Zhaporian Tattoos
"The Zhaporians write their history upon their bodies rather than on stone or parchment."
~ Emberhold summary of Zhaporia
The epitome of fierceness in lexicon of Imperial literature was the heavily tattooed Zhaporian charging down on the beleaguered Imperial soldier. Some sources suggest that in the later Empire, young Istragans took up the custom in a sort of youthful rebellion. Imperial writers developed many theories as to the purpose of the tattoos, and many ancient sources credit them with magical powers - especially granting the Zhaporian warrior power over animals depicted in their tattoos. grains of truth exist in these misconceptions.
~ Emberhold summary of Zhaporia
The epitome of fierceness in lexicon of Imperial literature was the heavily tattooed Zhaporian charging down on the beleaguered Imperial soldier. Some sources suggest that in the later Empire, young Istragans took up the custom in a sort of youthful rebellion. Imperial writers developed many theories as to the purpose of the tattoos, and many ancient sources credit them with magical powers - especially granting the Zhaporian warrior power over animals depicted in their tattoos. grains of truth exist in these misconceptions.
History
The Zhaporians credit the original orc inhabitants of their land with the tradition of ritual tattooing, and we have no better source of information regarding the early days of Zhaporia. At the very least, every surviving writing by Imperial observers mentions the practice, and every depiction of Zhaporians in surviving art shows them heavily tattooed.
Execution
Tattooing is a craft itself, and may be carried out by any Zhaporian who can learn. Many Zhaporian priests learn the trade, but it is not exclusive to their class. Dyes are made from a variety of natural materials. Blue is a common color in Zhaporian work, though reds and yellows are common as well. Needles are made most often from metal, though bone is sometimes used by Zhaporians who place special value on doing things 'the old way.' Typically the pattern to be tattooed is traced on the individuals skin and then the needle is tapped repeatedly into the skin to apply the pigment.
Observance
First tattoos are chosen after a young Zhaporian has bonded with their first animal companion, and this represents a passage into adulthood. The first tattoo traditionally depicts the animal with whom the Zhaporian has bonded. Later tattoos are added at major accomplishments as chosen by the individual, be it marriage, birth of a child, first battle, a great hunt, or the mastery of a craft.
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