The Way of the Starfolk

Tenets of the Starfolk

Every Starfolk must choose a Matabit - a code - to follow. Each Matabit is said to be the will of one of the Talbek, written down and recorded by a loyal follower who was blessed with direct communication with a Talbek. The nature of this communication is unknown to non-starfolk. Some of the more common Matabit and their most basic tenants include: 

The Way of Vat'Patver

Vat'Patver is a powerful Talbek that has power over the stars themselves, and the heat they emit. Within The Way of the Starfolk, they represent a sense of home, somewhere that offers stability and comfort and even life-bringing warmth, like how the planets are anchored to and warmed by their stars. Simultaneously, it embodies their explosiveness and power - should a star wish it, it could destroy all that is anchored to it in brilliant displays of power and strength, but it doesn't do that until it has no other choice. Followers of Vat'Patver often include politicians, military and police forces, as well as those with particularly dangerous occupations. It's followers are expected to adhere to the following tenants:

• Where you go, others follow. Create safe paths for them, provide them with warmth and destroy dangers who get too close.

• Never show fear - courage and unfaltering confidence are just as much an asset as any weapon.

• Your emotions, both positive and negative, are useful tools, but should never be left unchecked. When the circumstances call for it, be explosive and let your power flow, but know when to keep it calm.

The Way of Ara'tu

Ara'tu is another powerful Talbek with power over the minds of the living as well as emotions. Followers of Ara'tu's Matabit often include doctors of the mind such as psychologists and therapists, as well as anyone else who's occupation revolves around understand the way people's minds work. It's followers are expected to adhere to the following tenants: 

• The emotions of all beings, no matter how primitive or complex are sacred and a necessary aspect of survival, and as such should be respected.

• Respect your own emotions, whatever form they may come in

• Never use your own emotions as a reason to hurt or cause pain to another

The Vux

To aid them in their mission to bring others of their kind into the way of the starfolk, it was said that loyal starfolk who won the favour of Talbek would be given powers. What powers they were given would depend on who's favour they won. Claims of starfolk being granted everything from the ability to make fire in their hands to the power of gravity control have been recorded. Those granted these powers were referred to as Vux.

Social and Political influence

There was once a time where The Way of the Starfolk was the dominant religion among the Kepek, and was considered the empire's official religion. Over time though, The Way of the Starfolk has fallen out of popularly among most of the population. It has still left it's mark on the Kepeki cultures that no longer follow it however. Little hang overs from the religion still linger in public consciousness, and phrases like "by Vat'Patver's horns!" and "Ara'tu's scales!" are common expressions of exasperation, frustration or shock throughout the empire.

While it has fallen out of favour for most of the Commonwealth though, The Way of the Starfolk is still the dominant religion in the Tabiren and Nabrid fleets and the planetary colonies they control.