Thalorian

The Devout and Dutiful

The Thalorian are a people of resilience, faith, and duty. Their devotion to the Illuminated Church and their rigid military traditions make them an unyielding force, whether in times of war or peace. Though they may lack the artistic grandeur of other cultures, their craftsmanship and discipline ensure their place as one of the most formidable civilizations in Erenel.

The Thalorian people are defined by their unwavering loyalty to their nation, their faith, and their traditions. Built upon a foundation of self-sacrifice and discipline, their society is structured around a rigid hierarchy, where nobles and knights rule over farmers and artisans. Though the common Thalorian lives a simple life tending to crops and livestock, they are all bound by a shared sense of duty to their kin and their homeland.
In war, Thalorians are unmatched in their strategic prowess and battle-tested discipline. They believe that through perseverance and honor, any challenge can be overcome. This mentality extends beyond warfare and into everyday life, where hard work and resilience are considered the greatest virtues. Whether on the battlefield or in the fields, the Thalorian approach life with unwavering determination.
Physically, Thalorians have strong, square-jawed features with deep brown or gray eyes. Their skin ranges from pale white to light brown, while brown and auburn hair are the most common colors. Their sturdy builds reflect a culture that values endurance, resilience, and martial skill.

Naming Traditions

Feminine names

Astrid, Brenna, Gunhild, Hilda, Sigrid

Masculine names

Alaric, Brandt, Einar, Olin, Sigurd

Family names

Ambercrown, Buckman, Evenwood, Greycastle, Tallstag

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

Valdrein

The Thalorian speak Valdrein, a language as structured and steadfast as their people. It is a language of precision and directness, where words carry weight and promises are binding. Deception is frowned upon, and to twist one’s words is considered an act of deep dishonor. In formal settings, speech is measured and respectful, while in battle, commands are issued with unshakable authority.
Valdrein has a strong oral tradition, with heroic ballads recounting the victories and sacrifices of great Thalorian warriors. Though Thalorians do not embellish their speech needlessly, their storytelling is direct yet impactful, meant to inspire and instruct rather than entertain.

Notable Thalorian Sayings

"The gods do not grant victory; they grant the will to fight."

"Hard soil makes for strong roots."

"Better to fall with honor than stand with shame."

"The hammer strikes true when the hand is steady."

Culture and cultural heritage

Most Thalorian make their living through agriculture, tending vast fields and raising livestock. Farming is seen as a noble pursuit, providing the foundation of a strong and self-sufficient people. Small shrines to Asanna, the Blazing Dawn, Luniwyn, the Silver Maiden, or Rezmir, of Light and Law can be found in nearly every home, while villages often contain a larger church dedicated to worship. The faith of the Thalorian people is deeply ingrained, guiding both their moral code and their governance.
The Illuminated Church serves as the spiritual authority in Thalorian society, reinforcing the belief that the deities of light guide and protect their people. In return, it is the duty of all Thalorians to defend their faith from corruption and darkness, ensuring that righteousness prevails.

Shared customary codes and values

The Thalorian way of life revolves around discipline, labor, and loyalty. Hard work is the backbone of their society, and a problem is seen as nothing more than an obstacle to be overcome through sheer perseverance. Those who shirk their responsibilities are met with scorn, while those who uphold their duties are honored.
Plain speaking is a valued trait among the Thalorian, as deception is considered a grave dishonor. They take pride in their honesty, preferring directness over embellishment. A Thalorian's word is their bond, and breaking an oath is one of the greatest betrayals one can commit.

Common Dress code

Thalorian clothing is practical and durable, designed to withstand both the hardships of labor and the rigors of battle. Wool and leather are the most common materials, used for warmth and protection.

Women typically wear long woolen gowns in neutral colors, often accompanied by simple embroidered patterns representing their family or village.

Men wear sturdy tunics and slacks, accompanied by cloaks in colder climates.

Wrist clasps have become a popular accessory, serving both as a decorative piece and a discreet way to carry valuables or hidden weapons.

Everything in Thalorian culture serves a purpose, and fashion is no exception.

Art & Architecture

Thalorians value craftsmanship over artistic expression, with necessity guiding their creativity. Metalworkers produce iron tools, weapons, and armor essential for both war and farming. Woodworkers construct sturdy furniture, carts, and fortifications. Jewelers craft intricate brooches, beads, and ornaments from gold, gemstones, and glass, though such finery is often reserved for nobility.
Thalorian architecture is built to last, favoring strong stone structures that can endure harsh winters and potential sieges. Their castles and fortresses are designed for function over grandeur, emphasizing defensive capabilities and efficient layouts.

Foods & Cuisine

Thalorian cuisine is simple but hearty, built around sustenance and efficiency rather than extravagance. Meals are designed to fuel warriors and laborers alike, using available ingredients to create nutritious and satisfying dishes.

Battle Bread

Dense, high-protein bread fortified with dried fruits and nuts, designed to sustain soldiers on long campaigns.

Fortnight Roast

A seasoned leg of venison or boar, roasted over an open fire and served at feasts celebrating military victories or religious ceremonies.

Hearthstone Stew

A thick, slow-cooked stew made from root vegetables, salted meat, and barley. Every Thalorian family has its own variation passed down through generations.

Morning Porridge

A simple meal of oats, milk, and honey to start the day with strength and endurance.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

The Fortnight Feast

After two weeks of hard labor, Thalorian villages hold great communal feasts where the entire community gathers to celebrate. The feast begins with a Great Hunt, where skilled hunters track game to provide for the meal. The night is filled with ale, wine, and dancing, serving as both a respite from work and a way to reinforce social bonds.

The Rite of Last Light

A solemn tradition tied to the Illuminated Church, the Rite of Last Light is a ritual performed for knights who have fallen in battle. Priests of the church light sacred lanterns and place them beside the bodies of the deceased, offering prayers to guide their souls in the afterlife. Each lantern burns until dawn, symbolizing the knight’s final passage into the embrace of the deities of light. It is believed that those who die without receiving this rite risk becoming restless spirits, forever wandering the battlefield or atop Bedoma, the Last Guide's back in search of redemption.

Encompassed species

• Human

Related Locations

• Thalorian Wilds
• Wayford

Relations with Others

Whether defending their homeland or serving as mercenaries, the Thalorian remain steadfast in their beliefs.

The Thalorian have an uneasy history with the Caelian. As rivals on the ocean and with differing religious beliefs, they often clash in bloody ship battles.

The Thalorian view Garuthian favorably and understand their devotion to a higher power, even if it is not the Illuminated Church . Despite their differences, both cultures appreciate each other's intellectual and artistic achievements.

As two cultures built on diplomacy, the Thalorian and Krovashioften compete for influence in key trade routes and political spheres. While both admire each other’s wit and military sophistication, their rivalry is fueled by a constant battle of negotiation, outmaneuvering one another with words as much as wealth.

The Thalorian and Osloru exist in two different worlds, one of structured hierarchy and the other of free moving tribal life. The Osloru see the Thalorians as overly reliant on law and nobility, while the Thalorians view the Osloru as untamed and unwilling to embrace progress. Despite this, both share a deep respect for their homelands and a willingness to defend their people at any cost.

The structured and noble society of the Thalorian finds common ground with the Senkurai. Both cultures value hierarchy and order, though the Senkurai see Thalorian reliance on diplomacy as a weakness.

The Illuminated Church

The Illuminated Church stands as the heart of Thalorian faith, wielding immense influence over both religious and political life. Located in the capital city of Grenchester, the church promotes the worship of the deities of light: Asanna, Luniwyn, and Rezmir. Unlike many faiths that worship deities separately, Thalorians view the deities of light as a divine family, each working toward the greater good.
The church teaches that gods grow stronger through worship, and only through their continued devotion can they fulfill their Yearning; the ultimate goal of every deity to replace Al’Madoon as Architect. While other gods may clash over this pursuit, the deities of light remain united under the principles of righteousness and protection.

The Sullied

Those who do not accept the deities of light are known as the Sullied. To rid themselves of this title, they must seek penance by confessing their sins before a priest using a quill of truth, an enchanted artifact that ensures no falsehoods can be spoken. Only after atonement can they be fully accepted into the faith.

Grenchester Military

The Thalorian military is a disciplined and highly structured force, built on centuries of warfare and knightly traditions. Service in the military is seen as a noble calling, and even commoners aspire to earn their place in the ranks of the elite.

The Knightly Orders

Balefire Knights

A prestigious order devoted to the Illuminated Church, tasked with defending holy sites and leading crusades against the faith’s enemies. Its knights wield enchanted weapons said to be blessed by the deities of light.

The Oathsworn

A secretive order of warriors who swear lifelong oaths to their liege and nation. Once an Oathsworn takes their vow, they can never break it without facing execution.

The Stalwart Shield

An order specializing in defensive warfare, known for their unbreakable formations and unmatched skill with tower shields and heavy armor. They are the first to defend Thalorian cities and strongholds from invasion.