The Watchful

However, there were always some who never forgot. Cast out by society, rejected by mainstream culture, they went underground. But they were there. They were always there. They safeguarded the knowledge lost, kept the records destroyed, remembered legends forgotten. They had to. If not, the Avani wouldn't be ready for her to return.

— The Legend of the Five Races

Though they hail from many different classes, races, nationalities, and groups, the Watchful all share one thing in common: the belief that the predominant understandings of religion and history are wrong. The Watchful believe that the Avani were once merely one of five races (though the others are now long gone) and that ancient avani civilization was nearly wiped out by a being known as the Sovereign. Rejected by society, they keep their loyalties hidden and their secrets underground.

Culture

Common Myths and Legends

One of the centerpieces of the Watcher's beliefs is the myth of The Five Races. This ancient story claims that the Avani were once one of five other species. As the tale says;

First were the Eloneem, inhabitants of the eastern lands and fair above all, known for their long lives and entrancing beauty. After them came the Delurhai, miners that lived deep within the mountains of Cel-Maknu, and the Goblins, bipedal reptiles renowned for their great strength and stringent loyalty. Finally were the Tall Folk, riders of the northern plains, and the Avani, the youngest and most delicate of all the races.

According to the story, for a long time these five races lived in relative peace and harmony. However, a being of unimaginable power known as the Sovereign launched an attack against the civilized species in an attempt to enslave/destroy them. The Watchers believe that these ancient Avani managed to drive this villainous being back into hiding; however, they also believe that the Sovereign will soon return and even now is setting things in motion in an effort to bring about their final victory.
However, they think there is a single source of hope: The Twelve Paragons, magicians who represent each of the twelve types of Magic in the world. They believe that in each generation of Avani twelve individuals are born with these magical powers. If these twelve are brought together and taught to use these powers, they could stand up to the Sovereign and have a chance to defeat it.

Rejected by Society

Since this story clashes significantly with the predominant historical narrative, it is mostly ignored by wider Avani society. This isolation is made even worse by their radical belief that civilization is constantly under threat by an amorphous force and their radical view of magic that contrasts widely with the simple light vs dark dichotomy that most birdfolk understand. Even more troubling to the average birdfolk, the Watchful believe that dark magic isn't necessarily evil. This final belief has subjected them to scrutiny by governments and religions. In some historical societies it has even been punished by death.
Due to the popular opinion being so turned against them, the Watchers are a mostly underground movement of devout adherents. They keep their identities secret, their meetings hidden. Their cultural identity is one of silent preparation, of maintaining a masquerade of normalcy. And they are good at it. Because of this, it is truly impossible to say how many birdfolk are actually part of the movement. The Watchers may be much larger or smaller than they seem.

Related Items

• The Four-Star

Languages spoken

• Ancient