Midgardian

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

English, Arabic, Elvish are the main languages in Midgard with as smattering of others.

Culture and cultural heritage

Many traditions of the Midgardians are a combination of Arabian, Christian and Desert Elf.

Shared customary codes and values

Midgardians are generally giving people, if they have water or food to spare, they will give it. Resources and weapons however, that is another matter.

Average technological level

Magitech Traditional

Common Etiquette rules

It is considered rude to unsheath or unholstr ones weapon within a home or business in Midgard, without the permission of the owner. There are exceptions of course, such as self defense.

Common Dress code

Midgardians for the most part tend to dress modestly, partially out of etiquette but also to protect against the elemental extremes in the desert.

Art & Architecture

The Architecture in Midgard is equal parts, Arabian, Amarathean and utilitarian.

Foods & Cuisine

Midgardians are fond of fresh fruits grown in their hydroponics greenhouses, but also have rices and some meats flown in or brough by land, the rest of their diet mostly consists of Drake meat and other desert Fauna.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

Hanshakes and hugs are common greetings in Midgard, gripping of anothers wrist or elbow in greeting is often used between close friends.
It is considered rude to check the time whilst in conversation with someone or at a social gathering. Time spent with friends is considered time well spent.
It is polite to avoid blowing one’s nose or spitting in public.
Loud aggression and/or drunkenness is looked upon very poorly.
Show gratitude and humility when offered a compliment. This is done by responding with an equally respectful compliment on the same subject. If they are Muslim, you may wish them Allah’s (God’s) blessings.
Coffee is followed by a sweet of some kind, usually a mint and/or ginger tea.

Birth & Baptismal Rites

It is customary for a newborn to be anointed with the blood of a male Drake, a magical sigil is placed upon their head, the resulting effect is that when the anointed is close to desert Mana crystals, the Mana Crystal will glow in reaction, as will the sigil upon their head. This reaction continues throughout their lives, unless removed.

Coming of Age Rites

As a coming of age rite both male and female Midgardians are invited to partake in the trial of burning sands. Participation is not mandatory, those who do particiapate are usually trying to stand out to the Mercenaries who call the upper levels of Midgard home.

It is quite common for the youth of Midgard to want to join the Mercenaries, seeking adventure and to see the world. It goes without saying that many do not come home.
The Youths will be required to enter the disused tunnels of the lower areas of the mines below Midgard. Here they will need to navigate through the tunnels and find a way to the surface, avoiding hazards and cretures.

In addition, there is a ceremonial Lode Stone of Mana cryatal, engraved with the names of those who have found it before. (When one of these stones becomes full of names, a new stone is commisioned) The stone is also banded with metal rings which can be used as handles.

Indiviudals can carry it with difficulty, but the intention is for a group to work together. 

It is not frowned upon to take the stone alone, in fact the most recent person to do so was Security Captain Simon Feldt.
Though traditionally, groups will recover the stone, said groups often go on to join the pale dogs.

Funerary and Memorial customs

The deceased is traditioanly buried in the catacombs below Midgard, a polished lump of Mana Crystal, engraved with metals is placed on the chest of the deceased. The catacombs are large and well lit, given all of the Mana crystals and sigils anoineted upon the heads of the buried. The caverns glow with the Mana that suffuses the space. Ghosts are quite common in this place as well, both human and Amaranthean alike.

The Eldest child of the deceased is in charge of leading funerary proceedings. If one is not available then a member of the council will do so in lieu.

Common Taboos

It is improper/unclean for people to drink out of the same cup.
Avoid giving extravagant or expensive gifts. This can embarrass the recipient, especially if it is given in front of others.
It is inappropriate to invite someone of the opposite gender for a private visit to one’s home without an accompaniment.

Historical figures

Abdul Ul'Rahman - Deceased Shaerra Litherian 

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

Beauty is certainly important in Midgardian Society, especially within the entertainment areas of the market district. Generally speaking though, Midgardians, Generally are not overly susceptible to the charms of the flesh. Though the men and women of the pleasure houses in the market district are an exception to this.

Gender Ideals

If one can hold a weapon or a tool or contribute in a meaningful way, it matters not the shape one takes.