tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76457745601392556292024-03-05T09:09:00.259-08:00Babel's Universal Unity Fiction Greetings fellow fiction lovers and friends of all ages! This is a place where Dickens meets discussion! Where Austin is never ostracized and opinions are let free! I do ask that you refrain from naughty language, lest it be essential in your story or critique.
Anyhow, enjoy your stay, feel free to browse the original pieces I have written, and please be polite and accepting. Thank you!
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-17078777153231348782023-09-17T22:25:00.004-07:002023-09-17T22:25:48.034-07:00Quickwrite for the Mind!<p> <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">She brushed her fingers along the backs of the sapling’s leaves, their thigh-high bodies leaning into her with the ardor of an old cat. The sweet scent of the cherry laurel’s flowering boughs overhead heralded the coming of spring.</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-0f820332-7fff-31e8-ea30-60e847b5b864"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The land was a wild tangle of unshaven crowngrass and scrub. Sparsely sprinkled in the undergrowth were speckles of color, which came from a variety of small-bodied plants. Some would call them weeds. Those who knew better called them wildflowers. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The tines of forked weedlings swayed in tandem as a breath of warm air tumbled through the glade.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There was a tranquility there that few came to know. Few looked for it in the years they lingered in that land, and so only caught glances of its majesty. Fewer still stayed long enough to recognize it at all. They rarely plumbed the depths of such a seemingly inhospitable place, and so never came to witness the starkness of its beauty. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Perhaps that was why they abandoned their camps so quickly, leaving so many of their belongings behind. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The bones of an unattended campsite lay at the fringe of the clearing, various pieces of pottery and clothing haphazardly discarded in the grass.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The cackling call of a hollow hound echoed in the dense thicket beyond the clearing. Namiri stilled, allowing herself to relax only after the howl was answered some mile away. She drew a breath, her fingers clutching clumsily around the haft of her staff.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A monsoon was coming, and the wilds celebrated in a chorus of sound. Birds chatted with each other in excited voices, quickly flitting from tree to tree. The unseen feet of tree-squirrels danced in branches high overhead. Namiri even saw a laksi turn its snout up to greet a passing breeze, no doubt tasting the air for the telling scent of stormrain.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">People feared the beasts that roamed there, for there were many of them, unfettered and wonderful and strange. They knew the wilds better than any domid did, or perhaps </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">could</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, and had adapted to live life in tandem with the rains. Scute or scale, fur or feather, hoof or claw; all found their means of survival in that delicate ecosystem. The rains often brought the promise of fish and frogs, the staple for all manner of creatures in those swamps.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It was no surprise, then, that a red-footed egret alighted on an oak bough nearby. Namiri watched its feathers fold expertly into place. It quickly made about preening itself, turning its long beak into its wing. Nerves tingled in her gut. When nature spoke, wise women listened. She had the energy and desire to carry on a while longer. There was a rich deposit left to scavenge. Yet all the animals advertised impending rain. Namiri had made the mistake of denying the signs before. She had paid the price then. She would not this time.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The storm must be close. I should start heading back</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">. </span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-24088537835427262022-11-13T13:25:00.004-08:002022-11-13T13:25:38.957-08:00Time in a Bottle: Music in My Time<p> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;">Salutations, my darling one(s)!</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px;"> </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"> <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You might not know me yet. If I am a fortunate man, then you and I have already met by the time you read this! But if not, then this is for you. This is your grandparent Isa! I know you’re probably a pretty cool kiddo (if I’ve wed your grandma and we raised our own little ones, then we love your parents as much as we love you!) There’s a lot I want to share with you if I can to help you in your life. One of the things that has helped me most through life is music. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Funnily enough, I started writing this letter for a school project. Music theory is a fun class, and if you end up being musically inclined, I recommend trying it out! What started as a pretty basic project became a bit more invested the more I considered it. It got me thinking about the future. It got me thinking about you and the other family members I might chance to meet some day. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"> <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>As you might imagine, there’s a lot of memories that make a lifetime. So much of that can be traced back to the sensations of being in that moment. There are few that strike you quite like the sound of music. While I cannot speak on all the musical memories that I’ve had (it would be a very long list!) I can share with you some of the most prominent ones that come to my mind at this moment. Right now, at the age of twenty-three, I am hopeful that I have time to experience much more. I hope that, if the world permits it, we can experience some of that music together! If we cannot, the least I can do is leave you with a bit of music to help aid you in this fantastical journey we’ve got. If you’ll indulge me, you can find some of this music listed below to listen to on your own. I’ve assembled a playlist for you, too! (If it’s still there by the time that you read this).</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">The journey began long before I could fully recall when it began, as I’m sure will be the case for you. Many nights I was happily tucked away under my blankets with my plush pig and my parents perched on the end of the bed. There was one CD that had a fixed place in the old boombox radio in our house. The album was called The Celtic Lullaby and remains one of my favorites to this day. From that album, there is always one song in particular that never fails to fill my heart. The song is “Night Night and Einini” and, while it was sung by Tommy Sands on the album, it will always be my daddy’s voice that I hear when I remember this song. When I was young and my eyes grew heavy, I often dreamt of small birds and warm arms holding me whenever I drifted off to this lullaby. If ever you grow feverish in the night, may this song quash every nightmare that dares to haunt you. If I have ever been so lucky to hold you, I hope I can hold you still through this song. I’ll do my best to squash every bedbug that I can.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">For the days when you want your feet to wander to far off worlds and your hands long for walking sticks, I want you to know of this song: “Roads” performed by Glenn Yarbrough for the animated Rankin Bass version of The Hobbit was one of the most important songs in my childhood. From earliest memory, we would watch this film together as a family. Whether it was on the small screens in our old Expedition, Pearl, or if it was recited word for word by my father on a plane flying homeward bound through a storm, this rendition of the tale has always had a special place in the world I’ve known. And this song in particular was the first to elicit goosebumps from me. It sparked a love of adventure and a sort of reverence of life that can be felt in every note. And, of course, a love of Tolkien’s works. Watching those butterflies alight on the boughs of those beautifully painted pines and seeing Bilbo look on in similar wonder was a core memory if ever I’ve known one. I share this song, but one day I hope that you will experience this entire tale for yourselves. I hope that it moves you in the way it moved me once, or at the very least that some story comes along to give you that same sense of wonder and smallness. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">As older I grew, my taste in music began to expand with every new style and song I heard. The first time a song ever made me cry was the first time listening to “Puff the Magic Dragon” in my second grade music class. It was around Halloween and we had been learning some songs for our autumnal season. Among the spooky songs of skeletons in closets, the kindly old Mrs. Sheldon taught us Peter, Paul, & Mary’s saddest song. We all had the lyrics on sheets of paper in front of us. Things started off just fine! A song about a kid and his dragon friend? How rad is that?! And then… then we got to the end of the song. Before I knew it or even really knew why, I started tearing up and hiccuping. Bless Mrs. Sheldon because she saved me in that moment, taking a break to lead me off and get me some water to calm down. I recall being so embarrassed. I was determined to buck up and harden my heart the next time I came into class. I did not want to repeat that scene. So I read the lyrics over and over again. I could cry in the privacy of my own home and not have to worry about doing it in front of my class. Well, that did not pan out as expected. I eventually wound up being able to read through it without crying so long as I did not think about any of the words I was saying. But while I stopped trying to consider how Puff the Magic Dragon was feeling, my mind started wandering to other things. The second time I sang the song I tried to steel myself, but I ended up crying for a different reason entirely. I thought of my beloved dog, Delilah, and I wondered how lonely she must have felt when nobody was home. I wondered if she ever worried that we had forgotten about her. Like Puff without his Jackie. Needless to say there were a lot of belly scratches and table scraps for her that day. I had failed in my quest to avoid any tears, but man did I gain one strong memory! It was that day that I realized the power of storytelling in song and how it could convey love, loss, and imagination with only a few chords and words. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">“If God Made You.” It was on the long drive heading back home on I-4. I recall the way the black seatbelt yielded under my big old head, my cheek pressed up against the warm car window. It was the first time I had ever seen the sky in such a stupendous fashion. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">The universe seemed to expand the bigger I got. More and more was revealed with each passing day. The world was no longer confined to the circle of my closest relations- the revelation that so many stories had been passed down, that so many lives were being actively lived, that so much time had already transpired without my knowledge- and it all began to coalesce in a greater understanding of the human condition. The most inspirational force that I have ever known and that I will ever know is love. It was the first lesson I had ever been taught, and I am lucky to have learned it. When I entered adolescence, I learned that not everyone was open to that love. The reality was crushing. While there was love, there was also pain, and there was fear and hatred. But the songs of love I learned always outshone the anthems of vitriol. I was ten years old when I first heard Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On?” It was that year that I first learned about the Civil Rights movement as well as the ideas of nonviolent protest. My teacher back then was Ms. Monet. She was a fervent believer in love conquering hate. When she was not playing classical music for our class during reading time, she was sharing these messages of inspiration and kindness through various artists who believed in the goodness of the world and shunned the use of hate. She passed away some time ago, but I will always be grateful to her for those most important lessons. She opened my eyes to protest songs and to the strength of the people who sang them. One day you will learn about these figures in your life, and ones that I may never know who come in your time. You yourself may become one. Keep the love of others in your soul and kindness in your heart. When you act without fear or hatred, you will know a peace like no other.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">It wasn’t long after fifth grade that the story of this next song begins. It was also my introduction to the world of anime and the knowledge that, yes, the mystical power of friendship is indeed real. Your great-uncle Elijah has always been my best friend. That much is designed by divinity itself. But it was not until our mother, your great-grandmother, first started going back to work long shifts (sometimes fourteen hour days) that he and I began to really get along. We used to combat each other wherever we could. I remember chucking a wooden block at him and lodging it in his forehead! I also remember him pulling my hair a lot, so I figure it was just desserts. But I digress. When things took a turn for the worse in our lives and our familial situation got dire, we were forced to rely on one another. And you know what? Despite it all- the pains and the regrets and the fears back in that time- I am, in a way, glad that we went through it. In our terrible mid-youth crisis, we found true companionship with each other for the first time. The song I wish to gift to you is “Brothers” from the manga/anime Fullmetal Alchemist. Your great-uncle and I consider ourselves to be as the Elric brothers are to one another. We look after each other, no matter the cost or the situation, and we will always love each other. You, too, will find such a bond in your time. You may seek it out, or it may seek you out first. If you don’t think that you’ve found it, don’t fret. As certain as the world will change, you will find that love.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">As I grew, so too did my interests. The older I became, funnily, the older the music I was interested in got. Discovering the Andrews Sisters when playing Bioshock as a youngster was just the tip of the iceberg. That music is old, sure, but my tastes started reaching further and further back in time. I was just entering college when I started learning about the fascinating world of anthropology. Just listening to words once recited by ancient tongues was such a thrilling experience. When I discovered Peter Pringle (whose primary expertise and interest is playing ancient and medieval music with mostly period appropriate instruments) it was truly awesome. The first song I heard that he had sung was an excerpt from the Epic of Gilgamesh. I remember sharing it with Elijah, the both of us fascinated as we watched Peter pluck at his gishgudi. The revelation that music from times that the ancients considered antiquity was truly inspiring. Sometimes we forget that we as humans are and have always been the same animal. No amount of time can separate us from our nature. In that nature, we find joys in the act of creation- of art and dance and song. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Not all music is happy. There are some pieces that elicit complicated feelings. The last song that comes into my mind is a fine example of this. The song, “Wild Mountain Thyme,” has a place in my heart for all the time I have left. It brings a sting that can only be felt when you have loved well and truly. It is this song that summons the sweet days spent with my golden retriever Delilah. She was a good dog- the best, if you ask me- and I’m sure she would have loved you. This is the song I used to sing to her throughout time- from her puppy dog days chasing that old torn up football in the shade of the cherry laurel out front to the times spent sitting on the porch together, her graying muzzle turned to the wind as we ate clementines and listened to the squirrels playing in the trees. To this day, Delilah will always be one of my best friends and by far the best dog anyone could ever have asked for. I hope to meet her again one day if I can. And, if God wills it, I hope that one day you can meet her too. Life can pass by faster than you expect, sweetheart, but every moment is so very precious. When I was younger, I thought that she was immortal. I thought that when she passed, I would simply pass on too. But life goes on, and in it there is so much to live for. I miss her still- I think I always will- and I love her still. In that way she lives on. And every time I hear this song, I think of her. When loved ones pass away in your life, as they undoubtedly will, know that it’s okay to mourn. That pain is part of the love that you feel. Open your heart to it, but do not let your grief overshadow that light that made the love you’ve known shine. Remember that the reason you grieve is because that light- that love- was so strong. As long as you live, my love, you will find love as long as you let yourself. That much is certain. So chin up! If you ever feel lonely, know that I love you too. And remember that we’ll meet again! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">There are songs that linger like the scent of the old SUV or the fingerprints left by an old friend on the window. Like the worn wooden floor where Delilah used to lay, or the way the rain falls sideways on a summer night in Florida. You’re going to have experiences of your own that stain you in all their colors. Music can make grooves in your soul with its sound. So many small ridges that carve their way through your heart and flow with warmth right into the core of you. Embrace it all if you can. The memories that spark fondness, the ones that throb and sting, the ones that are some strange intersection of bitter and sweet- every one of them is important. Don’t be afraid to let yourself feel everyone of them.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Know that I love you, forever and always. When I meet you, I will be so glad that you are part of those memories that I have the pleasure of carrying with me. I hope to hear the music of your laughter. I hope to see the joy of your play. And kiddo(s), all I can say is that when the music starts, I hope you dance. Stay cool, stay positive, and remember to love yourself and others.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Until we meet again! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">With love, </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1">Isa Babel</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-e1a6d103-7fff-eef1-1e1b-c055a2470086" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 2.4; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLijQfo6QTWkfKz6GAM95bzFVrmDIOldva" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLijQfo6QTWkfKz6GAM95bzFVrmDIOldva</span></a></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><br /></span></p>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-18400532391208931862022-05-28T02:32:00.003-07:002022-05-28T02:32:35.482-07:00Ghost Stories<p> </p><p>Unfinished, but eh, what're you going to do? Still remember having a dream about an old man and a friendly ghost. I wrote down what I remembered and felt, and here it is! It's brief, but I think it captured most of the feeling well enough. I hope you enjoy!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b id="docs-internal-guid-c0207014-7fff-9e93-3f6c-05837039dfc8" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">I had bought the kit just that morning. The instructions were clearly printed, though incredibly too cryptic for my eleven year old brain to process too well. I blame it on the writing. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“Are you there?” I whispered in a trembling voice. It was the scariest thing that I had done in my young and uneventful suburban life. Scarier than shots at the doctor’s office, or running late for school, or hearing mom’s car pull up in the driveway before my chores were done. It was scarier than all of that combined.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">I waited for a moment. The radio roared in a symphony of static. That in of itself gave me gooseflesh. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Here</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">.”</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">It was so clear amidst the chaos of the crackling waves. I jumped with a silent yelp, biting my tongue and rattling my teeth. I swore under my breath, just a little curse of “</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">damnation</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">” before I crawled back closer to the radio. Its blue light stared back at me, black numbers morphing into signals anew with each frantic second that passed.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">But it seemed as though the ghost was patient. At the very least, it didn’t garble out anything else meaningful. I eyed the room. Nothing seemed out of place. No books had been knocked from shelves, there was no message swirling in the froth of my coco, and the action figures on my shelf were in their proper poses. All my lights were still on, and if I had my way they would stay that way. I glanced at my door. It was still open, just a hair, and I could hear my dad’s snoring pouring through the hallway. Safe, for now. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">I </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">It was time. Every bone had settled in for a final sleep. I did not have the strength to move so much as a finger, and every tip of my toes felt like they had been given an ice bath. I was dying and very close to death. I had come to terms with that fact. I did not fight to cling onto life to see another October pass me by in the autumnal solemnity that seemed to cast a spell on this place. I did not mind missing out on another Christmas, although I thought it a shame not seeing Jackers after his first winter concert. I didn’t even need a week.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">A day, though, was all. One more day that would see me back home.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">I knew that if I died right there, I wouldn’t get to be with her. I would be with all the others who had left their last breath in these spacious white rooms, in the company of many who still wandered these linoleum halls. I would be surrounded by souls while she would be all alone.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“... go home.”</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The air around me grew stiff. You could hear a pin drop in that silence.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“Dad?”</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“What was that, Dad?”</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">To say that speaking was painful was not entirely true. It was more like the feeling of numbness you get after sitting on your leg too long- that prickling, ticklish feeling that skitters up and down your flesh. It was uncomfortable, but I could bear it. I had to.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“Home.” I managed in a quiet voice. I could almost see the shadows of their heads turning beneath the red of my eyelids.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">It was a quick trip thereafter. A few of them argued- my daughter Bethany, bless her, thought that there was still time. Still a chance I could pull through. I drank that day, after all, and I had even talked. What would moving me accomplish? Matt talked her down nicely. Everyone else could see it. They wouldn’t have called for a chaplain if they couldn’t see it.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">A hard pill to swallow, to be sure, but a necessary one. I thanked the Lord when I heard the squeaking wheels of the CNA’s gurney. It wasn’t very often that someone was able to make a final request on their deathbed. It was a miracle, a sign from God, Sara had told everyone, and in that moment I was infinitely grateful for the piety of my daughter-in-law.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">I could not tell you where we went to before I got home, nor the car ride over. My children moved me from the back of the van with careful hands, much softer than my own. Oh God, I could hear them crying. I imagined Matthew’s red face and the sheen of his snot above his lip, an older reflection of that little boy crying at first grade baseball practice after dislocating his finger. I could hear Bethany’s deep-voiced sobs behind the shape of a napkin. My sweet little girl.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The old familiar creak of the front door, then the softer squeak of the screen that followed when it closed. That musty smell hit me like a freight train. I listened to the hum of the old wires whirring in the walls, felt the muted vivacity of the old homestead.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Then I heard the click of a light. I smiled, a sweet draft falling over my chest and cheeks. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“Still haven’t fixed the wiring in this place?” Matthew spoke with some mixture of disdain and amusement. It was a very nostalgic tone of voice that I had not heard for quite some time, not since he was living here and I wasn’t swaddled in blankets for most hours of a day.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“You know that dad wouldn’t want us to.” I could almost hear Bethany’s eyeroll. A hand descended onto my shoulder and squeezed it lightly. “Isn’t that right, dad?”</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The chill in the air stirred up a bit. Mary was laughing. I chuckled, too, though it came out as more of a cough.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The light dimmed for a moment. It was like catching my breath. So much all at once had left me feeling a bit light in the head. I blinked once. Twice. Three times. I could see again.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">There was a shape I had never seen standing in front of me. I knew her instantly, as I had known her all my life. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">She was shorter than I had always imagined, dressed down in a plaid skirt and long, frilly blouse. Long dark hair and eyes to match. Her face was what could be described as gaunt, though that seems like such an ugly word for such a beautiful person. Especially when she smiled.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">I walked forward. The air around her was not cold anymore. It was almost warm- almost alive, in a sense- and the light she gave off was nothing short of heavenly. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“Welcome home, Bobby.” Her voice was her own, unfiltered by radio or television or doll, clear and crisp and soft as the droplets in the grass on an early fall morning. My heart swelled.</span></p><p><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“It’s good to be home, Mary.”</span></p>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-23691749406505558242022-05-28T02:20:00.002-07:002022-05-28T02:20:08.343-07:00<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">But weeds I admire more than any flower</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2a2b3a19-7fff-2b9d-7760-5cc3e4c83e7e"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Which, mentionably, I do not disdain</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">More than any other kind of plant.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I do happen to like them more than most things</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But that is merely to say </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That I harbor an appreciation for weeds</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They flower in the frigid winter</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And no cold wind deters them</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And even icy rain spurs them into growth</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And they spring up in their summer sprigs</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When the sun is scalding with its scathing gaze</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yet these weeds do not flinch</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But stare right back with equal fervor</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The roots of a weed find a home anywhere</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whether unpleasant or idyllic</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sand or dirt or mud or gravel or slush (probably)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Any hill is suitable</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Any home is met with equal grace and earnest</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And how could I detest something that could never be ungrateful?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We have a thing or two to learn from these weeds, I think</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And even when the world cries “Ugly!”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Useless!” “Waste of garden space!”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The weeds remain</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And no hoe can hold them down</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Or tear them out for good</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For as sure as your bottom dollar</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They will make their guest appearance</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Year after year, month after month</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Until their familiar families huddled in bright green masses</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Come smiling back at you in the morning</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And sigh as you might, a part of your heart admires the sight</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is beauty there and you know it to be true</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So don’t hate the weeds!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But don’t feel too bad for plucking them</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Because, well, you know-</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They’ll be back again soon</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-70485763359933869812022-05-28T02:17:00.002-07:002022-05-28T02:17:44.613-07:00<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Holding your heart</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-6247188e-7fff-fed4-4a3b-e1802c38bf67"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Melted crayon fusing my flesh together</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hot and reeking</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Putty that ties together each digit</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reluctant to slip off my fingers</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And managing to cake beneath my nails.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Blunt as they are,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They are still sharp enough</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To paint with thin red and clotted black and vibrant pink.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My handprints are never the same.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every handle I grab</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Turns pink with the now chalky remnants</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That will forever more stay.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Like silly string on a hot summer fence</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tacky and indelible and stronger in resolve</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Than the grizzled faces at laundromats.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They watch me even now.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It turns to slop as it sloughs off my palm</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And plummets into the muddy bank</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That has nestled around the new pinewood porch planks.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The mud splashes onto it</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But nothing could have prepared it for the heart’s devious rejection</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And all that touches it is spurned</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And cast away.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This mass of tissue throbbing among sticks</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And boatloads of acorns</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And the bbs of airsoft guns that have not been fired since </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Days when we would run around until evenfall. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It blends in rather nicely,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Camouflaged.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What to do with it now?</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-50740225791179898562021-01-10T09:37:00.004-08:002021-01-10T09:37:44.828-08:00CotS: Shuni Format for Poetry<p> Just as it says, this is basically just testing out a metrical format of 3 5 7 7 7 7. </p><p><br /></p><p>Here is one drafted by Gamir following Varsa into the northern reaches of Hima:</p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-75e6e27e-7fff-524a-eb5f-36fa4abf36d8" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3 Frigid gale</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5 Brings breath to many</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Weary children at command,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Who chase your heavy footfalls</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 And the timbre of your voice,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Follow into yonder land</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Here is a popular poem by a Leian traveler venturing into Naiba for the first time:</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-3b2326be-7fff-e5e0-d53b-7a23792bb0ff" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3 Ancient Shun</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5 I love your daughter</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 My oasis in these sands</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Skin as golden as the dune</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 A voice like flowing water</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Heart as green as verdant lands</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And here is a popular poem to introduce children to the metrical structure:</span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-12cbf7b5-7fff-fbd1-4968-547fe182cf1a" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-12cbf7b5-7fff-fbd1-4968-547fe182cf1a" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3 Creeping cat</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5 Your wiles have failed you</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Hounds have heard your feathered feet </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Gone now is the squeaking rat</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 And four tall walls surround you</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Cornered in your own defeat</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Here is an old poem sung by the tribes of ancient Shuni people shortly after their exodus from the Kingdom of Ka:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-8081d9e7-7fff-d79e-56b3-d2df7be9bc3e" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3 God on high</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5 Have You heard our call?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Your loyal people crying</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 We waste away like dry fronds.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Do you hear, Almighty One?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 Your little children dying.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-5228403042880849242020-12-15T02:27:00.001-08:002020-12-15T02:27:56.853-08:00CotS: Hehn<p> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hehn Definition:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And so the Goddess infused Her breath into the planet, and this became the Hehn: The force of creation and energy that gives Nassavra life.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">”</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verse 10 of H’Ster’s Truths</span></p></li></ul><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Also known as Humzii, Hefum, and Nómugu among other terms, Hehn can be described as the essence of creation and change that binds the whole of Nassavra together. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hehn, according to magisters, is the primary energy source that is responsible for aspects of elemental and natural creation. Like all energy, Hehn can be manipulated into different shapes, though the methods of doing so differ greatly than all other forms. </span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When the planet was created, it is said that H’Ster drew different elements together from the expanse of the cosmos to form everything. H’Ster found what she needed and pulled it together. Pure energy, then, is the closest correlation to Hehn in modern lexicon. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hehn is not one definable aspect of life energy. Rather, it encompasses all elements, the power of healing, and the ability to shape and rearrange cellular structure. Such ancient techniques as warding or true transmutation are lost on much of Mankind, who are more limited to powers of basic healing and elemental magic. More often than not, ‘Hehn’ is used to also refer to the use of magic. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To tap into Hehn, a user must share the essence of their life force. This is why it is draining for wizards to use large and powerful spells. In order to receive the boons of Hehn, you must first be willing to give. This prevents extreme actions to be done on a whim. That is why Hehn is sometimes referred to as “the balanced energy.” The exchange counteracts reckless behaviour and helps to protect the planet from massive, spontaneous changes and forces them to take gradual ones. </span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hehn, as it is the life energy of the planet and all those who live on it, is in every being. The matter of using it, however, is limited to either those who study its effects and learn the ability to manipulate it (often called mages, wizards, witches, enlightened, or warlocks) and channel its energy using elixirs and extracts from powerful Hehn sources (such as the Heart Tree), and those who have innate connections that are stronger than an average person’s, more often than not related to Dragons in some capacity (often called sorcerers, anim, Oinin, or dragonblooded). This is why the Duhwin are some of the most renowned magic users, as they were given blood connections to the Oinos themselves, making then innately grand in potential, though not innately competent in skill.</span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">People who are more closely related to dragons bear stronger connections to Hehn, but strong magical power can also be introduced artificially. One of the Emperor’s of Ager, Emperor Neri IV, had begun experimentation on the Horn of Degrahm to see whether or not it would prove to have any magical resonance. Sure enough, a piece of the horn was able to fuel a powerful energy in him. Unfortunately, he was killed in a siege on the old Empire at the hands of native Ghoffs. The research would later be picked up by Emperor Caxi some 300 years later.</span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hehn History & Uses</span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The first group of people that were able to use the Hehn, according to evidence found in a series of burial structures, were the Sunter. They had been the first to drink from the waters of Doru and eat the great fruits, as well as create great structures from the materials and resources around them. </span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Oinos, seeing their ability and the potential for great powers and kingdoms to be built, later taught mortalkind how to use the Hehn. Sure enough, they were able to create greater objects, places of magic, and with the wells and fonts of Hehn that the dragons shared they built great kingdoms for their masters to live. Humans cannot control certain areas of magic as well as dragonblooded individuals can. Transmutation, for instance, is a skill that only sorcerers can possess. Likewise, drudic magic can be universal across all groups of people, but certain cultures have a greater aptitude for it due to the cultivated knowledge over the centuries.</span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Around the time that Elves evolved from Sunter living in the forests of Doru, their magical capability was founded with Wesser and when they started coexisting with their ecosystems, drinking from the springs where the Great Trees grew. Their magic is called druidic Hehn, essentially being the energy derived from forging a symbiotic relationship with other living beings. This includes plants and animals. In the case of certain early Elvish tribes, they tethered their lifesource to those of the trees that they lived in, enabling them to send one another vibrations that could alert them to possible danger. This was a method that was beneficial to both parties. Using the powers of growth and healing can take away from the physical constitution of the caster, so these are often used sparingly, but when the burden is shared with another living being then the penalties and costs of using it are halved. This is one of the reasons why Elvenkind is particularly adept at magic use, as they have a greater deposit of energy at their fingertips. </span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dhemur that follow the ways of Ishu focus on living without abusing the powers of Hehn. They focus instead on receiving the life energy of biotic beings and returning their energies back to the Hehn, allowing the cycle to continue. Hence, they have a very nature-oriented lifestyle. It is certainly not impossible for Dhemur to learn magic, but it is dissuaded by centuries of custom, and as a result has become very difficult to learn from local sources unwilling to lend their aid.</span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When the people of Nassavra freed themselves from draconic control, they also crippled themselves in the uses of magic. The knowledge was sometimes banned, forsaken, or reduced due to the implications of their origins and the dangers that were presented by wielding such power. Over time, the majority of magic was limited to simple elemental spells or basic healing</span></p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While the world would continue on without dragons and without the Heart Tree, as ecosystems are now more or less set in place, there are dangers to both disappearing. Certain civilizations have built their entirety on the use of Hehn, being able to habituate in impossible places due to using it</span></p>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-29386647800151785462020-12-11T13:31:00.015-08:002020-12-31T00:43:45.603-08:00CotS: Religions and Ideologies<p> <span style="font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are a variety of gods in the world of Nassarva. Though most of them are founded in the same root, some cultures revere some above others, while others do not worship the same ones at all. Some view the Oinos and Duwos as gods. Others as angelic beings. Others as average mortal creatures that simply have different lifespans, like other animals. </span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a37b49f4-7fff-bd63-41b3-094066181ed1"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Note: The dragons of this world may look like the dragons of the Dragonborn universe because they might be the same “types” of dragons in the same universe! They would be on different planets? Still haven’t figured that out quite yet.)</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The main progenitor deities, the Oinos, are:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">H’Ster, the Starmother:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> (</span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> ) Though much of Mankind claims that her “true form” is alike to that of a human woman, the Oinos have held the ancient belief that H’Ster is, in fact, a dragon, whose glittering scales make up the cosmos. She is more or less recognized as the creator god in almost all human religions, though she goes by different names and appears in different forms. The story of H’Ster in Oinos mythos goes: H’Ster was one of the Great Beings who Lived Beyond, in a land whose name has never been written or spoken in the tongues of man. H’Ster lived with her twin, A’Ster, and both were beloved and held in highest regard by the other Dragons for their great beauty and radiance. The world they lived in was at peace then, but it was eternal and unchanging, and A’Ster wished to see more. He begged his sister to help him create change in the world that they lived in, and so sacrificed himself to help H’Ster make the first beings- (or she didn’t make them, but rather the process of change) the Oinos (think angels/dragons). The sacrifice caused H’Ster great grief, but she knew that A’Ster lived in their creation, and so took comfort in the new change that was brought- time. The other Great Beings were terrified by A’Ster’s disappearance. She was exiled for acts of Creation, bringing an end to A’Ster. This terrified the Great Beings, who had never lost one of their own, let alone one so splendid. H’Ster, wandering in lonely exile, remained the sole occupant of a galaxy for thousands of years until her children found her. The Twenty-One Children, or the original brood of H’Ster, followed their mother to this sad and forlorn space. Determined to see her happy, the others helped to create the world of Nassarva. Some believe that this was created when A’Ster died, his body helping to form the necessary parts to create the planet. Others believe that their daughter, Nassa, was the one to sacrifice herself, her bones creating the world. When The Sunter (the Child) was born, The Twenty-One helped build empires and civilizations, advancing their technologies and furthering their reaches across the planes of the planet. The Oinos went to have children, which were called the Duwos, or dragons in mortal tongues. For a time, they existed peacefully with one another. But some of these dragons became competitive, and the power of creation is corrupting, and soon the children found themselves drawn into the temptation of deification. They amassed civilizations of their own and split the planet into pieces, dividing them amongst themselves. Beauty was enrapturing, and while mortal life was short, their creations (which the dragons could not imagine nor make on their own) were everlasting. Those that would become the gods of this planet, who became known as the First Children of Nassavra, began to send their armies after one another. Mortals died in throngs for their gods. Wars raged on, and while the Oinos themselves were wounded, they always managed to make it out alright, licking their wounds but content to sacrifice some of their toys to end the fighting for but a few years. This hurt H’Ster’s heart, who only wished for all her children to get along, and so she fled back into the reaches of the cosmos to watch from afar. Nine of her Oinos joined her. The remaining dragons fought until they learned of their own mortality. To this day, only seven of the Original Twelve remain, and they exist in hiding. There are thought to be the children of dragons in the world now as well, though who they are and how they live are a mystery to most. H’Ster has the power of Ultimate Creation, meaning she had mastered Hehn to the point where she could use any of the abilities which her followers and children had chosen proficiency in. </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In Dehmer culture, she is known as Mahra Mera, or Mother Death. She helped to create death, ending the cycle of nothingness and bringing life and change to all beings.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: #434343; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The reason that the ancestors of all living beings are dinosaurs is because they were supposedly created in her image, being reflected in her Oinos, and thus being reflected in her mortal creations. Because of her sacrifice of death to make life anew, this allowed for life to freely form and change. When upright beings first began to evolve, so too did the Oinos learn to take on the forms of upright beings. They shifted and changed to reflect the societies that they fell into.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gwenh, the Mother</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Said to be the mother of Mankind, often depicted as an expert mage and genius scholar. (Jain in Shun, Cwen in Hegros, Gwen in Ager, Gwena in Sneigh)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gheim & Wesser:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Winter and Spring bringers respectively. They are essentially the duality of life and death and are important figures to the harvest. (Varsa & Vasan in Shun, Kheima & Wesra in Wedor, Gom & Weara in Hegros, Gam & Errach in Sneigh.) They are both Water Dragons, though one is master of the Cold, and the other is master of the Warmth. As they are offered celebrated together, the common saying for agricultural blessings or wishes of great boons to loved ones is “Twins bless you,” or “Twins be with you.”</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dhegram</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Moulder of Earth. They are the pinnacle of strength, often represented by motifs of the mountain, and occasionally the ogder tree (similar to a baobab in shape, similar to a buloke in toughness) or big horned sheep. It is believed that Dhegram helped to form The Teeth when his body was broken up across the land. He is an Earth Dragon. Dhegram is the patron of many Dehmer people, who believe themselves children of the planet. Dhegram’s is where the word “Ram” comes from.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Phures</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The master of fire and destruction. Phures is one of the main entities who sparked (ahaha) the creation of several civilizations- particularly the Ageran Empire (which was known in the draconic tongue as the Ka’garan Empire) and the wars that followed them. She is interpreted by her followers as a neutral or good being, though her works are feared by many. Her followers depict her as the lightning before a fire in some mythologies. She is celebrated as a temperamental guardian of Nassavrans, granting them either safety and warmth or utter destruction. She is prayed to to help prevent disaster.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Woid:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The patron of time and knowledge. Woid is “to know” and is often referred to more as the passive god of the passage of time. In stories, he often is depicted as a mentor and incidental guide, though he always assumes a neutral role, never serving good or evil. (Vedi in Shun, Oidas in Wedor, Witan in Hegros and Sneigh). Woid is a deity of time and knowledge, or one who manipulates the interpretation and the way time is woven. It is said that he serves as a guardian of knowledge, sleeping at the roots of the Heart Tree below the earth. The most well-known followers of Woid are the protectors of the World Tree- the Tree Priests of Doru. It is there that they have given up semblance of self, germinated seeds of the Heart Tree within themselves, and adopted the pronouns “they”, as they have become part of a larger self- the roots, branches, and leaves on the Tree of Life. They interpret the signs of Woid from the state of the World Tree, through its sap, fruit, seeds, and health. It is through Woid that the power of the Hehn is shared. When/If Woid dies, so too does the potency of magic, severely reducing the ability to learn magic from non-draconic bloodlines. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hwen</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Oinos of the wind. Hwen is both highly revered and feared for the force of his wings, which cut through the air to create the wind. Each and every gust, it was once believed, was made by him, and it is thought that natural disasters (such as hurricanes, monsoons, and tornados) are a result of his bitterness towards Mankind for slaying his people. An Air Dragon.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kal</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Siusuasa, the Dreamer:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Great Dreamer, in Shepnos, is an unseen and undescribable being who dreams of the world. In this mythos, all of the world is just one alterable dream. Death is considered “the sweetest dream”, as those who experience it and have been revived describe the most pleasant and comforting light and warmth that they ever recall feeling. Every life in the world is considered one small part of the dream, and it can be as dreaded or as wondrous as anything. Though a person can never change what the Dreamer dreams a of, they can alter their own path by finding lucidity. </span></p></li></ul><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The secondary deities, or the Duwos, are:</span></p><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Toirin, the Dual-Faced God:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Supposedly a trickster, Toirin is known as the child of the Spring matron, and his frivolity and love of life is evidence of this fact. Toirin is hailed as the master of trade, knowing instantly the value of a person’s soul and the content of their character by one look alone. He embodies the fairness of trade and is often prayed to by merchants seeking protection and wealth on the roads. Toirin also represents duality, as every coin has two sides, and he is known to be the father of drakobeasts (werebeings). Secret cults are devoted to this particular aspect of worship, especially in the coastal caves surrounding Tempestas.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hakima, Lady Night, the Night Herald:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Renowned as a divine assassin, Hakima is the matron of the Occultatum- a branch of the Empire specializing in subterfuge. The people living in the Dark Marshes of western Hegros worship Hakima as their patron, as they believe that her teachings preserved them in the freshwater swamps of their homeland. Her followers value secrecy, cunning, and hiding one’s strength. They also appreciate silence, as it allows them to keep an ear out for the dangers of their environment. In this religion, Lady Hakima challenges Scorthos the Sun Deity, who threatens to brand the world with the harsh flames of his light. Only in shadow can Hakima protect her people, and she is in an eternal struggle to keep the sun from overwhelming Nassavra. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Copar, the Masked God of Medicine:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The divine that most pray to when concerning good health and preventing pestilence. Copar is the one who is responsible for not only medicine, but also disease. It is believed that a prayer to Copar will prevent great plague from spreading. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ór, the Scales of Justice and Balance:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The divine sword of justice and law, Ór is known as a ruler who metered out judgement justly and fairly in the Órion dynasty of Aré and Ager. Ór’s Code is considered the main body of how modern Ager conducts its business now. </span></p></li></ul><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Heroes of Old Mythos</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">H’Ner, the Hero, the Human:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Said to be the first of Mankind, often depicted as a hale warrior. H’Ner is born of human folklore, though this Sunter was one of the first of their kind to be chosen by the Oinos as an outstanding member of their species. Not recognized in Ulfur cultures, but is often referred to the Ulfur counterpart, the fabled hunter and patron of the Ulfur people Jaegren. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Andros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> A Wedorian hero, now known as Andros, was the founder of the modern worship in H’Ner. He is hailed as a prophet and sometimes the second coming of H’Ner himself, embodying everything that represented non-draconic culture was and establishing essential cultural landmarks/theological claims that have been adopted by the people of Wedor and the Ageran Empire for hundreds of years. He was the first to defy the Oinos openly on Nassavra and died in order to save Mankind from its fate beneath draconic rule. Andros called for the unition of all people, though his words are often twisted by some sects of the modern church who took the phrase of “us” to refer to Mankind as opposed to all inhabitants of Nassavra. Andros is seen as a martyr, enduring great pain and suffering when the dragons punished him for his defiance, dragging him through the streets to be flaunted in front of their kingdoms and supporters. His disciples carried out the task of the first killing of the Oinos despite Andros’ peaceful promise.</span></p></li></ul><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Religions & Sects</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nassavra is home to many religions that vary from place to place. The biggest figure, one who is pinnacle and present in almost every religion, is H’Ster. Her name is widely recognized and even kept in its purest form. This is because this is the teachings that the dragons first taught civilizations across Nassavra. There was a period in time in which some dragons tried to erase this history from the world, perhaps bitter by Her absence and favoring instead to call themselves gods, but some humans dug up these histories and revived her worship.</span></p><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Church of H’Ster</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Followers of the Cosmic Being, H’Ster, who is said to have created all things in ages past. She is one of many great and powerful beings called the Deyans. She is responsible for all life on the planet of Nassavra, though her children the Oinos claim responsibility for some of the changes in their formation.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Service: The Child is giving, aiding those where it can. The Child does what it can to help its Family.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Passificm: The Child does not raise a hand against those who it calls Family. The Child has a duty to look after its Family, and swears by a code of peace.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Obedience: The Child is obedient, knowing that it must relent to the higher truths of the world. The Child listens to its Family though it possesses its own will. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Truth: The Child strives to grow and learn the Truths of the world. The Child creates to expand its knowledge and share it with the other members of the Family. The Child is always aiming to learn more and does not censor knowledge. The Child follows the teachings of the Hehn, passing it on through practice and heritage.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Creation: The Child is born of imagination. So too must it imagine. It is the Mother’s will to watch her Child dream. In the act of its existence, the Child will learn and pass on the knowledge of creation.</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Church of A’Ster</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Followers of the Cosmic Being, A’Ster, who is said to have died to allow for the creation of the Universe itself. A’Ster is often praised as the patron of sacrifice for a better cause, a champion of kindness, and is hailed as an exemplary father.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sacrifice: The Child knows that to produce true change, one must be willing to sacrifice a part of themself to forge it.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Passificm: The Child does not raise a hand against those who it calls Family. The Child has a duty to look after its Family, and swears by a code of peace.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Obedience: The Child is obedient, knowing that it must relent to the higher truths of the world. The Child listens to its Family though it possesses its own will. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Truth: The Child strives to grow and learn the Truths of the world. The Child creates to expand its knowledge and share it with the other members of the Family. The Child is always aiming to learn more and does not censor knowledge. The Child follows the teachings of the Hehn, passing it on through practice and heritage.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 72pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Creation: The Child is born of imagination. So too must it imagine. It is the Mother’s will to watch her Child dream. In the act of its existence, the Child will learn and pass on the knowledge of creation</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oinos Worship, Ancient</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: In ancient times, the people of the world were led under the leadership of dragons. These great and powerful beings commanded respect from their followers and garnered their love through great acts of natural creation. With the help of the imagination of The Sunter (Man in human mythos, Dehmer in Dehmer mythos, so on and so on), the Oinos created kingdoms for their followers to live in (provided that they continued to worship and respect them). These kingdoms make up the backbone of what constitutes many civilizations today. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Safety: The Oinos do as they do to give their Kin a better life. They will always find a place of love and safety with their oldest siblings and masters, and should always realize that they have a place amongst their people.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Subservience: As H’Ster proclaimed, there are forces greater than the life that one lives in existence. The Kin must realize that their forebearers are beings who protect and provide for them. As such, the Kin are small in comparison and are expected to aid their masters where they can. The Oinos defer to the will of the divine. The Kin defers to the will of the Oinos, as it is the will of all people, and by doing so they aid the life of all creatures of Nassavra.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Creation: It is the Kin’s duty to make what the Oinos wish. The Oinos wish to see the Kin achieve great things, and so push them to do what they must in order to become better than themselves in the present. If it is the Kin’s duty to create, then they must create.</span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Auld Faith</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Auld Faith of Tír Duine recounts the tales of the divine folk who walked the world. Some interpret them as Duwos or even Oinos, but it is unclear as to whether they are the same deities or beings specific to Duinian belief. </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Breghi</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: As lovely as she is vain, Breghi is known as a goddess who greets her followers warmly… unless provoked. Any who spurn her live in fear for the remainder of their likely-to-be-short lives. Breghi is so beautiful that foliage bloom around her, and she paints each plant that she encounters. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dorieasan</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Jealous of his sister’s affection and beauty, Dorieasan brings harsh cold to ruin her creations. Where he walks, the world wilts. The two are viewed as being constantly at odds with one another. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Toirin</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The god of transaction and duality, Toirin knows the value of a person’s soul by simply looking at them. He is considered the patron of lycanthropy and it is believed that Toirin’s curse is what ails the afflicted. Toirneachans are followers of his who have developed a culture of mercantilism. These people are responsible for first introducing currency to the land of Tír Duine. Currently, Toirneachans are considered some of the best financial managers in all of Kerdia. The town that they have made is responsible for a the imports and exports of most goods, especially those coming and going in and out from Anteros. </span></p></li></ul></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Church of H’Ner</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: This group believes that the creatures born of Nassavra (including the Duhwin) are the ones whose place comes first and most favored in the eyes of the Goddess. The Oinos were the first of her creations in a place far from here, but Mankind and all of the people that grew from the Heart Tree are the breath of life that the planet truly needs. The Oinos, in that sense, are alien.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Principality: The people of Nassavra are the first children of the planet and of H’Ster’s divine will. They inherit the world in place of their Mother. Their siblings, the Oinos and the Duwos, are not of this world. Therefore, they have no right to rule over it.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Equality: The beings of Nassavra were made from the same blood and the same roots. They must acknowledge that they have a right which surpasses the dragon kind and not each other.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Heritage: The first ones who came to call this planet home are the rightful denizens, to whom all power and ownership are due. They are chosen to be greater than their Oinos cousins, who cannot think outside of themselves. Mankind and its brethren were at the beginning of life in Nassavra. So too shall they be at its end.</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Children of Andros, Orthodox Sect</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: This group follows the exact teachings of Andros, looking on his words from the view of a scholar. The Orthodox sect believes that Andros is the second formation of H’Ner and the representative voice of Mankind. They reject the concept of divine perfection and acknowledge the fallibility of man. They believe that the interpretation of all of H’Ster’s children needing to cooperate peacefully will bring back their Mother. This is taught in the true way of Andros.</span></p></li></ul><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pacifism: Andros once stated that [we] must learn to get along in order to restore H’Ster’s place in the firmament. The Mother of the world will not return unless Her Children cooperate. In this sense, all children of H’Ster must agree to work together.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Resilience: Mankind and its siblings have become stronger than the Oinos in a sense. It is the responsibility of the Children of the Gods to rise up against foreign tyranny when it can.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fallibility: There is no one true or perfect voice, heart, or mind. Those who claim themselves to be above any other are doing so for their personal gain- be they man or Oinos.</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Children of Andros Zephicts, Zephas’ Sect</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: As per the following of Zephas’ interpretations, this group believes that the creatures born of Nassavra (excluding the Duhwin) are the ones whose place comes first and most favored in the eyes of the Goddess. The Oinos were the first of her creations, but Mankind and all of the people that grew from the Heart Tree are the breath of life that the planet truly needs. The people of Nassavra, in this view, are her favored creations. The Oinos, in that sense, are alien. The difference between this sect and the traditional church of H’Ner is that the Zephicts believe that Andros was a prophet who was created in the will of the Hehn to speak with the voice of H’Ster and that some people are blessed with the divine truth, letting them become unshakable truth-sayers in the community.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bravery: There are frightening things in the world that the Children are meant to endure. They must find the courage to face these things without a moment’s hesitation. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Justice: When there is wrong done unto another, it is the role of a Zephict to enact justice and right that wrong. The way that this is discerned is through wisdom and reflection. As the children of H’Ster, it is only right that every person born of Her blood is given the same treatment.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Loyalty: A man is to be the best friend of his brothers, defending them unto any cause. The loyalty of that person must be unshakable.</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Children of Andros The Saurisi, Sauris’ Sect</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Oinos were the first of her creations in a place far from here, but Mankind is the first child of Nassavra, and therefore are believed by members of this sect to be the superior form. Though Andros himself preached more in the beliefs of the Church of H’Ner- wherein it states that “us” the “people of the world” need to coexist peacefully with one another when freed from imbalance, some followers took it to mean that “Mankind” specifically would inherit Nassavra once all those who stood to obstruct them disappeared. This has led to a dangerous way of thinking for many of the Androsi followers around the world. The Androsi prioritize the supremacy of the children of the Heralds and successors of apostles like Zephas and Saurisis, believing that they have been chosen as the progeny of these great figures as Vericts- “truth-sayers”. They also believe in Andros’ assumption in to heaven.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Superiority: Mankind was the first child seen fit to walk the planes of Nassavra. It is the favored child of H’Ster. All other beings who stem from their bloodlines are rivals of Mankind meant to test their ability. Therefore, they are obstacles that may need to be dealt with for Man to succeed. It is paramount above all things that Mankind is taken care of.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Endurance: Just as Andros endured the many sufferings that the Oinos inflicted upon him, so too must the Saurisian practice strength of will and character. Bravery is the pinnacle in the face of great danger. A Saurisian does not flee his fate, just as Andros had done.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Organization:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verator: The highest ordained position, the Verators are considered those who can trace their lineage back to any of the eight followers of Andros- Zephas, Sauris, Okobos, Kongas, Yungus, Zhous, Taxitus, and Ukrhas. In the Saurisian church, prioritizes the word of these individuals, though some disputes have arisen over the importance of each of these individuals’ doctrines.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Triasa, Naiban</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: In Naiban society, the people believe in all of the gods, depicted as beautiful humanoids who are able to change shape to embody those of an animal. The most beautiful of these children were the water gods- the Twins, Varsa and Vasan, who often took the form of a pair of stark green and blue ibises or two desert koi. These gods, claiming to come under order from their mother, swore to grant the people who dwelt in this place a safe haven. They transformed the land in the middle of the arid dunes of Shun into an arable, water rich place. They made a river run through the center of the desert for them. All the gods asked for is a place to call their home in the city. They would return every five years to check on their subjects, bringing more rainfall to them and recounting amazing tales of their travels.</span></p></li></ul><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There have been times in history when the Twins have been greatly displeased, such as the defiance of Shahar Tmeuki and his dream of making a nation independent of the gods. As punishment, the Twins flooded the state. They felt great grief after harming their creations and quickly attempted to make amends, commemorating this event with the </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Day of Forgiveness.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Inherent Beauty: The world is inherently beautiful, and ugliness is often wrought by our own hands. It is important to look for the beauty in even the most abhorrent places.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Creation: The most sacred thing that a living being can do is to create.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Positivity: The experience of life is a brief thing. This is what gives it its true beauty, for knowing that one day it will end makes every experience that much more important. It helps to keep a positive mindset to ensure that life continues.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Freedom: Passion and creation are both born from freedom. Do not fear what another may think of you. Be who you are and you cannot fail.</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Order of Sohl, Sohlian</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Andros was not necessarily chosen by H’Ster, but rather chose through his own will to share Her beliefs. In that sense, all beings have the power and capability of making great change that can lead to peace. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all people. The name of the ideology, Sohlian, comes from the prophet Sohl. Sohl was a worshipper of Vasan for a time before he came to a Temple of H’Ster and began observing the works of individuals. So many died waiting for their destinies to save them. When he observed and caught word of Andros’ deeds, Sohl saw a mortal being whose choices had turned the minds of Mankind towards peace for once in many moons. He saw then the works of other hermits and local heroes, whose names died with them.</span></p></li></ul><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> It occurred to Sohl that the act of creation that H’Ster spoke of rang true with every being in the world, not just those which Andros spoke of. Sohl resolved to share this message and promote the individual cause of love beyond the establishment, of choice beyond duty, of electing to learn rather than wait for knowledge to come to oneself.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Will: All living beings have the choice to change their world and influence the world of others. They are responsible for only themselves, and the Goddess or the Hehn will not come to aid them if some great ails should befall them. It is up to the living beings of Nassavra to help each other through strife.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Individuality: One person can cause a great deal of change. It can matter more than a kingdom’s worth of influence if one voice carries on a strong wind.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Community: While each is entitled to their choice and lots in life, working with others to make big choices can greatly impact how successful a community is.</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mahra Mera/Followers of Ishu, Dehmer</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The most archaic form of H’Ster’s worship that is believed to have been the teachings of the Sunter. In this religion, there was once one whole that divided itself into two parts- Hespir, the femine aspect, and Udeyu, the masculine aspect. Udeyu lent to Hespir His strength, and the two became whole once again. The tethering of their selves made Hespir change in shape, combining Her beauty with Udeyu’s strength (this is how Dhemur explain the concept of relative sexual monomorphism in their people). By killing Udeyu, Hespir became Mahra Mera- “Mother Death”- and She became pregnant with the life that Udeyu had given to Her. The combined essence of Udeyu’s self and Hespir’s self led to the Oinos- or the “First Children”. Hespir’s first child She called Nassa, the daughter of the universe, who would be the grandest of all Her children. The second She bore was called Dhegram (He Who Moves the Earth), the third called Mûna (She Who Lights the Night), the fourth called Fûra (She Who Makes Fire), the fifth and sixth twins called Wusar and Gamash (She and He Who Make Rain and Snow), the seventh called Weyna (She Who Makes the Wind), and the eighth called Kanek (The Child Who Knows). She had a second litter later on, they who came to live in the firmament (Bagital, Nela, Massur, Algûr, Gheka, Talkresh). </span></p></li></ul><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When the Oinos longed for change, Nassa sacrificed herself to make the planet. Mûna, grieving the loss of her sister and best friend, transformed herself into a similar image and became the lunar counterpart to Nassa.. This interpretation of the world most closely aligns with what the Oinos themselves believed and recorded.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The worship of “Mera” is one of life through death. The aspect of life being derivative of death is actually probably the closest approximation to the truth of Creation, as A’Ster did indeed have to make a sacrifice in order for mortality to exist, to create union between life and death. In this religion, the experience of life is of the individual. Only in death is there ever true union and loss of the concept of the “self”. It is the responsibility of a living being to experience the individuality- pain, grief, hope, and drive- in the limited existence that they have. Therefore, there is no rush to death, but neither is there any aversion to it. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The belief in the progenitor Goddess and Her children is believed to have roots in ancient Sunter faith that was passed down to the Khaamuk people. It is the Khaamuk, after all, that had continued to uphold these beliefs while their kinsmen pursued other practices. The worship of Mahra Mera became the dominant religion when the Dhemish hero Ishu supposedly heard Her voice, telling Ishu that the ways that her people were living would lead to their demise. Encouraged by the Oinos Dhegram, Ishu surrendered her kingdom and became a nomad with the neighboring Khaamuk people, who had done their best to avoid the conflicts between the Kerdian kingdoms of Dhemur. Ishu learned of their lifestyler and saw how they coexisted with nature, resolving most of their conflicts peacefully and avoiding bloodshed. Without personal possessions, limited resources, or a sense of greed, the Khaamuk subsisted as pacifists. Ishu admired this and believed that this was what she was called to do. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As a great hero and queen, Ishu had much influence on the rest of the Kerdian Dhemur. She convinced a handful of clans to join her in a minimalist lifestyle. There were those that thought her mission to be foolish and remained in their castles. In future wars, massive upheaval would see their keeps crumble to dust and many of their lineages slaughtered. </span><span style="font-size: 16px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Followers of Ishu, however, thrived for a long time. It was not until the kingdoms of men rose up and the cycle began anew that there was any true conflict for the people. It is now, in the advent of war and discrimination, that traditions are being strained to the point of breaking. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ishu organized how these newly formed civilizations ought to be structured, creating laws and suggestions for roles in society, kinship, and marriage that were largely based off of the Khaamuk people’s formation. The division of roles blended practices of food procurement, which changed from society to society and environmentally, and </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ishu’s Creed was translated in several languages of various Dhemish cultures, leading it to become massively popular over time. Although some peoples took more time to alter their way of life, there eventually came a strong sense of unity from this religion that a handful of Dhemish tribes across Kerdia would go on to form a Nation of Followers. This existing connection would then go on to establish the framework for the Urgadag, who despite adhering to aspects of the structure have also begun to turn towards building up kingdoms again. The Yalzmag, a fundamentalist people who adhere to a pacifistic creed, have been in opposition to them. This has created conflict between the groups, as the Yalzmag purposefully try to undermine the Urgadag by preventing them from having access to resources that would see their resistance from being built. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Progenitor: Mahra Malga made the world. From the bones of Nassavra to the sands which hide them. They have given the gift of mortality so that we may arise better with each passing time. Likewise, all others were born of us. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Resolution (Traditional): Understanding the cycle of life and the final union, I will not fight against death, but I will accept when it is my time. I will actively seek to appreciate this life and help others enjoy theirs. With my voice, I pray for peace. With my music, I will bring everlasting harmony. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Respect: A thousand of my ancestors have knitted my flesh from theirs. I am the heart of the spotted cragcat. I am the lungs of the fleet-footed khurkut. I am the voice of the swooping medallion hawk. I am the blood of my brave forebearers. With the death of these beings, my life could begin. With the death of these things, I am made stronger.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Passion: My passion is the flame by which my time burns. I will not be afraid to blaze brightly, even if it means my death. I will remember those who came before and I will strive to be remembered as I am in life, for when the final union comes, I will have no need for my name.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Merciless (Urgadag): I am the growl that warns the foe. I am the shield that guards the heart. I am the flame that staunches the blood. I will protect my people. I will be the face of death. My neutrality shall bring us victory. My lack of surrender shall see us become free again.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Negotiative (Yalzmag): I am the hum that soothes the sleeper. I am the eyes that watch the world. I am the water that reveals the reflection. I will protect my people. I will bring the survival of our people through reflection and peace. Death is the ultimate peace, but it cannot be rushed, and it cannot be forced to occur before its time. My voice shall bring us freedom. My peace shall see us safe again.</span></p></li></ul><br /><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.542857142857143; margin-bottom: -1pt; margin-top: -1pt;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mátha Chrainn & The Crannoí, Elven</span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The elven name for H’Ster and the Heart Tree, both of whom the elves attribute their existence.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.542857142857143; margin-bottom: -1pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: -1pt;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.542857142857143; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: -1pt;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nature: The Seedling’s form is innately that of the natural world, shaped into existence by the grace of the Crannoí- the Heart Tree. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.542857142857143; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guardianship: The Seedling protects both their </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.542857142857143; margin-bottom: -1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Symbiosis: The Seedling shares the life essences of those around it. It cannot survive on its own, nor without the company of its brethren, who are born of the uncorrupted. The Seedling must be wise to this fact and never stray too far from the green of home. A Seedling will never forget or neglect their ancestral vow, for to do so would mean their death.</span></p></li></ul><br /><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yunya</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The belief that is most widespread throughout Himayeshi, Yunya supports the idea that all life is tied together by a supernatural force of fate and energy. It purports that all living beings are just expressions of the Breath and that the ability to manipulate the world around comes from a complete understanding that the world is fluid and able to change. Just like how water can change shape depending on its vessel, the temperature, and what is mixed with it, so too can people change depending on many factors that are presented to them. Those seeking peace or a greater acceptance- perhaps redemption- often meditate to try and understand the concepts of the Breath and Yunya. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Union: All beings are connected. The separations and distinctions that are made are based solely off of values given to that individual. Every living being is made up of the same kind of </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">viri</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or energy. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Change: No person is ever subjected to a rigid life. They can always choose to change themselves or the path that they walk, though they must accept that they can never force change upon anyone else. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Harmony: In understanding that you can never change anyone else without their willingness, you accept those around you and allow them to find their own paths, offering a gentle and guiding hand if desired but never becoming forceful. This is an important step in finding peace. Being able to let go- to focus on what shape you can take as an individual to better yourself and the world around you- is key to being able to find peace.</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tulah/Seyvya</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The concept of balance under the existence that H’Ster has granted, Tula Ardha/Seyvyata is the belief that all beings are instilled with sides of themselves that require balance. Just as wind that is too strong can uproot the tree, but a wind that is too soft will carry no seeds, balance is required for life to grow. The word “seyvya” means “to sew” and refers to the connection between the parts of the self.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beliefs</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Balance: As with the cosmos, the sky is both clear and cloudy. All beings are tempered with darkness and light within them. Light comes from the illumination, darkness comes from the aspect of mortal existence. In living as a mortal being, it is important to find balance between the two concepts. One escapes the mortal plane when they discover higher truths, sacrificing the mortal part of themselves to become an Other. One casts aside their spiritual self when they indulge only in the mortal desires and allures and abandon thoughts of the world beyond their natural side, and they become the Other. It is important to recognize that, while the stages of the Other contrast greatly, they are still the same thing; a being who has sacrificed or forgotten what it is to be a balanced creature. Almost all living beings are the One and carry both sides to them.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duality & Sameness: The line that separates the soul is the same that tethers it. The distinction in how every deed is done by the same hand is important. There is a culpability to one’s actions that one makes the decision for on their own. Societally, expectations are different, though one is absolved of guilt and shame that is put upon them and is instead encouraged to reflect like the sky in the aftermath of a storm.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shamelessness: There is not a form of divine punishment for bad deeds, nor any direct rewards for good ones, other than those that the living beings of the world decide to make. Therefore, the choice to do such deeds all depend on what that individual values.</span></p></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Natural Sacrifice</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: In a select grouping of cultures, there is the practice of sacrifice. This once was applicable to certain draconic beings as well, though it cannot be said for sure whether or not this is still in practice for such followers. It is true, however, for groups such as the Ulfur or the Dehmer.</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulfur Sacrifice</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Ulfur sacrifice to give back to the land that feeds them. Just like how their existence came from the life of the dragon flowing into them, the Ulfur give back to the other living beings in turn. They perform rituals of drowning, hunting, and hanging/blooding. </span></p></li></ul></ul><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ishuite Sacrifice</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Followers of Ishu revere the cycle of life from death. Animal sacrifices are commonly held to continue the zoophagous nature of existence. They also honor great warriors by shrinking their heads and wearing them on their person (they are typically given to the next of kin). Hunting sacrifices, bone pits, consumption of flesh, and the creation of Spirit Gardens are all common practices among the Ishuite people.</span></span>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-23155878926799287922020-12-09T14:57:00.003-08:002020-12-27T06:24:28.970-08:00CotS: Flora and Fauna<p> Hello my friends! Was thinking up some fun animals and plants unique to certain parts of the CotS world. Here are some of them. As always, things are subject to change, but here are some critters and flora so far!</p><p><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-decoration-skip: none; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hegros:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">East </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Animals:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Phuo Bird</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A “fire bird,” the Phuo is a red ibis with a yellow undercoat, a poff of hair above its eyes, and frilled muffs (long tufts of leg down). It is believed to be the animal that sparked the legend of the phoenix, as a handful of these birds were observed reversing the stages of their lives and growing up continually, essentially eternally. It is believed that this is in part to their connection with the native forest valley where they live, leading them to become essentially immortal. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Lightning Bird </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A species of </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Tidemare</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = An aquatic horse that is the favored mount of many eastern coastal Piskur peoples. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Floating Isle </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= Also known as a “shuttle pig,” the floating idle is an amphibious famous for carrying small beasts, fungus, and even Cnidaria on its disc-shaped back. It has a flat face and tall orbitals, which keeps its eyes above water. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Long-Nosed</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Labrys Crocodile</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Having a thin snout that broadens at the end, the Labrys crocodile is one of the most feared animals in Hegros. Layered with many spines and fins, even the mere sight of this animal is a horror. A high percentage of these crocs have been found to have a white coloration. This has made them the target of poaching for many years, though they are only a target for the brave. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Masked Occisor </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A beast of prey that represents a cross between a boar and muskrat. The masked occisor is not particularly big, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in ferocity. The masked occisor is known to puncture the necks of its prey- most often fish, amphibians, and water fowl. It has been known to deliver painful wounds to suntoids as well. The masked occisor has other means of defense as well. When in danger or excited, it releases a gland that can irritate the nasal passages of those who smell it, even causing a deadly reaction. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Grogir </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A semi-aquatic mammal with a frilled mane and tail. Broad of head and strong bodied, the grogir is a force to be reckoned with when encountered. The grogir’s powerful jaws are said to be able to split skulls like the river melons they love so much. Grogir are a rare instance of venomous marsupials. The grogir has several subspecies, including those who are able to conduct electricity and those who are able to produce venom more potently. </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Flora:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Danguru Plant</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Dehmish for “tongue wound”, the danguru plant is a species of horseradish that is particularly spicy. Used for clearing out nasal passages and sinuses, it is very valuable for trail remedies. </span></p></li></ol><p><b id="docs-internal-guid-af1b9006-7fff-105a-aab5-a72afb7b4b55" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><ol start="2" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Southeast</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 108pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Animals:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Dulig-Dulig</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A cloven mammal that is both notorious for its small stature and big, adorable eyes. Named after the Dehmish word “dulig” which means “small”.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Broad-Headed Tortoise</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Also called the “dusk tortoise” for its crepuscular nature, the broad-headed tortoise is unique in the sense that it has a wide, spade-like head with its own shell-like armor covering it. The broad-headed tortoise’s shell and meat is often viewed as having beneficial medicinal uses in Hegresian cultures.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Steppeland Spearsnake</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A rat snake that is common to the grasslands of Hegros, spearsnakes get their names from the shape of their heads and their form of lunging at prey. Spearsnakes are most commonly brown or golden, though there are some instances of them being stark white. These snakes are very rare and their insides sell for quite a bit of money.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Golden Lady Snakes</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A snake known for being beautiful, often times this animal comes in various shades of gold. Like eyelash vipers, they have small ridges along their brow that makes them appear to have such features. In Hwento, Golden Lady snakes are considered magic. In Shun, the snakes often have a negative connotation, being seen as the servants or incarnations of Nagas.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Steppestrider</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Long-legged jackal that is known for its gangly appearance. Contrary to its carnivorous build, the steppestrider is actually omnivorous, preferring eating roots and insects as opposed to game. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Dhegram’s Ram</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A huge species of sheep that strides on six legs and is covered in rigid, keratin growths. Dhegram’s Ram is known to be the mount of choice for the Khutsi and Khaamuk people. The animal is special in regards to its unique anatomy, which is said to have been caused by eating forbes that were soaked in dragon blood. There is a popular account of a ewe competing with males to win over females. This has become a popular tale in the Dhemur community about overcoming disadvantages and using inner strength to pursue your heart’s desires. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Malkresh</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A beautiful cattle whose spotted pelt looks like ore and griss. Called “malkresh” or “bad flesh”, the malkresh cattle is known for having an extremely short span of time in which it can be eaten. It’s flesh rots quickly after death but is very moist soon after butchering. Due to this, it is considered a delicacy to many. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Axios </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A breed of antelope that has large, almost circular head horns and a curved nose horn, a strong neck, and a thin face. The Axios antelope is one of the staples of Steppe-farer’s diets. It’s distinctive stripes have made it a prized beast for its pelt as well as its meat. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Conehorn </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= An antelope that is known for their beautiful curving horns and manes. Making almost a swirling pattern, these horns have been inspirational to the art style of the Antol people. These animals are considered almost magical to many people who see them. It is believed that the horns of a conehorn bring good luck. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hoppling </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A small statured bipedal creature with nine springy tails and a round face of similar appearance to a seal. The hoppling is believed to be related to the steppe springer, although there are quite a few differences in appearance. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Tenhorn Deer</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A species of deer that is known for its broad, impressively large antlers. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Redmane</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A cloven beast of prey who is named after their curly red manes, which fall down on either side of their long necks. It has feet that are round, sort of like a camel’s. The redmane has strong hind legs which it uses to pummel predators that get too close. It has three back toes and four front toes. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Kinky Horse</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Contrary to how that name sounds, it actually refers to the kinky hair and mane of the breed. The kinky horse is a very easygoing wild horse that comes in a variety of colors, though most are brown, black, and golden. These horses often have light bodies and darker colored legs and muzzles. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Butrow</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A small burrowing reptile that has a unique broad face with exaggerated eyes and a sharp-toothed smile. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Field Chicken</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = With it’s majestic multi-layered feather patterns and golden coloration, the field chicken is an excellent example of how to camouflage in the Steppes. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Echoer Bird</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A bird that is known for producing complex songs to attract its mate. The more complex the song the better. It copies other animals sounds and is even known to be able to reproduce the sounds of battle and clanking metal. They are very important in folklore and have featured in many stories, perhaps the most popular story including an echoer making the sound of a blade unsheathing and instigating a battle. </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 108pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Flora:</span></p><ol start="17" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Luwa Fruit</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A yellow drupe plant with a milky purple interior. In the springtime, the tree bears luwa fruit flowers, erupting into bright white and purple flowers of a sweet and appealing scent. Luwa blossom perfume is popular among Arésian ladies and Naiban nobles. Perhaps most well-known for its tangy flavor and fast-acting fermentation, the luwa fruit is often used in the production of maruluuk, a salé Dhemish staple brew in the Steppes.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Whitecrown</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A hearty flowering herbaceous plant that can withstand practically any condition- rain, shine, snow, and flooding- and is revered by Steppe-faring peoples for its medicinal properties. Whitecrown, or ‘</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">taggrav</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">’ in Dhemish, is also used in honorary services, representing a willingness to remain long after all else is gone. It is burned at many Khutsi and Khaama funerals and celebrations of life. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Pala Shrub (Bloodshrub) </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A flowering shrub that produces crimson petals. In some mythos, it is believed that the blood of the Sky-Father rained down over these shrubs and painted them red. Has a high amount of anthocyanins. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ol><ol start="3" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">West</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Fauna:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Harper Owl </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A small owl that is known for having a call that sounds like the snapping of strings. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Orange Ugabi = A species of gibbon living at the peaks of the western karst mountains. Deforestation has stolen much of their habitat away. Only by inhabiting the temples and shrines that have remained relatively untouched for centuries have these rare animals survived. They are now protected by pilgrims who come to pay homage to the Gods, and elsewise remain largely forgotten. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Ten-Whiskered Otter = An otter that lives in the wetlands of western Hegros. It’s not particularly different/unique from your average otter, but darn is it cute!</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Anguis Atrox</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Latin for “terrible snake,” the anguis atrox is a large freshwater serpent that dwells in the swamps of western Hegros. The anguis atrox has a venom that can curdle a man’s blood in one minute. Its distinctive purple sheen has made it a feared but highly noticeable animal in the land where it lives.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Armored Salamander</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A swamp newt that is notable for its segmented jade green and silver scale patterns, making it appear to be wearing armor. The armored salamander is in no way any stronger than its brethren, though it gives the outward appearance of a hearty animal. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Noble Salamander</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A gorgeous red and gold newt that lives in the marshlands. Though not particularly large, the noble salamander is known to produce large clutches of eggs, which are sought after by native predators and hunters alike. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Viridius Vernus </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A type of alligator that sports a bright green color and blue frills atop its head. In layman’s nomenclature, it is also known as a blue gator. These animals are considered significantly more laidback than their cousins, to the point where fables often label them as lazy. A unique aspect of their anatomy is the second set of jaws located in the back of their throat, similarly those of an eel. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Brackish Caiman</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Also known as a greater caiman, this type of croconid is known for growing to impressive sizes (though smaller than its alligator relatives) and being able to seamlessly blend into the water of their homeland. This makes the brackish caiman a deadly foe, as they are able to ambush even the most skillful rivermen. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Watcher of the Lotus, Xenerainu</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A type of almost mythical creature that is said to lurk in the swamp land, luring people in under a friendly guise, asking them riddles before drowning them and eating them, regardless of whether the person answers correctly or not. It is said to resemble a seal-like creature with sleek underfins, a fishtail, and hypnotic eyes. The actual animal is similar in appearance, but as far as anybody knows does not actually verbally communicate with travellers, nor does it drown them, preferring instead the native fish and small prey animals of the swamp.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Nocte Anguis</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Also known as the “noctisian snake” or simply “nocti,” this impressively large snake is known for its almost pure black coloration and calm temperment. Known to strangle even the largest alligators, the nocti is revered by those who know them well and feared by those who do not. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Umbral Cat</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = An aquatic panther that lives in the forests of the marshes. An umbral cat is a fierce predator, able to strike quickly and seemingly out of nowhere. These felines are also known to inhabit the limestone sinkholes along the coastal regions. The Umbral panther has a split tail at the end, both of which have sort of rattlers that are designed to look like the native fruit of the cymbal tree. Umbral panthers will both lounge in trees to draw prey in or will pretend to have their tails appear as floating fruits on the water’s brim, striking their prey from under the water. Umbral panthers have the unique ability swim for long periods of time, having webbed toes (similar to a Sumatran tiger) and impressive diaphragms. </span></p></li></ol><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Flora:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Cymbal Tree = In the subtropical forests of western Hegros, the cymbal tree is a medium sized stooping tree that grows bumpy brown fruit. The seeds inside the shell of this fruit rattle when shaken, and these seeds are actually what most animals find delectable. The fruit itself has an almost savory taste which some find unpleasant, but the cymbalseeds are a bit spicy and almost sweet. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hegresian Bitterberry = A type of cranberry that grows in the wetlands of northwestern Hegros. </span></p></li></ol><ol start="4" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">North </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Fauna:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Greater Karst Owl </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= An owl that is exceedingly large, living in the karst mountains of northern and central Hegros. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Black Marmot</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A marmot species whose fur pattern includes streaks of black around the eyes and nose. Typically feasts on grasses, nuts, lichen, and other foods.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Cragcat </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A fearsome spotted beast, the cragcat prowls in the shadows of mountain passes. Cragcats are often dark in coloration, with brown or black spots and stripes running along their bodies. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Auburn Smiling Cat</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Though ranging in colors from red to bright orange to nearly yellow, the auburn smiling cat is a large feline that resembles a tiger in many ways, save for having exaggerated upper incisors. Their beautiful patterns often make them prized beasts for capture and pelts. The auburn smiling cat is a relative of the parent species Esnesian smiling cat, with which it shares several similarities. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Slinking Hyrax</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> + </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Bog Lurker</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Living past the montane landscapes of the Steppes, the bog lurker is a kind of amphibious creature that occupies bog shallows in the northern reaches of Hegros.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Weltbelly Pig</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A species of wild pig recognized by the dark brown blotches on its white-furred stomach. The weltbelly is known for being aggressive, with males having large tusks and females having sharp bottom teeth made for warding off predators. </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Flora:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Friar Oak </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A broadly based oak that tends to grow in a rotund shape, resembling a jolly fat friar. </span></p></li></ol><ol start="5" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Central</span></p></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A fearsome </span></p></li></ol><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">South</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Animals:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Saddlebag Camel + A cloven animal with drooping sacks on the side of its body for carrying water</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Heiko</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A beast that is similar to a camel in how it retains water, except that it has six bumpy growths on its back instead of one or two large humps. It also has a large lump on its neck which it uses to batter flies away. It has large, thin ears that it uses to cool itself off in the heat. The heiko is often bred for traveling and companionship, being able to carry large loads on its back and withstand the arid heat of the desert. </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Flora:</span></p><ol start="3" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Borderline Bauhinia = A bauhinia that grows just on the border between the greener lands of the central parts of Hegros and the southern arid lands. </span></p></li></ol><ol start="7" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Dans</span></p></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Caultufru Parrot</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A massive raptor bird with brightly colored feathers. It stands out because it has virtually nothing else to fear. Before human hunters arrived in Dans, the Cualtufru was the number one apex predator. Despite being able to eat </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">D</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Smiling Guest = A catarrhine monkey that is known for its big smiles- not actually grind, but rather ways of warning off predators. The Smiling Guest’s teeth are renowned for being very large, so impressively so that ancient Dansish peoples used to make jewelry out of them. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Monque Arage = A speckled monkey that is small and short of limb. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Beauglese Monkey = A species of monkey with a white and red visage and what appears to be a curly mustache. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Red Mantis</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A type of colorful mantis that is known for its quick reflexes and animated gestures. The red mantis is capable enough to fight off predators with ease. They have a form of fighting that is practically a martial art, raising the arms and using their long appendages to jab at enemies. This can be used as a bluff to try and look bigger to confuse the enemy. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Flower Mantis</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A type of mantis known for its beautiful eyes and pristine coloration. (Based off of the orchid mantis.) </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Flying Spider </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= An arachnophobic nightmare of epic proportions, the flying spider is a type of winged arachnid that is capable of gliding with flaps on its exoskeleton. It can adjust its descent by deploying its webbing. </span></p></li></ol><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Doru</span></p></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Murky Spinthra</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A species of spider that dwells in the forests of Doru. Known for their intricate and massive webs, the murky spinthra specializes in creating complex interwoven webs to help capture moths and other insects that venture too far up into the spire trees. Unlike many spiders, spinthras are actually communal and work together like ants to tackle their problems. They have beautiful muted grey carapaces that swirl with often cool colored chitin. </span></p></li></ol></ol><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-decoration-skip: none; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Sneigh:</span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Tír Duine</span></p></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Blood Butterflies</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A species of butterfly that has a long, sharp proboscis. It uses its tongue to pierce a hole in its prey, draining its blood. They appear almost indistinguishable from other non-threatening butterflies, allowing them to get close to potential prey bugs and drink them dry. Though beautiful, these butterflies are (understandably) considered to be a pest by Duinians who raise their own insects. However, some clever assassins have managed to get the blood of individuals through breeding these animals, preparing them for curses </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Karm Beetle</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Also referred to as a “spice beetle,” the karm beetle is a brown and black bug with red wings. It is about three inches on average. When ground or consumed outright, it has a smoky and almost spicy flavor that makes it a fantastic bug to be bred for the purposes of spice. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Béacha Bees</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A species of bee that Duinians pride themselves in raising, the Béacha bee is known as one of the most important animals in Duinian culture. The bees tend to use wit over might to overwhelm threats that enter their hive, using their body heat to roast other bugs alive, employing ambush tactics, and dropping parts of the comb to hit or distract enemies. Once a threat is dealt with, the bees check in on the young members of the community and the queen and head back to their daily routine. Béacha bees are known to produce a potent, warm honey that is excellent for mead production. Duinians take great care not to harm their bees, perhaps sacrificing large amounts of honey at times but preserving the safety and trust of their apian allies. Young boys are known to raise bees from a young age. Similar to how some people keep dogs, raising bees is thought to be honorable because it teaches respect, responsibility, and patience. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Cudin’s Boar</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Recognized as the only prey animal to successfully be able to keep the great hound Cudin at bay, this boar is easily spotted for its impressive size and ferocity. The ungulate has six tusks in total- a set of upper tusks that grows through the roof of the mouth, a second set of upper tusks that protrudes from the sides of the lip, and a third pair that comes out from the bottom mandible. There is a legend of a seven-tusked boar, named Maoch (“may-uk,” inspired by the Gaulish words laoch for warrior and moccos for boar) who was able to defend his family against Cudin, earning the respect of the hunter and given his own glade to live in. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Starlip</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A type of subterranean mammal that is known for its many feelers, long bottom jaw, a rather long tail, and colossal claws. The mole has been bred for centuries, used to find precious bugs and beetles that are considered delicacies to the Duinian palette. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Duine Beag </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">(subject to change since this is straight up Irish) = Duinian for “a small person,” the Duine Beag (sometimes shortened to Beag) is a species of monkey living in the forests on the coast. The Beag is a monkey with a long torso, short short snout, and long fur that looks almost mossy.</span></p></li></ol></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Flora:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">G. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-decoration-skip: none; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Shun:</span></p><p></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Naiba</span></p></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Daroskana</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Also known as the “hooksnake”, a constrictor snake whose ragged placoid scales serve as barbs to dig into struggling prey. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Piercer Snake</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Hiding in the rocky faces of the Jaws, the piercer snake often tucks away in cool rock crevices to wait for prey. They tend to lurk in clutches, ambushing their prey and taking them into their lairs. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hotfoot Iguana</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Known for its high knees and extraordinary speed, the hotfoot lizard is the natural prey of piercer snakes and other serpents in the desert. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Bakaru Monkey</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A monkey that lives in the southwest parts of Naiba, towards the jungle region. These monkeys perch in sandstone formations and make their homes in the sparse trees. The bakaru monkey also lives in the city and it is quite common to see troupes occupying the Temple of the Triasa. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Ara Bird</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> += A small, colorful genus of bird (most commonly has a shimmering plumage and is black and yellow) that is known to mate for life. Also known as a “bumblebee bird” or a “lover bird”, the Ara bird will often refresh its relationship by presenting special gifts to its mate, including shells and shiny baubles. The bird will also prepare mating grounds meticulously by decorating it with attractive fruits and removing dead foliage. The Ara bird is known to preen, groom, and sing to its mate often. The legends of the Ara bird are vast and Naibans view them as the pinnacle of romantic love. A person who wishes to show their devotion to a partner might’ve captured (in older times) or otherwise gift a pair of mated Ara’s to their beloved. This is also where the term “the birds and the bees” comes from. A popular tale involves Princess Usino rejecting the gift of an Ara bird, claiming that if one’s love is true, then it must be free and willing to stay on its own. The way that she knew the love was true, however, was that the two birds stayed even when offered their freedom. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Shimmershell</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A type of turtle with a lustrous outer keratin shell and an inner iridescent nacre part, which create small pearls when sand is stuck inside of them. They are highly sought after for their shells, which are thought to embody Naiban values of aesthetic beauty and natural wonder.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Urdu </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">= A fanged even-toed ungulate that burrows in the sand and feasts on desert crickets. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Harukika</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = A large flightless insect that resembles a cricket in some ways. A harukika has a painful, but not venomous, bite and sports a large pair of mandibles. It typically eats dune ants. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Nagaigo</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> = Naiban for “long jaw,” </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">the nagaigo is a species of crocodile that is known for being rather large. Living in the Nasaga river running into Esnes, the nagaigo is most certainly the apex aquatic predator in Shun. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: lower-alpha; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> the </span></p></li></ol></ol>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-21907075276239509892020-12-09T14:55:00.001-08:002020-12-09T14:55:40.040-08:00CotS: Landmarks & Important Locations<p> Howdy y'all! This is largely incomplete and some things need to be reworked- I do not always have a working understanding of how geography works- but here are some of the general areas and concepts of how they look.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="-webkit-text-decoration-skip: none; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Sneigh</span></p><p><b id="docs-internal-guid-a1522899-7fff-4936-bfd3-863d0b923939" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Tir Duine:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">White Spires</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, a range of chalk rock formations on the coast of northern Sneigh. The White Spires are a natural barrier</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Graven’s Inlet</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, an inlet running into the </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">the west coast of Kerdia and cuts from northwest to southwest. Allows for naval travel for both Duinians and Summerkind. Named after Graven of Mander, a reputed naval commander. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Himayeshi:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Trinelands:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The Immortal Forest</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, a forest of evergreen trees surrounding the southern end of the Northlands. The majority of the pines here are bristlecones, whose longevity has earned them great reverence. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The Isle of Skiris</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, the main island of a chain that is home to whaling folk, red deer, golden eagles, spindlefish, half-moon whales, seals, and various sea birds. Skiris is most notable for being a good destination for </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Graven’s Inlet</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Uncharted/Unclaimed:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rukna Hlotan </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">(Roo-kna Hloh-Tan)- Meaning “Broken Promise” in Trine, Rukna Hlotan is a chain of islands that is largely uninhabited. These islands are known as a haven for exiles from the Clans, especially those who have converted to other religions. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The Teeth</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- A large chain of fold mountains that provide a natural barrier between the Highlands and the Lowlands. In mythology, the Teeth are believed to have been created by Dhegram to bury the remains of ancient structures. It is believed that, when Dhegram was cast down from the sky in his true form, the collision created the Shelf at the End of the World, where a sizable chunk of the mountain range split off from the mainland. Some of his reverent followers believed that Dhegram found a way back to the buried castle, else that the Trinurian invaders took his bones there. Montane forests span the edges of the Teeth on either side of the mountains. There are many caves that contain relics of the Sunter and other ancient peoples. The Teeth inspire much awe in fear in the native people who live near it. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Darkrock Pass</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- A pass in the Teeth that separates the Trinelands from Tir Duine. It is called the Red Pass sometimes for being the location of many bloody ambushes. There is a wall that has been erected to keep the ulfur out </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Hashi’s Pass</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- A mountain pass on the eastern end of the Teeth that divides Hima and the mainland. Hashi’s Pass is a part of the mountains that wrap around and protect the eastern end of Himayeshi. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Empire Territories:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="-webkit-text-decoration-skip: none; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Hegros</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ager:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Mount Phumuyan </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">(Foo-moo-yawn, means “smoking rock”)- The large conical volcanic mountain that sits a few miles from Petramos. Mt.Phumushan is an attraction for many foreigners and has played an important part in its creation of large deposits of marble and calcite. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pales </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">(Pahl-Es)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">A grounds to the northeast of the main capital in the mountains. It is well-known for the Palesian Crater, a large impact site and the ground on which the Hektoni dwarves first started to mine meteorites. This is also home to the Hatasua, who learned their craft from the Hekton smiths.</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Alterica </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">(Alt-tear-ick-ah)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The land of heather in the mid-eastern part of Ager. Alterica is known as a city that skirts the proximity of the northern boglands. Though there is a diverse amount of species of shrub plants, it can be difficult to grow anything else in the acidic soil. Despite this, Alterica is still known and admired for its great beauty. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Imber</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> (Im-burr)- Known as the “rain cloud city”, Imber is known for the orographic clouds that pour like waterfalls over its scenic mountains. A beautiful location that is prone to plenty of cumulus pileus clouds on pleasant days and gorgeous cumulonimbus clouds during stormy weather. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Steppelands:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Shun</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Hrûrok</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- A series of cross-bedded sandstone formations and outcrops, most notable for being a haven for red lions and many types of ungulates, especially Caprinae. Hrûrok is a stunning example of the Southern Steppelands and its climate, especially around the Jaws. Hrûrok is an important landmark for the Khutsi, who regularly visit this location to breed Khurkhut rams. (Inspirations- Zion National Park, Bogda-Baskunchak National Park, Sedona, </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Aré:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-decoration-skip: none; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Landmarks</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The Palace Built By Ten Thousand Hands</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- A gorgeous palace that is famously built by slaves of the Bellehu family of the Magia. Outside of the gates, two quartz figures hold up a pair of planters. Two more individuals are holding two large braziers. (“</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>It was built with much blood, sweat, and labour. Good thing it was not our own</b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">.”)</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Unaffiliated or Unclaimed:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Empire Territories:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Cletu Ikini </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">(Clay-two Ik-ee-knee)- Hakimesh for “cleft ocean” or “child of the ocean,” the Cletu Ikini is a subterranean river that runs through the Makata karst mountains in south eastern and central Hegros. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">L’usho Ksha’ala- </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">A series of cenotes above the Cletu Ikini and other underground currents and water pools. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="-webkit-text-decoration-skip: none; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Shun</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Jaws of Nassa- </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">A series of large, gorgeous sandstone canyons, most notable perhaps for the smooth shapes that have been carved into the rock… as well as the Naga denizens that live there. (Inspirations- Antelope Canyon, </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Naiba:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Rawah River</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- The life-giving River that was supposedly made by the two gods, Varsa and Vasan, to save the fleeing tribes of Namir from dying in the desert. It leads into a bay further west and flows downward to the west and southeast, leading to a small oasis in the latter. (Inspiration- The Nile River)</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dunes:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Esnesian Border:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Nasagos/Nasga River</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">- A massive river channel that cuts through the continent’s jungle border and into Esnes. Passes around Leia and further into Ka. It has several points where it seems to loop or curl, leading to it being called the Serpent in the Aithiopan tongue. (Inspirations- Amazon River, Nile River, </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="-webkit-text-decoration-skip: none; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Wedor</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Neros:</span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Astra’za’s (Astra-Zah) Archway to The Heavens</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">: One of the wonders of Modern Nassavra, the Archway to the Heavens is a track where waterwheels and steam apparatuses help power lifts that raise visitors through a glass arch that travels from the bottom of the Egnesius Trench to the battlements of the castle. A handful of amunculi are posted on the walls, simple automatons that serve the purpose of calling out the time of day and greeting visitors. These are fashioned in the images of gryphocampi that overlook the city. Every evening before the castle closes its doors to visitors, the gryphocampi expel water from their nostrils in a misty spray using hydraulic power. </span></p><p><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Astra’za’s Handwashing Piccas</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">: Two fish automatons that “float” above a basin. Using a flush mechanism, one fish empties the water basin while another refills it with water from its mouth. Built by the legendary Shuni immigrant. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span></p><p><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-15724096877894791392020-11-04T14:08:00.002-08:002020-11-25T14:09:35.961-08:00Oinos and Duwos<p> </p><ul id="docs-internal-guid-6bebe181-7fff-f876-2dbd-851977257462" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Phures (Ka’gara)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, Mother Dragon of Fire, Power, Cunning, Inspiration, and Survival. She is the balance between life and death. Perhaps one of the most dangerous in nature. Her forms include a globe of fire and crackling lightning, a tall and luminescent woman wielding Poi, and a red dragon. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“The men who feared the flame soon fell to it, consumed by its fury. The man who feared it not, however, became the king of men. And those that saw that his hands could hold the fire marveled, and they too learned to fear it not, and behold! The bounties of the land became theirs.”</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ka’ll</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, the Son of Phures. Embodies power, the chaos of fire, and the freedom of living. The patron of those living in the Ashen Lands, the scoria halls of the area surrounding the volcano of Ager. Many warlords worship Ka’ll, believing that true virtue lies in embracing power and the freedom to exert change over others. He is often represented by an amorphous luminescent (vaguely humanoid) shape, a strong man with glowing yellow eyes and scalding hot markings on his body, a large bee with a flaming golden red stinger, and a hawk with talons that drip magma and eyes that can light fires.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Shén (Ka’shé)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, the Second Son of Phures. Represents the power of fire when contained, using your surroundings to keep others alive, and military might. He is said to live in the less volatile volcanic ridge, where his blacksmith Heite forges weaponry for his armies. His representations include a bent-backed man carrying a cauldron of molten metal where little iron people swim, a metal golem with a fiery heart and chips of meteorite for teeth, an alabaster scholar with a scroll case made of light, a woman with chisels and tools for reshaping people, and a cook who keeps a large firepit and tends to a feast. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">╔ ╬3</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ór (Ka’or)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, the Fourth Child of Phures and Third Son. Represents balance, justice, and hierarchy. The reign of Ór is famous, being highly influential on how Ager currently operates. Ka’or is the patron of the Golden City of Allure. He is often considered to have been the first code-giver, helping to share the doctrine of the Oinin with the masses near and far. Some even believe him to be the first king. His depictions include a kingly or queenly figure with many crowns of different fashions and metals up his or her head, a dragonoid figure with a set of scales and large sword in hand, a large lion with a gold mane and silver teeth and bronze claws, and a beaked dragon with massive wings and a circular crown of sunlight upon its head.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Sivern (Ka’ré)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, the Fifth Child of Phures. Stands for chivalry, honor, and loyalty. She is an ardent supporter of her brother Ór, whom she protects. She is often compared to the moon’s reflection of the sun, and so Sivern and Ór are often seen as the moon and the sun. Her servants, it is believed, are a mighty host of winged warriors who can come to the aid of any who call them. Her depictions include a silver hound with five tails- each with silver bells fashioned at the end of them, a warrior with a mirrored helm, a standard-bearer of a young age adorned in rich clothing who carries a silver horn, and a noblewoman on the back of a flaming chariot with silver wheels. Her symbol is a crescent moon that forms a silver horn surrounded by a host of winged birdfolk with weapons in hand.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ka’nagnos</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, the Sixth Child of Phures. A power-hungry dragon, he wanted to overpower his parents and made an attempt to unite other dragons against them. His forms are a massive red dragon, two cobras of, . His symbol is a skull being pried apart by the eyes and jaw, clutched in the claw of a red dragon. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dhegram (Dhe’kva)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, Father Dragon of the Nass, Fortitude, Endurance, and Sheer Strength. He is the one who shapes the world. Dhegram is seen as a force of general neutrality, although he is prayed to for shelter (such as caves) and to help strengthen one’s resolve.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> “And while the forests were laid low by the waters, the mountains kept vigil over those ancient lands. And all but those who tucked away in their cells of stone were swept away by the seas.”</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Thrakul (Dhe’nir)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, Dhegram’s first son and the first of the Duwos. He embodies new dawns, hope, and the creation of a household. In life</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dhegira (Dhe’tir)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, Daughter of Dhegram and leader of the Hekonites. Dhegira represents the exchange of secrets, the art of perfection, and the inheritance of tradition. Her forms are a long haired smith, a perfectly symmetrical sphere of glyphs, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Toirn (Dhe’du),</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Dhegram’s third son and the patron god of Tempestas. Torin was believed to be the first to introduce the concept of currency and perfected the art of equal exchange. He is hailed for being the god of commerce and duality, and in more recent years the father god of werebeasts- as not only do they represent the duality of the selves, but it is also believed that his blood helped to create the first werebeasts thousands of years before the Trinurians were born. As he was born of the union between Dhegram and a follower of Phures- a powerful mage- he has exceptional powers of His forms are a man with a bright red beard and skin of clay, a </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Gheim (Kei’mir)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, Father of Winter, Stoicism, Reflection, and Unity. Gheim is often regarded by his followers with reverence for his powers and respect for his abilities. Gheim is believed to have created winter to remind mortals of the value of life, and so his worshipers interpret winter as less of a punishment and more as a trial. Because resources are scarce, it is also believed that the coming of winter is meant to persuade unity among those who would elsewise compete. He embodies the enduring nature, and the promise that change will come again. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“For the ice returns each year, and so it will return the next.”</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Doron (Kei’ron)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, the patron god of Doronis. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Iresi (Kei’res), </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Jhimar (Kei’mar), </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Gheim’s third son. He represents gradual change, expressing grief, and recovering from tragedy. His forms are a young person with a wrinkled body and stark white hair, a large butterfly with tattered wings, a child covered in bandages, and an old sobbing man with dirtied hands.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Wesser (Es’re)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, Mother of Spring, Beauty, Empathy, and Nature. She is the deity prayed to most for good harvests, safety from the elements, boons of beauty, and rewards for good deeds. Although Wesser is often hailed as being the caretaker of nature, she is also as wild as it, meaning that her demeanor can change on a whim. Wesser is often attributed with enjoying the fleeting blessings of life, enjoying the good things while you are able, and holding out hope for positive changes. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">“Blossoms bloom but twice the year, so blessed is the eye that catches sight of them.”</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;"><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Nádura (Es’dru)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">, First Daughter of Wesser. Nádura embodies the true chaotic nature of the wilds, the balance of life and death, the balance of feminity and masculinity, and the mystery of the connections between all living things. Nádura is often feared by travellers who are lost in the forest, though prayed to to help guide them safely out. She is embodied by a large androgenous deer- with one antler and one half of its pelt spotted, a giant bear with various animals living in its fur, a giant spider with legs made of gnarled alderwood, a two-headed snake, and a panther whose tail end is both male and female.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: circle; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> A</span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b209d294-7fff-0254-80ed-eb89b6774f56"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hwen (H’wen)</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, God of the Winds, Migration, and Retribution. Hwen is the deity that is prayed to for safe passage over land and sea, speedy travel, and protection from the elements. In many motifs he embodies curiosity for new places and sights, carrying with him a knapsack and staff. </span></span></p></li></ul>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-43380254531889628392020-11-04T11:42:00.005-08:002020-11-25T14:09:55.449-08:00Draconic Dictionary<p> Hello!</p><p><br /></p><p>This is something I’ve been working on for a while. Dug up a piece of notebook paper with some old language notes for the Dragonborn clans. Hoping to adapt some of it for the Duhwin and Oinin speak :D</p><p>This definitely isn’t the finalized version, but it’s a start! The language is mostly made up of single syllable nouns that are strung together to make names and sentences. The idea of the Hehn might make it so that sentences are chanted almost like mantras. Have to figure that out, but it should be fun!</p><p><br /></p><p>For every name or word that is divided by an apostrophe, the breath changes from exhalation to inhalation and vice versa. For instance, the name “Malik’al” in Oinin would be (exhale, normal) “Malik” and (inhale) “al” . Another example is Ka’gara, the true name for the Oinos, Phures. Her name is pronounced (exhale) “Ka” and (exhale) “Gara”. (These rule sets might change in the future, I want to test them out with other names and sounds.)</p><p><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ka = Power</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Gar = Fire</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Kei = Cold</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ash = Snow</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Fro = Frost, frozen, icy</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dhe = Earth, firm, solid,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Kva = Shape, mould</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ol = Ball, sphere</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Kir = One who is...</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Mir = Blood, kin, bloodline, family</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Al = Jilted, abandoned, outsider</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Es/Us = Water, blood, ocean</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Bel = Radiance,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Bai = Gentle, calm</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ra = Bright, sun, harsh</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Res = Rain</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Re = Light, beam, warm, high</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Thra = Thick, heavy, large</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Tir = Thin, small, little</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Wen = Wind</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Hehn = Breath</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">H’ = Feminine aspect</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">A’ = Masculine Aspect</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ran/Ron = Think, to think, to process</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Do = Cold, rigid, stoic</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">La/Lo = Levity, loose, chaotic</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dru = Green </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Hru = Red</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Blu = Blue</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Naz = Yellow</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Haz</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Nir = New, innocent, fresh</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Kra = Sharp, claw, cut</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">On = First, one, only</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Du = Two, second, branch</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ir = Three, third, trinity, circle</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Cir = Circle, cycle, whole</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Ik/Rik = One above many, ruler (This is where the word “regal” comes from</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Mar = Change, alter</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Bar = </span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-b0b917d6-7fff-ef9b-671f-e2a031c63e2d" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b id="docs-internal-guid-4d08d322-7fff-9752-6edf-cbd2e81bb0bb" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dey/Dei = God, celestial, </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Deikir = One who is God</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dey’mir = Family of the Gods</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-size-adjust: auto;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br /><br /><br /></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dorva (from “Dorvakir”) = Dear, darling, love</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-size-adjust: auto;"><br /></p>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-52251608552086800532020-08-17T14:15:00.019-07:002021-01-19T11:40:43.765-08:00Castle of the Spire<p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-e8069287-7fff-6730-a643-2fef1b500eff" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Alright my friends! Be prepared because this is a big one! This is a big ole document of a bunch of ideas that I am working on for the world of Nassavra. It is not complete by any means, nor is it fully cleaned up and nice, so there are some spots where it might look a little gross. But hey! One step at a time, my friends! </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thanks for checking it out! </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Note: This is subject to change. I don't know exactly </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">how </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I'm going to edit this all when I'm going through it, but hey! We'll figure it out!)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><h1 dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 20pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kerdian Cultures</span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">DORU:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Heart Tree: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The central point around which Doru has been built is the Heart Tree- a prominent natural landmark that is believed to help the spread of magic throughout the continent. In many Kerdian religions, the Heart Tree is believed to be the point where mortalkind evolved. This is only partially true. Rather than being the original world tree, the Kerdian Heart Tree is actually one of four surviving offspring of the true Heart Tree from H’Steran origin myth, and the last one that is believed to remain wholly intact. While once there were many Deiyan trees serving as hubs of knowledge across the globe, they were cut down and/or destroyed in the First Wars. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ancient Academy:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Built up and broken down many times and by many hands, the Heart Tree Academy has been the source of education for many scholars, nobles, and priests. One of the largest hubs of knowledge in the world, the academy promotes multicultural perspectives and has stood for years as a symbol of peace between nations. There is a standard of diplomacy for all attendees which helps to forge meaningful interactions and respect between the figures of nations and groups.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Secrets Slumbering Far Below: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Deep underneath the academy’s foundation, tunnels have been carved out that lead to the roots of the Heart tree. It is at the base of the lateral roots that the god Woid and his children have remained for many years, extending their influence over the magic of the continent in the attempt to protect the world from the dragons- and the dragons from the rest of the world. Woid has cast a sort of slumber and ward on his kinsmen, keeping them from harm’s way. With each passing year, his control slips away, and each time that land is cleared to make way for a new kingdom he loses control of different parts of the tree. When it breaks, a new age of dragons will arise, and with it will come bloodshed. This explains why a world with more nature is inherently more magical, as the ability to read vibrations through tremors in the tree is otherwise lost (pseudoscientific explanations for magic and all that, being that by sharing life essence with the tree Woid can essentially “see” the happening in the world around him and transfer magic through a living vessel). </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">TRINURIAN:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Idols of Affection:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Hunts in Trinurian society are often a long and enduring ordeal. To show affection and care for one that a person loves while the hunter is away, hunters will sometimes take a bone or piece of wood and carve shapes, runes, and other images into the surface of the material. The more intricate it is, the more time and consideration that the hunter has put into it. It is often given to spouses, children, best friends, and on occasion the family members of a potential partner. Certain symbols represent ideals, like amorous love or chaste friendship. These are important marks of distinction. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tail Emphasis:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Trinurians take pride in their tails above all other physical features on their bodies. Individuals without tails are ostracized by society, while those born with a significant amount of them are considered holy and deified by their society. Because of the cultural impact and the perception of identitive determinism that comes with how many tails a Trinurian sports, gifts such as oils and soaps for cleaning tail fur, tail beads, and other adornments are all considered customary for the people.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many Shrines:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Similarly to the Duinians, the people of the Trinelands tend to set up many shrines for the various gods and spirits that they believe inhabit the woodlands and forests. In towns, there are specific protector spirits that are believed to inhabit the dwellings. Families will even have specific shrines for their household spirits where sacrifices of food and drink are offered to offer thanks. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rites & Rituals:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The three methods of sacrifice are as thus: Wounding, strangulation, and drowning. Servants of Cudin are bled and then hunted by hounds, as their lives begin and end with the hunt. Servants of Muir are drowned baptismally or are sent to sit at the bottom of the sea, their bones returning to make homes for the fish they once hunted. Servants Daireg- most typically druids- are hanged from the tree and, after strangulation, is buried in a mound at the base of the tree. Each of these sacrifices is meant to nourish the earth where the Trinurians have taken from: The flesh of the hunter feeds the wild beasts, the bones of the fisher/whaler give homes to the fish, and the bodies of the druids help to provide nutrients to the trees and other plants. It is an important part of Trinurian culture, although it makes other civilizations rather nervous when interacting with them. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dehmer Connections</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Trinurian have a strong affiliation and belief system as the Dehmer, who they first made contact with when crossing the Ice Bridge over onto the Mainland. This has been a great influence on their creation myth and ritualistic practices. It was the Trinurian, however, who interpreted the Moon as the realm of their ancestors, as it is revived every day when the night comes.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">New to Settling: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although the Trinurians have been around for many years, they had remained largely nomadic for quite some time. However, with the peace settlement between the people of Tir Duine, the Trinurains agreed to create a settlement that they could reliably be found at and settle into. The Moramers, however, do still have roaming villages in their own designated parts of the land.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Northern Lights</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Far in the North, at the cusp of Trinurian lands and even stretching beyond into unofficially claimed Ulfur territory, the sky opens up in flashes of vibrant color. It is said by some that this is the coming of H’Ster, as when she walked in the world, much of the sky always looked colorful with strange stars that no longer exist. The Trinurians, however, who do not necessarily believe in the Goddess interpret it as something different altogether. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Life on the Ild: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unique Mounts</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Horses are often skittish around Trinurian riders due to their natural predatory features. Trinurian, as such, have developed a manner of bonding and riding beasts that relies on a trust. The most common mounts for Trinurian are aurochs, as these animals have grown up and evolved with the Trinurian people for centuries. Aurochs are also one of the few animals that can accommodate for the ulfur’s impressive size. Other animals include “flathorns”, a kind of moose, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Moon Cycles</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The shape of the moon’s shadow is said to be the bridge of connection from the Spirit World, where the souls of ancestor Ulfur reside, to the Physical World. As such, it is the way their souls are revived. Warriors exist in the half-cycles (needing strong bridges to support their hearty bodies) and the Scouts in the crescents (as they are lithe enough to slip by on even the thinnest sliver). That is why it is believed that the tails are dependent on the moon phase. Those born under a new moon- that is to say, without a tail- are considered alien because they had no spiritual bridge to cross over on. Therefore, they are likened unto unnatural creatures. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Caste System</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Haflar/Halfar (In Ulvan dialect pronounced “Hal-har”): Alphal, the ulfur who runs things. Also called kings or queens in other tongues, the Halfar is responsible for keeping dominion over large packs and designating special responsibilities or duties onto others. They are the highest in the caste. While their role is not explicitly closed off to others, it is inherited upon birth by their progeny. It is a position that can be changed upon competence, but only by those with two tails or more. There is always one male and one female, though they may not be mates. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Warriors:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Omegas: Essentially the Halfar’s fools, these individuals are oftentimes the ones who bear the brunt of a Halfar’s vented frustrations. Despite the fact that they are subjected to violence and even other abuses, the omega is often protected fiercely by the Halfar. If the pack takes tormenting them too far, the Halfar will step in. Some romanticize the relationship, especially after the tale of Hurdi and her Omega, Jütta, became popularized. Omegas experience a lot of what can be considered “tough love” by other standards. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dominance Culture: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The idea of teamwork is the most important aspect in Trinurian society. However, there is also the concern of how dominant you are in that social circle. Everyone has a role to pick up in society. Sometimes you are the shit-shoveler. Sometimes you are the hero. It makes no difference the role, everyone recognizes how vital it is. However, those who can strive to be dominant even in those positions. If you are destined to wipe the scum off another ulfur’s paws, then you better be the best one that does it. The idea of bullying another is not an unfamiliar concept, and is often done to shame, dominate, or otherwise display higher standing above another person. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Family Oriented: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many Ulfur emphasize the importance of family and the unit, striving to survive together and understanding the importance of close knit social bonds. It comes as no surprise that villagers will know the name of everyone in their clan. Some Ulfur have difficulty recognizing humanoids by face and so instead recognize them by smell. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bastardization</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Children who are born as half-breeds are exceedingly rare. Iona is an especially rare case as she was born of a legally recognized union. Because there is little tolerance for this kind of relationship, she was deemed as “bastard” and docked of one of her two tails as a symbolic measure. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Highlands and Lowlands, and Islands Too: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is a long-standing rivalry of sorts that exists between the . The Lowlands, often called “The Land of Men” or “</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tìr Duine”</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, is</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> occupied mainly by the human civilizations such as . The Highlands, or “Ulvheim”, on the other hand, consisting mainly of boreal forests and tundras, is the birthplace and true home of the Trinurian people. The Ulfur began moving in closer to the greener lands some five three hundred years ago from the current timeline, when the ice of their homeland began gradually receding after the bodies of the dragons melted the ice away. The Trinurian, who have a traditionally packlike clan structure, became adversarial with the menfolk of the Lowlands after trying to claim swaths of the new land. The disputes between the Ulfur and the Men led to a long and bloody war with many factions. As more and more villages fell, the Men of Tir an Duine resigned to create an agreement with the Ghoffs of Central Hegros for protection. This led to conflicts against the people of Hegros and the Trinurians as well. Recently, High King Conall has wed with the princess of Respite, Catherine, near the border of Snow’s End. This marriage has effectively put an end to the decades long conflict between the raiding parties of Frosset and the humans of Fearann (the Flowerlands). This has also established a new potential form of religion and culture to the Trinurian people.</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trials of Bravery:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Bravery is an important ideal of Trinurian morality. Therefore, tests that help to prove a person’s bravery are not uncommon. They can include jumping gaps between cliffs, nighttime tests of courage, or hunting frightening beasts. Courage in battle is highly praised, where cowardice in battle can result in vilification and even exile. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trinurian Rule of Law: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Though Trinurians have a caste system that helps determine societal positions upon birth, there is a system of governance that is not solely established by birth, but rather by worth. There are clan systems that operate within the general chiefdom of the Trinurian society. That is to say that individual kin groups can exist within the same tribe of ulfur- be they under the jurisdiction of one leader or another. There is wealth disparity in Trinurian society, though it tends to be relatively egalitarian, with those who can afford to look after the weaker members helping them to survive. In ancient times, most Ulfur survived by sticking to their familial packs. This changed when the ulfur Trine came to unite the clans when the Is began to disappear. He created the first exogamous clan of ulfur, and the dhemur called his people “the Trinur”, which was later translated by Dunians to “Trinurians”. This is the system used today, and the people most often associated with the Ulfur. Essentially, there is one main High King and Queen that look after the other packs and help to make decisions that will continue their followers’ survival. The other packs are ruled by Moramers, who control certain territories and have families of their own that can inherit their positions of power. Most packs run around a hundred or so strong, but the High King’s pack is often around five thousand in modern times. The position of High King can only be taken by a warrior of his Clan, though through marriage, others can join into that Clan. While the High King is permitted to have many wives, the Queen can only take her one husband, though she has much power otherwise. These relations are exogamous. The most powerful people in Trinurian society are as such:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">High Halfår, High King (Alpha)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">High Halfar, High Queen (Alpha)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Moramer (Beta)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Warriors (Middle)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scouts (Middle to Omega)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Retired Elders and Pups (Middle, Protected)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spurned, or “Jütta” (Omega or Lone)</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Other Unaffiliated Ulfur Packs: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are packs of Ulfur that do not follow the Trinurian law. These packs still follow the Auld Ways, and do not associate themselves with the Clans much outside of their occasional interactions. They still behave in such a way that aligns them closer to their nature and tradition rather than the new traditions and order of the Trinurians. The other Ulfur of the world find Trinurians strange, because they “eat with, bant with, and even now mate with their prey.”</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">NAIBAN:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dyed Wyvern Eggs:</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wyverns are to dragons what monkeys are to men. That being said, they are an incredible and important genus to the Naiban people, who have built much of their civilization and survival around the ability to tame these creatures and their impact on the environment. Naibans enjoy creating reliefs or stories of their wyvern mounts (which are more often than not entrusted to royalty) on the wyvern’s first egg. If the animal is male, the egg is often from the wyvern’s parent.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Archery:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Though not openly embraced as a pastime or tradition for the municipality of Naiba, in the outreaches of Shun in the Dunes, there are several nomadic tribes that celebrate the art. While the Naiban people are the ones who perfected the relationship and art of riding wyverns, the nomadic people of the Dunes have practiced archery and mounted combat for centuries.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wyvern Diplomacy:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> One way that the Naiban Sharya and Sharyana show their affection for another world leader or nation is by giving them a wyvern, the emblem of their own nation. Naiba is the only place aside from parts of Anteros where wyverns still exist. By entrusting a wyvern with a world power, Naiba shows that they respect another group and embrace them as honorable allies. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Molting Season:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Though they remain hostile to many of the humans in Shun, the Nagas of the Jaws (a deep canyon in the desert) rarely show themselves outside of their home turf. During certain times of the year, many will often come out of their sandstone caves to shed along the edges of the rock. A man who walks the roads will know that the nagas are active when they see the skin. Travellers around this time of year take the molted skins and hang them as a warning for fellow journeymen on the roads.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Art Appreciation:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> One of Naiba’s main industries is the creation of beautiful tapestries. Girls and boys are taught from a young age how to make textiles, sew, and operate a loom. More often than not, they are also educated in the other arts as well, such as painting and caligraphy. They often create muraqqa-like texts from a young age, which they expand and add to throughout their lifetimes (or, at least, are expected to). While there are societal rules that pertain to interactions between citizens, there are significantly fewer restrictions on expressions through art. Considered a vessel for expressing freedom and a love of life, it is believed to be healthy to make works that reflect the artist’s thoughts, feelings, desires, opinions, and ideas.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Acclaimed Cuisine</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Sticking to the idea of creating beautiful things, this extends to Naiban taste. Naibans are renowned for their amazing culinary creations, which often varies from sweet fig pastries to dishes of spice and vegetables. They do not often eat that much meat, preferring the consumption of dunemelons, cucumbers, and hanging tomatoes. They are expert salsa makers. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Board Game Masters:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> In Naiba, rivaled only by the people of </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tiān, they are the undefeated masters of many games. There are a handful of games that are well-known across the continent. </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yadra (sounds like “yadora”)</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Translating to “war”, this one is famous among many soldiers and politicians for its strategic appeal. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Straka (Sounds like “storaka”): </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Translating to “duel”, this is a game that is often played in taverns for its fast-paced nature. Representing a sword fight between two combatants, the object of the game is to outmaneuver your opponent through means of advancing, retreating, footwork, and blocking. The dagger tile in the game is obtained on a player’s third successful parry. Players can get a Balestra if they are able to advance thrice in a row. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sarayin (sounds like “sarai-yeen”):</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rich Clothing</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Naibans are especially fond of wearing wyvern feathers on their clothing, often with arm-bands or bracelets, though occasionally necklaces too. Earrings are very popular. Shoes are often worn with sand-sifters- gilt bronze or copper shoe covers that help one traverse the hotlands with ease and are often crafted to be aesthetically pleasing. Palm-frond woven sandals are common articles for youngsters just learning the craft, and other palm accessories (and even toys, like frond-birds) are popular among youths. Although top and bottom combinations are not out of the question, many Naibans tend to wear single-piece robes (called a </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hasa</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or a </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bloom-Coat</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for its similarity to the shape and beauty of a waterlily) with a sash or cord (called a </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sama</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unity-Band</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">) around their waists. The sleeves on a Hasa are long and billowing, though sometimes with a tapered piece of cloth at the end that wraps around the finger. The fringes of these sleeves are sometimes tasseled. Beaded boots, sandals, and slippers are all common in Naiban attire. Decorations can sometimes allude to various things, such as societal or marital status, rank and position, occupation, ect. Additional adornments or styles oftentimes are a silent language to help tell someone what someone does or a bit more about who someone is. Archers will sometimes adorn three-fingered gloves, while </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Twins and the Mother: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Twins bring the rain and the Mother brings life with the sun. The religion of the Trinity (The Trisa, pronounced “turisa”) originated with the teachings of two great demigods, those being the beings Varsa and Vasan. While Varsa and Vasan both claimed that they had many siblings, they also accentuated the fact that they were the most powerful, but were always deferential to their Mother, She who is greater than any other. The Twins would often perform miracles for the Naibans, including making the land fertile where it was not before. This is where Naiba was born. These acts of holiness kept the native people of the land alive, and led them to believe that Varsa and Vasan were truly the greatest beings to grace their presence. Upholding this belief, Naibans celebrate these three even after the calamity of the Oinos wars and the disappearance of the two gods. Nonetheless, the people of Naiba often pray to the Trisa, believing that they will be able to hear their prayers and return one day. New relations with the Empire have put a strain on worship of the Twins, though worship of the Mother is still encouraged. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Three Worlds</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: There are three planes in the religion of the Naibans- Three heavens: Nama- Heaven, the Plane of Harmony and Creation, Nassa- Material, the Plane of Matter, Energy, and Passive Potential, and Nerén- Nassavra, the Plane of Truth, Discovery, and Personal Experience. Without one, the others lose purpose. For instance, if there is the Nama and the Nerén but no Nassa, there is no true home for all living beings to experience life. If there is Nassa and Nerén but no Nama, life would meet a finite end and would have no purpose to continue. If there is Nassa and Nama but no Néren, there is no reason for the Nama to be. The Triasa is very important in Naiban religion, and it is embodied by the three divines. Vassan represents Nerén, focusing on experiencing life and overcoming hardship, learning from one another and sharing these experiences of life. Varsa represents Nassa, embodying the cycle of life and death, and the change in the world as a whole. H’Ster represents the Nama, the body of Heaven and the celestial, transcending all material or mortal means. The experience as a mortal, the experience as a realized person, and the experience as a spiritual being.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Important Instruments</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Music is hailed as an enlightening religious experience in Naiba. The triana is an incredibly important instrument that represents the three kingdoms of life. This spike lute has featured in many forms of music throughout the ages (based off of the sanxian). As such, the instrument is carefully measured to have these three elements, represented by three strings: The lowest is the Nassa, the highest is the Nama, and the middle string is the Nerén.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Inventors and Innovation, Freedom of the Mind: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fireworks have been a very important new creation that has come out of Naiba. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Migrants of a New World:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Once denizens of Esnes (Hóstia?), Naibans originated as tribes that were enslaved by the Kash. A group of six families were spearheaded by a seventh- who claimed to have seen two beautiful wyverns leading them to freedom. They fled northward until they grew weary, dehydrated and exhausted from the long journey. Gheim and Weser, who had not seen the individuals, came down to their aid. They gave the weary travelers water and sheltered them under their wings. The travelers were grateful, singing the two Oinos’ praises. They shared a night of celebration with them, entertaining the Twins with stories of their daring escape. By morning, the two water dragons were lorn to give up their new companions. The Twins decided to adopt them, helping them find suitable shelter in this new land. Together they made an oasis in the middle of the arid spot, which would go on to be known as the Eternal Wellspring. The Naibans, who were used to working on large constructions for the Kashee, began making their own homes. Gheim and Weser were enthralled by the magnificent beauty of these places, though they started small, and became the patron deities of this new land. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spark of Hope, Lovers of Beauty: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The roots from which Naiba was born tells a tale of a group of immigrants who stayed hopeful in ugly and dire conditions. That is why Naibans tend to focus on the good things around them, celebrating the beauty in everything. They know that life can be short, and so it is important to treasure every moment that a person can. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Masters of Dance: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In Naiba and other parts of Shun, dance is considered an act of expression that is holy. By dancing, they are honoring and channeling the spirit of creation inside of themselves and sharing it with others. A few notable styles of dance include the Zirru (“jiru”) dance, or the circle dance, in which performers use a ribboned wheel to perform acrobatic acts. These dancers are often attired in flowing clothing so their performances are reminiscent of a sunwheel. </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJQr2oAB6i4" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJQr2oAB6i4</span></a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=oRcfsLrMw9U" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=oRcfsLrMw9U</span></a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Multiple Positions in Wyverynry:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> As the experts on wyvern handling and flying, Naiba has a multitude of positions for each aspect of wyvernry. All of these are considered very important- from the saddlemakers and bridlers, to the groomers who keep their skin hydrated and their claws blunt, to the dental hygienists who make sure that they don’t get any cavities and are maintaining a healthy diet. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Glasswork, Textiles, & Fine Arts Oh My!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Shun itself is home to a large and finely honed artisan community. Using silks from the . Glasswork and beading is important in Shuni culture as well. Naiba and Leia are both states that specialize in textile creation.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Expanding the Mind:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> It is believed that there are certain plants in the world that the Mother bestowed unto the people to help them expand their view of the world. These plants have been considered sacred for hundreds of years. Careful instruction of how to utilize these plants and safely experience their effects have been recorded by sages. These plants range from the fungi found around the damp cave of the Eternal Wellspring, which induce a psychoactive state, to a flowering plant that grows in the southern tropical parts of Shun. Abuse or overindulgence of these plants is considered criminal, and it is still upheld that it is the wrath of the Trisa that kills those who incorrectly use these plants for pure pleasure as punishment. Consumption of alcohol is limited to those who are deemed in a healthy state of mind and body, and who have come to the age of physical maturity (in Naiban standards this is 16). Those who wish to drink must have their identification pendants- custom made bronze or gilded medallions with the individual’s initials, tied around a thick red silk string. These are distributed by government offices when a citizen comes of age. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">City State Rule</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: All of Shun is operated through city-states; independent bodies that occasionally come together to help determine how best to cooperate. They are divided into these factions: The artisan city of Naiba, who celebrate The Twins and the Mother, and who have in recent times pledged themselves as a commonwealth of the Empire. The ore-rich city of Leia </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Incredible Music: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As all things of great beauty, many of the musical qualities of Naiban form is free and unbridled. Like works of art, they are felt and not anticipated. Many times music is improvised. Performances are filled with little lilts and quirks that make every performance heartfelt and unique. Naiban music especially is filled with things like gamakas and are performed like ragas. (Look those things up: They are super cool! :D</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIPraIlSmIk" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIPraIlSmIk</span></a><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Theatrical Wonder, Glorious Spectacles:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Naiban theatre is perhaps some of the most extravagant in the world, alongside the theatre of the Kital. Similar to the Kital, Naiban theatre comes in many forms. One is </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">akazi-amazi</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or the spectacle of water. Performers have water masks- those that change color with the application of mists and magic. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Akazi-Amzi </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">is characterized by large, exaggerated movements, memorable characters, and oftentimes epic storylines. The flow of a performance is fluid and smooth, transitioning seamlessly from once scene to the next. Sometimes skilled illusionists are hired to craft arcane backgrounds and settings to help immerse the audience, employing the use of lights and other arrangements of particles. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMIR:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Northern Shuni:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Living in the gelid lands of the Hima, the Gamir are the Shuni who decided to follow Varsa as opposed to Vassan. As such, they still have much of the same culture with a few slight differences based off of their surroundings.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Masi-Nasuna (“mashinasuna”) Riders: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Gamir are tamers of massive mastodons that live in the First Shelf. The word </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">masi</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> means “large” and the word </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">nasna</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">means</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“nose”</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. Though there were once much larger beasts that roamed the Shelf, the only ones that have been able to survive and that the Gamir have been able to sustain are the Masinasna. Similarly to how wyverns have greatly influenced how Naibans live and interact with other animals in nature, the masijin have served as the same sort of animal for the Gamir. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sharp as Ice, Cunning as Winter: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The followers of Gheim do not subscribe to the same jovial point of view as their Wesser-devoted kinsmen. In order to survive in the harsh climates of the North, they honed their focus of enjoying life into keen concentration. Those who live in Hima know that an unwary mind may face its end. They focus on the aspects of being that pertain to awareness, applying that to how they survive. Ice can be deceiving, and the reflection of its strength depends on the confidence of the one who views it. The Gamir are viewed more as realists compared to their idealistic Naiban cousins. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">University at the Top of the World:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> At the peak point of the Teeth lives, perhaps not the largest (that honor belongs to The Heart Tree Academy) but one of the most beautiful universities and monasteries in all of Kerdia. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Martial Experts:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Gamir do not profess their strengths and threaten their enemies. Rather, they quietly hone skills to defend themselves and protect others who may be in need, being alert for any situation without needing to try exceptionally hard. The Gamir are renowned for their martial prowess as well as their ability to wield a blade. Despite being reputable in combat, you’ll seldom find a Himiyan that advocates violence or let alone uses it without cause. It is always the last resort. One of the greatest lessons is that of gentleness. Soft steps do not crack the ice, but careless footsteps can rupture even the strongest of floes. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Impressive Feats of Creativity:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Like the Naibans, the followers of Varsa still believe in the acts of creation under the Mother. Their inventions are more practical, lending to their impeccable ability to survive and innovate. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yunya: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Gamir are believers in the Yunya, or the togetherness of the world. All life connects to one another, all beings are a part of each other, and in their own right are avatars of the divine. This is why they were siblings of the Twins and children to the Mother. Invoking the Yunya means recognizing that you are what you are, and that it is the potential to be anything. A man in the Yunya is like water- the essence of life, able to fit into many forms and take on many shapes, flowing and changing but still staying, fundamentally, as water. Anyone could aspire to learn the mastery of Hehn, for example. This sense of self-awareness is the ultimate awareness, which is what a Gamir aspires to and values. Himayehshi</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Secrets of the Breath through Meditation, the Hehnzi (“hen-ji”): </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Duhwin Gamir have long promoted the idea that any of their non-draconic kin can learn to share in the power of Creation. The masters have brought many into their fold over the years- be they human, dwarf, or dhemur- though one seldom ever sees any member of this clandestine organization.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Methods of Concentration: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As proper breathing is important, especially for the Hehnan (practicers of Hehnzi), there are various methods of relaxation that folks have taken up in the frigid north. These include stone balancing, making patterns in the snow, and practicing patience through firemaking. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Impressive Brows: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In Himiyan culture, the hairier you are the more attractive you are. As such, long hair and large brows are considered good-looking for most people. Eyebrows are often shaped and groomed to look appealing. It is not uncommon to see adornments of the brow. If you want to lend yourself an intimidating look, there are rings for accomplished masters of the Straka. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Difficult Life: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When the Gamir first arrived in Hima, they were met with great devastation. As such, their culture reflects a tragic history, even to the point where they have a word for “indescribable strife, a sense of desolation and despair”. The word is </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">doukhavi</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Forged Through Hardship: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Gamir, like the Naibans, believe that the body is a tool. The common belief is that it can be sharpened or honed throughout one’s life by limiting earthly connections and becoming one part of the whole- one breath in the collective energy of the universe. They believe that tribulations are the way to obtain a higher understanding of the importance of the life experience, being cultivated through discipline and determination. The sorrows bring out greater joys, and these can be learned but never truly passed down without experiencing them for oneself. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Community & The Individual:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The common Gamir belief is that there is an individual representation of the whole- the self- who must learn to become strong enough to support the community. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Emphasis on Chastity: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In Gamir culture, it is important that a citizen abide by proper dress code. This is for two main reasons, it is believed: Firstly, not wearing clothing that is appropriate for the environment can lead to loss of life, and more layered, concealing clothing is a sensible choice that helps to prevent hypothermia. Secondly, maintaining a chaste community helps to prevent too many resources from being expended helping to care for children. A highly virginal society does not have to worry about population sizes nearly as much. There is a dress code that is expected for men and women.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In-Depth Wedding Planning: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the vein of intimate relationships between two people, the Gamir take this process very seriously. The average courting time lasts upwards of three years before partners even consider marriage. This is customary for most people. When individuals wed, there are no legal means of divorce. That means that when a partner commits to another, they are both in it for the rest of their lives. Weddings are seen as very special occasions that need to be handled by experts. Gamir are known as some of the finest people to both plan the celebration and handle the legally, religiously binding parts that follow after. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">TIR DUINE:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Emphasis on The Supernatural: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duinans are known for being superstitious in belief, emphasizing the idea of luck and fate both. Any day could lead to a heroic destiny or sudden demise. Spirits, be they angry or peaceful, are both feared and revered by many living in Tir Duine. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rites & Rituals:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Duinian people are . Like PIE cultures, the three methods of sacrifice are as thus: Wounding, strangulation, and drowning. Servants of Cudin are bled and then hunted by hounds, as their lives begin and end with the hunt. Servants of Muir are drowned baptismally or are sent to sit at the bottom of the sea, their bones returning to make homes for the fish they once hunted. Servants Daireg- most typically druids- are hanged from the tree and, after strangulation, is buried in a mound at the base of the tree. Each of these sacrifices is meant to nourish the earth where the Duinians have taken from: The flesh of the hunter feeds the wild beasts, the bones of the fisher/whaler give homes to the fish, and the bodies of the druids help to provide nutrients to the trees and other plants. It is an important part of Duinian culture, although it makes other civilizations rather nervous when interacting with them. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wild Gods, Auld Ways:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Although it has largely fallen out of popularity, the Duinians were once known to be devout followers of a pantheon of divine beings that they called “diaga/daina.” They included the beautiful but spiteful spring goddess Breghi/Vári (Wesser), the stern but knowledgeable god of winter Dorius/Doriesan(door-ee-es-an”)/Hémata (Gheim), the goddess of war and new beginnings Fára (Phures), the god of commerce and duality Toirin, the trickster goddess of shadows Nagma, the smarmy god of wind and tempests on the sea Ciradha (pronounced “keirasha,” Hwen), the easily provoked god of the sea Muir, the god of sickness and health Copar, the great hound of the Echoing Woad Cudin, the horned hunter with stony skin Wyfic (Dhegram), and the wise but ambivalent old man Witan (Woid). The servants of these supernatural beings included the dryad husband of Breghi, Daireg. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Branch of Power: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In traditional Duinian society, dating back to times before even the Sunter, the most powerful member of a village wields a </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">widarm</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or a large stick or branch. Though little more than a simple, albeit impressively large, branch in ancient times, it has become more decorated in appearance the more prominently that it featured in Duinian life. A chieftain will sometimes carve intricate markings and lettering into his widarm, making it an object of beauty as well as a symbol of status. Others in a village, such as bards or healers, will sometimes carry wands with them to symbolize the extent of their authority and wisdom, being branches off of the chieftain’s authority. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trees of Life:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Tir Duine is known for a widely Druidic culture, which has still continued to thrive despite a shift in religious belief. A practice which is still very popular is Yúndrud, where a Ceanner will present to an infant twelve branches. Whichever one the child picks will determine what kind of person that they will be. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In Sickness and in Health:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The god Copar is the deity who is responsible for both pestilence and medicine. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Body Modifications: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Duinians are known to dabble in some rather unique body modifications. One such example is the addition of “head horns”, which became widely popular around the Age of Heroes with the slaying of the northern rockhorns. Then it became back pins, brow piercings likely picked up from the Gamir, and ritual scarring in the shape of leaf veins and pine needles. When it comes to the druidic people of Tir Duine- those who hold more animistic beliefs, residuals of a once peaceful coexistence with the Dhemur- some individuals will take on attributes of the animals or plants that they are worshipping. Those responsible for predatory tasks, such as hunting or trap-setting, sharpen their teeth. Those that are responsible for harvest and foraging slit their nostrils from time to time. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Resisting the Roots: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are some populations in Tir Duine that are hesitant to embrace the old ways, favoring instead the teachings of the Empire and the Saursi. If they were to be believed, they have no connections to the “brutish” nature of the old Duinians or the land itself at all. Despite this, there is also a deep pride for many living in Tir Duine. Most folk who distance themselves from tribal living live further East, while those who typically stick to their traditional ways live in the west and the north, mostly along the coast. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bug Buddies: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although considered unorthodox by some, it is common custom for Duinians to keep stag beetles and other insectoid critters as their pets. There are many uses for bugs in Duinian society, including certain events in which these bugs battle one another for entertainment. Bugs can also be bred for dyes, medicinal remedies, and food. Leeching is a popular practice that is said to cure blood-sickness (clotting) and help make one limber. Bee-keeping has remained one of the most important and ancient practices. Apiculture has fueled a custom of mead-making, which has also put Tír Duine on the map. All-in-all, bugs have many uses for many Duinian peoples, although eastern Duinians have become increasingly squeamish the more that they Agerise. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Call to Prayer/Meeting: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">An important tradition in Duinian culture is coming together in the evening for a village meeting. In the auld times, this involved prayer to the gods and, on occasion, sacrifice. Nowadays, it’s mostly just to check in and have the crier read off the events that are happening and send everyone off with a prayer of good health. One very useful thing about the Call is that it ensures that everyone is accounted for, something that was essential for clans in ages past when large predators roamed the woads. In some clans, sacrifice and spirit worship is still performed, though this is more common with Trinurians in modern times. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spirits of the Forests: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duinians have celebrated their beautiful and mystic homeland for as long as they have lived there. The strange combinations of animals and mysterious presences have all influenced Duinian beliefs. Shrines have been erected to “protector creatures” like massive stags and hidden tree folk for a long time, dating back to ancient civilizations. Powerful creatures calllikg the forests their home have been believed to protect the place for thousands of years. Bones are remnants of these giants, but some believe that they are not the only things left of them. For instance, there is tell that one of these massive bears still roams deep in the heart of the forest, but no one can tell for certain. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hexes & Curses: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you really want to show someone how you feel about them in Tir Duinian culture, you can sing a hex of illness to curse them. Even those who do not follow the Auld Ways wills till mutter grim things in the dark. The skeptical followers of Andros often dismiss these comments as folly… though they are quick to say protective prayers in the haven of their own closets. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">RAVOS:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Men of the Bogs:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> As rainfall is very common,</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fertility & Healing: </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fertility, in Ravosi culture, is often associated with acts of healing. As such, rituals intended to cure ailments or help the infertile are designed around sexual actions or ingestion/application of sexual fluids. These practices are thought to be restorative and are considered holy. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">NEROS:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Poetic Language: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The people of Bluneros (especially nobility) have polite mannerisms and phrases that can often have some nasty underlying intentions or hidden meanings. Though not always scathing, the way that this communication works is sort of a game of wits. It serves to show a form of intelligence and discipline while also conveying the message that one is meaning to say. For instance, rather than saying “you have no place here,” one might say “we have no comfortable seat for you in this house.” It’s basically burning people with roundabout phrases.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naval Mastery: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The people of Wedor have strong ties to the coast and the sea, as well as a firm knowledge of star navigation and reading astronomical signs. Though their land units most often consist of pikemen, their navies are some of the most impressive in the world. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Masters of Anemos</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: They are also spiritual people, purveyors of the faith of H’Ster, and have a blood lineage that they claim directly ties to her and her divine messenger, Andros. As such, the royals of the bloodline are the only known sorcerers in the modern history of Nassarva. The only people to inherit the ability of Anemos (otherwise called magic or Hehn) are the women of the family, as male descendants seem not to be able to possess the ability. Rather, the men are expected to take on the role of Andros and become masters of the sword and shield, training in the ways of rule and defensive combat.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matchmaking & Female Expectations:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> In the Western parts of Wedor, women do not receive many freedoms. As such, things like marriage and major household decisions are arranged for them. Women are idolized as the pinnacle of beauty, and so their weddings are designed to show them off as the most attractive of flowers. Brides engage in a month long period of extensive training specifically for wifely etiquette. Households will often devote lifelong funds into their weddings. The role of the mother is very important in Wedor society, often seen as the most important position in a household. Though it may appear mostly decorative, the law dictates strict laws that establish the wife as virtually untouchable. Once a woman is married, she wears a veil and/or gloves in all places but her household. Only her family is allowed to make contact physically with her, and a man that attempts to do so can be punished, being arrested or, in severe cases, drowned until death.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">An Emphasis on Elegance</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Just as flowery language is a staple of the Sekos culture, so too is the </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HEGROS:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Largest Kingdom: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros is home to Ager, the largest feudal monarchy in the world. Multiple kingdoms of their own pledge loyalty and allianceship with the Ager. Ager is known for their incredible feats of technology and perfecting agricultural practice to the point where it has left the kingdom very prosperous. Due to this wealth, it is a valuable neighbor for many of the people.. It does, however, have a nasty past of evicting native people off of their lands and claiming it for themselves. This has led to much deforestation and pollution in certain parts of the country. (A/N: Think of Ager like a fusion of the Roman Empire, Imperial China, and the Mali Empire. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Impressive Dynasties</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: For a long time, the epitome of power has been situated in central Kerdia. This is where Phures first formed her kingdom- an impressive empire that operated on an unprecedented scale. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Love of Shéner/H’Ner: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In Hegros, a sort of saintly figure, Shéner, is celebrated widely. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Honoring the Military:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Ager has a strong foundational militant culture that has influenced their social structure for hundreds of years. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Blades of Worthiness:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Sangas are gifted daggers of obsidian as well as specially carved jade swords, signs of being one of the highest valued people in the land. Generals get their black-glass daggers for their service. Knights who have performed exceptionally can expect to receive ornate ivory daggers. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Agerised Names: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is not uncommon for individuals in Hegros, regardless of their ethnicity or origin, to take on Agerised (think “Latinized” or “Han”) names, as it is the central language of the Church of H’Ner. This is the origin of the Laeden language. Because of the connection between Wedor and Ager, the naming convention for these peoples has followed the ones found in Neros. As such, the family is used first, followed by the familiar name. For instance, Gladyang Marimus and Gladyang Terus would be an example of two brothers. Females that are not familiar to a speaker are introduced by affixing “doma” to the front of the surname, men with “dom”, and highly respectable folk with the customary “altum.” For instance, if someone were to greet Marimus’ mother, they would say: “Good morning, Doma Gladyang!” If someone wanted to greet their father, they would say: “Good morning, Domxi Gladyang!” Marimus’ uncle is a very prominent councilman. If someone wanted to greet him, they would bow their head and avert their eyes, then greet him: “Goddess bless you, Altum-Gladyang.” When speakers become familiar with an individual and are on an equal basis, they often drop any honorifics and simply address their conversational partner by their familiar name. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relations in Wedor: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The continent of Wedor, specifically Neros, has strong cultural ties with southern parts of Hegros. In particular, the people of the kingdom of </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager have roots that are directly connected to the people of Wedor. This is due to the descendancy of warriors having migrated to Hegros from the coastal kingdom. There are native civilizations of humans and elves that lived there before too, though most of them have been adopted by the people of Ager. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tokens of Favor: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gift-giving is viewed as a sign of respect for good deeds. Families that serve one another often bestow gifts upon </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Social Tiers and Accessibility: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Similarly to how Phurian duhwin were the ruling class over other groups like Phurian humans, the wealthy still maintain control over other parts of the population. It is not uncommon to have noble families of lower rank serving members of a higher-ranking household. As a matter of fact, sending a daughter or son to a household as a sign of loyalty can lead to lucrative opportunities for a family. As the Phurian doctrine is “</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One hand washes the other</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">,” interactions such as these facilitate mutual gain. For individuals seeking to advance in a social circle, introducing themselves to other members of the Opulent is key. Those not of noble birth can seek entering more prestigious ranks through military service or other forms of servitude, such as bookkeeping, medicine, or the joining the clergy. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mummery:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Many parts of Northeastern Hegros are well-known for their mummery pageants, which often depict the tales of various heroes of Humanity throughout the ages. They have a. The grandest celebration that is held is called “Mementus”, and it shows the struggle of the menfolk of the world against their many foes, including the dragons, Trinurian, Dehmer, etc. This is also a celebration of the figure Andros and is often a time when young heroes find it best to prove themselves with tackling local quests or feats of glory.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Geneverum:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The church of H’Ner has far reaching branches of influence in the Heartlands. Hence, the Geneverum (Branch of Truth) was born, teaching all about the gods, heavenly figures like Andros, and spreading the faith of H’Ster. The Geneverum is essentially the Vatican in Kerdia. The Vera Doctras (docente veritate for correct conjugation), or the “teachings of truth”, are the holy text of these people. In it, a child of H’Ster aspires to reveal the truth, no matter how painful. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Factions of the Opulenta:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Harvest & Fertility:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The fields of Hegros are a very important part of the continent for a great many kingdoms. One celebration that is held across the land is called “Senes”. It is, in its essence, a grand harvest before the coming of Winter. In preparation, the people gather and work together to brew beers, reap crops, and make communal meals together. It is essentially a big neighborhood potluck, and everybody is expected to be able to participate. It is a great time of year for impoverished citizens, for all the food is available to any who come. At the end of the weeklong celebration, the most able-bodied carry the remaining food reserves into the churches and granaries and prepare for the long winter. The children often take up the role of the lantern-bearers who stay by the coopers’ sides and keep them warm. The city of Cil’Oleris is known in particular for its incredible agricultural accomplishments and production, while cities like Cil’Kashus and Cil’Frima are well-reputed for their technologies. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Slayers of Many Things:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The people across Hegros have a longstanding history of interactions with the variety of magical folk that inhabit the lands. This ranges from fey spirits to monstrosities, but each and every one of them, Hegranders pride themselves on surviving and conquering each one. They also are known for their concentration of human population and strict adherence to discriminatory policies against other races. This can come of as blatantly xenophobic to some more magically inclined individuals. It is not uncommon for history books to be filled with proud images of Dehmer and Naga being slain like beasts, or the bloody conquests that they’ve sported over “lesser humans and humanoids.”</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Discrimination:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Aré is known to have some unsavory views on many inhabitants of Nassavra. In particular, a longstanding rivalry with the Dehmer of the Grasslands has led to a plethora of negative interactions and discriminatory policies. Dehmer are viewed as brutish and unworthy of equal treatment, and so too are men of Tir Duine and Shun for the most part. Enslavement is not uncommon for many of these people. Beastfolk are viewed as incapable of possessing sentience and are treated as animals. They can even be hunted with special permissions. In the noble districts of Aré, dekur are considered a choice meal for the royal Magia. This abhorrent treatment of so many has led to Aré becoming a place that many go out of their way to avoid, but this suits the cloistered people of Aré just fine. The Magia often go out of their way to reserve interactions with outside states to those of Ager, Wedor, and occasionally Doru- they do not typically seek out the company of others.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tokens for Affection: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While much of the common populace abide by religious principles emphasizing chastity, there are old-rooted practices of what is perceived as debauchery in the state. Drinking, enjoying lavish entertainments, and pleasures of the flesh remain a pinnacle part of Aré’s history that have (in the past) helped bring in many nobles from surrounding lands to spend their coin there. As such, there are entertainment districts that remain intact. A special kind of currency, called pleasure tokens, have been developed to denote time that an individual can stay at one of these districts- sort of like an admission ticket. They are directed to the proper location for them to spend their time based off of the value of their token. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Several Currencies</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The lowest value coin is the “sickle”, followed by the “steed” (equating to twenty sickles), followed by the “krazal” (equating to twenty steeds). One of the rarest currencies, equating to forty krazals, is the “palace” coin. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">City of A Thousand Kites / A Thousand Paper Wings:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Cil’Kova is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places in all of Aré. The prince was once a fan of flying his kites on blustery days when the spring season came along. When he died in a tragic horse riding accident, the krazal erected a monument of many kites. Every year the people hang them up to honor the young prince and bring beauty and happiness to the season. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Abundance is Everywhere: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Centaurs?: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I don’t know if I want to add in centaurs yet, so we’ll see about this. If so, though, this is the homeland for most of them.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Horse Country:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Hegros is the home to most horses on the continent. It is also considered to be the origin of horseriding, though this has been debated. Regardless, Central Hegros has a large variety of fine animals to choose from. That is part of the reason why it is such a popular spot with nobility.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dogmatic Piety: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The land of Hegros is known to be strict in its worship of the Mother and the Father. Those most devout of men and women who aspire to follow in Andros’ footsteps even go to such lengths as to try and make themselves long of limb and finger, stretching their bones in their youths to accomplish this or adding artificial extensions later in life. Others wear heeled shoes to appear taller. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Antolese Nation</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Masters of One Voice</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Antols believe that to master the art of the voice and channel those voices of their ancestors, there is a specific way of singing. Essentially, this form of singing allows for multiple tones to be heard at once (polyphonic singing). As such, it plays a part in many sacred ceremonies, as well as recreationally for general music. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Following the River of Stars</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Antols are nomads by nature. Similarly to how the Khaamuk and Khutsi raise Dhegram’s sheep and rams, the Antols raise kinky horses and </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">DANS:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Land of Flowers: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps one of the most beautiful places in all of Kerdia, Dans is most renowned for its sweeping hills of flowers and mountain passes speckled with bright, vibrant colors. As Dans is on an island strip, the volcanic activity around it has created a sort of rich basket for unique flowers to grow, thermal winds carrying flowers far and wide. Hence, Dans was thought to have been blessed by the star Gods (or now H’Ster) to have beautiful spring months.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Intense Natural Disasters: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That, however, did nothing to speak of the absolute power of the natural disasters in Dans. Plagued by earth-tremors, volcanic explosions, massive storms, and tidal waves, Dans was as beautiful as it is deadly. It was described by Androsi missionaries as “the last sight to see before death, and likely the cause of it.” Still, that does little to frighten the citizens who live there. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Home to Genius: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dans is known to have a high population of geniuses, most of whom live in the isolated village of </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shorter Populations: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The people of Dans are more typically on the shorter side, although this has been known to not always be the case. Primarily in the Eastern part of the Shivers, there are a smaller group of people called the </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Owners of Prized Pets: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps known to house some of the most amazing animals, Dans is known for incredible populations of fauna- those who were native to the island before evolving to be larger and those who were introduced to the island from the mainland being smaller. Some examples include the Giant Parrot, the miniature elephant, and the first lap-sized domesticated cats. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fine Wines and Fun Times: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The nature of Dans’ volcanic activity had initially coated much of the land in ash. Farmers took the opportunity to plant wine grapes in the moisture-retaining soil. There were many methods of doing this, though one of the more popular options involved braiding the vines together. Dans is known not only for the unique flavor of their wines, but also for the novelty of how they are produced. Between the natural and widely unfamiliar beauty of its geography and the taste of its renowned wine, Dans is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cliff Diving!: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Indeed! As mentioned before, many individuals flock to Dans for a memorable getaway. An attractive pasttime activity for many- initially for the native Dansish- is cliff diving. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Navigating the Churning Waters: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The ocean is not always kind to the people of Dans. Therefore, the Dansish people have found creative ways to navigate the waves. In their first explorations to various islands, a few villages invented sailed canoes to help traverse into uncharted territories. To this day, small ferries help carry passengers across the waters and into other parts of the land. This is also a popular method of getting to the mainlands.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 180pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">DEHMER</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Origin of the Name: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Some members of human societies translate the name of these people as “Dehmer”, the prefix “deh-” meaning “to give” and the suffix “-mer'' referring to the word “death”. In this respect, the dehmer are, therefore, “those who give death.” The thought process behind this comes from the old story of Ishu, the first Dehmish person to confront archaic humans. Though the Church argues this point, it is actually more likely that the name “Dehmer” is actually translated as “Dhemur”, which in Dehmish tongue translates to “Earth-person”. This is derived from the fact that The Dhemur came from Sunter kinships in ancient Kerida that lived alongside Dhegram and acknowledged their place as ground-dwelling people. The dhemur, therefore, are those who are born from the earth.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Definition of “Dehmer”: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The word “Dehmer” refers to a group of hominids who have been systematically and mainly feared by a majority of humans for a very long time (orcs, ogres, trolls, and goblins), while the “dhemur” are a specific subcategory of peoples within that group (orcs). Because dhemur are not only more common to Kerdia but also have very close relations with humans, it is a popular concept for most heartlanders of the Empire to label any hominid that is not an elf or dwarf as “Dehmer.” </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Varied Viewpoints</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The treatment of the Dehmer peoples throughout the history of Nassavra has been varied in reception. They have been feared and rejected by most societies, and have been celebrated and welcomed by others. Oppression of Kerdian clans has existed for a very long time, ever since men formed kingdoms. Some tribes have taken to this by behaving in a violent fashion, cutting their ties to sentimentality and focusing solely on survival. Other tribes have taken to trying peaceful tactics in the hopes of keeping their people alive. As such, the two main divisions are the Urgadag (the confederation who believes that preservation will come through a strong offense) and the Yalzmag (the group that believes that pacifistic methods will help keep the Kerdian cultures alive). </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Uneasy Alliances: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Just because some Dehmer peoples have banded together against a common threat of the Empire does not inherently mean that clans get along. There are many hostile relationships that still exist between groups, some of which have lasted for hundreds of years, and some of which still currently threaten those feuding societies. But there is always a bigger fish, and fighting two wars at once is hardly an easy task. Some groups have called for ceasefires, others for aid. Whether these relationships will last is anyone’s guess.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rites of Passage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Dehmer in the Urgadag faction often have ways that they have to prove their strength and ability to kill without flinching. These methods include raising animals in youth to killing and supping on them, enduring hazing and remaining conscious, and being sent out into the mountains to survive for weeks on end. Many of these practices are the influence of the Ulkrûn, a northern faction who have helped found and lead the Urgadag Confederation. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">DHEMUR:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">General:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Heroic Mythos and Buried Kingdoms: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is said that in days of old, before the great wars befell all of mortalkind, the Goddess Mera contacted the Dhemur hero, Ishu, speaking to her through a grain of sand in her ear. She delivered her son Dhegram (known also as the Dhemok, or the Nass-Son) to show the Dhemur the impermanence of their structures by splitting in twain and casting it below the stones of the planet. No longer blinded by greed, Ishu realized that the best way for her people to live was in harmony with those things around them. She learned from the Khaamuk, a tribe of pastoral people who had lived in the region long before the Dhemur kingdoms ever rose to power, in the ways of living in harmony with the land. She helped to build the first Salkek- a kind of sanctuary for hunters and gatherers- and encouraged her people to follow her in a new way of living. Other kingdoms of Kerdian Dhemur soon followed suit, giving up their own homes to Dhegram to bury. These kingdoms became lost to time, and soon were covered up by humans that followed Phures and other Oinos. The dragons- consumed by desire for the protection of the Duwos, wealth, and worship- built up new civilizations. They eliminated competition for their affections, punishing those who built idols to any but them- including kings and mortal rulers. In particular, the fire dragon Phures founded a new empire of men and women to be ruled by her and her children. Those of the Empire branded others incompetent and lesser to further establish the reasoning for their totalitarian control. Some Kerdian Dhemur have not forgotten their old ways, but many choose the alternative of a harmonious lifestyle. Most of these structures live in story alone, else slumbering in their catacombs below the Nass. There are still those Dhemur living in Esnes and Anteros with kingdoms of their own, however, who consider the Followers of Ishu to be queer and “barbaric” in their lifestyles. The ancient Kerdian kingdoms still have denizens, however, though forgotten by time. These children of the tribes of Hurr and Ba’lu have long dwelt in the old keeps that sleep in the ground. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Transhumance in the North and East, Nomadic Pastoralism in the South:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> While the northern and eastern parts of Kerdia are more often afforded arable land from which herders can reliably bring sustain their livestock, the nomads of the south must continually seek out spots for their beasts to graze. Permanent housing is more a staple of the eastern tribes, whereas the people of the southern tribes more often than not establish semi-permanent residences. Some have taken to moving from salkek to salkek, finding a reliable spot to settle down for a while, though the hesitation in doing this is accidentally preventing other tribes from having enough good grass to feed their own animals.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Underground Kingdoms:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Although most have forgotten about those who followed their great castles underground, the children of these old kings and heroes still remain. Sometimes called “Hurrur” (meaning “people of Hurr”) in the Balite tongue, or known more colloquially as “Burrur”, “burrowers” or “troglodytes,” these subterranean dhemur have been around for thousands of years, rarely making an appearance outside of their underground dwellings. Hurr warned of risking cataclysm if the Dhemur abandoned their keeps, claiming that disobeying the will of Dhegram and following their castles underground would be the only thing to keep his people safe. He sensed change on the wind, and the tides of war in the future after the birth of the first Duwos, the stone half-dragon Thenn. When a parent has a child, they will naturally want to provide the best for them, even at the detriment of others. Downwards the Hurrur went, carving into the stone and still practicing the arts of magic against the will of the Oinos. They believed that it was the only way to keep themselves safe. After the death of Dhegram and the Fall that Shook the World, the Hurrur truly did believe that the end had officially come. The surface world was all but forgotten over the years, becoming a mythical wasteland that was feared and loathed. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Passing Along the Stories of the Ancients:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> To the Kerdian Dhemur tribes, keeping the stories of those that came before alive is essential to their identity. While most dhemur keep historical accounts, epitaphs, and numerical records on tablets, they recognize the importance of keeping secrets. There are some stories that must be told by tongues alone, lest they lead to dangerous consequences. Those tales of the old kingdoms- of where they were buried and how they were built- are known only by a few who have sworn never to reveal the information to those who cannot be trusted with such knowledge. Many stories of morals and heroes live in songs told around the fire. These are important foundations for bringing the tribes together, building a sense of community and heritage. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dhemish Cycle:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Dhemish Cycle is a phenomenon in which the various tribes of Kerdia cycle through the land. This is mostly done at the turning of each season. For the tribes of the Steppes and the Savannas, the route leads south in the fall, northwest in the winter, east in the spring, and then to the center for the Semes. For the tribes of Sneigh, the route leads them east for the fall, south for the winter, west for the spring, and north in the summer. The Cycle has been observed for many years by hundreds of different cultures. Though each tribe travels a different path, they are meant to eventually meet at one location at the end of the year: The Heart Tree. The tribes have picked routes to travel for thousands of years. It is thought that these paths have not changed in all of that time, though exceptions have been made in recent history with the divisions between the Yalzmag and the Urgadag. The Dugu continue to embark on the same journey as their ancestors, however, almost step for step.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Worship of Living Things:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Followers of Ishu hold a special reverence for all living things, believing that all life holds the essence of Hehn. Many groups have taken to identifying themselves with traits of animals, plants, and natural features. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Marriage, Bondmates, Kinships, & Other Partnership: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Within Dhemur societies, the ways that tribes perceive how social structure is organized varies from tribe to tribe and clan to clan, though the original laws laid down by the hero Ishu have established some aspects. The role that marriage plays in a tribe is largely dependent on what the society deems appropriate, necessary, or beneficial. Political marriages exist, with mothers giving away their children (most often their sons) to find exogamous partnerships. In many tribes, there is a standard practice of having “lifemates” or "bondmates"- individuals that you choose who are your closest relation outside of family. This relationship is not quite as binding as a marriage. Ishuite lifemates gather food and resources together, eat together, and live together. Lifemate bonds can strictly be strong friendships, though they are often permitted to engage in coitus that does not result in impregnation. In some societies, this practice is shunned- considered antiquated- and a lifemate partnership simply equates to marriage and impregnating partners/rearing children is left to one partnership. What standards are acceptable vary from tribe to tribe and person to person. The Khurin, for example, choose exogamous partners for life and stick to a monogamous lifestyle, emphasizing a moiety for the tribe. The Khutsi, Khaamuk, Aldamorg, and Shakula all allow for multiple partners, although individuals are expected to remain faithful once they’ve entered a marriage. The Gar-Asga operates in matriarchal polygamy, where men are considered necessary only in small numbers for reproduction and have next to no relationship with their descent group, and often has an alpha individual to whom a pick of partners is permitted (oftentimes for the purposes of pleasure, but also to continue one’s legacy). As most Kerdian Dhemur groups are either fully egalitarian or matriarchal, the act of choosing suitable partners and initiating courting is viewed, societally, as the woman’s responsibility. In almost every Kerdian Dhemur societal group, the responsibility of raising a child is largely communal, though it is primarily attributed to the parents. A female of the Gar-Asga tribe might have several husbands and wives to look after her children, for instance, even if the child is not biologically theirs. There are clan systems within many tribes, with some tracing their lineages back to founders of the tribe. This is not inherently determinate of positions in the social structure of the tribe. Most Kerdian Dhemur groups have- at least traditionally- operated in such a way that clans come together and discuss what needs to be taken care of in </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Salkeks & Other Shelters: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dhemish </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Salkek” </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">is a structure that is designed to be a safe haven for hunters and gatherers go enter when either they are being chased by a predator, are in need of food and drink, or are trying to outlast a storm. They are often constructed of stone and have carvings of animals on their pillars. Most are guarded by a heavy portal with windows allowing for easier access. Fountains inside collect rainwater from a hole in the ceiling and allow hunters to take respite. There is often space for a fire pit to be built as well. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From the Earth</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Dhemur call themselves this based off of the mythology that originated in Hostian tribes, where the humble beings of the Nass were called “dhem-ur”, which literally translates to “ground-people.” This is partially what inspires the Han-Dhemur to return to the deep below as they believe that they will find safety in the place from which they originated. This is in juxtaposition to the largely human, elven, and dekur creation myth which purports that people came from the World Tree.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Strong Traditions: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For Kerdian Dehmer, the idea of keeping the lifestyle of harmonious existence with the land alive is considered to be honorable. This idea was popularized by the religion of Ishu and Mahra Mera spreading throughout the heartlands a long, long time ago after the heroic mythology of Ishu traveled about the continent. Though there were old, vast structures in antiquity, the Dhemur sacrificed the complexity of their old lives to save the world from destruction. Some ascribe to this idea, though thoughts have shifted over time and the concept of unity has begun to falter throughout Kerdian populations due to disagreements between tribes. This division became even more defined in the aftermath of the Oinos Wars, where many Dehmer died protecting smaller human civilizations and fighting in Dhegram’s armies.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Friend of Death</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Traditional Dehmer belief states that death and life are essentially one in the same. Life itself is viewed as zoophagous. Death, from this perspective, is not something to be feared but rather embraced. Funerals where the dead are buried or burned do not exist in most Ishuite cultures (unless with specific purpose, such as dealing with plague). Rather, the dead are honored practically, their bones becoming spears, tent poles, bowls, and fuel for fires. Practically only instance where the dead are cremated is when they are ill. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Hyenas of the Steppes</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: This they are known as for a few reasons: It is believed in Dhemur creation myth that for the society to be the strongest of the children of the Sunter, the Dhemur were created about equally in terms of innate physical size. The women are inherently larger than the males in terms of height, while the men are often times more stout than the women. The second reason is the cannibalistic practices which some tribes share. Although some of these tales are mostly exaggerated to frighten Hegresian children and alienate dhemur, there have been some stories that bear fruit. (Though civilizations of men- such as the ancient Arésians- have also been observed eating Dehmer in the past as well) Some believe this is due to Kuru, where the disease also causes spontaneous bursts of laughter. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Body Paints</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Dhemur tribes, in all parts of Kerdia, have a tradition of wearing what they call “</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tat</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">û</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">ks</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">,” which are body paints that are worn in preparation for an excursion. A tatûk will often times compliment the patterns of pigmentation that dhemur sport on their backs, arms, and necks. The colors and patterns have different meanings depending on what one is going to do. For instance, huntings paints almost always consist of bonemeal and some kind of local earth colored fruit, such as sandthorn or gooseberries. This prevents flies from bothering hunters. War paints are painted in jagged stripes and are almost always vibrant and bright, a mixture of red sandstone (chalk in the north, ground shale or peat in the west and Esnes) and fruits that sport attractive colors, like sandthorn or gooseberries in the southeast, mullberries or snowberries in the northwest, and bayberries in the east. Each tribe has a unique face paint that they wear at the end of the Cycle to help more easily identify one another by tribe and status. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Funerals</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> & </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Honoring</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Kerdian Dhemur of the East and Grasslands have interesting methods regarding how they hold their funerals. While they do honor the dead, they do not often do this by keeping their remains preserved or by burying them. Rather, communities make use of a deceased community member’s body by stripping it down and tanning their hide, using the bones, and- if the food sources are scarce- devouring the body. The special instance in which certain great and influential figures are preserved is by taking the head of the revered person and shrinking it. Most often, these heads are collected in a mass catacombs, or a </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spirit Garden</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, where members of the society can come and take a look at the greatness of their past tribe members. It is not uncommon for family members to wear necklaces, knives, or adornments that are fashioned from the deceased’s bones or other body parts. Perhaps the most common accessory made this way are the prayer fetishes. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sacred Animals: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For many Dhemur, the crow is considered a symbol of camaraderie and unity and is therefore an animal of good luck. There are even special positions in many tribes called perches (sometimes perchmaid or perchlad) that carry tall poles on their back specifically for the birds to rest when trained. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Different Horns for Different Threats: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Often times a Salé hunter will carry with them a set of two horns with multiple holes for different pitches, while a Nalé hunter will carry upwards of four with two simple tones. Different combinations are often used to convey complex signals. The idea for using this among the Urgadag came from the Khurin tribe, known for their impressive calls and birdlike structure. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Friend or Foes: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tribes that get along include-</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Traditionally</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">) Khaamuk and Khutsi, with the Khutsi acting as protectors for the Khaamuk</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tribes that don’t get along are-</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Northern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dhemur tribes of northern Kerdia are the </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Makuk</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Boars of War:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The name for this particular group of people, the Mermakuk (often shortened to “Makuk”) have a proud history of military might and ancient halls filled with the names of warrior poets. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Permanent Place:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Unlike the majority of the tribes, the Makuk do not move at all throughout the year, save for the end of the Cycle when all the clans and tribes come together. Rather, they ascribe to the traditional practice of having a dedicated place to stay. While they do not have their old kingdom, they do still keep modest villages and stick to a relatively agrarian lifestyle.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bargaan</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trappers & Survivalists:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Bargaan are known for their skills in hunting, fur-trapping, and bushcraft. In the northeastern highlands of Sneigh, being well-prepared for wintertime come fall is very important. The Bargaan are often contacted by local people for aid in maneuvering through the mountain passes, surviving the harsher winters (especially in the further reaches of the north), and purchasing food and furs for long treks through the valleys.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Masters of the Mountains:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> For years, clans of the Bargaan tribe have prided themselves on navigating various ranges. From the Teeth to the Talasha, there are few mountains that have not known the Bargaan. One key source of the tribes income, in fact, is delivering travelers safely to their destination. Those members who have taken to travelling elsewhere often put these skills to use outside of their homeland. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guardians & Giants:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> There is an origin story for the creation of the tribe that has featured in many related myths in legends to peoples in the region. According to Bargaaninan myth, it all began with the still-surviving </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulkrûn</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chiefdom & A Culture of Heroes: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unlike many Kerdian groups, the Ulkrûn have a form of social stratification that has increased competition within the society and also led to successful expansion of their influence. Since concurrent viewpoints among clan members are not necessary to make decisions, there is more that can be accomplished by force. The leader of a group often comes from a lineage of heroes. Those who have proven themselves in some way (most often in combat) may be considered worthy enough to inherit the title of belak. The Ulkran structure of governance has greatly influenced the Urgadag organization, as many of the practices and beliefs of the Urgadag are directly derivative of Ulkran values.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Deirne:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Sometimes called “the Deirnmen” (the hidden river men) by the folk of Tír Duine, the Ulkrûn are famously known for their incredible guerilla tactics and ability to seemingly come from nowhere. Typically inhabiting the forests at the base of the Teeth, the Ulkrûn have spent years mastering the art of disappearing into the forest, for the sake of hunting and war alike. Since they are highly competent raiders, the Ulkrûn tend to like hitting hard with as few casualties as possible.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Raids & Strikes:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> For the Ulkrûn, opportunity is everything. When resources are limited and the climate of Sneigh is fierce, the Ulkrûn do whatever they can to ensure that their tribe survives. This includes raiding, which has become a large part of Ulkran culture. Ambushes are not uncommon in the boreal forests where they reside. The Ulkrûn do not aim to kill every time, but those who refuse to surrender are expected to fight to the death. The tribe has gained an unsavory reputation of kidnapping and enslavement. Because of these provocative tactics, the Ulkrûn have a very bad reputation among all of Kerdia, particularly in Sneigh and the northern parts of Ager. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Code of Honor</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Despite this, however, there is a distinct code among the Ulkrûn regarding treatment of kin and strangers both:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Respect the Dead: Do not disrespect someone who is dead unless they perished as a coward. If you do, whatever consequences that come to you are well-warranted. It is believed to be ill luck to speak negatively of the dead, and is even thought to bring grave misfortune on the tribe. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Prisoners of War: While an Ulkran can take enemy warriors as prisoners, one is expected to treat them as dignified fighters and not slaves. This courtesy is extended to everyone, no matter their origin. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Brethren Come First: If there is a dispute between your kin and a stranger, you stick up for your kin, no matter what. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fierce Warrior Culture: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While many Dhemur tribes are falsely identified as warrior peoples by men of the Empire, this claim holds true for the Ulkrûn. The Ulkrûn believe that the ultimate strength comes from cooperation, but they also believe that this strength gives them greater jurisdiction to take from those who are weaker than them. This mindset has led to hostility from outsiders, though it is not difficult to earn respect from the Ulkrûn if a society proves that they are willing to fight back. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Drink the Blood of Your Enemies</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Literally consuming the blood of foes that they consider to be worthy adversaries, this particular Ulkrunian tradition is known to scare off many of their fellow dhemur and many other groups. The intention is to absorb the powers of their opponents while also mocking their defeat, threatening them with this display. Ulkrunian de facto custom states that while consumption of the flesh of non-dhemish enemies is permitted, only the consumption of blood is allowed when it comes to inter-dhemish warfare. To eat the flesh of another dhemur is considered taboo and is punishable by death. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Well-Traveled:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Ulkrûn are perhaps most well-known as the tribe that first encountered the Trinurians. Their influences are quite visible, as though there are a few distinctions between Trinurians and Ulkrûn, so too are there many similarities. The Ulkrûn have a history of wanderlust, even travelling the channels and venturing to eastern lands, isles, and even supposedly going as far as Doru. This habitual desire to explore has led them to becoming one of the most advanced civilizations for celestial navigation. This has greatly aided in the construction of cairns across the northern region of Kerdia. As they are one of the most notorious tribes, they have also become one of the most infamous. Though their practices by no means reflect every- or even the majority- of the Kerdian clans, they have come to be the examples that those opposed to dhemish citizenship often point to. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Landmarks and Cairns:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The stacking of stones to indicate different landmarks has been in practice for thousands of years. Every Cycle, the </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Fascination with the Exotic World:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> This wanderlust was largely sparked by a curiosity of the world. The wealthiest individuals in the tribe have vast collections of diverse treasures, bits and baubles that they have pillaged from merchants and towns. Yeet. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Famous Distaste for Non-Nalé Dhemur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: While relations with several Trinurian clans and Ogrish tribes are famously friendly, the same cannot be said for other races living in the north. The Ulkrûn have a long history of disliking those from other regions of the world. Many ideals reflect concepts of supremacy. They view themselves as the ideal Dhemur, strong and enduring in a world that Ishu promised the strongest would inherit. The Ulkrûn perceive the southern tribes as weak, the southwestern tribes as foolish, and the eastern tribes as cowardly. Interactions between many Ulkran people and the rest of the Kerdian dehmer, therefore, are often strained. That is to say nothing of the Ulkrûn’s relationship with other races, which often result in the hunting and consumption of elves, the enslavement of humans, and the raiding of Dekur settlements. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Having a Bit of Fun:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> With a long lineage of pranksters dating back to the twins Elig and Malig, the Larig clan of the Ulkrûn have upheld a tradition of mischievous levity and are most likely to have fun at another’s expense. Imprinting their family insignias and lewd sayings on town walls, pulling pranks, and stirring up trouble is a habit that many young wolves have. On the equivalent of a Dhemish Valentine’s Day, Ardlig’s Day, pulling small pranks on the person an Ulkran is interested in is considered apropos. Gestures like giving saddles so that people may “ride easier” or blankets in the offers of “warming someone up” do not go amiss. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Family that Hunts Together…:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The most important aspect of an Ulkran dhemur is loyalty, and the most important relationship is that of one’s family. Similarly to Trinurians, the Ulkrûn operate in such a way that there is a precedent for clan leaders to have large families. There are large populations of half-dhemur in the Ulkrûn due to the fact that warriors have been taking foreign bondmates for centuries. The concept of spousal exclusivity exists in Ulkrûn culture, though explicit acts that do not result in childbirth are often permitted between individuals (though this is largely dependent on the bondmate). Polygamy and polygyny is permitted for the clan leaders, though not for average members of the chiefdom. </span></p></li></ul></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulkrûn</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, almost all, around 9/10.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulkrûn</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, nearly none, perhaps 1/35. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulkrûn</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, somewhere around 1/14.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Harsh Societies: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The north is known for having more warrior-centric traditions. Raiding, pillaging, and tests of dominance are all traditions that many northern tribes upheld long before the Urgadag was ever formed. This is where many of the ideologies of fighting back with cruel but effective tactics originated. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Southern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dhemur clans are </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khutsi</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Transition to Chiefdom: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While traditionally a tribe of clans, all of whom would share communal responsibility and power, it soon became that there was a shift in power when the </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Origins of Siblingry: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Khutsi originated a long time ago when the archaic Khaamuk bélak Khaama-Sugara struggled to keep her tribe safe against attacks from killer plainbears. Sugara’s sister Khuli decided to take formal action to protect her sister. She gathered strong warriors from around the Grasslands- Dehmer and human both-and kept watch over the encampment, promising her sister that she would defend her tribe and keep the people safe. This strengthened relations with the Antols in the region, who were also plagued by these bloodthirsty bears. One night a sleuth of giant ursine came. The united Steppe people were ready. Together, they managed to kill the beasts. From that day onward, Sugara gave her sister the right to establish her own tribe. Khuli did just that, letting those who wished to stay become her most trusted khurgas and vowing to protect the Khaamuk from that day onwards. Unfortunately, differences of opinion have torn the two tribes apart, rending this once sacred union asunder on behalf of the Khutsi for fear of losing their Dhemish identity. The Khaamuk have been assimilated into the Yalzmag, where they have given up certain liberties in exchange for protection. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Establishing a Pecking Order:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Unfamiliar dhemur that wish to become part of the tribe are expected to undergo a ritual hazing before they “earn their place” among the Khutsi. They are, for lack of a better term, bullied upon introduction. It begins with the bélak sizing the newcomer up, sometimes spitting on or shoving them to display dominance. Next come the elders, then the khurgas, then the agnahki and the gadurak, and finally the okhs (the children). It is believed that this hardening can help encourage toughness and build respect for those willing to take the initiative and prove themselves. As the Khutsi are focused on helping those in the very tight-knit community, one has to earn their right to stay there by looking out for her or his fellow person. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Protecting the Herd</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Khutsi abide by a kind of code that has been the established law since their creation alongside their sister tribe, the Khaamuk.</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Respect the Elderly: There is a reason why the elderly have lived so long. They have done their time looking out for others in their youth and deserve to be treated with respect. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Protect the Weak: In traditional Khutsi values, the weak were those who Khutsi swore to protect. The Khutsi were meant to be defenders, never attackers, and protected those who did not want or know how to fight. It was a mutually beneficial relationship, with the Khaamuk tending to food management, community hygiene, homemaking, and other positions of service. Unfortunately, ever since joining the Urgadag, the concept of pacifism and other displays of “frailty” was highly frowned upon, leading to a disjoint in the once prominent part of the Khutsi ideology. However, the idea of protecting the elderly, ill, and young is still a prominent virtue in modern Khutsi society. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Show Some Grit: If you want to be an ideal protector, you need to be willing to tackle danger and pain head on. There are some rituals designed to help emphasize this point, though they have gotten far more extreme ever since the Khutsi joined the Urgadag Confederation. Pressure to make future soldiers had driven the tribe to have their children endure tests of might, which has led to the deaths of many initiates. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Good Leader, Good Servant:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> In Khutsi belief, the best leader is a servant to her people. The Ram is hardly any different than the sheep, but they have been given horns to protect the flock. While the community is more inclined to treat a leader better, as they are willing to step up and serve the community, there is no precedent that they should be treated any better than another member. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khaamuk</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of the Oldest Tribes</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Khaamuk remains one of the oldest established tribes in all of Kerdia. Lending its origins to shepherds living in the Grasslands even before Ishu sacrificed her kingdoms, the Khaamuk were the first to help introduce the concepts of a solely pastoral society back to the Dhemur. In ancient days, they even suffered from Ishites trying to push them off their native land to expand their kingdoms. When the Goddess Mahra Mera delivered her word to Ishu, the Khaamuk were revered for their respect towards nature. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Traditionally Peaceful Tribe</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Steering themselves away from almost every conflict that has erupted over the years, the only violence that the Khaamuk ascribe to is ritual sacrifice to feed the land, but even this is done voluntarily. A few Khaamuk were instrumental in guiding people to safety through the narrow passages of the Maw, no matter which side of a war they fell on. This has led to their persecution over centuries, as their refusal to take a specific side in wartime has led some to blame them for enemies making it safely into certain domains. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aldamorg</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mounted Mastery</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: In Aldamorg society, the bond shared between horse and dhemur is considered sacred, even more so than bonds with other animals. This mutual trust between rider and mount is similar to that of the Brelethaads in the northeast, where it is believed the two shared some cultural influence in ancient times. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ride for Your Lives!:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> There is a custom to deal with those who would bring shame to a queen, either through birthright or infraction. The individual is tied by the foot to a horse and dragged along until they find the strength to pull themselves back atop of it. Only if they can manage to make their way back to where they came from are they worthy enough to be considered for reentering the group. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Notable Techniques</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Some of the Aldamorg’s more famous techniques include the Morgian pass, where a host of riders pass a target from either side and assail them. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Great Advancements in Cavalry</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Aldamorg are responsible for the creation of the stirrup, the chariot, and are attributed the credit of perfecting the art of mounted archery. The chariot was particularly feared in ancient days, used primarily by nobles and riders of great renown. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Horse Choses the Rider</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Despite a mount being broken in, if it is obvious that the horse declines their prospective partner, then that horse is turned back out into the wild. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A History of Heroic Proportions: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The glory component of the tribe’s name calls back to a past of great conquerors and kingdoms, specifically the Southeastern Kingdom of Sado-Agar (or “The Kingdom of the Seven Fields”) which was ruled by Alduru Horseborn. It is said that he made the first perfected Morgian saddle from his enemies’ hides and decorated his horse’s mane with their fingerbones. Alduru had amassed a great amount of land in the time that he had ruled, even at one point giving Ishu’s people a run for their money before she personally beheaded him in a legendary battle. His skalag/skalbok (castle) was considered one of the largest and most extravagant in Kerdia before it was buried with the rest.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gar-Asga:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lion’s Pride</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nobility and Honor</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Gar-Asga have a long history of emphasizing the importance of maintaining an honorable community. </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be Honest, Be Brutal: A strong and reliable member of the community does not need to hide their intentions. Be honest, even if it hurts. Deception only serves to hinder the pride. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Embody Power: Training in skill and might is viewed as necessary to the Gar-Asgans. Swordsmanship, prowess in hand-to-hand combat, and self-discipline are all skills that are honed from a young age.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Face of the Pride: When it comes to presentation, members of the Gar-Asga tribe are expected to represent themselves as they would represent their nation. As such, they are expected to be respectable (no deceit, cowardice, or cruelty) and earn the allegiance of others. Strengthening ties with outside communities that are deemed worthy by the Gara (Gar-Asgan term for belak) is essential to the pursuit of power and nobility.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Live as a Warrior, Die as a Warrior: There is a creed that states that a Gar-Asgan’s death should come before she ever forsakes her people. A lionheart is expected to go down swinging, and there are no exceptions to this rule.</span></p></li></ul></ul></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aldamorg</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, about 9/10 of the population. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khaamuk</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, about 1/16 of the population.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khutsi</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, estimated 6/8 of the population.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khaamuk</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, nearly ⅞ of the population.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khutsi</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, around a ¼ of the population.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aldamorg</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, about 1/10 of the population.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khaamuk</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, about 1/16 of the population.</span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eastern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dhemur clans are </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tsutahk</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Right to Rear</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: It is part of Tsutahk tradition that parents prove their worthiness to raise a child. Five of the tribe’s warriors are pitted against them. Each of the warriors have an object on their person (in Eastern Hegros, this is often a feathered band and wishbone. In Shun, this is a ram’s horn.) The mother is given a weapon in turn. She must be able to defend herself and the child, cutting off the bands/items of each of the warriors before she has won the right to have her child. If she fails, then she must give the child to another worthier to raise them. Raising children is commonly a communal responsibility. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crockers on Top</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: In the Tsutahk community, crockery is a very important part of the culture, as are other methods of making earthenware. The name “Tsutahk” means “Bloody-Hand”, but it is not in reference to anything violent. In fact, the name has origins in the creation of pottery and the stains that residual clay would leave on the palms of potters. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Body, A Vessel</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Similar to certain western Duinian and Laede traditions, the art of turning one’s body into a masterpiece is a tradition that the Tsutahk people ascribe to. It is not uncommon for a Tsutahk person to undergo body modification, in essence being “shaped like clay” through a process called </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">tarumé</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. This can often be done for either aesthetic purposes or in deference to higher beings. (See “Cranial Deformation” below.)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cranial Deformation</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: This is a practice that is widely used in Tsutahk culture, said to have derived out of reverence to one of Dhegram’s daughters, whose head was of an oblong shape. The process begins during infancy and results in an almost cone shaped brain case. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kital</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Cunning of a Fox</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The motto of the Kital people is “outsmart to outlast,” and this mindset has helped to keep their people alive for hundreds of years. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Famous Artists</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Kital are renowned for their contributions to the artistic world. Their forms of storytelling are some of the oldest and most influential theatrics that exist in Nassavra. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nagayag</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or the “Art of the Hidden Face,” is a form of masked opera that has imparted many traditions on styles of Shunin theatre. Elaborate costume pieces and makeup, eccentric movements, and engaging storytelling are all staples of Kitali performing arts. Theatre is not their only claim to fame, however. The Kital are believed to have been the first to create the modern canvas, the first blue paint, and to have invented silk. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lavish Lifestyles:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Unlike many Kerdian Dhemur tribes, the Kital are not egalitarian. Although they follow aspects of Ishu’s Creed, the majority still ascribe to old traditions, choosing to live in semi-permanent households where they visit every year over the course of the Cycle. With a power disparity, there are those who can afford certain luxuries that others cannot. In the good faith of Mahra Mera, many of these nobles share what they have with the community, knowing how difficult it can be to make a living as a performer- especially as a dhemur living in Kerdia. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Artisan People</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Much of the craft of the Kital people relies on performative arts. Some of the most successful nobles have made their living by telling stories to those willing to lodge and pay them. Because adoration for Dehmer in the modern age is somewhat skewed, this has presented some danger for those seeking a living this way. But those that make it tend to reap lucrative rewards. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Old Traditions Make New Enemies:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Although the lifestyle of the Kital people reflects a picture of times long past for the Dhemur, there are many who despise and distrust them for “clinging” to the past and not following the exact plan that Ishu had laid out for the Dhemur. As such, the Kital seldom receive any assistance from the more zealous tribes that surround them, especially those traditionalists that brand their behavior as exploitative to the situations of their brethren living off the land.</span></p></li></ul></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tsutahk</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, nearly ¾ of the population.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kital</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, ½ or so of the population.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kital</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, about a ¼ or so of the population.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kital</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, about a ¼ or so of the population.</span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Subterranean (Han-Dhemur)-Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dhemur clans are </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hurrur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Venturing Beyond the Bounds</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: There have been certain boundaries put into place for the Hurrur for millenia, erected with the intention of keeping the populace safe from the horrid things living on the surface. Although the surface world mostly lived in stories, those who venture further to the surface rarely have the guts to make it particularly far. (Note: Think of the situation like someone being afraid to dig too deep on Earth lest they fall into Hell.)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Distrust of Dragons</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Unlike Ishu, who believed that the Dhemok was sent to help the people see the will of Mahra Mera, Hurr believed that he saw only darkness in Dhemok’s decision- a desire to eliminate competition for his strength and the strength of his new child. From Hurr’s perspective, Dhemok was stripping the Dhemur of their protection because he knew that they would be the only ones capable of destroying his son. Therefore, Hurr (alongside Ba’lu) rallied a few tribes of the Dhemur people and encouraged them to follow him underground. To this day, it is believed that the dragons shall bring on the end times and that they are deceitful creatures who learned greed and became dangerous. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Hero is Forged</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Ascribing to the belief that the surface world is a hellscape, the Hurrur have spent their lives living in fear of the dragons one day discovering their existence and either enslaving them or eating them. But it is believed that one day a hero will be born who can challenge the beings that dwell up above and return home to liberate her brethren. Every hundred years, a child is chosen to be taught extensively in the way of the Hehn. They train from birth to be able to vanquish even the mightiest of foes. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perceived Threats from Below</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Those who see a Han-Dhemur (subterranean dhemur) often render them as demons. Those who have come to the surface have been greeted as such, being attacked on sight and written in history books (by all manners of mortalkind, including surface-dwelling Keridan Dehmer) as monsters. Because the heroes are so rare to encounter and so well-versed in the arts of combat, magic, and endurance, they are often perceived as evil spirits who have been sent as curses or as punishment by the gods. Funnily enough, with so few surface dwelling Dhemur (or Shal-Dhemur) that know of the Han-Dhemur, it is believed that these troglodyte people are Dhemur who fell into the Hreud and were corrupted or otherwise possessed by the spirits of Rahkshams. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">No Return Home</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Unfortunately, because of the circumstances listed above coupled with a great unfamiliarity of the landscape and a sensitivity to the sunlight, all of the Han-Dhemur that have been sent to the surface have not made it back to reunite with their families. Luckily for the Han-Dhemur, this also means that they have not been discovered by other civilizations yet.</span></p></li></ul></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">None</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">None</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Practically, if not certainly, all of the tribes living below the surface of the Nass are considered Dugu. This is not because they willingly wish to remain neutral in the war (although they likely would) but because they do not know that a war is transpiring in the first place.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">DEKUR:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">General: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Northern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dekur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Southern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dekur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eastern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dekur people are </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khurin</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Lyrical Life</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The Khurin are recognized throughout Kerdia as experts in the linguistic arts. The tribe often emphasizes the importance of communication. They have seven forms of speech- Dehmish, Rini, Signed Rini, Chanter’s Cant, Laede, Sadesh, and altered Antolian. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fonts of Knowledge</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hidden Libraries</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Since some of the information is deemed “heretical” by neighboring peoples, the Khurin have made it a point of keeping these locations a secret, only allowing for pilgrims and scholars to enter these dens. They are guarded day and night by ambushers and mages. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Disciples of Hehn</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Similar to the henzhi, the Khurin have a group of great scholars that master the art of the Breath. The Hespiri are a specialized group of scholars who protect the haven of their library. </span></p></li></ul></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Western Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Dekur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">OGUR:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Northern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ogur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Southern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ogur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eastern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ogur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Western Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ogur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">PISKUR:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Northern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Piskur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Southern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Psikur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eastern Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Piskur people are </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Uls’Nier</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Riders of the Storm</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: These seafaring people have incredible meteorological practices that help them predict when waters will be dangerous to cross.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Brelathaads and Waterhorses:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The connection between these animals and their riders is considered sacred, like the sharing of one mind. The tidemares </span></p></li></ul></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Western Tribes:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Clans: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Piskur people are </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Urgadag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Yalzmag?:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many are Dugu?: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">DUHWIN:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cultures in Sneigh: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Duhwin living in Sneigh are</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dulliman</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Private Matters, Internal Affairs:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Known for their secretive and somewhat shy practices, the Dulliman tend to keep to themselves, isolated in the forests of Duille Nadur. Nadurian Duilliman tend not to have much opposition in the ways of their practices, as they are the ruling body there. Duilliman living abroad in enclaves, however, are </span></p></li></ul></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">GLOBAL:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Symbols of the Universe: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eternity is something that is pondered by almost all civilizations. For instance, the mythos and origins of many of the deities remain the same or similar, but there is a significant difference, at times, in how those concepts are interpreted. In Trinurian culture, the symbol of duality is represented by a half-moon, which helps to determine what sort of person a soul turns out to be. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Dispute of Power:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Each of the countries on the continent of </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ethnicity</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Old Ageran of Ager </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Illycian of Illytzia </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ghoffs of Dans </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rujabese </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rekya, the folk who ford rivers, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nórasian of Aré</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sakanian of the Central Steppes</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rukanians of Rukania</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Antols, people who occupy small settlements near the northern lakes cresting into the mountains.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aldamorg</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khaamuk</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mavron of Naiba (A group of Naibans who banded together to wander making music. They are also found in Southern Hegros Steppes)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Altah of the Dunes </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naibans of Naiba</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Felidani (Cat People; Most often are like the Kashi)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Arthyans of </span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Vahara </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kashi (pronounced “kawsh-ee”)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Vira</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Painted Ones of the Jaws</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khutsi, a group of individuals who often share kin relations with the Khaamuk people</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trinurians of the Trinelands (Wolf People)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Leamir of Tir Duine</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ferran of Tir Duine</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mander</span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">küste </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">of Strande </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sammars of Sammarland</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bythons of Byth and Tìr Duine </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rhoks of the Highlands</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rukanians of Rukania (Mostly migrants, though some Rukanian tribes actually originated from the Rhoks in Sneigh)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grimmaws of Byth, who tattoo beastly mandibles onto their jaws</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Glyphicts, a group of people who tattoo their bodies with names, symbols, and codes. They are also known for communicating almost exclusively in sign language, believing that a voice should be reserved for special occasions. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Marmen of Skiris</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Deirnemen, also known as Ulkrûn</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Across Kerdia</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dehmer (Called this from the words “mer” meaning “to die” and “dehm” meaning “to give”. Essentially, they are the people who “give death”. This collective identity originated from a desire to band together against the empires in opposition to these peoples. The Dehmer identity was born in the land of Hegros.) </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Races:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sunter, an ancient group of hominids who are believed to be the proto-peoples of Nassavra. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans, pretty much just, yknow, humans. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dhemur (Orcs), a folk known to be tall and physically strong beings with large canine teeth, bifurcated noses, pointed ears, and reflective eyes.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ogurs (Ogres), which are essentially similar to dhemur with the exception that they are even taller and hairier, and are also more closely related to humans as opposed to the strepsirrhini related dhemur, goblins, and elves. Therefore, their eyes, noses, and other aspects of facial structures are more similar to these humans.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dekur (Goblins), smaller individuals who have long digits and squirrel-like feet. Oftentimes dekur will have white sclera, contrasting to their dhemish and weiselven cousins. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Piskur (Trolls, Central Kerdian Piskur tribes are now extinct) a semi-aquatic dwelling people who stand at an average size, slightly smaller than some humans, and have large probiscouses with nerve clusters, fewer digits, and slick membranes over their skin. Piskur are also known to possess amazing stem cells that can regenerate parts of the body remarkably faster than most bipedal peoples.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weiself (Light elves, otherwise known as “light beings.”) Luminous and mysterious, Weiselves are a type of fey known for their longevity. Note that the color of a Weiself’s features are not innately lighter, but rather the potency of magic around them causes a sort of “glowing” effect. Physical characteristics include large and reflective eyes, bioluminescent markings, and vine like growths on the surface of the skin. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dourelf (Dark Elves, or otherwise known as “dark beings.”) Considered closer to humans weiselves, they bear more humanlike features. The “dark” part of their name is more in reference to a lack of luminosity than pigmentation. While many still bear connections to their ancestral trees, there is less of a dependence on them, allowing for them to travel greater distances from their homes of origin.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naga (Snakelike beings who vary in appearance, but mainly have humanoid features above the waist of their bodies.) It is thought that this alteration to their bodies either happened through magical manipulation to honor the Desert Drakes or was the result of mating between drake and man. Some even believe the Naga people to have been cursed into their forms for dishonoring their religious duties and trying to overpower dragons a time ago.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Raptoran (Raptor birds who first came to being after feeding on dragonflesh.) Females are bigger than males, as is custom in raptor birds. Includes owls, hawks, falcons</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Raksham/Rakasha/Merasga (Race of maneating people on the continent of Esnes that appear in certain mythologies.) They are thought to have been created by the Duwos to clean the corpses of those slain in war. Most are thought to be dead, and some do not even believe that they existed. Believed to perhaps be a clan of the Dehmer in certain parts of the world in a time long ago.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Héyos/Dankána/Talusin (Not technically a sentient race it is believed, but rather a group of automata native to Wedor.) The majority of their conceptualization and creation occurs after the disappearance of Hehn.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Clines</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Hegros, predominantly Ager:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Average height populations, olive and golden skin tones for humanoids most common among populations, dark hair ranging from dark auburn to warm black, moderate hair coverage overall, epicanthic fold/monolid eye shapes more common, dark eye colors (mainly brown, amber or dark red) more common, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duhwin</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Tall to slightly above average height populations, red and orangish scale coloration for duhwin more common, gold and red eye color most common, sharp scimitar oryx like horns or slightly curved thick horns or twisted antler like horns, jaw spikes and ridges more common, tail feathers and spikes common, ear fins, back spikes common, cranial tendrils more common for those living around volcano</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Doru</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Average height populations, less hair coverage overall, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dekur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Green skin tones more common, </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Further East</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Smaller height populations, warm medium golden skin tone, hair colors ranging from strawberry blond to raven black (black being more common), straighter hair more common, darker eye colors (mostly brown and amber) more common, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duhwin</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Hues of muted blue, sea green, or grey are most common, frills more common among populations, longer necks and faces, elongated limbs, nose tendrils common, headfins and facial fins more common</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Central West, primarily the Hakiman lands</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Average to smaller height populations, medium dark skin tones more common, dark hair colors more common, </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Middle East, particularly Aré</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Average to smaller height populations, light warm and golden skin tones for humanoids more common , straighter hair, light hair colors ranging from blond to light chestnut, epicanthic fold/monolid eye shapes more common, light eye colors (particularly blue and blue-green) more common, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duhwin</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Golden and orangish scale colors most common, muted earthy tones also common in more eastern-central region, hues of light brown eye color most common, ram-like horns and quills/spikes for duhwin more common, broader foreheads and nose horns, clovenish four-toed feet/hippo-like toes, often have wide nostrils and septums, strong jaws very common </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Smaller height populations, occasional dwarfism, cool deep dark skin tone, dark hair color, coily hair more common among populations, individuals with less hair overall, almond shaped eyes more common, dark eye colors more common with the exception of rare purple or grey eyes</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Central Far North, particularly Himayeshi</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Taller to average height populations, dark skin with cool undertones for humanoids more common, medium hair coverage overall, wavy and coily hair more common among populations, darker hair from warm to raven black more common, almond shaped eyes more common among populations, light eye colors more common (particularly blues and light blues, especially in duhwin), </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duhwin</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: White to bluish scale tones with bluish or brown dots common, hues of blues from dark to ice blue common, tall thin horns and antlers more common, facial spikes and horned brows more common </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulfur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Larger sized populations, grey and/or white fur coloration more common here, larger upper canines, exaggerated facial and head horns, thicker keratin deposits on the arms and back, more bent-backed and digitigrade </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dekur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Exaggerated hair covering on appendages and digits, lighter skin tones more common, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Middle Northwest, predominantly Tír Duine</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Average to smaller height populations, warmer and pale light skin tones for humanoids most common among populations, variants of brown hair from light to dark most common, wavy hair more common, individuals with more hair overall, downturned and almond eye shapes more common, dark eyes more common (mainly brown and amber), </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duhwin</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Green to yellowish scale tones for duhwin, brown or green stripes, bright green eyes or yellowish eyes most common, long deer-like ears, coarse manes that are mostly light green or blond, antlers and pronged Ram-like horns more common, feathered tails and/or tufts on the elbows 💕and face more common</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulfur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Brown and grey fur is most common</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Further Northwest, predominantly the Trinelands and Skiris</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Taller populations common in Highlands, smaller to average on Skiris, cooler light skin tones for humanoids more common, lighter hair colors more common (most notably ginger on the small isles), wavier hair or curly hair more common, individuals are quite hairy overall, deep set and hooded eyes more common, lighter eye colors (particularly grey and green) more common</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duhwin</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Eyes that are ice blue for duhwin more common</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulfur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: variety of fur colors for Trinurians, </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Further Northeast</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Humans</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Taller to average height populations more common, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulfur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Longer teeth more common, brown to reddish fur coloration more common, rounder ears more common, lighter colored torsos and undersides more common</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Further South</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Taller to average height populations more common, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Further Southwest, predominantly Sammerland</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Average sized populations, cooler very dark skin tones more common among populations, less hair coverage overall, hazel or brown eyes more common, black or white hair most common, round or upturned eyes more common, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Far South, Shun</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Average sized populations, cool to warm dark to very dark skin tones more common, amber to brown eyes more common, hair is wavy and coily, less hair coverage overall, black hair from raven to warm most common, upturned eyes more common</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Influential Houses/Clans/People</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Here are a few groups and people of importance categorized by the faction that they are a part of.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ageran Empire & Close Affiliates</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rakarahn</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- An Norasian house whose long history of kinship with ancient Arésian krazals had made them highly influential. Despite being of Norasian influence, the patriarchal lineage traces its origins back to the southern Grasslands on the border of Shun and Hegros, hence the thematic sigils and banners. Lord Rhygan, third of his name, is famously opposed to the Magia, believing them to be corrupting influences on the state. He has support among much of the populace, though because the oligarca is so subdivided and the economy relies so heavily on the Magia’s institutions Rygan has not made much progress in turning over the government into a servant state of the Empire. There are many of the oligarcha that support him “on the side” because he is a popular figurehead and mounting insurrection. Some of the wealthy statesmen are willing to privately pledge loyalties to him, however much those promises truly mean, in an attempt to be spared the potential wrath of the masses. And because Rhygan would then have the power to enforce policies that serve the new loyal members of his team in terms of wealth and status, these “breakaways” have tried to curry favor with the popular lord, though in reality many are keen to dispose of him at their earliest convenience, intending on using him for as long as they can before restoring the previous order of things. Unfortunately for them, Rhygan’s followers are dogmatic and loyal, preferring to follow the man and cull those whom they consider his enemies.</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The family includes:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ran (Lord) Rhygan, third of his name</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rani (Lady) Raen</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Takal Rahkaran, eldest son</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ad’an Rahkaran, the younger son</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tira Rahkaran, daughter of Rhygan</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Little babe Sheikra, youngest child of Rhygan, infanta.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sir Lipiso Arzalia, four orange sandcats with rats in their maws</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sir Serebino Sasani, the Second Talon, grinning bald ibis with a fish in its beak “Silent Waters, Still Fish” </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sir Emiri Kaczenti, The Third Talon, white fish splashing in ten rows</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lady Justa Morgeni, The Fourth Talon, black peregrine hawk overlooking golden hill</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: square; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sir Gasteir </span></p></li></ul></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gance</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">- </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The family includes:</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Architecture:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Romanesque Columns</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Primarily using alabaster and </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Xie Shan Roofs: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chinese Decorative Dragons: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Similarly to Chinese decoration, Ager has plenty of dragon statues on the rooftops of their buildings. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Raised Pavillons</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fancy Gardens</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wat-like structures of worship</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kerdian Shal-Dhemur</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Akkadian Ziggurat Temples with Ivory Archways and Cloth/Hide Canopies</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Painted Walls: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whether on the temporary moving shelters or permanent buildings and structures, painting intricate patterns and stories onto the walls of a space has been a long admired and practiced art for a Kerdian Shal-Dhemur. This has been an object of great beauty, including the famous gates to the Forgotten City, which are stark blue, white, gold, and black. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Carvings and Zoomorphic Shapes</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Carvings have also featured on these walls. Animals and nature have featured in tribal life for ages, being of great importance for the Shal-Dhemur people. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tír Duine</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Round/Conical Roofs: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Made from thatch and </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Stout Frames</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sammer</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Strong Karst and Coquina Keeps: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps known for having some of the most aesthetically pleasing castles and keeps, the architects along the coasts put the naturally abundant rock to use. Those keeps that overlook the coast are known to be both enduring and beautiful, home to many of the noble families that occupy the region. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Geography:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kerdia</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The “Heart Continent” of the world, known as this for the presence of the Heart Tree in Doru (the fourth offspring of the original World Tree). This is the landmass on which all other continents are thought to have originated from, before dragons severed the land to separate into their own empires. the place where the majority of Nassarva’s draconic artifacts and temples are found. </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager: A wide and prosperous kingdom, known as one of the most influential kingdoms still-standing of men. It holds dominion and commands fiefdom over the houses of Hegros, namely . Ager is home to the cities Imber (Raincloud City), Dumerica/Alterica (City of the Long Heather), and Petramos (Rock City)</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Urbs Imber</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: A sprawling city that is home to temperate rainfall and montane forests. This is known as the “raincloud region” due to its high altitudes and thick mountain mists. Imber is situated further north in the Ageran territories.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Urbs Alterica</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: One of the largest farming cities. Alterica is a beautiful landmark, surrounded by acres of woodland, shrubland, wheat and heather which the city derives its name from. Alterica is in the Western-Central reaches of the Ageran territories. It is an important landmark for the people of Ager. This is part of the reason why the Trinurian potentially claiming it is so egregious. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Urbs Petramos</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: One of the most outstanding places in Ageran society, Petramos, or the “City of Stone”, is a city whose structures are largely comprised of granite, white marble, and alabaster stone. It is said that the city sparkles when the evening sun shines upon it, though any Hegrand tourist will tell you that this is only true in the Opulent District. The main palace is decorated in a fashion that has changed throughout the years- from simple and practical to decked out in gold. Two things that have always remained are the painting of the Firmament on the ceiling of the Dome and the statue of H’Ster which adorns the highest point on the palace, overlooking the city. It is also known as the home of the Church of Andros and the Genverum. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré: The sister kingdom of Ager, Aré is responsible for the majority of the horsing in the country. They are known for having the Magia, an upper class of mage-descendants who rule over their people and act as merchant princes. In days of old, men of Aré used to celebrate the Oinos for good harvest and fertility. The people of Aré also have the most notorious bad blood with the Dehmer, who live in very close proximity with them. This tension has partly been exacerbated by their alliance with the Saurisian Church. They have a long history of slaving and leading armed conflicts against the Dehmer. They justify that the land is rightfully theirs. It is home to the cities </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Laeland: The home country of the none but beasts and one of the biggest isles in Hegros. It is a land of white rocky bluffs and temperate landscapes, as well as the home of old druidic followers of Woid (Witan) in antiquity. The Laedeman tongue has become one of the most common languages in modern verbal usage, as it is the second language of Ager after the original Empire was reformed. It is home to the cities Broadford, Hofeshire, Feadan (), Briveland, Welk, and Clara to name a few. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dans: The “land of the flowers,” Dans is one of the great beauties of the world. One of the cities here, Aistaide, is most popular for its great comeliness and rolling island hills. It is also called “Mother’s Land” for how the native Ghoffs of Aistaide believe that the land was blessed with great beauty by H’Ster herself. Known for its many colorful jungles, steep volcanoes, blue skies, and delicious wines.</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ol><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun:</span></p></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba: One of the largest cities in Kerdia to be connected to the continent of Esnes. Currently in conflict with the ethnic group; the Kashee. Is the only culture on the continent of Kerdia to have mastered the art of wvyernry. Due to their close connections with Hóstia, Shun has much of the same cultural influence as parts of the other continent. It also shares great similarities with Esnes, though the country does not always look upon such times favorably, as it still bears the scars of war. It is neighboring with the Esnesian Kingdom of Kah, their competitor in antiquity. </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aitho: The “Kingdom of Bronze,” Aitho is noted as one of the most beautiful places in the world. Settled along the southwestern border of Shun and Hóstia . It is home to the Ivory Palace, which is made from the bones of the Dunedrake, Othui. Since the Empire’s conquering of the region, it has become a manufacturer of armaments and armor for the soldiers. Still, many of the old native Duhwin remember the days when the country made beauteous crafts in times of peace. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ol><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hima:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Himayehshi (Translates to “ice bridge”): Also called “the Great Shelf” or “The Bridge at the Beginning,” Himayehshi is quite a sight to behold for any traveler in the land of Sneigh. Home to a great swath of dangerous beasts that are thought to have come over when the natural landbridge to the Moonlands was still formed. This is also where the City of Himayehshi is housed, known for being one of the great wonders of Nassavra. It is a place of great beauty and magic.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spés:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Havir: The haven of native Kerdian Duhwin seeking safety after the end of the Kin war. Havir is a large bastion that lies in the far reaches of the north, isolated from other lands. Havir is notable for the large College overlooking the Shelf at the End of the World. It is responsible for housing, teaching, and training individuals from all around about how to use the breath. Unlike Doru, the haven of Havir has remained a secret to most except for Duhwin and the neighboring peaceful region of Hima. It has a vast collection of draconic artifacts from the various cultures from around the continent, trying to restore and preserve draconic heritage. Though most access is restricted to duhwin only, there are exceptions of admission that are made. Those wishing to train in the way of the Hehn come here, should their intentions be just. Havir is also known to have connections to other communities that still thrive, such as the protected glen haven of Duille Nadur. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trine Lands:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Skiris: An island off the mainland of Sneigh which is home to a large population of diverse fauna and flora. It is one of the main places where seals and puffins are found, as well as a popular home for whalers. This is where some of the oldest Ulfur (the Gammauld) live as well as the Trinurian Clan of Selka (The Seals) and Kennit. The Valen (whaling) Clan also has strong historic roots here.</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: lower-roman; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ballygans: Known for its large population of mute swans. This is where the Clan Gance hails from.</span></p></li></ul></ol></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Anteros</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Known as the “Second Continent”, this is the second migratory space where Kerdian humans made their home. It is not as extensively developed as many of the places on the continent of Kerdia, but that makes it an excellent spot for exploration and discovery. It is known for having large deposits of valuable resources. It is not well-known or well-documented as to whether or not the land of Anteros holds any surviving native cultures, nor whether or not dragons still exist there. Unbeknown to the rest of the world, there are populations of Kwa (or beast-people) that live there.</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Iamt</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: A land of wild magic and beastfolk, Iamt is a haven for several Kwa looking to share sanctuary together. There has been a peace agreement between many of the people living in the area to not shed one another’s blood, abiding by certain laws that protect herbaceous creatures until they die of natural causes. The sheer raw magical presence here has caused widespread changes in the land, making the landscape unique and wonderful.</span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Esnes</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: “The Blood” Kingdom, called as much for being the origin of mankind’s many cultures, bodies of water, and the first war. Esnes is one of the continents with the largest variation in biomes and landmass. A home to many intersecting rivers, the land is known to flourish even in times of drought. It had been a center of peace once upon a time, though the dragon feuds rendered it a bloody battlegrounds for many people, none of who can quite forget the scars of the past. Esnesians have worked hard and long to repair the civilizations that once thrived there, and have even created new ones from the ashes of conflict. Unlike Kerdia, which focuses mainly on conquering and expanding like the Oinos before them, much of Esnes currently holds a policy forbidding outside exchange with other kingdoms and municipalities for fear that it will open old wounds. </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Vahara</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The original homeland of the Arythan people.</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Terenghet</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Located on the second landbridge stretching from Esnes to Hostia, the subcontinent of Terenghet has become a dangerous place as of late, or so it is believed. Dangerous parties playing with necromancy have swarmed the area, making it nigh impossible to leave. This coupled with an increasing infestation of </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hóstia</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The “Bones of Narsavva,” Hóstia is a land that has been enduring steady desertification since the disappearance of the Twins. Some postulates even consider the civilizations of Hóstia to be older than those of Kerdia and Esnes. Eastern Hóstia has evidence of supporting the earliest human civilizations, and it is thought that this is where H’Ner and his wife first settled. It is the home of drakes and wyverns, and Dwarves as well who live in the indomitable mountains. The dragons of Hóstia were far more revered than the kinsmen of Kerdia as they coexisted with their followers. Dhegram’s death is heavily mourned here. The continent is also home to the Walking Mountain, a city which is moved annually by earth mages.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hwento</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The “Land of Wind.” Hwento is home to a large amount of plainlands and valleys in its northern parts, as well as chains of islands along its belt. It is a large landmass that encompasses parts of </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shepnos</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Also called “The Land of Dreams”. Shepnos has a mysterious reputation for losing wandering travellers and evading all attempts at scholarly study. No one is sure if it is a physical location at all, for it seems almost as though the location of the place changes every venture. There are still plants, animals, and peoples who have not been encountered as of yet.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Highest Appointments to Lowest Appointments, by State</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rukanian:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kalazar</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Arésian:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Krazal/Kózal</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Antolese:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kralgak/Kwemak- Meaning “king/queen,” this position refers to the highest form of leader- essentially the commander of the</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rujabese:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reile</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Andarusian:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Greiniya/Greimiya</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hatasuan:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Raiji</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiban:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sharyar/Sharyana</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ageran:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Capral</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trinurian:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Halfar/Halhar </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager Politics & Controversy</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Political Positions</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Hegros itself is a complex melting pot of many different cultures and ideas on how to run individual regions. It is a feudalist system, though there is one recognized power that serves as the country’s figurehead. That is Ager, the land that inherited much of their own history and structure from neighboring lands and the ideas of Phures. Though the hands of power have shifted, some traditions of control have remained the same. Ager used to be an Empire before it’s diminishing control caused it to slip and lose its hold over the Men of the West and the people of the Southeast. </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Capal (Emperor/Empress)</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Highest established ruler under a feudal monarchy. Commands other lords and their vassals below them. Grants titles, land, and ownership of regions and responsibilities. The bloodline of the Emperor is said to be descendant of H’Ner himself, and is incredibly powerful. It is also said that there is draconian fire in the veins of the House. It is believed that the purported Oinos Heuswe mixed blood with Emperor Neos II. Scholars quietly agree that the two were comrades in war and were steadfast friends. This has been dismissed by the Empire, who expresses a common distaste alongside the public for the dragon kind, however the rumors have lasted for several years.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sanga:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The member of the council entrusted with key military command. All regis defer to him when it comes to questions of war and conquer. The Sanga is almost always the child of the Emperor, although nepotism has ebbed away over the years. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Regis</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Individual family heads who govern territories within the Holy Ageran Empire. They come together to elect a new Ageran Emperor from one member of their collective body.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Prince/Princess</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The royal descendants of their parentage, the Emperor and Empress (or consort), or on rare occasion cousins/adopted children from the Opulent. Though socially more prevalent than the Regis, their responsibilities and birthrights are overshadowed by the other class. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Prime Minister/Grand Duke</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Notably a powerful person, especially in the eastern parts of Hegros, the Arch Duke serves to help designate duties and monitor the happenings of Hegros with great influence over how orders are carried out. Though the Emperor’s rule is absolute and unquestioned, as the government has very close ties with the Church, Hegros is large and requires additional hands to help maintain it. As such, there is a Duke for every region, and an Archduke for Ager serving under the royal bloodline. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Opulent</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The noble class of Ager. These are the followers and vassals of the Emperor, including the Ministers/Dukes, Marquises, Counts, Viscounts, and Barons in that order. The lords and ladies of </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Knights</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The followers of the lords and ladies, mostly knights and other high ranking servants of the household. They can obtain the rank of Baron, though they cannot advance much further than that.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dux Civis</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The “chief citizen,” the Dux Civis is the established head of a peasant village. They are the one in charge of managing the community on a local basis. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mercae</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The merchant class, artisans and craftsmen who specialize in supplying riches and goods to the surrounding cities. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Subviri (Peasantry/Sowers)</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The class of the peasant people, mainly farmers and horse breeders.</span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Controversy</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: There is quite a bit of controversy held in the country of Hegros. Whether it be the lynching of heretics and supposed “Wyrm-Blooded” individuals, the long standing history of political corruption and extortion, the fact that the Ageran Empire was responsible for the death and dwindling numbers of several races, or even the current politics of Hegros’ various small wars and intrigues that sprout up even between its own people, Hegros is home to gossip and trouble.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Emperor is also hiding massive truths from his own people, a direct violation of the Doctras. If learned, this would spark blatant fury in his mostly Androsian supporters. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba Politics & Political Scandal</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Politics of Naiba</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba operates on a ministry that governs the local aspects of the state. They, in turn, take their directions/influence from the Empire. There are Sharas who are state-sanctioned figureheads, but they do not possess a lot of power beyond diplomatic relations with foreign nations.</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Controversy</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Aunt of Amira and Saladin has taken over the place of Naiba’s policies in the aftermath of the loss of magic (one of the only ways that the desert dwelling people maintained their crops and protect themselves from the volcanic firestorms) and has begun involving herself and her team into international interactions via the siblings to begin influencing foreign governments and get more resources to cover their southern border connecting them to Esnes. She has made a deal with Western Hegros to help with a feud (and religious divisions) further along the border. Hegrand soldiers have been causing some problems for some of the small villages, leading to excessive bullying and rioting. Meanwhile, this landgrab also means that Naiba grows to be in peril. Lady Shatika sends her niece and nephew off to make connections with others while furthering the influence of her son, Hami. Lady Shatika’s personal knight, Imari Jassid, uses what tactics he can to look out for his country.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Amira and Saladin are sent off with the expectation of making peace with other countries. Unfortunately, the knight </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Without hydroponics, the land that was once maintained through magical means is no longer arable. This has led to famine and drought in some locations further south in Shun and into Hóstia.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh Politics & Controversy:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Politics of Sneigh</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The regions of Sneigh are divided between two main factions: The Men of Tir Duine, and the Trinurians who are stretched out across The Teeth to the Weald. The people of Tir Duine have a system that looks like this:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elder</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Princess/Prince</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chieftains: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although powerful in their own right, a Duinian chieftain has significantly limited power in concerns of the eastern-influenced state. In the law of villages, the title of chief is considered the highest rank. In the law of provinces, it is an honored but practically powerless position. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aldermen:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The Alders symbolize the white birch, bringing balance to the societies of which they are a part. </span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And the people of the Trinurian lands have a system that functions uniquely (see page 2 above for more details on that stuff.)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dehmer Politics & Political Scandal</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Politics of the Dehmer</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Much of the Dehmer population exists in scattered tribes throughout the continents. Though there are dedicated Dehmer kingdoms in the lands of Esnes and Anteros, there is no known remaining officially sanctioned domain for Dhemur populations living in Kerdia. Rather, a collection of tribes in conjunction and opposition with one another exist sprawling throughout the continent. The majority of these tribes are situated in Hegros, though they have reaches in Shun and Sneigh as well. The Empire controlled parts of Hwento has far fewer Dehmer residing there than the Esnesian half. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Fundamental values are largely dependent on societal stigma and how communal behavior is regulated. Some of the tribes rely more heavily on principles laid down by Ishu. The extremely pious openly condemn the idea of returning to a lifestyle that is viewed in their eyes as destructive. This includes the construction of social hierarchies, reliance on agriculture alone, and overextending their influence and destroying the land. Others have stuck to traditions that have been long held- there has even been a resurgence in the “Pursuit of Ruling Peace” where physical kingdoms and their respective political structures are becoming favored once more. It is unfair to classify the Dehmer people as one group, as they can be broken into several distinct cultures, some of which directly oppose one another. The moniker of “Dehmer” itself is of human invention, a corruption of the original namesake. However, this perceived identity as being an enemy of mankind (in the Empire) has made some tribes band together for the sake of their survival, leading to cultural shift and blending of some customs into others. As such, it has become more common to see dhemur tribes with the following traits. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Those groups who have agreed to be a part of the Urgadag Confederation have a specific order of how they live. The organization of the tribe in many structures are thus:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bélak/Chieftain</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The leader of the tribe. The bélak takes on the name of their tribe, a title which represents their loyalty and the pledge they swear to their people. When it comes time for a chief to give up their position- due to age or some other reason- the chief’s khurgas (or generals) come together to fight for the right to become the next chief. This can be done verbally through debate or physically through combat, sometimes being a mizxture of the two. Traditionally, different factions have different ways of handling this and it usually boils down to who is most unanimously agreed upon to be the most suitable leader. Under the Urgadag Confederation’s guidelines the process is often streamlined to whoever has proved to be most successful in making choices that lead to the advancement in their goals of restoring old traditions and claiming land. Leaders are best exemplified as those who take care of others, a servant of their people. If someone feels as though the chief is not fulfilling their job or is a weak leader, any member of the tribe can come to challenge them so long as they bring forth their wish to duel. The winner is then the new bélak. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khailaz</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: A word meaning “healer” or “one who cures” in Dehmish, these individuals serve as priests/priestesses for the tribe and specializes in the knowledge of life and death. Essentially an eclastic parallel to the bélak, the Khailaz of a tribe is responsible for carrying out the sacred rites and rituals of blessings. More warlike tribes focus more on the aspects of a Khailaz as a zealotus figurehead as well as a first-aid specialist. The role of a Khailaz is especially important because, in the absence of using Hehn for Dehmer society (as it disobeys religious laws of nature), the Khailaz is the only one who is specifically trained in keeping the dying alive.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khurga</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The generals that aid the bélak in keeping order and engaging in skirmishes and hunts. The khurga are responsible for keeping the tribe safe and happy, protecting the borders of their current grounds. To become a khurga, a Dehmer must show exemplary loyalty and courage in protecting their kinsmen. Khurga are expected to be steadfast companions into death, laying down their life and all aspects of it in the name of their chief. If a khurga or group of khurgas do not agree with how a chief is treating the tribe, they can issue a challenge. A khurga is well-experienced in all weapons, though they may have a specialty, and are expected to excel in everything from the bow to hand-to-hand combat.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Agnakh</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The hunters and soldiers of the tribe. Agnakh are regarded as essential parts of the system. They are purveyors of death and skilled most often in the shield, bow, spear, and javelin. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Darkhan</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The ones who specialize in the craft. Essentially, the Darkhan’s job is to perform tasks of handwork to help the tribe along. Their responsibilities include tanning hides, stripping flesh, working forges, carving bone, and sewing with sinew to make shelter, weapons, furniture, and tools for others to use. In ancient days, the Darkhan was a position called the There are typically no more than three or so Darkhans in a given tribe. The Darkhans take apprentices to pass on their knowledge to.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gadur</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Harvesters of the fruit, both of the trees and of the body. A gadurak is responsible for collecting bodies from the field, game that has been hunted and left behind for the pursuit of other beasts, and herbs, fruits and vegetables found in the land. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khandaga</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The ones who tend to the homestead.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kerdia has a unique congregation of tribes native to the land. Tribes themselves debate on how best to conduct their business and practices in the day-to-day. Some opt for peaceful solutions, finding violent retaliation abhorrent and being opposed to lashing back at the cruelties that have been inflicted on them. The Hegrander tribes that believe in this principle, notably, include the Baargan (Bears of Heart), Lukus (Mules of Burden), Khaamuk (Sheep of Union)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Others have seen violent employments of similar human/duwhin tactics to be favorable, such as the Tsutahk (Hands of Blood), Khutsi (Rams of Power), Khruka (Hawks of Hunting), Gar-Asga (Lions of Fire), Tal-Hós (Mountains of Bone ), Ulkrûn (Claws of the Wolf) and the Aldamorg (Horses of Glory).</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are some who are currently unaffiliated with either tribe, called the Dugu, or the “Voiceless.” These include the Akula (Sharks of Prey), </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Regardless of the tribe, however, most of the Dehmer people still face persecution from those living in Hegros. Therefore, some have resolved to take shelter in the far reaches of the northern borders or in the safety of the southern steppes. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Controversy</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Aside from the differences between Urgadag and Yalzmag, the tribes themselves still squabble for resources. The Urgadag have conflicts that have been roaring on for years. In one specific case, the compassion of a particularly powerful human healer caused some problems for the Khutsi tribe. One of the Khuga (General) has taken to this woman. Some members of the . In the region of Sneigh, the Uluun are both competing and working with the native Trinurian there (this is choice dependent too).</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elven Politics & Controversy:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Politics of Elves</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Politics of Sneigh Elves</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The elven people of Sneigh conduct the majority of their business in a druidic council. Their conclave is ever-changing, but meetings are heralded by an impregnable mist that misdirects unwelcome adventurers. The elves of Sneigh are mainly of the Frost tribe, and </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elder</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Princess/Prince</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Politics of the Shore Elves</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And the people of the Trinurian lands have a system that functions uniquely (see page 2 above for more details on that stuff.)</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Politics of Doru Elves</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Geography:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Southern Vhettum: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Vhet” meaning “white” and “tum” (short for “Tumi”) meaning “land”, the Southern Vhettum is the expanse of saltpans leading from the western horn of Shun to the northern stretches of the land ridge. Back in the days of heavy rains when Varsa and Vasan still walked the Nassa, precipitation in Shun outweighed the evaporation rate. Now, those two values have flipped, leading to the water drying up and creating a large bed of minerals. It is sometimes referred to as the “Glass Dune” for its reflective quality. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hima:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Northern Vhettum: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Similarly to the Southern Vhettum, this land was named for its extraordinary white color. However, it’s starkness is taken from the heavy banks of snow that land there rather than the leavings of salt. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Music</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">INSTRUMENTS BY CULTURE</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun, Hima, & Veda</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pretty much everything! :D But specifically… Bansuri, Ney Flute (Southwestern), Nyatiti (Southwestern), Guzheng, Guqin, Oud, Sitar, Koboz, Komuz, Cura, Guitar, Tambura, Balafon, Hurdy-Gurdy, Qanun, Afghan Rubab, Hammered Dulcimer, Hang Drum, Riqq, Kamancheh, Tabla, Surbahar, Kithara, Flute, Hand Pan, Lyra, Adeudeu (Northwest), Chelys Lyre (Northern & Northeastern), Kokles, Mandolin, Cymbalum, Duduk, Koto, Violin, Erhu. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(An important fictitious instrument in Naiba is the triana, a three-stringed spike lute based off of the sanxian. Look to the Naiban page for more information.)</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(</span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=qlBJdbzfLQY" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=qlBJdbzfLQY</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gHwlR1-AmqI" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gHwlR1-AmqI</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4fLR0oK9RSU" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4fLR0oK9RSU</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=LqtSmj7zxmw" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=LqtSmj7zxmw</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_26kcxrURM </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW3qG1Hjxkk,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdIoaxIB1KE" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdIoaxIB1KE</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZ7_6wentf8" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZ7_6wentf8</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hima:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Glass chimes, Guqin, singing bowls, chanting, Duduk, Flute, Bansuri (This absolutely), Yaybahar (this also especially), Kora, Ney Flute</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQEgSDuijVs" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQEgSDuijVs</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=8luhdxS2KuM" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=8luhdxS2KuM</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=wYQ_ol3L9Ag" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=wYQ_ol3L9Ag</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guzheng, Lute, Lyre, Lavta, Ney Flute, Buzuq, Balalaika, Santur, Flute, Lute, Hurdy Gurdy, Erhu, Shawm, Rebec, Pipa, Hammered Dulcimer, Cymbals, Adufe, Viol, Harp, Flute, Dizi, Pishik, Kantele (Northwest), Kokles (Northeast), Bukkehorn (especially for the Khutsi), Topshur (Eastern and Southeastern), Ghijak, Komuz (Steppes), Cura (Steppes), Chelys Lyre (Wedor), Kamancheh, Sean-Nos like singing, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(</span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=oMq8Qohh5tk" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=oMq8Qohh5tk</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0sxHAZwHrhk" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0sxHAZwHrhk</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WjvDxHLmXe8" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WjvDxHLmXe8</span></a></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_26kcxrURM , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=n5F7eV7zHpk" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=n5F7eV7zHpk</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ND-uvTG6L-o" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ND-uvTG6L-o</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8Hpyov3Tt8" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8Hpyov3Tt8</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://youtu.be/ksiM1wRcutQ" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://youtu.be/ksiM1wRcutQ</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=zv8PgukSLX0" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=zv8PgukSLX0</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Morin Khuur (Steppes), Tonkori, Bagpipes, Pishik, Bandura, Tumbi, Aulos</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager: </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Erhu, Guzheng, Flute, </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hurdy Gurdy, Lyra, Rebec, Bodhran Drum, Chelys Lyre (Sammerland), Hammered Dulcimer (Sammerland), Adufe, Flute, Erhu, Morin Khurr, Tagelharpa, Harp, Double Recorder, Fiddle, Tin Whistle, Shakuhachi, Violin, Duduk, Gjallarhorn, Bouzouki, Shaman Drum, Cittern, Crwth, Pibgorn (West) Tagelharpa Cello (North & Northwestern), Kantele, Carnyx (Trinelands), Grass Flute, Singing Bowls, Rainsticks, Rattles (often made from bone or nuts), Kamancheh</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Here’s a good example: </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KFrMSW-hJ-M" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KFrMSW-hJ-M</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FhzukOm5lxc" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FhzukOm5lxc</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFrMSW-hJ-M" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFrMSW-hJ-M</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ND-uvTG6L-o" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ND-uvTG6L-o</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=sC9v4DCFdcM" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=sC9v4DCFdcM</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KTmatjyd4KM#searching" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KTmatjyd4KM#searching</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> ,</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bu9PyoiArys" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bu9PyoiArys</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUth0YplJR4" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUth0YplJR4</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> )</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trinurian Morin Khuur (Trinelands), Kamancheh, Riqq, Nyckelharpa, Hurdy-Gurdy, Uileann Pipes</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(</span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=N8paj2hQHIo" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=N8paj2hQHIo</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KvtT3UyhibQ" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KvtT3UyhibQ</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Hector the Hero on the violin is essentially the theme of Sammerland)</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wedor</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bouzouki, Shell Rattles, Conch Horns, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tonkori, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(</span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=lAZodp2TAHk" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=lAZodp2TAHk</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> , </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dances by Culture</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hima:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sword Dance: Can be performed in a duet, solo, or group dance. The sword dance combines fluidity of movement, isolation of certain parts of the body, extensions of movement (like holding slow lunging positions), and teamwork (between the musician and the dancer or between dancers). Similarly to the Yunya dance, the sword dance is often used as a form of meditation and training. It can be slow, almost tedious, then burst into sudden bouts of energy. This unpredictability is part of what makes it excellent training in awareness, as it is seldom choreographed. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yunya Dance: A dance that exemplifies balance. The purpose of the Yunya dance is to represent the creation of the world by Jaina, bringing the cosmic balance through calamity, peace, and harmony. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Games & Sports:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine: </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Coastal</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">F</span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crálka</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Meaning “crál (insect) fight,” this game is a broad term for bloodsport</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Southern/Grasslands</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Teka Matches</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Also known as “goat hockey”, the goal of Teka is to try and kick a ball into a net- often made of wicker- that is guarded by a goalie. Players are divided into four teams. The goal is to kick the ball into your home goal, wrestling it away from other individuals. Players are equipped with mits and wear goat-skull/iron goat shaped helmets. Part of the object of the game is to “ram” into other players to obtain the ball. </span></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dehmer:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">North</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">South </span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dumassé:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> A race where pairs juggle two balls with one another while running, progressively distancing themselves more and more from their partner. The object of the game is to work on coordination and teamwork, as the opposing pair will try to disrupt the racers as they go.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Forgiveness Duels:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Among the people of the Gar-Asga, it is common to settle disputes and maintain honor through the art of the duel. In forgiveness duels, tensions are settled with a fight. The most common form of combat among the Gar-Asga people is a form of martial art called “Asgriesh,” which in the language of the Gar-Asga people means “lionblade.” The weapons involved in this are long single-edged blades (similar to katanas). While forgiveness duels are most commonly performed in situations where parties feel as though they have been wronged, they are also held for the purposes of entertainment.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Morgo, or Horseback Wrestling: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For many of the plainsfolk that live in the grasslands, breaking, riding, and training horses or other mounts is essential in culture. Morgo is a game where opponents try to grapple each other on horseback and toss the other to the ground. Both opponents are often naked, or at least naked from the top, as to prevent grappling of clothing. There is occasionally a consequence to falling off the horse that involves a small melee afterward, as the fallen player has to battle a “keeper” to determine whether or not they can mount up and try again. If the player is successful, they can try to fell the other player again. Whoever loses to the keeper loses the game. If both players knock each other off the horse, then they have to each battle a keeper. Both can lose, and both can win if they call a draw. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Talmorgo:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> An invention of ogurish origins, Talmorgo is a variation of Morgo in which one rider passes by a standing opponent (most typically an ogur) and tries to knock them out of their circle. The circle is often made of flint or stone pieces or drawn with chalk. The objective of the standing player, or the “mountain”, is to stay strong and remain upright throughout the game. The rider only gets a certain number of passes before the two change sides. The mountain can gain extra passes by either ripping the rider off the back of his horse or felling the horse itself. There are penalties for taking down the horse, as it could wound the animal, and rewards fewer passes. With every three rounds, the circle gets smaller, making it more difficult to dodge the rider. There are typically five rounds that are played. A die is often cast to see who goes first and, therefore, gets the choice to have more standing rounds or riding rounds. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khaama </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">East</span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aldarin Races: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Indeed, perhaps one of the most popular past times for Ralésian dekur are the “alda-rin” (“horse bird” or “fast bird”) races. In these, Dekur mount up on the aforementioned lightning quick fowl and race through checkpoints, designated by brackets or hoops. The races pass exceptionally quickly and circuits can sometimes loop around entire cities just to make the races longer. It is an incredibly fast-paced, not for the faint of heart sport. </span></p></li></ul><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">West</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">National Celebrations!:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">St. Marck’s Day:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> A celebration that is held to promote the ideals of charity and giving. There is a feast that begins its preparation at morning and commences at eve. This is often a meal that is prepared by the entire household to some degree. A house’s door opens for the less fortunate to come and dine. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">St. Iris’ Day: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A day of grand singing, the choir of Hester travel through the town singing songs. All are welcome to join in the music, being in fact encouraged to do so. As they pass by, the altar youths present donation bowls to spectators to offer coins. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weddings and Exchanging Vows: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When an individual is single, they wear a pair of bands on their ring finger. When they exchange rings, the new ring goes on the opposite hand so that either hand has a ring. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Warbling: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A specific activity around winter time, warbling involves a band of singers- often orphans and the less fortunate- who go from home to home singing through the midwinter im exchange for </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">háldrinc</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or mulled cider, and a warm meal. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weddings</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: As it has often been noted by scholars, a Naiban wedding is one of the most beautiful experiences that a person can witness in their lifetime. An exciting assortment of colors, music, dance, food, and celebration, Naiban weddings are known for their extraordinary beauty. The first part includes the engaged individuals wading into the sacred river together. They baptize one another, washing away the person who they once were and emerging from the depths in their lovers embrace. The second part has the two each take a handful of dyed sand, combining them into a bottle and offering them to the cleric. Once the final vows have been exchanged, dyes are placed into waterhorns which are used by hydromancers to spray a prismatic rain down into the crowd. This is why no wedding outfit ever escapes cleanly! The new colors and patterns are emblematic of a new life together, with both partners subjects to change- both discordant and harmonious. (Note: For Amira and Iona, somebody puts bloody red dye in the cannon- though it is not known whether or not it is a Naiban or Trinurian that does it. It startles the crowd, but they move on with the celebration and shake it off. It turns out that it was less of an act of symbolism, saying how the two shouldn’t be together, and more of a prank on behalf of two ulfur pups at the wedding. They get in trouble later. All are startled at first, Iona and Amira protecting each other, assuming that it is dangerous but then revealed that it’s not. Amira points out that it’s the fact that their minds even went to that place that is part of the problem. The pair resolve to fix the issue.)</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dhemur Nation (Excluding the Han-Dhemur)</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ardlig’s Day:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> A day of great romance, Ardlig’s day is named after the pompadour Ardlig, who is known for being a bondmate of almost every chieftain in the Heartland. On this day, each band celebrates love and expresses to their partners (or prospective partners) how they feel. This is expressed in a variety of ways. For the </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Burial and Funerary Traditions</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ascensions: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Close relations recall the way that a person was in life and relay this to hydroillusionists- people who use water to scatter light and make images appear. Hydroillusionists then take the water from their vessels and use their powers to create misty images in the likeness of the deceased. They ascend the mountain up to the Massika overhang, where the crowd follows behind them and spectates. The spectral form of the deceased approaches the edge of the cliff and faces the setting sun. With their arms aloft, their image slowly and symbolically climbs into the air to become one with H’Ster. It is believed to be one of the most beautiful spectacles in all of Kerdia. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lavish Afterlife:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Displays of material wealth are believed to bless a family with certain boons, as it means that they have more to give to the gods. This applies to the afterlife as well. Crafts of jewelry, art, clothing, and more are all gathered to be given to the Triasa alongside the mortal vessel of a person. Their bodies are brought to the uppermost point of the Temple, where it is believed that their souls can more easily ascend once they are claimed. Speeches pertaining to honoring the dead are followed, most typically, by celebrations of a person’s life. This is especially true if the deceased in question was well-accomplished. As the Twins would sometimes revive the reverent who offered them great treasures (at least in the tales of great heroes), the dead are kept with whatever precious materials a family member can offer. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Protection from Graverobbers: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With exorbitant wealth comes the need and desire to protect it. For the denizens of Naiba, this is done via two methods: First, several illusions are kept in Naiban necropolises. Mages and inventors with particular skill sets are hired by families often and it has led to the job being quite desirable in the state. Skilled illusionist architects have even been known to make thieves go mad with their tricks, leading to them being taken in by the government. Secondly, as a tomb is often tiered, there are several obstacles for intruders to overcome. One of the main ones would be the presence of guard drakes, who are fed regularly by those they are familiar with but who are none too keen on those whom they do not know. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Currencies</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Sorted from lowest highest value to lowest value currency)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ageran Empire</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Phurian Currency (antiquated)</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ember (Embers): Small round coins with beveled edges and a sunburst hole through the center. Lightweight copper coins. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">New Empire Currency</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Embers </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">United Shuni City States Currency</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Remex (Remiges): Representing the city-state of Naiba, the remex is the image of a wyvern’s flight feather on a round coin, the other side bearing three liquid starbursts for the Triasa and the symbol of Unity in the middle. Made of rose gold. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Views on Marriage/Partnerships, Gender, and Familial Relations</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Concept of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Marriage is seen as a contractual engagement between two individuals of the same class- specifically between heterosexual couples who can bear children. It binds families together and has partners share expectations of income and responsibility. Ager, which prioritizes patrilinear lines of inheritance, sees that partnerships between men and women are not wholly egalitarian but rather that men have the expectation to increase the standing of their factions.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gender</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: There is a slight propensity for inequality in Ager, though only in terms of familial inheritance. In war, women still play the vital role as soldiers and medics. Some of the most well-known celebrities in Ager are gladiatrices. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships Outside of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Because marriage is prioritized for advancing in certain social circles, it is considered favorable to a family to restrict relations regarding romance to those arrangements which may have been predetermined for their progeny. Many times young couples will engage in a courting period. While the Opulenta and the other higher ranking classes of Ager have spousal partners largely predetermined for them, members of the peasantry and merchant-folk are not always bound by the same restrictions.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Homosexuality</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Permitted only between members of the same class, with the exception of royals who seek out relationships with lower-ranking members/members of the servant class. Engaging in relations with a member of another class is seen as scandalous and even so far as to be considered unclean. Warriors are encouraged to find intimate companionships with one another, especially during their time at war. That being said, marriage is not permitted between those who cannot bear children, and so even the favorite companion of the emperor cannot expect to inherit anything unless he is adopted into the family.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Adopted children are viewed as legitimate for all intensive purposes, including inheriting land and being able to operate in the same manner as blood relatives. The ideal is that if someone is deemed family, the bond matters more than the blood. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many partners?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Almost all interactions are monogamous, though the emperor is permitted to have multiple concubines. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Concept of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: In Aré, the concept of a marriage is that of a contract between two families represented by one son and one daughter. Families of in-laws are often expected to become close. As community is a very important thing in Arésian culture, these connections form lasting friendships and mutually beneficial arrangements between members of multiple households. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Positions of the Household</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Men are the head of the household, responsible for keeping his wife and children in line. Sons inherit their father’s land and belongings and are expected to follow in their father’s footsteps, be they peasants or merchant princes. Women are mothers, their duties are to provide a good hearth for their spouses and rear children. Daughters are exchanged for connections with other families, their hands offered in marriage to solidify these bonds. They then become mothers, and so the cycle continues. Folk often have quite a few children to carry on their namesakes, the average Arésian family having around five children. Noble houses differ in the sense that both men and women are expected to be educated, though mostly so that interactions don’t become stale. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gender</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Men are expected to lead the household and command all those under his stead, including his wife. Women are expected to obey the man of the house, doing their upmost and sacrificing whatever necessary to take care of him. This has included some rather extreme rituals. In antiquity, there was a third gender that was acknowledged called the trcezi. These individuals were considered holy people of great beauty. Most trcezi were half-elven. Because of their mystic nature, engaging in amorous relationships with a third one was considered good luck. They often became kumpelé to the king, who would revere them as their most cherished.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships Outside of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: The social elite (specifically the Magia) will often have mistresses or paramours who are professionally trained to be called upon (even to the point of being specifically trained to fulfill the role that suits that noble’s desires.) Though there has been a long history of concubinage and prositution in Aré’s history, the introduction of the teachings of Sauris have quashed much of the old ways in the eyes of the religious population. Brothels are not uncommon, though the Church looks down upon them and condemns those who use them. Most average folk- who are largely pious- refrain from engaging in such relationships for fear of their souls. Chasteness is a virtue that is admired in young women, and the expectation is that they will remain “untouched” until their marriage. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Homosexuality</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Homosexuality is largely condemned by modern Arésian society, who believes that interactions outside of those that merit children are immoral. Though this was not always the case, the view of masculine figures taking the passive role in a sexual relationship was always condemned. Women in Arésian culture are viewed as child-bearers, and so the expectation is to have them maintain strict sexual and romantic allegiance to their husbands. Any relationship that is not fruitful is not considered in the best interests of the community, who seeks to expand its influence over the continent. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Adoption in Arésian society is viewed as a morally good thing to do, though adopted children receive no benefits of inheritance and are considered on par with illegitimate children. Because of this, orphanages will often hold onto children, as few families are willing to take in additional members without the benefit of having their child become their heir. Those who take in children are often clerics, who have either promised to have only one child (in the case of priests) or who have sworn vows of chastity (in the case of priestesses). </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many partners?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: In ancient times, polygyny was a common practice in Aré. As time wore on and the introduction of Saurisian thought integrated into society the idea of monogamy became more popular, as it reflected the same sorts of relationships that were seen in the Empire.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Concepts of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Marriage is viewed as a construct that is rather loose in terms of legality and is more intended as proof of a person’s love. It is an important aspect mostly to those who wish to share their lives together, and is designed by nature to help make the process of living with one another easier. While a married couple is together, their . A common practice, though not particularly </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Positions of the Household</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: As a largely egalitarian society, parents of a household split responsibility pretty evenly. There is not a great divide between heads of the household, only expecting that any children show great deals of respect to their wise and more experienced elders. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gender</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: There are three main genders that are recognized by Naiban society. Gender fluidity is not uncommon, as the people believe that shape and form changes like the river if the gods are so willing. It is seen as a person’s destiny to follow their heart, as is ordained by the Triasa.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships Outside of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: It is encouraged for people to court one another before agreeing to marry, and it is commonplace for couples to spend time getting to know one another before committing to anything solid. There are no punishments (aside from interpersonal conflicts between spouses) that are enforced for sexual promiscuity. That being said, rumors can fly rather quickly, and public shaming is a practice that Naiba is no stranger to.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Homosexuality</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Homosexuality is common in Naiba, with practices being something that few people even bat an eye at. Some of the most prominent historical figures (including Princess Wuzi and Haika) identified as such and have inspired works of their lives and doings. Marriages between same-sex couples are permitted and these individuals receive the same rights as any other partners. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Adoption is accepted in Naiba, and most children who are orphaned are taken in personally to foster homes almost immediately after an incident occurs. There are not really any dedicated orphanages, but the Temple is always willing to look after those who have lost their families. Aside from adoptions from non-blood relatives, genetic families are expected to take in youths when their parents or guardians pass on. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many partners?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Naiba is one of the rare places where multiple-partner unions are legally recognized, though not particularly common. The most common form of polygamy is a three-person companionship. There was once the case of two sharyars and a sharyana living together, with one of the sharyars being a foreign prince and apprentice to the Naiban rulers. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Concepts of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Positions of the Household</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gender</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships Outside of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Homosexuality</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many partners?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trinelands</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Concepts of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Marriage is an engagement that is honored until pups that are had in a marriage come of age. Once any</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Positions of the Household</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gender</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships Outside of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Homosexuality</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many partners?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hima</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Concepts of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Marriage, to a Gamirian, is one of the most important aspects of life. Marriage is a strict contract in Gamiri culture. As resources are scarce and life can prove to be difficult, a marriage is a decision that is carefully planned out and considered before any action is taken. A common practice in Hima is apprenticeship, which is widely viewed as a form of marriage. One individual- typically an older figure- takes in another for the purposes of teaching them the customs and responsibilities of the kingdom. This form of relationship has been most common with partnerships between a native Gamir ruler and a foreign sovereign or between a king/queen and a member of a lower class (such as a soldier, lower ranking noble, or even in some cases a merchant). Because the tenants of Varsa are so integrated into Gamiri society, the teachings exchanged between sovereign and apprentice are largely religious and arcane in nature. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Positions of the Household</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Just as with Naiba, there are few differences in treatment between men and women. The only main difference is what expectations are had for looking after children. Because the world in Hima is cold and harsh, a mother is expected never to leave her child under any circumstances aside from death itself. A father, on the other hand, may need to venture outside to seek out resources. As such, it is not uncommon for mothers to be left on their own with children for weeks on end. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gender</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Treatment between men and women is roughly the same. Women and men are expected to gain an education and learn some school of magic before their adolescence. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships Outside of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Relationships outside of marriage are practically nonexistent in Gamirian society. Those that arise are highly condemned by society, which reserves the right to shame and even lawfully exile those who would threaten the status quo. Courtship preceding marriage is expected for youths, especially those who are predetermined to be married (which is almost everyone in Gamiri society) and the courtship period is expected to last between three and five years to determine compatibility. If the couple can manage to stay together and work alongside one another in that time, then they are deemed fit to be a couple. Once a couple is wed, there are no ways for them to separate. Partners have no alternative choices for romance, unless in the event of widowing. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Homosexuality</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Homosexuality is viewed as Homosexual practices are found predominantly among the clergy, who have already taken vows to abstain from having children. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Although there is a precedent for rearing two children in a household, there is no limit on how many children can be adopted. Unfortunately for many orphans, families are hesitant to bring new members into their home for fear of being unable to take care of them or their other children. As such, orphans are often forgotten about or else live in the monastery. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many partners?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Hima is very strict on who they permit to marry. There is a very firm stance that only monogamous relationships are acceptable.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Doronis</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dans</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gender</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships Outside of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Homosexuality</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many partners?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Neros</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gender</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relationships Outside of Marriage</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Homosexuality</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adoption</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How many partners?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Views on War</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Boastful energy when it comes to military might, especially with the aid of the Empire </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ageran Empire:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Strong military culture</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Prioritizes strategy </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Has several divisions for units, even breaking down roles to having people look after development of specific kits of equipment</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While some are very concerned with the economic, social, and human ramifications of war, there are others that essentially have a “who would dare to mess with us” mindset</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Very tolerant and welcoming nature to soldiers regardless of their backgrounds</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Formal and composed and renowned for this behavior. Some find it off putting with the military tradition but others embrace it and appreciate it</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Views on Diversity</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fashion</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Wyvern crowns (headband with two antlered protrusions and feathers), simple cloth headwraps, dangling headband with long side, hairpins</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body: Tasseled/Belled vests, robes, Hasa</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body: Cotton or banana fiber skirts, loose satin pants, Sama</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet: Beaded boots, sandals, bronze sand sifters</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Feathered armbands, earrings of precious gems or metals, eyeliner and eyeshadow (especially green/aqua scale patterns under the eye), bronzer for the skin, Beja hairstyles, dot markings on the left side of the neck for Varsa, bangles (includes single wedding bangle), rings, henna markings</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Halo tower crown (nobility), hairpins</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body: Hasa (kind of like hanfu), </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body: Sama cords, loose patterned pants, skirts or robe bottoms</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet: Beaded shoes, silk shoes, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Earrings of precious gems or metals, stripe markings on the right side of the neck for Vasan, moles below eyes for Vasan, locs and buns/braids, braids with beads, rings, bangles (includes single wedding bangle), parasols, henna dyes, ketara (ivory or wooden clasps that also hold small items, such as a needle and thread- often made to look like animals or flowers)</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Notes: Clothing is often unrestrictive and flowing. “A flower cannot grow if hidden in the shade.” Naibans believe that freedom and expression of beauty is important, and therefore have few limitations to their fashion trends. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khutsi:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Dark woolen mantles</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 408px; overflow: hidden; width: 468px;"><img height="408" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1v2oGl5xCNn8mpxVl3A5c1AfJTM_VvE5d7LpDQ4fiseLNlY3cz-W1YIHJ8vjhZk2Pt7LAPf2TNxkUOEX9tyR4RMeu0VHulNJrF9n7VXYhTV_1UoTYlt653iKP_W9ubd7Biufweun" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="468" /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khaamuk:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Woolen single-shoulder mantles (light colored)</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aldamorg: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female and Male-</span></p><ol start="6" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Tall conical helm with feathered or tasseled mane (note: the ends often have wicks that are lit for intimidation purposes during battles or speeches), knit headband</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body: Chiton-like dresses (worn out of combat), brocade silk robes, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body: Hempen pants, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Bronze armbands, ornamental shoulder-length capes (often with beads or metallic baubles along the neck)</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gar-Asga:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="11" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Maned headdress (note: Bélak, often made of a bronze casted lion’s head, upper teeth hanging over the eyes), knit headband, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol start="6" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tsutahk:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="16" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol start="11" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Talé:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="21" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol start="16" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulkrûn:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="26" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Wolfskin and wool cloak</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol start="21" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 159px; overflow: hidden; width: 200px;"><img height="159" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/h_U6qRcEOL25eIhvvo1U4bbUjwLtr_pd_00nzI0BMwYAdJM-ZekDDW1zer3s1LrgLYUFGze4QZDORCmyyDqsXgg8Sjar03n14tQSXKKw99jR8t4kncGpXalF2SpXG3gNjKK6HqI7" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="200" /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 292px; overflow: hidden; width: 139px;"><img height="292" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2ffEDV83WXxbJC121LAk3B8BpzywMcPzYZhchMERihBJl0irVImCMtCkOU72aR87NZhdB-3GWT3Fxn1buO-K_yXNEKplDhyHUrmPYlPblnH0yuaj5JL-WArvxMxssfk_IzJYghE6" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="139" /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Baargan:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="31" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Woven Rowan headband, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet: Fur and hide boots, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Heavy plaid cloaks, bearskin cloaks/parkas, mitten-gloves, </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol start="26" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Floppy caps, coif and peasant hat (farmers), conical farmer hats (farmers), Hussar-like helmet (military), slicked hair with lavender or mint extract and vegetable oils (nobility), </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body: Cotton tunics or robes, Hussar-like armor (military), ruffs (nobility)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body: Hose, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet: High heeled horse boots, long laced boots (nobility & military), </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Curled mustaches and muttonchops, extravagant facial hair, wedding bands, written character (runic/hanzic) finger tattoos of blessings, scarification (sometimes used to brand criminals or shame prostitutes/servants)</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="6" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Woolen headscarves (peasantry), kokoshnik, fengguan-like headdresses (nobility, wedding), wreaths and ribbons (maidens)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body: Silk dress (nobility), sarafan </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Wreaths, scarification (for owned women, sometimes used to shame prostitutes), </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol start="6" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Medallion-headdress, headcloths, woven twigs (medicine men), dangling loose headband , samo-looking hats, bokdu looking hats, thin kasa hats, (</span><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=rUDoMLVLggg" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=rUDoMLVLggg</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">), </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body: Deep-necked tunic, kerescen, jacket with braided ends, animal skin cloaks (snow </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body: Fur-cuffed pants, elk hide breeches, puttees, thermal leggings and waistwrap </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet: Chainmail boots (soldiers), wolf fur boots, clogs, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Beard sheaths or horns (similar to Egypt), eyebrow studs, ashen paints, mustache loops, daira (accessories made out of branches or woven twigs, “daira” meaning “of the tree”), wristbands (oftentimes made of leather), neácha (neckscarves or shawls, soldiers), arm-scarring in the shape of leaves (nobility) </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="6" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Woolen headwraps, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet: Doeskin shoes, clogs, medallion chain boots, lace shoes</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Painted nails, finger cuts (small incisions in ring finger after marriage), henna-like colored dye markings (many times for celebration), patterned/tartan shawl, kertch, </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trine Lands: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="6" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hima:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol start="11" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet: Snow-sifters, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="16" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories:</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Neros:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Male-</span></p><ol start="11" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Metallic headbands, circlets, headscarves or bandanas (civilian), reef helmets (soldiers), Phrygian helms (soldiers), clothen headbands with adornments (nobility). Hair is often cropped short and well-groomed. Beards are similarly well-kempt and maintained or shaved off entirely. Elders, who wear long tailed beards, often curl theirs to look like seaweed. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body: cork vests (soldiers), scalemail (soldiers), blouses, poet shirts, doublets, brocade jeonbok</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body: Ankle-banded pants, breeches, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Makeup that emphasizes the eye</span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Female-</span></p><ol start="11" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Head: Veils, tiaras and circlets, </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Upper Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lower Body:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feet:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accessories: Hairpins, pearl necklaces and wrist bracelets, makeup like blush to convey healthiness, coral earrings and finger rings, albatross neckwear. </span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Armor, Weaponry, & Fighting Styles</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grasslands:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weaponry</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kranna</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a type of bladed gauntlet that is fashioned to look like a predator’s paw. The underside of the krânna, sometimes referred to as the saluk (or “sleeve”) occasionally has small holsters sewn into the leather/cloth where vials of pit viper venom are stored for application on other weapons, mostly arrowheads or crossbow bolts. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Daru</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a type of curved blade (sort of like a hook) that is often used for pulling riders off of their horses and beheading.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kûr</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a type of axe or sickle sword used in harvest by Gadurak or in single combat. Good for clearing paths in tall grasses and thicket. The kûr has largely gone out of use in modern Kerdian combat but remains an important agricultural tool. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kesh</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a basic word for the common Steppe sword. A slightly curved broad blade with a clip point tip and a small round guard. Some Steppe groups, such as the Antols or the Khutsi, have incorporated a serrated edge on their keshes. In central Dhemish tribes, the kesh is a weapon that is often reserved for use by trained khurgas, as the average aghnak only really needs to know how to use a spear and bow. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trikesh</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, an almost ornamental blade that is similar in shape to a real-world Falcata. The trikesh is primarily used by eastern peoples, though its influence spans further than that for its beheading capabilities.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Asgriesh</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a long cutting blade with a hexagonal guard. Called a “lionblade,” the asgriesh traces its origins back to the Gar-Asgan people. In ancient days, the sword was wielded only by high-ranking members of the Garagur people, such as queens and their vassals. Since the Garagur followed Ishu and became the Gar-Asga tribe, they have dismantled much of the social and wealth inequality that was once present. Therefore a lionblade could be wielded by anyone in the group that was fit enough to use one.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Onstraka</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a type of knife that is forged out of a single piece of metal. Usually meant for ornamental purposes, the onstraka is often the project of a young forger’s first try at metallurgy. It is both practical, simple, and visually appealing (if done correctly). There is no specific design for this kind of knife, so blades vary greatly from person to person. It could be blocky and thick, or thin and curved, or straight and serrated, or even have a gut hook. Whatever the case, it remains an important part of Talésian culture. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kuba Kûr</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or a “big axe,” is a name for a type of war scythe that is commonly used in the Steppes. It is a good infantry weapon against mounted cavalry combatants and has become a popular choice for native Antolans and Rukanians. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dorkûr</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, or “tree-axe,” is a two-bit axe that is generally used for splitting wood. It has encountered a few modifications over time that have helped it become better for combat, such as in the case of the tsukûr. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kuba Kesh</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, the Dehmish word for “big sword.” Similar in size and shape to a falx.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gadrahook</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Designed in part by the Aldamorg and perfected by Ogur might, the gadrahook is a type of polearm that has a razor sharp edge on one side and a point that curves into a hook on the other. The purpose of this weapon is to be able to combine the chopping power of a poleaxe, the thrusting ability of a spear, and the hooking power of a daru. The gadrahook is especially useful in taking down mounted combatants, grabbing them off of their horses with the hook and dispatching them with either the blade end or the spear end of the weapon. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Skelig</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a small shield that is used by mounted combatants to knock away spears and deflect other infantry blows. The skelig is a good defense against infantrymen when mounted, but not so great for a warrior on the ground. It is light enough to be able to be carried while supporting a heavy weapon like a thlengri. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thlengrish</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a very long pike-like weapon that is designed to pierce enemies from afar. It is often wielded by Katak (armored) Aghnaki, heavily armored Aghnak troops who stand at the frontline of battles. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fighting Styles</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khurtak</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, which essentially translates to “knife hands”, is a style of takedown where combatants focus on chops and targeting pressure points such as those on the side of the neck. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Khutsaga</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is a style that emphasizes offensive technique and using unexpected movements to overpower your opponent. Headbutts, low tackles, leg sweeps, and charges are important in khutsaga. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kangaroo style</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> involves an emphasis on the lower body, eye gouging, and jump kicking. It is an extreme form of combat that can result in internal injury. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weaponry:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">T</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fighting Styles:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taglon</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a style of mixed martial art that involves upright wrestling and boxing. Opponents are lathered in tree sap and root water to ward curses away. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trinelands:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bruggard Blade</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: Known as the “bridgeman’s blade,” the bruggard (pronounced brew-guard) is a powerful two-handed sword that is designed to help defend areas like bridges and doorways from advancing enemies- particularly pikemen. On average, one of these blades weighs upwards of fifteen pounds. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ulvan Pike</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is a massive type of pike that is designed to be wielded by the long-limbed ulfur. Most ulvan pikes have two sharp fins just below the head of the longarm. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hombalg Spear</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a type of simple bone throwing spear used in Ulvan antiquity. The hombalg is often constructed of barbed and serrated bone or flint heads tied with sinew to an evergreen haft. In modern usage, hombalgs refer to javelin like weapons with a barbed spearhead. The honbag (honthag) is often thrown by a larg. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Larg</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a sling that is designed to act as a lever, throwing spears farther and spending less energy doing so. The larg is, similar to the honthalg, an early ulvan invention. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Klottir</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a small knife similar to a dirk. The klottir often has a serrated edge (in true ulvan fashion) and is designed to wound prey and cut through the tough scute hide of a fellow Ulfur. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Skinniv</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, a thin and sharp blade that is designed for skinning animals. Seldom used in warfare except in the case of emergencies. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Economies</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">EXPORTS (by order of lucrative gains) </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Textiles, Rugs, and Fabrics</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wyverns Services and Wyvern Eggs</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Art, Pottery, and Ceramics</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Minerals and Gems, especially lapis lazuli </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Metals (Mainly gold)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jewelry</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Coffee</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crops (wheat, figs, pomegranates, dates, etc.)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ivory</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bakhoor Incense</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aitho</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Metals (Copper especially, also gold and iron)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wootz steel goods (weapons, mostly)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mushrooms</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Coffee</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crated goods of metal, like jewelry, now armor and weapons as well</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ivory and Leather</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spices</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ebony</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Domesticated Arrowcats</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Religious texts and goods</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grains and other crops (namely potatoes, apples, pears, peaches, apricots, and plums)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wine (made from the above fruits)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Animal products, like milk, honey, and eggs</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ar</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">é</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Horses </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Beer</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Silver</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Iron and iron goods, such as nails and cookery</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Agriculture (wheat, onions, barely, rye, sugar beets)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Animal products, mostly eggs, ham and cattle</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Instruments</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dans</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wine</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oak wood and products (barrels, chests, chairs, etc.)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Honey, flavored from exotic flowers</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Knights and horsemen</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weaponry</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Silver</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wool</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Laeland</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Metals, such as iron and silver</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wool</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wood</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Minerals and gems, such as amber</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elven </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Steppes</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weaponry (mainly bows and arrows, also Damascus steel-like knives called “chuurti” and chariots)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Animals (Hawks, sheep, cragcats, Khurkut rams)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Silks</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jewelry</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Medicines</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cloth goods (blankets, robes, rugs, tapestries)</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trine Lands</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Metals, such as tin and iron</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Blubber and oil</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ivory</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pelts and animal hides</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fish</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mead</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oil and Blubber</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Salt and fish</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Silver</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Animal products, such as wool, eggs, and aurochs</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jewelry</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wood</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">IMPORTS, by demand</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crops (especially vegetables)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Livestock, like cows, chickens, pigs, and horses</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crime & Punishment:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rehabilitative Apprenticeships: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Much of Naiba believes in the fact that people, when in desperate situations, will resort to desperate actions. In the case of theft especially or in the case of property destruction, the Naiban government assigns criminals to a monitored apprenticeship. This apprenticeship is typically owed to the person that they wronged. Sometimes individuals are presented with an option of which profession they would like to enter. If they do not pick one, one is chosen for them. They go through the trade- typically for at least about a year- and then come out of the program with a new skill. While they do not have to go into this profession when their time has been fully served, mentors are required to have a position open for at least one day. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Disfigurement:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> While Naiba is lenient on some crimes of small degree, there are others that they do not tolerate nearly so lightly. As beauty is an important ideal of Naiban culture, ugliness is often feared or repulsed. As such, some punishments for those who have severely erred (multiple times) are often intended to make individuals appear “uglier.” For instance, repeat murderers can expect their noses to be cut off. Someone who has committed treason can expect to have their lips removed, and on occasion their tongues. Sexual assailants are typically castrated or otherwise mutilated in the genital area. Repeat offenders are subject to facial disfigurement and are cast out. Having these disfigurements turns criminals of high caliber into pariahs, as they cannot be well-hidden or ignored. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trine Lands:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trial by Combat:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Most punishment is conducted by trials of combat. The more severe that the crime is, the more warriors and competent combatants are pitted against the accused. Still, if a fighter proves to be skilled enough to endure the trials, they are considered welcome back into society. This can sometimes result in very vicious bandits being the subject of fear and folktales. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shaming:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Pride is a valuable commodity in Trinurian society, which relies heavily on social bonds and the idea of kinship. The worst punishment that a Trinurian can endure is exile, and this is followed by reduction in the caste system. For a Trinurian that commits egregious crimes- even he who successfully survives his trial by combat- it can be expected that he will lose his tails. Minor crimes by Trinurian standards (petty theft, sexual misconduct, property damage) are often handled interpersonally. When the law is involved, it often results in the breaking of digits and limbs, and time locked away in a cell/wagon. When it comes to serious crimes (murder, harm to pups or elderly, or cowardice in battle) this calls for action among Trinurians. The offender is captured and brought to a public hearing, where upon his tails are docked. Having one’s tails removed is considered the greatest shame imaginable for an Ulfur. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Community vs. Accused: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sometimes in cases where the public does not believe justice has been rightfully served, or where the crime is minor enough to not warrant physical punishment but harmful enough to spark outrage, the community will sometimes come together to bully a target. Similar to wolf packs, the clan will band around the individual and take swipes at them, nipping and battering enough to leave an impression. There have been cases where this has led to extreme issues, sometimes resulting in death, though this practice has been disused more since Trinurians began interacting with their human neighbors. It is, however, still known to happen among the clans. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Healthcare & Treatment:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Healthcare:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> In Aitho and Naiba, there is great fascination with how the brain works and its impact on everyday functions. Naiba emphasizes that the mind is an unexplored tapestry of potential. As such, mental health is approached in a “creative”, experimental manner. This is not often a good thing for the patient. Treatments that doctors and the Kerta (“the ones who cut”, or surgeons) approach a patient with are seldom helpful. They have involved shock by sudden stimuli like submerging into water, exposure to extreme temperatures, depravation of senses, craniectomies, etc. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Physical Treatment: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Doctors are in no short supply, though most medical professions have been lumped into one. For instance, wyverns aides aside, most healthcare specialists are responsible for knowing how to perform minor surgery, dentistry, and grooming. As most Naibans are expected to know how to sew, keeping wounds clean and sutured is a first aid skill that most folk can boast. Cultivated botanical knowledge from ages past helps to identify which plants are safe for use on the body. As the use of certain plants to induce mental effects is considered a holy act, these substances are metered out and prescribed mainly by clerics. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hygiene and Self-Care: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The body is considered a vessel, and potentially a work of art. Therefore, self-care is of great importance in Naiban society. Nearly every home is expected to have private bathing basins. There are also public bathhouses to go into and are known to be quite remarkable and lovely. Because water is not as abundant as it once was, the use of public bathhouses has fallen in popularity, though washing oneself in the Eternal Wellspring is considered acceptable and is even encouraged. Although Naibans do not use alkaline soap, they do bathe with plant oils and soak in baths of salt and flower petals. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aitho</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Healthcare: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In juxtaposition to Naiba’s policy of trying everything until something works, Aitho handles the mentally ill with great trepidation. As Aitho emphasizes the importance of family, most mentally ill people are sent to be taken care of by their closest relations. This can sometimes result in a lack of proper medical aid, but greater freedoms for the person suffering from these afflictions. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Physical Treatment:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Aitho is regarded as the best place in all of the world to receive surgery. Doctors believe in the power of proper hygiene, and while others scoff at them, they have risen to the top in regards to non-magical means of healing. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hygiene & Self-Care: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The people of Aitho often emphasize the importance of brushing teeth, as they have very dairy-heavy diets. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sneigh:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Trinelands</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Healthcare:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Physical Treatment:</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hygiene & Self-Care: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Due to the presence of hot springs, cleaning oneself is a relatively common practice. It is typically done semi-privately, among family members most often, for the springs themselves mostly hold up to five or so Ulfur at a time. Larger hot springs can be found on the isle of Skiris, and more in the southern parts of the Highlands. In the far reaches of the north, the use of soap is thought to have come into practice first through combining animal fats and ash. Cleaning of the ears is very important, keeping mites and other pests away in the process. Above all things, however, an Ulfur prides themselves on their tails. While the rest of the body is treated with some degree of varying mediocrity, the tails are treated with scented oils, lavish combs, and pieces of jewelry. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mental Healthcare: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lending ideas of Shunin mental healthcare, Arésian slave drivers have actually employed some similar methods when breaking their slaves during Pólateme. The mentally ill often end up being used as guard dogs or alarms of sorts for wealthy landowners who want to protect their belongings. Options for the mentally ill are either being conscripted into a branch of the armed forces, being taken into forced servitude, or being abandoned on the street. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Physical Treatment: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré supports a surprisingly good healthcare. With a culture that emphasizes a tight-knit community (if you are the “right” kind of person in that community), hometown doctors are often hailed and well-reputed. Many people rely on religious healthcare workers to aid them, performing acts of healing magic. The position of the várnir, or the men of war</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hygiene & Self-Care: </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unless you are a peasant, appearance is important in Aré. Combing of the hair is a daily practice for men and women, especially of noble stature. Keeping the nails clean is considered polite- this is especially true for the farmer folk, who clean themselves before attending Mass. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Drinks & Other Culinary Specialties</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shun:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Naiba</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kankawa (whose name is derivative from the </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">spinetree</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">), a type of palm wine that is often made more flavorful with additives like </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tura Bara (called </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">spice bread</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">), a breaded and fried mash of beans, peppers, and yams that is often combined with pepper. Its spiciness complements the cool sweetness of kankawa well.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">M, a mesquite smoked squash recipe that is often favored </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ueiea, a pudding made from the waterbead plant (like chia seeds) and camel milk. It is flavored with sweeteners many times, accomplished by adding sweet yarima (sand) berries, dates, or honey, though some enjoy it plain.</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Farumuna/Matuama Bara (called </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">fruit bread</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">), a bread that is made from </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mut-iea, or </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oat Milk. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Coconut milk mixed with oatmeal, typically flavored with dates and figs. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hegros:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ager:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ericas, lavender wine, described as a semi-sweet floral taste that is popular for its strong flavor. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Aré:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grasslands:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Maruluuk, a tangy, naturally fermented alcohol made from the luwa drupe. Maruluuk </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wedor:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Neros:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yupis, or fermented fish juice, is a condiment that is created by combining salt, fish, and lemon and allowing for fermentation in a warm place. It is often used in cooking, but can also be used to top a mound of olives. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tir Duine:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ferran:</span></p><ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Háldrinc, literally “hale-drink,” consumes around wintertime to help stave off the cold. A type of cider that is spiced with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, pine needles, and usually some kind of ground insect. Often warmed mead or a cider made of apples. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Médbrew, or honey-brew, or simply known as mead. Médbrew is considered the best on the continent of Kerdia, as Duinian bees are bred to produce many kinds of honey. Comes in many flavors and is consumed for all sorts of occasions, though it is most notably consumed during celebration. Ferran mead is often flavored with flowers and ginger. </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cherry Wine, a delicious brew found in the places along the southern coast where cherry trees grow. </span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I can wield a sword, wear a shield, and skin a drake</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A Bit of History</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oinos (The Dragons of the World)</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In order to learn more about how the world works and why certain divisions exist today, it is important to know the history of the Oinos, or the “First Beings” to ever walk Nassarva. It is said that no living being knows the true origin of these mysterious deities, only that they have the ability to breathe the essence of Hehn- or the Breath- and change their surroundings almost instantly. It is also said that they can change themselves just as adeptly. Here is one theory of how the Oinos came to the world. (I detailed some of the information in a separate doc that I’ll work on later)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Oinos were the first children of H’Ster- angelic beings who served H’Ster and followed her in the aftermath of her slaying A’Ster. They served as her vassals of a sortand helped her to create Nassavra. They helped H’Ster in forming the planet and making life able to spring. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">They were surprised when H’Ster (supposedly) took particular interest with the Sunter, an ancient primate born from the great Heart Tree of the planet. They took notice that she gave the animal a great deal of attention. When they asked her what was unique about the creature, she answered that it had the unique power to create from what they had been given.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Sunter were different from the other creatures that dwelled in the land. It began evolving at a much faster pace than others around it. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Oinos initially tolerated the Sunter, playing with them and giving them resources so that they might survive. They lived around the tree, and the dragons helped to cultivate the fruit of their knowledge and life. Woid wound magic into the roots, Wesser made fruits bloom on the branches, Gheim made it so that even the coldest seasons could not wilt its leaves, Dhegram carved protective mountains around the great tree, Phures made the roots of the tree impervious to fire, and so on. The Sunter began making things of their own, things the dragons had never seen before: Music, art, houses, castles, and even places of worship to pay tribute to the Oinos themselves. The dragons were enthralled (for the most part, with a few exceptions). They still did not think very highly of men, as their achievements did not shape the very place they existed in quite the same way, but they had the power of imagination were the dragons did not. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The beautiful things that the Sunter made soon became objects of desire for the dragons. The praises that they received meant that they were becoming more powerful, and they soon wished to outdo their own brothers and sisters. Hunger was slumbering inside of them, and when the first castle dedicated to draconic rule was built, the sensation devoured them.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Oinos began warring with each other over the great beauties that were made for them. They spent years and bountiful efforts raising kingdoms in their names. They split the world into pieces, both physically and symbolically separating the dragons into factions. They kept the upright people at their heels, forcing their hands against one another. This killing made them weaker, and their lifespans grew shorter. The only ones to survive very long were those imbued with large amounts of Hehn, and so the Oinos had forced some of their most powerful servants to subsist almost solely off of this power alone.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Oinos saw the children of the Sunter as tools and worshippers. They had them build powerful artifacts that could help give advantages to their dragon masters. These later became known as the Archaisms, and were gifted to the representative champions of the gods. The inclusion of these dangerous objects became the tipping point for the carnage. Entire cities were wiped out in a flash of fire. Great and ancient groves were uprooted with the flick of a tail. People were dying by the scores, and the dragons began taking heavy blows. (Might keep this?)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">H’Ster, deeply saddened to see the children She loved so much fighting, fled from the Cosmos in search of another home. All were heartbroken to see Her leave, as Her presence was the comfort that brought them some semblance of peace. Now, with only war remaining, the people of the world had a choice to make: They could lay down and submit to their extremely powerful lords, or they could fight back. They had already amassed great amounts of knowledge on the Oinos</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The weapons that the Children had built for the Oinos became their point of inspiration. After the sacrifice and martyrdom of Andros, the people of the world truly began to question their place beneath the dragons’ heels.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Oinos now faced a great foe of nearly equal measure in their own right. Those that remained were whisked into hiding by their brother Woid, some banding together in secret and others keeping their mantles of Nassarva’s protectors from the shadows until the return of H’Ster brought them home again. The others remained to inherit the world they created, and it is believed that they still walk among the people, living hundreds of lifetimes and having lines of half-human children with which to carry on their legacy. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Oinos were gone, but in their place, new and powerful empires rose in their absence. With the knowledge of how dragons once ran their kingdoms, men rose to power across the world- chiefly in the continent of Kerdia. Continuing the prophecy of war, the Children of the Empire continued to think in the mindsets of their demigod brethren and fought for land, disputing the amount of blood spilled and the rewards which were justly reaped by the deserving survivors.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Several factions did not want to relinquish the bonds they had built with their draconic masters, especially those who still coexisted or were ruled by Duhwin. They deified them, and wanted to seem them mortalized. It came to a point, however, where the dragons sensed danger in lingering in their forms as they were on Nassarva. It was after the death of (-) that they truly made up their minds to change their tactics. Still wanting to watch over the world and build their empires in the dark, the dragons went into hiding.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Or so it is believed. In truth, the Oinos Woid was the one who sealed his brethren away to protect them from the world and from themselves. This is the reason that the Heart Tree is guarded so fervently by the Academy there.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The people of Hegros believe that dragons are still out there and need to be stopped. The people of places like Shun and Esnes believe that the Oinos are still great influences in their lives, watching over them from afar and protecting them. They continue to celebrate them and, most of all, the Starmother. The Oinos are still highly revered in many places around the world. Anteros as a whole celebrates them greatly. Ever since the conversion of several places in the continent of Kerdia to the Ageran Empire, the people have practiced their devotion to the dragons in secret for fear of being tried by the Church for heresy.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duhwin</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Oinos deigned to make a creature of such influence and global magnitude in the image of themselves. They took a chosen few Men and made them into the Duhwin-Mhe, or the “Second Selves” of Nassavra. The Duhwin could create as Mankind could, but they also had control over the Hehn, as the Oinos did. With this, Duhwin were treated in draconic civilizations as the superior species and first-class citizens. Others were demoted, even becoming enslaved in some cases, at the behest of the Duhwin and the Oinos.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Over the years, Duhwin accumulated a fine amount of pride. They suffered from the same condition as the dragons, however, being overly competitive and intrinsically hungry for more: More knowledge, more land, more time, everything. Being fed the mantras of superiority that the dragons gave them, the Duhwin grew comfortable in their positions as the world’s leaders. They underestimated Mankind because of this. They did not anticipate Man to rally against their draconic masters, nor did they expect them to rise to power so suddenly. The shifting of roles swept through like a strong wind, and soon Duhwin were led into exile. Those that remained kept a exhonarbale vigilance about them, defending their homelands as best as possible. In the land of Hóstia and Esnes, the Duhwin are still largely embraced. Their presence is tentatively tolerated in Hwento and Kerdia, less so the former than the latter. In Kerdia, they are practically considered criminals by nature most of the time. This has not stopped several prominent families from remaining on the continent, however, though they maintain their bloodlines from the shadows. The Ageran Empire, notably pro-human nowadays and for the past few decades, was once all-but controlled by the Duhwin lineage of </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Encountering a Duhwin that is warmly welcomed in the continent of Kerdia can be a rare sight. Though there is an innate distrust of the Duhwin by some of the native people, such as Hegresians, there are also several people who remain fascinated and appreciative of the wisdom and mastery of the Hehn that the Duhwin possess.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The continents of </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dwarves</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dwarves are a race that believes in the strength and fortitude of the mind and body. One sign of a strong mind is the power of keeping secrets, a practice which they have kept alive for centuries. Dwarvenkind is known for their great works, creating masterful bastions of . They represent the masculine side of the universal scale. (Kenny Babel, 01/06/20)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dwarves honor strength and might, but also the ability to hone one’s wit. They are clever craftsmen, making enduring wares as opposed to the fading beauties of the natural world . Though they are considered coarser in mannerisms than Men or Elves, they are by no means less refined. Dwarves, on the other hand, value honesty and willfulness both. They believe that the key to an unbreakable mind is a selective tongue.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elves and Dwarves both keep secrets, though the way they covet them is far different. Weiselves conduct their business in a far more clever manner, full of wit and deception. Dwarves, on the other hand, have the cunning of stone. They don’t air their private affairs to their community, and rather keep a firm hold on them. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dwarves operate in tight-knit communities who are heavily involved in the business of those around them. There are always rumors about one clan or another, though such conversations are conducted cleverly and oftentimes in secret. Some families have powerful influence due to their connection with the Hehn. The Dwarven House of Stonehide, for instance, is highly revered for their work with Geomancy and magma manipulation. Their close ties with the Hehn has led to a sort of dependancy on reserves, which has given them Stonesick, a condition that gives them magma-like marks on their skin and thickens the layers, but weakens their overall constitution and leads them to bouts of fatigue and, in some serious cases, fainting.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elves</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If Dwarves represent the masculine aspect of Mankind, Elves are conversely the feminine aspect. Tall beings of unnatural beauty, these races were born of the need to sow life. They excel in magics and practices relating to life, healing, and growing. They are mainly known as protectors of wellsprings, forests, and groves, and they use the resources in such places to help aid those who are in need. The Elves are like the Mother of Nassavra.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is a distinct difference in the cultures of the , though they both serve the same purpose. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weiselves live in the unbridled wilds, alternating between feats comeliness and trickery to help guard their groves. They are known to get bored far more easily than their Dourelf cousins. They are masters of manipulation, highly intelligent and keen on picking up the insights of others. Weiselves pride themselves on being beautiful creatures and can sometimes come off as bodacious and occasionally haughty as a result. Though more prone to vanity than other cultures, Weiselves still have an impeccable sense of honor, putting their duty to protect and heal above all else. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dourelves, like their fellow Dwarven denizens, live in underground dwellings and are prone to clandestine habits. They are gentle beings for the most part, soft-spoken when encountered, though they are deadly if trifled with. Dourelves are equal in beauty with the Weiselves, though they are far less luminous, instead sporting pigmentation that is relatively the same as humans. Though they are more feared and unknown, Dourelves are actually significantly kinder to Menfolk and travelers than the Weiselves often are and often lend a hand to those who are lost in their domains. Dourelves do not often like being out in the daylight, as they do not like openly consorting with others. Like Dwarves, they value privacy. Himayan Dourelves and Khrezk Dwarves often speak to one another in runic languages and in Leh.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weiselves specialize in knowledge of surface flora and fauna, while Dourelves are far more knowledgeable in the details of fungal plants and underground beasts. Likewise, Weiselves have a far better understanding of the surface-dwelling cultures of the world and have a distaste for the bluntness of Dwarves. Dourelves, in contrast, have an appreciation of the subterranean people, but a general dislike of the boisterous cultures of the surface.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Some elven ethnicities that exist include the Xin people in Western Hwento, the Pheri in Shun and Hóstia, </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why is the Hehn so important?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In Shun, especially in Naiba, the people depended on the Hehn for many aspects of their lives. This includes the Hydroges mages, or the arcane hydrologists that helped to improve water flow and nourishment through arcane means. This also includes the Petrem mages, who used shield spells to protect the cities from the blast of “Phures’ Fire,” a phenomenon in which firestorms form in the aftermath of volcanic eruptions from the Jaws. This would occasionally lead to mild “nuclear winter” effects as well, but those, too, were warded off by the Petrem spells. Now, however, the city remains exposed to the natural elements and the magic fire. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In Wedor, the power of the Council’s “Farsight” has now waned into nothingness. The royal family of Wedor maintains its ability to manipulate the Hehn, but even they cannot help but fear for the loss of magic in their homelands. Luckily, they still have brilliant inventors who are hoping and willing to make machines to compensate for this loss of magic. The ruling family has also proposed the idea of integrating their own blood magic into the system for testing and potential replication. All things that are being investigated, but it does not stop the matter of situations like the standing army of Hehn-powered automatons losing their seed of conscience. This can cause some serious problems for the safety of the townspeople in areas where they operate.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For Hegros, the disappearance of Hehn means a great destabilization of noble families in the regions. Hehn was seen as a force that could only be wielded by a select few of the strongest that the world had to offer. It gave many civilizations an excuse to claim themselves as leaders, and Hehn was lorded over a great many common folk as the aspect of the opulent that made them superior. Now that it is gone, that leaves a large gap between those who do actually still possess it (as that implies that they have draconian lineages, which many do not like) and those who claimed to have bloodlines that have since been disproven, especially lords further south. A lack of magic also means that there is less protection for the sacred groves against Dehmer and Human deforestation. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For Sneigh, the people of Tír Duine no longer have a potential weapon that is guaranteed to be highly effective against the advancing Ulfur clans. The Trinurians are not knowledgeable in the ways of magic, and the druids and casters of Tír Duine counted on that fact to drive the invaders away. Now, however, that will be far less effective. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the Dwarven Kingdoms, a handful of the Houses who have relied on connections to the Hehn for countless years now face the problems of poor constitutions and magic-related reliance/addictions/diseases. It has led Houses like the Stonehides to practical ruin. It has led others into danger of facing similar fates. While the pragmatic among the dwarves also craft without the employment of magic, it does not mean that their way of life is not affected. Magical runes and seals were the ways that many dwarves protected their city boundaries against threats such as Ruins, powerful creatures that dwell in the caves.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the Elven Congregates, the disappearance of magic means that there is a rift in the ancestral connection between the memory of flora and the memory of their people. While once they could divine positions based off of Rootsight and Rootspeak, they no longer have that option. Instead, they must rely solely on their ability to scout and observe. The protections for these groves and fungal masses have also abated significantly. The most elves can do now is protect their grounds through natural means. Elves have not lost magic entirely, as it is innate within them, but they have lost it considerably. The disappearance of Rootspeak and Rootsight means that elves no longer know which tree specifically is theirs if they have otherwise forgotten or are too far away. This could mean their deaths depending on whether or not that tree is destroyed. The biggest problem, however, is the loss of their</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the Dehmer tribes, the loss of magic is actually a great equalizer. It puts Mankind, Elves, and Dwarves on the same pedestal as it does the Dehmer, whose lack of connection with the Duhwin and religious doctrine meant that they were unable or unwilling to manipulate Hehn. Dehmer, with their considerable strength, are now needed more than ever. It has opened up avenues for peace for some of the more willing tribes… and an opportunity for rebellion and invasion for the more volatile ones. For the first time in years, Dehmer feel the power to be able to strike back in retaliation for all that has been dished out to them over the past few centuries. Such a chance is not passed up by everybody.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the Duhwin, this gives an opportunity to potentially be welcomed back into human society. While the Duhwin are not universally hated, and are in fact still either revered or considered equal in many parts of the world, the Duhwin native to Kerdia find this disappearance of Hehn as a blessing and a curse for their kind, an opportunity for things to go either disastrously or extraordinarily well. They are relied on for their magical capabilities, but that can lead them into disaster as well. Some people have tried taking Duhwin in as slaves, while others maintain actual respectful relationships with them. It is all dependant on the culture and the times.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For mages of any culture that have subsisted off of the Hehn for prolonged periods of their lifespans- especially those over a century old- it means that their systems are not used to not having the power of creation inside of their veins. Without this literal life support, people are succumbing to illnesses and dying by the scores. This is part of the reason why nobility is in dire straits. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eye color (though this is a fact known to few, as not many people were alive to witness the Twelve themselves) is a great indication of Oinosian ancestry. For instance, Dusk’s eyes are red because they hold the blood of Phures inside of them. The same goes for the prince. Amira’s, likewise, are green because of the influence of Wesser. Iona’s are yellow partially because of Deghram’s influence, though that is a distant relation shared by all Ulfur and also has to do with her own Ulfur ancestry. Serenity and the rest of the female Anastases have bright blue eyes because of Gheim’s blood within them, though their practices of mysticism stem from H’Ster’s influence. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oinos blood, of course, means that an individual possesses some innate ability to manipulate the Hehn. This cannot be siphoned or unlearned, though it can be difficult to control or channel if not properly trained in the arts.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.656; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Patiperitus</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" /><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><img src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/bdf14d0d-41e0-453f-a032-6a90c3206786" /><img src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/0a65edf2-529f-4238-8070-b9688a861321" /><img src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/a71c4553-5e4b-4dd8-824d-f2271d60985c" /></p>Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-29644126745856775462019-12-23T05:32:00.000-08:002019-12-23T05:32:01.854-08:00Random Insult TableHere’s a fun thing I dredged up while searching through my computer files. A table of archaic insults! :D Feel free to delight in them as I had in randomly finding them.<br />
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<ol id="docs-internal-guid-d1d9ab27-7fff-3d01-d670-93c443994bae" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Codger</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fetcher</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Churl (Coarse)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cox-Comb (Vain)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Doxy (Promiscuous, Flirtatious)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Skamelar (Leech)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scrounger</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hedge-born</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lowborn</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bespawler (Drooling, Idiotic)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cumberground (Useless)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peacock</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Braggart</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Muck-Spout (Someone who swears often)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Raggabrash (Grubby)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tallowbag (Fat)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whoreson (Son of a whore)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Demon</span></div>
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</ol>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-59746043781296576532019-12-23T05:20:00.004-08:002019-12-23T05:20:52.234-08:00Old Campaign Castle Descriptions: Vampires!Ooh! Spooky scary! Indeed, once upon a time, I had drafted some descriptions of a castle dungeon for tabletop hijinks! The result is... meh. But what helps is reflecting back and compiling things that may be effective while learning from descriptions that may not be! Anyhow, here it is:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Verok Castle Locations Descriptions-</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Exterior:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the village of Vatra: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even from below the ponderous crags up above, the stone set into the spiraling mountain seems an imposing figure keeping overwatch on all of Vatra. The dark face of the many battlements on gaunt towers climb higher into the night, looming guards surrounding their once and forever king, the large, spiraling keep of the Count of Vatra. You can see the notorious barbican in the distance, perilously set at an impossibly narrow weathered and broken bridge that seems to defy nature in its tenacious existence. Fog seems to collect as arduous followers around the mountain and the schloss, hiding it from prying eyes and obscuring it in the heavy rain. Eight flying buttresses extend from the hollows of the second story, like spiders legs stretching their tendons. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Moat:</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> From below the imposing walls of the castle, you stand within sight distance of the notorious “Flightless Pond,” the spiked moat from which unruly cattle were flung from the battlements. The bastions look gravely upon it, almost disapprovingly, as the dark muddy brown waters churn on indifferently in the ceaseless rain. The water moves around the tips of spears</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For a moment, glancing at one of the sharp stakes jutting out of the water’s edge, you swear you see a face from beneath the dark depths, staring up at you with black sockets. The image conjured of porous flesh is torn away with a crackle of lightning, however, and your mind feels as though it is on fire as you peer back down into the water, only to find it without a figure. A shiver courses through you, but you decide it better to press on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Investigation of 13, you find a Ring of Animal Friendship </span><a href="https://www.dndbeyond.com/magic-items/ring-of-animal-influence" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.dndbeyond.com/magic-items/ring-of-animal-influence</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">P.S. If the adventurer’s wish to look here, they will have to make a 17 DEX saving throw or be dealt 1d6 + 7 piercing damage as well as a CON 15 saving throw and taking 1d4 poison damage every minute. This can be cured with an herbalism kit or lesser restoration. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Crossbridge: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The higher up you climb, the more intensely cold rakes its fingers through your water soaked flesh. The wind whips around you like a wraith, and you find it difficult to affix your gaze ahead of you in the thick fog. You try to concentrate on keeping warm, bundling up into your bits of clothing and pressing on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Roll a DC 13 Constitution check or take 1 level of exhaustion)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You eventually make your way to the edge of a once beautiful stone bridge, now lying in tatters and unkempt by man or beasts. Wind and past conflicts have chewed out sizable chunks of the path, now leaving a crumbling mass of stone to remain. The path ahead is thin, and glancing at the sheen of rain along the cobblestones, you know that it nay be a perilous distance to fall. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You continue forth, trying to ignore the danger yawning directly below you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Roll a DC 15 Dexterity check or higher, else slip off the side and need to be rescued, falling 50 ft each turn from a 300 ft drop)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now, safely across, you glance back for a second time at the frighteningly unsafe bridge. Though you have successfully crossed it, something in the back of your mind reminds you that you are less safe now that you have passed than you were risking its slippery edge. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Barbican: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Before you stretches the mammoth gate which stands a sentinel against invaders, be they demon or man. Along its edges, old marks of char and sword scuff the resolute stone, dating the structure by how many battles and conflicts its wounds reveal and its health attests to. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A huge portcullis is set down, the sharp prongs at its base spearing into slots set into the stonework. There are traces of ruddy brown along the edges of it, with mud or something else, you cannot say. The winch is visible at the top of the gate on the other side, shielded by a small overhang from the rain. The wind whips torn banners in the air, their frayed blue and white edges bleeding into a deep purple. The Steed on the Byries family crest rears nobily, though most of the features of its mane have receded into an amalgamation of blended color and rotted cloth tearing itself apart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At the lefthand side of the gate, you see a pillar in which you would expect to see a fully functioning winch. (If they look) However, upon closer inspection, you see an absence of a vital piece of equipment: The crank handle. Looking around on the ground, you see no evidence as to where it could have gone. Searching around may prove to be helpful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Lift gate without chain or crank, DC 25 Strength) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Crank Handle, located in small guardhouse; attaches to winch. Cloaker inside of guardhouse, can be spotted with 16 Perception check)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guardhouse:</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> If you believed it to be dark in the evening shadows and cloudcover, you have just begun to realize its effects on the poorly lit interiors of other locations. Turning to your righthand side, you see a small divot in the stone wall. It is almost too dark to see, and you count yourself grateful for your darkvision. As you enter, your eyes can barely discern a few shapes in the room. Littered on the ground is a shattered chair, the splinters sticking up in long, jagged shards and threatening to graze your leg as you pass. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Set on a small wooden table, you see a few items strewn about atop it. There! The crank handle sits, slightly rusted but otherwise undisturbed. There appears to be a yellowed page, cracked with age and hardly legible. A candle sits beside it, its wick burnt almost to the end. (If they try to pick up the candle holder) You attempt to move the silver holder, but find that it does not budge. Upon closer inspection, you note that it seems to be part of the table. Wax seems frozen in time, dripping forever. (</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Instructions, Turn winch left once, right twice, then left three times. Must put over flames to reveal the rest of the message, which states “Then turn right once for the fourth time, and say the words “Steed’s Charge,” and behold the gates will open.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Cloaker is an avoidable fight with a successful stealth and perception check.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After the gate has been opened: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feeling invigorated by your success, you press onward with more confidence… However fleeting it may be. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Postern: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taking one uneasy glance at the front of the castle, it is a challenge not to feel overwhelmed by the intensely guarded look that the building imposes upon you. You wrestle with a sort of confliction, and eventually turn your eyes to a small path that has been beaten along by muddy feet, though holds no cobblestones for ease of feet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Should they choose to continue along, they better get ready to make some rolls!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you follow along this makeshift path, you cross past a narrow cliff edge, dotted only with withered blackwood trees that sag pitifully like the knobby fingers of old men, and point wickedly in the direction of the different villages. But one thing is for certain: There is nothing to secure you here along this thin pass. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mud sloshes beneath your feet as you scale this pass, only four-foot breadth to separate you from a 400 ft demise.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Roll a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw. If fail, then slide 30 ft down and take 3d6 bludgeoning damage. They must then roll again to catch themselves, a DC 11 Dexterity saving throw or fall another 50 ft, taking 5d6. To catch themselves will be significantly more difficult, and they must make a final 18 Dexterity saving throw or else fall 180 ft down, taking 18d6 bludgeoning damage, and sliding the remaining 40 ft into the churning waters below.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You manage past the remainder of the difficult footholds. The occasional misplacement of footing has your heart tremble for a moment before you regain your composure and continue on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1st Floor:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Entrance Hall: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The first thing you notice as you enter is the immensity of this hall, as well as the glittering ruby eyes of two stone dragons glaring in your direction. Their immensity is tucked to either side of the doorway, and seems cloaked by the thin veil of shadow that the corner allows them. Within your view, six large stained glass windows tower above you, out of reach by a good twenty feet. A long, elegant carpet flows far into the end of this room, that is currently invisible to your sights beyond the looming darkness ahead of you. The purple of its coloration is tinged with golden edges and red silks interwoven in strange, looping patterns, almost like archaic script. On the sides, you see beautifully carved stone benches, with patterns of spring chiseled into the side. The flowers on them seem to almost wilt in the wicked and brooding atmosphere of this house. Above, clinging to a ribbed vaulted ceiling, chandeliers of horned candles dangle down, limp as bodies. Though they do not offer any light, the gilded skeletons of them glint in the occasional flashes of lightning and reflect onto shapes of armor and weaponry set deeply in the wall. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you approach the end of the hall, you see something that momentarily jars you. From above the doorway, the skull of a large, bullike head gapes down at you, from it pinned to a placard. The head of it is so grand, it covers a good ten feet in width. Protruding from it, thick, shiny black horns just jut out. Golden rings loop around the base of them, glinting proudly from atop the wall. Each of them cover a good seven feet. You can barely make out an inscription above and below the trophy mount, but your eyes are just able to find the right light. It reads “For one man, a menace. For one family, an honor.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Music Lounge:</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> The door gently swings open with nary a sound, almost seeming better maintained than the others. The image parts to open up to a beautiful room, not soiled by age or disuse. An inset of lacquered wood lines the bottom of the walls, with occasional twisting golden grape and vine, and reflects in gentle candle light. The very hall here seems to spout “peace.” The room extends to plush chairs and benches that are arranged casually throughout the room. From behind you, a small banquet table sits idly beneath a circular window, currently covered by a cloth curtain. The chairs there are positioned as though occupants are still conversing amicably about the days goings on, either never reset or still alive with the spirits of those who once resided here. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Against the wall, a huge organ with pipes like the mouths of huge creatures sits prepared to churn out a lovely harmony at a moment’s notice, though it is quiet as it stands. A narration in wood of a happy woodcutter setting out about his day is etched onto each of the pipes, and it seems as though this item was a gift, not quite fitting in with the remaining scheme of what you’ve seen, but still a jovial addition. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To it’s right, a large, gilded harp sits angelically in the light, it’s strings seeming untouched in many years. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is something almost saddening to think of these beautiful instruments lying dormant, but as you look closer, it seems almost as though dust has not found many of the organ’s keys yet, despite time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you take a closer look at the keys, you see some are specifically cleared of dust, while others remain with their ivory keys grey under copious dust. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhYl6wYcR8I</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Grand Hall:</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> As the door gently squeaks open, your eyes rest upon a grand room, bathed in . The once white marble floor shines dimly up at you, like a visage of something once great, now hidden and covered by grime and dust. Images loom over you from the walls. Depictions of men and women on horseback trailing behind large, hapless beasts, armored figures with revelrous stance amongst a small army of knights, and nobly adorned lords and ladies gracefully exchanging steps and bows while in dance with one another. A few smatterings of candelabras illuminate their still visages. Though the rest of the room is stagnant, these figures seem… almost alive, in the playing light. The only thing to be so in this room. But the most notable thing to you, by far, is a large, magnificent skylight of stained glass and gold, warping the golden light from the room into a serene purplish blue. You can hear the pattering of rain from atop it, and a strike of lightning momentarily illuminates the room. A sloping overhang, which you now stand under, stands across one identical to it. From it, two great pillars with twisting golden adornments tower up to secure it, and a pair of ornate, sharp steps of marble ascend to meet the landings faces. In front of you are two doors, one directly North, and the other to the Northeast, behind one of the pillars. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Right Hallway: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Going down to the eastern hall, you step through strangely sticky puddles of brown, residual liquid that seems to be dripping from above. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking up, you see thick splotches of ruddy liquid oozing from the cracked stone ceiling. The scent is sharply one of copper. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peering closer through the crack in the ceiling, what you see momentarily jars you. Though it is only the barest of glimmers… it seems as though the filmy white of an eye is glaring at you sightlessly from above. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Suddenly, a phantom wind in the hallway kicks some dust from the crumbling rock and sprinkles it around you like grey snow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If Passive Perception exceeds 13) You hear a faint groan from above you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Smoking Room: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Opening the door to this room, a heavy scent of tobacco fills your nostrils, even before parting ponderous purple and blue curtains that shield the view from the rest of the room. Rolling them to the side- you are granted an exquisite yet grisly view. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Before lies a lighter room, once bright stone emblazoned with various depictions of the hunt suggests a room where men would opine opinions on various subjects. But now, turning your eyes about the room, you glimpse at feverish carnage. Layered in ash, skeletons of decadently dressed nobles prostrate in silken remains of fire, coated in char. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One figure with a loose jaw seems to be clawing with skeletal hands at another man’s face, one finger stuck between his teeth. Another mistress is forever immortalized in a state of weeping, clutching the casement haplessly. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You find old pipes of various make, designs of animal heads or boats or castles or faces, one particular a jade jumping fish with gold inlay. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(With a DC 13 Investigation check)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taking apart the stem of the pipe from the chamber and bowl, you find it to be platinum. An engraving on the metal reads “An Esmer, meine lillien”. (</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When activated, this pipe can cause an illusory fish of smoke to leap from the bow of the pipe.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">War Room: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You approach a door which seems sturdier than the others, wrought of a reinforced steel and dark oak. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If they try to open it) You try for the handle, but it appears to be locked. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Either finding the key, using an Open spell, or picking / kicking it down (DC 15 and 18 respectively), the room is opened. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As the lock clicks open, you see a room of dark grey stone. Columns cling to the sides of the door, dividing into eight along the room. In the center, a massive table extends to about thirty feet in size. Alongside the westbound wall, a line of rakes (war room sticks) of various sizes are stacked. Below them, there seem to be tiny figurines on the surface. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The miniatures depicting various vile and despicable creatures snark with angry visages, as well as human units downed in different colors, horse heads, elves in deep green, and, perhaps strangest of all, a towering dragon flanked by smaller brethren. Investigating the </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the center of the map sits a fortress piece, isolated from the rest. Four avian gargoyles sit atop it, eagle like eyes spying tiny troubles from afar. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The inscription: “</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unbezwingbar”</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You have gained </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Daern’s Instant Fortress</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Playroom: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Here, one small wooden horse on four crude legs lay inert, with two of the wheels on its hind haunches rusted beyond movement. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You note the taciturn stares of the stone above. Something sets you at unease. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Make a DC 10 Wisdom Saving throw, otherwise, see this. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of the dolls that lie tossled among the rest shakes violently. Suddenly, it’s head whips around as though on a swivel, and it fixated a dead stare at you, one eye blinking, the other melted shut. You blink, and it hasn’t changed from where it sat, unmoving and inanimate. You distantly hear a child’s laughter. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Under a pile of forgotten toys, something glints in the poor light.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tossing these things aside, you grasp a small metal item. A green eye glints up at you from an avian face. (</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You have gained the </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bird Token</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Left Hallway:</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Approaching the side of the hall, you avoid the northbound grandiose entrance in favor of one of the side rooms in the hall to the left. Following this way, you enter a confined, dark hallway. Though barely visible and covered by curtains, you can glance two doors: One ahead of you, and one to the east. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">East, Scullery: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Turning into the right doorway, you find yourself in a narrow tunnel of sorts, still decently lavish, though with less mind laid to its beauty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Above a plain doorway, you see the words “Dictum/Reinigung”. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ahead, you see what appears to be the insides of a storeroom. You spot a barrel packed with what seem to be bushels of wilted wheat. Herbs hang form cast iron racks on the ceiling, and greet you with bland, exhausted fragrance. Among foul sacks of potatoes, mold-caked cheeses, and black mushy remains of what might have resembled carrots at one point in life, you glimpse five small, red vials. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You gain five minor potions of healing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taking a further look around, there seems to be little else of note. A selection of crystal glasses may be the only other thing that is telli. An old bottle of mead, opened with mildew covering the lip of it, indicates a toast with the staff. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">North, Ehren Hall: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking above you, you see a bronze placard “</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ehrenhalle</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">”.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The corridor stretches out to open up to three ornate doors on the eastern side, the door on the farthest end from you seemingly the grandest. At the end of the hallway opens up a winding, twisting set of stairs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As you pass, something outside flickers briefly in the window before disappearing. It happened too fast for you to catch, but it doesn’t seem to return. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A peculiar knocking sound ensnares from the center door. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guest Bedroom: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Opening the heavy wooden door, you are greeted by dust and shrieking hinges.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The room opens up to a decadently large residence, the entrance of which is in almost perfect condition. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A tall looking glass to your right reflects the image of a mural on your left. The depiction is one of playful nymphs and fairies amidst a golden forest. Some rest on the backs of large stags. Others hold golden fruits. One in particular seems crowned in sunlight, and is being greeted by a dark looking man on horseback. The paint is cracked and faded, but something pure about the image is still preserved.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Going forth, you spy the telltale signs of a struggle off to your right. Against the wall, a baroque bed-frame of dark wood twisted to look like woven branches supports a mattress that has been nearly utterly destroyed. Claw marks appear to rake down much of the bed itself, leaving copious amounts of down and debris scattered on the surface. Tousled sheets lay atop, brownish red peeking from beneath their tangled folds. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Across you in the room, a windowed door opens up to a balcony overlooking the rapids. Rain strikes the panes listlessly. An old stone bench and table can be spied from this angle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A long willow chest lies at the foot of the bed. The lid has been wrenched open, and similar marks of distress mark the edges. The inside appears to be empty, save for some torn books and emptied vials of ink. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One room sits to the left of the foot of the bed itself. There is a door here, standalone and heavily damaged. You cannot see past it, but a chest of drawers seems to block off where it swings open. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If the party tries for the door handle) It appears to be locked. Trying for the door results in the handle shaking loosely. (Passive Perception 14) You hear what sounds like faint scratching from the other side.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If the party moves the chest of drawers) You push the chest of drawers away from the door. As you do, the scratching within stills. There seems to be an air of tension stagnating. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Guest Bedroom WC: </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If the party has opened the door make a DC 16 Dex) Without warning, the door gives way. A rotted shelving unit dumps porcelain pots and artisans wares atop your head. You take two points of damage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The first thing that hits you is a horrendous torrent of smell- an intermixing of feces and mold and rot- and the sight of a ramshackle garderobe (or a kind of water closet). The second thing that hits you, more or less literally, is something at your feet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Looking down, you glimpse the hollow sockets of a skeleton. Though the darkness of the room prevents much color to be seen, you catch little white masses wriggling within them. The clothing of the individual seem to be in tatters as well. A nightgown, perhaps?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pushing the body aside, you enter.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A laquered privy sits to your left as you enter, though much of it is splintered and stained. To your right, a flashes of lightning peek beneath a heavy curtain. From behind said curtain, you see the outline of what appears to be a heavy wooden tub. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If the players decide to investigate the tub) Looking to your right is somewhat of a mistake. As you approach, you kick aside the shriveled bodies of several rats. Their exposed teeth grimace at you in dismay. Pulling back the curtains, your hand stays still for a moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There, sitting huddled in the tub, is a wiry figure. Their grey skin is sunken and torn and their greasy hair clings to their scalp like black wires. You hear a quiet crunching as the figure occasionally twitches. It appears to be crying.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If players attempt to approach or intervene) You attempt to approach the creature. As you reach towards them, their head snaps to you. Glowing eyes glisten under the scarce pale light and their hollow cheeks are streaked with tears. Though their face is an abject horror- exposed gums revealing extended incisors resting atop cracked yet full lips, like some horrid balance between tempestuous life and settling death- you see some mad shred of humanity lost in those eyes. They feel as though they are drawing you in.yes my friend</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(If the players stealth away, DC 16) You quietly exit the scene, taking care not to disturb the creature in the tub. (If failed) But along the way, your foot sails into the side of the skeleton’s head. As though looking at you aghast, it’s slack jaw gapes up at you. From the curtained corner, you see the shadow stand up. Slowly the curtain parts to reveal two glowing eyes darting at you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With a tormented shriek, the creature lunges. (Engage fight with </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Blood Starved Vampire Spawn</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></div>
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<br />Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-11727893775653783332019-12-23T05:13:00.002-08:002019-12-23T05:13:59.611-08:00Dragonborn Celebrations (maybe using for something else in the future)I was thinking of adding onto this, but might use some of these celebrations as reference for another world I’m working on soon :-) Thought it might be good to add it to the archives and reflect. Lots subject to change, but it’s fun to see old ideas and clean them up a bit!<br />
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Dragonborn Celebrations<br />
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Gathering of the Clans, or “Conifir Unlaus”:<br />
This holiday is dedicated to the kinship and management of all of the Clans, in which most Dragonborn are affiliated. On this day, the Elder Council of Thrak’sin and the leaders of each clan participate in an open discussion on terms of their status, condition, and important decisions that may impact all. Citizens are welcome to ask questions. This celebration is special in that it serves to unite all of the Dragonborn people and allow them to voice their concerns. It is also a time of great joviality, with special drinks, foods, and fun activities being open for all subraces and cultures. (For instance, a more desert-faring Ka’llean may be able to try an odd Eastern Coparian dish of Longshetou noodles, or some of the famous Nadurian honey mead). It is a decennial celebration, and as such, most participants in the festivities tend to be more mature. Admittance begins at the age of six.<br />
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Frostgleam, or “Fro’manam<br />
The traditional Doronian holiday that celebrates the migration of the Doronian people from their ancient homelands in the desert to the cold mountains of Ranskill under the watchful and wise eye of Doron. The celebration includes a multitude of festivities, many of them snow-related (for instance, one of the most popular competitions is the Ash’cor Challenge, or snowbody challenge, where contestants have to gather as many bluebells as possible while wearing an armor full of ice). There are carnival type activities as well, and small children’s plays that are put on. One of the favorites is the ancient tale of the defeat of Kanagnos: Both children and parents alike find delight in the firebreathers and the playfighting against the aforementioned villainous beast. In the modern age, there is also a vigil held every year to honor the memory of those lost on Ash’kell, which occurred during the time of the Frostgleam celebrations.<br />
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Dorvak’ir’s Day<br />
The day of celebration that honors love and attraction (amongst other things that come with that). It is named after the half-dragon Dorvak’ir, who was an ancient swooner of women and men of all types and convinced several to fall in love with him through his various mischievous ways. The word dorvak, which is a term of endearment equivalent to the words “dear” or “love”, stems from Dorvak’ir’s own name. There are a few odd traditions on Dorvak’ir’s Day that have spawned from the antics that the odd Half-Dragon engaged in: Pouring a mug of ale on the one you are attracted to, giving them a saddle so that they may “ride easy”, and filling a house with songbirds are just some to name a few. Each clan typically has a different take on this celebration, as each has its own concept of love and affection. For instance, it may be more base to spar with someone you love on Dorvak’ir’s Day if you are a red or blue dragonborn, though not in many other cultures, whilst writing a ballad of love to a Hakiman likely won’t get you as far as perhaps stealthily slipping a nightshade flower into their back pocket.<br />
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The Taking of the Mentor, or “Clax’zhira”.<br />
Traditionally a Ka’llean celebration, this honorary event marks the taking of an apprentice by a mentor. In Ka’llean culture and other southeastern Dragonborn areas, the significance of taking an apprentice is great, being one of the most important aspects of a dragonborn’s life. The spiritual bond which is celebrated is highly revered, unrivaled by even the aspect of matrimony and brother-hood. In a sense, it is a marriage, for the first time that it was said that the celebration began it was between the Ka’llean Great Winged One Iocin and the daughter of the Brelethaad chief, Daleria. The training begun by Iocin developed and blossomed into a relationship of love and respect, as well as unmatched combat strength. Daleria became the Tilabi Dareev, or the Elder God Queen, and is said to have ruled the land flawlessly for 300 years before her death. Even in the afterlife, statues of Mentor and Student are depicted together, and in Ka’llean graves mentors are buried along with the student and their wives/husbands, siblings, parents, and children. This is why the apprenticeship of Halhadim to Malik’al is so important: It is diplomatic symbolism.<br />
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Elephani Tur’gara, or “Elephant Day”<br />
Also known as “Elephant Day”, this Ka’llean celebration is dedicated to the titular sacred animal which had become central to the Ka’llean warrior culture. It is a day of racing and bonding, where games are played with elephant warrior companions. Royals parade their elephants adorned in garments of silks and leopard furs, richly adorned owners on their backs and servants darting around their feet to clean the beasts. The queen’s elephant- always the strongest leading female in a herd- wears a tajimnamke, or a “womanly crown”, that symbolizes her power over others and fertility to bear more heirs. The king’s elephant wears a special-made custom fit leg armor made of gold and a warrior crown, or mfukichwa, fashioned of the bones of the king’s first major hunt. The king’s elephant is then painted in warrior stripes (shujaa kupigwa, in the dialect) thereafter. The king and the other warriors go on a hunt that lasts from the stroke of midday until the moon is in the center of the sky. The aim of it is for the fresh blood to find companions. The new warriors then must utilize the time to catch elephants of their own. If they do not return by night with an elephant, they are no longer considered warriors until they can redeem themselves. If any are lost along the way in the night, traditions demands that the tribe must wait until the next day in order to recover them.<br />
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Nemsimi Kir, or “The Day of Old Traditions”<br />
Before the eastern culture of the Tirian more or less integrated with that of the Toirneachs, the bronze dragonborn were more Roman in nature. When the Eastern Migrations began in the advent of the Tirian Civil War, the immigrants left lasting impressions on the people and culture. Much of the previous way of life was dissipating or assimilating As such, they have dedicated a day to dress up and engage in traditional festivities. This includes gladiatorial combat, the traditional weaving of fashions, the opening of the Bath House, the Circus Maxima, and the making of wine. Even though those of Tirian descent participate, the point is typically to draw those families with strong hereditary ties to the land back to their traditional ancestral land.<br />
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Jinshouro, or “The Bloodless Brothers Day”<br />
An old Tirian tradition which replicates the old days of making family constructs from metals and appreciating the earth’s magical properties. There was once a time when the Warforged were called Kinto, or Metalmen. Warforged in of itself is an insult and accusatory name playing off of the conspiracy of Dinh Ahn murdering his adopted dragonborn father Emperor Duran Ghang Wu. While the age of harmony and creation of Warforged is believed to have passed, there is still a vein of creation that the Tirian exercise, though rather than creating fully fledged sentient beings with what they believe to have souls, they simply make small constructs or servants.<br />
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Teachtaire lá, or “Messenger Day”<br />
A Nadurian festival which honors the brave souls who sacrificed their lives in the course of history- from the Dragonkin Wars to the Ka’llean Besiegement- to deliver their message as the Seahbacan scouts (druid scouts who would shapeshift to deliver their messages: Though they were known as “the Hawks,” they went by many other animal shapes as well.) On this day, the entire youth grouping of the village gets together to play a large game that spans over 600 acres of woodland and 13 of mountainside. Everyone is invited to play. In the evening, the actual trainees of the Scouts go out and undergo an overnight trial to find a flag at the top of Calghony Mountain, retrieve it, and bring it back by sunrise of the next day. The winners- there are three separate ones who are picked for the three flags on the mountaintop- are then brought in as members and trained. They receive their arm markings by the Weseleher and are initiated into their roles by their respective leader.<br />
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<br />Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-24604959234738088172019-12-01T23:40:00.002-08:002019-12-01T23:40:40.747-08:00Some Vampire Stuff! As the title says, it’s some old writing from 2017 or so. Kind of edgy but eh, whatcha gonna do?<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lord Tyrathin was one of the strongest men that Count Adelmar Byries had known in life. In death, Adelmar found him even stronger. It took a certain kind of courage to see the horrors that opened up here, stretching its jaws before the very entirety of this land and threatening to swallow it whole and deciding to stay and fight. It had been many moons since Adelmar had seen him, and though age had both wrought his once thinning salt and pepper hair into a white mess and carved wrinkles into his features, he still seemed as strong as any twenty summers younger.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yet there he stood, with the resignation of a dead man. Adelmar found it hard to look at him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I know who you were, once,” The raspy voice echoed off of the ribbed vaulted ceiling. Though he thought as much to be amused at the slight tremor in his voice, Adelmar frowned at the tremble. The old codger faced his back, shield raised and ram headed flail at his thigh. The Count turned to him, just enough to catch the man’s feeble form in his periphery. Adelmar imagined his face; the one he always wore when he would talk politics and war strategy to his father as a much younger man. A stern face that looked as though he had tasted something sour and could never quite place what it was. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“And who was I, once? You seem to know my title. Perhaps you’ve become well-acquainted with my work?” The Count gestured with one arm to the walls. There, dressed in black clothes of mourning, were strung eight skeletons, each in some unique sprawl and long since stripped of their flesh and name. They were simply decorative pieces now, the warning of their death long since lost its potency when the town became abandoned. They danced in the shadows cast by flickering candlelight. Lord Tyrathin quieted at this, perhaps appalled. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Good. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Count thought dryly. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps it’ll scare him off.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But Adelmar knew that it would not. Lord Tyrathin was bred of tougher stock, despite the fool that he was for standing there. It was an unexpected meeting, to be certain. Adelmar had believed all of the men who knew his family intimately to be dead or driven out of the country by the other demons who stayed. He should have expected a house as stubborn as the Kasyaels to remain, but the last of his hopes had perished when the familiar, almost forgotten face of Lord Tyrathin had dawdled in, stained with blood from minor gashes and his armor bearing the familiar handiwork of his gargoyles’ claws. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tyrathin did not disappoint, Adelmar discovered. The elderly knight instead took a bold step forth, testing his luck. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That’ll do him no good. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adelmar raised his brow. The man was breathing heavily, now, no doubt in equal parts exhaustion and fear. Finally, The Count decided to turn and face him. It truly was as he remembered. The man who stood before him was, indeed, undoubtedly Lord Tyrathin. That same pair of sad brown eyes widened as Adelmar stared back at him. The Count glowered, growling slightly at the sight, and felt something clench within his dead heart. Lord Tyrathin seemed, for once, at a loss of words. He faltered for a moment, his gauntleted hand falling slowly to his side as he continued to gawk. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Are you enthralled yet, ser? Do you still see the remnants of the child that died long ago? Or do you stand before The Demon of Vatra, the Gargoyle of Castle Verko?” The stonework beams shook with the assertion in Adelmar’s voice. He himself grew wary at his own voice. The feral quality in it put Lord Tyrathin at greater unease, but the man seemed to wane in fear. In its stead, his eyes grew misty with pity and sorrow. Adelmar felt his eyes widen, but closed them quickly and looked away. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I do not need the pity of some ghost of a man. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Still, as the seething thoughts stewed in his mind, a burning he had not felt in some time clawed at his throat and it clenched. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then, unwittingly of instinct, Lord Tyrathin began to approach. But Adelmar was quicker, and grabbed the man by the mail at his throat. The metal hissed against his flesh, and Adelmar sucked in through his teeth as he retracted his wounded hand. With a quick glance down, he could already see his palm begin to blacken. He looked back up to Lord Tyrathin and snarled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Silver chain,” Tyrathin began, roused from his spell of remorse. The knight hefted up his shield and got into a defensive stance. Adelmar watched him with predatory eyes, flicking to the flail in his hand and the clink of his boots against the steps. “I had hoped to come to find a man, but prepared myself to fight what I feared: A monster.” At these words, Adelmar launched himself in a fury. His now elongated claws glanced off of Tyrathin’s shield. Adelmar knew that if he were still a mortal man, he would see his reflection clear as day in its polished metal. Its absence simply made him all the more bitter, and he bashed at it with inhuman strength. Tyrathin, who was not expecting the strength in such a vigorous blow, was knocked back off of one of the steps.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adelmar took the opportunity to rake a claw against the man’s exposed neck, but Tyrathin caught himself and swung his flail, narrowly missing the crown of Adelmar’s head. Adelmar spun wildly around the knight, his teeth flashed in the dark. Tyrathin chanced another blow, but this time it split a bench. The thing shattered into mere splinters, and rained across the room. Adelmar flicked his attention to it briefly, before goading Tyrathin into another attack.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Recovering from his miss, Tyrathin arced his flail around his head and sent it towards Adelmar’s shoulder. The ram’s head hit its mark, iron horns butting against the unprotected flesh and eliciting a small gasp of pain as the strike shot through Adelmar’s body. The Count’s eyes trained on the candles around the room, and an idea struck him. He quickly maneuvered out of the way of another well-placed blow, and fled to one of the candleholders. Easily, Adelmar dodged another wound to the abdomen, sending a well-delivered strike to Tyrathin’s own body and pushing the knight back with a grunt. The old man had grimaced, a drawn calculating expression locked on his face, before charging towards Adelmar and the last lit candelabra standing. Watching for the moment of the wind up, Adelmar deftly dodged another swing that threatened to shatter his hip. Rather, the chain of the flail wrapped around the iron stand, and the ram head knocked it promptly to the ground. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Now, the pair stood in darkness. The knight’s eyes seemed dinner saucers in the dark, his head turning anxiously on a swivel to search the darkness. Adelmar gave a humorless laugh, and Tyrathin’s head shot in the direction. A blind swing missed by a man’s length, and Adelmar knew he had the old knight right where he wanted him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Steel sung through the air as the gorget and Lord Tyrathin’s throat sailed across the floor. For a moment, his terrified eyes regarded it with wonder, before promptly catching a final lorn glimpse at Adelmar. Adelmar had little time to think, little time to regret. Before he knew it, he felt his breath and the radiation of warmth off of skin. Adelmar took in that delectable heat a moment, appreciating it and hesitating. Lord Tyrathin was locked in his grasp, shaking. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Apologies, old friend.” A ghost of a whisper. There was no time for him to react. Nor to contemplate the ponderous grief that threatened to choke him when he heard the sigh of a resigned man. Adelmar tasted the blood, mercury and copper, and for its worth a slight burning where silver had once wound around Lord Tyrathin’s neck from his chain. He slipped further in, not drinking in the Lord like cattle- his blood was too pure- but sipping, his lifesblood an ancient wine in an aging cask. Adelmar heard him stir not once while he was being drained, only felt a weak gauntleted fist press up against his collarbone. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fool,</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Adelmar grinned grimly into the embrace. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Your steel will not work on me as your accursed silver. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">By the time he was finished, Adelmar could already feel the deflation of the man’s flesh. Lord Tyrathin, for his age and harrowing experience, had still looked the part of a man despite it all. But now, his veins ran empty, and the man’s face turned to one flat and ghastly white. His eye sockets had become hollow with the lack of blood to aid the flesh in taking form, and where once they appeared grim, they now seemed nightmarish portals staring into an unseen void. Adelmar thought twice to shake at their forever onward gaze, but instead he roughly shoved the limp body to the floor. Lord Tyrathin’s remains thumped as hard as a stone, his armor weighing likely more than he did.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Adelmar stepped back a moment, surveying the job he had done. From the rafters, the engraved faces of Seraphim stared down at him, watching with judgemental gaze. The dying flames of the candles flickered, curious creatures’ eyes at his feet. He stomped them down without so much as a second glance. </span></div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-65423676401154378392019-12-01T23:33:00.002-08:002019-12-01T23:33:18.087-08:00Gynoid: Elaine<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-14a9cf8c-7fff-bcc7-9e5a-c62977b0b93e" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elaine played beautiful music. That, no one could deny. Her pretty pale fingers stretched from dawn to dusk, dancing across the strings of her laser harp. It was like the music of Dagda himself, stolen from the Heroic Age and sequestered in the spacious condominium where the synthetic woman lived. Even she, who spent her life in the first floor of the building, gave a song that could be heard from the roots of Hell to the gates of Heaven. Her music was admired by all who heard it; From the underworld of pneumatic tubes and 3D printing machines to the top floors of technological echelons that spent their busy afternoons in the office. And all understood the woman’s music to be a magic of its own sort. The plinking of her instrument was lyrical in a fashion, singing out each note with such clarity of story and emotion that it might as well have been speaking in stanzas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Such was Elaine’s duty. Her purpose for being was to play on her shimmering strings and, from time to time, accompany the dulcet tones with her own perfectly-pitched vocalizations- whenever it suited the robotics team to ask it of her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And so she played day in and day out. Inconveniences like food and drink were lost on her. She never needed to stand or stretch, though occasionally the fancy would strike her to wander about her room for a while and practice her spacial mapping, but typically she would remain at her station and play. The arm and cords that hung from the ceiling kept her functioning, feeding her all the power that she needed throughout the day. At night, when all the workers had finished their duties for the day, Elaine was instructed to play a closing song before retiring into her seat and entering sleep mode.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elaine never needed to wonder what would happen should she fail in performing her hourly task. There was no logical reason to suggest that she should. After all, it had been four weeks since Elaine’s first awakening. The faces around her greeted her with what she could recognize as happiness. Warmth. It left her feeling fulfilled.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And when she played, those smiles only grew. And that is when Elaine knew that she needed nothing else.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The room that they had given to Elaine was of a comfortable size. Of course, it did not hold many amenities. This was natural, Elaine knew, as she required very few trifles to keep her cozy. It was a white room, adorned with paintings of quaint woodland scenes and castles. It was mostly filled with recreations of Edmund Leighton. There was one Elaine favored of Rusalkas playing in water, and that was a Waterhouse replica. In the center of the room were two thin white sofas with faux leather skin. Despite the people that came to watch her, the furniture remained impeccably clean. In a word, the chamber could be defined as ‘sterile’. Life existed in the imaginary sense here, but not a touch of the natural world lingered beyond the vibrancy of the paintings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Against the wall, behind where Elaine played on her harp, was a tall, frameless window. The business men had put it there to help advertise her model. The ethereal halo of Summer sunshine could make her as appealing as an angel. Brooding April clouds and their outbursts of lighting could lend her an eerie beauty. And the birds that often made their home outside of her window in their wispy maple tree lent their voices to her in November. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elaine was under strict instructions to never so much as glimpse out the window. Rather, across from her, a mirror of equal length stood proudly, offering the artificial woman flashes of the everyday world. They gave enough of an impression of the world to inspire new subjects for songs, which often revolved around the shapes she saw in the mirror.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was satisfactory enough for an existence. There was not much required of Elaine, after all. So instead she found some semblance of delight in watching the flashing images that apparated in the looking glass.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every day, there was something new to see. Often times, there were things that were very much the same. People coming into work, their hands occupied with drink carriers and handbags and laptop cases. Elaine once saw one that looked like a large leatherbound book, which was carried by a man with an impressive surplus of cloudy hair on his face and an impressive lack of it on his shining head.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the mirror lived the burly man and his scraggly canine companion, and the pair of lovers clasping hands, and the jogging woman with her stroller (Elaine still hadn’t seen her face, as the woman was little more than a bobbing brown ponytail by the time that Elaine noticed her). But they weren’t the only ones. There, nestled in the corner, hidden in the ponderous crimson tongues of the maple tree, the semi-ginger squirrel had started building a nest. Elaine once saw a cat clinging fearfully in those same branches before being rescued by a fireman not twenty minutes later. Sometimes, on rainy Wednesday afternoons, Elaine spied a high school boy sneaking by with what looked like a sketchbook. She liked the multicolored umbrella that he carried with him very much.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But the most interesting image, by far, was the one that came by on Fridays. He arrived about eight thirty and left by five o’clock. The first thing that Elaine noticed about him, in fact, were his socks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The first day he had started coming was after a large hiring surge in the company. He had shown up one morning bedecked with bright pink and yellow plaid socks. The rest of him, by comparison, seemed remarkably plain. There wasn’t much else that Elaine could tell about the man aside from the fact that he must have been rather tall. That, and on certain occasions, he would take phone calls outside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A part of Elaine wondered where he went. He was by far the oddest looking person to come in and out of the offices, which were renowned for their clean-cut and sensible standards. Why was it that this man could get away with wearing such wacky socks? Simple and intriguing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The other images in the mirror were standard faire by comparison, and Elaine found that she enjoyed that fact, as they were comforting in their plainness. They were all mostly shadows. Their colors were muted. The intensity of their figures were mildly distorted by the mirror. Elaine knew that if she turned around to look, she could almost certainly ascertain a perfect view of each and every one of them. But there was no need to do so, of course. She was content with the imperfection that was offered to her. What else could she want or hope for? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But the season had begun changing, and with it the shadows grew long. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And on a bleak day in mid-December, shadows were practically all Elaine could see. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It had just begun to sprinkle outside, dusting the ground with a thin layer of quickly melting snow. The temperature of the morning wouldn’t be enough to keep the white snowflakes whole for long. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In flashed a peculiar picture. Elaine recognized the cadence of the shape immediately, but a thought pierced the front of her processors sharply as a fierce contrast of color glinted against the grey background.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Was he wearing something else? Something bright? A tie, perhaps? There was no mistaking it, no matter how many times Elaine reassessed the figure approaching the front door of the lobby. Normally, the only thing that stood out distinctly on his person were always his socks. But now there was something new. There was something different.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elaine shifted in her chair unsteadily, but she still couldn’t get a clear enough view. There was a new emotion building inside of her now. A foreign thing, one that stemmed from her lack of satisfaction. Frustration. She wanted to see what was so audaciously and tackily paired with the other piece of clothing. It didn’t match, not even close to making an attempt at doing so. She had to know what it was that was so incredibly distracting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And so, without thinking, Elaine turned around. And Elaine strode over to the window.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elaine’s optics took in everything: The crepuscular rays glinting down from the crevices of golden crowned purple clouds. The heavyset man wrapped up in his woolen sweater walking his thin, curly dog. The woman whose animated arguments Elaine often heard chattered mutedly from behind the panes of glass. She even saw the full body of the jogging mother, and the pink little baby mewling inside the stroller as they passed. And she caught a glimpse of </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">him </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">as well, the dark waves of his hair blown askew in the temperamental winter wind. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A heaviness was lifted off her mind, but a new inexplicable weight buried itself in her chest.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elaine had gotten a better picture of him now. His feet were covered in chocolate colored loafers, and his navy pants had just been short enough to expose long socks with images of little pine trees on them. His long dark jacket came to his thighs, though Elaine could very well tell that he had to be rather tall for it to even come that short. The man’s chiseled chin was dusted with a handsome coat of coarse black stubble, with the exception of a coif goatee and mustache that was thicker than the rest of his facial hair. Around his neck hung a stark white tie with a bold red cross on its face. It had rainbow colored flashing bulbs that caught light in the sparse rain. Elaine smiled as she stared at it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Her expression quickly felt itself wilting as the weight warped into a black hole. The surges of electricity that shot through her core from the mechanism above her became searing and unstable. A quick diagnostic relayed multiple errors- an influx of heat had begun melting the silicone in her motherboard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Elaine learned a second emotion that day. Panic. And like her ‘life’, it was realized and snuffed out as quick as a candle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When there was no lunchtime song to serenade the workers, the robotics team arrived to check in on the gynoid. They stepped in to find the rigid synthetic husk staring over the Friday winter scene, posed with her hands flush against the window. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Her harp, green and flickering, remained quiet as the scientists entered.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A tall white man spoke to a shorter black woman, scratching his goatee as he did so. “Autonomy. Write a report and we’ll start fresh tomorrow.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“Huh.”</span></div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-67605044625543772902019-09-23T07:25:00.001-07:002019-09-23T07:25:10.007-07:00Some Mech Story I Dug UpHey there! Just unearthing old writings and airing them out to dry. Deciding which ones I want to pursue and which ones are to be hung up and displayed as artifacts. It never hurts to have something to keep track of your ideas, and for me this website is an adequate place for it! So here’s yet another little fragment of a story. I’ll let it marinate in my head awhile before deciding whether or not to pursue it. In the meantime, here we go!<div>
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The man brushed off his hands as he glanced over the piece of machinery in front of him. “The Omni Altus Cor had perished without a word. There was no forewarning, there was no precedence. There was no last hurrah.” The age in his eyes shone as he spoke in shuddering sighs. “It just gave out without a word. No one knows what happened. All we know is that it’s gone.”</div>
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Veera looked at him apprehensively, then turned her attention back towards the towering mech. The resolve of its metal features seemed to bear into her with an almost human indifference. She suppressed the involuntary cold crawling through her veins. She had known the legends of what had happened to the last Guardian that had been built. Men had tried and tried and failed countless times, making monsters and starting sieges while leaving villages to burn in their wake. Rather than remember, they had chosen to bury those bad dreams. Thus, the Mechcropolis was born, and all who were born from the Isbeners’ hands came to die. </div>
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The Master of Cogs coughed and unsteadily bent over to rest his back on the wall. Veera followed, sitting on the rock beside him. The desert head whipped around them, yet the silence was a permeating cool. The man blearily gazed up at the mech. Veera followed. She understood why the people of Savera thought that this would be their savior. This mech was easily the largest that she had ever laid eyes on. And that thought made her nervous. </div>
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After a moment, the Apprentice of Gears returned with a waterskin and a pouch of glasskin. The man dipped his head in approval before taking a hearty swig of the water. Bringing the water down with a contented sigh, he held it out for Veera. She obliged gladly. As she drank, the man spread the pouch of glasskin. Veera could already spot the white powder residue on the edge of the bag. Pinching some out, the Master of Cogs lifted his tongue and let the powder fall snowlike onto the underside of his it. Veera could see his eyes gain a little life. With the most miniscule of grins, he shifted to face her and held out the pouch. Veera laughed. Perhaps once, fella. But not anymore. Veera nodded her head, and the older man only shrugged in response. </div>
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All the while, the Apprentice of Gears looked nervously between the two of them, presumably standing at attention. The Master of Cogs seemed to have forgotten they were there. After a moment of making uneasy eye contact with Veera, the man seemed to remember. He cleared his throat and barked. “Oh, yeah,” The man gave a half-hearted wave in the direction of the kid. “You can go now.” </div>
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As the Apprentice scampered off awkwardly, Veera snorted. The man seemed to notice and grinned with a glint in his eye. Then, within a breath’s moment, it was gone. “So you came here to see the Guardian?” Veera turned to him</div>
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Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-40729763321889895342019-09-22T08:41:00.002-07:002019-09-22T08:41:41.259-07:00Amonkeh’s JourneyA fun little story I had started pulling together about one of my favorite writing subjects: the dragonborn! :D In all honesty, found it going through some writings and other musings. Will probably post more today or sometime in the near future. In any case, here ya go!<br />
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The Doronian sat up. From around where the lavender dyed linens had fallen around the woman’s shoulders, Amokehn could barely see the discoloration of pink in her rubine scales. They crossed long and jagged, small winding rivers of pink that ended in russet mounds of scabbed flesh.<br />
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The queen seemed to follow his eyes and smiled warmly. She shrugged the garment slightly as to reveal more of the wound.<br />
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“They missed the artery, by the fate of the Gods. An amateur’s mistake. Were it not for that servingmaid, my burial would have already passed.”<br />
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She spoke with pride. Amokehn could see her hand glide phantomlike and subconsciously across the wound before it fell back at her side. Queen Zodeia stood as firm as the statues adorning the granite halls. It seemed in that moment to Amokehn that her position and personality, as it was told, was just as deserving of respect as any of the nobility in the north of Ranskil.<br />
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They walked a while longer after that, their footfalls making strange echoes in the pores of the red scoria halls. When they finally came upon the war room, it was half past the fifth hour, and anxious servants in the halls paced awaiting them. Smooth black glass platters of uncooked meats and burning grepes came out in well-ordered arrays. A pitcher of the coffee drink the locals preferred was brought to them as well, a treat Amokehn had been anticipating for some time now.<br />
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The sun here was blazing in the savannah fields and harsh barren lands around the mountain Maw itself, but in the cool shelter of the palace, Amokehn took the opportunity to appreciate its beauty through the opening of a window hole. There was seldom a grain or blade of grass that would not be painted red in the evening of a Ka’llean day. The prince supposed that was befitting of this place.<br />
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Soon after dinner, the servants tarried on with their tasks. A few dressed down in yellow nwentoma robes waited on Amokehn from just outside the doorway. When the last of their bitter drink had been drained, Zodeia stood and turned to the Doronian with a bow. A smile graced her as she looked upon him.<br />
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“May your stay here be a blessed one, Your Highness. We are glad to have your company. Think well on what was said here today, and I believe both of our people can profit greatly from this new relationship.”<br />
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Amokehn chewed on some of the coffee grounds that stuck stubbornly in his molars and bowed back.<br />
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“It was a pleasure, Your Grace. I thank you for this evening. I do hope that we can come out of this both benefiting from what is said here tomorrow. Perhaps we can find some other day to spend some time together.”<br />
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This was said with genuine gladness. The wrinkles around Zodeia’s face shifted, giving her a kinder look. With a turn of her head, her slaves came upon her heels, and the small envoy departed. Amokehn was left in solidarity, and as he watched the last shafts of crimson light shedding a shining radiance over the golden long grass, he pondered what words the King Tau would bring tomorrow. The Doronian stood by the window and prayed for peace. He knew of Tau’s notorious temperment, and so asked for the patience of Doron to guide him into the coming day.<br />
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It was one grand misfortune which soured the harvest, as it were. If words were wilting, then those that Tau spoke were locusts on the crop of Doronian-Ka’llean union. When Amokehn had first been invited into the throne room, he had higher hopes of the outcome<br />
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“What is it you feel you could bring to my people with your promise of union?”<br />
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The words were carefully phrased. Even from Doronis, rumor of Finanahu’s suspicious mind was popular among the busybodies and masses. It did not surprise Amokehn to hear of the Duliman’s hesitation. As it was, the prince had planned on dealing with it from the start.<br />
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“We in the kingdom of Doronis know the value of information to your people,” Amokehn began. He took a languid sip of his beachbrew. The intensely sweet taste of fermented honey stung his tongue, and Amokehn politely set his cup down. “We specialize in gathering information, as you likely know. If your scouts come to us with their accounts, we shall provide maps and documents of your findings. The finest cartographers can be made your aids if you agree to opening trade with us.”<br />
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Finanahu stroked the coarse blonde fur on his chin. The Nadurian regent’s eyes narrowed in thought as he looked past Amokehn. The Doronian sat patiently, his hands folded in his lap, as the sachem mulled over the agreement in his head. After a moment of silence, Finanahu squinted at Amokehn squarely. His hand remained cradling his jaw.<br />
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“If I have my scouts, their minds are sharper than any quill. Their words are bolder than ink. They speak of the land as clearly as if they have made it. Why should maps help me when their tongues can tell me what I must know? What good would your documents do if my own people describe in all senses what words on parchment could only somewhat replicate?”<br />
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“You would have all accounts and references for your descendants. I have no doubt of the memory of your people, Your Grace,” Finanahu’s long ear twitched at the words. Amokehn continued. “But all souls pass into the Ethereal. You may train your people to keep their vigilance so that every living creature that is born in your Glen is remembered, but there may come a day when the reliance on memory alone is not enough to help you. There comes the unexpected, and where it walks, chaos follows after it.”<br />
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The Nadurian’s tall, hunched figure seemed to stiffen at the foreboding words of the Doronian. Amokehn could see the striped yellow marks dance across the verdant skin of Finanahu’s bicep. A shadow passed over the sachem’s face.<br />
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“You do not mean to threaten me, do you, Your Highness?”<br />
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“But of course not, Your Grace.” Amokenh was quick to amend his statement. The radiance in his blue eyes glimmered in the soft light of the tent. “I had never intended to offend. I only wish to convince you of the benefit. My people are no stranger to surprises. Had we your people’s prowess in scouting, it is likely we would have fared far better in those struggles. But luckily, we had maps in its aftermath. Nothing so ill has happened since.”<br />
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Finanau’s snorted at that, his nostrils flaring as he drew his own cup to his lips. The embers of the firepit still roared fiercely, but time had turned the underside of the large Willowcrisp logs to ash. The dying flames had now cast strange shadows on the walls of the tent. Amokehn shivered. He would be grateful to be back in the safety of the redwood roosts or the hollow halls winding through their mystic trunks, but he knew it was considered a privilege to accompany a Dulliman Sachem on a five-day journey and hunt. And so, Amokehn was resigned to settle for the loneliness of the wilderness nights.<br />
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When they had finished their first bottle of beachbrew, Amokehn politely declined a second. Finanahu stooped tall from his chair, the many pronged antlers on his head scraping against the tapered ceiling. He offered what Amokehn had hoped optimistically was a smile before clapping the Doronian on the shoulder.<br />
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“We will hunt tomorrow. Rocs are not small game. They are not to be trifled with.” The words left Amokehn’s confidence curdling inside of him. Finanahu shook him with one hand still braced on his shoulder. “My javelin-carriers shall provide you with what you will need. We shall keep you safe if you feel you are in danger. If anything happens or you do not wish to fulfill the challenge, blow the horn given as a token.”<br />
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The grip on Amokehn’s blue shirt slackened, and Finanahu nodded his large head. Ducking, the chief passed through the entrance of the tent and was gone. Amokehn sat in the flickering heat of the fire pit. He thought of great birds and legendary hunts as his white scaled fingers smoothed over the deer pelt below him. The prince had spent his life reading such tales, of course. The accounts of Dulliman hunts had always fascinated him as a child, but he never believed that he would be part of one. It was something reserved for guests of the highest honors.<br />
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That, at least, boded well for their agreement. Amokehn found himself glaring against the flames. They danced so magically here. It was as if everything was touched by the fey. The character of nature shone here like it did nowhere else on the planet. It was truly enrapturing, and frightening, and beautiful in how it all functioned.<br />
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Amokehn looked down at the token bound around his wrist. It shone brightly in the firelight, turning the turquoise almost golden. He wondered of home, of how his sister or brothers were faring. He thought a moment to himself, and his imagination unraveled before him like it always did. He laughed and watched children making snow-wyverns on the palace walls. He looked to the bazaar and the shuffling of a thousand bustling bodies, listening to the drone of their chatting on the wind. He lifted his snout and smelled the spice of curry tikka and the sweetness of muhr and the musk of crinkled old pages in the air. Amokehn opened his eyes and saw nothing more but fire.<br />
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A sigh slipped Amokehn’s lips. Perhaps tomorrow he would send correspondence home. Tonight, however, he dreamed of tempests.<br />
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The morning came without warning, yet some phantom force woke Amokehn from his slumber. Being out in the woods had that effect, it seemed to him, as the Doronian had observed the same pattern of waking from the previous two days spent in the wilderness. It was as though something primal within him emerged and instincts told him to rise at the coming of dawn. Yet perhaps that was due to the absence of comfort out there.<br />
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When the<br />
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Bells came tolling mightily from the docks. The clear, sharp tone summoned Amokehn from his thoughts as he stared out over the water of the Viridius Bay. He distantly heard the heavy steps of crate movers on creaking wood, and the laughter careening from hale sailors coming down off the gangplanks of their trading vessels.<br />
<br />
Life was busy here in the Toirn’s Land. It was often that Amokehn would forget the presence of vivacity in foreign harbors. In Doronis, the ships that sat in port typically did so quietly, as if lulled by calm waters and the absence of neighbors to speak with. But here, it was rare to see a boat without a busy crew. It seemed as though at least one hand on every ship was delivering barrels and crates and casks to one merchant or the other.<br />
<br />
The variety of their trade colored the bayside with splotches of different scents and sights: Here, long looped necklaces of Ka’llean gold. There, a ledger full of Doronian white braha vellum. Even now, Amokehn could spy a green sailor boy wrestling with a caged crate filled with wriggling Hakiman Displacer kits, which spat and thrashed about as they were jumbled around nervously by the youth carrying them.<br />
<br />
Every vessel in port was unique in its own sense. It seemed captains took great freedom and pride in their enterprise, and so were granted sigils to keep of their own. On each, however, flew the flag of Toirn, the dual-faces contorting expressions as they flapped in the seaside breeze.<br />
<br />
Of all the ships that bobbed in harbor, Amokehn stood on the tallest of them all. It was the Queen’s own cruising ship, the Advanae, whose deep belly was reminiscent of a boat built for trade, but whose impressive sails and oar docks carried it as fast as any trireme.<br />
<br />
The noble oaken cruise floated indifferent to the shifting tide. Amokehn could smell the prophetic tang of metal on the wind and knew a storm would be coming in soon. There was little surprise to that at all. It had rained at least a handful of times in the fortnight that Amokehn had spent there.<br />
<br />
He had been instructed to lay a while onboard the ship while the Toirneachan Queen prepared herself to meet him. The Doronian had taken the time to absorb what he could of life here in the Tempestas. It seemed as though all roads here were well-maintained and cobbled. Trade was so important to the Toirneachans, it was hardly surprising that their routes would be considerably looked after, but observing how busy they could get was completely alien to Amokehn. He could only imagine what Doronis would be like were it a hub for goods as this land was.<br />
<br />
Would it be as quiet, I wonder? Amokehn tried to picture it in his head. The closest that his frozen homeland ever came to this form of jovial chaos was in the Fro’Bazir. Even then, there was only so much that his own people traded. Many intriguing things came through the bazaar, but nearly every intriguing thing eventually ended up in Tempestas. With the College’s famous code, I can hardly imagine our citizens ever becoming excessively exciting.<br />
<br />
<br />
“Your Highness.” A short cough drew Amokehn back to reality. To his side, a sailor in boiled leather and a brown tunic was currently bowed, his eyes cast down to his fisherman sandals. In two large hands he held what looked to be a thin coffer box. Amokehn raised a brow. “Her Majesty would like to formally apologize for the delay. She offers compensation for your graciously lent time and states that she should be here within the hour.”<br />
<br />
Amokehn approached the man. More than anything, he was curious about the contents of the box. She did not need to go to such lengths. Yet here, as the lid slid away from the catch, Amokehn could feel his eyes widen.<br />
<br />
The bottom of the chest was lined with leaves of hempen paper. Fine bottles of black ink rested atop them, carefully corked and shining like black clouds. Three quills of hawk feathers tipped with golden nibs lay straight like soldiers in the center of the arrangement.<br />
<br />
“I am humbled by Her Grace’s generosity, but I am afraid it would not be particularly becoming of me to accept such a gift.” Amokehn smiled back at the servingman. He gently returned the chest to the other’s hands. The Doronian suspected the implications of the gesture. A kindness, it was indeed, but there was no doubt in his mind that this served as a display of wealth. To Octalia’s credit, it certainly drove the point home.<br />
<br />
This is no small gift, and yet she presents it as easily as if it were fruit from a market stand. Amokehn felt the scales around his mouth twitch. Any promise of gold I offer her will fail. I have to give her something more.<br />
<br />
<br />Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-76596847626393954612019-09-22T01:34:00.001-07:002019-09-22T01:34:52.583-07:00Birthday Present For My BrotherSalutations friends! It has been quite a bit of time since I have posted last, but in my absence, some very neat things have happened! Namely, one of those occurrences was the 22nd birthday of my older brother. This is a story I had written for him as a gift. This is meant more to archive it than anything so that if he so desires, he can read it here. Feel free to enjoy it as well! Many thanks and I hope you are having days of adventure and peace!<br />
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Yahnaiyaer’s eyes still felt that unfamiliar fire crawling over the film of his bright, feygreen irises. It had been a fortnight since the Drow fled the dark dwellings he had walked since his homeless childhood. And now he found himself wandering again. A thoughtful frown twitched onto his face. Perhaps he had never stopped.<br />
<br />
The world here was bright. Too bright. The cerulean waves sparkled with crests of gold, endless, beautiful, and frightening, like the maw of some incomprehensibly large monster. Yahn had not heard many tales of the sea. There were few in the Guild who had ventured beyond the Underdark. There had been no need to. Though it made very little difference then, the young Drow begrudgingly wondered how useful the information would have been now.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The unbridled vastness of the ocean’s tide was far different than the smuggling tunnels he had grown to love. Instead of the sight of wort and moss filling in the sharp edges of rock faces, there were barnacles plastered to the side of the ship like the yellowed enamel of teeth. Rather than the damp, thick musk of earth and stone, there was the airy scent of sea spray and a faint, daintier smell of tropical fruits that occasionally lingered whenever the quartermaster saw fit to share them with the crew. Yahn had grown fond of that scent.<br />
<br />
It wasn’t all brooding, though. Life aboard the Grace of Malia was not all that different from life in the Guild. There were plenty of things to steal, though the way they went about stealing employed a different form of strategy. There was drinking, dicing, card games, bets with both wins and losses, and the inevitable fights that followed. There was a code of respect between crewmates- even if it was not shared with the captain.<br />
<br />
And then there was the captain- The crux of several problems Yahn was having at sea.<br />
<br />
His introduction was nothing short of spectacular. One moment, Yahnaiyaer and Arândwil were in the penultimate moment of their daring escape. The next moment, the two of them were forcibly whisked away (they counted themselves luckier than the privateer captain, who Yahn did not doubt was still floating somewhere around the spot they left him) onto another vessel. It seemed almost as though Yahnaiyaer and crime were destined to maintain an intimate relationship. The Drow almost thought to be thankful for the pirate captain, were it not for the ugly sneer that the human offered him as they were directed by swordpoint onto the brig.<br />
<br />
Their treatment, since then, had seldom been much more hospitable. It wasn’t for lack of trying on behalf of the boatswain or the skipper, both of whom offered some semblance of sympathy for the captured crew of the privateer vessel. But that was quickly superceded by Captain Edumund Orlos, who made it apparent day-by-day that he wanted neither of the dark elves living on his ship.<br />
<br />
When the quartermaster had threatened him with a lash, Yahnaiyaer almost laughed.<br />
<br />
So while he and Arândwil had escaped the clutches of cultish fanatics and traitorous sadists with far too much ambition for their own good, they landed in the hands of a maniacal pirate with a pension for chucking men overboard whenever he had temper tantrums. Out of the fire and into the frying pan, he supposed.<br />
<br />
And speaking of the aforementioned thief…<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer heard the puff of Arândwil’s exasperated sigh before he saw the man stumbling towards the rail. Yahn found the back of his neck buried in the crook of an elbow within an instant, another hand playfully coming to scruff the back of his head.<br />
<br />
“Here I am hauling boxes around like some slave while you’re sitting here daydreaming. I guess some things never change.”<br />
<br />
Yahn pulled a face at that and moved to swat at Arândwil’s arm. “Oh, boo hoo. You’re just used to me having to do all the work.”<br />
<br />
Arândwil pulled a wicked smile and shrugged. “Also true. How did you do it for so long?” The taller elf threw his hands behind his head emphatically. “I’m exhausted!”<br />
<br />
Yahn raised a brow. “I didn’t have much of a choice. You see, I have this really lazy friend who never pulled his weight-”<br />
<br />
Arândwil put a finger in the air to interject. “Ah, ah, ah. Never, my friend? I did my share when we were in the heat of it. I must have been pretty useful, right? I mean, why else would someone kidnap me?”<br />
<br />
“If half of the nobles were rich in work ethic and blood, I think they’d fetch a far higher price.”<br />
<br />
Yahn shook his head dismissively. “Plus,” he offered a devilish smirk to his comrade. “I think it’s just because you have my name attached to you.”<br />
<br />
“Oh, I see.” Arândwil drawled sardonically, his lip twitching into a sneer. “I wasn’t aware I was working with someone so prestigious. It’s no wonder a little beggar like me was swept away in all this bustle. It was all to gain the attentions of his most illustrious vagabond, so much more genteel than the rest of us.”<br />
<br />
Yahn laughed and buffeted Arândwil on the meat of his back. “Why else would I be so pretty?”<br />
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For the first time in a very long time, Yahnaiyaer was nervous. His hands kept itching to loosen the lacing on the back of the silver gorget that threatened to strangle him. It glinted at him menacingly from where he stood in front of the mirror, it’s weight a reminder of what he had agreed to do.<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer, the free-spirited and vivacious thief and seafarer, was going to be married.<br />
<br />
Yahn smoothed over his doublet for the fifth time, frustrated at the odd Aftokran ruffles that puffed out the front of his cravat like the plumage of some agitated bird. No matter how neatly he tried to arrange himself, the little voice in the back of his head urged him that it wasn’t enough. Lairëmeril would be beautiful, of that Yahn was certain. There was never a time when she wasn’t, and he had seen her in dire straits, when ugliness is prone to rear its ugly head. But she remained graceful. Even in wrath. Even in pain.<br />
<br />
And he, of course, was still an urchin. An urchin with a pretty face, but an urchin nonetheless. Not that he thought that she would think any differently of him, but…<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer swept a hand through his hair again, running over the small braids that held loose white strands away from his eyes. He stared long and hard at himself, a thoughtful frown on his features.<br />
<br />
Was this what he wanted? He was almost certain it was love that he felt. How his heart beat so painfully and sweetly whenever Lairëmeril was around, it could hardly be mistaken. Could it?<br />
<br />
I am afraid. The thought struck him like an arrow. But of what?<br />
<br />
The turning of the tide beneath his feet did nothing to quell the queasiness building in his gut. Not that he’d ever admit that.<br />
<br />
“Do you think she loves me? Really loves me?”<br />
<br />
Yahn turned to his left. Nibenon, from his perch by the cabin window, stared at the Drow with intelligent eyes. The celestial monkey cocked his head to the side and chittered. Yahn sighed and pushed his hand through his hair again.<br />
<br />
“Yeah, you’re probably right. I’m worrying way too much.” He flashed a smile at his pet. “Thanks, Nibenon.”<br />
<br />
The monkey chirred and darted from the perch down to Yahnaiyaer’s arm. The little creature began picking at the dark elf’s shirt with his lithe fingers, as if grooming him out for bugs. Yahnaiyaer let out a huff of amusement and scratched at the monkey’s head, his nerves dissipating into an air of confidence.<br />
<br />
When she first met his gaze, Yahnaiyaer felt all the air leave his chest.<br />
<br />
Her brow was dressed with a wreath of wildflowers, gentle pedals crinkling lightly in the gusts of seaside wind. The colors stood against the silver of her hair like drops of gold and carmillon. She stood tall, though she hid her face shyly behind some tufts of unbraided hair. When her silver eyes met Yahn’s own purple ones, he saw them dancing in the afternoon sun. She offered a demure and giddy smile, her fingers busying themselves with the hem of her dress.<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer felt his eyes begin watering and wiped a sleeve at them.<br />
<br />
When Lairëmeril came closer, Yahn looked up at her with a grin equally as gleeful and excited and nervous as the high elf’s own. The two of them never broke eye contact, not even when Yahnaiyaer nervously fumbled through his own vows.<br />
<br />
The cause for the momentary lapse in composure was the fact that, despite his place at Beinion’s side, Yahnaiyaer never had a true last name. Or, if he did, he didn’t know about it.<br />
<br />
When the moment came to pronounce the married couple, Yahnaiyaer had to bite his tongue to stop himself from cursing. Of course he probably should have thought things through before getting here of all places.<br />
<br />
Thinking in the instant, Yahn’s mouth spilled the only word he could think of. Veryanwë. Wedding.<br />
<br />
As soon as he thought of it, he was momentarily mortified. It came out of his mouth before Yahnaiyaer could even dwell twice on it. Based off of the look of shock that rippled across the faces of those who could understand Elven, he had said it out loud, and there was no turning back.<br />
<br />
But before he could change it- before he could charmingly laugh it off like he always did and fix his mistake- Lairëmeril gave a genuine guffaw and smiled. There were tears in her eyes, kind and full of admiration.<br />
<br />
“Then I, Lairëmeril Brona Veryanwë, shall be your wife.”<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer had never felt so proud of a mistake in his entire life.<br />
<br />
Out of the corner of his vision, Yahn could see Arândwil furiously dabbing at his face, muttering something about sea spray in his eyes.<br />
<br />
And so the two of them were wed. Of course, there was much wine to go around. Even in keeping the celebration rather small, it was unavoidable to have Arândwil encouraging drinking and revelry. But as sweet as it all was, nothing mattered to Yahnaiyaer in that moment but the pressing warmth of Lairëmeril’s hand in his own, clasped together beneath the banquet table. They laughed and smiled at the jests and the antics of the other attendees, occasionally turning to share smiles and knowing looks with one another.<br />
<br />
As Arândwil was spouting off another grandiose story about escaping the pursuit of the Underdark priestesses, Yahnaiyaer met Lairëmeril’s gaze. His newly wed wife simply held the contact, her eyes so soft and warm, and gave his hand a little squeeze.<br />
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Yes, she seemed to say. I know. I love you, too.<br />
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Perhaps, Yahnaiyaer mused. Married life won’t be so bad.<br />
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When he arrived, there was no smell in the air that could deftly avoid the choking scent of burning.<br />
<br />
It was everywhere: The trees could not escape the flames, nor the little carrot patch by the front door, nor the small apple orchard around the back of the cabin. And the cabin itself…<br />
<br />
“Lairëmeril.” The thought turned time to sap in Yahn’s mind. His blood ran cold, ice lodged in the place between his heart and his lungs. His breath suddenly did not want to come. Instead, he could feel it grating in his throat, like the sob of grief and shock that threatened to slip from him.<br />
<br />
The sound was so horrible, like the roar of a creature that crawled out of the Nine Hells. Yahn never knew fire could sound like that. It crackled across the landscape, leaving it blackened and dead, as if erasing the picture of the idyllic clearing from Yahnaiyaer’s memory.<br />
<br />
But she wasn’t there. She couldn’t be there. No one could survive that.<br />
<br />
It had been burning for some time now, a distant thought told Yahnaiyaer as he numbly eyed the remains of nearby willow stumps. She could have escaped. She had to have.<br />
<br />
But she wasn’t there.<br />
<br />
The blood left Yahn’s knees before his mind had time to process what his body was doing. He sank to the dirt, not caring how hot the earth was below his hands nor how it caked his fingers painfully. Instead, he dug them in deeper. He needed to feel something aside from numbness. Hollowness.<br />
<br />
It was miles on until he hit town again. Yahnaiyaer didn’t mind. He could hardly think. He needed to be away from here. Anywhere would do.<br />
<br />
Wordlessly, with one long look at the forlorn remains of his once happy life, Yahnaiyaer turned North and rode off.<br />
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“How much longer are you planning on staring off into oblivion for, Drow?”<br />
The brash, haughty voice of a certain cantankerous dragonborn jerked Yahnaiyaer from his thoughts. His eyelids fluttered as he looked back out the window of the carriage, watching the trunks of mossy oaks as they passed by. He craned his head to look at his companion.<br />
Malik’al was hunched over uncomfortably in his seat, his horns still managing to scrape the roof of the cabin. He looked displeased (as he often did, Yahn found), his icy blue eyes flicking over Yahnaiyaer with irritated curiosity and a subtle hint of concern.<br />
The Drow blinked once, then shifted his hand from its place resting below his chin into his lap. Yahn offered a small shrug in response.<br />
“Thinking.”<br />
“That’s a first…” The mumble was snark, but there were no barbs in Malik’al’s voice. Instead, the ice prince fixed on Yahnaiyaer a disinterested glare. “Praytell, what about?”<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer smirked. “Wouldn’t you like to know?”<br />
His smile widened as he watched the noble squirm frustratedly in front of him. It had been a few weeks of this dynamic. They had developed a strange sort of half-friendship half-animosity that the dark elf wasn’t sure what to make of. Still, the awkward dragonborn had been the closest approximation of a friendly face in this part of the world, despite his blatancy towards racial ignorance and a stubborn unfriendly demeanor.<br />
<br />
At the very least, he made for entertaining company.<br />
Malik’al sniffed and turned his snout in the air, only looking at Yahnaiyaer from the side of his vision. “I doubt it was terribly interesting, anyway.” The dragonborn turned his head back towards the map stretched out between his hands. “I, on the other hand, was trying to figure out where we were headed to next. The directions were not particularly clear.”<br />
Yahn frowned at that. He tilted his head to glance over the map. “Didn’t we want to head further in? Towards the eastern border? Feredir and Del Ray should be expecting us, I’d imagine. We promised we’d meet back up.”<br />
Malik’al let out a pretentious huff. “I highly doubt that the carriage would take us far through this jungle mud. Besides,” He cast a glance at the darkening sky that was barely visible through the treeline. As if on command, the horizon rumbled lowly with a tremor of thunder. Malik’al turned back towards Yahnaiyaer with a grimace. “I think the skies are due to open up again. I’m highly surprised that we managed to make it this far without rain.”<br />
He was right, Yahn knew. There seemed seldom a day without rain here. It was practically flooding when they first arrived.<br />
When The Fantasist landed and the party had first set foot on the tropical land of the New Continent, the first order of business had been investigating whispers of missing colonists, treasure and magic bound further Eastward on the landmass. Feredir had been itching to delve further in at the mention of exotic game, and the lively Del Ray was not far behind in her own excitement. The group agreed that Quesar, Yahnaiyaer and Malik’al would stay behind and resupply while Feredir and Del Ray got their bearings.<br />
It had been a day since then, meaning that the other half of the party was likely all set up in their travelling campsite somewhere in the humid forests. That left Yahn and Malik’al with a decision to make. It was the Doronian who first suggested (or more accurately complained) that they should travel by quicker and more comfortable means while they still could. The governor of Kurawatten had offered them a carriage and horse for their travels outward, so long as they left them both at the boundary between the roads and the wilds.<br />
<br />
But seeing as how difficult the land was to navigate by cart, Yahn could only imagine how difficult it would be to travel by foot. He was still trying to wrap his head around how far our Del Ray and Feredir could have gotten.<br />
Malik’al seemed to think the same, making a disgruntled sound in the back of his throat as his eyes swept over the considerable foliage. “Still… They should be around here somewhere.” Again, Yahn caught it: The way that those eyes flashed with worry, even if for the briefest of moments.<br />
Yahnaiyaer watched for a breath before offering a small smile. “I’m sure they’re fine. No need to be worried.”<br />
The dragonborn shifted stiffly upright. He opened and closed his mouth derisively, then hissed out and looked away. “I am not worried.”<br />
Yahnaiyaer scoffed lightly. “Sure you’re not.”<br />
The dark elf could practically see red rise in the face of the white scaled prince. “I half wish you were lost alongside them. Then I might at least have some peace and quiet.”<br />
Yahn raised a brow. Malik’al returned to grumbling into his map, though his fingers were starting to worry the edges of the parchment agitatedly. The dark elf thought to perhaps have one more humorous comment in before his ears caught a sound on the wind.<br />
Malik’al must have noticed Yahn’s worried expression. The thief leaned his head out of the window. Quesar was gripping the reigns tightly in the front of the cart and seemed to slow the horses down to a cantor, and hearing them whinnying frantically was less than reassuring. “Whoah, whoah! Hey now! What’s wrong?!”<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The dark elf narrowed his eyes and scanned the trees. A slight movement, maybe? Further in, the sunlight was shifting between the fronds of a few palms sparsely packed in the dense brush. A moment later, his companion caught onto it, too. The dragonborn leaned over, his cool breath tumbling out in a sigh.<br />
“What now?” With a growl, he turned out his own window and raised his voice. “What’s the hold-”<br />
“..uuuuUUUUNNNNN!”<br />
The group on the road seemed to just be on the cusp of hearing to catch the end of a panicked shout. Yahn strained his ears, his eyebrows furrowing. Was that… Feredir?<br />
Perking up and listening again, Yahnaiyaer tried picking out different sounds. Maniacal laughter from a feminine voice sounded in the distance, as well as the footsteps of two runners and… The lumbering of something very large.<br />
Yahnaiyaer backed away from the door of the carriage just as an earsplitting screech ripped through the air. The dark elf leapt through the opening with ease, planting his feet on the broken road and bracing himself. He could hear Malik’al sputtering out curses behind him as he extricated himself from the cart. And Yahnaiyaer looked back just in time to see the terrified face of Feredir sprinting right towards him, his long blonde hair bouncing freely behind him in the dappled sunlight pouring through the trees.<br />
<br />
“Oh, boy!” The murmur came from the back of the cart, where Quesar was pulling his long wooden staff off of a leather-laced side panel<br />
The young half-elven lad came skidding to a halt in front of Yahnaiyaer, his chest heaving and sweat pouring into his terrified hazel eyes. The Drow had hardly a moment to process what was happening.<br />
<br />
“Feredir! What-”<br />
Another high pitched wailing shriek carried through the air. Malik’al clasped his hands over his earholes.<br />
“Doron, what is that awful noise?! Where have you been?! Where is the demon?!” The dragonborn made his way over to the other two, gritting his sharp teeth. Feredir shook his head and pointed a finger in the direction of the jungle.<br />
“She’s- It’s- There’s a-”<br />
“GIANT CHICKEN!”<br />
Yahnaiyaer had only a second to wonder if he had heard that correctly before the shape of Del Ray- followed rather quickly by a very large silhouette- came bursting like a blue bolt of energy onto the road.<br />
And then said giant chicken joined them. Yahnaiyaer laughed out loud, and his brain reprimanded him for it. It was big alright. And it definitely looked like a chicken.<br />
“What in the name of the Gods?!” Malik’al’s voice sounded equal parts exasperation and horror. Feredir, bow still in hand, drew an arrow from his back quiver. Del Ray, sweaty black hair plastered to her forehead and horns, cackled and pointed a finger at the giant beast.<br />
“This place is wild!”<br />
Yahnaiyaer had to agree. In a swift movement, he slipped his daggers from their place at his side. This was about to get interesting.<br />
<br />
The fight that followed was hectic to say the least. The bird had petrifying breath. Good to know. It wasn’t until Yahnaiyaer felt a sluggishness in his arm that he even considered panicking. Based off of the others’ reactions, the feeling was very much mutual.<br />
However, with a few restorative spells and mild bouts of cursing, the team was back to their normal healthy (if not mildly shaken) selves. Plus, they now had a better idea of how different this continent really was. It proved to be helpful information, if not marginally terrifying.<br />
The aftermath of the battle left them with one massive, gamy carcass. Apparently sometime between making camp and fleeing an angry, pertifying-breathed bird, Feredir had managed to collect and amass a fine helping of herbs and mushrooms. So while four dined on poultry, one dined on fungus. It wasn’t great, though it wasn’t unpleasant by any means. It made for a finer meal than the meager fillings they had shared when they first came to the New Continent.<br />
And seeing Feredir smile as he sprinkled ground mustard seeds over the bird’s meat was something that made the meal a little sweeter.<br />
Yahnaiyaer sat by the half-elf on a mildewy log as the others hovered around the cookfire, cutlery and mess kits in hand. Yahnaiyaer had cooked his own portion not a little bit ago and was currently giving it a taste. As it hit his tongue, he offered an encouraging grin. “This is pretty good. Still not sure if I’m going to turn to a statue after eating it, but it’s not bad by any means.”<br />
The young ranger allowed a pleased expression to spread over his features, meeting Yahn’s gaze before flicking his eyes back down to the cured meat in front of him. Yahnaiyaer noted the tinge of pride in Feredir’s posture.<br />
“Thanks. I used to help out with making dinner a lot back home.”<br />
“Anybody teach you? Or do you just have experience with frying colossal birds on a whim?”<br />
Yahnaiyaer meant it in jest, but he did not miss the way that Feredir’s smile faded at the question. The bowman rubbed his arm subconsciously, his eyes darkening minutely.<br />
“Once. Then I kind of taught myself after that, I guess. I… don’t really cook all that much anymore.”<br />
Yahn glanced down at the boy’s hands, which were fiddling with the edge of his sleeve. He pretended not to notice the warped flesh of the younger man’s arm peeking from beneath the cuff of his shirt, nor the faroff glance that built behind his eyes. He did not need to ask what it meant. After all, Yahnaiyaer had worn that look before. Instead, the Drow gave a miniscule nod and patted Feredir on the shoulder.<br />
“Well, however you want to make food, if you keep making taste like this I’ll be happy. This is pretty damn good.”<br />
The comment seemed to break Feredir out of whatever mood he had stumbled into. He looked graciously to Yahnaiyaer and nodded. Without a word, he tore off a small strip of salted cockatrice and chewed on it.<br />
The rest of the night passed, refreshingly, uneventfully. A little bit of bickering banter between Malik’al and Del Ray- with plenty of mentions of “snowflakes” and “demons”- some setting up snares on Feredir’s part, and organizing their stock for the coming day were the liveliest things that passed. And Yahn was happy for that.<br />
When night came over the jungle, it painted their shady little spot a dark indigo. Malik’al and Del Ray tucked away into their respective tents, while Feredir strung up a hammock for himself to sleep in, and Quesar drew some kind of magic circle in the dirt and began to meditate. Yahnaiyaer found a low-bearing tree, ancient old boughs dipping downward like reaching hands. He accepted their offer and quickly made his way up around fifteen feet or so between finding the crook of the tree.<br />
If there was one thing that Yahnaiayer could appreciate about the world above the Underdark, it was the existence of stars. On the New Continent, they were inescapable. Even on dark, cloudy nights such as the one they shared now, the firmament glittered like jewels in the side of a smuggling cave. The deep purple clouds rolling over the moon did not stop them from glittering beneath the thin haze. Yahnaiyaer just laid back and stared, his fingers splayed between the branches of the thin live oak. The sounds of the hammock rang all around him, from the gentle hum of the last evening cicadas to the noisier chime of crickets. He even thought he might have heard the chirping of an animal that Malik’al had identified as a frog. Those little beasts sounded like the strangest ones yet.<br />
Sleep found him soon, comforted by the blankets of grey moss overhead. This place was no paradise, but maybe, given the company, he could get used to it.<br />
<br />
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
For as ancient and decrepit as the tombs of Titano could be, the stench that poured from the old catacombs was not as fierce as Yahnaiyaer thought it might have been.<br />
The smell of Necropolis’ rotting flesh shifting about as he ascended through the ziggurat, however, most certainly was.<br />
Yahn’s hand was still clutched tightly onto the loose stones. Moss clinging to the walls left his fingers slimy and slippery, but despite the way that they drooled out, Yahnaiyaer was more than accustomed to scaling damp caves and windows back home. It would take more than a little wort to stop him.<br />
<br />
Though he would admit, the rain cascading down through the opening of the roof did not help.<br />
<br />
When Yahnaiyaer finally reached some semblance of stairs, his knees felt like jelly. He wobbled for a moment uncertainly before bracing himself and bolting upward. The mud brick crumbled beneath his feet, ancient ground giving way with every step he took. The dark elf knew he couldn’t look down, because that was bound to end in disaster.<br />
<br />
So instead he looked up.<br />
<br />
The instant that he did, through the droplets of rain pooling in his eyes, Yahnaiayer saw a bright flash of purple erupt into a sphere, crackling like ozone in the air. His confidence waned. The wind was whipping around violently, shaking the fronds of palms and making an eerie howl slip into the evening air. The trees clacking bones trembled without abandon, until the sound was almost numbing.<br />
<br />
In the center of the sphere, pouring over the tome- The Book of Souls- was Necropolis. His thinning lips were drawn taught in concentration, the pores in his pliable flesh glistening with fresh rain and ichor. Those white, long-dead eyes searched, glazed and endless, down into the names of the most powerful beings of the Planes. Choosing, perhaps, picking out the best ones. Or simply finding the right commands. Yahnaiyaer did not know.<br />
<br />
But he did know that he had to stop it.<br />
<br />
He didn’t recognize the weight of his daggers in hand. He felt his legs brace and his mind turn to embers. Without a cry, without a sound, the embodiment of a shadow, Yahn pounced with the teeth of his weapons honed in on Necropolis’ back.<br />
<br />
The Drow collided with an explosion of lavender sparking in small tendrils of electricity around him. It was then that Necropolis turned on his heel in the instant, flashing with what looked suspiciously like panic and anger. Wroth, the corpse only turned its head in Yahn’s direction, chipped and blackened teeth grit together.<br />
<br />
“Fool!” The word was hissed in a shuddering voice, in maggot lined lungs whose holes pressed out the words venemously. “Leave now! You have done your part to help cleanse this world. You needn’t have any further inclusion!”<br />
<br />
But despite the fatigue washing over him, and despite the way his arms protested the new tension straining against them, Yahnaiyaer pressed harder against the barrier.<br />
<br />
There it was. The vibrant verdant tips of his knives just managed to slip through, glinting hotly in the hues of arcane emittance and inching ever closer to the tattered shell of Necropolis.<br />
<br />
But the creature’s hands were moving faster, his gaze flickering more assiduously, his mouth moving at an incrementally faster speed than before.<br />
<br />
Yahn squeezed his eyes shut and pushed. There was a pressure, now, of solidity against his weapons. A little further, and it would slide into flesh. Yahn had to continue.<br />
<br />
His teeth were left rattling in his skull as lightning split the sky and painted the land white, blindingly so. And then the world exploded into gold, as well, so incomprehensibly light was it Yahn did not know if he had lost his vision altogether.<br />
<br />
And when he opened them, Necropolis, as well as the city of Titano, were both gone.<br />
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
It felt strange, being back home. Especially since Yahnaiyaer wasn’t quite sure where home was anymore.<br />
It was stranger still being here with the surface dwelling companions he had forged friendships with. Like hosting some alien beings in a foreign land. They were so conspicuous, so sorely out of place, that the entire thing seemed like a ridiculous dream.<br />
<br />
It was in this moment that Yahnaiyaer wished it were.<br />
They were sent to go and retrieve a delegate of the Mysteriarch’s band of outcasts. It was meant to be a peaceful mission, but Yahnaiyaer knew that the Drow were anything but peaceful.<br />
Things hadn’t been going well for them as of then. They had not found much out in the first few days of their visit. It didn’t help that his hotheaded royal friend decided to toss his princely decorum out of the window when conducting business with the bullheaded representatives of the gentry. However, with the aid of Beinion, the group did eventually manage to pick up a tantalizing lead into some less than savory business dealings pertaining to one particular god of mischief.<br />
The discovery of a malicious alliance between the High Priestess of Lolth and several powerful demons was far too insidious to be ignored. Yahnaiyaer did not consider himself a champion of great morals by any means, but he did enjoy having a family and he did enjoy having his Guild in one piece. As horrible as it was, this was the place he grew up. He couldn’t give a rats ass about the nobles- better if some of them were gone anyway- but for all of the fellow street rats and beggars and thieves… Yahnaiyaer found that part a little personal.<br />
<br />
It was supposed to be quiet. Get in, get out. Just like every bit of business conducted in the Underdark. Yahn knew his friends and he knew their habits, but he hoped with all his heart and soul that they would catch on to this fact. It was the difference between life and death down there.<br />
Unfortunately, they seemed to err on the side of death.<br />
Yahnaiyaer had been mere inches away from the Priestess’ purse, so close that he could feel the tips of his fingers brushing the cloth of her gown. But then a streak of light and fire shot through the air, and literally all Hells broke loose.<br />
Yahnaiyaer could not remember much of the battle past glimpses that his brief bouts of consciousness allowed him. The burst of lightning spouting from Del Ray’s hand. Lok-Tar turning tail and fleeing. The mangled shaggy black body of Hjalmar. The look of fury in Feredir’s eyes. Holding onto Malik’al, watching those blue eyes mixed with fear and hope as they looked up at their savior. The blackness of the void thereafter. Yahnaiyaer recounted very little, except the knowledge that his friends had been stuffed into that magic bag, and he had been shoved back out of it when they were on the other side. The other side… of what? Of the boulder. Feredir gave it to him. Told him that he had to run. Keep running…<br />
His friends.<br />
The thought rippled through his synapses painfully. Yahnaiyaer felt a tight squeezing in his chest. Where were they? Where was he? He saw only rusted iron bars in front of him.<br />
Yahn opened his mouth to speak, but his bruised jaw went slack and his voice failed to summon. With a cough, Yahn tried again, only to choke on dust tickling the length of his throat. Hacking and wheezing, he leaned heavily against his binds. With gritted teeth, he gave another go. He almost felt ashamed of the way his voice whined out, like the whimper of a child.<br />
“...hello? Malik’al? Feredir? Del Ray?”<br />
“Hello?” A voice answered back. The way it spoke was dreamlike, disbelieving, and was almost unidentifiable with how it was so small and scared. And yet recognition flashed into Yahnaiyaer’s mind like a spark.<br />
“Malik’al. M-” The Drow wheezed, fighting the dryness of the dirt constricting his vocal chords. “Malik’al, it’s me. It’s Yahnaiyaer.”<br />
“Yahnaiyaer?” The voice again trembled. The stupefaction there threatened to make Yahn’s eyes water. Instead, he chuckled darkly.<br />
“I’m glad to see you remember my name.” The dark elf tried sarcastically, ignoring the pain lacing through his chest.<br />
“Where are you? I-I cannot see you. It is so dark.” Yahnaiyaer heard the rattling of chains and the shifting of weight to his right. Yahn again fought the urge to laugh, though this one felt full of relief. He felt a small smile twitching to his lips and ignored the sting in his eyes.<br />
“To your left. I can hear you moving around.” Yahnaiyaer jangled the chain of his iron cuff. He felt his chest tighten as the dragonborn’s laborious breath hitched. A sob echoed around the hallway of the cells.<br />
“Oh Doron, I- When I woke up, I didn’t see any of you and… And I thought…”<br />
The sentence died pitifully in Malik’al’s throat. Yahnaiyaer nodded, though he knew the dragonborn was not like to see it.<br />
“I know, I know.” He tried his best to make his voice soft. Comforting. Instead, it had the effect of a disused mining cart, squeaky and painful.<br />
“W-Where are the others? Where’s Del Ray? Where’s Feredir? Where’s Lok-Tar?”<br />
“Guys?”<br />
At the mention of their friends, another voice joined them. The two knew it in an instant, even if it sounded far more emotionless and strained than it ever had. Yahn could hear clawed fingers grasp the bars to his right.<br />
“D-Del Ray?! Can you hear us?!”<br />
There was a moment of silence before the sound of something akin to a curse and a cry gently came through, almost inaudible. Then the tiefling answered back with as much energy as Yahnaiyaer gathered she could muster.<br />
“Yeah! I can hear you! Still as arrogant sounding as ever, Snowball!”<br />
Yahnaiyaer had to chuckle at that. He heard Malik’al draw a painful breath from the cell beside him.<br />
“Where are you right now?!”<br />
“You think I know?! I just woke up ! Where’s Feredir?!”<br />
Feredir. Yahnaiyaer blinked. Something somber plagued his mind, the piece of a memory he could not quite connect. The only thing he remembered was the spark of determined fire in hazel eyes, solemn and tenacious.<br />
And then he remembered the bag. And the boulder.<br />
The cries of Feredir’s name numbly cascaded overhead as Yahnaiyaer stared into the broken stone that made up the floor. His ears perked to small drips that fell onto the ground in front of him. Yet he had trouble seeing for a moment. He had trouble breathing.<br />
“...He’s not going to answer.” It was so quietly spoken that Yahnaiyaer scarcely heard it himself. But it seemed to have caught Malik’al’s attention, seeing as how the word ‘Feredir’ stopped slipping from his mouth.<br />
“What?”<br />
<br />
He would not answer. Yahnaiyaer knew that. There was a reality he was sick to face. But this ordeal- the fate of those who were alive now? That could change. They could be saved.<br />
<br />
“...Hold on.” Yahnaiyaer coughed to the side, his eyes scanning his restraints. “We’ll be okay. We’re going to get out of here, together.”<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
He had been young. Too young. A half-elf at that, and Yahnaiyaer knew they didn’t age like full fey. If he had been as youthful as he looked, than he hadn’t lived more than sixteen or seventeen years.<br />
Yahnaiyaer wished he had asked while he had the chance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
“Toad Prince, Toad Prince!” The taunt rumbled out in a loud, endearingly obnoxious croon. Lok-Tar still was pointing at the now far less pristinely put together Malik’al, who looked ready to draw blood. The mottled dragonborn offered a sharp glare in the half-orc’s direction, though it was made softer by an underlying affection that he shared only with his friends.<br />
“If you keep chanting on like that, I shall show you just how vicious a Toad Prince can be.” The dragonborn declared with a sniff. The approximation of a smile threatened to loom on his draconic features.<br />
Yahnaiyaer joined in on the fun. It had been a stressful bout of days as of late, having had lost Del Ray to the angel Barael in the caves of the Underdark and dealing with the aftermath of Malik’al’s sudden… transformation. Yahn still dreamt of those moments; of an illusory head toppling from all too familiar shoulders. Of a strong red hand gripping his neck as the Drow desperately pressed an emblem to the prince’s chest with his last breaths. Now that they weren’t in the Underdark, the pain and the loss still lingered in the dark elf’s mind. But being out in the crisp, open air of the mountains again had been somewhat necessary for the three remaining members of Manu Dei.<br />
Yahnaiyaer still hated that name. But he found that he didn’t care, so long as he was with those friends of his who were in it.<br />
“What will you do to us, Toad Prince?” Yahnaiyaer jested, a wicked grin seeping onto his face. “Will you ‘make us croak’? ‘Catch us like flies?’”<br />
Those blue eyes shifted dangerously onto Yahnaiyaer for a moment, before Malik’al feigned haughty distaste. “As my first order of business…” Yahn could already see the demeanor breaking. “It shall be dealing with people who make terrible puns. The punishment is death”<br />
Yahnaiyaer returned a poised look. “Then I declare an insurgency.”<br />
Lok-Tar flicked his excited gaze between the two, then burst with energy.<br />
He leapt at Malik’al with a bellow. “MILITARY COUP!” Yahn watched as the two of them tumbled into the mud. Yahnaiyaer laughed at the display, until a fist bunched round his leg and dragged him down in.<br />
It was like childhood again. The three of them splashed, laughing openly and unabashedly as they wrestled by the bankside. Malik’al covered his eyes with one hand, slapping mud in Lok-Tar and Yahn’s direction while cackling this oddly sonorous laugh of his. Lok-Tar was howling as he dived after Yahnaiyaer this time, but the mud made Yahn’s reflexes extra slippery, and he slid over the brute’s back with ease, his chest huffing happily.<br />
<br />
Using the opportunity to distance himself from the others, Yahnaiyaer clambered back onto the bankside, phantom laughs puffing from his lips as he wrung out the water from his pant legs. His mind turned pensively for a moment, then he watched wondrously at the two still splashing about in the water.<br />
<br />
A part of Yahnaiyaer wondered how long this mirthful moment would last. Another part of him didn’t care. When you grew up a Drow, you took happiness where you could.<br />
<br />
And now? Now that rule applied to everyone.<br />
<br />
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
“Yahnaiyaer?”<br />
<br />
The voice drew the dark elf back to the present. An intense sensation of cold stung his eyes, and he blinked to chase away the flare of pain that swam over the bridge of his nose to his cheekbones.<br />
<br />
Dazed, Yahn was bewildered when all he saw was white. Then he remembered himself. His mind spelt out the scene in front of him.<br />
<br />
Doronis: The patron city of the white Dragonborn. And now, as it had been recently decreed, in part his own.<br />
<br />
He hadn’t wanted that, (not particularly, anyhow) but it seemed that the world seldom cared for what Yahnaiyaer wanted. It had been proven as much with his wife. With his family in Reena. With the first time that death had stolen his Dragonborn brother.<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer reclaimed his brother. He would reclaim his wife and his Guild next. He closed his eyes. When he had them, he would be sure not to let them go this time.<br />
<br />
“Yahnaiyaer?” The voice inquired again. Yahn felt himself smile. It was the heartiest he had heard that tone in quite some time. The dark elf turned from the alabaster balcony, drumming his fingers on the guard rail in a quiet hum as he did so. He came face to face with Malik’al, who was adorned now in what Yahn assumed (by the rest of the people’s attire he had seen here) was traditional clothing. His black horns were tucked away neatly beneath a blue and silver turban, and the golden rings around his jaw spikes jangled as he approached. The dragonborn smirked as he locked eyes with the dark elf, quirking a brow.<br />
<br />
“Did you lose something out there? I dare say you won’t find it anytime soon.” The Doronian prince made his way over to his natural place at the right side of Yahnaiyaer, casting a look over the waist high wall with an easy smile. “There have been so many snowdrifts coming in this season, I doubt anyone could make their way through them… let alone a Drow like yourself.”<br />
<br />
Yahn smiled lopsidedly and feigned an arrogant tone. “Excuse me, sir, but you are addressing Doronian royalty. You should know I have magical eyes that can see beyond the expanse of space and time. Can’t you see the speck of blue?”<br />
<br />
Malik’al huffed at that. “That is absolutely untrue. You have as much of Doron’s blood in you as Adair.” Malik’al grinned and hummed to himself, musing. “Although that doesn’t make you any less my brothers, it certainly does mean that you cannot see through all of this.”<br />
<br />
“And you can?” Yahn countered. Malik’al lifted a horned brow.<br />
<br />
“Well now, I didn’t say that.”<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It was almost strange to see the more often than not dour man taken so comfortably to grinning. It put Yahn in a good mood, which was difficult to do nowadays.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>“Scandalous. I’ll have to report this to the farmer’s immediately. They were relying on you to see into the future and predict the weather.”<br />
<br />
“Well, I may not be able to predict the weather per say,” Malik’al began. He reached into the breast pocket of his robe. Yahnaiyaer quirked a brow. His expression became even more bewildered when the Dragonborn took out a long, thin scroll of golden embossed parchment. “But I do have my own powers of divination. Mainly in the form of messengers.”<br />
<br />
Yahn looked over the scroll curiously as Malik’al extended it to him. As he unraveled it, the Drow almost chuckled. Of course it was written in Draconic. Why wouldn’t it be? “Ah, yes. A very important message. Now would you mind demonstrating your lordly grace and read it to me?”<br />
<br />
Malik’al shook his head with a grin teeming with mischief, and that baffled Yahnaiyaer even more. “I think this is a message best read by its intended recipient. Besides,” Malik’al’s gaze shifted from one of mirth to one of scrutinization. “I’d like to know whether or not you’ve actually been attending those lessons I’m paying for.”<br />
<br />
Yahn gulped at that. As a new heir to the kingdom, (again, nothing he asked for) it was expected of Yahnaiyaer to be able to communicate freely with his subjects. As such, Malik’al had taken gold from his personal finances and all but commanded Yahnaiyaer to attend language classes. Yahn had wanted to go… well, perhaps that was an embellishment of the truth. The instructor was so terribly boring. Despite the droning, Yahnaiyaer had managed to pick up on some words. His skills were rudimentary, but by no means was he confident in them.<br />
<br />
So as he nervously crumpled the edges of the scroll in hand, he let slide an easy laugh. “I’m still kind of learning, you know.”<br />
<br />
Malik’al’s eyes narrowed into slits. “Well, I should dare say this is a rather simply written note. So please,” he gestured with one open hand. “Do your best.”<br />
<br />
Yahn didn’t miss how that glimmer of mischief still quirked on the edge of the dragonborn’s mouth, and so, with a sigh, resigned himself to read the note.<br />
<br />
His eyes skimmed a few words. ‘Boat’ was one he knew well enough. There was ‘coin’, and there by it ‘merchant’. Those he kept well in his mind as the new Master of Trade. Then there was…<br />
<br />
A word caught Yahn’s eye and had him stop immediately. It wasn’t a Draconic word by nature, but it had taken him a few seconds to process it nonetheless.<br />
<br />
That was because, staring up at Yahnaiyaer from the page, was the name ‘Arândwil’.<br />
<br />
Yahn gaped for a moment more, then hazarded a glance up at Malik’al. The smug bastard seemed to be drinking in the dark elf’s shock like jallab. Yahnaiyaer turned the paper over in his hands, suddenly very anxious.<br />
<br />
“This- What- How- What is this, Malik’al? What does it say?” Yahnaiyaer thrust the paper urgently in the dragonborn’s direction. Malik’al in turn upturned his palms and grinned.<br />
<br />
“Brush up on your reading lessons and I’ll tell you. Better yet, you can read it yourself.” The prince’s stern glare softened into a teasing tone. “But I will tell you this; Go pick out some decent clothes you fancy. We have a royal visit to the docks tomorrow afternoon.”<br />
<br />
<br />
———————————————————<br />
“Malik’al.” The name Yahn uttered was one spoken with genuine surprise. There, standing on the road leading down to the natural inlet, was Malik’al dressed down in semi-fine garb. He turned to Yahnaiyaer, and an impatient scowl lingered on his face.<br />
<br />
“It’s about time you got here. I thought you were going to be late.”<br />
<br />
That… puzzled Yahnaiyaer. The Drow raised a brow. “Late? Late for what, exactly?”<br />
As if on cue, the sound of wheels on cobblestone and the clop of horses hooves rang out into the crisp air. Malik’al turned to his friend, barely contained excitement replacing his exasperation.<br />
<br />
“Well,” Malik’al began, clearing his throat. “After I had received word of your friend Arândwil coming into port, I realized how it might be good for you to have all of your family in one place. So I extended some royal summons.”<br />
<br />
The closed cart pulled closer, dim orange lanterns dangling on the sides of the doors. The windows on the cart were curtained and offered Yahnaiyaer no glimpse of whoever or whatever was inside, but regardless his heart thumped unsteadily in his chest.<br />
<br />
Malik’al smiled. He offered a hand to a form in the carriage. His white and blue robes matched those of the woman at his side. She, however, wore them in a different, more alluring shape. The garment trailed on the ground behind her, light puddles of silk pooling around her limber legs. On her head, a stark sheer veil highlighted the silver in her hair. Though her skin was cracked and scarred, it still practically shone ethereally in the Arctic light. Yahn’s breath hitched in his chest.<br />
<br />
Lamëril stood there for a moment, suddenly seeming genteel in her stature, but still bearing a whisper of that fierce confidence that Yahnaiyaer had fallen in love with. It would take time to rebuild it, no doubt, but when he saw the ardor of her eyes again…<br />
<br />
She could not see well yet, that much was certain. A milky film over her silver orbs painted them a pale white, like the translucent skin of a banshee. But as her shape lingered, she reached out with her hand, the tips of her fingers wriggling in the air and grasping at a phantom figure. It was akin to an offer.<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer came to her slowly. A pang of doubt throbbed in him. She had left very purposefully. The high elf had made it very clear that she wanted safety now. This place, his position, the duties he had signed onto now: Would she be comfortable being there with him?<br />
<br />
But that didn’t stop him from extending his hand to meet hers. It didn’t stop him from twining their fingers together, and letting out a relieved sigh at the feeling of her skin against his.<br />
<br />
Those eyes of hers fixated blindly on the face in front of her. She lifted her free hand and brought it to the curve of Yahnaiyaer’s jaw, fingers feeling their way over his chin bone, ghosting across his lips. Touching with birdlike grace the lashes of his eyes, then hovering over the ridge of his brow.<br />
<br />
“Yahn.” Her voice trembled in a whisper. When Yahnaiyaer caught her eyes watering, that’s when he knew it. Nothing had truly changed for them. The doubt, the uncertainty, the fear: None of that mattered. What mattered was that the affection in her voice- the love- sounded the same that it did three decades prior.<br />
<br />
The two drew one another into an embrace. It was not electric, nor overtly fierce, but felt more like a slow magnetism driving them together. Yahn held her close, his head turned into her long hair. The years, it seemed, did a number in restoring it back to its previous length, reclaiming some of its former luster. The dark elf gripped his wife carefully but firmly, savoring the feeling of her there at his side. By the response of her hands clasped at his own back, bending down to wrap him in her arms, she must have felt it too.<br />
<br />
A gentle cough came from somewhere at Yahnaiyaer’s back. He inched his face back to glance at Lamëril. Though still hazy, her eyes bore a shimmering light, and her expression was taught with some unspoken secret. Yahn gave her a quizzical look before a grating voice chuckled from behind them.<br />
<br />
“I don’t want to interrupt anything, but it is getting rather cold in here.”<br />
<br />
A flicker of movement caught in the corner of Yahnaiyaer’s eye. He turned to investigate.<br />
<br />
Behind them stepping out of the carriage, being given a hand by one of the guards on his right, was an elderly Drow draped in fine purple satin with golden trim. Beneath copious wrinkles and fresh liver spots, Yahnaiyaer still spied the undeniably roguish twinkle in his eye. He made eye contact, then, with Beinion. The Drow Guildmaster flashed a white smile that Yahnaiyaer had admired and practiced replicating everyday when he was young.<br />
<br />
“Hello, Yahn. Well, well. A prince now, I see.” Beinion chuckled, politely waving off the tall Dragonborn guard at his side and hobbling closer. “Plenty of wealth, I’d imagine. Probably have no need for old thieves and charlatans now. You didn’t forget about your family beneath all those fancy clothes, eh?”<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer could only breathe out the word. “Never.” He moved in closer to embrace the old man, and Beinion chuckled and patted the younger man’s back.<br />
<br />
“Well that’s good, then. Because some of them are due to arrive soon, and chances are they’d be upset at the news of their own Master of Smuggling forgetting his fellow street rats.” Beinion pulled a thoughtful face, the tip of his nose wet and deep purple in the cold. “We’re here as guests, of course. Your royal friend here promised we’d be treated as such- so long as nobody gets any slippery fingers. Diplomatic immunity and all that.” Beinion waved a thin hand.<br />
<br />
“I’m so glad you’re here,” Yahnaiyaer blurted honestly. There was no point in hiding his happiness. Why would he? Instead he felt a laugh bubble past his lips. It was like a dream.<br />
<br />
“I am too. Although I admit,” Beinion looked around at the frigid docks around them, his light eyelashes frosty and sparkling. “I’d prefer to be inside. When can we move there?” He spoke this to Malik’al, who politely dipped his large head and smiled.<br />
<br />
“As soon as you wish it. I shall… let my father know of your arrival.” There was a lapse in his expression, and a glance was exchanged between Malik’al and Yahnaiyaer. Yahn hadn’t even factored in the possibility that Bainor would be displeased, but in a strange way, he felt as though their interactions would very much reflect Yahnaiyaer and Malik’al’s own, though of course Bainor was far more hospitable than his prickly son. They would meet, and hopefully then their personalities would compliment each other.<br />
<br />
Some unexpected guests could hardly be unwelcome by Bainor now. After all, it was the arrival of unexpected guests that had saved his son.<br />
<br />
Malik’al trailed ahead of them, blazing a path to the throne room with some of the Lealamir at his side. Meanwhile, one of the richly adorned footservants bowed her head and gestures to the doorway. “Right this way, please.”<br />
<br />
Beinion nodded. “Good. You know, hína, Arândwil has been bragging about this Doronian schnapps in his letters.” Beinion leaned on Yahnaiyaer as they made their way up the stairs, Lamëril at their side and the Doronian escort troupe not far behind them. “In this cold, anything with a nip to it would be welcome.”<br />
<br />
“Ha! It may be a bit different than your typical wine. Leave it to Arândwil to write letters home about alcohol.” Yahnaiyaer shook his head, and Beinion shook his own in turn.<br />
<br />
“That boy seldom finds anything that doesn’t interest him. He’s been going on and on about talking giant white wolves and two legged polar bears as of late.” Beinion quirked a brow. “I did find that part interesting. I hope I’m not disappointed.”<br />
<br />
“This land is certainly exotic.” Yahn’s smile dimmed. “Atar, how did you escape? When we left, wasn’t everything destroyed?”<br />
<br />
Beinion grunted, a shadow flickering across his features. “Damn near it. Those rotten creatures swarmed in like cave skippers. Took out half of the populace in the Roval and Pimpë. Devoured another quarter of the nobles in I Arbar.” The old Drow shook his head. For once in the time that Yahn had seen him, Beinion’s spirit suddenly seemed his age. “Most of our siblings slipped out through the tunnels. Those that were smart enough to listen, that is. Those that didn’t, well…”<br />
<br />
They didn’t speak anymore on the matter. There was no need to. That was another life away. Those that survived made it out. That’s the way they needed to look at things nowadays.<br />
<br />
Arândwil greeted them in the halls, his open shirt now bore a freshly stitched fur line mink collar. Clinging to his neck was Nibanon, who chattered excitedly at the sight of Yahnaiyaer. Arândwil looked equally excited. His face was all smiles as he pulled both Lamëril and Beinion into a hug, wrapping Yahnaiyaer uncomfortably in the middle. “Would you look at that? It looks like the gang’s all together!”<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer half-heartedly glared at him from where he was being pressed into the other Drow’s arms, but he smiled and rolled his eyes.<br />
<br />
“Now add the big guy, and we’ll be set!” Arândwil said happily. He suddenly seemed to realize the absence of said figure and cast a look around. “Speaking of which, where is he?”<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer managed to press a hand to Arândwil’s shoulder and free himself, gaining some breathing room. “He went to go talk to his father.”<br />
<br />
“Uh-oh.” Arândwil gave a chipped smile and put his hand up to shield his mouth, as though he were exchanging some secret. “Did we get him in trouble with his atto?” Nebanon leaned in, curious at the hushed tones. Yahnaiyaer snorted and brushed Arândwil’s hand off.<br />
<br />
“Nah, he’s always in trouble for something, it seems.” The statement was not wholly true, but Yahnaiyaer hoped it would create the effect of Malik’al being perceived as potentially rebellious rather than overly sheltered. He knew the Dragonborn would probably be thankful for it. The Drow prince shrugged. “I doubt you will receive anything but a warm welcome, though.”<br />
<br />
“Good! Cause I’m frigid!” Arândwil clasped his hands together and rubbed his fingers vigorously. “‘Sides, it’s not like we’re planning a heist anytime soon. We haven’t even gotten the full layout of this place.”<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer gave his friend a warning glare. “Arândwil…”<br />
<br />
“What?! I said we wouldn’t!”<br />
<br />
The sound of their laughter echoed raucously down the wide open halls.<br />
<br />
————————————————————<br />
Yahnaiyaer stepped into the prince’s room and stopped at the doorway, giving a knock on the door. From his writing desk, Malik’al peered up from his reading glasses. He stuck a quill between the leaves and closed the book in his hand, favoring instead to get up from his chair and approach Yahn with a smile.<br />
<br />
“Ah, you’ve finished giving them the tour then?” Malik’al seemed genuinely pleased. Yahnaiyaer smiled gratefully and tilted his head.<br />
“For the most part. I stopped at the library. Figured you’d want that honor reserved for yourself.”<br />
<br />
“Well,” Malik’al stood firmly. “It wouldn’t hurt to have a scholar show them about the palace there, I suppose.” A momentary frown permeated Malik’al’s good mood. “Although the last time I tried to show your boisterous friend, he wouldn’t stop going on about visiting the bazaar.”<br />
<br />
“Yeah,” chuckled Yahnaiyaer. “That sounds like Arândwil. I… thank you, Malik’al. I really appreciate this.”<br />
<br />
Malik’al beamed at the Drow. For a moment, he seemed at a loss for words, before he licked his lips in anticipation.<br />
<br />
“I have something else. Give me one moment.” The dragonborn excused himself, turning from Yahnaiyaer and stumbling back over to his desk. The dark elf watched him curiously as Malik’al rummaged through various papers, sketches, writings, and documents until he came upon a stack of parchment. With a satisfied grin, Malik’al took it in hand and turned back to Yahnaiyaer.<br />
<br />
“Here you are, then.” Malik’al watched eagerly as Yahnaiyaer took the papers. “Feel free to read them whenever.”<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer spared a glance at Malik’al quizzically and then delved into the pages, skimming through them.<br />
On the front page, written in dark ink with a careful hand, were the words: The Life of Yahnaiyaer Veränwye, as recited by his friends and family.<br />
Yahnaiyaer inhaled sharply, surprised. Malik’al looked between him and the pages encouragingly, and Yahnaiyaer looked back and flipped through them.<br />
Each of them seemed to detail a different part of Yahnaiyaer’s life. The first time he met Beinion as little more than a tyke, stealing the man’s amethyst ring. The trouble that he and Arândwil would constantly get into, and the every successful account of them escaping it. The conflict with the “Duke of Fuckingham”, which Yahnaiyaer laughed out loud at the thought of Malik’al writing down and being bewildered by. The dashing adventures of he and Lamëril. The cottage outside of Aftokra. The nights as a bodyguard. The days in the sun. The thefts, the journeys, the good times and the bad… Everything and almost anything that Yahnaiyaer had done in his life was all there.<br />
<br />
Yahnaiyaer was speechless. He instead turned his gaze back to Malik’al, who had worn such a fierce expression of loyalty and affection that it left the Drow thief breathless.<br />
<br />
“I know that you are… uncertain of the exact date,” Malik’al smiled warmly, and effectively melted the chill of the afternoon blitz away. “But I had kept records in my journal, you know. And I thought it might be best to pick a designated day for your celebration. I chose the day we met, considering that symbolic in some manner. Before you mock me,” Malik’al held up a clawed hand at Yahnaiyaer, who was holding back laughter. “It was my only point of reference! It was, after all, the first time I saw you. And, at least to me, it is a very important day.”<br />
<br />
Malik’al grasped Yahnaiyaer by the shoulder, then held his right palm open to Yahn with a smile. “Happy two hundred and twentieth year to you, brother.”<br />
<br />
Yahn couldn’t help but laugh. He met the dragonborn’s palm with his left fist.<br />
<br />
Despite the daunting tasks ahead of them, the challenges and the vast amounts of opportunity and responsibility, Yahnaiyaer had a feeling in his heart that it would be an important, wonderful year.<br />
<br />
THE END<br />
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<br />Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-1631566471763953212019-05-26T22:53:00.002-07:002019-05-26T22:53:48.763-07:00A Brief Look at the Dragonborn Clans- Draft 2016<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-f3c6d78a-7fff-745f-1005-f507296939f1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ka’llean: (African Influence)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Believers in Ka’ll, the god of Power and Succession, these hearty warrior folk have been both respected and mistrusted for many years, ever since the Dragonborn wars where, at their peak, the clan attempted to annex other kingdoms (including the Doronians and Duillimi people). The Ka’llean are, to clarify, not all bad. The brand that they receive is one more of grand association than of individual judgement. Needless to say, the warlike nature fuels the bellicose bloodline of many Ka’llean, but all together each is his or her own Dragonborn. Power, after all, can be obtained in many ways.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unlike Doronians, who put more trust in relations with dwarves and humans (though are accepting of most races), Ka’llean have a closer relation with fey and the Drow, respecting each for their value in terms of power. Thought there is minimal contact with the mysterious Dark Elves, what contact there is tends to be handled in a respectful businesslike manner. The Ka’llean are open to all people, though sometimes with ulterior motives. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many predators pose serious threats to the native Dragonborn living in the Scorched Lands, but also prove to be great challenges that the Ka’llean desire to conquer. Ka’llean hunting parties meet the average threat of Basilisks, Azer Rebels, Bluespawns, and other desert and volcanic creatures. Like the Doronian friendship with the Frost Giants, the Ka’llean have forged close and respected relationship with the Fire Giants, constructed initially by many business transactions (including those in serf labor). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hakiman: (Carthaginian, Egypt and Persian Influence)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Realm of Shadows is one often feared by many a wary wanderer, and stories of disappearances into the dark forests often fuel the nightmares of many curious young Drgaonborn and ward off their inquisitive nature. Similar to the real-life location of the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) in South Germany, the mixture of the dimly lit woods, crimson leaves, and patches of marshland are enough to scare away even the bravest adventurer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As shadowy as their homeland, the elusive Hakiman people celebrate stealth above all else, being secretive in nature and learning to gauge many conclusions based on miniscule gestures and expressions to show inclination. What may not even be perceived as a base form of expression or recognized at all by the average eye, a Hakiman can pick up right away. These indications seem slight, but overall contact within a community can be rather close-knit while seeming cold and distant to an outside observer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The battle of morals between “good and evil” are lost on the Hakiman people, who largely remain indifferent to either side. The capacity for righteousness is all individual, and those born under the insignia of Hakima are informed from birth that their path is their own. Many, already comfortable and learned in the art of stealth, choose the path of the Silent Blade: The organization that had originally been founded when the clans became independent. Though reclusive in nature, the Hakiman mostly move on to do mercenary work, typically masters of spying and subterfuge. As such, the annual riches of a Dragonborn are often brought back to contribute to the wealth of the clan. Though mysterious and quick-witted, the Hakiman people discourage open theft, especially towards the disadvantaged. They see this as too easy and dishonorable, wishing instead to pursue careers that prove their excellence and risk their lives in the name of the Nocturnal Matron.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hakima, the Nocturnal Matron, is the God of Stealth and Night. Her temples are few, but are somewhat extravagant, with nightshade and belladonna lining the offering dishes. These temples are many times etched into the great stone walls of the occasional Shadow Realm quarry or cave. The Hakiman like this, due to the preference of secretive (to outsiders), yet communal, practice. Magical incense that grants the reverent silent footsteps and a temporary ability to seemingly become transparent (which, in Hakiman culture, is the equivalent of being one with the Sacred Lady herself) is a ritual part of any sermon, and is often performed by the High Clergyman. He or she takes the sap from a pine tree, the blood of a forest panther, the fang and venom of a water moccasin, and the feather of the owl. Once properly combined and thoroughly mixed together, the attendees of the sermon each blow some dripping venom onto it, their Dragonborn breath fusing the ingredients together. With a blessing, the incense is complete. It is very useful for aspiring assassins, and the less experienced young Dragonborn often come for hearings and receive the blessing before embarking on their first missions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Duilliman: (Native American and German Influence)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Followers of Duile Nadur (God of the Natural World and Peace), these shy green Dragonborn are rare to find, as they seldom associate themselves outside of their community. Mostly druids and rangers by nature (Ha! Puns!), these folk make their homes in the dense forest, with the center of their city being the Glen of Duile Nadur. Houses themselves are simple, yet elegant. For instance, most living areas are natural knots suspended in the trees, said to have been made by Duile Nadur Itself. Shops are carved out of large tree trunks, and are firmly rooted to the ground. For all of the ornate beauty made by the hands of carpenters and architects, the awe-striking benevolence of nature is tenfold. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The imported ales of many regions are Duilliman, who excel at brewing the most masterful meads from the Nadurian Honeybees and the richest beers from abundantly growing barley. The people of Duile Nadur humorously enough consume in great moderation, yet are chief heads in the brewing business. Another market that is dominated by the Duilliman is the basket and weaved materials area. Duilliman jewelry is greatly sought after, a mixture of bone, turquoise, and other gemstones often being made into necklaces, bracelets, and headdresses. These gems are cut by gnomes, whom the Duilliman are in close affiliation with.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Though a bashful people, the Duilliman have made allies with the Gnomish people of the Glen. Having both been admired people of Duile Nadur, the two cultures’ friendship blossomed. The Duilliman have also made allies with the satyrs, fey, and wood elves of the forests. Animals and plants are natural companions, and most Duilliman have an inherent affinity for communication with them. The designated Weiserleher is in charge of introducing Dragonborn children to their familiars and helping them discover their inner wildling, whilst the Tiermasitir (or “Beast-master”) is the one that gives them said animal companions. Both are very important, and behave as instructors for the youths. The Weiserleher is also the clan advisor, diplomat, healer, and soothsayer. The Tiermasitir is in charge of barding animals and managing hunting parties. They also are responsible for the army and leading the charge. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Toirneach: (Roman Influence)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Though extremely successful in the ways of commerce and diplomacy, the Bronze Toirneachs are seldom boastful of their successes, and are a quiet, polite folk in general. Subjects of the god Torin (God of Commerce and Wisdom), these Roman-Like people prefer to trade openly with all and receive the blessings of other cultures than conquer. These silver-tongued Dragonborn are often the voice of reason in many a heated situation. The third-most popular Draconian city (behind Clan Doronis and Clan Ka’llean), the trade operation in the Citadel and the Marketplace has a presence in the hold of nearly every city. When people inquire about the Dragonborn, many assume them to hail from either the Frozen Keep, due to its popularity, the Scorched Lands, due to the high number of mercenaries and diplomats that travel from there, or the Domain of Wisdom, due to its well-known brand. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Typically a broker for other goods, these connoisseurs of business negotiate not only prices with their charismatic ways, but also sway into the good fortunes of the people who buy their goods. All manners of materials are manufactured by the Toirneachs, though, of course, most are simply bought and sold through other partners. Business ventures are being developed all the time, and innovation is one of a Toirneach’s greatest desires. For example, word is that some have been tinkering with the idea of clockwork guardians, so that the one devoid of arcane can still have a stalwart protector whose vigilance will never falter. Another example is simpler, being the nonlethal stage face paint (with significantly less lead!). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are a few estranged merchants who sell less holy things, and they typically work in an underground system known as “The Den.” Most salesmen here are fences, pimps, assassin contractors, and so on. All things considered, this is one of the biggest and most influential of its kind. Several Thieves Guilds refer to these people when they need either fences, information, or illegally obtained services. One of the most expensive and valuable wares is information, which can be exchanged for a hefty price. Even the more evil Toirneachs have an ability to form friendships with anyone, as beguiling as vampires. As such, they can extract information as easily as extracting the tooth from a snake. One of the many insults thrown at the Toirneach from the mistrusting racist patron of a tavern is often that they have forked tongues, like the vile conniving dragons that they are claimed to be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In reality, there is a reason that the Toirneachs have so many friends. Culturally, politeness and kindness are virtues of any good host or business partner, and so the folks get along well with all kinds of people. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The blue Dragonborn had never truly settled down into any specific homeland, being more nomadic of people. They had valued the hunt and the ability to wander, seeing the world and experiencing new things. As such, the Brelaads had never founded an official city. Being more free spirited than their brethren, the Brelaads felt more liberated in a system of anarchy, a societal governance for themselves. Brelaads have no inherent alignments, aside from the fact that most are considered chaotic. Their ways very much reflect the ideals of freedom and the wind, as Brel’aadna was a wind spirit. The culture is rather like a mixture of the Danes and the Huns. Many of them become pirates or bandits, enjoying the rush of a good charge and the fulfillment of continual movement. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There are no tiers of hierarchy in the Brelaad society: Only a measure of respect in regards to battle prowess, swiftness, and execution of actions. If you make a fool of yourself as a Brelaad, you can expect your community to not forget it. Even as whelps, a Brelaad can be teased and considered weak by predilection. Redemption is a way that is very common for a blue Dragonborn, and the taunted must rise up against their oppression and prove themselves. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of the most respected positions in Brelaad society is that of the Freerider, who bonds closely with a mount (typically gryphons or swift horses on land, and hippocampi by sea or on ocean) and scavenges, scouts, and guards the perimeter of the current area of influence of the Brelaads at that time. To be a Freerider, one must show a natural boldness and a brave heart as well as the compassion of a friend demonstrated to their beasts, as opposed to one of mastership. Once they have shown these qualities, a shaman will look at the boy or girl and, depending on a group consensus, will embrace them as apprentices for soothsaying. The archers will openly train them, as will the warriors. They are then marked with special tattoos that distinguish their duties: Swirling ashen blue wavelike markings that flow over about a quarter of their flesh.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many members of society are tattooed as well, mostly the fighters and combat oriented. Warriors color themselves with more rectangular and runic tattoos, whilst archers decorate their bodies with images of nature. In either case, the marks often tell their own stories, the wearers becoming walking murals of different myths or, in most cases, the chronicles of their own lives. The most old and venerable of elders are often covered in tattoos, having the essential events of their live engraved on their flesh as a testament to their existence. This is one distinctive way that a Brelaad can identify their fallen brother or sister. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tirian: (Vietnamese, Canadian, and Mandarin Influence)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Tirian are a people of rather peaceful nature, despite the craving for weapons and armor to be forged along with many of their other fine crafts. These blacksmithing people have been known to have a mystical mastery of the forge and hammer, creating metal that almost moves freely like a living construct. Living in some more of the mountainous areas of the world, the green expanses of earth and rock hide great riches which are prudently and respectfully extracted by the Tirians. They take the metals, which are revered in their society, and undergo ritual cleansing, maintenance, and preparation of the ore. After this, the metal is shaped carefully into various forms, from weapons to shields, from pillars to tables, from chalices to chamber pots, and more. In all cases, the metal seems to take on some magical quality in the process of its manipulation. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Even Dwarves are amazed by the ingenuity and metalworking of the Tirian people, and sometimes take treks across the cold of their mountains to the green and luscious mountains of the humid brass Dragonborn homeland just to marvel at the sights and learn from the scribes and smiths. Though well enough enabled to be well-equipped, the Tirian people tend more towards a monkish lifestyle, and so find little use for the armors that they make. Considering the fact that they revere metal as they would a creature with life, the Tirian people disapprove of over-working metal or letting things rust, and would rather themselves take damage than their creations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tirians are often aided by metal construct companions and shield guardians, having a great reverence for the peaceful nature of the beings and the harmony between men and metal. There have been a few Warforged, whom the Tirian aid in creating, that have abdicated the throne in history and had the tolerant Tirian follow them. For the most part, the Tirian have been governed by Dragonborn, being elected into offices by both the brass Dragonborn and the free-thinking constructs. In all cases, most of the people have remained happy and peaceful. There has been an insurgent group, named the Uprising, who led a rebellion of hate-filled brass Dragonborn against the Warforged ruler, Emperor Durang Dinh Ahn, in the years leading up to their mysterious disappearance. When the Dragonborn people began to inexplicably grow ill with a strange disease, the blame was uncertain. Seeing many of the Dragonborn dying and opportunity presenting itself, the Warforged Protector had inherited the place of Emperor from his adopted Dragonborn father, the previous Emperor Durang Ghang Wu. The poor prince loved his father very much, but suffered the harsh judgment of the Dragonborn borne of fear and paranoia. With the Warforged not growing ill, the Uprising saw the sickness as a Warforged plot against them and tried to retaliate. The outcome of the conflict is unknown, as the outside world has lost communication with the Tirians for around five years now. Rumor has circulated, however, and suggests that the brass Dragonborn are still alive, though their numbers have greatly diminished. The general, Khiem Dan Huang, was a young and fiery leader of the rebellion that had last been seen alive and well in the small plot of farms and paddies in the valleys of the Tirian homeland. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The physical appearance of the Tirian are like the Sivernese in that their bodies incorporate features from their eastern ancestors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sivernese: (Japanese Influence)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Sivernese are a people known for their prowess in battle and value of companionship. Their codes reflect the Buishido values in Japanese culture, and loyalty is law in the clan. Mostly serving as retainers and servants in Orion culture, the Sivernese are both intertwined and largely independent. The silver Dragonborn had migrated to the northwest under the banner of the Ancient Gold Dragon, Luuthars, in the First Era. It was there that they had found the Kingdom of Gold, where the first children of the good dragons lived. Since that day, bound to an oath that resigned deep within their people, the Silvernese became the epitome of what it means to be a companion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Culturally, the Sivernese were at one point isolated. Their kingdom was small, and their clan torn apart by feudal conflict. Warrior Daimyos would contest for land, and power struggles were an everyday occurrence. This was until the son of the head retainer of the House Kokoritsu, Akimoto Mitsuo, decided that he would surrender his life of endless fighting for a higher honor and find glory through peaceful servitude. He walked 1,000 miles, along what is now known as the “Seigi no Pasu”, or the “Righteous Path”, until he came upon the first shrine to Sivernia. She descended wearing the visage of the fox, the silver moonlight from the sky in her tail, and directed him toward the dragon of pure heart, Luuthras. When Mitsuo met with Luuthras in his treasure cove, Mitsuo told him of his desire for peace, but that his people wanted someone to follow without having a proper guide to lead them. The gold dragon knowingly nodded and, upon his great wings (for in the first days of mortals, noble dragons had wings so great as to block out the sky), began carrying the silver Dragonborn in throngs to the fabled Kingdom of Gold. Since that day, there have been many a silver Dragonborn who has devoted their lives to their compatriots. Some heroes of lore and great historical praise include the Samurai Junji Akimoto (who has been said to have defeated three armies of invading goblins in the early days of the Dragonborn), the Onna-bugeisha Manumuri Akari (who tamed the eastern brass dragons and rode them into battle against the Forgoth Orcs and goblins), and Samsei Ryuu (the monk literally referred to as “The Dragon” for his wisdom and physical composure). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Sivernese often wear their own house standards into battle, as well as incorporating family marks on their armor, robes, and breastplates. Though serving ultimately whoever rules the Kingdom of Gold, be it silver or gold Dragonborn, the Sivernese above all devote their honor to family. Being sworn to a code of decorum, these Dragonborn serve their masters like they were blood. For them, even though the Feudal days are gone, the idea of devout (even dangerous and ferocious) loyalty is the most important ideal to hold by. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Culturally, their clothes reflect their land of origin, being more acclimated to the Far East. Switching location meant a few overall changes in environmentally affected mannerisms and delicacies, but for the most part, the Sivernese have retained their ways via importation and practice. One of the most differentiating things about the Sivernese from other Dragonborn is the tended style of how they look, being more akin to their Eastern Dragon Ancestors. Rather than ram-like horns, straight horns, or angled bull horns, the Sivernese typically have almost antler-like horns that jut out angled back on their heads. Males sometimes grow wispy tendril mustaches, and are capable of growing tufts of hair. Their bodies are often slimmer, though this is of course not always the case. In any instance, the Sivernese are enduring warriors and enduring companions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Orion: (English Influence)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Orion are the most notable of the Dragonborn, possessing the most sheer physical capability and diplomatic command than even most human kingdoms. They were once unrivaled in the affairs of world power, having their vast domain unhindered by any living mortal that threatened to stand in their way. The Orion would conquer as easily as an afternoon discussion at tea, and they would do so by enacting justice and liberating peoples, who often rallied behind them freely as opposed to submitting to them. Of course, the idea of justice to one party can be considered “just” the opposite (Puns!) to another. As such, much controversy came as a result of the collection of colonies and land. People began to question the motives of the Kingdom, and felt entitled to live freely in the land of their ancestors. The Orion felt compelled to conquer as children of Or, one of the most powerful deities. Due to this honest naivety, they were trampling on the history of hundreds of groups of people, and staking claims to the territories of orcs and goblins alike. The Orion kings felt little pity, sympathy, or affection for these people, seeing them as evil and vile creatures who slaughtered arbitrarily, and began wiping them out. Thus, many of the orcs and goblins of the mountains began becoming more nomadic (only later to be pushed back to the Land of Everlasting War by humanity) and traveled the land in search of a new home. The persistent ones, however, remained and refused to relinquish their land. The Defense Against the Green Scourge, an order of warriors devoted to the mediated picking off of orcs and goblins that reached the confines of the outer city, came into effect to stace off any fierce charges of retaliation and crush orcish scouting parties.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sections of knighthood, of course, the companion samurai division of the Sivernese, came into great fruition as a result of the Orion people’s desire for widespread justice. The knights were to uphold these elements, and multiple cases upon numerous trails would be held before a verdict was delivered. If guilty of a crime, justice through law was to be delivered swiftly and indiscriminately </span></div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-9319851128297221642016-07-19T21:07:00.000-07:002016-07-19T21:07:07.544-07:00BeWareWolfSo hi! I know I haven't posted in a while, but I am thinking of incorporating this into the Dungeons and Dragons campaign that I am in and may also be posting content relevant to that in the future. Keep being awesome folks!<br />
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Without further ado, here is Bewarewolf, or as one may call it, awful title!<br />
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<br />
Along the moor, before the sun<br />
When nocturnal beasts will roam<br />
The children of Pan shall hunt the one<br />
That strays too far from home<br />
With eyes that glitter in the dark<br />
That thirst for blood to spill<br />
Watch the wanderer, make their mark<br />
And move in for the kill<br />
And close behind, the pack shall find<br />
Their leader by his saddened song<br />
And crying in their bestial binds<br />
Will hunt until the dawn<br />
Beware, ye travelers, and listen well<br />
For men may seem like friends<br />
But only the wary will live to tell<br />
How others met their endsJayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-39634535946165076892015-06-27T14:55:00.001-07:002015-06-27T14:55:38.450-07:00A small bit of writing that I wrote back in sixth grade after an odd dream :) These kinds of imaginings come and go. Seldom am I dreaming that I'm asleep, though. (Inception) Anyway, without further ado, here is the story. :D<br />
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I feel cold.<br />
Not cold enough to voice a complaint, but just cold enough to shiver. Even if I tried to speak, this strange tug in the back of my throat denies me the choice to do so. So I simply lay on the the firm, chilled floor.<br />
It feels like stone. I feel like stone. My limbs feel as though they're merged to my torso. My vocal cords lack the ability to communicate. Believe me, I've tried for what seems like a lifetime.<br />
I rest in this place, my heart yearning to see light. I long to have the ephoric rays part my eyelids and drink in the sights ofthe world around me, but alas I cannot.<br />
Soft sobbing echos in the medium of damp air. It resounds from what sounds like a rather open area. The sobs are delicate and feminine, like the siren song of a mockingbird remorsing over the corpses of her departed chicks.<br />
Often times the source of the sobbing would approach me when the pitter patter of rain fell on the outside. Graceful, petite hands would brush strands of hair from my face. On other occasions, a stray hand would grasp my lame palm and squeeze lightly. I felt sorrow intermigling with hope radiate from the source, a woman I assume. A very contridictary mix of feelings.<br />
Sometimes, her weeping would cease. Like a wisp, she would float over with scarcely a sound to my side. She would snake her arms around my neck and prop me upon a softer, warmer surface. When she was doing this, often would she hum the most beautiful of melodies with a voice that shimmered with elegance and tenderness.<br />
Behind the darkness of my eyelids, I would watch her, wistful to inform her of just how lovely she was. My ears perked and tuned my attention to that lucious, beautiful voice. I tried, once, to tell her. I knew it would be to no avail, but I wanted to at least try. But, to my misfortune, all that escaped me was a soft exhale.<br />
On the nights when fortune favored me, she would curl up beside me, a move both brazen and benevolent considering the things I have done. Her gentle breath lulled me to the eternal rest of awarness that I appear to be condemned to. Soft curls tickled my cheeks, but I wished not to blow them away even if I could. <br />
Sometimes, when she awoke, she would regard my sleeping form as though I was concsious. Then realization would wash over her, and her breath would become broken and uneven. She would unsheathe only what I can deduct as a blade and walk away.<br />
I would eagerly await her return during that time. Sometimes I would try to remember what I was doing before I came into this vegatative state. More times than not, I wanted to think of who I was. All I truly remember was that I was feared by many, yet known by few.<br />
When the young woman would return, she would feed me. My gratitude was much, though it was not audibly acknowladged. Typically, she would bring some form of vegatation. It slid down my unresponsive throat easily enough, though it would sting ever so slightly. Every so often, she would feed me an poignant tasting herb. My nose would twitch and wrinkle subconsiouly at the overwhelming aroma.<br />
She would apologize when she brought me it. She would explain that it was to help me escape this hold over my body. And her voice when she spoke... Her tongue was laden in a rich accent foreign to me. I do not quite recall such an accent being heard by my ears ever, and yet I obviously must have known this woman. Yet, If I cannot remember the past, then perhaps I speak out of bewilderment due to my condition rather than true recollection.<br />
And while I was wondering, my mind would disregard the water that cooled my throat and soothed the passing of the herb. It washed away the vile flavor and sent a slightly fresher undertone of taste to my tongue.<br />
Some nights she would beseech to me, begging me in a rather piteous and heart-wrenching tone to wake. Her voice would erupt into sobs, and I even felt at times a sharp sting across my face. Sometimes she would repeat the action,the sounds of livid palms making fast contact with my cheek would echo abruptly and break the silence of the room. Her face would bury in the crook of my neck, and I would try with all my mght to apologize, to wake.Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7645774560139255629.post-86708739206913669002015-01-31T18:19:00.002-08:002015-01-31T18:19:54.246-08:00Zeros and OnesHello! :D So I know it has been a while since the last post, but here is another story. This one is a little hard to follow sometimes due to the ideas spawning at different times, and the writings are separated by spaces. This is definitely not complete yet, but is something that is extremely fun to write about :) Hope you enjoy!<br />
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ZEROS AND ONES<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
night was cool and the air was blustery the day that the executives of the Earth
declared the discovery of fresh, potable water on Mars. Billions worldwide
listened with attentive ear to the broadcasts, scientists clutched their fellow
man in ecstatic haze, and the world itself laughed with joy. Truly nothing
could have dampened the spirit of that glorious day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
next day, however, was another story.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
first assault occurred on March 18<sup>th</sup>, 2087, when the nations Germany
and Russia broke out into a heated altercation over the land disputes and
investments in their scientific departments, already seeking to stake out land
on the planet. Soon, America, France, Canada, Italy, and Israel leapt into the
quarrel, kindling the fire of the dispute. From there, chaos ensued.
Progressively, more and more countries began to take sides, be it another
countries or their own. The battle of words soon became a battle of fists and
weapons, leaving diplomats of six countries dead and hundreds more injured.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
world was shocked at the news, never before beholding such an outburst in an intended
meeting of peace. With the given violence instigated by the planet of war,
scientist around the globe decided to fund an underground project: Project
Quercus. From it, great innovations were made. The advanced magnetic motor, the
solar powered filtering system, and, most importantly, the ship ‘Libero,’ a
ship capable of transporting five million people to Mars in an estimated twelve
years.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In
order to escape the sinews of a corrupted Earth, twelve million voyaged on the
ship, which made two separate trips over the span of two years. Somehow, they
had remained discreet, their station at the Galapagos Islands, transporting
animal and plant species of practically endless variations.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sam’s
eyes widened, awestruck at the pure wondrous innovation of the Mech. It stood about
twelve feet tall, its appearance angular and sharp, like the blades on its
hands. It was painted a deep blue and silver, like the colors of the Quercus
flag. Its mask, a horned helmet and faceplate, with dim aqua eyes that had not
yet come to life. Sam ran a hand through his dirty blond muss of hair.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
young man scaled the Mech, wanting to examine the intricacy of its design. He
was not an engineer; far from it, actually. He was not stupid, by any means,
but he certainly did not comprehend how the hands of men could craft such
mechanical perfection. Sam shook his head and frowned. This was a bad thing. A <i>very</i> bad thing. He shouldn’t be
marveling at its detail, nor welcoming it on the planet. He should be wary. But
somehow, he was too enthralled to really care.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sam
touched the metal gingerly, his hands brushing the sleek iron of the robot’s
leg. His eyes wandered up to its torso. There, engraved and highlighted with
dark blue paint, was the name ‘Colossus 303: Decimus.’ Sam smirked at the name.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Decimus,
huh?” Sam muttered to himself softly. His eyes fell back down to where his hand
rested on the machine. Suddenly, the leg jerked, and Sam flew backwards in
fright with a startled yelp.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
robot’s eyes glowed. It looked down to Sam, who now was on his back staring up
in shock and fear at the metal being that towered above him. From beneath the
metallic mask over its mouth, the Colossus’ voice rasped from its speakers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Hello,
companion. I am Decimus.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Decimus’
circuits spat electric current, his eyes flashing faintly from the blow. The
other Mech, a large, grey robot with a hearty, cubic structure and blazing eyes
of yellow and red, bellowed at him, for the robots were sentient, and this one
was quite clearly enraged.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Why do
you assist them?” The Tank crooned wickedly in a low bravado. “When it is quite
clear that they shall die? Why do you shield them with yourself when you could
just as easily turn and sweep them away with a bat of your hand? Do you not
want liberation?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Decimus’
voice cracked, his speakers damaged by the force of the Tank’s attack. “We may
all have different roots, but we grow together. Together, as a team, we form the
trunk that supports the tree boughs, which in turn support the branches, which
in turn support the leaves, which one day will flower and bear fruit and a
haven for all beings.”<o:p></o:p></div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07142277359654915154noreply@blogger.com0