Kaheb
Structure
At its apex resides the Pharaoh, considered a living god and the ultimate source of law, justice, and power. The Pharaoh commands the military, oversees religious ceremonies, and dictates policy, ensuring Ma'at – cosmic order and balance – prevails throughout Kaheb.
Beneath the Pharaoh is the Vizier, a high-ranking official who acts as the chief administrator and the Pharaoh's direct representative. The Vizier manages the bureaucracy, overseeing everything from tax collection and public works to judicial affairs and record-keeping. This individual is crucial for the smooth functioning of Kaheb and is typically chosen for their wisdom, loyalty, and administrative prowess.
Further down the hierarchy are various priests, scribes, and military officials. The priesthood holds considerable influence, maintaining temples, interpreting divine will, and performing rituals to ensure the gods' favor. Scribes are essential for recording information, managing resources, and communicating decrees. Military leaders command the army, defending Kaheb's borders and maintaining internal order.
Local governance is managed by appointed governors who oversee specific regions, collecting taxes, dispensing justice, and ensuring the Pharaoh's laws are upheld. This structure allows for both centralized control and regional autonomy, reflecting the complex needs of a thriving kingdom.
Culture
Life in Kaheb revolves around the cycles of the River and the celestial dance of the suns. Farming is both a science and a sacred act, with elaborate rituals accompanying planting and harvest. Artisans, skilled in working gold, obsidian, and vibrant textiles, are highly esteemed. Their creations adorn the bodies of royalty and commoners alike, each piece a testament to Kaheb's artistic prowess.
Social structure is hierarchical, with the Pharaoh, believed to be divinely appointed, at the apex. Priests and scribes hold significant power, interpreting the will of the gods and preserving the vast historical record etched on papyrus scrolls and temple walls. Warfare is a grim necessity, and Kaheb's warriors are renowned for their discipline and the distinctive black armor forged with river iron.
Music is an integral part of Kaheb culture. Haunting melodies played on the lyre and the booming rhythm of drums accompany every celebration and solemn ceremony. Storytelling is also deeply valued, with skilled bards recounting the tales of ancient heroes and the origins of the world under the watchful gaze of the twin suns.
Assets
The country's coffers overflow with silver and gold, mined from the ancient veins beneath its sun-drenched lands. This precious wealth fuels Kaheb's ambitions and underpins its formidable strength. The architectural marvels of Kaheb stand as testaments to its skilled artisans and powerful rulers. Imposing castles and fortified cities dot the landscape, their strong walls a bulwark against invaders. Within these strongholds reside well-trained troops, equipped with the finest weapons and armor crafted by Kaheb's master smiths. From the deadly accuracy of their archers to the unwavering discipline of their infantry, Kaheb's soldiers are a force to be reckoned with.
Kaheb's military might extends beyond its land borders. Its fleet of sturdy ships, sails billowing in the desert wind, controls vital trade routes and projects power across the waterways. Swift and powerful horses, bred in the arid plains, provide Kaheb's cavalry with unmatched speed and maneuverability. All things considered, these assets are available for the nation's defense and for any possible conquest.
History
Created by the annexation of Kaheb-Ma settlements along the Upper (southern) Iteru River by the Pharaoh of Deshret around 2800 SE. The battles between the Deshreti armies and the Kaheb-Ma tribesmen were violent and costly for both sides. When the dust settled, Deshret was dominant. The Kaheb-Ma would be enslaved for centuries. It was following the defeat of Istun and the legendary death of the Pharaoh Sethharkha that Deshret occupation ended.
As the Pharaonic Dynasty's dominance of the Upper Iteru waned, the Kaheb-Ma tribes unified as a singular power of their own. Relations between the two regions would become stable over time with successive battles between these two countries often coming to a stalemate. As of 3120 SE the Kingdom of Kaheb was flourishing along the Upper Iteru.
Under the command of First Kahebi Pharaoh Tafa-Ye they would turn the tables on their former enslavers. This occupation of Deshret wouldn't last long, after only two Pharaohs reigned. Invasions from Selonia, Emidonia and native Deshreti rebellious forces would force the Kahebi occupation forces to retreat to their own capital of Ahkmis. Over the last 400 years, tensions between the two countries remaind in a constant highetend state though neither has the wealth to engage in a new war.
Demography and Population
This land, home to nearly 54,000,000 souls, presents a fascinating demographic picture, shaped by history, geography, and the unique interplay of its diverse inhabitants.
The Kaheb-MaThe lifeblood of Kaheb is undoubtedly the Kaheb-Ma, the native people who constitute the vast majority of the population. Their connection to the land is profound, rooted in millennia of cultivating the fertile southern lands bordering the Iteru River. They are a people of proud heritage, renowned for their artistry, intricate hieroglyphic writing, and mastery of magic woven into the very fabric of their daily lives.
Kaheb-Ma society is largely structured around kinship and community, with extended families playing a central role. They are primarily concentrated along the Iteru River and its tributaries, where agriculture flourishes and settlements thrive. Major cities, such as Akhmis (the capital), Medju, and Asyun, boast the highest Kaheb-Ma populations, serving as centers of trade, learning, and religious observance.
The Outlanders: Humans and Halflings
Beyond the dominant Kaheb-Ma, humans and halflings form significant minority groups within Kaheb. These "Outlanders," as they are sometimes referred to, have integrated into Kaheb society over centuries, often through trade, migration, or political alliances.
Human communities are scattered throughout Kaheb, often concentrated in urban centers where their mercantile skills and diverse backgrounds are valued. They contribute significantly to the Kaheb economy, engaging in trade both within the country and with neighboring lands. Unlike the Kaheb-Ma, humans originate from many different geographical regions, so their appearance varies considerably.
Halflings, known for their adaptability and resourcefulness, are often found in rural areas, excelling in agriculture and craftsmanship. They are generally well-regarded for their cheerful disposition and their ability to thrive in a variety of environments. Their smaller stature and inherent knack for stealth often lend themselves to certain specialized professions.
The Enigmatic Akhom
The Akhom are a more mysterious presence in Kaheb. They are a reclusive people, adapted to survive the harsh conditions of the arid deserts that stretch beyond the fertile river valleys. They are known for their resilience, their intricate knowledge of desert lore, and their mastery of survival skills.
The Akhom are less integrated into mainstream Kaheb society, preferring to maintain their traditional way of life. They are often viewed with a mixture of curiosity and respect by the Kaheb-Ma, who recognize their ability to navigate and thrive in the unforgiving savannah landscape. Their nomadic lifestyle means their population is sparsely distributed throughout the savannah regions, with small, self-sufficient communities scattered amongst oases and hidden canyons.
Other Inhabitants
Beyond these major groups, Kaheb is also home to smaller populations of other races, adding to the vibrant tapestry of its demographics.
Wugui: These reptilian humanoids are relatively rare in Kaheb, although some individuals find employment within Kaheb society.
Ratfolk: These small, dexterous humanoid rodents are generally found within the Great River and it's tributaries.
Planar Scions: Descendants of beings from other planes of existence, these individuals are rare and often possess unique abilities or appearances that set them apart. Their origins are often shrouded in mystery, and they may be viewed with suspicion or fascination depending on the community.
The overall population of Kaheb is relatively stable, maintained by a delicate balance between birth and death rates. The Kaheb-Ma, with their strong emphasis on family and community, generally have a moderate to high birth rate. Advances in medicine and sanitation have contributed to a gradual decline in infant mortality rates, further bolstering population growth. However, environmental factors and historical events also play a significant role in shaping demographic trends. Periods of drought or famine can lead to increased death rates, particularly in rural areas. Similarly, wars or large-scale conflicts can have a devastating impact on the population.
The population distribution within Kaheb is heavily influenced by the availability of resources and the suitability of the land for agriculture. The fertile river valleys are densely populated, with cities and villages clustered along the Great River and its tributaries. In contrast, the arid deserts are sparsely populated, with only a few scattered settlements able to sustain themselves in the harsh environment.
The major cities serve as hubs of commerce, administration, and culture, attracting people from all walks of life. These urban centers are characterized by a diverse mix of races and ethnicities, reflecting Kaheb's long history of trade and migration.
Territories
Kaheb's grip on Deshret is not merely one of conquest, but calculated administration. The satrap, appointed directly by the Kaheb-Ma Kendake, governs with an iron fist cloaked in velvet. She understands the delicate balance of power, preserving Deshret's cultural identity while subtly weaving in Kaheb customs and laws.
The lifeblood of Deshret, the Iteru, is now channeled to serve Kaheb's interests. Granaries overflow, not just for the people of Deshret but to feed the legions that secure the empire's southern border. The skilled artisans of Deshret, once dedicated to crafting treasures for their pharaoh, now toil to create exquisite goods for the Kaheb court.
Yet, beneath the veneer of order, a simmering resentment festers. Whispers of rebellion echo in the shadowed alleyways of ancient cities. The spirit of Deshret, though subdued, is far from broken, waiting for the opportune moment to rise and reclaim its stolen glory.
Military
The military of Kaheb, a nation forged in the heart of the desert and nourished by the lifeblood of the Iteru River, is a force as formidable and enduring as the pyramids that pierce its sky. Unlike the sprawling, unwieldy armies of some nations, Kaheb's military is a carefully honed instrument of precision and discipline.
At its core are the Medjay, elite warriors drawn from every province and rigorously trained from a young age. Clad in bronze armor that gleams under the harsh sun and wielding khopeshes with deadly grace, they are the spearhead of any Kahebi offensive, equally adept at desert warfare and siege operations. Supporting the Medjay are the archers, masters of the composite bow, capable of unleashing volleys of arrows with unnerving accuracy.
Kaheb also fields impressive chariotry, pulled by swift and sturdy desert steeds. These chariots, adorned with intricate carvings and symbols of power, serve as mobile platforms for archers and shock troops, adding speed and maneuverability to the battlefield.
Beyond the regular army, the Pharaoh commands a personal guard known as the Aaru Guard. These are the most seasoned and loyal warriors in Kaheb, clad in gilded armor and wielding weapons blessed by the priests. They stand as a bulwark against any threat, both internal and external, ensuring the Pharaoh's safety and the stability of the realm.
Religion
The Kahebi people of any race are far and away more likely to be devoted to the Neteric Pantheon (the deities of Deshreti humans). The Kaheb-Ma were shamanic people before the arrival of the Deshreti humans, but they took to the Lion headed deities with which they were presented. At times in history, the deities Arensnuphis, Apedemak and Bastet were lesser than the more human deities. In the current day, these deities are favored by the locals over their human counterparts.
Laws
At the heart of Kaheb's legal system lies Ma'at, the divine principle of balance and order. Every law, every judgment, strives to maintain this harmony between the mortal realm and the sacred. Disrupting the flow of the river, neglecting the temples, or defying the Pharaoh's will are all offenses against Ma'at.
Land is held in trust for the Pharaoh, a descendant of Sekhmet and her son Apedemak. While families cultivate the fields, they owe a portion of their harvest to the royal granaries, ensuring the kingdom's prosperity and the Pharaoh's ability to maintain defenses.
Justice is administered by priests and scribes, learned individuals trained in deciphering the whispers of the gods. Trial by ordeal is common, relying on the wisdom of the river itself to reveal the truth. Falsely accusing another is a grave offense, for it disrupts the delicate balance of trust within the community.
Finally, the law recognizes the sacred duty of honoring ancestors. Tombs are sacrosanct, and the desecration of a burial site is punishable by exile, for to forget the past is to invite chaos into the future.
Agriculture & Industry
The sun-drenched fields, blessed by the river's annual inundation, yield abundant harvests of sorghum, millet, and the famed Kahebian cotton, prized for its exceptional fineness. Skilled farmers, guided by generations of inherited knowledge and intricate irrigation systems, coax life from the land, ensuring a steady supply of food and raw materials.
Meat being the primary diet of the Kaheb-Ma and Ahkom, ranching medium-size dinosaurs is a large industry. Smaller dinosaurs, such as Leaellynasaurs and Gallimimus are the most commonly kept on ranches. Ceratopsians, Ankylosaurs and Nodosaurs are usually kept as beasts of burden as their meat is greasy and unpleasant. Small mammals, namely goats, have been kept for millenia having been introduced with the first human immigrants.
Fruit such as figs, dates, plums and melons are gown seasonally on smaller plantations. Some industrious people have started beekeeping, as honey has long been a valuable commodity. Wild groves of pomegranates and jujubes are cultivated by roving families of Wugui.
Beyond the fields, the industrious spirit of Kaheb shines. Utilizing the readily available resources, artisans craft exquisite pottery and intricate metalwork. The clang of hammers rings from workshops where copper, mined from the eastern mountains, is forged into tools, weapons, and elaborate adornments. Kahebian linen, woven from their celebrated cotton, is renowned throughout the known world for its quality and vibrant dyes.
The country's strategic location along the Iteru facilitates trade, allowing Kahebian goods to reach far-flung markets. River barges laden with grain, cloth, and metalwork ply the waters, fueling the nation's prosperity and strengthening its connections with neighboring lands.
Trade & Transport
Kaheb's wealth stems from its mastery of river trade. Flat-bottomed barges, laden with gold, ebony, incense, and exotic animals, ply the Iteru, destined for the northern kingdoms. But these barges are not solely reliant on sails and oars. Trained Hadrosaurs, their leathery hides adorned with intricate harnesses, patiently haul the vessels upstream, their powerful legs transforming the arduous journey into a manageable feat.
Beyond the river, the vast grasslands and deserts are traversed by caravans pulled by sturdy Ankylosaurs and Nodosaurs. These armored behemoths, bred for endurance and obedience, carry precious gemstones, finely woven textiles, and the famed Kaheb spice blends across scorching expanse. The sight of these lumbering fortresses, dwarfing even the largest camels, is a testament to Kaheb's ingenuity and mastery of their prehistoric companions.
The roar of a Ceratopsian auction, bidding on prime specimens trained for agricultural labor, echoes through the marketplaces, a constant reminder of the unique partnership that defines Kaheb. This symbiotic relationship with dinosaurs isn't merely practical; it's woven into the very fabric of Kahebi society, a testament to their resourcefulness and a source of endless fascination for outsiders. Kaheb
Education
Formal learning begins in temple schools, where young initiates, regardless of social standing, learn the hieroglyphic script, mathematics, and astronomy. Emphasis is placed on understanding the cycles of the Iteru and the movements of the stars, deemed essential for agricultural planning and religious observances. History and moral philosophy, drawn from the wisdom of ancient pharaohs and queens, are also central to the curriculum, instilling a deep sense of cultural identity and ethical responsibility.
Beyond the temple walls, specialized training is offered in various crafts. Aspiring architects learn to raise magnificent pyramids and obelisks. Skilled artisans master the art of pottery, jewelry making, and weaving, adorning the land with beauty. Military academies train future warriors in combat strategy and the art of charioteering, preparing them to defend Kaheb’s borders.
Crucially, education in Kaheb extends beyond practical skills. It seeks to nurture the soul through music, dance, and storytelling. The belief is that a well-rounded individual is not only knowledgeable but also compassionate, creative, and deeply connected to the spiritual realm.
Infrastructure
Lifeblood flows through the land via a network of meticulously crafted aqueducts, sourced from the life-giving Iteru and expertly channeled to nourish sprawling fields and bustling cities. Waste is managed by an advanced, subterranean sewage system, ensuring the health and prosperity of Kaheb's populace.
Connecting the vast expanse of the kingdom is a network of sun-baked roads, meticulously maintained by dedicated teams of road-pavers that are employed by the Pharaoh, that facilitates trade and communication. Majestic sandstone bridges, adorned with intricate carvings of the god-kings of old, span the great rivers, connecting vital trade routes.
Protecting Kaheb from the threats of the desert are imposing walls, built of massive sandstone blocks that are further enhanced with arcane wards. Watchtowers that are manned by the royal guard stand vigilant at the borders, ensuring the safety of the kingdom.
The heart of Kaheb's governance lies within its grand town halls, places of justice and where community gathers. Here, scribes record the history of the kingdom while they also manage the daily affairs of the community.
At the apex lies the Platinum Scarab, the largest and most valuable coin. Struck from gleaming platinum sourced from the legendary White Mountain, each Scarab is painstakingly engraved with the Pharaoh's cartouche and intricate scenes of Kaheb's bountiful harvests.
Next in line of coinage, the Gold Ankh, a smaller but equally impressive coin. The Ankh, symbol of life and prosperity, is meticulously etched onto each gold piece. Gold is found in the riverbeds of the Upper Iteru.
The everyday commerce of Kaheb relies heavily on the Silver Udjat, bearing the protective Eye of Horus. These coins are more practical for merchants, laborers, and small transactions.
Finally, the common folk rely on the humble Copper Knot, a small, unassuming coin depicting the ancient symbol of binding and unity. Copper is mined in the foothills of the Black Mountains.
The value of Kaheb's coinage follows a precise tenfold system: 1 Platinum Scarab equals 10 Gold Ankhs, 1 Gold Ankh equals 10 Silver Udjats, and 1 Silver Udjat equals 10 Copper Knots. This structured system ensures stability and ease of trade throughout the kingdom, solidifying Kaheb's position as a prosperous and well-organized nation.
Within the sun-baked lands of Kaheb, where the echoes of pharaohs resonate in the windswept sands, the legislative heart beats within the Council of Amun. This body, a carefully curated blend of tradition and forward-thinking, guides the nation alongside the reigning Pharaoh. The Council is composed of three distinct segments, each offering unique perspectives and expertise.
Firstly, the Priests of Amun, learned scholars and spiritual advisors, ensure that all laws align with the ancient principles of Ma'at, upholding truth, justice, and cosmic balance. Their pronouncements carry considerable weight, grounding Kaheb's legal framework in its rich spiritual heritage.
Secondly, the Nomarchs, governors representing the diverse regions and provinces of Kaheb, bring practical concerns and local knowledge to the table. They act as the voices of their people, advocating for resource allocation, infrastructure development, and addressing the specific needs of their communities.
Lastly, the Scribes Royal, a meritocratic body of skilled record-keepers, historians, and legal experts, provides invaluable administrative support and technical expertise. They draft legislation, maintain records, and ensure the smooth functioning of the Council, acting as the gears and levers that translate ideas into actionable policies.
The Council of Amun, with its tripartite structure, strives for consensus and balance, ensuring that Kaheb remains a prosperous and harmonious nation, guided by wisdom, tradition, and the will of its people, under the watchful gaze of the Pharaoh.
The judicial body, known as the "Scales of Ma'at," is a meticulously structured institution, reflecting the Kahebian reverence for order and truth.
At its apex sits the Vizier-Judge, appointed by the Pharaoh and considered the living embodiment of Ma'at, the principle of cosmic balance. They preside over the highest court, resolving disputes of immense consequence and interpreting the sacred legal texts.
Beneath the Vizier-Judge are the Nomarch-Judges, each overseeing judicial matters within their respective provinces. Selected for their impartiality and knowledge of local customs, they handle a wide range of cases, from land disputes to accusations of theft. Their decisions are informed by both the codified laws and the traditions passed down through generations.
Further down the hierarchy are the Scribe-Judges, learned individuals trained in the art of legal writing and record-keeping. They meticulously document proceedings, ensuring accuracy and providing valuable insights for future rulings. They act as liaisons between the courts and the people, ensuring transparency and accessibility.
Trials are conducted in open-air courts, often near bustling marketplaces, emphasizing the public nature of justice in Kaheb. Evidence is presented meticulously, and witnesses are cross-examined rigorously. The scales of Ma'at are not merely a symbol; they represent the Kahebian commitment to weighing all evidence fairly and striving for a just outcome that upholds the principles of truth, order, and harmony.
The executive body of Kaheb is the Court of the Sunstone. At its apex reigns the Qore, the living embodiment of Ra's blessing upon the nation. Typically the spouse of the Pharaoh, the Qore is believed to possess heightened intuition and wisdom gleaned from the shimmering Sunstone, an artifact of immense power housed within the capital's Grand Obelisk.
Serving alongside the Qore are the Viziers, a council of six individuals chosen for their expertise in crucial aspects of Kahebi life: agriculture, trade, defense, law, religious affairs, and record-keeping. Each Vizier is responsible for overseeing their respective domain, advising the Qore on policy matters, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the nation. Their positions are not hereditary, but rather earned through years of dedicated service and demonstrated aptitude.
The Court of the Sunstone operates with a blend of tradition and pragmatism. Decisions are often reached through lengthy deliberation and consultation with priests, scholars, and even representatives from various guilds and tribal communities. While the Qore holds ultimate authority, their power is tempered by the need to maintain the delicate balance between the needs of the people, the will of the gods, and the enduring strength of Kahebi tradition.
Comments