Zendali

The Zendali are a tribal group of humans native to the northwest regions of The Arid as well as Shimmering Rock. Physically, they are the darkest skinned of the humans, and tend to be tall and lean. They all have bright, vibrant eye colors that span the entire rainbow, with either black, brown, or white hair. 
There are two major groups of Zendali. The First Walkers settled Shimmering Rock and founded The University, settling down and establishing cities. The Wandering Tribes are a loose collective of nomads that travel the continent as they see fit, though usually stick to The Arid. The First Walkers are not a part of The Empire, the Wandering Tribes are. Both groups share a language, a common culture, and oral histories.

Naming Traditions

Feminine names

Jiwe, Vara, Giul, Hazha, Ababe

Masculine names

Aluyi, Ctab, Jumute, Ptden, Bzalele

Family names

Zendali families take their names from ancient heroes of their lineage. Often when a couple is wed, they will compare family histories and find the closest common hero. Examples are Abunehar, Jiba, Culai, and Tezeban.

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

Zendali is the name of both the people and the language. It is extremely musical in cadence and widely considered difficult to learn for outsiders, as it has no similar language on the continent. Different inflections change the meaning of words entirely, so things written on paper using Common Tongue letters are essentially useless. Instead, the Zendali record their language through tactile mediums like clay etchings and elaborate knotted ropes.

Related Organizations

• The Lashandala
• The University at Shimmering Rock

Related Locations

• Shimmering Rock
• The Amazwe Savanna