Parliament of Ashes

Overview

The Parliament of Ashes is a massive circular amphitheater with a pierced dome, deeply embedded within Haven. It is the heart of the Bravos Bastion.

Architecture

The worn stone tiers are arranged in concentric circles and have welcomed many heroes over the ages. The central stage has welcomed many speakers, commanders, and Eidolons, and on few occasions has transformed into an arena for sworn duels.

The Brazier

At the center of the circle burns a brazier with everlasting flames, in which rests the egg of the Asgarthan Phoenix. When Rune disappeared into The Tumult at the twilight of his reign, the Phoenix consumed itself, leaving behind this egg that never hatched. The Bravos have carefully watched over it since time immemorial, awaiting the emergence of the Phoenix once again.

The Phoenix Egg Theft (393 AC)

In 393 AC, the Phoenix Egg was stolen from the Parliament of Ashes. Haven was sealed off—even from the Lyra—with only Bravos permitted to circulate freely within its walls. An armorer named Tessalit Girum, who had been appointed to modernize the Bravos’ training dummies, was taken in for questioning regarding her involvement.

The theft was later revealed to be part of Rune’s Testament—secret instructions left by the first Kuningas. The Phoenixian Guard orchestrated the operation, with Testament-loyal Bravos secretly joining the Tisdhera Clan aboard The Wayfarer to transport the egg westward toward the Phoenix’s nest, where it could be rekindled.

Memorial Function

Along the perimeter of the stair-carved rock, pierced with uneven alcoves, are piles of urns and candles, offerings, and relics of times past. These vases, covered in melted wax, contain the ashes of the greatest heroes of the Bravos Faction.

It is not uncommon to see members of the Faction paying their respects before these funerary vessels, asking them for strength or courage.

Historical Significance

It was at the Parliament of Ashes that the Bravos gathered after the foundation of Asgartha and first enunciated the ten edicts of The Creed, which can be summarized in ten principles: Rectitude, Courage, Compassion, Respect, Honesty, Honor, Duty, Composure, Wisdom, Fellowship.

However, it has been many decades since any deliberation has been held within the walls of the Parliament.