Mori-Shaiduun or Wu Clan

Descended from a legendary figure known as Wu, the Wu Clan is a proud and resilient people hailing from an area in the Empire of the Jade Mantis. Fiercely independent and deeply connected to their ancestral lands, the Wu Clan embodies the spirit of the Mori-Shaiduun meaning "The People in the land of the Horse Mages", a nomadic culture with a rich heritage of tradition and mysticism. At the heart of the Wu Clan lies a dichotomy between two distinct subgroups. The Khan'Wu, a group of Barbaric Tribes, embody the rugged spirit of the wilderness, dwelling amidst the untamed beauty of the mountains and plains. They are fierce warriors and skilled mages, known for their mastery of horseback riding and combat. Tribal in nature, they live off the land and maintain a deep reverence for nature and ancestral spirits. In contrast, the Khan'ar Azuum, or Urban Custodians, have embraced the trappings of city life within the Empire of the Jade Mantis. Residing in bustling urban centers like Zong and Khuchtei, they serve as diplomats, scholars, and artisans, navigating the complexities of imperial society while preserving the cultural heritage of the Mori-Shaiduun. Though they may dwell amidst the opulence of the cities, they remain tethered to their roots, guided by a profound sense of duty to their people and their land. Despite their differences, both subgroups of the Wu Clan share a common bond forged through centuries of struggle and resilience. They are united in their quest for freedom and self-determination, resisting the oppressive rule of the Jade Mantis Empire when possible, while striving to preserve their unique way of life. As they stand on the precipice of change, the Wu Clan remains a beacon of strength and unity in a world fraught with uncertainty.

Culture

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

Rituals of Communion with Nature: Both urban and tribal Morishyden participate in rituals that honor nature spirits and seek blessings for bountiful hunts, fertile lands, and protection from natural disasters. These rituals often involve offerings of food, incense, and symbolic gestures performed by shamans or tribal elders. Equestrian Competitions and Festivals: The Wu Clan holds regular equestrian competitions and festivals to showcase their mastery of horseback riding and combat. These events serve as opportunities for social gatherings, trade, and friendly competition between different tribes and city-dwellers. Feasts and Celebrations: Festive occasions, such as weddings, births, and successful hunts, are marked by grand feasts and celebrations that bring together members of the Wu Clan from various backgrounds. Traditional foods, music, and dances are enjoyed during these gatherings, fostering a sense of community and solidarity. Storytelling and Oral Histories: Storytelling is a cherished tradition among the Morishyden, with elders passing down oral histories, legends, and myths from generation to generation. These stories often impart moral lessons, preserve cultural heritage, and inspire pride in their identity as a people. Tattooing and Body Art: Both urban and tribal Morishyden practice the art of tattooing and body painting, using intricate designs to symbolize personal achievements, tribal affiliations, and spiritual connections. Tattoos may also serve as magical wards or protective charms, imbued with blessings by shamans or skilled artisans. Interactions between Subgroups: Trade and Exchange: Despite their differences, both urban and tribal Morishyden engage in trade and exchange of goods, resources, and knowledge. Urban elites may trade luxury goods, fine craftsmanship, and bureaucratic favors with tribal communities in exchange for exotic herbs, raw materials, and rare artifacts. Diplomatic Meetings and Councils: Representatives from both subgroups convene in diplomatic meetings and councils to discuss matters of mutual concern, such as defense against imperial incursions or allocation of resources. These gatherings serve as platforms for negotiation, alliance-building, and conflict resolution, bridging the gap between urban and tribal interests. Cultural Exchange and Collaboration: Despite their differences in lifestyle and outlook, members of both subgroups engage in cultural exchange and collaboration, fostering understanding and solidarity. Tribal artisans may share traditional crafts and techniques with urban craftsmen, while urban scholars may document and study tribal customs and folklore. Intermarriage and Alliances: Interactions between the two subgroups sometimes lead to intermarriage and alliances, forging familial ties and strengthening bonds between different communities. These alliances may be strategic, political, or based on genuine affection, contributing to the resilience and unity of the Wu Clan against external threats.

Diverged ethnicities

Encompassed species