The Baklunish

Background

In the years following the catastrophic event known as the Invoked Devastation, which shattered the Baklunish Empire and forever altered the political and cultural landscape of the northwestern Flanaess, the survivors of the once-great civilization faced a harsh new reality. The magic unleashed during the devastation laid waste to much of the region, leaving vast portions of the Baklunish territories in ruin.

The Baklunish peoples’ resilience in the face of calamity is a testament to their adaptability. As nomads, they were no strangers to movement, but the scale of the devastation forced them to rethink their way of life entirely. Those who migrated to the shores of the Dramidj Ocean found fertile ground for their traditions. The settlements they formed grew into influential coastal hubs, strategically positioned to control access to the ocean’s wealth and trade routes.

On the other hand, the decision of some Baklunish groups to stay within the plains or adapt to the Dry Steppes is equally noteworthy. These regions, though largely untouched by the calamity, presented their own challenges—whether the vast grasslands of the plains or the arid, unforgiving nature of the steppes. The Baklunish demonstrated a deep understanding of the land, adjusting their travel patterns to take advantage of the brief but crucial winter rainy season. This season, which provided water and fertile conditions for hunting and gathering, allowed them to forge a sustainable living in an environment where others might have faltered.

In both cases, the Baklunish people exhibited remarkable resilience, shaping their identity not just through survival but by flourishing in new ways that would continue to shape their legacy in the region.

The divergence of the Baklunish people into two distinct cultures—settled city-states and nomadic tribes—marks a pivotal moment in their history, creating a lasting cultural and political divide within their society. The settled Baklunish, such as those in Zeif, Ekbir, and Sefmur, embraced a more "civilized" existence, establishing powerful city-states that would become prominent players in the northwest Flanaess. These city-states were not only centers of trade but also of culture and power. The arrival of trade caravans from the east, laden with exotic goods, further enriched these growing urban hubs, connecting them to far-flung regions and ensuring their rise as influential nations.

In contrast, the nomadic Baklunish groups, including the Wolf and Tiger Nomads, as well as the tribes known as the Uli, the Ketites, and the Paynims, remained rooted in their horse-based traditions. These cultures, centered around herding, raiding, and the exchange of fine horses, maintained a more fluid, decentralized existence. The nomads’ adaptability and martial prowess allowed them to thrive, even as they moved across vast expanses of land, with their lifestyle heavily intertwined with the land and animals they revered.

However, the incursion of the Brazen Horde from the west, allegedly at the behest of the Sultan of Zeif, introduced a significant disruption. This nomadic force, drawn into the region to stem the tide of southern raids, overwhelmed many of the northern nomadic tribes. Faced with the Brazen Horde's might, these tribes were forced to flee and establish new homelands in different regions of the Flanaess. The Uli, for instance, were displaced and moved into the lands now known as Ull, a region where they were able to carve out their own existence, pushing the few remaining Oeridian tribes before them. Meanwhile, the Ketites found fertile grazing land in the Tuflik River valley, where their livestock and the vast Bramblewood Forest allowed them to rebuild and thrive. The land was not good for crops, however, and the Ketites still maintained their traditions of raiding their neighbors.

As the Wolf and Tiger Nomads were pushed further north through Ekbir, they raided and looted, carrying on their nomadic ways even in the face of displacement. Though their territory shifted, their identity remained strong, and they retained their Baklunish heritage as they spread across the Flanaess. This period of turmoil not only reshaped the geography of the Baklunish but also cemented their legacy as a resilient and adaptable people, capable of surviving even the most tumultuous of challenges.

Although these groups have a similar heritage, they are very different from each other. The settled, "civilized" Baklunish are the most pure racial stock, and the nomads are much more varied in skin tone, hair type and style, attitudes, and beliefs.

Baklunish Leadership

Nomadic Baklunish are typically governed by tribal khans, while the settled peoples are ruled by emirs, caliphs, and sultans. Despite these political differences, both groups share a deep cultural heritage. The "civilized" Baklunish are renowned for their mastery of elemental magic, divination, and summoning spells, particularly those that bind extraplanar beings. Cooperative spellcasting, a common practice among their clergy, is especially prevalent among desert mystics, who work together to harness the powerful forces that have long been integral to their traditions.

The "Civilized" Baklunish

The settled Baklunish people are renowned not only for their rich culture and sophisticated society but also for their remarkable array of skills, honed through centuries of tradition and practice. Whether in the bustling markets of Zeif, the scholarly halls of Ekbir, or the ornate palaces of Sefmu, the Baklunish excel in both the practical and the mystical.

Among the most esteemed of their talents are their combat abilities. The Baklunish are famed for their skill in swordsmanship, with many warriors mastering the curved scimitars that are iconic to their culture. Trained in the art of the blade from an early age, they are swift and precise in battle, often using agility and cunning as much as strength. Their swordsmen are renowned across the Flanaess, often sought after as mercenaries or elite guards in foreign lands. The Baklunish approach combat with a grace that mirrors their philosophy of life—fluid, calculated, and beautiful in execution.

Equally impressive is their mastery of magic. Some of the most accomplished elementalists and enchanters come from the civilized regions of the Baklunish. These magical traditions were passed down through generations, deeply rooted in the ancient pacts made with the genies of the Elemental Planes. The Baklunish are particularly known for their control over the elemental forces of air, fire, and earth, as well as their affinity for the summoning of powerful genies, whose knowledge and arcane power are woven into their culture. This connection to the genies has shaped not only their magic but their worldview, blending the arcane with the divine in ways that few other cultures can match.

Alongside their mastery of the sword and magic, the Baklunish are also skilled thieves and shadowy figures. Many of their most accomplished criminals have honed their craft in the crowded alleys and intricate bazaars of their cities, where trade and secrets intermingle. These thieves are both bold and subtle, able to navigate the social and physical complexities of their cities with ease. Whether through the delicate art of pickpocketing or the more dramatic methods of infiltration and sabotage, the Baklunish criminal has earned a reputation for sophistication and ingenuity.

Perhaps most important, however, are the clerics and mystics who guide their societies. Devout and dedicated, these religious figures are a cornerstone of Baklunish life. The temples of the Baklunish are often grand and intricate, reflecting the power and influence of the gods they serve. Many Baklunish clerics are also adept in magic, using divine spells to heal, protect, and maintain the balance of their cities. Their wisdom is sought after in matters of law, governance, and spiritual well-being. These clerics do not merely offer prayers to their gods; they actively channel divine energy to shape the world around them, making them powerful figures both in the courts of the sultans and the hearts of the people.

In sum, the civilized Baklunish people are defined by their sharp minds, their skill in magic and combat, and their deep connection to their gods and elemental forces. Their cities are hubs of intellectual achievement, cultural exchange, and mystical power, where magic and sword are balanced with the influence of religion and trade. The Baklunish have long maintained their reputation as masters of both the mystical and the martial, and their prowess is unmatched in many areas of expertise. The legacy of the ancient genies continues to echo in their lives, shaping their future as it has shaped their past.

Appearance

The Baklunish are typically recognized for their golden skin tones, a feature that reflects the sun-drenched deserts and plains they call home. Their eyes are commonly gray-green or green, with gray being somewhat uncommon and hazel rare. Their hair is straight, fine-textured, and ranges in color from blue-black to dark, dusky brown. The Baklunish are also known for their tall, slender frames, with long limbs and refined facial features, particularly high cheekbones.

The people of Ekbir and Zeif best represent the pure Baklunish strain, exemplifying these characteristics in their most classic form. However, due to the complex history of migration and intermingling with neighboring peoples, there are some notable exceptions.

Similarly, the people of Tusmit display occasional Oeridian admixture, further diversifying their appearance, though they still retain many of the defining features of the Baklunish people.

Ket

Even though the Ketites are predominately Baklunish, there are still many of mixed heritage, and they display the most diverse range of physical traits compared to any of the other Baklunish peoples. Due to Ket's unique geographic position in the Flanaess, it has become a crossroads for various ethnicities traveling through the Fals River Gap. As a result, Ketites exhibit a remarkable variety of appearances—ranging from all skin tones, hair types, and colors to an array of eye colors, builds, and facial features. This blend of characteristics creates a striking visual tapestry, with no single physical type standing out as dominant. Both the residents of Ket and the many travelers passing through the region share this wide spectrum of appearances, embodying the diversity that defines the land.

Despite this remarkable ethnic mix, Ket remains deeply rooted in Baklunish culture, religion, and traditions. The cultural framework of Ket is firmly based on the practices and beliefs of the Baklunish people, and this adherence is actively enforced by the ruling Beygraf. The Beygraf and his government take great care to ensure that the traditional ways of the Baklunish people are maintained, which includes regulating dress and customs.

One of the most visible expressions of this cultural preservation is the strict dress code imposed on all citizens and visitors. Those caught wearing clothing that deviates from traditional Baklunish attire face heavy fines, a stern reminder of the importance of cultural conformity. Repeat offenders may find themselves imprisoned within the dungeons of the Beygraf’s fortress, a harsh consequence for those who defy the cultural mandates. This rule applies to everyone, including merchants and travelers passing through Ket, ensuring that even those who are merely visiting the region respect its cultural norms.

This strict adherence to tradition, though controversial to some, has helped preserve the unique identity of Ket in the midst of the diverse peoples who pass through it. It is a land where diversity in appearance is met with uniformity in cultural practice.

Clothing

The "civilized" Baklunish people are known for their bold and colorful clothing, reflecting their vibrant culture and love for elaborate patterns. The upper classes favor gowns and flowing robes, often adorned with intricate designs and rich, gaudy colors such as deep reds, golds, and bright blues. These garments are typically complemented by long coats or ornate accessories, combining both style and practicality for their desert and urban environments.

Among the footwear, one distinctive style stands out—boots with upward-curved toes, often referred to as "tajani boots." These boots, with their dramatic upward sweep, are a symbol of Baklunish fashion and are worn by the wealthier classes as part of their elaborate ensemble.

The lower classes also embrace these vivid hues, though their attire is typically more practical and modest. They often wear long one-piece garments, such as tunics or simple robes, which are supplemented with other layers and accessories depending on the occasion or season. Despite the difference in wealth, the Baklunish people as a whole favor clothing that is both functional for their climate and an expression of their cultural pride.

Attitudes

Unlike the Suloise, who saw much of their culture crumble after the fall of their empire, the Baklunish managed to retain a strong sense of identity and tradition. Honor, family, generosity, and piety are central to their values, and these virtues are woven into the fabric of their society. For the Baklunish, cultural pride remains not only a point of resilience but a deep-rooted part of their everyday lives.

The Baklunish have preserved much of their ancestral culture through the continued use of their classical language, Ancient Baklunish. While not spoken in everyday life, Ancient Baklunish is of utmost importance in religious ceremonies, scholarly pursuits, and the fine arts. It is primarily used by the clergy in holy rites, scholars, historians, and occasionally by mages, allowing the Baklunish to maintain a direct link to the teachings and traditions of their past.

Their profound knowledge of astrology also plays a significant role in shaping their customs and taboos. Celestial events are carefully observed, and the positions of the stars and planets often guide decisions in politics, trade, and personal matters. This reverence for the heavens is deeply embedded in their worldview, influencing both public and private life in the city-states.

Singing and dancing are also vital aspects of Baklunish culture, serving both as entertainment and as expressions of communal spirit. From the grand celebrations in bustling cities to the quiet rituals in the homes of devout families, music and dance unite the Baklunish people in celebration and ritual, reinforcing social bonds and fostering a sense of shared identity.

Trade and exploration are key pursuits for the Baklunish as well. Natural traders and diplomats, the Baklunish have long been involved in the exchange of goods and ideas across the Flanaess, ensuring that their influence remains widespread. Their caravans, skilled in navigating desert and mountain terrain, not only carry wares but also serve as conduits for cultural knowledge and spies, making the Baklunish a significant force in regional commerce and intellectual exchange.

In every aspect of their lives—from their reverence for family and tradition to their deep connection with the stars and the world around them—the Baklunish embody a culture of endurance, honor, and wisdom. Their customs, shaped by a rich past, remain vibrant and dynamic, ever adapting while staying rooted in the values that have defined them for centuries.

Recommended Languages

Ancient Baklunish is a language that has long since fallen out of everyday use, yet it still holds great significance in certain circles. It is a language reserved for the most sacred of occasions, employed by mages, clergy, and spiritual leaders during specific holy rites and ceremonial rituals. These rituals might not always involve spellcasting, but the language is nonetheless crucial to preserving the tradition and reverence associated with these practices. The ancient tongue carries with it the weight of centuries, echoing the legacy of a civilization steeped in mysticism and wisdom.

In addition to the spiritual significance, Ancient Baklunish is also studied by scholars, historians, and archivists, for it is the key to unlocking the many historical records and ancient texts of the Baklunish peoples. These records, written in the elegant but complex script of the language, offer invaluable insights into the culture, philosophy, and events that shaped the Baklunish world. Without this language, much of the rich history of the region would remain hidden, lost to time.

In contrast, the language spoken by the majority of the Baklunish peoples today is modern Baklunish. Though this language has evolved over the centuries, it retains many of the core features of its ancient predecessor. While each nationality within the Baklunish realm speaks its own dialect, these variations are not so great as to cause misunderstanding. In fact, speakers from different regions can easily communicate with one another, united by the shared foundations of the language.

Beyond Baklunish, there is also the common tongue—known throughout the Flanaess. This is the lingua franca of trade, diplomacy, and cross-cultural interaction. Developed specifically to facilitate commerce among different nations and peoples, the common tongue is widely spoken across the continent, especially by merchants, traders, and travelers who require a common means of communication. It serves as a bridge between diverse cultures, allowing for greater understanding and cooperation in a world often divided by language barriers.

Classes

All classes are available to Baklunish characters.

Wizards from this area tend to specialize in the Elemental Schools of magic.

Specialty Priests are known as Kahin (men) or Kahina (women). Clerics are called Hanifs.

Weapon Proficiencies

All warrior characters from this area must take a weapon proficiency in the scimitar.

Warrior characters from Tusmit must also take a proficiency in either the mace or the flail.

Nonweapon Proficiencies

All classes receive either Singing or Dancing as a bonus proficiency.

Wizards and Clerics/Specialty Priests also receive the Astrology skill as a bonus.

The Nomads

The Wolf Nomads [Wegwiur]

The Wolf Nomads, or the Wegwiur (weg-WE-yur) in Ordai (the Baklunish dialect of the region), are exceptional horsemen, sometimes referred to as the Horse Lords. They are famous for being able to handle and shoot bows from horseback at a full gallop.

They are also reputed to raise the finest horseflesh in the Flanaess, and will often trade horses for items they cannot easily come across on the plains.

Classes

Clerics from the Wolf Nomads are either shamans, witch doctors, or medicine men/women.

Weapon Proficiencies

The character must spend a proficiency with any bow (excluding crossbows) that can be used on horseback, and/or the Khopesh.

Nonweapon Proficincies

Any character that comes from the Wegwiur gains Land Based Riding as a bonus proficiency. In addition, any character from this area will also gain a bonus proficiency from one of the following nonweapon proficiencies: Animal Handling, Hunting, or Agriculture.

Appearance

The Wegwiur people exhibit a wide range of physical traits, reflecting their mixed Baklunish and Flannish ancestry. These characteristics are influenced by the regions they come from, with variations in appearance depending on whether they hail from the eastern plains or the western nomadic tribes.

Skin tones among the Wegwiur range from light golden-bronze to deep, rich browns. The Wegwiur from the eastern portion of the plains often carry more Flannish features, while those from the western nomadic tribes reflect the Baklunish side of their heritage more strongly.

Eye colors also vary greatly, including shades of green, gray-green, dark brown, and black, with occasional appearances of hazel, brown, or even amber. These eye colors are a testament to the diverse genetic mix of their ancestors.

The hair of the Wegwiur spans a wide spectrum, from blue-black to dark brown, black, and various shades of brown. Hair texture differs depending on their region, with those from the western tribes typically having fine, straight hair, while the eastern tribes tend to have thicker, wavy, or curly hair.

The body types of the Wegwiur also vary due to their mixed ancestry. They may possess the long limbs and high cheekbones of the Baklunish, or the sturdy, muscular builds and wide faces of the Flannish. Many Wegwiur display a blend of both, such as long limbs paired with a more solid, stocky frame.

In terms of clothing, the Wegwiur prioritize practicality over ornamental style. They avoid the "fancy" dress of the west, which they see as impractical for daily life. However, tribal and clan leaders do wear more elaborate attire for formal gatherings, such as councils or feasts. These garments often feature pastel colors, enhanced with puffs and slashes on the sleeves, revealing contrasting colors underneath to signal wealth and status.

For everyday wear, the Wegwiur typically choose woolen clothing, reserving silk for special occasions. Men commonly wear loose trousers and long-sleeved, knee-length tunics. These tunics are often adorned with intricate embroidery that reflects the cultural heritage of the Wegwiur people, incorporating designs passed down through generations. They also wear hard-soled leather boots for durability.

Women of the Wegwiur wear long dresses with long sleeves that extend below the knees. Their dresses are typically paired with headscarves, which they tie in various ways depending on the occasion. In some cases, women may wear additional scarves for extra coverage. While women traditionally wear dresses, they are also known to wear the same clothing as men in certain situations, especially when practicality dictates it.

During colder weather, the Wegwiur wear furs to protect themselves from the cold, layering them over their usual garments to provide warmth and insulation.

When the Wegwiur are traveling or preparing for war, their clothing becomes more utilitarian. They wear rough leather, hide, or cloth, often adorned with shields or banners that display their clan allegiance. These practical items ensure they remain protected and easily identifiable during their journeys or on the battlefield.

The Tiger Nomads [Chakyik]

The Chakyik (chaw-KEY-ick) [Ordai (the Baklunish dialect of the region)] are a loose confederation of nomads, known to the rest of the Flanaess as the Tiger Nomads, live on the plains to the west of the Wegwiur. The Wegwiur and the Chakyik get along for the most part, but sometimes have disputes over hunting grounds or resources. Neither is immune to raiding the other.

The Chakyik are as skilled at firing a bow at a full gallop while on horseback as the Wegwiur. Characters born and raised among the Chakyik are allowed the bonus proficiency of Land Based Riding. Chakyik must spend a weapon proficiency slot on the khopesh and/or the short bowat 1st level.

The Chakyik are so isolated that most do not speak the common tongue.

Appearance

The Chakyik look like typical Baklunish people with long straight black to brown hair and light coppery skin. They also have the long limbs, facial features, and high cheekbones. As one travels further east in the Chakyik domain, one starts to see more of the Wegwiur influence on the people, culture, and dress.

Chakyik people wear woolen tarakhi (similar to the Mongolian deel) with silk sashes that can vary in color when tending to everyday tasks. The tarakhi is often embroidered with images such as dragons, tigers, predatory animals or birds, or even exotic monsters they have defeated. The sashes are not just for decoration. They are often worn tight enough to hold needed items such as swords, rope, or waterskins. They wear leather boots and woolen pants and shirts.

During times of colder weather, they will wear furs to protect them from the cold.

When traveling or making war, Chakyik instead wear rough items of leather, hide, or cloth, bearing shields or banners indicating clan allegiance.

The Paynims

The Paynims (PAY-nim) occupy the largest portion of the old Baklunish Empire, consisting of the Plains of the Paynims and the Dry Steppes to the south.

The Paynims are skilled warriors. Although the Paynims are made up of two distinct groups, they are both very fierce and warlike. The northern Paynims wander the grasslands, leading their livestock to new grazing grounds and following hunting game. The southern Paynims, pn the other hand, will migrate into the Dry Steppes during the autumn, winter, and spring rainy seasons, but will move northward towards the middle of spring before the steppes become too hot and dry.

Appearance

Over time, the Paynims have intermixed with the Suel and Oeridians (when the Oeridian tribes lived in modern day Ull and its environs). The Paynims have a darker, golden-bronze to olive skin tone, with fair skin being rare. Their eyes tend to be dark brown or black, with occasional greens, and blue, gray, or hazel being exceedingly rare.

Paynim hair has an equal chance of being finely textured and straight, or thick and wavy/curly. Hair color tends to be dark, ranging from blue-black, to black, to dark brown. Dirty blond hair is uncommon.

Paynims have moderately high cheekbones, but not as high as pure Baklunish people. They also tend to have round faces and noses that do not stand out as overly short or long, with the bridge of the nose showing a smooth curvature.

The Paynims wear two different styles of clothing depending on the region they are from.

The Southern Paynims

The southern Paynims wear fitted shirts or blouses called a tavryn, crafted from lightweight, breathable fabrics. The tavryn is ideal as a base layer for both grassland summers and desert migrations. The tavryn is adorned with intricate embroidery along the collar and cuffs, often in patterns that signify the wearer's clan, accomplishments, or personal totems. Its wide sleeves can be secured at the wrists with woven ties to protect against sand and wind or rolled up for practicality during daily tasks.

They also wear a pair of loose, split pants designed for comfortable riding and ventilation in the hot climates, reinforced at the knees for wear during long journeys called darukhsar.

A lightweight, long tunic with flowing sleeves is worn over the shirt, and is called a hathriq. It is designed for flexibility while riding and protecting against both sun and sand. It is often adorned with patterns representing clan or tribal.

The arqesh is a wrap-around headscarf that doubles as a face covering during sandstorms, often dyed in symbolic clan colors or embroidered with protective symbols.

Sturdy leather boots with flexible soles, called narthaks are also worn. These boots are designed for both riding and walking on uneven terrain.

The Paynims will wear a dralkin, a heavy cloak with a water-resistant outer layer, and is also used during cold desert nights during rainstorms and sudden sand storms as the case may be. Often reversible, with a bright side for signaling and a muted side for stealth.

The Northern Paynims

The northern Paynims dress in similar fashion to the tribes in the south, but will eschew the hathriq and arqesh. The northern tribes will wear the tavryn, darukhsar, and the narthaks. During times of rain, the northern people will wear the dralkin, but will wear a lighter cloak called an ashara to protect from the sun or the wind. The ashara is weighted at the bottom to prevent excessive billowing when the wind picks up, and allows access to weapons or tools that may be carried on the person under the cloak.

There are some among the northern Paynim tribes who eschew the tavryn. These people are youthful and trying to show their prowess as warriors. As they gro wolder or begin to earn a reputation, they will start to wear the tavryn embroidered with the patterns denoting their personal accomplishments.

Common Appearance

When travelling or going to battle or to war, the Paynims wear little to no armor. They have found metal armor to be too hot and heavy for their mounts, and very restricting for melee combat.

The types of armor that may be worn is padded, leather, hide, or thick cloth (equivalent to hide armor). They may wear small shields adorned with clan or tribal colors.

Proficiencies

Paynims must take a weapon proficiency with at least one of the following at 1st level; the scimitar, light lance, mace, flail, or the short bow.

Paynims receive a choice of bonus proficiencies. They may choose either Animal Handling or Animal Training.

Ull

The Uli are an offshoot of the northern Paynim tribes. The Uli are the most warlike of the bunch, often raiding or going to war with Ket, Tusmit, Ekbir (from time to time), and their western cousins.

The Uli are a treacherous people, but it is generally held that the town dwellers are more venal than even the untrustworthy nomads.

The Uli dress and wear the same types of armor as the Paynims.

The Uli will often hire themselves out as mercenaries.

Proficiencies

An Uli character is automatically proficient with the longbow, mace, and Pole Arms.

[World of Greyhawk Boxed Set 1983]
[Living Greyhawk Gazetteer]