EncyclopAtys - User contributions [en]

MediaWiki:Common.js

2017-10-22T12:17:30Z

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MediaWiki:Common.js

2017-10-22T12:05:56Z

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MediaWiki:Common.js

2017-10-22T12:00:12Z

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MediaWiki:Common.js

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MediaWiki:Common.js

2017-10-22T09:15:13Z

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MediaWiki:Common.js

2017-10-22T09:14:18Z

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MediaWiki:Common.js

2017-10-22T09:13:37Z

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MediaWiki:Common.css

2017-10-22T09:11:03Z

Xiombarg:

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Template:New article box

2017-10-16T14:43:00Z

Xiombarg:

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Template:Latest update

2017-10-07T17:26:09Z

Xiombarg:

{{#vardefine:A|https://app.ryzom.com/app_forum/index.php?page=topic/view/27287}}{{#vardefine:B|Tuesday, July 18rd (2017)}}<div id="latest-update" style="font-size: 1em; font-style: italic; float: right; margin-top: -40px; overflow: hidden;">[[Image:New-download-thing.png|link={{#var:A}}|Update]] The latest patch was released on [[{{#var:A}}|{{#var:B}}]]
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Template:Latest update

2017-10-07T17:23:10Z

Xiombarg:

{{#vardefine:A|Game_updates/20170718}}{{#vardefine:B|Tuesday, July 18rd (2017)}}<div id="latest-update" style="font-size: 1em; font-style: italic; float: right; margin-top: -40px; overflow: hidden;">[[Image:New-download-thing.png|link={{#var:A}}|Update]] The latest patch was released on [[{{#var:A}}|{{#var:B}}]]
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MediaWiki:Sidebar

2015-05-16T10:41:47Z

Xiombarg:

Zoraï History of the New Beginning

2014-06-01T14:31:31Z

Xiombarg: Importing text file

= Zoraï, the New Beginning =

{{include(puben:L_NewBegin_Intro)}}

h2. 2483

Resurfacing from Prime Root sanctuary after Karavan assurance that kitins no longer present a threat. Take possession of the jungle lands. Witherings explored. Great sage, Fung-Tun, directs Zoraï leader, Hoi-Cho, to a place of high magnetism where the capital city of Zora is raised in memory of the multitudes who died in Zoran, the devastated capital of the old lands. Zora, in the absence of walls which so cruelly prevented Zoraïs from escaping kitin mandibles in Zoran, is built in hollows in the bark to allow for better defense in anticipation of kitin attack. Karavan seal Prime Root entrances and forbid their opening. Taking advantage of the turmoil, they try to impose their teachings. Sacred communion reestablished with Kamis. Hoi-Cho institutes a week of fasting in remembrance of the dead in the old lands as well as to commemorate the Prime Roots years which left them bereft of Kami enlightenment. Remembrance Week begins on the week leading up to the winter solstice during which Zoraïs fast between sunrise and sunset. Company of the Eternal Tree, an Ancient pro-Kami tribe, reformed. Ancient multiracial guild of Atrium Keepers reformed. Hoi-Cho has encounters with Ma-Duk, the Lord of the Kamis.

== 2484 ==

Region of Cities of Intuition explored, cleaned of goo and made relatively safe. Hoi-Cho refuses adherence to Karavan teachings. Kamis intervene whenever Karavan tries to punish Zoraïs for fighting goo instead of gathering raw materials for them. Ancient pro-Kami Guild of Cho reformed by Hoi-Cho to spread word of Ma-Duk. Tribe of the Icon Worshipers reformed.

== 2485 ==

Karavan alters banished from Zoraï towns. On Kami demand, the Zoraï tribe of the Sacred Sap move into Fleeting Garden in Matis lands to watch over Kamis sanctuary.

== 2487 ==

Arrival of first refugees from road of exodus leading from old lands. Welcome structure set up to promote integration of Zoraï refugees in new society. Act of Integration allowing homins to rejoin their own civilization. Creation of Safe Zone; camps of Qai Lo, Men Xing, Sheng Wo, Koi Zun and Yin Piang established to welcome and train Zoraï refugees. Village of Jen-Lai founded.

== 2488 ==

Influx of refugees from the road of exodus begins to drop. Villages of Hoi-Cho and Min-Cho founded, named after spiritual leaders of before and after the Great Swarming.

== 2489 ==

Legendary fighter Leng Cheng-Ho arrives from old lands with new methods of combat. He shared the road of the exodus with great fighters of other peoples collectively known as the guild of the Force of Fraternity.

== 2490 ==

First outposts set up. Kitin presence detected in Aeden Aqueous, then in Maiden Grove. Pact of Mutual Assistance (PMA) signed by Hoi-Cho, Yasson, Leanon and Mac’Darrell to fight conjointly against kitins. Contingents of Zoraïs established on every continent. Guild of the Force of Fraternity embark on campaign (to h2. 2492) of mixed homins to rid new homin lands of hostile kitins.

== 2491 ==

New trade routes traced and opened into foreign lands. Guild of Carriers founded.

== 2492 ==

Members of guild of Force of Fraternity rejoin their own countries after their two year campaign against the kitins. Beginning of exploration of Prime Roots.

== 2493 ==

First sightings of higher gibbais in region of the Void. Leng Cheng-Ho killed by kitins while saving the young Matis prince, Yrkanis in the region of Savage Dunes.

== 2495 ==

The grand sage Hoi-Cho openly officially questions role of the Kamis in the great design of Ma-Duk rejects Jena as Kami Superior. He begins his writings of his encounters with Ma-Duk, the true Lord of the Kamis. Multiracial Guild of Elias gains in popularity throughout homin lands. Kitins reappear but kept in check with new methods of combat handed down by the guild of Force of Fraternity.

== 2496 ==

Guild of Elias, portrayed as a sect against the church of Jena, is banished by Karavan. Mercenary tribes and bandits fuel feeling of antagonism for personal gain. General feeling of insecurity at border zones. Matis chord of discontent over what they see as Zoraï occupation in Fleeting Garden. Zoraï-Matis summit. Hoi-Cho signs Trade Treaty with Matis King.

== 2497 ==

Fyro-Tryker Trade Agreement.

== 2498 ==

Matis revocation of Edict of Four Peoples (signed in Prime Roots in h2. 2481). Turnpikes established on trade routes under Matis authority. Fyros use Zoraï routes to avoid paying their way through Matis territory. Much unrest against Fyros merchant camps set up along trade roads in Witherings. Hoi-Cho, accompanied by Mabreka, son of Lin Cheng-Ho, travels to Pyr to negotiate better control over Fyros presence in Witherings. Hoi-Cho and Leanon sign Pact of Alliance in the name of the Kamis.

== 2499 ==

Autumn War between Tryker and Matis in Lagoons of Loria. Dexton leads Fyros contingent through Zoraï lands with the intention to reinforce Tryker front. Hoi-Cho warns him of the danger of all out warfare.

== 2500 ==

Dexton captured by Matis tribe.

== 2501 ==

Young Mabreka Cheng-Ho proposes his aid in the name of his father who sacrificed his life for the Matis prince, Yrkanis, in h2. 2493. Mabreka orchestrates release of Dexton. Peace Treaty signed at Watergate Border Post in Lagoons of Loria by Hoi-Cho, Yasson, Leanon and Mac’Darrell over Lagoons of Loria which becomes free territory.

== 2503 ==

Masters of the Goo tribe established in the region of the Void.

== 2504 ==

Disorder follows death of Hoi-Cho who leaves no heir. End of Cho dynasty. Old sage, Fung-Tun becomes leader of the Zoraïs in spite of growing popularity of the young Mabreka Cheng-Ho who challenges fervently rejects Kami supremacy as the instrument of Jena. Fung-Tun reinstates Jena as Kami Superior and banishes Mabreka who finds refuge in Pyr. Hamazans of the Dead Seed tribe first implemented in Witherings to combat goo worshippers. Slavery accepted on continent of Witherings to combat the goo.

== 2505 ==

Surtax imposed on Fyros goods passing through Verdant Heights. Fyros pass through Zoraï lands to continue trade with Trykers. Fire caused on Zoraï lands by Fyros travelers, Fung-Tun order closure of trade routes. Tryker tribe of the Shadow Runners establish camp in Witherings. Fung-Tun corrupted by the goo.

== 2506 ==

Fung-Tun becomes insane. Skirmishes between Fyros and Zoraï at frontier. Mabreka fights in the ranks of Dexton to fend off Matis attacks in Sawdust Mines. Mabreka returns from Pyr with proposition of peace treaty amid great acclaim. Fung-Tun deposed, Mabreka elected as spiritual leader of the Zoraïs by the council of sages . Mabreka takes name of Mabreka Cho to rekindle the spirit of the Cho dynasty. Fyros and Zoraï sign pact of alliance in case of Matis attack.

== 2507 ==

Pro-Karavan tribe of the Black Circle begins activity.

== 2508 ==

Kamis banished from Matis lands.

== 2509 ==

Matis prince, Yrkanis, given exile in Zora (till h2. 2512) in exchange for promise of resumed trade if he bids successfully for Matis throne.

== 2510 ==

Invention of special armor.

== 2512 ==

First signs of kitins in Knot of Dementia. Zoraïs and Fyros join forces to combat kitins (to h2. 2513).

== 2515 ==

Peace treaty signed at Fairhaven by Mabreka, Dexton, Wyler, and Yrkanis.

== 2516 ==

Summit of Hoi-Cho, four homin powers (Yrkanis, Dexton, Mabreka and Wyler) sign Free Trade Agreement to establish free movement of merchants in all homin territories.

== 2518 ==

Ratification of Homin Rights Act first instigated by Tryker Council.

== 2519 ==

Year of the Goo; outbreak of the goo contaminates lands and fauna.

== 2520 ==

Fire brought by the Fyros rages out of control but destroys last goo hotspots.

== 2521 ==

Tribe of the Tutors founded.

== 2524 ==

First ruins discovered in Prime Roots.

== 2525 ==

The descendants of the destitute multitudes who never found the rainbows in time, each day come to swell their populations.

Zoraï Government

2014-06-01T14:31:28Z

Xiombarg: Importing text file

= Zoraï Theocracy =

p=. [[Image:witherings.png|witherings.png]]

{{>toc}}

The Theocracy of the Witherings is organized in circles, in the center of which is Ma-Duk, the Great Creator. Thus, the higher the circle a figure belongs to brings him closer to Ma-Duk and the higher the elevation. However, it should be understood that this does not mean “hierarchy” as it has developed in the Fyros Empire or the Kingdom of the Verdant Heights. The relation between Zoraï in different circle elevations is more similar to the relationship between mentor and disciple with, of course, all the respect that goes with it.

It is therefore a ladder of elliptical concentration, meaning that within a “circle” areas of competence are not necessarily the same (i.e. Season understands the change of Atys; Sorrow understands the suffering. Both are capable of understanding the change and the suffering of Atys, but each has its “specialty”). This level of concentration is centered on Ma-Duk, the Supreme Kami, but it should not be confused with the cult of Ma-Duk (Company of the Endless Tree, Adepts, Bonzes, etc.), therefore the Zoraï Theocracy is a bit different compared to the “official” worship.

Thus, we have: * Ma-Duk, Supreme Kami, the Great Creator * The Great Kami-Ko * The Kami-Ko * The Lords Kami * The Kami * The Grand Sage of Zoraï: Mabreka Cho * The Sages: Zoraï Sorrow and Zoraï Season * The Zoraï Awakened: Representatives of Circles, Speakers of Circles and Intendants of Cities of Intuition * The Zoraï Initiates * Other homins * The primitive hominis * The remainder of the fauna and flora of Atys

== Theocracy Circles ==

=== Grand Sage ===

Elected by the Council of Sages for life. Must be Zoraï with Zoraï citizenship and a faithful Kami worshiper. Highest authority of the Zoraï people, they are best able to understand and convey the wishes of the Kami.

Roles are:

'''Political:''' Gives the general direction in which the Witherings advances, according to his interpretation of the will of the Kami. Actions taken by the Sages and the Awakened will follow the Grand Sage’s lead. He recognizes the Sages and the Awakened, validates the election of the Speakers of the Circles, and appoints the stewards of the Cities of Intuition.

'''Spiritual:''' He is the hope of the Zoraï Initiates and is the voice of the Kami. He is the model for all Zoraï and his enlightened role is to interpret the will of the Kami, and occasionally that of Ma-Duk when it is aimed directly at him, and then convey it to the people of Atys.

'''Diplomacy:''' Representative of the Zoraï, he maintains relations with other countries to promote the word of the Kami and protect the interests of the Witherings.

'''Guild of Cho:''' He is the authority figure of the Witherings and oversees the Guild of Cho. He may have, in some cases, judicial power.

=== The Sages ===

The Sages are Zoraï having a special connection with Atys and understand Atys better in general. They are closer to Ma-Duk than all other hominis.

They are responsible for governing the Witherings and all internal affairs in agreement with the direction decided by the Grand Sage. Their wisdom and knowledge are very great. They sometimes have an advisory role to the Awakened and give direction to follow in those actions that they bring it up if necessary.

=== The Awakened ===

Initiates who, from personal investment for the Witherings and to the Kami, understand the issues affecting the Witherings and have moved closer to Ma-Duk.

There are four political functions that can be held by the Awakened: # Members of the Circles # Speakers of the Circles (Representatives) # Reporters of the Circles (Representatives) # Intendants of the Cities of Intuition.

'''Representatives of Circles''' * Are members of the Zoraï Circles * The Speakers are the arbiters of discussions at the Assemblies of Circles. They are to remain neutral and impartial and run the meetings in their entirety. Their roles are to enable Initiates to discuss in the Zoraï way of wisdom. * The Reporters role is to write what is said in meetings and publishing reports of these meetings. * Beyond the specific tasks to each post, the Representatives propose ideas and organize various activities, in agreement with the Circle in which they relate (e.g. organization of Remembrance Week by the Circle of Spirituality). * They are lights to guide Initiates in their first step towards enlightenment of the Awakened.

'''Becoming a Representative of a Circle'''

* For all elections to appoint new civil servants, Intendants and Speakers will inform the Grand Sage and the people of the open positions in the Circles.
* Applicants will make application for an open position at the next assembly.
* The Awakened are the only ones to vote on representatives within Circles.
* Once the vote is complete, the newly elected officials should swear before the congregation that they will serve their people and they remain faithful to the Grand Sage as long as they work in the Circles. They recognize the need to be aware of not being able to take on these responsibilities and would require them to give up their place.
* Any change of guild from a representative must be reported and published in the Zoraï Assembly Room.
* If a representative is deemed unfit to perform their role, either by other Representatives or by the Sages or the Grand Sage, a meeting should be held to judge and possibly elect a replacement.

'''The Intendants of Cities of Intuition'''

* Administrative officer of one of the four Cities of Intuition, they are appointed by the Grand Sage.
* They assume the management of the city, the security of it and the various events that occur there.

=== The Council of Sages ===

The Council of Sages is an exceptional meeting of the Sages and the Awakened, which meets for the most important issues of the Witherings.

Thus, with the exception of the Kami, the Council of Sages would be the only institution that is placed above the Grand Sage and acting after his death or appointing a new one when he is no longer in a fit state.

=== The Shizu ===

* These are the leaders of the clans and families Zoraï kwaï (guilds) which have passed the Initiation Rite.
* In the Assemblies of Circles, clans are represented by their Shizu.

=== The Initiate ===

* They are citizens of the Witherings.
* Wearers of a mask or not. They have passed the Rite of Initiation and hold an Oath of Fidelity to the mask and the Witherings.
* They are the Zoraï people as a whole.

== Organization ==

=== Zoraï Elevation ===

* Spiritual elevation is acquired by a fidelity to the Zoraï principles and involvement for Kami on the one hand and great spiritual work on the other hand.
* Only those of a higher elevation can evaluate the elevation of others in outlying circles.
* Thus, the elevation in circles comes from an inner circle compared to one’s current elevation. One is “accepted” by those already inside the circle and is then elevated.
* In the case of Awakened, it is the Sages and the Grand Sage and, by occasion, the Kami, who recognize them.

=== Hierarchical structure of the Theocracy ===

p=. [[Image:1008152105_zorai_circles2.jpg|1008152105_zorai_circles2.jpg]]

=== The 5 Zoraï Circles: ===

* Defense Circle: Responsible for defending the country against invaders of the Witherings kwaï and fight against the Goo.
* Construction Circle: Responsible for the reconstruction of the people after the Great Swarming and for the reception of refugees.
* Spirituality Circle: Head of the Spiritual Fulfillment of Initiates.
* Exploration Circle: Responsible for the fight against Kitin and diplomacy with the guilds kwaï.
* Dynastic Circle: Responsible for administration of the Witherings.

== Constitution of the Circles of Zoraï Wisdom ==

=== Fundamental ===

1. At the Center of Circles is Ma-Duk, as he is at the heart of Atys. 2. The Inner Circles are the Grand Kami-Ko, the Kami-Ko and the Kami. They emanate from Ma-Duk and are part of him. 3. At the heart of the Homin Circles is the Grand Sage. He is the hope of Ma-Duk, and the highest homin. 4. All go in the respect and protection of Atys. 5. Zoraï people, single and multiple, are the only ones who can decide on their actions. Each Zoraï is free to his opinions and his actions. 6. The Council of Sages, known for its wisdom, is the only one able to speak for all.

=== Service to Ma-Duk ===

7. The sacred mission of Zoraï is to fight against the Goo, against which the Kami can do nothing. To do this, Zoraï live in the Jungles of Atys, where the problem is most severe. 8. As Zoraï, the Kami also serve Ma-Duk. The wise listen to the voice of the Kami because it will lead to the path of enlightenment.

=== Service to the Zoraï people ===

9. Circles are intended to enable Zoraï to express themselves and share their resources for the common good. They will gather in assembly in order to communicate and transmit knowledge. 9.1. Each Zoraï Initiate can speak at meetings and all are equal. 9.2. In each circle, a Speaker will be elected by the assembly. The Speaker is required to hold discussions in a spirit of openness and brotherhood. He should remain neutral in action and in words. 9.3. In each circle, the Speaker will be supported by no more than two Reporters elected by the assembly. They should represent the advice issued by the assembly. 9.4. Each circle will meet in assembly once in the spring and once in the autumn. 9.5. The Assemblies will discuss and share ideas, with serenity and openness of mind; they take their decisions by consensus. 9.5.1. Proposals of the Circles that involve the populace will be submitted to popular Zoraï vote through an open forum. Each Initiate will have one vote. 9.5.2. Proposals of the Circles that involve clans will be submitted to clan vote with each Shizu having one vote. 9.5.3. Proposals of the Circles that involve the nation will be submitted to the vote of the Awakened with each having one vote. 9.6. The Representatives of the Circle will bring the words and actions taken in the assembly to the Council of Sages.

=== Service to the Grand Sage ===

10. In addition to serving the Zoraï people, Circles will be faithful to the Grand Sage, both politically and spiritually, because he holds the Grand Mask and is the hope of Ma-Duk. All discussion and action will therefore be made within this framework.

=== The Five Circles ===

11. The First Circle (Exploration) will search for our lost brothers, and rebuild our people. 11.1. The First Circle will organize research and expeditions to map the Witherings and find paths to other lands. 11.2. The First Circle will study and seek a cure to the Goo, the disease afflicting Atys. 12. The Second Circle (Spirituality) will be responsible for finding our spiritual path. 12.1. The Second Circle will return to the path of wisdom, through meditation, contemplation of the miracles of Atys, the reflection on the words of the Kami, the search for ancient signs, and the mystic trance. 12.2. The second Circle will guide Zoraï newcomers and educate them in the way of the Kami. 13. The Third Circle (Defense) will be responsible for defending our territory against any threat to Zoraï people or Atys. 13.1. The Third Circle will monitor the progress of corruption. 13.2. The Third Circle will launch campaigns to track the Goo and those who have been perverted by the Goo. 14. The Fourth Circle (Construction) will be responsible for development and reconstruction of our nation. 14.1. The Fourth Circle will bring the capabilities and requirements of each, to allow our race to flourish economically and artistically. 14.2. The Fourth Circle will make sure the Zoraï people have the means necessary for its actions. 15. The Fifth Circle (Dynastic) will be responsible for the administration of the Witherings. 15.1 The Fifth Circle will carry out investigations and administer minor justice throughout the nation.

=== External Relations ===

16. Embassy’s relations with other peoples are the responsibility of the Council of Sages. 16.1. Foreigners may contact Representatives of Circles at any time, then the Representatives of the Five Circles can meet to decide on a common view, which they will propose to the Council. 16.2. In exceptional cases, foreigners may become an honorary member, they will then sit as and even vote if necessary. To become an honorary member, the nomination of a non-Zoraï Homin must be supported by the testimony of twelve Zoraï sponsors. Then, his nomination must be approved unanimously by the representatives of the Circles.

Zoraï Civilization

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= Zoraï Civilisation =

[[Image:>zorai_logo_2_w300px.png|]]

== What they value ==

* Spiritual accomplishment
* Wisdom and teaching
* Harmony of body and soul
* Meditation and prayer
* Ecology

== How they see the Karavan ==

The Zoraïs once saw the Karavan as disciples of Jena, the Matis and Tryker goddess whom they now consider as a deity borne of the imaginations of less spiritual homins. The Zoraïs have abandoned all alliance with the Karavan believing them too cold and soulless to be worthy of their veneration. Incidentally, the Zoraïs were at the root of the first open Kami-Karavan conflict. One day the Kamis seriously ‘cautioned’ a Karavan expedition for attempting to destroy a Zoraï village as punishment for refusing to carry out a Karavan order. This conflict left the Karavan in the knowledge that they were not the only major force on Atys!

The Zoraïs are reassured in their belief that the Karavan are not of divine substance as many were actually killed by kitins during the Great Swarming. The Karavan are nonetheless still considered as a dangerous entity and many Zoraïs sense they are deliberately stirring up hostilities with the Kamis, which can only denote some imminent event.

== How they see the Kamis ==

The Zoraïs believe that the Kamis are the living embodiment of pure energy (Ma-Duk, see below) on Atys sent to stand vigil over the plant kingdom and ensure that no one may destabilize the fragile equilibrium of the planet. The Zoraïs believe themselves to be the chosen children of the Kamis because among the homins it is they who have most retained the pure energy. Kami worship has become part and parcel of Zoraï existence. Indeed, no sooner had they surfaced from the Prime Roots after the Great Swarming than Hoï Cho instituted a week of fasting to commemorate the period which left them bereft of Kami enlightenment.

Ma-Duk (The Life Giver) : The Zoraïs worship a superior life energy which created Atys, Ma-Duk. They do not see it as a superior hominoid being but as an energetic entity free of body that presides over a kind of nirvana. They readily give offerings through favors done to the disciples on Atys, the Kamis. The Zoraïs believe in the existence of another world, indeed of other worlds where homins may accede as stepping stones to finally be fit to enter eternal all-knowing bliss. In the ancient lands they built places of high magnetism where homins could find tranquility and energy resource to help them through life on Atys.

== How they see Jena ==

Since the encounters between Hoï-Cho and Ma-Duk which began in 2483, Jena no longer has any place in Zoraï culture. They consider her as a deity borne of the imaginations of less spiritual Atysians.

== How they see Elias Tryton ==

Many Zoraïs believe the apparition of Elias in 2481 to be a manifestation of a Great Kami. He appeared in a halo of light some three generations ago to a chosen few to tell them how to lead homins from kitin infested lands through a rainbow to the relative safety of the Prime Roots of faraway lands. During the years that followed, some Zoraï sages founded the Guild of Elias with other homin races to keep his memory alive. This guild was later portrayed by the Karavan as a sect opposing the church of Jena and prohibited, many members were able to take refuge in Zoraï territory where the Karavan were least present.

Members of the Guild of Elias still reside in Zoraï territory. The Zora government is against the guild as it creates discord within the long standing Zoraï social system. This guild which operates ‘underground’ has gathered testimonies of every encounter with the strange hominoid entity.

== How they see the Matis ==

The Zoraïs at first saw the Matis as barbarous tribes as they witnessed them hunt down and kill every one of the primitive primates known as the momos. Outraged and horrified at such a display of barbarity the Zoraïs began the construction of their great wall which ran across the lands of the Matis and the Trykers to the north of their jungles lands. But with news of a peace treaty between homin races, rare Zoraï travellers began venturing out of their lands to see with amazement the great cities and bastions of the Matis.

Despite Matis love for the Karavan the Zoraïs consider the Matis with a certain respect for their refined knowledge of plant life. The Zoraïs are nonetheless staunchly against the Karavan and are prepared to try every means to bring the Matis around to the Kami way of living. Indeed, the present Matis king, Yrkanis, was given refuge in Zora in 2509 and helped to muster an army to depose the ultra-Karavan monarchy and install a more tolerant government. This, for the Zoraïs , was the first step to coax the Matis into the Kami world. In accordance with their agreement of 2509, trade between Matis and Zoraïs has resumed. However, it would seem there is growing opposition against Yrkanis within his own kingdom. The Zoraïs remain vigilant.

== How they see the Fyros ==

In the early years the Zoraïs saw the Fyros as barbarous primates ready the cut the life out of a body before the soul was prepared to meet the maker. But with the peace treaty of Karavia in 2436, some rare Zoraïs ventured to the desert lands where exchanges of knowledge were made in the great halls of learning of the capital city of Fyre. Along with their wisdom the Zoraïs brought word of Kami enlightenment to which the Fyros were receptive.

Since the coming together in the Prime Roots after the Great Swarming, the Fyros are considered to be making good progress in their spiritual development, having clearly chosen the way of the Kamis.

Today the Zoraïs consider the Fyros as brash but valiant warriors to be relied on. And indeed, their new alliance, built around the Kamis, has been put to the test many times over recent years and each time their friendship has grown stronger. They fought together against the Matis dictatorship in 2506. In 2512 the two peoples came together to fight the kitins that were mustering on lands bordering the two territories in Knot of Dementia. The present Zoraï leader, Mabreka, was given refuge at Pyr during the totalitarian reign of Fung-Tun in 2504.

== How they see the Trykers ==

The Zoraïs have never had much regard for the trivial Trykers who were seen to treat the Kamis with frivolity. They feel their minds are not mature enough to be fit for a place in the higher spheres after life on Atys, indeed they have a long way to go on the road to spiritual enlightenment. When the Matis invaded Trykoth in the old lands, the Zoraïs kept behind their walls with their gates closed despite Matis warriors at their heels. They felt the Trykers’ spirit was too wayward and no doubt unworthy of receiving Zoraï aide in the face of the mighty Matis knights. Again during the Great Swarming the Zoraïs kept their gates locked though this time their walls crumbled under the brunt of the Kitin onslaughts.

Today, the Zoraïs have learnt to tolerate the Tryker devotion of sensuous enjoyment, though still have little esteem for their fickle souls. Furthermore, the Trykers venerate the Karavan who are hostile to the Kamis.

== History In Brief ==

The first Zoraïs were a mysterious group of peoples who lived in the ancient jungles in the region known as Zoran south of the river Ti-aïn. It is not known exactly when the Zoraïs settled in the area but it was probably somewhere between 2199 and 2205. The first Zoraïs set up camp in the jungle when a tribe of them came into contact with Kami entities. Given to mysticism, the Zoraïs built up mysterious temple cities centered around the worship of the Kamis. The goo infested area the Zoraïs had claimed was not prized by other peoples and their civilization was able to quickly expand becoming a force to be reckoned with. Led by a dynasty of spiritual chieftains, they were able to annex jungle land easily fending off Fyros attacks on their impregnable temple cities.

Under the Cho dynasty they undertook a campaign of territorial expansion to house their ever increasing populations. They began to set up settlements to the north nearer to other homin civilizations. On witnessing what they saw as barbarous acts of cruelty they began the construction of a great wall delimiting their territory to preserve peace and harmony within and to keep undesirables out. This policy enabled them to steer clear of futile and soul destroying acts of violence and to keep out of the scourge of interracial warfare that continuously ravaged the ancient lands.

In the cover of their vast protected provinces, they were able to develop a form of writing and gave themselves to spiritual enlightenment. However, in 2481, under the authority of Min-Cho, the great dynasty crumbled like a house of cards with the kitin onslaughts which, in their self-imposed segregation, the Zoraïs were powerless to counter.

Biography of Mabreka

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= Grand Sage Mabreka Cho =

[[Image:>Mabreka_.png|]]

== Main Psychological Traits ==

* Endowed with mature intelligence and a strong sense of mysticism.
* Well-measured, eloquent and calculated way of speaking.
* Possessed of discernment, judgment and discretion, he is the ever-steady voice of reason that guides the Zoraï people on.
* Of strenuous moral virtue, is faithful to his god (Ma-Duk) and his duty (to promote Kami enlightenment).
* Superior but not haughty, though strong-willed, he has a strong presence of mind and knows how to bide his time. He knows that harboring Yrkanis, for example, will bring him merit later as Yrkanis would be more tolerant to the Kamis than would Jinovitch.
* Sought as an arbitrator far and wide and though devoted to Ma-Duk, he never allows it to influence him unduly.

== Short Biography ==

=== 2485 ===

Born on the route of the exodus. His father, the great warrior magician Leng Cheng-Ho, is a founder member of the guild of Force of Fraternity. Matini Bremmen Kalus Cheng-Lo was named after the other founder members of the guild (Matini Roqvini a Matis, Bremmen Dingle a Tryker, and Kalus Hym a Fyros). The first names were then shortened to Mabreka. These famous homins helped save Leng, his wife, eldest son and two daughters from being devoured by kitins on the route of the exodus. Mabreka was in the belly of his mother at the time.

=== 2489 ===

Arrives in Zora with his family from the route of exile.

=== 2493 ===

Mabreka is 8 when his father is killed saving the young Matis prince, Yrkanis. The young Zoraï is taken into the house of the childless Grand Sage Hoï-Cho who gives the boy teaching.

=== 2495 ===

Hoï-Cho begins dictating his encounters with Ma-Duk. Mabreka, at the age of 10, is the faithful scribe.

=== 2498 ===

Mabreka accompanies Hoï-Cho to Pyr where the Grand Sage negotiates a Pact of Alliance with the Fyros. In Pyr, Mabreka makes the acquaintance of Dexton, the future Fyros emperor. This marks the beginning of a lasting friendship.

=== 2499 ===

War over Lagoons of Loria between the Trykers and the Matis brings a Fyros contingent led by Dexton through Zoraï country to join sides with the Trykers. During his stopover in the Zoraï capital of Zora, Hoï-Cho warns Dexton of the consequences of war. Mabreka reminds him too of the fraternity of the four peoples that Kalus Hym and the others of the Force of Fraternity had so keenly defended. Dexton promises to take prisoners when he can.

=== 2500 ===

On hearing about Dexton’s capture by the Matis, Mabreka volunteers to step in as go-between to negotiate his release. The aging Hoï-Cho, unable to travel far, agrees to send Mabreka on his first official mission, despite his youth. The Grand Sage counts on the young Zoraï’s capital of sympathy with the Matis king. Indeed, Mabreka’s father had lost his life saving Yasson’s son from the jaws of kitins.

=== 2501 ===

At the age of 16, Mabreka successfully orchestrates the release of Dexton for one million dappers, and plays a preponderant role in the Watergate Border Post Peace Treaty.

=== 2504 ===

Mabreka is 19 when Hoï-Cho dies without officially designating his heir. Despite his growing popularity, Mabreka is forced to find exile in Pyr when Fung-Tun, an old and influential guru, takes the power refuting the Hoï-Cho writings, and reinstates Jena as Kami Superior. In Pyr Mabreka is able to preach the enlightenment of Ma-Duk to the Dexton, his friend and Emperor of the Fyros, to bring him closer still to the Kamis.

=== 2506 ===

Mabreka distinguishes himself in battle alongside Dexton in a campaign to crush a Matis crusade to convert the Fyros lands to Jenaïsm. Meanwhile, in Zora, Fung-Tun has gone insane, the Zora administration is in danger of losing control and guards are posted to keep all foreigners out so creating confusion and conflict at the Fyros frontier. It is thus amid great acclaim that Mabreka returns from Dunes of Exile to calm spirits and with a proposition of a Fyro-Zoraï peace treaty and a pact of alliance in the name of the Kami. Fung-Tun is deposed, Mabreka is elected Grand Sage by the High Council. Mabreka takes the name of Mabreka Cho to rekindle the spirit of the Cho dynasty and faith in Ma-Duk. Mabreka Cho pushes for total commitment to Hoï-Cho’s teachings throughout the lands. He misses not an occasion to sow the seeds of faith.

=== 2509 ===

Mabreka gives asylum to the late King Yasson’s son, Yrkanis, and helps him muster an army to dethrone the ultra-Karavan king, Jinovitch. Mabreka figures Yrkanis would be a more tolerant king and thus more receptive to Kami enlightenment. Mabreka and Yrkanis agree to resume trade if the prince’s bid to the throne is successful. Mabreka also manages to negotiate the non persecution of Kamis in Matis lands.

=== 2512 ===

Mabreka and Dexton join forces against a swarming of kitins in Knot of Dementia and Dunes of Exile. Mabreka proves himself in battle to be as valiant a warrior as his illustrious father and as wise a leader as Hoï-Cho.

=== 2516 ===

Following the Fairhaven Peace Treaty signed in 2515, Mabreka orchestrates the summit of Hoï-Cho where the four homin powers sign a Free Trade Agreement to establish free movement throughout homin lands. Thus the pro-Kami guild of Cho are at liberty to spread the word of Ma-Duk throughout the lands of Atys.

=== 2525 ===

At 39, Mabreka Cho has consolidated the teachings of Hoï-Cho throughout the Zoraï and Fyros lands. The Kamis are accepted and sometimes revered in Tryker and Matis lands. He would now like to bring all the homin peoples another step closer to the eternal bliss of Ma-Duk.

Being a Zoraï

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= Being Zoraï =

== Who am I? ==

You are a young homin refugee. You have wisely responded to the calling of your people in taking the long and perilous journey from the old lands. For the last forty four years we have been rebuilding the foundations of our society in these new lands of promise, we need your help. After a period of training, you will be able to put your skills to good use and help rebuild our civilization.

== Who are my ancestors? ==

Your ancestors built a society structured around magnetic temple-cities where grand ceremonies were orchestrated for spiritual enlightenment. It is up to your generation now to rekindle that flame, to make our civilization shine again as the true spiritual leader. You were brought up in the wilds where your grandparents took refuge from the kitin onslaughts of 2481. Your parents did right in urging you to quit your hapless life and take the great road to join the rest of your people. You have traveled for many years but now you have found us. Your new life has just begun.

== Who is our leader? ==

Mabreka-Cho, the Great Sage, is our spiritual leader. Where he leads, you must follow, his aura shines like a beacon in the night and guides our souls. Follow his light and you too will shine among your people. Consider it a great honor if you are chosen to carry out a mission on his demand, the outcome will illustrate your worthiness. Cuan Sa-Ki and Shon Wo-Can are the great gurus that, having attained merit, give him guidance.

== What is our faith? ==

We worship the superior life energy which created Atys, he is called Ma-Duk. Ma-Duk manifests his presence on Atys through the Kamis who watch over his creation. Remember, homin, the Kamis must be protected, it is through them that you will gain merit to accede to full enlightenment. Give them offerings and do them favors whenever you can, and they will impart their magic to you.

== What do we value? ==

To be fully reborn as a true Zoraï you must structure your new life on the fundamental cornerstones of wisdom, spiritual accomplishment and respect of nature. Wisdom: To better serve the Kamis it is important you learn about yourself, your people and about Atys. By gaining knowledge you will also learn how to better defend Atys, the Kamis and your peoples against barbarity. Spiritual accomplishment: You must seek to gain merit for your soul to reach enlightenment. For this you must not only fortify your individual relationship with the Kamis but also spread the word of Kamis enlightenment to other homins so they too may share the ultimate bliss. Respect of nature: Our culture is built on a deep respect for nature. You must guard against over-exploitation and fire, and at all costs fight against the goo which the Kamis are powerless to repel.

== What are our prohibitions? ==

* You must never have dealings with the Karavan. They are the enemy of the Kamis and try to stop us in our task of eradicating the goo. By gathering raw materials for the Karavan, you will be guilty of raping the planet we have been made to cherish. The Karavan are responsible for the gradual depletion of resources and environmental damage.
* Never mock or oppose the Kamis. The Kamis act for the good of Atys.
* It is forbidden to spread fire over the lands. It strips the land of its wealth and leaves it sterile.
* Never carry out missions for enemy tribes.

== What are our goals? ==

For the last forty four years we have been diligently building the bases of our civilization to build from. Now we must : * Develop our individual strengths and skills * Make our dynasty shine and promote spiritual awareness throughout the new found lands centered around Kami worship * Build strong guilds to free hominkind from the influence of the Karavan. Then we may all join forces in our crusade against the Goo to make this world a better place * Build alliances with the Trykers * Retrieve the knowledge lost during the Great Swarming. If you discover this knowledge you will be able to open the doors to the secrets of the past.

== Who are our friends? ==

Since the Peace Treaty signed at Fairhaven in 2515, we have been at peace with the other homin peoples. But ten years of peace could never erase the many years of barbarity that was rife in other homin lands. And we find still that some homins have more merit than others. * Fyros: The Fyros are brash though valiant warriors who in recent times have proved worthy of our trust. They have been making good progress in their spiritual development and have clearly chosen the way of the Kamis. * Tryker: The minds of the Trykers have not yet evolved sufficiently to be able to accept Kami enlightenment. They are of little spiritual worth. Not only are they said to have treated the Kamis with frivolity in the past, but they venerate the Karavan who are hostile to the Kamis. * Matis: We must try to free the Matis from the influence of the Karavan and bring them round to the Kami way of living. This is why, in 2509, the present Matis king, Yrkanis, was given refuge in Zora and helped to muster an army to depose the ultra-Karavan monarch and install a more tolerant government. This was the first step to coax the Matis into the Kami world. But word has got out that there is growing opposition against Yrkanis within his own kingdom. We must remain vigilant! * Friendly tribes include: The Barkers, The Dune Riders, The Beachcombers, The Icon Worshipers, The Tutors, The Hamazans of the Dead Seed, The Ecowarriors, The Oasis Diggers, The Sacred Sap, The Siblings of the Weeds.

== Who are our enemies? ==

* The Karavan: They are hostile to the Kamis, and among the weaker minds have imposed blind adherence to their goddess, Jena. Our forefathers, and more recently, the Fyros, managed to break away from their hold. We must help the other peoples to do likewise.
* The Kitins: These gigantic insects massacred many thousands of Zoraïs and devastated our dynasty in the lands of old.
* The Goo: This is a cancer to our planet. It offends the Kamis and must be eradicated.
* Enemy tribes include: The Cockroaches, The Chlorogoos, The Lawless, The Scorchers, The Lagoon Brothers, The Masters of the goo, The Antikamis, The Goo-heads, The Woven Bridles, The Darkening Sap.
* Bandits: Beware of outlaws, thieves and cutthroats, young homin. They won’t spare your life if there’s any profit to be had.
* Animal predators: The jungle is home to many wild animals, many of them will attack homins on sight!

== How can I help my people? ==

'''To be able to build our temple cities and play our role as spiritual leaders of Atys, we must be strong enough to resist opposition. For this we must recruit more crafters, harvesters, magicians and warriors. ''' We need warriors to defend our territory and establish new centers for kami worship. * We need crafters to produce everyday objects and weapons; and harvesters to gather the raw materials for food and manufacture. * We need magicians to enchant crafted items, protect harvesters, and heal warriors in combat and keep the enemy in check.

== What can I expect of my people? ==

* Training from our expert trainers.
* Our people is defended by guilds who may come to your aide once you’ve joined one.
* The more you act for the good of our people the more you’re noble deeds will be rewarded.

== What is our new land? ==

After resurfacing from the Prime Roots of the new lands in 2483, we secured new sites in the middle of the jungle where the Kamis most need us. The jungle is the most enchanted place on Atys, but one that needs caring for, it is here that the goo is most rife. Since 2487 we have been continually rejoined by refugees having taken the road from the old lands, the very road you have courageously taken, homin.

== What can I expect from Atys, our world? ==

Atys offers a wealth of natural riches, young homin, you may help yourself to further your development provided that you respect the environent. If you don’t, the Kamis will be down on you like thunder! As you become skilled in the ways of the world you will learn the lay of the land, an all important rite of passage if you are to lay claim to new territory, homin.

Still Wyler

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= Le Gouverneur Still Wyler =

[[Image:>Gouverneur_Still_Wiler.png|]]

''Still Wyler, murdered in 2532, was the previous Gouvernor of the Tryker Federation.''

== Main Psychological Traits ==

* He is a Tryker of action and conviction, forthright, unbending and sure-footed.
* As an orphan of the world he has been hardened by exposure, is strong, mature, in the prime of life.
* His experience as a slave has made a strong defender of homin rights out of him; he has a strong sense of equity.
* A born leader and inspirer of men, proud, brash, tenacious, combative, though sometimes boyishly impetuous.
* Fairly eloquent though will stand for no beating about the bush. Has little regard for formalities, is nobody’s fool.
* An epicurean, with a strong sense of comradeship, though somewhat raucous and back-patting.

== Short Biography ==

=== 2478 ===

Born in the ancient lands of Trykoth in the port of Jeniah.

=== 2481 ===

Loses his parents in the Great Swarming.

=== 2483 ===

Placed in an orphanage where he soon earns the reputation as a lovable rascal and charismatic ring leader at only 5 years of age.

=== 2486 ===

After the death of his favorite nanny, the rough and tumble lad runs away into the wilds. He quickly learns to reap from the land, be it the hard way, and lives out the stories of the legendary Company of Loria for himself. Makes frequent little jaunts into town where he is able to count on his dexterity and nimbleness for his dinner!

=== 2487 ===

He lives footloose throughout the warm season until one day, he steps straight into a ragus lair where two bloated specimens lay napping with a half eaten carcass of a capryni between them. Remembering a legendary tale of Loria, he remains calm, slowly smears his body with ragus dung to cover his odor, then turns the other way audaciously picking up a forgotten capryni leg on his way, and makes off without a sound. But no sooner has he made twenty paces than a ragus raises its head then bolts after him. Fate has it that members of the Slavers tribe are scouting nearby and save the lad from certain death. But it was out of the frying pan and into the fire. In return for saving his life he is made to skivvy for them.

=== 2488 ===

One evening a patrol of the tribe of Corsairs takes the Slaver’s camp by surprise. To make a quick escape they have no choice but to abandon the boy without even having the time to slit his throat. This is Wyler’s first though by no means last encounter with the Corsairs. On their handing him over to the authorities after saving him from slavery, the young Still Wyler brays that he will one day whip the Corsairs into shape like a hammer on hot amber. Little did he know how true his words would ring true! Back at the orphanage he takes up his place as chief of the kids who he both scares and fills with marvel with tales of kitins and Kamis. His urge for freedom is given a vent through his nightly escapades from the orphanage during which he slips in and out of family dwellings. He picks out a family and spends a night in their company most often without them ever knowing.

=== 2489 ===

On the day of his eleventh birthday he chooses to spend the night in a house that belongs to new folks in town, and not the least worthy. He is found curled up in a corner under a table by none other than Bremmen Dingle, the legendary warrior. After some harsh questioning with the lad and a few verifications with the authorities, Dingle decides to take the lad in. Under Bremmen’s judicious hand and his wife’s gentle care, the lad is gradually brought into line, taught loyalty and the values of freedom and fraternity, values as dear to Bremmen as to any Tryker who ever lived.

=== 2490 ===

Bremmen takes the boy with him on the campaign to free the homin lands of kitins and to secure trade routes between continents. Still Wyler kills his first kitin at the age of 12, and for the next two years follows in the footsteps of the great warriors of the Guild of Force of Fraternity. Still comes across Dexton, two years his junior, but prefers the company of real soldiers.

=== 2492 ===

Tragedy strikes on the route home from the kitin campaign. Bremmen Dingle and Matini Roqvini are killed by kitins under mysterious circumstances. When the governor, Rigan Mac’Darrell, ends his tribute speech to the memory of Dingle with “and who shall be our spearhead now in the face of the invincible kitins?” the 14 year old Wyler steps forward determinedly. He vows to make the Trykers strong in the memory of his master just as Loria did in her day. Wyler spends the next years in the Federal Guard teaching the Federal soldiers how to fight the kitins using the methods of combat elaborated by Bremmen Dingle and the guild of the Force of Fraternity.

=== 2495 ===

At the age of 17, he leads an elite contingent to crush a new kitin swarm and returns to Fairhaven amid great fanfare.

=== 2496 ===

He is offered the leadership of the Tribe of Corsairs.

=== 2499 ===

During the Autumn War, Wyler leads guerilla activities against the invading Matis garrisons in Lagoons of Loria.

=== 2500 ===

Tryker forces are reinforced by a Fyros contingent led by Dexton. Wyler considers the foreign aid unnecessary maintaining that the Trykers are strong enough to fight their own battles. Nevertheless Mac’Darrell orders him to get on with the job. Dexton is captured by the Matis just as the Trykers begin to gain the upper hand so bringing an end to the battle. Wyler is deprived of his clear-cut victory against the Matis though at least he has the satisfaction of having instilled his soldiers with a new sense of honor.

=== 2501 ===

Following the Watergate Border Post peace treaty, Lagoons of Loria become a free territory. Rigan Mac’Darrell commissions Wyler to make sure they remained so. For his services rendered, Mac’Darrell makes Wyler Deputy of Lagoons of Loria.

=== 2503 ===

Death of Rigan Mac’Darrell, Wyler runs for the governorship of Fairhaven but comes a close second to the more politically experienced Beadly Nimby, the Deputy of Fairhaven. Wyler repeatedly warns Fairhaven of increasing insecurity on the borders and the mounting threat of the new Matis regime. Time again Nimby opts for a pacific issue at all costs. As a firm believer in democracy, Wyler bides his time militating against slavery and the pacifist government of Fairhaven in the face of the growing feeling of insecurity.

=== 2507 ===

Wyler submits a text to Fairhaven to combat slavery which later forms the basis of the Homin Rights Act.

=== 2508 ===

Amid the mounting tensions, Beadley the pacifist stands down. Wyler is elected to take up the reigns as Tryker Governor at the age of 30.

=== 2509 ===

He gives refuge to the exiled moderate Matis prince, Yrkanis, who in turn, before he leaves, promises to return with reinforcements to counterbalance an act of aggression from the warriors of Jinovitch, and protect Lagoons of Loria. Governor Wyler embarks on a great tour (to 2511) of the Tryker lands to rouse the Trykers from a general state of resignation and rally them under his banner. He knows the time is nigh to stand up and fight for liberty! Spies give Wyler to believe that the Matis, under Jinovitch, are building up forces to invade the Tryker lands.

=== 2510 ===

Wyler marries Rhiana, a member of the Corsairs who he meets on his great tour.

=== 2511 ===

Rhiana gives birth to a baby girl, Locian.

=== 2512 ===

Wyler leads the offensive against invading Matis troops and holds them at the border of Lagoons of Loria. He sends for Yrkanis in the knowledge that his presence could save unnecessary bloodshed.

=== 2513 ===

Yrkanis returns from Zora with an army to support Wyler in an offensive in Lagoons of Loria. But Wyler’s strategy pays dividends as many Matis, on the sight of Yrkanis, throw down their arms.

=== 2514 ===

After the victory in Lagoons of Loria, Still Wyler escorts Yrkanis to the Matis capital amid great acclaim and recognition. The Trykers have won the esteem of their Matis neighbors. The two leaders became firm allies, the Trykers retake possession of Lagoons of Loria. Birth of second daughter, Winneth.

=== 2518 ===

Wyler pushes for the adhesion of all homin peoples to the Homin Rights Act.

=== 2525 ===

At 47, Wyler has become a much loved leader of his people, leading them on under the banner of freedom, equality and solidarity. He has come to embody Tryker tenacity and fighting spirit. Friendship with the Matis, built around a mutual worship of Jena, has never been stronger.

Tryker History of the New Beginning

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= Tryker, the New Beginning =

{{include(puben:L_NewBegin_Intro)}}

== 2483 ==

Resurfacing from Prime Root sanctuary after Karavan assurance that kitins no longer present a threat. Take possession of lake lands. Aeden Aqueous explored, scouts come upon a region particularly rich in resources in Liberty Lake. First foundations of Fairhaven laid. Karavan seal Prime Root entrances and forbid their opening. Council of Sages led by Rigan Mac’Darrell swear allegiance to Karavan and, falling into step with the Matis, proclaim an annual celebration (Thanksgiving) in honor of their intervention against the kitins. Thanksgiving Day falls on the winter solstice to symbolize the return of light after the dark years that followed the Great Swarming.

== 2484 ==

The area of Liberty Lake and Dew Drops explored and made relatively safe. Exploration of Winds of Muse, outposts set up. The Corsairs, an ancient tribe is reformed to patrol the Liberty Lake area for signs of kitins.

== 2485 ==

Water purification program put into place in Winds of Muse.

== 2486 ==

Karavan and Matis pressurize Tryker council to push Kami alters away from residential zones. Emergence of Guild of Elias.

== 2487 ==

Influx of refugees from great road leading from old lands. Welcome structure put into place to promote integration of Tryker refugees in new society. Act of Integration allowing refugees to rejoin their own civilization. Creation of Safe Zone; camps of Aubermouth, Barkdell, Hobwelly, Waverton and Dingleton established to welcome and train Tryker refugees. Village of Windermeer founded.

== 2488 ==

Number of refugees from the exodus begins to fall. Beginning of construction of villages of Crystabell and Avendale. New areas of Prime Roots secretly explored.

== 2489 ==

Legendary fighter Bremmen Dingle arrives from old lands with new methods of combat. He shared the road of the exodus with great fighters of other peoples collectively known as the guild of the Force of Fraternity. More outposts set up.

== 2490 ==

First kitin sightings in the area of Lagoons of Loria. Pact of Mutual Assistance (PMA) signed by Leanon, Hoi-Cho, Yasson and Mac’Darrell to fight conjointly against kitins. Contingents of Trykers established on every continent. Guild of the Force of Fraternity embark on campaign (to h2. 2492) of mixed homins to rid new homin lands of hostile kitins.

== 2492 ==

Members of guild of Force of Fraternity rejoin their own countries after their two year campaign against the kitins. New trade routes traced and opened into foreign lands. Bremmen killed by kitins while exploring Fleeting Garden. Rigan Mac’Darrell pays tribute to Bremmen and the guild of the Force of Fraternity.

== 2494 ==

First sightings of higher cutes in Lagoons of Loria.

== 2495 ==

Kitins reappear but kept in check with new methods of combat handed down by the guild of Force of Fraternity. Guild of Elias gaining in popularity.

== 2496 ==

Guild of Try, a secret organization of Tryker tribesmen establish an underground link to Burning Desert. Guild of Elias, portrayed as a sect against the church of Jena, is banned by Karavan. Mercenary tribes and bandits fuel feeling of antagonism for personal gain. Border zones unsafe.

== 2497 ==

Despite common respect for Karavan, Tryker prefer to break away from Matis domination and sign an agreement of trade with Fyros. Trykers decide not to renew lease of Lagoons of Loria. Fyro-Tryker Pact of Alliance.

== 2498 ==

Turnpikes established on trade routes under Matis authority. Passage through Prime Roots made difficult by Karavan surveillance.

== 2599 ==

Matis revocation of Edict of Four Peoples (signed in Prime Roots in h2. 2481). Matis drive Tryker contingents out of Verdant Heights Autumn War between Tryker and Matis in Aeden Aqueous over Lagoons of Loria for water resources. Matis annex Lagoons of Loria in Liberty Lake. Tryker guerilla activity in Lagoons of Loria led by Still Wyler.

== 2500 ==

Fyros contingent led by Dexton joins Trykers to push back Matis front. Dexton captured and ransomed by Matis.

== 2501 ==

Mabreka negotiates Dexton’s release for 1 million dappers. Peace Treaty signed at Watergate Border Post by Mac’Darrell, Yasson, Hoi-Cho and Leanon over Lagoons of Loria which becomes free territory.

== 2503 ==

Death of Rigan Mac’Darrell. Beadley Nimby wins vote against Corsair candidate, Still Wyler, for the Chair of the Council of Fairhaven.

== 2504 ==

Border clashes with multiracial tribes and bandit groups. Wyler claims action against tribes and bandits. Nimby proposes amnesty to offenders.

== 2505 ==

Matis impose surtax on Tryker goods passing through Verdant Heights to Burning Desert.

== 2506 ==

Nimby steps in line with Matis initiatives to reinforce measures ensuring adherence to Karavan teachings. Matis lower tithes to be paid for convoys traveling through Verdant Heights.

== 2507 ==

Homin Rights Act drawn up by Tryker Council to combat slave trade.

== 2508 ==

Matis prince, Yrkanis, is given refuge in Fairhaven till h2. 2509. Persecution of Trykers in Matis dominions. Beadley Nimby stands down as Master Governor of the Council. Still Wyler, an ex Corsair, elected Governor Master of The Council.

== 2509 ==

Wyler embarks on Great Tour (to h2. 2511) of lakes to rally Trykers under his banner. Prince Yrkanis leaves for Witherings.

== 2511 ==

Trykers block Matis supplies from Lagoons of Loria.

== 2512 ==

Matis conquest of Lagoons of Loria. Prince Yrkanis offers his support to Wyler.

== 2513 ==

Battle of Lagoons of Loria. Yrkanis sides with Tryker leader, Still Wyler leads in an offensive against Matis in Lagoons of Loria. Many Matis soldiers drop their arms and join the ranks of Prince Yrkanis.

== 2514 ==

Matis king, Jinovitch is killed. Still Wyler escorts Yrkanis to the Matis amid much rejoicing. Yrkanis accedes to the throne. Matis officially pull out of Lagoons of Loria.

== 2515 ==

Peace treaty signed at Fairhaven by Yrkanis, Mabreka, Wyler, and Dexton.

== 2516 ==

Summit of Hoi-Cho, four homin powers (Yrkanis, Dexton, Mabreka and Wyler) sign Free Trade Agreement to establish free movement of merchants in all homin territories.

== 2518 ==

Ratification of Homin Rights Act by four peoples.

== 2523 ==

First ruins discovered in Prime Roots.

== 2525 ==

The descendants of the destitute multitudes who never found the rainbows in time, each day come to swell Tryker populations.

Tryker Government

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= Federation of New Trykoth =

[[Image:0909291758_New_Trykoth.png|0909291758_New_Trykoth.png]]

{{>toc}}

Political structure of the New Trykoth Federation

The New Trykoth Federation is the most democratic government of Atys in accordance with the free and independent spirit of the Trykers. The Federation is not ruled by a centralized government but rather through decisions taken by an assembly of guild and clan leaders. The governor is nothing but a guarantee of stability in the Federation, thus decisions and orders do not move down through a pyramid structure of leadership, but are proposed and decided by the members of the Taliari assembly and empowered by an executive power.

== The Governor ==

* Elected for life by all citizens of New Trykoth.
* Must be Tryker born, and has to at least have been a Tryker citizen for 16 cycles, or 4 Jena years (10 months IRL).
* If the governor is not able to perform his duty, the vice-governor will replace him for at the most 1 Jena year, and new elections will be organized.
* The governor is the caretaker of the federal government; of the people, by the people and for the people.

The Governor: * Appoints the Vice-Governor. * Represents the Tryker people in encounters with the other peoples. * Ratifies the elections of ambassadors who will represent the state’s interests in foreign lands. The ambassadors negotiate treaties and contracts with the other peoples, and after Taliari approval the governor has to ratify them . * Ratifies the elections of the Kard’al. * May declare war on aggressors against the interests of the state, with approval of the Taliari. * Controls and ratifies the actions of the Vice-Governor concerning the behavior of the Federation (at Kard’al and Ambassador level). * May bring charges against a guild of the Lakes in case they commit offenses.

== The Vice-Governor ==

* Is appointed by the governor, and retains his functions until the governor revokes them or he gives up his post.
* Must be Tryker born, and has to have been a Tryker citizen for at least 4 Jena years (10 months IRL).
* If the Governor is unable to fulfill his duties, he will take up the management of the Federation for at most 1 Jena year, and will organize new elections. He may himself stand candidate for the next governor.
* He supervises the participation and actions of the Kard’al and the ambassadors, and oversees the Taliari assemblies.

== The Taliari ==

''One Taliar, Several Taliari''

* There is 1 seat on the Taliari per citizen guild or tribe.
* A Taliar, or his representative, has to be a Tryker citizen.
* The Taliari exists of the assembly of guild leaders of citizen guilds with at least 5 active members. In case of expected abscense during a Taliari session, a member may have himself represented by a high officer of his guild.
* The names of the Taliari in function are posted at Frogmore Place.
* No Taliar may be excluded or banned because of his opinions.
* The Taliari gather at least every summer and every winter (every 9 days IRL). The vice-governor may assist in these meetings if he so chooses.
* They can relieve the governor if 80% of them and the Vice-Governor agree to the motion.
* The Taliari have to manage their own internal organization.

=== Role of the Taliari ===

Executive power of the internal Lakes politics mainly: * Management of resources, including outposts. * Management of commerce: markets, faires, water-routes, caravans, etc… * Supervision of the Kard’al: the Taliari prepare elections and appoint the Kard’al for the Governor for ratification. * They accept or reject law propositions made by the Kard’al, and pass the accepted laws on for the governor for ratification. They have the right to control the Kard’al and their actions regarding their towns. * Supervision of the ambassadors: The Taliari collect the names of candidate-ambassadors before passing them on to the Governor. They accept or reject propostions of treaties made by ambassadors, also to be checked by the Governor, and send ambassadors, when needed, on diplomatic or commercial missions to the other Peoples. * Keeping the registry of the Cryai up to date. * Resolve minor issues and administer minor justice. For example they recieve and treat complaints of Lakes inhabitants or send them on to the vice-governor in case of a major issue. * The governor needs to have permission of the Taliari to declare war. Such a permission is only valid for 2 Jena years (5 months IRL), after which a revote has to take place. * Gathering of all Cryai and Ancryai, having obtained a minimum training level to raise an army, under the rule of the Tryker Governor. The Taliari can decide to dismiss a Cryai if they are significantly or completely abscent; the assembly decides the sanction, which is to be ratified by the governor if he deems it just. * Determining exceptional taxes for a war effort.

=== The assembly and voting system ===

* The Taliari manage their own assemblies. These take place on the 1st floor of the building at Frogmore Place, where most official business is conducted and meetings with foreign allies and friends take place. Every 6 months (9 days IRL), the presiding member - the First Taliar, who is elected for five consecutive meetings - will open the meeting, reads the agenda, give the floor to the Taliari that wish it and oversee and close the meeting. He is also responsible for calling and tallying votes.
* Any topics that could not be discussed will be put on the agenda for the next assembly.
* The Vice-Governor, as representative of the Governor, will often participate in Taliari assemblies to keep order and determine if any Taliari are not contributing their share or are frequently absent. He has the right to call them to order and motivate them as he sees fit. He may also assume a supervisory role to make sure no Taliar attempts to manipulate any votes called.

The votes of Taliari take place in the following manner: * At the beginning of the assembly, a Tryker will pass out three special items to every Tailar or his representative: Three pearls of different colors: blue, black and violet. The colors have the following symbolic meaning: The blue pearl of the Lakes means a positive vote, the black pearl of the Prime Roots means abstention, the violet pearl of the Jungle means a negative vote. * A blind Tryker citizen will gather the pearls (votes), which guarantees the anonymity of the vote. In the case of an equal vote, the blind Tryker is asked to pick one of two pearls: blue or violet. His chosen pearl will count as another vote and will therefore swing the vote. * Votes will be counted by the currently presiding First Tailar.

== Kard’al ==

* The Kard’al (a Tryker word meaning guardian, protector) are the custodians of the cities of the Lakes. There are always four Kard’al, one representing each city.
* Kard’al are chosen by the Taliari from the ranks of the citizen members of Tryker guilds with at least 5 active members. The governor shall ratify the appointment. It is allowed for Taliari to nominate themselves and a Taliari may also be a Kard’al.
* Every Kard’al candidate will present a list of cities he would like to be assigned to, in order of preference. The Taliari will have the final word in the assignments.
* For a period of 1 Jena year (2.5 months IRL) after the appointment of the Kard’al, their guilds are responsible for the safety and protection of the city assigned. The appointment may be extended.
* A Kard’al may propose laws which will apply to their city, provided they find at least 2 other Kard’al who approve. If this is the case they can propose this law during a Taliari assembly and ask for ratification.
* They will ensure the security of their city with the help of their guild.
* They must work to strengthen the dynamics of their city through various events, trade fairs, contests, etc.
* They are expected to enliven their city by organizing events, trade, fairs, competitions, etc…
* They are responsible for dispensing very minor justice in their city, but will report any more serious or important cases to the Taliari.
* In the case of abuse of power, they may be dismissed from their post by the governor or vice-governor.

== Ambassadors ==

* There are always 3 ambassadors.
* They are chosen by the Talairi from the Tryker citizens. Their appointment is for one Jena year (2.5 months IRL) but this may be lengthened. Taliari may nominate themselves and a Taliari may also be an ambassador.
* They are in charge of building diplomatic, scientific or trade relations with other peoples (official political bodies, tribes, guilds.) They represent the interests of the state in foreign territories and will negotiate treaties with other peoples.
* Usually, they are sent on diplomatic missions by the governor, the vice-governor or the Taliari. However, they are allowed to use their own initiative in, for example, calling a diplomatic conference without having to seek approval form the Taliari or Governor. In any case, all agreements or treaties must be ratified by the Taliari and the governor or vice-governor.
* If an ambassodor does not perform to satisfaction, he may be dismissed from his post by the Governor.

== Talai Lochi ==

* Talai Lochi means “Bothers of the Lakes”.
* Only citizens are part of the Talai Lochi.
* They are under the jurisdiction of the Federation, being the Taliari assembly (Low Justice) or the governor (High Justice) and may demand from them that justice is done.
* Only a Tryker citizen may take seat in the Taliari, be appointed vice-governor or be elected governor.
* Only a citizen may be appointed ambassador or Kard’al.

== Cryai ==

The Cryai are all the citizen guilds and citizen tribes of the Lakes.

== Ancryai ==

These are the Tryker citizens not belonging to any guild, clan or tribe.

== The Stateless ==

* These are the homins belonging to no people, but live in Aeden Aqueous and have pledged allegiance to the government.
* They are not part of the Talai Lochi but must follow the laws of the land.
* The government does not have the authority to conscript them in case of war.
* The Stateless may not vote, nor be part of the government.

Tryker Civilization

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= Tryker Civilisation =

[[Image:>tryker_logo_3_w300px.png|]]

== What they value ==

* Freedom
* Equality
* Tenacity
* Enjoying simple pleasures in life
* Sharing

== How they see the Karavan ==

The Trykers consider the Karavan as faithful servants of Jena who stand watch over hominkind and assure their security in case the dragon rises or any other nefarious entity menaces. Over time, however, the common Tryker has come to consider them as lacking that pinch of fantasy to be real guardians from the other world. Consequently, many Trykers treat the Karavan more as overlords not to ruffle than a religious entity. This skepticism came to a head with many a Tryker wondering if they really had anything to do with Jena at all, until in 2506 when Governor Beadley Nimby stepped in line with Matis initiatives to reinforce measures ensuring adherence to Karavan teachings. Today the Trykers remain loyal to the Karavan because they protect them from Kami possession. Moreover, they are the only force on Atys that offers them a clear perspective with Jena, in whom they fervently believe.

== How they see Kamis ==

The Trykers did not initially esteem the Kamis for their spiritual worth but rather took them as bizarre creatures with an eerie aptitude for magic. It is said that the earliest Trykers were the first favorites of the Kamis until the day the Fyros began ravishing the Bark and liberating dragon fire. As a consequence, in need of calm and healing, the Kamis grew closer to the Zoraïs . Moreover, the Karavan disciples came to forbid any contact with the creatures labelling them as evil beings. Nowadays, the Tryker authorities officially oppose relations with the Kamis because they are afraid of Trykers becoming ‘possessed’ by the weird creatures, like the Zoraïs and, more recently, the Fyros.

== How they see Jena ==

Many Tryker customs are centered around the worship of Jena which is tinged with superstition. Jena gives them a sense to their lives as the Mother of Creation. They readily give her offerings through her disciples on Atys, the Karavan. Many Trykers firmly believe in the prophecy and the existence of another world from which hominkind came before birth. Trykers generally accept that the Great Swarming was Jena’s doing as a punishment for the unlawful things the homins in general had been getting up to, i.e. Fyros excavation and Zoraï worship of the Kamis.

== How they see Elias Tryton ==

A number of Tryker elders relate how Elias, a man all in white, appeared before them during the Great Swarming of 2481 to tell them how to guide homins to safety through a rainbow. The surviving ‘chosen ones’ would have Trykers believe that Elias is none other than the husband of Jena, in which case, it would turn out that Elias is the divine father of Atys! In Elias many Trykers have found a vent for their need for a holy father. For anyone knows it takes two to create a homin life! This notion corresponds to their utopian dream of a life where couples have babies and live happily ever after.

During the years that followed the apparition, some Tryker sages founded the Guild of Elias with homins of other races to keep his memory alive. This guild was later portrayed by the Karavan as a sect opposing the church of Jena and prohibited, though many members were able to operate underground easily in Tryker territory.

Nowadays the Guild of Elias still resides underground on Tryker territory though manages to spread the word of the coming of Elias. The Fairhaven government, following Karavan Law, has banished the guild for peace’ sake though in reality they turn a blind eye to be able to leave the door ajar just in case Elias really is the Holy Father!

== How they see the Matis ==

Though allied in their worship of Jena, in the past the Matis have time again tried to impose their vision of society on the Tryker people so creating discord, and sometimes open conflict. Indeed, it was fear of the overbearing character of the Matis that made the Tryker Council breach the Edict of 4 Peoples and sign a preferential Trade Agreement with the Fyros in 2497, which led to hostilities over Lagoons of Loria.

Nowadays however, the Trykers feel they have earned respect from the Matis who seem to have at last come to accept they share not the same notions of social structure. The ratification of the Homin Rights Act by the Matis in 2518 and the Matis relinquishing Tryker territory in Lagoons of Loria have done much to restore a feeling of fraternity around Jena worship. Today the two peoples live in relative harmony.

In fact, to a certain extent the Matis owe the Trykers their freedom after the dictatorship of Jinovitch. Not only did the Tryker Council give Yrkanis political asylum in Fairhaven in 2508 but Still Wyler escorted him back into Matis lands to defeat Jinovitch and accede to the thrown in 2514. But that was over ten years ago and it would seem that the Matis have a short memory. Indeed, they refuse to admit they were helped by Trykers claiming it was they who helped them free Lagoons of Loria.

== How they see the Fyros ==

The Fyros where once allies who gave Trykers protection against the domineering Matis in exchange for water supplies at low cost. But the Trykers learning the art of warfare in their struggle to break the shackles of Matis slavery, thanks to the legendary Company of Loria, soon meant they could negotiate more advantageous trade agreements. Nowadays the Trykers feel they no longer need their condescending Fyros protectors of old, especially with the new feeling of fraternity with the Matis. Furthermore, the Fyros moving closer to the Kamis and the weird Zoraïs has widened the gap of religious difference.

== How they see the Zoraïs ==

The Trykers distrust the Zoraï mystics who openly transgress Jena Law by venerating the Kamis. What is more, during past troubles in the old lands with the Matis, the Zoraïs refused to let their forefathers cross the great Zoraï wall into the jungle lands to flee Matis swords. A similar thing happened during the Great Swarming when the Zoraïs closed their frontiers and let many thousands of Trykers perish in the jaws of the kitins. Although the Zoraïs have opened up since the exile in the Prime Roots, the Trykers still bear a grudge against the Zoraïs deliberately turning their forefathers away in their time of greatest need. More recently, it was the Zoraïs, under Fung-Tun in 2504, who first installed slavery in the new lands, which Trykers strongly oppose.

== History In Brief ==

The Trykers, probably the greatest seafarers of the ancient world, lived in floating villages in the lake lands known as Trykoth. Their principle cities, all ports, included Jeniah and Breneth. They formed a myriad of tribes, with each tribe being headed by a counsel whose duty it was to settle disputes and keep the peace. But their peaceful and idyllic existence became blighted when a great fire, known as the Fire of Coriolis, spread across Atys wastelands to the north so cutting off the water route between desert and lake lands as well as their Fyros protectors. Taking advantage of the calamity in the north to break the Fyro-Tryker alliance, the Matis king, Aniro III, led a lightening campaign to the south invading lake lands and easily reducing surviving Trykers to slavery. But an organized fellowship of rebels led by Loria broke away taking refuge in the depths of Atys.

Traveling from the Canopy to the Prime Roots, these Tryker heroes strove to shatter the shackles binding their brothers and led them across the Bark of Atys braving the worst of dangers. At the same time, realizing that without water supplies from the lake lands his empire would crumble, the then aged Abylus the Learned, launched an all out attack on the Matis front in an attempt to re-establish the water route running through Matis territory to the Lake Lands. Matis forces thus engaged in all out warfare were unable to quell the revolt led by the Company of Loria who led their people back to the Lake Lands. Loria masterly divided her people into combat groups, each one led by a member of the Company to exert repeated alternating attacks along the southern front so creating havoc and relieving flagging Fyros forces in the north and west. Faced with Fyro-Tryker pressure, Aniro III eventually took the decision to retreat back to his former dominions rather than risk losing them completely.

The water route was open again and, wiser after the battle, the Trykers further developed their newfound guerrilla skills in case of future attack. And indeed, barely two generations later the Matis, taking advantage of a swarming of kitins in the desert regions which decimated Fyros populations, again turned their eyes to the west and south. However, the Trykers were saved from ever feeling the full force of the Matis. Indeed, it was a far greater force that swept the Trykers from their ancient lands. Kitin onslaughts progressed into Matis territory from the north literally devouring Matis battalions from behind before moving into Tryker lake lands and eradicating all traces of hominkind.

Being a Tryker

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= Being a Tryker =

== Who am I? ==

You’re a young homin refugee. You’ve done well in taking the long and dangerous road from the old lands to join us here where we’ve set up our new home. Once you’ve got some training behind you, you’ll be able to show us what you’re made of and help us build up our federation of Tryker peoples.

== Who are my ancestors? ==

Your ancestors built the most wonderful island cities in the ancient lands of Trykoth where they lived free as the wind. That was until three generations ago when the kitins came and wrought death and destruction throughout the land. Your grandparents escaped to the hills where your parents and then yourself were brought up in the constant fear of kitin attack. It was a good thing your parents urged you to quit your dead-end life, and risk the great road to join us here in the new promise lands. At last you’ve found us, your new life can begin.

== Who is our leader? ==

Lady Ailan Mac’kean, she’s the big boss. She is the governor of the Tryker Council. When she speaks, you jump! at least until you’ve worked your way up to be able to speak to her eye to eye. You make sure you stand by her, young Homin, our independence depends on our solidarity! Her right-hand Homins is her deputy, Rehn Kirran, he is an experienced Homin and provides her counsel. If ever you get the honour of carrying out a mission for the council, make sure you give it your best shot, you never know, our independence could depend on it.

== What is our faith? ==

Jena is our Goddess, she is the Mother of Creation. Many of our customs are centered around her worship. There’s Thanksgiving Day, for example, it falls on the winter solstice to symbolize the return of light after the dark years that followed the Great Swarming. So that it doesn’t happen again, we must live by her Law which is handed down to us by her faithful disciples, the Karavan. They watch over us and protect us from Kami possession. Remember, young homin, as long as you do as you’re told and don’t ruffle ’em, you too will be able to learn to wield their technology. Oh, and by the way, keep it under your bonnet but some say that Elias is none other than the husband of Jena, which makes him the holy Father, but don’t mention it to the Karavan!

== What we value most? ==

To be a true Tryker, you gotta live by the virtues of freedom, equality and sharing: Freedom: Consider all homins responsible and free of their acts. Any homin violating the freedom of another will be in breach of the Homin Rights Act, which as it happens, was first drawn up by the Tryker Council. Equality: Every homin has an equal right to walk the land, to obtain instruction, to harvest the natural resources, to choose their own destiny, as long as they don’t encroach on other homin rights. Sharing: We believe that our force lies in our solidarity and that solidarity is borne from sharing. If we could persuade all Jena’s children to be like us Trykers the world would be a safer place!

== What are our prohibitions? ==

* You must never make a pact or do a mission for the Kamis. They are evil demons and will possess your soul.
* Never breach the Law of Jena.
* Never carry out missions for enemy tribes.
* If you venture down beneath the surface of Atys, be careful not to wake the dreaded dragon of the apocalypse.
* It is forbidden to spread dragon fire over the lands. It makes the land sterile.

== What are our goals? ==

Ever since we resurfaced from the Prime Roots we have been building solid foundations for our future civilization without tyranny or intolerance, where all Jena’s children may live in freedom. Now we must: * Develop our individual strengths and skills * Build strong and closely knit guilds to spread the word of the Karavan and free the infidels of Kami possession * Build alliances with the Zoraïs * Improve our knowledge to make even better tools and weapons. During the Great Swarming, much knowledge was scattered throughout the land. Discovering this knowledge and more will open the doors to the secrets of the past. * Live the good life.

== Who are our friends? ==

Since the Peace Treaty signed at Fairhaven in 2515, we have been at peace with the other homin peoples. But that don’t stop us having our likes and dislikes. * Matis: Despite past disputes and misunderstandings, the Matis now respect our freedom of thought and our right to build our society as we feel fit. After all, what really counts is that we share a faith in Jena. Thanks to Jena our friendship has never been stronger, especially since the Matis ratified the Homin Rights Act. What’s more, to a certain extent the Matis owe us their freedom after the dictatorship of Jinovitch. Not only did the Tryker Council give Yrkanis political asylum in Fairhaven but Still Wyler escorted him back into Matis lands to defeat Jinovitch to accede to the throne. * Fyros: The Fyros were once allies who exploited our need for protection by having us supply Fyros towns with merchandise at low cost. Since we’ve learnt to fight for ourselves we no longer need the patronizing Fyros protectors, especially with the new feeling of fraternity with the Matis. And besides, the Fyros have gotten closer to the Kamis. * Zoraï: The Zoraïs are not to be trusted, they openly breach Jena Law by venerating the Kamis. What’s more, during the Great Swarming in the old lands, the Zoraïs refused to let us through their great wall and let many thousands of Trykers perish in the jaws of the kitins. More recently, it was the Zoraïs who first installed slavery in the new lands. * Friendly tribes include: The Frahar Hunters, The Silt Sculptors, The Corsairs, The Beachcombers, The Shadow Runners, The Green Seed, The Slash and Burn, The Ecowarriors, The Oasis Diggers, The Kuilde.

== Who are our enemies? ==

* The Kamis: They are an evil blight, they try to blow your mind with their magic just to possess you. They ought to be stamped out.
* The Kitins: These gigantic insects massacred many thousands of Trykers and devastated our wonderful floating cities in the old lands of Trykoth.
* The Dragon: It has never been seen, but we know it’s lurking deep down in the bowels of Atys somewhere. There’s not much we can do about it though, best put it to the back of the mind.
* Enemy tribes include: The Sap Gleaners, The Chlorogoos, The Lawless, The Lagoon Brothers, The Slavers, The Tutors, The Ancient Dryads, The Woven Bridles, The Darkening Sap.
* Bandits: Better watch out for outlaws, thieves and cutthroats, they get all over the place.
* Animal predators: There are lots of real nasty animals on Atys, make sure you watch your step if you don’t wanna end up as their dinner!

== How can I help my people? ==

* Well, it’s simple, whether you’re a crafter, harvester, magician or a warrior, we need you!
* We need warriors to defend our territorial rights and support our need for growth.
* We need able crafters to produce everyday objects and weapons; and harvesters to gather the raw materials for food and manufacture.
* We need magicians to enchant crafted items, protect harvesters, and heal warriors in combat and keep the enemy in check.

== What can I expect of my people? ==

* Training from our expert trainers.
* Our people is defended by guilds who may come to your aide once you’ve joined one.
* The more you act for the good of our people the more you’re brilliant deeds will be rewarded.

== What is our new land? ==

Our people first made our home in the lake lands in 2483 on our resurfacing from the Prime Roots in the new lands. The lakes are the most magical place on Atys though you gotta be quick cause it certainly ain’t no place for weak knees! Since 2487 we’ve been continually rejoined by refugees having taken the road from the old lands, the very road you have courageously taken, homin.

== What can I expect from Atys, our world? ==

Atys is a mine of fabulous natural riches, young homin, in time you’ll learn how to make a good living out of them. As you become skilled in the ways of the world you will learn how the land lies to be able to move into new grounds.

Matis History of the New Beginning

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= Matis, the New Beginning =

{{include(puben:L_NewBegin_Intro)}}

== 2483 ==

Resurfacing from Prime Root sanctuary after King Yasson is given order by Karavan that kitins no longer present a threat. Take possession of forest lands. Verdant Heights explored, scouts come upon a region rich in resources which King Yasson baptizes Majestic Garden. First foundations of Yrkanis laid in Majestic Garden. According to legend, the first edifice is erected on the spot where the king’s arrow fell, the new capital is named after his son, Yrkanis, born in h2. 2482 in the Prime Roots. Karavan seal Prime Root entrances and forbid their opening. Yasson renews Matis allegiance to Karavan and proclaims an annual celebration (Thanksgiving) in honor of their intervention against the kitins. Thanksgiving Day falls on the winter solstice to symbolize the return of light after the dark years that followed the Great Swarming. Ancient pro-Karavan tribe of the Kuild reformed. Ancient multiracial guild of Atrium Keepers reformed.

== 2484 ==

The rest of the region of Majestic Gardens explored and made relatively safe. Region of Fleeting Garden explored, Lenardi Bravichi begins work to cultivate roots to form a natural barrier with Majestic Garden border against possible kitin attacks.

== 2485 ==

Kami intervention in Fleeting Garden to prevent Matis manipulation of nature, great barrier works abandoned. Sacred Sap, pro-Kami tribe, present in Fleeting garden.

== 2486 ==

Kami alters banished from Matis towns. Pro-Karavan Guild of Karavia founded.

== 2487 ==

Arrival of first refugees from road of exodus leading from old lands. Welcome structure set up to promote integration of Matis refugees in new society. Act of Integration allowing refugees to rejoin their own civilization. Creation of Safe Zone; camps of Stalli, Borea, Nistia, Rosilio and Miani established to welcome and train Matis refugees.

== 2488 ==

Beginning of construction of villages of Davae, Natae and Avalae, named after first female babies born in the newfound lands. Number of refugees from the exodus begins to fall.

== 2489 ==

Legendary fighter Matini Roqvini arrives from old lands with new methods of combat. He shared the road of the exodus with great fighters of other peoples collectively known as the guild of the Force of Fraternity.

== 2490 ==

First outposts set up. Kitin presence detected in newfound lands. Pact of Mutual Assistance (PMA) signed by Yasson, Hoi-Cho, Leanon and Mac’Darrell to fight conjointly against kitins. Contingents of Matis established on every continent. Guild of the Force of Fraternity embark on campaign (to h2. 2492) of mixed homins to rid new homin lands of hostile kitins.

== 2491 ==

New trade routes traced and secured leading into foreign lands. System of bollards implanted throughout Matis country to guide the traveling merchant. Guild of Free Merchants founded.

== 2492 ==

Members of guild of Force of Fraternity rejoin their own countries after their two year campaign against the kitins. Matini Roqvini killed while passing through Fleeting Garden.

== 2493 ==

The young Prince Yrkanis saved in extremis by Leng Cheng-Ho. Prime Roots explored. Trykers agree to lease Lagoons of Loria to Matis for four years.

== 2495 ==

A grand sage openly questions role of Karavan and the teachings of Jena. Dissident groups formed within Matis society refuting existence of Jena. Multiracial Guild of Elias gains in popularity throughout homin lands. Kitins reappear but kept in check with new methods of combat handed down by the guild of Force of Fraternity.

== 2496 ==

Guild of Elias, portrayed as a sect against the church of Jena, is banished by Karavan. Mercenary tribes and bandits fuel feeling of antagonism for personal gain. Border zones unsafe. Slash and Burn tribe reformed.

== 2497 ==

Trykers breach Edict of Four Peoples and sign a preferential trade agreement with Fyros, depriving Matis peoples of water supplies. Trykers refuse to renew lease of Lagoons of Loria.

== 2498 ==

King Yasson revokes Edict of Four Peoples (signed in Prime Roots in h2. 2481) in protestation of Tryker Fyros exclusivity treaty. Turnpikes established on trade routes under Matis authority.

== 2499 ==

Matis drive Tryker contingents out of Verdant Heights. Autumn War between Tryker and Matis in Aeden Aqueous over Lagoons of Loria for water resources. Matis annex Lagoons of Loria in Liberty Lake. Tryker continue guerilla activity in Lagoons of Loria. King Yasson tries to put down Tryker revolt in Lagoons of Loria.

== 2500 ==

Fyros side with Trykers against Matis. To avoid further bloodshed, King Yasson orders capture of Dexton, the future Fyros Emperor, who is then ransomed for one million dappers.

== 2501 ==

King Yasson accepts Mabreka’s offer as arbitrator to negotiate Dexton’s release for 1 million dappers. Peace Treaty signed by Yasson, Leanon, Hoi-Cho and Mac’Darrell. Matis relinquish supremacy of Lagoons of Loria which becomes free territory in exchange for guaranteed supplies of water. Matis pull out of Lagoons of Loria.

== 2504 ==

Yasson poisoned by his younger half brother, Jinovitch (born h2. 2471), who takes the crown. Leading sages questioning Karavan sanctity burned at the state. Non Karavan guilds banished.

== 2505 ==

Members of guild of Elias burned at the state for heresy. Town of Yrkanis renamed Jino. Surtax imposed on Fyros and Tryker goods passing through Verdant Heights. Tribe of the Matisian Border Guards founded. Jinovitch bans multiracial guilds.

== 2506 ==

Surtax on Tryker goods reduced in exchange for Tryker reinforcement of measures ensuring adherence to Karavan teachings. Matis embark on a campaign to convert Fyros heathen lands, a whole battalion is wiped out in Sawdust Mines. Prince Yrkanis bids to capture the crown but fails and is imprisoned, then escapes. Jinovitch orders murder of Prince Yrkanis who goes into hiding with a band of loyal followers.

== 2507 ==

Conscription introduced.

== 2508 ==

Yrkanis caught in an ambush. On the way to Jino he is rescued, flees to Aeden Aqueous through Prime Roots and is given refuge in Fairhaven till h2. 2509, then in Zora (Witherings) till h2. 2512. Persecution of foreigners in Matis dominions.

== 2509 ==

Yrkanis in Zora till h2. 2512.

== 2512 ==

Matis conquest of Lagoons of Loria which takes the name of Jino Waters.

== 2513 ==

Battle of Jino Waters (Lagoons of Loria). Yrkanis sides with Tryker leader, Still Wyler, in an offensive against Matis in Lagoons of Loria. Many Matis soldiers drop their arms and join the ranks of Prince Yrkanis.

== 2514 ==

On the way to Tryker front, King Jinovitch dies horrible death in the jaws of kitin scouts, his soldiers left him to charge alone. At the age of 32 Yrkanis accedes to the throne amid much rejoicing. The capital city recovers its name of Yrkanis. Matis agree to cede Lagoons of Loria in Aeden Aqueous to Trykers.

== 2515 ==

Peace treaty signed at Fairhaven by Yrkanis, Mabreka, Wyler, and Dexton.

== 2516 ==

Summit of Hoi-Cho, four homin powers (Yrkanis, Dexton, Mabreka and Wyler) sign Free Trade Agreement to establish free movement of merchants in all homin territories.

== 2518 ==

Tribe of the Green Seed founded. Ratification of Homin Rights Act first instigated by Tryker Council.

== 2519 ==

Amber discovered in Prime Roots.

== 2523 ==

First ruins discovered in Prime Roots.

== 2525 ==

The descendants of the destitute multitudes who never found the teleportation rainbows in time, each day come to swell Matis populations.

Matis Civilization

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= Matis Civilisation =

[[Image:>matis_logo_3_w300px.png|]]

== What they value ==

* Loyalty to King and Goddess
* Aesthetic achievement
* Class structure
* Competition
* Magnificence and refinement

== How they see the Karavan ==

The Matis willingly see the Karavan as faithful servants of Jena who collect resources as offerings for the goddess to prepare for the future on a planet of fresh woodlands and pastures new. But more rationally, they see them as a useful ally whose arms of power they would all too gladly like to learn to wield. Over time, their natural penchant for the powerful and the lordly led the Matis to build up a strong relationship with the Karavan who in turn readily engaged them in their fight against the Kamis. After the Great Swarming however, despite King Yasson’s pledging allegiance to the Karavan anew, dissident Matis began spreading doubt within the populous as to Karavan invincibility and their true place in the design of Jena which, in turn challenged the supreme authority of the King! The brunt of the dissention was then put down in 2504 by Jinovitch, a despotic king who instigated the persecution of doubters for heresy.

Nowadays the Matis haughtily see themselves virtually as the Karavan’s equal. They forever seek to gain Karavan favor because the Karavan represent an opposing force to the Kamis who incessantly impede Matis manipulation of plant life.

== How they see the Kamis ==

The Matis are suspicious and afraid of being possessed by the weird creatures who oppose the Karavan Guardians. What is more, the Kamis condemn Matis genetic manipulation of plant life. Hence, they were only too glad when the Karavan labeled the Kamis as evil creatures, punishing those who would interact with them. Further to this the Matis monarch passed a law forbidding his subjects to perform “evil-doings” with the Kamis limiting contact with them to their capture and delivery to the Karavan.

More recently, under the rule of Jinovitch, in 2508, the Kamis were overtly persecuted in Matis lands. However, since the accession to the throne of the more liberal king, Yrkanis, the Kamis are now tolerated.

== How they see Jena ==

The Matis worship Jena and give her offerings through her disciples on Atys, the Karavan. As well as legitimizing their monarchy, the majority of Matis customs are centered around the worship of Jena which constitutes a veritable religion.

After the demise of the civilizations in the Great Swarming of 2481, many Matis were angry at the goddess for not sending in a Karavan task force in time to save the hundreds of thousands who perished. But under the Karavan’s omnipresent guiding hand, today the majority of the Matis people have come to accept that the swarming could have been sent by Jena herself in a display of her wrath at homin transgression of the divine Law, i.e. homin excavation of the Prime Roots, and homins such as the Zoraïs being tempted to adore the Kamis.

== How they see Elias Tryton ==

Some witnessed the ‘apparition’ of Elias who appeared in a shaft of light from the canopy during the Great Swarming. Elders claim he is in fact a messenger of mercy sent by Jena to allow them to take refuge in the Prime Roots from kitin onslaughts of the Great Swarming. It is understood that other messengers will come to elevate Matis souls. There were rumors of the coming of a major force before the Great Swarming though the scriptures have been lost.

During the years that followed, some Matis sages founded the Guild of Elias with other homin races to keep his memory alive. This guild was portrayed by the Karavan as a sect opposing the church of Jena and prohibited. In 2505, during the reign of Jinovitch many members of the guild were condemned for heresy against Jena and burnt at the stake. Since those times the guild has gone underground.

Today the Guild of Elias still resides underground on Matis territory though manages to spread the word of the coming of Elias. The Yrkanis government, following Karavan Law, has banished the guild though in reality they turn a blind eye to be able to glean information to keep in control of the phenomenon.

== How they see the Trykers ==

The Matis had little consideration for the Trykers in the past and even led a campaign to conquer their territory and enslave the population. They held disdain for Tryker indiscipline though have since come to be wary of their wiliness in battle. All Matis efforts to instil a sense of discipline into Trykers have led to heavy consequences. Indeed, to escape Matis domination, the Trykers have time again sided with the Fyros. The Tryker-Fyros alliance is what triggered hostilities between the three peoples and brought about the revocation of the Edict of Four Peoples in 2498.

The Matis, realizing that the Trykers cannot be ‘tamed’, now prefer to keep on friendly terms with the flighty little homins rather than risk having them turn to the Fyros again. After all the Trykers are excellent explorers who are nonetheless allied to the Karavan. Since the Peace Treaty of Fairhaven in 2115, the Matis have relinquished land conquered to the Trykers and their mutual faith in Jena has brought the two peoples even closer together.

== How they see the Fyros ==

The Fyros are the inherent enemy of the Matis. In the old lands Dyros the Great, the Fyros Emperor, secured a water route from the lake lands to the desert through Matis territory. This ‘intrusion’ on Matis territory triggered the start of the war of civilizations. The intermittent skirmishes went on for over two hundred years coming to a head with the Fire of Coriolis. A peace treaty signed at Karavia brought with it a period of relative peace despite discord over Fyros placing national interests above Karavan Law.

The skirmishes that were rife during the reign of Jinovitch have given place to relative peace with the Fairhavan Peace Treaty signed in 2515 by the present Matis King, Yrkanis. Nevertheless, the Fyros moving ever closer to the Kamis has given rise to much agitation within the Matis court many of whom call for a firmer stand against Pyr and their policy of Kami proliferation.

== How they see the Zoraïs ==

For many years the Matis had little to do with the Zoraïs who have always kept their distance from the on-going conflicts between the other homin civilizations in the lands of old. However, a period of peace brought Zoraï travelers from behind their boundaries to Karavia where learning was exchanged and beliefs compared. The Matis were thus able to measure the extent of the force of the Kami and learn about the possibility of another ‘religion’.

The Matis consider the Zoraïs as high-minded homins but whose ‘pagan religion’ must be kept in check. Nevertheless, it was a Zoraï warrior, the father of Mabreka, who saved the life of the present Matis King Yrkanis in 2493. What is more, Mabreka gave Yrkanis asylum in Zora while Jinovitch was in rule and enabled Yrkanis to retake the throne so banishing the totalitarian monarch. Many Matis resent this ‘debt’ to the Zoraïs which they claim has tarnished their honor and their credibility in the eyes of the Karavan.

== History In Brief ==

Early Matis tribes, settling around the wooded region of Matia, came together to form a community headed by tribe leaders. But decision making was slow and quarrelsome leading to discontent among the people. Soon the physically imposing and charismatic leader, Zachini, emerged rallying enough support from prominent community members to step forward as sole leader. The monarchy was born.

It was under Zachini rule that the momos, primitive tribes, were hunted to extermination under the pretext that the inferior creatures menaced the living space of the Matis peoples. The Matis quickly extended their dominions to the extremities of the forest lands where they were kept in check by the Fyros whose audacious emperor, Dyros the Great, secured a water route from the lake lands to the desert through Matis territory. This ‘intrusion’ on Matis territory triggered the start of the war of civilizations.

The intermittent skirmishes went on for over two hundred years coming to a head with the Fire of Coriolis. The great inferno spread across Fyros wastelands preventing Fyros reinforcements from rallying to the defence of outposts positioned along the water route. The Matis king, Aniro III, took advantage of the diversion created by the fire to send in his armies to isolate and capture the Fyros military outposts. They were then able to overrun the lake lands of the Trykers who consequently fell into Matis slavery. But Matis domination was short lived as Fyros reprisals and Tryker rebellion soon made the aristocratic warriors resort back to a defensive strategy to retain their former dominions of before the conflagration.

Another incident some two generations later led the Matis to enact a similar scenario. The great swarming of kitins that first hit Fyros lands allowed the Matis to again take possession of the water route and rout Fyros garrisons. Again their demise was as quick as their ascension as kitin armies piled through Matis dominions in waves eradicating all traces of hominkind in their path.

Biography of King Yrkanis

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= King Yrkanis =

[[Image:>roi_yrkanis.png|]]

== Main Psychological Traits ==

* Magnanimous, true to his word, loyal to his followers and Jena.
* Possesses courteous qualities appropriate to high-birth : prowess of a fighting man, steadfastness, loyalty, constancy in his undertakings, and is honorable in behavior and speech.
* Has a methodical, logical mind, cannot bear disorder.
* Endowed with power of persuasion, sound reasoning. Seen as a moral touchstone among the Matis.
* Considers the Matis as an example to the world. During the dark reign of Jinovitch he is cited as saying (perhaps somewhat conceitedly) : “If amber rots what should fibre do?”.

== Short Biography ==

=== 2482 ===

Only son of King Yasson. Born in the Prime Roots during the period of homin exile. His birth gives rise to new hope in the future at a time when spirits are flagging.

=== 2483 ===

The new Matis capital is named after Yrkanis as a symbol of rebirth.

=== 2487 ===

Despite the general discomfort of reconstruction, Yrkanis is given a courtly upbringing away from the general populace and placed under the tutelage of the great organic architect, Lenardi Bravichi.

=== 2493 ===

At the age of 11 the young prince is allowed to accompany his father who had insisted on giving a royal escort to the Fyros border to a Zoraï contingent which had come to pay their last respects to the fallen Matini Roqvini, the great Matis warrior. In Savage Dunes the young prince’s curiosity leads him to an alcove where he is given to believe rare plants can be found. But as he approaches the flowers he finds himself suddenly confronted by three Kipucka Kitins. By chance the great Zoraï warrior, Leng Cheng-Ho is at hand and saves the young prince in extremis but at the cost of his own life.

=== 2501 ===

Briefly meets Mabreka, Leng Cheng-Ho’s son who has been sent to negotiate the release of the Fyros emperor, held captive by King Yasson. Mabreka is able to ease the prince’s mind as to the death of Leng Cheng-Ho explaining that, by saving the prince, his father died in merit and has thus moved further on along the pathway of the eternal bliss of Ma-Duk.

=== 2504 ===

King Yasson is assassinated, Jinovitch his younger brother accedes to the throne. Yrkanis is urged to leave the idyllic world of the court and takes to the forest with a handful of loyal followers. In the strength of his learning from Bravichi, Yrkanis takes to his new life in the wilds with surprising ease. He soon learns the lie of the land, the ways of the common Matis, and to cut his own meat! Traveling mostly incognito, he uses his sense of persuasion and sound reasoning to rally Matis folk under his banner. He gains further popularity in stealing the ever increasing tithes from royal soldiers to give them back to the poor. Theses tithes are used by Jinovitch to finance the army and consolidate his position in the name of Jena.

=== 2506 ===

After a Matis defeat against the Fyros, Yrkanis makes a bid to capture the crown but fails and is thrown into prison. It is Jinovitch himself who allows for the prince’s escape to create a pretext to have the prince killed in flight. But the aged Lenardi Bravichi informs the young prince of the ploy and explains that it was really Jinovitch who poisoned his father. Bravichi helps the prince escape. Three days later the old scholar is burnt at the stake under the pretext of heresy. Yrkanis, then h3. 24, vows to avenge the atrocities of his uncle but for the time being is forced to go into hiding with his band of loyal homins. Again he makes his presence felt among the common people where he is able to witness the fear induced by the reign of Jinovitch. Meanwhile, Jinovitch claims he has evidence to convict Yrkanis of heresy and issues a warrant for his immediate arrest.

=== 2508 ===

Yrkanis is finally caught in an ambush. On the way to the Matis capital, renamed Jino, he escapes thanks to his band of hearty homins but this time is given no choice but to leave the Matis lands. To further legitimize his own reign, Jinovitch declares that the ‘heretic’ prince is dead and offers up the disfigured body of a partisan as proof. Yrkanis is led through the Prime Roots by a Tryker of the Guild of Try then given refuge in Fairhaven by the newly elected governor, Still Wyler, a staunch enemy of the new Matis regime. In Fairhaven, Yrkanis and Wyler plan to muster a force to protect Lagoons of Loria and bring down the Matis dictatorship.

=== 2509 ===

Yrkanis is required to find refuge in Zora. The Tryker deputies would never accept the presence of a Matis prince in Fairhaven while Governor Wyler is out on a campaign across the lake lands trying to stir up a fighting spirit among the people. Yrkanis strikes an agreement with Mabreka whereby trade would be resumed as soon as the prince recovers the Matis throne. In return the Zoraï Grand Sage agrees to help him pass Matis supporters through the Prime Roots to the jungle lands to build up an army. Yrkanis learns about the Zoraï ways though never once his belief in Jena falters. However he does agree to forbid the persecution of the Kamis in the forest lands once he comes to power.

=== 2511 ===

Yrkanis’ followers risk their lives spreading the word throughout the Matis lands that Prince Yrkanis is alive and will soon come to rid the forest lands of the reign of terror. They tell that the liberators will wear the Bravichi leaf, avenging streaks and the mark of fervor on their faces.

=== 2512 ===

In response to the Matis invasion of Lagoons of Loria, renamed Jino Waters, Yrkanis leaves Zora with an army to join Still Wyler at the frontier.

=== 2513 ===

On recognizing the colors of the house of Yasson, and the painted faces of Yrkanis and his followers, the vast majority of Jinovitch’s soldiers drop to their knees in recognition of their true born king. Lagoons of Loria is thus taken with only little bloodshed. Jinovitch immediately marches out from the Matis capital with his great army of elite warriors and conscripts to quash the mutiny and confront what he calls the ‘false prince’.

=== 2514 ===

Jinovitch is killed on the way to the frontier. His army, having received the news of Yrkanis, watches on as he is eaten alive by some prowling kitins. Escorted by Wyler to the capital, Yrkanis accedes to the Matis throne at the age of 32.

=== 2517 ===

Yrkanis marries Lady Lea Lenardi, daughter of Bravichi.

=== 2518 ===

Birth of his son, Stevano.

=== 2520 ===

Attempted coup d’état. Yrkanis resists and has ringleaders imprisoned.

=== 2525 ===

His reign has since been one of wise rule built on loyalty to the crown and Jena, trade competition and aesthetic achievement, so bringing the Matis people round to the prized values of Yasson and Lenardi Bravichi. He has promoted peace and signed the Homin Rights Act. However, time and again there has been call from the growing number of radicals within the court for a tougher stance against the Kamis and their followers.

Being a Matis

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= Being a Matis =

== Who am I? ==

You are a young homin refugee. You have taken the long and perilous journey from the old lands to these new lands where we have established our new realm. After a period of training, as a loyal subject to the king you will be able to put your skills to good use and help rebuild our Kingdom.

== Who are my ancestors? ==

Your forefathers built the most glorious kingdom on all Atys. But the ancient land of Matia was destroyed by kitins in 2481 in a terrible swarming. Your grandparents escaped to the forests where your parents and then yourself lived a harsh life under constant threat from kitins. For your own good, your parents urged you on the great road to join your people here in the new lands. After many years you have found us, we have secured territory and begun shaping our kingdom. It is up to your generation to live up to our former glory and make our civilization majestic again.

== Who is our leader? ==

King Yrkanis. He is our supreme lord after Jena. To him you owe your absolute loyalty. To challenge his authority is to oppose Jena, a heresy worthy of death. If you are honored enough to be assigned a royal mission, you must succeed with dignity, unless you willingly defy his divine authority. You must strive to become worthy of his trust and you too may gain rank. Rodi di Varello and Girini di Antorello are the faithful dukes that give him counsel.

== What is our faith? ==

Jena is our Goddess, we must abide by her Law as it is preached to us by her faithful disciples, the Karavan. They watch over us lest we stray from the right path. They allow us to give offerings and render services to her to prepare for the future in the world of promise beyond. Remember, young homin, the Karavan are invested with great power which they will share only with the faithful. It is your duty to seek Jena’s favor through dealings with her disciples and you too will learn to wield their technology.

== What are our values? ==

To succeed as a true Matis, you must build your life on the three key values: Loyalty to King and Jena: The king holds power through divine right, his enemies are your enemies, by defending our religion you are defending our kingdom. In the same way, by disobeying him and his court you are disrespecting Jena, and are therefore guilty of heresy. Aesthetic achievement: Our culture will have nothing but the best, we honor our goddess by making things beautiful as she made us noble. Competition: We believe that every Matis must strive for his or her true place in society. Competition is what strengthens our character, sorts out the weak from the strong. And we Matis fight to win!

== What are our prohibitions? ==

* It is strictly forbidden to approach the Kamis (unless ordered to do so by the Karavan). They are evil demons and are against the Karavan.
* Never breach the Law of Jena.
* Do not wander beneath the surface of Atys, you will be in danger of waking the dreaded dragon of the apocalypse.
* Never carry out missions for enemy tribes.
* It is forbidden to spread dragon fire over the lands. It devours the trees and deprives us of essences for our creations.

== What are our goals? ==

After resurfacing from the Prime Roots, our greatest challenge was to tame this land and make it noble. Our town and settlements sculpted into the trees are living proof of our success. Now we must: * Develop our individual strengths and skills * Build strong and loyal guilds to spread the word of Jena among the infidels and free the world of Kami possession * Build alliances with the Trykers * Further our knowledge to make even better tools and weapons. During the Great Swarming, much knowledge was scattered throughout the land. Discovering this knowledge and more will open the doors to the secrets of the past.

== Who are our friends? ==

Since the Peace Treaty signed at Fairhaven in 2515, we have been at peace with the other homin peoples. But ten years of peace could never erase the scars of past infamy. Indeed our relations vary depending on the civilization. * Tryker: The past has taught us that the Trykers cannot be tamed, that they would sell their souls to the demons just to maintain their lifestyle. So be it, in the name of Jena we have learnt to live as indulgent friends rather than have them side with the infidels. Thanks to Jena our friendship has never been stronger, even though their fervor often has much to be desired for. * Zoraï: The Zoraïs are infidels and their paganism ought to be checked. Even so, it was a Zoraï warrior who saved the present king. With all due respects, many of us resent this ‘debt’ to the Zoraïs which tarnishes our credibility in the eyes of the Karavan. It is preferable that this does not happen again. * Fyros: The Fyros are our inherent enemy who, over the past 44 years, have moved closer and closer to the evil Kamis. We mustn’t forget that in the past they have succeeded in coaxing the Trykers to side with them against us. But the Fyros now prefer to side with the Zoraïs whose love for the Kami demon they share. However, we must remain vigilant that they don’t try to convert the Trykers with their blasphemous talk. * Friendly tribes include: The Barkers, The Frahar Hunters, The Silt Sculptors, The Renegades, The Slavers, The Icon Worshipers, The Hamazans of the Dead Seed, The Green Seed, The Sap Slaves, The Arid Matis, The Darkening Sap, The Kuilde.

== Who are our enemies? ==

* The Kamis: They are against us bringing order and beauty to the Jena’s land. They are an evil scourge and ought to be stamped out.
* The Kitins: These gigantic insects massacred many thousands of Matis and devastated our majestic kingdom in the lands of old.
* Enemy tribes include: The Sap Gleaners, The Cockroaches, The Chlorogoos, The Lawless, The Scorchers, The Lagoon Brothers, The Tutors, The Ancient Dryads, The First Deserters, The Slash and Burn, The Woven Bridles.
* Bandits: Watch out for outlaws, thieves and cutthroats that roam around the forests in search of easy prey.
* Animal predators: Wild animals can be ferocious, many of them will attack homins on sight!

== How can I help my people? ==

* We are lacking crafters, harvesters, magicians and warriors to further expand our capabilities so we can keep ahead of the competition.
* We need warriors to defend our territory and establish new living space.
* We are in need of skilled crafters to produce everyday objects and weapons; and harvesters to gather the raw materials for food and manufacture.
* We need magicians to enchant crafted items, protect harvesters, and heal warriors in combat and keep the enemy in check.

== What can I expect of my people? ==

* Training from our expert trainers.
* Our people is defended by guilds who may come to your aide once you’ve joined one.
* The more you act for the good of our people the more you’re noble deeds will be rewarded.

== What is our new land? ==

Our people first took root in these wooded lands in 2483 on their resurfacing from the sanctuary of the Prime Roots in the new lands. The forest is by far the most beautiful place on Atys and to the keen eye offers every living essence needed for creation. Since 2487 we have been continually rejoined by refugees having taken the road from the old lands, the very road you have bravely taken, homin.

== What can I expect from Atys, our world? ==

Atys is a mine of fabulous natural riches, young homin, in time you will learn how to spin them into sellable wealth. As you become skilled in the ways of the world you will learn to tame the wilderness and conquer new grounds.

Fyros High Officials

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= List of important names of the Empire =

= SHARÜKOS (The Emperor and Imperial court) =

* '''Lykos''', Sharükos, Emperor
* '''Xania''', Empress-Mother
* '''Epus''', Imperial Counsellor

== Guild of the Burning Faces ==

* '''Decalion Krilus''', Burning Master

= BEMÛNOS (Politics and administration) =

== 1. Senate (no complete list) ==

* '''Lyan Cexius''' (Senator assigned to Pyr)
* '''Dios Apotheps''' (Senator assigned to Dyron)
* '''Abycus Zekops''' (Senator assigned to Thesos)
* '''Graphybus Ceros'''
* '''Xalis Perimenix'''
* '''Kyla Dentheus'''

== 2. Akenak ==

* '''Arrlon''', Kamigawa (Dyron)
* '''Bardor''', La Lune Eternelle (Thesos)
* '''Daavics''', The Soul (Pyr)
* '''Gladeusdeus''' (Dyron)
* '''Gunbra''', Légions Fyros (Thesos)
* '''Icus''', Légions Fyros (Thesos)
* '''Lerya''', Atysian Templars (Pyr)
* '''Malin''' (Dyron)
* '''Rollocks''' (Pyr)
* '''Stiara''', Rote Teufel (Dyron)
* '''Thols''' (Thesos)

== 3. Former Akenak ==

* '''Xepheros Xyron'''
* '''Lytis Thecaon'''
* '''Kyron Deukos'''

== 4. Functionaries ==

* '''Boen Eunix''', Herald
* '''Pephosse Aerus''', Thesos
* '''Dionix Zekips''', Dyron
* '''Kyrin Cedix''', Dyron
* '''Sollia'''
* '''Krinn Xagrian''', secretary Abycus Zekops
* '''Euphanix Apotheps''', Archivar

== 5. Imperial Academy ==

* '''Messedos Syagrus''', Grand Master

= BEMÛNAR (Army and armed forces, only leaders are listed) =

== Imperial Army ==

* '''Icaphotis Dylidus''', General of the army and strategist of Pyr
* '''Ibiritis Ibirus''', strategist of Thesos
* '''Pimokos Lyion''', strategist of Dyron
* '''Ulyros''', Pyr Guard Leader

Fyros History of the New Beginning

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= Fyros, the New Beginning =

{{include(puben:L_NewBegin_Intro)}}

== 2483 ==

* Resurfacing from Prime Root sanctuary after Karavan go ahead.
* Take possession of desert lands.
* Imperial Dunes explored. First bricks of the city of Pyr laid behind the site where the embalmed body of Emperor Cerakos II is burned on a natural pyre. This pyre constitutes the main gate of the city.
* An annual feast is declared on the day of the pyre of Cerakos in memory of those whose perished during the Great Swarming Pyr is built around a water hole which offers natural fire barriers against kitin invasion.
* The tribe of the Barkers play a preponderant role in collecting the necessary raw materials for construction of the new capital.
* Leanon, the sister of Cerakos II, rules as Regent till Dexton, his son of three, comes of age.
* Karavan seal Prime Root entrances and forbid their opening.
* Fyos resume relations with Kamis.
* Black Faces Guild reformed, ancient guild of miners.

== 2484 ==

* The area of Imperial Dunes explored and secured made relatively safe.
* Fyros search to elucidate mystery of kitin swarming.
* Discord with Karavan over Fyros mining activities.
* First commemoration of Day of the Pyre takes place on the winter solstice. Under the moon of the winter solstice, a procession of penitent miners carries an effigy of Cerakos II from Cerakos Gate to the Regent’s residence then back again as a symbol of continuity. The effigy is then burnt on the pyre in remembrance of the dead.
* Tribe of the Watchers founded to list and gain control over fire spots.

== 2485 ==

* Karavan punish Fyros miners intent on reaching source of fire. Kamis intervene in favor of Fyros.
* Scholars question Karavan impuissance against kitin onslaughts during Great Swarming.
* Emergence of Guild of Elias.
* Frahar Towers explored, named after frahars who live there.

== 2486 ==

* Karavan alters banished from Fyros towns.

== 2487 ==

* Arrival of first refugees from road of exodus leading from old lands opened by great Fyros traveling merchant, Oflovak Rydon. Welcome structure set up to promote integration of Fyros refugees in new society.
* Act of Integration allowing homins to rejoin their own civilization.
* Creation of Safe Zone; camps of Aegus, Kaemon, Sekovix, Phyxon and Galemus established to welcome and train Fyros refugees.

== 2488 ==

* Village of Thesos and Dyron founded.
* Number of refugees from the exodus begins to fall.
* New areas of Prime Roots secretly explored.

== 2489 ==

* Great fighter Kalus Hym arrives from old lands with new methods of combat. He shared the road of the exodus with great fighters of other peoples collectively known as the guild of the Force of Fraternity.
* First outposts set up.

== 2490 ==

* First signs of kitin presence on new found lands.
* Pact of Mutual Assistance (PMA) signed by Leanon, Hoi-Cho, Yasson and Mac’Darrell to fight conjointly against kitins.
* Contingents of Fyros established on every continent.
* Guild of the Force of Fraternity embark on campaign (to h2. 2492) of mixed homins to rid new homin lands of hostile kitins.

== 2491 ==

* New trade routes traced and opened into foreign lands.
* Guild of Trail Blazers founded.
* Construction of great forge in Pyr according to the plans of Xamus, the great Fyros crafter.

== 2492 ==

* Members of guild of Force of Fraternity rejoin their own countries after their two year campaign against the kitins.

== 2493 ==

* Kalus dies protecting Dexton.

== 2495 ==

* The grand sage openly questions role of Karavan and the teachings of Jena.
* Multiracial Guild of Elias gains in popularity throughout homin lands.
* Kitins reappear but kept in check with new methods of combat handed down by the guild of Force of Fraternity.

== 2496 ==

* Guild of Elias, portrayed as a sect against the church of Jena, is banished by Karavan.
* Prime Root link established to Tryker lands.
* Mercenary tribes and bandits fuel feeling of antagonism for personal gain. General feeling of insecurity.

== 2497 ==

* Fyro-Tryker Trade Agreement.
* Pro-Karavan tribe of the Renegades founded.
* Ancient pro-Kami tribe of the Dune Riders reformed and based in Savage Dunes.

== 2498 ==

* Turnpikes established on trade routes under Matis authority.
* Passage in Prime Roots made difficult by Karavan surveillance.
* Fyros use Zorai routes to avoid paying their way through Matis territory.
* Matis revocation of Edict of Four Peoples (signed in Prime Roots in h2. 2481).
* Zorai leader, Hoi-Cho and Leanon sign Pact of Alliance in the name of the Kamis.

== 2499 ==

* Matis drive Tryker contingents out of Verdant Heights and go to war over Lagoons of Loria in Aeden Aqueous for water resources.
* Autumn War between Tryker and Matis.
* Dexton leads Fyros contingent to reinforce Tryker front. He passes through Zorai lands where Mabreka warns him of the danger of all out warfare.

== 2500 ==

* Dexton distinguishes himself as great leader in battle.
* Dexton captured by Matis elite tribe.

== 2501 ==

* Mabreka negotiates Dexton’s release for 1 million dappers.
* Peace Treaty signed by Leanon, Yasson, Hoi-Cho and Mac’Darrell over Lagoons of Loria which becomes free territory.

== 2502 ==

* Dexton is proclaimed emperor with the death of Leanon.

== 2504 ==

* Mabreka Cheng-Ho exiled in Pyr.

== 2505 ==

* Surtax imposed on Fyros goods passing through Verdant Heights.
* Fyros pass through Zorai lands to continue trade with Trykers.
* Fire in Zorai country blamed on Fyros travelers. Zorai block trade routes running through their lands.
* Tribe of the Leviers founded as a reaction against Matis persecution of Fyros.

== 2506 ==

* Matis battalion invades Fyros lands. Dexton, with the help of Mabreka, defeats Matis at Sawdust Mines.
* Following Matis campaign to Burning Desert, Fyros and Zorai sign pact of alliance in case of Matis attack.
* Mabreka becomes new Zorai leader and allows Fyros to pass through jungle trade routes.

== 2508 ==

* Persecution of Fyros established in Matis dominions.

== 2512 ==

* First signs of kitins in Dunes of Exile.
* Fyros and Zoraïs join forces to combat kitins (to h2. 2513).
* Matis conquest of Lagoons of Loria.

== 2514 ==

* Matis withdraw from Lagoons of Loria in Aeden Aqueous.

== 2515 ==

* Peace treaty signed at Fairhaven by Dexton, Mabreka, Wyler, and Yrkanis.

== 2516 ==

* Summit of Hoi-Cho, four homin powers (Yrkanis, Dexton, Mabreka and Wyler) sign Free Trade Agreement to establish free movement of merchants in all homin territories.

== 2518 ==

* Ratification of Homin Rights Act first instigated by Tryker Council.

== 2522 ==

* First ruins discovered in Prime Roots.

== 2525 ==

* The descendants of the destitute multitudes who never found the rainbows in time, each day come to swell their populations.

Fyros Government

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= The Fyros Empire =

p=. [[Image:0909291754_Ardent_desert.png|0909291754_Ardent_desert.png]]

{{>toc}}

Political system of the Fyros Empire of the Burning Desert

The Fyros political system remains relatively complex because of its nature. The Empire is a vast unit organized like an entity, not very reactive but powerful. When one looks at the map of the burning Desert, one notes that there is actually only one Fyros city, and some advanced outposts or stations; this city-capital, manages all of the Empire, with buildings for the civil services, an agora, and academies. It is a system centered around Pyr and the Emperor, who holds his right to rule to the fact that he acts for his people, based on the opinions of a small panel composed of the Senate and the akenak. There are no tribes or clans federated with the Empire.

Two seats of power give voice to the people and advise the Emperor. The Senate structure is that of administration of the Empire and as adviser to the Emperor. The akenak structure is that of the day to day activities of the Empire and is the direct voice of the citizens Fyros.

On the military level, the Burned Faces are elite and answer only to the Emperor, the Imperial Army is directed by the Senate, and the Dexton Legion who carry out all kinds of missions on behalf of the Emperor or of the akenak.

== EMPEROR ==

* His function is hereditary, can be relieved only by the force.
* He decides the main trends, makes all the decisions for the future of the people Fyros, internal and external, has the last word in everything. The new laws are very few, the Empire is small, a few Fyros, and the civil servants suffice to make the task of the Emperor is acceptable.
* He is the superior of all the bodies of the Empire, he does not take the opinions of the Senate and/or of the akenak, only on a purely informative basis, he is the chief of the 3 military sets, and can enforce justice on all the citizens or guilds Fyros.
* He is not a despot, does not have personal ambition but remains the keystone of the Fyros Empire, which he incarnates; his decisions are the decisions of the Empire for the good of the Empire.
* The Emperor is the Empire, he acts for the good of the Empire. The Emperor is able to change anything without consulting the Senate or the akenak.

== POWER ==

=== Senate - 25 ===

* They are chosen by the Emperor, for life.
* They have a role of consultants for the Emperor, their decision are only one way for him of having the opinion of the Fyros people, but the final decision always belongs to the Emperor.
* They meet each cycle of Atys '''__''' and more often if they consider it useful or if the Emperor decides it. The senators meet only between them, the arrival of an external member like a civil servant or of a soldier being an extraordinary fact, usually a request or an imperial order.
* The two rooms, Senate and Parliament do not sit at the same time.
* They discuss the laws, the taxes, manage the Imperial Army then submit to the Emperor the result of their discussions.
* The senators are an assembly of ministers/councilors, without each one having a definite task: any action is taken together. The dissensions are part of the opinion delivered to the Emperor.
* They decide expeditions aimed at the improvement of knowledge, on authorization of the Emperor or possibly proposal of the akenak.
* They can order the imperial army to carry out certain missions, maneuvers or operations, the Master of the Armies being the only judge (after the Emperor) of the answer to be given to the request.
* Every meeting they elect among them 2 witnesses who will write a report of that meeting, to be stored in the imperial library afterwards.
* Only Fyros citizens can be senators (a Fyros citizen not Fyros remains an exception in the history of the Empire).

=== Akenak (Parliament) - Currently 5 ===

* They are elected by the Fyros citizens for a one Jena year duration '''__'''.
* The names of the akenak in function are known by a list posted on the walls of the Agora.
* The akenak are elected by the system known as “of the dagger”. During which '''__''' each Fyros citizen presents an imperial civil servant with a dagger on which the name of its crafter, the candidate, is registered. For this reason, the candidates thus distribute daggers made by their hand to all the Fyros citizens likely to vote for them (Fyros dagger q10).
* They meet every six-month period (in spring and the autumn) '''__''' and more often if they consider it useful. The Akenak meet only between them, the arrival of a senator of a civil servant or a soldier being an extraordinary fact, which enters within the framework of a request or an imperial order.
* The two rooms, Senate and Parliament do not sit at the same time.
* They elect among them with each meeting 2 witnesses who will write a report of the meeting, consigned thereafter in the imperial library.
* They have the mission of taking care of the correct operation of the Empire, in what it has of daily activities of the civil servants of the Empire and manage the trade, the caravans, water supply and when the civil servants consider it necessary, the outposts, and minor justice. The Emperor can impose on the akenak his decision on any subject, the akenak being first of all an executive body; their decision makings are done only failing a decision of the Emperor.
* They can order with the Legion to carry out certain missions or operations, the Strategist being an only judge (after the Emperor) of the answer to be given to the request.
* They can be consulted by the Senate by vote at the time of great decisions where the Emperor considers the opinion of the akenak important: declaration of war, peace, high justice. This role is never but advisory.
* They do not have personal functions, all discuss all, and vote by a show of hands in the majority the the 2/3 present.
* Only the citizens Fyros can be elected akenak (a citizen Fyros non-Fyros remains an exceptional fact: they must receive twice more votes than a candidate Fyros at the time of the election).

“akenak” is a word of the ancient language fyros, and so invariable. one akenak, more akenak.

== MILITARY BODY ==

=== Burned Faces ===

* They are an ancient elite corps, whose members are appointed by the Emperor in an exceptional manner, within the Imperial Army, the Legion, or most extraordinary Fyros among citizens, the opinion of the Master Ardent is compulsory.
* They are headed by a Master Ardent, appointed by the Emperor for life and can be removed by him. The Master Ardent has authority over the Burned Faces and is accountable to the Emperor.
* The Burned Faces have 2 lieutenants, selected by the Master Ardent.
* Neither the Senate nor the akenak can order the Burned Faces.
* Only Fyros citizens and veterans may belong to the Burned Faces.
* They are dressed in black.

=== Imperial Army ===

* It is headed by a Master of the Armies, appointed by the Emperor on the proposal of the Senate and may be removed by the same process.
* Defends Pyr and outposts of Dyron and Thesos.
* Conducting patrols in the burning desert.
* It remains largely in place, and unless for special reasons not involved in any maneuver or mission or military operation.
* Members of the Imperial Army are all Fyros citizens of the Fyros race.

=== Dexton Legion ===

* Created by the Emperor and is managed by him, through the Strategist.
* Strategist is selected and removed at will by the Emperor.
* The Strategist leads the Legion and is responsible for it. He holds his position directly through the confidence of the Emperor and is accountable only to him; however, Senate and akenak may ask the Emperor to reconsider his confidence.
* The Legion, by order of the Strategist, may carry out missions on behalf of akenak if the Strategist believes the request to be justified and reasonable.
* Carry out missions, maneuvers and/or military operations in the Burning Desert or beyond.
* The Legionaires are chosen by the Emperor, on the proposal of the Strategist. Their service lasts 4 Atys cycles (a year of Jena) '''__''', once this period is over, each Legionary is removed and the Strategist proposes to recruit a new one. A former Legionary cannot be designated as a recruit for a period of one cycle of Atys.
* The Emperor, on the advice of the Strategist, will decide the number of Legionaries and can allocate new charges or remove them at will.
* Only Fyros citizens Fyros can be Legionnaire.

== OFFICIALS ==

=== Suppliers of the Academy of Master Craftsmen ===

* They make sure the materials necessary for the work of master artisans is gathered.
* They manage the supplied materials for distribution to the Academy.
* Delegate to craft the materials they need and keep the flow of materials going.
* Employees must be Fyros citizens.

=== Academy of Master Craftsmen ===

* Composed of a Grand Master of the Academy and Masters.
* Members of the Academy make weapons, armor and jewelry for Dexton’s Legion, the Imperial Army, and the Burned Faces.
* Only master craftsmen (level 250) among Fyros citizens can join the academy (a non master-craftsman must obtain special permission from the Emperor to join the academy).

=== Imperial Alchemists ===

* They are chosen by the Emperor, deposed by the Emperor according to his desire, or for life.
* The number is not fixed.
* They take care of all archaeological research, scientists of the Empire, and are experimenting in their laboratory whose location is unknown.
* Imperial alchemists are Fyros citizens.

=== Imperial Town Crier ===

* They are chosen by the Emperor, displaced by the Emperor, or at the instigation of the Senate or the akenak.
* Their duty is circulate the imperial announcements in the City of Pyr and the advanced Posts of Thesos and Dyron.
* This civil servant must be Fyros citizen.

== PEOPLE ==

=== The Fyros Citizen Guilds ===

* These are private groups, comprising Fyros and may be as many merchants, families, mercenaries … no formal administrative role is given to the Fyros Guild (unless it is the one of the bodies mentioned above).

=== Fyros Citizens (Patriots) ===

* They are different from the simple people of the burning desert because of their closer connection to the Emperor.
* They are subject to the imperial court (akenak or Emperor), and may apply to it that justice is done.
* They elect akenak once per Jena year.
* Only a Fyros citizen may be elected for the akenak
* Only a Fyros citizen Fyros can join the Dexton Legion, the Imperial Army or the Burned Faces

Fyros Civilization

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= Fyros Civilisation =

[[Image:>fyros_logo_2_w200px.png|]]

== What they value: ==

* Truth
* Honor
* Discipline
* Justice

== How they see the Karavan ==

Traditionally the Karavan are venerated as disciples of Jena who helped shepherd Fyros through the rainbows during the Great Swarming. But over the years the Fyros have come to doubt the true role of the Karavan on Atys, who were in reality incapable of saving many thousands of homins from the kitin onslaughts. The Fyros have never been easy about these technolords who refuse to go into detail about their origins as Jena’s disciples and planetary cops. One Fyros Emperor after the other ordered information quests to find out more about the true identity of the Karavan and their activities. Precious information was gathered at great cost (this information was not lost during the Great Swarming but hidden by the Emperor and shall one day be uncovered).

Nowadays the Fyros are staunchly averse to the Karavan who place their divine law above social justice. Nevertheless, the Fyros behold the Karavan as anyone would a deadly snake remaining cautious in their dealings with them. The Fyros civilization is fragile in these times of reconstruction, it would be unwise to openly challenge the Karavan too early.

== How they see the Kamis ==

The Fyros at first cast a wary eye upon the strange creatures which they took for simple game. Indeed, their reaction on coming across their first Kamis was to hunt them down for their fur! They changed their mind however, on seeing how powerful the Kami were. And when the Karavan labeled them as evil, punishing those who would interact with them, Fyros curiosity was roused. Partly because they disliked the Karavan laying down their law, partly because they refused to condemn a phenomenon without understanding it, the Fyros state never voted any radical action against the Kamis. Nor did they further their understanding of the mysterious Kamis as they were already too busy investigating into the Dragon that, according to legend, was slumbering in the depths of Atys.

The recent friendship with the Zoraïs has brought the Fyros closer to the Kamis. Though the Fyros refuse blind adherence to their teachings, they have come to align themselves with the Kami to escape Karavan sanctions for mining and underground exploration, as well as to make pacts with the Kamis in exchange for their esteemed ‘magic’.

== How they see Jena ==

The Fyros have always been the agnostic souls of hominkind. These down to ‘earth’ homins need living proof before they will throw themselves into any kind of veneration. Nevertheless they never officially rejected Jena outright for fear of Karavan retribution. They simply let her fall into oblivion building their culture around a belief in the spirit of Atys. To add to this, Jena is a woman!

Today the aura surrounding Jena still remains a mystery which the Fyros are keen to resolve. They want to find out the true purpose of Jena and why the Karavan preaches her Law so resolutely i.e. what is in it for them?

== How they see Elias Tryton ==

Fyros elders speak of a man in a nimbus of fire that came from the sky in a glint of light. He appeared to a chosen few at the time of the great swarming and gave them direction to guide their people to safety through a rainbow. Only a few ‘witnesses’ still live to tell the tale. During the years that followed the massacre, some Fyros sages founded the Guild of Elias with other homin races to keep Tryton’s memory alive. This guild was later portrayed by the Karavan as a sect opposing the church of Jena and prohibited, many members were able to take refuge in Fyros territory where the Karavan were less present.

Today, most Fyros pay little attention to the Guild of Elias. Indeed, the one who encountered Elias did not stay long enough to tell his story before he was off again in the wilds to find a road back to the old lands. His name was Oflovak Rydon. Nevertheless the Fyros government wants the truth and shall investigate further when the time comes.

== How they see the Matis ==

The Fyros ceaselessly endeavored to keep the conquering Matis in check in the old lands. And Matis attempts to spread their religion often led to skirmishes, especially when the Fyros began to break away from Karavan influence. The Fyros never could abide the Matis sense of justice centered around the monarchy and Karavan Law. Conflicts with the Matis lasted over 200 years coming to a head when the Matis perfidiously took the city of Karavia during the Fire of Coriolis, and made an attempt to extend their dominions to Tryker lands and so deprive the Fyros of water supplies. The subsequent treaty of Karavia brought with it a time of peace throughout the lands until the terrible kitin onslaughts of 2481.

Despite the present state of peace, various incidents in the recent past such as frontier skirmishes in 2506, or Matis persecution of Fyros in forest lands in 2508, have kept the Fyros thinking that the Matis are still the same dangerous snakes as before.

== How they see the Trykers ==

Throughout history the Fyros have often lent the Trykers a strong hand, in return the Trykers supplied water and raw materials. The two peoples complemented each other well, sharing a common passion for the simple life and great adventures. When put to it the Trykers also proved themselves to be intrepid and tenacious allies in battle. Despite this friendship, the Fyros were often exasperated at Tryker indiscipline as well as their remaining under the influence of the Karavan and Jena.

Nevertheless this privileged relationship with the Trykers continued into the new found lands. Indeed, it was the preferential Fyro-Tryker trade agreement that sparked hostilities with the Matis and led to the Autumn War in 2499. But since the Treaty of Fairhaven the Trykers have reinforced their ties with the Matis. Consequently, the Fyros have sought alliance with the Zoraïs who have proved worthy and loyal in battle, and with whom they share an allegiance to the Kamis and an aversion to the Karavan.

== How they see the Zoraïs ==

In the old lands the Fyros had little to do with the Zoraïs who for centuries shut themselves away in their jungle lands which, incidentally, the Fyros did try to set foot in. Since those first skirmishes with and glimpses at the mystic Zoraïs a mutual respect has existed between the two civilizations. But Zoraï relations could not develop, as the Fyros had their hands full with the Matis at their frontiers. The Zoraï response to this interracial aggression was to build a great wall to keep the war out. However, a period of peace brought Zoraï travelers out of their boundaries to the great halls of Fyre, the ancient Fyros capital, where learning was exchanged.

Since the homin exile in the Prime Roots the Fyros have learned to better understand the Zoraïs whose influence has coaxed the Fyros closer to the Kamis. The Fyros appreciate the Zoraï sense of peace and wisdom. Indeed, the Zoraïs, over the last forty years or so, have intervened a number of times to calm down spirits. What is more, the Zoraïs are not shy when it comes to fighting for freedom. Mabreka’s assistance against the Matis dictatorship in 2506 is proof, or again in the western Fyros territories against the kitins in 2512. The Fyros now consider the Zoraïs as faithful allies to be counted on in the name of the Kamis in case of foreign aggression. Though the Fyros do find the blind adherence of the Zoraïs to Kami teachings a little over the top, they feel that teaming up with them could well lead to finally understanding a certain number of Atysian mysteries.

== History In Brief ==

Nomadic desert tribes first established their stronghold to the north of the forest lands around the oasis of Fyre. The first great Fyros Empire was founded in 2275 by the remarkable warrior, Dyros the Great. He led campaigns to secure mineral resources throughout the desert areas and established a route through Matis dominions to Tryker lake lands to set up a water supply for the expanding population. Under his wise rule an alliance was elaborated between Tryker and Fyros peoples. Trykers would convoy water supplies to Fyros cities in exchange for protection against their domineering neighbors, the Matis.

Under the long rule of Abylus the Learned, a counsel of chroniclers was set up to write up a history of the Fyros peoples. After an accidental discovery of mysterious ancient ruins in the Prime Roots, the counsel set up a company of miners to search for knowledge of the past and the Dragon of the Myth. But miners working in the area of Coriolis hit upon an underground vein of acid which gushed forth like a geyser. According to Fyros records, fire quickly blazed a trail across the parched vegetation of the wastelands on to the fringes of the lush forests of the Matis territory devouring everything in its path for two weeks solid until the rains came. During the Fire of Coriolis, as it came to be known, many Fyros lives and habitations were lost trying to bring it under control.

To add to this, the water route was cut off both by fire and Matis warriors who also took the opportunity to overrun Tryker lakelands. Abylus the Learned had little choice but to act quickly or face certain famine through lack of water. True to their determined nature, after having buried their dead and mustering all their forces, the Fyros turned against the Matis to reinstall their water route. In spite of many skirmishes with Matis forces, their empire came to shine once again in all its glory for the next two generations.

It was during the reign of Cerakos II that the empire declined suddenly in the year 2481. Excavators working in the Prime Roots came upon a nest of kitins. In their fear and panic they slew the giant insects only to trigger off a great swarming of soldier kitins which massacred populations and all traces of hominkind throughout the ancient lands.

Being a Fyros

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= Being a Fyros =

== Who am I? ==

You are a young homin refugee. You have bravely taken the long and perilous journey from the old lands to these new lands where we have begun building our new Empire. Once you’ve got enough training behind you, you’ll be able to put your skills to good use for our Emperor and help rebuild our civilization.

== Who are my ancestors? ==

By sword and fire, your ancestors forged the most powerful empire in history. Honor their memory as long as you live! But the fruit of their labor was destroyed by great invasions of kitins. Your parents, and their parents, were lucky to escape the massacre. For many years they survived in the wilds of Atys where you were brought up. They showed great courage in urging you to take the long road to join your own people here in these new lands. Now you have found us you must live up to their courage. It’s taken forty four years of blood and sweat to build the foundations of our new Empire, your generation must now build it up.

== Who is our leader? ==

Dexton is our lawful Emperor, you owe him your allegiance. His orders can only be debated in higher spheres. Until you have gained enough rank you will not contest them. Never forget it, young homin! You will carry out imperial orders with success or you die trying, otherwise you will willingly tarnish the name of your ancestors. Dexton has chosen the best to counsel him, Abycus Zekops and Kyla Dyntheus are his senators.

== What do we believe in? ==

We believe in the energy of Atys, the energy that fills every being with life and conscience. According to the Zoraïs, the Kamis are a manifestation of that great energy that created the world which they call Ma-Duk. Though we refuse blind adherence to their teachings, over these last years we have become closer to the Kamis to escape Karavan sanctions for mining and underground exploration. To the Kamis we owe, if not our faith, our loyalty.

== What are our values? ==

Your life must be built upon the four pillars that uphold our Empire: * ''Truth'' is the first pillar. Cowardly lies will not deceive the cut and thrust of battle ! Tell nothing but the truth to your comrades, just as they must give straightforward answers to your questions. Do not hesitate, however, to use the art of cunning in the face of the enemy. Stratagem used wisely is as dangerous a weapon as a sharp lance held firmly in hand! * ''Honor'' is the second pillar. Let yourself be guided by honor no matter what. Never stoop to the minor sentiments, no matter how high the potential gain. And remember, an honorable death is better than a cowardly existence. * ''Discipline'' is the third pillar. The Fyros empire exists thanks to the chain of obedience that links us to the Emperor, from the youngest novice to the most celebrated general. Each and every one of us must show obedience to higher command. Just one insubordinate Fyros is enough to break the link and so menace the whole Empire. * ''Justice'' is the fourth pillar. The Emperor is our absolute chief, though even he must scrupulously obey the laws decreed by our ancestors. From the most powerful to the most humble, we respect our laws without compromise. In truth, then, it is not the Imperial Chief but the Imperial Law that dictates our conduct.

== What are our prohibitions? ==

* Never be tempted to do favors for the Karavan. They are against the Kamis and against our sense of justice. Indeed, they place their Jena Law above social justice.
* Never carry out a mission for the Karavan
* Never carry out a mission for the enemy tribes.
* Never violate the code of honor.

== What are our goals? ==

Our empire suffered greatly from the Great Swarming. Our sense of discipline has allowed us to survive much better than the Matis or the Trykers, our great city of Pyr is proof. We must now : * develop our individual strengths and skills * form powerful and well-structured guilds to build up a driving force * build alliances with the Zoraïs * discover the truth behind the Dragon * fight against the Karavan to impose a new order around Kami worship * gather the knowledge that was scattered throughout the land during the Great Swarming to open the doors to the secrets of the past. * consolidate and conquer more territory.

== Who are our friends? ==

Since the Peace Treaty signed at Fairhaven, we have been at peace with the other homin peoples. Nevertheless, the past has left us with many scars as tokens of past instability, and our relations vary depending on the civilizations. * Zoraï: Over the years the Zoraïs have proved time again their loyalty and friendship towards our people. What is more, we both hold the Kamis in our hearts and share a deep aversion for the Karavan. * Tryker: Time and again we have tried to take the Tryker under our protective wing, but they have proven too chaotic and too flighty for lasting friendship. Nowadays, we must be careful of the fickle little homins, for more than ever they have stepped in line with the Matis in their veneration of the Karavan goddess. * Matis: The Matis are our inherent enemy not to be trusted. We do not adhere to the Matis sense of justice which centers around the monarchy and Jena Law. Even in these times of peace we must stand vigil lest they team up against us. * Friendly tribes include: The Root Tappers, The Kitin Gatherers, The Pyromancers, The Watchers, The Frahar Hunters, The Water Breakers, The First Deserters, The Slash and Burn, The Oasis Diggers, The Sacred Sap.

== Who are our other enemies? ==

* The Karavan: They are against us digging down for the truth. They are not to be trusted.
* The Kitins: These gigantic insects massacred many thousands of Fyros and devastated our great Empire in the old lands.
* The Dragon of the Myth: For centuries we have been in search of the truth behind the Dragon of legend. It is our digging down into the bowels of Atys where the Dragon is said to slumber that first brought Karavan retribution down upon us. We shall dig on till the truth is uncovered.
* Enemy tribes include: The Sap Gleaners, The Cockroaches, The Chlorogoos, The Lawless, The Scorchers, The Renegades, The Lagoon Brothers, The Tutors, The Ancient Dryads.
* Bandits: Beware, the lands are full of outlaws, thieves and cutthroats.
* Animal predators: There are many predators in the animal kingdom, watch out they are not impartial to a bit of homin flesh !

== How can I help my people? ==

We need crafters, harvesters, magicians and warriors to maintain and make our civilization stronger. * Atys is a treacherous place, we need warriors to defend our territory and conquer new lands for new settlements. * We want crafters to produce everyday objects and weapons; and harvesters to gather the raw materials for food and manufacture. * We need magicians to enchant crafted items, protect harvesters, and heal warriors in combat and help them fight.

== What can I expect of my people? ==

* Training from our expert trainers.
* Our people are defended by guilds who may come to your aide once you’ve joined one.
* The more you act for the good of our people the more your deeds of valor will be rewarded.

== What is our new land? ==

Our people first settled on these desert lands in 2483 on their resurfacing from the new found land Prime Roots. The desert is the toughest region of all though this has always been the challenge equal to our courage and the values of our people. Since 2487 we have been continually rejoined by refugees having taken the road from the old lands, the very road you have courageously taken.

== What can I expect from Atys, our world? ==

Atys is abound with raw materials, young homin. As long as you respect the environment you will reap many a reward from her bosom. As you become skilled in the ways of the world you will learn to tame the wilderness and conquer new grounds.

The Legend of the Ghost Yubo

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= The Legend of the Ghost Yubo =

Here is the tale of the Ghost Yubo.

Long, long, long ago in the Old Lands, yubos were not as weak as they are now. They were little (and sometimes not so little) balls of fury if you angered them. Their urine was so potent it could eat holes in your boots.

But they were not so strong that they could not be brought down by homins and used for food and the crafting of useful items.

But as years went on the yubos became weaker. Over time homins only used them for target practice and did not bother to quarter the bodies for materials as they had before and the yubo bodies were left to rot.

One season during Anlor Winn, the evil wind blew upon a dying yubo and filled it with malevolent purpose. The yubo rose up as bones and he fled to where the wind issued from the spirit world and entered there.

The next time the Anlor Winn blew, the little Ghost Yubo came back into the world. As it wandered the bark, it took flesh from the corpses of slain yubos and grew stronger, then returned to the spirit world.

Each Anlor Winn the Ghost Yubo would return to add more flesh to its bones. Over time the Ghost Yubo grew stronger and stronger, and larger and larger, but the bones still showed through the flesh it took.

Finally its power grew so great that it could make other yubos look like itself when the Anlor Winn blew. You have all seen this, no?

Sometimes it sends minions, little copies of itself, out to gather other yubos and bring them to the Ghost Yubo, who will absorb them into its being so that it can grow ever larger.

Sometimes these minions will attack other creatures as well, even homins!

In the season of Anlor Winn, beware of yubos! The Ghost Yubo is out there… waiting.

''Legend told by an Old Tryker during Anlor Winn Story Tales in the 3rd CA of 2575.''

The Gingo Who Ate the Sun

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= The Gingo Who Ate the Sun =

One Atysmas evening, a yubo was chasing after snowflakes when it heard someone weeping. As it got closer it discovered a baby gingo.

The meek yubo was prepared to scamper off, but the baby was crying, crying…

Even if it was a gingo, and even if in other times they would have been enemies, it was Atysmas evening, and the yubo just couldn’t stand seeing someone sad on such a day.

But it wasn’t about to let itself be munched on either, so it formulated an idea.

It retraced its footsteps and retrieved some capryni horns it had seen laying on the forest floor.

The yubo tied them on its head with a slaveni liana, and hid the knots with a bit of red fiber that the wind had brought. Then, in this disguise, it introduced itself to the gingo and said that it was the emissary of Atysmas. “I’ve heard your sorrow on this evening when all should be smiling,” it told the gingo. “Tell me what is making you miserable[[Image:"

The gingo choked back its tears, surprised by the apparition.
It explained, "I've eaten the sun|]] Now there will be no more daylight[[Image:"
The gingo continued, "I was born in the first rays of dawn,
I played for the whole morning in the snow.
Then I found a big tree full of light.
I jumped and jumped to catch all the lights,
knocking all of them down,
and when the last one fell,
the night came..."

The yubo thought hard. It then had another idea.
It explained to the gingo that, by breaking the Atysmas lights, it had offended the Festival Kami.
But, in order to fix the affront, it had to do exactly what it was told to.
The gingo, delighted to get a chance redeem itself, promised to the Atysmas yubo to do everything it would be told.

Then the yubo led it through the forest, to the foot of the Rotoa, where the buzzing of a hive could be heard.
Since the Rotoa blooms even during winter, the bees were still busy making their sweet honey.
The yubo instructed, "Tell your story to the bees and convince them to give you honey in order to make the sun reappear|]]” The gingo spoke so well and the bees enjoyed her story so much that they brought her a huge honeycomb.

“Don’t lose it, we’re now going to the desert,” said the yubo. They traveled to the flaming forest, where the Bothaya heat up the atmosphere. The yubo told the gingo to spread the honey on one of the young sprouts, over and over again. As the gingo completed her task, she became all sticky. But on the sprout, because of the heat, the honey cooked and hardened. Then, with a stroke of its teeth, the yubo cut the cane and took it.

Then they navigated to the lakes. There the yubo had the gingo collect many shells of all colors.

Then they trekked to the Jungle and the yubo had the gingo shake the caramelized honey stick. Soon fireflies arrived, attracted by the smell, many of them getting stuck in the gingo’s tacky fur.

"Now, to the Atysmas tree[[Image:" the yubo cried.

Quickly, they returned to the forest.
The gingo jumped and jumped and jumped to hang up the shells she had gathered in the tree.
The fireflies enjoyed making them sparkle.
The baked honey cane released a sweet perfume.
The gingo looked at the new shining decorations.
The yubo smiled, very pleased with itself.

And then the sun started again to pulse.
They had been running all night through the lands to decorate the tree|]]

From that day on the yubos began wearing disguises during Atysmas and Atysmas canes became symbols of the celebration!

''Legend told by Lutrykin during Atysmas Story telling, 3nd CA 2576.''

Matis Government

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= Kingdom of the Verdant Heights =

p=. [[Image:0909291758_Verdant_Heights.png|0909291758_Verdant_Heights.png]]

{{>toc}}

== The King ==

>Appointed by Jena, currently Yrkanis, son of Yasson, father of Stevano.

The king has absolute power over the Matis people. He is the model and the icon of his people. His shoulders must be broad to bear the burden of the power of life and death of everyone residing in the kingdom. He does what he thinks is best for his people.

* '''Diplomatic role:''' The king ratifies and signs peace treaties, alliances and trade agreements. He has the absolute right to revoke treaties and declare war on a people nearby. His main envoy is the Prince Stevano, his only son.
* '''Military role:''' Supreme Leader of the Matis armies, the King may decide to send his troops where he feels it is important to make campaigns. He may delegate this responsibility to a Grand Noble (in mateis, ''Uma Filar''.) In the event of war, he may raise taxes and conscript any Matis subject of proper standing.
* '''Social role:''' The King represents Jena on Atys. She speaks through him, making him the religious leader of the kingdom. He has the right to raise the social social standing of a Matis who demonstrates devotion to him and the Kingdom. He may ennoble guilds that have sworn allegiance to the Matis Kingdom, making them Noble Houses (in mateis, ''Feria Filira''.) If a guild is doing well in his eyes, and his house is happy, he can pronounce a House or Noble House to be a Great House (in mateis, ''Feria Umae Filar''), and give the rank of Grand Noble (in mateis, ''Uma Filar'') to the leader and high officers.
* '''Religious role:''' Established by the Karavan, and high priest of Jena, a descendant of Zachini, the Matis King governs the faith of his people. He may decide upon a trial before Jena at the request of two complainants if no decision so far has been appropriate. This trial, before the goddess is final.
* He has a veto on all areas and all the decisions. If it is his will, he alone will decide without consulting his advisers. He is the King.

== The Queen ==

>Currently Lea Lenardi, daughter of Bravichi Lenardi, mother of Stevano.

* '''Cultural role:''' Like the king, she holds her own court with her own companions, she selects and dismisses them. She handles all matters relating to poetry, songs, and also of botany and the appointment of the botanists, and the matis language.
* '''Political role:''' She has certain rights with regard to the King, such as the right to advise her husband in other areas, and may pass along demands of the people to the King.

== Prince(s) of the Kingdom ==

>Currently Prince Stevano, son of Yrkanis.

* '''Political role:''' Ambassador of the Kingdom. The son of the King travels the world, representing the King before the other peoples, to make treaties or to embody the friendship of the King. The movement of Princes are always under heavy escort.
* '''Priest of Jena:''' The eldest son of the King, from the age of 12, being a descendant of Zachini, will have the voice of Jena, so must be learned in her ways. He spends much time with the Clergy of Jena, and is their leader. He will only be accountable to the High Priest, his father the King.

== The Princess(s) of the Kingdom ==

* Members of the Queen’s Court, will take part in the cultural work and represent the Queen in the Kingdom.

== The King’s Court ==

=== The Royal College ===

* The Royal College is an institution of recognized scholars of the Kingdom and funded by the king. Duke Rodi di Varello, adviser to the King, is currently the guardian.
* Administrative cases such as the census, trade taxes, the Royal Archives, etc. are within its jurisdiction. (Matis youth from wealthy families or nobles often work there, against their liking, because the function is rather daunting.)

=== Grand Nobility (Uma Filar) ===

>This title currently is held only by people with a hereditary title of nobility, such Duke Rodi di Varello.

* The title of Grand Noble may only be given to a Noble. If the King likes the Noble and he is conscientious in the duties that the King entrusts him with, the King may choose to raise him to that rank.
* Grand Nobles may decide at one time or another to become Herena (mateis for Guide). Often these are older Grand Nobles. This makes it possible for Grand Nobles, who are also leaders of the matis warriors, to withdraw from the business of war without losing their power over the political and diplomatic affairs.
* Herenai no longer “officially” participate in matters of war, but can still influence decisions, especially where religion is taken into account. But also, more simply, by advising a Grand Noble of their House or allied Houses. The King must give his approval, of course, for a Grand Noble to become Herena.
* Grand Nobles can aspire to become part of the King’s Counsel, but this is a difficult post to obtain.

'''Grand Nobles’ duties:'''

* To lead the royal army under the command of the King.
* As Herena, to decide at end of an apprenticeship, if a candidate will become a cleric or not.
* To express opinions on the discussions of the Chamber of Nobles.
* To behave in an exemplary manner and display all the matis attributes.
* They may request the removal of a Noble, as they owe obedience to the Grand Nobles. Grand Nobles answer only before the Advisers (who are themselves Grand Nobles) and the Royal Family.

=== The Chamber of Nobles (Feria Filira) ===

Structure: * Heads of a House (guild) with more than five active members, and follower of the Karavan. * They discuss politics, the social organization of the kingdom for the people, wars and diplomacy. * They discuss matisian traditions, and coordinate with the Clergy for ceremonies and other festivities. * They may take their decisions to the King’s advisers who will keep the King informed. * They meet every winter and every summer (every 9 days IRL).

=== The Clergy ===

* When a Noble makes the decision to become a Cleric, he must be an apprentice for a term of unspecified length. The Herenai will decide on his ascension, in the purest Matis traditions.
* Within the Clergy, the Herenai are the apostles of the Priest of Jena, the Prince.
* The guardian of a novice or cleric determines when the novice should be recommended for promotion to higher courts.
* The Clergy keep religious Matis traditions alive. It is also responsible for promoting them among the other peoples.
* The Clergy is responsible for all religious ceremonies.
* The Clergy assists the Karavan in crowning the new king after the period of Royal Mourning.
* The Clergy meets every fall and every spring (every 9 days IRL).

=== The Hand (Nerhtenaei) ===

''Note: One Nerhtena, more Nerhtenaei .''

* The Nerhtenaei-Karan is a secret organization. They bring royal punishment on traitors or those who have deceived, or are planning to deceive the King of Yrkanis.
* At a ceremony of ennoblement of a house, he appoints a homin to be representative of Nerhtenaei-Karan, who will be called “Yene” (mateis for “nobody”). This homin will execute missions of punishment on behalf of the King.

== The Queen’s Court ==

* Composed of bards, minstrels, scholars and Ladies of Compnay, the Queen’s Court assures the continuity of the Matis culture throughout the Kingdom but also throughout Atys.
* They have a duty to compose and create everything that members of the Lower Court need for religious ceremonies.

=== Recruiting members of the Queen’s Court ===

* Subjects wishing to belong to the Queen’s Court must petition the queen and her court through their works (poems/songs/crafting).

L Marauder Civilization

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= Marauder Civilization =

== What they value: ==

* The strongest
* Combat
* Conquest
* Group survival

== How they see the Karavan & Kami ==

The Marauders, after being abandoned by both the Karavan and the Kamis during the Great Swarming, were forced to rely on their own intelligence and skills for their survival. As the great Powers focused their attention only on helping the homins they saved with rebuilding their once great civilizations, the Marauders persevered by organizing in clans and denouncing any ties to either Power. Marauders of the Old Lands vehemently reject both the Kamis and the Karavan and will fight those who support either religion. Many Marauders of the New Lands followed a religions faction at one time or another, but, having been disappointed by it, have chosen to break away and reject all religious teachings.

== How they see the homins of the New Lands ==

The new homin civilizations were built by those who had forgotten the ones that were left behind to the Kitins. The new governments quickly forgot those left in the Old Lands and no rescue attempts were made. Bitter at their abandonment, the Marauder clans of the Old Lands forcibly reject those that could so easily forget their own. Many of the Marauders of the New Lands have served a nation in their past, but, disappointed by their leader and the chafing of the constraints of living under the rule of civilized government, have chosen to break away.

L Marauder

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= Marauders =

p=. [[Image:banner_marauder.jpeg|banner_marauder.jpeg]]

During the Great Swarming all homins were not able to leave the Old Lands through the rainbows that led to the sanctuary of the Prime Roots. The ones that had no choice but to stay had to make many sacrifices in order to survive. Over the years the homin left behind took the name of Marauder. This society, ruled by the law of the strongest, is based on a clan structure. Abandoned by the two major Powers, the Marauders retaliated in turn by abandoning their beliefs and relying instead on their own strength.

p=. '''“We won our freedom and will not fold to any homin laws of the New Lands. The only law we recognize is ours.”'''

We have spent many years in the Old Lands to suffer and survive against the Kitins. At great cost, we finally emerge victorious. We have developed our own fighting techniques as well as our own armor, and we have recently arrived in the New Lands in order to impose our law.

p=. '''If you are in rebellion against the nations and Powers, join us! Never forget that the force commands respect!'''

Now if you have any questions…

* [[L_Marauder_Civilization|Marauder Civilization]]
* [[L_BeingMarauder|Being a Marauder]]
* The New Beginning: History since 2483
* Melkiar: The Black Varnix

* The organization of Marauder Clans
* Laws governing clans
* List of important names in the Marauder Clans

Free Trade Agreement of 2516

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= Free Trade Agreement of 2516 =

In the month of Mystia of the second cycle of the Jena year of 2516, a summit was called to launch a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The aim of the FTA was to bring down racial and territorial barriers throughout the New Lands and create a synergy among hominkind to enable the four civilizations to continue their growth. It therefore proved to be a solid foundation for building future prosperity as well as interracial understanding.

The agreement grants crafters and merchants of every nation the right to operate in serenity on an international scale independent of divergences in religious beliefs and practices.

The FTA being signed at Hoï-Cho was significant in that it marked a turning point in Zoraï history and their shedding the protectionist precepts of their forefathers. The FTA entered into force on the 1st of Winderly in the 3rd cycle of 2516, and reads as follows:

'''Preamble''' Representatives of the four peoples that constitute the homin race,

Desiring to promote international exchanges and promote race relations,

Recognizing the need for strong bonds of friendship across the homin nations,

Believing in the necessity of competitive markets to bring innovation, growth and improvement,

Believing fair commercial competition improves quality and raises standards of living,

Desiring to strengthen homin development in the face of natural adversity,

Recognizing a need to establish a network of secured intercontinental trade routes,

Recognizing the necessity to establish a base pricing system to allow homins at greater liberty in comparing items,

Appreciating the need for the exchange of techniques to better the homin chances of progress as a whole,

Have come together to agree on the following points :

'''Article 1 : Establishment of Free Trade zone''' 1.1 The parties affirm their equal rights to buy and sell throughout the new territories of the desert, lake lands, forest and jungle, which henceforth become a free trade zone 1.2 Merchants shall respect the law of the land 1.3 The parties shall ensure that the necessary measures are taken to maintain and secure trade routes for easy safe travel

'''Article 2 : The fixing of rates''' 2.1 A trade pool shall be established on each continent whereby all homins may propose their crafts and wares 2.2 A minimum price shall be established for items placed in a pool. 2.3 A common retail price shall be established within each pool to ensure an equitable system of commerce

'''Article 3 : Rules of Origin''' 3.1 No member shall tolerate the trade of products detrimental to another state or to the environment 3.2 Goo-based products shall be strictly prohibited and each state shall make every effort to dissuade its trade and transport 3.3 Every manufactured article shall bear the name or mark of its state of origin

'''Article 4 : Customs and duties''' 4.1 No signatory member state of the FTA shall raise tariffs independently or adopt any customs duty on goods travelling in or out of the territory 4.2 No signatory member state of the FTA may grant exclusive trade rights to another member nation nor prejudice the rights of another member 4.3 Each member state shall eliminate barriers, turnpikes to facilitate cross-border movement of homins and goods 4.4 Each member state shall grant temporary admission to goods free of duty

'''Article 5 : The Commission''' The Free Trade Commission is set up to oversee the proper execution of the FTA. This Commission is headed by two members of each race from the following professional guilds : the Carriers (Zoraï), Trail Blazers (Fyros), Free Merchants (Matis), Hawkers (Tryker). Presidency shall be passed on every Atysian cycle on the first day of Winderly. The first presidency shall be held by the Zoraïs. The Commission shall: 5.1 supervise and implement this agreement; 5.2 oversee its further elaboration; 5.3 seek to settle individual disputes and claims and facilitate trade relations; 5.4 meet at least once a year and maintain correspondence at least once a month and preserve race relations; 5.5 impose fines on homins in breach of the agreement

Being a Marauder

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= Being a Marauder =

== Who are we? ==

Most of us are survivors of the Great Swarming. We have struggled to take a foothold in the New Lands and now are ready to take our place. Others, refugees to the New Lands, have recently joined our ranks being disappointed by both religious factions and nations. We have our own laws and answer only to ourselves.

== Who are our ancestors? ==

Our ancestors are homins who have not fled the Old Lands. For many years they struggled to survive and track down Kitins. You made the right choice by joining our cause.

== Who is our leader? ==

Our chef is Melkiar the Black Varinx. A Marauder must obey the orders of Melkiar first and then those of his chieftain. Melkiar succeeded in gathering and uniting the survivors of the Great Swarming under the name of the Marauders. Over the years, he has proven to be an extraordinary leader. His lieutenants are Marauders known by the name of their exploits. Among them include Aen, Sirgio, Pei-Ziao, and Lixie. His daughter, Akilia Ash Storm, is tipped to succeed him at his death, if it should happen one day.

== What do we believe in? ==

We have faith in ourselves. We survived in the Old Lands without the help of the Kami or that of the Karavan. We learned to rely only on ourselves and have realized that we can surpass the authority of the Powers.

== What are our values? ==

Our life revolves around four values:

* The strongest: it is the strongest who lead each clan. Our survival is based on a power that is shared between these clans. A Marauder is free to do what he wants as long as he is strong enough to do so.
* Conquest: it is the conquest that we impose upon Atys.
* Combat: our culture is based on the effectiveness of the fight. The struggle need not be beautiful, but it must be efficient and effective. All strategies are allowed. The great fighters are cheered and are appointed because of their successes.
* Survival of the group: in extreme situations, we make the necessary decisions. If the death of certain homin guarantees the survival of the group, we do not hesitate.

== What are the taboos? ==

* Accept the authority of the new homin governments.
* Bow to the authority of the Kami or Karavan.
* Trampling our own values.

== What are our objectives? ==

We started from nothing, only fighting against Kitins in the Old Lands. With determination and strength we survived. The fight was long and grueling and thus we have developed a style of relentless combat. We no longer fear the great Powers because we have not needed their help to survive! Now we walk the New Lands and are prepared to take our place! Homins will soon learn what true strength is.

== Who are our friends? ==

* Other Marauder clans are our allies.

== Who are our enemies? ==

* Kitins: will always be our enemies. They continue to slaughter Marauders still present on the Old Lands. One day, after taking control of Atys, we will eradicate this menace once and for all.
* Religious factions: we fight all those who defend the teachings of the great Powers.
* Homin governments: the Powers encouraged homins to devise separate governments only to divide hominkind. The only true civilization of Atys is that of the Marauders!

== How can I help my people? ==

We are looking for artisans, harvesters, magicians and warriors to help build a sustainable force on the New Lands. We need warriors to defend the fortified camp and to conquer other territories. We are looking for artisans to develop our arms and armor, and harvesters to gather the raw materials necessary for their manufacture. We are also looking for magicians to create and enchant weapons, protect harvesters, care for our warriors and help during battle with their powerful spells.

== What can I expect my people? ==

* Learning from experienced trainers.
* Assistance between the clans and the protection offered by the fortified camp.
* A teleportation system comparable to that of the two Powers.
* Rewards earned as services are rendered to the Marauder cause.

== What is our land? ==

We survived the Great Swarming of 2481 by hiding among the ruins of ancient cities escaping homins left behin. We have built fortified zones which include a fortress. So far, only Marauders of Old Lands have access to these zones. By proving their loyalty, the Marauders New Lands may have access to it some day. Until that time, we have built a fortified camp for the Marauders of the New Lands to call their home in Hidden Source.

== What can I expect from Atys, our world? ==

Atys is full of dangers and treasures. The laws of the four nations do not affect us. Our research has also identified an energy source unknown to Homins.

Tribes of the Witherings and Goo

2014-06-01T14:28:15Z

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= Tribes of the Witherings and Goo =

The Goo is a blight gnawing at the heart of Atys, from its deepest roots to the heights of its canopy.

This evil is spreading like a disease in our world, ant yet there are homins working to spread this evil further. In the Witherings there are The Masters of the Goo, the Black Circle, the Antikamis, and the Goo Heads. Each tribe has their own goals which lead them all to spread this evil.

One of the more famous tribes of those mentioned is without a doubt, The Masters of the Goo. Their foundation dates back to 2503, where some of their founding members were officers of the surviving Wall of Zoran and have kept the ancient Zoraï ways. Following the Great Swarming, the natural suspicion of the Zoraï people towards the barbarians had been driven to extremes by these officers who proclaimed that as elected representatives of the Kami’s, the Zoraï were responsible for delivering order amongst the barbarians using magic and weapons for the barbarians own good and that of Atys. However, these extreme views were greeted with suspicion by Hoï-Cho, who preferred to spread the word of Kami’s peacefully with other homins. Suspicion turned to pure hostility from the Kami’s when one surviving general proposed to use the Goo as a weapon against the enemies of Zoraï to obtain more power and terror than even the kitin had aroused.

At that time the Fyros trade caravans began to regularly follow paths through the Witherings. General Kim Jong-Faw percieved this as an additional threat to Zoraï, and broke away from the council having decided to become an insider in the goo. Accompanied by a band of followers, he took up an entrenched camp in the region of the Void to pursue his project. The following year, the Great Sage Hoi-Cho joined the Kamis followed by the Great Sage Fung-Tun to focus on the conflict between the Empire and the Witherings, as at the time they did not consider the Masters of the Goo to be a threat, despite their misgivings about the tribes activities. This had the effect of distracting the Council of Sages from the growth of the Masters of the Goo tribe.

Since then, Bo-Qung Fao who is the son of Kim Jong-Faw, took up the leadership of the Masters of the Goo. He led the descendants of the Masters of the Goo, furthering the research of their predecessors to use Goo as a weapon. Their objective, however, had changed in the sense that realized they must begin taking control of the Witherings before they could realize their dreams of conquest, and spread the Goo as a weapon to control Atys.

Contrasting the Masters of the Goo, are the Antikamis. They are also renegades, having failed to integrate into the Zoraï society and have a decidedly fierce hatred for anything Kami. They do not try to control Kamis as the Masters of Goo do, instead they opt to attempt to destroy the Kamis. However there is one bond that unites them, giving rise to a group where only hatred prevails, making them one of the most petty and pathetic tribes of Atys, whose greatest dream is destroy the Kami Temple of Zora. This tribes hatred is so vile and putrid that they even cut the horns off their masks of kinship in an attempt to escape the purpose of Ma-Duk, and intentionally spread the Goo to affect both Zoraï and Kamis.

Whatever meanness and hate the Antikamis demonstrate, there is a more sinister concealed reality: The Black Circle. Founded in 2507, the precise origins of the Black Circle remain obscure. Their actual leader, Ba’Wity Codgan, arrived at his position by the power of intrigues, and seems to hold a network of contacts in all ancient and new lands. Contrary to the Masters of the Goo and the Antikamis, the Black Circle have their dark fingers encircling Atys, putting pressure on the governments in power to recognize the legitimacy of their research. The exact extent of their influence remains to be defined, but they are the ones who encourage the activities of the subversive and destructive Antikamis. They also serve as instigators, working with Matis to supply them with Goo, and it is known that they welcomed Horongi and his pupil as they were plotting against the dynasty of Cho. Without any doubt they have relations with numerous Marauder Clans. To preserve their power they convert into cash the fruit of their research to acquire the objects they desire.

Finally, the Goo Heads are another group of the manipulators of Goo. Of all the tribes spreading Goo, their philosophy is the one that that stands out the most because they believe they are acting for the good of all. This community is also one of the oldest which can be traced back long before the Great Swarm. They are more of a “philosophical” movement then a community with political objectives. These homins believe and see the Goo a means to enlightenment. The consumption of different drugs made from contaminated raw materials is their main occupation. In a perverse impulse of altruism, they decided to take their next revelation to spread the Goo in a chaotic and disorderly manner to whatever they can, whether homins, animal or plant.

Obviously, there are many other tribes who spread Goo on Atys and quoted here only those with an interest in the Witherings because they are the ones who are able to do extensive harm to the bark. Know how to use wisdom when dealing with them as none of them hesitate to make you taste the evil of the Goo that they are manipulated by everyday.

Teleportation Sickness

2014-06-01T14:28:09Z

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= C Teleportation Sickness =

Standing still, the mektoub was patiently waiting. It knew from experience just how long its mistress could remain in this place, almost motionless, letting only a sweet melody with soothing powers slip through her lips. As I watched the mount, lulled by the Zoraï’s chant, I too was half hypnotized by the surreal lights sparking from the magnificent white and orange temple interwined with harmonious roots, whose delicate and majestic summit seemed to reach for the sky. It was the first of the Dynastic Healer’s outings since her bed confinement a few weeks before and Tao Sian took advantage of the nice spring morning during the second cycle of Folially of the year 2574, to walk to Zora’s temple. I, her young scribe, took care in escorting her and quietly watched her in her still fragile health. As I sat there, not far from her mount, dozing off to the wispering of her gentle voice…

“Ochi Kami no[[Image:" The male voice startled me|" The male voice startled me]]
 Opening my eyes I saw a tall figure, coming from I do not know where, praying next to the Healer.
 ”Ochi Kami no[[Image:" echoed Tao Sian, following with a respectful, "Kamia'ata, Sage Sens."

Without thinking, I took my writing kit upon my knees, and began to write down the conversation as accurately as possible.

"Ata'Kami, Tao. How are you feeling?"

"By the grace of the Kamis, I'm feeling better. But having to undergo several teleportations in so little time, when even a single one makes me sick for several days... I hope never to experience again such a thing. But I had no choice. The infected rangers, the ones from the Almati Woods Kitin lair, they needed my help|]] And they will need it again…"

I felt the anxiety in her voice and after a bit of hesitancy she added: “Why do the Kamis inflict me this trial every time? Am I not devoted enough?”

The Sage sat silent, his deep gaze seemed to probe the Dynastic Healer’s soul. “Your question is both legitimate and filled with anxiety, Tao. I could give you an answer but the answer would not be yours. It is important that you seek the answer yourself. Question yourself, Tao. You have perfected your healing skill but yet you do not know how to heal yourself.”

Tao Sian sighed, “By Kami, I need the answer! I have tried to reason with myself to overcome my fear of teleportation as I went to treat the Goo contaminated Rangers; it was my duty as a healer. But look where it led me! Many weeks of headaches and irritability to everything around me. Dare I look homins in the eyes? What of the Rangers?”

It was then that Sage Sens placed a soothing hand on Tao’s shoulder, “Do not close your heart, Tao. Homins know your value and trust you, trust them in return.”

With these wisdom filled words, the Sage turned and quitely left Tao Sian to her meditations.

''Excerpt from Volume 1, “In the Shadow of Tao Sian”, written in the winter of 2574 by the scribe Kuangi Wu Shi. Available in the public library of the Temple of Knowledge.''

When Jena Comes

2014-06-01T14:27:55Z

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= When Jena Comes =

''There appears to be a new ballad floating in the air around the Karavan lands - our reporter has obtained an approximate transcript, reproduced here for our readers. What this means, we can only attempt to guess, if indeed it has any more depth than a song to lull the children to sleep…''

When Jena Comes

There will be light and laughter, There will be joy and peace, Atys will shine ere after Crying and hate will cease

Oh yes, when Jena comes Homins will sing her praise Oh yes, when Jena comes Her Sisters lead the way

For Jena killed the Dragon, Jena brings hope from afar One day she will fly again, Take us all to distant star

Oh yes, when Jena comes Homins will sing out loud Oh yes, when Jena comes Her Sisters stand so proud.

The goddess made all Atys green A gift of grace to Homin kind, And under root and over tree Her glowing light of hope did shine

Oh yes, when Jena comes Homins will kneel and pray Oh yes, when Jena comes Her Sisters mark the way.

Jena, now we cry to you each day Across the hollow void of space and time Return, forget not hominkind we pray And send the Sisters to us, as a sign.

Oh yes, when Jena comes Homins will hide their sight Oh yes, when Jena comes Her Sisters blaze with light.

The Stance of Daïsha

2014-06-01T14:27:35Z

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= The Stance of Daïsha =

''Written by an anonymous Zoraï scribe''

During the authority of Lin Cho, the Fyros carried out an incursion on Zoran, the Zoraï ancient capital. The Fyros were successfully pushed back and the great wall thereon was extended to encompass all frontiers with barbarian dominions. Thanks to the impressive observation towers, the city bore hardly any damage though the little damage that was inflicted sunk like an arrow into he heart of Zoraï culture. Indeed, the fire blasting of the national library –whose holdings included many centuries of scriptures inscribed on mektoub parchment – made the grand council of sages realize the fragility and the bulk of their files of learning.

High magicians came together and a stanza was devised to reduce the volume of the parchments into spheroids thus allowing greater expanses of knowledge to be transported more easily. But there was a drawback, resisting properties were lost or weakened in the process and a container was needed to protect the spheres from the ravages of time and fire.

So it came to pass that, by order of the high authority of Lin Cho, master crafters throughout the land were summoned in the event of a competition to find a new non-perishable means of storing the wisdom of ages.

By and by the day approached and villages and towns all over the land were sending their prime candidates into the village of Taï-Toon where the new library was to be set up. About fifty master crafters in all with their apprentices were soon adding their final inspirations to their fabulous fabrications amid much ceremony. There were finely carved magical boxes, urns and jars of every shape, color and size made for the storage of the spheres of knowledge.

One young crafter by the name of Hari Daïsha, from the remote village of Din-Tin, had opted for a more rustic style and had ingeniously hollowed out a bodoc horn so that it could contain up to five spheres of knowledge. On the eve of the grand day, squatting outside his tent, Hari was busy applying the final coat of his fire proof potion to the horn when a well known city crafter stopped by and cast and amused eye.

“What is this, yama (young homin)? The musicians’ quarters are nearer the exhibition grounds, up near the podium[[Image:"

"No, Master Seng, this horn is my competition piece. See, it closes the spheres of knowledge in with this watertight flap, it is resistant to fire and, best of all, can easily be dissimulated in nature in case barbarians come looking."

"Amazing|]] A stack of bodoc horns, how deceiving[[Image:" jibed Seng who then perched a heavy hand on the young crafter's shoulder. "Heed my words, sages will always enjoy a pretty design. If you want them to cast so much as an inquisitive eye at your effort, I'd brighten up the coarse exterior|" jibed Seng who then perched a heavy hand on the young crafter's shoulder. "Heed my words]]” With that Seng continued on proudly to his own camp where his chela was giving a last polish to a magnificent box of amber.

The young Zoraï looked down at the crude bodoc-horn receptacle. “Mmm, old Seng may be right, tomorrow the jury must study many innovations and then pronounce their verdict before the great assembly. I’d better add a little extra sheen to it to make it stand out a bit! Huh, I may not be able to afford amber but there’s plenty of sap in the river yonder.”

Jungle Night was closing in as Hari, fatigued and irritated at Seng’s chaff, squatted down to his chore of boiling down some sap to produce a firm jelly which he could then use to rub into the receptacle to give it a green sheen. The night lamp attracted all the fireflies of the night, Hari grumbled at yet another that danced between his eyes. “Ah, get lost before I zap ya[[Image:" he groused waving a sap sodden hand. But the firefly was determined to make a nuisance of itself. "Right, you asked for it|" he groused waving a sap sodden hand. But the firefly was determined to make a nuisance of itself. "Right]]” Hari took a scoop of sap, rolled it into a ball, thought up a binding spell off the top of his head and zapped the insect which fell to the ground in a prison of eternity. “Wow[[Image:" exclaimed Hari, "Look at that|" exclaimed Hari]] I’ve bound it in sap[[Image:"

On retrieving the translucent green ball of sap, he was able to marvel at the intricate anatomy of the creature and behold the full beauty of its highlighted wings that no homin had ever seen before. "Any sage would give his book of stanzas for that," he thought, and an idea was borne into his head. All night long he practiced zapping and dezapping fireflies to perfect the power words of the stanza until at last, in the small hours of the morning, a firefly was able to slip its tarsi from its spherical prison and flew away totally unscathed.

Early next morning, the hustle and bustle of competitors getting ready and making their way to the parade ground soon gave way to the stillness of the vacant tents. Vacant, all except for one. Hari, still under the effects of the sap fumes and a hard night's work, had fallen back into deep sleep and slumbered on and on.

It was the distant sound of horns signaling that the judges had reached their decision that finally stirred him from his dream. No sooner had he opened an eye than he was running with his beads of sap over to the podium where none other than Master Seng was proudly holding up his box for all to see. "Amber," he intoned, "will last forever and this box will give lifelong protection to anything stored inside it." He then turned, according to tradition, to give the box to the master sage in exchange for the winning medal.

"Master Seng," began the great sage in his ceremonial voice, "I proudly pres…"

"Wait|]]” piped in Hari, all out of breath and squeezing himself out from the front row of spectators. “Your reverence, my piece has yet to be judged.”

“W… what do we have here?! Silence, the winner is chosen…”

“My lord, if I may,” interrupted Seng, who then pulled the sage aside. “I recognize this lad, he has an uncommon mind, one of a fool or of a genius. To discourage his efforts now, could mean killing a bright bird of fancy in the egg later.”

“Yes, Seng, I see your point, it takes every twist of nature to make the world whole,” agreed the sage then motioned to Hari who brought out a bead of sap form his bodoc horn and held it up to the sun for all to see. The sage examined the sap-bound fly not without wonder.

“Interesting…”

“It’s a new process, your reverence.” Then, with a wave of the other hand and an utterance, Hari conjured his reversing stanza releasing the firefly which took to the air amid the “oos” and “ahhhs” of the surrounding spectators. “Is there anything more fragile than a firefly?”

“Very interesting,” conceded the sage, “but sap won’t resist against the first drop of rain let alone the ravages of time[[Image:"

"No, but amber will," put in Master Seng stepping forward to Hari offering his beautiful creation in one hand and a sphere in the other. "Come, young homin, take the amber you need from this box and show us what your magic can do with this sphere of knowledge. If you succeed, you can pay me back with your winnings|]]” chuckled the great crafter.

In the twinkling of an eye, the young crafter had dissolved a portion of amber which he then directed to seal the sphere of knowledge. The whole crowd clapped and cheered as the sage, muted by the clamor of praise, took young homin by the arm and raised it in the air.

The balls of amber were thereafter perfected into cubes for easy storage with the help of Seng, who, incidentally, also made the first great Chest of Wisdom to store them in. To add security, the council of Sages added a special binding seal to ensure that only initiated fellows could handle the precious contents.

The Mektoub Affair

2014-06-01T14:27:26Z

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= The investigations of Mac’leaffy Roner: The Mektoub Affair - Part One =

Of all the Trykers I have ever met, my uncle was by far the biggest. Of course, this greatness wasn’t simply the fact of his height, which was actually modest as is normal for our folk. In fact his stature was even insignificant if we compared it to his inseparable friend Zhuangi. No, it was more from his largeness of spirit and his unrivalled powers of deduction. My uncle is, and will remain the hero of my childhood; his tales and deeds will always echo down my peaceful nights. Moreover, there is not a single place on Atys which does not hold fond memories of him…

But all great Homins have to begin one day, even when they were unknown and unheralded for their skills. Uncle Mac’leaffy was no exception to this, and he too had to show to the world what he was capable of. So began his very first investigation: the Affair of the Devious Mektoub.

In those days Mac’leaffy Roner was very young and his vision of the world was still limited to Fairhaven and its surrounding area.

“Why should we roam far when our own landscape holds so much detail and so many mysteries to solve?”

Thus were his words to everybody who vainly tried to goad him into a sense of adventure.

“Each mote of dust has his own history and somebody has to listen to all their tales”

Was his only reply. He had a passion for the infinitely small, for everything that was at the limit of the visible, unthought-of of by most Homins. This had meant that throughout his adolescence he had been a rather lonely figure, not having yet met his great friend Zhuangi; and only the notorious Tepsen and his crazy theories seemed occasionally to awake his curiosity. As for his love of justice, it might as well not have existed, because everybody who knew him before the affair dismissed him as an idle dreamer, who did not fulfill his role in Tryker society…

All was due to change on the stormy day of Thermis when this story starts. The sky had been overcast all day and the air had slowly become leaden with humidity. Each second dragged longer and more heavily then the one before, and everyone was praying for the anticipated thunderstorm to break… The weather being the ally of the patient Tryker, the thunderstorm crashed into action at the end of the afternoon. The wind tore across the lakes as the lightening scrawled yellow over the dark skies and all sensible Trykers took to their homes to sit out the storm. Mac’leaffy Roner, however, was determined not to miss the free fireworks.

After some hours, the washed out skies cleared and people filed out into the streets to enjoy the fresh cool air. The red sun was low in the sky as night fell over the now calm waters, when a sudden rumour animated the capital into agitated life. A stable boy had begun shouting and crying that he had lost valuable animals when the storm was raging over the city. Speculation and theory sprang from every corner,

The Mektoub Affair had begun…

= The investigations of Mac’leaffy Roner: The Mektoub Affair - Part Two =

Every Tryker in the neighbourhood rushed to the stable. They looked questioningly at their neighbours wondering who could be guilty of this heinous act. The stable boy continued to scream robbery at the top of his lungs, uncaring who he accused. As for the Mektoubs’ owner, he was huddled with the guards, hoping vehemently that he would gain justice for this crime.

My uncle stood in the middle of the crowd, with a strange expression on his face as he gazed into nothingness. Looking at him, you would have thought him uncaring of all the fuss, as gradually a faint smile spread across his visage. Around him, conversations flowed and broke with strange theories and wild assumptions:

“The wind must have carried away the Mektoubs[[Image:"

"It was a big Kami who did it and teleported away|]]
 I’m sure that my explanation is correct – no you are quite wrong[[Image:”

Slowly the talk gelled and some names began to appear on peoples lips:

"It's Aesken the merchant who has taken them|]] I saw him riding a mektoub during the storm earlier”

“Aesken? But he is an honest homin! His prices are more than moderate. Besides, he has his own mektoub whereas Eoxy haven’t got one”

“Yes that’s so true and yet I heard a rumour that he was also riding one… strange isn’t it?”

“Stop that innuendo! Eoxy is a good homin, simple and discreet. How can you imagine him doing such a thing? You would do better to look at Gether’s activities. I don’t trust him at all. And after all, he has been seen riding a mektoub too. What could he be doing during the storm?”

Speculation surged through the crowd, the Trykers enjoying the disturbance and the guessing games. Even the guards began to listen closely to the tide of surmise…. Ropan, the chief of guards, ordered that the three main suspects Aesken, Eoxy and Gether, together with the owner and the stable boy be detained for a closer examination.

But the result was as uninteresting as we could have guessed. The stable boy had only noticed that there were Mektoubs missing as the storm raged overhead. So he could have told his boss just half an hour after the last blast of wind. As a matter of course, the owner corroborated this version. And none of the three suspects confessed to being the thief.

It was at that moment that Mac’leaffy Roner commenced his new vocation; that which was to bring him such success in life.

As it was obvious that no one was going to be able to resolve this case, he decided to come to grips with the story. Taking a small notebook from his pocket, he inspected the crime scene. He believed as always that his close friends the details would cry out to him, bringing him the explanation. Carefully he ran his hands lightly along the ground, as his eyes flickered here, there and everywhere; searching the one vital clue. He stood serene, an island of calm in a lake of turmoil, unconscious and uncaring that he looked a fool indeed.

He wrote: “Two dusty Mektoubs. One injured mektoub.” His look was almost mischievous as with as smile and a flourish he added:

“Aesken: guilty. Eoxy: guilty. Gether: guilty.”

And yet, Roner knew that he hasn’t found the real culprit…not yet. He mulled over all the conflicting stories he had heard. But of course!

Now he only needed one last, but by no means least, proof.

= The investigations of Mac’leaffy Roner: The Mektoub Affair - Part Three =

One, two, three Mektoubs; as he gazed over them, my uncle couldn’t stand still. Two were dust laden and one was lame. Mac’leaffy walked frenetically around them, tracing circles of his passing in the dusty ground. He could count and recount the basic facts in his head, but nothing changed and the missing spark of awareness refused to come. He could almost feel his head throbbing with the knowledge that some obscure detail was eluding his grasp. Aesken, Eoxy, Gether… one two three. As he was thinking aloud, everyone began too look at him curiously.

“He must have lost his mind – not that there was much there to lose” was the popular consensus. Suddenly, a small child appeared through the curious crowd. His eyes sought the unconscious speaker and it was almost as if he understood the turmoil that was raging through him. Cautiously the lad approached and tapped my uncle on the leg. Mac’Leaffy stopped his restless wandering, as rigid with surprise he faced the toddler.

“Four?” added the small one, calmly joining in the rote session.

“Four[[Image:" cried my uncle with such a joy that the child ran off scared. It was as simple as that|" cried my uncle with such a joy that the child ran off scared. It was as simple as that]] It was not a case of seeing what was there in front of him, but searching rather for what was missing. The details often confused him like this until he got used to seeing their patterns, and the traces of what was not.

 Immediately he ran to the stableboy and tried to extract the truth from him by looking at him straight in the eyes

 ”How many Mektoubs are you missing?”

“Erm, four” was the response, as he asked himself nervously where all this was leading.

Four! He was approaching the goal. He questioned further – “It’s nice stock that you have there! How many animals are there in total?”

“Twenty five” answered the stableboy mechanically…

One, two, three, four… twenty four. My uncle had his proof at last. Each and every Homin who witnessed that scene will testify that it was at that moment that my uncle truly came into his greatness.

He walked slowly towards Gether, having regained his composure.

“An innocent homin does not have to take the blame for a theft, my friend.” he told him, all the while watching his impassive visage.

“Why take this mektoub if it was to give it back?” he mused, considering every word.

Gether finally conceded a response “We prefer to keep our convictions to ourselves.”

Mac’Leaffy went then to Eoxy. Eoxy, eaten by fear and guilt, looked like one who was living in his own nightmares… “I believe in your innocence. But for the others to believe me, I must know your secret. I will guard it, of course…” Eoxy was on the verge of collapse, but in a last effort he whispered something to my uncle. I never knew precisely what was said; only that it was an old story of love and betrayal

Finally, my uncle walked over to Aesken, but had no further questions. He already knew everything…

What happened next is very confused in my mind and it may be that in my childish innocence I misunderstood some of the nuances. My uncle talked a long time with the Tryker authorities and it transpired that the stableboy was the real culprit. Aesken, Eoxy and Gether had all made individual mistakes, but none of them were guilty of theft.

It seemed that the stable boy had gone out to count his Mektoubs at the height of the storm and seeing that three were missing, had panicked. Taking a mount, he rode off after them, but the sharp peal of the thunder had made his mount throw him and run off. Dejectedly, he returned home, and not wishing to admit his losses, cried thief.

He was not to know that the missing mounts were quietly returned, after all.

The famous “Mektoub affair” was thus resolved, changing my uncle’s life for ever. It even had an impact on me, leaving me with a distrust of merchants that I hold to this day. Having heard, sometime later, my uncle asking Aesken to take his injured mektoub and give back the one he had taken, probably compounded this. And to be honest with you … it’s hard to not to be involved when in your childhood it was you who uttered that pivotal word:

“Four”

The Legend of the Blue Ocyx

2014-06-01T14:27:19Z

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= The Legend of the Blue Ocyx =

Alervinda was a huntress, as were her parents, her grandparents and their ancestors before. She had grown up with the necessity of killing but with an almost unlimited reverence for life in addition, based upon the knowledge of death. She would never kill an animal without good reason, never destroy a life just for fun… that was her way of life and how she wanted to live in years to come.

Now, however, there was this task she was appointed to… and the thought of fulfilling it was laying heavily on her heart. She was told to kill the Blue Ocyx, and, Ma-Duk, for no reason but the order of this old witch. Indeed Ocyx were aggressive and hence enemy to Hominkind, but they never attacked Homins as long as they stood out of the herds’ domain.

For more than three hours she had been sitting in the Canyon where she intended to conjure the Ocyx, who was a mighty spirit. The horn with the subtle tracings was lying across her hands. More than once she had actually lifted it to her lips, but something kept her from casting the call. Was it because of the stories her grandmother had told her about a blue Ocyx being the lord of all the other Ocyx on Atys, with a skin blue as the lakes of Aeden… was it the hot, whispering wind, or the voice of Ma-Duk himself?

She stood up, opened her bag and threw a piece of bread towards her yubo, which sat patiently next to her.

Suddenly she heard the hoarse barking of a gingo… and as she looked to the north she saw a young Fyros huntress together with an equally young and bumbling Ocyx, fighting against four gingos.

Within a glimpse she realized that both were in a hopeless situation. She hesitated just a second and in the next she was running towards the fighting, and commanding her yubo to join in she attacked the strongest gingo. It was a short, clean fight.

The young Fyros was only slightly wounded but in her arms she held her dying Ocyx. Alervinda bent down, and indicated to the girl that the Ocyx was beyond any help, but the Fyros, with tears in her eyes, was not listening; rather shouting a name over and over again while petting the blood stained fur of her Ocyx. Seeing the love and deep mourning displayed, Alervinda came to a decision. She put her hand on the girl’s shoulder, causing her to stand up with questioning look on her face. She pointed towards the Ocyx herd, standing dull in the evening sun, and giving an encouraging look to the Fyros, she lifted Ma-Duks horn to her lips…

From the shadows of the Canyon, majestic and dignified in his appearance, came the giant Blue Ocyx. Gracefully he bowed to Alervinda before he faced the young Fyros huntress.

''You, little one, have fought well and lost your fellow. From now on it should be known that you are under my protection and never again will need to fight alone.''

Then he once more faced Alervinda.

''Huntress, you have shown great wisdom. Through my death you would have served no one but this old Homin, who never meant for anything good. Death and destruction would have come towards the burning desert as it has happened before. But now I may serve you and help in the fighting against the evil. But know: Never I shall help you against my own kind if they are attacked without reason. Then my protection of your people shall pass and change to hate and revenge and you will be doomed indeed.''

He seemed to shrink and turn paler and a shadow flew to the young Fyros, engulfing her completely. Fixed to the spot, Alervinda had merely stared without words, but now she looked at the huntress carefully in a new light. She had after all come through this abominable canyon unchallenged. Why hadn´t Alervinda noticed those bright blue eyes before? Thoughtfully, she turned the horn in her hands. Then a smile came to her face and she bowed into the direction of the little huntress.

Tears of Serenity

2014-06-01T14:26:39Z

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= Tears of Serenity =

''A Kami story told by Jai Bai-Wong, a Zoraï''

Many years ago, when hominkind had barely ventured forth from the darkness of pre-existence, a nomadic tribe was camped in the heart of the ancient forest lands. The Zoraï chieftain, whose name was Cho, was set back from the campfire under a tree in contemplation of the night sky when a strange presence enlivened the fiber in his body, warmed the liquid within his temples. He closed his eyes. He experienced an inner completion which soothed the wounds within as his eyes welled exuding the first Tears of Serenity.

He slowly opened his eyes and through the blurred vision he saw the source of his inner peace and harmony established upon a tree. The visitation blinked back at him, vanished and then reappeared in front of him. Cho bowed in an act of prostration and the entity spoke: “Kami, hungry,” and placed its hand on its chest. Instinctively realizing that the Kami was hungry of heart, Cho rose to his knees and moved his hand to his heart likewise: “Yes, Cho desires more friendship, divine Kami, how can I earn your love?”

The Kami pointed to the tree upon which it had first appeared and Cho immediately understood that the infection of goo there gave rise to the Kami’s concern. “I shall settle here, Kami, my people shall serve you and cleanse the land of the devouring sickness as you have cleansed my spirit.”

Cho spread the word to his brethren throughout the lands to bring them together around the Kami experience so they too might feel the peace and ease their anguish within. The first magnificent temple to the glory of Jena and her Kami Guardians was built on the very spot of Cho’s enlightenment and grew into Zoran, the ancient capital of the Zoraï. And let us remember Cho’s words: “It is within the grasp of every homin to feel the Tears of Serenity.”

Yi Be-Pian, Old Zoraï of the Company of the Eternal Tree

2014-06-01T14:25:28Z

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= Yi Be-Pian, Old Zoraï of the Company of the Eternal Tree =

'''We have travelled deep into the Haven of Purity to meet the homins of one of the Bark’s most important tribes, the Company of the Eternal Tree. Having made contact with Bian La-Viang, the welcome host, he finally directs us towards an old Zoraï stooped over an earthenware vase.'''

'''Hello, who are you?'''

Ssh… Just a second if you please…

'''He taps the vase for a moment before putting it down.'''

…There you go, isn’t that better? Thank you for waiting. Patience is a great virtue. What are a few minutes at my age? No doubt not more than my life in proportion to that of the Progenitor… They call me Yi Be-Pian. They say I’m a sage, but no doubt that’s just a polite way of saying I’m the oldest in the Company of the Eternal Tree. (smiles)

'''Let’s talk about the Company. When was it founded?'''

I may be old, but I’m not so old that I was around when our company was created by the revered Mai Loo-Kai, may we all follow her example, in 2364. Few like to remember that time. Zoraï society had developed and, despite its devotion to spiritual matters, it began to turn away from the Kami to concern itself with much more… material matters. Seeing the Zoraï put homins before the Kami more and more often, Mai Loo-Kai, may her spirit guide us for a long time, gathered many of her friends around her and decided to found a guild entirely dedicated to the Kami. In its great wisdom, the council applauded her initiative and gave her its full backing. So Mai Loo-Kai created the Company of the Eternal Tree. Along with those who soon came to be called her disciples, she preached respect for the Kami and regularly called the Zoraï to order.

'''But aren’t you a tribe?'''

Ma-Duk didn’t create Atys in a day, I can’t tell my story in a sapbeat. (smiles) So there came a day when Mai Loo-Kai, may her sap flow through the veins of Ma-Duk, realised that those who called themselves sages weren’t following the advice that they encouraged her to give. So she turned and addressed her reprimands to them as well. They didn’t appreciate being called to order in the slightest and so the guild’s problems began. The council began to criticize it, accusing it of trying to spread trouble with the aim of obtaining power for itself. Feeling that if she stayed in Zoran the power of the homins would end up corrupting the guild and its ideals, Mai Loo-Kai gathered those who had remained faithful, dissolved the guild and left to establish herself far from the authority of the council which was perverting her noble design.

'''And the central power of Zoran left her alone?'''

Mai Loo-Kai, praised be her wisdom, stopped preaching, preferring to devote all her energy to those she revered, the Kami. In so doing, she proved the council wrong and the example set by her devotion had more effect on Zoraï society than all her preaching. By distancing herself from homins she led them along the path of enlightenment. Ashamed, the council asked her to return, but she refused. Nowhere in Zoran could she live in such symbiosis with the Kami. Not long afterwards she disappeared, the first to have attained the Kami Age. Her sap is now one with Ma-Duk. Soon, I know, it will be my turn to rejoin her.

'''Observing your camp, there’s something I’ve been wondering. There are many different peoples here, and yet you have only spoken to me of Zoraï…'''

Observation. A great quality for those who know how to see. My people remained very inward-looking for a long time through fear but, also, I think, through ignorance, ignorance having led to vanity. But when the Kami recognised us as their most loyal servants, we were induced into bringing the sacred word of Ma-Duk to other peoples. Meeting souls desirous of following our path, we opened our doors to all homins that the Kami considered to be worthy of serving. Then came the great wave of kitins which swept away all civilisation, including much of ours. The Kami fled, all the better to return after they’d gathered their strength, as we later realised. Once the Bark was accessible to us again, we retook our place beside the Kamis in 2483. The tribe had lost many members, so we opened our arms wide to all those who wished to rebuild a world of harmony with the Kami, whether they be Zoraï, Trykers, Fyros or Matis. It’s time for me to perform my devotions to the eternal Ma-Duk. Hold on to those questions you’re dying to ask, the answers will come in their own time.

'''I left Yi Be-Pian to his meditations and made the most of the time to soak up the atmosphere of calm which reigned in the tribe. As I silently observed the camp, I didn’t immediately see Yi Be-Pian sit down beside me. Smiling, he finally broke the silence.'''

Your respect for our traditions honours you. It seems that the day hasn’t yet come for my return to Ma-Duk. So some of your questions will be answered.

'''There’s something I don’t get. You swear by the Kami and yet you don’t seem to have that bad a relationship with the Matis.'''

We may condemn their tendency to help the Karavan, but we respect their love of plants and the research they carry out in that field. We only hope that one day we can open their eyes and convince them to use their immense scientific learning for the good of the Kami and the fight against the Goo. No, those we consider to be real fools are the Fyros. They’re worse than children. We can’t tolerate their government’s acceptance of their dangerous games with fire. They say that they’re devoted to the Kami but, like the sages of the past, they put their own personal interests before those of Atys.

'''How does one become worthy of serving the Kami in the Company?'''

The Kami alone decide. Those who respect the sacred rules most faithfully and learn to know all the Kami have the immense honour of being chosen to serve. Before, when the tribe was respected for its immense valour, its members were considered by all to be sacred beings and, although there existed many religious orders, the Company of the Eternal Tree was considered to be the elite and we were regarded as the most pious of the pious.

'''How do you serve the Kami?'''

There are a thousand ways of serving the Kami. Dedicating prayers to them and looking after a corner of the land is already a way of honouring them. However, the tribe’s most important task is spreading the teachings of Ma-Duk, may her sap flow eternally, and making homins aware that they must safeguard Atys. Those who have been chosen to serve the Kami directly have the honour of serving as their spokespersons. They go to live with the Kami in order to familiarise themselves with their way of life and to better learn their language. These elect will be the first to attain the Kami Age, I’m quite sure, because they understand the word that they bring to us better than anyone. Our devotion also requires lots of practical action to safeguard Atys. We work the land to remove harmful things or, conversely, to resow the springs which have been dried up by unscrupulous foragers. Finally, we try to protect Atys from its most dangerous enemies: The Karavan and the homins who have debased themselves to serve them, the Kuilde. One of our encampments is situated just inside Nexus in order to try and restrict their harmful actions.

'''But why in Nexus?'''

There you go again, asking questions without thinking. Consider the geographic location of Nexus, which is strengthened by the three vortexes. You see, the answers are sometimes closer than you realise, you just need to take the time to think about it. Nexus occupies a central position on Atys. Nowhere else are you so close to all the regions at once. The Kuilde tries to use it to strengthen its control over all of Atys’ resources and in particular those of the upper Primes. The Karavan cares little for the equilibrium of Atys; we have to stop them from using those stinking, toadying ragus, the Kuilde, to devastate the regions. Mind you, at least by concentrating on Nexus, they leave us alone to carry out research into our ultimate enemy, the Goo.

'''Tell me about the fight against the Goo. How can it be that with all the time the Kami have known about it, they still haven’t found a way to eradicate it?'''

The Kami are powerless against it. What’s more, they are extremely vulnerable to it. I’ve seen with my own eyes a Kami being sucked up by the Goo before I could intervene. No, I tell you, it’s up to us to protect them. Did you know that homins have a better resistance to the Goo than most other living creatures? Our latest findings seem to bear this out.So the Kami protect Atys and we protect the Kami. There is equilibrium in everything.

'''How do you explain the fact that it’s only in the jungle that the Goo is to be found so persistently?'''

Despite all our research, unfortunately we haven’t found the answer to that question. However, our most recent observations lead us to believe that if the Goo attacks Atys in the jungle, it may be due to the greater presence of plant life. The Goo attacks any living matter. If it feeds off it, it makes sense that it will take hold where life is most flourishing…

'''Does the upcoming conflict risk compromising your fight against the Goo?'''

We fear so. All our forces will be mobilised to defend Ma-Duk, revered creator of everything, which will stop us regulating the Goo. To that is added our fear of seeing the Karavan try to use it to attack the Kami and, in doing so, hastening the end of Atys. We hope to be able to stop those fanatics before they resort to such extremes. Part of me, though, is happy to know that I will soon join Ma-Duk. I no longer have the strength to take up arms and it would eat away at my soul to witness an event, one which is likely to be a major turning point in the history of hominity, and not be able to take part in it. May I attain the Kami Age before the arrival of Jena!

C The Followers - Part Twelve

2014-06-01T14:24:25Z

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= The Followers - Part Twelve =

Some time passed as the three Homins continued their exploration of what was hidden deep in the Atysian soil. Dinah’s skills in prospection turned out to be extremely useful even though she did not always find what was sought after, but even so all the sources they dug up could be used for their crafting lesson. Time seemed to be running away from them as they moved from source to source, digging up as many materials they could possibly extract from them. Just as they had eventually gathered enough to fill all their packs; the girls jumped as a cracking sound was heard from behind, followed by an “aaw” from Feuor.

He had managed to hit the last source so hard that his pick had finally given in. It was not totally unexpected since it was an older one, and additionally he had treated it more like a sword then a pick from the start. Nih’na and Dinah just grinned at the brave warrior struggling as he did his best to use the remains of the pick to garner up the little he could from the source.

“Seems like we managed to gather quite a bunch of materials, eh?” Feuor said as he stood up and looked at the piles of materials lying around them.

“Yes, it was fun.” Nih’na said as she opened her bag.

Just as Feuor tied the last bag together they were approached by a Fyros man whom seemed to be heading towards them. Just as Feuor tossed the heavy bag on his back the man reached them and greeted them politely.

“Well met, I am Cyraco a merchant by profession and a travelling Homin by heart. May I have a moment of your time perhaps?” Cyraco stated as he bowed to the group.

“Uhm, sure. What can we do for you?”

“I was just wondering, I see that you all travel with a full inventory but also that there are some piles of materials left here on the ground. Are they yours by any chance?” Cyraco asked politely.

“Yes, we seemed to have been a bit too eager in our harvest.” Nih’na answered him.

“Ah, I see. Then I have a proposal for you regarding these items here.” Cyraco said. “You see I am travelling these lands in search for materials. I work closely with the merchants in the bigger towns and have been informed that they would welcome a range of different materials such as the ones you have here. So , if you are not going to bring them with you, I suggest that you let me purchase them for a sum of dappers. Does this sound interesting?” he continued.

Dinah, Nih’na and Feuor looked at each other with surprise, as they had not thought to sell the materials. But then again with their bags full they would not been able to carry anything to the nearest merchant, so Cyraco’s appearance was both timed and lucky.

“I guess that would be fine with us.” Feuor said to Cyraco.

“Great, then what would be a fair price to you? Hmm, how about , let’s say 60 000 dappers for these piles ? Do that sound like a fair price to you ?” Cyraco said smilingly.

“Fair enough, it’s a deal[[Image:” Feuor said and extended his hand to shake.

Cyraco answered the gesture and as they shook hands he handed over the said amount which Feuor proceeded to distribute between the three of them. Cyraco thanked them and bowed deeply again.

“Uhm..How will you be able to transport these materials?” Nih'na asked carefully.

“Oh, I have my packers just on the other side of the hill here. They are resting and drinking a bit. I just took a little stroll when I noticed you three were about to leave.” Cyraco answered. “I will go and fetch them now so I can put these materials in their bags. A pleasure doing business with you|]]”

As they walked along the road Feuor and Nih’na were very pleased with the day’s result. Dinah, on the other hand walked a little behind them staring at the ground. What they did not see was that she held a firm grip of her pouch where her share of the dappers were. Little did they know that it had been a long time since she had last seen such an amount of dappers.

As they came to the crossroads leading to the town, they stopped for a second and discussed if they should head for home at once of if they could take a detour into town and see if they could get something for their dappers. Perhaps even a present for their parents as a surprise. It was an easy decision since Dinah had to pass through the town anyhow in order to get home so Feuor and Nih’na decided that they would follow her on the way.

Feuor headed to the weapons crafter looking for a nice dagger to give to his father and found one at a bargain price together with a crafting needle that shimmered lightly. The merchant told him that if it was used correctly it could have a special effect in the armour crafted.

Nih’na had found an herbal tea which was made from special Stinga which was said to have a calming effect for her father, and for her mother she found a lovely hairpin.

They both met up with Dinah who was standing at the Armour merchant staring at a White Matis Light Armour with big eyes. They wondered if she had moved at all from that spot.

“That is a lovely dress Dinah.” Nih’na said as she came closer.

“Yes, it is. It would look lovely on my mother.”

“Then why don’t you buy it for her?” Feuor asked as he stood behind the girls.

“I would so much like to.. but… it is costly.” Dinah said and lowered her head.

“Well, the price says 28 000 dappers.” Feuor stated as he looked at the armour.

“Yes… but I only have…” Dinah replied as she showed them her pouch.

“So, you lack what, 8 000 dappers?” Feuor asked, and got an elbow in the side from Nih’na for being so direct.

“Yes…”

“That is easily sorted I think. Excuse me, could you please hand that lovely armour to this girl here?” Nih’na said to the merchant who proceeded to get the armour off the hook and handing it to Dinah.

“But.. but I can’t… afford..” She started, but became still the moment she got to hold the armour

“Of course you can afford it Dinah. It is for your mother, am I right?” Feuor said as he poured some dappers from his pouch into Dinah’s right hand.

He was soon followed by Nih’na who added her share of dappers.

“A gift of heart cannot be measured in dappers my friend. Give this to your mother as a gift from a loving daughter.” Nih’na said as she saw how Dinah both blushed and lit up with the joy of being able to give something back for her mother’s years of care..

“But.. how can I … repay you both.?”

“Did you have fun today Dinah, with us?” Feuor asked her.

“Yes.. I had great fun. More then I can remember for years[[Image:” She replied honestly.

“That is payment enough, silly|]]” Nih’na said and smiled.

C The Followers - Part Thirteen

2014-06-01T14:24:19Z

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= The Followers - Part Thirteen =

That evening, when they returned excitedly home, they were warmly welcomed by their parents who were delighted with the surprise gifts and proud that their young homins were growing up so fast.

As the dusk drew in, the two families sat down at the sturdy outside table to share a celebration feast together.

There was much hilarity as old tales were retold, some which seemed to be dragged out on all such occasions, and a few which were new to the young people. Perhaps indeed, this was intended, as some of the stories carried the seed of wisdom if the outer core of humour was stripped away. Still, it was an evening of laughter, joy and festivities. The hours passed quickly as did a few pints of Shooki Ale as throats were moistened between songs, stories and general merriment.

When dinner was over and cleared away, Feuor and Nih’na took a little stroll towards a nearby hill. It had almost become a habit for them to do this together now and then, and tonight seemed a special occasion. Perhaps it was due to the successful day, the pleasant time together, the gifts or just the ale. Towards the summit they paused to survey the shadowed landscape spread out before them in shades of grey.

“Dinah is a bit uncertain about herself isn’t she?” Feuor suddenly asked.

“I think so. But I can understand her, I mean she does not seem to have it as easy at home or in school as we do.

 “What do you mean? You know we haven’t had it easy either, especially not you.” He kept staring forward into the distance.

“I know, and I should have let you know earlier too. For Dinah it is a slightly different case. The Matis are a proud people who hold honour and aesthetics as absolute values. They have high standards and a feeling for society and hierarchy. Dinah is struggling within herself to come to terms with her role and her sense of what is important in life, especially in the light of her father’s strange disappearance.

 “What do you mean? That she was upset because she couldn’t afford the armour by herself?”

“In a way, yes. I remember when I saw her once during a training session. Her dress had been torn by a practice weapon and the others just dismissed it by saying she should go and buy a new one, and what a good chance to spend some of her parents dappers. She laughed with them and said that they were probably right. But later that day I saw her sitting alone, carefully sewing her armour back together again. In her eyes, as she looked up to greet me, I could see the glint of incipient tears.

 “So, she was crying because the armour was torn?”

“No, seeing her today has shown me what was going on. It was not merely because it was damaged, I think it was because it was a precious gift. Perhaps she got it from her mother a long time ago, you know they are not wealthy and sometimes have to struggle. I think that it was probably a gift from her mother and that they did not have the dappers to replace it. You still have your first dagger right?”

“You mean the one I used to stab that Kincher as a kid? Yes I have it in my room.”

“Then you realize how Dinah must feel.” Nih’na said and looked at Feuor.

“Yeah, I guess I do.” He answered her.

They stood there silently for a long moment as the sky drained of the last vestiges of sunset.

“You know Nih’na, jewels…” Feuor started saying.

“Yes, but what about them?” She asked him curiously, wondering what he was hinting at

“They are made by adding certain kinds of raw materials, created from what at first sight seems to be just a pile of junk. By the crafting process, they are moulded and refined to a glittering gem which is then used in a necklace, pendant or ring.”

“Yes, I know, but what has that got to do with anything?” She was still at loss as to his thought processes.

“We are her friends, right. Then we can be the crafters that show her the gem that she really is[[Image:”

As the sun rose again, both Feuor and Nih'na were up early and after a quick breakfast they headed rapidly towards the town as they had agreed to meet Dinah for their day off and did not want to waste any time. They passed the crossroad and headed towards the gates of the town, then strolled to the fence near the merchants’ stands where they had decided to meet up with Dinah. She had already arrived and when she saw them approach she grinned a greeting.

“Hello there Dinah, you seem cheerful today.” Feuor returned the grin.

“Oh yes, you will not believe how happy my mother was with the dress. It took some time for her to believe that it was really hers. She is no longer accustomed to receive gifts like that. Thank you so much, both of you.”

“It was a pleasure, besides we worked together|]]” Nih’na said happily

“Haha, indeed we did. Though it seems as though some of those sources were tougher then I thought.” Feuor added, which made both the girls start giggling.

“Oh, very funny[[Image:”

This just made the girls laugh even more as they recalled the mighty hero battling the enemy on the source field.

“Ok you two, let’s go find some sweets. These are on me|]]” He had to shout to make himself heard above the peals of laughter that echoed out over the town.

C The Followers - Part Ten

2014-06-01T14:24:16Z

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= The Followers - Part Ten =

“Aahh, a good warm up before a battle.” Feuor said as he started to unpack his heavy armour. He had only worn his boots and pants on the journey and had carried the rest of his gear in his bag. Nih’na took out her amps and inspected them closely, she had always been careful with her amps since they were of such personal importance to her. Dinah was also looking in her pack for her own amps and put them on with the ease of long practice. Nih’na however, had mostly trained without using hers to conserve them, and fumbled a little as she slipped them on.

“Oh no, I can’t find my earrings[[Image:” Dinah said worriedly as she rifled through her bag. I’m so sure that that I packed them in here last night.

“Here, I have a spare set you can borrow Dinah.” Nih'na said as she handed over a hide pouch with jewels nestling inside.

“Are you really certain Nih'na?” Dinah asked as she gently accepted the pouch.

“They are better used by you than remaining in the bag, Dinah.” smiled Nih’na.

Dinah clipped the earrings through her ears and a return smile from her told Nih'na that she appreciated the gesture. Feuor had put on his armour and was swinging his sword around to warm up.

“So girls, shall we give it a go then?” He asked and looked around for suitable prey. “How about starting with that clopper over there?”

“I think it will do well for a first attempt.” Dinah said. “I hope that I can bind cloppers with my spells though.”

“Here we go|]] “ Feuor had already run up to it and smacked it over the head to get its attention before running back half the distance between him and the girls. There he stopped and taunted the clopper, while Nih’na sent a heal winging his way. Dinah focused on the clopper and rammed her hands into the ground, causing a purple bolt to strike the clopper. As soon as it did so, roots grew from the ground and held the clopper’s claws and legs so it could not move or attack. Feuor took this chance and landed some well aimed blows on the clopper’s head. Within seconds it lay dead on the ground in front of them.

 “What a team[[Image:” Feuor shouted as he looked at the remains of the clopper and managed to get some useful parts from it which he threw into his bag.

They continued like this for a while, attacking a range of animals and gathering as many materials as they could, and it seemed to all of them that the more they fought, the better their teamwork became.

.

As they were attacking yet another animal, a clopper suddenly ran towards Dinah and Nih'na without Feuor noticing. It was headed towards Nih'na and was just about to attack when Dinah shouted a warning. When she saw the clopper about to strike, she jerked back, lost her footing and fell to the ground, but the clopper did not move to follow, indeed it sank to the ground itself as if in a deep sleep.

“That was a spot of luck indeed, I was not sure if I would be able to attach my spell to it|]]” Dinah said with relief, as she helped Nih’na back onto her feet again. Feuor had already finished off the one he was battling with and had noticed the commotion. He ran up to the clopper just as it regained consciousness only to see the sharp edge of Feuor’s sword.

The battle was short and sweet and soon the clopper fell to the ground for a final time.

“I think we have enough of these materials now. Perhaps it is time for a short rest before harvesting.” Feuor said as they walked to where they had left their equipment and supplies. They sat down and looked at all the materials they had gathered from the animals before carefully sorting them out into piles. “It’s time for lunch I think.”

They prepared the food they had brought to share and ate in comfortable silence. After they had finished, they packed the leftovers and sat down to rest for a while.

“How about… ehm.” Nih’na started to say.

“What?” Feuor and Dinah asked simultaneously.

“I was just wondering… when we are done harvesting if we could perhaps take a little swim?” Nih’na asked. She felt safer with them now, even though she was still careful since she did not want to be a nuisance to anyone and lose their warm companionship.

“That sounds like a great idea Nih’na! Let’s do it[[Image:” Feuor said and started removing his armour.

“Sounds good to me too|]]” Dinah added and grinned at Nih’na.

C The Followers - Part Eleven

2014-06-01T14:23:56Z

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= The Followers - Part Eleven =

Soon the three Homins were swimming in the small lake, floating lazily around the still waters in the calm afternoon. As the sun crossed the sky they realised that they needed to get moving in order to attempt some harvesting before the day became evening.

Feuor and Nih’na had light armour made by Limeh, crafted with utmost precision and sewed with a careful hand. They fitted perfectly and very soon both Feuor and Nih’na were ready to begin.

Dinah was clearly less fortunate as she unpacked her harvesting clothes. The vest and caster pants were made of medium Matis Light Armour while the gloves were low Fyros Light Armour and the boots were low Tryker. She looked so embarrassed when she had put it all on that she was unable to meet their surprised gaze.

“What’s wrong Dinah?” Nih’na asked gently.

“I am… this dress… I…” Dinah started saying but was abrupt by Feuor.

“It is truly not the armour that makes the Homin, but the Homin that makes the armour[[Image:” he said laughingly but with utter conviction.

“It was given to me by my father, from one of his journeys. I have tried to care for it as much as I could”

“It really means a lot to you, Dinah” Nih'na said warmly.

“Yes, it was one of the last things he gave me before he..... before he vanished without a trace or a word.”

“Then it should be packed away somewhere special I say.” Feuor smiled.

“Yes, it should be kept and treasured, Dinah.” Nih’na could tell that Feuor had a plan.

“But.. but... I have no other dress to... harvest in”

“That is easily solved Dinah. My mother is a great crafter of Light Armour. If you do not mind wearing Tryker or Zoraï she will make you a lovely one|]]” Feuor said happily.

“Yes and my mother is almost a master of jewel crafting. She will make you some jewels to wear with it.” Nih’na added.

“But… we are… dappers..” Dinah started saying, she was almost stuttering.

“It is a gift to a friend.” Both Nih’na and Feuor said simultaneously, then looking at each other almost burst out into laughter realizing that they had thought the same thing.

Suddenly Dinah’s face changed as she realized what she had just been offered. It wasn’t just the dappers, it was the unconditional friendship that placed a delighted grin on her strained face.

It didn’t take them long to begin to find materials. In this it seemed as if both Nih’na and Dinah were more prepared then Feuor so he chose to care for their sources while they harvested. He had not studied it as much as they had since his combat training required such relentless practice.

Dinah once more surprised them when she closed her hands and formed a globe that gave off a shining light. The light seemed to shine brighter in one particular direction.

“About 30 meters that way we will find sources to dig from.” She stated and started walking in that direction.

“How did you do that?” Feuor asked in surprise.

“It is a technique to focus the source to reveal itself to you, even though it is not near. It seeks the ground for the stronger sap flows that are usually found near sources. It will then show a direction where it senses the strongest flow.” Dinah explained to them both.

“It’s amazing, that is what it is[[Image:” Feuor replied as he walked behind them both, subconsciously counting the steps from where they stood until they reached where Dinah had pointed. It was 32 steps exactly.

Dinah once more formed her hands into a globe and now it shined with uniform brightness.

Suddenly the ground rumbled as small, green rocks tumbled up through it. This he had seen before, but found it as surprising every time. They immediately started harvesting while Feuor attempted to make the operation safer for them all. This, while he was peering into the small harvester guide he had in his pocket trying to figure out what the materials were and what they were used for.

“Ah, this is shell. We can use it for Light Armour, right?” Feuor said after a moment when they had dug some sources.

“No, you cannot use those shells to make a Light Armour Feuor.” Nih'na said.

“But, this book we got from the teachers says so?” He replied as he stopped caring for Dinah's source and looked at Nih'na.

“The book is upside down, Feuor.” She replied with a grin.

“Gah|]] Feuor watch out!” Dinah suddenly shouted as the source gave off a short boom and the shock wave pushed them both to the ground.

“Ooops” was all that Feuor found to say.

Dinah and Nih’na subsided into laughter when they realised that his harvesting skill did not quite match up to his combat one. Lying prone on the ground, he gave up and joined in the general hilarity.