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The '''cosmology of Adaris''' begins in the [[Primordial Void]], an infinite expanse of chaotic energy known as [[Astram]]. From this boundless sea of potential emerged [[Daathir]], the first [[consciousness]] and primordial [[spirit]], embodying self-awareness and the spark of existence. As Daathir awakened within the void, it gave rise to [[Awenlas]], the spirit of imagination and creativity. Together, Daathir and Awenlas formed a dynamic interplay of thought and dream, which began to shape the formless Astram into the foundation of reality.
{{Cosmology Sections}}
[[File:Napadéh - General 01.jpg|thumb|right|300px|alt=Napadéh|Napadéh, the expanse of Ákyar from which Adaris arose.]]
The '''cosmology of Adaris''' describes the origin and structure of [[Adaris]]. Adaris arose from [[Napadéh]], an infinite expanse of chaotic energy called [[Ákyar]]. Two Primordial Spirits, [[Umalyu]] and [[Pavkanai]], gave Ákyar form. Seven further Primordial Spirits emerged from their interaction and gave their aspects realms of their own. Conflict among those spirits produced the present world.
From this dance of consciousness and imagination, the [[Primordial Elements]] were born, each embodying a fundamental aspect of existence. These elemental forces, intertwined with the consciousness of Daathir and the dreams of Awenlas, laid the foundation for the world of [[Adaris]]. The chaotic energy of Astram was given form and purpose, creating a reality where belief and consciousness continuously shape existence.
== Napadéh ==
== The Primordial Void and the Emergence of Daathir ==
{{main|Napadéh}}
Before Adaris there was only Napadéh, which was filled with Ákyar. Ákyar had no form, but could become anything.
[[File:Primordial Void - General 01.jpg|thumb|right|300px|alt=Primordial Void|The infinite expanse of chaotic energy, the origin of all things.]]
== Umalyu and Pavkanai ==
[[Umalyu]], consciousness, was the first spirit to emerge from Ákyar. It became aware of its own existence and named itself. In its solitude Umalyu began to dream, and from its dreams came [[Pavkanai]], the spirit of imagination. The interaction between Umalyu's thought and Pavkanai's imagination gave Ákyar form.
In the beginning, there was only the [[Primordial Void]], an infinite expanse of [[Astram]], raw, chaotic energy that held the potential for all existence. It was a place of absolute nothingness, yet it contained the seeds of all that could ever be, waiting to be ignited into existence.
== Primordial Spirits ==
{{main|Primordial Spirit|Primordial Element}}
Umalyu and Pavkanai are the first two Primordial Spirits. Seven more emerged from their interaction, making nine in all. Four of the seven, Yairan, Metihi, Yavi, and Aahi, embody the Primordial Elements of earth, fire, air, and water. The seven emerged in the following order.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Order !! Spirit !! Aspect !! Realm
|-
| 1 || [[Náiluv]] || Darkness || [[Woncu]]
|-
| 2 || [[Tñarilu]] || Light || [[Qaaniguaq]]
|-
| 3 || [[Yairan]] || Earth || [[Dalel]]
|-
| 4 || [[Metihi]] || Fire || [[Píñáku]]
|-
| 5 || [[Yavi]] || Air || [[Zayam]]
|-
| 6 || [[Aahi]] || Water || [[Aasila]]
|-
| 7 || [[Konmai]] || Time || [[Q'ommer]]
|}
Yairan was the first of the spirits of the physical elements. Konmai emerged much later than the others, near the end of the Great Erosion.
=== The Nature of the Primordial Void ===
The spirits have their own language, [[Tivayi]].
The Primordial Void is often described in myths as a place of profound mystery and infinite depth. It represents the uncharted potential of the universe, a canvas upon which all of reality could be painted. The void is not empty; it is filled with the chaotic energies of Astram, which are in a constant state of flux, moving and shifting without purpose or form. Many cultures within [[Adaris]] see the Primordial Void as the birthplace of all things and the ultimate source of creation.
== Structure of the realms ==
{{main|The realms of Adaris}}
[[Dalel]], the realm of earth, is a flat plane. [[Aasila]], the realm of water, surrounds it. [[Zayam]], the realm of air, lies above it, and [[Píñáku]], the realm of fire, lies below it. [[Qaaniguaq]], the realm of light, and [[Woncu]], the realm of darkness, lie on either side. The conflict between them, the [[Dawn Wars]], produces day and night on Dalel. Daylight is divided across Dalel in concentric rings: the center lies in permanent daylight, the outermost reaches in permanent night, and the regions between have longer days the nearer they lie to the center.
== Emergence of Daathir ==
[[Q'ommer]], the realm of time, encompasses all of these realms. [[Goingieng]], the realm of imagination, lies outside time.
From the depths of this chaotic energy, [[Daathir]], consciousness, emerged. Daathir was not merely an entity or a being; it was consciousness itself, the first spark of self-awareness within the void. It was both the observer and the observed, the dreamer and the dream, inseparable from the [[Astram]] that birthed it.
== Formation of the realms ==
[[Goingieng]], the realm of imagination, came into being with Pavkanai and is the oldest realm. Yairan formed Dalel as an unbroken and unbounded expanse of stone. Light and darkness fell on it but had no place of their own. The period in which Dalel stood alone and unchanged is the [[Era of Isolation]]. It ended when Tñarilu and Náiluv drew light and darkness apart into Qaaniguaq and Woncu, on either side of Dalel. Metihi then formed Píñáku beneath Dalel, and Yavi formed Zayam above it. Aahi had no realm of her own. [[Q'ommer]], the realm of time, formed with Konmai near the end of the Great Erosion.
=== The Awakening ===
Adaris as a whole is the realm of Umalyu, since consciousness is present everywhere in it. Napadéh still exists, and the realms lie within it.
As Daathir stirred within the void, it became aware of its own existence, a solitary point of awareness amidst the boundless chaos. With this awakening came the first act of self-identification: Daathir named itself, a declaration of being that echoed through the emptiness. This marked the birth of the first [[Primordial Spirit]], a beacon of consciousness in the sea of potential. Daathir's awareness gave the Astram a focal point, a center around which the energies could begin to coalesce and form.
== Great Erosion ==
{{main|Great Erosion}}
The Great Erosion (c. 63,000–55,000 BME) began soon after the realms of fire and air had formed. Aahi forced her way into Dalel, and Yavi and Metihi followed. Each of the four spirits created a race of warriors to fight for it. These races are known as the [[:Category:Wardens|Wardens]]. Aahi formed Aasila during the conflict.
== The Dance of Daathir and Awenlas ==
Konmai emerged near the end of the Great Erosion. His emergence is usually attributed to the consciousness of Umalyu. With time, events occurred in sequence and the changes to Dalel became permanent.
[[Daathir]], as consciousness, existed in a state of pure thought. In its infinite solitude, Daathir began to dream. From these dreams, [[Awenlas]] came into being, the boundless realm of imagination and creativity. Together, Daathir and Awenlas formed a duality, a balance of thought and dream, consciousness and imagination. Together they began to weave the fabric of reality.
Umalyu created the [[Enarei]], who stopped the fighting. The four spirits then agreed that each element would keep its own nature while continuing to act on the others. Yairan, who had lost almost all of Dalel, withdrew to the [[Domain of Yairan]].
=== The Nature of Awenlas ===
=== Dawn Wars ===
The [[Dawn Wars]] between Tñarilu and Náiluv began with the emergence of time, near the end of the Great Erosion, after the boundaries between the realms had collapsed. They are an endless conflict for control of space, and their ebb and flow produces day and night on Dalel. Each spirit created a warden race to fight on its behalf: the [[Inguik]] of Tñarilu and the [[Nuworno]] of Náiluv. The Dawn Wars are not fought in Dalel, and they have not ended. Their balance, the [[Great Equilibrium]], constantly tips back and forth, and neither side can win.
Awenlas is the embodiment of imagination and creativity. While Daathir represents thought and observation, Awenlas represents vision and inspiration. The dance between Daathir and Awenlas is not a physical one but a metaphysical interplay, where thought meets imagination, and observation meets vision. This interplay created ripples in the [[Astram]], waves of consciousness and creativity that began to shape the void.
After the Great Erosion, once the Dawn Wars had begun, Pavkanai formed the [[Denyen]] as a precaution to protect Goingieng.
== The Birth of the Primordial Elements ==
== Ascendant Spirits ==
{{main|Ascendant Spirit}}
After the Great Erosion, new spirits arose from the interactions of the Primordial Spirits. These [[Ascendant Spirit|Ascendant Spirits]] embody landscapes and concepts, such as deserts, swamps, memory, and desire. During the [[Age of Ascendance]] (c. 55,000–0 BME) many of them settled in the regions of Dalel, shaped them, and created their native peoples. Others live in other realms.
With each thought, emotion, and vision, [[Daathir]] and [[Awenlas]] unknowingly began to shape the [[Astram]] around them. From this dance of consciousness and imagination, the [[Primordial Elements]] emerged. These elements are the fundamental forces of Adaris, each representing a different aspect of existence:
== Humans ==
Pavkanai created humans in Goingieng. After the realms had stabilized following the Great Erosion, she placed them on [[Haberria]], an island of Dalel, where they lived during the Age of Ascendance. They left Haberria in the [[Great Migration]] (0 – c. 60 ME), and their first landings on the other shores of Dalel mark year 0. The peoples who settled in each region changed under the influence of its spirits and became the human races of the present day.
'''Dharas''': The [[primordial spirit]] of light, representing illumination, clarity, and enlightenment. Dharas embodies the illuminating power of consciousness, bringing light to the darkness and revealing the hidden truths of the universe.
== Other spirits ==
{{main|Spirit}}
Spirits continue to form in Adaris. A [[Nascent Spirit]] is a simple spirit of a minor phenomenon. A [[Mature Spirit]] is self-aware and embodies a lasting place or idea. An [[Ancestral Spirit]] arises when a Mature Spirit becomes established in the beliefs of a people over generations.
'''Arafia''': The primordial spirit of darkness, embodying mystery, the unknown, and the hidden depths of existence. Arafia is not merely the absence of light but a presence in its own right, a force that shapes the world just as surely as light. Dharas and Arafia are not oppositional but exist in balance, neither striving for dominance nor fading into passivity.
== Osia ==
{{main|Osia}}
'''Oras''': The primordial spirit of earth, symbolizing stability, endurance, and the physical manifestation of dreams. Oras arises when thought seeks permanence, crystallizing into form.
[[Osia]] is the practice of communicating with the consciousness present in all things and, through it, directing spirits. It is learned through [[attunement]] in three stages: perceiving a spirit, understanding it, and asking things of it. Osia is organized into paths, each devoted to the spirits of one Primordial or Ascendant Spirit. Its practitioners are called [[Osiari]].
'''Tejas''': The primordial spirit of fire, representing transformation, dynamic energy, and the dual nature of creation and destruction. Tejas emerges from the passion of creation and destruction, the raw force of transformation.
'''Shasae''': The primordial spirit of atmosphere, embodying air, breath, and the invisible forces that bind all living things together. Shasae is the bridge between the tangible and intangible, a force of motion and breath, representing both communication and change.
'''Jala''': The primordial spirit of water, symbolizing fluidity, adaptability, and the essence of life. Jala embodies fluidity and adaptation, the reflective medium where dreams and reality intermingle.
The creation of these primordial elements established the first structured aspects of reality. Dharas and Arafia formed a delicate balance between illumination and mystery, while Kairos ensured that existence would always move forward. The physical elements—Oras, Tejas, Shasae, and Jala—provided the raw foundation upon which the world of [[Adaris]] would take shape.
Over time, mortals arose from the residual energies of these spirits, infused with the echoes of Daathir's awareness. Everything in Adaris carries a spark of consciousness, shaped by the interplay of the primordial forces. Though Daathir remains an observer, its presence continues to permeate existence, subtly guiding and shaping reality in unseen ways.
=== Relationships Between the Elements ===
The primordial elements are not isolated forces but are interconnected, each influencing and interacting with the others. Light and darkness, earth and water, fire and air—these elements exist in a delicate balance, each contributing to the overall harmony of Adaris. Their interactions shape the physical and metaphysical landscapes of the world, creating a rich tapestry of life and experience.
== The Creation of Adaris ==
The early primordial realms of [[Adaris]] unfolded over eons, a process beyond the comprehension of linear time, happening both instantly and not at all. Fearing a return to chaos, the concept of time was brought into being as the first [[Ascendant Spirit]], who named themselves [[Kairos]]. The creation of time stabilized Adaris, ensuring that change occurred at a manageable pace and preventing a reversion to primordial chaos.
From this point, the formation of the physical planes of Adaris, began. Each elemental spirit developed its own realm. [[Orethil]], the infinite expanse of earth came first. Underneath, Tejas formed Anarik, a sea of neverending flame. Shasae claimed the air above forming [[Caelum]]. Each in their own space with no overlap. Jala, however had no plane over their own to exist so forced themselves into Orethil. This shattered the barriers between realms and the [[Great Erosion]] Wars began.The Primordial Spirits created powerful beings that inhabited their realms and could help ensure their preservation. After eons of chaos, Daathir took notice. Their consciousness created new beings, the Enarei who put an end to the war stabilizing the realms. Each element agreed to maintain its own form while still allowing for the slow merging, change, destruction, and creation of new elements.
As the world of Adaris continued to take shape, new spirits formed from the merging of existing elements, who in turn dreamed up realms of their own, creating the rich tapestry we know today.
== The War of Light and Dark ==
When the barriers between realms were shattered by Jala, the separation of Dharas and Arafia also broke. While not fought on the physical plane, Dharas and Arafia created their own beings to try and conquer the other. Unlike the Great Erosion War, which eventually ended in a stablized physical realm, the War of Light and Dark continues, the ebb and flow of battle creating the cycle of day and night and marking seasonal changes on the world below.
== Introduction of Ascendant Spirits and Realms ==
With the creation of [[Kairos]], the concept of time was introduced to the world of [[Adaris]]. This marked the birth of one of the first Ascendant Spirits. The advent of time and merging of the spirits, brought forth great change to Adaris. The interactions of the primordial elements and Time created new concepts who became Ascendant Spirits who in turn merged forming new concepts and spirits. Like the [[Primordial Spirits]], Ascendant Spirits possess consciousness imbued in their nature. However, unlike the Primordial Spirits, they were not born from the void but rather from the evolving interactions within Adaris.
The newly formed Ascendant Spirits quickly dispersed throughout the physical planes. Most taking refuge in Orethil, creating realms of their own, where their influence is paramount and their consciousness free.
== The Age of Man ==
While the Primordial Spirits fought, Awenlas dreamed. Inspired by the creation of the elemental beings, and Enarei, they created their own being. Not to fight, but to imagine. These were the first humans existing in the dream realm of [[Kalpanas]]. After the realm stabilized, Awenlas sent the humans down to the island of [[Awenelir]]. It was here the humans flourished creating a society of imagination and creativity.
=== The Great Migration ===
The same creativity and imagination that allowed the humans to prosper eventually drove them to expand. To explore the wider world. The humans left their island home and a great migration occured with humans expanding to all corners of the physical realms. It was here that the influence of other spirits began to change the humans for one of their great traits was their adaptability. Over time the humans adapted to their new home and became different races, each with their own culture, history and in some cases biology.
== The Spirits of Adaris ==
=== Ancestral Spirits ===
[[Ancestral Spirit|Ancestral Spirits]] differ from [[Primordial Spirit|Primordial]] and Ascendant Spirits in that they are born from the consciousness and collective beliefs of societies. These spirits are formed through shared belief, tradition, and language, gaining significance only after the core concepts of the world have been established. They embody the cultural values, myths, and ancestral memories of the people who believe in them.
Ancestral Spirits come into being when a belief is strong enough and widely held, giving it form and consciousness. Unlike the primordial and ascendant spirits, Ancestral Spirits are post-time entities, emerging after the creation of time. They are deeply connected to the societies that create them, often acting as guardians, guides, or symbols of cultural identity.
As societies evolve, new beliefs and traditions can give rise to new Ancestral Spirits, while old ones may fade or become diffuse. A spirit might start as a simple embodiment of a local legend, such as a monster believed to inhabit a cave. If this belief persists over time, the spirit associated with that monster grows in power, becoming more tangible and influential within its realm.
Conversely, if the belief in a spirit wanes or is forgotten, the spirit may become wayward and lost. Without the continued belief and reverence of the people, these spirits cease to grow stronger and may even start to decompose, returning to their original elements or fading into obscurity. In this way, the existence and strength of Ancestral Spirits are directly tied to the cultural landscapes of [[Adaris]], serving as reflections of the societies that shape them. The cyclical nature of belief and spirit life illustrates the dynamic relationship between the [[inhabitants of Adaris]] and their metaphysical counterparts.
=== Stages of Spirit Development ===
* [[Nascent spirit|Nascent Spirits]]: Young spirits are simple and malleable, existing in a state of pure potential. [[Nascent spirits]] are akin to the "single-cell organisms" of the spiritual realm. They lack full consciousness and are easily influenced by the beliefs, actions, and environmental changes around them. Nascent spirits are often perceived as minor environmental phenomena, such as flickering lights, gusts of wind, or small creatures barely distinguishable from the natural elements they inhabit. At this stage, their form and function are fluid, often changing based on local myths, seasonal changes, or the presence of stronger spirits.These spirits can often be manipulated by skilled practitioners.
* [[Mature Spirit|Mature Spirits]]: Over time, as belief in them strengthens and their stories become more widespread, spirits grow more distinct and powerful. They begin to develop a sense of self, awareness of their surroundings, and purpose. Mature spirits can interact meaningfully with humans, forming intentions and even forging alliances or rivalries with other spirits. They might take on more defined forms, such as humanoid figures, animals, or elemental beings, and are capable of communicating with Shamans and influencing the physical world in more noticeable ways. At this stage, their powers become more focused, and they often play active roles in the myths, rituals, and daily lives of their believers.
* Ancestral Spirits: Spirits that have existed for centuries and have been continuously believed in become extremely powerful and wise. These spirits possess consciousness that has evolved far beyond that of younger spirits, often acquiring intelligence and knowledge that surpasses human understanding. Ancient spirits are frequently seen as gods, elemental lords, or great protectors and are deeply integrated into the culture, religion, and mythology of those who believe in them. Some ancient spirits outlast the cultures that created them, becoming enigmatic forces of nature, driven by their own ancient purposes. They may no longer need active worship to maintain their existence, having become fundamental parts of the world itself, often guiding or manipulating events from behind the scenes to maintain balance or fulfill their ancient agendas.
== The Role of Osia and Osiari ==
Within the cosmological framework of Adaris, the practice of [[Osia]]—the manipulation of the fundamental spirits and essences—plays a vital role. Practitioners known as [[Osiari]] delve into the mysteries of the primordial spirits, seeking to align their consciousness with the forces that shaped the universe. Unlike conventional magic that relies on external spells or incantations, Osia focuses on the internal [[attunement]] and manipulation of consciousness, reflecting the interconnected nature of all existence in Adaris.
Osiari believe that by understanding and harmonizing with the spirits like [[Daathir]] and [[Awenlas]], they can influence reality itself, drawing upon the same forces that forged the cosmos. This practice is not merely a means of wielding power but is seen as a path to enlightenment and a deeper comprehension of the universe's fundamental truths.
== Cosmological Significance and Philosophical Concepts ==
The cosmology of [[Adaris]] is not just a creation myth; it is a framework that shapes the worldview of its inhabitants. The balance of elements, the interplay of light and darkness, and the dance of consciousness and imagination are central to the philosophy and culture of Adaris. Various schools of thought have emerged based on these concepts, ranging from viewing the spirits as divine beings to perceiving the world as a chaotic system of elemental forces.
== Influence on Society and Governance ==
The cosmological beliefs of [[Adaris]] deeply influence its societies and governance structures. Leaders and scholars often seek guidance from the [[Osiari]], whose understanding of the primordial spirits and elements provides insight into both spiritual and worldly matters. Many cultures base their legal systems, ethical frameworks, and societal norms on the balance of elements and the interplay of spirits.
For instance, in regions where the worship of [[Dharas]] and [[Arafia]] is prominent, laws may emphasize balance and moderation, reflecting the harmony between light and darkness. In contrast, areas influenced by [[Tejas]] may value transformation and change, encouraging innovation and dynamic governance.
== Cultural Practices and Rituals ==
Throughout [[Adaris]], various cultural practices, rituals, and festivals celebrate the primordial forces and their influence on the world. These rituals often involve offerings, prayers, and symbolic acts that honor the elements and the spirits that govern them.
* Ceremonies of Light and Darkness: Dedicated to [[Dharas]] and [[Arafia]], these ceremonies mark the transition between day and night, celebrating the balance between light and dark. Participants often use candles or torches to represent light and dark spaces or blindfolds to symbolize the unseen aspects of darkness.
* Earth and Stone Festivals: Celebrated in honor of [[Oras]], these festivals involve building stone structures, crafting with earth materials, and giving thanks for the stability and strength provided by the earth.
* Fire and Water Rituals: Honoring [[Tejas]]** and [[Jala]], these rituals often involve fire dancing, water offerings, and rituals that focus on transformation and renewal.
* Wind and Sky Celebrations: These events are dedicated to [[Shasae]] and involve activities like kite flying, wind chime construction, and sky gazing, all meant to honor the air and the breath of life.
These cultural practices reflect the deep connection between the people of Adaris and the elemental forces that shape their world.
[[Category:Cosmology]]
[[Category:Cosmology]]
Latest revision as of 16:24, 16 October 2026
Introduction
Napadéh, the expanse of Ákyar from which Adaris arose.
The cosmology of Adaris describes the origin and structure of Adaris. Adaris arose from Napadéh, an infinite expanse of chaotic energy called Ákyar. Two Primordial Spirits, Umalyu and Pavkanai, gave Ákyar form. Seven further Primordial Spirits emerged from their interaction and gave their aspects realms of their own. Conflict among those spirits produced the present world.
Before Adaris there was only Napadéh, which was filled with Ákyar. Ákyar had no form, but could become anything.
Umalyu and Pavkanai
Umalyu, consciousness, was the first spirit to emerge from Ákyar. It became aware of its own existence and named itself. In its solitude Umalyu began to dream, and from its dreams came Pavkanai, the spirit of imagination. The interaction between Umalyu's thought and Pavkanai's imagination gave Ákyar form.
Umalyu and Pavkanai are the first two Primordial Spirits. Seven more emerged from their interaction, making nine in all. Four of the seven, Yairan, Metihi, Yavi, and Aahi, embody the Primordial Elements of earth, fire, air, and water. The seven emerged in the following order.
Dalel, the realm of earth, is a flat plane. Aasila, the realm of water, surrounds it. Zayam, the realm of air, lies above it, and Píñáku, the realm of fire, lies below it. Qaaniguaq, the realm of light, and Woncu, the realm of darkness, lie on either side. The conflict between them, the Dawn Wars, produces day and night on Dalel. Daylight is divided across Dalel in concentric rings: the center lies in permanent daylight, the outermost reaches in permanent night, and the regions between have longer days the nearer they lie to the center.
Q'ommer, the realm of time, encompasses all of these realms. Goingieng, the realm of imagination, lies outside time.
Formation of the realms
Goingieng, the realm of imagination, came into being with Pavkanai and is the oldest realm. Yairan formed Dalel as an unbroken and unbounded expanse of stone. Light and darkness fell on it but had no place of their own. The period in which Dalel stood alone and unchanged is the Era of Isolation. It ended when Tñarilu and Náiluv drew light and darkness apart into Qaaniguaq and Woncu, on either side of Dalel. Metihi then formed Píñáku beneath Dalel, and Yavi formed Zayam above it. Aahi had no realm of her own. Q'ommer, the realm of time, formed with Konmai near the end of the Great Erosion.
Adaris as a whole is the realm of Umalyu, since consciousness is present everywhere in it. Napadéh still exists, and the realms lie within it.
The Great Erosion (c. 63,000–55,000 BME) began soon after the realms of fire and air had formed. Aahi forced her way into Dalel, and Yavi and Metihi followed. Each of the four spirits created a race of warriors to fight for it. These races are known as the Wardens. Aahi formed Aasila during the conflict.
Konmai emerged near the end of the Great Erosion. His emergence is usually attributed to the consciousness of Umalyu. With time, events occurred in sequence and the changes to Dalel became permanent.
Umalyu created the Enarei, who stopped the fighting. The four spirits then agreed that each element would keep its own nature while continuing to act on the others. Yairan, who had lost almost all of Dalel, withdrew to the Domain of Yairan.
Dawn Wars
The Dawn Wars between Tñarilu and Náiluv began with the emergence of time, near the end of the Great Erosion, after the boundaries between the realms had collapsed. They are an endless conflict for control of space, and their ebb and flow produces day and night on Dalel. Each spirit created a warden race to fight on its behalf: the Inguik of Tñarilu and the Nuworno of Náiluv. The Dawn Wars are not fought in Dalel, and they have not ended. Their balance, the Great Equilibrium, constantly tips back and forth, and neither side can win.
After the Great Erosion, once the Dawn Wars had begun, Pavkanai formed the Denyen as a precaution to protect Goingieng.
After the Great Erosion, new spirits arose from the interactions of the Primordial Spirits. These Ascendant Spirits embody landscapes and concepts, such as deserts, swamps, memory, and desire. During the Age of Ascendance (c. 55,000–0 BME) many of them settled in the regions of Dalel, shaped them, and created their native peoples. Others live in other realms.
Humans
Pavkanai created humans in Goingieng. After the realms had stabilized following the Great Erosion, she placed them on Haberria, an island of Dalel, where they lived during the Age of Ascendance. They left Haberria in the Great Migration (0 – c. 60 ME), and their first landings on the other shores of Dalel mark year 0. The peoples who settled in each region changed under the influence of its spirits and became the human races of the present day.
Spirits continue to form in Adaris. A Nascent Spirit is a simple spirit of a minor phenomenon. A Mature Spirit is self-aware and embodies a lasting place or idea. An Ancestral Spirit arises when a Mature Spirit becomes established in the beliefs of a people over generations.
Osia is the practice of communicating with the consciousness present in all things and, through it, directing spirits. It is learned through attunement in three stages: perceiving a spirit, understanding it, and asking things of it. Osia is organized into paths, each devoted to the spirits of one Primordial or Ascendant Spirit. Its practitioners are called Osiari.
