Mythkeeper

Amongs the Foru, the traditional role of Pukyo Kibajegi /ˈxuc̠o̞ kibɐʝ˗e̞gi/, or Mythkeeper, is perhaps one of the most venerated. Charged with keeping the ancients myths and legends of the Foru people alive, they are also responsible for seeking and nurturing new legends.

Career

Qualifications

Sensitivity to the natural world of Ehlum and a penchant for storytelling through song, dance, and prose.

Many Mythkeepers are trained at one of the many Nenami /ne̞nɐɱi/ (Magic) Lodges located throughout Ehlum.

Career Progression

Storytellers are generally categorized into those learning the craft, those who practice the craft, and those who teach the craft. There are no distinctions of rank and many experienced Storytellers are recognized as Tavu Memi, even if they do not teach in the lodges. Despite no formal ranking structure, individual Storytellers can often earn acclaim and respect that place them above others in prestige and esteem.

Ketu Kilyatir'e /ˈke̞tu kiˈʎɐtiɹ̠e̞/ (lit. The Simple Words) - Storyteller

Si Tonedzu /si tuŋe̞d͡zu/ (lit. Our Stories) - Mythkeeper

Tavu Memi /θɐvu ˈme̞mi/ (lit. Wise History) - Elder Mythkeeper

Payment & Reimbursement

In smaller villages, Foru often do not engage in complex economic structures and the Storyteller is a function that warrants the necessities of living as any function in the village. However, many Foru offer special gifts to their Storytellers, often in the hopes that these Storytellers might single them or a family member out for greater aspirations.

In larger cities, Storytellers often earn payment in exchange for performances.

Other Benefits

Storytellers are well respected in Foru society and can generally expect to be sheltered and fed in any village they perform in, or at any Nenami Lodge.

Perception

Purpose

Mythkeepers maintain the histories of the Foru people, relaying them in song, dance, and prose. They share the myths and legends and are charged with generating new myths by propelling other Foru to great deeds.

Social Status

Mythkeepers often receive an elevated status, but they are not decision makers. Many chieftains will seek counsel from Mythkeeperss, but some find them to be too idealistic for pragmatic governance.

Operations

Tools

Mythkeepers are often proficient in a wide variety of musical and percussive instruments.

Drums, shakers, flutes, lutes, and horns are all very common.

Type

Public Services

Demand

No village is without a Storyteller. Even if there is no Lodge trained Storyteller, a village will appoint someone to serve in the role.