Tejas

Tejas, the Primordial Spirit of fire, was born from the chaotic energies of Astram within the Primordial Void when Daathir envisioned something vibrant and energetic in contrast to the stability and unchanging nature of Oras. Tejas emerged as a dynamic force of energy, capable of both creation and destruction.

Nature and Influence

Tejas represents both the nurturing warmth of a hearth and the destructive power of a wildfire. Its influence is felt across the world of Adaris in every act of transformation. It is the power that shapes metal into tools and weapons, the kiln that transforms clay into pottery, and the hearth that provides warmth and comfort. Tejas embodies the duality of fire—both a creative and destructive force—representing the passion that fuels all life and the inevitable change that fire brings.

Tejas is also symbolic of passion and energy, driving individuals to pursue their desires with intensity and fervor. The spirit of fire is present wherever flames burn, from the smallest candle to the fiercest inferno, and its presence is a reminder of both the constructive and destructive potential of fire. Tejas influences every aspect of life where transformation, growth, and change are central.

Relationship with Other Elements

Tejas interacts with other primordial elements in various ways, shaping the balance of creation and destruction in the world:

With OrasOras (Earth): Tejas and Oras work together in the forging of metals, where fire transforms raw stone into tools and weapons. Fire’s power is also seen in volcanic eruptions, where molten rock bursts forth from beneath the earth.

With Jala (Water): While Tejas and Jala are often seen as opposing forces, their interaction symbolizes balance. Steam is born when fire meets water, and the cycle of creation and destruction is maintained as fire burns and water extinguishes.

With Shasae (Air): Fire relies on air to thrive, and Tejas feeds on the winds of Shasae. Together, they create the flames that fuel creation and the wildfires that renew the land. The interaction between Tejas and Shasae is seen in the unpredictability and passion of fire.

Realm of Tejas: Angarik, The Ember Cradle

The realm of Tejas, known as Angarik or "The Ember Cradle," is a domain of unending fire. Unlike the physical realm, Angarik is a vast expanse of pure flame, where fire exists in its most primal and unbridled form. It is a sea of never-ending fire, with no other elements present, only the roaring, crackling, and shifting of flames.

Angarik "sits" beneath the physical realm of Adaris, much like the atmosphere rests above. It is believed that certain phenomena in the physical world, such as volcanoes and roaring campfires, serve as direct doorways to this fiery domain. In these moments, the barrier between realms thins, allowing the raw energy of Tejas to burst forth into the world of Adaris.

This realm represents the transformative nature of fire, where destruction and renewal are constant. It is a place of great power, where those who seek to master the flames come to understand both the fury and the warmth that fire brings. The energy of Angarik fuels the fires of the physical world, linking the two realms in an eternal cycle of creation and destruction.

Tajasia: The Osia of Fire

Tajasia is a branch of Osia that focuses on the manipulation of fire and heat. Practitioners of Tajasia, known as Tajasiari, attune themselves to the transformative energy of Tejas, harnessing its power to create, destroy, and change the world around them. Tajasiari are often seen as powerful and unpredictable, their connection to fire representing both the nurturing and the destructive forces at play in the universe.

Tajasiari draw from the raw energy of flames, using it to shape their environment or fuel their passion. Their powers are both feared and respected, for fire can bring both light and warmth or chaos and destruction.

Abilities of Tajasiari include:

Flame Control: The ability to control and manipulate fire. Tajasiari can summon flames, increase or decrease their intensity, and shape fire into various forms. Some can create firestorms or control the flow of molten lava.

Flame Forging: Skilled Tajasiari can use the heat of their magic to shape metal, stone, and even wood. Blacksmiths who follow Tajasia are known to forge weapons and tools of great power, channeling the spirit of Tejas into their craft.

Wildfire Manipulation: Advanced Tajasiari can summon or control wildfires, using the destructive power of fire to clear land, fight enemies, or renew ecosystems. However, such power must be wielded carefully, for fire is often unpredictable.

Tajasiari are often seen as bold and passionate figures, their magic reflecting the dynamic nature of fire itself. They are the blacksmiths, warriors, and visionaries who embrace change and transformation, unafraid of destruction if it leads to new growth.

Significance and Worship

Tejas is revered throughout Adaris as a symbol of transformation, passion, and purification. Temples and shrines dedicated to Tejas often feature eternal flames, fiery imagery, and rituals involving fire and heat. These temples are spaces where the fire never dies, symbolizing the unending cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

Blacksmiths, artisans, and warriors seek Tejas's blessings for skill, inspiration, and the strength to overcome challenges. Those seeking to purify their hearts or overcome past traumas may participate in fire rituals or offer prayers to Tejas. Festivals of fire are common in many regions, where bonfires are lit to celebrate the energy of life and the passion that drives people to create and thrive.

Tejas is also invoked during celebrations that symbolize joy, energy, and the vibrancy of life. Flames dance in festivals, bonfires blaze at the heart of communities, and fire rituals are used to mark significant moments of transformation and change

Cultural Practices

The Forge Blessing: Blacksmiths, metalworkers, and artisans often invoke Tejas through rituals performed at their forges, seeking the spirit’s guidance to shape their creations.

The Fire Walk: In some cultures, walking across hot coals is seen as a way to honor Tejas and gain strength through endurance and transformation.

Bonfire Festivals: Festivals celebrating life, passion, and creativity often center around great bonfires, where communities come together to honor the spirit of fire and the joy it brings.