Botar

Botar, nestled in the far North-East, north of the Grand Elven Forests, is a land of challenging landscapes, filled with dry and cracked earth as well as sweeping fields of golden savannah grass. The region’s harsh terrain and limited agricultural opportunities have given rise to a society deeply rooted in tribal cultures. Botari people have developed a keen sense of self-sufficiency and resilience over generations, fostering both a deep connection to nature and a wariness of outsiders.
Botar’s breathtaking beauty hides its formidable challenges. Sweeping savannas, dense jungles, and rugged mountains define its diverse topography. Despite the land’s harshness, it teems with life, from the majestic beasts that roam the plains to the vibrant avian life that graces the skies. The people of Botar, known as the Botari, have learned to live in harmony with this untamed wilderness, drawing strength and inspiration from the land itself.
The Botari place immense value on the interconnectedness of all living things. They see themselves as part of a delicate balance in nature, where each action, no matter how small, has far-reaching consequences. Their spirituality revolves around reverence for the natural world and the belief that powerful spirits of nature watch over them. These beliefs have shaped every aspect of their culture, from their communal way of life to their unique religious practices.

Religion

Botar’s religion is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of nature and the heavens. The gods of Botar speak through their people who each are a part of the gods themselves, born from the heart of Nashira, and through the Great Spirits, born of the dead god Itzel. The Botari people are able to directly speak to these Great Spirits, and indeed must do so at least once in their lives. Initiation into this faith occurs during a Botari child’s coming-of-age pilgrimage. The child must journey to one of these great spirits, offering their body and soul in devotion. If accepted, the spirit marks the child’s right hand with its sigil, a magical tattoo that manifests instantly without pain. Shortly after, a physical manifestation of the spirit arrives as a guardian beast to protect and serve the newly initiated individual. Rejection, on the other hand, leaves the child without a companion beast and unable to seek a different spirit. One who is rejected is seen as having been tainted by the lies of Xolotli and is unwelcomed back into their home, doomed to forever walk the lands alone without company of man nor beast.

The Botari Mindset

The average Botari person embodies a spirit of resilience and adaptability. Life in Botar’s challenging environment has instilled a deep connection to nature and the spiritual world. They view psionics with suspicion, seeing it as a potential curse rather than a blessing, as they believe it the work of Xolotli. This theory may hold some merit, as while psionics can reveal itself in anyone, it seems to be far more common among those rejected by the Great Spirits of Itzel. Whether this is due to them accepting it and making use of it or this group specifically unlocking it more often is unknown. Botari individuals are resourceful, relying on their tribal communities for support and working harmoniously with their companion beasts. Above all, they find solace and guidance in their unique religious beliefs, knowing that the spirits of nature are ever watchful, guiding them through life’s unpredictable journey.

Geography

The savannas of Botar, situated in the central and eastern regions of this land, offer a striking contrast to the rugged landscapes found elsewhere. These vast expanses of open grasslands are characterized by gently rolling plains, tall grasses, and scattered clusters of acacia trees. The savannas serve as a vital and dynamic ecosystem within Botar, teeming with diverse wildlife and providing essential resources for the Botari people.
The savannas are an abundant source of sustenance for the Botari, with rich grazing lands supporting various herds of animals, including antelope, zebras, and buffalo. These herbivores attract predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, creating a delicate balance in the ecosystem. The Botari often engage in communal hunts in these savannas, using their tracking skills and intimate knowledge of the land to secure food for their tribes.
In addition to being a critical source of sustenance, the savannas hold spiritual significance for the Botari. They view these open plains as places where the boundary between the physical and spiritual worlds is particularly thin. Here, they conduct rituals and ceremonies to connect with their nature spirits and seek guidance from the divine.
The savannas of Botar are not only a landscape of practicality but also a realm of beauty and wonder. Sweeping vistas of golden grasses stretching as far as the eye can see are punctuated by the graceful movements of wildlife and the rhythmic swaying of acacia trees in the wind. As the heart of Botar's natural abundance and spiritual connection, the savannas are a testament to the intricate relationship the Botari have with their environment.
Northern Botar is a land of stark contrast, where dense forests gradually give way to icy tundras as one ventures further north. As one travels northward, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation. The dense forest gradually thins out, and the temperature drops significantly. The tundras of Northern Botar are a harsh and unforgiving environment, characterized by vast frozen plains. The land appears desolate, with only the hardiest of plants and animals able to survive these extreme conditions. The Botari people, resilient and resourceful, adapt to this challenging terrain during the harshest seasons when the icy grip of winter tightens. In these tundras, they rely on the knowledge of their ancestors and their deep connection with their nature spirits to endure the cold and maintain their way of life.

Ecosystem

Botar's ecosystem is a diverse and complex mosaic shaped by its distinctive environmental regions. The southern border of Botar, separating it from the elven forests of Lungao, features a vast desert terrain. This arid environment presents a harsh contrast to the rest of Botar, characterized by expansive sand dunes, scorching temperatures, and sparse vegetation.
Moving northward from the desert, Botar's landscape transitions into a combination of grassy savannas, tundras, and eventually mountainous terrain. The savannas provide vital grazing grounds for herbivores like antelope and buffalo, attracting carnivores such as lions and hyenas. Fire plays a natural role in shaping the savanna ecosystem, promoting the renewal of grasses and influencing the population dynamics of the resident wildlife. The tundras in the northern region, while stark and challenging, are home to hardy mosses, lichens, and low shrubs that support creatures adapted to the frigid conditions.
Throughout Botar, rivers and streams flow, providing essential freshwater sources for both the inhabitants and the diverse wildlife. These waterways create habitats for aquatic life, support vegetation, and shape the movement patterns of various species.

Ecosystem Cycles

• Spring. As winter's grip begins to loosen, Botar experiences the arrival of spring. This season is marked by a gradual warming of temperatures and the emergence of new plant life. In the forests, deciduous trees sprout fresh leaves, providing a burst of greenery. Many herbivores, such as deer and rabbits, take advantage of the increased food supply and give birth to their young during this period when vegetation is abundant. Predators, including wolves and big cats, are active as they hunt the vulnerable newborns.
• Summer. Summer in Botar is a time of plenty. The grassy savannas flourish with tall grasses, attracting herds of herbivores like antelope and zebras. This abundance of prey sustains the large predators, including lions and cheetahs. Bird species nest and raise their chicks in the trees and on the cliffs, taking advantage of the season's warmth and ample insect populations. In the rivers and streams, fish are plentiful, supporting both aquatic and avian predators.
• Autumn. As autumn arrives, the savannas begin to dry out, and the grasses lose their lushness. Herbivores may start migrating to find greener pastures, a phenomenon that triggers the Botari people's communal hunts. During this season, many plant species produce seeds and fruits, providing an essential food source for both wildlife and the Botari population as they gather and store these resources for the coming winter.
• Winter. Winter is a challenging time for Botar's inhabitants, especially in the northern tundras. As temperatures plummet, most animals either migrate to warmer regions, hibernate, or undergo adaptations to survive the cold. Predators like arctic foxes and owls hunt for the few creatures still active in the snow-covered landscape. In contrast, the Botari people shift their focus to spiritual activities and rituals during this time, connecting with their nature spirits to ensure the survival of their tribes.

Localized Phenomena

The Tears of Nashira is a revered natural phenomenon among the Botari people, occurring in the spring season as a singular and extraordinary rainfall event. It is surrounded by a sense of mystique and spirituality, as it is believed to be closely tied to Nashira, the creator goddess of the Botari. According to their mythology, Nashira's tears are seen as a manifestation of her blessings and an expression of her connection to the land.
This unique rainfall event is known for its intensity and duration, often bringing heavy rains with no winds to speak of that can last for several days. The Tears of Nashira primarily occur in proximity to the rivers that run through Botar. This close association is viewed as a divine act by the Botari, suggesting that Nashira herself weeps for her creation, nourishing the land with her tears.
Despite the potential for flooding, the Tears of Nashira rarely disrupt or damage the Botari settlements. This is often attributed to the deep connection between the Botari people and their environment, as well as the careful planning and construction of their settlements. The Botari have learned to adapt to the seasonal rains, designing their homes and villages to withstand such events. They also take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of their communities during the Tears.
However, travel during the Tears of Nashira can be especially perilous. The swollen rivers, muddy terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions make it challenging to navigate the land. Travelers are often advised to seek shelter and wait for the rains to subside, as attempting to cross flooded rivers or traverse muddy paths can be dangerous. Despite the risks, the Tears of Nashira are viewed with great reverence, as they are seen as a direct connection to their creator goddess and a reminder of the sacred bond between the Botari people and their land.

Climate

1. Desert Climate. In the southern desert region, Botar experiences an arid climate with long, hot summers and relatively mild winters. Temperatures during the summer can soar to extreme highs, often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainfall in this area is infrequent and sporadic, with unpredictable, brief thunderstorms during the summer months.
2. Savanna Climate. In the central and eastern savannas, Botar has a more predictable climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. During the wet season, which corresponds to spring and early summer, the region receives significant rainfall. This period, known as the "Tears of Nashira," is crucial for the growth of vegetation and the sustenance of wildlife. The dry season, which encompasses late summer and autumn, sees a decrease in rainfall, resulting in drying grasslands and an increase in wildfires.
3. Tundra and Mountain Climates. In the northern tundras and mountainous areas, Botar experiences a harsh, subarctic climate. Winters are long, bitterly cold, and marked by heavy snowfall. Summers are short and relatively mild, with temperatures rarely exceeding 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Precipitation in the form of snow is common in the tundras, while the mountains influence local weather patterns and can lead to variable conditions.

Fauna & Flora

Flora

1. Savanna Grasses. In the central and eastern savannas of Botar, tall grasses dominate the landscape. These include elephant grass, sorghum, and silver beardgrass. These grasses provide vital grazing for herbivores and serve as fuel for the seasonal wildfires that renew the grasslands. Acacia trees, with their distinctive umbrella-shaped canopies, dot the savanna and provide shade and sustenance for both flora and fauna.
2. Tundra Flora. In the northern tundras, where the climate is harshest, hardy vegetation prevails. Low shrubs, such as Arctic willow and bearberry, cling to the frozen soil. Lichens and mosses thrive on rocky outcrops, adding splashes of color to the stark landscape. These plants have adapted to survive in the frigid temperatures and short growing seasons of the tundra.

Fauna

1. Savanna Wildlife. The savannas are bustling with life, attracting a multitude of herbivores, including antelope, zebras, and buffalo. Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are the savanna's top predators, adept at hunting the swift-footed prey. A wide variety of bird species, from eagles to flamingos, call the savannas home and are often seen soaring in the skies or wading in the region's waterways.
2. Tundra and Mountain Species. The northern tundras are inhabited by creatures specially adapted to the harsh conditions. Snow hares, arctic foxes, and hardy bird species like ptarmigans are commonly found in this region. Mountain goats scale the steep cliffs of Botar's mountains, while majestic eagles and other raptors soar high above. In the rivers and streams that originate in the mountains, diverse aquatic life, including various fish species and amphibians, thrives.
3. Aquatic Life. Throughout Botar, rivers and streams provide habitat for aquatic creatures. These waterways are home to various fish species, including trout and salmon, which support both avian and terrestrial predators. Crocodiles and alligators are also found in the marshes and water bodies of the region.

Natural Resources

• Timber and Wood. Botar's forests provide an abundant source of timber. The dense woods yield high-quality lumber, including oak, cedar, and redwood, which are used for construction, crafting, and fuel. The Grand Elven Forests to the south of Botar are especially revered for their unique and enchanted wood, sought after for its exceptional quality in crafting spiritual totems and artifacts.
• Grains and Crops. In the savannas, the Botari cultivate hardy grains and crops such as sorghum, millet, and yams. These staple foods form the basis of their diet and are essential for sustenance during the dry seasons. Root vegetables and tubers are also grown, providing an additional source of nutrition.
• Animal Resources. Botar's diverse ecosystems offer a wealth of animal resources. Herds of antelope, buffalo, and zebras provide meat, hides, and bones. Predators like lions and cheetahs yield valuable furs and pelts. In the tundras, the fur of arctic foxes and the meat of snow hares are essential for survival. Aquatic life, including various fish species, is a significant source of protein for the Botari people.
• Metals and Stones. Botar has limited natural deposits of metals and stones, but some iron ore and semi-precious gems can be found in the region. These resources are typically mined in small quantities and used for crafting tools, jewelry, and spiritual adornments.
• Medicinal Herbs and Plants. The diverse flora of Botar includes many medicinal herbs and plants. Botari herbalists and healers have a deep knowledge of these natural remedies, using them to treat ailments, injuries, and illnesses. The Grand Elven Forests, in particular, are known for their unique and potent healing herbs.
• Rivers and Freshwater. The rivers and streams that flow through Botar provide essential freshwater resources. These waterways not only serve as a source of drinking water for the Botari people but also support aquatic life and are a crucial component of the ecosystem.

History

Botar’s history is shrouded in mystery, largely due to the lack of written history kept by the Botari people themselves. However, they do keep a long-running oral tradition, spanning back dozens of generations. According to the Botari, they were originally born unto the land when it was a dead and dry place, far worse than it is even now. Saddened by the loss of the fertile and life-filled lands given to the other races of the world, Nashira cried from the heavens, and the tears that fell to the land cause life to flourish, plants sprouting from the dead soil, spreading across the land and reviving it.
A land of lush plantlife and sprawling savannas and dense jungles filled Botar, but it was empty and silent. The sight of the life made Nashira happy, and her final tear did fall, no more saddness weighing down her heart. However, this land was not fit for the Botari people, and so Itzil went forth and spread his spawn through the wilds. At his will, lions rose from the earth and stretched for the first time, gazelle leapt from the very grass and raced out across the plains, and mighty crocodiles formed together from the sediment carried by the rivers of Nashira’s tears. These animals were to be watched over by powerful beings set in place by Itzel, and so the Great Spirits were formed. One of each animal gathered together, split amongst themselves with others who they best matched, and sacrificed their lives, letting their spirits gather together into conglomerate beings.
Of the birds and bats that tore through the sky rose The Thunder Bird, who watched over his fellow avian beings. From the hyenas, the wild dogs, and the mighty apes of the jungles rose The Eternal Pack, endlessly running through the landscape amongst his children. The gazelle, ibex, buffalo, wildebeest, and zebras banded together, creating The Endless Herd, unable to be counted as it spanned across the world over. Those that sought to understand—the elephants and giraffes—became The Wise Watcher, who gently guides her children through life. The endless determination of the hippopatomi, warthogs, and rhinocerouses became The Unwavering One, who stands strong through even the toughest of trials. Those who sought to see all, never letting themselves fully rest formed The Vigilant One from the spirits of the lizards, pangolins, and penguins. The Unmatched Pride rose from the mighty big cats of Botar and the powerful dragons and drakes that prowled the land and sky, always surveing their domain. Finally, the cousin of The Thunder Bird, The Strider rose. She encompassed all birds who ran the lands of Botar rather than ruling the skies. Under Itzel, these Great Spirits became the keepers of the animal life of Botar.
The lands of Botar, once arid and dead, had become full of golden fields, lush green jungles, and the cries of animals. Happy with Itzel’s work, Nashira sought to bring forth one more being—a creature to live alongside the Great Spirits as an equal and take animalkind as a companion. Nashira sent forth Xolotli as a messenger to Theldar, requesting his aid. Xolotli spoke to Theldar, and gained the knowledge to create mankind within Botar. Returning to Nashira, he lied to her, speaking of a sacrifice which she must make to bring forth her children. Believing him, Nashira reached into her chest, tearing out half of her own heart, and planting it within the lands of Botar. From her blood sprang forth the first Botari people, sharing their appearance with the one who created them.
The Botari surveyed the land, and Nashira sought to call out to them, but she had been far too weakened by her sacrifice. Once more, Xolotli offered up himself as a messenger, and without other choice, Nashira accepted. She sent a message with him, and he left the heavens above, traveling to the lands of Botar and appearing before the newly born Botari people. As he did, he appeared as a mighty Botari man, bearing the tail of a snake, the teeth of a lion, and the eyes of a hawk.
“Look upon me, my children!” Xolotli called out, and the Botari listened. “I bring you your form, to look as I do. I bring you the animals, born from my form, and grant you rulership over them. Slay these beings and conquer them, and offer your prayers up to me.” The Botari listened, and they fell to their knees, listening to the mighty god before them, and their prayers and belief fueled him, swelling him with power. He brought them a message of conquering, of death and destruction. As he returned to the heavens above, he sought out Nashira, weakened as she was, and relayed that the Botari are flawed, incapable of love for their fellow man nor beast, and are a failed creation. As such, he offered to accept them under him, as Nashira should not need to rule over something so cruel. The news cause Nashira to weep once more, a torrential storm erupting over Botar, threatening to swallow all in its crashing waves. However, unbeknownst to Xolotli, Itzel has snuck from the heavens to ensure the message was delivered. As Xolotli sought to comfort Nashira over her failed creations, Itzel spoke up and defied to greater god. He spoke of the message delivered, and the lies told by Xolotli. As a being of life and nature, Itzel had followed behin Xolotli and relayed the message from Nashira, their true creator. Hearing this enraged Xolotli, and empowered by the prayers of the newly formed Botari people, struck down Itzel with a single hit, cleaving the god in two with a stone-edged blade. Nashira choked up, her tears stopping as the two halves of Itzel fell from the heavens. One landed upon the lands of Botar, far to the north, and from his divine corpse rose beings in his form. Great colorful winged serpents crawled from his blood and took to the skies, eager to escape the retribution of Xolotli and guide the Botari people to their rightful path.

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Table of Contents

Related Ethnicities

• Botari

Inhabiting Species

• Displacer Beast
• Shifter