Northern Star
Vela-Nova is said to be the greatest challenge one can overcome. The philosophy of the mountain is often lost on those who have just begun their climb. For those who have repeatedly tried and failed, it is a humbling reminder of their shortcomings. No being is perfect, and Vela-Nova’s trial forces the individual to look within and grow beyond their faults. It is because of the mountain’s philosophy that those who give up during the trial are looked down upon.
But for those that persevere—for those that endure the seemingly endless climb to the mountain’s summit—they are awarded the blessings of the First Star, Aevinu. It is only through enduring this climb that they are eligible to serve as the head of Aevinu’s churches. In fact, this requirement alone is the reason why Aevinu does not have many established churches.
For those that endure the climb, they are given the title: Northern Star. It is a title that acknowledges the holder as a symbol of strong character.
Appointment
The title “Northern Star” is only conferred by Aevinu. After a climber successfully reaches the summit of Vela-Nova, Aevinu judges their character, deeming them worthy or not based on how they have grown during their climb. Ultimately, the mountain itself is a learning experience for those who have lost their way or seek guidance.
More often than not, Aevinu will bestow this title to those that successfully reach the top, but there have been occasions where he has rejected a climber. It is not simply through reaching the summit that the title is given. Because of this, veteran climbers suggest that newcomers journey with someone they hate to the top.
Responsibilities
To hold the title “Northern Star” is to acknowledge that one is responsible for teaching others on Aevinu’s behalf. Aevinu expects fair and just treatment of others unconditionally. And much like Aevinu himself, he expects those with this title to guide even the immortal and divine. Under the eyes of the Northern Star, none are greater than each other. Northern Stars must be willing to look past class, agenda, and race. It is a daunting experience, but if the title is conferred, expectations are held.
Benefits
Northern Stars are known to wield small measures of Aevinu’s own power. Because they are expected to keep true to the Creator’s philosophy, however, they only use these powers when there is no other option. Aevinu can also speak through Northern Stars themselves if a message is particularly urgent.
The kinds of powers Northern Stars wield are derived from what their divinities represent. This means that no two Northern Stars have the same kinds of powers. One may be capable of healing impossible wounds while another can purify a polluted body of water. The varieties of magic are as limitless as Aevinu himself.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
It is not often that a Northern Star loses their title, but in very rare circumstances can Aevinu intervene and strip someone of it. Just as it is Aevinu’s sole responsibility to bestow this title, it is his sole responsibility to remove it. The manner in which this occurs is never quite concrete, and Aevinu is never obligated to provide clarity behind this title’s removal.
Typically, however, those that lose this title are regarded with not scorn but disappointment by Aevinu. It is through a weak sense of character that Aevinu takes titles away. There is always the opportunity to regain the title of Northern Star, but that requires climbing Vela-Nova once more with harsher constraints.
Type
Religious, Beatified
Source of Authority
Divine
Current Holders
Related Locations
"Imagine walkin' the streets as an almost-avatar of the Creator himself. People shower you with praise and affection, and you're obligated to remain humble. But lose this title, and you're nothin' but a stain on the ground you walk upon. And that, I gotta say, cuts deeper than I'd like."- Bogmire, former Archduke of Minauros
Comments