Glossary

Linked and Alphabetical, just how we like things.

A

Adastra

The Kingdom of Adastra, a client-kingdom of the Holy Cathricene Empire and seat of Ashtarism.
A catch-all term used for the many islands of the Adastran Archipelago controlled by the Theocratic Kingdom of Adastra.

Akkodia

One of the few predominantly-human city-states permitted to exist in Lemuria.

Ashtarism

Ashtarism is a spiritual and philosophical belief system originating from the Quoran Order, a religious institution founded by the first Quoran, Kal Ashtar. Rooted in the Way of Ashtar, this cosmic philosophy guides its followers on a transformative journey towards enlightenment through serial reincarnation. Devotees develop psychic methods of reclaiming memories of past lives and maintaining memories between incarnations, aiming for spiritual refinement and perfection by becoming a literal Army of Me.

Atlantean Empire

Nestled within the embrace of the boundless cerulean expanse, the Atlantean Isles emerge as jewels of enchantment scattered across the vast canvas of the Navican seas. Home to the illustrious Atlantean Empire, these isles are a testament to the delicate dance between magic and civilization, where the whims of enchantment shape both land and life. The archipelago, cradling the mighty Axis at its heart, pulses with mystical energies that cascade through emerald-green jungles, cascade down volcanic slopes, and shimmer across the coral-laden settlements.

Atlantis

Demonym: Atlantean.

The heart of the Atlantean Empire, the country of Atlantis unfolds a captivating tapestry of densely-populated cities that intricately weave through the expanse of the islands. Each city extends its embrace to the edges of its island, their shores expanded through the artful interplay of magic and craftsmanship to harmonize with the demands of a burgeoning populace. These metropolises, adorned with ornate structures made of luminescent stone, stand as testament to the Atlanteans' mastery of both enchantment and urban design. It is ruled by Imperator Solus and Imperatrix Thalaxa.

Atuan

Demonym: Tuanese

The continent which occupies most of the Western side of the world is the indigenous home of Humankind. Post-Crusade, it is controlled by the Commonwealth of A'Tuan.

Axia

The continental landmass controlled by the Atlantean Empire.

B

Battlewood

Tol Amrun, the Sunrise Kingdom.

A feyborn nation situated between the Northeast Territories and Estimonde in eastern Hyperborea.

Béruje

Capital of Estimonde.

C

Cathra (Dominion)

The namesake dominion of the Holy Cathrican Empire is sacred region where Church and State are inextricably entwined in a under the watchful eyes of Imperators Cathrica Regina Imperatrix and Kal Invictus Rex. It is the most populous Dominion of the Empire, with 8 million souls calling the capital region home.

Cathrica Regina Imperatrix

The Godslayer, Empress of Hyperborea, Queen of the North.
Though she's not quite five feet tall, the woman called Cathrica Regina Imperatrix stands as an iconic and legendary figure within the tapestry of Hyperborea. As the architect of The Crusade that deposed the gods, she ascended to become the first of the Imperatori, embodying both religious and secular authority. Under her guidance the Empire thrives, and she is often credited as the source of its good fortune.

The Cathricene Cradle

Located in the deep south of Hyperborea, the Cathricene Cradle possesses abundant natural resources, fecund agricultural lands, and formidable geological defenses. For these reasons, it has been home to countless nation-states across the aeons. Currently, it is home to the ten member nation-states of the Holy Cathrican Empire.

Cathricism

alt. The Five Faiths, The Cathricene Church

Cathricism serves as the spiritual cornerstone of the Holy Cathrican Empire. More than a belief system, it is a guiding force shaping the destiny of the Holy Cathrican Empire, fostering a delicate balance between faith, governance, and progress.

At its core is the veneration of the Imperatori via a parliament of saints. It contains and oversees five orthodoxies within its structure. Known as the Five Faiths, each contributes to the diverse mosaic of faith, governance, and culture. These are discussed in detail in their own entries, as well as elsewhere in this glossary, and are beyond the scope of this entry.

Centic

1. Of or relating to the Centic people of Dyre.
2. The spoken language of the Cents of Dyre.

The ancient Cents were a tribe of giant-kin driven south by the eruption of the Hoeden supervolcano at the end of the Red Age who settled in Dyre. Pronounced with a hard C, as in "candy".

Count Crimson

In his Seelie aspect, Count Crimson is the eternal huntsman of the Court of Many Colours. He is a careful and conscientious steward of the natural world, and his game harvests help keep numbers manageable. In his Unseelie aspect, he is an indiscriminate killer obsessed with the thrill of the chase, and addicted to the spilling of blood.

The Court of Many Colours

Elder Fey beings mostly sealed away in the Dream, who scheme to reclaim Bael Menagh from its Imperial Usurpers. Inhuman, elegant, and eternal, their plot to destabilize Bailymena came in the form of Delilah's Revolution in 1021 IR.

The Crusade

The Crusade marks a pivotal epoch in the Tellurican Timeline, situated within the tumultuous Dark Age. It unfolded as a reaction to the rampant divine corruption infesting the gods of the time. Ten valiant adventurers initiated the Crusade with the audacious intent to hold a single god accountable for their actions. Summoning the deity for questioning revealed disconcerting answers, leading to a violent confrontation. In an act of self-defense, the ten adventurers collectively slayed the god, triggering a cosmic upheaval.

As the gods of other pantheons descended with fury upon the crusaders, a surprising turn of events unfolded. Each adventurer absorbed a portion of the fallen god's power, ascending to divine-level status. This act of deicide and the subsequent retaliation sparked a series of divine conflicts, ultimately resulting in the extermination, exile, or imprisonment of every existing deity in the cosmos. The Crusade transitioned the cosmos from a chaotic and divine-ridden state to a godless era, laying the foundation for the ensuing Golden Age and shaping the course of Tellurican history for eons to come.

D

Djinasi

The Djinasi are a humanoid species native to Navia, distinguished by their connection to elemental energies. Gifted with the ability to manipulate elemental forces, Djinasi are known as skilled elementalists, doughty soldiers, and custodians of the natural world. Often, they form a unique spiritual bond with domestic Furies, elemental beings that serve as companions, pets, and symbiotic partners. (see Fury (Elemental), below.)

Djinasi society revolves around the harmonious coexistence with nature, and their mastery over elemental forces is often channeled for both practical and spiritual purposes. The Djinasi are recognized for their deep reverence for the natural order and their commitment to maintaining the ecological balance of Navia.

Djindoism

The Way of Elemental Enlightenment

Djindoism pays homage to arch-elementals in a schedule of ancestor worship dictated by an astrologically-informed calendar. Adherents are martialists, philosophers, and astronomancers who master their tempestuous elemental natures through meditation and discipline. Their spiritual text, the Enchiridion, is aptly named, being guided meditations around a code of service discipline, with a generous dollop of zen. Djindoism emphasizes mastery over the elemental forces within oneself and disciplined martial focus as tools to enlightenment and spiritual awakening.

Dyre

Demonym: Dyrish

The Dominion of Dyre is a land of giants and wee free folk located off of the south coast of Hyperborea. Its landmass is spread across dozens of islands in its namesake archipelago, with the two largest of these, Bailymora and Bailycroga, hosting the largest habitations. The dominion capital is Treblin, Bailycroga.

Dyrish

Adjective:
Definition: Relating to Dyre, its people, or the Centic language traditionally and historically spoken there.
Example: The Dyrish landscapes were adorned with mystical runes, echoing tales of ancient enchantments.
Noun:

Definition:

Scholars gathered to study the intricacies of Dyrish Centic, unraveling the linguistic tapestry of ancient manuscripts.

The ethereal resonance of Centic echoed through the sacred halls, invoking the spirits of the ancient realms.

Noun: Dyrish (Plural: the Dyrish)

Definition:

Example:

Celebrations reverberated through the city as the Dyrish commemorated the Astral Concord.

Example:

In the annals of Imperial history, one thing remains true; don't fuck with the Dyrish.

E

The Elemental Union of Peradua

The Elemental Union is the governing body and cultural nexus within the mystical Dominion of Peradua. Rooted in the intricate tapestry of Djinasi civilization, the Elemental Union represents a harmonious collaboration among the four Great Houses—Ignis, Aventis, Stra'asha, and Grōm—each embodying a specific elemental affinity inherited from an archelemental ancestor. These houses are custodians of their elemental domains, contributing to the vibrant mosaic of Peradua's society.

The decision-making body of the Elemental Union is the Elemental Council, where representatives from each Great House convene to discuss matters of significance affecting the entire Djinasi society. The council serves as a forum for political negotiations, conflict resolution, and the formulation of policies that shape the destiny of Peradua.

While the Elemental Union operates independently, it acknowledges allegiance to the Holy Cathricene Empire. The Great Houses offer their unique strengths to the empire, ensuring the balance of elements is not only preserved but flourishes under the imperial aegis.

Fury (Elemental)

In Peradua, a Fury is a tamed elemental entity harnessed and bound by the skilled practitioners of Djinasi culture. Distinct from the elemental humanoid Djinasi, Furies are sentient beings embodying the raw essence of the classical elements—earth, air, fire, or water. These entities, once untamed forces of nature, have been brought into a harmonious partnership with the Djinasi, serving various roles within their society.

G

Gehlic

1. Of or relating to the Gehlic people of Dyre.
2. The spoken language of the Gehls of Dyre, used as the 'common' tongue of Druids.

Like their Centic neighbours, the ancient Gehls were a tribe of giant-kin driven south by the eruption of the Hoeden supervolcano at the end of the Red Age. Culturally devoted to peace and the preservation of nature, they remain opposed to the warlike nature of the Cents and the Cathrican occupation of Dyre.

H

Holy Cathrican Empire

The Holy Cathrican Empire is a powerful and influential theocracy situated in the Cathricene Cradle, a region of Hyperborea known for its strategic and geopolitical advantages. The empire is a convergence of church and state, overseen by the Imperators Cathrica Regina Imperatrix and Kal Invictus Rex. The Holy Cathrican Empire is both a theocratic and hegemonic power, featuring a religious structure with five officially sanctioned sects. Within its borders, ten member nations coexist, each contributing to the diverse tapestry of the empire. The member nations, in alphabetical order, are: Adastran Archipelago Dominion of Cathra, Doberlund, Isles of Dyre, Estimonde, Maravilla, Skodia, Peradua, Venado, and Zerovica.

Hyperborea:

Hyperborea is the expansive continent in the north of the vibrant and ever-changing world of Navia. Enveloped in the throes of the Thaumoindustrial Revolution fueled by the discovery of the magical mineral called Arcanite only found here, it is a land of diverse regions, ranging from the paradisical to the forbidding. Deep in history, Hyperborea is a canvas upon which the destinies of nations, cities, and individuals are written and rewritten in the ongoing saga of its intricate existence.

The Imperatori

(Imperator/Imperatrix/Imperatus)

The highest authority in The Five Empires is vested in the Imperatori, spiritual and political leaders who oversee the delicate balance between faith and governance. Ten of these were chosen from amongst the Crusaders, at the end of the Dark Age. Figures like Cathrica Regina Imperatrix and Kal Invictus Rex embody this divine-political role.

Invictus

Emperor of the Holy Cathrican Empire.

Kal Invictus Rex, commonly known as Invictus, is the Emperor of the Holy Cathrican Empire. He is a central figure in the empire's history, politics, and spirituality. As the husband to Cathrica Regina Imperatrix, he shares equal stature with her in the leadership of the empire. Invictus played a pivotal role in The Crusade, where he built the weapons used by Cathrica to defeat the gods.

Not only a political leader, Invictus is also a spiritual protector and the Defender of the Realm. His contributions extend beyond the mundane affairs of governance; he is intricately involved in the cosmic operations of the empire, ensuring the smooth operation of the Cosmos according to his schema.

In his roles within the Holy Cathrican Empire, Invictus stands as a symbol of strength, divine connection, and the eternal balance that defines the theocracy. His role in both the physical and metaphysical realms highlights the complex interplay between the mortal and the divine within the empire.

Iron Dandy

Veterans of the Empire's Wars

Within the Empire, those disfigured or maimed by war occupy a position of high regard, but low economic status due to the realities of living on a fixed income. The nickname given to these sorts stems from the fact that often, soldiers mustering out on a medical release have only their paltry pension, a fancy uniform, and a lot of swagger upon returning to their former homes. Many disagree with its use, so be careful when using this term in polite company.

Kal Ashtar

The revered founder of Ashtarism and the first Quoran. Ashtar codified the precepts of achieving Quorum through serial reincarnation in a series of meditations which would become known as the Way of Ashtar, laying the foundation for the Quoran Order.
The capital city of Adastra which bears her name, also known as the City of Temples.

Lemuria

The southernmost of Navia's five continents is ruled by sapient and militantly antitheistic dinosaur nations.

Ludon

The pulsating heart of revelry in Peradua, Ludon radiates with the vibrant energy of entertainment and celebration. As the urban center closest to The House of Heroes, the military academy, Ludon thrives on the juxtaposition of disciplined training and lively entertainment, creating a dynamic and culturally diverse atmosphere within the Elemental Union.

M

Midian

All things are true. God's an Astronaut. Oz is Over the Rainbow, and Midian is where the monsters live. Clive Barker, "Cabal"

Midian is a mystical realm within the cosmological tapestry of Tellurica, a plane of existence intricately connected to the elemental forces and magical energies that shape the Helion Solar System. Serving as the birthplace and dwelling of elemental beings, Midian stands apart from traditional fantasy settings by presenting elementals as integral parts of the material world rather than entities from a separate plane. Elementals in Tellurica are creations of purpose, manifestations of the four classical elements—Air, Earth, Fire, and Water. Midian acts as a forge for these elemental entities, and their purpose is often tied to the elements they represent.

Mobius Pillar

Custodians of Magic and Law

The Mobius Pillar is a venerable institution within the Holy Cathrican Empire (HCE), serving as the custodian of magical affairs and the arbiter of imperial law. This esteemed organization plays a multifaceted role, regulating magical practices, standardizing magical education, and overseeing the empire's judiciary.
As a vital component of the Holy Cathrican Empire, the Mobius Pillar stands as a guardian of magical knowledge, ensuring that the arcane arts contribute positively to the empire's progress while upholding the principles of justice and order.

O

P

The Palette

In a houserule borrowed from Ben Robbins' Microscope RPG, the concept of the Palette refers to a set of guidelines or boundaries agreed upon by the players before beginning the game. The Palette helps establish the tone, themes, and content boundaries for the collaborative world-building process that occurs during gameplay.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of the Palette in Microscope:

Tone and Themes: The Palette allows players to establish the overall tone and themes they want to explore in the game world. This might include elements such as the level of seriousness or humor, the presence of specific genres (e.g., fantasy, science fiction, historical), and the mood or atmosphere of the setting.

Content Boundaries:

Players use the Palette to define the boundaries of acceptable content within the game. This can include topics that are off-limits or sensitive for the group, such as graphic violence, explicit language, or mature themes. By setting these boundaries upfront, players ensure that everyone feels comfortable and respected during gameplay.

Setting Constraints[/i: ]The Palette can also include setting constraints or parameters that shape the world-building process. This might involve specifying certain elements that must be included or excluded from the game world, such as the presence of magic, the existence of specific races or cultures, or the use of certain technologies.

Creative Freedom: While the Palette provides guidelines, it also allows for creative freedom within those boundaries. Players have the flexibility to explore and expand upon the world-building process while respecting the agreed-upon constraints. This balance between structure and flexibility fosters a collaborative and engaging storytelling experience.
Overall, the Palette in Microscope serves as a tool for facilitating communication, setting expectations, and fostering creativity among players. By establishing a shared understanding of the game's parameters, players can collaboratively build a rich and immersive game world that aligns with their interests and preferences.
Q

Quoran

- Of, by, or pertaining to the Quoran Order.
An Ashtari who has achieved Quorum with past incarnations, becoming an enlightened being with a well of retained memories from past lives. Quorans are often leaders within the Quoran Order, guiding Ashtari on their spiritual journey.

Quoran Order

The religious institution established by Kal Ashtar and his initial followers, Stoneheart, Kategur, Lanai, Hondo, and Jarkko. It serves as the guiding authority for Ashtari, offering teachings, rituals, and leadership for those on the path of Ashtarism.

Quorum (Ashtari)
A state of enlightened being achieved through the harmonization of the individual's soul with one or more of the past lives recorded within it. Those who have achieved Quorum have access to lifetimes worth of experiences and knowledge, and the perspectives which earned them.
S

T

Tallwater
The Western Gate
The metropolis of Tallwater is the largest city on Hyperborea's west coast. It is located at the mouth of the Wisidivescor river, and controls all of the territory surrounding the bay into which it drains. Consequently, Tallwater maintains a stranglehold on trade with the Hyperborean interior, and has grown both rich and powerful off of the avails of that enterprise.

The Tanopolitan Creed
The Tanopolitan Creed encapsulates the core tenets common to all five orthodoxies of Cathricism, emphasizing virtues such as Fortitude, Prudence, Righteousness, and Temperance. It was penned by famous Imperial thinker Jerotoden the Wise in the city of Tanopolis, in the years following the Crusade.
Tellurica
A fantastical world filled with mystical realms and ancient histories, and the stage upon which we lay our scenes.
Thaum

Thaum is the fundamental magical force that permeates the Tellurican cosmos. Representing the raw essence of magical energy, Thaum serves as the building block of all magical phenomena within the Helion Solar System. Born during the primordial event akin to the Big Bang in the Grey Age, Thaum coalesced from the interaction of Thaum (creation) and Todash (destruction). This mystical force is not only the source of magical power but also underlies the existence of gods, divine realms, and the intricate weave of spellcraft.

Thaum manifests in various forms, shaping the celestial bodies, empowering elementals, and driving the forces of creation and destruction. As the Tellurican cosmos progresses through different ages, Thaum evolves in tandem, becoming a central theme in the magical landscape of each era.

Todash

Todash is the void between stars, a mysterious and cosmic concept deeply rooted in the metaphysical fabric of the Tellurican cosmos. This enigmatic void, existing in the vast expanse of space, represents the opposite force to Thaum. It is, according to the Stephen King Wiki, 'entirely dark and filled with monsters.'

In Tellurica, Todash is associated with destruction and nothingness, a cosmic emptiness that stands in stark contrast to the creative and magical forces of Thaum. On a spiritual level, Todash is a concept intertwined with the Astral and Abyssal dimensions, serving as a metaphorical bridge to the realms aligned with positive or negative energies. The echoes of Todash resonate throughout the narrative, influencing the cosmic balance and shaping the destinies of the diverse realms of the Nine Worlds.

U

Underworld
see Chthon.
V

Violet Viscountess

Narri and Zivah Hullu's fairy godmother, a member of the Court of Many Colours.

W

The Way of Ashtar

The foundational doctrine of Ashtarism, outlining the principles and practices that Ashtari follow in their pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. It encompasses beliefs in serial reincarnation, martial discipline, and cosmic awareness.