The First Steps of an Artist

-1-

Origin and Feats of the Songweaver

Praise those with free souls.

Their spirits flow like a melody...

- Origin

Atreian music originated from those who paid tribute to Aion with hymns of praise. Music was meant to represent the beauty of creation.

Music inspired a love of freedom in those who produced it, allowing them a small fraction of the creative power that had shaped their world. Through this inspiration, musicians gained the favor of Lady Siel.

She allowed musicians to use her temple, and she gave full support so they could develop their music freely.

- The Silent Era

When Siel fell during the Cataclysm, music ceased. For a short time there was a great influx of sorrowful songs, before the once bountiful sounds of song fell flat. A dead period followed, known as the Silent Era.

All apparent progress in the creative mediums ceased as war broke out between the upper and lower halves of Atreia. Most of the populace forgot their need for culture, replacing it with smithing weapons, armor, and honing their spells. Despite the cessation of outward expression, the musicians never stopped honing their craft in secret.

Slowly, artists realized that their songs could glorify the memory of Siel, inspire those around them to follow her teachings, and bring new life to Atreia.

- Birth of the Songweaver

Suddening music ripped through the air again, this time combined with Aether, to explosive effectiveness.

While improving their skills in isolation, the artists discovered that if music reaches the pinnacle of perfection and is combined with Aether, it could be very powerful. A new weapon moved to the frontlines, sometimes unleashing a cacophonous flurry of notes to tear enemies to ribbons, and sometimes soothing disheartened soldiers with vivifying chords.

With newfound morale and a symphony of music behind them, armies began to take ground faster than ever before.

- Aria of Siel

Music had returned to Atreia in a bellowing triumph. Every moment filled with music, and every victory swayed into favor by the Muses brought respect and praise. Soldiers began requesting Muses for their troops, hoping the music would bring them luck and victory. It was not long before Muses began earning official rankings within the military.

Daevas of Song began to fill cities and towns alike with new ballads, and as their influence spread, a transformation took place. Those Muses who had earned recognition for their actions gained themselves a new title. Songweavers, controllers of the flow of music, had finally found their place in a post-Cataclysm world.

A new age had begun: The Aria of Siel.

- Appendix

Chant of Silence

- Unknown Author

Praise those with free souls.

Long have our lips been sealed in sorrow.

Our Lady has fallen, though we live on.

Sorrow comes without notice.

Drawn back into hermits caves.

The people no longer dance.

But hope never faded.

The song would return some day.

The song will return.

The day will rise.

Music will once again blanket the land.

Hope has come to claim the day.