Five Oaths - User contributions [en]

Convocation of Faith

2025-06-08T13:54:52Z

Propagandor:

==Convocation of Faith==
In Autumn 801 TR the faithful of the Shaper from all across Tirneach and beyond met in Draoid to discuss matters spiritual and the future of the church. Notable in attendance were emissaries from the Everlasting Dominion birthplace of the first Reig. Cummacht Na Reig was offered the job of protecting the meeting but had to turn it down in order to deal with the threat of Mallacht Ua Finnian in Siabhal.

Thankfully the convocation passed mostly without violence with the lone exception being when a single Cinnire attempted to preach to the assembled faithful that the Breaker was the Shapers equal and opposite in spiritual matters and that they should be worshipped together. Those assembled turned violent at this heresy and the cinnire was killed by the resulting mob.

In the aftermath of the convocation news began to spread of what was discussed there. Here are a selection of some of the letters spread in the aftermath.

==People of Tirneach by the Everlasting Dominion Emissary to Tirneach==
People of Tirneach,
Two generations past, our people sent a Speaker to bring the light of the Shaper to your shores. A young Leasair that braved the dangers of the turbulent western seas and a strange, undiscovered land; the leader that you now know as the first “Réig”.
They brought civilisation and virtue to these lands and united your squabbling ancestors in common cause. They built a strong new nation and shared the lessons of the Shaper. They drove back the Gwyllt that had previously found so welcoming a home on this peninsula.

The rulers that followed them have struggled admirably to uphold their legacy but it is clear to us now that many things have been lost in the fleeting of so many short lives. Without proper guidance the teachings of the Shaper have become diffuse and unclear. They have been turned lightly to this end and to that.
I will here address the two most pressing matters. Firstly, it is the duty of all mortals to strive, to struggle, to Persevere. There are many admirable qualities that might guide one through this life but above all others is the virtue of Perseverance. It is foremost in the heart of the Shaper and should be foremost in the hearts and minds of all their children.

Secondly, your people have been left for some years guessing at the Shaper’s will. It need not be this way. The Shaper speaks to their mortal devotees every night and every day, you need only learn to read the signs. Seers are common among our people but the art appears to have been lost completely from Tirneach. Some are born with the talent: seek them out, hone their skills, listen to their words. Others may learn it and we are eager to teach.
There may even be another Speaker living among you now, one like the champion who brought the light of the Shaper to your shores, if only you can learn to recognise them.
For too long has the Everlasting Dominion neglected its duty to the mortals of Tirneach but rest assured that this time of neglect has ended, our duty to this province will be upheld.

Perseverantia est Victoria

Andromeda Sagattia Tullia
Fourth Seer
Emissary to Tirneach

==Children of the Shaper, by Ciara Gan Ainm==
Children of the Shaper,

I say to you, our war can and MUST end.

We have grown complacent.

Our current condition may as well be one of peace with the Gwyllt.

We accept their depravations, their tithe of blood, as the cost of doing business in the Mortal world.

We have no business here more urgent, more important, or more vital than the destruction of the Gwyllt.

Let me remind you what is promised to us when this war is ended:
The return of the Shaper in perfect power and glory to the mortal plane.

We stand with blissful utopia offered to us and we turn away in favour of the horrors.

Do not be distracted by the petty dealings of High Families and Tiarnaí.

Remember only the words and cause of the First Réig.

We must drive out the Gwyllt.

We must make ourselves an army, not a kingdom.

We are the Vanguard of the Shaper in this world.

We must make ourselves their worthy heirs, not their spoiled and idle children.

Let every action you take be towards the destruction of the enemy.

Let every thought be of the perfect world to come.

Let every drop of blood be shed in service of the Shaper, consecrating the wretched earth for their Return.

Chastise the fools who say this war can never be won, that it is not meant to be won.

Are the children torn to shreds by the Gwyllt a metaphor? Is the power of the Shaper an allegory?

This fight is not a symbol. It is a real and bloody challenge that we shall overcome.

There will come a day when the Gwyllt is nothing but a memory.

How will you account for your part in the fight?

With Courage and Duty,
Ciara Gan Ainm

==The Virtue of Conviction by Úna of House Crashing Rain==
Virtuous souls! I bring a message.

Our understanding of virtue is incomplete. The Everlasting Dominion is muddying the waters, preaching perseverance, while new understandings of virtue are within our grasp alone. There is something that dances around the virtues. Our Gallóglaigh swear oaths to it. Some Cinnirí preach it in perseverance, or loyalty, or ambition. But it stands alone.

This, my friends, is the virtue of Conviction.

Conviction is knowing oneself and being true. Of standing firm in one’s beliefs no matter who tries to shake you. Of advocating for oneself. Of speaking up when others won’t.

Conviction is the core of the sometimes neglected fifth oath I swore as a gallóglach. Now, only the gallóglaigh swear these oaths. But do we not expect everyone to follow the Shaper, serve the Réig, support the realms, and support each other? Yet we give little thought to that fifth oath, and I tell you it matters as much as any virtue. Good thoughts are nothing without the strength of will to stand up and ensure that things are done.The Shaper grants us the strength to have faith in ourselves, and we must embrace that gift.

Doubt is the poison that leaves lies unchallenged. Doubt is the poison that leads all to expect another to lead. Doubt is the poison that sees the virtuous divided and unsure while the wicked march forward with blazing passion.

Cast aside doubt, a chairde, and embrace the virtue of Conviction.

Mise le meas,
Úna of House Crashing Rain

==The Church is in crisis by Valla of the Hospitaliers==
Faithful of the Shaper,
The Church is in crisis.

The great forest is further north than it has been in centuries. The vile heresy of the breakers runs amok, sinking its roots into realm after realm. The Five Realms’ faith has been shaken by the Season of Uncertainty, when the masses suffered and now see fit to question the protection and benevolence of the Shaper. A shadow of undeath sweeps across the land.
And what is our response? To eat canapés with heretics of the Everlasting Dominion. To pontificate and dither about the ideal number of virtues. To question and doubt the fundamentals of our faith.

This, I say, is cowardice. This, I say, betrays everything we stand for. We must not be irresolute theoreticians, we must be the burning flame of the Shaper that lights in the land. It is time that we forged this Church into the majesty that we know it can be.
We must tighten ranks. The Five Orders must stand as one. While all were founded separately, they have grown together and must be even more so. The prelates should not rule their own domains, but the Council must administer the Church entire. Currently, any fool in the realms may declare themselves a cinnire, and spread whatever corrupting nonsense they please. No more. There must be trials. Prospective cinnirí must serve apprenticeships in each of the five orders, and be assigned to the order they are best suited. There shall be no more ambiguity over who speaks for the Church - either you have been proven worthy and are on the books, or you are a peddler of sin.

We must divide truth from lies. It is past time the word of the Shaper was writ, a text compiled that sets out the truth of our faith. For too long have perfidious heresies been allowed to fester within the Church’s walls. From the Crucible perverting the teachings of the Torchbearers, to the Faith of Stone harbouring Draoid’s Breakers, to the Nocturnalists encouraging the faithful to stray into a path of delusion. They must be excised. The truth must be set in writing, and lies burnt out of our congregation.

We must lead this fractured land. The deathstorm rages. The breakers form cult after cult after cult. The graverobber Suiríoch is still at large. And we have done little but hope that this will be dealt with. The gallóglaigh are wasted on the petty squabbles of tiarnaí. The church must rally these sworn warriors, and commission them to take on the great threats that plague our realm. Funds will be needed. From the prosperity of the faithful we shall bring together the money to send out the gallóglaigh and bring peace to the five realms. No one is better suited than we to know what ills of Tirneach must be healed.

The faith must be reforged. The citadel must rise eternal.
Yours in courage,
Valla of the Hospitaliers

Convocation of Faith

2025-06-08T13:52:56Z

Propagandor: Created page with "==Convocation of Faith== In Autumn 801 TR the faithful of the Shaper from all across Tirneach and beyond met in Draoid to discuss matters spiritual and the future of the church. Notable in attendance were emissaries from the Everlasting Dominion birthplace of the first Reig. Cummacht Na Reig was offered the job of protecting the meeting but had to turn it down in order to deal with the threat of Mallacht Ua Finnian in Siabhal. Thankfully the convocation passed mostly w..."

==Convocation of Faith==
In Autumn 801 TR the faithful of the Shaper from all across Tirneach and beyond met in Draoid to discuss matters spiritual and the future of the church. Notable in attendance were emissaries from the Everlasting Dominion birthplace of the first Reig. Cummacht Na Reig was offered the job of protecting the meeting but had to turn it down in order to deal with the threat of Mallacht Ua Finnian in Siabhal.

Thankfully the convocation passed mostly without violence the lone exception being when a lone Cinnire attempted to preach to the assembled faithful that the Breaker was the Shapers equal and opposite in spiritual matters and that they should be worshipped together. Those assembled turned violent at this heresy and the cinnire was killed by the resulting mob.

In the aftermath of the convocation news began to spread of what was discussed there. Here are a selection of some of the letters spread in the aftermath.

==People of Tirneach by the Everlasting Dominion Emissary to Tirneach==
People of Tirneach,
Two generations past, our people sent a Speaker to bring the light of the Shaper to your shores. A young Leasair that braved the dangers of the turbulent western seas and a strange, undiscovered land; the leader that you now know as the first “Réig”.
They brought civilisation and virtue to these lands and united your squabbling ancestors in common cause. They built a strong new nation and shared the lessons of the Shaper. They drove back the Gwyllt that had previously found so welcoming a home on this peninsula.

The rulers that followed them have struggled admirably to uphold their legacy but it is clear to us now that many things have been lost in the fleeting of so many short lives. Without proper guidance the teachings of the Shaper have become diffuse and unclear. They have been turned lightly to this end and to that.
I will here address the two most pressing matters. Firstly, it is the duty of all mortals to strive, to struggle, to Persevere. There are many admirable qualities that might guide one through this life but above all others is the virtue of Perseverance. It is foremost in the heart of the Shaper and should be foremost in the hearts and minds of all their children.

Secondly, your people have been left for some years guessing at the Shaper’s will. It need not be this way. The Shaper speaks to their mortal devotees every night and every day, you need only learn to read the signs. Seers are common among our people but the art appears to have been lost completely from Tirneach. Some are born with the talent: seek them out, hone their skills, listen to their words. Others may learn it and we are eager to teach.
There may even be another Speaker living among you now, one like the champion who brought the light of the Shaper to your shores, if only you can learn to recognise them.
For too long has the Everlasting Dominion neglected its duty to the mortals of Tirneach but rest assured that this time of neglect has ended, our duty to this province will be upheld.

Perseverantia est Victoria

Andromeda Sagattia Tullia
Fourth Seer
Emissary to Tirneach

==Children of the Shaper, by Ciara Gan Ainm==
Children of the Shaper,

I say to you, our war can and MUST end.

We have grown complacent.

Our current condition may as well be one of peace with the Gwyllt.

We accept their depravations, their tithe of blood, as the cost of doing business in the Mortal world.

We have no business here more urgent, more important, or more vital than the destruction of the Gwyllt.

Let me remind you what is promised to us when this war is ended:
The return of the Shaper in perfect power and glory to the mortal plane.

We stand with blissful utopia offered to us and we turn away in favour of the horrors.

Do not be distracted by the petty dealings of High Families and Tiarnaí.

Remember only the words and cause of the First Réig.

We must drive out the Gwyllt.

We must make ourselves an army, not a kingdom.

We are the Vanguard of the Shaper in this world.

We must make ourselves their worthy heirs, not their spoiled and idle children.

Let every action you take be towards the destruction of the enemy.

Let every thought be of the perfect world to come.

Let every drop of blood be shed in service of the Shaper, consecrating the wretched earth for their Return.

Chastise the fools who say this war can never be won, that it is not meant to be won.

Are the children torn to shreds by the Gwyllt a metaphor? Is the power of the Shaper an allegory?

This fight is not a symbol. It is a real and bloody challenge that we shall overcome.

There will come a day when the Gwyllt is nothing but a memory.

How will you account for your part in the fight?

With Courage and Duty,
Ciara Gan Ainm

==The Virtue of Conviction by Úna of House Crashing Rain==
Virtuous souls! I bring a message.

Our understanding of virtue is incomplete. The Everlasting Dominion is muddying the waters, preaching perseverance, while new understandings of virtue are within our grasp alone. There is something that dances around the virtues. Our Gallóglaigh swear oaths to it. Some Cinnirí preach it in perseverance, or loyalty, or ambition. But it stands alone.

This, my friends, is the virtue of Conviction.

Conviction is knowing oneself and being true. Of standing firm in one’s beliefs no matter who tries to shake you. Of advocating for oneself. Of speaking up when others won’t.

Conviction is the core of the sometimes neglected fifth oath I swore as a gallóglach. Now, only the gallóglaigh swear these oaths. But do we not expect everyone to follow the Shaper, serve the Réig, support the realms, and support each other? Yet we give little thought to that fifth oath, and I tell you it matters as much as any virtue. Good thoughts are nothing without the strength of will to stand up and ensure that things are done.The Shaper grants us the strength to have faith in ourselves, and we must embrace that gift.

Doubt is the poison that leaves lies unchallenged. Doubt is the poison that leads all to expect another to lead. Doubt is the poison that sees the virtuous divided and unsure while the wicked march forward with blazing passion.

Cast aside doubt, a chairde, and embrace the virtue of Conviction.

Mise le meas,
Úna of House Crashing Rain

==The Church is in crisis by Valla of the Hospitaliers==
Faithful of the Shaper,
The Church is in crisis.

The great forest is further north than it has been in centuries. The vile heresy of the breakers runs amok, sinking its roots into realm after realm. The Five Realms’ faith has been shaken by the Season of Uncertainty, when the masses suffered and now see fit to question the protection and benevolence of the Shaper. A shadow of undeath sweeps across the land.
And what is our response? To eat canapés with heretics of the Everlasting Dominion. To pontificate and dither about the ideal number of virtues. To question and doubt the fundamentals of our faith.

This, I say, is cowardice. This, I say, betrays everything we stand for. We must not be irresolute theoreticians, we must be the burning flame of the Shaper that lights in the land. It is time that we forged this Church into the majesty that we know it can be.
We must tighten ranks. The Five Orders must stand as one. While all were founded separately, they have grown together and must be even more so. The prelates should not rule their own domains, but the Council must administer the Church entire. Currently, any fool in the realms may declare themselves a cinnire, and spread whatever corrupting nonsense they please. No more. There must be trials. Prospective cinnirí must serve apprenticeships in each of the five orders, and be assigned to the order they are best suited. There shall be no more ambiguity over who speaks for the Church - either you have been proven worthy and are on the books, or you are a peddler of sin.

We must divide truth from lies. It is past time the word of the Shaper was writ, a text compiled that sets out the truth of our faith. For too long have perfidious heresies been allowed to fester within the Church’s walls. From the Crucible perverting the teachings of the Torchbearers, to the Faith of Stone harbouring Draoid’s Breakers, to the Nocturnalists encouraging the faithful to stray into a path of delusion. They must be excised. The truth must be set in writing, and lies burnt out of our congregation.

We must lead this fractured land. The deathstorm rages. The breakers form cult after cult after cult. The graverobber Suiríoch is still at large. And we have done little but hope that this will be dealt with. The gallóglaigh are wasted on the petty squabbles of tiarnaí. The church must rally these sworn warriors, and commission them to take on the great threats that plague our realm. Funds will be needed. From the prosperity of the faithful we shall bring together the money to send out the gallóglaigh and bring peace to the five realms. No one is better suited than we to know what ills of Tirneach must be healed.

The faith must be reforged. The citadel must rise eternal.
Yours in courage,
Valla of the Hospitaliers

Current Research Topics

2025-06-07T16:07:40Z

Propagandor:

Members of [[The_Band|Cumhacht na Réig]] are involved in research into a variety of topics, some of which are listed below. This list is by no means comprehensive but exists to help inform members of the Band of the topics that have been receiving the most focus, in case they wish to provide assistance in researching them or learn about what is known so far. If anyone wishes to provide such assistance, or has a topic they would like included, please reach out to [[the Reconnaissance Office]] and we will help you get in touch with the relevant people.

As a primarily military organisation, The Band’s research is primarily through visiting libraries and speaking to bards and historians- we don’t have the resources or time to conduct full research projects and mostly rely on finding knowledge that already exists but has been forgotten.

(OOC Note- all information on this page is based on IC knowledge and assumptions, and thus may be inaccurate).

=Primordials=
Primordials is a term used to refer to ancient powerful beings that seem to pre-date mortals. This includes famous creatures such as Dragons and Gryphons and others that were considered mythical, such as Sphinxes or Leannan Sidhe. In total we have descriptions of over two dozen of these ancient creatures, though they are of quite differing strength and influence.

Our main focus at the moment is identifying these creatures, determining their names and the powers they had at their disposal. However, there is another significant aspect to this research that could have a lasting impact on [[Tirneach]]- there have been claims that some of these creatures were responsible for the creation of the mortal species that call the Five Realms home, undoubtedly with the [[Shaper]]’s guidance.

=[[Primeval|Primevals]]=
A different type of ancient being, Primevals are believed to be created from two competing elements, causing them to be dangerous and unstable. Information on them is sparse, as they pre-date historical records, and while the Band is only certain they have encountered one of these creatures, it is believed several of them are hunting the Band, namely the [[Enemies_of_the_Band#Bush_Monster|Bush Monster]], [[Enemies_of_the_Band#Faoiltighearna|The Wolf Lady]] and [[Enemies_of_the_Band#The_Statue|The Statue]]. It seems these creatures bear a particular grudge against certain members of the Band, and it is believed this is a result of a seemingly normal mission in Baol that may have resulted in the release of these creatures from an ancient magical prison. These creatures have demonstrated incredible resistances, but it is theorised that their dual elemental makeup leaves them vulnerable to very specific effects, which likely can only be found through trial and error- a dangerous proposition when the creature is seeking to kill you and your allies.

=The Elements=
Probably the least practical and most esoteric of the research topics of interest to the Band. Over the generations numerous scholars have theorised that the world is made up of 25 elements, consisting of a wide variety of forces, including the traditional elements like Fire and Water, as well as concepts such as Destiny and Rebellion. As we have investigated other topics they have occasionally led back to this one, making it of general interest to the Band, but it is also the topic we are least likely to be able to research directly due to lacking the academic resources and time for such a complicated concept.

=The Weeping=
By happenstance and perhaps some slight influence of the Shaper, we have gleaned some insights into The [[Weeping]] and the Atosú that aren’t common knowledge. Like a lot of our research it can be difficult to separate the truth from the wild theories, but unsurprisingly this is a topic of interest to quite a number of the Band, so significant efforts are being put into isolating fact from fiction.

=The Draconic Presence and "The Deathstorm"=
Shortly before the Band departed The Shaper's Steps a massive magical storm arose, heralded by the thunderous crashing of rain and a formation in the clouds that evoked the appearance of Dragon's wings. This is likely related to the [[Drakeblooded]] cultists on the islands, who had worked with the Band to utilise the Whisper With The Dead ritual to speak with a deceased Dragon named Impact of Crashing Rain, but then took the relic that had been utilised in that ritual, threatening violence against the Band if any attempts were made to stop them. Since then, a roiling black cloud formation, dubbed "The Deathstorm", has made its way from the Steps to Tirneach and where its black rain touches strange new [[Undead]] have arisen. It is suspected that [[Enemies_of_the_Band#Suiríoch|Suiríoch]] is responsible in some fashion, though much more research is required.

Enemies of the Band

2025-06-07T16:06:56Z

Propagandor:

This page comprises '''significant enemies the band has faced in the past''', it being likely that they may face them again.

(OOC Note- all information on this page is based on IC knowledge and assumptions, and thus may be inaccurate).

=Suiríoch=
''Heretic Ritualist''

Former student of the [[Arcane College]], noted as a gifted Ritualist who was expelled for radical theories and research projects. The name is still used as a pseudonym by students and teachers who wish to publish potentially damaging papers without their own name attached.

The real Suiríoch has been a thorn in the side of the Band for years, providing foul rituals to criminals that we had to prevent or undo, and manipulating us into acquiring magical components through a proxy named [[Luíseach]]. Amongst these components are the Scorpion Grass supplies in Bruid for her ritual on the Steps and the pelts of Uasan Water Rats to make robes with warding magics on them.

On The Shaper’s Steps she attempted to conduct a ritual to bring back her former lovers, despite the barriers of both death and Candling. The ritual was prevented from being successfully completed by the Band, at great cost in lives, though Suiríoch managed to bring back three of her four former lovers as undead abominations and escape the Steps.

Those interested in hunting Suiríoch or that may have information pertaining to her can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]], [[Rígan Diavall]] or [[Faoiltighearna]]. It has been confirmed she has returned to the mainland and now wish to bring her revenge against the Cinnirí whom she appear to believe stood in their way. The Order of Necromancers has been warned but when she left the Steps she had a sizeable force of fungal zombies and wrathful spirits along with the three entities she has returned hereafter termed: [[Loveless]].

=Feidghlim Mac Róbín=
''Infamous Bandit Chief''

A [[Firetouched]] bandit leader, believed to be from [[Orohogar]]. Mac Róbín has quite a reputation amongst the ne’er-do-wells of Tirneach, and even just rumours of his presence can cause an increase in crime as local criminals seek to impress him and perhaps be recruited to his band.

Cumhacht na Réig have faced Mac Róbín on multiple occasions, successfully dispatching his bandit followers during every encounter, though unfortunately Mac Róbín has managed to elude us each time. He has demonstrated a unnatural resistance to effects that would disable even a [[Gallóglaigh]], leading some to theorize he has made a deal with some of the spirits of his homeland in return for powerful gifts.

Mac Róbín was last encountered in Uasa, where his bandits minions managed to capture several members of the Band returning from a mission. Mac Róbín traded these prisoners back in return for safe passage through the camp onto a boat, and it is believed he has since returned to Orohogar.

Those interested in investigating the truth of these rumors or just helping the Band apprehend this criminal can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]].

=Malacht Ua Finian=
''Immortal Undead Abomination''

Malacht is a creature that resembles a [[Leasiar]], but we believe is something much more unnatural. Originally trapped in a magical prison constructed in the distant past but most recently modified by servants of the ruling council of [[Draíod]], The Saoi, Malacht was unfortunately released by [[The Band]]. An interrogation found that they had been trapped for a significant amount of time, likely centuries, and magic showed them to be [[Undead]], though they were as coherent and rational as any living mortal. When they became aggressive their merest touch proved devastating to mortals, and when the sky contained neither sun nor stars they simply turned into mist and vanished.

Malacht travelled to [[Siabhal]] and began to insinuate herself into the [[Ruby Court]], relying on their natural charm and excessive wealth of unknown provenance to make significant inroads into joining The Carmine Circle, the most powerful and influential of the Ruby Courts. Fortunately the Band managed to stymie their plans, convincing the Ruby Courtiers that aligning themselves with this stranger with secret agendas and unknown allies would be politically risky, and they voted not to add the family to the Courts. They angrily departed the region, and their current whereabouts is unknown.

Those interested in trying to determine what kind of creature Malacht is, seeking to aid us in tracking them down or perhaps even trying to establish what their goals might be can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]].

=Tiernan McUltan=
''Insane Peaceslayer''

Known as Tiernan The Mad, he leads a band of Peaceslayers, those that have killed a [[Peacesworn]]. He has convinced dozens of Peaceslayers to follow him with the promise that he can break the curse upon their souls that reveals their crimes to any that see them.

So far his method to break this curse appears to be through murdering [[Cinnire]], and it has proven entirely unsuccessful. His band is also responsible for the slaughter of entire villages in [[Bruid]]- there is no reason to believe he has any intention beyond death and chaos, and it is likely he is simply manipulating his followers by promising redemption.

We managed to capture one of his followers in Bruid, and while they seemed to genuinely believe in Tiernan and wanted to get rid of their Slayer’s Mark, they were oddly unquestioning of Tiernan’s own actions and motives.

Those with information on Tiernan and his cultists, or are interested in looking into them, can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]], [[Rígan Diavall]] or [[Sorrel Airiúgladh]].

=Bush Monster=
''Relentless Hunter''

A creature of unknown origin and composition, though theorised to be a [[Primeval]]. The creature first appeared in [[Bruid]], and is devastatingly powerful, capable of incapacitating multiple members of the Band at once with powerful magics, such as Sleep. It seems to focus on a specific target, considering all others in its way to be little more than a hindrance to be bypassed, though that does not reduce the threat it represents to those that face it- we lost one of our number, [[Smeagol_"Seagull"_Buttonwood|Smeagol]], to the creature in [[Draíod]], as he alone was able to resist its magicks and eventually fell to its strikes.

Those with any insight into the Bush Monster or who wish to try discover more about it can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]].

=Faoiltighearna=
''The Wolf Lady'' (Not the Band member of the same name)

Our first encounter with Faoiltighearna was in [[Bruid]], where she was on the Thane’s list of clients, hiring the Band to hunt “the ultimate prey”. When she entered the camp it became immediately apparent she was not what she appeared, demanding to see those that “hurt her”, naming the members of the Band that took part in the Bunny mission in Baol- it seems that she is a Primeval, and the first we've encountered that we could easily converse with. She offered the Band an opportunity- engage in a hunt with her and her pack and in return she would engage in no more hunts for the season. We had seen reports from across Tirneach of something dubbed the "Moon Wolf" which had been attacking isolated settlements when the moon was full in the sky, and we believed this was Faoiltighearna and were motivated to accept to protect the local populace. Hunting alongside or against her would also provide an opportunity to learn more about her and the other Primevals, so the job was accepted.

Reports from various Band members are that Faoiltighearna wished to see how the Band hunts and is hunted. When it became obvious there would be a fight she called out wolves and [[Beasts#Cúfiach|cúifiochs]] to fight alongside her. These animals attempted to isolate members of the Band and drag them off to be executed and eaten. The Band eventually managed to deliver enough damage to her to cause her to temporarily discorporate, as we have seen with other Primevals, and she left behind the money she had offered the Band. When she reformed the Band chose to withdraw, and were harried all the way back to camp, though it seemed this hunt satisfied the creature and we saw no sign of it the rest of the weekend.

Bruineach Beag managed to distract her during the fight by engaging her in combat, asking why she hunts and what the Band did to hurt her, and it seems these questions confused her. It is believe she represents the element of The Hunter, but also Instinct- she is unaware of why she does what she does, but is simply following her instincts. What spells and elements will be effective on her are still unknown, and experimentation will be required.

Those with a particular interest in investigating, combating or perhaps appeasing this creature can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]] for guidance.

=The Statue=
''Earth Stasis Primeval''

First encountered in Uasa, we are confident this massive creature of stone is another Primeval, and that it is hunting those that broke open its prison. We had seen reports of individuals across Tirneach being turned to stone, and were able to plot a route that implies this creature is slowly following the Band. In combat it was able to slowly petrify Band members, though we were fortunate that the Band was able to disengage without any casualties. We discovered some connection between a local Ritual Circle and the Statue, and by severing that we believe we caused the Primeval to discorporate for a time, though based on our experience with the other Primevals it will undoubtedly return and take up the hunt anew.

If you have ideas for combating or otherwise dealing with this creature please contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]].

Current Research Topics

2025-06-07T16:05:53Z

Propagandor:

Members of [[The_Band|Cumhacht na Réig]] are involved in research into a variety of topics, some of which are listed below. This list is by no means comprehensive but exists to help inform members of the Band of the topics that have been receiving the most focus, in case they wish to provide assistance in researching them or learn about what is known so far. If anyone wishes to provide such assistance, or has a topic they would like included, please reach out to [[the Reconnaissance Office]] and we will help you get in touch with the relevant people.

As a primarily military organisation, The Band’s research is primarily through visiting libraries and speaking to bards and historians- we don’t have the resources or time to conduct full research projects and mostly rely on finding knowledge that already exists but has been forgotten.

(OOC Note- all information on this page is based on IC knowledge and assumptions, and thus may be inaccurate).

=Primordials=
Primordials is a term used to refer to ancient powerful beings that seem to pre-date mortals. This includes famous creatures such as Dragons and Gryphons and others that were considered mythical, such as Sphinxes or Leannan Sidhe. In total we have descriptions of over two dozen of these ancient creatures, though they are of quite differing strength and influence.

Our main focus at the moment is identifying these creatures, determining their names and the powers they had at their disposal. However, there is another significant aspect to this research that could have a lasting impact on [[Tirneach]]- there have been claims that some of these creatures were responsible for the creation of the mortal species that call the Five Realms home, undoubtedly with the [[Shaper]]’s guidance.

=[[Primeval|Primevals]]=
A different type of ancient being, Primevals are believed to be created from two competing elements, causing them to be dangerous and unstable. Information on them is sparse, as they pre-date historical records, and while the Band is only certain they have encountered one of these creatures, it is believed several of them are hunting the Band, namely the [[Enemies_of_the_Band#Bush_Monster|Bush Monster]], [[Enemies_of_the_Band#Faoiltighearna|The Wolf Lady]] and [[Enemies_of_the_Band#The_Statue|The Basilisk]]. It seems these creatures bear a particular grudge against certain members of the Band, and it is believed this is a result of a seemingly normal mission in Baol that may have resulted in the release of these creatures from an ancient magical prison. These creatures have demonstrated incredible resistances, but it is theorised that their dual elemental makeup leaves them vulnerable to very specific effects, which likely can only be found through trial and error- a dangerous proposition when the creature is seeking to kill you and your allies.

=The Elements=
Probably the least practical and most esoteric of the research topics of interest to the Band. Over the generations numerous scholars have theorised that the world is made up of 25 elements, consisting of a wide variety of forces, including the traditional elements like Fire and Water, as well as concepts such as Destiny and Rebellion. As we have investigated other topics they have occasionally led back to this one, making it of general interest to the Band, but it is also the topic we are least likely to be able to research directly due to lacking the academic resources and time for such a complicated concept.

=The Weeping=
By happenstance and perhaps some slight influence of the Shaper, we have gleaned some insights into The [[Weeping]] and the Atosú that aren’t common knowledge. Like a lot of our research it can be difficult to separate the truth from the wild theories, but unsurprisingly this is a topic of interest to quite a number of the Band, so significant efforts are being put into isolating fact from fiction.

=The Draconic Presence and "The Deathstorm"=
Shortly before the Band departed The Shaper's Steps a massive magical storm arose, heralded by the thunderous crashing of rain and a formation in the clouds that evoked the appearance of Dragon's wings. This is likely related to the [[Drakeblooded]] cultists on the islands, who had worked with the Band to utilise the Whisper With The Dead ritual to speak with a deceased Dragon named Impact of Crashing Rain, but then took the relic that had been utilised in that ritual, threatening violence against the Band if any attempts were made to stop them. Since then, a roiling black cloud formation, dubbed "The Deathstorm", has made its way from the Steps to Tirneach and where its black rain touches strange new [[Undead]] have arisen. It is suspected that [[Enemies_of_the_Band#Suiríoch|Suiríoch]] is responsible in some fashion, though much more research is required.

Enemies of the Band

2025-06-07T16:04:55Z

Propagandor:

This page comprises '''significant enemies the band has faced in the past''', it being likely that they may face them again.

(OOC Note- all information on this page is based on IC knowledge and assumptions, and thus may be inaccurate).

=Suiríoch=
''Heretic Ritualist''

Former student of the [[Arcane College]], noted as a gifted Ritualist who was expelled for radical theories and research projects. The name is still used as a pseudonym by students and teachers who wish to publish potentially damaging papers without their own name attached.

The real Suiríoch has been a thorn in the side of the Band for years, providing foul rituals to criminals that we had to prevent or undo, and manipulating us into acquiring magical components through a proxy named [[Luíseach]]. Amongst these components are the Scorpion Grass supplies in Bruid for her ritual on the Steps and the pelts of Uasan Water Rats to make robes with warding magics on them.

On The Shaper’s Steps she attempted to conduct a ritual to bring back her former lovers, despite the barriers of both death and Candling. The ritual was prevented from being successfully completed by the Band, at great cost in lives, though Suiríoch managed to bring back three of her four former lovers as undead abominations and escape the Steps.

Those interested in hunting Suiríoch or that may have information pertaining to her can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]], [[Rígan Diavall]] or [[Faoiltighearna]]. It has been confirmed she has returned to the mainland and now wish to bring her revenge against the Cinnirí whom she appear to believe stood in their way. The Order of Necromancers has been warned but when she left the Steps she had a sizeable force of fungal zombies and wrathful spirits along with the three entities she has returned hereafter termed: [[Loveless]].

=Feidghlim Mac Róbín=
''Infamous Bandit Chief''

A [[Firetouched]] bandit leader, believed to be from [[Orohogar]]. Mac Róbín has quite a reputation amongst the ne’er-do-wells of Tirneach, and even just rumours of his presence can cause an increase in crime as local criminals seek to impress him and perhaps be recruited to his band.

Cumhacht na Réig have faced Mac Róbín on multiple occasions, successfully dispatching his bandit followers during every encounter, though unfortunately Mac Róbín has managed to elude us each time. He has demonstrated a unnatural resistance to effects that would disable even a [[Gallóglaigh]], leading some to theorize he has made a deal with some of the spirits of his homeland in return for powerful gifts.

Mac Róbín was last encountered in Uasa, where his bandits minions managed to capture several members of the Band returning from a mission. Mac Róbín traded these prisoners back in return for safe passage through the camp onto a boat, and it is believed he has since returned to Orohogar.

Those interested in investigating the truth of these rumors or just helping the Band apprehend this criminal can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]].

=Malacht Ua Finian=
''Immortal Undead Abomination''

Malacht is a creature that resembles a [[Leasiar]], but we believe is something much more unnatural. Originally trapped in a magical prison constructed in the distant past but most recently modified by servants of the ruling council of [[Draíod]], The Saoi, Malacht was unfortunately released by [[The Band]]. An interrogation found that they had been trapped for a significant amount of time, likely centuries, and magic showed them to be [[Undead]], though they were as coherent and rational as any living mortal. When they became aggressive their merest touch proved devastating to mortals, and when the sky contained neither sun nor stars they simply turned into mist and vanished.

Malacht travelled to [[Siabhal]] and began to insinuate herself into the [[Ruby Court]], relying on their natural charm and excessive wealth of unknown provenance to make significant inroads into joining The Carmine Circle, the most powerful and influential of the Ruby Courts. Fortunately the Band managed to stymie their plans, convincing the Ruby Courtiers that aligning themselves with this stranger with secret agendas and unknown allies would be politically risky, and they voted not to add the family to the Courts. They angrily departed the region, and their current whereabouts is unknown.

Those interested in trying to determine what kind of creature Malacht is, seeking to aid us in tracking them down or perhaps even trying to establish what their goals might be can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]].

=Tiernan McUltan=
''Insane Peaceslayer''

Known as Tiernan The Mad, he leads a band of Peaceslayers, those that have killed a [[Peacesworn]]. He has convinced dozens of Peaceslayers to follow him with the promise that he can break the curse upon their souls that reveals their crimes to any that see them.

So far his method to break this curse appears to be through murdering [[Cinnire]], and it has proven entirely unsuccessful. His band is also responsible for the slaughter of entire villages in [[Bruid]]- there is no reason to believe he has any intention beyond death and chaos, and it is likely he is simply manipulating his followers by promising redemption.

We managed to capture one of his followers in Bruid, and while they seemed to genuinely believe in Tiernan and wanted to get rid of their Slayer’s Mark, they were oddly unquestioning of Tiernan’s own actions and motives.

Those with information on Tiernan and his cultists, or are interested in looking into them, can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]], [[Rígan Diavall]] or [[Sorrel Airiúgladh]].

=Bush Monster=
''Relentless Hunter''

A creature of unknown origin and composition, though theorised to be a [[Primeval]]. The creature first appeared in [[Bruid]], and is devastatingly powerful, capable of incapacitating multiple members of the Band at once with powerful magics, such as Sleep. It seems to focus on a specific target, considering all others in its way to be little more than a hindrance to be bypassed, though that does not reduce the threat it represents to those that face it- we lost one of our number, [[Smeagol_"Seagull"_Buttonwood|Smeagol]], to the creature in [[Draíod]], as he alone was able to resist its magicks and eventually fell to its strikes.

Those with any insight into the Bush Monster or who wish to try discover more about it can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]].

=Faoiltighearna=
''The Wolf Lady'' (Not the Band member of the same name)

Our first encounter with Faoiltighearna was in [[Bruid]], where she was on the Thane’s list of clients, hiring the Band to hunt “the ultimate prey”. When she entered the camp it became immediately apparent she was not what she appeared, demanding to see those that “hurt her”, naming the members of the Band that took part in the Bunny mission in Baol- it seems that she is a Primeval, and the first we've encountered that we could easily converse with. She offered the Band an opportunity- engage in a hunt with her and her pack and in return she would engage in no more hunts for the season. We had seen reports from across Tirneach of something dubbed the "Moon Wolf" which had been attacking isolated settlements when the moon was full in the sky, and we believed this was Faoiltighearna and were motivated to accept to protect the local populace. Hunting alongside or against her would also provide an opportunity to learn more about her and the other Primevals, so the job was accepted.

Reports from various Band members are that Faoiltighearna wished to see how the Band hunts and is hunted. When it became obvious there would be a fight she called out wolves and [[Beasts#Cúfiach|cúifiochs]] to fight alongside her. These animals attempted to isolate members of the Band and drag them off to be executed and eaten. The Band eventually managed to deliver enough damage to her to cause her to temporarily discorporate, as we have seen with other Primevals, and she left behind the money she had offered the Band. When she reformed the Band chose to withdraw, and were harried all the way back to camp, though it seemed this hunt satisfied the creature and we saw no sign of it the rest of the weekend.

Bruineach Beag managed to distract her during the fight by engaging her in combat, asking why she hunts and what the Band did to hurt her, and it seems these questions confused her. It is believe she represents the element of The Hunter, but also Instinct- she is unaware of why she does what she does, but is simply following her instincts. What spells and elements will be effective on her are still unknown, and experimentation will be required.

Those with a particular interest in investigating, combating or perhaps appeasing this creature can contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]] for guidance.

=The Statue=
''Earth Stasis Primeval''

First encountered in Uasa, we are confident this massive creature of stone is another Primeval, and that it is hunting those that broke open its prison. We had seen reports of individuals across Tirneach being turned to stone, and were able to plot a route that implies this creature is slowly following the Band. In combat it was able to slowly petrify Band members, though we were fortunate that the Band was able to disengage without any casualties. We discovered some connection between a local Ritual Circle and the Basilisk, and by severing that we believe we caused the Primeval to discorporate for a time, though based on our experience with the other Primevals it will undoubtedly return and take up the hunt anew.

If you have ideas for combating or otherwise dealing with this creature please contact [[the Reconnaissance Office]].