Shadows Of The Empire

Bel'ameth, Arms of the Goddess

a small tribute to a zone that has quickly become one of my favorites to be ever added to WoW

Elune design, aligned with Winter Queen's but opposing her in direction. WIP

Whisperwind by Macarena Kahl

World of Warcraft | Teldrassil ✨🌙

TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE l APRIL 2024 JOSHUA INTINI

Delving into Blackfathom Deeps

An excerpt from Glory to the Queen Born of Stars:

"Of the wonders our queen brought to this world, perhaps none was so great as Lathar'Lazal. As masons constructed the temple, Azshara shaped the waters around it with the Scepter of Tides. She spoke the names of the rivers and the seas, and they moved at her command. Salt water from the roaring ocean and fresh water from the mountain streams trickled to Azshara's side. With the flick of her wrist, the queen partitioned them into great lakes that hugged Lathar'Lazal's sturdy foundation."

Architecture:

Blackfathom Deeps, as we know it today, was once called "Lathar'Lazal," or "Seat of the Sky" in Darnassian. Long ago, this was a temple to Elune built by Queen Azshara with the aid of Sharas'dal (her tide-scepter) in the ages before the Sundering. Pelagic imagery still endures in the architecture of these sunken ruins, described at one point to have contained "gem-encrusted bridges and effervescent lakes." Motifs of fish-head fountains, wave-inspired stonework, scale-like patterns, and ionic columns are repeated in the masonry and pottery of the forlorn halls. It is unclear what the seafoam-colored stone the temple is made of, though it is interesting to note that it almost bears a resemblance to a body of water's surface: like the way a pool shifts and shimmers with the light. Some kind of material borne of the sea, melded together with the queen's Sharas'dal, or a common mineral of the region? They could also simply bear cracks and signs of weathering considering the age of the temple, but watery stone would be fitting symbolically.

Azshara's Influence:

"Whenever she [Azshara] walked the bridges of Lathar'Lazal, nearby schools of exotic fish would array themselves in colorful patterns. She even kept a colossal sea giant bound to one of the lakes. She used her scepter to make him perform tricks and feats of strength, much to the delight of the watching Highborne. Curious night elves from the far corners of the empire journeyed to Lathar'Lazal to study the mythical creature and his habits."

Perhaps Lathar'Lazal was a bustling tourist attraction then in the days of the empire, both for education and entertainment. With such tourism drawn to the temple, I wonder if the nearby land/city of Zoram benefited from this economically.

The passage above seems to imply that the Highborne rather enjoyed the spectacle of the imprisoned sea giant, and this poses an interesting dichotomy to the original purpose of the temple: a house of Elune, simultaneously hosting a creature trapped against its will. Such an exhibition created by Azshara here speaks to her penchant for show and amusement, and possible disregard for the faith. If only a historical record existed of a priestess's personal journal or the like; and whether she would be disappointed with such behavior, or complacent in the suffering of other races/creatures as night elves often were during this era.

Tideweaver:

Queen Azshara, even before her naga transformation, always had a fascinating dominion over water, both with her scepter Sharas'dal and the Well of Eternity. Supposedly Xavius was the one who actually gifted the queen with this ornate weapon that later shaped the temple:

"A night elf named Lord Xavius presented the queen with a jeweled scepter, etched with delicate magical sigils. He promised Azshara that so long as she kept it close, it would bring her prosperity and great power. Azshara held the scepter aloft, and the jewels shimmered in the light of the moons like brilliant stars. The sight of the queen and her gift was so beautiful that it brought many of the attendant Highborne to tears."

An enigmatic man of terrifying skill and power, I do wonder where Xavius procured this weapon in the first place; as its design does not appear to be of Kaldorei craftsmanship. Perhaps it hails from the ancient jinyu culture, the primordial titans, or some other past world power. Examining its details, what do you think of Sharas'dal's origins?

"Queen Azshara's enchanted scepter afforded her great power. Imbued with the Well of Eternity's potent waters, it held sway over the rivers and the seas, aquatic creatures of all kinds, and the life energies that stirred within Azshara herself."

In the Tablet of Balancing Tides, it is stated that:

"The whispers of Elune and Neptulon play on the tides, their words etched in stone are a tribute to the balance of their power."

I find it interesting that Azshara utilized a form of magic half-intrinsic to the moon goddess. Did she derive some of her aquatic power from Elune, or use a different magick entirely? The descriptions of Azshara wielding the scepter use language that speaks to a command over water, rather than a unity with the elementals, spirits, and goddess.

This item's flavor text also mentions Neptulon--Elemental Lord of Waters--interestingly now a sworn enemy of Queen Azshara and her naga forces in the present day.

The Moonshrine Ruins:

This place supposedly once hosted a moonwell, with an area known as the Moonshrine. The foundations here might suggest that before the Sundering, Lathar'Lazal could have been built just upon the shores, or expanded out into the sea itself with the tides embracing the temple all around. Swimming beneath the waters of the Moonshrine, there appear to be large pillars supporting the walkways here; much like a pier.

The Inner Sanctum:

Crescent imagery is prevalent inside of the sanctum, as well as sets of 3 seats, perhaps symbolism of the triple moon (waxing, full, and waning or the maiden, mother, and crone archetypes) holding some importance in the rituals carried out here. These could also represent a large meeting space, high-ranking priestesses for ritual, a council of leadership, divisions of the temple, seating for observers, or something else entirely. They face partitioned rooms with crescent moon symbols.

If we look at the central dais of the sanctum, (Azshari statue and cultist altar notwithstanding) there is a raised platform with a pyramid-like structure carved into the ceiling. Perhaps a skylight once existed here to let in moonlight for lunar rites, or this area hosted something of great importance to be kept safe inside the sanctum.

The Moondoors:

The moondoors are an especially interesting piece, and the last apparent threshold of the Seat of the Sky. Upon passing through, there are only a handful of pillars flanking the sides of the cavern. They seem to accompany each other in pairs on each side - marking a possible entrance, exit, or some other pathway to the temple. While I am unsure of their true purpose or the mechanism to unlock them, the various square pieces are almost akin to a puzzle. This model is used in other Kaldorei architecture and I've long been intrigued by their possible uses. These moondoors are typically used as entrances to the tall, thin ivory towers of Kaldorei ruins. Perhaps Elunarian priests or arcanists weave (or wove) intricate spellwork rooted in the arcane, or the moon cycle in order to lock these types of barriers. What was intended to lie beyond them is anyone's guess: powerful artifacts, sacred relics, enshrined lore, or even concealed secrets.

"The Great Sundering shattered the glorious temple, sinking it beneath the waves of the Veiled Sea."

I hope you enjoyed these musings! There's something equally fascinating and solemn looking back at the remnants of the Kaldorei Empire - in the shadows of glory that once eclipsed the continent.

Some night elf inspired items I drew for a roleplay event!

Mooncloth robes, a headcanon

MOONCLOTH, ELUNITE & MOONSTONES

To be a Priestess of Elune is not only dedicate ones entire self to the Goddess but to also strive to serve their people in the various capacities of which that is necessary. Ranging from humanitarian efforts, spiritual guidance or a source of strength during eras of strife. Every aspect of a Mooncloth is able to be utilized by a Priestess in one way or another to amplify their Divine-given capabilities.

Mooncloth

The bulk of the garb is able to be turned into makeshift bandages that can cleanse impurities and/or corruption from wounds. Also if placed over a wound, a Priestess who may find her inner well of magic waning, can magnify their healing magic through the mooncloth fabrics.

Tailors tell that the first recipe for Mooncloth was scribed by Elune herself - Heroes of Azeroth

Elunite

Is most often used for the decorative ornamental workings atop the mooncloth. Elunite is a fine metal that is considerably harmful to Demons and the Undead. It causes harm to these currptive types by mere touch alone. Often Elunite is crafted into weapons for its innate effects against the undead and fel-fused beings.

Elunite ore is incredibly fine and is believed to be blessed by the Mother Moon herself. -The Shade of Elura

Moonstone

In relation to Mooncloth robes, moonstones are most often use to adorn the more decorative Mooncloth robes. Moonstones themselves can be left as offerings for the deceased or at shrines for Elune. Additionally, a Priestess may channel her divine magics through the Moonstone. The stone acting as a conduit of sorts.

A Moonstone is an artifact that is able to causes an eclipse that blocks out the sun and creates an artificial night. -Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos

REGIONAL INFLUENCES

The Kaldorei have a deep connection to the land. They view themselves as much as part of the cycle of nature as the flora and fauna. Priestesses are no exception to this and some may even draw upon the region where they took their priesthood training or their homeland to decorate their Mooncloth Robe.

Winterspring

Priestesses who took host in the snow capped landscape of eternal winter may have Mooncloth Robes that are very decorated with moonstones and Elunite. As if to mimic the regions hoar frost (the sparkles on the snow) or the icicles that dangle from every tree branch. Theirs may also be adorned with feathers to commemorate the regions local Moontouched Owlbeast population. Or fur to line their garbs from a good game.

Darkshore

With the expansive shoreline and near constant overcast, Priestesses from Darkshore may decorate their Mooncloth Robes and decorative adornments with shells. Some even decorate the bodice of their garb with sewn in shells that mimic beadwork. Pearls are also sought after. In some cases a Priestesses may spend years collecting pearls of varying color to mimic the phases of the Moon.

Ashenvale

Within the heavy overhang of canopy are various types of flora. Priestesses who trained here or were raised in Ashenvale may decorate their Mooncloth Robes with Spider's Silk from the webs spun by Wildthorn Venomspitter's. The embroidery may also be decorative in the shape of leaves or local flowers. Often a Priestess may embroider their sleeves with imagery akin to the Purple Lotus which is native only to Kalimdor.

Feralas

With the station of the Sentinel Army residing in Feathermoon Stronghold, Priestesses from the area of Feralas may wear more practical garb. Often forgoing the lengthy sleeves and skirts and wearing a set out trousers with an off hanging Mooncloth skirt. Elunite decorum is also more common here. Including but not limited to pieces that have been crafted to be used as weapons just as they are meant to be worn.

ACCESSORIES

It is not uncommon for a Priestess to wear pieces of jewelry with the intention to always have an offering to Elune on hand. or to leave at a shrine or burial stone of the deceased. A Priestess may also gift an accessory to one whom is enduring a time of strife or unease, intending for them to wear the blessed accessory themselves for good fortune or respite.

CRAFTING A MOONCLOTH ROBE

One does not simply obtain a Mooncloth Robe. A Mooncloth Robe is made specifically for the Priestess who is going to wear it. Once they have completed their trainings within the Sisterhood and are nearing their graduation into Priesthood, a student will begin the necessary preparations to create their own Mooncloth Robe which signifies their station in Kaldorei society as a Priestess.

Mooncloth can be taken from the robes of fallen Priestesses' and repurposed. It's not uncommon for a Priestess to take the Mooncloth from an aunt, mother or sister's robes and refashion them for herself if they themselves have fallen in Battle. To carry on the legacy of their relative or loved one by their endeavors.

Felcloth can be purified by ritualistic ceremony and subsequently makes Mooncloth. This is most common as the ceremony demands that the Priestess collect Felcloth which is adorned by those of Demonic Influence, or demons themselves. The soon-to-be Priestess would set out, either alone or with fellow students, and clear out an infestation of demons. They would then collect the Felcloth necessary for their purification ritual and return to their respective Temple.

Now more than ever the repurpose of Mooncloth is popularized since the fall of the Legion. Some robes are the result of several repurposed Mooncloth Robes.

This headcanon is a culmination of varying ideas spanning over the course of years. This headcanon did not start with me and certainly it won't end with me.

handmade bracelets and arm cuffs