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Guide to the Psijic Order
Early in Tamrielic history, a group of Aldmer rebelled against the changing beliefs of Summerset and left the isles. Calling Artaeum their new home, the Psijic were able to continue the Old Ways of Aldmeris. In addition, it is believed that the Psijics' views also included the suggestion that Anu’s son, the Time Dragon, was formed in reaction to Padhome’s influence. In effect, Anu had finally done something. Similar to the age old question of what happens when an Unstoppable Force meets an Immovable Object, this inconceivable effect gave rise to an equally inconceivable cause. PSJJJJ was named, and the Order took his name (Teachings of Vehk). Today, the Order accepts members from all races, and they are believed to be the oldest monastic group in Tamriel. PSJJJJThe name PSJJJJ is designed to be unpronounceable, but the name’s influence within the Order is tremendous. It is believed that PSJJJJ might be the Aldmeris or Old Ehlnofex name for Padhome's aforementioned influence on Anu. The Psijic Order is organized to divine this mystery of change. Change is the most sacred of the Eleven Forces within the Order.
The Eleven ForcesA complete list of the Eleven Forces is not very well known outside of the Order. The only one that has received publicity outside of Artaeum is Change. In the words of Taheritae the Sage:
One could certainly view the aforementioned passage as a mission statement for the Psijic Order, but their beliefs go much further than that.
Beliefs and Religion
The Psijic Order chooses its members "by a complex, ritualized method not understood by the common people" (Salarth). Even though the Psijics are extremely reclusive, members of the Order can be recognized by the gray cloaks they choose to wear. Members are even referred to by this distinctive garment (Jarth). In the simplest of terms, the religion of the Psijic Order can be described as ancestor worship. Just as PSJJJJ is considered divine, so are the ancestor spirits. Dating back to the time of the original Acharyai, it is believed that superior men and women have been granted significant power upon their deaths. Unseen by many, these ancestor spirits from the phantom world command great influence over our world. According to the Psijic Order, the Daedra and gods that the common people worship are nothing more than the spirits of our ancestors. The Psijic Order calls their beliefs and customs the Old Ways. As a member of the Psijic Order, it is important to remain "faithful" to the Old Ways. Members believe that the spiritual world is always watching our world, and a loyal graycloak will perform the Rites of Moawita on the 2nd of Hearth Fire and the Vigyld on the 1st of Second Seed in order to empower the salutary spirits and debilitate the unclean spirits (Celarus). Among a trained Psijic’s duties is the task of bringing power to "good" men and making sure men with power remain "good." The Order believes that it cannot allow power to fall into the wrong hands. Loremaster Celarus, currently the head of the Psijic Order, sums it up in this fashion:
One of the primary goals of the Order is to distribute power as they see fit. If certain powerful people are deemed unworthy by the Order, then the Psijics will try and make a change. This change will not involve murder or any other form of assassination. In general, one could expect that type of thuggish brutality from the Morag Tong or the Dark Brotherhood but not the Psijic Order (Source of Chaos). In distributing (and redistributing) this power, it is unclear whether the Psijics wish to become "gods" themselves or simple endow others with such gifts. Certainly, they do counsel great men and women on matters of importance and perhaps even lead them to becoming powerful in the afterworld, but unfortunately, a complete description of the endeavors and motives of the Psijic Order remains a mystery to this day. However, it is interesting to note that the endeavors of the Psijic Order do not seem to be related to the so-called Psijic Endeavor that is prominent in the providence of Morrowind. When Vivec was asked about the relationship between the Psijic Order and the Psijic Endeavor, he replied:
Master Divayth Fyr further corroborates this idea by saying, "...the Dwemer appear to have been most successful in the Endeavor than any mortal. Their Endeavor is not the shared Endeavor of the Old Way."
The Myth of Aurbis"Subtitled 'The Psijic Compensation,' 'Mythic Aurbis' was an attempt by Artaeum apologists to explain the basics of Aldmeri religion to Uriel V in the early, glorious part of his reign. It quietly avoided any blame or bias against the Lorkhan-concept, which was still held in esteem by the Cyrodiils as "Shezarr", the missing sibling of the Divines. Despite this, the Psijici still give a nice summary of the Elder view, and it will serve our purposes here. This version comes from the archives of the Imperial Seminary from the handwritten notes of an unknown scribe" (Monomyth).
Counselors of KingsSince the earliest written record of the Psijics (1E 20), the Order has been known as the counselors of kings:
Nevertheless, the Council of the Psijic Order has had a profound influence on Tamriel politics. Several kings of Summerset have sought their counsel, as well as Emperor Uriel V and Emperor Antiochus of Cyrodiil; however, "The last four emperors, Uriel VI, Morihatha, Pelagius IV, and Uriel VII, have been suspicious of the Psijics enough to refuse ambassadors from the Isle of Artaeum within the Imperial City" (il-Anselma).
The Isle of ArtaeumThe Isle of Artaeum (ar-TAY-um) is the home of the Psijic Order. It is located in the Summerset Isle and is the third largest island in that region. "The Isle of Artaeum is difficult to chart geographically. It is said that it shifts continuously either at random or by decree of the Council" (il-Anselma). In fact, "When the Psijic Order does not wish someone to land on the island, the island and all on it become insubstantial" (Salarth). Visitors to the isle are extremely rare, but Artaeum is believed to be elegant and beautiful. It is reported to contain idyllic orchards and clear pastures, still and silent lagoons, misty woodlands, and unique Psijic architecture that seems to be wondrous as well as natural to its surroundings. The Ceporah Tower, which is a relic from a civilization that predates the High Elves by several hundred years, is still used in certain rites by the Psijics. Anyone interested in meeting with the Psijics may find contacts in Potansa and Runcibae as well as many of the kingdoms of Summerset Isle (il-Anselma).
The DisappearanceSometime around 2E 230, the Isle of Artaeum literally vanished from the sea. There have been various theories published about this event but none have been proven true. One popular story even states that Iachesis, Rite Master of the Psijics at that time, knew that the Psijics were going to leave:
Five hundred years passed, and the Isle of Arteaum returned just as mysteriously as it had left but with one important difference: Iachesis and the original Council of the Psijics did not return. The graycloaks who did return could not or would not offer an explanation for their disappearance. And unfortunately, they were unable to offer any explanation to the whereabouts of Iachesis and the Council. What is known is that the disappearance of Artaeum coincides with the founding of the Mages Guild (il-Anselma).
Mysticism, the Old Way, and the Mages GuildUndoubtedly, many of us have heard of the School of Mysticism. "Mysticism involves the manipulation of magical forces and boundaries to bypass the structures and limitations of the physical world" (Morrowind Game Manual). Its power comes from conundrums and paradoxes within Magicka, and it was originally believed that Mysticism’s power came from the Aetherius Itself or else from the Daedric Beings of Oblivion. "Some even ventured that Mysticism arose from the unused elements of successfully, or even unsuccessfully, cast spells" (Lor). However, discussion from within the Psijic Order after Artaeum's reappearance has led some scholars to believe that Mysticism is much less spiritual in nature than was originally supposed, and that either the intellect or the emotional state of the believer is sufficient enough to influence its energy configuration and flow (Lor).
Mysticism in Oblivion
Mysticism in Morrowind
The Psijic Order has a different term for Mysticism: The Old Way. The problem is that the term "Old Way" also refers to the beliefs and religion of the Order, which may or may not be part of Mysticism (Lor). In any case, it is believed that the Old Way or Elder Way was taught to the Psijics by the original inhabitants of Tamriel. It is "a philosophy of mediation and study said to bind the forces of nature to the individual will. It differs from Magicka in origin, but the effects are the same" (il-Anselma). The Psijics' true magical capabilities are shrouded in mystery. Certainly there have been stories of their mystic abilities, but even those may not do the Order justice. There are rumors that the Order may possess some sort of silent and magickal communication or Calling (Sul). Whether this power truly exists, remains to be seen. Since the beginning of the Order, the Psijics believed that magic "was something to be learned by individuals" (Salarth). It was believed that the interested scholar should devote his or her life to learning the skills involved. The Order was extremely protective of their knowledge and did not want to share with the rest of Tamriel. "It was, and is, a very structured way of life." "Quite elitist, actually" (Jarth). All of that changed with a mer named Vanus Galerion: he left the Order and started the Mages Guild.
Vanus Galerion and MannimarcoVanus Galerion was taken in by the Psijic Order when he was young. While on the Isle of Artaeum, he trained his mind, as well as his body (Kolsgreg). He became a Psijic and was a student of Iachesis, but something about the Order bothered Vanus: he objected to the Psijics' elitism. "He wanted the study of magic to be free. Well, not free exactly, but at least available to all who could afford it. In doing that, he changed the course of life in Tamriel" (Jarth).
During this same time, Mannimarco, later to be known as the King of Worms, was a member of the Psijic Order of Artaeum. This Altmer studied the Old Ways along with Galerion. (Horicles). Both pupils excelled in their studies, but Mannimarco became obsessed with the art of Necromancy. The Psijic Order "forbade its use, not only because it was dangerous, but their beliefs in the holy and inholy ancestor spirits made it heretical” (Traven), and Galerion confronted Mannimarco, saying, “Your wicked Mysticism is no way to wield your power, bringing horror to the spirit world; your studies must cease” (Horicles). Completely ignoring the advice, Mannimarco continued the Black Arts; eventually he was banished from the Order and Artaeum. Eventually, Galerion also left the Order for different reasons. He went around collecting magic-users from the Summurset Isle. He began operating out of Firsthold, and proposed making magical items, potions, and even spells available to any member of the general public who could afford to pay (Salarth).
In 2E 230, the Mages Guild was formed, and Vanus Galerion became the first Archmagister of the Guild. He began inventing tools for alchemy and enchantment so that anyone could create anything they wanted. It didn’t matter what skill level a person had, as long as they had the money:
This created somewhat of a problem and eventually Galerion tore apart his old tools, and created what is used today in Tamriel. Although slightly more elitist (it requires that people know what they're doing), it’s more practical (Jarth). The Mages Guild flourished not only throughout Summerset Isle but also across Tamriel itself. Ironically, Galerion is later quoted as saying that he regretted his decision, "The Guild has become nothing more than an intricate morass of political infighting" (Salarth). Nevertherless, Galerion was becoming concerned with the King of Worms’ rise of power, began to combat this threat.
Mannimarco’s power increased. His necromancers were gaining popularity and strength. They collected dastardly artifacts and deadly poisons for their master. Mannimarco thrived on this and became the world’s first undying lich (Horicles).
Vanus Galerion, the mages of the Mages Guild, and the Knights of the Lamp confronted Mannimarco on the battlefield; Galerion demanded that the King of Worms surrender his evil artifacts. When Mannimarco refused, a devastating battle ensued: steel and magic were woven together; fire and lightning rained down upon the battlefield (Horicles). The death toll was high. Vanus Galerion was slain, and the King of Worms was believed to be dead. The survivors from the Mages Guild collected the Necromancer’s artifacts, taking possession and ensuring their safekeeping (Horicles). There are reports that the Mannimarco was not killed on the Battlefield. An agent of the Empire claims to have seen the King of Worms in the High Rock region of Tamriel. The report contains mention of Mannimarco’s desire to possess the Totem and Mantella. It is even hypothesized that the King of Worms was able to get gain control of the Numidium and ascend into godhood (The Story of Daggerfall). More recently, the King of Worms is believed to have been seen in Cydodiil itself. Rumors claim that cults called “The Order of the Black Worm” and “The Order of the Black Rose” have gained power. Some have heard that Mannimarco was confronted directly by a member of the Mages Guild, and claimed to have reanimated Vanus Galerion as his personal servant. This member of the Mages Guild also claims to have killed the King of Worms, defeating him once and for all. However, this claim remains unsubstantiated at this time.
Sotha Sil, the Dreaming Cavern, and a Pact with the DaedraAnother famous Psijic was Sotha Sil. Sotha Sil spent time on the Isle of Artaeum and was a member of the Psijic Order. While on the isle, he trained young Psijic initiates:
On Artaeum, there is a mystical place called the Dreaming Cavern. The Cavern is used to visit Oblivion and communicate with the Daedra. During the year 1E 2920, it is believed that Sotha Sil journeyed into Oblivion, spoke with the Princes, and struck a deal:
He emerged from the Cavern days later. He had successfully made a pact with the Daedra. "The Daedra princes I spoke with have agreed to our terms," he said flatly. "Disasters such as befell Gilverdale should be averted. Only through certain intermediaries such as witches or sorcerers will they answer the call of man and mer" (Townway). The exact terms of the pact are unknown to most inhabitants of Tamriel. We do know that at the time of the pact the princes had agreed not to be summoned by any amateurs until the war ended. Only the Psijics could counsel with the daedra, along with a few nomadic sorcerers and witches (Townway). There is much speculation within the scholarly community, not only about what was "promised" to the Daedra princes, but also whether or not the pact is still in effect today. Now that Sotha Sil has apparently died, some feel that the pact is null and void. Some feel the pact is alive and well. And still others feel that the pact expired long ago since the war is over, and Sotha Sil's death means nothing. Perhaps one day we will learn the exact terms of Sotha Sil's deal with the Daedra Princes.
The War of the Isle
In the Third Era, Emperor Antiochus asked the Psijic Order for help in defending the west coast of Tamriel. The Order caught wind of a meeting between King Orgnum and Queen Potema of Solitude, so a group of graycloaks paid a visit to the Queen. While there, the Psijics confronted Potema and confirmed the invasion planned by the Pyandonean Armada. In a shrewd maneuver, Queen Potema convinced the Order to defend Tamriel’s coast (Jarth).
3E 432
SourcesCelarus, Loremaster. The Old Ways. view Droon, Fal. The Lunar Lorkhan. view Horicles. Mannimarco, King Of Worms view il-Anselma, Taurce. Fragment: On Artaeum. view Jarth, Waughin. Feyfolken. view Jarth, Waughin. The Wolf Queen, Book Four. view Kolsgreg, Asgrim. Galerion the Mystic. view k'Thojj, Stronach, III. A Brief History of the Empire: Part One. view Lor, Tetronius. Mysticism. view The Monomyth: The Myth of Aurbis. view Pocket Guide to the Empire, v3 - The Blessed Isle: Alinor and The Summersets. view Salarth, The Archmage. Origin of Mages Guild. view Source of Chaos. view Sul, Marobar. Chimarvamidium: Ancient Tales of the Dwemer, Part VI. view Townway, Carlovac. 2920, The Last Year of the First Era. view Traven, Hannibal. The Black Arts On Trial view Vivec. Vehk's Teachings: Psijic Order and Psijic Endeavour. view
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