Liberatus

Jacob Liberatus Essentist Apostle 2.png
Jacobus Antonius Liberatus is an historian, theologian and poet from Eldham, and the second most important figure in the religion of Essentism. Primarily known for both his journey in Hell where he wrote the Codex Infernakh (Demon secrets), and documenting the teachings and revelations of Ascendant Yeshariel and creating the Codex Verelirion (revelations), which is a transcription and translation of the divine scriptures the All-maker revealed to Ascendant Yeshariel through the mouth of arch angel Gizondael. As Yeshariel entered a period of exile, Jacob Liberatus played a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity of his teachings, recording them and distributing them across various regions.

Originally, Liberatus was a devotee of the Astrapologi faith, seeking answers among the stars and celestial bodies. But after his profound encounter with Yeshariel, a paradigm shift occurred in his spiritual understanding. Through his newfound belief in Essentism, Liberatus, Rather than gazing upwards, realized the interconnectedness of all beings, from the smallest ant to the vast galaxies, as expressions of the All-creator. Nevertheless, he retained immense respect for idatheone, seeing her as a ascendantess, valuing her dedication to guiding Eldham's people, a mission echoing his own journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

The revelation/Codex Verelirion
As Yeshariel's main guardian, he was tasked with converting celestial insights into written form. He diligently composed the Codex's verses. Learning the Angaelic language posed an immense challenge for Jacob. Its celestial symbols and tones held profound meanings, transcending earthly conventions. Absence of standard structures and punctuation defied linguistic norms. Yeshariel was blinded when he gazed directly upon Archangel Gizondael, overwhelmed by her intense light, which he described as "pure love manifested in every conceivable color". Many believe this was part of the All-maker's plan, ensuring that Yeshariel would rely not on sight, but his heart and profound spiritual wisdom. Though unable to see or write, Yeshariel deeply understood the wisdom behind the phrases. He orally passed this knowledge to Jacob Liberatus, entrusting him with the significant task of decoding and documenting the celestial insights.



Jacob's narration of the opening chapter of the Codex Verelirion.
It's believed to be the first words angels spoke to the people of Eldham.



Codex Infernach - Jacob's Journey to hell.
To prove Liberatus's faith in the all-creator, resilience, and commitment, Yeshariel set forth the test that became the reason Liberatus was chosen as his apostle. Yeshariel commanded Liberatus to journey into all realms of Hell, the realm of chaos, torment, and deception. This was not just a journey of distance but one of endurance and faith. Liberatus would need to spend one entire year in Hell, navigating its treacherous terrains, confronting its demons, collecting ores and artifacts and resisting its many temptations. Only by emerging unscathed, with his faith intact, would he be deemed worthy. Before Liberatus even set foot into the depths of Hell, he encountered Inizo, the gatekeeper. This early interaction was telling, as Inizo hinted at one of the first religions created by Demons. Throughout his journey, he encountered various demons, many of whom were considered deities in Eldham and other realms. They came in different forms – some tried to seduce him, others to frighten him, but many tried to deceive him. Yet, each encounter was a lesson and a test of his resolve. In the Codex Infernach, the tales of Jacob Liberatus's encounters and trials in Hell are very well documented.

Encounter with Fankt Chwonki
Jacob wrote of an encounter with a demon called Fankt Chwonki in a city in Hell named Grul’gael. Liberatus confronted Fankt with questions about the events at Rodinnbrok, Fankt laughed dismissively. Treating the sack of Rodinnbrok as just another "funny joke" he suggested it was merely one of many cities he helped sack in Eldham. News of Liberatus's descent into the inferno had traveled fast. Sensing an opportunity, Fankt proposed a sinister deal:  If Jacob would betray the ascendant Yeshariel, and teach him the sacred Angaelic language, he'd teach him the  enigmatic demonic language. Such knowledge, Fankt whispered, could elevate Liberatus to the throne of an empire.

Liberatus refused Fankt's proposal, declaring his intent to master the demonic tongue on his own terms. Instead of revealing insights into the Angaelic language, offered up Fankt's name in Angaelic, "Slunek Slunek", which translates to "Drinker Drinker". The demon, caught off guard, burst out laughing, finding it hilariously fitting. Fankt began chanting it like a mantra and celebrated by guzzling an entire barrel of wine.

In this unexpected and moment, Fankt, true to his demonic nature, casually spilled some of the most well-kept demonic secrets to Liberatus including his collaboration with an upper demon Jorm, or Jormund (who now goes by the name Grizagel) in a scheme to dismantle Rodinnbrok from its core, a mission they successfully accomplished. This is also where the demon revealed the name 'fankt Chwonki' was a playful creation of the demon himself, having rearranged "Think of Wank" into the anagram "Fankt Chwonki" to mock his own worshipers who call upon his name during prayer, listening in only to laugh and not to help.

Other works
Liberatus authored several other works before meeting Yeshariel across a range of subjects. Some of his most cited texts include "Dog King of Rathnir," "Book of Love," "book of war", "The Divine Source," and the two-part "Seek I" and "Seek II." These writings are indicative of his interests in both historical events and philosophical introspection. His professional pursuits extended beyond Eldham. Liberatus traveled to multiple realms, recording their distinct cultures, histories, and events. His records from these travels provide valuable insights into the societal and cultural dynamics of these regions during his time.