Riekians

The Children of the Open Sky

The human folks of the northern province of Eleann. They are known for their distinct culture and headstrong attitude against the "outsiders". However they are also known for their strong sense of honor. It is this honor, that has kept them allied with the rest of the nation all these years and their citizens are know to be exceptionally loyal to the Emperor. This is why Riekens are often chosen to be the Emperor's closest advisors.

Naming Traditions

Feminine names

Indriza, Saya, Mairav, Kerensa, Necha, Moruikh, Beryan

Masculine names

Alibek, Brantav, Chakten, Ciaran, Ohlsaz, Lught, Volkov

Culture

Culture and cultural heritage

Riekens have separated into two distinct groups, the "Earthshapers" and the "Stargazers" The Earthshapers are known to be hardy, hardworking and productive. They live in wide valleys and highlands of Riek and it is them who are often recruited into the High Spikes, The Eleann military. The Skygazers on the other hand are known to be thoughtful, magically adept and very religious. They live in the glinting city-temples build into the mountains. They provide the shamans for all the towns and villages through the land and their priests and priestesses and widely know as excellent orators and leaders. While they are different, the Riekens understand that they are still of the same blood and will always come together as one people. Overall, the Riekian culture is quite rigid and social mobility is rare between classes. The Joining is always done between the classes of equal status and to make an exception, you need an approval of two shamans or one from the Stormfather. The social classes go like this: Above all others is the Eleann Emperor, whom the Riekians see as the living embodiment of lighting and the avatar of Astach, the Riekian sun god. Below him is the Stormfather, the chosen of Astach and essentially the ruler of Riek. Then comes those that lead and rule the land. Most importantly, the Shamans and just below them, the Stargazer scholars and Earthshaper military leaders. Below them are those who provide, such as artisans, farmers and traders. Then comes everyone else. Those who have wittingly committed crime have forsaken their rights and human value. And unless the victim forgives them, they will serve the gods by working or giving their souls to them. All Riekians are expected to take face or head tattoos that signify their authority and deeds in life. This is especially important for Shamans who dedicate their lives to their beliefs and they often keep their head completely shaven, thus showing their myriads of runes and other religious tattoos to everyone.

Common Dress code

Riekians prefer straight and sleek gowns and haoris, often adorned with jewerly made from silvery metals and bones, both animal and human. For men, hair has to be cut short, unless neatly braided and at least one side being shaved clean. For women, they often either shave clean, like what Stargazers often do. The Earthshapers usually grow it out, wild and untamed. As long as their head tattoos are visible.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

Religion is very important to Riekians and they have a number of different rituals and ceremonies for myriad of occasions. Many of these rituals demand a spilling of blood, be it the their own, or a sacrifice of animal or human. In fact, the capital punishment in Eleann usually means that they are given to Riekian Shamans to be used in their Blood Rituals. The other big ritual are the Great Manhunts. Some certain criminals are given the chance to show their worth to the gods and are released near borders of Riek. After a 12 hours, during which the Shamans and their retinues whip themselves into a religious fervor, the hunt begins. The "un-alive" targets can fight back, as this pleases Astach, but if they are caught, they will be sacrificed then and there. While rare, if they actually manage to escape, they are pardoned and are free to go. One of the most important traditions Riekians have, is known as "The Joining" It is a week long celebration held during the summer solstice. During this time, both people meet at the slopes of the mountains and young couples from both sides come together and decide to form blood-bonds. After which, the couple will move to bride's home, be it the mountains or the valleys. This keeps the blood strong and gives both sides the best aspects of both people.

Historical figures

Kardetav Sulla - A legendary figure of great importance. He was a key figure during the uprising against the tyranny of Ainntar. Now he is honored during the celebration of Rebirth Day.