Beyokin

The Beyokin, as stewards of knowledge, have a deep reverence for books and written lore. They see written words as sacred vessels of wisdom, and the act of writing itself is considered a noble and honorable practice. In their native Ansal, there are numerous grand libraries and scribe guilds, and the role of a librarian or a scribe is esteemed as highly as that of a diplomat or a royal counselor. Annual festivals celebrate the art of writing, where beautifully illuminated manuscripts are showcased, and new writers are initiated into the guilds in grand ceremonies.
Another unique aspect of Beyokina culture is their commitment to environmental stewardship. They have an inherent belief that the natural world is a delicate balance of forces that need to be respected and preserved. This belief manifests in their architecture, farming practices, and urban planning. Houses are often built with natural materials and designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Farmlands are maintained using organic methods, and the cities are planned in such a way as to avoid disturbing natural habitats. Each year, a festival of nature is held where the Beyokin people plant trees and flowers, and rituals are held to honor the spirits of nature.
The Beyokin also have a fascinating tradition in the realm of music. Unlike their tastes in food and attire, which are plain, their music is complex and intricate, often reflecting the depth of their intellectual pursuits. Beyokin musical compositions are renowned for their sophisticated melodies and harmonious blends of unusual instruments. The society attaches great significance to these, seeing them as another form of scholarly output. Music is taught in schools alongside reading and writing, and the creation of a new musical piece is celebrated much like the publication of a new scholarly paper.
Even in their role as stewards of the sacred Sawnmyr Isle, the Beyokin's intellectual and pacifist nature shines through. This island has traditionally served as a peaceful haven, a space for reconciling disputes and brokering peace agreements between different cultures. The Beyokin, having historically populated the island before a catastrophic event led them to interpret it as a divine signal of the isle's true purpose, now uphold the responsibility of maintaining its sanctity. Yet, modern times and changing perspectives have brought an internal schism about the island's current relevance. Some argue that the isle's tradition is antiquated and has lost its significance, while others staunchly uphold its sacred stature. This divide manifests as one of the rare instances of heated debate among the generally consensus-oriented culture.
However, despite their own internal discords, the Beyokin's interactions with their neighbors tell another story. The democratic and pacifist tendencies of the Beyokin have occasionally been a source of frustration for their Oralt allies. There is a fear that the Beyokin, with their abhorrence of conflict, would not lend their support if a crisis were to arise involving the aggressive Liij. Yet the Beyokin maintain their stance, their placid position in Tyril and the advantageous benevolence of the Council allowing them this serenity. Their privileged situation has not gone unnoticed by other cultures and occasionally invites criticism. Nonetheless, the Beyokin continue to strive for peace, their strong sense of justice never wavering.