Etesian
Etesians are an ethnic group hailing from the Eastern Sea of Riches, primarily residing within the Ithean Empire. They are renowned for their contributions to philosophy, science, and arts during an ancient time where their empire controlled much of Western Vidrea. They hold deep reverence for gods, demigods, and legendary heroes they believe to be their divine ancestors. Etesians are known for their physical grace, martial prowess, and intellectual achievements, embodying the ideal of Arete, the pursuit of excellence in all forms.
Etesians typically have striking appearances, with fair to sun-kissed skin, wavy or curly hair in shades of black, brown, or dark auburn, and eyes that gleam in hues of blue, green, or gold. Many also exhibit subtle divine markings—heroic proportions, faint golden veins visible under sunlight, and voices that resonate slightly when raised—a reminder of the celestial connections of their ancestors.
Naming Traditions
Feminine names
Agathe, Alesta, Arissa, Calliope, Cleona, Electra, Helena, Hira, Iadorna, Ianthe, Lidia, Luphea, Melantha, Olexa, Penelope, Psemilla, Selene, Sophronia, Telphe, Vala, Zoe
Masculine names
Alkmenos, Basarios, Demetrius, Eocles, Hector, Leonidas, Orion, Kalogeros, Kleon, Kytheon, Lanathos, Lindos, Menelaus, Nyklos, Perseus, Phrogas, Teraklos, Theseus, Uremides, Verenes, Xanthos, Zenon
Family names
Family surnames are uncommon among the Etesians, and people with the same name must find ways to distinguish themselves from one another. Some attach their place of birth or residence to their own names. A merchant from Meletis named Brigone, for example, would be Brigone of Meletis. Others link their name to their trade, like Ristos the Learned, or Alesta the Hunter.
The most prestigious names however, are those earned through deeds or temperament. These names typically mark heroes, such as Hypatia of the Winged Horse, Kalogeros Doomhammer, or Ianthe the Bold. The offspring of those who hold heroic titles may utilize their parent's name within their own, like Callicrates, son of Lysander.
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
Most Etesians speak Western Common, a language of trade and governance in the Sea of Riches which their ancestors developed. Their ancient language, Ithakos, faded into obscurity as their empire expanded, though its influence remains in names, ceremonial texts, and epic poetry. Celestial is used in religious context, spoken by many Etesian priests and philosophers.
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