Sholeon

Across the vast, rolling steppes, the rhythmic beat of hooves thundered in unison with the heartbeat of the land. Altani, a young Sholeon rider, perched effortlessly atop her sleek horse, gazed over the horizon where the sun met the earth in a blaze of gold. The wind whispered through the tall grasses, carrying the songs of her ancestors—tales of fierce warriors and swift riders who had roamed these endless plains.
With a gentle nudge, Altani urged her horse, Sarnai, forward, feeling the powerful bond between them. Together, they embodied the spirit of their people—free, wild, and untamed. Ahead, the banners of her clan fluttered, marking the gathering place where her family awaited. The Great Gathering was near, a time for celebration, trade, and honoring their heritage. But for now, Altani savored the ride, the wind in her hair and the open sky above. She was Sholeon, born to ride, to roam, and to honor the old ways.

Riders of the Boundless Plains

The Sholeon are a nomadic human culture shaped by the vast, open lands they call home. Defined by their deep connection to nature, mastery of horseback riding, and tightly knit clans, the Sholeon are a people of freedom, honor, and tradition. They traverse the steppes in large family groups, leading herds of prized horses that are both their livelihood and legacy.
The Sholeon have forged a unique identity, blending practicality and artistry. Their lives are defined by cycles of movement, guided by the rhythms of nature. They are celebrated across Tavomia for their legendary cavalry, cultural vibrancy, and steadfast loyalty to kin and clan.

The People of the Wind and Sky

Generations spent under the vast open sky have shaped the Sholeon into a people of striking appearance. Their dusky, olive-toned skin and angular features are complemented by their slanted brows and keen, perceptive eyes. They are the shortest of the human cultures in Tavomia, with lithe, wiry builds honed for life in the saddle.
Their attire is both functional and richly symbolic. Layers of leather and fur protect them from the elements, while vibrant scarves and intricate embroidery display their clan affiliations and personal stories. Every garment reflects their connection to their heritage and their pride as riders of the plains.

Clans of Honor and Tradition

For the Sholeon, life is centered on the clan. These extended family groups are tightly knit, traveling together in harmony with the land. Clans are bound by honor, mutual support, and a shared sense of purpose, each led by a Khan chosen for wisdom, strength, and the ability to inspire loyalty. Elders guide the clans, preserving traditions and offering counsel to younger generations.
Marriage is a deeply significant event, celebrated as the union of two families as well as two individuals. Vibrant ceremonies honor the spirits, binding families together through joyous celebrations of song, dance, and feasting. These unions strengthen alliances and ensure the continued prosperity of the Sholeon people.
Despite their nomadic nature, the Sholeon are open and hospitable, maintaining alliances with other cultures, such as the Yurvonians and the Wofren. This openness reflects their belief in the strength of community and the value of diversity.

Spirit of the Steppes

The Sholeon faith is deeply intertwined with their connection to the natural world and the cycles of life. They revere the gods of Tavomia but place particular emphasis on Ang, Rashida, and Ketos. Ang, the creator, embodies resilience and adaptability, virtues that reflect the Sholeon’s ability to endure and thrive in the steppes. Rashida, goddess of fate and the underworld, is honored for her guidance over the cycles of life and death, mirroring the migrations and challenges of their nomadic life. Ketos, god of nature and animals, symbolizes harmony with the natural world, exemplified by the Sholeon’s bond with their horses.
Ancestor worship is central to their spirituality. Families carry portable shrines, setting them within their yurts to honor and seek guidance from their forebears. These shrines serve as a private yet essential aspect of their faith, reinforcing the importance of family ties and the wisdom of those who came before.
Shamanistic practices add another layer to their beliefs. Rituals involving drumming, chanting, and dance are performed to commune with the spirit world and seek balance in times of uncertainty. These rites tie the Sholeon to both the natural and divine, maintaining harmony across their lives.

The Rhythms of the Plains

The nomadic lifestyle of the Sholeon is a delicate dance with the land. They live in portable, round yurts—sturdy and easily assembled structures that allow for swift movement as they follow the changing seasons. These homes are decorated with patterns unique to each clan, showcasing identity and pride.
Horses are the lifeblood of the Sholeon. They are companions, tools of survival, and symbols of identity. Every Sholeon learns to ride as soon as they can walk, forming bonds with their mounts that are as deep as any familial connection. The Sholeon cavalry is renowned across Tavomia, blending the riders’ natural grace with finely honed skills in combat and travel.
Archery holds a special place in their culture, not just as a means of defense but as a celebrated art. Competitions showcase their skill and honor their heritage, while hunting traditions emphasize harmony with the natural world. Some Sholeon even practice eagle hunting, training these majestic birds to aid in the pursuit of small game, further demonstrating their connection to nature.

Songs of the Wind

The Sholeon’s music and dance are as integral to their identity as their horses. Their throat singing, a unique vocal technique producing deep, resonant tones, is a signature element of their culture. These songs echo across the steppes, telling stories of their ancestors, battles won, and the beauty of the land they roam.
Dance is equally significant, often performed in flowing, rhythmic movements that mimic the gait of horses or the sway of the grasses. These art forms are woven into every aspect of life, from daily routines to major celebrations, expressing joy, sorrow, and unity.

The Great Gathering

Once a year, the steppes come alive with the energy of the Great Gathering, the most important event in Sholeon life. All clans converge on a central location to trade, celebrate, and renew bonds. This festival marks the end of the foaling season, a time when the Sholeon trade their prized horses—known across Tavomia for their speed and endurance—with merchants and visitors.
The Gathering is a time of renewal, where old disputes are settled, alliances are strengthened, and marriages are arranged and celebrated. Contests of skill, including horseback archery and racing, honor the gods and demonstrate the talents of the Sholeon people. Evenings are spent around massive bonfires, where stories are shared, songs are sung, and laughter rings out across the plains.
The central settlement where the Great Gathering takes place is normally empty, maintained only by passing clans throughout the year. During the festival, it transforms into a bustling hub, filled with colorful tents, animal pens, and the sound of revelry. The Gathering embodies the spirit of the Sholeon, blending practicality, tradition, and community into a celebration of their shared heritage.

Language and Names

The Sholeon language is melodic and evocative, characterized by guttural and nasal sounds with long, flowing syllables. Its structure reflects their connection to the rhythms of the natural world, with terms steeped in references to horses, riding, and the environment. Spoken Sholeon carries the cadence of the plains, blending practicality with poetic nuance.
Names among the Sholeon follow a structure similar to those of traditional nomadic cultures. A family or clan name, representing heritage and lineage, comes first, followed by the individual’s given name. Family names are often derived from ancestral figures, natural elements, or qualities admired by the clan, serving as a symbol of the individual’s connection to their people. Given names reflect traits such as strength, wisdom, or natural beauty and may change during an individual’s life to reflect significant achievements or milestones.
Examples: Altan Sorenzon, Bataar Davaa, Noyon Sarnai
In casual contexts, Sholeon individuals are often addressed by their given name only. However, formal introductions and official records use the full name, with the family name coming first to honor the lineage.

Male Names: Batu, Temujin, Kublai, Toghrul, Ogedei, Subutai, Jochi, Borte, Khasar
Female Names: Khulan, Soronzonbold, Yesui, Khutulun, Bora, Tuya, Esugei, Altani, Tseren, Alangoo
Family Names: Altan, Bayar, Borjigin, Batuula, Bagatur, Temur, Khongor, Noyon, Tumen

Playing a Sholeon

To play a Sholeon is to embody the resilience, freedom, and honor of a people shaped by their bond with the open plains and the rhythm of the natural world. Whether riding with unmatched skill, drawing a bow with precision, or standing as a voice of calm wisdom, Sholeon characters bring a sense of adaptability and loyalty to their group. Guided by strong traditions and a connection to the spirits of their ancestors, Sholeon adventurers are practical yet deeply rooted in their values, making them steadfast allies and formidable foes.

Personality

Sholeon characters tend to value community, family, and a deep connection to the natural world. They are resourceful and adaptable, able to thrive in challenging environments without losing their composure. A Sholeon’s sense of honor often compels them to act with fairness and integrity, and they see their actions as reflections of their lineage. Though they are proud of their heritage, Sholeon are not rigid traditionalists, and their nomadic lifestyle fosters a sense of openness to new experiences and allies.

Roleplaying a Sholeon

As a Sholeon, your culture and way of life shape your approach to the world:
Freedom in Motion: You value the open road and the freedom to carve your own path, whether traveling alone or with companions.
Strength in Community: Your clan-centered upbringing fosters loyalty to those you trust and a willingness to protect others, even at great personal risk.
Pragmatic Spirituality: You respect the spirits of the land and your ancestors, but your reverence is practical, rooted in guidance and survival rather than ritual for its own sake.
Tradition and Adaptability: While you respect the ways of your people, you are not bound by them, seeing change and movement as natural parts of life.

Why Venture Out?

Sholeon rarely leave their clans without purpose. Consider what drives your character to explore the wider world:
To Prove Your Worth: Perhaps you seek to earn a name for yourself through deeds that will make your ancestors proud and inspire your kin.
To Protect the Weak: Your experiences have instilled a sense of responsibility for those who cannot defend themselves, and your journeys are opportunities to lend your strength.
To Forge Alliances: As a natural diplomat or envoy, you may travel to strengthen bonds between your clan and other groups.
To Seek Adventure: Your love of freedom and exploration may simply push you to see what lies beyond the familiar steppes.

Sholeon in a Party

In a party, a Sholeon brings practicality, loyalty, and a unique connection to the natural world. Your skills and worldview can ground the group in moments of uncertainty, and your expertise in mobility and adaptability makes you invaluable in a variety of situations. While your sense of honor and methodical approach might contrast with more impulsive companions, your steadiness and resourcefulness make you a trusted ally.

Example Heroes

The following are some example character ideas for player heroes.
Altani Borjigin, the Sky Archer
Born under the vast expanse of the open plains, Altani is a renowned rider and marksman. Her name is whispered among travelers for her ability to shoot a hawk from the sky while at full gallop. Guided by the winds and the wisdom of her ancestors, Altani seeks to protect the steppes from encroaching threats, embodying the indomitable spirit of the Sholeon cavalry.
Sorenzon Altan, the Spirit Walker
A shaman of the Altan clan, Sorenzon is deeply attuned to the whispers of the ancestors and the spirits of the land. With a wolfhound by her side, she travels as a guide for lost souls—both living and dead—seeking harmony between the mortal and spiritual realms. Her quiet strength and unshakable faith make her a beacon of hope in dark times.
Toghrul Bataar, the Horse Master
Toghrul is a rider of unmatched skill, but his true talent lies in his bond with horses. A member of the famed Bataar clan, he is a trainer and breeder of Tavomia’s finest steeds. Toghrul’s travels are driven by his desire to find and tame the mythical Stormmane, a horse said to be born of thunder and lightning, a feat that will secure his place in the legends of the Sholeon.