HUMAN
The towers and walls of Belhaven rise in testament to the aspirations of Humanity. As the most populous people group in Belhaven, Humankind holds most of the city's wealth and privilege (along with a good share of its misery). This follows as a natural consequence of the city's geographic location somewhere along the western coast of the continent Athrain, the ancestral home of Humanity, where the great Human empires once sprawled across the vast continent long before the end of the world.
Humans are ambitious, curious, and tenacious. Their eyes ever forward, Humans are always seeking to conquer the next horizon. Whether its learning a new skill, perfecting a work of art, or leading an army into victory, Humans throw themselves whole-heartedly into whatever they pursue, always aiming for perfection and victory...often heedless off the cost or consequences. Perhaps the greatness of Human ambition is in reaction to the brevity of their lives. When compared to the longevity of the Elves and Saurians, humans are slow to mature and quick to age. It takes Humans a full 13-16 years to reach adulthood physically and a further decade after that for their brains to fully mature. Their bodies begin to decline in their 50s and few live past their 70s.
Magical talent is a true rarity among Humans and there are very few with any natural gift for spellcraft. Even so, the pursuit of arcane knowledge and the acquisition of powerful artifacts remains a priority for Human sages. Nearly all the magic available to Humanity comes through the use of Lux and Arcanum, which Humans are all too eager to exploit in order to advance their goals and secure their considerable power and influence over the world. |
Humans are a diverse and tenacious people, the most populous in Belhaven
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Gods, Daemons, and Human Spirituality
Throughout the world, Human spirituality often focuses on the veneration of various gods and, in their absence, the actions necessary to return the gods to AfterLight. With no gods to worship, many Humans offer their veneration to the various spirits which fill the world, turning to either the ghosts of those who have passed on (in the form of ancestor worship or "mystery religions" which involve seeking out and speaking to the dead) or to the elemental, inhuman spirits which embody the soul and essence of a particular thing or location. Known as Daemons, these spirits were created by the gods to act as their servants and intermediaries in creation. With the gods now gone, all that remains of the divine are these celestial middle-managers. Many Humans seek out the favor of their local Daemons, offering them worship, prayers, gifts, and sacrifice in exchange for their favor and blessing in various endeavors.
The Human spiritual experience is, for the most part, externally focused on the worship of powerful beings and their ability to bestow favor and blessing upon the devout. Most Humans believe that, upon death, the soul goes on to the realm of the gods to be judged for deeds done in life. Those who lived a righteous and upright life go on to varying stages of comfort and reward in the afterlife, depending on how morally pure they were in life. Those who were cruel and wicked in life go on to varying stages of torment and punishment, depending on how evil their deeds were in life. No one is sure just how good or evil one must be to attain reward or punishment in the afterlife...so regular devotion to the gods and veneration of their Daemons is advised for all people, regardless of their station in life.
The Human spiritual experience is, for the most part, externally focused on the worship of powerful beings and their ability to bestow favor and blessing upon the devout. Most Humans believe that, upon death, the soul goes on to the realm of the gods to be judged for deeds done in life. Those who lived a righteous and upright life go on to varying stages of comfort and reward in the afterlife, depending on how morally pure they were in life. Those who were cruel and wicked in life go on to varying stages of torment and punishment, depending on how evil their deeds were in life. No one is sure just how good or evil one must be to attain reward or punishment in the afterlife...so regular devotion to the gods and veneration of their Daemons is advised for all people, regardless of their station in life.
Naming trends
While some may hold to different traditions, the norm for Humans across the city-states of western Athrain is to have three names; an individual "first" name and two family names, one from their mother and one from their father which are hyphenated together (with the paternal name coming first). Alestan Lydwen-Trent, Ilydora Arygos-Tarkav, and Naveed Zilday-Parsons would all be typical human names. In formal contexts, a person may be introduced as Mister (if they are male) or Missus (if they are female) followed by the family name inherited from their father ("Mr. Karr", "Mrs. Cabernade"). Nobility may be addressed as Lord (if they are male) or Lady (if they are female) followed by their first name or their paternal family name. Where individual names are chosen by parents and can come from anywhere, family names are passed down through generations and are often derived from one's ancestral place of origin ("Trent", "Alderwal"), occupation ("Smith", "Chandler"), or some personality trait, physical characteristic, or deed ("Carefree", "Bravadeur"). When a person marries, their name does not change - it is the names of their children which are affected. A child inherits the paternal side of their parent's family name (So the children of Eric Vonus-Kent and Mary Trent-Waller will inherit the name Vonus-Trent). A person's lack of a paternal or maternal name indicates that they do not know who their mother or father is. Bastards will often go to great lengths to discover their true parentage in order to claim both a paternal and maternal name and thus avoid the shame that goes with lacking a full name.
Lifespan
When compared with some of the other denizens of AfterLight, Humans are relatively short-lived. After 9 months of gestation, a human child is born (multiple children born at the same time are exceedingly rare). A child begins to mature at around 13 years of age, reaching adulthood by around 18-21. In Belhaven, a person is considered an adult at 15, capable of marrying, serving in the military, and being tried for crimes as an adult (though they only attain the rights and privileges of citizenship after finishing Tertiary school at age 18). As old age sets in, a Human is considered an elder from age 65 onwards, with few Humans living past 80 though an exceptional few make it to around 100. It's important to note that while Humans are biologically capable of living to 80-100, few in Belhaven make it past 65 due to the dangers of living in the world of AfterLight.
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Child: 0-13 Youth: 13-20 Adult: 20-65 Elder: 65-100 |
Special Asset: Body Prolific
BODY PROLIFIC
BASIC
Increase any of your B.A.S.I.C. Stats by +1.
Increase any of your B.A.S.I.C. Stats by +1.
ADVANCED
As above, but increase a second (different) B.A.S.I.C. Stat by +1.
As above, but increase a second (different) B.A.S.I.C. Stat by +1.
Heritage
Argyan
(ar-guy-uhn)
(ar-guy-uhn)
Hailing from the northlands of Aftand, Erebes, and the Thelmes Peninsula, Argyans are a tall, beautiful, and powerfully built people both feared and famed as warriors. Their homes are typically sparse and spartan, run with a rigid set of rules to enforce strict order. Men and women are both expected to work, hunt, and go to war when necessary. Strength in arms and the skills of survival are passed on to sons and daughters alike with very few social roles reserved for either gender exclusively. Argyans are typically very serious and stoic, notorious for their generally poor sense of humor; the harsh and wild nature of the northlands they once called home demands no less of them, and while generations of living in the relative safety of Belhaven may have softened some, most Argyans are too stubborn to change their ways so easily. They are a people who value sincerity, frugality, efficiency, and honorable conduct, their valor and inner strength incomparable in all of Belhaven.
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Common Male Names: Admund, Aelfric, Beornulf, Bjorn, Eirikr, Faelan, Forde, Gavik, Haldor, Ingvar, Thorgrim, Thrain, Ulfric, Valethor
Common Female Names: Alfie, Astrid, Brynhildr, Eilif, Eavyn, Freyda, Guldrun, Hildegarde, Ingris, Lagertha, Runa, Sifa, Sigrid, Thora, Thyra
Common Family Surnames: Argyans typically do not use surnames and instead know one another as "son of/daughter of" or use honorifics based on deeds, reputation, or appearance (Eir the Red, Freyda the Dragonslayer, Bjonhulf One-Eye, and so on).
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FEATURES
Argyan characters receive ONE of these Features
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PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
Argyans are tall, muscular, and powerfully built with light skin and eyes in striking shades of blue and green. They typically stand well over 6 feet tall (even the women) and have hair in varying shades of black, brown, red, and (most commonly) blonde |
Atlan
(at-luhn)
(at-luhn)
Atlans are the people of the Melithian plains, the geographical region where Belhaven is located. Of all the human ethnicities, they are the most well-represented in the population of Belhaven and much of its culture reflects their values. Long ago, the Atlans were conquerers who subdued much of the known world beneath the boots of the great Melithian Empire. And though those days have long passed, the echoes of Melithia and its values remain, reflected most in the attitudes and traditions of the Atlan people. The Atlans remain consummate conquerers. Whether in battle, commerce, or politics, an Atlan strives to dominate whatever field they are in. Lovers of literature and learning, Atlans place a high value on education, which the city's many libraries and schools bear testament to. As skilled diplomats and traders, the city's prosperity owes much to the efforts of its Atlan founders.
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Common Male Names: Alestan, Alaric, Beaufort, Corbin, Cynabel, Eadric, Edard, Elistair, Emyris, Faelan,
Galfrid, Gwilym, Lewellyn, Perrin, Roderick Common Female Names: Aeliana, Arianwen, Bronsen, Cerys, Elowen, Eleri, Elysarah, Evane, Fionula,
Gwendolyn, Isolde, Lysandra, Morwenna, Seraphine, Tamsin Common Family Surnames: Aberdash, Baelan, Caldwaller, Duval, Evard, Fitzroy, Gryffin, Lyenhardt, Kellaway, Lydwen, Montclair, Ravenscroft, Selwyn, Trent
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FEATURES
Atlan characters receive ONE of these Features
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PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
Atlans are a mixed bunch, typically stocky, sturdy, folk born from generations of working hard land and fighting hard battles. They stand from 5 to 6 feet tall with light skin and dull brown or black hair and eyes of brown, grey, hazel, or (rarely) green and blue. |
Dacovian
(dah-coh-vee-uhn)
(dah-coh-vee-uhn)
Originating from the sun-drenched lands of Olmara, Jholharim, and the southernmost reaches of Aftand, are a people as lively and colorful as the landscapes they call home. Lovers of song, dance, good food, and a good deal, the Dacovians bring a vibrant energy to any gathering they are a part of. Many Dacovians practice a more orthodox version of Aventism which insists upon modest dress and moral behavior, requiring both men and women to cover their heads with turbans or veils and fast during certain holy days. While much of Dacovian culture has been lost over the centuries since the end of the world, that which remains alive and vibrant in Belhaven is a welcome standout from the local customs. Many of the city's favorite foods, songs, and folk stories originate from the Dacovian community. While their customs can seem odd to the uninitiated, those who spend time among the Dacovians are welcomed as family and invited experience the warmth of a community life unlike any other.
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Common Male Names: Alpren, Ayan, Baki, Charkan, Demetrios, Draven, Eren, Kyril, Leonidos, Markos, Nikolai, Olerio, Patkis, Sim-San, Valarian, Zam
Common Female Names: Alestria, Ashilana, Calisha, Elysia, Isadora, Isobel, Lysandra, Nikala, Orta, Purima, Selene, Theodora, Valeria, Zara
Common Family Surnames: Arigyos, Aydin, Dermitrias, Elefterad, Ilgaz, Kalogeros, Kassandros, Kavish, Leontidas, Orhali, Selendidi, Serganov, Tarkav, Valakis, Zepridis
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FEATURES
Dacovian characters receive ONE of these Features
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PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
Averaging just over 5 feet tall, Dacovians carry themselves with an air of mystique that is hard to define and often dress in clothing that is colorful and eye-catching. They typically have sharp, handsome features, dark hair, tan skin, and striking eyes of red, blue, green, brown, and even gold. |
Han
(hahn)
(hahn)
Once, the unified empire of the Han spread out across the mountains, the forests, the plains, islands, and jungles of their ancient homeland, Amatsera. With the world broken and the Han people scattered, many have found a home in places like Belhaven, where communities are reborn and old ways fused with the new. The Han tend to be a cloistered and close-knit people who value privacy and politeness, going to great lengths to avoid saying or doing anything offensive. Han also take great pride in their cultural heritage, and their neighborhoods serve as bastions of tradition and serenity in the midst of the bustling city. Each community is a reflection of their commitment to preserving a way of life that shuns selfishness and rudeness while embracing the virtues of respect, discipline, and harmony. Everything about a Han community, from their distinct architecture, meticulous craftsmanship, intricate tea ceremonies, and unique cuisine reflects their commitment to perfection in every pursuit.
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A vast number of disparate tribes and cultures were once united under the banner of the Amatseran empire with the understanding that their names and cultures would be allowed to endure. As such, there are many naming conventions which the Han follow. For the sake of brevity, only three will be given here.
Common Male Names
Amatseran: Baoyu, Fengquan, Kuangli, Longwei, Shengli, Xianfeng, Xuefeng, Yujun, Zhenji, Zhiyuan Natsuran: Hideo, Hirokazu, Kazumasa, Kiyoshi, Koga, Masanori, Noriyuki, Ryutaro, Takeshiro, Yoshifumi Oki-Naega: Dae-hyun, Hyuntae, Ji-hoon, Kyujin, Min-jun, Sunwoo, Tae-young, Wu Common Female Names
Amatseran: Ailing, Beiyue, Meirong, Qinglan, Ruyi, Xinyi, Xiu, Yingchung, Yunhua, Zhilan Natsuran: Ayameko, Emiko, Hanako, Kiyoko, Natsumi, Reiko, Sakurae, Satsuki, Tomiko, Yumiko Oki-Naega: Ae-ra, Bomi, Eun-ji, Haeun, Jiwon, Kyung-hee, Mi-kyung, Minji, Seo, Soo-yeon |
Common Family Surnames
In traditional Han culture, family surname is given first, followed by individual name. For example, Ryutaro from the Hoshizawa family would give his name as "Hoshizawa Ryutaro".
Amatseran: Huoqing, Linwei, Qianzi, Zhulong, Xingyun
Natsuran: Aoyama, Himura, Hoshizawa, Kurogane, Sakuramori
Oki-Naega: Bangwoo, Geon, Hyeok, Nari, Yongha
In traditional Han culture, family surname is given first, followed by individual name. For example, Ryutaro from the Hoshizawa family would give his name as "Hoshizawa Ryutaro".
Amatseran: Huoqing, Linwei, Qianzi, Zhulong, Xingyun
Natsuran: Aoyama, Himura, Hoshizawa, Kurogane, Sakuramori
Oki-Naega: Bangwoo, Geon, Hyeok, Nari, Yongha
FEATURES
Han characters receive ONE of these Features
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PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
Han are distinguished by their angular, almond-shaped eyes and wide facial features. While some have lighter skin, most are a shade of beige. Han stand at around 5'6 on average with brown to black hair and eyes of brown, grey, or sea-blue. |
Liori
(lee-or-ee)
(lee-or-ee)
The Liori are a sea-faring people from the southern waters surrounding Natsura and the island chains of Tihroa. Prolific explorers and adventurers, many Liori have made their way across land and sea to find a home in cities like Belhaven, where their mastery of the rivers and waterways makes them highly sought after as boatmen and shipwrights. Liori culture emphasizes loyalty to family and kin, honorable conduct, and courage in the face of adversity. Of particular note is their belief in Shi'Kan (which translates to "soul shape"), the outward manifestion of one's inner spirit through tattoos. Each year on their birthday, men and women alike receive from the tribe's Elders a tattoo which celebrates a milestone, records a noteable accomplishment, or prophecies something that will happen during their next year of life. Belhaven's Liori communities live almost exclusively in Arx and Riven, close to the waters they love, ready to answer the call of adventure at a moment's notice.
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Common Male Names: Ariki, Aroha, Atuha, Epo, Hano, Kai, Koro, Lahu, Mako, Manaia, Matui, Riku, Tané, Tongo, Whaka
Common Female Names: Aroha, Atahua, Hiné, Kaea, Kiri, Matoa, Moa, Ngaia, Panina, Ronga, Rua, Tala, Wahiné, Waia
Common Family Surnames: Te Aro, Te Garu, Te Kohai, Te Mahana, Te Manu, Te Matea, Te Papa, Te Ruat, Te Waka, Te Warewapa, Te Wenua
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FEATURES
Liori characters receive ONE of these Features
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PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
The Liori people exhibit a robust and athletic build, reflecting their seafaring lifestyle and adventurous spirit. Dark hair and eyes, warm skin tones, and broad facial features contribute to their distinct appearance. Central to their physical identity are elaborate tattoos known as Shi'Kan, which adorn their bodies, symbolizing personal milestones and spiritual connections. |
Nasrian
(nahs-ree-uhn)
(nahs-ree-uhn)
The Nasrian people once called the forests of Vekana, the plains of southern Jholharim, and the mountains of eastern Melithia home. A deeply spiritual people, Nasrian culture holds fire (or Ik'il in their language) in high regard, seeing it as a manifestation of the divine energy on the material plane. Traditional Nasrian faith is monotheistic, worshipping Asrin Afwa; the Secret Fire. Their faith puts them in direct conflict with the polytheistic faith of the Aventist church, who regularly raids Nasrian communities in search of their "heretical" altars and places of worship. Even so, the Nasrian people celebrate an annual festival in honor of Asrin Afwa, a boisterous and chaotic party which even non-Nasrians eagerly participate in. Beyond their faith and festivals, the Nasrian influence on Belhavian culture cannot be overstated. Nasrians are famed for their music, poetry, and art, which has had profound influences on the city's arts and culture and continue to shape the ambience and emotion of the city as a whole.
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Common Male Names: Ahrenthas, Azran, Bahtin, Darud, Illyn, Isrand, K'tonde, Kelmatis, Marud, Naveed, Sterion, T'cheke, Umovek, Vilhan, Wes, Yados
Common Female Names: Adirah, Brasannah, Curtina, Elosea, Emake, Isith, Kaneah, M'take, Marita, Nadeera, Rhain, Saedya, Shelsara, Shise, Tetanna, Zedi
Common Family Surnames: Asiko, Bernan, Chitu, Citara, Cyish, Daken, Fital, Osrar, Mithras, Suletamin, Thaiyan, Yorish, Zilday
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FEATURES
Nasrian characters receive ONE of these Features
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PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
The Nasrian people exhibit a diverse array of physical attributes. Their skin tones range from deep ebony to warm earthy hues and they often possess strong, lean, athletic builds in testament to their resilience and connection to the natural world. They often have broad noses, full lips, brown eyes, and dark, kinky hair worn in unique (often unconventional by Belhavian standards) styles. |
Vishari
(vih-shaw-ree)
(vih-shaw-ree)
Once upon a time, the lush river valleys of Vekana were home to a great civilization. Though a handful of these ancient city states remain hidden within the rainforests of Vekana, most of the Vishari people have migrated elsewhere, settling in places like Belhaven where their warmth and colorful traditions add new dimensions to the city's cultural landscape. Vishari are lovers of life, embracing each moment to the fullest. They are known for their elaborate and over-the-top theatre productions, exotic music and dance, colorful dress, and love of spicy foods. Vishari tradition venerates a much wider pantheon than orthodox Aventism, recognizing over 300 gods and goddesses. The Vishari also celebrate their own festivals throughout the year. Of particular note is Rhuk, a late spring celebration of life and color that includes fireworks, sweet foods, and lively music.
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Common Male Names: Amar, Arvind, Arjun, Ashwin, Badu, Deven, Hari, Jai, Kiran, Neel, Prana, Raj, Ravi, Vikram, Yuvan
Common Female Names: Adita, Anaya, Aisha, Diya, Ishita, Kamala, Kavita, Leela, Lila, Maya, Neha, Nisa, Rhea, Shreya, Sita
Common Family Surnames: Agarwal, Banerjee, Bhat, Choury, Datta, Desai, Malhotra, Mehta, Nair, Pillai, Rao, Reddy, Sarma, Sinha, Thakur, Verma
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FEATURES
Vishari characters receive ONE of these Features
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PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
The Vishari people exhibit diverse physical attributes, reflecting their origins in the lush landscapes of Vekana and the surrounding regions. Their skin tones vary, ranging from dark earthy tones to warm olive hues. With dark hair and brown eyes, Vishari individuals often adorn themselves in colorful dress, embracing intricate patterns and lively hues that mirror the vivacity of their traditions. A distinctive feature is the traditional forehead dot, a symbolic adornment that communicates one's openness to receiving wisdom from the gods and attaining enlightenment. |
Zolina/Zolino
(zoe-lee-nuh) / (zoe-lee-noh)
(zoe-lee-nuh) / (zoe-lee-noh)
The Zolin (masc. Zolino, fem. Zolina) people of the Olmaran plains are a passionate and expressive people who fill their days with family, music, and the ardent pursuit of their dreams. Zolins enjoy a reputation as archers without peer, and the practice of skilled archery (both from a standing position and on horseback) is an art that has been passed through generations. The Zolin are particularly noted in Belhaven's history as the inventors of the Arcero, the unique longbow utilized both by Belhaven's wall archers and the Rangers who explore the wilderness. Zolin are also known for their unique style of music, which focuses primarily on stringed instruments and percussion. A variety of passionate folk dances permeate their culture as well. Zolin are nothing if not colorful, and their neighborhoods of brightly painted homes are indicative of their fiery spirits and love of life. Zolin are a warm and fiercely passionate people who laugh easily, love readily, and live daringly.
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Common Male Names: Andrev, Artero, Allier, Brudo, Calvio, Deniel, Elonso, Ferritzio, Julian, Leandro, Montrel, Morion, Quenlyn, Reno, Vitor
Common Female Names: Allyra, Ana, Belysandra, Casella, Della, Dionessa, Ellaria, Felisa, Liorra, Myra, Mellia, Nymita, Sylda, Terese, Vinoria, Xaro
Common Family Surnames: Alozzi, Braggio, Cargoyle, Corona, Dronossi, Guiel, Kron, Melan, Montes, Olegros, Paez, Ristos, Tremon, Yantos, Zoron
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FEATURES
Zolin characters receive ONE of these Features
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PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
Zolin facial features vary across a spectrum but are often lean and angular with high cheekbones and skin ranging from warm olive hues to darker, sun-kissed tones. Zolinos often possess a mix of straight and wavy hair in shades of brown or black, and their eyes display a range of colors in the spectrums of red, brown, hazel, and green. Zolin individuals are known for their sturdy and athletic builds, reflecting a lifestyle that appreciates physical prowess and outdoor activities, such as their renowned skill in archery. |