Selene's Temple
Selene's Temple is an awe-inspiring structure that graces the coastline of this aquatic kingdom. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Encura's founder. Constructed by the hands of the first generations of Encurans, the temple's massive rocks were unearthed from the deep sea floors and carefully placed to form its striking pyramid shape. Its towering presence overlooks the shimmering waters, embodying both the history and spirit of Encura.
The Architecture and Layout
Twin stairs ascend the entire height of the pyramid, leading to the temple's interior, which is divided into various chambers. Each space within Selene's Temple serves a vital role, reflecting the multifaceted duties of the Shoal of Listeners. Among the chambers are:
Counseling Halls provide solace to citizens seeking guidance or comfort, fostering the strong sense of community that defines Encura. Here, the Listeners offer wisdom and healing words to troubled souls.
Treatment Rooms are dedicated to the healing arts. Patients await the skilled care of Encuran healers in these chambers, which hum with the soft chants of spells and the rustle of herbs prepared for remedies.
Archives serve as the guardians of Encura's history. These chambers house records meticulously written on traditional materials. Trade procures imported writing utensils and ink, while vital underwater information is carved into sturdy rocks, creating enduring sculptures ranging from memorials to shop signs.
Ritual Chambers
The top two floors of Selene's Temple are reserved for sacred rituals and contemplation:
The Uppermost Chamber is a small, exclusive space that hosts official rituals, including the renowned Water Embrace Ritual. Only the necessary participants are invited to witness or partake in these sacred ceremonies, ensuring their sanctity and focus.
The Hall of Silence offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and sea. It is a sanctuary for reflection and connection to nature, embodying the Followers of Selene’s belief: “Gods are nowhere. Gods are everywhere.” Here, the sea itself becomes the deity, whispering its timeless wisdom to those who listen. The room is bathed in ethereal light filtered through enchanted glass, adding to its serene and spiritual atmosphere.
The Statue of Selene
At the heart of the Hall of Silence stands a poignant and unique memorial: a hollow, mineralized shell of Selene herself. The "statue" appears at first glance to be a weathered mermaid sculpture, with missing pieces—including most of her face—adding to its mystique. Upon closer inspection, visitors realize it is not a statue at all but the preserved remains of Selene's skin, a tragic remnant of her battle with the "Marble Fingers" disease. Its emptiness within captures the sense of loss and reverence that surrounds her memory, symbolizing both the fragility and resilience of Encura's spirit.
A Place of Reflection
Selene’s Temple is more than a historical site; it is a living part of Encura’s identity. Whether providing counsel, preserving history, or offering a space for quiet reflection, it embodies the values of unity, resilience, and harmony with the natural world. For the merfolk and their kin, it is a place to honor their past and draw inspiration for their future.
Selene's Temple stands not just as stone and sea but as a bridge between the past and the present. It whispers to those who enter, echoing the voice of the waves and the enduring spirit of its people. To stand within its halls is to stand within the heart of Encura itself.
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