The Revalfar are a long-lived, nature-bound race deeply connected to the mystical flow of the Æthra, which influences every aspect of their lives. Their culture emphasizes harmony, sustainability, and balance, shaping their egalitarian society, communal economics, and deliberate governance. They resolve disputes through restorative justice, guided by mediators and councils that prioritize consensus and truth-seeking. Their economy avoids wealth accumulation, relying instead on resource-backed tokens and barter systems that reflect their values of practicality and shared prosperity.
Revalfar communities are self-governing, with layered councils addressing broader concerns at regional and interregional levels. They disdain wasteful or exploitative practices, often viewing the materialistic tendencies of other races with subtle arrogance. Diplomacy is approached cautiously, with a preference for raw exchanges of goods over coin-based trade. Ultimately, the Revalfar’s philosophy centers on preserving balance—within themselves, their society, and the natural world they are sworn to protect.
Stonrevalfar Female | Lysrevalfar Male |
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Revalfar are strikingly beautiful, bearing an ethereal quality that sets them apart from other races. They are slender and graceful, with a physique that appears delicate but conceals remarkable strength and agility. Their skin tones vary across a wide spectrum, influenced by their connection to different environments; shades range from earthy browns and greens of the Lysrevalfar to the stony grays of the Stonrevalfar, icy hues of the Vetrerevalfar, or the sunlit golds of the Solfarirevalfar. Hair color reflects a similar diversity, echoing their natural surroundings, from deep forest browns and auburns to icy blondes, silver-greys, and even oceanic blues or greens, as seen in the Marrirevalfar.
Their sharp, slightly elongated ears and keen gaze give them a focused, perceptive look, suggesting they are attuned to both the visible and invisible. While each Revalfar subtype has distinct features tied to their environment, this general appearance creates a cohesive sense of ethereal beauty and elegance among them. Their eyes, whether the intense greens of the Lysrevalfar, the vivid blues of the Marrirevalfar, or the piercing clarity of the Vinderevalfar, carry an almost unnatural sharpness, hinting at their enhanced senses and attunement to magic.
In terms of gender differences, male and female Revalfar share similar physical characteristics, maintaining a slender, athletic build regardless of sex. However, males tend to have a slightly broader frame and sharper facial features, while females often possess softer contours around the face and eyes, with a slightly more delicate build. Despite these differences, Revalfar of all genders are typically graceful, with symmetrical features that reflect their Fae heritage.
A Revalfar’s journey from birth to death is one of gradual growth, reflection, and mastery. Physically, they develop slowly, embodying grace, strength, and heightened perception as they mature. Culturally, they begin life within the community, learning values of balance and their bond to the Æthra. Adolescence is marked by travel and exploration, gaining perspectives to later serve their people. In adulthood, they assume roles as guardians, healers, or scholars, devoting millennia to preserving their environment. In elderhood, they withdraw into solitude, communing with nature as they prepare for transcendence into the Veilways.
Stage | Age | Description |
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Birth and Early Childhood | 0 - 200 years | Revalfar are born with an innate connection to magic and the Æthra. In these early years, they are nurtured within their home communities, learning about their environment and the energies around them. Childhood is a time of bonding with family and community, laying the foundation for their spiritual and magical growth. |
Adolescence | 200 - 1,000 years | Marked by exploration and adventure, adolescence is when Revalfar often leave their home communities to travel, interact with other races, and experience the wider world. This phase is essential for gaining perspectives and skills that will later benefit their communities. Many Revalfar form lasting connections with non-Revalfar, particularly those with shorter lifespans, whose perspectives offer unique insights. |
Adulthood | 1,000 - 4,000 years | By adulthood, Revalfar are expected to return to their home or another Revalfar community, applying their knowledge and skills. This long phase is dedicated to fulfilling roles as guardians, healers, scholars, or spiritual guides. Adults focus on sustaining the natural and mystical worlds, deepening their connection to the Æthra, and integrating the lessons from their formative years into community service. |
Elderhood | 4,000 - 5,000 years | In elderhood, Revalfar gradually withdraw from active community roles, beginning a period of introspection and preparation for the next life stage. Elders live in solitude, communing with nature and the Æthra, reflecting on their lives and connecting with the Veilways. Elderhood is marked by a deep embrace of solitude as they prepare spiritually for transcendence. |
Death or Transcendence | Beyond 5,000 years | At the end of their lives, Revalfar often choose to enter the Veilways, merging their life energy with the Æthra and completing the life cycle. This transition is viewed as a continuation rather than an end, honoring their long connection to the hidden realms. The Revalfar see this final stage as a return to the flow of magic, where their essence becomes part of the life force that sustains all things. |
Among the Revalfar, the most common subtypes are the Lysrevalfar and Stonrevalfar, who are frequently found across temperate forests and mountainous regions, respectively. Each subtype is uniquely adapted to their specific environment, developing traits that enhance their connection to their natural habitat. Other subtypes, such as the Vinderevalfar, Marrirevalfar, Vetrerevalfar, and Solfarirevalfar, are also well represented in their respective regions.
Lysrevalfar: Adapted to temperate forests, the Lysrevalfar possess skin tones ranging from warm browns to mossy greens, helping them blend into wooded areas. Their hair often reflects the hues of fallen leaves—deep browns, auburns, and even forest green tints. They are adept at navigating dense forests, and their magic focuses on concealment and healing, allowing them to protect the flora and fauna of their homeland. Their temperament is rooted in patience and vigilance, mirroring the timelessness of the forests they inhabit.
Stonrevalfar: Residing in mountainous regions, the Stonrevalfar have a sturdy build with skin tones resembling stone, including shades of gray, deep brown, or even a hint of slate blue. Their hair is often dark, with colors like charcoal, black, or earthy brown. They are connected to the minerals and rocks of their environment, possessing an innate strength and endurance. Their magic often involves manipulating stone and earth, giving them an almost symbiotic relationship with the rugged landscapes they call home.
Vinderevalfar: The winged Vinderevalfar inhabit high altitudes and are adapted to cold mountain peaks and open skies. They have lighter, almost translucent skin with faint blue undertones, while their hair ranges from icy blond to pure white. Their feathered wings are powerful, allowing for swift flight, and they possess exceptional vision and reflexes. Their magic is centered around air and wind, which they use to navigate turbulent weather and protect their elevated realms.
Vetrerevalfar: Inhabiting snowy tundras and icy landscapes, the Vetrerevalfar are resilient against extreme cold. Their skin has a pale, frosty hue, sometimes with a bluish tint, and their hair ranges from platinum blond to silvery white. Their magic often manifests as control over ice and snow, enabling them to thrive in harsh, frozen climates. Known for their quiet, composed demeanor, the Vetrerevalfar are patient and enduring, much like the Frost environments they protect.
Solfarirevalfar: Found in sun-drenched deserts and arid regions, the Solfarirevalfar are adapted to withstand intense heat and exposure. Their skin is sun-kissed with golden or coppery undertones, and their hair ranges from sandy blonde to rich, warm browns. Their magic is attuned to heat, light, and survival, helping them navigate the harsh desert landscape. They are resilient and resourceful, displaying a temperament that reflects the stark beauty and extremes of the sunlit environments they inhabit.
Marrirevalfar: Amphibious in nature, the Marrirevalfar are well-suited for aquatic environments. They have skin tones with subtle hints of blue or green, and their hair often reflects the deep blues and greens of the ocean. They are able to breathe underwater and have exceptional underwater vision. Their magic allows them to manipulate water and adapt fluidly to both land and sea, making them natural guardians of coastal regions and ocean depths. The Marrirevalfar are known for their adaptability and calm, mirroring the ever-changing tides of their habitat.
Each of these Revalfar subtypes is distinctly adapted to its environment, with traits, abilities, and temperaments that reflect their deep connection to the natural world.
The Revalfar embody a rich blend of traits that reflect their connection to nature, the Æthra, and their long lifespans, expressed uniquely across genders, ages, and regional groups. The Lysrevalfar are compassionate and strategic, nurturing strong community bonds in their forest homes, while the Stonrevalfar emphasize protection and resilience, focusing less on compassion. The Vinderevalfar value independence and strategy, often appearing emotionally detached, and the Marrirevalfar are empathetic and adaptable, prioritizing harmony. The Vetrerevalfar display resilience and emotional restraint, nurturing through patient protection, while the Solfarirevalfar are fiercely independent and resourceful, with a focus on practical compassion. This diversity enriches Revalfar society, uniting them as guardians of the Æthra.
The Revalfar are deeply guardianship-oriented and spiritual, blending protection of their environment and kin with a profound connection to the mystical. Males manifest these qualities through nurturing compassion, emotional intelligence, and adaptability, fostering unity and safeguarding their community. Their courage allows them to protect and guide others in times of need. Females embody these traits with strength, resilience, and rational leadership, leading spiritual practices and community defense with authoritative wisdom. Together, both genders sustain the Revalfar’s dual role as guardians and spiritual leaders, intertwining protection and reverence for the Æthra.
The Revalfar’s strategic thinking and independence are central to their society’s resilience. Males display nurturing yet decisive independence, balancing intuitive protection with the ability to adapt plans for the community’s welfare. Females bring rationality, leadership, and strength, using strategic planning and resilience to guide their society effectively. While males approach challenges with empathy and flexible thinking, females ensure stability and order through authoritative actions. This combination fosters a society that is agile yet steadfast, adapting while remaining committed to long-held values.
Compassion and emotional control define how the Revalfar interact with one another and outsiders. Males express compassion through emotional intelligence and a supportive presence, creating a nurturing environment that fosters loyalty. Their reserved nature ensures composure under pressure, maintaining community harmony. Females express this through resilience and strategic patience, balancing emotional restraint with cooperative support for the greater good. This measured compassion allows the Revalfar to maintain clear judgment and unity, strengthening their society’s bonds while projecting calm confidence to the outside world.
Revalfar Group | Differences in Personality Traits |
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Lysrevalfar | Compassionate and nurturing, they exhibit strong community bonds and strategic thinking. Their guardianship is expressed through empathetic actions and cooperative efforts, balancing protection with wisdom. |
Stonrevalfar | Focused on protection, resilience, and a strong sense of community. They are less compassionate or strategic compared to other groups, embodying steadfastness and a pragmatic approach to maintaining stability. |
Vinderevalfar | Independent and freedom-oriented, they display heightened strategic thinking and adaptability but often appear emotionally detached and less community-focused. |
Marrirevalfar | Highly empathetic and adaptable, reflecting the fluid nature of water. They show selective compassion and emotional intelligence, prioritizing cooperative harmony over strict strategic cunning. |
Vetrerevalfar | Emphasizing resilience and emotional restraint due to their harsh environment. Their nurturing traits are expressed through patient protection, with strategic thinking geared toward survival and defense. They often appear more stoic and reserved. |
Solfarirevalfar | Fiercely independent and decisive, they focus on resourcefulness and endurance. Compassion is often selective and oriented more toward practicality than empathy. |
Nyrvalfar | Introspective and patient, they value silence, perception, and emotional clarity. Their guardianship is rooted in observation and memory, using subtlety and insight rather than overt force. They often seem distant but possess a deep capacity for empathy when trust is earned. |
The Revalfar are a structured society rooted in their role as guardians of the Æthra and nature. They build homes that merge with their environments—forests, mountains, deserts, or seas—using sustainable materials that respect the landscape. Governance is collective, led by councils where elders’ wisdom is valued, though every voice is heard. Decisions prioritize long-term environmental harmony and resource sustainability. Interaction with other species is polite but distanced; younger Revalfar may explore outside connections, but lasting partnerships are rare. Cultural norms emphasize mindfulness, silence, and minimal waste, with violations met by quiet disapproval or exclusion from community matters. Daily rituals like morning invocations and evening gatherings reinforce values of respect and continuity.
Revalfar society is fundamentally egalitarian, assigning roles based on individual strengths rather than gender. Both men and women actively serve as guardians, healers, or spiritual guides, with significant fluidity in how these roles are fulfilled. While some tasks—such as nature healing and enchantment—tend to be associated more with women, and elemental magic often leans toward men, these associations remain flexible and do not limit participation. Household and childcare responsibilities are shared equitably, allowing each member to contribute according to their skills. Elders typically oversee education and mentorship, while adults handle daily tasks, fostering a balanced structure that supports individual pursuits and sustains family and community needs.
Revalfar values focus on sustainability, knowledge preservation, and continuity:
Sustainability and Balance: Long lifespans mean resource conservation is essential. Revalfar use materials sustainably, minimize waste, and maintain modest family sizes to prevent overpopulation, ensuring resources endure.
Knowledge and Tradition: Lifespans require strong traditions to preserve wisdom. The Revalfar emphasize oral history, apprenticeship, and knowledge-keepers, with elders guiding and sharing skills through structured roles to prevent loss or redundancy.
Purpose and Legacy: Each Revalfar is encouraged to pursue projects aligned with their calling, often committing to multi-generational work. Long-term purpose helps sustain mental focus and community engagement.
Life Stages and Roles: Distinct life stages structure roles—elders shift to introspection, adults take on active duties, and youth learn through guided tasks. This structure balances experience with fresh energy across generations.
Intergenerational Care: Families are close-knit, with shared responsibilities. Childcare, household upkeep, and communal tasks involve all members, fostering a deep sense of unity and mutual care.
Romantic relationships are lifelong commitments formed after careful courtship, often beginning as friendships. Courtship rituals include shared tasks and seasonal festivals where song, dance, and gifts express unity. Either partner may initiate courtship, typically through invitations to rituals or joint work. Binding ceremonies before elders mark the union as a commitment to each other and the Æthra. Dalliances with other races are common among young Revalfar but rarely become lasting due to differences in lifespan; these are accepted but subtly discouraged, as Revalfar typically choose lifelong partners within their culture.
The Revalfar see family as a sacred extension of the Æthra. Extended family units often live in close proximity, and elders guide and teach younger members. Adults manage daily needs and craftwork, while children gradually take on tasks suited to their skills. Childcare and education are communal, with all family members contributing, creating a balanced family structure where roles shift naturally across life stages, ensuring practical needs and cultural continuity.
Lysrevalfar (Woodland Revalfar): The Lysrevalfar live in temperate forests, blending their homes into trees and hidden glades, allowing nature to grow around them. Their culture revolves around the cycles of growth and decay, with rituals for renewal in spring and remembrance in autumn. Known for their patience, Lysrevalfar guardians blend seamlessly with the forest, defending it from within.
Stonrevalfar (Mountain Revalfar): The Stonrevalfar carve their homes into cliffs and caves, embodying resilience and strength. They focus on fortitude in their rituals, especially during the extremes of Frost and summer. Guardians of mountain paths and sacred high sites, they are skilled in stonework and physical endurance, aligned with the mountains’ power.
Vinderevalfar (Sky Revalfar): Vinderevalfar inhabit high cliffs and open aeries, emphasizing freedom, vision, and clarity. With feathered wings, they are agile fliers and guardians of the skies, uncomfortable in confined spaces. Their rituals align with wind and sky changes, celebrating their connection to the open air.
Marrirevalfar (Sea Revalfar): The Marrirevalfar live in coastal and underwater homes, crafted within sea caves and coral. Breathing underwater, they are attuned to ocean rhythms, with rituals focused on tides and storm resilience. They feel uneasy away from water and guard the coastal realms as skilled swimmers, blending effortlessly with the sea.
Vetrerevalfar (Frost Revalfar): The Vetrerevalfar inhabit icy tundras and plains, constructing modest settlements for warmth. Sensitive to heat, they value endurance, honoring Frost’s strength and the subtle life it shelters. Their guardians move quietly through snow, watching over their frozen lands.
Solfarirevalfar (Desert Revalfar): Solfarirevalfar thrive in shaded desert canyons, attuned to the sun’s power and the balance of heat and shadow. Highly resistant to heat, they are sensitive to cold. Rituals focus on strength and survival, and guardians use mirages to defend the desert’s harsh terrain.
The Revalfar, deeply connected to nature and the Æthra, have complex relationships both among themselves and with other races. Each subgroup has distinct regional concerns and values, shaped by their environments and cultural beliefs. Though united by their overarching mission to preserve natural and mystical balance, differing priorities and loyalties can lead to misunderstandings. Their interactions with non-Revalfar are similarly nuanced, with some groups forming alliances with like-minded beings and others maintaining distance to protect their lands and traditions.
The Lysrevalfar hold a protective attitude toward their forests, fostering strong bonds with Marrirevalfar due to shared values of adaptability and sustainable resource use. However, their deep reverence for woodlands sometimes causes tension with Vinderevalfar and Stonrevalfar, who prioritize their own habitats differently. Relations with Vetrerevalfar are neutral and respectful, as their territories rarely overlap. The Lysrevalfar often find Vinderevalfar’s disdain for enclosed spaces quarrelsome, leading to rare but intense disagreements.
Toward non-Revalfar, Lysrevalfar are cautious and distrustful, especially of groups that exploit forest resources. They frequently clash with logging communities or expansionist societies, viewing deforestation as a direct threat. However, they form tentative alliances with druids, nature-centric beings, or forest dwellers who share their respect for the land, though these partnerships remain distant and carefully managed.
The Stonrevalfar are largely neutral in their interactions with other Revalfar, aligning with Lysrevalfar on values of endurance and sustainability but occasionally clashing over extraction practices. They approach Marrirevalfar cautiously due to differing views on resource use, as Marrirevalfar favor minimal impact while Stonrevalfar prioritize durability and resilience. Vinderevalfar are uneasy allies, respected for their guardianship roles but distrusted for their independence. Vetrerevalfar share a mutual respect with Stonrevalfar, both valuing resilience and surviving extreme conditions.
When dealing with non-Revalfar, Stonrevalfar are cautious, forming alliances only with those who respect mountainous regions. They view industrial societies and mining races as threats to mountain stability and react strongly to incursions on sacred sites. Rarely, they ally with mountain-dwelling beings who honor the sanctity of stone and earth.
Vinderevalfar value independence, often clashing with the grounded traditions of Lysrevalfar and Stonrevalfar. While they share an appreciation for resilience with Vetrerevalfar, their preference for open skies contrasts with the tundra’s confinement. Relations with Marrirevalfar are cordial but limited, as both groups respect each other’s adaptability but rarely form close ties.
Toward non-Revalfar, Vinderevalfar adopt a guarded stance, forming occasional bonds with nomadic or free-spirited beings. They are fiercely territorial and confront encroachments on cliffside or high-altitude areas with swift defensiveness. Societies that disrupt their airspace or construct imposing structures often face conflict with the Vinderevalfar, who prioritize their autonomy and natural expanses.
The Marrirevalfar maintain amicable relations with most Revalfar groups. They share a strong connection with Lysrevalfar, both valuing cyclical balance and environmental preservation. Relations with Stonrevalfar are occasionally strained over differing views on resource extraction. Marrirevalfar and Vetrerevalfar are natural allies, united by resilience and environmental focus, though Marrirevalfar are more adaptable in their approach.
In interactions with non-Revalfar, Marrirevalfar are generally open to coexistence, especially with beings who respect water habitats. Pollution or overfishing, however, provokes their defense of aquatic ecosystems. They form bonds with coastal communities and oceanic beings but remain wary of land-based societies with exploitative tendencies.
Vetrerevalfar value resilience and solitude, fostering positive relations with Marrirevalfar due to shared endurance values. While they respect Vinderevalfar’s independence, the differences in climate and habitat preferences create distance. Relations with Lysrevalfar and Stonrevalfar are neutral, as their icy territories rarely intersect. Vinderevalfar are seen as unpredictable but appreciated for their guardianship roles.
Toward non-Revalfar, Vetrerevalfar form bonds with beings who endure harsh conditions or value solitude. They are cautious of warm-climate societies and monitor hunting practices closely, confronting groups that threaten the fragile balance of their icy environments.
The Solfarirevalfar align well with Vetrerevalfar and Marrirevalfar, sharing respect for extreme environments. While they admire Lysrevalfar’s principles, they sometimes see forest dwellers as overly conservative. Relations with Vinderevalfar are distant but respectful, and interactions with Stonrevalfar remain neutral, as both groups value independence in their harsh regions.
Solfarirevalfar tolerate non-Revalfar but are wary of those unfamiliar with desert conditions. They occasionally ally with desert-dwelling societies but respond aggressively to resource misuse or environmental disruption. Water sources and fragile ecosystems are especially protected, with outsiders expected to honor the Solfarirevalfar’s traditions and balance.
The Nyrvalfar maintain an enigmatic presence among the Revalfar, often watching quietly rather than engaging directly. They share mutual respect with Marrirevalfar, both valuing subtlety, adaptability, and the rhythms of hidden environments. Relations with Lysrevalfar are cordial but occasionally strained, as woodland openness clashes with the Nyrvalfar’s preference for quiet depths and concealment. Stonrevalfar appreciate the Nyrvalfar’s stability and silence, though they sometimes regard their mystical practices with skepticism. Tensions with Vinderevalfar are common, as their affinity for openness and sky stands in direct opposition to the Nyrvalfar’s love of shadow and stillness. With Vetrerevalfar, they share a stoic temperament and appreciation for silence, though their realms rarely overlap. Solfarirevalfar find the Nyrvalfar opaque and overly cautious, while the Nyrvalfar see desert bluntness as dangerously disruptive to hidden truths.
In dealings with non-Revalfar, the Nyrvalfar are distant and cryptic. They rarely form direct alliances but may offer guidance through dreams, riddles, or veiled messages when the balance of hidden places is at risk. They are especially protective of ancient ruins, Veilway thresholds, and sacred silence, responding firmly when outsiders disturb what should remain undisturbed. While often misunderstood, the Nyrvalfar are indispensable to the broader Revalfar purpose—guardians not of what is seen, but of what is forgotten.
Each Revalfar group demonstrates unique adaptations to their environment, with abilities that reflect their bond with their respective habitats. These enhancements are typically subtle, but rare individuals may display extraordinary proficiency, revered as exemplars of harmony with the Æthra. These abilities often dictate their roles as guardians or spiritual leaders.
Lysrevalfar (Woodland Revalfar)
Stonrevalfar (Mountain Revalfar)
Vinderevalfar (Sky Revalfar)
Marrirevalfar (Sea Revalfar)
Vetrerevalfar (Frost Revalfar)
Solfarirevalfar (Desert Revalfar)
Nyrvalfar (Shadow Revalfar)
The Revalfar economic system prioritizes sustainability, balance, and communal cooperation. Internally, their economy revolves around the exchange of goods and services through resource-backed mærka (tokens), trætir (credits), and barter, emphasizing minimalism and utility. When interacting with other races, they reluctantly use precious metal coins but prefer direct exchanges of goods, reflecting their values of practicality and preservation over material wealth.
The Revalfar use a system of resource-backed mærka for internal trade. Each mærka represents a specific quantity of raw materials, such as timber, stone, or food, facilitating trade and ensuring accountability. Trætir, or vouchers, are issued to promise future deliveries or allow the exchange of goods that are not immediately available. These tools are utilized sparingly, as the Revalfar view them as functional aids rather than symbols of wealth.
Contracts, or bóndrættir, play a critical role in trade, especially for long-term partnerships. These formal agreements ensure mutual understanding and transparency, governing exchanges over extended periods while fostering trust and flexibility in resource allocation.
When trading with other races, the Revalfar craft coins of gold, silver, and copper only as necessary for external transactions, considering the use of precious metals for currency wasteful. Barter remains their preferred method of external trade, emphasizing tangible exchanges of raw materials, crafted items, and enchanted artifacts over reliance on coinage.
Wealth and resources are distributed communally, adhering to principles of sustainability and mutual support. Local councils oversee the allocation of goods and services, ensuring they are used equitably and effectively. Communal efforts, such as planting and harvesting, foster unity and efficiency. Surplus resources are shared among communities, often coordinated by the Stiorrad, the regional council, which manages intercommunity support and resource distribution.
Communities in need receive aid from more prosperous ones, whether through surplus goods, skilled labor, or expertise. The Stiorrad ensures balance is maintained, preventing any community from falling into hardship. Waste minimization is a cultural imperative, with all materials repurposed and resources fully utilized.
The Revalfar’s economic practices reflect their cultural values of harmony, balance, and shared responsibility. They view trade and resource management as means to sustain the community and the natural world, rejecting wealth accumulation or exploitation. Resources are considered communal assets, intended to support the collective rather than individual gain. This perspective fosters a system where goods and services are distributed according to need and sustainability, ensuring all members have access to essentials.
Wealth accumulation for its own sake is seen as illogical and contrary to their values. The Revalfar consider hoarding or pursuing resources beyond practical needs wasteful and disruptive to societal and environmental balance. Unused resources are expected to be redistributed or repurposed to benefit the community, reinforcing their minimalistic approach to currency and trade.
This worldview often leads the Revalfar to view races with capitalistic or individualistic systems with subtle disdain. They see such practices as short-sighted and destructive, favoring their own communal and need-based economy. While they strive for diplomacy, this perspective can manifest as quiet arrogance, as they promote their values of balance and sustainability.
Despite their disdain for materialistic systems, the Revalfar acknowledge the need for cooperation with other races, especially in trade and diplomacy. While they find certain practices distasteful, they are willing to compromise for peaceful relations, provided their traditions are respected. Even in these compromises, they often advocate for their system, subtly encouraging others to adopt their ideals of balance and harmony.
The governance of the Revalfar is organized through a three-tier council system, reflecting their commitment to frithgardr (harmony), cooperation, and respect for eignarmál (autonomy). At the foundation are the Byrdingr councils, which govern individual villages, towns, or cities. These councils are autonomous and free to structure themselves according to local needs, ensuring decisions are tailored to their unique environments and communities. Above them, the Stiorrad councils serve as regional assemblies, bringing together representatives from multiple Byrdingr councils within a specific geographic area or cultural group. These councils address broader issues, such as resource management, inter-community cooperation, and regional traditions, while also selecting members to represent their interests at the highest level. The Aethralag, the overarching council, unites representatives from all Stiorrad councils, providing a platform for addressing issues that affect the Revalfar as a whole, such as disruptions to the Æthra, interregional disputes, or diplomatic relations with other races.
All Revalfar Byrdingr councils share a commitment to samstada (unity), sustainability, and collective well-being, with governance rooted in cooperation and nonviolence. Decisions prioritize debate, education, and consensus, with leaders focusing on preserving the balance of the Æthra. While the specific methods for choosing leaders vary, each system reflects the culture and environment of its community. These councils uphold shared Revalfar values while addressing the unique needs of their regions.
In areas where different Revalfar subgroups coexist, governance systems often merge to create hybrid councils that reflect the diversity of the population. These councils incorporate elements from multiple traditions to balance the values and priorities of their mixed communities. For example, a border region shared by Stonrevalfar and Lysrevalfar might blend the stability of a Hofældrath with the participatory nature of Ágridaumr, creating a system where elders guide decisions but all adults have a voice. Similarly, a mixed Marrirevalfar and Vinderevalfar settlement might pair a Hringrfulltingr with Sjálfsbóðr, ensuring both expertise and individual initiative are represented.
The Stiorrad, or regional council, is composed of representatives chosen according to the governance traditions of each subgroup. Lysrevalfar communities elect their representatives through Ágridaumr, Stonrevalfar appoint respected elders to the Hofældrath, Marrirevalfar select specialists for the Hringrfulltingr, Vinderevalfar send volunteers through Sjálfsbóðr, Solfarirevalfar use Hleitsvalr, and Vetrerevalfar rely on Mætifrithr.
The primary role of the Stiorrad is to bring communities within the region together, fostering cooperation and mutual support. They ensure that struggling communities receive assistance, often coordinating efforts from more prosperous settlements to share resources or expertise. The Stiorrad is also responsible for regional resource management, balancing the needs of various communities to preserve the environment and maintain the flow of the Æthra. This includes mediating disputes over shared resources, planning for long-term sustainability, and ensuring that no community’s prosperity comes at the expense of others. By coordinating regional efforts, the Stiorrad strengthens intercommunity bonds and maintains harmony across the region.
The Aethralag is the unifying body of the Revalfar, tasked with addressing matters that transcend regional concerns and ensuring cohesion across their diverse society. Composed of representatives chosen by the Stiorrad councils, the Aethralag embodies the shared values of frithgardr, nonviolence, and cooperation. While it has no formal enforcement authority, its decisions are respected and followed due to deeply ingrained traditions of mutual trust and reverence for collective wisdom. The Aethralag’s guidance relies on the belief that unity and adherence to shared principles are essential for the survival and prosperity of all Revalfar.
The Aethralag’s primary responsibilities include mediating disputes between regions, ensuring that conflicts are resolved peacefully and equitably. As the final authority for interregional issues, it fosters dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing that collaboration benefits all. It also oversees the coordination of interregional support, ensuring that struggling communities receive aid while prosperous regions share their resources and expertise. This delicate balance of needs is central to its role, as the Aethralag strives to maintain harmony within the Revalfar’s interconnected society.
The Aethralag also represents the Revalfar in relations with other races, negotiating treaties and alliances that reflect their principles of samstada and frithgardr. It serves as the keeper of the Revalfar’s legal and cultural history, maintaining records of agreements, traditions, and decisions that bind their society together. This stewardship ensures continuity across generations and reinforces the collective identity of the Revalfar, even as their regions retain their autonomy.
The Aethralag is also entrusted with the preservation of the Æthra and the mystical balance of their world. It organizes efforts to address large-scale disruptions, such as disturbances to the Veilways or threats to sacred sites, often coordinating with Stiorrad councils to protect the natural and mystical realms. Long-term planning and environmental stewardship are also key aspects of its role, as the Aethralag considers the impact of decisions on future generations, striving to safeguard the sustainability of their world.
The Revalfar’s governance and legal systems reflect their values of ágridaumr (consensus), cooperation, and harmony. Laws are developed through a bottom-up approach, originating at the Byrdingr level and rising through tiers of governance only when necessary. This decentralized system ensures laws are tailored to the unique needs of each community, with regional and overarching laws emerging through a deliberate process of debate and refinement. While this process is slow, often taking years or decades, it reflects the Revalfar’s deep respect for thoughtful decision-making and collective wisdom. Temporary measures, known as Skerings, address urgent issues while preserving the integrity of the system.
Most laws begin at the Byrdingr level, driven by specific community needs, the outcomes of Skerings, or suggestions from higher councils. Community members propose laws to address concerns and engage in thorough deliberation within their local councils. All voices are heard, and proposals are refined until consensus is reached.
Once finalized, local laws are enacted within the community and rarely extend beyond it unless their broader relevance is recognized. Byrdingr councils have the flexibility to address immediate needs, preserving the autonomy and cultural identity of their communities while enabling swift responses to local challenges.
When a local law affects multiple communities or offers solutions to regional challenges, it may be brought to the Stiorrad. Elevation can occur through the initiative of Byrdingr councils, regional representatives, or at the Stiorrad’s suggestion. At this level, the law undergoes further debate and refinement to balance diverse perspectives and address regional concerns. The Stiorrad may return the law to the originating community for adjustments or clarification, fostering an iterative process of improvement.
The Aethralag addresses laws with implications for all Revalfar. Such cases are rare and reserved for matters of widespread significance, such as preserving the Æthra, interregional disputes, or interactions with other races. Laws at this level undergo collaborative refinement, with the Aethralag often recommending further deliberation at lower tiers to ensure alignment with Revalfar values.
The Aethralag seldom suggests laws for Byrdingr adoption, reserving such actions for times of widespread hardship or external conflict. Even in such cases, these suggestions are treated as starting points for debate rather than directives, reflecting the Revalfar’s aversion to imposing decisions without thorough discussion.
For urgent matters requiring immediate action, the Revalfar rely on Skerings, temporary resolutions or initiatives. These measures are not binding laws but serve as short-term solutions or trials for potential legal principles. Skerings can be proposed by higher councils or originate within Byrdingr councils, allowing flexibility in response to pressing issues. Once the immediate need is resolved, a Skering may inspire formal discussions about adopting its principles into law or simply fade into history.
The hallmark of the Revalfar governance system is the back-and-forth deliberation between tiers of councils. Local laws that address broader concerns are elevated for regional or overarching consideration, while higher councils provide feedback, raise concerns, or suggest adjustments. This iterative process ensures that laws are well-considered, equitable, and sustainable.
While this method is slow, it reflects the Revalfar’s commitment to deliberate decision-making and their rejection of hasty or coercive legal practices. Each law, whether local, regional, or overarching, is a product of careful refinement, balancing autonomy with collective responsibility and ensuring harmony across their society.
The Revalfar judicial system embodies their values of frithgardr (harmony), ágridaumr (consensus), and heilkridr (restorative justice), focusing on resolving disputes through truth-seeking and community engagement. The system is deeply integrated into their social structure, with no dedicated legal professionals such as lawyers or judges. Instead, individuals are chosen from among scholars and experts with the most relevant experience to the dispute at hand. Byrdingr councils appoint these mediators and tribunal members, ensuring that each case is handled by those best equipped to understand its nuances. The system is designed to address both civil and criminal matters, maintaining harmony and balance within the community.
Civil matters, such as breaches of contract, unpaid wages, or other non-criminal conflicts, are handled through a Samráðrþing (Mediation Assembly). This process involves open community discussion, guided by a leiðari (facilitator) who ensures the focus remains on uncovering the truth and resolving the issue fairly. The assembly encourages both parties to present their perspectives, with clarifying questions asked to better understand the root of the disagreement. Experts from relevant fields are often consulted to provide insights that help the assembly make informed decisions. Resolutions are restorative, aiming to repair relationships and restore balance rather than impose punitive measures.
For criminal disputes, such as theft or violence, a Hofmót (Elder Tribunal) is convened. This body consists of experienced elders chosen for their neutrality and wisdom. The tribunal appoints two rædari (mediators), one for each party involved, who are tasked with gathering evidence and understanding the perspectives of both sides. These mediators are selected for their ability to uncover the truth and maintain impartiality, working together to present their findings to the tribunal.
The tribunal also consults relevant experts—such as healers in cases of injury or kaupsmennir (trade specialists) for disputes involving goods—to ensure their decisions are well-informed. Based on the mediators' findings and expert testimony, the tribunal deliberates and proposes a resolution. While the tribunal has the authority to enforce its decisions, enforcement is rarely needed, as refusal to comply carries significant social consequences, such as exclusion from communal efforts and activities. This social pressure ensures adherence to the tribunal’s rulings without coercion.
Disputes that extend beyond a single community, involving multiple settlements or regions, are escalated to the Stiorrad (Regional Council). The Stiorrad serves as a neutral body to mediate and resolve conflicts that cannot be settled locally, ensuring that the values of frithgardr and balance are maintained across the region. These disputes often involve issues such as shared resources, trade disagreements, or overlapping territorial claims, where cooperation between communities is essential.
When such disputes arise, each involved community selects representatives, often called ráðmennir, to present their perspectives to the Stiorrad. These representatives, typically respected local leaders or individuals with expertise relevant to the issue, articulate their community’s position and provide supporting evidence. The Stiorrad, composed of members chosen from Byrdingr councils, acts as the deliberative body, weighing the arguments, consulting relevant experts, and facilitating open dialogue among all parties.
The resolution process prioritizes mutual understanding and equitable outcomes. Mediators, sometimes referred to as miðlari, may be appointed from among the Stiorrad’s members or external experts to investigate the dispute further, ensuring that all sides are fairly represented. The findings are shared with the full council, and extensive discussions follow to refine the proposed solutions.
Decisions made by the Stiorrad are not imposed by force but rely on the cultural expectation of adherence to regional consensus. Communities are motivated by the understanding that cooperation benefits all and that failing to honor the Stiorrad’s resolution would damage their reputation and standing within the region. While uncommon, if an agreement cannot be reached or if one party resists the decision, the matter may be referred to the Aethralag for further deliberation and broader consideration.
When conflicts arise between Revalfar communities and other races, the Revalfar strongly advocate for resolving the matter through their own judicial systems and traditions. Their deep respect for their cultural values and governance processes leads them to insist that disputes be handled within their established frameworks. The Revalfar believe that their methods, rooted in ágridaumr, truth-seeking, and heilkridr, are uniquely suited to achieving equitable resolutions that respect all parties involved.
In such cases, the Aethralag typically represents the Revalfar, coordinating with the affected Byrdingr or Stiorrad councils to ensure the community’s perspective is presented clearly and cohesively. The Aethralag works as both mediator and negotiator, seeking to preserve the Revalfar’s values while engaging diplomatically with external parties. They emphasize solutions that align with the principles of frithgardr and balance, ensuring that agreements are mutually beneficial and sustainable.
While the Revalfar are committed to resolving disputes through their own means, they are pragmatic enough to accept compromises when necessary. They prioritize ensuring that their beliefs and traditions are honored in some form, whether through acknowledgment of their customs, inclusion of their mediators, or integration of their heilkridr practices into the resolution process. For example, in disputes involving shared resources, the Revalfar may agree to collaborative management provided their practices of sustainability and balance are observed.
In rare instances where external parties refuse to accept the Revalfar’s approach, the Aethralag remains steadfast in advocating for respectful dialogue and equitable outcomes. They may agree to engage with external judicial or arbitration systems but will seek to incorporate elements of their own processes, such as the inclusion of Revalfar mediators or adherence to their principles of heilkridr. This insistence reflects their belief that justice must align with the values of all parties, not solely those of one side.
The Revalfar hold a deep connection to the Æthra, the sacred flow of magic that binds all life and the Veilways, mystical dimensions that exist parallel to their own world. These Veilways are regarded as sanctuaries of pure magic, free from the burdens of physical existence. Accessible only at rare thresholds where reality thins, they are places of profound spiritual significance. As guardians of both their physical environments and these mystical realms, the Revalfar see their role as essential to preserving the balance of magic and life.
This understanding of the Æthra and the Veilways underpins all Revalfar spirituality, creating a shared sense of duty to protect life and maintain harmony. While all Revalfar share these beliefs, their specific practices and interpretations vary according to the environment they inhabit, reflecting the unique bonds they have with their surroundings.
The core values of the Revalfar reflect their commitment to life, magic, and their guardianship of the Æthra and Veilways. These values are shared across all Revalfar, serving as guiding principles for their actions and culture.
With their extensive lifespans, the Revalfar see themselves as inherently superior to shorter-lived races, viewing their connection to the Æthra and the Veilways as a mark of profound responsibility and insight. They believe the fleeting nature of mortal lives limits their ability to comprehend balance and magic, often leading to hasty and reckless actions. This perspective fosters a sense of patience and detachment, as the Revalfar approach challenges with a long-term view and near-immortal mindset.
Though aware of their mortality, the Revalfar behave as if their time is limitless, fostering an enduring sense of purpose and invincibility. They view the urgency of shorter-lived races as misguided, confident that their centuries of accumulated wisdom grant them clarity and understanding beyond what others can achieve. This world view shapes their interactions and decisions, emphasizing the preservation of balance and the flow of the Æthra above all else.
Certain holidays are celebrated by all Revalfar, uniting them in their shared spiritual purpose and connection to the Æthra and Veilways.
While all Revalfar share a unified spirituality, their environments shape their specific practices, rituals, and cultural expressions. These differences highlight their unique relationships with the Æthra and their surroundings.
The Lysrevalfar see the Æthra as flowing through cycles of growth and decay, embodying renewal and balance. They celebrate the interconnectedness of all living things through ceremonies that honor the forest's rhythms.
The Stonrevalfar view the Æthra as an enduring force within the earth, emphasizing stability and resilience. Their rituals honor the unyielding strength of stone and the timeless nature of the mountains.
For Vinderevalfar, the Æthra is the breath of life, carried on the wind. Their rituals focus on freedom, vision, and the interconnectedness of life through the skies.
Marrirevalfar perceive the Æthra as a fluid and adaptable current, reflecting the ceaseless movement of the tides. Their ceremonies emphasize adaptability, unity, and the life-giving power of water.
In icy regions, the Vetrerevalfar see the Æthra in the endurance of life against cold. Their rituals focus on preservation, stillness, and the quiet strength of Frost.
Solfarirevalfar honor the Æthra in the sun’s intensity and the balance of heat and shadow. Their rituals celebrate vitality, endurance, and the stark beauty of their environment.
These regional practices and holidays reflect the Revalfar's diverse ways of connecting to the Æthra, each emphasizing the harmony between their environment, spirituality, and cultural identity.
The Nyrvalfar perceive the Æthra as a current flowing through shadow, silence, and memory. They honor the hidden and forgotten, focusing their rituals on introspection, unseen transitions, and the quiet preservation of ancient knowledge.