Page 6: Life of a Corvun Concubine
The lives of Corvun Concubines provide some of the most detailed and revealing records preserved in the archives of the University of Ravo. These accounts illuminate the inner workings of a Chief's court, their societal dynamics, and the intimate bonds that shaped their governance. For this chapter, we draw upon memoirs, oral traditions, and some of the earliest recorded instances of erotic literature and smut authored by a renowned Concubine known as ο ποθητής ("The Lustful"), though other records say her name was Tylia. Her works offer unparalleled insight into the emotional and psychological landscapes of both Chiefs and Concubines.
Her writings also mark the first recorded use of BDSM in Corvun culture—a detail shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Scholars debate the origin of such practices, with one prevailing theory suggesting influence from a Slaaneshi Daemoness, possibly as a means to corrupt Corvun society akin to the plight of the Dark Eldar. Yet, this theory remains contentious, as no evidence confirms the ability of Ancient Corvuns to summon or interact with Chaos entities.
One of Tylia’s works, συμβουλές για το πώς να κάνετε τον Αρχηγό σας δικό σας (Tips on How to Make Your Chief Yours), is currently under translation by the College of Corvunia. The following excerpt illustrates the dynamic between a Chief and his Concubine:
> "Seeing my Chief, the mightiest of warriors, kneel before me fills me with an intoxicating power. His head rests on my lap, his sharp beak brushing against the silken fabric of my robes. Each time his wings fold tightly to his back in a silent display of humility, my heart swells with a mixture of pride and desire. This fearsome leader, the terror of rival tribes, bows not to gods nor foes—but to me.
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> 'My Chief... a mighty warrior in the field... but a good little boy for me~,' I said to him, making him whine with much need. His gaze, dark and intense, rises to meet mine. There is no fear in his eyes, only the flicker of a longing that he dares not voice. It is I who command, I who wield the power to grant him the solace he craves.
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> 'You tremble,' I tease, leaning closer, my breath warm against his ear. 'Do you tremble in battle, my mighty Chief?'
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> 'Never,' he whispers hoarsely. 'Only for you, Tylia.'
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> I chuckle, a low, velvety sound, and press a hand to his chest, feeling the steady drum of his heart beneath my palm. 'Good. Let the world see you as the invincible warrior. But here, in my nest, you are mine to shape and command.'..."
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This excerpt underscores the cultural significance of Concubines within Corvun society, revealing themes of trust and vulnerability. Chiefs, burdened by constant warfare and political intrigue, found solace in these bonds.
Historians theorize that Concubines’ influence stemmed not only from their beauty and cunning but also from their unique fertility. Referred to as the "super fertile" gene, this trait made Concubines highly prized as bearers of lineage, possibly tied to the myth of ο φροντιστής ("The Caregiver"), the Corvun Goddess of Birth. The goddess is said to have bestowed upon Concubines the divine gift of unending fertility, further solidifying their revered status.
A passage from Chief Orvas sheds light on this dynamic:
> "I have conquered tribes, felled rival Chiefs, and carved my name into the annals of Corvun history with blood and fire. Yet for all the glory, my days are burdened by unending violence... But then, I return to her. In her presence, I am not Orvas the Conqueror, not the Chief feared by nations. I am simply Orvas, a soul in need of solace.
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> When she bids me kneel, the crushing weight of command slips from my shoulders... Her touch reminds me that I am more than the blood on my talons or the screams that echo in my dreams... My power is forged in the fires of her love, her dominance a reflection of her care. I would face a thousand battles for her embrace, for in her arms, I am not a Chief. I am simply a Corvun who dares to rest."
Such accounts highlight the duality of strength and submission, where submission was not a mark of weakness but of trust and reprieve—a rare gift in a society forged in conflict.
Page 7: A Chief's Court
The court of a Corvun Chief was a chaotic yet vital institution, often perched within the tallest trees of ancient Corvunia. These sprawling nests, typically constructed of dark oak branches and adorned with the feathers of fallen enemies, served as centers of governance and intrigue.
A Chief's court consisted of several key figures:
* First Concubine: The Chief’s most influential Concubine, draped in fine silks and jewelry to signify dominance. Acting as a trusted advisor, they managed internal court affairs and were often central to political maneuvering.
* Knyaz Council: Composed of Captains, Diplomats, and Military Advisors, the Knyazes wideled significant power in both warfare and governance.
* The Seer: A mystical figure who interpreted omens and divine will, shaping decisions with their cryptic prophecies.
* Tradesmen Delegates: Representatives from influential packs, tasked with presenting trade disputes, petitions, and agreements.
* Envoys and Spies: Agents who gathered intelligence and acted as intermediaries between rival city-states and tribes.
The court was a nexus of power struggles, with rivalries, betrayals, and assassinations woven into its daily operations. Chiefs relied on the stability provided by their Concubines, whose influence tempered the chaos of court politics.
This structure, while rife with instability, underscores the resilience and complexity of Ancient Corvun society. It is a testament to their ability to balance tradition, governance, and the ever-present specter of conflict.