Clarati

In the annals of history, few groups have wielded such extraordinary influence as the Clarati. Once the rulers of the fabled Clarati Empire, they were blessed with innate abilities that set them apart from others. However, a catastrophic event in their homeland of Sange brought the empire to ruin.

The Clarati, although bearing a striking resemblance to humans, were not human themselves. They were something other, and were alien in nature. When the Nakaal summoned humans into the world from across The Dream, the Clarati were caught up in the spell as well - a mistake which cost the Nakaal everything.

Since they arrived, the Clarati have engaged in a long and questionable history of activities. Some of these actions bordered on psychopathic or sociopathic tendencies, but their unique perspective on morality allowed them to rationalize such behaviors. In Clarati society, as long as these actions did not directly affect their own kind, they were considered acceptable. In polite company, it was often an unspoken rule not to delve into these darker aspects of the Clarati's past. However, the ramifications of these activities were not without consequence. It is believed that those who ventured outside the watchful eyes of the empire and indulged in their desires were already predisposed to such behavior. The tendrils of this darker history may also trace back to the Fall, an event that gradually manifested and shaped their society over time.

At the pinnacle of their glory, the Clarati Empire was led by the Empress Illuminata, a powerful and revered figure. Under her rule, the empire flourished and reached unprecedented heights of magical prowess. She was both a political and magical leader, guiding her people with wisdom and grace. The Empress Illuminata was the epitome of Clarati power and sophistication. The Clarati possessed a unique magical gift. Magic, to them, was not merely a means of manipulation or defense but an all-encompassing force that enabled them to create a utopian environment. The Clarati of Sange had the ability to fulfill all their material needs through magic, ensuring an existence free from want or deprivation. They even used their magic to become virtually immortal, as they could transform their bodies to remove the effects of aging.

Long before the cataclysm that befell Sange, a group of Clarati sought dominion over the island of Ynys. These individuals abandoned the utopia of Sange to rule over the people of Ynys as petty gods, and used magic and psychology to manipulate the minds of the population in their experiments upon the Egregoric Force. After the destruction of Sange, they attacked each other in battles to the death, for reasons that still baffle those who study their history. Fierce conflicts ensued, resulting in the destruction of many of the sorcerers. The survivors were left vulnerable to uprisings and rebellions, further eroding their power, and ultimately leading to their downfall

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Today, the Clarati are practically extinct. The only known remaining representative is the Malika of Saba. There may be others who live quiet lives in The Islands, but none that make themselves known as Clarati.

Ynys is scattered with artifacts and relics left behind by the Clarati, although many of these have become a part of King Guortepir's hoard. One notable relic is the Aurelian Bridge, an awe-inspiring god created by the Clarati known as Illustrata. These artifacts, with their latent powers, have become highly sought after by various factions and individuals who seek to harness their might or safeguard them from those who would exploit their potential. As a result, a constant struggle ensues, with factions vying for control and guardians emerging to protect these relics from falling into the wrong hands. The magical artifacts and relics of the Clarati stand as reminders of their once-great civilization, attracting both the curious and the power-hungry alike.

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

Main Article: Lingua Clara

Shared customary codes and values

The Clarati held personal independence and privacy as paramount values within their customary codes. They cherished the freedom to pursue their goals and desires without undue interference from others. As long as their actions did not infringe upon the freedom or safety of another Clarati, they respected each other's autonomy and refrained from unnecessary interference. Individuality was highly valued, and the pursuit of personal growth and self-realization was encouraged. The Clarati understood that each person had their own unique path and respected the diversity of choices and perspectives within their society.

Common Dress code

The Clarati displayed a distinct sense of elegance and sophistication in their dress. Their attire reflected their love for light and illumination, often incorporating luminescent fabrics and intricate embroidery. Flowing robes adorned with delicate beadwork and fine craftsmanship were a common sight. Pale and pastel colors were favored, accentuating their ethereal appearance. Jewelry and accessories made from precious gemstones were worn as symbols of status and refinement. The Clarati took great care in presenting themselves with grace and style, considering their attire a form of artistic expression.

Art & Architecture

The art and architecture of the Clarati were an embodiment of their love for light, beauty, and intricate craftsmanship. Stained glass was a prominent feature, both in their architecture and artistic creations. Elaborate mosaics adorned walls and ceilings, depicting scenes of mythical creatures, celestial bodies, and magical landscapes. Sculptures and statues celebrated the human form, often portraying graceful figures in dynamic poses. Architecturally, the Clarati favored grand structures with soaring arches, delicate tracery, and intricate carvings. Their buildings harmoniously blended natural elements with magical enchantments, creating awe-inspiring spaces infused with both beauty and functionality.

Common Taboos

The Clarati had a few taboos that governed their behavior and interactions. One notable taboo revolved around the concealment of their true names. The Clarati kept their authentic names private, reserving them for sacred and intimate contexts. Instead, they adopted "nomina publica," public names that they used in everyday life. This practice ensured a level of privacy and protection, as knowing someone's true name was believed to grant a certain level of power over them. It reinforced the importance of personal boundaries and safeguarded individuals from potential harm. Another taboo involved interfering in the personal choices and actions of others, as long as they did not infringe upon the freedom or safety of fellow Clarati. Respect for personal independence and privacy was paramount, encouraging a society where individuals could chart their own paths without unnecessary interference.

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

Within the Clarati culture, beauty ideals revolved around notions of luminosity, pale skin, and a perpetually youthful appearance. Clarati individuals were known to celebrate features that emitted an ethereal glow, often enhancing their natural radiance through magical means. The pursuit of a flawless complexion and a timeless visage was highly valued, with individuals dedicating efforts to maintain a youthful appearance that seemed untouched by the passage of time.

Gender Ideals

The Clarati held a unique perspective on gender ideals, challenging the conventional notions of fixed gender roles. They viewed gender as a fluid and malleable concept, utilizing their inherent magical abilities to transcend traditional biological boundaries. Clarati individuals possessed the power to transform their biological sex at will, allowing them to explore and embody different gender identities based on personal preference. This freedom from rigid gender roles fostered a society that embraced individuality and diversity, breaking away from societal norms associated with gender expectations.

Major organizations

Clarati Empire

Languages spoken

• Lingua Clara

Related Locations

• Sange