The Way of Mercy

Seladore almost died before he was even born into House Pharlain, and it became quickly apparent that he would not be a rising star within the house. At a young age, he was often sick and frail, with a weak constitution and timid disposition. No dragonmark appeared on him, which was honestly what everyone expected.

Always kind and honest but never strong or skilled, the young Seladore feared death the most as he lay in bed recovering from some illness that gripped him. Yet he tried to live up to his family's expectations and namesake. He learned to perform, dance and play the flute, accompanying his older (and much more talented) sister across Khorvaire on house business. Their duties and travels during the Last War would take them to many battlefields, not as combatants, but as morale and entertainment for various armies.

It was on one of these battlefields that Seladore met an Aereni Elf wearing monastic robes, a skull mask and dying from a mortal wound. Seladore comforted them in their last moments. They were kind, calm and peaceful. They spoke of their work, granting mercy to those in need of it. It is why they were on the battlefield this day, as the aftermath of a great battle has an even greater need of mercy. Seladore felt more worthless and ashamed than ever, always being the one cared for instead of caring for others. He deeply understood what this elf spoke of, that everyone needs comfort and succour especially in their moments of weakness and injury. The elf's final act was to give Seladore their mask and asked him find someone who could continue their work.

After the elf died, Seladore hesitantly donned the mask, just as a curiosity. When it deemed him worthy to wear it, and showed him secrets of the Deathless Court, it broke him. He could no longer live this shell of a life, so Seladore abandoned his life and fled. He sought out his ancestors and the court, looking for a life of meaning and value. It was in the Aerani monasteries, isolated high in the mountains, that Seladore learned new wisdom and perspective. Most importantly, he let go of his fears and found tranquility in mind and soul. His frailty and illnesses were cured through ancient Aereni movements and practices to control chi. Determined to learn from his mask's last owner, he also learned to defend himself, manipulate chi to harm or paralyze a foe, and also when the greatest form of mercy one can give is to grant another the gift of death.

Seladore returned to Khorvaire with confidence and wisdom, a dedicated follower of the Way of Mercy. He first sought out his family, who he had hurt deeply by leaving them suddenly and without warning. He slowly reconciled with his sister over many years, but would never be able to with his parents, as they had died while he was away. The siblings eventually settled in Sigilstar, and Seladore devotes his life to following in the footsteps of the monk before him, honoring the traditions of his ancestors in Aerenel and spreading his wisdom and kindness in a world overflowing with ignorance and pain.