Rashemen
Overview
"To the west of Kymos lies the cold beauty of Rashemen, land of berserkers. The Rashemaar (a self given name that distinguishes them from Kymosian Rashemi) are a distant and insular people, much given to excesses in behavior and distrustful of outsiders. Their land is a place both old and mysterious, harboring many strange spirits and magical places." Of all the nations in Asora, the most isolated and mysterious is Rashemen. A forested and rugged land bordered on the north by the Uttersea, on the west by the Scarab Cliffs, on the east by the Great Sea, and in the south by the enormous Parched Wastes, Rashemen is inaccessible to most travelers without great inconvenience, and its people are fiercely independent and notoriously suspicious of strangers.Rashemaar Society
The Rashemaar society is an intricate tapestry woven with threads of age-old traditions, spiritual beliefs, and a powerful bond with the land. Here's a closer examination of their societal structure and customs.Social Hierarchy
While the "Huhrong", or Iron Lord, is the nation's figurehead, the true societal pillars are the Wychlaran. These powerful witches are revered not merely for their arcane prowess, but also for their roles as spiritual leaders, guides, and advisors. Below the Wychlaran and Iron Lord, the Berserker lodges – led by "Princes", warriors of renown – form the next echelon. The common folk, consisting of the hunters, craftsmen, and farmers, constitute the base of the societal pyramid.Daily Life
The day for a typical Rashemaar starts with prayers, often directed towards Khelliara (Melora) for a successful hunt or a good harvest. Children are trained from a young age in essential skills – boys often learn the art of war and hunting, while girls are taught household chores, and some are chosen to be initiated into the secrets of the Wychlaran. Post the morning rituals, the Rashemaar delve into their respective roles. The men, equipped with tools and weapons, venture into the forests for hunting or oversee the fields, while the women either accompany them in the hunt or engage in farming, gathering, and crafting. Lunch is typically a communal affair. Meals consist of game, root vegetables, and grains. An essential aspect of this mealtime is storytelling, where tales – both old and new – weave a tapestry of shared community history.Rashemen and Outsiders
Rashemen, the land of spirits and mysteries, has always maintained an aura of elusiveness. While it is no hermit kingdom, its approach towards outsiders is a tapestry of caution, curiosity, and age-old customs. Here’s what a traveler venturing into this enigmatic nation might expect.Rural Regions
Upon entering Rashemen, outsiders are immediately met with a palpable sense of caution. The Rashemaar's insular nature, honed by centuries of self-reliance and reverence for their traditions, naturally begets suspicion towards unfamiliar faces. It's not unusual for a traveler to be questioned by local guards or even curious villagers about their intentions and origins. Outsiders with particular business in rural areas – be it trade, diplomatic matters, or arcane inquiries – will often find themselves brought before a member of the Wychlaran. These formidable witches, the true powerhouses of Rashemen, hold the authority to discern the true intentions of outsiders and either grant them a temporary stay or, in rare cases, request their immediate departure. Once an outsider has demonstrated genuine intent and garnered some trust, they will find that the Rashemaar can be very hospitable. The same people who once eyed them with suspicion might invite them to partake in communal meals, share stories around bonfires, or even join in local festivals. The key is patience and respect for the Rashemaar's customs and beliefs. Outsiders must tread carefully when it comes to the spiritual and sacred aspects of Rashemen. Unauthorized entry into sacred groves, unsolicited interactions with telthors, or inappropriate behavior during religious ceremonies can lead to harsh consequences. It’s essential to always seek guidance and adhere to local etiquette.Urban Settings
While the rural heartlands of Rashemen embody its ancient spirit and reverence for traditions, the urban centers, though still deeply rooted in these values, present a slightly more cosmopolitan front. A traveler venturing into a bustling Rashemaar city might find a different reception than in the countryside. Here's a glimpse into the urban dynamics. Upon approaching a Rashemaar city, travelers will invariably encounter fortified gates guarded by vigilant sentinels. These city guards, often members of the berserker lodges, are trained to assess outsiders swiftly. Entry protocols typically involve declaring one's intent, showing any letters of introduction, and sometimes even paying a small entry fee. Many Rashemaar cities have designated quarters for outsiders. These districts, sometimes referred to as "Travelers' Havens", offer lodging, trade posts, and eateries catering to diverse tastes. They serve as safe zones where outsiders can acclimatize to the city without inadvertently violating customs. Urban centers have a pronounced presence of the Wychlaran. Not just secluded in mystical towers, these witches are often involved in governance, trade oversight, and maintaining the city's spiritual well-being. Outsiders might be summoned for an audience if their business concerns magic, unique artifacts, or matters of diplomacy. While rural Rashemen might engage in barter, city markets operate with a more structured economic system. Here, traders can rent stalls, establish temporary shops, or even partake in city-sponsored trade fairs. The Rashemaar city folks have a keen interest in foreign goods, making urban centers lucrative for outsiders with unique wares. While city dwellers are more accustomed to outsiders and their ways, certain core Rashemaar values remain non-negotiable. Respecting sacred sites, adhering to citywide curfews during spiritual events, and abstaining from open criticism of the Wychlaran or the Iron Lord are essential behaviors.Rashemen and Art
At the crossroads of nature, spirituality, and human endeavor lies the vibrant culture and art of Rashemen. Like a tapestry woven from countless threads of tradition, legend, and daily life, Rashemaar culture and artistry reflect the deep-seated beliefs and rugged beauty of their homeland. Storytelling forms the backbone of Rashemaar culture. With every bonfire gathering or mid-day meal, tales of heroism, folklore, and ancestral wisdom get passed down, keeping the collective memory of the nation alive. Epics are recited by bards, often accompanied by percussive instruments, encapsulating histories that span centuries. While the Rashemaar appreciate a range of musical expressions, their instruments are often crafted from natural materials. Drums made from animal hides, flutes from bone or reed, and stringed instruments from wood and gut dominate their musical landscape. The rhythms and melodies often mimic natural sounds, from the rustling leaves to the howling winds.Rashemen and Religion
Rashemen is a land imbued with spirituality. Its dense forests, majestic mountains, and murmuring rivers all whisper tales of the gods and spirits that guide the Rashemaar. To understand Rashemen is to delve deep into its religious fabric."The Three"
The core trinity of the Rashemaar pantheon consists of Bhalla, Khelliara, and the Hidden One.- Bhalla (Mehena): As the goddess of mothers, family, and the stars, temples and shrines dedicated to Bhalla often occupy places with clear night skies. Families offer tokens of gratitude, and rituals celebrating childbirth and family unions are held in her honor.
- Khelliara (Melora): Revered as the deity of hunting, rural life, and survival, Khelliara's worship is profound in villages and among hunting communities. Sacred groves and clearings are dedicated to her, where hunters seek her blessing for bountiful hunts and safe returns.
- The Hidden One (Baara): This enigmatic deity, patron of magic and spellcasting, is venerated in secrecy. The Wychlaran, with their mystical inclinations, often serve as intermediaries, conducting clandestine rites and ceremonies that evoke the Hidden One's arcane energies.
The Spirit World and the Telthors
Local spirits, known as telthors or yokai in some regions, hold immense significance in Rashemaar religious practices. These spirits, believed to inhabit natural features like ancient trees, waterfalls, or rock formations, are approached with respect and often have specific rituals and offerings associated with them. Communing with these spirits, seeking their guidance, or appeasing them is a regular part of Rashemaar life.The Wychlaran
Beyond their political influence, the Wychlaran are the spiritual torchbearers of Rashemen. Their deep knowledge of rituals, ceremonies, and the spirit world makes them indispensable in religious matters. They officiate over significant religious festivals, guide the people in spiritual dilemmas, and act as the bridge between the mortal realm and the ethereal.Sacred Places
Temples, groves, and sacred clearings are scattered throughout Rashemen. These spaces, consecrated through age-old rituals, are where the Rashemaar connect with the divine. Whether it's a grand temple dedicated to Bhalla in a city or a humble stone circle in the woods where Khelliara is invoked, these spaces pulse with spiritual energy.Quirks and Customs
Every civilization has its peculiarities, and the Rashemaar are no exception. While their profound spirituality and reverence for nature might be comprehensible to outsiders, some customs may raise eyebrows among the uninitiated.Spirit Conversations
In some villages, it's customary for Rashemaar to leave an empty seat during communal meals, dedicated to the spirits. While eating, they might speak to this empty seat, sharing stories or seeking guidance, as if conversing with an invisible guest. Outsiders might find this eerily fascinating.Telthor Offerings
Leaving small trinkets, food, or crafts at seemingly random places in the wilderness might seem odd to an outsider. But for the Rashemaar, these are offerings to the telthors, ensuring safe passage through their domains.Hair Braiding
Rashemaar, especially among the Wychlaran, have a unique system of braiding their hair, where specific patterns convey messages. An intricate braid might signify mourning, while another could be a sign of romantic interest or a declaration of challenge.Superstitions in Rashemaar Culture
- Mirror of Truth: It's believed that if you gaze into a still pool of water on a clear night, the reflection will reveal your true self or a portent of the future.
- Raven's Call: Hearing a lone raven's caw at dawn is considered an omen of an impending visit. It could be a long-lost friend, a stranger bearing news, or even a spirit messenger.
- Knot of Protection: Tying three knots on a string or ribbon and placing it by a newborn's crib is believed to ward off evil spirits and ensure the child's protection.
- Whistling Woods: Whistling after dark in the forested areas is believed to attract malevolent spirits or yokai. To whistle is to call them, risking their ire or mischievous whims.
Taboos in Rashemaar Culture
- Disturbing the Telthors: Damaging or defiling places believed to be inhabited by telthors (yokai) is a grave offense. Such actions are said to bring misfortune, illness, or even curses upon the perpetrator.
- Refusal of Hospitality: Declining an offer of shelter or food, especially during harsh weather, is seen as a slight to both the host and the protective spirits of the land. It is almost an unspoken rule that hospitality, once offered, must be accepted.
- Speaking Ill of the Wychlaran: Given their revered status, openly criticizing or doubting the Wychlaran is taboo. Such dissent is believed to anger the gods, especially the Hidden One.
- Abandoning the Dajemma: Failing to complete the Dajemma or refusing to undertake it (without a valid reason) is considered a sign of weakness or cowardice. Such individuals often face societal disdain or mistrust.
- Mixing Blood: In certain rituals or ceremonies, intentionally mixing one's blood with another's is forbidden. Blood is seen as a powerful conduit of energy and essence; to mix it is to potentially taint or merge fates in unpredictable ways.
Education and Knowledge in Rashemen
In the rugged and mystical terrain of Rashemen, the approach to education and the acquisition of knowledge is both unique and deeply ingrained in their cultural fabric. Here, learning is not confined to the four walls of an institution but is a lifelong journey woven into every facet of Rashemaar life.Oral Traditions
The foundation of Rashemaar education lies in its oral traditions. Elders, storytellers, and bards play a crucial role in imparting history, folklore, and ethical teachings. Gatherings around bonfires, during festivals or family feasts, are ripe with tales of valor, wisdom, and moral lessons. Though Rashemen relies heavily on oral traditions, it's not devoid of written knowledge. Hidden within major settlements or in the abodes of influential Wychlaran are repositories of scrolls, manuscripts, and books. These are treasures for those pursuing specialized studies or scholarly endeavors.Apprenticeships
Practical skills, whether hunting, crafting, farming, or magic, are primarily taught through an apprenticeship model. Young Rashemaar are paired with seasoned experts in their chosen field, learning through hands-on experience, observation, and mentorship.The Dajemma
In the heart of Rashemen's cultural and personal rites, the Dajemma stands unparalleled. More than just a mere tradition, the Dajemma is an intricate tapestry of self-discovery, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of wisdom. The Dajemma is not simply a voyage; it's a transformative rite of passage. As young Rashemaar approach adulthood, they embark on this journey to experience the world beyond their homeland, face its challenges, and return with stories, knowledge, and a deeper understanding of their place in the world. The commencement of a Dajemma is a grand affair. Families and mentors gather to offer blessings, wisdom, and sometimes, cryptic advice. The traveler is equipped with essential supplies, and often, a symbolic token — an amulet, weapon, or heirloom — that they are to keep safe throughout their journey. While on their Dajemma, Rashemaar are encouraged to face and overcome challenges. They might scale towering peaks, navigate treacherous waters, or engage in intellectual debates in distant cities. These trials are not just physical but also test their wit, will, and spirit. The Dajemma often leads travelers into uncharted territories, introducing them to cultures, magics, and creatures previously unknown. Such encounters widen their horizons, instill tolerance, and sometimes, even foster lasting alliances. Though the Dajemma has many facets, spiritual growth remains at its core. Many travelers seek secluded shrines, ancient spirits, or wise hermits to glean esoteric knowledge or undergo spiritual rites. Some even receive visions or dreams guiding their path. The conclusion of the Dajemma is as significant as its commencement. Returning travelers are celebrated and welcomed with feasts. They share tales of their journey, the lessons they've learned, and the wonders they've witnessed. This sharing is not just a personal catharsis but also enriches Rashemen's collective knowledge. Upon their return, it's customary for the traveler to add a symbol or marking outside their dwelling, representing a significant aspect of their journey. These markings become a source of pride and often, conversation starters with curious peers.Demography and Population
3,534,270 citizens in 1200 AC
Races (Citizen) -
80% Human (Majority Rashemi, Minority Shou, Turami, Bedine, Calishite, etc)
4% Planar Races (Aasimars and Tieflings)
4% Dwarves (Majority Mountain Dwarf)
4% Beastfolk (Majority Yakfolk and Tengu, minority all others)
4% Hagspawn (Changelings)
2% All others
Type
Geopolitical, Kingdom
Capital
Demonym
Rashemaar
Leader Title
Head of State
Government System
Monarchy, Elective
Power Structure
Confederation
Economic System
Traditional
Related Species
Related Ethnicities
