Lei
<Layn>
Lei are a people of Northern Aisoa, primarily found in Lenif, along with its surrounding nations of Wejnazeer, Bocrae, and Aswana.
Most Lei are humans with warm fair or medium skin tones with orange-brown hair, or halflings closely descended from Nazeeran halflings.
Naming Traditions
Feminine names
Charo, Anastasia, Felisa, Sorne
Masculine names
Octavio, Felipe, Estebe, Vasco
Unisex names
Reyes, Ale, Amets, Cruz
Family names
Yadira, Fulgencio, Liliana, Tere, Glauco
Other names
Lei names are inspired by a mix of Spanish, Basque, and Portuguese names. Generate more here.
Culture
Culture and cultural heritage
Prior to Wytris' arrival in Lenif in 3765 EC, the nation was still reeling after its failure to conquer what was now the new nation of Wejnazeer. Having simultaneously spent so many resources and only managed to create a new enemy, the country was in disarray.
The goddess showed herself to the king of Lenif, and began guiding the royal family. Initially reserved and reclusive, over many years the goddess became a public figure. The church grew, and the country built itself back up. The Lei people know these stories word for word, and take their messages to heart.
Lenif is uniquely blessed to have direct and regular contact with a god, and it is clear to any outsider that this has had a major effect on the culture of the nation. It is a uniting factor that few other nations can boast.
Sayings & Cultural Touchstones
"He's about as powerful as a Lei nobleman." - Used sarcastically, to indicate that someone is not powerful at all. Nobles in Lenif held most of the power in the country prior to Wytris's arrival and the growth of the Church. The church slowly pushed out many of the nobles and took over their responsibilities. Those that gave up most of their power remained in control of their lands and title, but were largely sidelined. Wytris - The faith is widespread in Lenif, and nearly everyone is raised to participate. Visitors are similarly welcomed and proselytized to, even by those who aren't part of the clergy.Shared customary codes and values
Thanks to the prevalence of the church, generosity is a nearly universally shared value in Lei culture. This is generally directed to the church, who is trusted to find the best uses for it. These charitable projects can often go over budget or run off schedule, the result is generally something long lasting that can be enjoyed by all for years.
Alcohol and intoxicants are not entirely frowned upon, but offered in moderation. Taverns generally offer non alcoholic drinks until specifically asked for ale or wine - the most popular are lemonades, spiced honey, and teas.
Pet ownership is highly valued in Lei culture, and most families have a pet dog or Thyllian Lynx, if not simply livestock. Children are taught early how to care for animals, and to keep them safe and out of trouble. Similarly, caring for younger siblings or elderly relatives is a valued and expected thing to do.
Cultural Stereotype
Lei are often seen as honest, loyal folk with a strong sense of community, but can be viewed up as stuck up or boring. Lei are sometimes viewed as lazy or foolish due to the weight they put in fate and good tidings, but generally lucky. If you can manage to get them to start a task, they will do it correctly for they hate to do the same work twice. Some cultures see it as unlucky to make large groups of Lei their enemies, for fear of invoking the ire of their god.Art & Architecture
Lei architecture are sturdy, with deep foundations. Basements are more common in Lenif than most other countries, though they remain quite simple. Many homes are partially constructed of both stone and wood, and tend to be single story homes that sprawl.
In major cities, wood is replaced with further use of stone. A pinkish marble common in Lenif is used heavily in government and church buildings, while most other homes tend to be simple brick and mortar walled, with wooden roofs with shingles.
Music
Lei music favors singing and high vocals underlaid with the stringed instruments common in Vect music. Drums are used as quiet background rhythm, though chimes and metal percussion are used semi-regularly. Ballads and operas are exceedingly popular, though are sometimes critiqued for sharing common themes and storylines too often - frequently about Wytris and her church. Lei singers remain popular in other nations, provided they adjust their source material somewhat.Funerary and Memorial customs
Funerals are held at local churches, among the deceased person's family and close friends. Shared graveyards hold the buried dead in separate plots, and the lands tended to by a member of the church or a local volunteer.
Those not invited to the private ceremony often leave anonymous gifts on the doorstep of the deceased's relatives. These gifts are generally simple, such as food, flowers, or simple crafts memorializing an aspect of the deceased.
Parent ethnicities
Related Organizations
Languages spoken
