Ossen (O-sen)
The Ossen are a race of men that are native to the eastern peninsula of Nog Hhreud. Many believe them to be lazy and call for very little reason to hold a party or celebration to drink. In reality this is far from the truth. While they do work shorter seasons than most, this is due to their understanding of the land and the seasons of the region.
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
Os
The Ossen speak a dialect of Pangerian referred to as Os. The only distinction between the original language and Os is the slower speaking pace and often over enunciation of words. This difference is language has often caused problems between Frons and Ossen. As the Frons are an overly proud people who believe the Ossen are often mocking them.Average technological level
Farming Techniques
Many orchards are harvested faster than other parts of the continent due to the north eastern winds that come down from the spring isles. Near the end of the season, farmers will set out nets under the trees of an orchard in anticipation of the wind that strike the coast of the region. The strong winds will blow in and knock down a majority of the fruits and are caught in the net. Farmers will gather the nets and pick what is left behind. This practice can help farmers half the time needed for the harvest. Its believed that this practice was taught to them by the Mahri.Common Dress code
The kingdom believe that the strength of a color hold meaning. Many commoners will wear clothing that is only tan or light green. Where clothing of a dark green is only worn by the nobility or royalty. Many shops will not sell clothing with a deep blue to commoners. Commoners that do wear clothing of a darker green are often ridiculed or attacked in the streets with no repercussions.
Art & Architecture
Buildings within the Eastern Protectorate and the Crown are built with mudbricks from the area. The structure is then covered with tan clay from the coastal waters. Builders will use the same tan clay to make roof tiles. Homes of nobles, royalty and merchants will have different green roof tiles on their home. Its said that you can tell the wealth of a town in the east by the amount of green you see in a cities architecture.
Coming of Age Rites
When Ossen men turn 17 they are required to join the military for a three year term of service. No one not even royalty or nobility is exempt from their service.
Common Taboos
Vices
The Ossen are open to many manners of vices in their cities. Opium and cigar dens are common in majority Ossen cities and will usually have a brothal or two nearby. However, outside of celebrations the drinking of alcohol is frowned upon.Slavery
The Ossen treat slavery different that other cultures. While it is legal, Ossen do not purchase of trade for slaves that are large or strong. Usually Ossen will either purchase women or physically weak male slaves. As where manual labor is done by Ossen men, housework or simple tasks are done by slaves. The Ossen believe that owning a strong male slave will invite trouble as they will try to escape or harm their owners.Historical figures
The Last Prince of Regnis
Prince Reyes was the youngest of three brothers of the Vela Family. The Vela were beloved by the people as they reduced taxes heavily when they rose to power in 650 BEM. The brothers believed that lower taxes would lead to a happier and more prosperous nation. Their idea was correct but the lack of taxes led to a smaller standing army that would eventually be their downfall. When the Kingdom of Frontonce was formed, Prince Reyes feared that they would wage war on the principality and the Drav. With his brothers blessings Prince Reyes went north to the Crown. There few Ossen, Frons and Duish that made their home there lived in peace out of the reach of others. He began the construction of three Keeps to better defend the Crown from outside forces. Many living there initially rejected his plans as they viewed the Keeps as an invitation to war. But when war broke out between the Frons and the Drav, many offered their services to speed up the construction effort. During this time many within the Noble Houses viewed him as a fearmonger. As war spread it would cost his brothers their lives. The Principality would fall but his actions kept his nation alive.Ideals
Gender Ideals
Men
Ossen men do all the manual labor. They dont believe in having slaves for hard manual labor as they think it will make them soft.Women
Ossen Women lead simple and easy lives. Most women are in charge of the homes slaves. They will assign tasks and chores for the slaves and only partake in the cooking.Major organizations
Ossen Complexion:
The Ossen have olive skin from the beautiful weather that fills the eastern end of Nog Hhreud. Their hair color ranges from light to dark brown. Their eye color is normally brown of hazel.Naming Traditions
Feminine Naming:
Arcelia, Chelo, Esmeralda, Lola, Olimpia, Etc.Masculine Naming:
Agustín, Basilio, Elias, Gregorio, Octavio, Etc.Family Names:
Antúnez, Cardozo, Del Olmo, Diaz, Mejía, Etc.
Related Organizations
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