Work In Progress The Valari

Aielyn Veralas · Mar 11, 2025

Species Overview

Name: Valari
Designation: Near-Human
Origins: Valisca Prime, an isolated, temperate world celebrated for its scenic beauty and cultural sophistication.
Average Lifespan: 180-220 years, extended due to their natural affinity with the Force.
Estimated Population: Approximately 8 million, with specific demographic distributions.

Physical Description

Breathes: Oxygen
Average Height of Adults:
- Males: 6’0” - 6’4”
- Females: 5’8” - 6’2”
Average Weight of Adults:
- Males: 180 - 220 lbs
- Females: 130 - 170 lbs
Skin Color(s): Generally fair to sun-kissed, with a soft, bioluminescent glow under certain conditions.
Hair Color(s): The Celestial Lineage (royal bloodline) is distinguished by platinum-blonde or silver hair, sometimes featuring a perfect blue streak anywhere on the scalp. Other Valari typically have light-colored hair, while Highland Valari have more earth-toned shades.
Eye Color(s): Common Valari possess vibrant green, blue, or violet eyes. Only Celestial Line members display unique marbling in combinations of blue-purple, blue-green, or green-purple, symbolizing their direct connection to the original Prophets.

Distinctive Physical Features:

Emotive Eyes: Valari eyes shift in hue and intensity based on strong emotions, serving as subtle indicators of their emotional state. This trait enhances their transparency in communication but also makes it challenging for them to hide feelings.
Glowing Skin: Valari skin takes on a soft, bioluminescent glow when exposed to the light of Valisca Prime's tri-moons or when they are engaged in Force healing. This glow is considered a sacred manifestation of their connection to the Great Flow.

Racial Variants within Valari Society

Highland Valari: Resilient and tall, the Highlanders reside in the mountainous regions and have earth-toned hair. Known for their rugged yet refined appearance, they are traditionally warriors, artisans, and builders, providing both physical and spiritual protection to society.
Lowland Valari: Dwelling in cities and plains, Lowland Valari possess lighter-colored hair and a graceful demeanor. Highly educated, they are often scholars, diplomats, and artists, focusing on the administrative and cultural development of Valisca Prime.
Astral Valari (Nobility):
Known as the nobility, the Astral Valari display distinguishing traits like marble-patterned eyes, signifying their deeper connection to the Force and the prophetic lineage. Within this nobility, only a select few bear direct lineage ties to the royal family.
Celestial Lineage (Royal Bloodline):
Representing less than 0.5% of the population (around 40,000), the Celestial Lineage includes direct descendants of the original Prophets, marked by platinum-blonde or silver hair, often with a perfect blue streak, and marble-patterned eyes. Members of this lineage, including King Elydrin and Queen Solenne, hold the highest roles in Valari society, revered for their spiritual and political leadership.

Population Demographics

Total Population: 8 Million Valari

Highland Valari: 30% (~2.4 million)
Primarily located in mountain fortresses and villages, the Highlanders maintain and protect the kingdom’s borders. They contribute significantly to the Valari military and are well-versed in traditional combat and the use of Force-based weaponry.
Lowland Valari: 55% (~4.4 million)
Concentrated in cities, towns, and plains, the Lowlanders represent the majority of the population. They are scholars, administrators, artists, and cultural stewards, upholding Valari intellectual and artistic traditions.
Astral Valari (Nobility): 14.5% (~1.16 million)
The Astral Valari hold positions of respect and leadership. They act as a bridge between the royal family and the Valari populace, ensuring that the Council’s principles align with Valari spiritual and social beliefs.
Celestial Lineage (Royal Bloodline): 0.5% (~200)
This elite, venerated group includes the royal family and their closest relatives. Bearing the distinctive blue-streaked platinum hair and marble-patterned eyes, they serve as Valari society's principal leaders and spiritual figures, revered for their deep connection to the original Prophets.

Sacred Forests and Protected Lands

Certain regions on Valisca Prime are considered sacred and are restricted to rituals, meditations, or pilgrimage. These lands, tended by the Veiled Ones, contain rare flora and fauna believed to heighten Force sensitivity. Among them are bioluminescent plants, glowing in rhythm with the tri-moons, and animals thought to attune Valari’s minds for communion with the Great Flow. Sacred Forests serve as both sanctuaries and sources of powerful spiritual energy, and their preservation is paramount in Valari society.

Force Sensitivity and Abilities

The Valari’s natural Force sensitivity binds their society to a shared consciousness, with Astral Valari and the Celestial Lineage regarded as spiritual guides. Those marked by prophecy demonstrate enhanced Force abilities and are seen as destined to play key roles in times of crisis.

Distinctive Abilities:

Emotional Empathy: A deep, innate ability to sense and interpret the emotions of others, aiding in diplomacy, conflict resolution, and relationship-building.
Bioluminescent Healing: Through meditation, Valari can channel the Force to heal, with their skin emitting a glow under the tri-moons or during the healing process.
Telepathic Bonding: Close family members or bonded allies can communicate telepathically within limited ranges, symbolizing deep trust and loyalty.

Species Traits

Strengths:
- Enhanced Perception and Empathy: Heightened perception aids in understanding others, enhancing their diplomatic skills.
- Longevity and Wisdom: Valari live long lives, accumulating significant knowledge and spiritual maturity.
- Cultural Diplomacy: Known for their diplomacy, the Valari are highly respected as mediators across the galaxy.
Weaknesses:
- Physical Vulnerability: More fragile physically than many species due to their spiritual focus. Although the Celestial Lineage is said to have more enhanced physical attributes.
- Resistance to Change: The adherence to tradition and isolationist tendencies can hinder adaptability.
- Sensitivity to Discord: Emotional or physical discord is overwhelming for many Valari, complicating life in highly volatile environments.

Military Structure

The Valari military, known as the Valiscan Vanguard, is designed to protect Valisca Prime from external threats and maintain internal order. Although not a militaristic society, the Vanguard is respected for its discipline and use of Force techniques in battle. The Vanguard is composed primarily of Highland Valari warriors, supported by Force-sensitive units led by Astral Valari commanders.

Valiscan Vanguard Structure:

High Command: Led by the Astral Valari, High Command oversees strategic decisions and liaises with the Council of Elders.
Vanguard Guard: Comprised mainly of Highland Valari, the Guard protects Valari borders, cities, and sacred sites.
Celestial Knights: A small, elite group of Force-sensitive warriors drawn from all classes, trained in advanced combat and spiritual practices to defend Valari leaders and act in times of great need.

Religion and Beliefs

The Valari revere The Great Flow, a unifying concept of the Force as a cyclical, living presence connecting all life and guiding Valari society.

The Veiled Ones: This spiritual order serves as guardians of the Codex, guiding society’s ethics, spirituality, and interpretation of prophecies. The Veiled Ones play an active role in advising the Council and are particularly revered among the Astral Valari.
Prophetic Lineage: Those with distinctive features, such as marble-patterned eyes and blue-streaked hair, are marked as “Celestial Guides.” They are believed to hold important destinies tied to the future of Valisca Prime.

Society Structure

The Valari’s society is a monarchic oligarchy shaped by spiritual beliefs and a devotion to wisdom, empathy, and unity.

Royal House (Celestial Lineage):
The primary ruling family, known as Dominium Valeria, is descended directly from the original Prophets and holds both political and spiritual authority.
Council of Elders:
This council includes former leaders, sages, and spiritual advisors, chosen from the Veiled Ones, Highland Valari, and Lowland scholars. The Council ensures that royal decisions align with the Great Flow.
The Veiled Ones:
Comprised of the most powerful Force-sensitive seers, the Veiled Ones advise on faith, morality, and prophecy, preserving the Codex and serving as protectors of Valari values.
The Four Houses:
- Dominium Valeria (Royal Family): The Celestial Lineage with direct prophetic markers, holding the highest roles.
- Ascendant Domus: This house governs regional relations and the defense sector, representing Highland Valari and military interests.
- Sanctum Concordia: Primarily Lowland Valari, preserving arts, diplomacy, and internal unity.
- Astral Concord: A noble house representing the broader Astral Valari, serving as intermediaries between the royal family and common citizens.

Historical Background

Origins and Founding (0-1000 BBY)

The Valari trace their origins to a small group of Force-sensitive individuals who sought a secluded refuge far from the turmoil of galactic conflicts. Fleeing intergalactic wars, this group of sages, scholars, and warriors ventured into unknown regions until they discovered Valisca Prime, a temperate planet with dense forests, towering mountains, and pristine rivers. The Valari believed that the Force had guided them to this sanctuary, a world that felt untouched and aligned with their ideals.

The first generation of settlers, known as the Founders, established the Founders’ Covenant, a vow binding the Valari to their land, to one another, and to the Force. This pact emphasized harmony, respect for nature, and collective responsibility, ensuring that Valisca Prime would remain unspoiled by greed or corruption. Over time, the Founders’ Covenant laid the foundation for Valari culture, values, and communal lifestyle, with each individual dedicating themselves to the greater good.

The Age of Reverence and the Rise of Prophets (1000-500 BBY)

During the Age of Reverence, the Valari developed a deep spiritual bond with the Force, leading to the emergence of the Celestial Prophets. These individuals, identifiable by unique features such as marble-patterned eyes in shades of blue-purple, blue-green, or green-purple, and a blue streak through platinum or silver hair, were revered as chosen interpreters of the Force’s will. Their visions and insights became sacred, guiding the Valari in their daily lives.

The Prophets established the Codex of Prophecy, a collection of teachings, prophecies, and spiritual guidance that served as the core of Valari society. Over generations, the Codex expanded, instilling values of introspection, unity, and environmental stewardship. The Age of Reverence solidified the Valari’s spiritual principles, cultivating a society where wisdom and harmony took precedence over personal gain.

The Consolidation of Culture and the Council of Elders (500-200 BBY)

As Valari society grew, they formalized a governing structure to preserve their traditions and ensure decisions aligned with their spiritual values. The Council of Elders was established, comprising respected spiritual leaders, scholars, and experienced warriors. This council worked alongside the royal family, ensuring that the ideals of the Codex and the Founders’ Covenant guided Valari society.

During this time, the Veiled Ones also rose in prominence. This mystical order of seers, healers, and lorekeepers took on the responsibility of protecting the Codex, offering spiritual counsel, and interpreting prophecies. They became key advisors to both the Council of Elders and the royal family, preserving and protecting Valari culture from external and internal threats.

Cultural Developments During This Era:

Festival of the Great Flow: An annual event that celebrates the unity between the Valari and the Force, honoring the Prophets and Veiled Ones. The festival includes communal meditations, bioluminescent displays, and ceremonies where individuals share visions or insights.
Sacred Circles: Built along planetary ley lines, these stone rings became sacred pilgrimage sites for the Valari, enhancing meditation and healing practices.

Isolationism and the Era of Reflection (200 BBY - 100 ABY)

As the galaxy became increasingly unstable, the Valari adopted a policy of isolationism to preserve their culture and values. The Edict of Seclusion was issued by the Council of Elders, strictly limiting contact with other civilizations to protect the purity of Valari society. Only a select few diplomats were permitted contact with the outside galaxy, and external trade was tightly regulated.

During this era, Valari society flourished internally, allowing them to deepen their spiritual practices and develop a unique cultural identity. However, isolation also led to a slower rate of technological development and growing reliance on traditional methods.

Impacts of the Edict of Seclusion:

Cultural Preservation: External influences were minimized, allowing Valari customs to remain undiluted.
Technological Conservatism: Technological advancements were limited to necessities, reinforcing the Valari’s preference for a harmonious and non-disruptive approach to progress.
Spiritual Emphasis: With reduced exposure to outside ideas, the influence of the Codex grew, and reverence for the Prophets and Veiled Ones deepened.

The Great Awakening and the Era of Expansion (700 - 850 ABY)

In 700 ABY, the Valari experienced a significant surge in Force sensitivity known as the Great Awakening. This period saw an increase in prophetic visions, particularly among the Celestial Lineage, who carried the physical markers of the Prophets. The prophecies revealed that the Valari would face challenges from beyond Valisca Prime, and the younger generation began advocating for cautious engagement with the galaxy.

In response, the Council amended the Edict of Seclusion to allow controlled diplomatic outreach. The move sparked internal debate, as traditionalists resisted any engagement with the outside world, while reformists saw selective interaction as a way to strengthen the Valari’s position and protect their heritage.

Cultural Shifts During the Expansion Era:

Celestial Guardians: Members of the royal family and nobility with prophetic traits established the Celestial Guardians, a group dedicated to preserving Valari traditions and guiding society through any interactions with the galaxy.
Internal Debates: Tensions arose between those who valued isolation and those who supported selective diplomacy, creating a new societal dynamic.
Prophetic Anxiety: Many feared the prophecies indicating a period of great change, interpreting them as warnings about the risks of external influence.

Present Day: The Age of Uncertainty (890 ABY)

In the current era, the Valari find themselves at a pivotal moment. General Atheon Karis, a Highland Valari military leader, has gained substantial influence within the Valiscan Vanguard, advocating for militarization and expansion. Karis believes that the Valari must adapt to a galaxy in turmoil, and he seeks greater power to reshape Valari society to this end.

In an attempt to consolidate his influence, Karis proposed an arranged marriage with Princess Aielyn, a prominent member of the Celestial Lineage. When Aielyn rejected his proposal, Karis viewed it as a direct threat to his ambitions and launched a coup to overthrow King Elydrin and Queen Solenne. The coup met fierce resistance from loyalists within the Celestial Guardians and Highland forces, resulting in a deeply divided Valari society.

Current Challenges:

Military Divisions: The Valiscan Vanguard is fractured, with some factions supporting Karis’s militaristic agenda and others loyal to the traditionalist stance of the royal family.
Political Tensions: The attempted coup and Aielyn’s subsequent departure have intensified debates about the future direction of Valari society.
Prophetic Uncertainty: As the Valari face an uncertain future, they turn to the Codex for guidance. Differing interpretations of prophecy are fueling conflicting perspectives on the Valari’s place in the galaxy.

The Codex of Prophecy and Future Paths

The Codex remains the core of Valari spirituality, offering guidance in times of peace and uncertainty. Prophecies within the Codex hint at a future event called the Celestial Renewal, in which the Valari will be tested and must reaffirm their connection to the Great Flow.

As they confront this challenging era, the Valari draw strength from their history and the wisdom of their Prophets. Their devotion to unity, introspection, and harmony will be their greatest asset and their greatest trial as they navigate the challenges posed by both internal conflict and the expanding galaxy.

Celestial Ancestral Sites

Valisca Prime is home to several ancient temples and sacred sites believed to be directly connected to the earliest Valari Prophets. These revered locations are often found in remote regions, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape, and they serve as places of pilgrimage where Valari come to meditate on the Codex and seek clarity.

Temple of the Founders: This temple is said to have been built by the original Founders and is among the oldest structures on Valisca Prime. It features intricate carvings and murals depicting the arrival of the first Valari and their connection to the Great Flow. Each mural represents a founding principle—such as unity, wisdom, and harmony—and acts as a reminder of their commitment to the Force.
Prophetic Stone Tablets: Embedded within these ancestral sites are stone tablets etched with early Force symbols and visions from the ancient Prophets. These tablets are reputed to change subtly over time, revealing new symbols or patterns when a significant prophetic event is near. The Veiled Ones interpret these changes, adding their insights to the Codex and guiding the Valari in times of need.

Valiscan Star Constellations and Astrology

The Valari have a deep connection to the stars, interpreting constellations as omens and guides that influence personal and societal decisions. The Veiled Ones closely study these celestial formations, believing that certain constellations carry prophetic significance.

Celestial Constellations: Among the most revered constellations is the "Constellation of Renewal," seen only once every century. Its appearance is believed to signify a period of spiritual rebirth or transformation for the Valari. Other constellations are associated with virtues such as wisdom, strength, and resilience, and each is consulted by the Veiled Ones when they interpret the Codex.
Astrological Significance: Valari spiritual leaders also track celestial events, such as the alignment of the tri-moons or significant planetary movements, which are believed to influence individual fates and societal fortunes. Important events, such as the crowning of a new ruler or the enactment of a major policy, often align with these astrological predictions, adding a sense of destiny to Valari governance.

Seasonal Celebrations and Rituals

The Valari mark each season with unique celebrations that honor the natural world and reflect the cycles of the Great Flow. These seasonal rituals reinforce their connection to nature, the Codex, and the community.

Festival of Unity and Renewal: Occurring only when the tri-moons align every few decades, this rare festival symbolizes the cyclical renewal of the Great Flow. The entire population participates in communal gatherings, where the royal family exchanges gifts and vows with the people, emphasizing unity and mutual trust. Prophetic dances and rituals are performed, and it is said that any visions received during this time carry particular significance.
Seasonal Change Rituals:
- Spring - Festival of Growth: A celebration of renewal and new beginnings, the spring festival features planting ceremonies and water-blessing rituals.
- Summer - Festival of Abundance: During the summer festival, Valari share in a communal feast, celebrating the gifts of nature and abundance. The festival is accompanied by music, dances, and art displays representing prosperity and joy.
- Autumn - Festival of Reflection: Autumn brings introspective gatherings, where individuals reflect on personal growth, past challenges, and future intentions. Elders share stories, and meditative practices are encouraged.
- Winter - Festival of Resilience: Honoring resilience and inner strength, the winter festival includes fasting, meditation, and a night vigil. Each Valari renews their personal commitment to their community, symbolizing perseverance and unity.

Heirloom Relics and the Crown of Prophecy

The Valari royal family possesses several heirloom relics passed down through generations, each believed to hold a fraction of the original Prophets’ Force sensitivity. These relics are used sparingly and with great reverence, especially in times of significant prophecy.

Heirloom Relics of the Valari Royal Family

The Shard of Aetheris
- Description: A large, translucent crystal fragment said to have been carried by the first Valari Prophet, Aetheris. The shard is pale blue with faint streaks of silver that shimmer under moonlight.
- Significance: The Shard of Aetheris is believed to grant profound spiritual clarity to those who meditate with it, amplifying visions and insights connected to the Great Flow. It is used by the reigning monarch and the Veiled Ones in times of critical decisions.
- Legend: According to legend, the shard broke from a larger crystal on Valisca Prime that served as a natural conduit for the Force. It is said that the fragment will one day reunite with its source, bringing forth a “Celestial Renewal.”
The Chalice of Celestine
- Description: A silver-and-obsidian chalice embedded with stones matching the royal lineage’s marble-patterned eyes (blue-purple, blue-green, and green-purple).
- Significance: Used during royal coronations, rites of passage, and oaths, the Chalice of Celestine symbolizes the binding covenant between the royal family and the Valari people. The chalice is believed to enhance bonds, making shared vows particularly binding and powerful.
- Legend: It is said that drinking from the chalice unites those who partake in a psychic bond. Some say the Chalice of Celestine’s first sip made the Prophets aware of each other’s thoughts and emotions, forever binding their fates.
The Mirror of Sideria
- Description: A polished mirror encased in an ornate silver frame carved with ancient symbols of the Great Flow. When observed under the light of the tri-moons, the mirror’s surface shimmers with an iridescent glow.
- Significance: The mirror is used during prophetic rituals, allowing Valari seers to “see beyond” the present. Those who gaze into it may experience visions of events from the past, present, or even possible futures.
- Legend: The Mirror of Sideria is rumored to show only truths, and that it will shatter should one of “false heart” attempt to use it. It is believed to be a gift from the original Prophets, forged to guide the royal family in moments of great uncertainty.
The Staff of Valtoris
- Description: A slender staff made of ancient wood and topped with a crystal that glows faintly with bioluminescence when touched by a Force-sensitive Valari.
- Significance: Traditionally wielded by the Veiled Ones’ highest-ranking seer, the Staff of Valtoris amplifies Force sensitivity, enhancing prophetic abilities and strengthening telepathic bonds among those in its presence.
- Legend: It is said that the first seer, Valtoris, carried the staff on a pilgrimage across Valisca Prime, blessing sacred sites. The staff is reputed to remember every vision it has ever channeled, holding within it fragments of countless prophecies.
The Heartstone of Valisca
- Description: A rare gemstone with a swirling core, shifting hues of deep blue, green, and purple, mirroring the marbled eyes of the royal family. The stone is set in an intricate pendant worn only by the reigning monarch.
- Significance: The Heartstone is worn during the most significant diplomatic ceremonies or moments of crisis, as it is believed to heighten the wearer’s empathy and perceptiveness, allowing them to sense intentions and emotions more clearly.
- Legend: The Heartstone is said to be a fragment of Valisca Prime itself, granted to the royal family as a symbol of the planet’s protection. If the Heartstone were ever to dim, it would signal a dire threat to Valisca Prime and its people.
The Scroll of Elloria
- Description: An ancient scroll made from preserved Valiscan fibers, carefully etched with the original Founders' Covenant. It is wrapped in a covering of dark green silk and displayed only on momentous occasions.
- Significance: The scroll is read aloud by the monarch or Council of Elders at each royal coronation or in times of great societal upheaval to remind the Valari of their shared principles and commitments.
- Legend: The scroll is believed to have been transcribed by Elloria, one of the original Valari Founders, as she communed with the Force. Each time it is read, those present claim to feel a connection to the Founders’ enduring presence and wisdom.
The Flame of the Prophets
- Description: Housed in an iron-and-crystal lantern, the Flame is a perpetual fire believed to have been ignited by the Prophets themselves. The flame flickers with a silvery-blue glow and never requires fuel to burn.
- Significance: The Flame of the Prophets is kept in the central temple of Valisca Prime, only leaving for ceremonies of succession and times of existential crisis. It symbolizes the undying spirit of the Prophets and the Great Flow.
- Legend: Valari legend says that the Flame will dim only when the last Prophet’s line is extinguished. It is thought to embody the Valari’s commitment to honor, introspection, and unity, with its light serving as a beacon during dark times.
Crown of Prophecy: This ceremonial crown is worn exclusively by the reigning monarch during important state rituals. Adorned with luminous stones believed to resonate with the Force, the crown symbolizes the ruler’s connection to prophecy and the Great Flow. Legend holds that the crown “reacts” only when a true Prophet assumes the throne, and its glow is said to guide the wearer’s decisions in alignment with the Codex.

Enhanced Artistic Expressions

The Valari have a profound artistic culture, channeling their spiritual beliefs into unique forms of expression. These art forms are not just creative outlets but are also perceived as extensions of prophecy and spirituality.

Prophetic Song and Dance: Valari art extends to highly symbolic dance rituals and music that are believed to resonate with the Great Flow. During festivals or prophetic gatherings, dancers perform routines inspired by recent visions from the Prophets. These improvised dances act as “living prophecies,” offering insight into the Valari’s spiritual path and current challenges.
Bioluminescent Artistry: Valari artisans create murals using bioluminescent materials that glow during certain phases of the tri-moons. These murals, often found within temples or sacred sites, depict significant moments from the Codex. When illuminated, the scenes seem to come alive, immersing the viewer in a spiritual experience that deepens during meditative practices.