Zaphrian Dynasty
The Zaphrian Dynasty are a subgroup of Drow, living on Vrinn Island. They are a very patriarchal society, which thanks to their Goliath slaves, quickly established a foothold on Vrinn Island. Ever since, they have been scouring the island for resources to expand their influence and assert their dominance.
The Zaphrian Dynasty came to an end, when the Dragon Umbrakis took control of Vrinn Island in the year 211 EoL, and killed nearly all of them. The remaining survivors, not numerous enough to hold any kind of political power, simply integrated into the Numian Empire.
Naming Traditions
Family names
The Zaphrian family name is the most important within the dynasty, as they are the main focal point that keeps the dynasty together. Other names represent the extended family, or unrelated families, who pledged their loyalty to the Zaphrian name. During their time on Vrinn Island, the dynasty grew and new families were created. Therefore, there are now a variety of family names within the dynasty.
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
The Drow speak a strong dialect of Elven. If you know Elven, you can pick up a few words here or there, but you will not be able to follow a conversation between two Drow. All Drow also speak Common, the main trading language used in the Numian Empire. Some Drow also speak Giant, the language of the Goliath, although most consider this to be beneath them.
Culture and cultural heritage
The Drow culture of the Zaphrian dynasty is a culture of dominance, internally and externally. Within the dynasty, the families vie for higher status and power. The men dominate the women, and the women try to become priestesses of Lolth to gain a modicum of power.
Despite all the infighting the dynasty usually presents a united front when dealing with outsiders. They try to express their superiority in every way. They take slaves to sell or to sacrifice to Lolth. They rarely make trades where they do not come out ahead. And they do not shy away from using assassinations to get want they want.
Common Etiquette rules
Greeting a Drow of higher standing requires you to touch your forehead with both hands and slightly bow the head. This is done to ensure the hands are far away from the weapons and sends the message that there is no intention of ill will. There is never a situation where both Drow perform the greeting. There can, however, be situations where no one performs the greeting. Either the standing of the individuals is unclear, or it sends the clear message that something bad is about to happen.
Female Drow are supposed to avoid looking at their male counterparts unless directly spoken to. The gaze of a priestess of Lolth, however, is highly sought after by the men as it represents being seen by Lolth herself.
Common Customs, traditions and rituals
Slavery is a common custom among the dynasty. However, not every family has a slave. A slave is a luxury item, but one every family strives toward having. The Drow only use Goliath slaves for themselves. Slaves from other races are usually sold or sacrificed. The main purpose of the slaves is to establish status. Working is only their second priority, which does not mean that slaves are treated well. Generally, they are treated as objects to be used and are clearly marked (via tattoos) to indicate which family they belong to.
These markings, however, are not limited to the slaves. Exiles or unworthy Drow are similarly marked to indicate their low standing.
Coming of Age Rites
At the age of 16, Drow children are wrapped in spider silk for an entire night. They then have to free themselves from their cocoon. Those who succeed are reborn and considered adults, whereas those who fail are sacrificed to Lolth.
Historical figures
Vrinn Zaphrian was the head of the dynasty when they landed on Vrinn Island. Through his efforts and leadership did they manage to push back the local Lizardfolk and Yuan-ti and were able to establish their new home on the island. As a way to honor his accomplishments, the island was named after him.
Ideals
Beauty Ideals
For both, men and women, slender athletic bodies are considered beautiful, and the darker the skin the better. Silver or white hair is very important. It is supposed to look like spider webs, and thus bring you closer to Lolth. Therefore, many Drow born with a different hair color eventually color their hair white or silver.
Gender Ideals
The ideal male Drow of the dynasty is powerful, intelligent, ambitious and most importantly in control. They hide their emotions and are supposed to always be scheming and plotting.
Female drow are supposed to be subservient to the males and should support them in any possible way. They should not worry and just be content. The only exception are women who join the Web of Lolth. These women carry a lot of respect and are listened to. Therefore, for women there is no higher honor than to be accepted to the Web.
Courtship Ideals
Courtship amongst the dynasty is not made out of love. Marriages are calculated and arranged for some kind of political gain.
Relationship Ideals
For the Drow of the Zaphrian dynasty, there is no equal relationship. A successful relationship is one where you are in complete control and can dominate the other side.
Major organizations
Web of Lolth - is the main religious organization of the dynasty. Only women can become a priestess of Lolth.
Weavers - The architects of the dynasty. They are responsible for all the construction in the dynasty's settlements.
Web's Reach - The traders (and slavers) of the dynasty.
Serenvir - The armed forces of the dynasty. They lost a lot of their respect after the Goliath insurgence.
Han'Dravvar - Scouts, spies, and assassins of the dynasty.
Related Locations