Order of Merkèu (meɪɹʼˈkɛu)
The Order of Mèrkèu is an Ëlhyaean monastic order founded by Chaì̯sh Äro in 15 PE. It follows an interpretation of Ëlhyaean mythology based on the Èlbrìles of Mèr'leïa Dormèku, a Lèlbrìkèrn during the Yèu̯traŋ Dynasty. It is currently lead by Archdruid Magralei, who came into the position after Aro's death in 256 PE. The Order maintains a monastery in the steppes of Ekora, however it does not have a formal relationship with the Conclave. Unlike broader Elhyaean beliefs, the Order believes in a pantheistic universe, one all-encompassing spirit in which everything is but a part.
Mythology & Lore
The Order believes in the Jomora Cael, the ancient Ekoran mythology underpinning much of Ëlhyaea, and in the world of the Yira, the spirits that inhabit all things, living or otherwise. Mèr'leïa believed however, that the universe did not exist as a naturally chaotic force, and that is was the actions of conscious physical beings that triggered reactions from the cosmic order. Therefore, rituals meant to protect from and bring order to chaos were irrelevant if the actions and motives of the person in question fomented cosmic (or what other religions might consider divine) destruction.
Divine Origins
During the last peaceful age of the Early Imperial Era, Feloran Lèlbrìkèrn Mèr'leïa Dormèku guided Feloran spiritual practice. Over their 150 year tenure, they authored texts challenging the traditional doctrine of a chaotic universe, that incorporated Orcish beliefs similar to that of today's D'jo, and admonishing "shallow practice" - the practicing of Ëlhyaean ritual without "deep faith". This angered elements of the Feloran nobility, and Dormèku was dismissed by the newly-coronated Empress Kaelbryn. Later, during the collapse of the Empire, Ekoran mage Chaì̯sh Äro created the Order so as to put the beliefs, doctrines, and rituals of Mèr'leïa into practice.
Founding Date
15 PE
Type
Religious, Monastic Order
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