Osian Reflection

The Osian Reflection is an idea based off a reflection by the human philosopher Laerek. His reflection on the nature of good and evil sparked a large comprehension in the way human nature itself was perceived and eventually created a rift between the People of Osia and the rest of the nations under the Skeddic Theocracy. Though not a formal religion, the teachings that came about from the Osian reflection have come to be practiced by many and the idea of neutrality spreading far.

The Reflection
Laerek apparently had his reflection after a long journey to every edge of the human and elven nations, and some even say to Emertia. He recounted all the pain and bloodshed he saw even in the most "Civilized" areas of the world and noticed how even in places where government was lacking peace could still be achieved. His journey at an end, he settled in Osia and decided that he had to think harder on the subject of good and evil. For 48 days he carefully examined all his experiences through witnessing human nature as well as the nature of many other civilizations and in the end, wrote only a few sentences.

"It hardly seems fair, for the road to heaven is wrought with thorns and the way to hell is slicked with wonderful sins.

Salvation ''comes through pain and damnation comes through happiness. This I cannot accept.''

''If the angels scorn me and the demons curse me, where will I belong? ''

I must make my way on earth and never stray."

Meaning and Interpretations
The most obvious meaning of the reflection, is of course, an approach towards nature, rather than towards the Demons or Divinities, which are quite obviously a large force in the world. This meaning is one that is agreed on almost universally.

Laerek's long trip had garnered a lot of attention during his time, and by the time it had ended and his words were finally written, many had their own interpretations. Worsened by the fact that Laerek soon entered an "Unending Reflection" after only teaching his philosophy for a mere six months, many questions were left unanswered. Though many schools of thought came from this, two in particular grew to become more major factions.

Recitatorists
Recitatorists, adhere to a more self study and meditative stance to the reflection. Their lifestyle revolves mostly around understanding based around the Recitations, which they gain their namesake from. Like Laerek, they often spend many days reflecting on life and their own actions, often in groups, but more likely, off alone in the wilderness living a hermetic lifestyle.

Paramount of this train of thought, are the Great Sages, a small group of Recitatorists who's reflections take a rather drastic and almost inhuman turn, to the point where they have a sort of connection and cooperation with natural elements, similar to what the Sakuken's Chi arts.

Naturators
The basis of the Naturators revolve around a very specific part of the reflection, namely the final line. Unlike the many more peaceful schools of thought, Naturators believe that the Demons and Divinities are all foreign and alien beings that taint the earth in their ways. Though once small, their ideas are now quite a lot larger, due to the lack of much influence in Osia from Eastern Lands.

Violence is allowed, and in some circles, even expected when faced with a Demon or Divinity. Violence against worshipers of such beings is not specifically allowed, however many circles are said to approve of such things.

Naturators are more organized as a group, and each area where it is taught and the people within it are called a "Circle"

Many other who follow the ideals of Osian Reflection look down upon or shun Naturators.

The Recitations of Reflection
Laerek's only other lasting teachings, came in the form of the Recitations. An extension of the Reflection as well as ideas to remember during personal reflection, he made his followers repeat them over again to commit them to memory. This eventually became a tradition in general, as sort of a mantra while reflecting.

First Recitation
Nature itself, is my idol, my strength.

Its seasons unending, its scars, ever healing.

How may others compete?

Second Recitation
From Water I gain my life,

From Fire I gain my heat,

From Earth I gain my bread,

From Air I gain my breath.

Third Recitation
The path of mastering nature is a fruitless one.

The path of following nature, to exist beside it, is the path to salvation.

Fourth Recitation
Nature is the true way of life.

And on the subject of life, it speaks to me one simple truth.

"You Know Nothing"