Thoribas Dor'shal
A collaborative writing and role-playing project driven by creativity.
Commission for Shetolae, by Lemongrace
"After the breaking of the world, we followed the wrong path. The natural gods led us from the waters of our fallen Queen, but they did not heed a future bright enough for us. The call of nature swallowed our potential and dampened the bright lights of what was. Had we not followed what some deem 'nature's call', we would prosper now. We found home in a war time tactic; we planted permanent seeds in untilled soil, where decay was already growing."
About Us
Thoribas Dor'shal is a gathering of like minded individuals intent on redeeming their kin. The Kaldorei of Thoribas Dor'shal aspire to towards the heights of the Highborne Empire, and worship the divine magic known as Arkhan'felorel (arcane fire). Thoribas Dor'shal operates out of the hills of Feralas, and intend on expanding their horizons of influence throughout the rest of Kalimdor.
Note From the Writer
My aim is to create a fanon extension of Night Elf lore from World of Warcraft that is faithful to the setting and deepens existing canon. The focus of this project is the story of a Highborne collective after the War of Thorns.Thoribas Dor'shal has been a passion of mine for years and this website is the iceberg tip of the project. My goal is to share the project on a wider scale and allow others to write in the sub-setting and explore stories in it.
Participant's Pledge
Thoribas Dor'shal is meant to be a friendly, collaborative writing space for both individual and group role-playing endeavors.Writers who engage with Thoribas Dor'shal should prioritize a healthy environment out of character above all, and support participates as best they can with in-game and out of game pursuits. The ideal is to push ourselves to cinematic writing levels each time we roleplay, in order to develop a more fanon-rich universe to play and create in.
Arkhan'felorel
The Arkhan'felorel is a quasi-Elunian cult of Kaldorei based in northern Feralas. They bear the name of the magic they worship and exalt any that can combine chaotic fire with ordered arcane.
The Leader
Shetolae Il'erani (née Wildfeather) is the founder of the Arkhan'felorel. Shetolae serves her people with the aim of reclaiming the glory and grandeur that they deserve, and enacting justice on those who have wronged the Kaldorei. In reverie of her unsullied act of service to them, her people have named her Min'da.
Brief History
After the Burning of Teldrassil and the War of Thorns, likeminded Kaldorei were gathered together and offered a new path forward under the leadership of Shetolae Wildfeather. Having evaluated each option, choice, and obstacle that had bore such plight to the Kaldorei, Shetolae took the mantle of responsibility onto herself.Shetolae struck a deal with a would-be Zandalari Warlord to build a
united city for the two eldest races of Azeroth within the northern forests of Feralas, Kalimdor.Over many months, the deal turned sour and what was meant to be a union between the two eldest races of Azeroth became a festering wound-- a reminder of the continued battle the Kaldorei faced.In a daring move at the advisement of Sharoh Moonstream, Shetolae ushered her people out, removed the Warlord from the picture, and purged with flame all that remained of troll influence in the city. In ashen dust and pink scarred marble, the Ishnu'nor or Heaven's Fortune was born.After countless moons have passed, Ishnu'nor silently shimmers in the northern region of Feralas and expands towards Desolace and the far coasts of Kalimdor. Now, the city functions as a cultural haven for Kaldorei of all ages who see worth in reforging the ancient ways of the Highborne to better the new generation.
Commission for Shetolae by ShivaWalkerArt
Culture
The Arkhan'felorel wish to revisit the traits of Highborne society and elevate them past what Queen Azshara achieved; aiming to fracture the cultural and political status quos across Azeroth. They position themselves similarly to Highborne on topics like social hierarchies, capital, and Druidism. As such, Druidism is not only ostracized, is it outright forbidden. Instead, magic (specifically arcane and fire) are exalted and form the foundation of Arkhan'felorel society.
Falo'dieb Dielore
The Sect
The Falo’dieb Dielore (Birthright of Flame) is the religious sect of the cult. Predominantly a female order, the sect guides the rest of the cult in all things around the worship of arkhan'felorel and the Min'da. To the Falo'dieb Dielore, Shetolae is the paramount inspiration; the goal that can never be reached, as she can touch and manipulate arcane fire and no one else can.
Beliefs
Shetolae is a near-goddess: she is given visions by mixing arcane and fire magic together. We must aspire to the Min'da. This is to be worshipped.
Revere the fire, for it creates Chaos. This is to be worshipped.
Revere the arcane, for it creates Order. This is to be worshipped.
Mother Moon above gives us power and grace to live. This is to be worshipped.
Dalorar'dieb
The Dalorar'dieb (Brother's Family) is a subsect of the Cult, made up of the followers of Sharendel Shari'adune. Separated from the outside world for ten thousand years, the Dalorar'dieb are a reemergence of Sharendel Shari'adune and his followers from the time of the Highborne Empire. Only recently discovered through an arcane link in Azshara, the Dalorar'dieb and their leader united with the Arkhan'felorel under the banners of the cult and co-exist in Ishnu'nor.
Beliefs
Sharendel is our salvation from the Sundering, he will provide for us until the end.
Bonded unions between singular parties do not express the nature of Kaldorei living. Reject the notion of singular life mates.
Bathe to relax, bathe to enjoy; by sunset you must always bathe your stressors away!
Settlements & Locations
Ishnu'nor
Ishnu'nor (Heaven's Fortune) is the capital of the Arkhan'felorel. It is located in northern Feralas, and is built on a ley line. The city itself is based off of Highborne marbleworks, features unique districts: housing, markets, noble district, religious district, and elven bathhouses. Ishnu'nor is hidden from unknowing eyes with arcane runes around its borders.
Zin'ethil
Zin'ethil is the Temple of the Arkhan'felorel within Ishnu'nor. It is most used by the Falo'dieb Dielore for religious ceremonies and rituals. It is not to be confused with Bindel Min'da, the home of and temple to Shetolae.
Laraanis
Laraanis is a small coastal outpost on the south west point of Feralas. The Arkhan'felorel use it as a functioning port. However, the majority of trade, goods, and naval ships are harbored in Lake Dumont, closer to Ishnu'nor.
Social Class
Quel'anre
Quel'anre are the upper echelon of the Arkhan'felorel. They live nearer to Zin'ethil and Bindel Min'da.
Ishil'anre
Ishil'anre are the middle to low echelon of the Arkhan'felorel. They live outside of the noble district and are make up the majority of Ishnu'nor's populace.
Dolah’nal Keer
Dolah'nal Keer is the Academy for Magic in Ishnu'nor. Arcane and Fire are the only magics that are sanctioned to teach. Arcane magic teaching focusing on scrying, while Fire is taught as defensive magic. Though both schools are taught, those who choose the Arcane are often given better marks and move into the Quel'anre. In comparison, those who follow the Fire often move into militant positions.The blend of Arcane and Fire is not taught at the Academy.
Other Details
Language
The official language of the Arkhan'felorel is Darnassian. The specific dialect spoken by members and in the walls of Ishnu'nor is a much older, archaic dialect. There is an emerging arcane-based language in use, though primarily in the Birthright sect, the Academy, and by the Min'da and her advisors.
Outside Races
Clearly Kaldorei and Highborne centric, the Cult is wary of most members of the Alliance. The Alliance has shown itself to be useless in protecting the lands, people, and interest of the Kaldorei. Persons afflicted with the Worgen Curse are not unwelcome, but are distrusted due to the druidic nature of their curse. Draenei are welcome, though not in significant numbers, in Ishnu'nor. All other races are at best met with disdain and at worse disgust.
Style & Aesthetic
The Arkhan'felorel features a multitude of fashion styles and aesthetics, due to their multicultural populace.
General Overview
The high necklines that are incorporated in both Shetolae’s combat attire, and that of the Birthright of the Flame, are reserved for holy occasions. However, Shetolae herself does not wear high necklines on holy occasions, as her form is seen as holy itself.
Although shirt and trouser pairings are common for female denizens of middle and lower classes― the Quel’anre (High Kin/Upper Class) did not adopt this style until the integration of the Dalorar’dieb (Brother’s Family) to the city.
Small details such as embroidery, buttons and ruffles, and added belts are often used to reference a specific style within the city.
Deeper colors such as black, emerald, and bronze or gold are reserved for the Birthright of the Flame. However, golden accents are used in embroidery and embellishment on the garb of the Min’da and some of the Quel’anre.
The Min'da
Always presented with her golden diadem on her forehead, a matching golden clasp around her top knot.
Favors long trailing, open form sleeves.
Keeps to muted silvers, creams, blues, or diluted earth and jewel tones. Avoids purple tones.
Dabbles in high necklines, usually reserved for combat or otherwise militaristic occasions.
Casual
Silhouettes: long, draped gowns. Favors over the shoulder.
Materials: silk, chiffon, or otherwise breathable materials.
Structured blouse & loose pant combination: moreso in casual, private settings
Shoes: sandals, short heeled slippers, boots in extended outdoor situations.
Colors: primarily silvers, creams, blues, or diluted earth and jewel tones. Avoids purple tones.
Combat
Each aspect upholds her symbolic and physical power, and references to her Chimaera.
Silhouettes: strong shoulders, bare midriff, draped skirt (and overskirt) with pants underneath,
Materials: satin, fortified cloth, metal, and scalemail.
Shoes: Tall boots, hooked heel.
Colors: sapphire and navy, golden accents.
Post War
Silhouettes: stronger shoulders, less flowing drapery, more straight form silhouettes. Small accents: belts, or bust area interest.
Materials: silk, layered chiffons, cloth.
Shoes: featuring taller heeled slippers, sandals remain, as do boots in suitable situations.
Colors: introducing more prominent jewel tones, especially sapphire and navy. Remaining silvers, creams, and diluted earth tones.
Falo'dieb Dielore
Silhouettes: a dichotomy between flowing, draped robes and structured, decorated overcoats.
Materials: silk, layered chiffons, cloth.
Symbols: Snakes, serpents, stars, crescent moons, winged crest, bees. (Rarely) chimaera scales, skulls, and feathers.
Adornments: ensembles often include small brass or gold circlets featuring symbolic crests. Always worn at the hairline.
Shoes: small cloth and leather slippers, sometimes featuring short heels. Occasionally boots.
Colors: deep black and rich gold, reserved for this sect only. Always presented in an 80/20 or 60/40 ratio: never presented as equal in one ensemble, tapestry, or other physical representation. Whites, creams, deep emerald, rust browns, and (rarely) copper.
Dalorar'dieb
The exposé of skin and body shape are prominent.
Silhouettes: draped and structured silhouettes: duality of soft and strong (not religious & authoritarian, however). Tunic and trouser sets are common among both female and male denizens. Longer tunics with structured pants for men; fitted blouse with matching pants or skirt, and sash for women.
Details: luxurious, intricate embroidery, geometric patterns, leather straps or accents, and obi-style belts featured heavily. Cuffed or otherwise structured sleeves are more standard, if not sleeveless ensembles. Jewelry, ornate style (almost highborne gaudy) featured.
Materials: silk, satin, layered chiffon and tulle, leather, and cloth. Added gemstones, jewels, and shimmering textures.
Shoes: simple leather and cloth slippers, heels for all genders. Boots, again, in suitable outdoor situations or for more commanding ensembles/personal discretion.
Colors: basic whites, creams, and silvers. Deep rusts, mustards, mauves, paler blues, turquoises, and greens.
Quel'anre
Trends shared between genders, levels of expression/reference determined by the individual.
Silhouettes: draped and long (styled after The Min’da), separate pairs (styled after the Dalorar’dieb), and more authoritarian, structured and embellished styles (after the Birthright of the Flame).
Details: heavy emphasis on bodice structure (draped, flowing, structured) with floral applique, tight embroidery, buttons, and heavy use of gemstones and jewelry.
Materials: silk, chiffon, sheer fabrics, brocade, velvet, and higher quality woven cloth.
Shoes: leather and cloth slippers (akin to Dalorar’dieb), and heels of varying height for all genders. Boots featured in ensembles at personal discretion.
Colors: generally lighter, softer tones of whites, creams, blues, and slight mauve. (Rarely) pale canary yellow, peach, and silvery blues.
Ishil'anre
Although maintaining the referencial fashion trends to other sub-cultures within the Cult, the style of the Ishil’anre is more modest, and practical.
Silhouettes: draped, layered, and pattern focused ensembles are common. Separate tunic and pants or skirt, and robed styles seen on all genders.
Details: heavy use of sashes, covers, or draped coats, and belts.
Materials: silk, cloth, woven linens.
Shoes: cloth slippers, leather boots; both with varied heel height, typically shorter, for all genders.
Colors: pale and dull in tones, unless for a special occasion. Blues, lavenders, earthy greens and maroons, rust, (rarely) pink, yellow, and cream.
Dolah'nal Keer
Silhouettes: draped, wrapped, and layered, separate tunic and pant ensembles with belted accents and sashes.
Materials: primarily linen, rough satin, and (rarely) wool. Heartier fabrics.
Symbols: stars, constellations, moths, clouds or wisps (not spirits). (In reference) flames and arcane magic.
Adornments: ensembles always include silver bracelet cuffs: length determined by skill/ascension level. Less bracelet surface indicates higher skill level; e.g. advanced students having a small silver bracelet, neophytes having a large silver cuff.
Distinctions: a small silver chain with a diamond shaped pendant, connecting shirt collars, indicates higher ranking in academy: professor, dean, etc.
Shoes: simple cloth slippers or boots, bare of any embellishment; short heels available for all genders.
Colors: pale and muted tones of cerulean, teal, lavender, white, and cream. Silver used in sparing embellishments and embroideries.
A More Storied History
The Beginnings
After the Burning of Teldrassil and the War of Thorns, likeminded Kaldorei were gathered together and offered a new path forward under the leadership of Shetolae Wildfeather. Having evaluated each option, choice, and obstacle that had bore such plight to the Kaldorei, Shetolae took the mantle of responsibility onto herself.Shetolae struck a deal with a would-be Zandalari Warlord to build a cross-cultural city within the northern forests of Feralas, Kalimdor. Over many months, the deal turned sour and what was meant to be a union between the two eldest races of Azeroth became a festering wound-- a reminder of the continued trauma the Kaldorei faced.In a daring move at the advisement of Sharoh Moonstream, Shetolae ushered her people out, removed the Zandalari Warlord from the picture, and purged with flame all that remained of troll influence in the city. In ashen dust and pink scarred marble, Ishnu'nor or Heaven's Fortune was born.After countless moons have passed, Ishnu'nor silently shimmers in the northern region of Feralas and expands towards Desolace and the far coasts of Kalimdor. Now, the city functions as a cultural haven for Kaldorei of all ages who see worth in reforging the ancient ways of the Highborne to better the new generation.
Of Two Brothers & Their People
When soot and ash still permeated the humid air, the Arkhan'felorel found themselves a new ally.The Min'da's councilor, Sharoh Moonstream journeyed to the unknown in Azshara, expecting that of ruins and goblin infestations. Instead, he happened upon the remaining convocation of his estranged brother; lost in time to the Sundering.Sharendel Shari’adune had gathered his following of Highborne and Kaldorei as the Sundering shook society, and safely hid them away in an illusion among ruins. Without worry for the future, and upon reflection of tumultuous childhoods, Sharendel and his people were invited to Ishnu'nor and back into the moon's light.Those from the brother's following came to be known as the Dalorar'dieb or Brother's Kin. After many moons of cultural exchange and unions among people, the Dalorar'dieb and Arkhan'felorel were allies and friends. Though, that affirmation did not ring true for the upper echelons of Ishnu'nor's society.
Political tensions ran high as Sharendel and the Dalorar'dieb vied for more power. They called for a council of leadership instead of the circle of advisers handpicked by the Min'da. The relationship between Councilor Moonstream and his brother diminished to all but false pleasantries. In a move to keep the peace, the Min’da elected the known mate and confidant of Sharendel to her circle: Ada-Jaedi Elor.Accounts of what occurred in the months following vary. Between the truth and lies of the many stories, this is what remains: petty squabbles of power turned to blatant deceit and distrust of the Min’da. Sharendel began to sew doubt into the Dalorar'dieb on the Min’da’s will to lead, her Highborne pedigree, and her values. The sentiments traveled down from the Quel’anre into the Ishil’anre and into the teaching halls of the Dolah’nal Keer. Prejudice between the two populaces became clear as arguments among market stalls and outright brawls in the Ring of Trials took place.
A Civil War
Soon the people turned to all out civil war. The cultural blend that had bloomed around dinner tables and in temples of Ishnu'nor all but vanished for the sake of prejudice. Many moons filled with terror and violence passed, before the Min'da stepped into the fold of war.Atop of the steps of Zin'ethil, the Min'da proclaimed Sharendel Shari'adune a warmongering, treasonous traitor and called for him to die by the flame. To the surprise of many, Ada-Jaedi Elor stood beside the Min'da during the decree— a notable betrayal of her mate and the Dalorar'dieb.The Min'da ordered the guard, Thoribas Dor'shal, to detain or otherwise occupy Dalorar'dieb militants. In a swift move, the Min'da took Keer'tel onto the fields of battle among the streets of Ishnu'nor until she found Sharendel. By the sacred fire of Keer'tel, Sharendel Shari'adune met his end.
In the weeks that followed the Min'da's victory over the treasonous Sharendel, tensions calmed and the two halves of Ishnu'nor society became one again. The Dalorar'dieb were more thoroughly enveloped by the Arkhan'felorel; cuisine, dress, and religious beliefs all shifting to be more aligned with that of the larger populace. Ada-Jaedi Elor remained as an advisor to the Min'da while returning to The Ring with a new gladiatorial partner: Belan'shalla Voril'thas. Zin'ethil found a new purchase of acolytes for the Falo’dieb Dielore; and the outpost of Laraannis saw great expansion at the southern coast.In a strange happening and for reasons unknown to the hoi polloi, Councilor Sharoh Moonstream has been unseen from the Min'da's side and her council. Although the truth to the reason is unknown, many suspect the Councilor to have been exiled from Ishnu'nor for allowing a traitor to walk among the Arkhan'felorel; whether this choice was of the Min'da or advised by the council, is unknown.
