TownCrier/Faction Attraction/Moonstone Abbey

This is a creative work set in the world of Elanthia, attributed to its original author(s). It does not necessarily represent the official lore of GemStone IV.

Title: Faction Attraction - Moonstone Abbey

Author:

Our Refuge is Our Strength

In the world of Elanthia, magic is the tie that binds friend and foe. The energy grants the wielder access to incredible feats that harness nature, heal the spirit, and even control the undead. Few of these particular styles and schools have drawn scrutiny and confusion more than witchcraft. Some opine that it is magic that dabbles in darkness, using cauldrons and ungodly reagents to produce abominable spells. Others believe it is the magic that harnesses nature, not dissimilar to the one mastered by rangers and druids. But what happens when you have an entire house devoted to the practice of witchcraft? Around a foggy lake near Ta’Illstim, there is a property that is a sanctuary for those who call themselves witches and concentrate their efforts on educating themselves and others on the art of witchcraft. This is Moonstone Abbey.

Hosts

Lornon Chair Rivienne Mandaire Loenthra

She appears to be an Elf.

She is petite and has a balletic body. She appears to have come of age. She has demure violet eyes and silken alabaster skin. She has long, nearly black hair lit with hints of a more fiery shade glistening from within loose, silky waves. She has narrow, delicately pointed ears. Her visage is a subtle mix of raw and refined features, sharp angles, and gentle curves.

She is in good shape.

She is wearing a small purple blossom of nightshade tucked behind one ear, a luminous pale eburnean moon pendant, a prim blackberry bourde bliaut accented by onyx stripes, a leather book satchel slung over her shoulder, and a pair of charcoal-hued silk slippers edged in onyx beadwork.

Liabo Chair Aoife Duvv the Officer of Moonstone Abbey

She appears to be a Dark Elf.

She appears to be very young. She has hazel eyes and dusky skin. She has long, loose black hair woven into a wrist-thick herringbone braid that is bound with a orange and red sunstone band. She has a tiny crescent-shaped beauty mark on her cheekbone just below the outer corner of her left eye.

She has some sleek lustrous onyx rings in the upper ridge of her left ear.

She is in good shape.

She is wearing a tiny leather bag, an ornate rose gold wedding band, an engagement ring fashioned with a diamond solitaire set between four pale moonstones, a lustrous moonstone wristlet, a dragon-capped silver torc, a Moonstone Abbey pin, a triple moon armband with a crescent moon-shaped clasp, a coiled mithglin chain armband, a mithril and moonstone relic, a creamy white elf owl charm, a gold-nibbed creamy elf owl feather, a front-laced scarlet suede bodice trimmed with intricate black knotwork, a supple ebon leather skirt, a silver-edged black sugar bowl inset with rubies around a triple moon emblem, a mottled faenor quiver etched with a twining vine pattern, an ornately embroidered witch's workcoat chased with golden thread, a scarlet suede satchel with black knotwork trim, a mithril-trimmed matte black corselet emblazoned with a triple moon emblem within an argent circle, an enruned crimson silk cloak stitched with flames along its sleeves, a ruby-inlaid black suede thigh-quiver, some black crushed silk boots, a wiregrass anklet, and a moonstone-set ruic composite bow slung over her shoulder.

Chamorr Na'Fiochmhar the Thane.

He appears to be a Giantman of the T'Kirem Clan

He is very tall. He appears to be full grown. He has piercing stormy grey eyes and bronze skin. He has waist-length, ragged sanguine hair wound about tightly in sections with hammered dark steel bands and strands of mithril beads. He has a weathered face and a broad chest. A white streak runs through his hair.

He has a deep blue triple moon tattoo on his neck.

He is in good shape.

He is wearing a vivid azure blazestar star stickpin, a matte black mithril-spiked greathelm, a sand-caked ora earring, a sapphire-set golden locket, a pink tourmaline amulet, a turquoise inset platinum talisman, a glyph-etched copper pendant, a deeply hooded cloak of black bearskin with a traditional T'Kirem clasp, a hammered copper brooch, a silver wolf-shaped pin, a Moonstone Abbey pin, a brilliant multihued larkspur, a black-handled gold key symbol with a single bit, a small mechanical device, a hammered silver trefoil set within a disc of glossy fel, a gold-etched Dreadnaught talisman, a small bone periapt, a solid vultite armband, a droplet of honey amber inlaid with a silver dragonfly, a crimson brindlecat hide shoulder sheath bound in mithril, a glossy black bearskin backpack with a traditional T'Kirem clasp, a set of matte black mithril platemail emblazoned with a triple moon emblem within an argent circle, a coral linen leaf-patterned tunic, a white cotton shirt embellished with a starry-eyed chubby narwhal wearing a striped scarf design, some blackened vaalorn arm greaves, an eroded clasped wristcuff, a silver-eyed dragon armband, a strand of small vertebrae bones strung on a short copper wire, an eroded clasped wristcuff, a pair of black mithril-taloned gauntlets, an enruned gold ring, a braided rose gold wedding band, a simply woven belt of twisted twigs and flexible sticks, a fine-linked ora chainmail pouch, a large sack, a large white brocade sack, a pair of baggy beige linen pantaloons, a matte black ankle sheath, a simply woven anklet of vanilla beans and silver-chased arctic blue seadragons, a pair of vaalin-buckled icy grey-white cross-checkered linen knee-boots, and a black shield emblazoned with a triple moon emblem in an argent circle.

Introduction

Chamorr, one of the members of the Abbey and husband to the Liabo Chair, greeted me upon my arrival, which threw me for a loop as he looked nothing in how I imagined a witch.

Chamorr: Evening

The gentle giant led me inside.

A polished onyx floor inset with brilliant opaline moonstones stretches out of sight to either side of an enormous central area. Wrought silver candelabras set at regular intervals cast pools of softly flickering light, creating prisms in the moonstones beneath your feet. Directly opposite the entrance, a tall marble archway leads into a spacious auditorium. You also see a polished haon chest lined with velvet.

He introduced me to the matrons for the evening, Liabo Chair Aoife and Lornon Chair Rivienne Here, I learned about the House and gained a bit of enlightenment about Chamorr’s presence.

Aoife: The house is not just for witches, Yardie. We are a secretive bunch.

What is Moonstone Abbey?

I wondered what drew them to this mythical and enchanting place. I wanted to learn about what the Abbey meant to them.

Yardie: If you had to explain what Moonstone Abbey was all about to a...er...slow person such as myself, how would you describe it?

Rivienne: I can tell you what I think it is about. From the viewpoint of a newer sister. Moonstone Abbey is a house of scholarship and education oftentimes but not excluded to the study of magic itself. It's also a haven where one can freely practice and study their own individual interpretation of history, magic, religion, and spirituality. I like to think we foster curiosity and a sense of community within the house. Misinformation and lack of understanding leave room for fear and exclusivity. We do not discriminate against race, gender, age, or creed and we aim to contribute to society in a beneficial way. This inclusivity is particularly relevant since we are the only Great House with its main building situated in the Elven Nations where public establishments and society are not always universally welcoming. Our members are diverse, there isn’t a 'typical' member. They come from all parts of Elanthia, all professions, races, and genders. I think this diversity of membership is one of the hallmarks of Moonstone Abbey.

Aoife: In addition to the library we have on this floor the lounge where we started from, our kitchen, an auditorium...and locker space for residents.

Aoife: The Abbey itself is ancient, though it was unused, hidden, and forgotten about for 10000 years or more after it was built.

Of course, the idea of witches caught my fascination. Often, the stereotypes painted them in such a negative picture. This is further proven by Chamorr’s story on the Brass Tower.

The Brass Tower

Chamorr: I remember. Way back in the day, in the Landing, the coven of sisters met in the brass tower.

Rivienne: Oh yes! Do tell him of the brass tower."

Chamorr: Ya know the brass tower. At one time, it was complete, not the ruins it is now. The townfolk, fearing this coven, came with torches and pitchforks.

Upon hearing this, I frowned.

Yardie: Fearful, I imagine.

Aoife: Ye know the brass tower was the place that dreadful man holed up several years past...in the landing, yes....whatever his name was.

Chamorr: This coven, using the magic of the ancients.

Aoife: After he was removed...or left...we did a cleansing ceremony.

Chamorr: As you saw a taste of in the tome.

Aoife (to Rivienne): You were there, were you not?

Chamorr: Discovered tis ancient abbey.

Aoife: No?

Rivienne: No, but it sounds like something I would have liked.

Aoife: Sister Hadya led it, I believe.

Aoife removes a handful of sea salt from in her witch's workcoat.

Chamorr: And as the folks burnt the tower down, they portaled to this abbey.

Aoife: I still have some of the salt we used for the cleansing.

Chamorr: And have been here since.

Aoife: This Abbey, in its restored state, opened at the end of the year in...5100, maybe 5101. Close to a quarter of a century, we have been living here, aye.

The Influence of the Moon

The nature of the home drew my curiosity more, and the two gracious ladies were able to explain their connection to the moon.

Rivienne: I'm not sure where to even begin on that, so much symbolism and meaning.

Aoife nods at Rivienne.

Rivienne: You are likely already aware of the different arkati connections to the different moons. And while there are shades of that it's more complicated. The phases of the moons, the hanging of the seasons, the balance of everything. Light, dark, and grey, the three pantheons. Our symbol is the threefold moon.

Yardie: I thought there were four moons, though?

Rivienne: There are. But the trine is important to us, and there is an officer for each moon.

Aoife: Our first and basic connection to the moons, I would say, comes from the Three - Lo'Tish'ana, Tra'Lan'ari, and Das'Phan'ara.

Rivienne: Aoife knows much more about the beginning than I do. I am a more recent addition to the Abbey.

Each chair represents a different moon. Rivienne, the Lornon Chair, Aoife, the Liabo Chair; and Myasarie, the Tilaok Chair. Those origins come from the three names mentioned, leaving me in utter confusion. Eager to learn more, I followed them along, taking a tour of the estate as Aoife explained.

Aoife: It tells of a time long ago, a priestess casting a circle by moon’s light and driving away the darkness. And then…more magic words and the ground rising up. It is not all here…just parts of it. The sun being eclipsed by the light, and then the opening of the circle, the release of the elements in haste to leave.

She offered to take me to the library so I could see.

Knowledge and Moonstone Abbey

Row after row of thick leather-bound tomes fill the huge black willow bookshelves that line the walls of this huge open chamber, surrounding the long oak tables which have been arranged in an orderly fashion in the middle of the room. Plush light grey carpeting extends from the entryway to cover the entire floor of the library, muffling the occasional noises from those who come here seeking knowledge. An immense portrait in a gilded frame rests on the wall above the entryway. You also see a small onyx table with some stuff on it, an ornate silver food cart with some stuff on it and a deep black storage case with some stuff on it.A large opaline moonstone is tucked behind the plaque. There appears to be something written on it.
In the Common language, it reads: Learn that which you will, but there is to be NO casting of spells within these walls! -The Librarian

Rivienne: It’s my favorite place in the house.

Aoife: Rivienne has been spearheading our efforts to acquire more books. Many of our sisters of past days were great scholarly writers. These days we are not blessed so much with writers, but see it as our duty to maintain the writings that have been entrusted to us from the past. The Sisters of the Coven, for example, compiled the first Bestiary of Elanthia.

Sisters of the Coven

At this point, I was confused. I learned of Moonstone Abbey, but I assumed the Sisters of the Coven were the same. Instead I learned that the Coven of Sisters governed the Abbey, and to join the Coven of Sisters, one must cast at least one spell.

Yardie: You can cast?

Aoife: He is not a Sister of the Coven.

Chamorr: I can send mana to those who do.

Aoife: I think he can cast shadows, though. Big ones! But not all Coven Sisters choose to live here, and not everyone who lives here is a Coven Sister.

Witchcraft

I wanted to learn more about witchcraft as a philosophy. The notion of such a negative stigma toward it drew my inquisitive nature. Witches have, historically, been given a bad reputation. Here, I wanted to hear from the source.

Rivienne: Which is why I'd like to speak on it, lest you imagine us cackling around a cauldron and eating children.

Yardie: I did see a cauldron.

Aoife: Oh my!

Rivienne: I'm sure you've heard of alchemy.

Chamorr: Only eat them on holidays."

Yardie: I have, yes."

Chamorr laughs!

Rivienne: "Cauldrons are essential to alchemy!"

Aoife: He's not a witch...remember!"

I had to chuckle at the thought of the giantkin as a witch.

Rivienne: And great for making soup, watering my horse.

Chamorr: Bathing gnomes.

Rivienne: As with the diversity in our members, there is a lot of diversity in witchcraft. 'An individuals own take on witchcraft is informed and shaped by the culture that individual comes from and the culture they are currently surrounded by. You can see its relevance in the way they move their hands and use their voice when casting spells, or drawing a circle. Moonstone Abbey brings us all together and I think the end result is beautiful.

Yardie: And that difference would be part of their identify in relation to magic and their witchcraft, yes?

Rivienne nods to you.

Yardie: Almost a means of expression, like dance.

Rivienne nods enthusiastically to you!

Rivienne: Yes, very personal. Yet shared among us. "Which appeals to me particularly as a Loenthran, it drew me to the house.

Aoife: I think the essence of witchcraft is the wielding of magic, the connection with the life force that connects us all but is unseen by many as they travel through life.

Rivienne: I think we see magic everywhere.

Aoife: Like Rivi said, each person who claims the title witch does it in her - or his - own way. Hence we have practitioners of green witchery, black magic, whatever…

Rivienne: Kitchen witches.

Aoife: Some benevolent, some malevolent. Kitchen witches!

Yardie: I've always found this interesting. I figure my fellow Faendryl would feel similarly. I have no ability to channel magic, so...."

Chamorr: Sand witches.

Yardie: I've...well I've had someone teach me how to, er....taste magic. Scrolls and items. But naturally? As you all do? No, I do not know how.

Rivienne: Are you saying you've eaten a scroll?

Aoife: Come study with us....perhaps you can learn.

Yardie: Maybe?

Events

While this visit proved more than enjoyable, I wanted to see them in action. I inquired about future events. Aoife started with a conversation about their most recent event, the Equinox Ritual.

These rituals occur every Solstice and Equinox.

Aoife: During ritual we form a circle, call the powers of the cardinal directions, and usually have a time for those present to speak briefly on a given question pertaining to the season. Light candles...perhaps chant and dance. What was the question this time...

Rivienne: What we hope to grow this season..and not literally.

Aoife: Since it is the season of new growth I believe we were asked to speak of something we wished to 'grow' in the coming time..

Rivienne: Like radishes or something. Though I did talk an awful lot about how asparagus is grown.

Aoife: That is because the kitchen witches served asparagus....

Rivienne: And it was delicious.

Aoife: That was soooo goo. Good, that is. Not goo!

Chamorr: Thankful for the new warmth of spring, and, new beginnings and endeavors, like so many seeds beginning to sprout.

Aoife: Each ritual ends with a kiss passed round the circle and then a time for socializing and eating.

Yardie: Sounds like a lovely time. One meant for reflection and love.

Rivienne: And marking the changes in nature, what we can learn from it. Being mindful of the natural world around us, and what we call the turning of the wheel.

On Ivastean 19th to the 21st, Moonstone Abbey will be co-hosting with Ord and Dragan. The event is called The Under the Mountain Stomp. There will be three days of events, games, hunting, and lectures (including one on survival by Rivienne). The event will end with a dance..and a fishing tournament.

In the Summer, Moonstone Abbey will conduct their Zoo and Brew Event and, later on in the year, the Ord to Abbey Poker Run.

In the autumn, Moonstone Abbey hosts their Pumpkin Carving event.

How to Join

Rivienne: Feel free to contact us with any questions or clarifications. Yes, so many words.

Yardie: About that. That was my last question. Who should they seek if they are interested? I know there are you three and Mya?

Rivienne: I think any member would steer someone in the right direction.

Rivienne: Or any interested person could just show up at a meeting.

Meetings are held in Moonstone Abbey on the 13th of every month.

Yardie: Are there other members of note that might not be here but known well enough by others?

Rivienne: Myasarie is her whole name.

Yardie: Or that. That's a possibility as well.

Chamorr: All are welcome.

Aoife: Most all are welcome.

Rivienne: I dont get out of Ta'Illistim all that much so I'm not sure who would be known where.

Chamorr: Most are welcome. A few in the nations. Hadya.

Rivienne: Starletdawn, Lucrecea.

Yardie: I know Starlet.

Chamorr: Moe.

Aoife: Rivi and Mya and I will know the current requirements and what is needed for membership.

Yardie: Which is to cast one spell.

Rivienne: That's for membership to the Coven.

Yardie: Oh.

Aoife: That is a re...

Rivienne: For Moonstone Abbey its the sharing of mana.

Rivienne: Isn't it?

Rivienne: It's not like we've tested anyone in ages.

Chamorr: I had to practice to get in.

Aoife: I suppose I should to look it up....I don't remember that requirement.

Rivienne: I'm pretty sure its that, but our more recent applicants have been avid magic users, so it wasnt really necessary to test.

Yardie: That makes sense.

Aoife: The requirements I recall are the general level of expertise requirement required by the CHE....an application approved by the membership...and an initiation fee.

Yardie: How much is the fee?

Aoife: How much is the fee...

Rivienne: 105k?

Aoife: It has not gone up in decades...

Chamorr: Three roltons and a haflin.

Aoife: I was going to say 160k, but I think Rivi is correct.

Closing and Final Thoughts

My tour ended outside the Abbey, just as magical as inside.

The forest gives ground to a small, circular clearing, ringing its perimeter in a wall of bark so concentrated, it's as though it is one tree rather than many. Several blocks of square-cut granite have been placed fairly evenly around the edge of the circle, their bases buried within the thick carpet of moss and old leaves and their sides spotted with lichen. In the center of the company of stones, the verdure is cleared away and the ground looks charred.

A huge modwir has elbowed out all competition, and now dominates the trees around it with an air of haughty demeanor. It stands taller than any of its neighbors, and a thick carpet of rust-colored needles obscures its foot. Here and there, large roots protrude up out of the ground cover, gnarled and knobby, like the backs of ancient sea creatures breaking the surface of the waves before diving back into the depths.

Yardie: This was lovely, and I hope to spread the word for others to learn visit and possibly join Moonstone Abbey.

Rivienne: That would be great, I'm so glad you came.

Aoife: Sometimes we do our rituals in the meadow. Sometimes in this circle clearing."

Chamorr: Its a big place. It is. Rather wondrous place.

Rivienne: Has it bewitched you yet?

Rivienne flashes a quick grin.

Aoife: Thanks so much for coming to visit. It's a long trek.

Yardie: It'll be fine. Thank you again. It was a lot of fun.

Chamorr: Good to seeya.

Aoife: So happy to have ye with us for the evening. Do ye need a guide from here?

Yardie: Thank you all kindly. No, I should be fine.

Rivienne: Sacred night Yardie. It was a pleasure to meet you. I hope we will see you again.

Aoife: Safe journey, my friend.

Yardie: You as well.

And so I left, as Rivienne stated, bewitched by a place of wonder, inclusivity, history, and knowledge. To think that witchcraft and magic expressed through different avenues can be expressed in one home in harmony. While magic will never be a suit for my capabilities, I only imagine there are many other witches who share similar desires for learning and expression without criticism and scrutiny. An oyster in the East, Moonstone Abbey is a bastion of education and harmony with light and dark, magic of all kinds, and deserves at least a visit for those curious or a home for those who desire a place of belonging.