Invocates
can enter Tatchlan, monitor many aspects, and regularly work with the Secondary Faces, which they can ‘invoke’ to assist them. They serve many other functions, including communication with other Invocates within the Living System living in distant locations. As such, they play a vital role in long-distance communications. For these and other attributes, they are named the ‘Indispensable Hands’ of the Cluster-of-Clusters Nation.
The term 'Invocate' predates both the Tatchlan Masters
and the Primary Epoch. It meant one could summon the invisible Menem of the air to do their bidding and send or receive instruction. Throughout the Primary and Secondary Epoch, Invocates have been Maja
displaying intensive abilities leading to their training within Enclaves
under the supervision of the First Ministry, the Chancellery.
Prior to the growth of Majastas, occasional Invocates descended to extraordinary depths to become Operants. These powerful beings could enter Tatchlan without a Living Instrument
and have limited interactions with the Primary Faces. They view the Living System as it is, without the distortions of the Living Instruments. Throughout most of the Primary and Secondary Epochs, the title of Operant is conferred on a modest fraction of exceptional Invocates. The Majastas alone hold the title of Supreme Operant.
Most-Ancient Masters
New Craft, Practicians, First Masters, Lustrum Mirror a vital tool, Menem persecution, Uluvatu Masters
Invocates
Beginnings and functions, All Invocates Maja most Maja not Invocates, Long-range communications, Specialization and Estates, Little need for central location, Governance exception, Mobile Invocate Estates, Enclaves, Enclaves precede population to new province, Enclave Icon
Ketukku Enclaves
Enclaves overview, Queen Enclave, Drone Enclave, Soldier Enclave, Builder Enclave, Farmer Enclave
Kitheshal Traditions
Tutelage and Inculcation, Rural deviations in Maja culture, Primary and Secondary Tanas Annals
Most-Ancient Tatchlan Cubes
Sixty-four symbolic Icons, Cubes detect Anomalies, Public presentation, Living Instruments serve Cubes, Masks and knives, Setting the Cubes, The Working: Cubes undergo metamorphosis, Universal to Distinct, Living Sigils, Working may be difficult, Sigils In Order, Tatchlan Cube Invocates and Dreamers, Mobile Invocate Estates
Descending the Depths
The Eight profound levels towards becoming an Invocate
Student, Previous Supervisor presenting candidate to next Supervisor, Novice, Initiate, Devotee, Commencement Delver, Encompassing Delver, Delving Invocate, Full Invocate
Full Invocate Service, Concentration of Invocates in Sister Cities, Deployment of Invocate Clusters, Majastas Cluster Invocates, Majastas Cluster life cycle and the Final Generation, Operants, Operants see true System, Traversing The General Plain, Operants as Majastas Voice, Yom Sha
Most Ancient Masters
New Craft
During the decline of the first Unifying Dynasty of The Lesser Era, the Funomanru, the first Water Viewers
and other philosophers, academics, and intellectuals laid the foundations of the Tatchlan System. This arose from the general cry of ‘Secure Us or Slay Us!’ As a result of this profound despair over the vile nature of Self-Absorption and the apparent inability of any civilization to survive it, they became practitioners of a new craft. Through various means, they made the first forays into the depths of life to explore and understand how self-absorption ruled all aspects and how they could ultimately undermine it.
Practicians
Members of these early communities called themselves Practicians
and engaged in many forms of discipline, some of which survive to modern times in the Descending the Depths
process for Invocates. Due to their work's increasingly esoteric and intensive nature, they formed closed societies with strict rules and extensive preparation for new members. From early in their history, they came to be associated with many of their age's leading artistic, academic and cultural figures.
First Masters
After the fall of the Funomanru Dynasty, several of these Practicians
descended the necessary depths and began to attain the honorific of Master. They had achieved sufficient knowledge and proficiency to successfully modify life's rude and raw
aspects and see tangible results on the Skin of Anu. These alterations became known as the first ‘Tatchlan Seeds,’ with their characteristic ‘tendrils, tentacles and tails.’ Successive millions of these seeds grew into the initial layers of what would become an elegant layer, capping the vile chaos of the endless blind alterations of life. This would eventually be named The General Plain. This intensive society continued through chaotic periods and subsequent order, adding an incremental layer upon layer to their creation through successive generations. During the Buyanupithar Dynasty, the Masters began to reveal themselves and quietly influence events to further their ultimate goal.
Lustrum Mirror a vital tool
The actual beginnings of this Master Class
came with crafting what is known as the Lustrum Mirror. This living device, planted on the shifting surface of the Realm of Raw Life, Indatubangus, allowed their complete liberation from Self-Absorption. They did this by approaching the Mirror and, in its reflection, seeing all the hiding places of their self-absorption. They could reach for the reflected image and find it visible and tangible in their hands. The polyp was then pulled away from its moorings and flung out onto the surface of Indatubangus, where it integrated into the rude landscape, never to return. On rare occasions, the Mirror signalled it wished to consume the item itself. Thereafter, it would readily absorb all offerings given to it. The ceremony continued until all vestiges were removed. This process partially separated the Practicians
from the first true Tatchlan Masters. While a few had attained this expunging process in other ways, their methods had caused concern among the rest. Using the Lustrum Mirror
brought over all Practicians peacefully and joyously and united them within a harmonious community. With new clarity and vigour, they proceeded with their work. In time, additional mirrors were cultivated until many could be found on Indatubangus.
Menem persecution
With the Menem conversion of Buyanupithar Dynasty Emperor Vegalajar IV, the priesthood of this religion took it upon themselves to eradicate all opposing beliefs. While not a religion in any sense, they perceived the now evident Tatchlan Masters
as a significant threat and worked to destroy their organization and influence, particularly in the then capital of Thithanu in central Rho-Jashun. While several communities remained and communication lines were established secretly, most Masters slipped away from the capital. They made their way south and east through Rho-Jashun and over the southern wall of the Mulungu Mountains
to establish themselves on the subcontinent of Statos-Vey. For many reasons, the Menem Religion
was far less accepted among these populations, and the Masters found welcome and resources from their new hosts.
Uluvatu Masters
While the Masters
established themselves in population centres of Statos-Vey
and had a growing impact on subsequent history, a collection of senior or Primary Masters removed themselves to Mount Uluvatu, a prominent resident of the Veredapandra Mountain chain
dominating the north and central portions of the subcontinent.
This towering monument contained a natural series of interior grottos that were expanded in prehistoric times. At its core, there is a natural spring. This group of Masters sequestered themselves to gather all lore from previous generations of Practicians
and Masters.
Several generations of what came to be known as the Uluvatu Masters
laboured at their craft within these grottos until a series of breakthroughs heralded a significant animation of what all generations before them had envisioned, an actual living layer, known as The General Plain, now formed the foundation for the Tatchlan System. For the first time, the Tolku
gained a measure of dominance over the black havoc of raw life. From this point, an abundance of what would later be known as Living Instruments
and other tools were born from their hands. These Uluvatu Masters laid the Tatchlan System's foundations and all subsequent Cluster-of-Clusters Nations. Eventually, the Masters would become Servants when the first Majastas
arose. Now, around these Majastas are the Invocants
and Operants
detailed below.
Invocates
Beginnings and functions
The Primary and Uluvatu Masters
examined the many faculties of Raw Sensitives. They categorized and cultivated these abilities to lay the foundations for the Spokes of the Cluster Wheel. Dreamers
and Invocates have a common root within the generalized powers of raw sensitives. Dreamers are dealt with in their place.
An Invocate
may enter the Living System
and work within it under the directions of various ministries and their Majastas. They do so in two primary ways: the Tatchlan or Sigil Cubes and physically linking with a Living Instrument. The Primary Epoch
icon
for Living Instruments is depicted here. For more information on this prodigious being, see Living Instruments.
The Cubes are a most-ancient set of living devices formulated by the Uluvatu Masters in the pre-Tatchlan age. They were fundamental to the foundations of the Tatchlan System—details of how the Tatchlan Cubes work are found here.
During the Duamang Age, the various Spokes of the Cluster Wheel
emerged as the Quickening
approached. First came the early Maja, who drew others to them. Centuries later, after the Duamang Age and the commencement of the Primary Epoch, generations of exceptional Maja were plumbing new depths to become the modern Invocate. Once these ‘peerless’ Maja children are recognized, they undergo an intensive training process (described below) to earn the right to employ a series of Living Instruments to actively enter Tatchlan
and work with what are known as Secondary Faces, innumerable more minor representatives of one or more of the Twelve Primary Faces
of the Living System. This form of Invocate now comprises the majority of those in service. Only a tiny fraction are needed to continue the Sigil Cube tradition.
All Invocates Maja most Maja not Invocates
It is important to emphasize that while all Invocates
are Maja, most Maja are not Invocates. Invocates form a tiny minority of the entire Maja population. Generalizing the official ratios, one in ten Yelda
are Maja, and one in ten Maja are Invocate. Census data
shows that Maja populations commonly form a slightly higher percentage (eleven to thirteen percent) of the general population.
While the Invocate population tends to be slightly lower than ten percent of all Maja, their numbers are still large enough to serve their Majastas Ministries. Invocate Circles of Eight are in one way like all other circles of eight. They are composed of six male Invocates and two females, which may include one or more Complete, Double
or Between
Maja. If this Invocate Circle is in the field, they may bring or be assigned up to sixteen Living Instruments. In their home setting, they may have access to more. There are many reasons for this abundance, most concerning the changeable temperaments of the Instruments themselves.
These Invocate Circles of Eight work in various Ministry and Cluster-of-Cluster circumstances. A woman and Complete’s distinct physical responses to their Living Instruments prove advantageous for working Invocates, meaning the Descending the Eight Depths process (see below) is somewhat less arduous for women, Doubles and Completes than it is for men.
Long-range communications
Another vital role Invocates
serve within the Living System
is as a conduit for long-range communications. Invocates achieve this by seeking other Invocates within Tatchlan with the same focus or working in the exact location within the Resplendent Work. While one Invocate, or a Circle
of Invocates, may encounter counterparts quickly and speak directly to them, their bodies, locked with their Living Instruments, may be thousands of andas
distant. At such times, it is customary to inquire where on Anu
they ‘tenderly embrace their Living Instrument.’ In so doing, the exchange of vital information may occur between them and upon disengagement from their Living Instruments, this may be imparted to the relevant cluster or ministry.
Specialization and Estates
While those working the Tatchlan Sigil Cubes
are said to move at greater depth and explore the health of the foundations of the Resplendent Work, those Invocates
embracing their Living Instruments
may develop a high degree of specialization. Their particular strengths and sensitivities manifest as they ‘Descend the Depths.' This leads to various Invocates with specific skills and tasks within the Living System, ranging from uncovering specific challenges to internal cluster
workings to overseeing the health of animal and plant populations. These Invocates are organized into what are called ‘Estates,’ being classifications of particular sensitivities. For example, when a Currency Supervisorate
Estate Invocate Circle
of the Cycles Ministry must seek out a Mecalan
Estate Invocate Circle of the Preeminent Works Circulation Bureau, they have two ways to locate them. First, a specific Secondary Face is summoned to conduct them to a region where such specialists are likely to be found. If a more precise location of a particular Invocate Circle or individual Invocate is required, there are Invocates from another Estate whose primary role is to assist in this search. These are known as Locus Estate Invocates, and their efforts are fundamental to knitting the fabric of Invocates working within the Living System together. Certain specialized Estates have their codes and conventions, leading to what is known as ‘Estate Disciplines’ and ‘Estate Specialities.’
Little need for a central location
Once they have successfully achieved Full Invocate Status, most Invocates return to their region. Given their particular needs of themselves, their Living Instruments
and their Estate Speciality, they form or join existing Invocate Circles. They may then become a regional hub for rural clusters, part of a network of Invocate Circles in an urban setting, or attach themselves to a Ministry Enclave.
Often, these Invocate Circles perform multiple tasks for their cluster, region and the larger Cluster-of-Clusters Nation, along with performing within their chosen Invocate Estate, unhindered by their location. Within the Living System, they are found in the precise setting where any Invocate, anywhere on Anu, may see members of their Estate as needed. Provincial or Cluster-of-Clusters Ministries
often gather those with particular or powerful Estate Specialities. Invocates possessing a specific skill may be called to serve their Majastas
Ministries at any time if their ability assumes greater importance.
Governance exception
There is a notable exception to this rule. When it comes to Danam Yelda
Cluster-of-Cluster Governance, there is a need for very high concentrations of Invocate Circles
in specific geographic locations. One is the capital, Upata-Shepsus, also the home of the Majastas Cluster
atop the historic Plateau. Along with a vast population, the Majastas Cluster comprises Maja
Invocates. These, and all those Invocate Circles serving the Eight Variothya Ministries
surrounding them, must be dominated by Invocate Circles. The second location is the ‘Sister City’ of Bhampay. This port is also the cultural and commercial capital of Statos-Vey
and has its own ‘Blue City,’ an orderly quarter within the otherwise sprawling and chaotic port. Near the entire population of this large chunk of Bhampay comprises Invocate Circles and clusters of Invocates in service to one or more of the Eight Ministries.
Mobile Invocate Estates
One group of Estates
Invocates may belong to may be grouped as ‘Mobile Estates.’ Several ministries require Invocate Circles
to travel to distant locations and communicate with central circles concerning a sudden or ongoing situation. This can be as small as one circle of eight
but is more likely composed of several circles that move independently or as part of a more extensive formation, such as a mobile portion of the Commandant
or Wellbeing Ministry
mission. This may also require long trips by sea, which prove challenging for them and their companion Living Instruments. To varying degrees, this was true during the Primary Epoch
and the Koru
of the Secondary Epoch. Nowhere is it more accurate than with another branch of Yelda, the Kudurapala. There are two branches of what is known as the ‘Koru Yelda.’ The Sumudin Yelda remains entirely within the Koru Living Mountains. The Kudurapala circumnavigate Anu
in service of themselves and their Venerable Koru. The entire Kudurapala Fleet is outfitted with their own Koru Invocate Circles to maintain communication between themselves, other ships and the mainland.
Enclaves
Such is the vital role of Invocates
in the functioning of the entire Cluster-of-Clusters Nation; their training and welfare are overseen by one of the four bureaus of the first Majastas Ministry, the Invocates Bureau
of the Chancellery. They maintain the five ‘Enclave' Classes in every provincial centre and central locations in rural regions. They specialize in Mantle Establishments
for those 'Descending the Depths' to become Invocates to undergo extensive and rigorous training (see below).
One of these classes, the Queen Enclave, is also the site of egg production and the birth of the Living Instruments, which are
vital to how Invocates function. Due to the depths of this enclave’s charter, the general population has only limited access to this venerable establishment. The term 'Enclave' is set aside for these facilities, an honorific from the time before the dawn of the Primary Epoch
when the Tatchlan Masters
called their compounds Enclaves.
Enclaves precede population to new province
Throughout Danam Yeldic's
history, all Enclaves
required to support the initial population were established before a new region was ready for settlement. The new provincial populations arrive only after the Enclaves are prepared, and all branches of the new provinces' ministries are inaugurated. As the first clusters
enter the new provincial centre for their property allotments, the foundations are laid for all future Enclaves as the section grows. No region of the new area will enter the populating stage until all its Enclaves and other ministry instruments are commenced.
Enclave Icon
This intricate icon
represents the fundamental nature of the Enclave
within the Cluster-of-Clusters Nation. Based on the Primary Epoch institution with many Secondary Epoch
modifications, the Enclave is represented by the universal image of shelter (also seen in the Winter Agricultural Calendar icon) and is distinguished by being covered by the Twelve Principal Tatchlan Faces. It rests on a curved water surface meant to indicate the first layer of Tatchlan
met by Invocates
entering the Living System, Amanavata
– the outer water layer.
This structure houses one of the most-ancient symbols of a Living Instrument, dating back to pre-Tatchlan
times during the Duamang Era
(the elongated image
is from a later period). Immersed in Amanavata’s waters, it blossoms out of the top shell pod of seven pods. On the left is a Gandahatapan Queen and eight of her subjects. This venerable insect society is known as the ‘Perfection of the Air.’ On the right is a Ketukku Queen and her seven classes of subjects. This venerable insect society is known as the ‘Tower Builders.’
Both are examples of social perfection and thus are inspirations for the entire Cluster-of-Clusters Nation. Above the Enclave is the famed sea creature called the ‘Blue Star.’ An emblem of royalty throughout the Primary Epoch, it is now the icon
of the Danam Yeldic
Majastas.
Ketukku Enclaves
Enclaves overview
From early in Danam Yeldic
history on Statos-Vey, Enclaves
were divided into several specialties and the need was seen to distinguish each by a unique structure. It was determined the most fitting form these should take was as giant versions of the Ketukku Icon.
These Mantle Establishments
are not only constructed to resemble the icons for the Venerable Ketukku colony, but their structure is reminiscent of the most-ancient treasuries
found within the Mulungu Mountains
of Rho-Jashun
by the First Four Guardian Generations of Koru. These treasuries were carved out of the rock in elaborate patterns, usually of members of insect societies. The archival materials were stored along the ‘legs’ and sometimes the inner walls within these excavated spaces. In present-day Enclaves, reference and other materials are stored along the ‘legs’ of these structures. The Builder Enclaves
have the most extensive collections of all the other enclaves.
Pictured here is a small portion of the City of Bhampay
map to the south and east of the Blue City. Along with many Cluster Encirclements, an Ablution Academy, canals and several immense Bowvow Trees, there are four Enclave structures. The one at the top and the second at the bottom are Drone Enclaves. The second from the top is a Farmer Enclave, and the third is a Soldier Enclave. The specifics of what these structures signify are outlined below.
Queen Enclave
The Queen
Enclave’s unique function is as the nursery for each grade of Living Instrument to be used by Invocates
of all classes. If possible, all dead and dying Living Instruments are returned to the nearest Queen Enclave, making them the beginning and end points of their unique existence.
The Queen Enclave’s secondary functions serve as the primary Mantle Establishment
and seat of the Invocate Bureau
of the Chancellory Ministry, which administers four other classes of enclaves within a specified radius.
The Queen Enclave’s third function is to host highly specialized Invocate training for those designated as possessing an extraordinary spectrum of sensitivities. All those serving within the Chancellory Ministry’s Invocate Bureau completed their Descent of the Depths, at least from the Encompassing Delver
onward to becoming Full Invocates within a Queen Enclave. Many of those serving the other three Chancellory bureaus, Supervisorate, Directorate
and Adjudicator,
emerge from this class of enclaves.
When a rare Operant
manifests, they are transferred immediately from whatever Enclave they were Descending their Depths to the nearest Queen Enclave to complete their training. The Majastas Cluster
comprises Maja, and many become Invocates and Operants. Throughout Danam Yeldic
history, all Majastas
began as Maja Descending the Depths and becoming a Full Invocate within a Queen Enclave. Operants are allowed to participate in the mysteries of raising the next generation
of Living Instruments. Due to all these specialties, the Queen Enclaves are exclusive, and the general public has minimal access to them.
Students and Full Invocates selected to Descend some of their Depths within a Queen Enclave are permitted to wear the Queen Enclave Badge, opposite their ‘Descending the Depths’ level badges (see below). Against a backdrop of orderly life, the Ketukku Queen image is flanked by two symbolic configurations. Each comprises three parts; the most-ancient symbol of a Living Instrument grows out of the sheltering Enclave, which has its foundations in the Majastas emblem, signifying all Majastas once passed through this enclave to become Full Invocates. This is the rarest of Ketukku Enclave badges.
Drone Enclave
The Drone
Enclave
is an Invocate
training Majastas Foundation
and a general education centre. These are the most accessible enclaves to the public, hosting lectures, concerts, dramatic performances, and other events (two Drone Enclaves are pictured on the map above). These events may be historical commemorations or present-day milestones of notable Invocates or famous enclaves. Invocates's work for the Cluster-of-Clusters Nation
remains the general theme.
As a result of their educational and creative focus, Enumerator
and Ceremonies
Ministries have a presence in Drone Enclaves. Due to being associated with these ministries, most of those becoming Full Invocates within a Drone Enclave are likely to serve a bureau within one of these ministries.
Students wear the Drone Enclave Badge and Full Invocates
selected to Descend some or all of their Depths within a Drone Enclave. It is worn opposite their ‘Descending the Depths’ level badges. Two symbolic configurations flank the Ketukku Drone image.
On the left, the emblem of the Enumerator Ministry
forms the root of the Enclave/Shelter symbol. Above is a Haklu, the most-ancient musical instrument, also an emblem of the Enumerator Ministry’s Erudite Bureau. On the right, the Ceremonies Ministry
forms the root, and the Three Dramsus Emblem
of this same ministry crowns the Enclave enclosure design. Also of most-ancient origins, the Dramsus
is a ringing instrument shaken during public events. Usually, the player holds one in each hand, forming a circle around a focal point or a line on either side of a procession.
Soldier Enclave
This is an exclusively Invocate
training Mantle Establishment. Only the Queen Enclave is less accessible to the general public than the Soldier
Enclave. Second only to the Farmer Enclave, most of those entering the Soldier Enclave to begin their Invocate training continue, without migrating to another enclave, to complete their Descending of the Depths.
Keeping with the various guardian roles of the Soldier class within the Ketukku colony, this enclave is the primary training centre for all Invocates entering the Commandant
and Cycles
Ministries. Those Invocates deemed likely to serve the Grandee Secretariat Ministry also complete their Descent of the Depths within Soldier Enclaves.
Students and Full Invocates selected to Descend some, or all, of their Depths within a Soldier Enclave are permitted to wear the Soldier Enclave Badge, opposite their ‘Descending the Depths’ level badges as with all previous badges, two symbolic configurations flank the Ketukku Soldier image.
On the left, the sheltering enclave has the Grandee Secretariat
emblem above and the Cycles Ministry
emblem beneath. On the right, the Commandant Ministry
emblem is below, and this ministry’s distinctive symbol, the Glowing Guardian or Vigilant Kothon blade,
rises above. This is also distinguished from the Rural Cluster Kothon
image in the edge pointing upward, signifying the ministry’s watchful defence of the Cluster-of-Clusters Nation. The rural Kothon image points downward, indicating the tilling of the soil.
Builder Enclave
This is the second enclave that not only prepares Invocates but also breeds essential elements of the Cluster-of-Clusters Nation. Invocates likely to serve the Preeminent Works complete their Descent of the Depths here, and two of this ministry’s bureaus produce living elements within this enclave. The Circulation Bureau breeds Mecalan colonies that are the foundation of the transit system. The Edifice Bureau also grows various beings (Inari, Shaka Bishamon) to enliven dead interiors within this enclave.
This unique circumstance informs the Builder Enclave Badge, worn by both Students and Full Invocates selected to Descend their Depths within this Enclave. It is worn opposite their ‘Descending the Depths’ level badges. The Builder Enclave Badge has the Preeminent Works Ministry Emblem beneath each enclave symbol. On the left, the top image is the Venerable Koru image for the Mecalan colony. On the right, the upper picture is the distinctive badge of the Edifice Bureau, showing the Inari and Bishamon
grown to revitalize the interior of non-living structures.
Like the Drone Enclave, the Builder Enclave also plays an educational role. As expected, this is in the form of archives and museum holdings of past and present architecture and engineering. Lectures and training in these subjects may occasionally occur within these structures. The ‘legs’ of Builder Enclaves contain some of the most extensive collections of any of the other enclave classes.
Farmer Enclave
This enclave is unique in combining the general with the highly specialized.
The general constitutes the majority of those becoming Invocates who do not display pronounced sensitivities and abilities. General Invocates form the backbone of the Invocate presence within the Living System and serve as the foundation of all specialty work. Most of those entering the Farmer Enclave will stay within its walls for their entire journey towards becoming Full Invocates.
The highly specialized aspect of this enclave has to do with its deep association with the Wellbeing Ministry, in particular, two of its bureaus. The Doubles and Vats Bureau grows all Classes of Healing Vats within Farmer Enclave walls, and the Ratio Bureau grows the Cohort Jelly necessary for producing all Manifold Gem offspring (twins, triplets, et cetera).
Those Invocates displaying a depth of vulnerability and responsiveness to the variety of Living Instruments grown in these Enclaves complete their Descent of the Depths here.
Farmer Enclaves house all
Vat Masters and thus are the source of all
Healing Vat Eggs disbursed to new
Doubles throughout the Enclaves designated region.
Such is the degree of specialization of this enclave that this includes singular Masters of non-living elements. Known as ‘Spume Masters,’ they combine different strains of
Phantasm Spume to form a cocktail specific to each cluster and administered during the
Conclusive Offering. As with the
Queen and Builder
Enclaves, these Farmer Enclaves are the nursery of a vital aspect of the
Cluster-of-Clusters Nation, in this instance, the
Healing Vats. Also present are
Manifold Doubles, unique Doubles who began as
Mundanes wishing to become
Gem mothers by ingesting
Cohort Jelly grown by the
Ratio Bureau of the Wellbeing Ministry in these enclaves. Unlike most Gem Mothers, they become Doubles during their pregnancy. Unlike most Doubles of this kind, they go to greater depths than Gem Doubles due to their unique body potency and their original aspiration to give birth to six or more identical offspring as part of the cluster
Elder’s designs. Due to their exquisite delicacy,
Skin Touched often migrate to this enclave where their specialized touch is employed in many ways.
The Farmer Enclave Badge, worn by both Students and Full Invocates selected to Descend their Depths within this Enclave, is worn opposite their ‘Descending the Depths’ level badges. The Farmer Enclave Badge has the Wellbeing Ministry Emblem beneath each enclave symbol. On the left, the top image is the Doubles and Vat Bureau insignia, a Healing Vat. On the right, the upper picture is the Ratio Bureau’s symbol of the Cohort Jelly’s eight potency levels.
Mixing the General Invocate and Highly Specialized Invocate populations has many additional benefits of forming profound linkages within the Invocate Community that have far-reaching effects on the Living System and the Skin of Anu.
Kitheshal Traditions
Tutelage and Inculcation
In the year 55,134 of the Koru Calendar and 6,415 of the Nantu Age Calendar, Yeldic Majastas Kitheshal The First (I) initiated what would come to be known as the ‘Kitheshal Traditions.’ These teachings, disciplines, rituals, dramas, songs and other meditative practices, known collectively as the ‘Tutelage and Inculcation,’ were intended to add a robust binding culture to all Maja across Statos-Vey.
Although all Invocates begin as Maja, their Descent of the Depths and subsequent service separate them from this aspect of Maja life. With few exceptions, most Invocates only undergo a minimal form of this Kitheshal training. Given this active Invocate community, bonded by the Descent process and spanning continents, the Kitheshal Traditions were seen as a comparable association for most Maja who would never become Invocates.
Pictured here is the dynastic icon representing the twelve members of the Kitheshal Dynasty.
Rural deviations in Maja culture
Majastas Kitheshal I was also concerned about some distortions within the Living System
brought about by aberrations in The Common Desire
manifested there. He determined the root cause was some clusters developing significant deviations in Maja culture
in outlying rural areas. These had existed throughout the first dynasty of the Danam Yelda, the Upata-Shepsus Dynasty, but appeared to increase dramatically with the end of that dynasty. Majastas Kitheshal I intended these traditions to serve as a corrective and unifying function for all Maja throughout Statos-Vey.
Primary and Secondary Tanas Annals
Historically, this Maja Tutelage and Inculcation
were to take place in one location, on the island of Vaucalo
on Lake Yandu, a thousand andas north and west of Upata-Shepsus
in Tanas Province. Out of this culture grew the Primary and Secondary Tanas Annals, which at specific periods of history became incorporated into all Invocate training, particularly at the Commencement Delver
level. For long periods during what is later known as the Nantu Age, all Maja
were supposed to attend Vaucalo Island at least once to be imbued by this culture. Later, this became a voluntary process, and a select few would go and return to maintain this tradition within all clusters. The notion of fashioning a Maja culture based on ‘Tutelage and Inculcation’ is unique to Danam Yeldic
history. Neither the Most-Ancient Tolku
nor the Venerable Koru
had such an initiative.
Most-Ancient Tatchlan Cubes
Sixty-four symbolic emblems
Tatchlan Cubes began as sixty-four symbolic emblems, which, when combined in their proper order, represented all life freed from self-absorption. These sixty-four cubes would be spread out, icon side down, in a square eight high by eight wide. One by one, the cubes would be turned over to reveal their sigil before placement in their proper location in the pattern.
While named Cubes, the inanimate items are typically lozenges in shape, half as thick on the sides as the top and bottom. As detailed below, the Living Instrument
versions also begin in lozenge form but morph into something closer to an actual living arrangement of their sigil during the working. During the Primary Epoch, rare variations were taking other shapes, such as circles, but Koru and Danam Yelda used only the square version during the Secondary Epoch.
The
Primary Tolku Masters devised the Cubes before their
forced relocation from
Thithanu; the
Menem
dominated the
Tolku capital on central
Rho-Jashun. At this time, most of their work took the form of
The General Plain, which had begun the process of calming
savage raw life. This symbolic practice is transformed into a dynamic interplay between
Living Instruments in
Mount Uluvatu in the
Veredapandra Mountains of
Statos-Vey. Cubes became one of the earliest forms of interaction with the
Living System during the
Primary Epoch. This General Plain was initially undifferentiated and thus challenging for
Masters within Tatchlan to read. The Cubes provided a vital tool in taking an overview and instructing those entering the
Resplendent Work what areas required their attention. It was known thousands working these Tatchlan Cubes profoundly affected the development of The General Plain.
While direct working with specific aspects of what was becoming the Resplendent Work via Living Instruments came into practice during the Duamang Age before The Quickening, without generations of grandmothers and their mothers working the Cubes and other Living Devices, the activation of the Twelve Principal Faces and their legion of Secondary Faces would never have been achieved. The Living System has grown in its vast capacity and complexity far beyond its beginnings. However, Cube Work laid the bedrock of this living edifice, and the Cubes can still perform vital service at this foundational level. The Cube's primary function is to maintain core stability by balancing what began as highly volatile elements. This work was usually done in groups of Invocates at long tables in a three-sided formation with the Living Instruments on the inside and the Invocates on the outside. Such chambers once dominated Invocate Enclaves for working the Cubes, while Cube Masters had their chambers where they worked alone. Due to the increasingly specialized nature of Invocate work, only a tiny fraction of Secondary Epoch Invocates follow the most-ancient practices detailed below today.
Cubes detect Anomalies
Despite their large focus, the Tatchlan Cubes displayed subtlety and depth in perceiving the presence of anomalies within the Resplendent Work. An Anomaly is anything deviating from its surroundings, often in the form of a deformation or problematic accumulation that has the potential to adversely affect the Living System around it. These distortions are a natural consequence of the ever-changing landscape of Tatchlan. Under the sensitive fingertips of the Cube Masters, the Cubes reveal the location of collections of anomalies in a given region of Tatchlan. Working with the Cubes initially had a salutary effect on many of these issues. As the Living System became more intricate, so did the anomalies. Invocates began to be sent to seek out elusive and resistant anomalies. Over many Aeons, the Majastas accumulated knowledge of these anomalies and various methods of attending to them.
Public presentation
What is pictured here is the public presentation of the Cubes, found within Ablution Academies, Face Houses, Artisans' Boroughs, Fertility Sanctuaries, Mantle Museums, Erudite Ceremonial Theatres, and in public spaces, particularly at the seat of provincial and Cluster-of-Cluster
governance. These images are of the modern Danam Yeldic
version containing Yeldic
equivalents for the earlier Koru
emblems, which replaced some of the original Tolku sigils. Except for skin colour and other minor modifications, the Primary Square emblems are unchanged from most-ancient times.
These images are also available in small cube form for meditative purposes in most clusters. The cubes are arranged face down, and then, one by one, they are turned over to be placed in the proper sequence. Dominant threads include the Twelve Faces of Tatchlan, which start one row up from the bottom middle, above icons for birth and death, forming a ‘V’ formation travelling up either side before turning back in near the top.
Images for the Venerable Insect Societies
can also be easily seen at the top. This compilation of many Tatchlan modifications to life and society reveals the heart of the Living System. While somewhat resembling an actual Tatchlan Cube formation, these images, the public monuments and cluster cubes, represent the symbolic version of the table. The exact construction is more correctly described as a congregation of entities, all of them Living Instruments. What follows relates to the living throng of animated elements and their interaction with the Tatchlan System. The Cubes do not remain Cubes once the working commences on the actual Living Instrument board.
Living Instruments Serves Cubes
It was the Uluvatu Masters
who transformed a meditative practice into a vibrant set of animate devices. Living Instruments
in their tall shells were arranged around a large square table either on the Primary Epoch
diagonal orientation
or the flat square (pictured here), with the Instruments arranged in two sets of four on the two far sides or square with them on three sides, four at the back and two either side. Once established, the Instruments were enticed to send a single tendril coated in Sheshenara Paste
onto the table. These tendrils would unwind to reveal themselves composed of an intricate filigree, opening to form a fine net of fibres covering the table.
Masks and Knives
Once the mesh is settled, the Invocate selects one of the Twelve Principal Faces
Masks on a table and dons it. There was no prescribed selection, and it was left up to the Invocate based on intuition and circumstance. Once selected, the mask would possess the Invocate
for the remainder of the Rite.
The Invocate would then take a small knife, known as the ‘Awakening Blade,’ and prick each finger of one hand before gently piercing the mesh at each corner and in the middle. She would allow one drop from each digit to fall into the small tear in sequence. This caused a swift reaction, leading to the mesh bonding to form a smooth surface ready to be worked. The Invocate would lightly tap the centre to see if ripples travelled from it to the edges, meaning it was prepared to be worked.
Setting the Cubes
The Cubes are in a sealed container for the working, and once the mesh formed a pliable skin, they were brought out. The jar is unsealed, and some blood is dripped into the potent liquid the cubes are submerged in. The Invocate
then immerses the Awakening Blade
and her hand into the liquid, sealing her wounds and removing blood from the blade. The now pristine Awakening Blade is set aside, and the first Cube is brought out. The Cube is a simplified extension of a Living Instrument
fashioned for this purpose. The creature has dark green animated skin on one side, four edges, and a flat black face on the other.
Once it begins to wake, innumerable tiny tentacles grow out of the black side. This dull black face is placed on the mesh, and others are brought out, eight down, eight across, until at last, there were sixty-four potential ‘aspects’ covering the mesh surface. More sap from the pot is poured onto the board, stimulating the mesh and the Cubes to awaken and begin to take on their living form. The animated surface interacts with the mesh in an audible way the Invocate may interpret regarding how the Craft will commence.
During this time of transformation, the Cubes slightly shift and turn as they grow into their proper form and interact with each other and the mesh. The Invocate only intervenes if the arrangement destabilizes, which was rare and a sign of difficulty in the working. The Invocate would only proceed after the ‘table has settled.’
Universal to Distinct
Prior to these preparations, the attending Living Instruments and the Tatchlan Cubes existed in a ‘universal state.’ Until connected to the Tatchlan System, they cannot manifest any aspect of it and exist in a near-unconscious condition. In the case of the Cubes, they are indistinguishable from each other before their awakening.
While Living Instruments have a vital existence linked to individual Invocates
(see more below), the Cubes only come alive when interacting with the Mesh spread on the board. There, they are infused with one of the sixty-four aspects of the pattern and fully possess it. At that moment, they are said to be ‘awake,’ ‘vital,’ and ‘alive.’ The term ‘universal to distinct’ is rarely used outside this context. It is a reversal of the common phrase ‘distinct to universal’ referring to how death makes all things the same, suggesting the Cubes are near dead when not on the board.
Living Sigils
What follows is identical to the meditation exercise anyone may perform with their cluster’s inanimate cubes, with a fundamental difference. One is selected, usually in the middle, where the sigils for the four seasons will eventually rest, or at the top, with a space, the Soldier or Builder class of the Venerable Ketukku
will reside at the end, or at the bottom middle, where the Birth and Death icons will take their place. The blank side of the Cube is turned to reveal a transformed underside. The Cube has completed a process of metamorphosis into a Living Sigil of one of the sixty-four aspects.
What now appears is similar to the inanimate objects all use, but the icon lives in the sense that the eyes move on the face, and the elements are animated in other ways. Close examination reveals the being is covered in tiny white spots, signifying them as a being of Tatchlan. This creature is then taken to its proper location, where the existing Cube is lifted off, and the revealed sigil is set in its place face up. Once there, the transformation is complete and referred to as a Living Sigil Cube - a tiny animate being on their portion of the board. The displaced Cube is now turned over to reveal another being belonging to another location, and the process continues. When completed, the sixty-four elements are a field of interlocking beings in a symbiotic relationship, forming a complete system with the large set of eight Living Instruments surrounding the now living table.
Working may be difficult
While sounding like a relatively straightforward process, the actual working of the Sigil Cubes may prove to be very challenging to the Invocate. The attending Instruments providing the mesh and the Living Cubes themselves are now fully awakened living entities responding to each change on the board. The entire board shifts with each placement.
The blossoms of the attending Living Instruments
surrounding the table may inflate or deflate, and the ‘expressions’ on the Living Cubes may alter. Sometimes, the yet-to-be-placed Cubes resist lifting, and additional work must be done to extricate them gently. There may be considerable delays if the ensemble becomes unstable based on some imbalance within the Living Tatchlan System. All such activity is carefully monitored and compared to other workings to develop a report of the Living System's current state. Such difficulties may significantly extend the process and lead to strain and injury of the Invocate's hands in dealing with intricate workings.
Sigils In Order
While it is not unknown for a single lifted Cube to bear the correct icon for its position, more than ten such matching placements are considered worthy of note. Twenty Sigil Cubes found to be ‘in order’ across the board are welcome. Thirty Sigil Cubes found to be ‘in order’ will likely cause a ‘cascade’ of other boards being somewhat ‘in order.’ Forty Sigil Cubes ‘in order’ increases this general effect. Regular reports of such an instance reach the Majastas Court, followed by celebrations at public events. Fifty Sigil Cubes ‘in order’ are rare and suggest a high degree of harmony and balance within the Living System. There are six known instances in the Primary Epoch and eleven in the Secondary Epoch when every cube was already in its correct location, making such an arrangement exceptionally rare. The high levels of Sigils In Order on one board often see significant levels on adjacent living panels, although there are no instances of more than one board having the same number at the same time.
Tatchlan Cube Invocates and Dreamers
Even though Dreamers undergo some of the same training, their lives and workings bear little resemblance to those of Sigil Cube Invocates. Despite this, their common root is shown in how they may sometimes complement each other's work. Like the Invocates working the Sigil Cubes, Dreamers see the Living System
at the foundational level. While their perspective is profoundly different, Dreamers often consult and work together with Cube Invocates on long-range work and are more likely to knowingly or unknowingly be part of long-range Majastas Generational Plans.
Mobile Invocate Estates
One group of Invocates may belong to a category called ‘Mobile Estates.’ Several ministries require Invocate
Circles to travel to distant locations and communicate with central circles concerning a sudden or ongoing situation. This can be as small as one circle of eight
but is more likely composed of several circles that move independently or as part of a more extensive formation, such as a movable portion of the Commandant
or Wellbeing Ministry
mission. This may also require long trips by sea, which prove challenging to them and their companion Living Instruments. To varying degrees, this was true during the Primary Epoch
and the Koru
of the Secondary Epoch. Nowhere is it more accurate than with another branch of Yelda, the Kudurapala. There are two branches of what is known as the ‘Koru Yelda.’ The Sumudin Yelda
remains entirely within the Koru Living Mountains. The Kudurapala circumnavigate Anu
in service of themselves and their Venerable Koru. The entire Kudurapala
Fleet is outfitted with their own Koru Invocate Circles to maintain communication between themselves and other ships and the mainland.
Descending the Depths
The Eight profound levels towards becoming an Invocate
Traditionally, 'Descending the Depths' works on a supervisory basis within the Enclave. The delver is in ongoing contact with a supervisor standing deeper to them and supervises one standing nearer the surface. While some instruction and the perfecting of various exercises occur in the supervisors' presence alone, much work is done with others at the same depth, overseen by their supervisors. When the delving circles coalesce, they may be ready to proceed to the deeper level simultaneously, allowing their lower supervisor to lead them to enter their first Invocate
link to their Living Instrument
and enter Tatchlan. Perhaps not surprisingly, the incidence of this symmetry varies, and new supervisors may have to take over the training at any point. Another exception occurs when the delver outpaces the instructor and shows signs of being exceptional. In these rare cases, a full Enclave Master
may become their instructor for part or all of the process. There is only one other group that completes a portion of this training, known as Dreamers, and in particular Pattern Dreamers. They complete the same Student and Novice levels before branching into separate studies.
Student
Regardless of later Use, all children doing well on their initial Depth Tests following their basic instruction are expected to fulfill a small portion of this obligation as part of their regular vocational schooling. A student stepping onto this first depth level must 'acquire a general knowledge of all ecstatic rites and formal disciplines.' While this can apply to many fields, those intending to delve into being an Invocate
concentrate on a specific selection of texts, usually written by ancient and contemporary Masters, along with the initial practice of various exercises set out by their supervising Novice. While note is taken of the student's preferences and strengths, their Novice ensures they have a solid understanding and skill in all areas they deem relevant to their vocation. The goal is to create a mind capable of eventually receiving the powerful messages the Living System
can deliver. An ancient artistic tradition illustrates these stages that became formalized into a series of badges worn by the delver. The Danam Yeldic
version of these badges has changed slightly over time, but the following elements have remained constant.
A naked figure follows a small animal down a gentle slope within the badge. They wear a radiating crown, distinguishing them as having exceptional ability and striding confidently. The student has the symbol of the Delving Serpent rising on each leg and the Wise Spider Glyph
on their head. The heads of these two symbols come together to form a single eye of the Student, meaning their qualities possess them. On each of their hands sits the Melodious Frog Glyph. This signifies that all their actions are beautiful. New vegetation sprouts out of the loam with each step, meaning their way improves all Anu. This is one of the few occasions when a Menem
symbol finds its way into present-day use. Beneath the student's feet is the open book symbol of Vindaviran, the Teacher, symbolizing the scholastic nature of this first depth level. Nu
and the four moons and a host of stars fill the sky while four fish swim at the Student's feet, suggesting they have already begun to sink below the surface of life.
Previous Supervisor presenting a candidate to the next Supervisor
Previous Supervisor: “I, (name), present this Student (name) wishing to delve to the Novice level. I hope your honour shall bestow your wisdom and experience upon them.”
Next Supervisor: “Alas! While possessing some accomplishment, I fear I have insufficient depth for this profound task. I venture to decline.”
Previous Supervisor: “I cling to the hope you may give her/him the benefit of your august instruction.”
Next Supervisor: “Since your honour repeats this command, dare I do other than consent?”
The Supervisor then instructs the candidate as the mask of the former grade is removed and the new one put on. The Supervisor holds the mask on either side and says:
Previous Supervisor: “(Name), obedience to those of superior depth is ever meritorious. You have done so with your Supervisor, and with affectionate confidence, we confer upon our servant the distinction of delving into further depth. As our servant did with us, reverentially regard what this new master says. Observe and follow what they do. Waking and sleeping, let them find no fault with you. As you don this new mask, remember these instructions.”
Student: “Venerable Supervisor, your servant is but the grass cutter
within your eminent presence. Your head is sufficiently deep within Anu
that my feet are far above your level. Before your guidance, I wandered in the marketplace, unable to distinguish between a well and a stall. Your servant once hovered in the thin air before you granted your servant access to these shallow delvings. Rich loam covers your servant's head with the attendant knowledge and skill. Your servant shall strive to be worthy of this preference.”
While slight variations of this ritual exchange may occur at each descending level of depth, this formula is repeated at each level.
Novice
The second level down is the Novice. The Novice expects to continue and deepen their study while also “beginning to cultivate their preferences and keep a detailed record of their progress for a year.” This process is more complicated than it sounds, and their guiding Initiate one level below them supervises their progress. They also must oversee a Student
entering the first level above them. These additional work and duties demand that those Novices who have not already left their circle
and cluster do so and relocate within their designated Enclave. They are guided into the formation of new circles with other Novices. These working circles undertake their increasingly potent work together and form bonds lasting through much of what is to follow.
The Novice Badge is an intense variation of the Student Badge. The striding figure now holds the little animal by a leash composed of multicoloured strands, symbolizing the links of all the worn attributes now connecting the Novice to their delving guide. The small Face of Muramal, the ‘one who conducts to trouble,’ is attached to the leash, warning of the challenges ahead.
The earlier symbols of surface life, Nu
and his four moons, the stars and delving fish, and the Menem
symbol of study begin to be replaced by the Twelve Faces of Tatchlan. The placement of these Faces is significant.
Humma, the ‘Face of Recollection,’ stands before the Novice's face to symbolize their continuing to delve into the wisdom of past and present Masters and other authorities. Hashahanu, the ‘Face of Contemplation,’ is incorporated into the Novice's face, overlaying the most-ancient Wise Spider Glyph, to inform their efforts with reflection. Gavaduru, the ‘Face of Protection,’ takes the place of Nu behind their head to alleviate fatigue. Kava-Kura, the ‘Face of Vital Delight,’ hangs below the Novice's loins to ensure delight and release fuel their way to greater depths. Sukakap, the ‘Unflinching Face of Truth,’ is the second Face to be incorporated into the Novice's body by guiding their forward step to ensure it lands on the same sloping path.
After completing this level, those destined to be Dreamers part company with the aspiring Invocates and enter their separate instruction stream.
Initiate
The third level down is the Initiate. This is the most intensive level thus far, involving physical disciplines, developing complementary skills in dream evocation, and a strengthened extension of their awareness. For the first time, tests and examinations by their Devotee, standing at the next level of depth, are employed to determine the Initiate's progress.
The final set of these tests is named the 'Initiate's mysteries.' In one, the Initiate is given a mysterious object or is shown an unfamiliar glyph by their supervising Devotee. They must use their new abilities to determine its nature and use. Another has them enter a dream state and work to surpass the usual protocols of the Dream Guides,
leading to a Secondary Face
of the Resplendent Work. While these two are constant, additional tests may augment these mysteries. All this takes place while they take on the role of guiding a Novice
entering the level above them.
Dream Guides are also employed to conduct the Initiate to a Lustrum Mirror
on the surface of Indatubangus. By this point in their training, the Initiate has come into conflict with their own internal pockets of Self-Absorption, so a thorough expulsion of these elements relieves their struggles.
It is presumed that in urban settings, most youths have already stood before one of these Mirrors
before commencing their Decent of the Depths, yet even so, they find many black growths previously hidden due to their training.
It is not uncommon for failure in one or more of these tests to either lead to a prolonged stay at this level, an extended interruption in the programme, or a permanent cessation of this path. Anyone discontinuing the descent is permitted to wear this badge and is accorded great honour for reaching this level. Those able to go forward are likely to descend the remaining five levels and become full Invocates.
The Initiate Badge reflects the acute challenges of this level. The figure continues to stride through an increasingly crowded decline as the Twelve Faces dominate their life. Vashivonos, the ‘Face of Grim Necessity,’ stands closest to the face of the Initiate, while Muramal, who ‘conducts to trouble,’ has grown in size and pushes the Delving Guide forward down the precipice. The Face of Raw Life, Hesha Vira, is a significant presence, dominating the Initiate's progress. This signifies the Initiate's innate resistance to their progress as they encounter hidden pockets of self-absorption
in all its forms within them, along with growing fatigue with the rigours of the descent.
Sukakap, the Face of Truth, continues to guide the Initiate's forward step, while Skarashing, the discerner of polarities, guides the second step. Another Face providing solace by becoming incorporated into the body of the Initiate is the beloved Kava-Kura, the ‘Face of Vital Delight.’ Shehe is rooted at the core of the body and mitigates the challenges of Hesha Vira with ongoing anticipation, fulfillment and contentment. She is also in place for the new challenges of the next level of depth. Naprahath, the restorer of balance and maintainer of harmony, how rests atop the Wise Spider Glyph; shehe works with Kava-Kura to fortify the Initiate during their trials. Alatanda, the Bridge and Gateway to the entire system, grows large, symbolizing the Initiate grasping the fundamentals of the Resplendent Work
for the first time.
Devotee
Those delvers reaching the midpoint cross over a significant threshold to become Devotees. This level represents a forceful break from the previous work. The delver now applies academic study to powerful exercises, which cascade through all their senses. The Devotee “neither reads a word nor writes a letter.” Their Commencement
Supervisor guides them through many new physical disciplines while introducing them to a robust set of Vision Window
mixtures and setting up elaborate tasks to perform while under their influence. They also begin to perform various jobs around the unopened Living Instruments.
While most of these activities are strenuous in various ways, there is also intensive concentration training in different physical and mental abilities, such as 'perfect stillness.' A fundamental aspect of this level is comprehensive sexual training to ensure proficiency in dealing with prolonged and ongoing contact with their Living Instrument while remaining vital members of their circle
and cluster. They also take on a Novice at the beginning of their work.
The Badge represents this new depth by sweeping away most of the former elements, which threatened to overwhelm the delver, in a cleansing fire. It depicts the Devotees as losing themselves in fires of passion as the Living System
takes hold of them viscerally. Before the Delver embraces a Living Instrument, they must display the depth of their knowledge by devising a demonstration, using elementary forms of Tatchlan Life, to show an aspect of their distinctive properties. Their subsequent liaisons with a series of Living Instruments led to a profound physical connection with what had been previously an academic grasp of Tatchlan. The differing coloured flames of this badge represent the distinctive qualities of each Living Instrument and their impact on the Devotee. In these ways, more active, dynamic experiences replace intellectual accomplishment. The Devotee Badge depicts the delver as no longer striding but kneeling in place, allowing the flames and their Living Instruments to envelop them and burn away all superficial elements of their personality, including all their former conceptual emblems.
From the fifth level onward, there is a variation between what those wishing to work the Tatchlan Cubes, and those wishing to enter Tatchlan
via Living Instruments examine and do.
Commencement Delver
The fifth level down is called the ‘Commencement,’ presenting another dramatic contrast to the previous one. Here, rigorous exercises are supplanted by a new round of study. In part, this involves re-reading works studied as a Student. Their enriched eyes perceive far more profound levels of meaning than the Student saw and exceed what most in the general population know. It may also involve an examination of the Kitheshal
traditions and reading portions of the Primary and Secondary Tanas Annals.
New texts, reserved for those arriving at this point, are introduced as they continue their journey to becoming a Full Invocate. This includes such challenging work as the ‘Breathing Seals Conglomeration,’ a message left from the Primary Epoch
on how to avoid the errors leading to the necessity of the Killing Swath. Early in the Nantu Age, the most significant and challenging work studied was ‘The Two Persistent Obsessions.’ This is the third portion of an Encyclopedia by Majastas Horm Unu I, focusing on the first of the two ‘obsessions,’ known as The Common Desire. Their Encompassing
Supervisor conducts extensive verbal tests near the end of this period. The final of these tests resembles the final test of the Initiate
Level.
While this may appear to revisit the first and second levels, this represents another fundamental shift in the delver's awareness. What were once challenging texts have become infused with personal meaning. They continue the activities of earlier levels, now punctuated by prolonged periods of quiet reflection to integrate their new knowledge and experience. Most delvers can ‘see to the bottom’ from this level onwards; for those wishing to work with the Tatchlan Cubes, activities at this level include finding and convincing their Encompassing Supervisor of a little-known facet of one of the Living Sigils by using all the creative energies and skills developed to this point.
The badge at this level does not depict the Commencement Delver but shows the famous motif of the ‘Living Book.’ It radiates life, has a plant growing out of its pages, and is surrounded by a series of butterflies circling it, the most-ancient symbol of transformation. The glowing book embodies knowledge as an essential aspect of powerful living. With these or other elements, this symbol of the Living Book finds expression in many different aspects of society. Opened books are placed atop ceremonial platforms or rough podiums, often surrounded by garlands and other ornamentation, to venerate the living presence of prior knowledge. This badge presents the original meaning and context, dating back to the dawn of the Primary Epoch.
Encompassing Delver
The sixth level down is termed the Encompassing. Unlike the earlier levels, there is little in the study or practice of any new material. Here, the challenge is taking all this knowledge and skill and demonstrably applying it both in their everyday life and to the delver's own inner experience of themselves.
A purging of regressive tendencies, particularly self-punishment in the form of shame and guilt, are vital components of this level. With the pronouncement of completing this preparation by their Delving Invocate
Supervisor, they move to a more in-depth familiarity with their chosen Estate.
In the case of a delver wishing to work the Tatchlan Cubes, the final examination involves the first introduction to a living table and the early work on tending to the distinct Living Instruments
serving the table and preparing the Sigil Cubes.
The Encompassing Badge shows the delver as the living symbol of transformation. They fly deep within themselves, nourished by their blood, which flows like a broad river across their body's landscape.
Their eye becomes an internal sun through which all life is apprehended differently. This level has its challenges. The hands are shown as red with blood, having let go of two flowers also dripping off the most precious of their body's liquids. The flowers are symbols of their awareness, one flying up to encompass the surface of life on Anu, the other slinking beneath the river of their blood to make its way down to the root of the Living System.
The Encompassing Delver returns to the Lustrum Mirror
they visited as an Initiate. They now do so via their Living Instrument, and thus fortified, they unerringly seek out and remove any residual pockets of self-absorption. In so doing, they release themselves from the last vestiges of the hateful legacy of survival. This work continues for the rest of the Invocate's life.
Notably, the ‘eye’ on this badge symbolizes an internal version of Anu's sun, Nu. This image was devised long before Nu began to grow hotter, and the true nature of the Burning Blossom
was understood. For the first half of the Primary Epoch, Nu was known as the ‘Sweet Daymaker.’
Delving Invocate
The seventh level down sees the Delver formally given the title of Delving Invocate. This level commences with an intensive initiation, where they must successfully form the Link with a Living Instrument and use it to enter Tatchlan. This level also sees the preliminary coalescing of circles of eight, composed of other Delving Invocates. These may share the same Estate, a similar one, or complimentary Estates. The formation of these Invocate circles often means individuals must be relocated to different Enclaves, allowing for the convergence of talents. Together, they receive instruction from a single Full Invocate or, given distinctive abilities of this circle, a designated Enclave Master. In one sense, this phase most closely represents traditional instruction. There are occasions when the Invocate or Master provides them with a curriculum and a small reading list. The Invocate lectures them as a class on the finer points of their calling and the Living System. What differs is much of this instruction takes place within Tatchlan, where what has been explored in theory is now sought out and worked on directly. This circle of eight, attended to by their Invocate Supervisor, spends increasing amounts of time travelling throughout the Living System and engaging in various direct actions with multiple elements of the Resplendent Work.
An early highlight of this process is their interaction with some of the millions of
Secondary Faces. Examining their ability to Invoke particular Secondary Faces to conduct them to obscure locations within the
Living Orb takes place. An example is locating a Secondary Face of
Muramal and having them conduct them to an
Anomaly. They are then instructed on its unravelling or removal. If it is to be removed, they gather it and call upon another Secondary Face to take them to the
Lustrum Mirror platform on
Indatubangus to dispose of it. They then examine themselves to ensure no trace of the Anomaly remains on them. They also learn to seek out other Delving Circles and locate individual
Invocates within the vast inner universe. While they work as a
Circle of Eight on many tasks, they are separated and tested individually. The final determination is made as to which Estate they will be deposited in once they become Full Invocates. Each of their supervisors, from Novice to Invocate, has contributed to this Estate designation, which may appear early or late in this descent process. There are rare occasions when such a training Circle of Eight is found to all belong to the same Estate and, therefore, remain a unit after Descending the Depths.
They also see from afar the massive Twelve Principal Faces and their Majastas within the Living System. They may be privileged to join other Full Invocates and Delving Invocate Circles in being called to do the Majastas bidding on a particular project within the Tatchlan System. Such large-scale activities are considered the deepest portion of this Delving Invocate Circle training level.
Although much of their time is spent within the grandiose setting of Tatchlan, the Delving Invocate Badge presents the Circle of Eight in a basic configuration of attending to Uses within a humble environment. In this case, they appear to assemble or polish pottery within the characteristic curved chamber of an Invocate Training Enclave. The six men are lined up on either side in profile, with the two women presenting their backs. Even though this is a circle-of-eight arrangement, their clothing signifies this is not an actual cluster setting but one subject to scrutiny and observation.
Full Invocate
The final designation of Full Invocate
is not a matter of completing a formulaic set of examinations. Much of this concerns their ability to invoke specific Secondary Faces
to conduct them to essential locations within the Living System
to perform various tasks. Ongoing proficiency of their Estate
Discipline and successful completion of diverse services to Provincial or Cluster-of-Cluster Ministries or any other agency or cluster
they serve are examined.
Through this process, their specific abilities and strengths are found and perfected. During this time, they may move through several different Delver
Circles of Eight
in finalizing their full integration into their Estate. The more specialized they are, the more likely they will not only settle on an Invocate Circle that is well-balanced to their emerging Estate but will remain with them in their first assignment as an Invocate Circle.
During their subsequent service, they may be subject to changing duties, locations, and circles depending on the circumstances and maturation of their skills.
Invocates
with more general abilities and those possessing distinctive ones are likely to scent separate
from their immediate circle
and join a cluster
as their lone Invocate or member of the cluster's small group of Invocates. If there are seven other Invocates within the cluster, they will automatically form an Invocate Circle of Eight. It is not uncommon for larger urban clusters to have their own Invocate Circle to assist in their cluster uses. Those Invocates with rare qualities may operate in these generalized Invocate Circles, joining with them in relatively mundane cluster tasks while sometimes seeking out the handful of others sharing their singular focus within the Living System
as needed.
The Invocate Badge reflects their attainment and status by presenting them as close to being a Majastas
themselves. What are understood to be servants of the Twelve Principal Faces, or their ‘Secondary Faces,’ adorn them and a serving face of Alatanda, the Bridge to the entire Resplendent Work, covers their own. This symbolizes their complete bodily integration into the Living Tatchlan System, making them a walking embodiment. This is the only place where any figure wearing one of the Twelve Faces as a Mask other than the Majastas themselves is shown. It must be noted that while this is a time-honoured icon, only rare Operants
and the true Majastas may don any of the Principal Faces within Tatchlan.
Full Invocate Service
Full Invocates are prized throughout the Cluster-of-Clusters Nation. Their Enclave confers on them their Estate Speciality, and they are dispatched, as full or half circles or occasionally as individuals, according to their distinctive strengths and skills throughout Anu. It is customary for Invocates to wear simple yellow robes with badges indicating their Estate Speciality. The traditional formula throughout the Primary and Secondary Epochs is one in ten becomes Maja, and one in ten Maja has the potential to become a Full Invocate. While this is close to stable within the Koru Cluster-of-Clusters Nation, the Danam Yelda have a higher percentage of Maja and a slightly lower percentage of Maja who become Invocates. This Invocate population can keep Cluster-of-Clusters functioning without and within Tatchlan despite this variation.
The most profound grade of each Estate is made available to the Eight Ministries governing the entire Cluster-of-Clusters nation, known as the Variothya, whether located within the ‘Sister Cities’ of Upata-Shepsus and Bhampay. They are titled the ‘Indispensable Hands,' much of their service involves attending to specialized tasks within the Resplendent Work at the behest of the Majastas or their guiding ministry. Within the deepest portions of these ministries, the most potent Invocates are, on occasion, referred to as ‘our extended tail,’ a term generally not understood given it refers to the Actual Internal Structure of Tatchlan.
Concentration of Invocates in Sister Cities
Other specialized clusters within the Capital Region surround the Majastas Cluster. This concentration of Invocate Circles forms the core and, to varying degrees, the infrastructure of the eight Variothya Ministries. These may also form unique clusters composed of a majority of Invocates. Such powerful groups, usually of the First to Third Grade, are primarily found within the Mantle Establishments and are based in the ‘Sister Cities’ of Upata-Shepsus, the political capital, and Bhampay, the prime commercial port and cultural capital. All Invocates begin as Maja, meaning all infants within an Invocate Cluster are born Maja. The only other instance where this takes place is within the Majastas Cluster. As with those outside this rarified situation, not all Maja become Invocates. Within these Invocate Clusters, these Maja take on most supportive roles in other clusters, including those born with more than one Tatchlan attribute, known as ‘Spoke Compilations,’ such as Maja Doubles and Maja Completes. The incidence of such complications is far higher within these Invocate Clusters than in the general cluster population.
Majastas Cluster Invocates
Within the Danam Yeldic
Cluster-of-Clusters Nation, the Majastas Cluster
is matchless. Unlike all other clusters, it is entirely composed of Maja. Other Spokes of the Cluster Wheel
are also present, but they are also Maja, i.e., Maja Doubles, Maja Completes, and Maja Dreamers; these eminent beings are collectively called ‘Majastas Spokes.’ Most of these Maja also function as Invocates, making this usually extensive cluster beyond compare in vibrancy and mastery. Of these Invocates, an average of one in ten work the Sigil Cubes, making for the most substantial concentrations of this most-ancient branch of the Craft within any other gathered population.
Majastas Cluster life cycle and the Final Generation
Majastas Clusters
take on this level of intensity when the first of their number becomes a Majastas. They go through a metamorphosis from common to Majastas Cluster within a generation. When the last of their line of Majastas dies, and the Mantle
migrates to another cluster, that generation continues in its deep state. Throughout the Primary Epoch
and thus far in the Secondary Epoch, there are many accounts of this ‘final generation’ producing exceptional artists and other masters in all fields. The birth of their first Mundane
child in the following generation heralds the end of their status, even though they continue to enjoy the benefits and honour of having been a Majastas Cluster for another generation. Meanwhile, the new Majastas Cluster, primarily filled with Maja
and Invocates, ’fills the air with their aroma.’
Operants
Operants, also named Shapta Masters, are a rare form of Invocate. While ‘Descending the Depths’ with fellow Invocates, they show an unusual aptitude and quickly outstrip their contemporaries. When they become Full Invocates, they develop the ability to ‘slip into’ Tatchlan
without the aid of a Living Instrument. Apart from the Majastas, only Operants can enter the Living System at will and deal directly with the Primary Faces. Few may don them as masks, but most can work with them as no Invocate can.
There are two Icons
for Operants. The first shows them facing inward with a dark, obscuring body, suggesting the mystery surrounding their work. This silhouette faces the version of the Living System as presented to all other Invocates of the three Orbs of Amanavata, Indatubangas
and the Living Orb.
Operants see true System
The second Icon
is said to be Deeper. It has the Operant
facing the viewer, displaying their radiance. The order of the Orbs is reversed, representing their actual structure without the distortion of the Living Instruments, with the Living Orb
forming the outer layer, Indatubangus, which lies beneath and within it, the inner ocean of Amanavata. These icons are Koru
in origin and are used, unaltered, by the Danam Yelda.
Operants usually only manifest in any numbers during extended periods between dynasties, during periods of crisis such as a Burning Blossom, and at the commencement of a Cluster-of-Clusters Nation. The population of Operants during these unusual periods has thus far varied significantly. It is estimated from most-ancient sources there were no more than twenty Operants alive when the first Tolku Majastas
Quickened. During Burning Blossom cycles throughout the Primary Epoch, this number grew as the time approached for the Full Burning Blossom and continued to manifest in diminishing numbers until the cycle ended.
In the lead-up to the first Koru Majastas
of the Secondary Epoch, there was a record population of over six hundred Operants, the most recorded. Among other wonders, these Koru Operants were instrumental in Quickening
the Living System
after The Killing Swath
ended the Primary Epoch
and in modern Healing Vats. One hundred and twenty-four Operants were recorded before the first Danam Yeldic
Majastas, Upata-Shepsus I.
Traversing The General Plain
The General Plain
is an open expanse on the Living Orb. It represents the original face of Tatchlan, able to envelop and calm the anarchic visage of raw life. While most of the Living Orb has since developed into an abundant and intricate landscape, a portion remains in this original state. Underlying fundamentals and universals may be observed here, but this task is beyond most Invocates. The original Tatchlan Cubes
were fashioned to read it, but they can only provide a general overview. Other than the Majastas, only a select number of Operants may acquire the required sensitivity to read the subtle messages of The General Plain. Those achieving this level of depth are recognized as members of the fifth Rank of the Cluster-of-Cluster Nation’s Living Jewels and are named Superior Operants. Notwithstanding its name, The General Plain is punctuated by deep folds. Within these folds lie mysteries only approachable by the most exceptional of Superior Operants and all Majastas. Chief among these are a series known as the Breathing Seals Conglomerations.
Operants as Majastas Voice
Operants
also have the distinctive feature of becoming the ‘Majastas Voice’ in certain unusual circumstances. For this reason, there must always be at least one Operant in each provincial centre to take on this role. In an urgent situation requiring immediate judgement or pronouncement from a distant Majastas, they take hold of this Operant and speak through them. The cause for such usage involves unusual cases being heard by the province’s Paramount Magistracy.
Yom Sha
A word must be said about this most-ancient evocation, usually associated with Maja
on the Skin of Anu
and early training of Invocates
at the Encompassing Delver
and Delving Invocate
levels. There are occasions when Full Invocates form temporary circles, and even Operants
within Tatchlan
are called upon to use this chant as a form of gathering for Secondary Faces
to witness vital workings or harness aspects of the Living System in unique ways. For some situations, this kind of work may not be done by ongoing Invocate Circles but must be undertaken by Invocates located in widely disbursed regions of the Skin of Anu
bought together for specific tasks. This is because the Yom Sha is sung, and invariably, regional versions of songs diverge. This has no impact on most work, but for these specific evocations, a particular set of harmonies occurs when these different versions are sung together. This produces a resonance that facilitates the Secondary Face gathering and subsequent work.
The near-universal version of the Yom Sha:
Yom Sha Yom Sha
Vuna Sana Ya
Wonal Chinnal Ya
Sosu Yaso Jas,
Pana Musha Shay
Sen! Sen! Sen!
Suv! Suv! Suv!
Sha! Sha! Sha!
A deep variation of this Yom Sha weaves the names of the Twelve Principal Faces and is intended to draw them closer as witnesses to the working:
Yom Sha, Yom Sha, Alatanda, Alatanda!
Alatanda, Alatanda, Skarashing, Skarashing, Vuna Sana Ya!
Yom Sha, Yom Sha, Skarashing, Naprahath, Naprahath, Vuna Sana Ya, Yuna Sana Ya, Humma, Humma Ya!
Wonal Chinnal Ya, Wonal Chinnal Ya, Heshavira, Heshavira, Wonal Chinnal Ya! Neferdush, Sosu Yaso Jas, Sosu Yaso Jas, Neferdush, Muramal, Neferdush, Muramal Jas! Pana Musha Shay, Gavaduru, Gavaduru, Pana Musha Shay!
Sen! Sen! Sen! Kava-Kura, Kava-Kura Sen! Vashivonos, Kava-Kura, Vashivonos Sen!
Sha! Sha! Sha! Sukakap, Hashahanu Sha! Sha! Sha!
Sha! Sha! Sha! Sukakap, Hashahanu Sha! Sha! Sha!
Sen! Sen! Sen!
Suv! Suv! Suv!
Sha! Sha! Sha!
