Welcome to Paradise!

Written by CoolG1319

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You find yourself in a vast expanse, surrounded by soft, billowy clouds that are as white as snow. The atmosphere is unnaturally calm, with not a whisper of wind to disturb the serene silence. This profound quietude envelops you, making it feel as though even a whisper could shatter the tranquillity.
As you gradually turn your gaze to the left, you see nothing but dense clouds drifting lazily across the sky, unconcerned and free. When you shift your gaze to the right, the scene remains unchanged. But when you look straight ahead, you are taken aback; before you stands an immense set of pearly white gates radiating a luminous, ethereal glow that feels almost otherworldly.
As you admire these magnificent gates, they suddenly swing open with a silent grace, unleashing a torrent of blinding light that envelops you like an unstoppable wave. Instinctively, you shield your eyes with your arms until the brilliance begins to fade. As you cautiously lower your arms, a resounding chorus fills the air—an enchanting symphony of harmonious voices accompanied by the majestic but gentle tones of an organ, welcoming you into the enveloping light within.

As the song reaches its final notes, you are met with a breathtaking and peculiar sight: sixteen tall, slender figures flutter just beyond the gates. Their translucent forms resemble those of ethereal apparitions, adorned with delicate wisps that seem to dance in an unseen zephyr. Swaying lightly, they move in perfect harmony, performing a mesmerizing dance to a melody known only to them, enchanting all who are fortunate enough to witness their otherworldly elegance. The four largest of these wisps appear to serve as wings, though they are not shaped like typical wings made for flight. Instead, they undulate gracefully, creating an illusion of floating while grounding the spirits in their mesmerizing display. With each movement, the air around them shimmers, as if the very fabric of reality bends to accommodate their enchanting presence. These creatures possess an unsettling feature: they have four eyes—two in the conventional positions and two perched ominously above them. Their eyes, as white as the surrounding clouds, lock onto your gaze with a chilling but oddly warm, intensity. The detail you find the most odd, however, is the obvious lack of halos.
Are these supposed to be angels? If so, they are not what I expected at all.
One of the angels float towards you with a fluid grace, its presence pulling you in like a strong vortex. She pauses mere inches from you, gently rubs your hair and addresses you with a voice gentle like a caring mother's.
"Welcome to paradise (YOUR NAME). My name is Clarice and I shall be your caretaker. Come on in to your new home."

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If you ended up here without being at the homepage first, be sure to go there as that's technically the beginning of the primer. With that said, happy reading!

— CoolG1319

What Is Caelumen?

This enchanting realm serves as the Heaven for virtuous and righteous souls. Caelumen is truly a magnificent paradise, free from sin, sorrow, anxiety, or any negativity whatsoever!
But this extraordinary world is more than just a boundless expanse of clouds as you likely expected; it boasts a rich and varied landscape dotted with stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and thriving communities as well as a diverse array of creatures and beings each possess captivating stories waiting to be discovered!

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How This Realm Came To Be

Millions of years ago, when Earth's skies were merely an endless expanse of emptiness, Our Gentle Giver took on The Devil in a friendly competition to see who could craft a more vibrant world for living beings.
Our Gentle Giver sculpted Caelumen from clouds, delicate linens, and precious metals such as gold, silver, and bronze, adorned with stunning gems like rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and opals. This meticulous creation took five long days to complete, after which He rested for the remaining two days.

Who Are The Gods Of This Realm?

They are but two gods who dutifully watch over us (as well as humans):
Ameuses, the Supreme God, the Sun God and the ultimate creator of Caelumen. He is celebrated under a myriad of names—far too numerous to count and venerated not only for His immense power and wisdom but also for His nurturing and fatherly essence.
Junii, the Moon Goddess and beloved wife of Ameuses. She is venerated for her selfless act of sacrificing her right eye to assist her husband in the creation of our Moon and serves as an embodiment of kindness, beauty, grace, and maternal love, making her an enduring symbol of devotion and nurturing spirit.
There are also their two children—eldest daughter Celeste, who takes after her father, and young son Apollo, who resembles his mother.

Clarice smiles warmly at you and says, "Next, I would love to guide you through the five most significant locations in this realm. Are you ready for a tour?"

Sure, I'd Love To!

"Splendid," Clarice exclaims, "Get ready!"
As she speaks, her body begins to stretch and transform before your eyes. Her neck elongates by several feet, while a cascade of long, white feathers envelops her arms. Her legs extend, becoming slender and graceful, with her feet morphing into three elongated toes. Meanwhile, her lower jaw stretches outward, giving rise to a formidable beak. The astonishing result of this metamorphosis is a magnificent stork.
You gaze in awe, your mouth agape, as Clarice gently descends to the ground, her beak gesturing invitingly to her back. Without hesitation, you accept the invitation and climb aboard. With a graceful rise, Clarice spreads her magnificent wings and, with a powerful flap, ascends into the sky, carrying you along into the boundless horizon.

The Garden of Eden

At the heart of Caelumen lies a breathtaking expanse teeming with towering trees, succulent fruits, vibrant vegetables, and luscious berries. Serene lakes and meandering streams enhance the allure of this lively ecosystem, home to countless earthly creatures. Our beloved Gentle Giver has affectionately dubbed it "The Garden of Eden," a fitting title for its idyllic charm.
This enchanting paradise showcases a diverse array of tree species, including robust oaks, graceful birches, and stately spruces. The landscape is adorned with lush green bushes bursting with juicy berries, while creeping vines weave their way up the trunks and across the ground. Crystal-clear lakes, sparkling streams, and winding rivers dot the terrain, interspersed with gentle hills, all meticulously arranged into various biomes to cater to the needs of its vibrant inhabitants.

Albis Nubila

West of The Garden of Eden lies the hub of all things grandiose, Albis Nubila, a breathtaking floating archipelago of clouds high above Caelumen and the home of the Angels of Light. This enchanting realm evokes a stark sense of magnificence and grandeur, featuring three grand cities, two charming towns, and a Central Church, all set against a backdrop of opulence and classical beauty. A magnificent waterfall cascades down the side, echoing the grandeur of ancient fountains, disappearing into the void below.
In Albis Nubila, luxury flows like a vibrant waterfall, creating an unforgettable spectacle. The bold, magnificent, and dramatic architecture of the cities shimmers in sunlight, with spires reminiscent of ancient temples reaching towards the heavens, and bridges woven from ethereal light. It is a place where the air is laced with affluence, and every evening, the sky transforms into a vibrant tapestry of golds, silvers, and bronzes, reminiscent of the rich colours of classical mosaics.

Requiem Nubibus

Turn your gaze to the East of The Garden and discover the quiet but enchanting Requiem Nubibus. Unlike any other place, this intimate community of delightful towns, nestled among lush foliage, serves as a sanctuary for both the Angel of Souls and human souls like yours. In this serene haven, we can take a moment to pause and reflect on our journeys while reconnecting with the core of our existence. Here, a soothing atmosphere envelops us, where the gentle whispers of the past guide us toward the next steps in the intricate tapestry of life.
Quaint buildings, homes, and shrines abound, primarily constructed of wood and slightly elevated above the ground. Characterized by their sliding doors and gently sloping roofs, these structures often feature charming tiles or thatched coverings. As you stroll through the streets, the soft rustle of leaves dances in the air, creating a harmonious backdrop to the vibrant colours of blooming flowers. Each corner reveals a hidden gem, inviting exploration and a deeper connection to the heartbeat of this serene sanctuary.

Urbem Ignis

The bustling metropolis Urbem Ignis, which lies North of The Garden of Eden, is a captivating location situated in a shallow crater, where a bustling mega city coexists with a collection of charming small towns and has its gargantuan Central Church in the center. It is also the residence of the Angels of Fire. The area boasts a warm climate, enhancing its inviting atmosphere. The mega city features a stunning blend of traditional and modern architecture, while the small towns offer a glimpse into local culture with colorful markets and festive celebrations. Residents are known for their hospitality, creating a welcoming environment for visitors.
This vibrant destination is alive with music, art, and culinary delights, making Urbem Ignis an enchanting place to explore and experience the richness of life.

Oceanus Agrum

Last but certainly not least, to the South, we find ourselves in the mesmerizing aquatic realm of Oceanus Agrum, a vast expanse brimming with underwater ecosystems and home to the Angels of Water. This extraordinary area is intricately layered, with each one serving distinct functions—ranging from residential spaces to schools and places of worship. The waters are alive with a spectacular array of sea creatures, from the tiniest shrimp to the largest whales, alongside a diverse collection of plants including algae, kelp, seaweed, and countless others.
Visitors are encouraged to embark on exhilarating dives to discover the breathtaking coral reefs and interact with a remarkable assortment of marine life. Each dive reveals the mesmerizing beauty and intricate balance of this underwater paradise.

If not, continue reading.

You shake your head. Clarice's smile slightly falters, but she is nonetheless cheerful.
"That's alright," she says, "There are still a lot of things to tell you about."

What/Who Are Angels?

The captivating realm is primarily occupied by angels—majestic celestial beings fashioned in the likeness of our divine creator. These ethereal beings are divided into four distinct ethnic groups.

Angels of Light

The Angels of Light, celebrated for their extraordinary capabilities to create, manipulate, and destroy all forms of light, stand as the most devout and virtuous among the angelic races in Caelumen. Their unwavering adherence to a culture of piety and righteousness is held with remarkable discipline, which often leads outsiders, especially the Angels of Fire to perceive them as traditional, overbearing, and rigid. Nonetheless, the Angels of Light possess a profound kindness and compassion, offering solace to troubled souls in ways that even the Angel of Souls cannot.

Angels of Souls

As an Angel of Souls, I embody one of the most vital roles in this realm. We are dedicated to nurturing and comforting human souls while guiding them through their journeys in the afterlife. Our presence is meant to instil a sense of peace, ensuring that each soul finds the solace it needs to move forward. Every encounter is a reminder of the delicate balance between pain and healing as we assist them in understanding their past and embracing what lies ahead.
Unlike the other races, we do not have the ability to manipulate a natural element; instead, we possess the power of shapeshifting, both ourselves and other living beings through physical contact or special objects. This unique ability allows us to reflect the true essence of the souls we encounter, helping them to see their own beauty and potential. By bridging the gap between their past and future, we empower them to shed the burdens that weigh them down and embrace the transformative journey that awaits.

Angels of Fire

The Angels of Fire, renowned for their formidable ability to create, destroy, and manipulate fire with ease, embody a spirit of carefree exuberance and vitality. Their vibrant nature, however, draws scorn from the Angels of Light, who perceive them as lacking in piety. Fiercely embracing a culture defined by bravery, resilience, strength, dedication, and an unwavering passion for their pursuits, the Angels of Fire stand as a testament to the power of fervour and vitality.

Angels of Water

The Angels of Water, esteemed for their remarkable ability to summon and manipulate water at will, embody a spirit of tranquillity and peace. They share a telepathic bond with all marine life, allowing them to communicate effortlessly and understand the needs of the ocean's diverse inhabitants. Their commitment to community and mediation is unparalleled, as they maintain high standards in their interactions, radiating an aura of calm that frequently resolves conflicts and fosters understanding among those they meet. Furthermore, they honour ancient worship traditions, even as these practices fade in modern society. Their ceremonies often take place near rivers and lakes, where the water’s reflective surface transforms into a canvas for their rituals. In these sacred spaces, the Angels of Water meld together songs and chants that resonate through time, serving as a poignant reminder of the profound connection between nature and humanity.

Important Organisations

These organizations and groups are essential to Caelumen; without them, the realm would be vastly different from what it is today.

The Central Church

Without question, The Central Church stands as the most influential and formidable organization in Caelumen, overseeing and regulating a myriad of critical aspects of society, including trade, currency circulation, infrastructure development, and information transmission. Under the exceptional leadership of Head Nun Mariam, this institution has masterfully navigated the intricate balance between power and faith, shaping both the spiritual and secular spheres of life. Guided by her vision, The Central Church has broadened its influence, establishing numerous branches across the region to promote unity and steadfast commitment to its principles. As a result, the group has become a beacon of protection and stability for the populace, often bridging gaps between diverse communities.

Electi Protectores

The Electi Protectores, meaning Elite Protectors in Latin, represent the pinnacle of skill and strength among the angelic forces in Caelumen. Their sole mission is to defend both the angelic realm and humanity from the malevolent forces of demons. Distinct from Caelumen's Army, this elite group comprises 2,450 dedicated members, organized into numerous subdivisions. Established in the aftermath of The Great Assault—a horrific massacre of humans—the Electi Protectores have been unwavering guardians, committed to preserving the sanctity of both realms. Each member undergoes rigorous training, honing their abilities to harness celestial power and wield ancient weapons imbued with divine energy. Together, they stand as a formidable shield, ready to confront any threats that dare to breach the boundaries of their protected worlds.

Our Religion

Solilunae is the principal religion we uphold, centering around the veneration of our deities, represented as the Sun and the Moon. Our rituals celebrate the cycles of day and night, honouring the balance they bring to our lives.
The emblem of Solilunae features a circle adorned with six triangles pointing outward, symbolizing the Sun, while a smaller circle below it stands for the Moon. This emblem serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of light and darkness, guiding our daily actions and spiritual pursuits. This sacred symbol is prominently displayed on rosaries, which each of us wears as a testament to our faith.

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Current Events

Even if it doesn't directly affect you, I strongly believe it's essential to stay informed about the happenings in your new home.

Rumours about The Central Church

Whispers abound that The Central Church conceals a vast vault deep within the basement of one of its locations, said to be brimming with precious metals, gemstones, and tomes filled with arcane and perilous knowledge, alongside a variety of magical artefacts. The legend originated when a former nun, having once been part of the organization, claimed she uncovered this hidden treasure while performing cleaning duties. Her story garnered widespread attention across the realm, ultimately reaching the ears of The Church, which swiftly disavowed the claims. In the aftermath, both the nun and those who disseminated her tale mysteriously disappeared, rumoured to be serving an extended period of community service as punishment for their actions.
Months have passed since this incident, yet fresh rumours continue to surface. Curious adventurers have begun to gather, drawn by tales of the nun's discovery and the promise of untold riches that lie beneath hallowed ground.

Read about one of these rumours below.

Rise of the Devotees of Solilunae

The group known as the "Devotees of Solilunae" represents a disturbing cult that has twisted the teachings of our deities into absurd, fantastical, and wildly exaggerated assertions. Their rituals, characterized by elaborate ceremonies, bear scant resemblance to the authentic practices of our faith. As their influence expands, they pose a significant threat to the very core of our beliefs. Though they emerged merely six weeks ago, their impact on once-peaceful communities has been palpable. Their gatherings are filled with fervent chanting and extravagant rituals, enticing the naive and the curious while fostering an atmosphere of confusion and fear. As their influence spreads, it becomes increasingly vital for true believers to come together and challenge their misleading narratives, safeguarding the essence of what we hold dear.

Clarice takes a deep breath, her eyes locked onto yours with an intensity that captivates you.
"This knowledge should give you a solid foundation in Caelumen. Should you desire to delve deeper into this realm, I'm here and ready to guide you!"