Tenochcan

Nestled within the heart of the southern pictish wilderness lies the formidable empire of the Tenochca, a civilization marked by its grandeur, martial prowess, and devotion to its divine rulers. Led by a revered emperor who commands both political and spiritual authority, the Tenochca are renowned for their mastery of warfare, intricate architectural feats, and elaborate religious ceremonies. Their capital city, Tenochtitlan, stands as a testament to their power, rising majestically upon an island in the midst of a vast lake. With a society shaped by reverence for their gods and the pursuit of greatness, the Tenochca leave an indelible mark upon the annals of the Hyborian world.

Naming Traditions

Feminine names

Xochiquetzal, Citlalin, Izel, Atlatonin, Malinali, Chalchiuhtlicue.

Masculine names

Huitzilin, Xolotl, Tlalocatl, Cuauhtémoc, Itzli, Tizoc.

Culture

Shared customary codes and values

Divine Mandate: The Tenochca believe in their divine right to rule as chosen servants of Set. They view their conquests and sacrifices as offerings to the serpent god, ensuring his favor and protection. Strength and Valor: Valor in battle is highly esteemed among the Tenochca, with warriors who demonstrate courage and prowess being honored with lavish rewards and prestigious titles. Hierarchy and Obedience: The Tenochca society is structured hierarchically, with obedience to authority and respect for one's superiors being paramount. Disobedience or rebellion is swiftly punished, often with severe consequences. Sacrifice for the Greater Good: Sacrifices, both literal and metaphorical, are seen as necessary for the prosperity and survival of the empire, with individuals expected to prioritize the needs of the community over personal gain. Ritualistic sacrifice is a central tenet of Tenochca culture, with captives taken in battle or chosen from among their own ranks being offered to Set as a means of ensuring his blessings and favor. Meritocracy: The Tenochca society values merit and achievement, with individuals earning status and respect through their deeds rather than birthright alone. Duality and Chaos: The Tenochca embrace the dual nature of existence, seeing chaos and destruction as necessary forces for renewal and rebirth. They believe in embracing the unpredictability of life and harnessing the power of chaos to shape their destiny.

Common Dress code

Nobility: Tenochca nobles adorn themselves in garments featuring intricate featherwork, gold jewelry, and precious gemstones. Headdresses, capes, and robes display symbols of their lineage and achievements. Commoners: Commoners wear clothing made from cotton and agave fibers, such as tunics, loincloths, and skirts, often dyed in earthy tones. Accessories like woven sandals and simple jewelry are also worn. Ceremonial Attire: For religious rituals and special events, both nobles and commoners don ceremonial regalia, including feathered cloaks, masks, and body paint depicting symbols of their gods and ancestors.

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

The Tenochca ideal of beauty emphasizes strength, resilience, and spiritual connection. Features such as prominent cheekbones, strong jawlines, and piercing eyes are admired. Body adornments such as tattoos, scarification, and piercings are common, symbolizing personal and cultural identity. Dark, flowing hair is cherished, often adorned with feathers, flowers, or elaborate braids. Accessories made from jade, obsidian, and turquoise are worn as symbols of beauty and status.

Relationship Ideals

Relationships among the Tenochca are rooted in familial bonds, community ties, and reverence for their gods. Marriage is considered a sacred union, often arranged by families to forge alliances and ensure lineage continuity. Mutual respect, loyalty, and reciprocity are valued in relationships, with partners supporting each other in all aspects of life. Gender roles are complementary, with men and women sharing responsibilities in both household management and community affairs. Love and affection are expressed through acts of service, gift-giving, and participation in religious ceremonies, fostering a sense of unity and harmony within the society.