#merethic era

Merethic Era Falmer (snow elves)

I was thinking of doing a mini project about Merethic Tamriel and a documentation of the people that were living there in a sort of semi-historic way.

Of course most of it would probably not be entirely lore accurate and there will be a lot of headcanoning but it's fun regardless. So enjoy the first addition to this series.

Falmer: The falmer during the Merethic era were the tallest mer race on Nirn growing on average between 6 - 7 feet. They were also the hairiest and bulkiest on average due to the cold climate. Their culture and practices during this time were very similar to modern day nordic ones due to the cultural overlap and assimilation on the atmorans end when they first arrived to Skyrim.

They valued strength and honour. Their original gods are long lost now however historians speculate the modern nordic gods could share traits with the Falmer's old gods.

In the early Merethic era the snow elves invaded and seized what is currently the Summerset isles. This is how it is assumed Auri-El (An Altmeri/Aldmeri God) was introduced to Skyrim and later would become the primary god in the snow elven pantheon.

Furs, beards, and long hair was the norm in terms of falmer fashion for a long time due to the extreme weather however the shorter hair and beardless look though impractical in such weather was popularised in later years. Again influenced by the fashion trends on the much warmer summerset isles.

Generally speaking when the Falmer weren't invading distant lands or declaring wars with other clans they were a prospering civilisation and in the early days were much like the nords not particularly interested in magic. This was partly due to the fact Skyrim has large iron deposits meaning smithing and weaponry were the most practical but that didn't mean there was no magic at all.

Healers generally could manipulate the weave and tell or even change the future. But when Auri-el was popularised magic become a much larger part of the Falmers lives being combined and assimilated into what they already had. For example enchanting among smiths and manipulation of elements specific to Skyrim (Ice magic mostly).

These changes didn't come fast of course, the falmer were quite stubborn. But over time a cultural shift did happen going from axe-wielding barbarians (As the Aldmer called them) to a slightly more tame society that we know a little bit today.

This didn't come without its challenges however as while the falmer were changing the Atmorans living there were not and in fact had taken on a lot of the cultural aspects or even gods of the traditional falmer. This inevitably was the beginning of the end as tensions got higher with these cultural and religious differences it ended the only way it could, in a war. And well, you know the rest.

I have bumbled my way through a fair few Ayleid ruins in my time, especially in Cyrodiil, but I've found very little material evidence of their kitchens, and scholars don't seem to have taken a particular interest in the dietary habits of the Merethic Era (maybe it's time I enrol at the University of Gwylim?)

From what I've gathered, the Ayleids abhorred the food of Men, particularly during the Alessian Rebellion, although in terms of ingredients, there was a bit of difference in comparison to what we eat today. Since the Ayleids were originally from Summerset, their initial preferences were for a plant and seafood-based diet, which they found to be easily obtained in Cyrodiil. Keeping slaves for agricultural work was standard practice, and as a result, they reaped the rewards of the fertile lands of Cyrodiil with numerous farms and vineyards. Wine was definitely enjoyed, though I am unsure whether it was a common indulgence or reserved for special occasions. The Ayleids also did not seem to be particularly keen on most grains, dairy, or animal byproducts. However, they were certainly not vegetarians.

In particular, their penchant for magic was used in all things culinary, from the very fire used for cooking to the principles of utilising the elements of earth, air, light, and water. These were at the core of Ayleid culture, and therefore cuisine. Earth was represented by fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms, which were used in abundance. Air was often symbolised through the eating of birds like eagles and peacocks (what we consider staple poultry today, like chicken, was equated to slave food and unfit for Ayleid consumption). Water was also the preferred drink with every meal, and they had a truly spectacular system for purifying and chilling their water that is now lost to the ages. As for the element of light, I can only guess. I theorise that like the contemporary Altmer, they held a preference for light meals, but that's a pretty flimsy hypothesis.

Also, it's common knowledge that the Ayleids really, really liked the number eight. From what I have discovered, even daily meals consisted of eight small dishes rather than one or two main dishes. I was lucky enough to find an inscription which could have been an ancient menu, that mentions swordfish tartare with horseradish glaze, braised peacock stuffed with apricots, watercress salad with mixed nuts, black olive tapenade with vegetable crudités, sautéed chanterelle and truffles in white wine sauce, honey-roast falcon, chilled cucumber soup, and smoked trout with a lemon pepper crust. Bar the choice in poultry, these all sound pretty delicious to me!

Hevnoraak

His name means Brutality, and he more than lives up to it. Do not be fooled by his youthful appearance, as Hevnoraak is actually several decades older than he appears. He maintains his visage with the blood sacrifice of his own followers, whom he sees as nothing more than cattle to be slaughtered for his purposes. Only one thing matters to him: Everlasting life. He cares for little else, not even what remains of his kin.

Krosis

Her name means Sorrow, for her grim countenance. Commonly known as one of the more benevolent of the Dragon Priests, Krosis rules for the sake of others rather than herself. If situation permits she is known to be kind and fair, but that doesn't mean she is one to be trifled with. When Paarthurnax was called upon by Kyne to teach mankind use of the Thu'um, Krosis served as his chief acolyte.

Miraak

His name means Allegiance Guide, for his belief that he will lead those loyal to him to salvation. Miraak hated the dragons long before he became a Priest of their Order, but like many others, he was forced to serve in order to survive. When a Demon appeared to him after decades of servitude and told him of his Dragonborn lineage, offering him the knowledge to expand his power, Miraak saw it as his chance for revenge.

Morokei

His name means Glorious, for his many accomplishments in both battle and politics. Morokei is one of few Priests who chooses to forgo the use of magic to preserve his youth, as he believes there are far more grand uses of the Arcane arts. Many say he is the most powerful of the Dragon Priests, though there are some among their Order who would argue. What cannot be argued is Morokei's aptitude for leadership; for almost two centuries he's been the reigning Priest of the thriving capital, Bromjunaar.

Nahkriin

Her name means Vengeance, for those who wrong her are sure to know her wrath. Unlike her peers, Nahkriin has chosen to serve her overlords in solitude, on the lonely summit of Skuldafn. She believes Alduin's right to rule is absolute and therefore has no interest in the petty issues of mankind. Beware whoever dare attempt to rise against her master, as she will destroy them without thought or mercy.

Otar the Mad

They call him Mad, but he wasn't always that way. Otar was once a powerful Chieftan - strong and good willed - but as years went on, his mind began to slip and he became cruel and unwise. Most believe old age to be the cause of his descent into insanity, though there are others who think a more malevolent force is responsible. Of them, most are quick to suspect Hevnoraak - who is known for dabbling in mind control magic - but there is no evidence to support this theory and no soul brave enough to accuse him.

Volsung

Her name means Horrible, for she inspires dread among all who look upon her. Although the youngest of the Dragon Priests, Volsung is not to be underestimated. Constantly living in the shadow of her powerful older brother, she has had to work double to make her own mark on the land, much to her success. For she is one of the most feared and respected among their Order, though still less so than Hevnoraak. If you are ever to compare her to her sibling, ensure she is not within earshot, or you shall suffer a fate worse than death.

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Konahrik