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| {| class="wikitable" style="float:right; margin-left: 10px;" | | {{Races |
| ! colspan="2" |The Khadan Humans
| | |Image=KhadanAI.jpg|Name=Khadan Humans|Pronunciation=Kaa-dan|Classification=Human|Nicknames=Desert Folk, Desert-dwellers|Languages=Common, [[Anjyarri]], Azari|Average Height=1.70m - 1.90m (5'7" - 6'3")|Average Weight=65kg - 80kg (143lbs - 176lbs)|Maximum Age=~80 Years Old|STR=+2|DEF=+0|AGI=+2|INT=+0}}Living along the coast of the Al’Hadar Deep, their cities standing out as shining jewels between the dunes of the Anjyarri desert, the Khadan, as they are known, inhabit the sun-scorched realm known as Anjyarr. Their history is one shrouded in ancient legends, arcane sorcery, mythical kings known as Pharos, and secrets that now remain hidden beneath the sands of the dune sea. These people, born and formed by their history, have introduced their own wisdom to Eden through inventions and philosophy. Now, they are defined by their resilience, compassion, and their will to thrive in the harshest of environments. |
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| | colspan="2" |[[File:Khadan.png|center|frameless]] | |
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| !Nicknames
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| !The Orphans Of Anjyarr
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| |-
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| |'''Spoken Languages''' | |
| |Common, Tongue, Azari Linguae
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| |-
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| |'''Average Height''' | |
| |1.70m - 1.90m
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| |-
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| |'''Average Weight''' | |
| |65kg - 80kg
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| |-
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| |'''Homeland''' | |
| |The Anjyarr Desert, [[The Emirate of Al-Khadir]] | |
| |- | |
| |'''Capital''' | |
| |Al-Khadir (city) | |
| |}
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| ==Introduction==
| | The world knows the Khadan as merchants, sailors, having a sea-faring nature. Their cities are filled with bustling bazaars offering precious minerals, exotic spices, and master-crafted wares such as musical instruments and tools. Trade is their lifeblood, and it can be seen flowing to the farthest corners of the continent. This has caused them to develop a respect for other cultures, races, and religions. Accepting them for who they are, no matter their origin, for trade is more important to them than unnecessary disputes over differences. |
| The people of the Anjyarr deserts, they have tanner skin then their Hadrian counterparts, as being a desert raised people’s the natural darker tone of their skin provides a type of camouflage when it comes to blending into the raging sand winds, the large and numerous sand dunes, and the dusty rock sculps which litter the land. From their centuries of surviving in the desert climate they have learned to never show fear and to always stand their ground, they fight majestically with agile spear and sword combat that blitz’s the enemy if they don’t plan for it. Though the Khadans have many combat secrets and a deadly arsenal of specific made weapons however the appearance of these, are few and far inbetween as the Khadans are a loving and accepting culture to all outsiders that may visit them. Along with all this, they are in possession of a wide range of riches including different valuable metals, gemstones, and other bright shiny jewellery pieces which makes them a real eyecatcher. | |
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| They also have incredible bartering skills as their ability to sell a horse to a Hadrian, or ore to a Dwarf is not to be doubted and along with their Alliance with the Dark Elves who helped them through the Rotting Plague, they are capable of immense power. It is recommended you keep an eye out on the desert lands as what is there today might become outdated tomorrow, and what is far away tonight might become a border in the morning.
| | To see a Khadan is to see the representation of the desert itself. The climate and culture of their realm has introduced them wearing vibrant and colorful robes, showing the beauty, but also the intensity of the desert and sea. |
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| | Nowadays, the Khadan are often underestimated due to their compassionate views and hospitality. Yet, the Khadan have a deep-rooted warrior’s spirit, burning with the desire to defend their homeland, their culture, and their history whenever threatened. No one knows the oceans and the deserts better than the Khadan, and those that forget their origin, shall easily succumb to their insolence. |
| | {| class="wikitable" |
| | |- |
| | |“While their loyalty to the Azari’Lunn brings me nothing but disdain, one cannot deny that their generosity and expertise in their crafts are astounding. They elevated societies with new science, math, and various inventions. Their cities stand out as jewels in the desert. And yet, I wonder if it will remain for centuries to come. Only the Mother and time can tell.” |
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| | * '''Arüe Mi'thílion, Scholar of Luminion.''' |
| | |} |
| | [[File:SmallerKriegs.png|thumb|Nomadic Khadan priest hosting a sermon on [[the Old Path]]. Artwork by RkdVanguard]] |
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| __TOC__
| | = Character Creation = |
| | === Appearance === |
| | Compared to the remaining human inhabitants of Eden, the Khadan people's physical appearance distinguishes them from the rest, be it by their attire, culture, and, of course, their darker skin tones. Compared to the average Attian, Khadan men are slightly shorter, reaching an average height of 180cm (5'9"), and women reaching an average height of 170cm (5'5"). |
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| == Appearance ==
| | Looking back at the history of the Khadan, one can see that their population consisted of numerous tribes, each settling in different regions of the desert that suited their needs for survival. Due to their diverse surroundings, the appearance of the Khadan changed over time, making each tribe varied, yet all shared the common trait of having a tan or dark skin tone. The tribes, collectively known as the Zanmirs, inhabited the coastal areas and regions near waterways, becoming renowned for their captivating beauty among the Khadan people. Over time, their appearance shifted to having a lighter complexion similar to an Attian who had been sun-kissed, having long flowing hair in shades of brown and red, which was complemented by eyes in various shades of green and brown. |
| The Khadans, also known as The Orphans of Anjyarr, The Roaming Men, or The People of Al-Khadir, share a very different look than those of the other humans. The Khadan are usually slightly shorter than the average Hadrian as their men grow to a max of 180cm (5’9”) and their women to a max of 170cm (5’5”).
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| The Khadan have not always been a unified people and in their past both shared periods of large unification and periods of fragmentation, due to this their skin colour while always tan in appearance shifts between darker and lighter tones depending on where the tribe settled for most of their time. Of the two groups of tribes the Zanmirs, the tribes which inhabited both coastal regions and areas near waterways have found their way to be the icon of beauty amongst the Khadan people. They have light brown hair which usually hangs long down their back, they can have glowing and shiny green blue eyes, and their lighter complexion makes them look like an Attian who got a sunburn.
| | Compared to these tribes, those known as the Zanmir tribes had chosen their homes in the vast desert regions and had striking differences from those at the coast. Their hair spectrum ranged from profound dark darkness of jet black to even the rare gleam of near-white, an exceptional characteristic that only a few Khadan could have. Skin tones ranged from a deep, sun-burnished tan to a rich, dusky, or deep brown, with their eyes displaying hues that spanned from deep brown to captivating shades of orange illuminated by the desert sun. The enigmatic beauty of hazel eyes made an occasional appearance as well. The Khadan don cloaks to cover themselves in various colors and seek shelter from the relentless sun. However, at times when these cloaks were removed in rural areas, their arresting appearance inevitably captivated onlookers when they emerged into the streets. |
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| Unlike their Zanmir relatives, the Vaemirs inhabited the sprawling deserts and such look very different. They have hair which ranges from jet black to nearly white as the amount of time a person spends in the sun can heavily dictate their appearance. They can be both very pale and close to caramel along with usually having brown eyes which sometimes appear to be orange to those who look at them. They are usually wrapped up and hidden but when they reappear they and their special looks can draw the attention of a crowd. Beauty amongst the female Khadans usually result from having a more oval shaped face, long dark eyebrows, and detailed eyelashes which contrast heavily with their eyes which is seen as the most important part. In comparison, the men usually maintain well kept facial hair such as beards and moustaches for their standards. Unlike in some cultures, scars of any sort are actually considered beautiful and seen as marks of courage, strength, and honour amongst their people.
| | The topic of beauty among female Khadans mainly involves maintaining both body and hair to a high standard. Having the contours of an oval shape, elegantly shaped dark eyebrows, and exquisitely detailed eyelashes that contrast sharply with the eyes are considered a defining feature. Men traditionally sport meticulously maintained facial hair, ranging from beards and mustaches, often taking inspiration from their northern human neighbors. In some Khadan cultures, any form of visible or hidden scars is revered as a mark of beauty. These scars would often symbolize courage, strength, and honor. It is also not uncommon to see a person's body covered in various tattoos. Seen as a form of art in Khadan society, these tattoos would depict culture, history, family bonds, and religion. Favored are those symbolized with stars or religious deities or animals. [[File:Khadan Skin Colors.png|none|thumb|563x563px|An example of the various skin colors for Khadans]] |
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| === Apparel === | | === Languages === |
| Even though there are many different tribes and two main races present in the country, the climate has forced all of them to accept a universal type of dress. Due to the Anjyarr desert, the people of Al-Khadir have been mainly seen to wear loose fit robes made of soft materials such as silk, cotton, linen, or satin. The more wealthy inhabitants have been seen wearing robes with gold and jewels attached to them as a display of wealth and fashion with gold being a mainstay. The Khadan robes are often mulicoloured with gold accents and gems along with gold or silver piercings, which contrast heavily to their ‘lunn counterparts as they usually wear dark coloured robes with purple gemstones adorning them.
| | In the populated areas of Anjyarr, primarily both rivers and the coastal regions, the predominant language spoken by the Khadan is Anjyarr. Anjyarri is a dialect that formed from its root language of Akhadi due to the influence and mixing of the Azari'lunn language, which ultimately became more prevalent than Akhadi itself. When the Khadan language of Akhadi formed remains unknown. Yet, it is speculated to have emerged during the first ancient Empire of Anjyarr. Anjyarri itself formed roughly around the first centuries of A.F.S. and has since then been established as the national language of the civilized regions of the desert. |
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| When it comes to the armor of the Khadan’s, they wear chainmail and bronze or brass plates which are often covered in gems and shiny metals over their traditional robes. Both sexes often prefer armor crafted with ornate design and usually have leather boots and helmets to increase their agility and speed as they are main aspects of their fighting style. The cloaks and robes that accompany these warriors are usually red to keep both the sun away and to scare their enemy as red causes the eye to play tricks on those when under sandstorm conditions, along with this they often wrap their helmets with long scarves to prevent the sun from beaming down to heavily on it. Often to those who travel through the Anjyarr deserts, many wear masks to keep the sand out of their eyes and to conceal their identity, along with this women often wear veils to protect their faces and eyes from getting beat with sand.
| | Although there are few differences between the two languages, some individuals are able to understand both. However, due to future generations no longer being taught in Akhadi, the language itself has become somewhat estranged and distant, often mistaken to be the actual dialect instead of Anjyarri by modern-day citizens and non-natives of Anjyarr who are not familiar with the origins of the language. However, despite this, the language of Akhadi continues to be spoken dominantly among the nomadic residents of the desert, particularly by the diverse tribes collectively known as the Kha'mal. Some have described Akhadi as being pronounced more harshly yet having a mysterious tone to it. |
| | {| class="wikitable" |
| | ! colspan="6" |Anjyarri Dialect: Quick Guide |
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| | ! colspan="2" |<u>Greetings</u> |
| | ! colspan="2" |<u>Races</u> |
| | ! colspan="2" |<u>Titles</u> |
| | |- |
| | !Common |
| | !Anjyarri |
| | !Common |
| | !Anjyarri |
| | !Common |
| | !Anjyarri |
| | |- |
| | |Hello |
| | |Merhaba |
| | |Human |
| | |Adam |
| | |<nowiki>'Prophet of The People''</nowiki> |
| | |Pharo |
| | |- |
| | |Welcome |
| | |Merbaan |
| | |Dark Elf |
| | |La'adam |
| | |Emperor |
| | |Sultan of Sultans |
| | |- |
| | |Goodbye |
| | |Verdaba |
| | |Tiefling |
| | |I'jadam |
| | |Empress |
| | |Sultana of Sultans |
| | |- |
| | |How are you? |
| | |Jut lo'ua |
| | |Wood Elf |
| | |Erididam |
| | |King / Queen |
| | |Sultan(a) |
| | |- |
| | |Nice to meet you. |
| | |Iru nunyeti ua. |
| | |High Elf |
| | |Ue'ladam |
| | |Prince |
| | |Şehzade |
| | |- |
| | |Friend |
| | |Tovara |
| | |Denur |
| | |Jitadam |
| | |Princess |
| | |Shehzadi |
| | |- |
| | ! colspan="2" rowspan="9" | |
| | |Halfling |
| | |Sha'adam |
| | |Patriarch |
| | |Hemiria |
| | |- |
| | |Faulskin |
| | |Adamja |
| | |High-priest(ess) |
| | |Al-Kahyn(a) |
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| | ! colspan="2" rowspan="7" | |
| | |Duke |
| | |Sheihykh |
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| | |Duchess |
| | |Shahykh |
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| | |Lord / Lady |
| | |Emyhr(a) |
| | |- |
| | |Ser / Dame |
| | |Sih'di / Mih'de |
| | |- |
| | |Noble |
| | |Nabil(a) |
| | |- |
| | |Chieftain |
| | |Zaeim |
| | |- |
| | |Advisor |
| | |Astisha |
| | |} |
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| == Culture and Society == | | === Naming Schemes === |
| Among all races and peoples of Eden, Khadans are the only that can perfectly mix “fire and water” into their culture. The Khadan people are open, friendly, and welcoming people to both allies and people who seek friendship. However, they always keep a vigilant eye towards those around them, and also can be ruthless and violent to those who cross them.
| | In Anjyarr, as elsewhere, the personal name of an individual was the most important means of identification, not only in this life but in the hereafter and in social memory for eternity. To the Khadan, the name and essence were inseparably interconnected. In their ancient culture and religion, it was believed that the world was created by pronouncing the name of everything that came into existence, and, in magical practice, knowing the "true" name of supernatural and transcendent beings helped one to gain power over them. Thus, the name was considered a vital constituent of one's personality in Khadan culture. |
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| Originating from war-stricken lands which caused a mass exodus of the Khadan people, they have not only settled well to their second home, but they have claimed the area as theirs. The Deserts of Anjyarr are theirs and they have made sure it is stated without words, they have mastered riding, archery, and trading to not only make them a super power but a force to reckon with. Even though the deserts they inhabit are barren and empty, their heart and spiritually are the exact opposite as they follow a philosophy called “The Path” - which is to live one’s life seeking inner peace, no matter how one might identify said peace.The Khadan’s living in the harsh desert climates has one major upside, they value friends and family highly and deem any sort of betrayal as one of the worst acts, which stretches back centuries in their history.
| | Names would often be differentiated or linked to historical or literary figures. These include the names of legendary figures, kings, religious personalities, and old gods and goddesses. For instance, male names like Ahman, Muhaddin, Metehan, and Khurshid and female names such as Sa'har, Isha, Ra'na, and Met'hani reflect this tradition. |
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| Their natural open-mindedness and alliance with the Azari’luun has made the region of Al-Khadir a very special place, as these two races are tied together as tightly as can be, which is a testament to their culture and peoples.
| | In modern times, Khadan names have taken on new forms, often appearing as compounds or bearing specific meanings. Female names commonly feature suffixes such as -i, -eh, -ah, or -a, as seen in Somayeh, Noora, Kazirah, Farid, Shana, Mija, Jahanara, and Sadia. Meanwhile, male names, which had common short first names, often end with -an, -ar, -id, -ad, -in, -ir, -al, or -il, for example, Danyal, Rashad, Qusar, Sahil, and Zayan. |
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| === Holidays and Celebrations ===
| | Furthermore, the addition of -El or -Al serves as the definitive article, indicating that the family name begins with "the." This convention often signifies the family name's association with a profession. However, there are instances it may also be associated with a title or specific origin of the person in question. |
| The Khadan are a people of happiness and celebration, below are just a few of their most important holidays and celebrations:
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| * '''Sangh''': Is an annual three day festival which takes place as a celebration of unity, as it’s roots chase back to when the splintered peoples joined together. During this time the Khadan’s host many duels (for sportsmanship only), and hold huge feasts with must dancing involved. In older tradition, the strongest warriors would put on huge shows through the entire festival, but due to the strain this causes on the body it has been replaced with smaller shows split up between the different warrior duos.
| | == Cultures == |
| * '''Kura''': A festival all about the love of life in the Khadan’s philosophy. A defining trait of this festival is that different activities occur throughout the day. Starting in the morning is when the youth would put on sporting shows such as horse archery and the old would visit their friends and family, then later at night is the time for couples to gather together and single people to search for mates..
| | {| class="wikitable" |
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| | ![[File:AnjyarrAI.png|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | ![[The Empire of Anjyarr|The Sultanate of Anjyarr]] |
| | |At the mouth of the great Ifriq delta lies the emirate of Al-Khadir, capital of the great Sultanate of Anjyarr. It is a paradise of great wealth and prosperity in the midst of an unruly wasteland. Founded by a tribe of nomadic traders, whom settled due to the pleasant climate and geographic location near the Ifriq, Al-Khadir quickly became a trading hub for races all around the world. The city is a gateway to anyone wishing to enter the Southern world. It offers a large market for all kinds of goods, from elven trinkets to dwarven drinks, but also an extensive range of local wares such as tobacco, carpets, coffee, spices, and garments! |
| | |} |
| | == World View == |
| | {| class="wikitable" |
| | |+'''General Khadan Human opinions on the other races of Eden.''' |
| | ![[File:AttianMale1.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Attians… |
| | |'''Neutral''' |
| | “If you know their history, you know our cousin-kin have suffered as much as we did in our ancient history. However, where I believe we grew, Attians wouldn't dare to accept a world where we could all coincide with our different cultures and beliefs. But, despite this, they can be excellent company, share a drink or two, or be great trade partners.” |
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| * '''Wahid''': This festival celebrates the day of alliance and friendship between the dark elf and human peoples. While originally it was a Khadan festival, it has become a large staple of Al-Khadir as a whole and would end up becoming a national holiday. | | * Mohsen Hatama, Scholar of Al-Khadir |
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| | ![[File:AverageSadge.png|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Hinterlanders… |
| | |'''Slightly Positive''' |
| | “Hinterlanders? I mean, they have been less troublesome than the Attians of Hadriana. They are open-minded, kind, and less religiously strict than their Attian kin. We profit greatly from each other's wares and goods during trade. Though, despite this, I do have to mention they often seem greedy with their coin. But which merchant wouldn't, right?” |
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| === Romance, Marriage and Reproduction ===
| | * Dakhe Nin'gal Al-Idina, spice merchant of Al-Jabrid |
| As mentioned previously, the Khadan people value loyalty to a very high degree. This comes to a head as the values of romance and family are major cores to the Khadan culture, these families and marriages often are very loyal and result in prosperity so splits rarely occur. Even though this is the case, the Khadans are very picky and selective when it comes to their partner, as they treat marriage with utmost importance and hence make sure both parties are certain of their choice beforehand. The selection time for a partner is often years due to the fear of matching incorrectly, whenever a match is made official though a large feast between the families starts which usually ends peacefully and always with respect.
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| | ![[File:HelfAI.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On High Elves… |
| | |'''Slightly Negative''' |
| | “Their culture is filled with so much disdain and hatred for other races, other beliefs, and cultures—most notably our Dark Elven companions. They would never share anything with anyone else. We have High Elven citizens in our cities and bazaars; they seem to have adapted to the rest of Eden, have learned to coexist. Why can't they?” |
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| === Death and Funeral ===
| | * Asardin Osma'han, guard of the eastern Al-Khadir gate. |
| Due to their belief in “The Path” and finding inner peace, as long as the person is loyal to the ideals they often believe they will be reincarnated, this makes death not feared and instead respected. From a young age, a Khadan is told to enjoy and celebrate their life as it is seen as a sacred thing not to be taken for granted. During the funeral of a loved one, a private ceremony will often be held for the family and friends of the deceased to pay a last tribute under starlight. Their body is carefully wrapped up into robes, decorated with different types of flowers, and is adorned with golden trinkets and other valuables as a sign of respect and good luck. These decorations are believed to help them into their new life of prosperity. After the ceremony is done the cremation starts, the body is burned with the gifts until only their ashes remain, of which will be spread in the sea they came from many moons ago. Due to the respect and admiration of lost ones, no mourning occurs as they believe their lost loved one will help in the building of the next generation.
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| | ![[File:WelfAI.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Wood Elves… |
| | |'''Neutral''' |
| | “We don't know much about their forest realm. I've heard stories of walking trees, giant magical creatures that defend nature itself from outsiders. I've seen them walk around our streets; they seem so full of themselves and reserved, as if we should be thankful for whatever they protect in the far east. Though, I always wonder what their realm is like. It must be quite the opposite from our own, a desolate desert compared to a lush, magical forest.” |
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| == History ==
| | * Shala el-Amu'barahk, handweaver in Al-Khadir |
| ''"We are each other's harvest, we are each other's business, we are each other's magnitude and bond"'' | | |- |
| | ![[File:DelfAI.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Dark Elves… |
| | |'''Very Positive''' |
| | “The Dark Elves? You don't know the stories? Do you know how they brought salvation upon our kin when our civilization began to collapse? More than a thousand years ago, they arrived in our realm and introduced us to art, medicine, and science, fleeing war-stricken lands and cast from their homes. Of course, over the centuries, we have experienced some of their rulers being corrupt or grim, but we have so much to thank them for. Being our rulers does not bother me; they have only helped our people.” |
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| This ancient saying has been with the '''Khadans''' since even before they touched down on '''Eden''', originally while they were heavily nomadic and fragmented they still were united culturally towards each other as a whole.
| | * Mahmood Khurshid Al'asar, Fisherman of Al-Khadir |
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| | ![[File:DenurAI.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Denur… |
| | |'''Neutral''' |
| | “Denur? Never seen them. They don't like our climate, I suppose. I heard they often stumble around on the streets of Al-Jabrid, trying to obtain some Dark Steel minerals or sell their newest inventions. But other than that? They don't seem to do any harm. I say: keep it that way.” |
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| Khadans were split into many different tribes but this only helped build them up with their thought of '''"Unity through Fragmentation"''', which was a philosophy where the ancient Khadans believed even if they were smaller pieces of something larger, they can still be unified as slices due to them still amounting to the same larger picture.
| | * Ali Sal'hama, shipwright of Al-Khadir |
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| | ![[File:HalflingAI.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Halflings… |
| | |'''Positive''' |
| | “The smallfolk seem always so passionate about our food markets. They don't often come by due to the scorching heat, but when they do, they are such a joy to be around. They tell the funniest stories and are eager to hear more about our newest items in the Bazaar. Say, have you seen my bag of coin by chance?” |
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| === The Landing (1100 - 850 B.F.S) ===
| | * Amata Balashi, barmaid of Al-Jabrid |
| The '''Khadans''' originated in a continent distant from '''Eden''', which was most likely plagued with strife and infighting, causing the ancient '''Khadans''' to leave. It is at this point where they most likely developed their first traditions of unity as seeing their homelands laid to waste cause of wars and chaos would change then forever, due to them not wanting to repeat the same mistakes this is not only the first trace of the '''Khadan''' identity developing but it is also the first traces of them in history.
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| | ![[File:OrcAI.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Orcs… |
| | |'''Neutral''' |
| | “Brutes are what they are. They are strong and aggressive, but they have a sense of humor. If you respect them, they can respect you, that is, if they have some sort of manners. They enjoy socializing with our soldiers because they think they have much in common with their warrior culture. I say: good. It reduces the mess we have to clean up in our taverns and markets.” |
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| Records show that the ancient '''Khadans''' first landed in the '''Anjyarr''' region around the year '''1100 B.F.S''', meaning that the '''Khadan''' culture on '''Eden''' goes all the way back to the realm of prehistory. While still little is known about their homelands, the speed and ease the '''Khadans''' have shown in not only conquering the desert, but living in it for so long would provide some clues about how similar their old land could have been.
| | * Iya Mas'hati, merchant in Al-Khadir |
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| | ![[File:GoblinAI.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Goblins… |
| | |'''Negative''' |
| | “Scheming, backstabbing, looting: thieves. Last week, they stole two of my sheep, gutted one of my chickens, and displayed it like some bloody artwork as if it were a sick joke! It cost me a fortune. They are nothing but scum. I avoid them in our markets as much as I can.” |
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| When the '''Khadans''' arrived on the eastern shore they had two decisions to make, they either would all go together and find land or split up into small groups and scout the area. While it wasn't the popular choice they ended up splitting up, half of the arriving people went in smaller groups to scout around the coast and the other half would go in smaller groups to scout inland.
| | * Arsames Al-Ma'zar, farmer of Al-Adam |
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| | ![[File:TieflingAI.jpg|frameless|200x200px]] |
| | !On Tieflings… |
| | |'''Very positive''' |
| | “They are good people. Like us, they do not care where you come from or what gods you believe in. We've accepted them for who they are, and they paid us back with kindness and have become part of our society. Like us, they live and fight for something they believe inn: a place to call home.” |
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| Although a large number of tribes would result from the split up, there were two main groups of them, the '''Zanmirs''' who went towards the coast and settled there along with the '''Vaemirs''' who went inwards towards the sand dunes and lived there.
| | * Appan Raasuht, palace guard |
| | |} |
| | __NOTOC__ |
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| There were a multitude of large tribes that would be in the '''"Ruling Council"''' among the tribes on the coast there were the '''Zenithers''', '''Santhiers''', and '''Kieynes'''. Among the tribes inwards there were the '''Valmirs''', '''Waevaz''', and '''Schatons'''. These were the tribes that not only had the best contact with each other, but the parental tribes of the small ones, this came about due to the lack of resources in some areas causing tribes to seek a steady import of them in exchange for knowledge sharing.
| | === Noteworthy Characters === |
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| This trade system was very efficient as all of the main six tribes share three smaller tribes under their wing, while this sounds like it would cause wars to erupt in the region it actually did the exact opposite. The '''Khadans''' have always seeked to be full of knowledge and this system helped out greatly as both the smaller and larger tribes traded with each other.
| | ==== King Tarath the First ==== |
| | Born in the temple city of Al'Tojik, the first city of Anjyarr more than a thousand years ago, Tarath was the royal heir to a wealthy king of a tribe who sought to build an empire based on his image and of his great fathers before him. Through masses of slaves taken on his conquests, he built temples greater than any of its time, statues of himself, spreading his fame throughout Anjyarr, turning Al'Tojik into the grandest city of the realm and its capital. He united the first tribes, created borders, and made conquests to gain wealth for the Khadan thanks to an ever-growing army. While he was not bestowed immortality like the Pharo's after him, he set the foundation of the many cults that would gather the means of sorcery and put the first foundations of the realm that would soon be known as Anjyarr. His legacy, however, is lost through the age of time, with the ruins of Al'Tojik all but gone, claimed by the desert once again. Only the abandoned gold mines near the supposed location of its former existence are left today. |
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| === The Khadan Consciousness (850 - 600 B.F.S) === | | ==== High Queen Met'hani, Pharo of Aanos ==== |
| The '''"Khadan Consciousness"''' or '''"Enlightenment Period"''' started after the formation of the tribal sharing systems in around '''850 B.F.S'''.
| | {| class="wikitable" |
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| | |“Bow, pilgrims, bow before High Queen Met'hani, The Golden Queen of Aanos, Eternal Lady, She Who Bares the Beauty of Kathra, defiance made flesh, the Serpent Queen. |
| | Kneel so that you might bask in her radiance! For she has come to unite us.” |
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| It was during this time the tribes came into a shape of their own and the phrase '''"The blade slashes sharper, but the ink sinks deeper"'''. This phrase came about due to the fact the pieces of paper at the time were cut very thin causing the ink to sink deeper into the fibres and occasionally go through to the otherside, it is a good reminder of how potent a written work of knowledge can be in comparison to the light surface slash of a sword. While the knowledge sharing culture spiked at this time there was also another type of culture spike, it was the more regional and specific development between the two groups of tribes.
| | '''- Sha'alti, High-Priest of Aanos, 615 B.F.S''' |
| | |} |
| | The stories of Met'hani, the first female Pharo, are favorites among the women of the Kha'mal tribes. What makes her so famous is the start and tragic end of her legacy. The "Eternal Lady" and "The Golden Queen of Aanos," her intelligence, temper, and bravery were as legendary as her beauty and added to an intense sense of honor and justice. She fought against the enemies of Anjyarr on the frontlines and used her charismatic political power to further the realm's gain. She changed the laws of the realm to allow women to practice the Arcane magics, and through this, her popularity grew. However, her sister Somnyah'la, famously known as "The Sleepwalker," grew jealous of her sisters' power and, as one of the priests in the Sorcerers' Cult, sought out the darkest powers for answers. Meeting with a Demon and solving its riddles, she was influenced to sacrifice Met'hanis's firstborn and heir, consuming the infant's blood to obtain the power of immortality. While she succeeded, and the Demon granted her what was promised, she was turned into a Vampire who began a short conquest for her power with her undead followers. She was eventually banished into the Demonic realm thanks to the Sorcerers' Cult and at the cost of Met'hani's life. Her reign was tragically short, cut down as she was in her prime. All of Anjyarr mourned her passing, for they knew she would have brought great glory to the empire. She was embalmed and placed in a seated position within a specially-made reliquary in the southern mountain ranges. There she sits, her tomb faded over the course of history, with many still waiting for her return. |
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| The '''Zanmirs''' developed a culture of growing food and other resources, a shipbuilding and seafaring culture, along with a special combat style. Being in proximity to water and using it in everyday life, the '''Zanmir''' people developed a combat style called '''"Water Dancing"''' which would rely on fast and swift strikes using a trident to disable the opponent.
| | ==== Pharo Akhmat, "The Great Uniter" ==== |
| | | [[Akhmat's Tomb|Akhmat]] was known as the Great King and Pharo of the city of Sepharat, the capital of Anjyarr at his time, now known as the "[[Valley of Kings]]." Going by many titles, such as his most famous, "The Great Uniter," Akhmat is known all over Anjyarr by all the Khadan tribes that still kneel to him today. Akhmat was depicted as a great and powerful Pharo; he himself a vision of splendor and martial prowess, but also as an arrogant and cruel king. He listened to the priests of the Sorcerers Cult and realized that only a leader who could command the gods' respect would earn the people's total adoration. To this end, Pharo Akhmat, alone amongst all the kings of Anjyarr, paid homage to the ancient gods; early in his reign, he ordered the restoration of temples and erected magnificent statues to be constructed in their honor. It turned Sepharat into a temple city, more significant than any human city ever made at the time. He sacrificed his two children at the highest temple of Kathra to gain the gods' favor, and when the time came, he conquered the various city-states that tried to break free from Anjyarr's Empire. He reigned as the greatest Pharo to be ever known and, thanks to the cult, the first to find the answer to immortality. Through arcane sorcery, Akhmat's life was extended. Now seen as a new deity by the Khadan, he ascended to godhood and led the Khadan into a prosperous golden age. Yet, after a long reign of 300 years, he eventually came to pass. His legacy was never forgotten, for he was interred in the most astonishing tomb ever constructed, so large that no other tomb would outdo it. Some today believe that if he were to be awakened, he would lead Anjyarr back into a new golden age, for that is all that Akhmat sought: dominion over the desert realm and beyond. |
| While this style was quick and agile the '''Vaemirs''' developed another style called '''"Sand Striking"''' which would rely on the use of sand in combat to not only blend in and camouflage but also as a tool to either be thrown in the eyes or other crevices that would cause discomfort.
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| These two different styles had solidified and were shared among the different tribal cultures so they could not only defend each other from the wildlife but also any threat that may rise up.
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| While some might know these styles and their rip offs as popular among many different races and people today, they got their start with the ancient '''Khadan''' people. Along with the different melee styles they also adopted both a mounted culture with the coastal tribes going for fast and agile horses, and the inner tribes going for bulky strong steeds and large venomous scorpions.
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| There was also a growth in archery as they developed many different ideas and strategies one of which is the '''"Sand Arrow"''' where they tie a small bag of sand to an arrow and when it hits the target they get both damaged and blinded.
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| === The Anjyarr Empire (600 - 330 B.F.S) === | |
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| ==== Beginnings ==== | |
| In approximately '''600 B.F.S''', exactly six centuries after the Khadans landed in '''Eden''' they had a decision to make. From their first moments here they preached unity however split up due to no real direction of their future, however the growth in their culture and bond had brought them to a point which would forever change history. All the six major tribes had a discussion about their future and the needs of both themselves and the smaller tribes, this shaped what was to come. The talks selected two main tribes to represent each group, the outcomes of which were the '''Zenithers''' for the '''Zamirs''' and the '''Valmirs''' for the '''Vaemirs'''. These were the largest tribes of the '''Khadan''' people and with the future plan set out all the sub tribes formed under these banners. The tribes settled in two different locations, the '''Zenithers''' on the '''Ifriq''' river to the west and the '''Valmirs''' on the '''Kemir''' river to the east. They set up the road network which is used today to get to '''Al-Khadir''' as while the '''Zenithers''' did not build the city they were located near it, in contrast the '''Valmirs''' built at the bottom of the '''Kemir''' river as the soil there was most fertile and ready to crow crops.
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| With the new connection of the main tribes and the consolidation of power within the people, they united for the first time in history officially and called them the '''Anjyarr Empire'''. While the majority of the smaller tribes stayed either in smaller coastal villages or in towns between the sand dunes, all of them would not only have access to free trade between each other directly but also be able to travel back and forth between each other's lands. During the first year of the Empire marks the first recorded use of both the sun and the colours green and orange to represent the people. While all members shared the sun, the green was meant to represent the coastal cities and the large water culture while the orange was meant to represent the '''Anjyarr''' desert and all the people who resided in it. While the flag used doesn't look anything like the modern day flag in design, the colour pallets and symbolism is still there and carries on being important to the people a millennia after the empire. The empire continued to build on their previous cultures as not only had they combined and spread their traditions and values to each other, but the empire also began to unify more.
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| While originally the sixteen tribes of '''Khadans''' were divided into the coastal and inland groupings this was later changed into which tribes were joined into the '''"Ruining Council"''' tribes. The land in between the '''Jungle of Spiders''', '''Spine of Eden''', and the end of the Ifriq was previously composed of four tribes with the most notable being the '''Santhers''', during the phase of '''"Khadan Centralization<nowiki>''</nowiki>''' the three smaller tribes were integrated into the '''Santhiers''' as a way to bring not only more unity but to make life easier on the people. With the move being a success the same action was performed on the lands both up and down the '''Ifriq''' river as the smaller three tribes were assembled into the '''Zenithers'''. This helped with the then growth of farming along the river and the integration of desert farming systems into the lower regions. The idea seemed to be a very successful concept and was hence used on the '''Kieynes''', '''Valmirs''', '''Waevaz''', and the '''Schatons'''. The combinations of the tribes sowed the economic ties of them to each other however their culture still remained singularly to themselves and was only spread to the surrounding tribes.
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| The system of six tribes with the two leaders persisted for another centuries until the signing of the '''"Unity Treaty<nowiki>''</nowiki>''' in '''550 B.F.S''', where all six tribes were fully integrated into a core governmental system. They crowned their leader with the name '''"Pharos"''' which means '''"Prophet of the People"''' or '''"Leader of the Tribes"'''.
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| ==== Golden Age (550 - 350 B.F.S) ====
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| The '''Anjyarr Empire''' at this point in history had been around for one out of seven centuries of the '''Khadan''' time on '''Eden'''. While the time it took to form it was impressively fast for a tribal people, what was even more impressive was the time period after they had fully united. The now unified people under the command of the '''Pharoes''' continued to build on their culture but there was a large revolution just around the corner.
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| The first ever celebration of '''Sangh''' took place on the last day of their six century anniversary here. It was during this celebration where a man discovered that building waterways through the desert was a possibility. He brought his discovery to leader at the time '''Pharos Tusea''' who approved of the idea to aid out the tribes of the inner desert.
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| At the start of their second century as an empire, in '''400 B.F.S''' they began the construction of the '''Liben Canal''' which would provide water to the places between the '''Ifriq''' and '''Kemir''' rivers. The construction took nine years and in '''391 B.F.S''' after the canal was done it was a sight to behold. It stretched half the size of the other river inwards but it had a secret to it, at the end it forked into a west path which would go further towards the Ifriq and the east path which would go further towards the '''Kemir'''.
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| It was lined on the inside with chiselled sandstone as they believed the small spaces in the stone for the water to gather through in the space would help keep any excess water in the canal. It was lined with trees and columns announcing it which were encrusted with gold and silver patterns, and on the side there was a small amount of grass and plant growth which made it look more like a mirage than a real thing. This move increased food productivity in the empire as not only were the west and east rivers the main production centres, but now the middle of the country could also pump out food. With three regions handling food production this led the country into a large population jump, which coincided with the job market exploding with an increase in mining, farming, and political jobs they were properly thrust into a different era. The one strangest part of this is that while the country as a whole was boosted, the smaller cultural aspects actually didn't grow and instead returned to their native region.
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| The tribal cultures seem to have returned but this did not hurt the empire actually it aided it, with the density of local culture returning each place felt special again causing a large tourist culture to sweep through the nation. It has been estimated that the '''Anjyarr Empire''' at its peak was between '''700 million''' to '''1.3 billion Andros'''. The people here were not only rich in currency but they were also rich in materialistic materials such as gold, silver, and gems which would remain dense in the region even in modern times. They developed versions of silk like fabrics which were popular amongst the wealthy for it's soft texture and it's heat durability.
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| The modern day '''Anjyarr''' is a shell of its former self from this era and imagining it might be difficult for some, but no matter what the people still remained.
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| ==== Disappearance of the Pharos (350 - 330 B.F.S) ====
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| The '''Golden Age''' of the '''Anjyarr Empire''' lasted more or less for the span of '''200 years''' (from '''~550-350''') , it was led by the important '''Pharos''' ruler family which remained the same since the founding of the title. The importance of the '''Pharos''' is not to be understated, the '''Pharos''' role was one of the first offices made by all the tribes and all sixteen tribes (officially six) they trusted a singular family to guide them all. This office idealised the concepts of unity in the '''Khadans''' and they were loved and respected, this legacy lasted all the way until the '''200th''' '''Sangh''' celebration.
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| On this day it started like most others however it ended in tragedy, towards the end of the nightly celebrations the '''Pharos''' was killed in a freak accident when he lost control of his horse and was flung into the canal, drowning to death. The loss of their political and spiritual leader heavily damaged the nation and within the next few weeks the family had withdrawn from the public, some spread rumours they went back to their home continent while others stated they had killed themselves to save face. Whether either of these are true is unknown, either way the '''Pharos''' family without a suitable heir to replace the position has disappeared on the tribes when they needed them the most. Due to this the country turned to the largest tribes, the '''Zenithers''' and the '''Valmirs''', to dictate their future. Both tribes were loyal to each other and were heavily loyal to the '''Pharos''', the '''Pharos''' family was actually started due to an inter marriage between the tribes.
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| The writing was on the wall for the empire as both tribes claimed to be rightful rulers of the empire which led to a series of political infighting. | |
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| === Anjyarr Civil War “War for the Liben” (330 - 320 B.F.S) ===
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| The '''Zenithers''' and '''Valmirs''' while they separated back into the claims of their tribes with the '''Zenithers''' controlling the west of the country and the '''Valmirs''' controlling the east in '''330'''. Where they still officially were fighting over who should become '''Pharos''' of the '''Anjyarr Empire''', in reality what happened was they were just fighting for the territory so they could carry on the name.
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| With the west and east secured it left the centre of the country very vulnerable as it had both become a large food production area and it also hosted the '''Liben Canal'''. Both tribes went to war over the control of the '''Liben''', the war started and was "fought" for five years ('''330-325''') as just small skirmishes around the canal until a '''Valmiri''' soldier thought he spotted what appeared to be the body of the last '''Pharos'''.
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| This discovery caused the '''Valmiri''' military to push in fully on the canal as they saw the recovery as a huge reputation and status boost they could use to rightfully claim the title. A 15,000 strong '''Valmiri''' force under the control of then leader '''Cleota Valmira'''. They didn't expect any resistance and hence ran into the boundaries of the canal to secure the area so they could start recovery, however what they didn't expect was for there to be a '''Zenitheri''' garrison of 8,000 guarding it.
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| As the '''Valmiris''' ran in they were hit with heavy arrow barrages that for those who weren't killed or injured caused them to flee. '''The Battle of Liben''' had properly gotten underway as the current '''Valmiri''' troops were reduced to 14,200 and the '''Zenitheri''' garrison had fallen to 7,500. These were the only troops who were going to fight this battle as both tribes agreed it would be in poor taste for an all out blood bath to occur in the same place as the '''Pharoe’s''' body.
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| The battle went on for another two years ('''323-321''') without any melee action as most of the action was either archer battles or psychological warfare involving shooting rotting cow corpses over to the other side. During '''320''', the third official year of the battle, plans were made by the '''Valmirs''' to use their number advantage in an all out rush of the canal during the night time. During that year's '''Sangh''' celebration the '''Valmiri''' troops were supposed to strike the other camo but something happened, as they were half way over the canal they met the remaining '''Zenitheri''' troops who had seen this coming and marched to counterattack them. The '''Valmiri''' were overcrowded and spent more time trampling each other than actually fighting back against the '''Zenither'''i troops, it was starting to become a massacre and so the '''Valmiri''' decided to collapse the remaining parts of the canal, pulling back as many people as possible. Out of their remaining 7,000 troops they managed to pull back 6,000 of them as '''Cleota''' and the remaining 1,000 troops fought off the '''Zenitheri''' forces.
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| The canal collapsed killing both the remaining 1,000 '''Valmiri''' troops including '''Cleotra''' along with 5,000 '''Zenitheri''' troops; it also buried the body of the '''Pharos''' under tonnes of sandstone and sand, which to this day has never been recovered or seen again. As result of the slaughter 15,000 men layed dead and '''Liben Canal''' had been destroyed.
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| This series of events quickly ended the war between the two tribes as they were too busy trying to recover their dead to bear hatred towards each other, most of the stability and treasury of the empire was either destroyed or reduced to a fraction of itself, with now power only coming from the western and eastern lands instead of a central source.
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| === Decade of Disarray (320 - 310 B.F.S) ===
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| After the '''War for the Liben''' ended, both tribes not only had lost a large amount of their military force but they also lost the support of most of the small tribes. While both the '''Zenither''' and '''Valmir''' tribes maintained their foothold over the '''Ifraq''' and '''Kemir''' rivers, the tribes ranging from to their sides and in between them split off. The tribes lost faith in their fellow man and decided to no longer rely on the large tribes, as thanks to them the first Khadan blood was spilled.
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| Over the next two years the smaller tribes slowly started to break away and become independent, the remaining four larger tribes of which the smaller ones had been fed to, decided to let them go their separate ways. Oh how cruel fate was they had gone from a unified people to sixteen fragmented tribes in '''10 years''', also thanks to conflict again. The saddest part about the '''Decade of Disarray''' is that some of the smallest tribes had completely removed their settlements which had been there for centuries and had to join up with some of the more medium sized tribes to properly break away.
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| The last year when there are proper records of all sixteen tribes was the year '''318'''. The smallest tribes such as the '''Tahmons''', '''Schatons''', and '''Impevers''' for the '''Vaemirs''' ended up being absorbed both culturally and politically into the more medium tribes such as the '''Giaentz''' and '''Draetons'''. The smallest tribes for the '''Zanmirs''' such as the '''Taoneys''', '''Auknieys''', and '''Dieyniers''' are absorbed into the '''Aoshiers''' and '''Jaliers'''. The smallest tribes being mixed into the medium tribes just to survive, cause a very large grudge to form against the largest two tribes among most of the '''Khadan''' people.
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| While '''318 - 315''' for many of the smaller tribes were the worst years of them as they had to forget who they were and blend into another people, during this set of three years the more medium sized tribes such as the '''Giaentz''', '''Draetons''', '''Aoshiers''' and '''Jaliers''' they experienced a weird sort of resurgence as they amount of small tribes being absorbed had actually allowed them to equal the larger tribes in terms of population.
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| As '''314''' dawned on the '''Khadan''' people, there were ten tribes amongst them, but this would not be in vain as the medium sized tribes would start their revenge plan. While this was all going on in the lesser sized tribes, the largest two tribes had returned to a decent level of stability among both of them as they not only had upped their food production to sizes that could support them again, but they also managed to end the hostilities present between the two and start a slow merge which would take the remainder of the decade.
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| === '''War of the Anjyarr Confederacy (310 - 295 B.F.S)''' ===
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| In the year '''310 B.F.S''', the plans of the medium sized four tribes (+ the six smaller ones) became a reality as they formed the '''Anjyarr Confederacy'''. It was composed of the tribes which had been inland the most even if it left out some '''Vaemirs'''.
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| Seeing this move the '''Zenithers''' and '''Valmirs''' had formed a pact with the tribes near their land called the '''Al'Hadar Alliance'''. The '''Al'Hadar Alliance''' consisted for six active tribes which were the '''Zenithers''', '''Santhiers''', '''Kieynes''', '''Valmirs''', '''Waevaz''', and '''Schatons''', these all sharing land borders with each other made them the best decision to assist as the time for troops to arrive would be short and cost effective.
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| In the mid months the '''Anjyarr Confederacy''' had declared war on the '''Al'Hadar Alliance''', casting yet again another civil war on the '''Khadan''' people. The '''Anyarri''' fighters used entire small tribes as shock units and sand archers while the main force consisted of their soldiers, in comparison on the '''Alliance's''' front they had similar amounts of manpower and the advantage of being lethal near water.
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| The war kicked off to another slow start as the first 5 years showed little if any combat as the '''Anjyarri''' were staying inwards and '''Hadari''' were staying out towards the coast. It wasn't until the year '''305''' where an '''Aoshieri''' decided to set up a camp on the outer edge of the northern desert did anything happen. A small camo consisting of '''Tahmons''' and '''Taoneys''' was made to lure the units towards it as it would be an easy target and cripple the '''Anjyarr''' manpower.
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| In the later months of '''305''', the '''Hadari''' troops under the command of '''General Alriki Waevaz''' decided to leave their position and assault the camp. The invading '''Hadari''' force numbered around 19,000 strong which in comparison annihilates the '''Anjyarri''' defending force of around 800 people, however there was a trick up the '''Confederacy's''' sleeve. As the 19,000 strong army approached within 60ft of the camp, the defending force which was ready to face them fell back into the surprise attack '''Anjyarr''' ranks, as they fell into their formation the '''Hadari''' army was bombarded by hundreds of sand arrows which cut down their organisation and visibility.
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| The '''Hadari''' force stopped their assault and quickly backpedalled away from archer range, at the same time they sent out their elephant archers to engage in a skirmish battle with the '''Anjyarri''' sand archers. '''The Second Battle of the Liben''' lasted around three entire days of fighting and resulted in the losses of around 700 out of the '''Hadari's''' 19,000 and close to 400 for the '''Anjyarri's''' 18,000. This battle swung the war into a more balanced state as both the military numbers were close along with the moral swap, Alriki knew he had been defeated tactically so he decided to get revenge. As he retreated he split his army into two halves, with the first split group numbering 7,000 he sent it east towards the '''Kemir''' river in plain sight of the '''Anjyarri''' troops.
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| The bait seemed to not have worked but a few days later, now in 304, there were reports the '''Anjyarri''' army was on the move and pursuing the smaller force. The commanding '''Anjyarri General Fexs Aukniey''', decided to pursue because he believed he could quickly crush the force; they travelled for nine days until they finally caught up to the '''Hadari''' camp. The now 17,500 troops for the '''Anjyarri''' barrages the camp with arrows to try to get easy pickings, this caused the '''Hadari''' to send out their elephant riders in order to prevent this from doing too much damage.
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| The '''Anjyarri''' started marching on the camp and both the elephants and archers pulled back due to the risk level for them. '''The Battle of Vemez''' started as the 7,000 strong '''Hadari''' charged out of the city into the ranks of the '''Anjyarri''' troops, they were engaged in heavy melee combat with again both the archers and elephants repositioning in order to defend their unit's flank. The battle went on for around 10 years and not much progress was made due to the constant attacking and falling back of the '''Anjyarri''' to preserve men and resources which also opened gaps for the '''Hadari''' forces to gather supplies to keep them stocked, until one early morning in mid '''295'''.
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| Being outnumbered by over '''2-1''' had improved their defensive position as they could stack more men in their ranks, however them being on the defensive would not last long as '''Alriki''' emerged out of the dunes behind the '''Anjyarri''' force, completely wiping out their archers and putting a full fledge assault on their flank. The now 23,000 strong '''Hadari''' force had finally recombinded and they were able to trap the enemy troops between them. Knowing that this was very bad '''Fexs''' decided to try to pull away from the city and get closer to the lake, this was a large mistake as even though he inflicted heavy casualties on the city based '''Hadari''' force, he also drew his men close to the water.
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| Seeing his chance, '''Alriki''' ordered the '''"Water Dancers"''' to pursue, the result of which was an absolute slaughter as their quick and agile movements in the darkness caused hundreds to either attempt to fight an invisible foe or to flee into the lake. After four hours of slaughter '''Alriki''' called the troops back from perusing and decided to rally his troops in the north. '''The Battle of Vemez''' was the bloodiest battle fought in the '''Anjyarri''' region, as 12,500 out of 18,000 losses were suffered for the '''Anjyarri''' units in comparison to the Hadari's 8,500 out of 23,000. The crushing defeat of morale and manpower that swept across the '''Anjyarri Confederacy''' resulted in a peace treaty being signed mere days after the battle ended.
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| === '''Fivefold Fallout (295 - 290 B.F.S)''' ===
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| After the war the '''Khadan''' humans were faced with a near wipe out of the smaller tribal cultures. The war had been deadly and tens of thousands laid dead across the land, among these dead were the last major remains of the '''Valmir''' tribe.
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| While the tribe was not completely destroyed, it had enlisted too many men for the military and had lost not only thousands of soldiers, but it lost its ability to rebound quickly. As a result of the bloodshed in the war numerous things unfolded over the next few years. We start in '''295''' right after the war ended as both the '''Anjyarr Confederacy''' and the '''Al-Hadar Alliance''' disband causing a slight ease in relations among the tribes.
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| At the same time efforts were organised by the different tribes to gather their dead and to give them a proper burial. They ended up choosing to treat the city of '''Vemez''' as their burial ground, the families would pick a room inside a house to place their loved one in, and then adorn them right before they set the room on fire. The entire city was burnt down with multiple more bodies needing to be burnt in the streets and even out towards the sand dunes, the capital of the '''Valmir''' tribe for centuries was cleansed through flame due to their sins.
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| After the '''Decade of Disarray''', only ten of the sixteen original tribes remained, but after that this number would shrink ever further. In the western reaches of the '''Zanmir''' tribes on the '''Ifraq''' river, the '''Zenithers''' remained strong and powerful but the '''Santhiers''' and '''Kieynes''' were heavily damaged and needed to recover, hence in '''294''' the three tribes combined under the '''Zenithers''' title or the '''Ifraq Tribal Confederacy'''. Also in '''294''', furthermore on the western side, from the land near the jungle up towards the sand dunes which touch the '''Spine of Eden''', the '''Jaliers''' and '''Aoshiers''' also decided to join forces under the new name '''Hesine'''.
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| In the eastern lands near '''Akmat's Tomb''' during '''292''' the tribes of the '''Draetons''' and '''Giaentez''' decided to combine under the new name '''Medunse''' in order To prolong their survival, as their lands did not have claim to any large water sources. Finally in '''292''' after multiple years of work, the '''Valmir''' and '''Waevez''' tribes of the lower and upper '''Kemir''' combined under the '''Valmir''' or '''Kemir Tribal Confederacy''' name. It took years of work to not only join these tribes together through ways of transportation but also they needed to rebuild the '''Valmir''' capital which ended up being called '''New Vemez'''.
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| The only tribe which did not combine during this time was the '''Schatons''' of the central '''Anjyarr''' desert which was able due to their rather small size to remain independent from any absorption and was the only tribe from '''"The Landing<nowiki>''</nowiki>''' to stay culturally independent from anyone else during all of history so far. In the following years of '''291 - 290''' the tribes rebuilt and integrated even further, it is at this stage that the period gained the name '''"Fivefold Fallout"''' due to the five remaining tribes after the War of the '''Anjyarr Confederation'''.
| |
| | |
| === '''Century of the Scimitar (290 - 200 B.F.S)''' ===
| |
| As the tribes were forced to move on from the war and fight their way to stability, small pockets of tribe members turned to sabotaging tactics towards their rivals. Through much of '''Anjyarr''' region the only real way to get supplies delivered was either through boat, or through a caravan. The coastal tribes had developed a large naval industry with the defensive capabilities hence this was not tried. However, very few tribes actually had guards to protect their caravans and usually just left them alone as there was no point in attacking them.
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| However at this stage there were still people upset at each other; they had lost family, blood, and land to some of the other tribes and they believed a half-fought war wasn't good enough. Directly after the end of the '''Fivefold Fallout''', small camps started popping up along major roads and through small back trails. They started as being nothing but a small campsite with a fire and four to five tents. However by '''285''' they had grown quite large, usually housing over twenty tents and including a single coloured flag which would identify it at a distance.
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| These were small raiding camps which would attack any caravan belonging to the rival tribes. There were many set up all over the '''Anjyarr''' desert by disgruntled '''Schatons''' members which had lost homes during the '''Second Battle of Liben''', and as their lands were impossible not to cross through they got heavy traffic. The main body of the tribes did not support these as they felt it both caused political and economic problems in the people and wished to avoid that.
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| However in reality there was not much to do as they were loose bands of people so capturing them was nearly impossible, so in '''270''' after two decades of raiding parties causing problems the '''Khadan''' people devised a plan. As they were naturally good salesmen no matter what their path in life was, they ended up having ex-military or militia members act as the traders when they sent out caravans. It would not be until the raiders would engage in the raid that they would find out their mistake.
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| To conceal their identity many of these men carried a scimitar, a small curved sword which could be hidden quite well under all the robes they wore, this was a smart decision to carry as it was very unexpected in the raiders and many would even run away before going through with it. These new caravans were widespread everywhere and to make sure they worked they were then equipped with both bows so they could fight from a range, but also they were put out for the remainder of the century to make it clear this would be the normal now.
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| While the first part of the century saw close to '''1 billion Andros''' worth of goods stolen in total all across the land, by the end of the century they had actually recovered nearly '''90%''' of the goods stolen. While this started out bad for the '''Khadans''' and it would seem that they would go through even more turbulence, the raiders were challenged early enough to where by the end of the period there were no more raider camps reported among roads.
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| === Summary ===
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| Although little is known of the mysterious ancestral home of the Khadans, most believe that their ancestors left the native land in search of asylum. As such, it is also believed that the ancestors of the Khadans first realized the significance of unity through witnessing how their beloved homeland disintegrated in years of quarrels and wars.
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| Due to the harsh climate and the lack of available resources, the ancestors of the Khadans initially separated into two groups with one group traveling along the shoreline and the other moving in-land. This decision eventually led to the rise of two clans that share the same philosophy but each adopting a different way of living. Although the two clans resemble each other in the sense that they both hold family values and self-fulfillment in high regard, the clans also differ greatly in terms of skills and traits.
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| Clan Zenthir - The smaller one out of the two clans. The Zenthirs would rarely abandon the shores of Anjyarr except for trade and occasionally marriage purposes. This clan relied on ship-building and fishing for a living, with the former being a legacy passed down by the earlier sailors that brought the Khadans to Eden through the unpredictable sea. Despite age or gender, the Zenthirs are often skilled swimmers and have mastered both hand-to-hand water combat and wielding the deadly trident. Using the trident they would develop a renowned combating style known as “Water Dancing”, an elegant dance-like fighting style that emphasizes using the opponent’s momentum against them and dealing swift strikes to quickly immobilize them. Since this fighting style focuses more on swiftness instead of strength, it has gained popularity among the dark elves and Khadans alike. To this day, both humans and dark elves in the Emirate of Al-Khadir still practice Water Dancing and adopt the fighting style as either their preferred or signature style of combat.
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| Clan Valmir - This clan surpasses its counterpart in size. The Valmirs were initially the adventurers that explored the barren in-lands of Anjyarr in search of a more suitable living condition. This clan roamed the desert consisting of seemingly never-ending dunes, making them the true children of the sands with every single hill and body of water known to them. Relying on their knowledge of the region and local wildlife, the Valmirs would put their focus on taming horses native to the outstretched plains bordering the deserts of Anjyarr. These great steeds are considered to be the most beautiful in Eden, having flowing manes, elegant heads and naturally slender bodies. Despite being smaller than regular warhorses and being light-boned, making them unable to bear the weight of heavy armor, this also brings with it many benefits. These Anjyarrian steeds are very swift and possess unrivaled endurance just like their masters, as well as being accustomed to the harsh climate which allows for relatively little maintenance, only needing a few drinks of water over the course of a day. This clan wouldn’t be as skilled in combat as their counterparts in clan Zenthir, they would quickly learn to appreciate the art of archery. Using a special short bow they would take their Anjyarrian steeds in search of wildlife to hunt, tracking them to bodies of water which would afterward make a suitable place to stay for the clan as well as providing food and water.
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| This clan wouldn’t be as skilled in combat as their counterparts in clan Zenthir, they would quickly learn to appreciate the art of archery. Using a special short bow they would take their Anjyarrian steeds in search of wildlife to hunt, tracking them to bodies of water which would afterward make a suitable place to stay for the clan as well as providing food and water.
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| The two clans lived in concord for five generations after the Khadans’ arrival in Eden. Through the few established trade routes they would barter goods such as livestock, life necessities and basic weaponry with each other and even the Hadrians on occasion. Despite the existence of trade routes, bartering did not take up a considerable part in the culture of both clans given that there were very limited kinds of commodities to be traded for. But as the resources – wildlife and especially fresh water – in both clans’ territories started to run short, their passes began to cross more often.
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| The search for available resources led to an increasing conflict between the clans, and with another massive drought occurring, the two clans eventually broke into fights over the still existing bodies of water which came in the form of the two rivers that still run through Anjyarr to this day.
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| It is known that on a certain day both clans would cross paths at the river known as Ifriq that now flows through the city of Al-Khadir, a day that will forever be remembered as both the beginning and the end of an era. Upon the arrival of the clans and purely based on friction caused by the dire circumstances, the two chieftains clashed and engaged in combat. A battle erupted under the ever-burning sun that would shine brightly upon the battlefield. This battle would decide the fate of both clans or so they thought.
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| Knowing that the defeat would certainly lead to the demise of their respective clan, neither of the chieftains was willing to give in easily. It is believed that the battle on the riverbank of Ifriq lasted for three whole days, and by the sunrise of the fourth day both chiefs were wound-covered, exhausted, and on the edge of collapsing. Yet they were so well matched that neither could gain an upper hand.
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| But just as the warriors on both sides were about to join and to turn the duel into a blood-shedding war, it is believed that something miraculous happened. For the first time in that year-long drought that drained the lives of many, it began to rain. Standing dumbfounded in the pouring rain, the Khadans lowered their weapons one after another until eventually, the two chieftains dropped their trident and bow. What happened next was very much based on Khadan folklore and is nowhere to be found in any documented history. But it is believed that when the trident of the Zenthir chieftain hit the ground, its sharpened tip bounced on a large piece of rock and sliced it open. To the Khadans’ surprise, the rock’s inner facet was decorated with gold deposits. Further scouting along the river bank convinced the Khadans that this land they set foot on, despite being barren and fruitless for what lives on the surface of it, is actually quite the opposite below.
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| Despite having a rather fictional background story, the discovery of gold mines in the Anjyarr desert did lead to the merging of the two Khadan clans. Taking advantage of the already-explored trade routes and newly discovered gold mines, the Khadans were able to trade goods of much more value and on much greater scales first with the Hadricians and eventually, most of the other residents in Eden. The rapid increase of wealth put an end to the nomadic life of the Khadans’ and strengthened the bonds between the people as the Khadans’ pursuit of unity has only grown stronger ever since. Together, the Khadans built a town that formed the prototype of the city that will be known as Al-Khadir today. The town flourished as the only trade center in the desert, but it was not until the arrival of the Khadans’ dark-skinned ally that the town received a cultural and political significance comparable to other great cities in Eden.
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|
| | == Character Traits == |
| | {| class="wikitable" |
| | ! colspan="2" |Racial Traits - Khadan Humans |
| | |- |
| | !Arcane initiate |
| | |Players with this trait know the "Flame Arrow" spell without needing to be a spellcaster |
| | |- |
| | !Strong |
| | |Players with this trait get two extra points in the strength stat. |
| | |- |
| | !Limb Carver |
| | |Players with this trait can replace parts of their body with sandstone sculptures when lost. If they do, the body part becomes fully functional again after one IC year. |
| | Though the body part is and still looks like sandstone. |
| | |- |
| | !Nomad's Stomach |
| | |The food bar of players with this trait lowers significantly slower than usual. |
| | |- |
| | !Follower of Akhmat |
| | |Players with this trait can summon a skeleton which can be used in CRP using the skeleton stat block. |
| | |- |
| | !Decapitating strike |
| | |Once per battle during CRP. The player can choose to instead of making a normal attack it will do a single Decapitating blow. |
| | If they do, they may do a single attack with any weapon that does D6 damage. |
| | |- |
| | !Attuned to Ignos |
| | |Players with this trait can ignite their weapon. Applying the "Burning" status effect to whoever they hit. |
| | |- |
| | !Soul Reaper |
| | |At the start of combat, players with this trait can select a target who's soul is marked by Akhmat and which they must claim. |
| | If they do, the player can re-roll attack rolls against this target for the duration of the battle. |
| | |} |
|
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|
| | __NOTOC__ |
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| {{Navtable_Races|class="mw-collapsible"}} | | {{Navtable_Races|class="mw-collapsible"}} |
Khadan Humans
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Pronunciation
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Kaa-dan
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Classification
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Human
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Nicknames
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Desert Folk, Desert-dwellers
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Languages
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Common, Anjyarri, Azari
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Average Height
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1.70m - 1.90m (5'7" - 6'3")
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Average Weight
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65kg - 80kg (143lbs - 176lbs)
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Maximum Age
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~80 Years Old
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Stat Bonuses
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+2 Strength
+0 Defense
+2 Agility
+0 Intelligence
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Living along the coast of the Al’Hadar Deep, their cities standing out as shining jewels between the dunes of the Anjyarri desert, the Khadan, as they are known, inhabit the sun-scorched realm known as Anjyarr. Their history is one shrouded in ancient legends, arcane sorcery, mythical kings known as Pharos, and secrets that now remain hidden beneath the sands of the dune sea. These people, born and formed by their history, have introduced their own wisdom to Eden through inventions and philosophy. Now, they are defined by their resilience, compassion, and their will to thrive in the harshest of environments.
The world knows the Khadan as merchants, sailors, having a sea-faring nature. Their cities are filled with bustling bazaars offering precious minerals, exotic spices, and master-crafted wares such as musical instruments and tools. Trade is their lifeblood, and it can be seen flowing to the farthest corners of the continent. This has caused them to develop a respect for other cultures, races, and religions. Accepting them for who they are, no matter their origin, for trade is more important to them than unnecessary disputes over differences.
To see a Khadan is to see the representation of the desert itself. The climate and culture of their realm has introduced them wearing vibrant and colorful robes, showing the beauty, but also the intensity of the desert and sea.
Nowadays, the Khadan are often underestimated due to their compassionate views and hospitality. Yet, the Khadan have a deep-rooted warrior’s spirit, burning with the desire to defend their homeland, their culture, and their history whenever threatened. No one knows the oceans and the deserts better than the Khadan, and those that forget their origin, shall easily succumb to their insolence.
“While their loyalty to the Azari’Lunn brings me nothing but disdain, one cannot deny that their generosity and expertise in their crafts are astounding. They elevated societies with new science, math, and various inventions. Their cities stand out as jewels in the desert. And yet, I wonder if it will remain for centuries to come. Only the Mother and time can tell.”
- Arüe Mi'thílion, Scholar of Luminion.
|
Nomadic Khadan priest hosting a sermon on
the Old Path. Artwork by RkdVanguard
Character Creation
Appearance
Compared to the remaining human inhabitants of Eden, the Khadan people's physical appearance distinguishes them from the rest, be it by their attire, culture, and, of course, their darker skin tones. Compared to the average Attian, Khadan men are slightly shorter, reaching an average height of 180cm (5'9"), and women reaching an average height of 170cm (5'5").
Looking back at the history of the Khadan, one can see that their population consisted of numerous tribes, each settling in different regions of the desert that suited their needs for survival. Due to their diverse surroundings, the appearance of the Khadan changed over time, making each tribe varied, yet all shared the common trait of having a tan or dark skin tone. The tribes, collectively known as the Zanmirs, inhabited the coastal areas and regions near waterways, becoming renowned for their captivating beauty among the Khadan people. Over time, their appearance shifted to having a lighter complexion similar to an Attian who had been sun-kissed, having long flowing hair in shades of brown and red, which was complemented by eyes in various shades of green and brown.
Compared to these tribes, those known as the Zanmir tribes had chosen their homes in the vast desert regions and had striking differences from those at the coast. Their hair spectrum ranged from profound dark darkness of jet black to even the rare gleam of near-white, an exceptional characteristic that only a few Khadan could have. Skin tones ranged from a deep, sun-burnished tan to a rich, dusky, or deep brown, with their eyes displaying hues that spanned from deep brown to captivating shades of orange illuminated by the desert sun. The enigmatic beauty of hazel eyes made an occasional appearance as well. The Khadan don cloaks to cover themselves in various colors and seek shelter from the relentless sun. However, at times when these cloaks were removed in rural areas, their arresting appearance inevitably captivated onlookers when they emerged into the streets.
The topic of beauty among female Khadans mainly involves maintaining both body and hair to a high standard. Having the contours of an oval shape, elegantly shaped dark eyebrows, and exquisitely detailed eyelashes that contrast sharply with the eyes are considered a defining feature. Men traditionally sport meticulously maintained facial hair, ranging from beards and mustaches, often taking inspiration from their northern human neighbors. In some Khadan cultures, any form of visible or hidden scars is revered as a mark of beauty. These scars would often symbolize courage, strength, and honor. It is also not uncommon to see a person's body covered in various tattoos. Seen as a form of art in Khadan society, these tattoos would depict culture, history, family bonds, and religion. Favored are those symbolized with stars or religious deities or animals.
An example of the various skin colors for Khadans
Languages
In the populated areas of Anjyarr, primarily both rivers and the coastal regions, the predominant language spoken by the Khadan is Anjyarr. Anjyarri is a dialect that formed from its root language of Akhadi due to the influence and mixing of the Azari'lunn language, which ultimately became more prevalent than Akhadi itself. When the Khadan language of Akhadi formed remains unknown. Yet, it is speculated to have emerged during the first ancient Empire of Anjyarr. Anjyarri itself formed roughly around the first centuries of A.F.S. and has since then been established as the national language of the civilized regions of the desert.
Although there are few differences between the two languages, some individuals are able to understand both. However, due to future generations no longer being taught in Akhadi, the language itself has become somewhat estranged and distant, often mistaken to be the actual dialect instead of Anjyarri by modern-day citizens and non-natives of Anjyarr who are not familiar with the origins of the language. However, despite this, the language of Akhadi continues to be spoken dominantly among the nomadic residents of the desert, particularly by the diverse tribes collectively known as the Kha'mal. Some have described Akhadi as being pronounced more harshly yet having a mysterious tone to it.
Anjyarri Dialect: Quick Guide
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Greetings
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Races
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Titles
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Common
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Anjyarri
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Common
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Anjyarri
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Common
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Anjyarri
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Hello
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Merhaba
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Human
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Adam
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'Prophet of The People''
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Pharo
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Welcome
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Merbaan
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Dark Elf
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La'adam
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Emperor
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Sultan of Sultans
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Goodbye
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Verdaba
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Tiefling
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I'jadam
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Empress
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Sultana of Sultans
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How are you?
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Jut lo'ua
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Wood Elf
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Erididam
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King / Queen
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Sultan(a)
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Nice to meet you.
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Iru nunyeti ua.
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High Elf
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Ue'ladam
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Prince
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Şehzade
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Friend
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Tovara
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Denur
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Jitadam
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Princess
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Shehzadi
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Halfling
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Sha'adam
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Patriarch
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Hemiria
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Faulskin
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Adamja
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High-priest(ess)
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Al-Kahyn(a)
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Duke
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Sheihykh
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Duchess
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Shahykh
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Lord / Lady
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Emyhr(a)
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Ser / Dame
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Sih'di / Mih'de
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Noble
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Nabil(a)
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Chieftain
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Zaeim
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Advisor
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Astisha
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Naming Schemes
In Anjyarr, as elsewhere, the personal name of an individual was the most important means of identification, not only in this life but in the hereafter and in social memory for eternity. To the Khadan, the name and essence were inseparably interconnected. In their ancient culture and religion, it was believed that the world was created by pronouncing the name of everything that came into existence, and, in magical practice, knowing the "true" name of supernatural and transcendent beings helped one to gain power over them. Thus, the name was considered a vital constituent of one's personality in Khadan culture.
Names would often be differentiated or linked to historical or literary figures. These include the names of legendary figures, kings, religious personalities, and old gods and goddesses. For instance, male names like Ahman, Muhaddin, Metehan, and Khurshid and female names such as Sa'har, Isha, Ra'na, and Met'hani reflect this tradition.
In modern times, Khadan names have taken on new forms, often appearing as compounds or bearing specific meanings. Female names commonly feature suffixes such as -i, -eh, -ah, or -a, as seen in Somayeh, Noora, Kazirah, Farid, Shana, Mija, Jahanara, and Sadia. Meanwhile, male names, which had common short first names, often end with -an, -ar, -id, -ad, -in, -ir, -al, or -il, for example, Danyal, Rashad, Qusar, Sahil, and Zayan.
Furthermore, the addition of -El or -Al serves as the definitive article, indicating that the family name begins with "the." This convention often signifies the family name's association with a profession. However, there are instances it may also be associated with a title or specific origin of the person in question.
Cultures
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The Sultanate of Anjyarr
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At the mouth of the great Ifriq delta lies the emirate of Al-Khadir, capital of the great Sultanate of Anjyarr. It is a paradise of great wealth and prosperity in the midst of an unruly wasteland. Founded by a tribe of nomadic traders, whom settled due to the pleasant climate and geographic location near the Ifriq, Al-Khadir quickly became a trading hub for races all around the world. The city is a gateway to anyone wishing to enter the Southern world. It offers a large market for all kinds of goods, from elven trinkets to dwarven drinks, but also an extensive range of local wares such as tobacco, carpets, coffee, spices, and garments!
|
World View
General Khadan Human opinions on the other races of Eden.
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On Attians…
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Neutral
“If you know their history, you know our cousin-kin have suffered as much as we did in our ancient history. However, where I believe we grew, Attians wouldn't dare to accept a world where we could all coincide with our different cultures and beliefs. But, despite this, they can be excellent company, share a drink or two, or be great trade partners.”
- Mohsen Hatama, Scholar of Al-Khadir
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|
On Hinterlanders…
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Slightly Positive
“Hinterlanders? I mean, they have been less troublesome than the Attians of Hadriana. They are open-minded, kind, and less religiously strict than their Attian kin. We profit greatly from each other's wares and goods during trade. Though, despite this, I do have to mention they often seem greedy with their coin. But which merchant wouldn't, right?”
- Dakhe Nin'gal Al-Idina, spice merchant of Al-Jabrid
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|
On High Elves…
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Slightly Negative
“Their culture is filled with so much disdain and hatred for other races, other beliefs, and cultures—most notably our Dark Elven companions. They would never share anything with anyone else. We have High Elven citizens in our cities and bazaars; they seem to have adapted to the rest of Eden, have learned to coexist. Why can't they?”
- Asardin Osma'han, guard of the eastern Al-Khadir gate.
|
|
On Wood Elves…
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Neutral
“We don't know much about their forest realm. I've heard stories of walking trees, giant magical creatures that defend nature itself from outsiders. I've seen them walk around our streets; they seem so full of themselves and reserved, as if we should be thankful for whatever they protect in the far east. Though, I always wonder what their realm is like. It must be quite the opposite from our own, a desolate desert compared to a lush, magical forest.”
- Shala el-Amu'barahk, handweaver in Al-Khadir
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|
On Dark Elves…
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Very Positive
“The Dark Elves? You don't know the stories? Do you know how they brought salvation upon our kin when our civilization began to collapse? More than a thousand years ago, they arrived in our realm and introduced us to art, medicine, and science, fleeing war-stricken lands and cast from their homes. Of course, over the centuries, we have experienced some of their rulers being corrupt or grim, but we have so much to thank them for. Being our rulers does not bother me; they have only helped our people.”
- Mahmood Khurshid Al'asar, Fisherman of Al-Khadir
|
|
On Denur…
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Neutral
“Denur? Never seen them. They don't like our climate, I suppose. I heard they often stumble around on the streets of Al-Jabrid, trying to obtain some Dark Steel minerals or sell their newest inventions. But other than that? They don't seem to do any harm. I say: keep it that way.”
- Ali Sal'hama, shipwright of Al-Khadir
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|
On Halflings…
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Positive
“The smallfolk seem always so passionate about our food markets. They don't often come by due to the scorching heat, but when they do, they are such a joy to be around. They tell the funniest stories and are eager to hear more about our newest items in the Bazaar. Say, have you seen my bag of coin by chance?”
- Amata Balashi, barmaid of Al-Jabrid
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|
On Orcs…
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Neutral
“Brutes are what they are. They are strong and aggressive, but they have a sense of humor. If you respect them, they can respect you, that is, if they have some sort of manners. They enjoy socializing with our soldiers because they think they have much in common with their warrior culture. I say: good. It reduces the mess we have to clean up in our taverns and markets.”
- Iya Mas'hati, merchant in Al-Khadir
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|
On Goblins…
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Negative
“Scheming, backstabbing, looting: thieves. Last week, they stole two of my sheep, gutted one of my chickens, and displayed it like some bloody artwork as if it were a sick joke! It cost me a fortune. They are nothing but scum. I avoid them in our markets as much as I can.”
- Arsames Al-Ma'zar, farmer of Al-Adam
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|
On Tieflings…
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Very positive
“They are good people. Like us, they do not care where you come from or what gods you believe in. We've accepted them for who they are, and they paid us back with kindness and have become part of our society. Like us, they live and fight for something they believe inn: a place to call home.”
- Appan Raasuht, palace guard
|
Noteworthy Characters
King Tarath the First
Born in the temple city of Al'Tojik, the first city of Anjyarr more than a thousand years ago, Tarath was the royal heir to a wealthy king of a tribe who sought to build an empire based on his image and of his great fathers before him. Through masses of slaves taken on his conquests, he built temples greater than any of its time, statues of himself, spreading his fame throughout Anjyarr, turning Al'Tojik into the grandest city of the realm and its capital. He united the first tribes, created borders, and made conquests to gain wealth for the Khadan thanks to an ever-growing army. While he was not bestowed immortality like the Pharo's after him, he set the foundation of the many cults that would gather the means of sorcery and put the first foundations of the realm that would soon be known as Anjyarr. His legacy, however, is lost through the age of time, with the ruins of Al'Tojik all but gone, claimed by the desert once again. Only the abandoned gold mines near the supposed location of its former existence are left today.
High Queen Met'hani, Pharo of Aanos
“Bow, pilgrims, bow before High Queen Met'hani, The Golden Queen of Aanos, Eternal Lady, She Who Bares the Beauty of Kathra, defiance made flesh, the Serpent Queen.
Kneel so that you might bask in her radiance! For she has come to unite us.”
- Sha'alti, High-Priest of Aanos, 615 B.F.S
|
The stories of Met'hani, the first female Pharo, are favorites among the women of the Kha'mal tribes. What makes her so famous is the start and tragic end of her legacy. The "Eternal Lady" and "The Golden Queen of Aanos," her intelligence, temper, and bravery were as legendary as her beauty and added to an intense sense of honor and justice. She fought against the enemies of Anjyarr on the frontlines and used her charismatic political power to further the realm's gain. She changed the laws of the realm to allow women to practice the Arcane magics, and through this, her popularity grew. However, her sister Somnyah'la, famously known as "The Sleepwalker," grew jealous of her sisters' power and, as one of the priests in the Sorcerers' Cult, sought out the darkest powers for answers. Meeting with a Demon and solving its riddles, she was influenced to sacrifice Met'hanis's firstborn and heir, consuming the infant's blood to obtain the power of immortality. While she succeeded, and the Demon granted her what was promised, she was turned into a Vampire who began a short conquest for her power with her undead followers. She was eventually banished into the Demonic realm thanks to the Sorcerers' Cult and at the cost of Met'hani's life. Her reign was tragically short, cut down as she was in her prime. All of Anjyarr mourned her passing, for they knew she would have brought great glory to the empire. She was embalmed and placed in a seated position within a specially-made reliquary in the southern mountain ranges. There she sits, her tomb faded over the course of history, with many still waiting for her return.
Pharo Akhmat, "The Great Uniter"
Akhmat was known as the Great King and Pharo of the city of Sepharat, the capital of Anjyarr at his time, now known as the "Valley of Kings." Going by many titles, such as his most famous, "The Great Uniter," Akhmat is known all over Anjyarr by all the Khadan tribes that still kneel to him today. Akhmat was depicted as a great and powerful Pharo; he himself a vision of splendor and martial prowess, but also as an arrogant and cruel king. He listened to the priests of the Sorcerers Cult and realized that only a leader who could command the gods' respect would earn the people's total adoration. To this end, Pharo Akhmat, alone amongst all the kings of Anjyarr, paid homage to the ancient gods; early in his reign, he ordered the restoration of temples and erected magnificent statues to be constructed in their honor. It turned Sepharat into a temple city, more significant than any human city ever made at the time. He sacrificed his two children at the highest temple of Kathra to gain the gods' favor, and when the time came, he conquered the various city-states that tried to break free from Anjyarr's Empire. He reigned as the greatest Pharo to be ever known and, thanks to the cult, the first to find the answer to immortality. Through arcane sorcery, Akhmat's life was extended. Now seen as a new deity by the Khadan, he ascended to godhood and led the Khadan into a prosperous golden age. Yet, after a long reign of 300 years, he eventually came to pass. His legacy was never forgotten, for he was interred in the most astonishing tomb ever constructed, so large that no other tomb would outdo it. Some today believe that if he were to be awakened, he would lead Anjyarr back into a new golden age, for that is all that Akhmat sought: dominion over the desert realm and beyond.
Character Traits
Racial Traits - Khadan Humans
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Arcane initiate
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Players with this trait know the "Flame Arrow" spell without needing to be a spellcaster
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Strong
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Players with this trait get two extra points in the strength stat.
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Limb Carver
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Players with this trait can replace parts of their body with sandstone sculptures when lost. If they do, the body part becomes fully functional again after one IC year.
Though the body part is and still looks like sandstone.
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Nomad's Stomach
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The food bar of players with this trait lowers significantly slower than usual.
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Follower of Akhmat
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Players with this trait can summon a skeleton which can be used in CRP using the skeleton stat block.
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Decapitating strike
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Once per battle during CRP. The player can choose to instead of making a normal attack it will do a single Decapitating blow.
If they do, they may do a single attack with any weapon that does D6 damage.
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Attuned to Ignos
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Players with this trait can ignite their weapon. Applying the "Burning" status effect to whoever they hit.
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Soul Reaper
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At the start of combat, players with this trait can select a target who's soul is marked by Akhmat and which they must claim.
If they do, the player can re-roll attack rolls against this target for the duration of the battle.
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