Ahn' Kalin

Walkers on the Sea of Sand

The Ahn' Kalin are a resilient people who thrive in the shifting sands through their mastery of astrology, medicine, and desert survival. Whether as nomadic wanderers or scholars in the grand empire-city of Kemor, they believe the stars hold the secrets of fate, and those who listen may shape the future itself.

The Ahn' Kalin are the proud masters of the Scabbard Wastes, a vast and unforgiving desert east of the Crestfallen Mountains and south of the Tonarian Grasslands. To outsiders, the desert is an impassable, lifeless expanse, but to the Ahn' Kalin, it is home—a realm of shifting dunes, scorching heat, and ancient power buried beneath the sands.
Most Ahn' Kalin are nomads, traveling between oasis with domesticated camels and great beasts of burden, their caravans carrying goods, stories, and traditions across the endless dunes. Others settle in Kemor, the desert’s beating heart. Kemor is a a grand city of towering pyramids, opulent palaces, and celestial observatories built upon the ruins of an ancient civilization. Pharaoh Kazim Sul rules from the Seat of Silver Sands, serving as the chosen intermediary of the powerful Djinn Davata, who claims dominion over the Scabbard Wastes. Though divided by lifestyle, the Ahn' Kalin share an unwavering bond with their homeland, believing that only those who endure the desert’s trials are truly worthy of its gifts.
Ahn' Kalin are typically shorter and slighter in build compared to other human ethnicities, a natural adaptation to the extreme desert heat. Their bronzed or darker skin provides protection against the relentless sun, and their dark eyes and hair are well-suited for the shifting light of the dunes.

Naming Traditions

Feminine names

Aisha, Samira, Layla, Zayna, Nura

Masculine names

Kazim, Rafiq, Sufyan, Zahir, Tariq

Family names

Azhari, Kemori, Jabari, Shemsi, Zafiri

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

Vharoti

The Ahn' Kalin speak Vharoti, a language believed to have originated before the Scabbard Wastes became a desert, from an era when lush rivers and verdant oases once thrived. The language is deeply tied to the legacy of the Pharaoh Mar-Re lineage, a dynasty that ruled in ancient times and shaped the cultural foundation.
Vharoti is known for its throaty, phlegmatic pronunciation, with strident vowels and rolling consonants that give it a commanding, authoritative tone. It is often spoken with slow deliberation, as Ahn' Kalin believe that words hold power, and to speak too hastily risks inviting misfortune or dishonoring tradition.

Average technological level

The Ahn' Kalin are among the most technologically advanced societies in Erenel, blending scientific inquiry with ancient traditions. Two fields dominate their intellectual pursuits:

Astrology

Ahn' Kalin astrologers study the constellations that shield Erenel from the Void, hoping to unravel the secrets of cosmic magic. They believe the stars are more than just distant lights; they are guardians, forces of balance, and harbingers of fate.
While astrology is an honored discipline, only the wealthiest families can afford to train their children in the field. This exclusivity has made astrology a symbol of status and political influence, as families compete for recognition and the Pharaoh’s favor.
Recently, Pharaoh Kazim Sul made a historic donation to expand the Astral Observatory, believing it to be on the brink of a great cosmic discovery, the harnessing of Cosmic magic. Now, the noble houses push their children into the profession, hoping to claim their place among the stars.

Anatomy

The Ahn' Kalin are also pioneers in anatomy and medicine, their physicians capable of treating wounds, diagnosing ailments, and even performing intricate surgeries unseen elsewhere in Erenel. Their knowledge stems from centuries of studying the preserved remains of ancient rulers, as well as the unique healing properties found in certain desert plants.
It is said that the most skilled Ahn' Kalin physicians can slow the body’s aging, preserving their Pharaohs far beyond a mortal lifespan, though such knowledge is closely guarded within the palace tombs.

Common Dress code

Ahn' Kalin dress in flowing robes and headdresses to combat the desert heat. These garments are designed for maximum airflow, keeping the wearer cool during the day and warm during the frigid nights.
The headdress or turban is especially important, not just for sun protection, but as a symbol of identity. Each tribe or noble house has distinctive patterns and colors that mark their lineage, profession, or allegiance.

Nomads favor earthy tones and simple, functional clothing, often carrying sashes and belts filled with tools and water skins.

City dwellers wear embroidered robes and jewelry, often infused with small enchantments to ward off the desert’s dangers.

Priests and Astrologers are recognized by their deep indigo or celestial-blue garments, reflecting their connection to the stars.

Foods & Cuisine

Ahn' Kalin cuisine is a reflection of the desert’s harsh environment and the ingenuity of its people, utilizing preserved goods, bold spices, and the rare bounty of the Echo River.

Daorin Brew

A rich, dark coffee-like drink made from Daorin seeds, often spiced with cardamom, cinnamon, or cloves.

Firefruit and Honey Pastries

Small flaky pastries filled with crushed Firefruit seeds and desert honey.

Rakhem Desert Flatbread

A thin, chewy bread baked on hot stones or metal plates, used to scoop up stews and spreads.

Sahriq Sandfish

A resilient fish species found in the Echo River, dried and salted to be carried on long journeys.

Encompassed species

• Human

Related Locations

• Antioch
• Kemor
• Oasis of Everlasting Shade
• Scabbard Wastes

Relations with Others

The Ahn' Kalin are respected for their knowledge but often seen as secretive by outsiders.

They hold a tenuous alliance with the Krovashi, their strongest trade partners and closest allies.

The Caelian and Thalorian find their reliance on astrology and fate perplexing, favoring martial strength and religion over the guidance of the stars.

They have an uneasy history with Garuthian whose elder gemstone dragon ruler, Elanthil the Allsight, once sought to claim Ahn' Kalin artifacts.

The Senkurai respect Ahn' Kalin scholars but question their pragmatism, seeing them as little more than dreamers.

Djinn Touched Words

Some phrases are borrowed from the Djinn, particularly in astrology, magic, and law, symbolizing the Ahn' Kalin’s historical connection to the elemental beings. Djinn Touched Words include:

Azhadar

A powerful word associated with Djinn curses and taboos that can ripple across generations.
Example: "Tamper with the tombs of the Mar-Re, and you risk invoking an Azhadar that no mage can break."

Sul’vahir

A term used to describe where choice and divine influence intertwine. Astrologers believe that if you can recognize your Sul'vahir, you can reshape your future.
Example: "The stars align, but this is your Sul'vahir. Choose wisely."

Zhaarim

Used in contracts or sacred agreements, by locking a Zhaarim you invoke the Djinn's power as a witness to a vow.
Example: "By Zhaarim, our pact is sealed until the last grain of sand falls.”

Notable Ahn' Kalin Sayings

"A sharp mind is sharper than any blade."

"The stars do not command us. They only whisper guidance to those who listen."

"Time is like the desert wind. It moves, shifts, but never truly leaves."