Halish

The Halish people are proud and resilient, shaped by over a millennium of history and a deep connection to their land. They are known for their strong sense of unity, legacy, and respect for tradition. Having evolved from various regional influences, their culture is one of endurance, where the values of honor, hospitality, and craftsmanship are paramount. Halish identity is tied to the land they inhabit, with each province contributing its own dialect, traditions, and customs to the broader cultural tapestry. The Halish people are proud of their heritage, which includes their connection to the arts, their militaristic prowess, and their magical traditions. Above all, they hold the monarchy in high regard, revering the Hillbreaker dynasty as a symbol of stability and strength.

Culture

Culture and cultural heritage

Halish culture is deeply rooted in tradition and the collective memory of its people. Storytelling is central, with tales of past heroes, great battles, and the founding of the kingdom passed down through generations. Music, too, plays a significant role, with folk songs and instrumental music used to mark seasonal changes and major life events. The Halish people take great pride in their craftsmanship, particularly in the weaving of intricate tapestries, the carving of wooden figures, and the creation of fine luxury goods. Cultural festivals celebrating the changing of the seasons, the harvest, and the legacy of the Hillbreaker dynasty are common, with elaborate dances, feasts, and theatrical performances. These festivals serve not only as a way to celebrate but also as an opportunity for social bonding and reflection on the past.

Shared customary codes and values

At the heart of Halish society are the values of loyalty, respect, and unity. The Halish people place great emphasis on maintaining one's word, whether in personal or professional dealings, and upholding one’s honor in all situations. This adherence to personal integrity is reflected in their political and social structures, where relationships of trust and loyalty are central. Respect for the monarchy and aristocracy is also a strong cultural pillar, and the people value their deep-rooted connection to the land and the royal family. The practice of maintaining unity in the face of external threats or adversity is vital, and this mindset extends to both their military strategies and daily life. The Halish are also taught to cherish the balance between civilization and nature, respecting both the land's bounty and the wisdom passed down from their ancestors.

Common Etiquette rules

Halish etiquette is defined by a deep respect for social hierarchy and personal dignity. Formality is common in interactions, especially when dealing with nobility, where titles and proper addresses are strictly observed. A bow or curtsy is customary when greeting someone of higher rank, and offering food or drink to guests is a sign of hospitality. It is important to maintain eye contact during conversations to show attentiveness and respect. In formal events, one should not interrupt or speak out of turn; listening is seen as a virtue. When engaging in business, a handshake or seal of agreement is considered a binding contract. In general, the Halish people place great value on dignity, with any perceived slight or dishonor leading to serious consequences.

Art & Architecture

The art and architecture of Halen reflect the kingdom’s long-standing Terramantic traditions, with a focus on monumental structures and intricate designs that fuse both magical and physical craftsmanship. The most famous example is the Hollow Citadel, the residence of the Hillbreaker royal family, which is an architectural marvel built by skilled Terramancers. The use of stone, wood, and other materials is widespread, with many buildings and monuments designed to withstand the elements and enhance the beauty of the structure. Halish art is often marked by the use of natural motifs, with intricate carvings of animals, plants, and celestial symbols adorning public spaces. Tapestries, painted murals, and wood carvings are common, often depicting stories of the Broken Choir, mythic figures, and the beauty of nature. The Terramantic legacy ensures that these artworks and structures last through the ages, preserving the kingdom’s cultural heritage.

Foods & Cuisine

Halish cuisine is diverse, reflecting the kingdom’s agricultural abundance and coastal resources. In the plains of Veynshold, hearty grains like barley, oats, and wheat are staples, often used to make bread, porridge, and pastries. The fertile farmlands also provide vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and peas, which are incorporated into stews and casseroles. In the coastal regions, fish and seafood are abundant, particularly in Esmyr and Calendor, where fresh catches are served alongside locally grown herbs and fruits. Ravenshearth’s rare herbs are prized in Halish cuisine, often used to season dishes or brew medicinal teas. Meals are typically hearty, designed to sustain the body through the seasons, with a special emphasis on food’s role in community gatherings. Dishes are often shared family-style, fostering a sense of unity and hospitality.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

Halish traditions are heavily tied to the land and the monarchy. The passing of seasons is celebrated with specific customs that honor nature and the ancestors. One of the most significant traditions is the "Rebirth Feast," held during the Bloomtide Festival to honor Altheris and celebrate the renewal of life and to honor the spirits of the land. During this feast, families gather to share meals, offer sacrifices to the Broken Choir, and partake in dances that symbolize the cycle of life. Another important custom is the “Vow of Loyalty,” where every Halish citizen pledges allegiance to the King and the monarchy, reaffirming their role in maintaining the kingdom’s unity. This vow is usually taken at a coming-of-age ceremony or upon reaching adulthood.

Coming of Age Rites

In Halen, coming-of-age rites are an important milestone. At the age of 16, young Halish individuals undergo a formal rite of passage that includes a series of tests designed to demonstrate their readiness to contribute to society. These tests can include physical challenges, intellectual challenges, and social tasks, which are designed to reflect the values of honor, resilience, and unity. The ceremony culminates in a public declaration of adulthood, where the individual is recognized by their family, community, and local leaders. Following the rite, they are expected to take on responsibilities, whether in their family’s trade, the military, or through service to the crown.

Funerary and Memorial customs

The Halish people view death as a natural part of life, and funerary customs reflect respect for the departed. It is customary for families to bury their dead in ancestral grounds, where the deceased are honored with a stone or wooden marker adorned with carvings representing their life and accomplishments. The funeral itself is a somber event, with the family of the deceased offering sacrifices to the Broken Choir, asking for their guidance and blessing for the soul’s journey in the afterlife. Memorials are often held on the anniversaries of a person’s death, where friends and family gather to share stories and celebrate their life. Those who die in battle or service to the crown are often given special burial rites and are remembered with a public memorial.

Common Taboos

Halish society places great value on maintaining one’s honor and reputation, so actions that dishonor oneself or one’s family are considered serious transgressions. Lying or breaking an oath is one of the greatest offenses, as it undermines trust and integrity. Another taboo is failing to show respect to one’s elders or superiors, particularly the monarchy. Public displays of disrespect towards the King or royal family are met with severe consequences. Additionally, defiling sacred spaces or disrespecting the Broken Choir is forbidden, and such acts are considered not only taboo but also dangerous to the individual’s well-being.

Historical figures

The most significant figure in Halish history is King Talos Hillbreaker, the founder of the kingdom and the first monarch of the Hillbreaker dynasty. His leadership and vision for a united Halen are considered the foundation of the kingdom’s current prosperity. Other notable figures include the generals and diplomats who expanded the kingdom’s influence and the magi who refined the Terramantic arts. The Hillbreaker family itself is revered, with each monarch contributing to the kingdom’s legacy. King Jarik Hillbreaker, the current monarch, is seen as a protector of Halen’s unity and strength, guiding the kingdom through both internal and external challenges.

Parent ethnicities

• Eryndralian

Related Locations

• Halen