Angel

Angels are beings of transcendent power and divine purpose. They are celestial warriors created by the ancient Colossi to bring order to the chaotic cosmos. They are the embodiment of light and law, designed to illuminate the darkest corners of existence with their radiant presence. Angels are formed from pure light, which is so potent that it must be contained within armor crafted from angelic gold and silver. This celestial alloy, imbued with the Magic of their creators, not only contains their radiant forms but also enhances their already formidable might.
These divine warriors are majestic and awe-inspiring, their powerful forms clad in intricately designed armor adorned with celestial symbols and Runes. Great wings, feathered with ethereal flames of varying hues, stretch from their backs, enabling them to soar across the heavens and traverse the myriad realms of existence. Their eyes, like molten gold, are filled with the wisdom and fervor of their purpose, and their gaze can pierce the hearts of mortals and immortals alike.
To look upon an angel's face directly is to risk blindness or madness due to their overwhelming beauty and divine radiance. Therefore, when interacting with mortals, angels wear face-obscuring masks wrought from the same angelic gold and silver as their armor. These masks, intricately designed with celestial symbols, serve to protect mortals from the overwhelming presence of the angels and symbolize the divine authority and otherworldly nature of their bearers.

Varied Motivations

Angels are not just warriors; they are also scholars, diplomats, and leaders, each embodying a unique aspect of their divine mission. They are the embodiment of the Colossi's will, unwavering in their dedication to the Grand Conquest—the eternal struggle against the forces of darkness that threaten the balance of the cosmos. Despite their divine origins, angels are not infallible. Their blind obedience, combined with their strong pride, can sometimes lead to mistakes, and some angels may even fall into darkness, yearning for vengeance against the High Heavens they once served.
The motivations of angels are varied. Not all angels are creatures of unflinching zealous loyalty and righteousness to the High Heavens. Much like mortals, their motivations span a wide spectrum, from the fervent desire to see any darkness burned with divine Fire to the more measured and merciful approaches. Some angels strive to embody the purest ideals of their divine mission, while others may wrestle with their own doubts and desires.
Angels' emotions and motivations are complex. While they can appear emotionless, driven solely by duty, they possess deep emotions and a strong sense of justice. Their interactions with mortals are often colored by a profound empathy and a desire to guide them towards righteousness. However, their strict adherence to divine law can also make them seem harsh and unyielding, especially when dealing with those they deem as sinners or unfaithful.

Angelic Society

Angelic society is a meticulously organized and hierarchical system, designed to reflect the divine order of the High Heavens. At the very pinnacle of this celestial hierarchy are the High Archons, the supreme angels who answer only to Yahweh. These High Archons include Gabriel, the Archon of Faith; Azrael, the Archon of Retribution; and Hadriel, the Archon of Knowledge. They reside in Ascensius, the seat of the High Heavens, where they oversee all angelic activities and guide their brethren with divine wisdom and authority.
Beneath the High Archons is the Council of Lesser Archons, a celestial senate composed of distinguished angels who manage various aspects of angelic governance and operations. This council functions as both an advisory body and a legislative force, ensuring that the High Archons' decrees are implemented throughout the High Heavens and the cosmos. Each member of the council is a highly respected angel chosen for their wisdom, strength, and dedication to the celestial cause. The council debates and decides on matters of strategic importance, societal governance, and the interpretation of divine will.
The Council of Lesser Archons is integral to maintaining order within angelic society. Each member oversees specific domains such as warfare, education, diplomacy, and healing, ensuring that the High Heavens operate smoothly and efficiently. These Lesser Archons are often called upon to mediate disputes, provide counsel to lower-ranking angels, and implement the High Archons' strategic plans across the various realms. Their combined efforts ensure that the will of Yahweh is carried out with precision and unity.

Types of Angels

Below the High Archons and the Lesser Archons, angelic society is divided into three main types of angels.
Archangels. Archangels are the towering warriors of the angelic host, their formidable presence and strength making them the primary combatants in the celestial armies. Wielding great pole axes imbued with divine power, archangels are capable of cleaving their foes in two with a single strike. They lead the angelic legions into battle, their strategic acumen and martial prowess ensuring victory against the forces of darkness. Archangels also serve as commanders and protectors, their leadership crucial in both celestial governance and warfare.
Seraphim. Seraphim are the leaders and diplomats of the angelic hierarchy, possessing a balance of strength and magical ability that allows them to guide and inspire their brethren. While not as specialized in magic as the cherubim or as physically powerful as the archangels, seraphim are natural leaders with an innate understanding of divine law and order. They are often involved in high-level decision-making and strategic planning, ensuring the smooth operation of angelic society. Seraphim also serve as intermediaries between the divine will of Yahweh and the other angels, communicating divine commands and maintaining the harmony of the High Heavens.
Cherubim. Cherubim are the smallest and most numerous of the angels, appearing as living flames imbued with infantile youth and an innate control of magic unmatched by any other beings. Despite their diminutive size, cherubim possess incredible magical prowess, able to manipulate the raw energies of the cosmos with ease. Their roles are diverse, ranging from scholars and guardians of sacred knowledge to messengers and magical artisans. Cherubim are often found in the libraries of Elysius or tending to the holy relics and sacred sites throughout the High Heavens.

Angelic Roles

Angelic society is further structured into specific roles, each with its own unique duties and responsibilities. These roles are restricted to certain types of angels, ensuring that the strengths and abilities of each angel type are utilized to their fullest potential.
Thrones. Thrones serve as the vigilant sentinels and guardians of the High Heavens, tasked with maintaining order and safeguarding the celestial realm. Thrones are typically either Seraphims or lesser Archangels. Their primary duty is to ensure the security and sanctity of the divine domains, acting as the first line of defense against any intrusions or threats. Thrones are stationed at the entrances of heavenly citadels, patrolling the sacred streets and monitoring the various activities within the High Heavens. Their keen senses and unwavering dedication make them ideal for the role of heavenly city guards, as they can swiftly detect and neutralize any disturbances. Thrones are revered for their unwavering loyalty and impeccable discipline.
Dominions. Often Archangels or Seraphim that have proved their intellectual aptitude for planning, Dominions serve as strategists and overseers of angelic society. They are responsible for crafting the grand strategies that guide the celestial armies in their eternal battle against darkness. Dominions ensure that every angel fulfills their role effectively, coordinating efforts and maintaining the delicate balance of power within the High Heavens. Dominions wield authority over the lower ranks and are integral in implementing the High Archons' commands.
Virtues. Virtues are the grantors of divine power and blessings, tasked with bestowing miracles and guiding mortals towards enlightenment. Usually either Seraphim or Cherubim, they are the healers and spiritual leaders, providing succor and strength to those in need. Their presence brings hope and inspiration, their divine light banishing despair and darkness.
Powers. A role reserved for Seraphim and Archangels, powers are the elite warriors among the angelic host, specializing in combat against fiends and dark entities. They lead strike forces into the most dangerous battles, using their superior strength and combat skills to vanquish evil. Powers are also responsible for training other angels in martial disciplines, ensuring that the angelic host remains battle-ready.
Principalities. Principalities serve as leaders and guides of both mortals and angels. They are exclusively Seraphim, and oversee the protection and governance of mortal societies, ensuring that divine law is upheld. Principalities act as intermediaries between the celestial and mortal worlds, often taking on roles as advisors to kings and leaders. They embody wisdom and authority, steering the course of events to align with the divine plan.
Ophanim. Ophanim are the keepers of celestial knowledge and the guardians of the High Heavens' libraries. Almost exclusively Cherubim, they are responsible for maintaining and preserving the vast records of divine wisdom, ensuring that knowledge is accessible to those deemed worthy. Ophanim possess unparalleled magical abilities, using their knowledge to craft powerful enchantments and artifacts.

Interaction with Mortals

Angels, as divine emissaries of the High Heavens, have a complex and multifaceted relationship with mortals. Their interactions with the mortal world are guided by their divine purpose and the directives of the Archons, aiming to bring order, guidance, and protection. However, the manner and frequency of these interactions vary based on the rank and role of the angels involved.

Cherubim often serve as guides and messengers to mortals. Due to their smaller size and less intimidating presence, they are more likely to live among mortals for extended periods. Cherubim dispense aid, hope, and courage, subtly influencing events to align with the divine will. They are known for their ability to perform minor miracles, heal the sick, and provide wisdom to those in need. Cherubim often appear as ethereal children or small, luminous beings, their true forms concealed to avoid overwhelming those they seek to help.
Archangels, being powerful warriors and commanders, interact with mortals primarily in times of great need or conflict. When they descend to the mortal realm, it is usually to lead celestial armies against Infernal invasions, to protect significant individuals, or to intervene in cataclysmic events. Their presence is awe-inspiring and often terrifying, as they reveal their full might and divine authority. Archangels are less likely to disguise themselves, instead manifesting in their full glory to inspire and rally the forces of good against darkness. Their interactions are marked by direct action and decisive leadership, often leaving a lasting impact on the mortal world.
Seraphim, the leaders and diplomats of the angelic hierarchy, interact with mortals through diplomacy, spiritual guidance, and high-level decision-making. They are often sent to convey divine messages, mediate conflicts, and establish covenants between the heavens and the mortal realm. Seraphim are adept at navigating the complexities of mortal politics and religions, using their wisdom and charisma to foster peace and cooperation. When appearing before mortals, seraphim usually adopt more approachable forms, still radiating an aura of divine authority but tempered with humility and approachability.
The presence of an angel can have profound effects on mortals. Witnessing an angel in its true form can inspire awe and reverence, but it can also induce blindness or madness due to their overwhelming beauty and divine radiance. Most angels take care to manage their interactions to avoid causing harm, often using their masks and disguises to protect mortals from their full presence.

A Brief History of Angels

Before the inception of time, a boundless sea of pure, unfettered magic existed in a state of perpetual flux. This Primordial energy eventually concentrated into an infinitely dense point, which erupted in a cataclysmic explosion that birthed the cosmos. Astral Crystals, shards of this magic, scattered across existence, imbuing the universe with the potential for life and creation. Five of these shards fell into young stars, giving rise to the Colossi—Dhumus, Gallinus, Yggrus, Mondorus, and Entropidus. These beings of pure arcane fire, united by the threat of Uulg'oth, a malevolent entity born from the chaotic remnants of a collapsing star, embarked on the Grand Conquest to bring order to the cosmos.
The Colossi, seeking to combat the encroaching darkness, created an army of celestial beings—angels. Gallinus the Maker imbued these new creations with a portion of his own magic, resulting in three distinct forms: cherubim, archangels, and seraphim. Cherubim, small living flames with unparalleled control over magic, served as scholars and guardians. Archangels led the celestial armies as towering warriors. Seraphim, balanced leaders and diplomats, guided and inspired their brethren. Yahweh, a powerful seraphim, was given dominion over all angels and created the Infinus Divinititum, a tome of immense power, with the guidance of Gallinus. From the High Heavens, Yahweh and his angels began their Grand Conquest, bringing light and order to the cosmos.
As angelkind extended their influence, a schism emerged within the High Heavens during the Primordial War. Lucifer, a prominent seraphim, championed the cause of inspiration over force, instigating a brutal conflict called the Divine Civil War. This internal conflict decimated the High Heavens, fragmenting the angelic hierarchy into opposing factions, while the Erinyes, a triad of angels who opted for neutrality, concentrated their efforts on preserving the natural world, guiding the Nephilim to construct the Illian Archipelago—a sanctuary of life and beauty.
After Lucifer's defeat, Yahweh decreed the formation of a penitentiary continent, Ragnarok, for the vanquished Luciferians. Enclosed in consecrated fire, Lucifer and his followers were exiled to this unforgiving terrain. Incensed by the defiance exhibited by both the Luciferians and the Erinyes, Yahweh inflicted a grievous transformation upon them, resulting in the genesis of demons—horned, scaly entities suffering from their curse, thereby permanently altering the cosmic balance of power.
Around 1000 years before the current era, Gabriel, Archon of Faith and one of the most esteemed archangels, initiated first contact with humanity. Descending atop a sacred mountain, he encountered a tribal leader named Karthus. Following a profound revelation, Gabriel accompanied Karthus down the mountain, accepting his invitation to guide the tribe. In exchange for their devout worship, Gabriel assured the tribe of divine protection, facilitating their prosperity under his celestial stewardship.
This significant event precipitated the foundation of Angelicism, a nascent religion venerating angels as divine deities. The golden chalice from which Gabriel and Karthus drank became a sacred artifact and the emblem of Angelicism. Gabriel appointed priests to disseminate his holy proclamations, eventually establishing the central ecclesiastical authority known as the High Chalice. Over the ensuing centuries, Angelicism proliferated, unifying communities and fostering advancements across various domains. The High Chalice ensured the religion steered humanity throughout all of the Common Realms toward a prosperous existence under the watchful eyes of the High Heavens, entering a golden age of societal and territorial expansion.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Colossi

Geographic Distribution

• Common Realms
• High Heavens
• Illian Archipelago
• Verdessence

Related Historical Events

• C. -60,000 → C. -50,000 (Estimated)
  Divine Civil War
• C. -110,000 → C. -100,000 (Estimated)
  Primordial War

Notable Angels

• Yahweh
• Gabriel 
• Hadriel
• Azrael
• Lucifer
• Vandriel
• Aphrizael 
• Kyrael

Angelic Halos

Angelic halos are metallic crowns that hover above or around the heads of angels, symbolizing of celestial authority. With an origin that dates back to the ancient Colossi, the creators of angels, each angelic halo is a masterpiece of divine craftsmanship, forged from celestial alloys like angelic gold and silver. They are typically adorned with intricate patterns and celestial runes that reflect its owners rank, role, and specific divine attributes.
Halos act as conduits for divine energy, allowing angels to perform miraculous feats such as casting powerful spells, healing wounds, and wielding elemental forces with unmatched precision. The design and luminosity of a halo signify the angel's status within the celestial hierarchy. High-ranking angels, such as Archons, possess elaborate and radiant halos, commanding respect and signifying their authority over lesser angels and celestial beings.
Halos also facilitate telepathic communication between angels and their superiors in the High Heavens. Through their halos, angels receive divine instructions, strategic guidance, and spiritual insights directly from the Archons or even Yahweh himself.
Different types of halos are associated with specific roles within angelic society. For instance, the Seraphic Halo is radiant and multi-layered, enhancing control over divine fire and inspiring zeal among allies. The Cherubic Halo, simple and shimmering, amplifies magical abilities and provides calming illumination. Other halos include the Archangelic Halo for combat prowess and strategic command, the Dominion Halo for strategic insight and psychic protection, and the Virtue Halo for bestowing blessings and purification.
Halos are granted to angels at significant milestones in their existence, marking their growth, achievements, and dedication. Lower-ranked angels, such as cherubim, receive their halos shortly after their creation, while higher-ranked angels like Seraphim and Archangels are awarded their halos during ceremonial rites of passage or promotions. The process of granting a halo involves a sacred and elaborate ritual, where the angel is summoned to a holy site within the High Heavens, undergoes a purification ritual, and receives their halo through a ceremony conducted by the Archons.
When angels are destroyed in the materium, their essence returns to the High Heavens, and their armor is shattered. However, their halos remain behind. The remnants of an angel's halo hold great power and are often sought after by mortals and supernatural beings alike. They can channel divine energy, create protective wards, and if possessed by a mortal, they can even attempt communion with the High Heavens.

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Angelic Wings

Angelic wings are majestic appendages that symbolize divine power and status, serving as a mantle of loyalty to the celestial order, the High Heavens, and to the ideals of the Grand Conquest. In addition, they also signify their role as messengers and warriors. The size, number, and elaboration of wings indicate an angel's rank and status within the celestial hierarchy. Higher-ranking angels, such as Archons, possess more numerous, elaborate and radiant wings, which command respect and signify their authority.
Angelic wings are incredibly versatile and powerful. They enable angels to fly, allowing them to traverse vast distances across various realms effortlessly. The wings can also serve as protective shields, enveloping the angel in a barrier that can deflect most magical attacks. Additionally, when armored plates or celestial armaments are affixed to them, the wings can even serve as potent weapons in and of themselves. Depending on the angel's role, their wings can be as soft and inviting as a comforting embrace or as strong and deadly as steel.
Angelic wings are not granted lightly. They are bestowed upon angels during significant milestones in their existence, marking their growth, achievements, and dedication to their divine duties. Lower-ranked angels, like cherubim, often receive their wings shortly after their creation, once they have demonstrated their alignment with the principles of the High Heavens. Higher-ranked angels, such as Seraphim and Archangels, are awarded their wings during ceremonial rites of passage or promotions, typically after proving their valor, wisdom, or leadership in significant celestial events or battles. The process of acquiring wings involves elaborate rituals, including purification rites, divine blessings, and oaths of allegiance.
The loss of wings is a momentous and grievous event for an angel. It signifies a fall from grace, typically resulting from grave transgressions or failures. Without their wings, angels lose their ability to fly and their connection to the High Heavens. This loss strips them of their status and marks them as fallen, a symbol of disgrace or exile. The fallen angel's essence becomes more vulnerable, and their divine light diminishes, sometimes making them susceptible to corruption and dark influences.
Not all angels lose their wings through disgrace; some choose to shed their wings voluntarily, becoming renegade angels. These angels separate themselves from the High Heavens, often due to philosophical differences, disillusionment, or a desire for independence. By shedding their wings, they renounce their allegiance to the High Heavens and their roles within the celestial hierarchy. This act of defiance allows them to pursue their own paths and missions, free from the divine mandate. However, in some cases it also means relinquishing their divine powers and protections, making them more vulnerable and mortal-like, though renegade angels often retain their wisdom and strength.