17-04-2013, 05:29 PM
(This post was last modified: 26-10-2013, 11:20 AM by cerberus23.)
The Yoaral Healers
Written by Cerberus23 (Nathan Taylor)
Written by Cerberus23 (Nathan Taylor)
To walk on the Path of the Healer is to give ourselves over to our hopes, to turn our backs on our fear of the future. Hope is an eternal spring from which I drink, and it tastes sweet forever. Soareth the Healer.
Who are the Yoaral Healers
![[+]](/images/collapse_collapsed.png "[+]")
SpoilerThe Yoaral Healers are a widespread group of healers, their people covering much of the main continents of the Middle Realm. Unlike most of the occupants of the continents, they refused to settle down and forge cities, towns and villages into the land. They often travel in groups of at least 20 people, caravans of donkeys and wagons, moving from place to place, wherever their services are needed, or wherever they are able to find a sustainable area to settle, even if just for a time.
Often they will settle close to other settlements; towns and cities are often in need of healers and their supplies. In return they would sometimes accept protection of the town or city, if it was offered, along with food and other necessary supplies. Apprentices would sometimes be found among the population, from parents wishing to find work for their children, to adults that were tired of the settlements. Mercenaries or willing volunteers would be hired or accepted to be employed as guard and labourers.
Whilst payment is accepted for their services, no injured person would ever be turned away. Any and all would treated, be them Mesalian, Lucin or Xitian. It is accepted amongst those that follow the Healers path that all deserve treatment and care.
The time with which the Yoaral stay in one place differs, sometimes it will be mere days before they begin their journey again, sometimes it may be years. Sometimes they will be chased from the land that they settle by the townsfolk, sometimes they would be accepted with open arms. The chances are as unknown and unpredictable as Life itself, and the Yoaral Healers wouldn't have it any other way, for it is life they walk hand in hand with.
It is the Burden of our path, far too often, to heal that which will be broken before too long. Alliel Ominakna, Irisvar Healer.
Origins
The exact origins of the Yoaral Healers is unknown, some believe they originated long before the War of the Veld, although no real reports and evidence exist to prove that. The first known presence of the Healers were shown during the War, the call for anyone with any skill in the healing art was high. Both the battles and the freed slaves required aid, and the few Lucins that offered their aid to keep others alive were in need of support and help, wherever it came from. Often groups of healers and aides would be tasked with following troops and staying a ways from the battlefield and tending to the injured and dead.
As the War came to an end, and peace began to settle somewhat across the land, most of the healers banded together, but without a purpose or real need. For a while it remained that way, more and more healers gathered with the single group, along with refugees and other injured. Eventually the group had swelled to well over a thousand in number, and supplies were quickly running out. It was at this point when the group's situation was dire, that one person stepped forward from their ranks, a man by the name of Katarn, a simple hunter who had become a guard to protect the healers who had once saved his life after an attack. Katarn had earned his place amongst the group numbers, protecting them from several attacks from remnant Xitians and bandits.
Katarn gathered all of the greatest and most well-known of the healers to a meeting, describing the situation he saw before him, and where it will lead if action is not taken. He then told them of his idea, to keep the group alive and functioning, as well as supplied to help others, they would need to split into smaller groups, each independent and led by the best and wisest of the healers in each of the groups number. They would then each go their separate way, looking for a own place to settle and find safety.
There were days, if not weeks of meetings and discussions between the great healers and Katarn, time dragged on and supplies continued to dwindle. Eventually they gathered before a great many number of healers and refugees, and announced their plans. They had all come to a consensus over the Healers beliefs, their agreed duties and their path. Each of the greater healers would lead each smaller group, teaching the healers and those who followed them their ways. They would be the groups guiding hand, the groups teacher, and they would be known as Irisvar, as befitted their place.
Many weeks passed as preparations were made and people were moved into each of the groups, one last promise was made before they each left on their way. That the groups would return once more, unite as one again when they realm needed them most, when darkness swept over the lands and deaths hand threatened natures gift.
With that, the groups parted, and the way of the Yoaral Healers was born.
Time is short; you of all our people must know that we cannot sustain ourselves like this, I am not one of your number, but I can see only death at the end of this path. I beg of you, heed my words. - Katarn Oresbahn.
Group Hierarchy
Respect and Equality is one of the founding teachings amongst the Yoaral healers, it is expected by all that count themselves as one of their number. But even so, without a structure within each group, they know they would lose any form of coherency and direction. Leadership and Authority had to be established and followed to ensure that the Healers work was always quick, efficient and effective without delay.
Irisvar Healers: Irisvar are the guiding hand of the group, they lead the group in its travels, and are more often than not the most active when their skills are put to work. As well as this, they are the head teachers for new apprentices and aides alike. Irisvar are most often the eldest amongst the groups number, it is rare for one young in years to be chosen.
They are always women; Katarn accepted that men are often more drawn to Bias and ignorance when compared to Women and as such only women are accepted as Irisvar.
As their time in life begins to come to a close, an Irisvar is expected to pass on her title and responsibilities to one she believed to be worthy of the title. They would then spend the rest of their days resting and enjoying that which life has gifted them. If an Irisvar suddenly passes, from sickness or murder, then the next eldest healer would take her place.
Aides: Aides may be healers or herbalists that are simply too old or incapable to continue their field for whatever reason. They are the teachers and assistants to the Irisvar; they may also support the other healers when it is necessary. They are often called into service as diplomats when the group settles near a town, since it is rare for the Irisvar to leave the group even for a moment.
Healers: Healers are the most valuable asset within the group, although it is rare that they number more than a dozen. They do as the Irisvar commands and follow their teachings and training to heal and tend to those that are injured and sick. They are also expected to help and prescribe herbal remedies to those that request them, as well as giving those that are troubled in other ways counsel and advice.
Healers are always women, except on very rare occasions when a high talent for healing is found in a man. It was originally believed that only women had the grace and finesse to work as healers, however time has moved on and beliefs have changed. Tradition still holds a heavy sway though, and to this day it is very rare to find a man amongst their number.
Healers are trained in a small level of hunting to help support the group, and when they are not busy elsewhere they are expected to do so.
Herbalists: Herbalists usually number even less than the healers, simply because the need for them is lacking. They are expected to gather both supplies for the healers and also for the group as a whole when possible. They are also permitted to prescribe some herbal remedies to those requesting them; however it is rare for them to do so unless supervised by a healer. They are also expected to support the healers.
Guards: Guards are volunteers from the groups members that have once known battle, or are those from the cities and towns that the group passes that wish to leave their hometowns walls and travel. They patrol the camps limits, as well as go hunting near or within the forests or areas that the group settles in.
Refugees/Civilians: Originally refugees from the war without homes or families to return to, they quickly became one of the group, and often their numbers would be joined by others from places the group passes or settles near. They are expected to set the tents and the rest of the camp up, helped of course by everyone else; they also have the responsibility for keeping the fires burning and cooking the food. They are treated as one of the group, because they are.
We are as one; the group moves as a single being, guided by the Irisvar. We respect each other as one should respect each aspect of their body. Without a single part of us, we are not whole, and we will falter and fall. - Alliel Ominakna, Irisvar Healer.
Equipment and Clothing
Equipment and Clothing: The Equipment of the members of the group is a vital component that defines their role and their position within the group. Equipment and clothing is treated as a valuable and important resource, and treated with care and respect at all times.
Irisvar Equipment: Irisvar’s are the highest order in the Yoaral healers, and as such they typically have the best quality clothing. Their coats are sometimes dyed a deep blue, if the group is able to afford such an expensive process, and the Irisvar deems it necessary. Other than that the Irisvar may have some gold thread sewn into the hem of her sleeves, again if she deems it necessary.
Aside from the ‘higher’ quality clothing, the Irisvar’s clothing and equipment are much the same as the Healers equipment. Although they typically carry less with them as they have Aides for support.
Aides Equipment: Aide’s clothing and equipment closely match the Healers, although their coats are usually a distinctive black to distinguish them from Healers, and to serve as smarter clothing whenever they are tasked with diplomatic roles.
Depending on what the group has at its disposal, they may also carry texts with them, to teach the Apprentices the necessary skills and qualities that they will need in their future work as a Healer.
Healer Equipment: Healers are typically clothed in a simple woollen shirt and hard wearing leather trousers. On top of this they wear a simple, tough and warm long leather coat. The main feature of the coat is the multitude of pockets it has, both on the inside and the outside; these are used to store the many herbs and things that are used in their work. Along with these they also wear a pocket-belt around their waists; these are used to store more herbs and their other equipment.
Their equipment is mainly their small knife, used for cutting stitches and skin for situational use; it’s also used in preparing many of their herbs. They also use a needle and thread to stitch wounds, along with rolls of bandages to bind and cover wounds.
In dire situations, a small rod of iron will be applied, heated at the tip or length to cauterise a wound. Many Healers also carry two sets of wooden rods, one long set that is used with bandages or leather strips to act as a splint for broken limbs, and the other more thick and tougher, to be used for patients who will undergo painful operations. They will be asked to bite onto the rod and thus distract them a little from the pain and also prevent them from harming themselves more by biting their tongue or lips.
Depending on the group the Healer is assigned to, they may also have a satchel for transport of more herbs and equipment. These are usually only found within groups that are often a lot more mobile, since the Healer will need to carry a lot more in the way of supplies than those who are stationary and can have a well-stocked store.
Apprentice Healer Equipment: Apprentice clothing is usually of lesser quality than that of a full Healer as they are handed down from former Apprentices. Their equipment is also lacking compared to a Healer, and for good reason. Dangerous tools are only given to the Apprentice when they are believed to be capable of using them. Apprentice coats are usually a deep green, to symbolise the beginning growth of a new plant.
Herbalist Equipment: Herbalist equipment and clothing is even more spartan than an apprentice. They are usually only given a warm coat and clothing, along with a satchel, herbal wraps and a small preparation knife. Their coat isn’t made with any additional pockets like the Healers, but it’s still made with a high quality, for the Herbalist’s equipment isn’t made to single them out, they simply don’t require everything a healer does, and so the group need not waste precious resources for no reason.
Guard Equipment: Guard Equipment is at best made up of a simple set of Leather armour, and a warm woollen tunic and trousers worn otherwise. They are usually given a blade of some description, and a bow and arrow. Since guards are usually just tasked with keeping wild animals away from the camp, and also hunt for food, it is rare for them to need anything else.
“As you cast your past into the flames, step onto your new path and look to your future, look to your Sisters around you, and take up your coat to join their number. May your path lead you to great things; I welcome you, Apprentice Arua Ominakna, to the path of the Healer.” - Alliel Ominakna, Irisvar Healer.
Founding Teachings and Beliefs
The Yoaral Healers were founded on the teachings and beliefs set down and agreed on by the first Irisvars. They are the first thing to be taught to all new members of the group.
Life is in all things: The Yoaral Healers believe that Life exists in all things throughout the world, they believe that everything is in a constant cycle. Life grows and develops before dying, that death goes on to feed more life, life continues ever onward, never silenced. A creature is killed to feed other creatures, and plants. Trees are cut down to construct buildings, eventually those buildings collapse, and resources are scavenged to craft more buildings. Life continues onwards, an everlasting source.
The Fates: The Fates are the closest thing to a deity that the Yoaral Healers believe in. There is no definite recorded evidence of descriptions pertaining to what the group believe the Fates to look like. They just seem to believe as a whole in an overarching being or beings that write a path, a fate for each and every living being. Each path is not believed to be entirely restrictive; each has a little leeway and freedom for the paths walker.
The Paths: The Yoaral Healers have a belief in paths for all people, as written by the Fates, however they also teach the idea of our own paths, one that we choose to follow. These paths are chosen by each person because that is what they feel they fit into, the Path of the Healer for example, is often chosen by those who wish to protect and save those they care about. The Path of the Warrior is often chosen by those whos anger they cannot fully control and so train themselves to wield their anger as they wield their weapon. The Path of the Guardian is often chosen by those of stern will and a wish to protect and honour the good and just. The Path of the Artisan is chosen by those with overflowing imagination and creativity, who desire all to witness their works of the mind.
Each group has their own ideas governing each Path but there are underlying teachings which never differ. They teach that there are three stages to each path; Initiation, Acceptance and Dedication.
Initiation usually involves basic teaching and experience in a Path. It is often that those who delve into a path will falter and leave a path the most during the Initiation stage, as they find that it is not as suited to them as they believed.
Acceptance is the stage at which most training is undertaken; in a similar way to the Initiation stage, many people will leave their chosen path during the Acceptance stage, however unlike during Initiation, it is because they find they are incapable of utilizing the skills and abilities necessary for the chosen path.
Dedication is the final stage, when each person dedicates their life to that given path, when their training is complete and they take upon themselves the role that the path dictates they follow. It is rare and often frowned upon for people to leave the path once they have passed into the stage of Dedication, as they abandon their teachings and those that have spent their own knowledge, time and experience with them to gift them with their abilities. Many paths have the followers give oaths before stepping into the final stage for that very reason, to bind them to the path and prevent them from leaving so easily.
Some see this restriction as unfair, however it is believed that each person is given ample time to choose for themselves before taking the final steps on the path, and so the final stage should not be taken lightly.
Even after undertaking the stage of Dedication, it is taught that one will never stop walking their path, their teaching and training will continue forever onwards, and no one should ever shy away from it.
Respect: All things contain life, life must be respected at all times, as it is the healers duty to maintain and support lifes journey from its birth till its end. No person deserves to be treated disrespectfully without very good reason, and certainly not upon first meeting. Patients must always be given the utmost respect, from Lords to Criminals; whilst under a healers care they are to be treated as family and respected as such. The same applies to peoples property and homes.
Trust before Judgement: The Final teaching of the Yoaral Healers is known as Trust before Judgement. It is the simple teaching that no one should ever judge someone from outward appearance, race, rumours or anything at all. Each person should be given a base level of trust just as each must be given a base level of respect. There are exceptions for this, and is usually applied to known criminals and the likes; in that situation, caution is warranted, and reactions to that degree as well.
The Fates write your path, and Life guides you along it. Farran Manda, Aide to the Irisvar.
Duties
Every member of the group has duties that are expected of them, some apply to all of them, and some apply to certain roles of the group, the following are the main duties expected of most of them.
Cause No Harm: The duty of the Healers is to preserve life and help those who are ill and injured, as such they are not permitted to harm anyone unless in extreme situations of self-defence. Many groups include in the oaths that Healers have to swear words to forbid themselves from causing harm.
Help those in Need: Each member of the group, but especially the healers, has a duty to help those in need, giving them somewhere to stay, or giving them medical help and care.
Protect those unable to protect themselves: The guards and those able to fight that are expected to help protect and defend anyone that is unable to defend themselves. This involves giving those in need sanctuary within the camp and any protection they can render.
Work as a group: Each member of the group needs to be able to work well with each other, it is unlikely that grudges and problems will occur between group members, however each member is expected to work with each other member grudge, problem or not.
Never Idle: Being Idle is something that is detrimental to the group, as such everyone in the group has a duty to find work of their own if theyâve finished whatever their role demands they do.
Stay safe and well: The group needs everyone to ensure that they remain functional; itâs imperative that each group member makes sure that they donât hurt themselves and itâs their duty to go to a healer or someone that can help them if they do get hurt or ill.
[align=center]You will not harm this man whilst he is under my care, is that understood? If you do so, I will ensure that you regret it. Hellen Farrar, Elder Healer
Every member of the group has duties that are expected of them, some apply to all of them, and some apply to certain roles of the group, the following are the main duties expected of most of them.
Cause No Harm: The duty of the Healers is to preserve life and help those who are ill and injured, as such they are not permitted to harm anyone unless in extreme situations of self-defence. Many groups include in the oaths that Healers have to swear words to forbid themselves from causing harm.
Help those in Need: Each member of the group, but especially the healers, has a duty to help those in need, giving them somewhere to stay, or giving them medical help and care.
Protect those unable to protect themselves: The guards and those able to fight that are expected to help protect and defend anyone that is unable to defend themselves. This involves giving those in need sanctuary within the camp and any protection they can render.
Work as a group: Each member of the group needs to be able to work well with each other, it is unlikely that grudges and problems will occur between group members, however each member is expected to work with each other member grudge, problem or not.
Never Idle: Being Idle is something that is detrimental to the group, as such everyone in the group has a duty to find work of their own if theyâve finished whatever their role demands they do.
Stay safe and well: The group needs everyone to ensure that they remain functional; itâs imperative that each group member makes sure that they donât hurt themselves and itâs their duty to go to a healer or someone that can help them if they do get hurt or ill.
[align=center]You will not harm this man whilst he is under my care, is that understood? If you do so, I will ensure that you regret it. Hellen Farrar, Elder Healer
Traditions and Ceremonies
There are many Traditions and Ceremonies that the Yoaral Healers follow, the following are a selection of them.
Birthing Traditions and Ceremonies: It is rare for any form of ceremonies to take place to celebrate pregnancy, however during the actual birth, there are certain traditions that are expected to be adhered to, most simply exist to ease the birth of the child, and to ensure its safety along with the mothers.
Privacy is of utmost importance, the birth of a child is a momentous occasion and as such should be respected at all times, only those that need be present during the birth should be, this way the mother will not feel pressured more than she already is, it will also ensure that communication is kept to a minimum and confusion will be lessened as such. With fewer people present it also helps to manage hygiene and make sure that the baby will be born into a safe environment.
Usually the only people expected and needed to be present during the birth is the Irisvar and two Healers, along with an Aide or Herbalist. Men are rarely permitted into the Birthing room, including the father of the child. The room is meant to be a female only area, just as healing is traditionally a female only role, often its believed that men, even the father may cause distress or worry in the Mother, and thus cause complications in the birthing.
Once the child is born, and checked to be healthy, they will be swaddled in cloth and given to the Mother. It is after that point that the Father is permitted to enter, along with any other family members, friends and guests will be permitted to enter. Once those that wish to meet the new child and congratulate the parents have left, the Irisvar and the Healers that participated in the birthing will say prayers to wish the child a safe life and to ensure the Fates write for them a strong path.
After that, the family is allowed to return to their home with the child, although a healer will be tasked to undertake regular check-ups on the child and mother.
Coming of Age Ceremonies and Traditions: Not all of the Yoaral Healers groups see coming of age as important. However for those that do, there is typically a difference between genders for when the child will be considered of age. For Males it is typically between the ages of 14 and 16, it differs slightly between groups. For Females, they are considered of age once they have begun to bleed. This of course differs between each woman; however once they have bled they are considered capable of becoming apprenticed to the healers, if of course they wish to.
Ceremonies to celebrate the coming of age are even rarer than the simple acknowledgement of the importance of coming of age. Usually it is kept within the childs family, a meal and burning of some of the childs older clothes are a usual sight, to symbolise moving on from their youth. In Groups where Alcohol is permitted, which again is very rare, the child would be given some to drink also.
Union Ceremonies and Traditions: The idea of Union, often known as Bonding or Marriage has existed for as long as anyone can remember, and is just as active amongst the Yoaral healers. The idea behind Union within the healers is more often than not the creation of life through childbirth, although of course love is the main factor in whom people choose to bond with.
Homosexual Unions are not unheard of; love is of course the defining factor of the Bond, however sometimes they are frowned upon, since no new life will be born of the Union. Some Groups do not accept same sex relationships and some shun those that express such feelings and inclinations, although it is very rare to find such unaccepting groups.
The actual ceremony is a very simple affair, consisting of a joining of hands between the two lovers before an ancient tree. The tree symbolises everlasting life and will ensure the couples everlasting love for each other. The lovers will swear their love and dedication to each other before the groups Irisvar, and as long as she deems the couples feelings to be true and honest, she will set upon their heads crowns of leaves from the Ancient tree. After that they are considered joined, and are permitted to share each otherâs home, property and bed.
Funeral Ceremonies and Traditions: Death is a very important part of the Yoaral Healers teachings, death helps Life continue, and is all part of Life's cycle. Upon a member of the groups passing, there is a day set aside for mourning, once that time has passed the body is wrapped in the best cloth or silk the group has to offer, and carried by the persons family or close friends into the forest or wild area near to the camps location. The body is laid in centre or as close as the group can get to the centre of the forest or wild area. The Irisvar or Elder Healer will speak some prayers to thank the dead for their work in life, and to bid them farewell. After that, the body is left to the animals of the forest and the group returns to their camp.
If a Healers Patient passes away, and the dead's funeral rites are known, then they will be carried out by the Irisvar or the dead's friends and family. If they are unknown, then they will be given the same ceremony as a member of the group.
Apprenticeship Ceremony: When a young woman decides to try and join the healers, they become apprenticed to the groups healers. There is a small ceremony to celebrate the apprenticeship, which mainly involves the burning of the Apprentices clothing and the giving of the apprentices coat and tools, a smaller and lesser version of the Healers coat, usually dyed green or black. This process symbolises the movement from the apprentices old life to their new one with the healers. They then give oaths to the Irisvar and the group, before the healers, pledging themselves to walk the path of the healer and learn their ways. After that they are sworn apprentices of the group and are given beds within the apprentices tents.
Healers Ceremony: Once an Apprentice has completed their training, and is accepted by the Irisvar and the Elder Healers of the group as a fully-fledged Healer. She gives up her apprentice coat and tools, for another to use when the time comes, and accepts her proper Healers coat, Belt and Tools. She swears new oaths, dedicating herself to the Path of the Healer, to protect and serve Life and to never harm another.
Irisvar Election Ceremony: When an Irisvar chooses her successor, there is a ceremony in which the current Irisvar gives over her tools, her coat and her title. The new Irisvar then makes an oath to the group before helping the old Irisvar to her bed. Until the old Irisvar passes, it is the duty of the new Irisvar to care for the old one.
[align=center]Life brought you into this world, time helped you grow, the Fates wrote your path and Life guided you along it. Time has brought you to your end, and the Fates wrote it so, Life will flourish from your passing, but even as time moves on, our memories will not fade, we will remember you. Arua Ominakna, Irisvar Healer.
There are many Traditions and Ceremonies that the Yoaral Healers follow, the following are a selection of them.
Birthing Traditions and Ceremonies: It is rare for any form of ceremonies to take place to celebrate pregnancy, however during the actual birth, there are certain traditions that are expected to be adhered to, most simply exist to ease the birth of the child, and to ensure its safety along with the mothers.
Privacy is of utmost importance, the birth of a child is a momentous occasion and as such should be respected at all times, only those that need be present during the birth should be, this way the mother will not feel pressured more than she already is, it will also ensure that communication is kept to a minimum and confusion will be lessened as such. With fewer people present it also helps to manage hygiene and make sure that the baby will be born into a safe environment.
Usually the only people expected and needed to be present during the birth is the Irisvar and two Healers, along with an Aide or Herbalist. Men are rarely permitted into the Birthing room, including the father of the child. The room is meant to be a female only area, just as healing is traditionally a female only role, often its believed that men, even the father may cause distress or worry in the Mother, and thus cause complications in the birthing.
Once the child is born, and checked to be healthy, they will be swaddled in cloth and given to the Mother. It is after that point that the Father is permitted to enter, along with any other family members, friends and guests will be permitted to enter. Once those that wish to meet the new child and congratulate the parents have left, the Irisvar and the Healers that participated in the birthing will say prayers to wish the child a safe life and to ensure the Fates write for them a strong path.
After that, the family is allowed to return to their home with the child, although a healer will be tasked to undertake regular check-ups on the child and mother.
Coming of Age Ceremonies and Traditions: Not all of the Yoaral Healers groups see coming of age as important. However for those that do, there is typically a difference between genders for when the child will be considered of age. For Males it is typically between the ages of 14 and 16, it differs slightly between groups. For Females, they are considered of age once they have begun to bleed. This of course differs between each woman; however once they have bled they are considered capable of becoming apprenticed to the healers, if of course they wish to.
Ceremonies to celebrate the coming of age are even rarer than the simple acknowledgement of the importance of coming of age. Usually it is kept within the childs family, a meal and burning of some of the childs older clothes are a usual sight, to symbolise moving on from their youth. In Groups where Alcohol is permitted, which again is very rare, the child would be given some to drink also.
Union Ceremonies and Traditions: The idea of Union, often known as Bonding or Marriage has existed for as long as anyone can remember, and is just as active amongst the Yoaral healers. The idea behind Union within the healers is more often than not the creation of life through childbirth, although of course love is the main factor in whom people choose to bond with.
Homosexual Unions are not unheard of; love is of course the defining factor of the Bond, however sometimes they are frowned upon, since no new life will be born of the Union. Some Groups do not accept same sex relationships and some shun those that express such feelings and inclinations, although it is very rare to find such unaccepting groups.
The actual ceremony is a very simple affair, consisting of a joining of hands between the two lovers before an ancient tree. The tree symbolises everlasting life and will ensure the couples everlasting love for each other. The lovers will swear their love and dedication to each other before the groups Irisvar, and as long as she deems the couples feelings to be true and honest, she will set upon their heads crowns of leaves from the Ancient tree. After that they are considered joined, and are permitted to share each otherâs home, property and bed.
Funeral Ceremonies and Traditions: Death is a very important part of the Yoaral Healers teachings, death helps Life continue, and is all part of Life's cycle. Upon a member of the groups passing, there is a day set aside for mourning, once that time has passed the body is wrapped in the best cloth or silk the group has to offer, and carried by the persons family or close friends into the forest or wild area near to the camps location. The body is laid in centre or as close as the group can get to the centre of the forest or wild area. The Irisvar or Elder Healer will speak some prayers to thank the dead for their work in life, and to bid them farewell. After that, the body is left to the animals of the forest and the group returns to their camp.
If a Healers Patient passes away, and the dead's funeral rites are known, then they will be carried out by the Irisvar or the dead's friends and family. If they are unknown, then they will be given the same ceremony as a member of the group.
Apprenticeship Ceremony: When a young woman decides to try and join the healers, they become apprenticed to the groups healers. There is a small ceremony to celebrate the apprenticeship, which mainly involves the burning of the Apprentices clothing and the giving of the apprentices coat and tools, a smaller and lesser version of the Healers coat, usually dyed green or black. This process symbolises the movement from the apprentices old life to their new one with the healers. They then give oaths to the Irisvar and the group, before the healers, pledging themselves to walk the path of the healer and learn their ways. After that they are sworn apprentices of the group and are given beds within the apprentices tents.
Healers Ceremony: Once an Apprentice has completed their training, and is accepted by the Irisvar and the Elder Healers of the group as a fully-fledged Healer. She gives up her apprentice coat and tools, for another to use when the time comes, and accepts her proper Healers coat, Belt and Tools. She swears new oaths, dedicating herself to the Path of the Healer, to protect and serve Life and to never harm another.
Irisvar Election Ceremony: When an Irisvar chooses her successor, there is a ceremony in which the current Irisvar gives over her tools, her coat and her title. The new Irisvar then makes an oath to the group before helping the old Irisvar to her bed. Until the old Irisvar passes, it is the duty of the new Irisvar to care for the old one.
[align=center]Life brought you into this world, time helped you grow, the Fates wrote your path and Life guided you along it. Time has brought you to your end, and the Fates wrote it so, Life will flourish from your passing, but even as time moves on, our memories will not fade, we will remember you. Arua Ominakna, Irisvar Healer.
Laws and Justice
The Yoaral Healers are trusting of their people, they have a very strong idea of Right and Wrong, and this is taught very thoroughly to each of their number. Yet temptation can fell even the most devout and strongest of will. Anger can turn even the softest of hearts and happiest of souls, and grief can turn even the most powerful minds.
The Healers accept the possibility that without law and punishment, harm may end up coming more readily to their people, and as such a set of laws have been set down. As with many things with the different groups, different experiences and cultures will have been encountered over the years of travel and as such often laws differ in ways between each of the groups. Some may be minor and some may be major differences, or entirely new laws. However there are four laws that can never be broken. These four are known as the Binding Four, any breaking of them would result at the very least in Exile.
The Binding Four
The Yoaral Healers are trusting of their people, they have a very strong idea of Right and Wrong, and this is taught very thoroughly to each of their number. Yet temptation can fell even the most devout and strongest of will. Anger can turn even the softest of hearts and happiest of souls, and grief can turn even the most powerful minds.
The Healers accept the possibility that without law and punishment, harm may end up coming more readily to their people, and as such a set of laws have been set down. As with many things with the different groups, different experiences and cultures will have been encountered over the years of travel and as such often laws differ in ways between each of the groups. Some may be minor and some may be major differences, or entirely new laws. However there are four laws that can never be broken. These four are known as the Binding Four, any breaking of them would result at the very least in Exile.
The Binding Four
- 1. Murder: Life is a gift that nature has given to each and every one of its people, only the fates may take it away from us, and as such any form of murder is a crime.
There are different forms of murder that the healers recognise, each is a crime of course, however each will be dealt with in a slightly different way.
Murder by misconduct by a healer, herbalist or aide to a patient is treated as the highest failure of their craft. They are tasked with the protection and saving of life, to fail at that through bad practice and lack of care for the importance of life is the worst of crimes a healer can commit. The accused healer will be brought before a council of no less than 10 of her peers, including the Irisvar and some of her teachers, if any still remain in the group.
If the accused is found to have purposefully murdered a patient, for whatever reason, then they will be stripped of all belongings including clothing, their hands will be removed and if the healer survives her wounds and they have healed fully, the accused will then be exiled from the group.
If the Accused is found to have failed because of a lapse in her education or lack of proper skill in her work, then she will be imprisoned for no less than a month, she will then return to her position as an Apprentice and begin her teaching anew. If after her teaching is complete and her abilities tested, she is still found to be incapable to fulfil her duty as a healer, then she will be given a choice, remain with the group as a Herbalist or civilian, or leave.
Murder by Strength of Arms is a crime reserved for the guards of the group. Whilst guards are expected to defend the group at all costs, this does not make them exempt from accusations of murder. A guard can be accused of murder if it is believed that he killed either a member of the group or of killing an outsider without proper reason. A council including the Irisvar, 2 Elder healers and the eldest guards would be called to try the accused, if found guilty he would be exiled from the group and all his belongings taken from him.
Murder by any other means covers any other accusations of murders from any other members of the group excluding Guards. No matter the reason or cause of death, the accused will always be tried by a council consisting of the Irisvar, 4 elder healers and 5 of the accused peers, if found guilty, the accused will be exiled and all belongings taken from them.
This line is drawn at Self Defence, however the accused would be brought before a council consisting of the Irisvar and the 4 eldest healers for trial regardless, to clarify the statements and ensure the innocence of the accused.
2. Rape: The Yoaral Healers treat the act of making Love as sacred, and as such Rape or any abuse of a sexual nature is treated very severely. Anyone accused of rape would be brought before a council of Healers and the Irisvar, and if found guilty, the accused would be castrated and cast out from the group.
3. Theft: Respect is one of the founding teachings of Yoaral Healers, respect for both life and others, and as such theft is treated very badly, as it defies the groupâs base teachings. Anyone accused of theft is brought before the Irisvar, their belongings will be searched and any stolen goods found will be returned to their owner. The majority of the accused belongings will be taken from them and given to the group, before the accused is exiled from the group.
If Violence is involved with the theft, then the accused will also lose several of their fingers.
4. Abuse: Abuse of any form is unforgiveable, no matter the cause or reasoning. Violence, both verbal and physical shows a lack of care and respect for Life or the group. Accused are brought before a council of the Irisvar, a selection of the Elder healers and Citizens of the group. If found guilty they are exiled from the group, and depending on the cause they are given one of a few punishments. Verbal abuse is given the punishment of losing their tongue, Physical abuse means the accused loses their hands, sexual abuse or abuse towards a child suffers the highest punishment, and for good reason, the accused is castrated and loses at least one hand.[/list:u]
[align=center]You stand before us, accused of the horrific act of the murder of one of your fellow Guards. As the Irisvar of the group It is my duty to declare your punishment, you have forsaken our laws and the very teachings upon which our people are built on, as such I think you know the words I am about to speak. Liliana Eron, Irisvar Healer.
Where are the Yoaral Healers Now
As time passed, and the Healers groups spread across the middle realm, travelling from settlement to settlement, helping those that they could, over time some groups swelled with numbers, and ended up having to split, or face the same, or face the same problem that drove them to split in the first place. On the other hand, some groups dwindled, as people left the groups fold, having gained all they could, eventually some simply disbanded, others merged with other groups that they met along the way.
Some groups perished or were weakened by simple problems, like freezing winters and lack of food. Some were wiped out by bandit raids and as the Civil war began to break out across the land, some were wiped out when they attempted to step in and help protect and help those in need, as their teachings decreed.
Several groups saw the war across the land as the dark times the original groups believed would reunite the healers to focus their efforts and help the masses with their abilities. As such they sought out other groups, tried to refocus their efforts and help any and all in need, but for most this was a death sentence, the larger groups made them slower, and a much more appealing target to those who would seek out people to exact their anger and rage, or simply wanted the property the Healers held on to. As such many of the groups were lost and overwhelmed by war and death.
Many of the remaining groups remain in secluded or distanced areas, helping those they come across, settlements or travellers alike.
[align=center]“We cannot fight this war for the people my Apprentice, you know that as well as I, we are not made for fighting. We can only help those we find. Death seeks us all, let us not seek it at the same time.” Alliel Ominakna, Irisvar Healer.
This Lore is an expansion on the groups of Healers that I created through Arua's backstory, its as much a reminder of ethics and ideas for me whilst playing her as it is just extra lore, still a WIP, I need to write a section on Mantra's and Prayers, as well as Camp setups and where the group is at during the current period. Although feel free to comment and such.
As time passed, and the Healers groups spread across the middle realm, travelling from settlement to settlement, helping those that they could, over time some groups swelled with numbers, and ended up having to split, or face the same, or face the same problem that drove them to split in the first place. On the other hand, some groups dwindled, as people left the groups fold, having gained all they could, eventually some simply disbanded, others merged with other groups that they met along the way.
Some groups perished or were weakened by simple problems, like freezing winters and lack of food. Some were wiped out by bandit raids and as the Civil war began to break out across the land, some were wiped out when they attempted to step in and help protect and help those in need, as their teachings decreed.
Several groups saw the war across the land as the dark times the original groups believed would reunite the healers to focus their efforts and help the masses with their abilities. As such they sought out other groups, tried to refocus their efforts and help any and all in need, but for most this was a death sentence, the larger groups made them slower, and a much more appealing target to those who would seek out people to exact their anger and rage, or simply wanted the property the Healers held on to. As such many of the groups were lost and overwhelmed by war and death.
Many of the remaining groups remain in secluded or distanced areas, helping those they come across, settlements or travellers alike.
[align=center]“We cannot fight this war for the people my Apprentice, you know that as well as I, we are not made for fighting. We can only help those we find. Death seeks us all, let us not seek it at the same time.” Alliel Ominakna, Irisvar Healer.
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