Solycia

The Divine Realm of Solycia Solycian flag.png
Solycia, also known as the Divine Realm of Solycia, is a Jarldom located in the northern region of Astios, within the western territories of Eldham, and forms part of the Republic of Redoriv. This area is renowned as the ancestral heartland of the Solycian people, with the Balistarian tribe of solycia standing out as one of the oldest and most significant cultural groups in eldham dating back to 70 (TE). This mystical region nestled along the shores of the Lycaen Sea, hence it's name ; 'Solycia,' which translates to 'Sun (Sol) of the Lycaen (Lycia) Sea' in the sacred Angelic language. It's a place where the natural world seems to touch the divine, and it holds a special place in the heart of those who follow the Essentist faith. The genesis of Solycia's establishment is deeply intertwined with the journey of Jacob Otto Liberatus and the profound legacy of the Temple Island Scrolls.

Founding and History


In the summer of 276 Traveller's Era (TE), Jacob Otto Liberatus, fueled by a divine mission and his devotion to Essentism, embarked on a quest inspired by ancient scrolls left by his father. These scrolls spoke of an uncharted island, a place of profound significance in their faith and culture. Guided by these writings and driven by a deep spiritual calling, Jacob journeyed through unknown waters and discovered what would later be known as Temple Island. This discovery important for Jacob, it was the realization of a prophecy central to his faith entwined with his father's legacy and his own spiritual destiny.



Temple Island Solycian flag.png
Upon his arrival at Temple Island, a land whispered of in the ancient scrolls left by his father, Jacob Otto Liberatus was met with a sight that stirred his soul. The island, though desolate, was veiled in ancient, underground ruins. These were not just remnants of a forgotten time; they were the echoes of his own lineage. The ruins bore the distinctive architectural and cultural imprints of the Balistarian Solycian tribe, a noble lineage to which Liberatus belonged. The ruins and tunnels provided irrefutable evidence that Liberatus had indeed found Balistar, the ancestral homeland of the Solycians, long shrouded in mystery and legend. This profound realization resonated deeply with Liberatus, reinforcing his conviction that his destiny was intertwined with the revival of his people's presence in this sacred land.

Essentist Temple of Gathering


The primary task before him was the construction of a temple, a physical manifestation of devotion to the All-creator, the central deity in Essentist belief. By building this sacred space, Liberatus aimed to create a focal point for his faith and its followers, providing a place for worship, reflection, and community. The establishment of the temple marked the birth of Solycia as well established region within Redoriv. Its creation wasn't just an act of religious observance but also a significant sociopolitical event. With the temple at its heart, Solycia began to grow, attracting followers of Essentism and other settlers inspired by Liberatus's vision. As the founder of Solycia, Jacob Otto Liberatus became a central figure in its development, leading efforts to build not just the temple but also the emerging community around it. Under his guidance, Solycia was not merely a place on a map, but a living embodiment of the Essentist prophecy, a sanctuary for the faithful, and a testament to the enduring spirit of human devotion.

Ancient king summoned back to Eldham (290 TE)
In the Spring of 290 Traveller's Era (TE), a remarkable event occurred, it was the extraordinary reunion of Jacob Liberatus with the spirit of his long-lost father. This reunion was made possible through the mystical powers of the eternal blue orchid of Drakhma, a legendary entity known for its spiritual significance and extraordinary powers. The orchid facilitated a temporary bridging of realms, allowing Jacob's father's spirit to return to Eldham.

Identity of Jacob's Father
In a twist of fate laden with historical and cultural significance, it was revealed that Jacob's father was none other than MonkeyMan (also known as Monkes), a figure of great importance in the region's history. MonkeyMan was recognized as the very first person to settle in this specific area of Eldham ( in july 7th 2021, Fall of 69 TE ) later known for his revered status as the venerable King of the Viking Volk of Balistar.

Acknowledgement and Inheritance
During this mystical reunion, MonkeyMan, known amongst his kin as MonkeyMan, expressed deep pride in Jacob Liberatus for his stewardship and the transformation he had brought to Temple Island, turning it into a beacon of faith and community. In a significant posthumous act, MonkeyMan proclaimed Jacob Liberatus as his rightful heir, entrusting him with the revered Blade of Balistar. This blade was a symbol of leadership and valor, accompanied by other personal gear of MonkeyMan. This act of inheritance was more than a mere transfer of possessions; it symbolized the passing of the torch from father to son and served to revive the ancient name and spirit of Balistar within the modern context of Solycia.

Legacy and Cultural Impact
The events of 290 TE marked a significant chapter in the history of Solycia and Eldham. The spiritual reunion, the acknowledgment of Jacob's lineage, and the inheritance of the Blade of Balistar were seen as not just personal moments for Jacob Liberatus but as events of cultural and historical importance. These events reinforced the bonds between past and present and were perceived as an embodiment of the guiding spirits of the All-Father and the ancestors of Solycia. They were hoped to guide Solycia, Redoriv, and all of Eldham on a path of truth, justice, wisdom, and success.

Government
Solycia is governed as a Jarldom reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage. The Chief Jarl, as the paramount leader, holds significant authority over the realm, managing both internal affairs and external relations with the Republic of Redoriv. Solycia is divided into provinces, each led by a Jarl with considerable autonomy to address local issues, from resource management to cultural preservation. A Council of Jarls, including all provincial leaders and headed by the Chief Jarl, serves as the main decision-making body, operating on a majority voting system. Public assemblies happen every week in Temple Island and encourage community involvement, allowing citizens to influence decisions and policies. This governance structure, blending traditional leadership with democratic principles, ensures Solycia's adherence to its historical roots while addressing contemporary needs.

Solycia, an Angaelic name
According to the beliefs of Essentism, the Angels spoke the name of the sea without the 'K' sound as would be spoken in the Travelers' Tongue. In the Angaelic language, there is no 'K' sound or the letter 'K.' Therefore, the name 'Lycia' reflects the divine and pure way the Angels pronounced it, and this pronunciation has been embraced and passed down through the generations.

Non-human Inhabitants of Solycia
Foxes

Temple Island, distinct in Eldham for its population of over 20+ foxes, offers a unique sight. These clever foxes are known for their special interaction with visitors, engaging in simple trades. Often found around the bamboo forest by the beach, but also in the temple of gathering, they add a charming and unusual aspect to the island experience.

Fröke
The Fröke are an ancient and fascinating frog race residing on Temple Island, the jewel of Solycia. With a history stretching back to times before human settlement, these once fierce berserkers have transformed into integral members of island society. Known for their captivating songs and culinary prowess in fish stews, the Fröki's journey from feared warriors to beloved inhabitants is a tale of change, adaptation, and harmony.

Hek__ Hek was an mysterious figure residing on Temple Island. His origins remain shrouded in mystery, but a peek into his basement revealed bizarre and somewhat unsettling collection: Manscout skin, assorted bones, peculiar blood mixtures, and an array of Vulpur heads and flags. This discovery has sparked a blend of fear and curiosity among the people of Solycia. Hek's presence adds an eerie, yet oddly humorous, twist to the island's lore. where his mysterious tent still stands, now a peculiar tourist attraction opened by Liberatus.