Aethereon

An ancient order founded thousands of years ago on the basis of a lack of belief in the gods. Aethereon are an order recently settled Valkaria although its existence long predates Valkaria. Other than their disbelief and sometimes antagonistic view of the gods, Aethereon is also known for its possession of a specific variant of Lycanthrope.

### **Origins**

Aethereon was founded in a small village whose name is forgotten. The village suffered from strong famines and plagues for many years. Many of the citizens died and those left prayed to and payed tribute to the gods, asking for help for all those years. The gods did not answer, and just when they were on the verge of starvation a witch named Nera Aethir came to them. She passed on and taught them the secrets of Lycanthropy, a curse and disease which granted its host great strength, heightened senses and improved abilities similar to that of an animal. The village were able to use these gifts to become stronger and not only survive the harsh world but thrive. Soon after this, the Order of Aethereon was founded, named after Nera Aethir. The order would go on to become a powerful group who continued to build their strength.

### **History**

Aethereon began to grow rapidly, using their Lycanthropy to become stronger and become more and more of a threat to others. Aethereon would antagonise and speak out against religious orders who were blinded by their faith and spread the truth of the gods. Aethereon's truth was that the gods were mere mortals who discovered the secrets to immortality and higher power. They may be powerful but they are neither omnipotent and especially not benevolent. Most recently, the leader of Aethereon (Acron Adolpha Blackmoon) travelled to Kamorra in order to guide lost souls and continue to preach their truth.

### **The Silver Circle**

Aethereon follow a monarch of sorts and practice feudalistic ideologies. The Acron is the leader of Aethereon, the title of which is passed down through the Blackmoon bloodline. The bloodline itself is not believed to be special or hold any power though they are the descendants of the first Lycanthrope infected by Nera. The Silver Circle is a council on which the Acron sits. The Silver Circle is made up of Lords and Ladies of the moon, each of which control some fort, keep or even region belonging to Aethereon.

The current Acron of Aethereon is Acron Adolpha Blackmoon

### **Lycanthropy**

The rules of Aethereon Lycanthropy are variations of classic Lycanthropy.

*Transference.* Lycanthropy is transferred using a potion which requires the blood of a lycanthrope. Only trusted Aethereon alchemists know how to brew it.

*Animal Features.* Lycanthrope will display beastly features like fur, tusks, horns or tails. This varies in intensity and features between individuals

*Violent Urges.* The blessing comes with a curse however. Aethereon Lycanthrope will lose control of themselves in the presence of any moonlight. A thin cloak is enough to protect against this however if ever fully exposed to moonlight, they will become violent, animalistic and kill any who cross their path. This is why Aethereon buildings tend to be underground or beneath cover and they avoid travelling at night without a cloak.