Eye of Adal

The Eye of Adal is a mysterious artifact discovered in 52 BRE near the present-day city of Ostholm in the Eastern Province of the Namorian Republic. It is a spherical object approximately 1 meter in diameter, composed of an unknown, iridescent material that seems to shift colors when viewed from different angles. The artifact is named after Adal, the god of justice in the Namorian Pantheon, due to its perceived connection to themes of law and order.

Discovery

The Eye of Adal was unearthed during an excavation led by the renowned archaeologist Elenor Vex. The dig site, located in what was then a small settlement called Thorndale, revealed the orb buried beneath the foundations of an ancient courthouse. Its discovery caused immediate sensation due to its similarity to other divine orbs, particularly the Orb of Harnar in Namor City.

Initial Controversy

The artifact's resemblance to the Orb of Harnar initially sparked debate among scholars and theologians. Some argued that it was impossible for multiple orbs to exist for different deities, while others suggested that each god no matter how minor might have their own unique orb. The matter was settled when High Priest Tharon of the Temple of Adal in Namor declared it a true divine artifact, citing visions and portents that confirmed its connection to Adal.

Founding of Ostholm

The discovery of the Eye of Adal led to the rapid growth of Thorndale, which was renamed Ostholm in 54 BRE. The city became a center of pilgrimage and legal study, with the construction of the Cathedral of Eternal Vigilance beginning in 56 RE to house the artifact.

Setting - The Cathedral of Eternal Vigilance

The Eye of Adal is housed within the Cathedral of Eternal Vigilance, commonly known as the Skull Cathedral. This imposing structure is renowned for its unique architectural features and macabre decorations:

• The Skull Spire - A 50-meter tall tower adorned with thousands of human skulls arranged in intricate patterns, symbolizing the watchful eyes of the departed.
• The Ossuary - An extensive underground chamber housing the remains of devoted followers and esteemed legal minds. The walls are lined with carefully preserved and often ornately decorated skulls.
• The Chamber of Eternal Watch - A room at the heart of the cathedral where the Eye of Adal is stored. The chamber is surrounded by the skulls of former high judges and priests, their empty eye sockets seemingly fixed upon the artifact.

The cathedral practices the Rite of Eternal Watch, a tradition where the skulls of deceased legal professionals and devoted followers are preserved and incorporated into the cathedral's architecture. This practice is believed to allow the spirits of the dead to continue their vigil over justice and the Eye of Adal.

Properties and Phenomena

Observers have reported several unusual properties of the Eye of Adal:

• Visions of Justice - Some individuals claim to see visions of past and future legal judgments when gazing into the orb.
• Truthseeking Aura - The presence of the Eye is said to compel honesty from those in its vicinity, leading to its use in some legal proceedings.
• Temporal Anomalies - There are unconfirmed reports of time dilation effects in the immediate area surrounding the artifact.
• Skull Whispers - Visitors sometimes report hearing faint whispers emanating from the surrounding skulls when in proximity to the Eye, though this phenomenon is disputed by skeptics.

Cultural Impact

The Eye of Adal has had a profound impact on Namorian culture, particularly in the Eastern Province:

• Legal System - Ostholm has become known as the "Cradle of Justice," with its law schools and courts holding particular prestige.
• Literature and Art - The Eye and the Cathedral have inspired countless works, including the epic poem "Whispers of the Just" by Lyria Stormwind.
• Philosophy - The "Adaline School" of philosophy, which emphasizes absolute moral truths, developed around studies of the artifact.
• Funerary Practices - The Rite of Eternal Watch has influenced burial customs throughout the Eastern Province, with many aspiring for their remains to be interred within the Cathedral.
• Religious Debate - Adal was traditionally venerated as the overseer of celestial laws, largely separate from earthly affairs. After discovery of the Eye of Adal, the Adaline School's interpretation, which applies Adal's principles directly to human law and society, has gained considerable traction.

Theories and Speculation

Several theories exist regarding the true nature and purpose of the Eye of Adal:

• Divine Conduit Theory - Some believe the Eye serves as a direct link to Adal, allowing the god to influence mortal affairs more directly.
• Cosmic Balance Hypothesis - Others propose that the Eye is part of a larger system of artifacts that maintain the balance of the universe.
• Necromantic Amplifier Theory - A controversial idea suggests that the Eye draws power from the surrounding ossuary, using the spirits of the dead to enhance its abilities.

Current Status

The Eye of Adal remains housed in the Cathedral of Eternal Vigilance in Ostholm, where it continues to be a subject of study, veneration, and controversy. Access to the artifact is strictly controlled by the Cathedral authorities, with direct viewing limited to high-ranking clerics and approved researchers.
The discovery of the Eye has reignited interest in finding other divine orbs, particularly those associated with Lux and Undine, which have never been found. Expeditions continue to be launched in search of these elusive artifacts, driven by the tantalizing possibility of unlocking further cosmic secrets.

Item type

Religious / Ritualistic

Owning Organization

Adaline School