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Kkhlitse is a catch-all term for the unique sand-skimming vessels used to traverse the
Bahrimal Desert; much like boats and ships, kkhlitses vary in purpose, size, and design, but all operate on the same principles.
Design and Structure
A kkhlitse consists of a wooden hull mounted on metallic strips ending in sharp blades called
patthaz, which allow the vessel to glide smoothly over the shifting sands. The distance between the hull and the patthaz is referred to as the
norem.
Kkhlitse are primarily propelled by wind and gravity. Smaller and medium-sized vessels rely on sails for movement, while the largest variants, known as
muhal-e, use only gravity for propulsion. These colossal kkhlitse function as mobile villages, capable of housing entire clans.
An important navigational feature on every kkhlitse is the presence of a
redward marker. This is typically a red sail, canopy, or other prominent element used to designate the vessel’s left side, aiding with issuing orders to crewmates and passengers.
History
Humanoids considered the Bharimal impossible to cross for most of recorded history, and most who tried were swallowed by its shifting sands.
The earliest kkhlitse date to circa 1,500
BB, and were used by both the
Crescent Elves and the
Takistani Tribes, and are believed to have been developed independently of each other. These small kkhlitse were used to venture some miles into the desert in order to gather
Dry Dew, which is essential for the nomadic lifestyle of both groups.
Over time, kkhlitses became a central aspect of the communities of Bahrimal. The evolution from simple sand skimmers to massive muhal-e marked a turning point in the human and elven spread across the desert's unforgiving terrain.
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