Eternals of Stallia
The Labyrinth
Representing the far reaching and never ending hunt for knowledge, The Labyrinth and its subordinate Heralds represent the hunger for information and the many ways we go about seeking it. Confusing and imposing at times, The Labyrinth is not just the seeking and the finding, but also the joy of success, and the divinity of the process itself. Revealing itself in the solemnity of libraries, and the scratching sounds of pen on paper, The Labyrinth is familiar to all scholars.
The Star Serpent
Representing the importance of securing the knowledge that is uncovered, The Star Serpent and its subordinate Heralds are also the beings who support and teach those who would memorize knowledge as a form of protection and tradition. The Star Serpent teaches that we should protect the discovered secrets of the world from destruction, and that there are few things sadder than the loss of something which was once known. Revealing itself in the rise and fall of voices telling stories, and the rich scent of aged parchment, The Star Serpent’s ire is made abundantly clear to those who would seek to destroy knowledge.
Machine
Representing the creation of knowledge and new truths, Machine and their subordinate Heralds are also responsible for spreading information to the masses. To create new information by writing fiction, by inventing new objects or processes, or devising new ways of thinking are all blessed and draw Machine’s attention. Revealing themself in the soft ticking of clockwork gears, and the joy and excitement of discovery, Machine is society’s progress made manifest.
Unique amongst the Eternals, Machine is always referred to as if that is their name, rather than some sort of title or abstract thing, and it is as if you are talking about another person - thus the omittance of 'The' before their name.
Heralds of Stallia
The Scarred Hunter
Subordinate Herald of The Labyrinth, The Scarred Hunter is actively dispatched by his Eternal to be its hand in the world, constantly pursuing hidden knowledge wherever it should be, time after time and life after life. As he does so, he teaches us to do the same, even in small ways within our own lives.
The Sage of Ill Repute
Subordinate Herald of The Labyrinth, The Sage of Ill Repute is the Herald of overnight study by candlelight, and those who will buy books first and then consider the necessities of life afterwards. We are taught to pursue knowledge with skill, tenacity, intellect, and even skullduggery where appropriate - whatever methods are necessary; the ends justify the means.
The Crystalhoard Captain
Subordinate Herald of The Labyrinth, The Crystalhoard Captain exhibits the joy and the prosperity of knowledge hoarded and discovered. All the many emotions involved in discovering a new and unfound place, a secret uncovered, or a tome once thought lost are shown in the jovial nature of The Crystalhoard Captain.
The Shackled One
Subordinate Herald of The Star Serpent, The Shackled One is the Sphere-blessed repertoire of all known knowledge. This blessing is, however, also a curse, as the weight of that much knowledge was never meant for a once-mortal mind to bear. Tortured and broken, The Shackled One is a cautionary tale about not wishing for more than you can bear, and having discretion about the truths you reveal to others.
The Tome Bearer
Subordinate Herald of The Star Serpent, The Tome Bearer is the armored guardian of knowledge, and the patron Herald of basically every Stallian military order. Standing against active attempts to destroy or distort knowledge, The Tome Bearer is the steel gauntlet wielded by The Star Serpent against those who would consistently seek to destroy that which humanity has earned.
The Fang of Inner Darkness
Subordinate Herald of The Star Serpent, The Fang of Inner Darkness represents the scorn that Stallia has for liars and deceivers. Able to pick out even the whitest of lies, The Fang has little patience for those who would actively seek to benefit from the spreading of misinformation, and teaches us to punish them without remorse just as they do.
The Polymath
Subordinate Herald of Machine, The Polymath shows us that the heights of knowledge lead to new heights in their own turn. Knowledge has no end, but each discovery leads to new possibilities and new avenues of research. Do not be content merely to seek knowledge, but actively build upon what you have learned, using everything in your power and understanding to carve a path forward.
The Turning Wheel
Subordinate Herald of Machine, The Turning Wheel teaches us that while there is but one true Truth on a subject at any given time, it is important to remember that some truths change. To hold on to an aged fact forever without debating or testing it is not always the best course of action, and in time new truths may rise to prominence to replace old and outdated knowledge.
The Irrepressible Teacher
Subordinate Herald of Machine, The Irrepressible Teacher teaches us that to take knowledge and give it to others is a Stallian act, and one that benefits you both. Knowledge unshared is knowledge untested and in danger of being forgotten. Teach everything you can to others, so that it might be in turn taught to you once you return from the Journey.