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Post by Dina Doo on Jun 6, 2011 18:02:06 GMT -8
AdalindaWhen the great land split apart into five sections, one faced the consequences of a shifting earth. Jagged rocks and earth broke through the once flat ground, creating a land of earth. And from the ravaging earthquake and rising earth and with the power of Earth, Cadoc, god of earth, was born.
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Post by Dina Doo on Dec 14, 2013 20:47:25 GMT -8
Bolivar MountainsSpring:During this time of year, the temperature is known to rise occasionally above 0 degrees. Animals return slowly and blizzards and snow storms begin to diminish. Avalanches are known to occur more throughout this season as snow has accumulated atop the mountains during the winter storms. Summer:Temperatures rise even more and it is only during this season that the ice along the river and lake is known to recede a bit, just enough for mammals such as seal and walruses to migrate back to the shores. It is during this time of year, when many of the animals have returned, that the tribe acquires many of their furs and meats to trade with other neighboring tribes. Fall:Winter:Winter is the harshest time of year for the people of the mountains. Temperatures can drop drastically during these times, especially during the night. Snow storms and blizzards alike are more common throughout this time of year and it is especially hard to find food. This is the time of year when the most fatalities occur. Kukik VillageThe current home of the Kigun tribe, nestled at the base of the tallest mountain of the Bolivar Mountains. Suittuq ValleySnowy plains that lead to the village. Siku Lakea frozen lake surrounded by mountains. Sometimes, during the summer, the ice melts enough for the water to be seen and mammals such as seals and walruses return to the shores. Qiujuq RiverThe river, flowing from the lake, that leads out of the Bolivar mountains. From the outside of the mountains, it is nearly impossible to get in using the river. Anirnia Shrinea shrine built at the top of the tallest mountain, a sacred place to the people of the Kigun tribe. Katagau TempleA ruined temple that dates back to even before the tribe lived in the mountains. It reeks of darkness and decay. Itsinaq VillageThe abandoned village the tribe once occupied. It has been abandoned for years and they left due to the exposure to avalanches. Kigun TribeCulture of origin: Inuit Geographical location:Bolivar Mountains Common physical attributes:The members of this tribe can have any eye color and any hair color, though their hair pallet has a lot to do with their pelt color when in their animal form. As humans, males are taller, usually stronger than their female counterparts. Females are smaller, slimmer, and depending on the kind of work they focus on, they can a build to them. In snow leopard form, males are larger and appear more muscular while females are smaller and leaner. Beliefs (non-religious):While genders are generally treated equally, the only time there is a definite line laid out would be the coming of age ceremonies, and the responsibility and expectation of the women to bear children. The elders of the village are responsible for the arranged marriages. When the two children are still very young, the elders find the children that are most compatible with one another. Weak and strong points:(are they warriors? If so do they fight often, sometimes, or rarely? Is their culture based on conflict, like the Spartans or are they a mix of different ideals.) Religion:They believe in Cadoc, the main god of the land, as their center god. Their primary belief is Totemism. The individual totem is the animal that their masks depict. The group totem is the animal they turn into, which is the snow leopard. It is a taboo to kill/hunt down a totem animal in a group hunt. For an individual, they cannot kill/hunt their own totem animal. They associate greatly with the aura borealis. Lifestyle:While some members of the tribe grow up to be hunters/warriors, there are many who grow up to become craftsmen, either making clothes, jewelry, or weapons. The homes they build are often wooden, usually only a story big with not rooms, but sections. These homes are equipped with chimneys as fires are important in conserving heat. Dietary needs usually consist of fish, seals, walruses, deer, moose, rabbits, and other woodland creatures. They trade with neighboring tribes for herbs and other kinds of food, their own exports being furs and clothing. Family: They are a tribe. The position of leader is passed down through family. For shamans, this can sometimes be passed down through family but there have been several cases when someone outside of the family possesses the abilities to become a shaman. Females are ready for marriage once they’ve hit puberty. Males go through a rite of passage in which they are sent out for a day and night to hunt an animal the elders assign to them. It is socially frowned upon for either a newly married couple or an already married couple to not be preparing to have a child or have not had a child yet. It is not uncommon for betrothals to die before they reach the age of marriage or a spouse to die after they’ve been married. In this case, if they are young enough, the elders will find a new spouse. When a member of the tribe dies, they cremate the body though the members of the family keep the deceased’s mask. Then with the ashes, the family members climb the tallest mountain, in which the village is built upon the base, and wait for night when the northern lights paint the skies. Then, the family throws the ashes off the mountain side where the wind carries the deceased’s spirits up to join their ancestors. Hierarchy:The chief is in charge of all responsibilities and decisions made. (Except for the betrothing of the young.) Below the chief are the elders and the shamans. The elders are responsible for evaluating the decisions the chief has made and deciding whether they pass or not. The shaman has the right to completely overrule the final decision of the elders should he/she find it in the best interest of the tribe Language:They speak a language known to them as Inuktitut. It is written out as symbols that are a mix of symbols and runes.
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Post by Dina Doo on Dec 14, 2013 21:21:59 GMT -8
The UndergroundSpring:During the spring time, it is usually quite warm underground. Summer:During the summer, it becomes rather hot and uncomfortable underground. The most popular place to visit during this time is the kijani oasis. Because the oasis opens up to a small jungle, the weather in this area is always relatively nice. Fall:Weather during this time shifts between warm and cool, never too warm or too cold. Winter:Typically in the winter, the ground is warmer than the air so the underground caverns usually remain quite warm, though it is not uncommon for the cold to seep in every once in a while. Nyumbani Village:The village is built below a bridge that connects the Madini gorge to the zamani entrance. It is larger than it appears in the picture. It is dangerous to use flames underground so the best source of light comes from the naturally fluorescent crystals found only in their home. Kioo Caven:A large cavern that includes a waterfall. This cavern is another prominent source for the fluorescent crystals and other precious gems. Madini Gorge:This gorge is the main section the men of this tribe mine in. Gems found in this area range from emeralds, to rubies, and sapphires, and the rare diamond. Kijani Oasis:This oasis that opens up to a jungle provides a nice pool and relief. It is a popular destination during the summer season and is still visited during other seasons. Zamani Entrance:Once, it was thought this entrance led to a temple hidden underground but now it lies in ruins. It is one of the few entrances that leads to the underground, the zamani entrance being the most prominent. Mungu Shrine:A shrine used to worship the sister deities. It is a very sacred place for the members of this tribe. Kuharibu Temple:A ruined temple that slumbers underground. No one today knows what it was used to worship or who built it. Rangi Bridge:This bridge leads to the village to the oasis. The crystals light up the water droplets and create a beautiful rainbow that illuminates the dark cavern.
The Almasi Tribe
Culture of origin: (To be Decided)
Geographical location: The Underground
Common physical attributes: The members of this tribe have been known to have dark shades of hair and fur in their animal form that allow them to blend in with the rocky caves they’ve made their home in. Their eyes can be any color and their skin tends to be rather pale as they’ve lived underground where sunlight is very uncommon. However, it is not a rare occurrence for someone to be born with darker shades of skin. The members of this tribe transform into spotted hyenas. In said form as well as human form, females tend to be larger than their male counter parts.
Beliefs (non-religious): This tribe runs under the rule of a matriarchy so females hold all and any high ranking position. Even the lowest ranking female outranks a male in comparison. Besides holding the positions of the tribe leader and the healer/shaman, other high ranks include advisers, council members, and high ranking warriors who serve and protect the tribe’s royal family, the healer/shaman, and advisers. Females who aren’t in the classes mentioned above are usually warriors or guards. Women who aren’t built to fight specialize in craftsmanship and tailoring clothes.
Males in this tribe mine for the precious gems hidden in the caverns that are their home. These mines are used for making jewelry, engraving weapons, and are their main export when it comes to trading. Males also serve the purpose as servants and maids who clean houses and do other undesirable jobs. They also serve as nannies for the children.
One of their most prominent stories is the legend of the albino king, an ancient king of their tribe who became brutal and tormented the women and children while the men stood by and did nothing. After some time of suffering under his rein, the females rebelled and attacked their king. They cut off his head and tossed his head and his body down the darkest chasm. They say he laughed even still when they tossed his head down into the darkness. It was thereafter that the matriarchy was set up and the females took control.
Some say that one can still see the savage king’s shadow flicker on the walls; some say they can still hear his laughter as he stalks the deepest and darkest caverns, searching for the lost to prey on. Some say that if a mother isn't willing to disclose who the father of her child is, the child is the spawn of the albino king and both the child and his mother are shunned.
Weak and strong points: They are tough but not as focused on training for battle as the lion tribe is. The female warriors of this tribe are not focused so much on brute strength and power, but agility, speed, and concealment. They are taught to be stealthy and blend into both the shadows and their surroundings. The weapons they fight with are primarily daggers and spears.
Religion: Like most inhabitants of Adalinda, they believe in Cadoc, the main god of the land. They also believe in three goddesses known as the sister deities, each representing a virtue important to life. Each goddess is worshiped differently.
Lifestyle: The members of the tribe are blessed with crystals and rich metals to mine. The crystals that are mined in this tribe are primarily used for lighting, jewelry, and for engraving weapons. Metals that are produced are primarily used for weapons and armor. While most woman may become warriors, there's no shame in becoming a tailor, a craftsmen, or a blacksmith, the latter of which is a very important position. Work dealing with literature, art, and language are reserved only for the higher-ups.
The men of this tribe can only choose between three roles and those are miners, servants, and fishermen. The men of this tribe are forced to mine for the precious metals and crystals that are harvested and are also responsible for catching fish in the series of underground rivers. Despite men having no rank value, fishermen are considered important, as fish is the tribe's primary and only source of food, along with the little crops that are brought in.
This tribe trades the precious jewels, metals, and weapons out to other tribes, their weapons being the most sought since they are well made. From nearby tribes, they are able to get food, furs, herbs, and other materials.
Family: They are a clan, one clan, one ruler. For a girl to be considered a woman, she must have first been trained as a warrior. If she proves to have great potential as a warrior, then she must prove herself by traveling down into the deepest, darkest caverns. All women must go through this trial, whether they are destined to become warriors or not. If they come out, then they are considered adults.
Men do not go through such trials. Once they are considered old enough, they are sent to the mines. Despite not having many choices in the tribe, they are allowed to decide whether or not they wish to mine. If a man chooses not to mine, then they become servants and their job is to simply clean houses, serve families, or occupy the dirty jobs no one wants.
In this tribe, while a couple is considered mates, they are not married. Females choose which males they want to mate with for children. The male stays with the mother during this time and helps raise the child. More of than not, fathers serve as nannies for their children when the mothers are out and training. When the child is old enough, she either starts her training or he starts working in the mines. The father then leaves and returns to his work. The process then repeats itself when the woman decides she wants another child.
Hierarchy: The position of leader is passed down from mother to daughter. Typically, the eldest daughter inherits the position of the tribe’s matriarch, but exceptions have been made should the eldest daughter not be fit to rule. The position of the healer/shaman is passed down to any female that shows the potential and abilities a shaman/healer needs. The ruling family has been the dominant family in power for many generations. Some say their rule spawned after they overthrew the savage king. The matriarchy is assisted by advisors, who are the best warriors in the entire clan. Not only do they provide council for the matriarch, they are responsible for training other warriors. There is a council below them that provides information on the clan as a whole and they all come together to make important decisions.
Language: The real-life language used for names is Swahili. Their tribal language is still under construction.
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Post by Dina Doo on May 3, 2014 19:48:57 GMT -8
W.I.Pí̱lios Tribe
Culture of origin: Spartans
Geographical location: -To Be Decided-
Common physical attributes: This tribe is known to have any sort of eye color and while they can have any hair color, unnatural shades and darker shades are very rare. While in human form, men tend to be taller and woman tend to be shorter, but in this tribe, both are equally as toned out because their training revolves around strength and power. The animal form for members of this tribe is the African lion. While females are smaller, they are still as strong as the males. Of course, as lions, the males have manes and the females do not.
Slaves of this tribe are usually leaner and thinner than their warrior counterparts because slaves are fed last after everyone else had been. In lion form, the mane of the males are usually shaven to indicate their rank.
Beliefs (non-religious): Genders are treated equally and are trained equally and that means both males and females have the opportunity to become the leader of the shaman. They can also become the generals. From the day they turn seven, males and females that are physically fit start vigorous training to become strong and able warriors and hunters. If children are born with a physical and/or mental disability, then they are made into slaves. The slaves are owned by the community as a whole and they are not allowed to be horribly amused or assaulted as there are laws regarding the treatment of slaves. Slaves are in charge of anything from farming to cleaning homes to the undesirable tasks. Slaves of higher ranks have more freedoms, being able to own a home and to have the ability for starting a family of their own. To the warrior members of the tribe, it is socially frowned upon to regard a slave as anything else and it is a taboo to have a relationship with a slave.
Weak and strong points: These people are very war centered, much like the ancient Spartans, even if they have no one to fight. They focus a lot on battle, hunting, and training. Warriors, even if older and experienced, are likely to undergo daily training to keep up with their skills. Able bodied warriors, both male and female, are taught to be able to use any and every weapon in their tribe arsenal. The second part of their training focuses on battle tactics in their lion form, making them a deadly foe both as a lion and as a human.
Their weak points consist of their lack of speed, only because they focus so much on strength and battle strategy.
Religion: They worship Cadoc as their main god.
Lifestyle: The types of homes the members of this tribe live in are comprised of wood and stone. They are generally two stories tall and house two to three families. The entrance of these opens leads into an open courtyard. From the courtyard, other rooms can be found on either side, including a living room, a store room or shop, a dining room, and a kitchen. The bedrooms are all located on the second floor. On the outer edges of the main village, farms can be found as well as the small homes of the higher ranking slaves. Located near the slave houses are even smaller slave quarters where all the other slaves stay during the night. Farther from the village, the training grounds and barracks can be found.
At the age of seven, the physically fit children are brought to the barracks where they will stay until they are in their late teens. Then, they are allowed to move back in with their families. Though they return home, they are expected to return to the training grounds daily. If there’s a child proven to have a physical/mental disability, they are taken from home at the age of seven and spend the rest of their lives in the slave barracks, if they are not of a high enough rank to own their own home.
Family: The marriage ceremonies of this tribe are quite unique compared to that of other tribes. As with anything else in the tribe, the marriage ceremony is also a trial, a test of strength. The ceremony is set up as a race with the men competing. When the ceremony starts, the men are to grab the woman of their choice, sort of a form of wife-napping seen in many other cultures. If the woman chose to be with the man who grabbed them, then they cooperate and help him reach the 'finish line,' where the shaman awaits them. They dodge obstacles as well as other warriors. If the woman chooses not to be with the man, then she fights back and tries to escape.
Hierarchy: The leader of the tribe is responsible for all important decisions, patrols, and battles. The elders of the tribe, considered generals, over see the training as well establishing training programs. Shamans are responsible for all religious ceremonies, including the marriage ceremonies. Under the generals are the warriors. After the warrior class starts the slave hierarchy. The hierarchy is topped with the highest ranking slaves who consist of members of the tribes with small disabilities. These slaves are able to own their own homes and start their families. Their main job consists of tending to and growing crops. Under these slaves are slaves of lower rank. Rank is determined by how severe the disability is. The more severe the disability, the lower the rank.
The position of leader is not passed down to blood relatives. Instead, the position if fought for. The current leader can be challenged by another tribe member. The challenge has two stages, both are fights. The first stage involves a fight in human form while the second stage involves a fight in liion form. If the challenger wins, they are now leader of the tribe and the old chief is cast down to the lowest rank of the warrior/hunter class, able to work themselves up. The same fate is given to the challenger if they lose. In the case where no one challenges the leader and the leader dies, there is a competition, a series of games.
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Post by Bakery on Jun 12, 2014 16:01:45 GMT -8
Alazinte
Culture of origin: The Aztecs
Geographical location: Having lost their original home to the í̱lios tribe, they stay in the neighboring area and never travel to far, staying in the general area.
Common physical attributes: They are easily characterized and recognizable by their dark features, from dark hair to dark eyes, though it is not uncommon for them to have brighter features, as the newer migrations they take on have since added more of a diversity amongst their pigmentation’s. However it shall be noted that they will often have similar colored features that can be tied to their second forms- for example a copper toned coyote would have a more copper or brassy coloration to their eyes and hair when they are not in their second form. Said second forms are just common coyotes and vary in color, size and build.
Beliefs (non-religious): Legend: The Coyote and the Serpent- Long ago, two beasts, masters of cunning and trickery, met. The coyote, the wisest fool had come to a game of wits with the slick and evasive serpent. However, the Coyote had grown tired of the serpents games and sought after revenge for the havoc the beast brought. Using brute force, the Coyote defeated and devoured the serpent- gaining the beasts evasiveness and affinity for all to do with trickery, as well as the serpents black pigment. It is legend that those Coyotes born under the similar pigment are said to be the First's kin.
Legend: The Coyote's Mistake- After having defeated the serpent, the first coyote's life did not return to normal. Having slain the favored pet of Tezcatlipoca, the god demanded 100 sacrafices to pay for the sins of the Coyote and his rash decisions. After the payment was through, the god offered his strength and knowledge to the Coyote and his tribe, only asking for sacrafices in return. It is why they continue to fight and take sacrafices to this day.
Weak and strong points: The Alazinte are generally all about sneaking and keeping to the shadows, their skills more adapt to those of an assassins rather than a warrior. They fight if they have to, relying on their swiftness and evading to get the advantage in battle.
Religion: While they believe in the one true, Dragon deity, the also believe in quite a few lesser gods. Such as Tezcatlipoca, previously mentioned. They are generally not very accepting, seeing only a select few dieties as important.
Lifestyle: The Alazinte live a fairly free life, but their lifestyle is very much run by the clan leader. They are assigned jobs according to the skills they possess- with scouts and rouges being the most sought after job. They eat whatever food they can hunt and find in their general area- as well as steal some from the lion tribe, if they're crafty enough. Their homes are well made tents that can be easily packed up for a sudden evacuation of their current whereabouts.
Family: They all live in one clan and follow the orders of the clan leader. Families are kept together and in the past there had been arranged marriages for better, stronger offspring. The tradition has dwindled since they were booted from their original lands, however, and not many follow it. Gender is not a factor in this clan, male or female can be the leader or a warrior.
Hierarchy: The clan leader is decided by the past clan leaders offspring. If there is only one produced heir, than they automatically inherit the position, if there are more than one, there is a battle of wits done where they pin the two siblings against the other. It is more of a test of courage and their skills to be a great warrior- while sticking to the shadows and using deceitful tactics to win. It takes cunning and grit to win and the one that looses is considered an outcast. They aren't cast out of the clan, but their value to the clan is lowered to that of a mere merchant- which isn't very high in their society. After the clan leader takes their position, they are then sent to the council of previous leaders for discussion and agreement. While the clan leader has final say over the entire clan, they must first converse with the council for approval of their actions. However, if any group of people shall believe the leader is not fit to lead, they may go the council and request to challenge the leader- and if such is agreed by the council they must undergo the same trial the leader did when they faced their siblings- and whichever member wins the trial is the clan leader, whether it be the leader in question or the new challenger. It shall be noted though, that if the challenger lose they are outcast and kicked from the clan entirely for their insubordination. Scouts are the highest job a coyote can obtain and rise too, and most other positions are considered lower and generally brushed off as meaningless. Although that it is expected the positions be filled, such as merchants and strategists, many believe it to be a waste of a good mind and abilities. They are accepted, however, but the main dream every child is believed to have is to rise up to become a scout.
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Post by Bakery on Aug 14, 2014 19:06:03 GMT -8
Lumin Tree
These are the holy grounds were many ceremonies are performed. These ceremonies can be weddings, funerals, blessings and the like. It is located in the center of the swamp
The Pointe
These trees are around the outskirts of the swamp and there are eight in total. Each one is located for a corresponding direction, which is as listed; North, North East, East, South, South West, West and North West. These are the look out trees to warn of any appraoching trouble- which rarely occurs due to the dense swampland and its difficult terrain for those who don't know how to navigate it.
Green Brush Dock
These are the docks used for trading and shipments and on occasion used for travel- if the need were to ever come up for trading or some disaster.
Misullo Springs
Misullo Spring is a hot springs that are used for bathing by the entire Tuija tribe.
Reinur Marketplace
Above is pictured the market place for the Tuija tribe- often open with all the goods they have come by through trades, foraging or otherwise. These shops reside under the large roots of the Lumin Tree and parts of the housing areas.
Spritika Shrine
Spritika Shrine is where the Tuija come to burn or bury their dead and where they come to pay respects for their ancestors and lost loved ones.
Crooked Tooth Temple Ruins
Crooked Tooth Temple used to be a place of worship but not many come here any more due to the rumours of an angry alligator spirit. Now it is avoided.
Moni Tree
This is the beginning of the living sections for the Tuija tribe. It is not far from the Lumin Tree- but that is about the only tree it does not connect to. Other than that, there are many houses and bridges attached that connect the whole community.
Tuija
Culture of origin: ?
Geographical location: Deep in the marsh of swampland, this tribe thrives in the deep dark lands of water and forest.
Common physical attributes: The Tuija are easily characterized and recognizable by their smallness and neutral features, from light hair to light eyes, though it is not uncommon for them to have darker features, as the different span of territory they take on have added to their diversity amongst their pigmentation’s. However it shall be noted that they will often have similar colored features that can be tied to their second forms- for example a sandy toned fennec fox would have a more blond or white coloration to their eyes and hair when they are not in their second form. Said second forms are just common fennec foxes and vary in color and build.
Beliefs (non-religious): Legend: The Great Tree- Many years back, before the creation of the great swamp area, a tree had grown lonely. With little to none of its own kind to keep it company, it spawned a great marsh around itself. Unfortunately, this caused the sun to be blocked out of view and the tree was trapped in darkness. However, a young child, who had been catching fireflies, wandered in the marsh and saw the lonely, sad tree and gave it all the fireflies it could catch- creating natural lights in the middle of the marsh for the tree.
Weak and strong points: The Tuija are generally all about neutrality and hiding away from danger, their skills more adapt to those of a hunter gatherer rather than a warrior. They fight if they have to, relying on their knowledge of the land and evading to get the advantage in battle.
Religion: Sheltered from the world, this tribe does not believe in deities. Rather they rely on the beliefs of an unknown force that keeps the balance. If there is too much good, bad things will happen. If there is too many bad things, there will be good things- but neutrality is the goal and key. They believe in souls and that when they die, they are put to use for the fight for neutrality and will eventually be sent back to the world to keep the balance- as good or evil.
Lifestyle: The tribe are an easy going tribe and take the time to relax. While they have jobs and duties, they don't do anything outside of the norm for them and take it easy. You don't work if you're not healthy and you're supported by your family and friends if you are unwell. Many jobs are shared with someone else and no one ever works by themselves. The work is distributed equally.
Family: They all live in one big swamp and have a connected community. Everyone knows who everyone is and typically everyone has a positive relationship with everyone else. If there is a problem, it is easily solved and those who do not get along work out their differences. Families are no different in this sense, but a child born of one mother can live in another household if they so wished, and the same goes for all other members of their family. Everyone is kept together and shares stories and spends time with the other, so it is very much one big happy family all its own.
Hierarchy: The clan leader is decided by the people and is suggested by all the populous. If there is a disagreement with who should lead, both candidates or more end up 'ruling'- but the people they rule are completely involved in decisions. There are always meetings to discuss problems and decisions and the result is almost always a positive. Jobs are open for those who want them and for those who are sick there are temporary replacements until they return to health. All the work is done leisurely and eventually gets done. Food is grown by nearly everyone, so it is plentiful society in fruits and vegetables available in the swamp. Hunting is also shared and is a big event, with contests and other fun games done to make it more of a special event.
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Post by clouds just clouds on Aug 30, 2014 20:05:19 GMT -8
K'eeban Jungle
The Seeba'an tribe resides in a thick, unforgiving jungle. Those that are born outside of it tend to get lost within the jungle and often die. Knowledge of the jungle is taught by the Seeba'an, but only to the tribe within. There are some, though, that can go through the jungle without Seeba'an help, but those are few and far between.
Wenel River
In the K'eeban Jungle, there is an extremely complex river system that the Seeba'ans use for trade and also to help people get from point A to point B. It is important to know what rivers can lead to a pitfall which would lead to death.
Nuxib RiverDeeper within the jungle, very old structures can be found from where the Seeba'an had once thrived, or perhaps other tribes. By then, they had moved to an entirely new place. Among this river, stone structures can be seen, even underneath the water. Ka'teen RuinsThese ruins are found in the midst of large, giant trees and often keep this place hidden. It's a previous village that once belonged to the Seeba'an. No one knows why they are abandoned, but some whisper that there are ghosts that roam the place. Forgotten RuinsAs stated by the name, these ruins are forgotten. It was once a temple of worship and connects to the Almasi tribe cave system, though the way to get there is long forgotten. They reside under the ground, and the entrance is covered by thick overgrowth. Misty TreesThis part of the jungle is considered the most dangerous. Not even the most highly trained Seeba'an will come here in few members. As stated by the name, this part of the jungle is always covered by a hazy mist that is sometimes can become extremely thick or thin out. Some state that when the jungle is at its thickest, voices begin to pull you deeper into the jungle, never to come out. Glows of eyes beneath the threes of roots are often rumored to be lost souls. Yeeb RocksThese rocks are found above the Misty Trees and are believed to float, since no one has ever been able to find them in the Misty Trees, and no one who has climbed down to check has survived. This area is often used for the most hardier of races, usually those that have to do with marriage or other important decisions. K'osik Rivers These parts of the rivers are the most dangerous, yet are the closest to the city of the Seeba'an. The boats here have to be hardy, and their boaters even sturdier. There is a small docking area where goods and merchants will often stay.Xa'ak PortsThese ports are in the middle of the intricate water systems. There is even small places carved out in the mountain sides for people to rest if needed. A lot of merchants might even claim their home there, but it is far from being the safest. Ha'abil RaceThe coming of age ceremony race is taken here. It's a long track through caves, up trees, through thick undergrowth, though it has kind of been put up with "child proof" guides, such as the cat statues, to help lead the way through the race. Some parts of the race is in ocelot form, other is in human form. Nuuktak RaceThis track is harder than the Ha'abil race and is connected to both the Ha'abil race and the Yeeb Rocks. This race calls for more endurance and strength and takes place in human form the entire way. There is a lot of tree climbing, and then finding the right ways to the end. K'aan SpringsHidden deep within a gorge is where the Seeba'an reside. At the far end of the gorge, at the end, is this beautiful place. This place is often used for marriage ceremonies, and even the crowning of a new chief. When neither activity is happening here, children can play here during the day, and young adults often mess around here at night. E'hoch'e'enThis place was named after darkness. The entrance often frightens many people, but within is a beautiful place where people will often go to say their prayers. The place is given below. Ko'oh SpringInside, no one understands, but the area glows a light blue. A lot believe that the gods have ears in the area, which why it seems to magical. There are rumors that if someone leaves a sickly child in these blue chambers that the gods will either ensure its safe and painless death, or ensure a longer life. Otoch CityThe city is built within the cave walls with beautiful architecture. The bottom of the gorge looks a lot like Xa'ak Ports. There are many areas to swim within the steady river, or even to boat through it. There are many faces carved out of stone and hidden paths that lead up to the top of the gorge, and these paths are only known by the Seeba'an. Seeba'an
Culture of Origin The Mayans
Geographical Location K'eeban Jungle
Common Physical Attributes Compared to the other inu tribes, the Seeba’an are generally smaller. It isn’t uncommon to have people under five feet, though most can to be up to the five feet and five inches range. They look leaner because of all the activity they do, but do not have too much muscle because they are not warriors. A lot of the people within the tribe have at least one marking on them that mock that of an ocelot. These markings are lighter than their skin color, like a birthmark.
Seeba’an also can have a wide range of skin color, though most are a bit paler because the sun doesn’t break through the jungle growth much. The animal that they turn into are ocelots.
Beliefs (Non-Religious) The Seeba’an believe that union between male and female is the ultimate balance. Women and males are viewed as equals, because each one needs the other. While the Seeba’an’s don’t shun upon those who wish to get together with their same gender, they do find it as unbalanced, thus the couple has to find a way to create balance within their household, by either having two of the opposite sex in the household with them, or putting statues of gods that are the opposite sex of them.
Weak and Strong Points While they’re not warriors, the Seeba’an are traders. They trade with many tribes, and often act as runners, sometimes running important information between tribes, or objects. Often, the Seeba’an do work as peacemakers between the other tribes. The Seeba’an are known to be very creative and their art work is often prized and seen as very valuable.
Because the Seeba’ans are runners, this is one of their strongest points, along with swimming. Races are a big part of their culture. While they do have warriors to fight if necessary, most of their population are not warriors. Though, because their village is kept secret from other tribes, and is extremely hard to get to because of the jungle where other tribes/races often get lost in, they rarely have to worry about invasions.
Religion Due to run in with many other tribes, the Seeba’ans aren’t very strick on religion, though they do have belief of twelve gods, much like the Chinese zodiacs, which reign over each month. The month that the inu is born into his the respective god that they will often pray to. Though, if someone born in January, under Maximon's blessing, and are going on a journey on the water, they will often ask Colel to watch over them.
January
Born within this month means that the inu is under the protection and blessings of the god Maximon. He is a promise of wealth, knowledge, good traveling, and success in merchandizing. February
The god of this month is Hurican. He is the god of woods and nature. Those born in this month are believed to be blessed with structure and connection to those around them. March
The goddess Akna governs over fertility, childbirth, and peace. All those born within this month are believed to have great success in marriage, and to have many children. April
Governed by Tabai, those born in this month are believed to be the most mischievous of children. Tabai is the god of mischief, fun, and innovation. May
Colel is that goddess that governs this month. She is the goddess of water and rivers. It is believed that those born in this month are born with the ability to move swiftly with change, as the properties with water, and even to be great swimmers, because their goddess will always protect them. June
This month is guarded by Tohil, the solar god. He guarantees a bright life and future. Those under this month are blessed to find happiness in their lives and to live a long life. July
Believed to be run by Tepeu, the artistry god. He governs over creativity and all arts. Blessings that come with this month usually guarantee some skill in some type of art form. Anyone born in this month will always be creative, and that can either literally mean in art, or just thinking up new ideas. August
Anyone born in this month is blessed by Bitol, the god of the earth. This blesses them with stability and strength, to run further and longer on the earth and to be able to stand against pushing forces. September
The god of lightning and storms, Votan, blesses any that were born in this month. While they are believed to have a quick temper, they also are known to always be buzzing with energy. Votan blesses those born under his month with speed and safety in storms. October
Any born in this month are believed to have better connections to the spirits of the world. Kauil rules this month and is the goddess of healing, spirits, and medicine. She blesses those under her rule with the ability to always heal, even with wounds that can’t be seen. November
Acan is the god of the stars and moon. His constellations paint the skies for those born under his month. They will always feel comfort under his night skies. He blesses those with the ability to see light even in the darkest of places. December
Last but not least, the god of death and rebirth is Itzamna. Being born in her month guarantees rebirth, which means in any situation, the inu can remake himself/herself, even after reaching the lowest point of life. Death is always easy and gentle to those born in this month, but isn’t gifted after many, many years. Even if they have twelve gods for each month, they also believe in Cadoc, who is the Creator. They believe that he is the one who rules over all the others, and each of the twelve gods are just a small part of what he is. Most of their prayers and such will go to Cadoc. He is in many of their ceremonies, and is showcased in many of their architectural designs.
Lifestyle The Seeba’an are a particularly rich tribe. Many of the people live comfortable lives, and even those who are not as fortunate are able to find someway to find comfort. As a tribe, the Seeba’an are very creative, which usually brings them value to their trades. They make beautiful weapons, most also pots, pans, and even rich and colorful clothing. The creative aspect of life is highly valued in the Seeba’an culture. Those who are not too creative can find work as a runner, fisher, trader, warrior, and many other jobs. Some might even take a job as guide to those that wish to travel through the jungle safely.
Running, though, is a big part of this tribe’s culture, as said before. Often, there are many races. Even those that don’t run as a profession often join in the races. All of it is fun and games. On New Years Eve, which is believed to be Cadoc’s day, is celebrated by a big festival where all the twelve gods, plus Cadoc is celebrated. There is thirteen races that day. Everyone races in the race that represents their god, and those that won the earlier twelve races race each other to see who is best racer of the year.
Family The leader of the tribe is chosen by family bloodline, believed to go back all the way to the original tribe leader who was blessed by the gods, born on the exact second of the New Year. If the bloodline of the tribe leader was ever to run out somehow, with no possible family connections, then the next leader is whoever was born closest to the exact minute of the new year. The tribe leader isn’t considered a full chief until they have married, which has to be someone of the opposite gender. It takes a woman and a man to run the tribe. There is also a total of four healers in the tribe, which are usually born in February, March, October and December. Two of these are male, and the other two. There is a female and male that specialize on the physical aspect of their patients and have a great expanse of knowledge on sickness and diseases, how to set bones, and so on. The other two male and female healers often have healing magic, and they have a great expanse knowledge on herbs, and also spirits. They are more connected and have more knowledge on the gods.
Coming of age ceremonies are at the end of each month. These are called the Ha’abil races. Those that were born in that month and have either just recently turned twelve or are twelve take part in the race. The person that finishes first receives a special title and leads the race next year for the new Ha’abil racers. The others have to finish in a specific time limit. If failed, the racers can always try again next year.
If a racer is unable to race, and never will have to chance to race, for an example they have lost a leg, they may receive a special title from the Chief on their thirteenth birthday. While this title grants them the right to own property, and to be an adult, it also marks those who were born with the disability to have “bad blood” and they are unable to have children.
In order to marry, the inu must have their Ha’abil title. When woman turns sixteen, men may stand up and express their interest in her. If there is more than one male, the woman chooses the competition that the men do. This competition may be a race, whoever can catch the most fish, whoever can create the most impressive pot, or anything that the woman wants. If in the end no one stands up to her standards, she can wait another year. If only one male steps up, then there is no competition. It is up to the woman to accept. If no males step up, then the woman waits until next year in hopes that she impresses a male.
Hierarchy: As stated before, the chiefs are decided by bloodline. When it is time for a new chief to be chosen, the standing chief’s children run a race that is longer than the Ha’abil race. Whoever wins is in line to become the new chief. If the standing chief has no children, then it is nieces and nephews who race.
There are twelve council members, derived from each month. There are six males and six females. These council members gained their title by winning the New Year race. A council member can decide to retire, which leaves for the next person born from that month who one the new year’s race to step up and take the chair.
The tribe is run mostly by the chief, but the council members certainly have a say in matters. The chief controls trivial matters, while the council members help manage treaties and so on.
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