The Whispering Catacombs
"Forbidden tomes, ancient relics, powerful forgotten magics, all these and more lie beneath Naelea's church. Only a select few are allowed access to this so called Vault of Whispers. But if we get in and get past the enchantments and golems that guard it. It will be the biggest payday of our lives!" ~ Overheard conversation between members of the Black Hand.
Deep below the Cathedral of Curiosity, lies the Whispering Catacombs. A massive underground library complex that is home to the Naelean's vast collection of acquired knowledge. In every form it may it have presented itself the Vault's agents. It is considered by many to be the most secure construction on the continent. Though that has not deterred a fair share of thieves that have attempted infiltration of the Vault's defenses. The Naelean's even welcome attempts to break into Vault, paying enterprising souls to test the wards and traps that guard the Enlightened Archway. Should any succeed in the attempt, they report back to the clergy so that the method of entry can be protected in the future.
The Catacombs lie 150 feet below the main temple's narthex, reachable only by a hidden stairway leading to long maze of hallways and reading rooms. All these hallways eventually converge on the Enlightened Archway, a rune inscribed entrance to the structure's main chambers. It is taught by the clergy that the Archway was a gift to the first Seeker from Naelea herself upon the Catacomb's completion in the First Age. The runes that are inscribed upon the gold-veined marble bestowing the Goddess's blessing to any who pass beneath it. Beyond the Archway into the main chambers; hundreds of bookshelves, glass display cases, reading desks, and scribes that await the curious knowledge seeker. Floating lanterns of flickering flame provide light to readers as books float along the walkways, returning themselves to their proper places through some unknown enchantment. Ancient relics and powerful magic artifacts are protected behind enchanted display cases that show the item or relic's use and history at the touch of the glass. Deeper within, lie the Leviathan Vaults. A more secure area where only the chosen of the goddess may enter. Rumors surround these hidden chambers. Some even claiming the catastrophic magics that led to the Planar Confluence lie protected beyond the warded vault doors.
The Whispering Catacombs exist within their own pocket dimension. An enchantment performed during construction grants the Catacombs a nigh infinite space to expand as the collection grows. As a result, they also plays host to Extra-Planar visitors, who remain under the watchful eyes of the Seekers Order. It is common to see Devils, Beholders, and other creatures seeking Naelea's knowledge as they wander the shelves. These creatures, as are all who wish to visit the Catacombs, are under a strict contract of pacifism. Lest they suffer ejection from the Catacombs at best, execution by the Vault Breakers at worst. The allowance of such beings has often been a point of contention among members of the Triumvirate, the ruling body in Araneas. But the allowance of their visits is clearly reinforced by Naelea's belief that knowledge should be available to all.
The Whispering Catacombs also house the Vault Breakers. A group of select talented individuals that are tasked with keeping order within the Catacombs. As well as venturing into the deep and forgotten places of the realm to find long forgotten pieces of history and magic. The Vault Breakers are also able to contract outside sources to find these items for them. This once resulted in an uptick of adventurer's knocking down the temple doors looking for work. But as the appeal of adventuring work has declined, the Breakers have returned to tracking down items on their own. But that does not prevent them from seizing the opportunity to employ others as it presents itself. The Breakers keep their own dormitories and kitchen areas within the Catacombs, so as to always be present and ready to be tasked.
Alterations
Around the ending of the First Age, before the Planar Confluence. Enchanted skylights were built into the ceiling of the Vault to allow sun and moonlight through and brighten the previously dreary main chambers. Which in turn has also reduced the need for glasses among those who frequent the Vault.
Tourism
While access to the Vault of Whispers requires approval by the Naelean church. The Vault is a hot spot for historians, arcane practitioners, Clerics, Generals, and any others who seek information or knowledge. The Enlightened Archway is also visited often by students hoping to receive Naelea's blessing before tests or important events.
Founding Date
Year 65 of the First Age
Type
Archive
Parent Location
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