Bassek Language

Magic of the Ancients

That language- it puzzles me. It is unlike anything I've ever seen, even when compared to other ancient languages found in the region. And what bugs me the most, is that even magic seems to be unable to grasp what it means.

— Ahmed Bilin, researcher in Baseikan studies.

The Bassek language was used by the Baseikans during the totality of their empire. Traces of it are exclusively found on monuments, artefacts and buildings, which hints that its use was likely sacred.

What is Known Today

Linear A by unknown

Studies and research into who the Baseikans were are rarely fruitful, notably because none of their writings have been deciphered. Only a small college of dedicated historians and archeologist, settled in a small town not far from Ignar, are actively working to find a key that would allow to translate their language.

The language contains hundreds of signs, which are believed to have both vocal values as well as ideographic. But because Bassek has no deciphered parent language, historians are unable to decipher even a single logogram.

Sudden Death

It is a general consensus amongst historians that the Baseikan's met a violent and abrupt end. There are no traces of a steady decline.

We just know that one day they were here, living among their fantastic cities, and the next they vanished. I have no idea what might've caused their downfall.

— Dijan, student of Ahmed Bilin

More Than a Language

Warning: The following section contains spoilers for those who play in this setting.

There is a great power in the writings of the Baseikan. In an age before magic, they had found a way to bind Ontis to the Material Realm, forcing them to do their biding, all through the power of language and words. Bassek was their finest invention, a tool that allowed them to catch the very essence of a being, and tie it to an object or place.

The very act of using Bassek required years of training and learning. Learning the art of manipulating words, to make every creature kneel before you, was not given to anyone.

But the Baseikan's grew too confident, too reliant on their great power, until eventually what had helped them prosper for thousands of years led to their downfall.

Cypro Minoan by unkown