Asurayam

The Asurayam

Overview

The Asurayam people, also known as the Anesari, have a long and rich history, descended from tribes that migrated into Anosfae and eventually drove out the Ingharans. Anosfae has traditionally been regarded as the soul of life by many others; it is home to many languages and is known for its magnanimity, tolerance, and administration. The Anesari flourished in the wet rain forests of Sominrae, particularly under the great Sage Ahsurkorashur (Emperor) , who brought order, united the tribes, and civilized them in the manner of the ancient and opulent Ingharans. Many lords and rulers of Somnirah have been these mages known as Mansurs, who had become the ruling aristocracy over the lake region, while the great princes banded together on the sands of Orazahan and elected their leader, But in the lands of Lohnare, where horse and man are one and the steppe, which grants them freedom, live many tribes, including the Tahari people, who come from a land far to the north of the Merchant clans of Ornemere. This great land has been ruled by foreign powers numerous times, including the Horse Nomads such as the Gentari or by the sublime Soranni. But despite the realm of Anosfae being home to many invaders, the culture and language have survived through its poets and art. because the many great works of poetry would shine bright in the courts throughout Anosfae, as would the musicians who create beautiful ballads and songs telling of forgotten times and stories of once great kings.

Subgroups

The Anesari can be split into five sub-cultures: Somnirai, Misrahni, Orazari, Lohnari, and Durajahi Somnirah, the Land of Balhdaan, is the celestial heart of Anosfae and the seat of the Ahsurkorahsurs. Once home to the sublime and decedant Ingharans, it is now inhabited by the alustirious Anesari. Somnirah is one of the most fertile in all of Nirann, and the majority of it is surrounded by rain forests that disperse when they reach the grand hills of Misrahn. Its center, the Mishannah grassland, is surrounded by forests and hills and divided by rivers, which are used by the inhabitants and their interconnected farms and plantations to grow a variety of crops, including grains, fruits, and lentils. There is a saying from the great poet Mirhangir: "In Somnirah’s sacred grove, where gems of gold and diamond gleam, leaves dance to the rhythm of the wind, a timeless dream. A tiger prowls with a regal glance, its eyes a mystic fire. Power flows through its veins, a force of ancient desire." Many lords and rulers of Somnirah have been these mages known as Mansurs, who had become the ruling aristocracy over the lake region. These powerful lords of magic have their origin in the old Siri nomadic shamans who would be the leaders of tribes as they migrated in and mixed with the Ingharan priestly and mage class they would merge. Culturally, the Somnirah adorn themselves in colorful fashion, with turbans colorful and magjestic instead of using a cap like the Safi or the Orazhai. Many of them tie their hair in a bun akin to the Soranni and wrap cloth, be it silk or many other textiles, and a colorful band with designs goes on top, decorated with feathers and jewelry for the nobles.
Elaborate patterns including flowers, dots, checks, and waves were used with colors from various sources, the most famous being those from the flowers and from minerals collected from the Halnir. Men traditionally wore long over-lapping coats known as kamah, with a colorful sash tied around the waist as a sign of power and opulence. The Somnirai are distinctive in that they practice a variety of cults and sects, mainly aligning with the Sehajari. You can find shrines and temples dotted across the many farms and hills to gods and goddesses or to local saints. The Kirrentai have a base of power along the Western coast facing the Chanadi Sea (Soramari), facing towards the Soranni, and in the many cities of Iysarne, the marble city, and Yirenes, the city of merchants. In the many hills and forests, you can find the Ilhjahi and their monasteries, who worship one god, unlike the faiths of Nirann; they worship the energy and primordial being, which is in everything from an ant to the grand gods and goddesses. The Ilhjahi political and religious capital is Mishannah, a city known for its grand history as being an Ingharan temple and agricultural city. Marin can be found in the many cities and some villages are mainly Marin; in the Anesar tongue, they are known as Tharasi, which means dagger ears. They are respected as tailors and jewelers as they have perfected their craft over many years. Misrahn, known as the Iron Shield, is firm and ever-vigilant as it surrounds the lake region of Somnirah. These hills are home to the Anesari, who relinquished the endless steppe of Dazhin long ago, determined to conquer the lands of Anosfae. These hills and mountains were home to many peoples, such as pockets of Halnir and Ingharan strongholds. It was only until the Soranni that the Anesari were able to become a majority in Misrahn, finally assimilating the ingharans. The region of Misrahn is a land of rolling hills and high mountains. To the north are the tallest mountains in all of Nirann, the Karamarhan mountains, meaning world piercers in Anesar. Not much is grown in these hostile and rigid lands but many have become accustomed to terrace farming and farming within the valleys and flatlands. There is a saying by the poet Mirhangir that “Misrahn’s rugged hills rise like ancient sentinels, their steadfast resolve shielding Sominrah’s fertile embrace from all who dare to breach its sacred tranquility.” Misrahn is known to be ruled by many Ahsurs (kings) and Razahs (princes this region had become a central refuge for many Anesari nobles as invaders had taken over. The Ahsurs of this region are unique compared to those of Somnirah or Orazahan, as many come from the backgrounds of religious saints and monkly orders.
It is here that the Sehajari and Tarai faiths have blended, creating somewhat of a different brand of the Sehajari you would find in Orazahan with its warrior cults or of Somnirah with its many thousands of cults. Fashion in Misrahn differs as it has more influence from places such as Dazhin or the peoples of the Tarai. The Misrahni wear their hair either long or in a braid wound around their heads and embellished with a complicated pattern of lesser braids and jewelry, though many do braid their hair in the rural areas without much Somnirah influence. Many in cities have adopted to wearing turbans and tieing their hair in buns with intercate designs of clouds and flowers; some have seen that instead of using jewelry or peacock feathers for decoration, they use antlers or fangs of tigers or the feathers of hawks. Besides the Anesari who reside in these hills, the Halnir also reside within their austere hills and mountain fortresses. Known to the Anesari as the Korashi (Iron folk), they are respected as great metalworkers and masters of runes. It is said that these Halnir were able to use a special metal called Khuketz in their tongue. It is unique because it can shine in dark places and is very cheap. Many halniric houses have these shards tied in ribbons along the ceilings of their abodes. Orazahan, land of the Razahi (Princes), is the southern realm inhabited by the hardy and resilient people of Orazahan. Once home to the Emsahirs and many other southern tribes, it was under Usoreja that they were assimilated into the culture of the lake region. This land is renowned for its golden plains and southern deserts. Numerous plantations and farms line the great rivers, cultivating fruits like dates and Arus, a peach-like fruit, alongside various grains, making the region famous for its flatbreads.The great poet Mirhangir was born in these lands, in the city of dreams, Kahnshar. Here, he rose to prominence and spoke fondly of this great land, saying, “In Orazahan, where golden plains kiss the glistening rivers and the deserts sing ancient songs, the culture renews again, radiant as the sun’s embrace upon the sands.”Orazahan is home to the great Razah (princes) and their Ahrazah (grand prince), who are elected by the princes as the head of state. These princes have ties to the old Soranni dukes who, following the fall of power in Anosfae, seized control and elected their own grand prince to rule and govern.
This land is notorious for its brutal politics, with princes constantly vying for power and wealth, often resorting to murder and intrigue in their pursuits. Culturally, the Orazahi relish in garish costumes, bizarre tapestries, jewelry, branding, and elaborate ceremonies. As a center of culture akin to Somnirah, they are more given to philosophy and the pursuit of ancient traditions, reviving Anesari culture. Like the Safi to the north, they wear caps in the center of their turbans, adorned with beads of pearls and peacock feathers. Many also wear hats like the lohnari, but with opulent furs from Khowarah (Faendarama), silk and textiles from the Safi, and jewelry from the Tharasi. Kaftans are common, often worn as battle dress over armor for nobles, embroidered with motifs such as clouds, trees, flowers, and mythical creatures like the Ormigh, a creature that is half serpent and half peacock. Orazahan is home to many faiths. Along the rivers, many follow a belief aligned with the Sehajari, emphasizing water, as Apakuar is seen as the god of fertility and water. The Sarithraks have become a majority in places like Nazdarha and the northwestern region. During the rule of the Noghurids, many Sarithrak monks and priests settled in this region, as the last few Noghurid rulers had converted to the faith. Many monks and saints have found their place in this region, as it is a mesh of many faiths combined, creating new interfaith realizations and trading of ideas and the growth of new ones. places such as Kahnshar have started to outshine the great universities of Iysarne and Mishannah. Lohnare, home to a group of people with a close lineage to the Anesari. The Lohnari reside in the steppes and plains between Orazhae (Ornesa) and Anosfae. The Lohnari are known for their prowess in horseback riding, and Wahntai, their capital city, is widely recognized as a place where horses and people coexist peacefully, a phenomenon that may seem unusual to others, given that the Lohnari consider their horses to be citizens. Due to their dual roles as shepherds and nomadic people (with only those in cities and along the river being settled), the Lohnari are renowned for being skilled raiders as well as adept traders. Though some still maintain strong ties to their past through shamans, many Lohnari on the River have become Sarithraks like their Laus cousins. However, many Lohnari outside the cities and rivers continue to worship ancient Anesari deities like Orhan, who is the god of the Eternal Steppe, horses, hunting, and archery, and Isirse, Goddess of War, Wisdom, Love, Beauty, Poetry, and Victory.
During the reign of Ahsurkorashur (Emperor) Tokhon kor Mahakahn, the Lohnari had submitted to him early and became great allies to him, conquering all of Anosfae and raiding as far into the capitals of both the Iysuldhali (Utumi) and Ouratci (Ornemere). During his reign, while the rest of Soramari was lit ablaze during the war of shattering, the Lohnari started to settle along the Lake of Lohmni and the river Lumjar, especially the great capital of Wahntai, which means warriors rest in Lohnari and is said to be related to the Gentari name Hankhai, as Wahntai is connected to the Soramari and centered between Dahnukai (Korthai), which is to the north, and Iysuldhal (Utumi), which is to the south, Luisarho (Laus), which is to the west, and Anasurae (Anosfae), which is to the east. It lies as a new center of the spread of trade and knowledge on both sea and land, thus leading to the settlement of the Lohnari around it becoming rich and many prospectors from all corners of the known world coming to settle in its many new towns. Culturally, the River Lohnari has adopted many customs of those from the North, be they the Thaidans or Gentari. They braid their hair like the Thaidans and wear Gentari-type jewelry. Under Tokhon, the region of Lohnare prospered, especially with advisors from all across the world. Be it the Akhasuri (Sarithraks), the Ilhsurahi (Soranni), or the Tharasi (Marin). It was during this time that Aora-ih-Majahn (House of Wisdom) was built in Lohnare, overshadowing the other buildings with its large dome. With mosaics inside from all cultures from all corners of the world and its library filled with books from all faiths and philosophies, it was after the death of Tokhon that many around those cities and the river converted to Sarithra, even the Ahsurkorahsurs (Emperors) after Tokhon in his dynasty converted to the Sarithrak faith, creating a sizeable community far from Lausare in the center of Lohnare and parts of Orazahan. Durajahi, the land of Anjahan’s people, is the northernmost part of Anosfae. This enclosed valley is bordered by hills to the south and north and by the Karamarhan Mountains to the west. The geography of Durajahi is as varied as its inhabitants. The forested peaks of the Karamarhan Mountains are sparsely populated, home to occasional herders, shepherds, and numerous Kassae hamlets. The southern hills separate the densely populated Somnirah from Durajahi.The only true cities are situated along the Ilharhi River, where several small kingdoms have thrived on the trade flowing from the Soramari to the Ilharhi River. Grim fortifications sit atop every hill and crag on an otherwise idyllic landscape, serving as a constant reminder of the warfare that has plagued this region. In the past, every minor Ahsur (King), safe within his fort, enriched himself with tribute from everyone who passed through his domain. The famous poet Mirhan, in his Ashuramah (Book of Kings), said, “In Durajahi’s serene valleys, where mountains whisper tales of kings, the rivers of Ilharhi flow with the blood of ancient wars and the dreams of peaceful tomorrows.” Many rulers have centered themselves around the city of Achetai, a grand city that is home to many cultures that have shaped this land.
The nomadic Tahari come into the city to trade their hunted goods; the Kassae are known for their wood and metalworking; the Soranni come as priests and preachers of the Kirrentai faith; and the largest minority, the Marin, are known as beautiful makers of textiles and jewelry. Culturally, the Durajahi people have been influenced by the Kassae and Soranni, but in recent years, many Ahsurs have styled themselves as Ahsurs of the Somnirah region. The Durajahi wear sleeveless clothing, usually over-sleeved shirts and robes. Many wear furs and clothing like the Tahari, or wools and silks like the Kassae and Soranni. The turbans and hats of this region have intricate designs with clouds and flowers on the cloth, similar to the Somnirah but with more geometric designs akin to that of the Soranni.The main faith of this region is the Kirrentai, but a local variation that takes much influence from the Sehajari. Unlike Somnirah or Orazahan, this region is not as diverse in faiths and cults, as many of the minorities are also of the Kirrentai faith. This region is known to be dotted with destroyed and refurbished forts from the Soranni Ketsing, with many cities having districts that resemble Soranni architecture with its rooves that are covered with clay tiles and often like the hip and gable shape and mainly stone buildings.

Culture

Item Reverence

The majority of the Anesari's possessions are held in high regard since they are seen as having a connection to the owner and having the potential to be utilised in reincarnation in the future. The most valuable objects are either swords or books. Swords are viewed as having the power to take lives; it is said that this taints a weapon. However, recently, weapons have come to be recognized as holy due to the country's ongoing problems with human invasion.

Music

Particularly popular among the Anesari are flutes, drums, and chordophones. Flute and drums are two of the most frequently used instruments in religious ceremonies, particularly for Ilhjisi hymns and prayers where singing and instrumental accompaniment play a significant role.

Dance

There are several folk dances throughout the vast and diverse land of Anosfae, but the most popular is Angai, which began in Somnirae. It was mostly done while farmers were doing agricultural activities. They would execute Angai motions as they went about their farming activities. Farmers have always conducted Angai to celebrate their accomplishments and welcome the new harvesting season. Another well-known dance is Inaktah, which was created by the Ilhjisi. This kind of stick-fighting uses wooden sticks to resemble swords. It is designed to feel elegant and aggressive. Many of the swords had strings of various colors on the handles, and the swords were occasionally lit on fire to add appeal and demonstrate the Ilhjisi's enthusiasm. It is considered a performance art and is frequently showcased during Ilhjisi festivals.

Values

Anesari have produced a large body of poetry and religious writings that serve as manuals for living lives of morality, service, and spirituality. The majority of Anesari philosophy, particularly Ilhjisi, places a great focus on pursuing a deeper connection with the divine, living in harmony with those around them, as well as giving back to the community as a whole.

Poetry

Anesari poems are spoken or sung during religious services in shrines and temples and are an essential aspect of Anesari worship. They are an essential part of Anesari culture and identity and provide inspiration, direction, and spiritual upliftment. The subjects and concepts of the poems, unlike those of Soranni and Ischurri, are distinct rather than vaguely similar; a poem from Somnirae differs from one from Lohnare.

Cuisine & Diet

The cuisine of the Anesari is characterized by a wide variety of foods, with a particular emphasis on consuming grains, meats, dairy, and spices. It is noteworthy that fish is consumed more frequently in Somnirii cuisine than in the culinary traditions of its neighboring regions, such as the Lohnarii and Orazharii. Notably, dairy products appear to be more prevalent in Lohnare compared to other regions, which is likely attributable to the plains being well-suited for cows and horses. The Anesari loves tea and milk as they are the most common drinks, often enjoyed with a squeeze of the Uuzii citrus fruit or sugar. The Anesari have a taste for both sweet and sour flavors in their beverages. Recently, the Anesari have started drinking coffee introduced by merchants from faraway lands like Essukur and Immyu-Audal. Which is known to be a stimulating and bitter beverage but vital for soldiers and workers who need some extra hours.

Clothing

Anesari clothing is known for its use of silk and linen, with furs being reserved for winter garments and for those who live near the mountains. Anesari robes often feature a short-sleeved robe layered over a lighter one, which helps to protect from the sun and keep cool. The Somnirii are a great example of this style. Compared to their neighbors, Anesari robes tend to be shorter in length, with shorter sleeves and baggy pants. Soranni robes, for example, typically have longer sleeves. The traditional Anesari robe used to feature a longer robe underneath, with a vest-like robe adorned with ornate patterns. Mask culture in the land of Anesari isn't as prevalent as it is among the Tsennari who live across the great Soramari. The culture of masks had been used in times before the Anesari settled in Anasurae; it was used in their shamanic rituals and fine masks were put on those who would be put to rest and cremated. In modern times, masks aren't as prevalent among the people but instead with the warriors known as the Irthurai, who have spent much of their time in foreign lands such as Izhuran (Ischurrai) and Ilhsurah (Soranna), picking up many things such as gunpowder but also metal masks to protect their faces from the smog and fire from firing, said Bahnruks (Firearms). The Noblity masks are not seen often but they are seen in the northern courts of the Durjaei, influenced by the Tsenari. While those of Dahnukai (Korthai) are not known to wear hats but instead braid their hair, and those of Luisarho (Laus) are known for their Sitiric hats and headwraps, the Anesari are known for their extravengant hats known as the Arghari (Turban), which are adorned with peacock feathers and pearls for those of the nobility, while the Irthurai adorn long turbans with metal disks around them and small blades. The Anesari turban is worn by all, from the highest of Anesari to the lowest of them.

Architecture

Anesari architecture is known for its sturdy construction and use of durable materials such as bricks and marble. The buildings typically have a stone foundation or first floor, and painted glass windows are common in newer structures. However, older buildings often feature a combination of paper and open-styled windows. Anesari buildings are designed to allow for natural ventilation, which is especially important in the hotter climate. In Niranni culture, the placement of houses is considered to be of great significance. According to tradition, a site becomes pure when it has a white night blossom, which is associated with lucky spirits. Similarly, the Anesari like the Soranni consider their White Night Blossoms to be lucky and hold them in high regard. But depending on the region, certain places, like Misrahn, where Ilhjisi is more prevalent, things such as supersitions are less so. When it comes to Anesari gardens, they are known for their asymmetrical design and the principle of "Lyi Urijan," which emphasizes the harmonious co-existence of humans and nature. The goal is to create a continuous flow that lasts over time. This stands in contrast to the design of Anesari homes, because in Lyi Urian thought, it is said that a city is just like a tree, where the roads act as branches and the separate houses like leaves. Door placement isn't as rigid as it is in Soranna, where doors most often face each other but the idea of this is still found in many of the old parts of cities dating back to the Soranni period. In cities, most houses can house up to two families and many of these 3-story houses act as communities in themselves with gardens set up. As for major structures, the dome is a common feature, but this is mainly for palaces and temples. While you can find normal buildings with domes, they are more commonly seen outside of cities as they take up too much space.

Cleanliness and Hair

The Anesari culture places importance on hair and grooming practices, with various styles and customs followed by different groups within the society. Among the Anesari, it is common for both men and women to tie their hair while for men to wear a turban. This is especially prevalent among those outside of cities. Women, in particular, often adopt Soranni-styled hair, which involves bun hairstyles and allowing their hair to grow long. Children in Anesari culture typically wear turbans or have their hair tied. Women, on the other hand, often wear veils and scarves as part of their attire. Elderly women tend to cut their hair short, while elderly men usually tie their hair in a turban or a top knot and grow a beard. In the Anesari culture, full beards are considered proper and manly. Many individuals choose to grow out their beards, while others prefer to keep them shaved. The Anesari people engage in frequent bathing due to the abundance of rivers and lakes in the country. This emphasis on cleanliness is likely influenced by the availability of natural water sources and the cultural significance placed on personal hygiene.

Agriculture

Around Balhdaans Lake, Anosfae boasts numerous enormous plains with abundant fertility and an abundance of fruit trees of all kinds. Furthermore, the majority of the soil receives irrigation, which enables it to produce two crops annually. Apart from grains, rice, other types of millet, and pulses grow abundantly in Anosfae. Baramu, or long sticks with flowers growing on them, emerges from the earth and is typically found near the interior lake. It has a wide range of culinary and medicinal applications, particularly for its juices and medicine, depending on the variety, which can be sweet or sour. Olive oil was produced by olive trees, which grew successfully in the region of Anosfae. Olive trees were first grown in early Anesari times, when they acquired the knowledge from the Ingharans. Olive cultivation demand a substantial financial commitment over an extended period, as the trees provide fruit only once every two years, after more than twenty years. Although they require a lot of attention, grapes thrive in rocky soil as well. Since the Ingharan era, grapes have been farmed. Another crop grown by the Anesari, iymli which is a whitish radish that is typically produced in gardens and grows in and around Anosfae, particularly in the Misrahn region's hills. Iymli is a type of radish, however unlike other radishes, it has a bitter, savoury flavour akin to that of potatoes. The ideal accompaniment to it is ornei, a grain related to rice that grows more easily in rocky soils.

Faith and Religion

The area now known as Anosfae was home to tribal groups who had animistic, shamanic, and totemic worldviews before the Anesarii civilization emerged and the spread of world religions. Some modern religions and faiths of the Anesari continue the tradition of shamans and other intermediaries communicating prayers, sacrifices, and offerings directly to the ethereal realm. The second-largest religion in Anosfae, Ilhjisi, practices a variety of self-cultivation techniques, such as spiritual magic, meditation, and various other rites. Common goals include achieving spiritual unity by maintaining equilibrium between this world and the afterlife. A common saying by monks is that "In our sacred journey, life flows like a river, leading to the divine embrace. Embrace wisdom and faith to navigate with grace, avoiding temptations and get through trials. Stay devoted, for the destination matters less than our virtuous passage. Find eternal bliss through this journey's end."

Sehajari

In Sehajari, the greatest diety, Anathraj, is actually two dieties: his female counterpart, Isuraja, is more akin to a cosmic force that supports and is in everything, including the gods and everything, including everything from an ant to an elephant. Isuraja is multifaceted; she is frequently identified as Anathraj's wife and even sometimes as a goddess of power, strength, and protection. The masculine side of Anathraj is Ayatana, who is known as the scholar, the creator, and the sustainer. He is the supreme deity who created all with Isuraja by his side, because without her, "Ayatana is nothing but a corspe without Isuraja." Within these two exist other gods and deities. Isuraja, as Anathraj, is one of the six equal forms of God. The six deities are Isuraja, Ayatana, Anjahan, Surahni, Raagi, and Balhdaan. But depending on the many different sects and traditions, the last god can depend on a personal favorite god or a cultural one. It consists of the worship of six deities set in a quincunx-esque pattern where, in the center, Isuraja and Ayatana sit or their other manifestations.

Isuraja

Isuraja, Goddess of War and Strength, is the mother and protector of all. She is associated with protection, strength, motherhood, destruction, and war. Isuraja's legend centers around combating evils and the blight that threaten peace, prosperity, and justice, representing the power of good over evil. She is believed to unleash her divine wrath against the wicked for the liberation of the oppressed, which entails destruction to empower creation and her children. Isuraja is often depicted as a beautiful woman, riding a lion or tiger with many arms, each carrying a weapon and often defeating the blight.

Ayatana

Ayatana, the God of Knowledge, is known as the scholar, the creator, and the sustainer. He is the one who, after destroying his mortal enemy, Usruha, used his body to recreate the many worlds and stars, which all sing of his creation to this day. He watches over and blesses everyone. Planets, stars, and galaxies spinning far beyond speech, he has no end and no beginning. He is described as an old and beared man sitting on his lotus throne.

Asirpa

Asirpa, the god of the forge, blacksmithing, work, and swordsmanship. Known as the great swordwielder, he is the one who foraged the weapons of Isuraja and gave the knowledge down to the humans. Through him he creates the weapons which supported both mortal and God alike, giving him the epithet of destroyer of blight and evil. The Sehajari sometimes even the Ilhjahi worship their weaposn as manifestations of Asirpa, as after all he is known as the Sarkalh (all iron).

Surahni

Surahni, the God of the Sun, is the great luminous friend of all mankind and the illumantor of the world. He is known as the great fire that sustains the world and is known to burn out all blight with his light. Surahni is often depicted as riding a chariot harnessed by horses, often seven in number to indicate the seven days in the week.

Raagi

Raagi, the Goddess of magic and song, Her everlasting song is what keeps the world's magic alive. It was she, with her Ieehla (a type of instrument similar to a Rabab), who sang the stars and planets of the countless cosmos into being. She is a spiritual goddess who encompasses all that purifies the essence and identity of a person, including knowledge, the arts, music, melody, muse, language, rhetoric, eloquence, and creative activity. She is frequently portrayed as riding a peacock and having four arms: one for holding a rosary, the other for holding Raagi's chants, the third for holding a water jug, and the fourth for holding her Ieelha.

Anjahan

Anjahan, the God of the Hunt, is known as the forester, hunter, and caretaker. He is the great stag, known to be the one who populated the world with prey and predators. Anjahan is often depicted as a man with antlers who holds a snake in one hand and a spear in the other. He is widely worshipped as Iydrami, who is his manifestation, who is the slayer of snakes and the enemy of the invading Utumi. Often by his side is a dog or falcon, depending on the culture.

Apakuar

Apakuar, the god of the sea, is responsible for both the mercy and wrath of the ocean. Apakuar is also the guardian of moral law, one who punishes those who sin without remorse and who forgives those who sin with remorse. Just as he judges who can cross the great ocean of the mortal, he decides who will be able to escape and cross the world ocean and become one with Anathraj or the many other heavens and hells.

Ilhjisi

Ilhjisi (Eternal Teaching) is a faith centered on the wisdom of the Sianphrs (enlightened teachers). Ilhjisi entails diverse systems of thought, marked by a range of shared concepts that discuss theology and mythology. Ilhjisi is distinguished from other faiths in its region by its worship of Imsura, a single, eternal, omnipresent god. Imsura is viewed as greater energy in the cosmos; some academics believe Imsura and magic are the same thing and that every other deity was corrupted by the 5 Ijhans (demons), which corrupted both mortals and gods with the vices of lust, pride, attachment, ego, and rage. However, many Ilhjisi think that some gods, like Anetos or one of the Sarithra, are still adherents to Imsura's wisdom. The Ithjar articulates the core beliefs of Ilhjisi, which include faith and meditation in the name of the creator, divine unity and equality, self-service, justice for the benefit and prosperity of all, and honest conduct in household life. Ilhjisi originated and evolved during periods of religious persecution. It originated with the first Sianphr, Tsen Irasaj, who arrived during the shattering. Sianphr Tsen Irasaj is claimed to have traveled extensively across Nieden, teaching people about Imsura, who lives in all of his creations and represents eternal truth. He proposed a distinct spiritual, social, and political platform centered on equality, fraternal love, goodness, and virtue. Ilhjisi originated and evolved during periods of religious persecution. It originated with the first Sianphr, Tsen Irasaj, who arrived during the shattering. Sianphr Tsen Irasaj is claimed to have traveled extensively across Nieden, teaching people about Imsura, who lives in all of his creations and represents eternal truth. He proposed a distinct spiritual, social, and political platform centered on equality, fraternal love, goodness, and virtue. When the quarreling Sajwen and Kirrentai followers tugged at the sheet covering his body, they found instead a heap of flowers and so Tsen Irasaj's simple faith would, in course of time, flower into a religion.

History

The Proto-Sirii, who came from the Korthai regions, are the main ancestors of the Anesari people. They would then migrate to the plains of Lohnare and Ornesa before arriving in Anosfae, leaving behind their kin in Lausare to go off on their own. In order to build a society that was largely the same as, if not superior to, the Ingharans in certain ways, these people in Anosfae would borrow much of the wealth and power of the Ingharans' civilization and merge it into their own. The people were divided into many tribes and city-states, feuding against each other much like the old Ingharans.
The Anesari people would create their own pantheon, although the pantheon's leader would vary based on the tribe or city-state. Balhdaan was revered by those who lived close to the lake as the supreme deity, like the colossal sea snake. Ohan was the ruler of the surface realm and father of all creatures, while Itrn was the goddess of the sky, and at night she was thought to be the one to make all intelligent life from the stars. Both were the two principal deities revered by the people of Lohnare. Unabi and Masre were the two main deities worshipped by people in the Ornesa and Sadari regions. Unabi, who controlled both life and death, bestowed Ornesa's inhabitants with lush land while simultaneously punishing them with famine and death. Masre, who created all of the world's rivers and oceans, was the goddess of water and marriage.
The Anesari eventually lost their tribal identity and started blending more with Ingharan culture. People began to settle in the areas of Ornesa and Anosfae, where both tribes started to build cities either from scratch or out of ancient Ingharan ruins. Those who didn't settle became the groups known today as the Lohnari and the Sadarai. Many of the settled Anesari started to use their own styles of armour instead of the Ingharan, who preferred mobility and archery. Due to the mixing of cultures, a person from Somnirae was different from a person from Lohnare, leading to the divergence of both of them.
Later, under the rule of a man by the name of Ilasur Tsen Usoreja, the many tribes and cities would form the Anasurae, or "land of the noble people." This was the first time the Anesari culture and kingdom had been united. Many of the inhabitants of the area around the lake would begin to identify as Anesari under his rule rather than with specific tribes. The idea of a heaven above them all, where everyone was the son, and the spirit of Tsen, which was in him, would help people to the heaven, and the gods would act as a sort of guide to teach the people, were the foundations he would eventually lay for the Anesari combination of all the tribal gods.
Ilasur Tsen Usoreja was able to unite Anosfae because of the vacuum of power left by the Ingharans being driven out by many Siri tribes. Anosfae, during the times after Inghara and before Anasurae, was plagued by wars between Ingharans and Siri, as well as ash storms from valcanoes on the coasts of Soranna, which crippled the agricultural yields of the People of Anosfae.

An Anesari Monk Meditating