Aesheloni - Vainite

The Aisheloni (ay-sha-LOW-nee) are descendants of Kainen who migrated to the land of Aishelon during The Age of Nations. Employed by the Fae, the Aisheloni served as guardians of the legendary Crucible of the Flame. They are the forerunners of Vainites, Ilmarites, and many Lansian ancestors who lived in Wessa during The Age of Exile. Most of the Aisheloni practice a monotheistic faith, with many traditions adopted from the Fae. This religion replaced (or adapted) an earlier belief in a polytheistic pantheon of gods. However, the stories and exploits of ancient ancestral heroes are still important to the Aisheloni self-understanding. The affinity of the Aisheloni people to the land in which they live often expresses itself in strong territorial politics, and locally provincial attitudes. However, they greatly respect the ideals of universal justice and common law. Aisheloni Marshals are recognized as just and fair legal arbiters, even among people of other cultures. After their historical exodus from the land Aishelon to the region of Nøerdewessa at the time of the Exile, the Aisheloni race divided into several national sub-groups, which have remained geographically and socially distinct from one another (Vainites, Leidenites, and Ilmarites, as well as contributing to the culture of the Lurvites, Karshans, and Lansians. Among other peoples, the Aisheloni and Kainen people are often lumped together as a single race or culture. In fact, after the Age of Darkness, all Aisheloni who returned to the land of Aishelon came to be referred to by the name "Kainen." VAINITES: The Vainites are the most "civilized" of the Aisheloni people descended from the northern Kainen people. They live in fortified cities, ruled by warrior lords and knights, maintaining a feudal form of government, and are divided into various regional alliances. The Vainites are used to interacting with people of different cultures, including Lansians, Thurim, and Karshans, as well as the Fae peoples of the west. In fact, Vainite religion reflects a decidedly Fae influence, with many ideas and concepts borrowed from the Tashani. Though Vainites are well-respected among the people of Wessa, they are often perceived by other cultures as being greedy and opportunistic, especially in regard to territorial expansion and the exploitation of natural resources. Vainite hair ranges from shades of blonde to light brown, with eyes of blue, green or hazel. Women generally wear their hair long and in braids. Some men are clean shaven, while others wear beards. LIEDENITES: ILMARITES: