Landrian

The morning mist hung low over the bustling docks of Lanbury as Oswin carefully oversaw the loading of precious cargo onto a merchant ship. The river estuary shimmered under the first light of dawn, its waters reflecting the city’s waking bustle. Merchants shouted orders, sailors tightened ropes, and the sounds of the city awakening filled the air.
Lady Gisela, a scholar known for her sharp mind and discerning eye, stood beside Oswin. She watched intently as porters loaded crates filled with silks, spices, and artifacts from distant lands. "Make sure everything is secured," she called out, her voice steady. "Every item represents our reputation across the seas."
Oswin nodded, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "Fear not, my lady. We will see these goods safely to Freeport, and bring honor to your house as we always do."
With a final glance at the bustling docks, Oswin and Lady Gisela boarded the ship, ready to face the journey to the distant Isles of Mist. The spirit of Landria, one of honor, diligence, and a thirst for knowledge, sailed with them into the horizon.

— A Morning of Honor and Commerce

A Culture of Honor and Community

The Landrian are a people of noble heritage and cultural sophistication, hailing from the Isles of Landora. Known for their skills in commerce, academia, and exploration, Landrians value hard work, honor, and self-expression. They balance tradition with innovation, making them respected scholars, skilled diplomats, and seasoned explorers.
Landrian society places immense importance on personal honor and moral integrity. Actions speak louder than words, and trustworthiness is seen as the foundation of all relationships, whether between families, neighbors, or nations. This ethos has shaped a society renowned for fairness, loyalty, and diligence.

The Unified Isles

Landrians primarily inhabit the region of Landria on the island of Landora, which also includes Wesland and the Beria Highlands. Originally three separate kingdoms, Landria was unified under a single ruler four generations ago, ushering in an era of prosperity and stability. While old animosities between regional lords—particularly in the Beria Highlands—occasionally simmer beneath the surface, the nation has enjoyed peace for nearly 200 years.
This unity has fostered a strong sense of shared identity among the Landrians. Regional differences, while respected, are secondary to the overarching pride in being part of a nation known for its cultural and intellectual achievements.

Noble in Bearing

Landrians typically have pale to sandy skin, dark hair in shades of brown or black, and eyes that are commonly brown or green. They are of average height and build, embodying what many consider the standard human form. Their clothing reflects a blend of practicality and elegance, with finely crafted garments that emphasize functionality while showcasing the artistry of their culture.
The nobility often dress in rich fabrics adorned with subtle embroidery, reflecting their heritage without undue ostentation. Common folk wear durable yet stylish clothing, valuing utility but taking pride in fine craftsmanship.

Honor and Glory

In Landrian society, the path of the knight is one of honor, courage, and chivalry. Knights are more than warriors; they are defenders of justice and protectors of the weak. Tournaments are a cherished tradition, attracting participants and spectators from across Tavomia. These events, filled with jousting, melee combat, and archery contests, showcase the martial prowess and valor of the knights. Winning a tournament brings great prestige, elevating the knight’s household and earning respect throughout the land.
Knights also serve as role models, embodying the Landrian ideals of duty and bravery. Their oaths to defend the innocent and uphold justice resonate deeply within the cultural fabric of the Isles.

The Scholar’s Path

Landrians hold a deep respect for education and intellectual pursuits. From bustling cities to quaint villages, knowledge is both valued and accessible. Schools and academies are common, teaching everything from basic literacy to advanced sciences and magic. Scholars are revered, often traveling abroad to gather knowledge and bring new ideas back to Landria.
This commitment to learning has earned Landria a reputation as a hub of wisdom and culture. Libraries and centers of learning are treasured institutions, and the exchange of ideas is seen as a noble endeavor that strengthens the nation.

A Welcoming Culture

Renowned for their hospitality, Landrians are quick to open their homes and hearts to travelers. They embrace new ideas and perspectives, believing in the importance of understanding other cultures while sharing their own. This welcoming spirit extends to diplomacy and trade, where Landrians are known for their fairness and integrity.
Landrian merchants are particularly adept at navigating complex trade networks. The widely adopted Landrian Calendar, which divides the year into thirteen months aligned with natural cycles, facilitates international trade and commerce, making Landria a cornerstone of Tavomia’s mercantile success.

Folktales of Wesland

Wesland, a region of dense forests and rolling hills, is steeped in folklore. Tales of mischievous sprites, protective forest spirits, and enchanted groves are passed down through generations. Many Weslanders leave offerings at sacred trees or avoid disturbing certain parts of the forest, showing reverence for the unseen forces they believe watch over the land.
These stories, filled with moral lessons and warnings, are a living part of Wesland’s cultural identity, shaping the region’s traditions and beliefs.

Clans of the Highlands

The rugged Beria Highlands are home to fiercely independent clans, each ruled by a clan lord who answers to the High Lord of Beria. Clan loyalty is strong, and their traditions are deeply tied to the land. Festivals and gatherings provide rare moments of unity, where rivalries are set aside to celebrate shared heritage and kinship.
Highlanders are known for their resilience and pride, embodying the Landrian values of hard work and community in the face of challenging environments.

Faith and Reverence

Religion is a cornerstone of Landrian life, with deep reverence for the gods. Ang, the god of life, is widely worshipped, particularly in rural areas. Shrines and temples to Ang serve as community centers, celebrating the cycles of nature and the bounty of the land.
Lul’nir, the god of justice, holds sway in towns and cities, where grand temples and the Church Knights, known as the Light Bringers, uphold law and morality. These knights act as protectors and moral guides, embodying the principles of justice and righteousness.
In regions like Wesland and Beria, the Fey are also revered, creating a blend of spiritual traditions. This respect for the natural world sometimes clashes with the more orthodox followers of Lul’nir, but mutual tolerance allows for a generally harmonious society.

The Fall of Drania

Sixty years ago, the neighboring kingdom of Drania was struck by a mysterious catastrophe that left it a barren wasteland. A strange green light appeared over the capital, and by morning, the once-thriving lands were overrun with undead.
In response, Landria built the Drania Wall, a massive fortification guarding against the undead threat. The wall is patrolled by dedicated guards who remain ever vigilant, serving as a reminder of how quickly prosperity can turn to ruin.

Language and Naming

The Landrian language is melodious and rhythmic, flowing like a river. It is the language of trade, diplomacy, and academia, making it essential for communication across the known world.
Three main dialects exist within Landora:
The Landria dialect, standard and precise, used for official matters.
The Beria Highlands dialect, brusque and direct, reflecting its rugged people.
The Wesland dialect, softer and melodic, influenced by its rich folklore. Landrian names reflect their heritage and tradition:
Male Names: Aethelbert, Bertram, Cynric, Dunstan, Edmund, Godfrey, Harold, Leofric, Oswin, Wulfstan
Female Names: Aelfgifu, Eadgyth, Freya, Gisela, Heloise, Ingrid, Isolde, Matilda, Rowena, Thora
Family Names: Alderwick, Brightlingsea, Catterick, Drayton, Elmstead, Farnham, Goodrich, Havering, Kingsnorth, Lavenham

Playing a Landrian

To play a Landrian is to step into the shoes of a culturally sophisticated and honorable people. Whether you are a shrewd merchant, a wandering scholar, or a noble knight, your character embodies the Landrian values of diligence, integrity, and curiosity. You bring a strong moral compass and a sense of purpose, striving to leave the world better than you found it.

Personality

Landrians are principled and hardworking, valuing honor, fairness, and perseverance. They believe in leading by example and are often generous and hospitable, making them natural leaders and allies. While they take pride in their heritage, they temper this with humility, avoiding unnecessary boasting. Landrians have a deep respect for knowledge, often seeking to learn from others while sharing their own wisdom.

Roleplaying a Landrian

When roleplaying a Landrian, consider how their cultural values influence your character’s actions:
Honor Above All: Your word is your bond, and you strive to uphold justice and fairness in all things.
Curiosity and Knowledge: You are driven by a thirst for learning and a desire to understand the world.
Loyalty and Community: You value your allies and strive to foster trust and camaraderie.

Why Venture Out?

Landrians are explorers, traders, and seekers of knowledge. Your character might leave their homeland for:
Commerce and Trade: Expanding mercantile networks or safeguarding your family’s reputation.
Academic Pursuits: Searching for lost knowledge, ancient artifacts, or new philosophies.
Knightly Honor: Proving your valor, protecting the weak, or defending against great evils.
A Higher Calling: Investigating the mysteries of the Fey, the gods, or even the undead threat from Drania.

Landrians in a Party

As a Landrian, you bring reliability, intelligence, and moral clarity to your group. You’re often a voice of reason and a calming presence, helping to mediate conflicts and unite diverse personalities. Whether strategizing for battle, negotiating with locals, or solving puzzles, your resourcefulness and determination make you an invaluable ally.
However, your commitment to integrity and honor may clash with those who prefer deceit or selfishness. You may find it difficult to compromise your principles, but your steadfastness can inspire others to rise to higher ideals.

Example Heroes

The following are some example character ideas for player heroes.
Oswin Darrow, the Merchant Knight
Oswin is a skilled swordsman and trusted guard for his family’s merchant fleet. Trained in both trade and battle, he has earned a reputation as a dependable protector. Tasked with expanding trade routes across Tavomia, Oswin wields both sword and diplomacy to honor his family name and secure their legacy.
Lady Gisela of Lanbury
Gisela is a scholar with a sharp mind and an insatiable curiosity for ancient knowledge. Her studies at the Grand Academy of Lanbury uncovered hints of a lost artifact tied to the Fey, prompting her to venture into the wilds. Balancing wisdom with pragmatism, Gisela uses her magic to protect herself and uncover the mysteries of the world.
Aelfgifu “Brightshield” Ashwood
A devoted knight of Lul’nir, Aelfgifu has taken an oath to defend the weak and uphold justice. Her radiant shield and steadfast courage have earned her the title of Brightshield. Sent to patrol the Drania Wall, she dreams of one day leading a crusade to reclaim the lost kingdom from the undead that now haunt it.