Meliae
Overview:
The Meliae are believed to be nymph-like beings tied to the natural world and the Feyn, originating from the ancient forests of the Tovag-Baragu. While much about them remains shrouded in mystery and folklore, Guild scholars and local rumors suggest that the Meliae play an essential role in the Feyn's life cycle. In King Belgarion's time, their population is thought to be stable, but they face increasing danger due to growing paranoia and suspicion in Chernaya.
Origins and Role: The Meliae are said to originate from the Tovag Baragu, a remote forest where the ancient Arrowood trees grow. These beings are thought to be crucial to the Feyn's reproduction, returning to the Arrowood groves each spring to fulfill their purpose. Their connection to the land is believed to be vital for the renewal of both the Feyn and the surrounding environment, though much of this is based on fragmented accounts and the study of old texts.
Awakening and the Call: Many Meliae are believed to live among humans, unaware of their true nature. Guild scholars hypothesize that these beings only begin to realize their identity when they hear "the Call," a supposed instinctual summons that drives them toward the Tovag-Baragu. This awakening process is described in some sources as being triggered by proximity to Feyn, intense emotions, or significant events. However, concrete evidence of the Call remains elusive, leading some to question whether it is more myth than reality.
Persecution and Survival: The Crown’s increasing distrust of anything supernatural has led to the persecution of those suspected of being Meliae. Witchhunters, following the Crown’s directives, have been known to capture or drive away individuals believed to be Meliae. This has created a climate of fear and suspicion, where many supposed Meliae must hide their true nature or flee before they can fully awaken. Scholars debate the extent to which these persecutions have impacted the Meliae population, as reliable data is scarce.
Current Status: While scholars agree that the Meliae are not yet endangered, they caution that the Crown’s harsh policies and the growing fear among the populace pose significant threats. Those who do manage to reach the Tovag-Baragu are believed to continue their role in the Feyn's life cycle, but many are likely lost before they can fulfill their purpose. The true extent of the Meliae's plight remains a topic of ongoing research and speculation among the Guilds.
Origins and Role: The Meliae are said to originate from the Tovag Baragu, a remote forest where the ancient Arrowood trees grow. These beings are thought to be crucial to the Feyn's reproduction, returning to the Arrowood groves each spring to fulfill their purpose. Their connection to the land is believed to be vital for the renewal of both the Feyn and the surrounding environment, though much of this is based on fragmented accounts and the study of old texts.
Awakening and the Call: Many Meliae are believed to live among humans, unaware of their true nature. Guild scholars hypothesize that these beings only begin to realize their identity when they hear "the Call," a supposed instinctual summons that drives them toward the Tovag-Baragu. This awakening process is described in some sources as being triggered by proximity to Feyn, intense emotions, or significant events. However, concrete evidence of the Call remains elusive, leading some to question whether it is more myth than reality.
Persecution and Survival: The Crown’s increasing distrust of anything supernatural has led to the persecution of those suspected of being Meliae. Witchhunters, following the Crown’s directives, have been known to capture or drive away individuals believed to be Meliae. This has created a climate of fear and suspicion, where many supposed Meliae must hide their true nature or flee before they can fully awaken. Scholars debate the extent to which these persecutions have impacted the Meliae population, as reliable data is scarce.
Current Status: While scholars agree that the Meliae are not yet endangered, they caution that the Crown’s harsh policies and the growing fear among the populace pose significant threats. Those who do manage to reach the Tovag-Baragu are believed to continue their role in the Feyn's life cycle, but many are likely lost before they can fulfill their purpose. The true extent of the Meliae's plight remains a topic of ongoing research and speculation among the Guilds.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
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