"Greetings, seekers of wisdom and guardians of the natural world. I am Yuelral Myteldtha, the Wise, the keeper of crystal magic and the patron of those who revere the natural beauty of our realm. I embrace all who respect the purity of creation and the art of gemcrafting, for through the untainted facets of nature's gems, we find the true essence of magic.
In my divine presence, you shall discover the secrets of the crystalline arts, where the radiant beauty of uncut gems and the arcane power of natural magic intertwine. My teachings guide you to honor the gifts bestowed by nature, to cultivate the art of enchantment that celebrates the integrity of the natural world, and to resist the allure of artificial and corrupted magic.
Follow the path of respect and reverence for all that is pure and natural. Let the crystals guide your journey, and may their inherent magic illuminate your path to wisdom and understanding. Embrace the tradition of keeping, where the raw beauty of crystals reveals the hidden truths and the magic that flows through all living things.
Through your devotion, may you preserve the ancient knowledge of the elven people and cherish the harmonious bond between magic and nature. For in the heart of every crystal lies the reflection of the divine order, and through that reflection, you shall find enlightenment.
Thus, I welcome you into the fold of my faithful, and together, we shall celebrate the timeless dance of magic and nature, ever guided by the brilliance of the crystal's light.""
"from the Book of Yuelral Myteldtha"
Yuelral Myteldtha, known as The Wise, is the revered Elven goddess of magic and gemcrafting. Her divine influence stretches across the realms of natural magic, crystal enchantment, and the preservation of ancient knowledge. Yuelral's origins are deeply entwined with the lore of the Elven people, embodying the harmony between the arcane arts and the natural world.
Yuelral's worship began in the ancient times when the Elven civilization flourished and excelled in the art of crystal magic. Her teachings emphasize the sanctity of natural crystals and the importance of embracing their unaltered beauty. Unlike other deities, Yuelral disdains the use of metals and artificial constructs, focusing instead on the purity of natural materials. Her followers, particularly jewelers and magicians, revere her for her wisdom and the unique magical abilities she imparts.
The Church of Yuelral Myteldtha was founded by her most devout followers, who sought to preserve and propagate her teachings. The early days of the church were marked by the establishment of sacred sites and the crafting of elaborate rituals centered around crystal magic. Temples dedicated to Yuelral were built in serene, natural locations, often adorned with uncut gemstones that reflected her divine light.
One of the church's most significant contributions is the technique of crystal keeping, a practice that channels magic through perfect prisms and magically grown crystals. This ancient art form was almost lost but has seen a resurgence following the events of the Age of Ashes Adventure Path. The church has made efforts to reintroduce this tradition to the world, embracing both Elves and non-Elves who show respect and knowledge of their customs.
Yuelral's church has always been a beacon of wisdom and guidance for those who seek to harmonize their magical practices with the natural world. The church promotes herbalism, crystal enchantment, and the teaching of magic while firmly opposing the defilement of nature and the misuse of magic.
The organizational structure of the church is designed to reflect Yuelral's values. Clerics and priests are trained in the arts of divination, crystal magic, and the preservation of Elven lore. They are known for their role in guiding followers and maintaining the sacred sites dedicated to Yuelral. The church is hierarchical, with high-ranking clerics overseeing the various orders and ensuring the adherence to divine principles.
Over the centuries, the influence of Yuelral's church has expanded beyond Elven communities. Her teachings on crystal magic and natural harmony have attracted followers from diverse backgrounds. This broader acceptance is due in part to Yuelral's non-xenophobic nature and her openness to those who honor her traditions.
In contemporary times, Yuelral's church continues to thrive, guiding new generations of magicians and jewelers. The legacy of her teachings remains a vital part of the magical and cultural landscape, celebrated through rituals, festivals, and the unwavering dedication of her followers.
The church's impact on society is profound, influencing not only magical practices but also the cultural appreciation of natural beauty. Yuelral's followers work tirelessly to preserve the sacred knowledge and practices that honor her divine essence, ensuring that her legacy endures through the ages.
Divine Portfolio:
- Magic
- Crystal
- Jewellers
- Natural World
- Half-Elves
Religious Dogma:
- Practice herbalism and enchant gems.
- Encourage and teach magicians and jewelers.
- Preserve elven magic and knowledge.
- Embrace the natural beauty of crystals and the natural world.
- Reject the defilement of nature and the irresponsible use of magic.
Appearance and Symbols:
- Holy Symbol: Three crystals (pink, blue, and green) overlapping in a six-pointed star shape surrounded by a golden circle.
- Regalia:
- Elven robes with crystal embellishments.
- Crown of intertwined crystals.
- Staff topped with a large, radiant gem.
Role in Ceremonies: Yuelral's ceremonies involve the use of uncut crystals, meditation with gems, and rituals to honor the natural beauty of the world. These ceremonies often include the creation of magical art and the teaching of crystal-based magic.
Treatment of Worshippers, Priests, and Organizations
- Worshippers: Valued for their respect for natural beauty and magic. Half-elves are especially embraced.
- Priests:
- Encouraged to master crystal magic and herbalism.
- Act as guardians of natural and magical harmony.
- Conduct rituals to preserve and honor the elven magical traditions.
- Organizations:
- Hierarchical Structure:
- High Priestess/Priest
- Senior Priests
- Priests
- Acolytes
- Punishment and Discipline:
- Disregard for nature or magical responsibility may lead to loss of divine favor.
- Irresponsible use of magic or harm to natural beauty is met with corrective measures.
Temples and Influence
- Temples:
- Designed with natural crystals and materials.
- Include meditation spaces with uncut gems.
- Often located in serene, natural settings.
- Influence:
- Strong among jewelers and magicians who work with crystals.
- Respected in communities that value natural magic.
- Role in Society:
Yuelral plays a crucial role in preserving the natural and magical traditions of the elven people. Her influence extends to those who work with crystals and seek to maintain harmony with nature.
- Philosophical Influence:
Her teachings promote respect for the natural world and the magical properties of crystals, advocating for a balance between magic and nature.
- Cultural Impact:
Yuelral's presence encourages the use of uncut gemstones in art and magic, fostering a culture of natural beauty and mystical understanding within elven society.
Legacy
- The rediscovery and preservation of ancient crystal magic traditions.
- Increased appreciation for natural crystals and their magical properties.
- Greater acceptance of half-elves within elven society.
- The influence on modern magical practices involving crystals.
- Continuation of Yuelral's teachings in contemporary elven culture.
- The Influence on Elven Society: In elven society, Yuelral's teachings have fostered a deep respect for natural magic and the beauty of uncut gemstones, influencing both art and magical practices.
Divine Attributes:
- Favored Weapon: Dagger
- Divine Ability: Intelligence or Wisdom
- Divine Font: Heal
- Divine Skill: Arcana
Organizational Structure of Religion
The Hierarchy of the Faith:
- High Priestess/Priest
- Senior Priests
- Priests
- Acolytes
Religious Orders and their Organizational Structure
Fighting Orders
- Order of the Crystal Guardians: Protectors of sacred crystal sites and magical places.
- Sentinels of the Gemstone: Warriors who guard against threats to natural and magical harmony.
Clerical Orders
- Order of the Crystal Keepers: Maintain and enchant gemstones, ensuring their natural beauty and magical integrity.
- Fellowship of the Mystic Arts: Focus on the study and teaching of crystal-based magic and preservation of magical knowledge.
- Circle of the Verdant Gems: Blend crystal magic with herbalism and natural magic practices.
Each of these orders plays a crucial role in the overarching structure of Yuelral Myteldtha's religious and mystical framework, ensuring the protection, preservation, and enforcement of divine principles across various aspects of her followers. All are pledged to support in the defense of her church.
See the Religious Orders section for more detail.
Holy Artifacts
- Heart of the Crystal: A legendary gem said to amplify magical powers.
- Staff of the Infinite Prism: A staff that channels and magnifies crystal-based magic.
- Orb of the True Vision: A crystal orb that grants visions and insights into magical phenomena.
Religious Practices
- Crystal Meditation: Practicing meditation with natural crystals to gain insight and clarity.
- Gem Enchantment: Using uncut gems in rituals to enhance their magical properties.
- Nature Rituals: Conducting ceremonies to honor and preserve the natural world.
Celebrated Holidays
- Festival of the Radiant Crystals: A celebration of the beauty and power of uncut gems.
- Day of the Verdant Growth: A holiday focused on the harmony between crystal magic and nature.
- Night of the Prismatic Dance: An event marking the alignment of magical energies and the renewal of ancient traditions.
Alignment: Neutral Good
Size: 13 feet (Imposing presence)
Horror/Awe Factor: 16
OCCs:
- Magical Artisans
- Crystal Mages
- Elven Scholars
Deific Powers of Yuelral Myteldtha
Yuelral Myteldtha has the full range of powers over her followers, and can perform all prototypical deific powers at regular cost, as well as the following special powers:
1. Crystal Vision
Range: Self
Duration: 1 hour
Cost: 150 P.P.E.
Yuelral can grant herself or an ally the ability to see through illusions and magical disguises, providing clear vision into hidden truths and the true nature of magical effects.
2. Enchanted Crystal Growth
Range: 50 feet radius
Duration: Permanent
Cost: 300 P.P.E.
Allows the creation and growth of magical crystals that can serve various functions, from defensive barriers to sources of magical energy.
3. Gemstone Healing
Range: Touch
Duration: Instant
Cost: 200 P.P.E.
Heals injuries and ailments by channeling the restorative powers of enchanted gemstones. The healing effect can also purify poisons and diseases.
4. Crystal Barrier
Range: 100 feet radius
Duration: 10 minutes
Cost: 250 P.P.E.
Creates an impenetrable barrier made of crystallized magic that can protect an area or group from physical and magical attacks. The barrier is visually stunning and provides excellent defense.
5. Prismatic Shield
Range: Self or one ally
Duration: 1 hour
Cost: 180 P.P.E.
Provides a shimmering shield that deflects attacks and magical energies. The shield can absorb and reflect magical spells back at their caster, making it a powerful defensive tool.
Priest/Healing Powers: Yuelral Myteldtha has the full range of Clerical Magic and Healing Magic.
Magic Powers: All forms of crystal-based magic and enchantment.
Psionic Powers: Class of Psionic: Mindmage 800 ISP.
Favoured Weapons
- Crystal Dagger
- Enchanted Staff
Armour:
- Crystal-enchanted Robes
- Armour of the Sacred Gem
Alliances/Allies:
- The Elven Council of Magi
- Crystal Mages and Jewelers
Enemies:
- Those who defile nature
- Magic practitioners who misuse or exploit crystals
Vulnerabilities:
- Overuse of magical power can lead to temporary weakening.
- Crystals of dark magic can disrupt or corrupt her divine energies.
Minions:
- Crystal Guardians
- Gemstone Sentinels