The Stellar Theocracy
The Stellar Theocracy is a nation located on the edge of the Vian Desert and thus is a hot arid land dominated by vast rolling hills where small settlements and infrequent cities dot the landscape. The Stellar Theocracy is ruled by a religious order of a species called the Nova, who worship the god Anlene, but in a way almost no other people on Tirestir do, they worship the aspect of the stars as their people's physical morphology is changed depending on what constellation they are born under, thus your star signs determine a lot about how you are treated while within the theocracy, even if you are not one of the Nova.
The Nova have an origin myth that tell that they were in a vast Ark made into a spelljammer fleeing their world, however they didn't have a proper spelljamming helm and the journey to the new world on this vast wooden ship would take centuries, they were all put under a permanent feign death spell except for a small crew of generational individuals that would oversee the people in their care on their long voyage. Disaster struck however and the air bubble and magic propelling the ship failed, which would've lead to the death of thousands had Anlene not approached them with a deal, become her children and she will ensure they arrive to their new land, changed forever and bound to her for eternity was their bargain, and they took it with no other alternative.
This creation myth of their people also tells that the Nova were once many different species, all changed into one by their god, who assigned each of the species a constellation that now each newly born Nova is determined by. The Theocracy now applies the characteristics of their species to all others who live in their border, forming into a large pseudo-caste system where social role and order is determined by constellation, although many foreigners live under these rules anyways, as the Nova being one of the last species to appear during The Arrival means they have one of the highest qualities of life of any people on Tirestir.
The theocracy regularly trade a type of metal they call stellar iron which they make into tools, weapons, and armor that are said to hold special properties under certain conditions. They are also known for being home to a large circle of star druids, and are said to contain the original and most ancient of the circles of this order, contained within what they call the Hollow Mountain.
The Stellar Theocracy is responsible for expanding their religious belief into many of the other peoples who firmly root their heritage in the forces that came during The Arrival. The Tsaeci Empire and Gotburg Kingdom being the two who have most readily adopted these beliefs, with the Stellar Theocracy espousing a doctrine of taking pride in their stellar origins, and now the stars will guide them back to them one day.
Fauna & Flora
Celestial Blossom
In the arid lands of the Stellar Theocracy, a remarkable and otherworldly flower known as the Celestial Blossom thrives. These delicate flowers possess an ethereal glow and come in a variety of vibrant colors, such as shimmering blues, radiant purples, and iridescent pinks. Each petal of the Celestial Blossom bears intricate patterns that resemble constellations, mirroring the connection the Nova people have with the stars.
The Celestial Blossom is considered sacred by the Nova and is often used in their religious ceremonies and rituals. It is believed that the flowers hold the blessings of Anlene, the goddess of the stars, and that their radiant beauty represents the divine presence within the world. The petals of the Celestial Blossom are carefully collected and dried, their essence used in the creation of potent herbal remedies and sacred incense.
These flowers are also highly sought after by herbalists and alchemists from other nations who recognize their unique properties. The Celestial Blossom is said to possess healing and restorative qualities, able to cure ailments and bring solace to those in need. Its extracts are used in potions and elixirs that enhance vitality, clarity of mind, and spiritual connection.
Starwing Gryphon
In the skies above the Stellar Theocracy, a majestic creature known as the Starwing Gryphon soars. These magnificent beings are a hybrid of a gryphon and a constellation-infused avian species, bearing the physical attributes of both. Starwing Gryphons possess the body of a powerful lion, with shimmering feathers covering their forelegs and a pair of immense wings extending from their backs. Their feathers shimmer with a starry radiance, reflecting the constellations they are associated with.
Starwing Gryphons are deeply revered by the Nova people, believed to be the emissaries of Anlene herself. According to Nova mythology, these divine creatures are said to carry messages between the mortal realm and the celestial realm, serving as conduits for divine wisdom and guidance. It is believed that the patterns on their wings align with the constellations, and the movement of their flights is seen as a celestial dance, foretelling the future and bestowing blessings upon the land.
The Nova people have formed a profound bond with the Starwing Gryphons, with some individuals even forming lifelong partnerships with these majestic creatures. They serve as both trusted companions and formidable mounts, used in times of war and exploration. The sight of a Nova warrior riding a Starwing Gryphon into battle is a symbol of the Theocracy's divine connection and military prowess.
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