- Joined
- Apr 28, 2015
- Messages
- 1,516
- Reaction score
- 1,086
ONDERON
EXPANDED
Laithraism
EXPANDED
Laithraism
THE ANCIENT LAITHRA WERE A DEEPLY SPIRITUAL PEOPLE
Laithraism, also commonly known as Laithraic Paganism and Onderonian Paganism, was the polytheistic religion practiced by the Laithra, the ancestral progenitors of the contemporary Onderonian people. Most Onderonians considered Laithraism as a classical part of their people’s past, with only an extremely small minority still engaging in Laithraic practices, specifically the Talarnor of Dxun and House Vaklu of Morvolo.
The ancient Laithra worshiped a pantheon of deities known as the Paragods, which embodied and personified concepts, such as warfare, suffering, seasonal shifts, death and life. Much of Laithraic paganism was lost during the Sith occupation, although a great quantity was slowly recovered through the many centuries. Force-sensitives played a particularly important role in Laithraic Paganism, and were known as the Godborn, newborn Paragods in the form of flesh that first had to complete a material existence before taking their place in the Godplane.
The ancient Laithra worshiped a pantheon of deities known as the Paragods, which embodied and personified concepts, such as warfare, suffering, seasonal shifts, death and life. Much of Laithraic paganism was lost during the Sith occupation, although a great quantity was slowly recovered through the many centuries. Force-sensitives played a particularly important role in Laithraic Paganism, and were known as the Godborn, newborn Paragods in the form of flesh that first had to complete a material existence before taking their place in the Godplane.
ORIGINS
Where did the practice of Laithraism come from? Simply put, no one can say with any reliable certainty. Between the partial destruction of their cultural heritage by the conquering Sith Lords during Onderon's Sith occupation and the oral tradition being favored over written manuscripts, most xenoarcheologists consider it to be either extremely unlikely or impossible to attain a full recovery of Onderon's past. Painstaking efforts have, nonetheless, unveiled a significant degree of information regarding the religious practices of the Laithra.
The earliest archeological evidence of Laithraism being practiced dates back thousands of years, predating the Sith Empire of Korriban and Ziost. This coincided with the estimated arrival of the Laithra, strongly suggesting that the religious practices did not actually originate on "Nessama", the ancestral name of Onderon, but from wherever the Laithra themselves were fleeing from. The Laithra were not part of any known civilization of the modern galactic community, and speculations are widely cast on who they were and where they came from. The two most common theories are that whatever civilization the Laithra originated from is currently extinct or, and more heavily supported by archeologists, that the Laithra originated from some part of the Unknown Regions.
Of the few early Laithraic texts that exists, it was known that Nessama was not the world the Laithra meant to arrive upon, discovering the world by accident, and residing there by lack of choice for survival. Two separate texts make mention of an unknown event ushering the Laithra to their destination, which many speculate was some form of hyperspace phenomenon. Most popularly, it is speculated that the Laithra ships inadvertently drifted their course too close, or even into, the great hyperspace disturbance that divides the galaxy from the Unknown Regions. If true, it strongly suggests that Laithraism, or the practices from whence it came, has no origins among any in the current galactic community. And as there are no known ways to traverse into the Unknown Regions safely or consistently, it is unlikely the origins of Laithraism, or the ancestral heritage of the Onderonians, will be ever truly be discovered.
The earliest archeological evidence of Laithraism being practiced dates back thousands of years, predating the Sith Empire of Korriban and Ziost. This coincided with the estimated arrival of the Laithra, strongly suggesting that the religious practices did not actually originate on "Nessama", the ancestral name of Onderon, but from wherever the Laithra themselves were fleeing from. The Laithra were not part of any known civilization of the modern galactic community, and speculations are widely cast on who they were and where they came from. The two most common theories are that whatever civilization the Laithra originated from is currently extinct or, and more heavily supported by archeologists, that the Laithra originated from some part of the Unknown Regions.
Of the few early Laithraic texts that exists, it was known that Nessama was not the world the Laithra meant to arrive upon, discovering the world by accident, and residing there by lack of choice for survival. Two separate texts make mention of an unknown event ushering the Laithra to their destination, which many speculate was some form of hyperspace phenomenon. Most popularly, it is speculated that the Laithra ships inadvertently drifted their course too close, or even into, the great hyperspace disturbance that divides the galaxy from the Unknown Regions. If true, it strongly suggests that Laithraism, or the practices from whence it came, has no origins among any in the current galactic community. And as there are no known ways to traverse into the Unknown Regions safely or consistently, it is unlikely the origins of Laithraism, or the ancestral heritage of the Onderonians, will be ever truly be discovered.
BELIEFS
Although used by modern Onderonians in a ceremonial way, Laithraism was believed to have been loosely structured, and was instead very personal for each individual adherent. There was no true hierarchy, such as an ecclesiastical priesthood, although the "Godborn" were thought to have unofficially held such influence over their fellow Laithra. Nomadic druids and residential shamans were also religious figures to arise among the Laithra, although their exact function can only be speculated. Possibly even more remarkable is that nearly all of the deities of the Laithra were nameless, yet at the same time, were estimated to have been well beyond the thousands.
The thousands of deities in Laithraic Paganism were spirits known as the Paragods. Similar to the pantheons of what one might find on other worlds, the Paragods embodied various concepts and were considered to have been the abstract manifestations of the plights, wonders, objects, feelings and all other things that existed in the life of all men and women. As such, they were beyond the scope of personal names, and simply were. Because of the extreme difficulty the Laithra had in adapting to life on Nessama, many of the Laithra identified with the worship of the Paragods that embodies life struggles, such as Avalô'maldor (literally "Paragod of pain and suffering"), Avalô'nûrnen (literally "Paragod of death's shadow"), Avalô'azganárë (literally "Paragod of the undying fire") and Avalô'saigri (literally "Paragod of hunger and famine").
Nevertheless, there were seven Paragods that did possess personal names. Known as the "daerenelmo", or "great mediators", these were the Paragods that communed with the ancient Laithra people, granting them their spiritual knowledge, teaching them the ways of communicating through worship, and of how to live in harmony with the other Paragods. The greatest and most powerful of the daerenelmo was Prásael, the ancient Laithraic word for "Prael", which "the lion of the sea of stars". Prael was the Paragod of the sun, the hunt, taurlions and destiny. The other six daerenelmo were Talarauth, the Paragod of wild beasts, drexls, blood and warfare, Echui, the Paragod of life, awakenings, the dawn, offspring and families, Dîrarchod, the Paragod of hardships, struggles, endurance and work, Aesgalas, the Paragod of food, growth, livestock, produce and agriculture, Phazâncauma, the Paragod of protection, guardians, walls and the shield, and Enwakaina, the Paragod of existence, survival, remembrance, time and physical reality.
The ancient Laithra did believe in currying favor from the Paragods, especially the daerenelmo, although the methods of doing so, as well as the favor they received, was often different than most other religions. Enduring life itself was paramount in pleasing the Paragods, which was considered the highest sacrifice one could give. Indeed, four of of the six daerenelmo were connected to one continuing in their lives. Suicide was widely considered a weakness and insult to the Paragods, as one lacked the will to survive. Consequently, earning favor meant enduring the struggle, or relishing in the pleasure, that one faced in their lives. For instance, Avalô'zîrmeleth (literally "Paragod of love and desire") was honored by one embracing that which they loved, who they loved, and what they loved to do, as opposed to denying themselves for whatever reason.
Likewise, Enwakaina was given honor by Laithra families producing and nurturing children, and Phazâncauma was given honor by protecting them. Favor was seen by the Laithra, not as the Paragods granting miracles to help in their lives, but by granting them the resilience to survive and endure all that life throws at them. The Laithra believed that if one faced too much of anything good or bad in their lifetime, that their lives could become consumed and break, becoming "disconnected". Although there is much debate over the meaning and interpretation, this is widely assumed to mean that without the Paragods, a person that faced too much hardship or pleasure in life could risk their spiritual self dying, forever losing the favor and spiritual prospect of the Coalescence - the union of the faithful with the Paragods. The highest prospect believed attainable was one that extremely few could hope to expect, and was exclusively preserved for those that would be 'reborn' upon their deaths.
The Godborn, or "Eruiâr" (meaning "divine blood"), were Force-sensitive followers of Laithraic Paganism, usually only considered such when they had become self-aware of their gifts and capable of making some form of manifestation of it. Although not worshiped, Eruiâr were highly revered due to the Laithra's belief in a form of destiny. Many Laithra believed that one's destiny was written at the time they are born into the physical world, or the "arthorvarhaw" (meaning "[the] realm of flesh"). The Eruiâr were unique in that they were granted a fraction of the powers from the Godplane, which signified that they possessed a destiny of greatness, either in the physical lives or in the realm beyond. A great deal of speculation among xenoarcheologists surrounds the role the Godborn played, or rather did not play, in the ancient Laithraic society. While most known civilizations either shunned Force-sensitives, or in turn, were ruled by them, the Laithra seemingly struck a balance. There were no known Eruiâr warlords or rulers, but they were still greatly respected by the peoples, making the Godborn a unique existence in galactic history.
The thousands of deities in Laithraic Paganism were spirits known as the Paragods. Similar to the pantheons of what one might find on other worlds, the Paragods embodied various concepts and were considered to have been the abstract manifestations of the plights, wonders, objects, feelings and all other things that existed in the life of all men and women. As such, they were beyond the scope of personal names, and simply were. Because of the extreme difficulty the Laithra had in adapting to life on Nessama, many of the Laithra identified with the worship of the Paragods that embodies life struggles, such as Avalô'maldor (literally "Paragod of pain and suffering"), Avalô'nûrnen (literally "Paragod of death's shadow"), Avalô'azganárë (literally "Paragod of the undying fire") and Avalô'saigri (literally "Paragod of hunger and famine").
Nevertheless, there were seven Paragods that did possess personal names. Known as the "daerenelmo", or "great mediators", these were the Paragods that communed with the ancient Laithra people, granting them their spiritual knowledge, teaching them the ways of communicating through worship, and of how to live in harmony with the other Paragods. The greatest and most powerful of the daerenelmo was Prásael, the ancient Laithraic word for "Prael", which "the lion of the sea of stars". Prael was the Paragod of the sun, the hunt, taurlions and destiny. The other six daerenelmo were Talarauth, the Paragod of wild beasts, drexls, blood and warfare, Echui, the Paragod of life, awakenings, the dawn, offspring and families, Dîrarchod, the Paragod of hardships, struggles, endurance and work, Aesgalas, the Paragod of food, growth, livestock, produce and agriculture, Phazâncauma, the Paragod of protection, guardians, walls and the shield, and Enwakaina, the Paragod of existence, survival, remembrance, time and physical reality.
The ancient Laithra did believe in currying favor from the Paragods, especially the daerenelmo, although the methods of doing so, as well as the favor they received, was often different than most other religions. Enduring life itself was paramount in pleasing the Paragods, which was considered the highest sacrifice one could give. Indeed, four of of the six daerenelmo were connected to one continuing in their lives. Suicide was widely considered a weakness and insult to the Paragods, as one lacked the will to survive. Consequently, earning favor meant enduring the struggle, or relishing in the pleasure, that one faced in their lives. For instance, Avalô'zîrmeleth (literally "Paragod of love and desire") was honored by one embracing that which they loved, who they loved, and what they loved to do, as opposed to denying themselves for whatever reason.
Likewise, Enwakaina was given honor by Laithra families producing and nurturing children, and Phazâncauma was given honor by protecting them. Favor was seen by the Laithra, not as the Paragods granting miracles to help in their lives, but by granting them the resilience to survive and endure all that life throws at them. The Laithra believed that if one faced too much of anything good or bad in their lifetime, that their lives could become consumed and break, becoming "disconnected". Although there is much debate over the meaning and interpretation, this is widely assumed to mean that without the Paragods, a person that faced too much hardship or pleasure in life could risk their spiritual self dying, forever losing the favor and spiritual prospect of the Coalescence - the union of the faithful with the Paragods. The highest prospect believed attainable was one that extremely few could hope to expect, and was exclusively preserved for those that would be 'reborn' upon their deaths.
The Godborn, or "Eruiâr" (meaning "divine blood"), were Force-sensitive followers of Laithraic Paganism, usually only considered such when they had become self-aware of their gifts and capable of making some form of manifestation of it. Although not worshiped, Eruiâr were highly revered due to the Laithra's belief in a form of destiny. Many Laithra believed that one's destiny was written at the time they are born into the physical world, or the "arthorvarhaw" (meaning "[the] realm of flesh"). The Eruiâr were unique in that they were granted a fraction of the powers from the Godplane, which signified that they possessed a destiny of greatness, either in the physical lives or in the realm beyond. A great deal of speculation among xenoarcheologists surrounds the role the Godborn played, or rather did not play, in the ancient Laithraic society. While most known civilizations either shunned Force-sensitives, or in turn, were ruled by them, the Laithra seemingly struck a balance. There were no known Eruiâr warlords or rulers, but they were still greatly respected by the peoples, making the Godborn a unique existence in galactic history.
PRACTICES
The Laithra were deeply spiritual and this was reflected in their practices. Prayer was a constant, both a regular requirement and an endorsement by the masses. While prayers could be conducted anywhere, locations were believed to have a significant impact on how they were heard. Locations of significant events, such as memorialized battlefields, grave sites of those close to the individual, holy shrines and places difficult to reach, such as mountaintops, were just a few locations thought to grant an individual additional favor when praying.
Sacrifices were also a significant part of Laithraic Paganism, and took many forms. Most sacrifices given by the Laithra were done so by their manner of living; enduring the difficulties of everyday life on Nessama, the bravery in the face of fighting off ferocious predators, successfully raising children and strength in warfare were all considered sacrifices to the Paragods.
The sacrifice of animals were less common, but were considered to be of even greater importance under the correct circumstances. The capture or slaying of a great beast, such as a maalraas, boma, or gharzr, followed by an immolation of the said beasts, was considered a great way to curry favor with the Paragods. Other creatures, such as the zakkeg, afforded even greater renown. The drexl or the taurlion, beasts of near-mythological status among the Laithra, granted them legendary status, and individuals that accomplished such feats were praised nearly to the degree of the Eruiâr.
Most of the highest noble houses of modern day Onderon originated as the greatest Laithraic tribes, which were frequently founded by individuals who accomplished similar deeds. House Kira, a house still known for their participation in battle and warfare, was founded by least two of their ancestors slaying a drexl. The progenitor of House Dendup and House Vaklu, known as Aradon the Bladeheart, likewise achieved his esteemed status by the unorthodox "living sacrifice", or taming, of a taurlion.
Sacrifices were also a significant part of Laithraic Paganism, and took many forms. Most sacrifices given by the Laithra were done so by their manner of living; enduring the difficulties of everyday life on Nessama, the bravery in the face of fighting off ferocious predators, successfully raising children and strength in warfare were all considered sacrifices to the Paragods.
The sacrifice of animals were less common, but were considered to be of even greater importance under the correct circumstances. The capture or slaying of a great beast, such as a maalraas, boma, or gharzr, followed by an immolation of the said beasts, was considered a great way to curry favor with the Paragods. Other creatures, such as the zakkeg, afforded even greater renown. The drexl or the taurlion, beasts of near-mythological status among the Laithra, granted them legendary status, and individuals that accomplished such feats were praised nearly to the degree of the Eruiâr.
Most of the highest noble houses of modern day Onderon originated as the greatest Laithraic tribes, which were frequently founded by individuals who accomplished similar deeds. House Kira, a house still known for their participation in battle and warfare, was founded by least two of their ancestors slaying a drexl. The progenitor of House Dendup and House Vaklu, known as Aradon the Bladeheart, likewise achieved his esteemed status by the unorthodox "living sacrifice", or taming, of a taurlion.
ADHERENTS
Following the Sith Empire's domination of Onderon, most Laithraic practices were purged, and the "uplifting and enlightenment" following the arrival of the Galactic Republic and Jedi Order ensured very little ever resurfaced. While some old ceremonial traditions are still respected and their past is regarded with great interest and curiosity, the vast majority of Onderonians currently embrace the galaxy-spanning Church of the Force, established locally via the Church of Onderon. Nevertheless, a very small minority of Onderonians still cling to the old Laithraic ways. These are largely centered around two Houses, the most famous being the outsider House of Storms, House Vaklu. The official "House" Talarnor, or simply known as the Talarnor or "Beast Riders", embrace their Laithraic roots even more strongly than House Vaklu, which led to extremely strained relations between the Beast Riders and contemporary Onderonians early in their modernized history.
Bâlúan
In Onderonian culture, extending back to the era of the Laithra, some beasts of the vicious predators found their had achieved near-mythical status, either due to their ferocity or their majesty, or both. These creatures are known as the Bâlúan (meaning "sacred beasts"). Only two animals have achieved this status among the Onderonians; the drexl and the taurlion.
DREXL
KING PRAEDYTH II, RIDING RẢMALÓCË DURING THE SECOND BATTLE OF ONDERON
KING PRAEDYTH II, RIDING RẢMALÓCË DURING THE SECOND BATTLE OF ONDERON
Carnivorous super-predators and considered vicious beasts of death even from their larva stage, drexls were once the bane of all Onderonians, with that status actually lasting after their technological renaissance. Massive dragon-like creatures with fangs the length of a Human male's arm, drexls were both dreaded and regarded as the sacred expression of the battle of life against death. After having been adopted by the Paragod Talarauth, drexls also became a living manifestation of bloodshed, warfare and all beasts of Onderon. Although rare, some ancient Laithra had managed to slay drexls, such as the ancestors of House Kira. At some point after their exile from Onderon, the Talarnor, who even named themselves after their patron, even mastered ways to tame the beasts, thousands of years before their Onderonian cousins. Following the rise of the artamérs, or fortress cities, drexl attacks had nearly ceased, with most migrating to Dxun or remaining in the unclaimed Onderonians wilds.
Although some among the Onderonians possess the knowledge to train drexls as warbeasts, the practice is virtually non-existent due to the danger drexls potentially pose. The only known domesticated drexl is Rámalócë, a warbeast gifted to House Vaklu by the Talarnor after their political power play against House Dendup in show of their support. Following the two royal families' reconciliation, Rámalócë came under the ownership of Praedyth II, after his marriage to Clarissa Dendup, who used the warbeast during toward the end of the Battle of Onderon.
Although some among the Onderonians possess the knowledge to train drexls as warbeasts, the practice is virtually non-existent due to the danger drexls potentially pose. The only known domesticated drexl is Rámalócë, a warbeast gifted to House Vaklu by the Talarnor after their political power play against House Dendup in show of their support. Following the two royal families' reconciliation, Rámalócë came under the ownership of Praedyth II, after his marriage to Clarissa Dendup, who used the warbeast during toward the end of the Battle of Onderon.
TAURLION
THE ARTISTIC DEPICTION OF ARADON THE BLADEHEART RIDING ATOP OF A TAMED TAURLION
THE ARTISTIC DEPICTION OF ARADON THE BLADEHEART RIDING ATOP OF A TAMED TAURLION
Large, horned and majestic, the taurlion has long represented the grandeur of Onderon. White-furred beasts with horns present on the males that can grow two-thirds the length of a fully grown Human male's arm, the taurlions were terrifyingly aggressive carnivorous feline predators that were considered the alpha predators between the drexl migrations, with even the powerful zakkegs becoming their prey. Swift, strong adaptable and intelligent, the taurlions lived in prides where the young were fiercely protected, and could survive in Onderon's jungles and their scarce polar regions alike. In Laithraic Paganism, the taurlion was even adopted by the Paragod Prásael, raising the taurlion to mythological status. This was only ascended further when the eventual Laithra chieften, Aradon the Bladeheart, tamed a taurlion as his warbeast. Even in modern-day Onderon, taurlions are considered sacred animals, which ironically made them targets of off-world poachers. Taurlions are even used in the legal seal of House Dendup, signifying their ancestral link and reverence to the beasts.
Oialëtirith
Royal Special Forces
Royal Special Forces
THE SLEEK ARMOR OF OIALËTIRITH TROOPERS WAS ALMOST ENTIRELY BLACK, CHARACTERISTIC OF THEIR ORIGIN IN HOUSE VAKLU
Oialëtirith, colloquially known by off-worlders as Onderon's Royal Special Forces, is an elite military force in the Kingdom of Onderon. Their namesake actually translating to "Forever Watch", Oialëtirith are formed from the ranks of House Vaklu's most elite soldiers. A rare sight on Onderon and the populated moons, Oialëtirith almost exclusively operates near or just beyond the Kingdom of Onderon's borders, largely combating pirate and raider incursions into the Onderonian realm. Effectively acting as a counter-terrorism and anti-invasion unit, Oialëtirith is considered to be Onderon's most experienced and efficacious military unit, save for the Royal Protectors.
Due to their work in securing Onderon's sovereignty against any and all external threats, Oialëtirith frequently work closely with the Paladin Guard in an unofficial capacity. Indeed, because of their finesse and skill, many members of the Paladin Guard, initiate and inaugurated alike, spend extended periods of time training and fighting alongside the Oialëtirith to refine their combative and survival skills. As they are a fighting force of House Vaklu, Oialëtirith is not traditionally considered to be part of the Royal Armed Forces and are generally scattered throughout the Onderonian Kingdom, engaging in largely independent operations.
Due to their work in securing Onderon's sovereignty against any and all external threats, Oialëtirith frequently work closely with the Paladin Guard in an unofficial capacity. Indeed, because of their finesse and skill, many members of the Paladin Guard, initiate and inaugurated alike, spend extended periods of time training and fighting alongside the Oialëtirith to refine their combative and survival skills. As they are a fighting force of House Vaklu, Oialëtirith is not traditionally considered to be part of the Royal Armed Forces and are generally scattered throughout the Onderonian Kingdom, engaging in largely independent operations.
Paladin Guard
Royal Protectors
Royal Protectors
THE PALADINS WERE EASILY IDENTIFIED BY THEIR ARMOR AND THE PRESENCE OF THE CREST OF HOUSE KIRA ON THE BACKS OF THEIR CERULEAN CLOAKS
The Paladin Guard, colloquially known as the Royal Protectors, the Order of the Unifar Knights, or simply as Paladins, is the most elite corps of Onderon's military forces. Unlike most specialized armed units, the Paladin Guard was not a collection of soldiers and warriors that had distinguished themselves in battle. Instead, members were almost universally raised in expectation of induction; members spent their entire lives, from childhood through to adulthood, training to become Paladins, and nothing else.
Rivaled only by the Oialëtirith, the Paladin Guard were the most highly trained regiment of soldiers on Onderon. With light blue cloaks with the crest of the House of Blades branded onto the backs of their capes, the vast majority of the Paladins were drawn from the ranks of House Kira. However, all of the great houses, with the exception of House Vaklu, had at least some of their blood among the Paladin Guard's ranks. Paladins were armed with laser lances, which were vibro-polearm weapons that held similar functions to electrostaves, with blaster barrels located at the tips to enable them to be utilized for either melee or ranged encounters.
By the time they were fully trained, Paladins were taciturn, utilizing kinetic communication to coordinate. Paladins never verbalized speech while on active duty unless given permission to do so by their Lord-Commander or one of higher rank or position. The most common circumstance where such permission was granted en masse was when any member of the Royal Protectors actively coordinated an operation with the Royal Special Forces, or when Iziz was in an active state of war. Unlike their counterparts from House Vaklu, the highest priority of the Paladins is not the safeguarding of the Onderonian Kingdom, but of its reigning royal family and the Unifar Temple.
Rivaled only by the Oialëtirith, the Paladin Guard were the most highly trained regiment of soldiers on Onderon. With light blue cloaks with the crest of the House of Blades branded onto the backs of their capes, the vast majority of the Paladins were drawn from the ranks of House Kira. However, all of the great houses, with the exception of House Vaklu, had at least some of their blood among the Paladin Guard's ranks. Paladins were armed with laser lances, which were vibro-polearm weapons that held similar functions to electrostaves, with blaster barrels located at the tips to enable them to be utilized for either melee or ranged encounters.
By the time they were fully trained, Paladins were taciturn, utilizing kinetic communication to coordinate. Paladins never verbalized speech while on active duty unless given permission to do so by their Lord-Commander or one of higher rank or position. The most common circumstance where such permission was granted en masse was when any member of the Royal Protectors actively coordinated an operation with the Royal Special Forces, or when Iziz was in an active state of war. Unlike their counterparts from House Vaklu, the highest priority of the Paladins is not the safeguarding of the Onderonian Kingdom, but of its reigning royal family and the Unifar Temple.
Atronach Institute
THE ATRONACH INSTITUTE WAS ONE OF THE STRONGEST SCIENTIFIC AND FINANCIAL PILLARS OF ONDERON'S ECONOMIC POWER
The Atronach Institute is a technological research, design and fabrication facility, the majority of which is controlled by House Bonteri. Virtually all of Onderon's technological exports originate from the Atronach Institute, making it one of the most important financial entities on the planet, and in the Onderonian Kingdom. Although producing technology relating to cybernetics, artificial intelligence and hyperspace engines, the foremost technology produced was combat protocols and battle algorithms. Hence, most of the technology produced by the Atronach Institute was designed for automated weaponry, such as turbolasers found on military starships, military bases, battlefield turrets, and even programs that could be implemented into the artificial intelligence of droids, such as battle droids.
Protocol droids were produced to some extent by the institute, along with service and labor droids, but the majority of the Atronach Institute's works were synthetic platforms built for luxury and comfort as opposed to base practicality. Following the resurgent activity of the collapsed Sith Empire, the Atronach Institute had also begun a division that researched the field of starship designing, largely revolving around battleships and starfighters. These designs were originally conceived, not with the prospect of constructing the vessels, but to sell the starship designs. Onderon's fleet was of vessels purchased from various shipyards, such as Kuat and Corellia, as they lack a shipyard to use their resources in the mass production of their own vessels.
Since the first terrorist attack on Iziz, however, King Praedyth II had commissioned House Bonteri's to begin the design and construction of an orbital space station, known as Alatulya, that could function as modest shipyard of their own, while also providing port authority, immigration matters and commercial elements. Following the Battle of Onderon a year later, where Alatulya came under attack itself, King Praedyth increased the funding to the Atronach Institute to establish the orbital station's shipyard, so that Onderon could begin producing its own vessels to defend itself.
Protocol droids were produced to some extent by the institute, along with service and labor droids, but the majority of the Atronach Institute's works were synthetic platforms built for luxury and comfort as opposed to base practicality. Following the resurgent activity of the collapsed Sith Empire, the Atronach Institute had also begun a division that researched the field of starship designing, largely revolving around battleships and starfighters. These designs were originally conceived, not with the prospect of constructing the vessels, but to sell the starship designs. Onderon's fleet was of vessels purchased from various shipyards, such as Kuat and Corellia, as they lack a shipyard to use their resources in the mass production of their own vessels.
Since the first terrorist attack on Iziz, however, King Praedyth II had commissioned House Bonteri's to begin the design and construction of an orbital space station, known as Alatulya, that could function as modest shipyard of their own, while also providing port authority, immigration matters and commercial elements. Following the Battle of Onderon a year later, where Alatulya came under attack itself, King Praedyth increased the funding to the Atronach Institute to establish the orbital station's shipyard, so that Onderon could begin producing its own vessels to defend itself.
Alatulya
ALATULYA, THE LARGEST ORBITAL SPACE STATION OF ONDERON
The architectural brainchild of the Atronach Instute and House Bonteri, Alatulya is the orbital space station over Onderon, functioning as a port authority for traders importing raw goods or deporting shipments to other worlds, handling the legalities and official necessities of customs and immigration, commercialized elements and presentations, and even ferrying spiritualists for pilgrammages to the Onderonian Jedi Temple. Although origianlly a relatively benign structure, Alatulya had become increasingly built upon for the inclusion of a moderate orbital shipyard for the construction of defense vessels.
A relatively new creation, funded by King Praedyth II of House Dendup, Alatulya became an even more important structure to Onderonian stability when, during the Battle of Onderon, the station was specifically targeted by the Sith Brotherhood's forces military forces. Since then, the efforts to fully establish Onderon's shipyards had been redoubled. Armed, armored and shielded, Alatulya is not a battle station, but is capable of defending itself from attackers. Even without the danger of the Sith, raiders and marauders have been a frequent, even almost incessant nuisance in Onderonian space, and while most are fended off by House Vaklu's forces, the occasional pirate seeking a meek target is always a consideration in making sure Alatulya is adaquately defended.
A relatively new creation, funded by King Praedyth II of House Dendup, Alatulya became an even more important structure to Onderonian stability when, during the Battle of Onderon, the station was specifically targeted by the Sith Brotherhood's forces military forces. Since then, the efforts to fully establish Onderon's shipyards had been redoubled. Armed, armored and shielded, Alatulya is not a battle station, but is capable of defending itself from attackers. Even without the danger of the Sith, raiders and marauders have been a frequent, even almost incessant nuisance in Onderonian space, and while most are fended off by House Vaklu's forces, the occasional pirate seeking a meek target is always a consideration in making sure Alatulya is adaquately defended.
Iziz Embassy
THE IZIZ CONSULATES ARE THE CENTER OF ONDERON'S FOREIGN POLITICAL ACTIVITY
The Iziz Embassy is the extravagantly decorated series of consulates, located in the Elvellon Quarter of the Nessama District, parallel to the Torival Quarter which houses the royal palace of the Unifar Temple. Lavish and elevated over the majority of the city, the Iziz Embassy is made up of delegates and representatives from worlds, planetary systems, sectors or other governments, commercial or military empires that have dealings with Onderon. The vast majority of the foreign delegates are native to neighboring sectors and systems, as well as representatives of the Republic itself, although non-Republic influences can be found there as well, such as off-world corporate entities.
The Iziz Embassy retains one of the strictest security forces on the planet of Onderon, as the establishment of a region of safety reflects on the planet's stability and worth in the eyes of its people. Although internal politics relating to Onderon are largely centered in the Unifar Temple, many members of the Consensus utilize a high-speed tram that bridges the two locations. The monarchs of Onderon are almost never present at the Iziz Embassy, although qualified members of the royal family are frequently appointed as political proxies for the former.
The Iziz Embassy retains one of the strictest security forces on the planet of Onderon, as the establishment of a region of safety reflects on the planet's stability and worth in the eyes of its people. Although internal politics relating to Onderon are largely centered in the Unifar Temple, many members of the Consensus utilize a high-speed tram that bridges the two locations. The monarchs of Onderon are almost never present at the Iziz Embassy, although qualified members of the royal family are frequently appointed as political proxies for the former.
Church of the Force
Church of Onderon
Church of Onderon
EVEN AFTER THEIR CULTURAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL RENAISSANCE, THE ONDERONIANS RETAINED A FORM THEIR SPIRITUAL IDENTITY
The Church of the Force, embraced locally through the Church of Onderon, is the primary religion practiced on Onderon. Having long ago replaced the old pagan ways of Laithraism, the Church of the Force was openly practiced by nearly all denizens of the Kingdom of Onderon, the only prevalent exceptions being House Vaklu and the Talarnor, who still adhered to the old Laithraic ways to varying degrees.
The Church of the Force was indirectly introduced to the Onderonian people's ancestors, the Laithra, through their Sith overlords. After being conquered by the Sith Empire, the Laithra's cultural identity was almost entirely purged, having been reduced to slaves and forced to sacrifice their way of life. Because of the attention suddenly drawn to their world, due to the Sith Empire's war with the Galactic Republic and Jedi Order eventually found its way to Onderon, the Laithra's liberation was immediately followed by a cultural renaissance, where the Laithra, soon-to-be-called Onderonians, were "enlightened and uplifted", with much of their new identity being derived from Alsakan, Alderaanian and Old Corellian culture. With their knowledge of the greater galaxy, most Onderonians no longer sought to institute their old religions and cultures, and instead embraced the more modern ways of the galactic community. As a consequence, Laithraism never truly returned to widespread practice, save for being the subject of historical preservation and research, curiosities and ceremonial events.
The Onderonians and their ancestors had always held a great reverence for what they perceived as the Force and for Force-sensitives. Although forever poisoned against the Sith, the arrival of "Jedi saviors" reinvigorated a newfound fervor for their new understanding of the Force, with most Onderonians gradually embraced the Church of the Force over Laithraism. Within the a few decades of a single generation, the Chruch of Onderon, established in Iziz and beyond, became the primary religion practiced by all.
The Church of the Force was largely derived from the understanding of the Force passed down from the teachings of the Knights of the Jedi Order. Although not Force-sensitive, it was believed that all life was connected to the Force, and thus all could contribute to the strength of the Force. By living in harmony with others, embracing peace, compassion, love and mercy, it was thought that a sapient being, Force-sensitive or not, could contribute their strength to the Light Side of the Force, which would in turn weaken the Dark Side and all that was aligned with it. Those that sought out conflict, pillaged, brought woe, pain and despair upon others, and characteristics of such, were believed to strengthen the overall power of the Dark Side. Adherents to the Church of the Force in turn sought to balance this corruption by becoming "Jedi-like", which in strengthening the Force, also strengthened the Jedi Knights in their quest to bring about peace and harmony wherever they went.
Although Laithraism was largely dead as a practice, some characteristics of the old ways were still manifested in the ways the Onderonians practiced their faith. For instance, many Onderonians saw the Force as a sort of sapient deity that guides and directs all things, similar to Prásael who was, among other things, a deity of destiny. Other Onderonians saw the Force as a protective presence, similar to Phazâncauma, as a life-giving entity, similar Echui or Aesgalas, or as a more esoteric and abstract deity of all things, the physical and metaphysical existences around them and of all time, similar to Enwakaina.
Although not outwardly considered a person god, many Onderonians nonetheless manifest their faith through prayers, covering a wide spectrum of subjects and matters. Because of this, some Onderonians that cling to the old ways, largely the Talarnor, mockingly refer to the Force as Toltoya (meaning "[the] Eighth"), in reference to how so many Onderonians worship it in ways so similar to the Paragods, specifically the seven daerenelmo Paragods. Members of House Vaklu or its vassals often refer to the Force worshiped by mainstream Onderonians honorably as Tûr or Erutûr (meaning "[the] Power" or "[the] One Power", respectively). However, some also have developed the mocking term Avalô'tûr (meaning "[the] Paragod of Power") for reasons similar to that of the Talarnor.
The Church of the Force was indirectly introduced to the Onderonian people's ancestors, the Laithra, through their Sith overlords. After being conquered by the Sith Empire, the Laithra's cultural identity was almost entirely purged, having been reduced to slaves and forced to sacrifice their way of life. Because of the attention suddenly drawn to their world, due to the Sith Empire's war with the Galactic Republic and Jedi Order eventually found its way to Onderon, the Laithra's liberation was immediately followed by a cultural renaissance, where the Laithra, soon-to-be-called Onderonians, were "enlightened and uplifted", with much of their new identity being derived from Alsakan, Alderaanian and Old Corellian culture. With their knowledge of the greater galaxy, most Onderonians no longer sought to institute their old religions and cultures, and instead embraced the more modern ways of the galactic community. As a consequence, Laithraism never truly returned to widespread practice, save for being the subject of historical preservation and research, curiosities and ceremonial events.
The Onderonians and their ancestors had always held a great reverence for what they perceived as the Force and for Force-sensitives. Although forever poisoned against the Sith, the arrival of "Jedi saviors" reinvigorated a newfound fervor for their new understanding of the Force, with most Onderonians gradually embraced the Church of the Force over Laithraism. Within the a few decades of a single generation, the Chruch of Onderon, established in Iziz and beyond, became the primary religion practiced by all.
The Church of the Force was largely derived from the understanding of the Force passed down from the teachings of the Knights of the Jedi Order. Although not Force-sensitive, it was believed that all life was connected to the Force, and thus all could contribute to the strength of the Force. By living in harmony with others, embracing peace, compassion, love and mercy, it was thought that a sapient being, Force-sensitive or not, could contribute their strength to the Light Side of the Force, which would in turn weaken the Dark Side and all that was aligned with it. Those that sought out conflict, pillaged, brought woe, pain and despair upon others, and characteristics of such, were believed to strengthen the overall power of the Dark Side. Adherents to the Church of the Force in turn sought to balance this corruption by becoming "Jedi-like", which in strengthening the Force, also strengthened the Jedi Knights in their quest to bring about peace and harmony wherever they went.
Although Laithraism was largely dead as a practice, some characteristics of the old ways were still manifested in the ways the Onderonians practiced their faith. For instance, many Onderonians saw the Force as a sort of sapient deity that guides and directs all things, similar to Prásael who was, among other things, a deity of destiny. Other Onderonians saw the Force as a protective presence, similar to Phazâncauma, as a life-giving entity, similar Echui or Aesgalas, or as a more esoteric and abstract deity of all things, the physical and metaphysical existences around them and of all time, similar to Enwakaina.
Although not outwardly considered a person god, many Onderonians nonetheless manifest their faith through prayers, covering a wide spectrum of subjects and matters. Because of this, some Onderonians that cling to the old ways, largely the Talarnor, mockingly refer to the Force as Toltoya (meaning "[the] Eighth"), in reference to how so many Onderonians worship it in ways so similar to the Paragods, specifically the seven daerenelmo Paragods. Members of House Vaklu or its vassals often refer to the Force worshiped by mainstream Onderonians honorably as Tûr or Erutûr (meaning "[the] Power" or "[the] One Power", respectively). However, some also have developed the mocking term Avalô'tûr (meaning "[the] Paragod of Power") for reasons similar to that of the Talarnor.
Royal Family of
Onderon
Houses of Kings and Storms
Onderon
Houses of Kings and Storms
The Royal Family of Onderon was the ruling Great House that descended from the oldest known and oldest surviving Laithraic tribe. With a venerated history of acclaimed warlords, mediators and explorers, House Dendup has long been the undisputed monarchs of the Onderonian Kingdom, until recent events shook several of the other Great Houses' trust in House Dendup over House Vaklu. As a result of the viciously-waged campaign by the Sith thousands of years ago, the tribe that made up the progenitors of House Dendup became divided in their attempt to fight back against the Sith invaders. During an ill-fated rebellion, some Laithra tribesmen managed to escape the Sith purge, stealing a Sith shuttle and ultimately landing on Morvolo. Those Laithra would eventually become known as House Vaklu, while the Laithra of the same tribe that were left behind became House Dendup. As a result, Onderon technically has two royal families, although only one rules over the kingdom.
CLARISSA DENDUP
QUEEN CLARISSA OF ONDERON, FORMERLY GRAND DUCHESS OF HER HOUSE
QUEEN CLARISSA OF ONDERON, FORMERLY GRAND DUCHESS OF HER HOUSE
Formally known as Her Glorious Majesty, Queen Clarissa of House Dendup, First of Her Name, Lady of the Sovereign Realm of Onderon and Protectress of the Systems of Japrael, is the reigning queen of the Kingdom of Onderon and bearer of the Aureolin Crown. Formerly the Grand Duchess and second cousin of King Bastille, it was only through sequences of unfortunate circumstances that Clarissa ever attained the foremost eligibility as a sovereign.
Following the Blight, a deadly plague that rapidly swept across Onderon, most of the Great Houses cut themselves off in the interest of self-preservation. Specifically included in this was House Dendup, on the order of King Bastille. This led to the Consensus, for all practical purposes, attaining executive power on Onderon. However, instead of appealing to the Republic for aid, most of the elected subrulers attempted to save-face, quarantining the planet in an attempt to "ride it out". The result was a near total collapse of the citadel cities and a sharp rise in anarchy and chaos. Leaderless, warlords and despots arose to take control of the power vacuum.
House Vaklu was the only Great House, originally, that fought to maintain any semblance of stability and order on Onderon, and was eventually followed by House Kira and other Great Houses. After King Bastille became ill and fell in death, the Blight had afflicted House Dendup so severely that Clarissa relatively quickly became next in line for the throne. Quickly using her newfound power to unite the efforts of the Great Houses, appeal to the Republic for aid and dispose of any would-be tyrants across the fortress cities, Clarissa rapidly became a figurehead of House Dendup's return. After the devastation of the Blight had ended, Clarissa expected to claim the throne of Onderon. However, resentment at House Dendup's perceived abandonment of Onderon's people led to House Vaklu refusing to surrender the reclaimed citadel cities.
This sparked a newfound animosity between the two royal families, which Clarissa initially believed to be manageable. However, after several of the other noble houses, most notably House Kira, threw their support behind House Vaklu, whispers of the possibility of a civil war brewing had started to become a very real possibility. In an effort to appease the other nobles and dissipate the political strife and tensions that had been mounting, Clarissa had proposed a reunification of Houses Dendup and Vaklu to represent a collaboration of both sides. However, with most of House Vaklu's members being either too elderly, young or already claimed, Eeron Taevarion was chosen, due to his descent from Vaklu on his father's side, and his good personal relationship with the house itself.
These events led to Clarissa Dendup and Eeron Taevarion, inaugurated and rechristened as Praedyth II Dendup, marrying and reunifying Onderon's nearly-fractured political powers. As a politician, Queen Clarissa takes a much more active role in managing the often rivaling Great Houses and Onderon's internal and foreign politics, whereas much of Onderon's military, defensive and domestic security matters were handled by her husband. Since their marriage five years ago, Clarissa had born two children from their union, a son and a daughter; Celdarion and Teyaria.
Following the Blight, a deadly plague that rapidly swept across Onderon, most of the Great Houses cut themselves off in the interest of self-preservation. Specifically included in this was House Dendup, on the order of King Bastille. This led to the Consensus, for all practical purposes, attaining executive power on Onderon. However, instead of appealing to the Republic for aid, most of the elected subrulers attempted to save-face, quarantining the planet in an attempt to "ride it out". The result was a near total collapse of the citadel cities and a sharp rise in anarchy and chaos. Leaderless, warlords and despots arose to take control of the power vacuum.
House Vaklu was the only Great House, originally, that fought to maintain any semblance of stability and order on Onderon, and was eventually followed by House Kira and other Great Houses. After King Bastille became ill and fell in death, the Blight had afflicted House Dendup so severely that Clarissa relatively quickly became next in line for the throne. Quickly using her newfound power to unite the efforts of the Great Houses, appeal to the Republic for aid and dispose of any would-be tyrants across the fortress cities, Clarissa rapidly became a figurehead of House Dendup's return. After the devastation of the Blight had ended, Clarissa expected to claim the throne of Onderon. However, resentment at House Dendup's perceived abandonment of Onderon's people led to House Vaklu refusing to surrender the reclaimed citadel cities.
This sparked a newfound animosity between the two royal families, which Clarissa initially believed to be manageable. However, after several of the other noble houses, most notably House Kira, threw their support behind House Vaklu, whispers of the possibility of a civil war brewing had started to become a very real possibility. In an effort to appease the other nobles and dissipate the political strife and tensions that had been mounting, Clarissa had proposed a reunification of Houses Dendup and Vaklu to represent a collaboration of both sides. However, with most of House Vaklu's members being either too elderly, young or already claimed, Eeron Taevarion was chosen, due to his descent from Vaklu on his father's side, and his good personal relationship with the house itself.
These events led to Clarissa Dendup and Eeron Taevarion, inaugurated and rechristened as Praedyth II Dendup, marrying and reunifying Onderon's nearly-fractured political powers. As a politician, Queen Clarissa takes a much more active role in managing the often rivaling Great Houses and Onderon's internal and foreign politics, whereas much of Onderon's military, defensive and domestic security matters were handled by her husband. Since their marriage five years ago, Clarissa had born two children from their union, a son and a daughter; Celdarion and Teyaria.
GREGOR VAKLU
THE ARTISTIC REPRESENTATION OF THE EIGHT STAR SYSTEMS THAT MAKE UP THE KINGDOM OF ONDERON
THE SKY WALLS WERE THE OLDEST HISTORIC DEFENSES CREATED AGAINST ONDERON'S MANY VICIOUS PREDATORS
HUNDREDS OF ARTAMÉRS WERE SCATTERED ACROSS ONDERON'S SURFACE
THE UNIVERSITY OF OV TARABA WAS THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS COLLEGE IN THE KINGDOM OF ONDERON
THE JYRENNE SWOOP CIRCUIT WAS THE LARGEST SWOOP TRACK ON ONDERON
A SMALL CORNER OF THE MALGAN MARKET, WHICH WAS ONDERON'S LARGEST AND MOST ACTIVE CULTURAL HUB
THE JEDI TEMPLE OF ONDERON WAS DESIGNED AFTER THE PYRAMIDIC PRAXEUMS CONSTRUCTED BY THE ANCIENTS OF THE JEDI ORDER
World-weary, grizzled and battle-hardened, Lord Gregor of House Vaklu, Exarch of Morvolo, is the head of House Vaklu, the House of Storms, commander of the Oialëtirith (Onderonian royal special forces) and ruler of Morvolo. Gregor Vaklu is one of only two Exarchs in the Kingdom on Onderon, nobles that are given sole supreme authority over an entire world or moon, the other being the Ingwëron of the Talarnor Dxunites. Having attained the status due to House Vaklu's royal lineage and isolationist nature from the rest of Onderon and the great houses, Gregor effectively rules as a lower king in the Onderonian Kingdom. Residing within Castle Tinúviel, Gregor Vaklu is over ninety standard years old, although has continued to maintain a degree of his vitality and constitution from his strong Force-sensitivity.
For those perceptive enough, Gregor Vaklu's eyes reveal his old age and wizened heart. Although largely content to allow his house's cousins, House Dendup, to rule Onderon at the heart of the kingdom, the incompetence of King Bastille and the Consensus led to House Vaklu taking action to preserve Onderon's stability until a new leader, then-Grand Duchess Clarissa Dendup, to take control as the house's new leader. Following the end of the Blight Crisis, Gregor's lost faith in House Dendup led to his refusal to capitulate ownership of the artamérs to House Dendup. After receiving support from other dissatisfied great houses, most notably being House Kira, Gregor Vaklu was appeased into relenting his control only through a political marriage of his great-grandson, Eeron Taevarion, and Clarissa Dendup, which both administratively returned a degree of governing power to House Vaklu within the Consensus, as well as symbolize the reuniting of the two ancient royal bloodlines.
Nevertheless, as a result of Gregor's actions, House Vaklu and House Dendup still possess very cool relations, albeit not to the far extent of the Talarnor. In the years since the inauguration of Eeron Taevarion as Praedyth II, however, the division between the two houses, specifically Gregor and Clarissa, have mended considerably, due to both sides' good relationship with Praedyth himself. Because of his sons having perished and possessing no more direct descendants within House Vaklu itself, Gregor has named his heir as Praedyth himself, with either Celdarion or Teyaria slated to become the house's future lord or lady.
For those perceptive enough, Gregor Vaklu's eyes reveal his old age and wizened heart. Although largely content to allow his house's cousins, House Dendup, to rule Onderon at the heart of the kingdom, the incompetence of King Bastille and the Consensus led to House Vaklu taking action to preserve Onderon's stability until a new leader, then-Grand Duchess Clarissa Dendup, to take control as the house's new leader. Following the end of the Blight Crisis, Gregor's lost faith in House Dendup led to his refusal to capitulate ownership of the artamérs to House Dendup. After receiving support from other dissatisfied great houses, most notably being House Kira, Gregor Vaklu was appeased into relenting his control only through a political marriage of his great-grandson, Eeron Taevarion, and Clarissa Dendup, which both administratively returned a degree of governing power to House Vaklu within the Consensus, as well as symbolize the reuniting of the two ancient royal bloodlines.
Nevertheless, as a result of Gregor's actions, House Vaklu and House Dendup still possess very cool relations, albeit not to the far extent of the Talarnor. In the years since the inauguration of Eeron Taevarion as Praedyth II, however, the division between the two houses, specifically Gregor and Clarissa, have mended considerably, due to both sides' good relationship with Praedyth himself. Because of his sons having perished and possessing no more direct descendants within House Vaklu itself, Gregor has named his heir as Praedyth himself, with either Celdarion or Teyaria slated to become the house's future lord or lady.
Kingdom of Onderon
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
THE ARTISTIC REPRESENTATION OF THE EIGHT STAR SYSTEMS THAT MAKE UP THE KINGDOM OF ONDERON
The Kingdom of Onderon was a system-spanning government, encompassing the Japrael Sector of Republic Space. Eight systems make up the Japrael Sector; the Japrael System, the Menel System, the Othello System, the Acharn System, the Estevala System, the Anardil System, the Faeltera System, and the Tyelima System. In spite this, virtually all of the sector's population and activity, including military, political and economic matters, are centered in the Japrael System alone. Within the Japrael System are three inhabited worlds; Onderon, Bara and Morvolo, and over one hundred moons, a great many of which were also inhabited to varying degrees.
BARA PENAL COLONY
THE BARA PENAL COLONY WAS THE ONLY SUPERMAX PRISON IN THE ENTIRE JAPRAEL SECTOR
THE BARA PENAL COLONY WAS THE ONLY SUPERMAX PRISON IN THE ENTIRE JAPRAEL SECTOR
The sole supermax prison in the Kingdom of Onderon, the Bara Penal Colony, usually simply called the Bara Colony or Bara Prison, is the penitentiary established on the first world of the Japrael System; Bara. A molten world of lava, erupting volcanoes and rivers gushing of magma, the planet of Bara was nonetheless rich in raw resources. In spite of this, the viciousness of the planet's terrain and atmosphere stunted any large-scale efforts to establish a permanent colony for mining purposes, the nature of which were too complex to leave solely to a droid labor force. The Bara colony thus remained largely dormant until several centuries ago, when Queen Kiriala gave the order to reestablish the Bara colony and a prison for the increasing pirate raiders attacking Onderonian ships, stations and moons.
Nearly all of the prisoners of Bara are captured pirates and raiders, although many of Onderon's worst criminals are also sentenced there as well. No spaceworthy vessels are stationed on Bara, and the administration for the prison are actually established on Bara's moon, Nothon. The existence of the Bara colony acts as much as a prison as it does as a crime-deterrent for would-be criminals, and although deaths stemming from the environmental hazards are rare, the reputed hardships of the lava mines and coarseness of the sulfur-filled air carry an almost mythic status.
Nearly all of the prisoners of Bara are captured pirates and raiders, although many of Onderon's worst criminals are also sentenced there as well. No spaceworthy vessels are stationed on Bara, and the administration for the prison are actually established on Bara's moon, Nothon. The existence of the Bara colony acts as much as a prison as it does as a crime-deterrent for would-be criminals, and although deaths stemming from the environmental hazards are rare, the reputed hardships of the lava mines and coarseness of the sulfur-filled air carry an almost mythic status.
TALARNOR
Beast Riders of Dxun
THE TALARNOR, BETTER KNOWN AS BEAST RIDERS, WERE THE ONLY ONDERONIANS TO FULLY REJECT THE CULTURAL SHIFT OF THE ONDERONIAN RENAISSANCE
Beast Riders of Dxun
THE TALARNOR, BETTER KNOWN AS BEAST RIDERS, WERE THE ONLY ONDERONIANS TO FULLY REJECT THE CULTURAL SHIFT OF THE ONDERONIAN RENAISSANCE
The Talarnor, known legally as House Talarnor, and more commonly as the Beast Masters, Beast Riders or Dxunites, were originally a coalition of dissidents that rebelled against the Onderonian renaissance, feeling that their reconstruction was diluting, and ultimately eliminating, their cultural heritage and identity. A relatively minor coalition of commoners, albeit some notably from House Kira, the rebels gradually swayed more numbers into their ranks until political strife and unrest spread through Iziz and the other fortress cities. In time, acts of violence eventually ensured against establishments. Fearful that the Republic would abandon them, and even more so that they would be left vulnerable to a return of their former Sith overlords, the dissidents were expelled from the citadel cities, which was tantamount to a death sentence.
Several decades passed before the discovery came that the former rebels had not perished, but in fully embracing their Laithraic roots, went to strenuous lengths to make a practice of "living sacrifices", specifically through the form taming the wild beasts of Onderon. Although mastering bomas, dalgos, rupings, gharzrs and skreevs, the outcasts only became recognized as a significant threat once a surge of drexl attacks were discovered to been orchestrated by Onderonians riding on their backs. This ultimately led to the ten-year long Beast Wars, which were a series of battles between the fortress cities and the raiding "beast riders". Although most of the battles were victories for the newly named Talarnor or stalemates between both forces, the largest battle of the war, the Battle of Iziz, ended in a decisive victory for the mainstream Onderonians.
In spite of defeating them, King Orin met with the Talarnor to negotiate terms of peace and ultimately end the inevitable return of their attacks. This became known as the Covenant of Iziz; most notably, the leaders of the Beast Riders would collectively receive the status equal of nobles as House Talarnor and were given the wilds of Onderon's closest moon, Dxun, as their own where they could continue to practice the old ways. House Talarnor was forbidden to return to Onderon, but in turn, no Onderonians would be permitted to invade their territory for any reason. Among other stipulations, the newly appointed House Talarnor agreed to the covenant, albeit with little choice, and at the closest rotation, flew to Dxun at the merging of the two atmospheres.
In the thousands of years since, the Talarnor and the mainstream Onderonians have maintained a cool, but cordial peace. Although cultural differences still divide the two peoples, violence between them has been virtually non-existent. Several attempts had been made by the monarchs of Onderon to attempt a reconciliation, but the majority of the Talarnor had repeatedly refused, preferring to keep to themselves and their ways without interference.
The Talarnor do not title their rulers as king or queen, but use the ancient Laithraic title of Ingwëron, which effectively meant "chief[tess] of chieftains". Although long divided from their Onderonian cousins, the Talarnor are allied to them nonetheless through the fear of a common enemy; the Sith Lords. However, the Talarnor do possess fair relations with House Vaklu, a similar outcast house that maintain their Laithraic roots, albeit to a lesser extent. The Talarnor also have an unspoken bond with House Kira, as the leaders of the former descended from the latter.
Several decades passed before the discovery came that the former rebels had not perished, but in fully embracing their Laithraic roots, went to strenuous lengths to make a practice of "living sacrifices", specifically through the form taming the wild beasts of Onderon. Although mastering bomas, dalgos, rupings, gharzrs and skreevs, the outcasts only became recognized as a significant threat once a surge of drexl attacks were discovered to been orchestrated by Onderonians riding on their backs. This ultimately led to the ten-year long Beast Wars, which were a series of battles between the fortress cities and the raiding "beast riders". Although most of the battles were victories for the newly named Talarnor or stalemates between both forces, the largest battle of the war, the Battle of Iziz, ended in a decisive victory for the mainstream Onderonians.
In spite of defeating them, King Orin met with the Talarnor to negotiate terms of peace and ultimately end the inevitable return of their attacks. This became known as the Covenant of Iziz; most notably, the leaders of the Beast Riders would collectively receive the status equal of nobles as House Talarnor and were given the wilds of Onderon's closest moon, Dxun, as their own where they could continue to practice the old ways. House Talarnor was forbidden to return to Onderon, but in turn, no Onderonians would be permitted to invade their territory for any reason. Among other stipulations, the newly appointed House Talarnor agreed to the covenant, albeit with little choice, and at the closest rotation, flew to Dxun at the merging of the two atmospheres.
In the thousands of years since, the Talarnor and the mainstream Onderonians have maintained a cool, but cordial peace. Although cultural differences still divide the two peoples, violence between them has been virtually non-existent. Several attempts had been made by the monarchs of Onderon to attempt a reconciliation, but the majority of the Talarnor had repeatedly refused, preferring to keep to themselves and their ways without interference.
The Talarnor do not title their rulers as king or queen, but use the ancient Laithraic title of Ingwëron, which effectively meant "chief[tess] of chieftains". Although long divided from their Onderonian cousins, the Talarnor are allied to them nonetheless through the fear of a common enemy; the Sith Lords. However, the Talarnor do possess fair relations with House Vaklu, a similar outcast house that maintain their Laithraic roots, albeit to a lesser extent. The Talarnor also have an unspoken bond with House Kira, as the leaders of the former descended from the latter.
ELLERHAM
Sky Walls
Sky Walls
THE SKY WALLS WERE THE OLDEST HISTORIC DEFENSES CREATED AGAINST ONDERON'S MANY VICIOUS PREDATORS
The Ellerhams, better known as the Sky Walls, were the most ancient form of defense conceived and built by the ancient Onderonians to protect themselves against the countless aggressive predators of Onderon's untamed wilds. The earliest Sky Wall were the very walls of Iziz, then known as Áysís, meaning "place of awe" in Laithraic (due to Iziz being the most stable and thriving city on Onderon at the time), which were built by the Laithra tribes that would be the progenitors of Houses Dendup and Bonteri. Although crude and base by the modern standards of the galactic community, the first Sky Wall, or Ellerham, provided the much-needed protection Onderonians were looking for.
The first Sky Wall promptly fell following the Sith invasion from the Old Wars, known in Onderonian history as the Long Night. After discovering the vicious predators of Onderon, the Sith had begun reconstructing the wall, using the Onderonians as slave laborers. This came to an abrupt end with the Galactic Republic arrived with the Jedi Order to liberate the Onderonians. In the cultural and technological renaissance that followed, the Onderonians rebuilt the then-incomplete Sky Wall, creating the first modern artamér. In short order, other major settlements across the planet began creating Sky Walls of their own, echoing the initial design.
The Sky Walls were massive, in height, density and thickness, which was necessary in order to repel the larger predators, such as zakkegs, direwolves and taurlions. Most of the walls reach heights of 400 meters, although can peak at 750 meters on the watchtowers. The watchtowers initially served as lookout posts for drexls, warning in the event of an impending attack. As their technological level grew, the Onderonians equipped the walls with a series of defenses, most notably being sonic emitters to ward off larger predators, anti-aircraft turrets to fight off drexl attacks, and multiple heavy turbolaser turrets. Because the Sky Walls are still vulnerable from within, they still remain vigilantly guarded. Sentries patrol the Sky Walls along the top, the interior and from the observation decks of the watchtowers, although suspicious activities can warrant unlucky sentries with patrolling the exterior grounds for any beasts not warded off by the sonic emitters.
Most areas at or near the Sky Walls were restricted and largely controlled by House Kira, who headed the Onderonian military and domestic security and law enforcement. As such, the immediate grounds near the Sky Walls often appeared similar to military bases. Although dense and strong, the Sky Walls required constant maintenance due to Onderon's humidity and flora growth. Due to most of the technology being automated, serving on the Sky Wall was largely considered a low-danger occupation for sentries, although this changed following the Sith resurgence, and especially so in the aftermath of the second Sith invasion.
The first Sky Wall promptly fell following the Sith invasion from the Old Wars, known in Onderonian history as the Long Night. After discovering the vicious predators of Onderon, the Sith had begun reconstructing the wall, using the Onderonians as slave laborers. This came to an abrupt end with the Galactic Republic arrived with the Jedi Order to liberate the Onderonians. In the cultural and technological renaissance that followed, the Onderonians rebuilt the then-incomplete Sky Wall, creating the first modern artamér. In short order, other major settlements across the planet began creating Sky Walls of their own, echoing the initial design.
The Sky Walls were massive, in height, density and thickness, which was necessary in order to repel the larger predators, such as zakkegs, direwolves and taurlions. Most of the walls reach heights of 400 meters, although can peak at 750 meters on the watchtowers. The watchtowers initially served as lookout posts for drexls, warning in the event of an impending attack. As their technological level grew, the Onderonians equipped the walls with a series of defenses, most notably being sonic emitters to ward off larger predators, anti-aircraft turrets to fight off drexl attacks, and multiple heavy turbolaser turrets. Because the Sky Walls are still vulnerable from within, they still remain vigilantly guarded. Sentries patrol the Sky Walls along the top, the interior and from the observation decks of the watchtowers, although suspicious activities can warrant unlucky sentries with patrolling the exterior grounds for any beasts not warded off by the sonic emitters.
Most areas at or near the Sky Walls were restricted and largely controlled by House Kira, who headed the Onderonian military and domestic security and law enforcement. As such, the immediate grounds near the Sky Walls often appeared similar to military bases. Although dense and strong, the Sky Walls required constant maintenance due to Onderon's humidity and flora growth. Due to most of the technology being automated, serving on the Sky Wall was largely considered a low-danger occupation for sentries, although this changed following the Sith resurgence, and especially so in the aftermath of the second Sith invasion.
ARTAMÉRS
Fortress Cities
Fortress Cities
HUNDREDS OF ARTAMÉRS WERE SCATTERED ACROSS ONDERON'S SURFACE
The Artamérs, better known as Fortress Cities, was the name of the settlements that emerged from behind the Sky Walls, distinct from the satellite villages that may depend on them and that are without walls. Unlike the Sky Walls, artamérs could vary drastically in their appearance; while many may be alike, none are truly the same as the other in their design or architecture. Artamérs are typically divided into districts, which themselves were divided into quarters, and finally into squares. Like the cities themselves, districts, quarters and squares could vary widely in size and shape. Iziz, by far the largest artamér on Onderon, has dozens of districts (37) and hundreds of quarters (249) and over one thousand squares (1034), almost all of which are densely populated. This translates to there being roughly four squares in any given quarter, and seven quarters in every district. On the other hand, Námocelon has less than twelve districts, some thirty-odd squares, and prior to the Blight, was sparsely populated.
Although each artamér is considered an independent city, all are connected and in regular communication; if one falls into danger, the others come to their aid. This is more often a priority for artamérs located near omega zones. The entire planet of Onderon is charted into zones. A zone's designation is representative of its defensive strength, offensive strength, stability, overall safety, and so forth. Artamérs that perhaps have Sky Walls that are in disrepair, are built too near the migrating grounds for drexls, are in barren locations away from water, or other such features, have lower the zone ratings. In contrast, artamérs that are stable, have strong Sky Walls, an able defense force, are located near water sources or farmlands, etc., have higher zone ratings. Omega zones are the lowest, and are typically reserved for artamérs in locations that are dire due to lack of resources or due to their proximity to drexls. Alpha zones are the highest, and often represent the best protected and stable cities.
With the exception of Iziz (formerly "Áysís"), most artamérs have retained their full Laithraic names, such as the major cities of Námocelon, Rilmirya, Galvúrui, Calmacil, Aithëhtyar and Turvinyë. While all artamérs are subject to the monarchs of House Dendup, many are more directly controlled and managed by the Great Houses or their vassals. The leaders of the respective artamérs, as well as larger satellite settlements warranting representation, make up part of the Consensus. The artamérs have historically provided safety and security to the people of Onderon, although Iziz remains the most important in the kingdom, as well as in dealings with the Republic and other foreign powers and influences.
The artamérs numbered into the hundreds, with many more thousands of satellite towns and settlements. Most smaller settlements were owned by the great noble houses and were responsible for farming crops, being vanguard sentries for dangers approaching the artamérs, hunting and routing roaming beast packs away from their settlements and the artamérs, and maintaining the equipment beyond the ellerhams.
Although each artamér is considered an independent city, all are connected and in regular communication; if one falls into danger, the others come to their aid. This is more often a priority for artamérs located near omega zones. The entire planet of Onderon is charted into zones. A zone's designation is representative of its defensive strength, offensive strength, stability, overall safety, and so forth. Artamérs that perhaps have Sky Walls that are in disrepair, are built too near the migrating grounds for drexls, are in barren locations away from water, or other such features, have lower the zone ratings. In contrast, artamérs that are stable, have strong Sky Walls, an able defense force, are located near water sources or farmlands, etc., have higher zone ratings. Omega zones are the lowest, and are typically reserved for artamérs in locations that are dire due to lack of resources or due to their proximity to drexls. Alpha zones are the highest, and often represent the best protected and stable cities.
With the exception of Iziz (formerly "Áysís"), most artamérs have retained their full Laithraic names, such as the major cities of Námocelon, Rilmirya, Galvúrui, Calmacil, Aithëhtyar and Turvinyë. While all artamérs are subject to the monarchs of House Dendup, many are more directly controlled and managed by the Great Houses or their vassals. The leaders of the respective artamérs, as well as larger satellite settlements warranting representation, make up part of the Consensus. The artamérs have historically provided safety and security to the people of Onderon, although Iziz remains the most important in the kingdom, as well as in dealings with the Republic and other foreign powers and influences.
The artamérs numbered into the hundreds, with many more thousands of satellite towns and settlements. Most smaller settlements were owned by the great noble houses and were responsible for farming crops, being vanguard sentries for dangers approaching the artamérs, hunting and routing roaming beast packs away from their settlements and the artamérs, and maintaining the equipment beyond the ellerhams.
OV TARABA
University of Iziz
University of Iziz
THE UNIVERSITY OF OV TARABA WAS THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS COLLEGE IN THE KINGDOM OF ONDERON
Ov Taraba, alternatively called the University of Iziz, was the most revered educational institution established on Onderon, as well as the rest of the kingdom. Although considered a remarkable establishment for multiple reasons, Ov Taraba stands out as one of the few great legacies of Onderon that was not created or designed by one of the Great Houses. Instead, Ov Taraba was created as the brainchild of House Novar, a minor vassal house of the much more powerful House Oveiden. Considered nobles only in name, House Novar was a modest family of diplomats and mediators. Because they were not ancestrally linked to their patron house, most did not expect any particular elevation to be given them, and indeed, none was.
In the aftermath of the disastrous Alsakan-led Juvian Moot, Jhan and Mevia Novar saw and made it their mission to help to create more effective diplomats for the galactic community. After receiving approval and financial backing from House Oveiden, House Novar spent the following several building "Ov Taraba", the name itself being a Laithraic expression that meant "[the] abundance of strength from within", in reference to the strength of one's mind. Almost since the opening of its doors, Ov Taraba had successfully attracted those seeking the learn the art of diplomacy. Many also came simply to examine what the university had to offer. After the rise of the Minister of State for the Republic, Galvin Tuanda, who was a graduate of Ov Taraba, the institution achieved much greater widespread acknowledgement and fame. From then, the institute expanded its curriculum, including not only the study of diplomacy, but philosophy, warfare, architecture, agriculture, astronomy, biology, and many more.
In the centuries that followed Ov Taraba's creation, House Novar went on to become the wealthiest vassal noble house on Onderon, exceeded only by the wealth of the Great Houses. Drawing both educators and students from worlds such as Alderaan, Cato Neimoidia, Chandrilla, Anaxes, Coruscant, Alsakan and Hosnian Prime.
In the aftermath of the disastrous Alsakan-led Juvian Moot, Jhan and Mevia Novar saw and made it their mission to help to create more effective diplomats for the galactic community. After receiving approval and financial backing from House Oveiden, House Novar spent the following several building "Ov Taraba", the name itself being a Laithraic expression that meant "[the] abundance of strength from within", in reference to the strength of one's mind. Almost since the opening of its doors, Ov Taraba had successfully attracted those seeking the learn the art of diplomacy. Many also came simply to examine what the university had to offer. After the rise of the Minister of State for the Republic, Galvin Tuanda, who was a graduate of Ov Taraba, the institution achieved much greater widespread acknowledgement and fame. From then, the institute expanded its curriculum, including not only the study of diplomacy, but philosophy, warfare, architecture, agriculture, astronomy, biology, and many more.
In the centuries that followed Ov Taraba's creation, House Novar went on to become the wealthiest vassal noble house on Onderon, exceeded only by the wealth of the Great Houses. Drawing both educators and students from worlds such as Alderaan, Cato Neimoidia, Chandrilla, Anaxes, Coruscant, Alsakan and Hosnian Prime.
JYRENNE SWOOP CIRCUIT
Lion's Eye
Lion's Eye
THE JYRENNE SWOOP CIRCUIT WAS THE LARGEST SWOOP TRACK ON ONDERON
The Jyrenne Swoop Circuit, nicknamed by the locals as the Lion's Eye, was the largest and most famous swoop track on Onderon. With swoop racing being by far the most heavily supported competitive sport throughout the Onderonian Kingdom, the Jyrenne Swoop Circuit is one of the strongest commercial entities for Onderon's economy; in addition to Taris, Tatooine and Corellia, the "Lion's Eye" of Onderon attracts many professional swoop racers during annual swoop tournaments, in and out of Republic space.
The track was considered unique and especially challenging; while the track began in the open districts of Onderon, the track quickly changed form. Jyrenne Swoop Circuit primarily ran underground and outside of the Iziz defense walls, with some parts of the course even taking racers through caves. The circuit was considered a rite of passage by local swoop racers due to the course's unusual feature of constantly changing elevation; most swoop tracks throughout the galaxy were designed to be level. Additionally, there was the hazard of wreckage left over from the circuit's competitive and dangerous past.
Swoop racing on Onderon was highly commercialized with sponsors, and as with many other matters, was often imbued with political contexts. Due to the high levels of patriotism among most Onderonians, victories were often "championed" in the name of Onderon, the Republic, or even in support of the Jedi. A common expression for Onderonian racers in expectation of completing the tract was "flying the king/queen through the eye". The competitive spirit surrounding swoop racing on Onderon was often enthusiastically bombastic, flamboyant and dedicated. Due to this, high tensions between racers, spectators, or both, were far from uncommon. Strict rules of mutually respectable conduct were expected to be upheld, with guards stationed during every event to enforce it, if need be. Swoop racers that violated the statutes were forced to pay fines and received penalties to their scores and racing privileges. Those that repeatedly violated the statutes were permanently banned from the track, or had their racing license revoked.
Although some among the noble houses of Onderon participated in swoop racing, particularly during young adulthood, the sport was primarily considered the venue of the every-man. Nevertheless, many Great Houses and vassal houses supported racers, teams and the sporting events in general, as it was considered a unifying element to the people.
The track was considered unique and especially challenging; while the track began in the open districts of Onderon, the track quickly changed form. Jyrenne Swoop Circuit primarily ran underground and outside of the Iziz defense walls, with some parts of the course even taking racers through caves. The circuit was considered a rite of passage by local swoop racers due to the course's unusual feature of constantly changing elevation; most swoop tracks throughout the galaxy were designed to be level. Additionally, there was the hazard of wreckage left over from the circuit's competitive and dangerous past.
Swoop racing on Onderon was highly commercialized with sponsors, and as with many other matters, was often imbued with political contexts. Due to the high levels of patriotism among most Onderonians, victories were often "championed" in the name of Onderon, the Republic, or even in support of the Jedi. A common expression for Onderonian racers in expectation of completing the tract was "flying the king/queen through the eye". The competitive spirit surrounding swoop racing on Onderon was often enthusiastically bombastic, flamboyant and dedicated. Due to this, high tensions between racers, spectators, or both, were far from uncommon. Strict rules of mutually respectable conduct were expected to be upheld, with guards stationed during every event to enforce it, if need be. Swoop racers that violated the statutes were forced to pay fines and received penalties to their scores and racing privileges. Those that repeatedly violated the statutes were permanently banned from the track, or had their racing license revoked.
Although some among the noble houses of Onderon participated in swoop racing, particularly during young adulthood, the sport was primarily considered the venue of the every-man. Nevertheless, many Great Houses and vassal houses supported racers, teams and the sporting events in general, as it was considered a unifying element to the people.
MALGAN MARKET
A SMALL CORNER OF THE MALGAN MARKET, WHICH WAS ONDERON'S LARGEST AND MOST ACTIVE CULTURAL HUB
A large square located at the far end of the Merchant Quarter in Iziz, Malgan Market, was a square of commerce that was known for its large concentration of outlanders and off-world goods. In spite of its large size for a square, leasing property in the emporiums of the Malgan Market was notably expensive and commerce rivalries were almost fiercely competitive. Many of Onderon's best merchants, regardless of which artamér they resided in, either made regular trips or established a permanent or semi-permanent presence in the Malgan Market.
From the selling of fine art, fabrics and fragrances, to the buying of exotic technologies, medical goods or rare and precious xenoarchaeological artifacts—especially if Force-related—Malgan Market was where most spacers and off-worlders departed to once their arrived planetside. From restaurants representing some of Onderon's finest cuisines to amphitheaters holding concerts for many of Iziz's greatest singers, composers and musicians, the Malgan Market is often considered to be an appeal for sightseeing alone.
Although Malgan Market is a square that rests within the Merchant Quarter of the Commerce District, it resides on its edge and borders the Torival Quarter of the Nessama District. This puts the Onderonian Royal Palace, the Unifar Temple located within Yolahn Square, within sight of the residents in the Malgan Market.
From the selling of fine art, fabrics and fragrances, to the buying of exotic technologies, medical goods or rare and precious xenoarchaeological artifacts—especially if Force-related—Malgan Market was where most spacers and off-worlders departed to once their arrived planetside. From restaurants representing some of Onderon's finest cuisines to amphitheaters holding concerts for many of Iziz's greatest singers, composers and musicians, the Malgan Market is often considered to be an appeal for sightseeing alone.
Although Malgan Market is a square that rests within the Merchant Quarter of the Commerce District, it resides on its edge and borders the Torival Quarter of the Nessama District. This puts the Onderonian Royal Palace, the Unifar Temple located within Yolahn Square, within sight of the residents in the Malgan Market.
JEDI TEMPLE OF ONDERON
THE JEDI TEMPLE OF ONDERON WAS DESIGNED AFTER THE PYRAMIDIC PRAXEUMS CONSTRUCTED BY THE ANCIENTS OF THE JEDI ORDER
The Jedi Temple of Onderon is, in spite of its archaic design, one of the newest constructed temples for the Jedi Order. Located roughly thirty kilometers from the Onderonian capital of Iziz, the Jedi Temple on Onderon was built in the stormplains, a region of Onderon that has frequently-occurring atmospheric ionic storms. This results in repulsorlift technology being inoperable within the region without first being specially-equipped with ion shields to protect from the electromagnetic interference. This grants the Jedi Temple relative isolation and solace from the rest of Onderon, allowing it to function as a place of peace, tranquility and rest.
Painstaking detail was rendered to have the Onderonian Jedi Temple emulate the ancient Praexums of the Jedi Order, including the overall pyramidic structure. The layout of the Jedi Temple was divided into a series of separate chambers, such as the Chamber of Harmony, rooms and halls designed for deep meditative sessions with the Force, the Chamber of Wisdom, a series of holobook libraries and holocron reservoirs, the Chamber of Artifice, sparring arenas for refining lightsaber techniques, and the Chamber of Light, areas designated for the practice of Force abilities.
Commissioned by King Praedyth II of Onderon to support the Jedi Order following the destruction of the Jedi Temple on Tython, the grounds beneath the Onderonian Jedi Temple are protected by a series of massive subterranean emitters that keep Onderon's largest predators away, and a sensor grid to monitor approaching vessels or creatures that bypass the sonic emitters' perimeter. Although the internal chambers extended from the pyramidic peak to several subterranean levels, most of the Jedi Temple's rooms were left unassigned, in order to allow the Jedi Knights themselves to designate the purpose of the rooms themselves.
Painstaking detail was rendered to have the Onderonian Jedi Temple emulate the ancient Praexums of the Jedi Order, including the overall pyramidic structure. The layout of the Jedi Temple was divided into a series of separate chambers, such as the Chamber of Harmony, rooms and halls designed for deep meditative sessions with the Force, the Chamber of Wisdom, a series of holobook libraries and holocron reservoirs, the Chamber of Artifice, sparring arenas for refining lightsaber techniques, and the Chamber of Light, areas designated for the practice of Force abilities.
Commissioned by King Praedyth II of Onderon to support the Jedi Order following the destruction of the Jedi Temple on Tython, the grounds beneath the Onderonian Jedi Temple are protected by a series of massive subterranean emitters that keep Onderon's largest predators away, and a sensor grid to monitor approaching vessels or creatures that bypass the sonic emitters' perimeter. Although the internal chambers extended from the pyramidic peak to several subterranean levels, most of the Jedi Temple's rooms were left unassigned, in order to allow the Jedi Knights themselves to designate the purpose of the rooms themselves.
Last edited:
