Core Reman Customs:
The Senate and Republic: The core structure of the Senate and the concept of a republic remain central to Reman society. Laws are debated and passed by elected officials.
Patron-Client System: This system of social hierarchy and mutual obligation persists.
Family Structure: The importance of family lineage and the paterfamilias remains a strong social force.
Military Organization: The legionary system is the backbone of the Reman military.
Public Baths: Bathhouses are important social and hygienic centers.
Road Building: The Remans continue their tradition of building extensive and well-maintained road networks.
Aqueducts and Infrastructure: Reman engineering prowess in building aqueducts, bridges, and other infrastructure remains a source of pride.
Latin Language: A form of Latin is the official language of the Republic.
Triumphs: The tradition of celebrating major military victories with a grand parade through the capital city persists.
Religion
The Remans still primarily worship the traditional Roman deities (Jupiter, Mars, Venus, etc.). However, their pantheon has expanded slightly to include:
Asmodeus: Worshipped by a small minority, primarily among some noble families who have had dealings with the Tiss.
Vortex: A relatively new deity, worshipped in very small amounts.
Torag: The Dwarven god of smithing and the forge, now widely revered by Reman blacksmiths and engineers, though still seen as subservient to Jupiter.
View of the Red Moon: The Remans see the Red Moon as the home of their gods and the court of Jupiter, not as the goddess Ranessa as the Dawn Landers do.
Common Sayings and Customs
"By Jupiter's beard!" - An exclamation of surprise or frustration.
"For the glory of the Republic!" - A common battle cry or toast.
"May the gods grant you fortune." - A standard greeting or farewell.
Families often keep small shrines in their homes dedicated to their ancestors and household gods.
Children are expected to show respect to their elders and obey their parents without question.
The Emperor
Every five years, when the red moon is at its largest, the Senate chooses an Emperor. The Emperor has veto power over laws, is the supreme military leader, and may propose laws to the Senate. The Emperor must be male and chosen from the noble families, but not from the Senate itself.
Emphasis on Fortifications: Given the constant threat from the Jotun, Reman society places an even greater emphasis on building and maintaining fortifications. This has become a cultural hallmark, with skill in stonemasonry and siegecraft highly valued.
Customs Influenced by Dwarven Culture
Craftsmanship as Honor: The Remans have adopted a Dwarven-like respect for craftsmanship, particularly in metalworking and stonework. A well-crafted item is not just functional but also a symbol of honor and skill.
Stronger Trade Ties: Due to their long history of interaction, trade with Dwarven kingdoms is not just a matter of economics but also a social and diplomatic custom. Regular trade caravans and diplomatic missions are considered essential.
Customs Influenced by Conflict with the Jotun
Vigilance Rituals: The constant threat of Jotun raids has led to the development of rituals and ceremonies to ward off evil and ensure the protection of communities. These might involve offerings to protective deities or the lighting of signal fires.
Warrior Culture Adaptations: While the Reman military was always strong, the ongoing conflict with the Jotun has likely intensified certain aspects of their warrior culture. Courage, resilience, and a willingness to fight against overwhelming odds are particularly prized.
Festivals
Saturnalia: A winter festival of feasting, revelry, and gift-giving, where social roles are temporarily reversed.
Floralia: A spring festival celebrating the blooming of flowers and fertility, with processions, dances, and theatrical performances.
Lupercalia: A fertility festival involving ritualistic runs and the sacrifice of goats, though its practices may have evolved in the Dawn Lands.
Sports and Activities
Chariot Racing: A popular and often dangerous spectator sport, held in large arenas (circuses).
Gladiatorial Games: While originating as a more brutal spectacle, these games persist, though perhaps with evolving rules or ethical considerations.
Pila Ball: A team-based ball game, similar to handball or soccer, played in public spaces.
Wrestling and Boxing: Popular forms of physical competition, often practiced in gymnasiums or public areas.
Dice Games and Board Games: Games of chance and strategy, played in taverns and homes.
Distrust of Magic: Most common folk harbor a deep distrust of magic users. Mages, while sometimes tolerated for their utility, are often viewed with suspicion and fear. Druids and Necromancers, due to their association with nature's unpredictable power and death, are particularly feared and often ostracized.
Folklore and Superstitions
Belief in Lares and Penates: The spirits of the household and the pantry, respectively, who are honored with daily offerings.
Omens and Divination: Common folk may rely on various forms of divination, such as reading animal entrails or interpreting natural phenomena, to predict the future.
Protective Amulets: The wearing of amulets to ward off evil spirits or bring good fortune is widespread.
It is believed that it was the Remans that brought Goats, Pigs, Horses, and Apples from the original empire on earth (this may or may not be true).
Common Sayings and Proverbs
"Fortune favors the bold."
"A sound mind in a sound body."
"All roads lead to New Rome."
"In wine, there is truth."
"The die is cast."
Storytelling and Music
Bards and storytellers are valued members of society, preserving history and entertaining the masses with tales of heroes, gods, and mythical creatures.
Music, both instrumental and vocal, plays a significant role in social gatherings, religious ceremonies, and celebrations.
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