Oeridian

Oeridian is generally used in reference to the Oeridian people, (sometimes called the "Oerid"), a race of humans living in the Flanaess , though the term may also refer to the language and culture of said people.

History

Having once inhabited the plains of Central Oerik, the Oeridians moved into what is now known as Ull (where they were called the Yorodhi by their Baklunish neighbors) starting 1,235 years ago. They occasionally served either the Baklunish or the Suel as mercenaries until the fall of both empires, and the Oeridians were the first to flee into the Flanaess, as they were eventually driven eastward into the Flanaess by orcs and goblins used as mercenaries by the Baklunish Empire and the Suel Imperium.
Being hardy warriors they battled their way east, sometimes allying with the native Flan and elves (especially against the Suel) as they travelled. They settled in much of the Flanaess, often conquering and assimilating the Flan natives and Suel settlers afterwards, though some lands, such as the Sheldomar Valley and Vale of Luna, were settled more peacefully.
The Flanaess' most powerful modern empire, the Great Kingdom of Aerdy, was founded by a warlike Oeridian tribe known as the Aerdi. The Nehron of modern Nyrond, the Keogh of modern Keoland, the Ferroi of modern Furyondy, and the Vollar of modern Veluna are other notable Oeridian tribes.

Culture

Ancient Oeridians were fierce warriors, yet they also were self-sacrificing and loyal. These traits are not as evident today, bur many Oeridians do remain temperamental and prone to violence. They have a preference for strict social order, usually fitting themselves at the top, and their military traditions are strong. Aggression is often channeled into political conflict and subterfuge. The Oeridian skill at warfare is unsurpassed, and many folk have a hard-learned respect for it. In peacetime, they are practical, hard working, and not inclined to intellectual pursuits.
Oeridian dress normally consists of a short tunic and close-fitting trousers with a cape or cloak, tailored for ease of movement. Aerdi and Nyrondal Oeridians favor plaids and checks, with ovals or diamonds in the south and west Colors and patterns once showed clan allegiance, but this practice is fading in favor of personal colour preference.
Following their warlike tendencies, magic-using Oeridians focus on battle-oriented spells, as well as the enchantment of magic items useful in combat. Spellcasters have a hard-nosed, practical attitude, and they are generally hawkish and outgoing. Many strive to be leaders or masters. Magic is often used for pragmatic purposes, too, such as construction, irrigation, and iron-forging.
"Unmixed" Oeridians are most commonly found in Furyondy, Perrenland, the Shield Lands, the North Kingdom of Aerdy, the See of Medegia, Onnwal, and Sunndi.
The traditional calendar of the Oeridians is known as the Oeridian Record.