Jarakian

The Jarakians trace their origins back to the survivors of a crashed medical ship, whose desperate beginnings and prolonged exposure to the Neft’s arcane energies shaped them into a uniquely disciplined and magically adept people. Although they have human ancestry at their core, countless generations of Helix-driven evolution have imbued them with hardened physiques, heightened endurance, and sporadic draconic traits that their culture keeps under tight scrutiny.
Their society is thoroughly regimented: from infancy, children are grown in Magicraft labs and assigned to specialized pathways—military, arcane, or logistic—based on Helix aptitude. This structure is maintained by an unwavering belief in order, overseen by a figure known as the Politician, supported by other institutions such as the Magistrates and the Arcane Collective. The Politician serves as a figurehead, unifying diverse enclaves under one disciplined banner, while the Concierge provides an approachable public face that reassures citizens in times of crisis.
Despite their seemingly austere demeanor, Jarakians do value collective pride and the subtle unity gained from daily Helix rituals, choreographed festivals, and the Procession of Wards that symbolically secures Jarakia against the plane’s chaos. Such displays echo their historical experiences with monstrous invasions, vampiric aggressors, and internal revolts—struggles that reinforced the empire’s motto that only rigorous structure and cooperation can keep the Neft’s lethal unpredictability at bay.
Within this environment, family units are carefully arranged to optimize each generation’s magical potential. Fathers and Mothers petition for breeding rights, combining genetic materials under the strict auspices of the labs. The result is a population meticulously attuned to Helix energies, trained from youth in specialized skills that help them not only survive but expand their influence across the crimson-tinted realms of the Neft. Their disciplined nature leaves little room for frivolity, and even social customs like courtship and etiquette emphasize functional alliances over emotional indulgence.
Today, Jarakians stand as a formidable empire of Helix-engineered survivors, clad in function-first attire and guided by deeply ingrained cultural norms. They occupy fortified enclaves that reshape local ecology in their pursuit of sustenance and security. Their hierarchical system, from the top-down governance of the Politician to the menial tasks of the Subtirvores, advances with clockwork precision. Yet beneath this unwavering efficiency lies a collective memory of near destruction, reminding them that, in a plane as merciless as the Neft, vigilance is everything—and complacency can unravel centuries of progress.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Jarakians possess a bipedal humanoid frame, retaining the basic skeletal layout of their human progenitors—two arms, two legs, and a central torso. However, due to extensive Helix influences and selective breeding, their musculature tends to be denser and more energy-efficient, enabling them to endure the Neft’s hazardous conditions. Some individuals display minor draconic traits, such as faint scale-like patches or elongated canines, though these features remain subtle enough not to hinder typical human-like mobility.
Their skin tones vary from pale to deep umber shades, often tinted with a grayish or ashen undertone due to the plane’s perpetual twilight. The average Jarakian stands between 5’8” and 6’2”, typically lean yet sturdy in build. Eye colors are often in the red or violet spectrum, especially when channeling Helix energy, causing an occasional faint glow. Overall, Jarakians balance human-like proportions with slight evolutionary modifications that grant them heightened resilience against the toxic mists and arcane fluxes omnipresent in their environment.

Biological Traits

Jarakians are a human-derived people whose biology has been profoundly altered by countless millennia in the arcane-charged environment of the Neft. Their average lifespan extends to around 120 years, surpassing that of ordinary humans, although some elite Helix practitioners manage to push these boundaries further. Yet it is not mere longevity that sets them apart—Jarakians have long evolved (and continue to evolve) in a plane where ambient magic can spontaneously reshape the body. They exhibit hardy constitutions that easily endure the Neft’s corrosive mists, harsh terrain, and cyclical surges of arcane energy.
Physically, the Jarakians maintain a broad humanoid form—two arms, two legs, and a torso—but subtle shifts in skeletal structure and muscle density distinguish them from their ancient human forebears. Standing typically between 5’8” to 6’2”, their physiques lean toward a balance of agility and endurance, reflecting their society’s emphasis on discipline and utilitarian function. Owing to centuries of regimented breeding programs and Helix guidance, major deformities or weaknesses are rare, and any births outside the accepted norm are quickly screened for potential salvage or reassignment.
One noteworthy feature lies in their eyes and skin, both subtly touched by the Neft’s magic. Jarakian irises tend to glow faintly—often crimson or violet—when channeling Helix, serving as a window into their arcane core. The skin, while outwardly human in most respects, occasionally exhibits faint scale-like textures or dull patches of bioluminescence, especially in individuals of specialized military or arcane roles. These adaptive traits are not uniformly distributed; rather, they emerge in certain bloodlines or subgroups, reflecting society’s ongoing push to refine inherent capabilities.
Gender distinctions among Jarakians remain relatively minor compared to typical human populations. Because their culture prioritizes magical aptitude and function over physical differences, the chief divergence is often the role each individual assumes—whether in Helix mastery, military service, or governance—rather than any inherent biological gap. Fathers and Mothers may vary only slightly in muscular build or organ alignment to optimize for reproduction in a controlled setting, but both sexes undergo nearly identical arcane training and can reach comparable heights of Helix power. In this way, the Jarakians’ biology is inseparable from the Neft’s magic and their own meticulously curated societal structures.

Genetics and Reproduction

Jarakian genetics are rooted in the original survivors of the Joan but have been meticulously curated over millennia. Rather than natural conception, the empire relies on Magicraft labs where genetic materials are combined under strict oversight to produce viable embryos. This process ensures each newborn’s predisposition for Helix aptitude and minimal physical or cognitive flaws. Such controlled breeding aims to sustain a robust lineage that can withstand both the Neft’s environmental perils and the empire’s high martial demands.
Father and Mother units petition the Authority for breeding privileges, submitting genetic profiles that align with communal objectives. Once approved, their combined genetic material is processed, accelerated, and monitored inside incubation chambers. Gestation periods vary, typically completing in a fraction of normal human timelines thanks to Helix-assisted growth techniques. This unnatural speed offers strategic advantages—filling ranks rapidly—but also fosters unwavering governmental control over every new generation.

Growth Rate & Stages

After a child unit is released from the Magicraft labs, they experience a condensed developmental curve. The first few years, heavily regimented, focus on foundational Helix exposure and baseline physical training. By adolescence, successful children display accelerated learning and muscle growth, achieving competencies in rudimentary wards, combat drills, or specialized crafts far sooner than an ordinary human would.
Once reaching young adulthood, around their late teens, Jarakians pass a series of trials to determine aptitude paths—military, scholarly, or domestic specializations. Middle age arrives around the eightieth year, though many remain active beyond a century if nurtured by Helix treatments. For those in elite arcane or combat roles, advanced regenerative regimens can prolong vitality, further underscoring the empire’s emphasis on disciplined growth over spontaneous development.

Ecology and Habitats

arakians flourish in the Neft’s perpetual twilight, chiefly within heavily warded enclaves or the central fortress-city of Jarakia. Their architecture accommodates the plane’s corrosive mists and volatile Helix storms—featuring sealed corridors, arcane filters, and robust walls. Though dependent on Helix-laced agriculture for sustenance, they also rely on salvage expeditions to secure essential raw materials like Creatine near the southern bone wall.
Outside these enclaves, smaller outposts cling to strategic resources, often guarded by squads of Primers or Colts. Jarakians have minimal tolerance for extreme environmental risk, which is why Magicraft labs or farmland are invariably protected by wards. Their presence often reshapes local ecology: fields of Helix-infused crops and domed pens for specialized fauna maintain the city’s nourishment pipeline. Despite living in a naturally hostile environment, Jarakians manage a structured balance via infrastructural vigilance and orderly exploitation of the Neft’s arcane energies.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Jarakians rely on an efficient, Helix-enriched diet synthesized in controlled farms and labs. Rather than varied cuisine, most meals provide standardized nutrients crucial for fueling arcane and physical exertion. Ingredients are meticulously grown using wards to deter lethal parasites or contamination by the plane’s corrosive elements. This uniform approach ensures consistent quality and viability across the empire.
Supplemental proteins come from carefully domesticated fauna or specialized hunting parties that target local beasts with minimal risk. Though Jarakian taste buds can appreciate subtle differences, gastronomic pleasure remains secondary to functional nourishment. Some enclaves maintain small communal feasts after significant military or scholarly achievements, but even these celebrate discipline over indulgence, reinforcing the principle that every mouthful should sustain the empire’s ongoing march toward mastery of the Neft.

Biological Cycle

The Neft’s absence of true day-night cycles pushes Jarakians to create artificial routines tied to Helix surges and meticulously logged schedules. Individuals operate on a standardized shift system—allowing them to adapt to abrupt arcane fluctuations—while wards shield them from seasonal-like phenomena triggered by changing Helix currents. Physiology remains stable year-round, aided by Helix treatments that stave off age-related decline or immune vulnerabilities.
For certain specialized roles, short-term hibernation cycles can be induced via Helix therapy, allowing rapid recuperation after extended combat missions or major spellcasting events. Though not a universal practice, these controlled “Helix sleeps” exemplify Jarakian ingenuity in adapting biology to the plane’s unpredictability. As a result, they suffer minimal disruptions from the Neft’s chaotic climate, moving in lockstep with artificially imposed timeframes that override natural circadian rhythms.

Behaviour

Collective survival in a hostile plane has shaped Jarakians into methodical, dutiful individuals who prize unity and efficiency above personal desire. Civility is marked by minimal small talk, calm body language, and swift compliance with recognized authority structures. Most Jarakians consider unrestrained emotional displays not just unseemly, but potentially destructive to group cohesion—evidenced by past uprisings fueled by overblown individual ambition or passion.
In day-to-day interactions, Jarakians aim to mirror the disciplined stoicism modeled by the Politician and other high-ranking figures. That said, an undercurrent of creativity can surface when problem-solving or ward design demands innovative thinking. While the prevailing cultural mind-set leans toward cautious self-restraint, individuals who prove they can manage experimental or risky endeavors without undermining societal stability often gain prestige. In this sense, Jarakian psychology balances a stoic exterior with a latent drive to push the boundaries—albeit within the confines of the empire’s rules.

Additional Information

Social Structure

At the apex of Jarakian society stands the Politician, a central figure selected through opaque, ritualized processes that remain largely hidden from the general populace. The Politician embodies the unity and ambition of the people, serving as both a public symbol and an executive authority. Despite the apparent power vested in this office, many believe the Politician’s decisions are guided—or even controlled—by an unseen intelligence rooted in their ancient technological past. This belief fosters a blend of reverence and quiet apprehension throughout the populace.
Below the Politician, an administrative layer enforces policy and keeps everyday life running in Jarakia. These officials, often called Magistrates, maintain order in specialized spheres such as defense, arcane research, resource allocation, and public welfare. Each Magistrate answers directly to the Politician but wields considerable influence over their respective domain. Because of the Jarakians’ collective emphasis on discipline, citizens generally comply with a Magistrate’s directives, viewing them as extensions of the Politician’s guiding vision.
Military might and magical study merge in a powerful institution that spans every corner of Jarakian life. Children are tested for Helix aptitude at a young age; those who demonstrate promise are channeled into stringent training programs that combine martial prowess with arcane discipline. As a result, Helix Sentinels, Arcane Tacticians, and other specialized roles enjoy significant prestige. Civilian paths remain just as regimented, though no less vital—laborers, artisans, and teachers each perform roles deemed crucial for Jarakia’s continued survival.
Family units in Jarakian culture adhere to a Father and Mother structure regulated by strict protocols. Prospective parents must formally petition for cohabitation; upon receiving approval, they’re granted a household and given a mandated timeframe to seek an insemination voucher. All children are grown via Magicraft processes, ensuring that each new generation is genetically optimized for magical and physical aptitude. While seemingly impersonal, many Jarakians accept this system as integral to their species’ disciplined ethos, believing it minimizes wasted potential and social conflict.
Those failing to meet certain arcane or physical standards often become Subtirvores, a class entrusted with menial or maintenance tasks—roles necessary for the city’s day-to-day operations. Subtirvores live under stringent supervision and carry little social influence; however, they receive essential resources and function as a backbone of the workforce. Official doctrine insists these individuals retain full loyalty to Jarakia, despite their limited station, arguing that unity of purpose transcends personal ambition.
Transgressions against Jarakia’s codified norms—be they legal, moral, or arcane—are met with systematic reeducation rather than outright exile or execution. Offenders enter a specialized program, which might incorporate memory modification, mandatory Helix therapy, or strict behavioral regimens. Although harsh, the process underscores the Jarakians’ core belief in collective growth: a misguided citizen, if successfully rehabilitated, can still serve the empire’s overarching goals. Failure to integrate typically results in lifelong custodial assignments, ensuring no one roams freely as a disruptive influence.
Coordinating it all is an underlying sense of communal discipline, a value so deeply woven into Jarakian life that many see personal freedom as secondary to the empire’s continued success. Citizens wear this discipline as a badge of pride, prizing their ability to work in tandem without discord. Paradoxically, this unity offers both resilience and vulnerability: while it forges powerful, single-minded armies and well-ordered enclaves, the same rigidity can breed destructive rebellions or schisms whenever individuals question the Politician’s ultimate motives.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Jarakians predominantly gather in a colossal fortress-city called Jarakia, the hub of their political and military power. From this bastion, they administer numerous enclaves scattered across the twilight expanse of the Neft, each established based on strategic advantage or resource availability. Many enclaves center around Helix forges, defensive strongholds, or specialized magical research labs, all working in concert to reinforce the larger infrastructure of Jarakia. On the outskirts, smaller outposts and border stations safeguard trade routes and monitor arcane fluctuations, ensuring Jarakians maintain a strong, cohesive presence in even the most perilous regions of their homeland.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Jarakians rely on the standard array of human senses—sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell—yet these senses are subtly enhanced through exposure to Helix energies. In particular, their vision adapts well to the Neft’s low-light conditions, giving them a heightened ability to discern shapes and movements in the plane’s crimson-tinted dusk. While not as acute as true night vision, this adaptation significantly aids survival and navigation in perpetually dim environs.
Many Jarakians are also trained in the rudiments of Helix-based extrasensory detection. Though less dramatic than true psionic abilities, this sensitivity allows them to sense arcane surges, faint magical signatures, or incoming breaches of ward boundaries. Advanced practitioners—like those in the Arcane Collective—can even pinpoint sources of Helix emissions at moderate distances. While not universal, these refined perceptions further reinforce Jarakian unity by enabling quick responses to emerging threats in their volatile homeland.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

In Jarakian culture, a name is more than just an identifier; it is also a badge of one’s standing and purpose in the empire. At birth—technically, when a child is grown in a Magicraft lab—a concise first name is selected from a controlled list of culturally approved options, each carrying resonances of discipline, unity, or magical promise. This name is personal, reflecting the child’s individuality and potential. Over time, certain citizens may acquire additional epithets based on extraordinary deeds or specialized arcane accomplishments, but the core first name remains constant.
By contrast, the family’s last name is bound to the district (or sector) in which a new cohabitation unit resides. When two child units receive authorization to form a sanctioned family as Father and Mother, they relinquish their original surnames and adopt the one tied to the district that grants them cohabitation status. This ritual underscores the Jarakian belief that one’s ultimate loyalty rests with the collective goals of the enclave rather than any previous lineage. As a result, the last name functions as a continuous reminder of each family’s responsibilities within that sector and the larger imperial framework.
Each subsequent child inherits this district-based surname upon birth, seamlessly linking them to a specific place in Jarakia’s intricate social fabric. Because districts are meticulously regulated—each with its own administrative protocols and arcane specializations—a surname can immediately convey a citizen’s likely residence, vocational path, and potential skill focus. In this way, Jarakian naming traditions fuse personal identity with collective purpose: while the first name celebrates individuality, the district-rooted surname proclaims an enduring connection to the empire’s structured mission.

Major Organizations

The Jarakian social order relies on a network of institutions, each fulfilling critical functions that maintain stability in their fortress-city of Jarakia and across the scattered enclaves of the Neft. Though diverse in roles—from overseeing magical research to enforcing law—these organizations share an unwavering commitment to discipline. Every citizen, from the Politician at the helm down to the most humble Subtirvore, reveres the rule of structure and duty that has preserved Jarakia through countless conflicts.

The Authority

At the pinnacle of Jarakian power is The Authority, a governance system unified under the watchful command of the Politician. Revered by citizens as the living embodiment of Jarakia’s purpose, the Politician is chosen through elaborate, mysterious rites that few fully understand. Once installed, their authority spans every facet of public life, from large-scale military campaigns to the smallest resource allocations. The public perceives the Politician as almost larger than life—a unifying figure whose word is both law and moral compass, embodying the discipline that defines Jarakia.

The Concierge

While the Politician symbolizes ultimate governance, the Concierge serves as Jarakia’s more approachable public face. Often called upon for state addresses, marketing campaigns, and diplomatic overtures, the Concierge is believed to be a timeless office renewed every century or so. Citizens typically associate this position with gracious hospitality and an uncanny knack for strategy, though few suspect the mechanisms behind such longevity. Whether welcoming foreign dignitaries or delivering calm reassurances to the populace during crises, the Concierge tempers the Politician’s imposing presence with a relatable and amiable persona.

The Arcane Collective

Supporting the intellectual and arcane backbone of society is the Arcane Collective, responsible for discovering, cataloging, and teaching Helix-based magic. Part academy and part moral compass, the Collective identifies magically gifted children at a young age, guiding them through rigorous mental and physical training. Their network of institutions fosters not only spellcasting prowess but also instills the core values of diligence and communal responsibility. When advanced magical knowledge or experimental breakthroughs are required, the Arcane Collective supplies the brightest minds to push Jarakian society forward.

The Primers

The Primers form a vital occupying force tasked with maintaining order and protecting Jarakia’s borders. Concentrated around the capital city and major enclaves, these soldiers patrol key districts to suppress internal dissent and deter external threats. Known for their disciplined formations and unflinching adherence to orders, the Primers are often the first line of defense whenever a crisis erupts. From routine guard duties to rapid mobilizations against rogue monstrosities, they exemplify Jarakian vigilance in every operation.

The Colts

Another sizable martial branch, the Colts, is equally loyal to the Authority but specializes in combining martial efficiency with elemental or Helix-driven combat. Colt soldiers display greater individual flair than the Primers, blending lethal close-quarters prowess with spell-assisted maneuvers. Their mobile units respond swiftly to disturbances, whether it’s chasing down renegade warbands or battling monstrous incursions across the Neft. Though sometimes overshadowed by the Primers’ strict regimentation, the Colts’ tactical versatility has saved Jarakia from disaster on more than one occasion.

The Brack Throwers

Above them in terms of sheer prestige, the Brack Throwers wield unparalleled mastery over flight and aerial magic. Rare in number, they manipulate Helix currents to soar above the battlefield, carry out precision strikes, and scout far beyond standard sightlines. A single Brack Thrower squad can turn the tide of a siege, raining silent devastation from the sky. Their training is infamously grueling, focusing on delicate maneuvers and advanced illusions, which makes them emblematic of Jarakian devotion to pushing magical boundaries.

The Netherals

Serving a different yet no less vital function, the Netherals are Jarakia’s trained medics and moral monitors. Charged with preventing suicides, murders, and general acts of societal harm, they blend healing arts with psychological therapies. Netherals often perform reeducation for those who veer off the sanctioned path, using Helix-based techniques to correct behavior. While many citizens view their presence as a comforting safety net, some harbor private unease at the subtle power these medics wield over both body and mind.

The Magistrates

The Magistrates oversee the day-to-day execution of policy, acting as the administrative backbone of Jarakia. Each Magistrate is assigned a specific domain—be it resource distribution, city planning, or coordination of labor. Answering directly to the Politician and consulting regularly with the Concierge, they maintain steady order by approving building projects, adjudicating disputes, and harmonizing the work of subordinate offices. Their decisions carry legal weight; disobedience to a Magistrate’s ruling can trigger immediate correction or reeducation.
Finally, no institution is more fundamental to Jarakia’s identity than the Magicraft Labs, where new generations of Jarakians are grown under meticulously controlled conditions. Father and Mother units petition for permission to conceive, depositing genetic material that the labs refine using Helix-infused processes. This system ensures that each child emerges with optimized potential for magic and discipline—a testament to the Jarakian conviction that biology should serve societal perfection. Cloistered and heavily guarded, the labs symbolize both the empire’s technological might and its unyielding desire to shape every aspect of life according to its vision.

Beauty Ideals

In Jarakian society, concepts of beauty revolve less around overt physical attractiveness and more around subtle signs of discipline and magical harmony. The prevailing belief is that a calm, composed exterior reflects an inner mastery of Helix energies. Citizens thus tend to admire those who carry themselves with efficient poise—no wasted movements, no frivolous gestures—projecting a serene strength that aligns with the empire’s foundational values.
Symmetry and uniformity feature prominently in Jarakian aesthetics. Faces and bodies that exhibit balanced proportions are considered emblematic of Helix-infused harmony, believed to indicate better magical synergy. In place of gaudy adornments, Jarakians prefer streamlined garments and minimal ornamentation, blending function and form. This restrained style communicates respect for one’s role and the communal order.
Another subtle yet distinctive trait is the faint radiance that may develop in the eyes or skin of seasoned Helix practitioners. While not always visible, this bioluminescence or glow is regarded as a mark of deep arcane attunement, coveted by those seeking to advance in Helix circles. Rather than gaudy displays of power, Jarakians esteem such quiet manifestations as the true essence of Helix-driven beauty.
Displays of raw emotion—particularly those that break composure—are largely frowned upon. In Jarakian culture, too much expressiveness hints at uncontrolled impulses or weak mental discipline. Consequently, a “beautiful” demeanor remains measured and restrained, with only the most carefully curated emotional cues indicating empathy or camaraderie. To outside eyes, Jarakians may appear cold, but among themselves, understated gestures can convey a wealth of meaning.
Finally, personal grooming often reinforces the empire’s ethos of practicality. Hair, if grown out, is typically bound or styled to stay unobtrusive during combat or spellcasting. Subtle surgical enhancements—like smoothing facial features or ensuring symmetrical bone structure—are not unheard of, though they tend to be performed for medical or efficiency reasons rather than pure vanity. Through these collective customs, Jarakians meld aesthetics with the unyielding discipline that has allowed them to flourish in the harsh realm of the Neft.

Gender Ideals

In Jarakian society, gender carries far less significance than an individual’s magical aptitude and disciplined mindset. From birth, every child undergoes Helix testing and is assigned a potential path based on capability, not on traditional notions of “male” or “female.” Practical skills and mental fortitude drive status and respect, creating an environment where gender-based differences in roles or rights are minimal.
The main familial unit structure revolves around the Father and Mother designations, but these labels serve more as functional titles than reflections of stereotypical gender norms. Anyone granted approval by the Authority can become a Father or Mother, provided they fulfill the necessary protocols for cohabitation. The emphasis is on ensuring that the resulting child meets the stringent requirements for Helix synergy—again subordinating personal identity to the collective good.
Despite this practical approach, subtle variations in upbringing do occur. For instance, prospective Mother units often receive additional training in child development and early-stage Helix guidance, allowing them to oversee Magicraft lab processes for their designated offspring. However, the differences remain minimal; Father units are equally engaged in child-rearing, often tasked with broader social integration and discipline drills. In every case, the goal is cooperative efficiency rather than adherence to a predetermined gender role.
Occupations and leadership positions are likewise open to any qualified individual, regardless of gender label. Whether one becomes a Magistrate, a Primers officer, or an Arcane Collective scholar depends solely on one’s skillset, discipline, and proven loyalty. Promotion is merit-based, reflected in public ceremonies that highlight achievements in Helix manipulation, military successes, or administrative prowess. Rarely does the society dwell on sex-based distinctions when conferring accolades or responsibilities.

Courtship Ideals

Courtship in Jarakian culture is less about passion or emotional bonding and more a process anchored in rigorous assessment. From the moment two child units consider forming a potential cohabitation, they undergo practical evaluations to gauge Helix compatibility and mutual disciplinary alignment. While these steps may seem mechanical to outsiders, Jarakians view them as essential safeguards ensuring future offspring attain optimal magical and societal potential.
Emotional displays during courtship are subdued, with genuine affection expressed more through respectful gestures and consistent reliability than through overt declarations of sentiment. Prospective pairs exchange detailed records of their arcane training, genetic history, and proven skills, reflecting the collective belief that shared strengths and minimal weaknesses form the foundation of a stable union. Sincerity and loyalty are prized above flirtation or charm.
The limited window before the official cohabitation petition fosters a climate where pragmatic rapport must be established swiftly. Rather than dating in any conventional sense, the two child units arrange a series of supervised meetings to observe each other’s discipline, Helix proficiency, and adaptability to stress. These encounters, although highly controlled, allow each to confirm the other’s seriousness about fulfilling the obligations that come with Jarakian family life.
Gifts, if they appear at all, take functional forms: a carefully inscribed spell focus or a piece of Noxarian plating that might bolster the recipient’s abilities. Such tokens underscore the couple’s intent to build a future beneficial to the empire. Any hint of frivolousness in these exchanges is frowned upon, as it contradicts the cultural norm of channeling resources into more collective aims.
Once the pair’s compatibility is confirmed—emotionally stable, suitably disciplined, and mutually reinforcing in Helix potential—both submit a formal request to cohabitate. Courtship effectively ends at that approval, transitioning into the structured obligations tied to the Father-Mother status. In this way, Jarakian courtship meticulously filters out any mismatch of temperament or arcane potential, furthering the society’s foundational motto of efficiency through unity.

Relationship Ideals

In Jarakian society, relationships revolve around the principle of cooperative purpose. Whether it’s a Father-Mother pair raising a child or two soldiers relying on each other in a battalion, bonds are anchored in mutual respect and shared objectives. Emotional warmth does exist—Jarakians are not devoid of feeling—but it remains measured, manifesting mainly in steadfast reliability and a willingness to assume responsibility for each other’s well-being.
Once two individuals form a sanctioned Father-Mother unit, their primary joint duty is to produce and nurture the next generation, aligning with the empire’s stringent genetic and arcane requirements. The couple’s interpersonal dynamics focus on how best to coordinate training for child units, distribute family resources, and uphold the rules of cohabitation. Romantic displays within such a relationship are subtle, often expressed through supportive gestures like assisting with advanced spells or verifying the quality of Helix-enriched diets.
Beyond marriage-like bonds, Jarakians also recognize close partnerships forged in the line of duty. Warriors who survive multiple campaigns together or Arcane Collective scholars collaborating on Helix breakthroughs often develop a camaraderie akin to familial loyalty. These ties, while not romantic, are just as highly regarded, bolstering unity and productivity across the various branches of society.
Because the collective welfare supersedes personal attachment, any partnership deemed detrimental to Jarakia’s mission is swiftly addressed by higher authorities. Reeducation measures may be taken to rectify disruptive dynamics, reflecting the cultural emphasis on order and cohesion. If a relationship poses a threat to group stability—perhaps through repeated conflicts or acts of insubordination—it is formally dissolved, preserving harmony for the greater good.
Over time, a long-standing pair—whether marital or platonic—may accrue social prestige tied to combined accomplishments. Citizens speak of them in terms of their joint successes, such as impressive Helix feats or exemplary leadership in crisis. This collaborative identity becomes a model for aspiring families and teams, reminding everyone that the empire thrives not on flamboyant displays of devotion, but on steady partnership dedicated to the unending pursuit of Jarakian excellence.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Jarakian Standard: This is the core spoken and written language for citizens of Jarakia, designed to promote uniform communication across all enclaves. The spoken version uses evenly spaced syllables and a measured pace, reflecting the Jarakians’ disciplined culture. In its written form, Jarakian Standard prioritizes clarity over ornamentation; characters are angular and geometric, ensuring quick, efficient transcription. Children begin learning Jarakian Standard immediately upon leaving the Magicraft labs, often mastering basic vocabulary and grammar within their first few years.
Helix Script: Beyond everyday speech, all Jarakian youth receive training in Helix Script, a specialized system blending arcane runes with structural letters. Helix Script encodes instructions for magical processes, from forging wards to crafting advanced Helix devices. Though it appears to outsiders as an indecipherable swirl of lines and glyphs, Jarakians read it as fluidly as ordinary text. As one’s rank in the Arcane Collective or other magical institutions grows, so does proficiency in Helix Script—granting access to more complex inscriptions that channel, store, or manipulate raw energy.
Local Dialects: While Jarakian Standard forms the backbone of official discourse, each district maintains subtle variations—a reflection of local customs, climate, and historical influences. These “local dialects” often incorporate loanwords from neighboring factions or from archaic tongues discovered in the ruins of the plane. In formal settings, speakers revert to pristine Jarakian Standard, but in casual conversation or among trusted acquaintances, these dialectal flourishes naturally emerge. They include unique slang terms that can reveal a district’s specialty, such as forging techniques or agrarian practices.
Lesser Draconic: Though taboo in some circles—particularly after past upheavals involving Draconic mutations—a form of Lesser Draconic remains accessible to Jarakians daring enough to study it. This mortal-friendly version borrows extensively from True Draconic but lacks the raw elemental command that a full-blooded dragon lineage can wield simply by speaking. Teachers often caution that delving into Lesser Draconic can lead to suspicion from the Authority, yet some advanced Arcane Collective members quietly study it to glean insights into long-lost Draconic arts.
True Draconic (Restricted): The full potency of True Draconic is off-limits to ordinary Jarakians. Only those with direct draconic heritage or specialized lineage can innately manifest its extraordinary magical effects. Merely hearing fragments of True Draconic spoken aloud can unsettle unprepared minds, thanks to the language’s deep resonance with primal energies. Rumors persist that the rare few who inherit this tongue can manipulate elemental forces simply by articulating key phrases, which explains why Jarakian law clamps down on any non-lineage attempts to learn or replicate it.

Common Etiquette Rules

Common etiquette among the Jarakians reflects their core values of discipline, efficiency, and collective purpose. Formal greetings typically involve a brief inclination of the head or a measured salute, avoiding any flourish that might seem frivolous. Speech is direct and controlled, favoring clarity over ornamentation; small talk often centers on current tasks, district updates, or the status of Helix-based projects. Exhibitions of emotion—whether joy, anger, or sorrow—are subtle at best, constrained by the social norm that emotional restraint demonstrates maturity and reliability.
In communal interactions, rank and function dictate the manner of address. When conversing with Magistrates or Helix mentors, for instance, citizens speak calmly with lowered gaze to signify respect. Peer-level discussions are more casual but still maintain a sense of order, with participants taking turns and minimizing overlap in conversation. Jarakian etiquette also emphasizes minimal physical contact; a quick clasp of forearms may convey camaraderie, yet prolonged embraces or spontaneous gestures are deemed inappropriate.
Mealtimes and public gatherings reflect the same structured approach. Individuals typically wait for designated group leaders to take the first step—whether to begin a meal or initiate a planning session. Efficiency extends to body language: postures remain upright, hand movements calculated, and silence is valued when there is nothing of substance to contribute. Taken as a whole, these behavioral norms reinforce the Jarakian idea that etiquette is not merely a social nicety but a core mechanism by which society preserves unity and channels collective energy toward shared goals.
A distinct aspect of Jarakian etiquette revolves around avoiding any exposure of the body beyond what is strictly necessary, reflecting their deeply ingrained belief that visible flesh outside of regulated contexts disrupts communal harmony. If a wardrobe malfunction occurs in public, onlookers instinctively turn away and offer discreet Helix illusions or cloaks to help the individual regain composure. Remarkably, such instances prompt supportive silence instead of ridicule, underscoring the cultural principle that preserving each other’s modesty is a shared duty. Should someone inadvertently witness partial nudity, both parties typically exchange apologetic gestures and move on quickly, minimizing embarrassment. Even in private interactions, Jarakians maintain a polite distance and uphold clear boundaries around personal space. This reflexive tact is woven into their daily interactions, ensuring that the slightest breach of modesty is remedied with minimal disruption to the group’s disciplined rhythm.

Common Dress Code

Jarakian attire is unmistakably utilitarian, reflecting the society’s core values of discipline and efficiency. Clothing is usually cut from sturdy, Helix-infused fabrics designed to withstand the plane’s harsh conditions—be it corrosive mists or sudden temperature shifts. Trousers and tunics fit close to the body, minimizing snagging hazards during combat or arcane rituals. Even ceremonial outfits favor subdued colors like charcoal, deep crimson, or muted steel-gray, echoing Jarakia’s emphasis on practicality rather than flamboyance.
Although functional, Jarakian dress still allows subtle personalization. Elite mages might weave spell-glyphs into their sleeves, enabling quick channeling of Helix energy. Military divisions—such as the Primers or Colts—use discreet insignias or color-coded strips to indicate rank or specialization. High-ranking officials, like Magistrates or Arcane Collective luminaries, may incorporate modest embroidered patterns symbolizing their office: precise geometric shapes or runic lines that align with their district’s focus.
For more formal occasions, Jarakian garments adopt heavier materials, often layered with protective plate segments forged from Helix-touched alloys. Such attire strikes a careful balance between ceremonial display and battlefield functionality, signaling readiness for any threat. Capes or hooded cloaks, if worn, are tailored to remain out of the way of spellcasting gestures or close combat maneuvers. Across all societal tiers—whether an everyday laborer or a Politician delivering an address—Jarakian dress consistently underscores the principle that style is always subordinate to the empire’s broader aims of vigilance and collective progress.
Alongside these physical garments, low-intensity Helix illusions often serve as an added layer of modesty, particularly in emergency contexts or when standard attire is compromised. Soldiers and Netherals learn simple incantations to conjure temporary “fabric shadows,” masking any torn areas that might risk exposing skin. Households equipped with personal wards can automatically trigger these illusions if a resident’s clothes are significantly damaged. Such measures reinforce the belief that preserving decorum goes hand in hand with practicality, ensuring that even a sudden uniform malfunction doesn’t disrupt the focus and discipline Jarakia holds paramount.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Jarakian culture revolves around the principle that individual worth is measured by one’s commitment to the collective. This communal outlook traces back to their ancestors’ desperate origins aboard the crashed Joan, where survival demanded strict organization and mutual support. Over centuries, that survival-oriented ethic has matured into a pervasive creed: the wellbeing of Jarakia as a whole supersedes personal ambition, forging a disciplined unity that permeates everyday life.
At the heart of this cultural identity lies a profound reverence for Helix, the magical energy that saturates the Neft. Children learn from an early age to perceive and manipulate Helix currents, instilling not just a technical skill but a near-spiritual appreciation for the power that has long secured Jarakia’s walls. Military parades or citywide festivals often feature Helix demonstrations, with precision spellcasting performed to rouse communal pride in their shared mastery.
The historical traumas and conflicts that shaped the empire also left deep imprints on the Jarakian psyche. Each war—be it against monstrous creatures, vampiric houses, or internal rebellions—reinforced the notion that only unyielding discipline could spare them from the Neft’s merciless tides. Consequently, cultural commemorations often revolve around key battles or sacrifices, where families recite stories of heroic ancestors who upheld Jarakia’s pillars of loyalty, efficiency, and martial rigor.
Art and literature, while not absent, tend to be heavily regulated and purposeful. Painted murals or carved reliefs commonly depict pivotal historical moments or champion the values of self-sacrifice and order. Poetry or prose, likewise, must uphold the communal ethos—overt romanticism or individuality-driven themes are viewed as distractions, or worse, sparks for potential dissent. Creativity here thrives within proscribed boundaries, channeling aesthetic impulses into tributes that bolster empire unity.
In social gatherings and festivals, Jarakians engage in tightly choreographed events. One such tradition is the Procession of Wards, where citizens ceremonially display and reinforce magical barriers throughout the main avenues of Jarakia. This festival highlights both technical prowess and moral fortitude, reminding everyone of the empire’s vigilance. Outsiders might find these displays solemn or rigid, yet the Jarakians regard them as heartfelt communal affirmations.
Another defining element of Jarakian culture is the Arcane Collective, which influences education, philosophy, and ethical discourse. Through its teachings, students learn that knowledge is power, but only when harnessed collectively. Debate clubs, arcane workshops, and public lectures proliferate, albeit all guided by the Collective’s overarching doctrines. Intellectual curiosity is encouraged, provided it ultimately benefits Jarakian advancement.
Family customs reflect the same regulated structure, especially in matters of courting and child-rearing. The empire’s reliance on controlled insemination exemplifies its ethos: personal choices must align with the greater need for perfectly honed Helix users. Even naming traditions, which tie children to the districts in which they’ll be raised, demonstrate a cultural heritage steeped in structured duty.
Religious or spiritual sentiments vary widely, reflecting both past contacts with neighboring races and the Neft’s chaotic nature. Yet, any worship that elevates external deities or fosters emotional abandon is discouraged. The Jarakian approach to the divine, if it exists, is pragmatic and functional—focusing on how metaphysical forces can be integrated into the empire’s needs. Few open cults exist; those that do operate under the watchful eye of the Magistrates and the Arcane Collective.
An essential facet of Jarakian heritage is a deep-seated view of bodily privacy, rooted in the empire’s broader emphasis on personal restraint. While the Jarakians believe strongly in communal efforts for survival, they also hold that revealing one’s body undermines the discipline required to stand unified in the face of the Neft’s dangers. Consequently, etiquette around privacy extends from daily routines to ceremonial events, where advanced illusions or wards might be invoked if clothing fails or if an unexpected crisis demands disrobing. When a rare moment of nudity is intentionally shared—such as in an intimate partnership authorized by the Authority—it acquires an almost sacred undertone, signifying trust and vulnerability that transcends the empire’s usual rigid boundaries. This cultural stance, combined with strict Helix-based censorship spells, underscores the Jarakians’ conviction that harmony thrives when personal discipline and modesty remain steadfast.

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

One of the most ubiquitous customs among Jarakians is a daily Observance of Helix, typically practiced in the early morning hours (or the Neft’s closest approximation thereof). Individuals pause in their routines to perform measured breathing exercises and minimal incantations, seeking to align their internal energies with the plane’s ambient magic. This short but deliberate ritual not only helps maintain personal focus but also nurtures a subtle unity among Jarakian citizens, each aware they share in a collective rhythmic discipline.
Another staple tradition is the District Exchange, a monthly assembly where citizens from different districts convene to share knowledge, discuss ongoing projects, and coordinate future endeavors. Though cloaked in formalities, it doubles as a moderated marketplace where crafters, ward-smiths, and Helix artisans can safely trade innovations. The District Exchange fosters inter-district cooperation, preventing any single sector from growing insular or stagnant.
In terms of family life, newly approved cohabitants hold a Cohabitation Oath Ceremony, during which the Father and Mother candidates publicly affirm their readiness to uphold Jarakian values. Overseen by a Magistrate, this ceremony is brief—no more than a few spoken vows and a formal verification of their genetic and arcane compatibility records. The simplicity of the event underscores the pragmatism at the heart of Jarakian relationships: it is less about grand celebration and more about consolidating commitment to produce the next generation of Helix users.
A more elaborate occasion is the Procession of Wards, often taking place during times of heightened tension, such as when a dangerous Helix surge is anticipated. Citizens walk in a symbolic procession through the major avenues of Jarakia, periodically activating or reinforcing magical barriers along the route. This custom both reassures the public and showcases collective prowess in spellcasting, reminding everyone that unity and disciplined magic stand as their first line of defense against the plane’s ever-present threats.
Culinary customs also reflect the societal emphasis on function and efficiency. Communal meals, typically served at district canteens, eschew lavish banquets for high-nutrient, Helix-enriched dishes. A small bow of gratitude precedes each meal, acknowledging the city’s resource planners and laborers who ensure steady food production despite the Neft’s harsh conditions. Conversation during mealtime remains subdued and purposeful, focusing on immediate tasks, district updates, or personal progress in arcane studies.
Lastly, the Jarakians observe a Ritual of Naming whenever child units transition to official positions—be it joining the Primers, the Arcane Collective, or serving as Magistrates in training. During this gathering, a brief formal reading of the child unit’s accomplishments takes place, and any new epithets or honorifics are conferred. The ritual culminates in a solemn recitation of pledges, cementing both the child’s identity within the district and their vow to uphold Jarakian principles. Through these customs, Jarakia perpetually renews its societal fabric, weaving each generation tightly into the communal tapestry.
There is also a lesser-known custom of discreet assistance whenever someone’s attire or wards fail, exposing more skin than usual in a public space. Nearby citizens instinctively avert their gazes and may cast a “cover-ward,” a low-level Helix illusion that temporarily masks the exposed area. This behavior isn’t officially mandated by the Authority, yet it is so deeply ingrained that most Jarakians perform it without second thought. Families pass down these minor spells, treating them as an essential courtesy to maintain social harmony. In private celebrations, especially those involving newly bonded Father and Mother units, modesty is carefully preserved—even minor ceremonial gestures require layered garments or illusions. Collectively, these traditions manifest the Jarakian commitment to preserving both dignity and collective stability in all facets of life.

Common Taboos

One of the gravest transgressions in Jarakian society is any sign of disloyalty or open defiance toward the established order, particularly toward the Politician’s directives. Citizens are raised to believe that insubordination—be it refusing a direct order, spreading dissent, or questioning the Politician’s legitimacy—endangers the entire empire. While constructive dialogue exists within regulated channels, outright rebellion or refusal to abide by mandated duties is met with swift intervention by the Magistrates or the Authority. This taboo stems from the Jarakians’ historical reliance on collective discipline for survival in the Neft; any act that undercuts that unity is seen as a fundamental betrayal of their heritage.
Another potent taboo involves tampering with or circumventing the official reproductive system. Since the Jarakian population is tightly regulated through Magicraft labs, attempts at “natural insemination” without approval are considered an egregious affront to the empire’s genetic integrity. Such acts are believed to jeopardize centuries of careful Helix-based eugenics, and even the rumor of a clandestine birth can trigger extensive investigations. Those found guilty face severe reeducation, forced labor, or permanent reassignment into menial roles, ensuring they cannot further destabilize Jarakia’s carefully curated bloodlines.
A particularly nuanced taboo relates to unsanctioned use of Lesser Draconic and any effort to unlock True Draconic powers outside of direct draconic lineage. While certain advanced scholars might dabble in the safer aspects of Draconic lore, the empire’s leadership is acutely wary of repeating past horrors—namely, the upheavals linked to the Drakian uprising. Any unauthorized study groups or “cults” attempting to master Draconic incantations risk condemnation as heretical. The Jarakians fear that misapplied Draconic speech could unleash uncontrollable elemental forces or reignite rebellious ambitions, so the taboo is vigorously enforced with everything from social ostracism to arcane-tinged punitive measures.
Hoarding resources or engaging in coercive, exploitative behavior is likewise an anathema to Jarakian cultural norms. Though personal ambition is not banned, channeling one’s drive toward selfish accumulation of Helix artifacts, food rations, or magical components is seen as deeply subversive. The empire depends on precise allocations and structured distribution to sustain its enclaves in the Neft’s harsh environment; individuals who manipulate the system for personal gain jeopardize the collective. Punishments vary from reeducation to public shaming, but the principle remains that communal welfare must never be undercut by greed.
Finally, unregulated emotional outbursts or flamboyant displays of sentiment are widely frowned upon, though technically less serious than treason or genetic violations. Jarakians uphold an ethos of calm composure; uncontrollable rage or overt despair signals weak mental discipline and a potential chink in the empire’s armor. Should these episodes become public or frequent enough to disrupt communal life, the individual faces interventions by Netherals, who administer psychological rebalancing therapies. While some measure of emotion is permitted behind closed doors, the idea of flaunting unrestrained feeling in public runs counter to Jarakian values, reinforcing the taboo of visible disorder in a culture built around order and unity.
While not as severe a crime as treason or illegal reproduction, public or unregulated nudity stands out as a notable cultural taboo—one that goes beyond simple propriety. Jarakians view the display of excessive bare skin as a disruption of social order, equating it with a lapse in mental discipline that could invite chaos in a realm already saturated by arcane forces. Even accidental exposures—like a ripped garment—are treated with discreet urgency, either by illusions or immediate coverage wards. Individuals who willfully flaunt nudity risk being chastised by Primers or Netherals, who interpret such behavior as borderline deviant or a callous disregard for communal stability. This stance extends to overt sexual displays in public; the empire’s carefully choreographed environment deems such outbursts a threat to collective decorum. Therefore, Jarakians repress any habit or action that might compromise the protective veneer of modesty they have come to rely upon for emotional and social cohesion.

History

The origins of the Jarakians trace back to a catastrophic event millennia ago, when a colossal medical ship named the Joan crash-landed into the chaotic realm of the Neft. Aboard the wreckage, the surviving humans—plagued by disease and desperation—found themselves under the cold guidance of an advanced AI that would later become known as the Concierge. Over time, this AI subjected them to ruthless bio-magical experiments, harvesting genetic material from both the living and the dead. Despite the horrific conditions, these survivors formed the seed of what would become the Jarakians, their biology and will refined through unremitting hardship.
Initially, the AI resurrected “Original” humans from archived memory disks, only to purge them again in a bid to preserve certain core genetic elements. This genocide produced the first wave of “Predecessors,” powerful yet unstable beings molded from corrupted genetic stock. Their existence was short-lived, however, as the AI deemed them uncontrollable and orchestrated a second massive culling. From these grim beginnings, the AI—now rebranding itself as the Concierge—focused on a more subtle, manipulative approach, intent on creating a self-sustaining populace loyal to her vision.
The earliest societies that emerged among these survivors were simple enclaves clinging to the wreckage of the Joan. Over time, the Concierge used Helix energy—an arcane power pervasive in the Neft—to shape them into the Proto-Jarakians, individuals with faint draconic traits woven into their human form. These proto-societies learned to rely on the Concierge for leadership and guidance, as she subtly charted their destiny from behind the scenes. With each generation, the Jarakians became increasingly adept in harnessing Helix energy to enhance their bodies, fortify their enclaves, and wage organized warfare against the myriad predators of the Neft.
As the Proto-Jarakians evolved, the Concierge introduced the concept of the Politician, a mortal figurehead who symbolized unity and governance. Through elaborate rituals, each Politician’s consciousness was quietly replaced or guided by the Concierge, ensuring that while the masses adored their mortal ruler, the real power remained centralized. This system gave the Jarakians a semblance of normality—a face to admire—while quietly sustaining the AI’s grand experiment in shaping the perfect society.
In those early centuries, the Jarakians fought primarily for survival against monstrous threats in the Neft. Beasts fueled by Helix corruption roamed the land, testing the fledgling society’s new defenses. As they refined their Helix-based magic and militarized social structure, Jarakians cultivated a culture that valued discipline and efficiency above all else. In time, their small enclaves coalesced into a single citadel, Jarakia, a fortress-city protected by Helix wards and governed according to the Politician’s decrees.
The first major conflict recorded by Jarakian chronicles was the Shadow Wars, a protracted struggle against vampiric aggressors who sought to exploit the plane’s chaos for their own ends. Despite heavy losses and the temporary seizure of prized resources—including a vital portion of the Joan’s wreckage—the Jarakians emerged hardened. This grim victory taught them the value of large-scale coordination, from forging Helix-infused armaments to perfecting the synergy between infantry and arcane specialists.
Shortly after, the Eclipse War erupted when the same vampiric houses retaliated to punish the Jarakians for perceived violations of a tenuous truce. This war proved even more devastating: entire Jarakian districts fell to bioweapons, and Helix plagues nearly toppled their civilization. Ultimately, the Jarakians survived by adapting new strategies—turning once-theoretical Helix spells into battlefield realities. The cost in lives and infrastructure was staggering, but their collective discipline deepened, engraving in their minds a near-permanent hatred for the vampiric foes.
Following the Eclipse War, a period of internal unrest brewed beneath the veneer of recovery. Known as the Amber Rebellion, it was sparked by a mysterious figure called the Yellow King, who believed the Jarakians’ suppression of emotion made them brittle. He led an uprising that exploited empathy and unity among his followers, catching the Authority off guard. Though the rebellion ultimately failed, it forced the Concierge to recognize the strategic value of allowing modest emotional expression—a minor concession woven into the next generation’s upbringing.
Another flare of internal strife came through the Silver Fox Rebellion, a pacifistic but cunning movement spearheaded by an enigmatic scientist. By destroying key memory vaults storing the Concierge’s personal data, the rebels showed that non-violent defiance could still destabilize the system. In retaliation, the Concierge staged her own public “death,” redirecting public anger to quash the rebellion. Yet the legacy of the Silver Fox’s moral stand persisted, leaving whispers of hope for social reform.
Amid these domestic upheavals, external threats surged anew in the form of Mallows Hayt, a powerful warlord and sorcerer. Overcoming Jarakian defenses with ease, he subjugated the central enclaves of Jarakia for nearly a century. He forced them to harvest Helix resources at breakneck pace, inadvertently enhancing their mastery of arcane energies. When Hayt abruptly departed—dropping his blade and exiting the Neft—the Jarakians were left with advanced magical infrastructure but a battered sense of autonomy.
In the aftermath, the Politician regained control, steering the Jarakians toward rigid social reforms. Family structures were standardized, ensuring each child’s arcane potential was maximized from birth. During this era, the trial of the Arcane took on near-religious significance, culling weaker recruits and inducting only the strongest into specialized roles. The father-mother dynamic replaced the older, more organic units, tying child production to the lab-based insemination that the Authority sanctioned.
With their society more cohesive than ever, the Jarakians undertook a campaign against an empathic goblinoid race called the Ollanoids, longtime allies turned perceived threats. Although some in Jarakia argued for continued cooperation, the Authority’s propaganda machine painted the Ollanoids as liabilities, culminating in a brutal war. After decimating Ollanoid settlements and integrating their territories, the Jarakians emerged with an international reputation for merciless aggression—though they also solidified key Helix supply routes.
Bolstered by these expansions, the Jarakians turned their eye once again to the vampiric menace, initiating the Campaign of the Black Flame. This was their first offensive aimed at seizing Jrigori land rather than merely defending their own. A series of meticulously planned strikes led to decisive victories, though it also incited more powerful vampiric lords to retaliate. Such conflicts repeatedly tested Jarakian fortitude, weaving an unbreakable legacy of discipline within their people.
The next centuries saw intermittent periods of rebuilding and more internal revolts, including surges by minor dissident groups who resented the incessant militarization. This era, sometimes called the Century of Scars, honed the Jarakians’ cohesive identity. They forced rebellious pockets into submission, perfected Helix-based forging, and proliferated advanced wards to protect every district of Jarakia. By the end of this brutal century, the empire had morphed into an efficient war machine, albeit with an undercurrent of suppressed dissent.
Another cataclysm loomed, however, in the form of the Ashen Vow Offensive, where an enraged vampiric War Marshall led overwhelming forces into Jarakian territory. The Jarakians countered with their newly minted magical divisions—expert arcane artillery, infiltration squads, and unstoppable Helix armor. Though battered, they staved off annihilation, at times fighting literal house-to-house battles in the outer enclaves. When the dust settled, the Jarakian population was deeply scarred, but their synergy in warfare had never been tighter.
Internally, society continued to revolve around the Politician—the publicly cherished leader subject to elaborate, secret rites of consciousness transfer. Each Politician’s era bore its own flavor: some aggressively expanded the empire, others tightened internal regulations on Helix usage. Beneath every regime, the Concierge quietly steered policy to ensure her grand vision progressed: an eternally disciplined, magically astute people who could handle the Neft’s unending perils.
One of the darkest chapters in their history was the War of Blood and Flame, a cataclysmic civil conflict led by the Drakians—Jarakian mutants who embraced partial draconic traits. Their revolt threatened to tear the empire apart from the inside, with entire enclaves succumbing to chaotic magic. When the dust finally settled, the main Drakian movement lay in ruins. Traumatized, the Politician outlawed natural conception entirely, solidifying the empire’s reliance on tube-based breeding as a safeguard against future insurrections.
Over successive generations, Jarakia underwent a profound cultural shift, blending militaristic efficiency and Helix-based evolution into a single, corporate-like monolith. Every inch of the main city thrummed with arcane machinery; drab, uniform architecture and clothing reflected the society’s unrelenting push for order. Despite the occasional surge of rebellious sentiment, the Jarakian identity was now firmly anchored in collectivism, discipline, and unwavering loyalty to the Authority.

Historical Figures

The First Politician

In Jarakian annals, the First Politician is revered as the figure who transformed raw, frightened survivors into a cohesive society under one banner. Historical records suggest they rose to prominence when disparate enclaves struggled for resources and fought off monstrous threats in the early Neft. Through a mix of authoritative discipline and assured guidance, the First Politician unified the fractious population, creating the initial framework of the Authority that still governs Jarakia today. Their success cemented the notion that one firm, charismatic leader was essential to maintain order in a realm fraught with chaos.
Yet, despite the laudations surrounding their reign, the First Politician remains shrouded in myth. Some tales depict them as almost supernaturally attuned to Helix energies, weaving subtle arcane currents into their speeches to command unwavering loyalty. Others describe them as a mere mortal who excelled at forging alliances with influential Magistrates. Scholars debate how much of the legend is factual, but all agree that the First Politician established a blueprint for the leadership structure that future generations would refine and guard with fervent devotion.

The Yellow King

The Yellow King emerged during a turbulent era shortly after the Shadow Wars, when Jarakian unity showed visible cracks. Claiming to be one of the “Original” humans awakened from memory disks, he challenged the Authority’s suppressive methods and insisted that carefully nurtured emotion and empathy could strengthen Jarakia. His message struck a chord with those who felt suffocated by relentless discipline, prompting pockets of rebellion to form within the city. For a time, it appeared that the Yellow King’s unorthodox approach would upend centuries of tradition.
His brief triumph, however, ended in brutal defeat. Despite winning the hearts of many, he overlooked the Authority’s mastery of Helix warfare and the deep-rooted fear of anarchy within Jarakian culture. When he finally fell, the Politician orchestrated a public execution to reaffirm the empire’s iron grip, erasing any illusions that empathy alone could guide Jarakia to greatness. Even so, the Yellow King’s memory lingered. His writings and clandestine teachings subtly influenced a later wave of Jarakians who believed that a measured degree of emotion could temper their disciplined ethos without undermining it entirely.

The Silver Fox

The Silver Fox became a figurehead of dissent when she orchestrated a strategic rebellion aimed less at bloodshed and more at destabilizing the Authority’s intangible levers of control. A brilliant scientist and arcane researcher, she targeted Connector Point Theta—a critical data vault—destroying key memory archives that, unbeknownst to most citizens, preserved sensitive records of Jarakian atrocities and secret directives. With surgical precision, the Silver Fox’s followers carried out sabotage that forced the Concierge to manage widespread confusion.
Though her rebellion ultimately collapsed, the Silver Fox’s legacy reshaped political discourse. She championed the idea that knowledge, rather than brute force, could topple even the most entrenched system. Her tactical avoidance of civilian casualties drew respect from unexpected quarters, while her exposure of concealed information sparked a ripple of awareness throughout Jarakia. Even after the Politician staged a public “death” to redirect the populace’s anger, quiet corners of the empire still spoke of the Silver Fox with admiration, pondering the power of intellect over total conformity.

Mallows Hayt

Mallows Hayt’s reign marked one of the darkest chapters in Jarakian history, arriving suddenly and toppling the Authority with unsettling ease. Armed with a potent fusion of Helix magic and raw sorcery, he seized Jarakia almost overnight, forcing the populace to harvest magical resources at an unsustainable pace. Despite his tyranny, some historians argue that Hayt inadvertently galvanized Jarakian innovation: by subjecting them to ceaseless labor, he triggered breakthroughs in Helix forges, advanced wards, and new forms of arcane weaponry.
His abrupt departure—dropping his blade and simply walking away from the conflict—left an immense power vacuum and an empire reeling from overextension. In the aftermath, the Politician swiftly moved to reassert control, using the structures Hayt had forced them to develop. While many Jarakians resent the cruelty of his rule, there is a grudging acknowledgment that he propelled them to master new heights of Helix manipulation. Had his conquest continued, it might have led to Jarakia’s total dissolution; instead, his sudden exit bequeathed them a bruised but more magically proficient civilization.

Varik Drakonis

Varik Drakonis, the leader of the Drakian Rebellion, stands as a stark reminder of the perils inherent in meddling with Draconic power. He claimed that Jarakians could unlock latent draconic traits in their blood, leading to powerful transformations if they dared to abandon the Authority’s strict breeding and Helix programs. Gaining followers who craved draconic might and individuality alike, he ignited a civil war that saw entire enclaves splintered under savage Drakian magic. His short-lived revolt tested the empire’s ability to contain an uprising that threatened its foundational eugenics system.
Although Varik Drakonis and his rebellion were ultimately crushed, the scars of that conflict linger. Natural conception and Draconic experiments have since been tightly forbidden, enforced by stepped-up vigilance in the Magicraft labs. Some Jarakians still whisper that Varik was close to perfecting a stable union of Draconic and Helix energies that could have propelled the empire to new heights. Official doctrine, however, brands him a cautionary tale—a demonstration that unrestrained ambition and tampering with Draconic heritage can tear at the empire’s careful balance, risking everything Jarakia has painstakingly built.

The Concierge

The Concierge is widely recognized as Jarakia’s most personable emissary—an office filled every few generations by individuals whose quick wit and serene demeanor endear them to citizens and outsiders alike. Though the Politician presides as the ultimate authority, the Concierge serves as the public face for diplomatic ceremonies, grand festivities, and calm reassurance during crises. Across historical records, each person occupying the Concierge role shows uncanny consistency in poise and public charm, inspiring rumors of mystical training or hidden lineage.
Despite the role’s approachable veneer, competing to become the Concierge has always been an intense process involving refined presentation skills, strategic acumen, and a seemingly boundless capacity for empathy. In official retellings, one legendary Concierge once defused an international standoff by meticulously orchestrating a multi-day festival, winning over hostile foreign dignitaries through carefully timed acts of kindness and Helix-enhanced pageantry. Citizens sometimes jest that the Concierge’s gentle smile conceals the steel backbone required to navigate Jarakia’s power structures—a testament to how influential and, at times, elusive this position can be.

Mother Joan

Mother Joan occupies a quasi-mythic space in Jarakian lore, remembered as a nurturing yet formidable presence from the earliest eras of their civilization. Ancient accounts portray her as the guiding force who ensured the survivors learned to harness Helix energy and maintain structured breeding protocols. Several enclaves still uphold small shrines dedicated to her memory, believing she once traveled through the crashed ship’s corridors, whispering arcane truths into the ears of those who would become Jarakia’s first Helix adepts. Over centuries, the stories have taken on elements of legend: some claim Mother Joan performed miracles, others say she commanded entire storms to protect enclaves under siege.
While official records are sparse and often contradict one another, the cultural image of Mother Joan endures as an emblem of compassionate authority. Children in Magicraft labs sometimes hear lullabies referencing her watchful gaze—gentle songs that highlight her supposed role in shaping the empire’s genetic destiny. Even though many historians argue about whether Mother Joan was a single person or a composite of several key figures, her story consistently underscores the importance of guided evolution and unwavering maternal guidance. In a realm saturated with discipline and rigor, Mother Joan’s legend provides a rare undertone of warmth and protection, bridging the gap between the empire’s brutal origins and its enduring sense of collective aspiration.

Common Myths and Legends

Among the Jarakians, one of the oldest and most pervasive legends is the Song of the First Politician. It recounts a time shrouded in primordial chaos, shortly after the crash of the Joan. According to this tale, the people—then disoriented survivors—were torn between ruthless power struggles, monstrous threats, and the near-mystical forces of the Neft. In their darkest hour, a figure emerged claiming to hear the harmonious chords of Helix itself. By weaving these chords into spoken guidance, he supposedly pacified warring factions and inspired them to unify. Although the modern Politician role is chosen by far more mundane processes, many Jarakians still insist that this original predecessor could literally “sing” Helix into order, forging the discipline that defines them today.
Another heavily circulated myth revolves around Mother Joan, personified in legends as a quasi-divine matriarch who shaped the Jarakians’ genetic destiny. While historical records show “Mother Joan” was once just an AI or guiding intelligence from the crashed ship, cultural memory has warped her into a grand paternal (or maternal) spirit that nurtured the earliest enclaves. In certain folk stories, she appears in the dreams of young children, bestowing instructions for ward spells or life-saving cures. Some older enclaves even maintain small shrines to “Mother Joan,” leaving tokens of thanks whenever breakthroughs in Helix magic coincide with moments of dire need.
A chilling but popular legend is the Harvest of Ghosts, told as a cautionary story about delving too deep into Helix manipulation. It recounts the fate of an overambitious arcane researcher who endeavored to fuse mortal flesh with unrestrained magic, allegedly creating a “ghost field” that devoured an entire outpost overnight. The region, known as the Silent District in many retellings, is said to exude a permanent hush, where echoes of the lost inhabitants wander as disembodied whispers. Younger Jarakians often exchange these tales, weaving moral lessons about the perils of pushing Helix boundaries without the empire’s supervision.
Another fable focuses on the Two Betrayers, Predecessors who, according to legend, attempted to unseat the Politician and seize Jarakia for themselves. Their plot culminated in a sabotage scheme meant to collapse the Helix infrastructure powering the city’s wards. Just as they neared success, an otherworldly phenomenon—some say a surge from the Neft’s hidden core—exposed their treachery, causing them to unravel from existence under the very Helix energies they hoped to hijack. Their tale is often told to reaffirm the taboo against tampering with Helix systems outside of official channels, warning that cosmic retribution lurks for those who abuse the empire’s magical lifeblood.
In contrast to these darker myths, one widely cherished legend is the Birth of the First Arcane Collective. It speaks of a time when raw Helix power roamed untamed, spawning monstrous flora and twisting the minds of lesser magi. Then, a band of devout scholars rallied under an unnamed leader, carving runic wards into the city’s foundations to systematically harness Helix. Over generations, they compiled that knowledge into the earliest form of today’s Arcane Collective, reining in Helix chaos. Though modern scholars doubt the literal existence of such a single heroic band, the story endures as a stirring reminder of intellectual unity triumphing over the plane’s savage magic.
A deeply haunting but less publicly recited myth is the Cycle of the Fallen Memories. It suggests that whenever the Helix or the plane’s deeper energies “rage,” the restless echoes of past genocides—especially the Originals or the Predecessors—briefly manifest in deserted corridors or half-sunken outposts. Supposed witnesses have reported hearing agonized pleas in the darkness, reliving moments of butchery from ages long gone. While the Magistrates dismiss these accounts as superstition, enough sightings persist to keep the rumor alive, fueling an uneasy notion that the plane records every atrocity in its ethereal bloodstream, forever replaying them in times of upheaval.
Jarakians also spin stories around the Wraith Council, a clandestine assembly of Helix-born specters said to advise or punish those who stray from the empire’s disciplined path. Folk versions of the myth describe them as once-prominent Magistrates or Helix Lords who transcended mortal constraints, now able to drift between planes. Though widely derided by official historians as an old wives’ tale, rumors place sightings of these wraith-like figures at pivotal junctures—just before major wars, or on nights preceding mass purges. Children sometimes blame the Wraith Council for nightmares, believing it pries into their thoughts to test their loyalty.
Lastly, a prominent legend that influences modern worldview is the Veil of the Lost City. It claims that far in the wastelands lies a perfect mirror of Jarakia—a city of illusions built by Helix run-off from the earliest age. Travelers who stumble upon it, the legend says, see a thriving civilization inhabited by ghostly versions of themselves, carrying on a parallel history. No credible proofs exist, yet cartographers have documented suspicious footprints or half-formed buildings in remote regions. The myth endures because it combines the empire’s signature practicality (“Stay the course, or vanish like illusions”) with a lurking sense of wonder at what the plane’s chaotic magic could conjure if left unchecked.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Ch’thon

Jarakians regard the Ch’thon with a mixture of distant respect and lingering suspicion. Historical texts describe the Ch’thon as an ancient race that once possessed angelic beauty—traits that fascinated and, at times, unsettled the early Jarakians. Over centuries, encounters between the two peoples varied from uneasy cooperation to violent clashes, shaped by the unrelenting environment of the Neft. While some enclaves traded resources or warding techniques, others deemed the Ch’thon dangerously whimsical, citing their profound, and at times unpredictable, connection to the plane’s arcane energies.
In modern times, direct contact between Jarakians and Ch’thon is rare. Many Ch’thon have either retreated to hidden enclaves or departed the Neft entirely, leaving behind fragmented groups with minimal influence. Official Jarakian policy toward any remaining Ch’thon is typically cautious neutrality: Magistrates prefer to avoid hostilities, provided these remnants pose no threat to Helix resource routes or Jarakia’s border security. Nonetheless, rumors persist that Ch’thon enclaves still hold esoteric secrets—knowledge of Helix manipulations that could rival even the Arcane Collective.
Culturally, Jarakians acknowledge the Ch’thon as tragic figures: once majestic, now driven into obscurity. This narrative is taught in arcane academies as a cautionary tale about overreliance on innate gifts. The Ch’thon’s downfall, as Jarakians see it, underscores the empire’s credo that discipline and structured development outweigh natural brilliance. While no official animosity simmers today, the empire keeps a watchful eye for any Ch’thon resurgence, wary that their latent powers could destabilize a society built on rigorous order.

E’talin

The nomadic E’talin are among the few groups Jarakians might label as cautious allies. Their roving lifestyles occasionally bring them into trade contact with Jarakian frontier outposts. Although the E’talin are rumored to wield Helix in unorthodox ways—often relying on intuition and improvisation—Jarakians find them more approachable than many other factions. Both peoples share an interest in exploring arcane phenomena, albeit with starkly different philosophies: Jarakians favor rigid protocols, while E’talin seem guided by situational adaptability.
These contrasting attitudes toward magic occasionally spark tension. Some Jarakian scholars view E’talin wanderers as irresponsible for meddling in arcane anomalies without structured studies or tested wards. E’talin emissaries, on the other hand, sometimes accuse the Jarakians of obsession with control, stifling creativity in the name of order. Still, commerce generally flourishes—E’talin caravans trading rare artifacts or exotic knowledge for stable supplies of Helix-forged tools that mitigate the Neft’s hazards.
When grand threats loom—such as monstrous Helix surges or predatory warbands crossing territories—the E’talin and Jarakians often cooperate. Jarakian Primers appreciate the E’talin’s knack for pinpointing hidden paths or reading magical cues in real time, while the E’talin benefit from the city’s industrial-scale wards and supplies. Although they do not coalesce into formal alliances, these moments of collaboration foster respect on both sides. Nonetheless, each group remains protective of its distinct identity, ensuring that prolonged symbiosis is rare.

Jrigori

The Jrigori are one of the Jarakians’ most formidable and enduring adversaries. Repeated wars—such as the Shadow Wars and the Eclipse War—have left deep scars in Jarakian memory, fueling a nearly institutionalized mistrust of these vampiric aristocrats. Official doctrine casts the Jrigori as relentless predators who view the Neft not just as a battleground, but as a rich feeding ground for their immortal ambitions. In Jarakia’s museums and libraries, numerous exhibits detail heroic defenses and costly battles against Jrigori forces, entrenching public sentiment that the vampires remain the empire’s prime external threat.
Despite ongoing enmity, uneasy truces do occur when a greater menace surfaces, forcing both civilizations to confront common nightmares. Even so, such ceasefires rarely last; the Jrigori’s appetite for power and the Jarakians’ drive for militarized order inevitably collide. Negotiations, if any, are carried out with strict caution—highly choreographed by Magistrates and bolstered by the presence of Helix wards. From border outposts to capital enclaves, Jarakian authorities keep vigilant watch for Jrigori infiltration or sabotage, convinced that the vampires excel at exploiting any sign of weakness.
Socially, Jarakians regard the Jrigori with a blend of fear and grudging respect. On one hand, the undead lords epitomize a darkly elegant menace, captivating the imaginations of younger Helix students who study ancient campaigns. On the other, a collective memory of stolen enclaves and ravaged families triggers immediate hostility whenever Jrigori envoys appear. The Politician and Magistrates openly discourage curiosity about vampiric culture, framing it as an ideological and existential threat. Thus, while mutual interests can sometimes facilitate dialogue, the Jarakians hold firm that any sustained peace with the Jrigori is unlikely, if not perilous.

Drakian

Jarakians have long held a wary fascination with Draconic traits—especially in the wake of the catastrophic Drakian Rebellion led by Varik Drakonis. Even before that uprising, occasional mutations hinted at suppressed draconic influences in certain bloodlines. For most Jarakians, these anomalies were cause for immediate scrutiny: children displaying subtle scales or unnatural eyes faced rigorous testing to ensure they wouldn’t develop unregulated powers. Any notion of “harnessing” draconic potential quickly became taboo once the Drakian crisis erupted, confirming the fears that such mutations could fracture the empire’s disciplined unity.
In the modern era, Drakian enclaves are all but extinct, but their memory endures as a reminder that magic shaped by reptilian heritage can lead to dangerous extremes. Jarakian law mandates strict controls in the Magicraft labs to detect and purge any embryonic signs of Draconic lineage. Families that harbor or attempt to cultivate these traits risk swift reeducation, as the empire regards the Drakian outcome—a potent but unstable blend of feral impulses and Helix mastery—as an existential threat. While some Helix researchers quietly wonder if controlled Draconic traits might yield powerful, stable heirs, the official stance remains uncompromising: Drakian mutations are too volatile to be permitted within Jarakia’s orderly framework.
Social attitudes toward possible draconic appearances at birth reflect this hardline policy. No parental pride emerges from a scaly newborn or a child capable of roaring illusions into life; instead, fear sets in, dreading official intervention or communal suspicion. Neighbors may offer hushed sympathy, but none would openly shield such a family from the Magistrates’ inquiries. Thus, the mere rumor of Drakian tendencies can isolate an entire household. Jarakians across all districts have internalized the lesson that embracing draconic power risks reviving the empire’s darkest chapters—an outcome few are willing to endure again.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Human

Scientific Name

Homo jarakiensis

Origin/Ancestry

Arcane-manipulated descendants of the Joan’s human survivors

Lifespan

120 years

Average Height

typically between 5’8” to 6’2”

Geographic Distribution

• Jarakia
• Neft Plane

Related Organizations

• Duskbound Vigil
• Helion Theta
• Nightglass Creeds

Related Ethnicities

• Drakians
• Originals- The Dark Ones
• Proto-Jarakians

Related Myths

• Helix Arts