Tahwil
History
Early Periods
Tahwil was the second Hilaelean kingdom to be established. When the first generation had made landfall, they found it easier to move west towards the mountains instead of trying to push Astorians further north. They wanted to get a solid footing in this new land before they committed a majority of their forces to the conquest. However, there was another reason to move westward. While they wanted to claim as much land as they could, they had to also find a suitable place to honor Deshret. They were not in their home country anymore, and therefore needed a Lunar Tower for future generations to undertake Jai'a. The first generation claimed that Deshret himself guided them west towards the mountains. As they ventured, they found a lake in the middle of the mountains. As the water reflected the bright moonlight, the first generation began to construct the Lunar Tower in the center of the lake. With the tower's location decided, Hilaeleans began Tahwil's construction alongside the Lunar Tower.Despite it being such a large area to cover, the Hilaelean people mainly built upon the land just east of the mountains. There were small villages that came to exist upon the mountains, but the larger and more populated portions of the city were on the lower ground. The Crescent Queen appointed the first Duchess of Tahwil, Duchess Al'Awal, to oversee Tahwil's creation. Under her guidance, the city was constructed before the second generation were of age to take over.
Foundations
With the city constructed, Tahwil could finally make a name for itself. Their city was still fresh and its people were still adjusting to the new world, but there was no time for a break. Duchess Al'Awal gave birth to her daughter, Nuri, and had been training her to take over the city once Duchess Al'Awal passes. The second generation of Hilaeleans were now fully integrated into the working force with the third generation on its way. Some people had spread into the forest in an attempt to be closer to Deshret and the Lunar Tower, and the mountain villages grew in size and number. However, only those that could bear the high altitude and colder temperatures made their way to these areas.Eventually, Duchess Al'Awal passed away, following Deshret's guidance into the afterlife. Nuri took over, becoming a Duchess just as her mother was. She had been raised to be kind but strong, and followed those principles in the way she ruled. During her time as Duchess, the other kingdoms began to see Tahwil as a formidable and necessary kingdom to Hilael. Their sister kingdom, Kaliq-Hala, was significantly smaller in terms of population already, and Tahwil was still rapidly growing. Duchess Nuri continued her bloodline by having twin daughters, Ruh Allatf and Ruh Alshujaea. Tahwil continued to expand into the forest as the third generation matured, but the main districts stayed roughly the same size.
Modern Day
In modern society, Tahwil's expansion into the forest and mountains has plateaued out. There are small civilizations surrounding the lake of the Lunar Tower, and the mountain villages have created a sustainable environment. The other Hilaelean kingdoms have seen growth, but none are bigger than Tahwil. With more than 150,000 people, Tahwil's work and trade force is unlike any of the other kingdoms. They are the epitome of Hilaelean culture; Tahwil stresses the importance of art and technology to a higher degree than the other Hilaelean kingdoms. Paintings of Deshret and his luminosity are a common thing in most homes, and an artisan is seen as a respectable person. People from neighboring kingdoms will even come to Tahwil for their beatuiful Mu'ayada. Tahwil always has a magnificent festival for Mu'ayada. It is truly a sight to behold.Geography
Location
Tahwil is located in the Southern part of Mahka Nata. Since it was established so early on in Hilael's conquest, they couldn't stray too far from where they made landfall. They ventured west across the river, then used that river to create their borders with Kaliq-Hala. They claimed most of the South-Western land, going all the way to the sea with their city. They have the Northern part of the river to define where the border starts, but once it hits the mountains, it's not exactly set in stone where Tahwil ends. Other Hilaelean kingdoms claimed the land North of the river, but in the mountains, it was more about when they couldn't explore further than setting boundaries. Some Hilaeleans stayed in the mountains to set up villages, but the rest traveled back to focus on building on the land by the river. The land is fertile due to its proximity with both the river and the sea, allowing for many farms and agricultural centers to be set up.Outside of the main city area, there is the forest as well as the mountains. Civilizations exist in both, but the forest is more populated. With more natural resources and easily habitable lands, people flocked there when the city got too crowded. Since the forest directly borders the mountains, there are several paths located throughout the forest to guide people into the mountains safely. In the forest by the foot of the mountains is a large lake with the Lunar Tower at the center of it. A large, ornate wooden bridge leads to it as it is the final destination for Jai'a.
Climate
Due to its proximity with both the mountains and the sea, Tahwil experiences quite a lot of rain and snow. From mid-year to the end of the year, rain and snow falls constantly. This allows for farmers to harvest multiple times during this rainy season. In the main area of Tahwil, it is often on the warmer side. Even during the rain season, it is roughly around 65oF, making it a warm day even during a downfall. The same can be said for the forested area, except slightly colder. However, the mountains are consistently cold, often keeping around 40 oF. Instead of rain, they often get snow. The mountain villages had to adapt to this, so they have artificial heating methods to melt the snow down to water. Outside of this season, it is much hotter. The main area can reach up to 100 oF, with the forest just under that. Agriculture is often disregarded during this time due to the impossible farming conditions; they have several greenhouses, but not enough to sustain the whole city for roughly six months. But because of the rainy season allowing multiple harvests, they keep themselves fed with reserves from the latter half of the previous year.Governance
During its early periods, the Crescent Queen sent Duchess Al'Awal to oversee Tahwil's emergence. It was decreed that the Duchess would defer to the Crescent Queen for larger matters, but had reign over the city and could do as she saw fit. Tahwil, similarly to Khasut, is a monarchy. However, the leader is given the title Duchess instead of Queen. This is because it would be seen as a grievous offense to claim to be at the same level as the Crescent Queen, the one chosen by Deshret. The Duchess' children would succeed them once they pass away, and their children would succeed them. Currently, Duchess Qasi is the ruler of Tahwil. She is the great granddaughter of Duchess Al'Awal, granddaughter to Duchess Nuri, and daughter of Duchess Ruh Allatf. Her daughter, Najma, will soon be of age to begin learning the ways of her predecessors. The Duchess oversees all six districts of Tahwil. She has her own council to advise her on decisions similar to how the Lunar Council works. Her decisions are seen as final, and all major changes must be approved by her before they are enacted.Districts
Al-Hadiqa
This is the richest area of Tahwil. Nur Palace stands at the center of the city, housing Duchess Qasi and her council. Grand houses and neighborhoods are organized throughout this district, giving many nobles a place to live. While this district is mostly for nobility and academics when it comes to housing, a lot of citizens and travelers visit this area to sit, walk around, and circulate throughout the day. The Nārandj is a public park in between Al-Hadiqa and Iilaa Markaz. When it is time for Mu'ayada, the city center clears for decorations and vendors to set up, and the rest of the city flocks here for the celebration. The streets are large enough to just barely support the large amount of people.Iilaa Markaz
Just below the Al-Hadiqa district is the district of Iilaa Markaz. Most people that live here are artisans or inventors. Vendors and stands line the streets, leading to a large center with a fountain at the center. This is a hotspot for those looking to sell their wares, and many people from other districts visit this one to purchase new pieces of art or clothing. Al-Hadiqa may be the richest district, but money changes so many hands here that its hard for one to keep track.Taqātu
Stationed on the river, this district has the highest amount of residential housing and lodging. The river runs through the center of it, which means that any who travel on the river will find themselves in Taqātu. There is a trade outpost to the far east where most foreigners have to come through. Depending on their wealth, many merchants will rest after their journey here or in Fayadaan before heading to Iilaa Markaz.Ghabat Al-Hami
Tahwil's religous center in the forest is for the most devout of Deshret followers. This is the closest district to the Lunar Tower. Since this area is considered a place sacred to Deshret, Adarians are considered to be trespassing here if they try to stay out of the main city. Most densely populated areas follow the direction of the river, scattering outwards from there and up to the mountains.Riah Mauhiit
A mountain village distant from the commercialized city centers. Due to its isolation, this is one of the more tolerant areas within Tahwil, though there are not many. Since this district is the most tolerable, many of the Adairians that live in Tahwil are located in this district. Their tribal nature makes them desirable in the mountainous area.Fayadaan
Hugging the coast of the Southern sea, Fayadaan is the poorest district. It consists of fishing villages and temporary or weak housing bordering Khaliq-Hala. It is very densely populated with travelers who can’t afford lodging. Theft and crime rates are a lot higher near the border than it is in the west coast.Economics
Since Tahwil is the economic center of Hilael, the economy is the healthiest one in the Hilaelian kingdoms. Though the Hilael has a notably weaker economy compared to that of other cultures, Tahwil’s trade is strong and connects the different districts within the kingdom. A large quantity of trade happens in Fayadaan due to it being settled on the coast, even though ironically, this is the poorest district. Since crime rates are high in this district, when goods are received in Fayadaan, they are quickly transported to Al-Hadiqa, ‘Iilaa Markaz, or Taqātu for safety. Extremely valuable items will often be checked at Taqātu's border checkpoints instead, at either the East or South Gate. Goods are distributed to different districts in regards to what a specific district is known for. Goods that are sent to Al-Hadiqa are usually extremely valuable, rare, expensive, to supply that of the wealthy population. ‘Iilaa Markaz goods consist of fabrics, tools for art and science, and decorative elements to provide the artisans and inventors with sufficient resources. In Taqātu, the goods normally found vary according to season, because many merchants from the north also trade here, so one will always find something new in Taqātu!Social Relations
Demographics
Hilaelean: 85-90%Astorian: Less than 5%
Adarian: 5-10%
Being the closest kingdom south, Tahwil doesn’t have much direct contact with Astorian kingdoms, but its economic center draws travelers in from all over Mahka Nata. Hilaeleans that grew up here are nasty to Astorians even though they are usually in and out for trade purposes. Tahwil is one of the most traditional and devout Hilaelean kingdoms, which also means it's one of the least tolerant. Tahwil follows the teachings of Deshret and there is little distinction between men and women when it comes to professions. In myth, Deshret takes on many forms and is described as both masculine and feminine. Gender is similarly perceived as fluid. Class structure is rigid but artisans are valued much higher in Tahwil than other Hilealean kingdoms.
International
Kaliq-Hala
Food supplier. Tahwil trades artwork and goods for their public markets. Relations outside of trade are not the best due to debate over the social rank of soldiers; Tahwil prioritizes artisans and believes they are more important to Deshret than the military center.Khasut
The Crescent Queen sends orders from Khasut to Tahwil. The Duchess of Tahwil sends frequent updates and correspondence back to Khasut. Because of the Lunar Tower's influence, Tahwil is one of the more loyal Hilaelean kingdoms to the Crescent Queen.Internal
Best Relations
Al-Hadiqa and Ghabat Al-HamiThe Duchess line honors tradition in Al-Hadiqa and Ghabat Al-Hami is in full support of their rule. Being the religious center of Tahwil, Ghabat Al-Hami cares a lot about upholding tradition and supports the Duchess wholeheartedly. She is the trusted hand of the Crescent Queen, and ought to be respected. In return for their support, Al-Hadiqa nobility make a point to visit the temples often and financially support the cleric staff. Iilaa Markaz and Taqātu
Iilaa Markaz and Taqātu are the crux of Tahwil's economy. Taqātu surveys all traders coming in and out of the east gates, checking large cargo that enters the kingdom. These two districts bleed into each other. Many people will live in Taqātu but head to the markets of Iilaa Markaz each day to work.
Worst Relations
Al-Hadiqa and FayadaanTension between Al-Hadiqa and Fayadaan is only rising as Fayadaan becomes more and more crowded with foreign travelers. The class gap is wide and the nobility in Al-Hadiqa have no plans to change that. The working class in Fayadaan are stuck trying to make do and have no way of bringing themselves out of poverty through honest means. Hatred of the Dukedom is common of those who grew up in Fayadaan and higher class citizens are most unwelcome.
Iilaa Markaz and Ghabat Al-Hami
Residents of Iilaa Markaz and Ghabat Al-Hami will argue about religious scripture and interpretations of Hilael. In the early periods and middle ages, residents of Iilaa Markaz were a lot more traditional in their faith, but this has changed in modern times as younger adherents deviate from what they've been taught. Newer trends in fashion and artwork make Iilaa Markaz a shopping mecca, but for residents of Ghabat Al-Hami this focus on money has made people rude and self-centered against Deshret's will.
Cultural Influences
Tahwil was originally formed as a temporary settlement before the planned conquest of Mahka Nata. The construction of the Lunar Tower was crucial if Hilaeleans were to settle and make the necessary Jai’a pilgrimage. When construction finished, Tahwil quickly became a religious center and stronghold for the Hilaelean kingdoms as they expanded. Those concerned with conquest migrated north and Tahwil remained isolated from Astorian influence unlike the other kingdoms. Society formed around artistic worship and rituals honoring Deshret. The arts bloomed particularly well in tilework, metalwork, and ceramics. This made Tahwil appealing to foreign kingdoms, and a split between the city bordering Kaliq-Hala and the settlements further in the mountains formed. The trendy shopping centers of modern day attract thousands of people to Tahwil each year, but the mountain villages are still living under strict teachings of earlier generations. This tug of war between younger and older adherents continues as Tahwil begins to mold around its major economic center.Artwork
Tahwil’s artists spend time working on a multitude of disciplines. Within Al-Hadiqa, artists are most often commissioned for tilework and mosaics, which show off the Duchess’ wealth. Public art mosaics can be found anywhere in the main city: along building walls, stone streets, the windows within temples. Merchants selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other goods are everywhere. Art is heavily inspired by geometric patterns and the imagery of circles. Circles overlapping, forming crescents. Artists play a lot with their materials as well. Moonlight is very ephemeral and the way that it reflects onto water is blinding, a state of being that many artists try to convey within their own art. Experiments with stained glass to catch the light in unique ways, beaded jewelry that glints as it moves, mirrors decorated with ornate frames… these are the kinds of things artists work on in Tahwil.Architecture
Following a geometric art style, buildings are built with circle or semicircle windows. Archways and doors are rounded. To counter the heat, there are many trees surrounding plazas and parks where people can stop and rest. Stone roads and pavings are colored in plazas with rounded, symmetrical designs. Patios and gardens with fountains are common. In the richest areas of Al-Hadiqa, the actual rooms of a house will surround a central garden area where the family prays each dawn and dusk. Fountains reflect light and balance the fate that Deshret watches over. In the more crowded poor areas, there is not much space between residencies so prayer takes place outside in the streets, through a window, or skylight. Temples are constructed with skylights and stained glass windows for this reason.Fashion
Fashion in Tahwil is quite simple. The richest members of Tahwil will wear extravagant colors, marking themselves out to be seen as greater than others, ideally to be seen as better than the less affluent members of society. Clothing is primarily light dresses and those dresses contain gilded elements that carry typical Hilean designs throughout it. Common colors to see on more expensive dresses are scarlet red, cobalt blue, phoenician purple, pure white and some others. Less affluent members of society can be seen wearing mostly muddied, dull colors like beige, black, and some darker yellows. During important Hilean events, it is common to see a lot of people across all classes wear red or black depending on their status in society and their level of wealth. A rather uncommon article of clothing, veils, are quite popular in Tahwil. Even throughout the hottest months of the year, the people are wearing this article of clothing. Traditionally a normality to be worn from dawn to dusk, veils in Tahwil are now common during the midday heat, regardless of gender, regardless of time of year. Despite these changes in attitude, however, Veils are still absolutely used during religious rituals. As a society less tied to gender, fashion is one of the ways that Hilaeleans in Tahwil signify their identity. Inspired by Deshret’s many forms, the lunar phases signify a spectrum of masculine and feminine attributes. The waxing crescent, Alm, signifies women. The waning crescent, Mah, signifies man. The full moon, Kamil, signifies a fluidity or rejection of gender mirroring Deshret’s form. Clothes and jewelry signified with these symbols are worn in Tahwil. During the waxing phase of the moon each month, adherents are women, during the full moon adherents are one with Kamil, and during the waning phase, adherents are men. This is a decree and tradition dating back to the very first Duchess of Tahwil. Anyone that doesn't follow this is directly contradicting Deshret and the Dukedom. These lunar phases are different from the faith symbols. The crescent alone is not enough to convey the control Deshret has over the tides and fate.
Jewelry
Jewelry and gemstones are worn in Tahwil to show off class wealth. The insignia of the noble class specifically is adorned with rubies in honor of Deshret’s red crown. Anyone else wearing this gemstone is considered sacrilegious, but other colored gems are fine. Blood red stones made by bloodsmiths are the exception allowed for all common classes since the act of drawing blood is one of humility. In general, necklaces, bracelets, rings, metal armbands, anklets, and other accessories are common. The merchant and artisan classes will typically have a set of matching jewelry they wear daily, while more wealthy Hilealeans have many different sets of jewelry for rituals and celebrations. Family crests and heirlooms are commonly passed down through tradition, so it is normal to wear jewelry unless it gets in the way of work or becomes at risk of theft in poorer areas. Since jewelry can be worn constantly without hassle, it's a way of honoring Deshret and familial ties to the past generations. Many jewelry is engraved and modeled after the symbols of faith, used for daily prayers.Tattoos
While tattoos appear extremely regularly and are admired on the bodies of warriors in Hilean culture, Tahwil is much different. This kingdom’s emphasis on the trader and artisan causes the typical warrior tattoos in Tahwil to be heavily frowned upon. The people of Tahwil firmly disbelieve in the use of military power and are under the thought that it does not make financial sense to contribute so many resources to promote unrest and combat. Warrior tattoos are viewed as a visual display of beliefs contrary to the typical Tahwil resident. In Tahwil, Facial tattoos are a normality, specifically, facial tattoos that accentuate the structure of one's face. Designs that are reminiscent of Hilaen symbolism and iconography follow through to these tattoos, excluding of course tattoos that are directly icons of Deshret which is seen as very disrespectful. Since Tahwil is a trade center, it is very common to see tattoos that actually assist in trading. Tattoos on wrists and arms to assist in measuring exact amounts for the purposes of fairness in trade is normal in Tahwil. Tattoos of this sort, however, seemingly mark an individual to their place in Tahwilian society for life. Upper class members of society and nobility look down upon these working class tattoos. Upper class members of society have the most elaborate tattoos of all. These people’s facial tattoos would be connected to more detailed and expansive tattoos that reach further down their bodies and can display phrases designed in special fonts or just simply be Hilean-like designs. The tattoos that the nobility of Tahwil receive typically only cover half of their bodies to leave the other half without any tattoos at all. This is to notate the duality of Deshret and how one day the moon is represented as empty during the ‘new moon’ phase or containing the knowledge of the world during the ‘full moon’ phase, essentially grounding the bearer of these tattoos to acknowledge that they do not know more than Deshret even if they are wealthy. The detail and styling of these tattoos make the nobility of Tahwil recognizable in any kingdom that has people with knowledge of Hilean kingdoms and culture.Food
Locally sourced food from Tahwil consists of seafood from the coast. Rice is the main food import from Kaliq-Hala. In Iilaa Markaz and Taqātu especially, Hilaelean-Astorian blended dishes can be found due to the influence of foreign traders. This is relatively recent and the only place Astorian influence is found in Tahwil. Outside of the central city, food is influenced by the coastal region.Maps
Central City
Al-Hadiqa, Iillaa Markaz, TaqātuRoads to: Ghabat Al-Hami, Riah Mauhiit, Fayadaan
Type
Geopolitical, Duchy
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