Elder Soren

Appearance

The smallest of all Elders. Wears golden-threaded robes embroidered with planetary motifs and star charts. Rings on every finger, each set with a different gemstone that occasionally pulses with starlight. Wields a staff that doubles as a functioning astrolabe. A small mechanical pet weasel named Nibbles perches on his shoulder.

Abilities

• ◆Staff-astrolabe charts celestial alignments in real time
• ◆Runecrafting and automata engineering from the Goldspring tradition
• ◆Can predict celestial events and their effects on magical currents
• ◆Nibbles, his mechanical weasel, may have functions beyond companionship

Beliefs & Faith

Astral philosophy — cosmic curiosity as devotion. Reveres the stars as expressions of the Ethereal Web's deeper structure. Follows the Balance Pact alongside Thimblegear: every creation must be balanced by a return to the natural world. His 'worship' is observation.

Geography & Territory

Goldspring is the gnomish capital nestled in a secluded valley of Verda Niterra. Known for golden elements and advanced steampunk-magic technology. Governed by the Council of Cogs, led by Elder Tinkermind Brasshand. The gnomes maintain the Balance Pact — a cultural law ensuring technological progress never outstrips ecological responsibility.

Council Scene — Thomas's Arrival

Nearly fell off his chair with excitement when Thomas demonstrated his powers. Scribbled furious notes while Nibbles tried to steal his quill. Asked rapid-fire questions that had to be cut short by Lady Elira. His enthusiasm temporarily lightened the room's tension.

Costs & Stakes

His scattered focus sometimes means he misses the forest for the stars. His cosmic perspective can make immediate threats seem small — until they aren't. The Balance Pact's principles are increasingly challenged by Steamford's unchecked industrialization.

Tome I → Tome II Arc

From delighted observer to someone whose cosmic charts begin predicting alignments that shouldn't be possible — alignments connected to Thomas's presence and the stirring of ancient forces across Astrylis.