House Ariquis {Silverbranch}
Heraldic Coat of Arms
Rank: Royal House of Arethane, {Duchy of Raithaeme
Type: Ly`Tel`Quessir {Grey}
Background:
Two and a half centuries ago, the illustrious House Ariquis graced the ethereal elven realm of Arethane, heralding an era whose echoes would resound through the annals of time. In an age where elven unity and tranquility had thrived undisturbed for millennia, an unforeseen menace arose from within, not an external adversary but a clandestine faction known as the Shadow Elves. Stemming from the Grey Elves, this inscrutable group settled in Arethane, wielding darker magics and claiming to embody the epitome of elven purity.
Mastering the art of deception, the Shadow Elves, led by the enigmatic Jairdren Kardimal, disguised themselves as ordinary Grey Elves. Infiltrating the elven government, they sowed chaos under the unwitting eyes of the deceased King Kaerathal Arcelduin, controlled through necromantic arts by Jairdren. Unbeknownst to the elven populace, Jairdren had been ruling the kingdom for years, orchestrating internal strife and rebellion. The revelation of the true nature of the king triggered a swift and decisive Shadow War, resulting in the victory of the Shadow Elves and 57 years of their rule.
Amidst the seemingly unending reign of the Shadow Elves, rebels remained active but mostly ineffectual until the arrival of Rhysanus Ariquis, a Grey Elven wizard and devotee of Styphon, the Black Dragon God. Known as a World Walker, Rhysanus was chosen by Styphon to fulfill a prophecy and restore elven rule. Styphon, desiring supremacy among the gods, sought to use the elves as a key to this power. Rhysanus, a powerful mage and warrior, conquered realms and, through divine intervention, merged his lands with Arethane.
Rhysanus, now the prophesized Elven King, was tasked by Styphon to overthrow the Shadow Elves and establish Styphon as the principal god of the elves. However, as events unfolded, Rhysanus underwent a transformation. Falling in love with Silvarae, a Silver Dragon, he began questioning Styphon's motives and, after Styphon took Silvarae away, rejected the dark god, embracing the worship of the Seldarine.
A prophecy by the Seer Alestria Tirandiel foresaw the union of Rhysanus and Silvarae, triggering the unraveling of ancient magics and the resurgence of the lost Kingdom of Atlan`Ysse. The reunion of these lands reshaped the geography of Arethane, causing tidal waves and earthquakes, yet leaving the Elven territories untouched.
Rhysanus, now king and grieving the loss of Silvarae, accepted a political marriage proposal from Lorien to reunite the Elven kingdoms. The reunification efforts continued with the reclaiming of Vordan, marked by a war against humans led by General Seth Corvase, who had orchestrated the massacre of elves on the mainland. The elves, under Rhysanus' command, embarked on a retreat to the islands, leaving the mainland to humans, except for a contingent involved in gathering Elven artifacts worldwide.
Despite the sacrifices, including the loss of Rhysanus' second wife to assassins, the legacy of House Ariquis endured. The ancient elven island kingdoms were united as one, marking a new era of resilience and valor. Rhysanus, having undergone a transformation from a devotee of Styphon to a worshiper of the Seldarine, remarried for the final time to Ilthirial Arcelduin, the last of Kaerathal's bloodline. Thus, the elves embarked on a journey of reunification and healing, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of the elven people.
Motto or Saying:
"In Unity, We Thrive" encapsulates the house's guiding principle, emphasizing the strength derived from unity and collaboration within the family and the elven people.Prominent Members:
- Patriarch/Lord Speaker - Rhysanus Trystan Ariquis {Valishar of Arethane, Duke of Teirvaneth, Raithaeme, Khandae
- Matriarch - Ilthirial Ariquis, Valishara of Arethane
- House Heir - Shorntane Rheyn Ariquis (son)
- House Elder - Duchess Galadriel Ariquis {Duchess of Retheme}(Aunt of Rhysanus)
- House Weapons Master - Ti`Kanoste Shai`Tann Al`Aiel
- House Mage - Velatryn Arcelduin
- House Seeker - Aalah Maeradyth
- Sharna Keelin Ariquis (Daughter)
House Sajorte:
- Arddrune Caer'Thalarin
House Snagga:
- Tassa Kayun
House Squire:
- Ca`elysta Talar`Kiira
Family Traditions:
The Ariquis family upholds traditions rooted in elven cultural practices, emphasizing unity, resilience, and reverence for nature. Annual celebrations mark significant historical events and achievements.
Business Interests:
Besides the governing of the kingdom, Rhysanus owns a lucrative Alchemy shop as well as several out-of-Kingdom ventures, some including the breeding and sale of Equus (Reptilian horse like mounts) and Sheep. The house also maintains a large Vineyard and brewery to which it it engages the services of House Orbryn to export.
Influence and Prestige:
The family's influence extends beyond politics, encompassing economic ventures, magical pursuits, and cultural contributions. Their prestige is a testament to their role in shaping the destiny of Arethane.
Related Lesser Houses:
House Ariquis maintains strategic alliances with the following lesser royal houses, fostering cooperation and mutual support within elven society.- House Arirahd {Silverleaf}
- House Moonflower
- House Arcelduin {Goldriver}
- House Elessedil
- House Nar`Xiad {Fire Shadow}
Alliances and Feuds:
Beyond familial alliances, save for it's ally House Orbryn, the house engages in diplomatic relations, both within and beyond the elven community. Any historical feuds are approached with diplomacy and reconciliation except in the case of Orcs and some Human communities, namely the kingdom Harak and to a lesser degree Dhelcrist.
Other Notes of Interest:
The Royal House Ariquis is heavily involved in the church of the Seldarine and to a lesser degree the Dragonwright. They actively support cultural events, education, and diplomatic relations within the elven community and beyond.
Colours:
Black, Red, Silver
Residences:
House Ariquis maintains elegant residences in the capital city of Arethane, including the grand Valishar Palace Cedrea`Teradryn, known for its intricate elven architecture. Additionally, the house owns serene estates in the outskirts, providing a peaceful retreat for family members.
Political Influence:
The Ariquis family holds the highest political influence in Arethane, making decisions that shape the realm.
Cultural Preservation:
Actively involved in cultural preservation, House Ariquis sponsors events and initiatives that safeguard elven traditions, ensuring they endure for future generations.
Arts and Culture:
Valishara Ilthirial is a patron of elven arts and culture, promoting various artistic endeavors such as music, dance, and literature. The house sponsors events that celebrate the rich heritage of the Ly`Tel`Quessir.
Education and Training:
House Ariquis is known for its commitment to education. The House Mage, Velatryn CelDuin, oversees the magical education of young members of the house, while Weapons Master, Ti`Kanoste Shai`Tann Al`Aiel, trains the house warriors in the art of combat.
Philosophy and Ethical Beliefs:
House Ariquis values unity, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge. Their ethical beliefs align with elven principles, emphasizing cooperation, environmental stewardship, and cultural enrichment.