The Eshanic Covenants

Under Atun’s guidance, the Etayen brought forth Eshanic wisdom to the peoples of Qadal. This knowledge was names and history, certainly, but also the methods through which the Eshan communicated and transacted with olundi. These various methods are known as covenants- these are individual by nature but there is not limit but Eshanic power as to how many convenants an Eshan might possess. A powerful Eshan like Aebaster might have a covenant of power with thousands of individuals, but only trust a few hundred with conversation, and fewer still with greater powers. The exception to these rules of exclusivity is the Covenant of Esseythu, which every olundi experiences implicitly or explicity, depending on their relationship with the Eshan.     Aloreqal, Greater Covenant     This is the most personal and powerful covenant which an olundi might experience with an Eshan. It contains the conversations, power, and devotion of Esseythu like the others, but transcends the transactional nature of them. Those experiencing Aloreqal, such as Judges of Acolitus, Euboa, Karthuul, Corgastor, Kalokir of Etumrassus, Syrgus Pyrgos, Xeyesh the Stranger, and others are personal companions to the Eshan whom they serve. It is the closest an olundi might reach to “friendship” in the callous worldview of the Eshan.     Haseqal, Covenant of Conversation     Beyond mere words requested and delivered without discussion, the Covenant of Conversation is a condition wherein the Eshan take personal interest in guiding olundi. A powerful Eshan might have hundreds or thousands whom they share conversations great and small, personal, and business related. It is a sight of favor to be elevated to this status, for it represents one becoming more than a mere tool to an Eshan, but a partner in affairs. Eshari and Nemeshari are the most common recipients of this honor since they have studied Nemeshir far enough to be useful. This said, Eshan who are particularly active in their people’s political system might have a robust running dialogue with powerful figures who know nothing about utilizing Eshara.     Nemeqal, Covenant of Power     The first real covenant which Eshan and olundi form is that of power. It is the power to create, heal, kill, or change. All of these are properties of Eshara. The Eshan grant these powers to thousands of their faith, such that the process is basically automatic and without consideration. In times of conflict the number of olundi practicing Eshara rises to even more intense numbers. Achieving this step is the first of many in becoming more intimate and powerful among Eshan.     Vussaqal, Covenant of Esseythu     This is the lowest form of covenant, and its terms are set upon the moment of birth and carry until death. It is the simple covenant of spirit which dictates that your Esseythu WILL go to an Eshan upon your death- the only choice an olundi possesses is which Eshan, or whether it is instead Acolitus. Most olundi live their whole lives and perish without ever expanding their Eshanic relationships beyond this level. Recognizing the covenant, honoring it, and actively seeking further Eshanic promotion are the first steps which one might take to endear themselves to the Eshan.