Sharadi
“We are the Sharadi, a people of ancient lineage and profound traditions. Our heritage is as vast and intricate as the desert sands from which our ancestors emerged. We dwell primarily in the grand city of Abdasham, where the convergence of the river and lake mirrors our blend of history and modernity.
Our people are distinguished by our unique form—four arms that symbolize our ability to balance strength and grace. We wear our attire with pride, adorned in garments that reflect our cultural elegance and intricate craftsmanship. The way we dress, the jewelry we wear, and the art we create all celebrate our distinctive physiology and the beauty of functional adornment.
Our society values both tradition and individual achievement. Men and women alike contribute to our community in diverse ways, whether through leadership, artistic expression, or the guardianship of our customs. We honor the past with ceremonies that link us to our ancestors and celebrate significant life events with elaborate rituals. Our courtship and marriage customs are deeply rooted in respect and collaboration, fostering partnerships that reflect our cultural ideals of harmony and mutual support.
In our daily lives, we balance the demands of modern city life with the timeless customs handed down through generations. We are proud of our ability to adapt while preserving the essence of our ancient traditions. Our mythology and legends, passed from generation to generation, guide us in understanding our place in the world and the values we hold dear. We are not just a people of the desert but a vibrant culture that has thrived by harmonizing the old with the new, the spiritual with the practical.
In essence, we are the Sharadi: a sophisticated and resilient people, rooted in a rich heritage, embracing our unique attributes, and contributing to the tapestry of life in the Faizum Kingdom.”
Culture
Culture and cultural heritage
The Sharadi are a sophisticated people whose culture is deeply rooted in their ancient history, which is reflected in every aspect of their urban environment and social practices. Residing mainly in Abdasham, the Sharadi’s largest city, their culture is a unique amalgamation of their storied past and their adaptation to an urban setting designed to protect them from the harsh desert and its formidable creatures.
Ancient Heritage and Traditions
The Sharadi’s ancient heritage is entwined with their origins as part of the first family of humans in Glosmordin. Their traditions are shaped by millennia of adaptation to the desert and its mystical elements. Ancient texts and oral traditions recount tales of their forebears who tamed the harsh desert, protected their people from monstrous threats, and celebrated celestial phenomena. Their customs include rituals to honor these ancestors and maintain their connection to the land.
Adaptations to Urban Life
In Abdasham, the Sharadi have adapted their ancient traditions to fit a medieval cityscape. The city’s layout reflects their need for protection while allowing for vibrant community life. High, crenellated walls encircle Abdasham, fortified against desert threats and armies. Within, the architecture features layered terraces and expansive courtyards, with homes designed to accommodate their unique physiology, including wide, multi-level spaces that facilitate the use of their four arms.
Cultural Artifacts and Architecture
Sharadi architecture incorporates intricate geometric patterns and large, open courtyards. The buildings are adorned with mosaics and bas-reliefs that depict their rich mythological heritage and historical events. The influence of their ancestors' attire is evident in their clothing, which combines flowing fabrics with elaborate embroidery and layered drapes, reminiscent of historical styles but uniquely adapted for their form.
Ceremonial Practices and Festivals
The Sharadi hold several key festivals that align with celestial events. Among these, the Festival of the Twin Moons is the most significant. It marks the alignment of the Hearthstone Moon and the Threshold Moon, with celebrations including grand processions, music, dance, and intricate light displays that mimic the celestial alignment. These festivals are not only times of joy but also moments to renew their communal bonds and reflect on their heritage.
Ancient Rites and Rituals
One notable rite is the “Ascension of the Four Arms,” a ceremonial practice that celebrates a young Sharadi’s coming of age. This rite involves a series of tests and rituals that highlight the individual’s mastery over their physical form and their integration into Sharadi society. The ceremony culminates in the donning of a ceremonial garment that signifies their transition into adulthood.
Mythical Heritage
Sharadi mythology is rich with tales of legendary figures and cosmic events. One prominent legend speaks of the primordial struggle between the desert’s divine protectors and the monstrous entities that once roamed the land. These myths are depicted in art and storytelling, serving as a constant reminder of their ancestors’ triumphs and the divine favor that guided them.
Through these elements, the Sharadi’s cultural heritage is a vivid tapestry of their ancient origins, their adaptation to a medieval urban environment, and their continuing reverence for their history and mythology.
Average technological level
Race Option: Sharadi
The Sharadi are a distinctive and adaptable race, known for their agility and deep connection to the desert environment. With golden or copper skin and hair that can be black, blonde, silver, or white, they possess four arms, which provide them with enhanced versatility. Their society is both diverse and challenging, shaped by their harsh desert homeland.
Ability Score Increase: Your Dexterity score increases by 2, but your Strength and Constitution scores each decrease by 1. Sharadi are agile and graceful but tend to be physically weaker.
Survival Instincts: You have proficiency in the Survival skill when in desert terrain, reflecting your ability to navigate and survive in harsh desert environments.
Heat Resistance: You have advantage on Constitution saving throws against the effects of extreme heat.
Multiple Arms: You have four arms, allowing you to interact with two objects or environmental features during your turn, instead of one. Your second set of arms is smaller than your primary set. You have a favored hand that you can use to carry one simple smaller weapon while carrying a two-handed weapon. If you are a fighter class, you can use a bonus action to make an additional attack with a small weapon held in your off hand.
Alignment: Sharadi society encompasses a wide range of beliefs, but most tend toward neutrality. Some may be driven by anger, greed, or lust for power, while others are humble and meek, focused on survival.
Lands: Sharadi are mainly found in the far reaches of the deserts of Fai-ums Gold and The Blinding Virgin (White) Desert.
Religion: The Sharadi are extremely religious and believe in the cycle of reincarnation. They hold a deep conviction that all sentient beings will be reborn as one of them at some point. Through faithfulness and devotion to their beliefs, they hope to achieve a perfected state and live among the gods.
Language: The Sharadiya speak Amjadian, a language believed to be descended from the tongue of Genies.
Role-playing Application:
Sharadi can choose a wide variety of classes based on their individual beliefs and personal experiences. Fighters, rogues, and rangers might be common choices due to their physical abilities and survival skills. However, Sharadi spellcasters, particularly clerics or druids, can also be found, as they may seek to fulfill their religious duties.
Cultural Subrace: Amjadian
Some Sharadi have embraced the Amjadian culture, which centers around a deep spiritual connection to the desert sands. Those who follow this path exhibit unique sand manipulation abilities, allowing them to shape the environment to their advantage.
Ability Score Increase: Your Charisma score increases by 1. Amjadian Sharadi are known for their spiritual presence and connections.
Sand Manipulation (3rd Level): If in a desert or an area with high volumes of sand, at 3rd level, you can manipulate sand within a 10-foot cube once per day. You can use this ability to lower or raise sand to create barriers or manipulate the environment.
Sand Veil (5th Level): Once per week, if in a desert or an area with high volumes of sand, at 5th level, you can create a small sand cloud to obscure yourself for 10 minutes. This cloud grants you partial concealment.
Sand Shield (10th Level): If in a desert or an area with high volumes of sand, at 10th level, you can create a sand shield that stays in place within a 10-foot area once per day. This shield provides half-cover to creatures behind it.
Sandblast (15th Level): If in a desert or an area with high volumes of sand, at 15th level, you can create a sandblast, forcing creatures in a 15-foot cone to make a Dexterity saving throw. On a failed save, they take 1d6 damage plus your character level and may be knocked prone. On a successful save, they take half damage and avoid being knocked prone.
Art & Architecture
Art: Sharadi art is characterized by its intricate and functional designs, reflecting their unique physiology and the fusion of their cultural heritage. Their artwork often features detailed motifs and patterns that utilize their four arms' ability to craft intricate designs. They excel in textiles, creating elaborate fabrics with geometric patterns, flowing lines, and vibrant colors that convey both beauty and practicality. Sculptures and carvings are also prevalent, often depicting mythical creatures and significant historical events, emphasizing the blend of elegance and strength that defines their people.
The Sharadi are renowned for their ornate jewelry, which incorporates precious metals and gemstones. Their pieces are not only decorative but also hold symbolic significance, representing aspects of their identity, lineage, and accomplishments.
Architecture: The architectural style of the Sharadi reflects their ancient heritage and practical needs. Buildings in Abdasham and other Sharadi cities are robust and fortified to protect against threats from the desert, including dragons and wandering monsters. Structures are often made from durable materials like stone and reinforced with protective enchantments.
Residential areas are characterized by high walls, narrow alleyways, and courtyards designed to provide privacy and communal spaces. Roofs are flat and often used for social and ceremonial gatherings, offering protection from the harsh desert sun while providing a vantage point for observing the city and its surroundings.
Public buildings, such as temples and market halls, feature grand entrances with elaborate carvings and mosaics that depict scenes from Sharadi mythology and history. These structures are designed to accommodate both the daily activities of the city's inhabitants and significant cultural ceremonies.
Common Customs, traditions and rituals
Seasonal Celebrations: The Sharadi closely follow the cycles of their moons, which play a significant role in their cultural calendar. One of the most cherished events is the "Celestial Convergence Festival," which celebrates the rare occasions when both moons, the Hearthstone and the Threshold, are visible in the sky simultaneously. This festival is marked by vibrant street processions, grand feasts, and communal dancing. Rituals are performed to honor celestial deities and ensure prosperity and harmony in their lives. The festival also serves as a time for families and communities to come together and renew their bonds.
Rites of Passage: Transitioning from childhood to adulthood is a deeply significant event for the Sharadi, reflected in their "Ascendance Rituals." For young men, this rite involves a series of trials designed to test their skills in leadership, survival, and defense. These trials are not only physical but also mental, emphasizing the holistic development of the individual. For young women, the rite focuses on the mastery of domestic arts and the ceremonial crafting of their first adult garment, which symbolizes their readiness for marriage and family life.
Marriage Customs: Marriage is a profound and intricate affair in Sharadi culture, celebrated through the "Union of Threads" ceremony. This ritual involves a weaving process where the bride and groom together create a tapestry that represents their union and the blending of their families' histories. The tapestry is then displayed in their home as a symbol of their bond. The wedding is accompanied by feasts, music, and dances that reflect the vibrant traditions of the Sharadi people.
Protective Rituals: Given the dangerous environment of the desert, the Sharadi conduct various "Wardening Rituals" to protect their homes and communities. These rituals involve the crafting of protective amulets and the performance of chants designed to ward off desert creatures and Djinn. Families place these amulets at entryways and in key areas of their homes to ensure safety and security.
Daily Customs: Daily life for the Sharadi is imbued with customs that honor their heritage. Hospitality is paramount, with hosts going to great lengths to provide elaborate meals and warm welcome to guests. Tea ceremonies are a common practice, serving as a moment of pause and reflection in daily routines. These ceremonies involve the careful preparation and serving of tea, accompanied by traditional music and storytelling.
Ceremonial Observances: Regular "Binding Ceremonies" are conducted to mark significant life events, such as moving to a new home or starting a new chapter in one’s life. These ceremonies involve the use of sacred symbols and rituals to invoke blessings and ensure a smooth transition. The Sharadi also observe seasonal rituals that align with the natural cycles and lunar phases, connecting their daily lives to the broader rhythms of their world.
Through these customs and traditions, the Sharadi maintain a strong connection to their ancient heritage while adapting to the complexities of urban life. Each practice is a reflection of their history, values, and the ongoing balance between tradition and modernity.
Common Taboos
Inappropriate Use of Ritual Items: Ritual objects, such as sacred amulets or ceremonial tools, are imbued with spiritual significance. Using these items for non-ritualistic or mundane purposes is considered sacrilegious and is believed to corrupt their power, bringing misfortune.
Spilling Blood Unjustly: Violence is frowned upon unless it is in self-defense or part of a sanctioned ritual. Unjust or needless bloodshed is seen as a grave violation of their cultural values and is believed to cause imbalance in the spiritual world, resulting in bad luck and unrest within the community.
Common Myths and Legends
The Saga of the Lost City of Roshara: The myth tells of a once-great city called Roshara, said to have been lost to the sands of time. According to the legend, Roshara was a center of unmatched knowledge and prosperity but was swallowed by a great sandstorm due to the city’s neglect of sacred duties. It is believed that Roshara will be rediscovered when the Sharadi are in their greatest need, and the city's wisdom will once again guide them. This legend serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining spiritual practices and respecting ancient traditions.
The Legend of Sahrak the Protector: According to Sharadi myth, Sahrak was a legendary hero who single-handedly defended Abdasham from a horde of desert monsters and Djinn. With his unparalleled strength and wisdom, he constructed the great city walls and enchanted them to keep out the horrors of the desert. It is said that the protective enchantments he placed still guard the city to this day. His legend is celebrated annually during the "Sahrak's Vigil" festival, where stories of his heroism are recounted, and people engage in defensive drills and protective rituals.
The Tale of the Twin Moons’ Gift: The myth speaks of a time when the gods bestowed the Twin Moons upon the Sharadi to guide them through their trials. The Hearthstone Moon, representing wisdom and family, was given to the goddess Quibilah to symbolize the light of knowledge. The Threshold Moon, symbolizing time and intuition, was gifted to the goddess Sarwan to reflect the transient nature of existence. According to the legend, the two moons were originally one, and their separation marked the beginning of the Sharadi’s journey and their eventual adaptation to urban life. This myth underscores the importance of the moons in Sharadi culture and is a central theme in their lunar festivals.
The Myth of the Djinn’s Curse: In ancient times, it is said that a powerful Djinn cursed the Sharadi for encroaching upon its desert domain. This curse brought a series of natural disasters and plagues to their land. The curse could only be lifted by performing a series of trials to appease the Djinn, which involved offering rare treasures and performing sacred rituals. The trials are believed to have tested the Sharadi’s strength, wisdom, and unity. The resolution of the curse is celebrated in the "Trial of the Djinn" ceremony, a solemn event that honors the trials and the lessons learned from overcoming adversity.
Ideals
Beauty Ideals
In Sharadi culture, beauty is a reflection of both physical attributes and the harmonious balance between form and function. The Sharadi have developed distinctive beauty ideals that emphasize elegance and adaptability, which align with their unique physiological features.
Physical Aesthetics: Beauty among the Sharadi is often associated with symmetry and the graceful use of their four arms. Individuals who can maneuver fluidly and perform intricate tasks with their multiple limbs are highly admired. Their clothing often features flowing, layered fabrics and detailed embroidery that highlight their four-armed form, creating a striking and balanced appearance.
Adornment: Jewelry and adornments are integral to Sharadi beauty. They favor elaborate pieces that can be worn on multiple limbs—bracelets and armlets for their upper arms, and anklets for their lower limbs. Intricate headdresses and facial jewelry are also common, designed to complement their unique physiology and enhance their overall elegance.
Personal Grooming: Grooming practices include the meticulous care of their skin, which is often adorned with natural pigments and oils to enhance its luster. Hair styles are elaborate, often involving braids or decorative elements that frame their faces and align with their cultural aesthetics.
Gender Ideals
Sharadi gender ideals reflect their society’s values of balance, capability, and respect for individual contributions. Gender roles are defined but flexible, allowing for a broad range of expressions and responsibilities.
Masculine Ideals: Traditional masculine roles in Sharadi society emphasize strength, leadership, and skill. Men are expected to be protectors and providers, demonstrating prowess in combat, trade, and defense of their community. However, there is also respect for those who excel in intellectual pursuits and contribute to the cultural and spiritual life of the city.
Feminine Ideals: Women are valued for their nurturing roles, wisdom, and artistic talents. They are often seen as the caretakers of cultural traditions and domestic life, but they also participate actively in politics, commerce, and the arts. The ideal Sharadi woman is both resilient and creative, balancing her responsibilities with personal achievements.
Fluidity and Respect: Gender roles are not rigid, and there is an appreciation for individuals who transcend traditional boundaries. Both men and women can hold leadership positions, engage in various professions, and contribute to their society in diverse ways.
Relationship Ideals
Courtship and relationships among the Sharadi are governed by a blend of traditional values and personal freedom. The process reflects their cultural emphasis on respect, compatibility, and shared goals.
Courtship Rituals: Courtship in Sharadi culture often involves a period of formal engagement where potential partners participate in communal activities and ceremonial practices. These rituals allow individuals to demonstrate their compatibility, skills, and mutual respect. Rituals may include collaborative tasks, feasts, and symbolic exchanges of gifts.
Marriage Practices: Marriage is highly valued and typically involves arrangements between families, but personal choice is also respected. Weddings are elaborate affairs, celebrated with grand feasts, music, and dances that showcase the couple’s cultural heritage. The ceremony includes symbolic acts that emphasize the union’s significance and the couple’s commitment to each other and their community.
Relationship Dynamics: Relationships are built on mutual respect and collaboration. Partners are expected to support each other’s personal and professional aspirations while maintaining a balanced partnership. The ability to adapt and work together is highly prized, reflecting their broader cultural values of harmony and integration.
Family Life: Family is central to Sharadi society, and relationships within the family are characterized by mutual support and collective responsibility. Extended families often live together or in close proximity, and decisions are made with the well-being of the entire family in mind.
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