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Talisid
The Celestial Lion (planar leonal guardinal companion [he/him] / NG). Leader of the Companions of Talisid.
Portfolio: Guardianship, joy in nature, unity
Realm: Elysium / Amoria / The Roving Pride
Talisid, the Celestial Lion, is the de facto leader of the guardinals and a paragon of wisdom, courage, and humility. With his golden mane, piercing amber eyes, and a regal yet approachable demeanour, Talisid embodies the ideals of Elysium itself: the balance of strength and compassion. Despite his immense power as the wisest and most formidable of the leonals, Talisid sees himself not as a ruler but as a servant of his people. He has dedicated his existence to protecting Elysium and combating evil across the planes for at least one thousand years. His realm, the Roving Pride, roams freely with Talisid across the Blessed Fields, particularly Amoria, where he delights in its natural wonders. Talisid’s love for nature shapes his belief that goodness is not only found in grand deeds but also in appreciating life’s simple joys—a sunrise over the meadows or the laughter of friends. Often assuming an animal form to travel unnoticed, Talisid observes and protects wildlife and loves to taunts unlawful hunters. In battle though, he’s a whirlwind of claws and fangs, pouncing on foes with precision and unrelenting force.
Talisid’s philosophy of goodness centres on three key tenets: guardianship, unity, and joy in nature. He believes that protecting others—whether mortals, celestials, or the planes themselves—is the highest calling of any being. Unity is an key facet of his leadership style; his renowned Five Companions—Sathia the Sky Duchess, Bharrai the Great Bear, Vhara Duchess of the Fields, Kharash the Stalker, and Manath the Horned Duke—are more than just his allies; they are like family, bound by loyalty and shared purpose. Together, these bloods represent the diverse strengths of Elysium working in harmony to uphold its ideals, and inspires mortals and celestials alike to embrace courage in the defence of others and appreciate the beauty in everything.
Source: Book of Exalted Deeds [3e] p65-66,138-141,174; Planescape Monstrous Compendium Appendix 2 [2e] p42; Manual of the Planes [3e] p140; Planes of Conflict [2e] Liber Benevolentiae p51,55,61; Jon Winter-Holt