Droyma - Social codes

The town of Kahurangi Pa has a history from another culture and has different social codes, just as they have other laws. The town of Cha has a mix of social codes from both Droyma as a whole and Kahurangi Pa.  

Praise the Queen

While there is no law requiring it, citizens are socially expected to speak well of the Queen in public. This includes making casual references to her health or reign in everyday conversation, particularly as a form of greeting or to demonstrate loyalty. Failing to mention the Queen or, worse, speaking poorly of her can mark someone as suspicious or disloyal, even if no legal action is taken.  

Hospitality Above All

Hospitality is sacred in Droyma. A guest, regardless of rank, must be provided with food and shelter without question. Turning away a guest or mistreating them can lead to social disgrace, and in severe cases, cause long-standing feuds between families or towns. Sharing a meal is often the first step in building trust, and refusing to eat what is offered is seen as deeply insulting.  

Festival Etiquette

Certain milestones in life are honored. There are celebrations when a child is born, when a girl becomes a woman, and when a boy’s voice breaks—marking their entrance into adulthood. These events are grand affairs, often involving the entire community and accompanied by feasting, music, and ritualized blessings. Failing to celebrate these life events brings social disapproval, as these moments mark important transitions in one’s role within society.  

Appearance and Modesty

Citizens are expected to dress according to their station. Nobles wear refined, elegant clothing, but ostentatious displays of wealth are frowned upon, except during public ceremonies or festivals. Commoners wear more practical, muted garments. However, they are still expected to present themselves cleanly and modestly. Excessive pride in appearance is seen as arrogance, while uncleanliness is viewed as disrespectful.  

Mountain Faction Enmity

It is expected that citizens of Droyma, no matter which side of the mountains they live on, distrust those from the opposite side. While this is not formalized into law, showing a preference or open affection for the land on the other side of the Droyma Mountains can lead to being ostracized. This social code is deeply ingrained in the culture, as generations of division have cemented mutual suspicion between the regions.  

Religious Deference

Although the Allvaldughers are considered benevolent gods, it is still customary to offer small tokens of gratitude at temples before major life events or decisions. These offerings are not mandatory, but failing to give a gift or show respect to the gods is seen as hubris, particularly if one seeks to achieve great things without acknowledging divine guidance. It is common to see offerings of food, flowers, or crafted items at temple doorsteps before a journey or marriage.  

Public Disputes

In Droyma, showing temper in public is not always frowned upon. On the contrary, a controlled display of anger can be a demonstration of strength and authority, particularly in matters of dispute. Public arguments are not uncommon, and such displays of power, as long as they remain rational, are respected. However, losing control—when a person stops listening and only hears their own voice—is considered a loss of face. The ability to command attention and yet be reasoned with is a valued trait, especially among leaders and nobles. Disputes are often settled in public arenas or town squares, and the community may judge the parties by how well they argue their case while maintaining composure.  

The Importance of Family and Kinship

Droyma places immense importance on family bonds. Elders are treated with deep respect, and the younger generation is expected to care for their parents as they age. Breaking family ties or disrespecting one's lineage can lead to social alienation. Marriages are often arranged to maintain or elevate family status, and every family gathering, no matter how small, reinforces the central role of kinship in Droyma’s society.


Cover image: by Désirée Nordlund + check Credits article

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