The Fey Court
The Fey Court is the collected rites and beliefs often practiced by the denizens of the Deepwoods. Not a religion in the most classical sense, as the Fey are not necessarily considered as objects of worship. Rather, it is a collection of stories, traditions, rituals, and rites employed to avoid angering the Fey, or how to sppease them.
History
The denizens of the Deepwoods have had to constantly be mindful of the Fey and their emotions. Over the millennia that have passed since the Godswar and the Burning of the World Tree by Castan Beastbane, a complex system of rites, traditions, and rituals were developed by the wood elven cultures in order to co-exist with the courts. These are often supported by folklore or stories in which an unwise traveler fails to appease the fey and is subject to misfortune.
The Fey Court as such is an artificial term, meant to encompass all of those oral traditions and rituals practiced by Deepwoods natives, and no real central authority or oversight exists apart from local druids and ritualists.
A very common misconception is that the Fey are malevolent or harmful. This is not the case, and it usually stems from stories of their misdeeds. But in reality, the fey is just like and other culture and should be approached as such, and the vilification done by stories often actually harms relations with and common conceptions of the fey.
Cosmological Views
The Courts
The Seelie Court
The Seelie Court emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment. They may be more open and expressive, valuing celebrations, festivities, and indulgences. The Seelie Court is often associated with light, life, and joy, and is known to embody a way of life that emphasizes pleasure and joy as the primary aims of life. They are also generally seen as more benevolent, kind, and protective of nature, and are often sought out by travelers and those in need of their help. It should be noted that the Seelie Court is by no means "good" by our standards, and can easily be just as cruel and vicious as their Unseelie counterparts. For those seeking to form a pact with a Fey from the Seelie Court, it is important to remember that they are not bound by the same laws as mortals and their motivations are often inscrutable. It is recommended to approach with caution and not to become lost in the revelries and pleasures of the Seelie, as you become very susceptible to their pranks or accidentally insult them.The Unseelie Court
The Unseelie Court, often seen as the counterpart to the more benevolent Seelie Court, is known for its more somber and disciplined approach to the world of the fey. The Unseelie Court adheres to embracing emotional detachment and self-control, as well as viewing the world with a jaded and skeptical eye. These fey are often seen as darker and more unpredictable, with a reputation for playing tricks and causing mischief. However, they also value strength, determination, and perseverance, and may view those who anger them as weak or unworthy. The Unseelie Court fey are also often obsessed with the idea of not being forgotten or fading away, which influences their actions and motivations. This means that they might act in ways that are ruthless or cruel, in order to secure their place in the memories of others and ensure their legacy. To avoid angering the Unseelie Court, it is important to be respectful, cautious, and to avoid making promises one cannot keep. If one does accidentally anger the Unseelie Fey, it may be necessary to make amends through a task or quest or to offer a sincere apology. Pacts with the Unseelie Court are mot to be taken lightly, as they demand a great deal of devotion and may require one to make significant sacrifices. However, they can also offer a great power and rewards to those who fulfill their obligations.Tenets of Faith
The following is a list of some of the most common rituals used to appease or avoid angering the Fey. Please note that these rituals have varying effectiveness depending on the Fey, individual, and region, and should not under any circumstances be used as a guide. It is recommended to seek the help of a knowledgeable individual or to consult with a specialist in fey magic before making a pact with a fey:
Offering gifts such as flowers, food, or small trinkets at the base of a tree or at a crossroads.
Making a low bow or curtsy when passing by a fey ring or mounds.
Speaking politely and avoiding sarcasm, proverbs, or insults in the presence of the fey.
Singing or playing music as a form of tribute.
Treading lightly and avoiding disturbing the natural surroundings.
Painting symbols of protection or good luck on one's skin or clothing.
Carrying a talisman or charm that represents good luck and protection.
Avoiding picking flowers or fruits in the Deepwoods without asking permission from the fey first.
Speaking a specific rhyme or chant.
Acknowledging fey presence with a nod or a whispered blessing.
The Order of Chroniclers hereby discharges any responsibility for any and all harm, loss, or liability that may arise from the use of information provided above for purposes other than informational or educational in nature. The Order of Chroniclers does not endorse any actions taken based on the information and will not be held accountable for any negative consequences that may result from its utilization.
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