Plain-Dweller Ethnicity in Halruaal | World Anvil
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Plain-Dweller

Plain-Dwellers belong to the westernmost island region of Halruaal. Aptly named for the vast area of grasslands, the area host a small collection of mountains, a host of hills, and a few minor woods.  Plain-Dwellers are typically fair to olive skinned individuals, and share the Dytika Isles with a number of non-humanoid species. Primarily ruled over by House Kamose, Plain-Dwellers are at times the most curious and intellectually driven people in Halruaal.

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

Plain-Dwellers all speak the common, and many within the region are general polyglots.  Any number of languages can be spoken by the people and languages can frequently shift during a single conversation to convey ideas that are non-translatable.    

Culture and cultural heritage

Plain-Dwellers are previous voyagers from the far western seas.  They've descended from diviners and seers.  As such, they have become an extremely curious people.

Shared customary codes and values

Plain-Dweller culture emphasis intellectual and creative growth. A puzzle can be solved many ways, or perhaps even left unsolved so  that it fosters creative debate. Someone should strive to be explore, both their environment and themselves so they could contribute to the community.

Average technological level

Plain-Dwellers are nearly as advanced as Keildeners but they hold a special connection to the land and the study of natural elements. People here know more about magical animals, healing herbs, and sight into the unknown. The wizards are the masters of the true sight and have adapted quickly to the magical breakthroughs and advanced technologies established over the two millennia.

Common Etiquette rules

The common etiquette is to foster respect and understanding, regardless of the circumstances.  Plain-Dwellers are loathed to engage in anything that can create or exploit misunderstandings. 

Common Dress code

Plain-Dwellers often wear clothing that drapes over them and can be removed easily depending on the circumstances. (Think Greek chiton or the Roman toga). 

Art & Architecture

Plain-Dweller architecture are open to the environment, taking advantage moderate mid-country heat.  They are made up of columns and light slabs of stone in a Greek fashion.  

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

Adherence to the matriarchal society and worship of the diviner goddess, Initiumartis.

Coming of Age Rites

All Plain-Dwellers are apprenticed out in the field to study under an alchemist, wizard, or other intellectual.  Boys use this period to train under warriors or tradesmen.

Common Taboos

Letting men take power.

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

Similarly to Heartlanders, Plain-Dwellers focus on all things natural.  They love beauty found in the abundant flora and fauna, and within themselves. The vast plains and creatures in the regions encourage an athletic build regardless of profession. Athleticism is admired and seen as beautiful.  Similarly, the highest ideal is to be comfortable within your own skin and with your own health. In terms of colours, Heartlanders prefer bright and light colours openness and contemplation.

Gender Ideals

Plain-Dwellers are a matriarchal culture and as such women are both revered and hold the most power.  They are in charge of the government fully, in charge of the Church of the Seven, and all noble titles are reserved for women.  Men in noble families are still considered lords; however, most are addressed as the consorts of the female title holders (i.e. the Consort of the Countess).  In general, men are regulated to labour and minor roles.  Respect is still afforded and granted to them, but they are forbidden from holding anything close to significant power.  Those who don't strictly identify as either men or women are cherished and respected within the culture.  Special care is given to fostering the wellbeing of all within society regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, but ironically those who identify as cis-gendered men are limited in how high they can climb politically.

Courtship Ideals

Women hold the impetus to begin or end a relationship.  Typical courtship involves a statement of intention, sharing of gifts, invitations for social gatherings, or at times simple request for conjugal encounters.  Engagement and marriage are likewise dependent on the woman's decision to request a union or dissolution.  In relationships between individuals who are not women (i.e. men, non-binary individuals, transgender individuals, etc.), it is usually recognized that the more dominant engage in the act of courtship and requests for engagement or separation.

Relationship Ideals

like Heartlanders, Plain-dwellers are not strictly monogamous. Being descendants and followers of the goddess, Initiumartis, love is creative and intellectual thing - one that can change, grow, or diminish.  Partnerships can exist among several people regardless of sex or gender. Any way a relationship occurs, in relationship involving women, women are usually elevated.  In all other relationships non involving women, people can expect a co-equal partnership with people meeting the strengths with the weaknesses of each other.

Major organizations

in descending order of importance: House Kamose, the Imperial Magisterium, the Church of the Seven

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