifting speeds even as the
sorcerer watched. The passage of time most certainly
exists on Lorae'Tyr, but whether it is relevant to the
valence's functioning at all is unclear. The demons who
reside there seem unaffected and even oblivious to the
temporal phenomenon, although the abyran appear to have
compensated for it in a few ways more completely described
in their section.
Sorcerers who have returned from travel to this valence
have exhibited no ill effects from their absence. The
length of time that passes in Elanthia appears to have
no relation to how long the sorcerer stays in Lorae'Tyr
-- some have been there for a few minutes and lost hundreds
of years, while others have made extended stays of several
weeks and found only a few days have passed in Elanthia.
"I passed through the veil at the Hour of Lumnis.
I was there but a few moments, but when I returned I
found myself in a completely different manor. The residents
were quite startled to see me, and with some questioning
I determined that I had been gone three hundred and ninety-two
years. My manor had been sold, razed and rebuilt in my
absence. I have aged not one bit." (Chournd Dralhavaen)
"I arrived at the edge of a large forest, closely
grown with emerald trees crowned with great masses of
leaves. I paused to consider skirting them or passing
through, when my sight shifted and the forest changed.
Trees fell, fires burned, trunks rotted away and the
ground consumed them. This all occurred faster than I
could comprehend and when another shift occurred, a waving
meadow of thin grasses stood before me." (Chournd
Dralhavaen)
Lorae'Tyr is perhaps the most colorful of all valences
currently explored, due to both the nature of the resident
demons and the natural environment. It is illuminated
by no discernable source, but suffused with a sickly
yellow hue that permeates even the close forests of the
eastern plains. The overall climate is that of a swamp,
with marshy ground and humidity predominating across
the explored areas of the valence. Timeshifting occasionally
provides more temperate environs, but the general tendency
is toward moist bog lands.
Much of the vegetation resembles that found in Elanthia,
although shapes tend to be more sharp-edged and angular
and colors tend toward the dark, vibrant tones. Foliage
is just as likely to be violet or blue as the expected
green.
"The timeshifting stopped long enough for me to
inspect some nearby plants. I was startled to spy what
I thought was a wingstem. It was not the expected pale
green, but deep indigo, and the leaves were deformed
into diamond shapes that curled along the flat edges.
The flowers were dark violet and although I swear it
was wingstem, the differences in hue and shape gave me
pause." (Uritheam Boltreade)
The Inhabitants
Verlok
One of two flying demons of Lorae'Tyr, the verlok is
composed of a metal framework overlaid with a covering
of brilliantly hued feathers that are suspended over
the metal, but not attached. These feathers emit
a glowing light and often lend their brightness to
the
surrounding
area. When they fall free, their properties can be
employed by a skilled user to grant additional light
to an area
for a short period.
"If the feathers touch the metal, it is only by
accident of wind or obstacle and I have certainly never
observed it. They are otherwise perfectly suspended an
inch from the surface. Resistance has met me each time
I have pressed a hand to the feathers, although they
are easy enough to manipulate when they are shed of their
own accord." (Mleriand Lontriel)
The metal framework beneath these feathers is hollow,
intricately jointed, and detailed. Almost all metals
have been observed by sorcerers studying these demons,
in the same proportion in which they are found in Elanthia.
In size, verlok tend to match Elanthian barnyard fowl,
rather than smaller birds. Despite their mechanical appearance
and metallic construction, the verlok are quite graceful
and dexterous. Although they spend time on the ground
in Lorae'Tyr, verlok summoned to Elanthia are perpetually
in flight, and will not venture into any area that might
require them to land.
On Lorae'Tyr, the verlok live communally around large
piles of twisted metal, always the same metal that make
up the verlok of that community. New verlok emerge periodically
from beneath the metal piles, and, when their lives draw
to a close, they return to the pile to die.
"While pursuing a cloud of igaesha, we encountered
a large pile of what appeared to be faenor. There was
a tremendous clacking from all around as we approached,
although we saw nothing extraordinary in the surroundings.
My companion began filling his satchel with the smaller
pieces, only to be startled by a rainfall of the greenish
metal. From the top of the pile, a creature emerged,
slowly at first, but, as its wings of burnt orange came
free, it took speed and flight -- disappearing into the
surroundings before we could study it fully." (Mleriand
Lontriel)
They are constant noisemakers -- chanting, humming,
and clicking nonstop. This seems to be the mode of communication
among verlok, and their range of ability with sound allows
them to imitate Elanthian speech with good accuracy.
Many theories have been advanced about the origin of
the verlok, and debate rages among those who have studied
them. Because Lorae'Tyr offers little clues about their
beginnings, no particular theory has any more weight
than another. Among the most commonly advanced theories:
- They are natural creatures of Lorae'Tyr, evolving
from substances already available on the plane. To
suggest
that various metals exist exclusively on Elanthia
is to adopt a narrow-minded view of multi-planar existence,
say those who espouse this theory. Alloys that exist
among the verlok come from intermingling of communities
of different metals.
- They are the natural creatures of Lorae'Tyr and,
furthermore, are the base origin of all metal, and
that the metal
in Elanthia comes from a previous upheaval that involved
their passage en masse to Elanthia -- followed by
their deaths. Other supporters of this theory suggest
that
the metal of Lorae'Tyr was transported to Elanthia
by the Arkati or ur-daemons during their wars.
- They are the result of the work of a past inhabitant
of the plane who is no longer present.
- They are the result of previous work by the igaesha
or the abyran, but now fully independent.
- They are the result of experiments by Fash'lo'nae
or Eonak, or some other member of the Arkati, that
had interest
in creating a race of metallic beings who could recreate
themselves. Which Arkati is posited depends upon
the theorist's personal beliefs.
- They are the result of efforts by traveling sorcerers
from before the Valentia was created, who may live
there still and simply have not returned.
From the Book of Records
The verlok'cina (the magical metals) was first summoned
by Chournd Dralhavaen Faendryl.
The verlok'asha (the mundane metals) was first summoned
by Mleriand Lontriel Faendryl.
The verlok'ar (the elemental metals) was first summoned
by Chournd Dralhavaen Faendryl.
Abyran
Within Lorae'Tyr, the abyran seem to have the most
advanced society, with a clear hierarchical structure
and organized
culture. Two main classes have been identified: the
abyran'sa, a priestly class, and the abyran'a.
In appearance, both classes are remarkably similar.
They possess an elongated serpentine body rather than
legs and fully formed arms that assist them with climbing.
Although their tail can be quite long, they usually balance
upright so that it curls about them, acting as a weighted
balance. They can sit on both the front and back of their
tail, allowing them to shift their point of view without
moving their head.
Their skin is smooth, giving way to scales that diminish
in size toward their tails. Like snakes, they slough
off their skin occasionally, leaving behind translucent
husks. Abyran consider these husks, along with lost scales,
to be special and great care is taken to preserve them.
The scaled portion of their body possesses some chameleon-like
qualities, shifting in hue when the abyran is perturbed.
"We had walked quite far without the abyran'sa
showing any signs of distress. The windstorm picked up,
however, and blew a large limb down from a rowan tree.
The sudden noise and movement startled the demon, sending
her to the side of the path where she drew herself fully
upright as her scales begin to turn the deep amber brown
of the surrounding tree bark. It was difficult to follow
the movement of her tail at this point, and a predator
would have poor luck trying to anticipate her next action." (Gerphend
Yourliand)
Their faces are distinctly humanoid, although they are
lacking in ears and hair. Their eyes are round, without
pupils, and they do not appear to ever blink. The crown
of their head is fringed with finger-like protrusions,
which move of their own accord, but it is unclear whether
they serve any purpose. Their mouths are wide and thin-lipped,
possessing two large, curved fangs. Both classes of abyran
have long, slender tongues, although the tongue of the
abyran'sa is forked. This forking, and the subsequent
sibilant nature of their speech, is the sole difference
between the two abyran classes.
Faendryl scholars theorized that the two classes do
not arise from familial inheritance. Instead, the forked
tongue of the abyran'sa is just as likely to appear in
the offspring of two abryan'a -- and just as unlikely
to occur from two abyran'sa. This was confirmed when
a large study was undertaken by the Basilica under the
supervision of Sarlen Lastin Faendryl.
On Lorae'Tyr, the abyran have constructed elaborate
temples of stone. These buildings attempt to thwart the
temporal shifting that occurs on the plane by consisting
of multiple constructions that are joined by shared masonry
at a central, overlapping point. At any one time, individual
units within the structure may be destroyed or nonexistent
due to fluctuations of time, but some part of the temple
always remains standing.
"At most, we observed three structures, joined
like leaves on a clover. Two of them were partially finished
and seemed to flicker slightly in the yellow haze. A
fourth was in ruins, the stones tumbled and overgrown
with ivy." (Uritheam Boltreade)
None of these temples have been investigated thoroughly
by traveling Faendryl, but they are thought to be the
center of the abyran religion. Abyran have been observed
to kneel in the presence of living serpents, even small
snakes, and this has led researchers to believe that
they worship these creatures or some form of serpent
god. No connection between Luukos and the abyran is suspected,
but the serpents that many Luukosian disciples keep have
proven useful in the control of various abyran.
"I was gauging the reaction of the abyran'a to
various items and creatures we encountered in the area.
There was little to note until we happened upon a simple
garden snake, the length of my hand and no longer. The
abyran'a nearly lost its mind, lowering itself to the
ground, arms outflung. The snake was understandably startled
and made to move away. The abyran'a studied every movement
carefully, speaking to itself as if it was taking every
wriggle as a sign to be carried away and studied in-depth.
I have seen this several times since, even with statuary." (Gerphend
Yourliand)
From the Book of Records
The abyran'sa was first summoned by Gerphend Yourliand
Faendryl.
The abyran'a was first summoned by Gerphend Yourliand
Faendryl.
Igaesha
It is the igaesha of Lorae'Tyr that lend the valence
its colorfully hued skies. The mist-like creatures, all
lightly hued, tend to mass in large clouds that drift
over the landscape. Altitude appears to be important,
although the exact patterns of choice for each cloud
remain unclear. These formations lend Lorae'Tyr its sense
of atmosphere, and "rain" on this valence is
usually the division of larger clouds into fogs that
drift nearer to the ground until recombining with other
fogs.
"When the verlok passed through a rippling cloud
of igaesha overhead, the cloud began to churn and roll
as if greatly disturbed. As we watched, the bottom of
the mass peeled off, a thin layer that fell downward
as if weighted by steel. It roiled against the ground,
passing around our feet and the verlok's faenor pile
with ease. After rolling perhaps a hundred yards, it
lifted itself upwards, so high that we lost sight of
it." (Mleriand Lontriel)
Although the clouds have a tendency to drift, individual
igaesha are perfectly capable of directed and very quick
travel. Formed of tiny droplets, the igaesha can contract
and expand to accommodate any size space. They can also
pass through most objects, even those that do not appear
porous, without changing the nature of the material they
have touched.
When perturbed, igaesha can have an acid-like effect
that has a limited ability to dissolve anything with
which they come in contact. This effect seems to only
be present when the igaesha desires it, as their normal
ability to pass through objects does no harm. There is
no color shift or consistency change to indicate the
quality of the droplets, but the igaesha does tend to
move with swifter and more precise motions when angered.
"There was no change to the glass after the demon
passed through it, even after a close inspection with
a magnifying glass. However, much later, after the igaesha
had been present for quite a long time and put on guard,
it passed through the glass again. This time, the glass
smoked and its colors ran together as if acid had been
dripped across its surface. It did not dissolve, nor
did it break, but its design was forever lost. The igaesha's
form is as something reversible and how it controls the
change, I do not know. Its appearance changed little
aside from the swiftness of its movement." (Uritheam
Boltreade)
Sorcerers who have studied the igaesha extensively have
been able to discern few means of communication among
the igaesha. When in cloud form, the igaesha move as
one being and do not seem to be communicating within
the cloud in any recognizable form. Igaesha who are separated
from a cloud but in the presence of another will often
pulse or swirl in regular patterns, suggesting that igaesha
have both visual abilities and do communicate via movement
if needed.
From the Book of Records
The igaesha was first summoned by Uritheam Boltreade
Faendryl.
Grantris
Were it not for an accidental summoning by Mharcuis
Roahnn Faendryl, it is likely the grantris may never
have been
discovered. These demons, remarkable as the only demon
from Lorae'Tyr who use their legs for mobility, have
demonstrated a facility for quick movement and effective
hiding.
The grantris resemble centipedes and millipedes, except
that they do not possess the hard carapace. Instead,
they are soft-bodied and are covered by tiny hairs that
twitch at the slightest sound or movement. Squat and
oblong, the largest reach the length and bulk of a small
dog. Their legs, which number in the hundreds or thousands,
reverse in order to balance objects upon their backs,
making them quite adept at carrying more than the typical
two-armed demon.
"We placed a simple paperweight upon its back,
to see how it would handle this burden. Its hairs quivered
enormously at the introduction of a foreign object, but
then the legs nearest to the glass globe turned upwards
at the joint, touching tip to the weight. With this simple
bracing, the grantris was able to move quite quickly
around the room, the paperweight simply rolling from
one side to another, but never falling due to the legs'
careful grip." (Mharcuis Roahnn)
Grantris prefer cover and will generally seek to be
under or behind a solid object in order to prevent discovery.
When in open spaces, they move almost continuously, constantly
circling their confines to find a suitable place to hide.
Their anxiety is heightened in the presence of non-humanoid
creatures the grantris perceive as predators, and, although
they are generally quite subservient, summoners have
lost their bond with the grantris in the face of particularly
threatening beings due to stark fear on the part of the
demon.
"The demon was always moving and would hide under
the nearest bush or bench until we moved on. We encountered
Dimerian along the way and he was, as always, accompanied
by a grik'mlar in a particularly foul mood. The grantris
froze for a mere second before resuming its rapid circuit
of the forest floor. I felt a backlash of spiritual essence
that left me prone. Dimerian told me after I recovered
from the effect that the grantris appeared to re-open
the veil itself and disappeared. I had no time to repair
the link, the grantris' desire to return was so strong." (Fimelia
Lolneria)
Like other insects, the grantris can communicate by
rubbing their legs together. They are capable of a wide
range of tone and have extreme control over the sound,
enabling them to communicate over short distances with
other grantris in a highly complex fashion. In addition,
the grantris can imitate humanoid speech patterns, particularly
those that are elven in root, by mimicking the voice
via melodic repetition with their legs.
From the Book of Records
The grantris was first summoned by Mharcuis Roahnn Faendryl
in an accident involving an incorrect valence runestone.
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