Tianxia 天下
People
The History of Tianxia 天下 so far
Emperor Taiyang
At the pinnacle of the hierarchical structure, Emperor Taiyang's rule might seem distant to many, for "Heaven is high, and the Emperor far away." However, the influence he wields engenders profound struggles for those at the grassroots level. His opulent lifestyle, along with that of his High Officials, as well as his harsh rule and disregard for the people, starkly contrasts with the poverty, although kind-hearted nature, endured by the majority, casting shadows of disparity across the land.Government Officials & their Families
The High Officials who surround Emperor Taiyang live in an opulent realm of privilege and power. They form the inner circle of authority, responsible for shaping the policies that cascade through the empire, as well as cast dark secrets. Their actions perpetuate a system of inequality and hardship for the masses, leading to growing tensions and unrest only enhanced by the Evil.Nobles & Warriors
Nestled in a tier below the ruling class, the Nobles inhabit a world that, while less extravagant than that of the Emperor and Officials, still enjoys relative comfort. This social stratum carries a certain cultural refinement, and their lives are interwoven with creative endeavors and aesthetic pursuits. They are often those concerned with literature and education more than any others, save some Religious Figures. Alongside the Nobles in the hierarchy, the Warriors stand as the guardians of the realm. Their valor and martial prowess are central to the empire's defense and expansion. Respected for their dedication to the battlefield and often celebrated for their bravery, Warriors command a place of honor within the social tapestry. Yet, their lives are intertwined with the harsh realities of conflict, and their loyalty to the ruling class occasionally places them in positions of moral complexity, with some leaving completely. While some are found in cities, others can be found wandering the landscape of seeking refuge in the varying temples across the land.Artisans & Religious Figures
The Artisans and Religious Figures occupy a space where appreciation of craftsmanship and duty are. Their contributions, to the world of beauty and spiritual awakening, often shape the culture and spirituality of the realm, adding depth to the fabric of society. While their lives are marked by a degree of respect, they remain conscious of their position within the hierarchy as they can be removed by those aboved them. The biggest difference between these two inside this caste is that Artisans tend to be found is highly populace areas, cities teeming with people, while Religious Figures prefer the solitute of nature and need to be sought out.Peasants & Farmers
The lives of Peasants and Farmers stand in stark contrast to the opulence of the elite. Trapped in a cycle of toil and hardship, they bear the weight of the empire's sustenance on their shoulders. They live with an ever-present awareness of the hierarchical divide, hoping for a more equitable future. While they respect the Emperor as the "Sun" most of them feel they live their lives by the Moon, and they plan most of their lives around this cycle.Merchants
Merchants navigate the fine line between profit and survival, striving to make ends meet in a challenging economic landscape. Their pursuits are driven by commerce and trade, often subject to the fluctuations of a system that both relies on and marginalizes their contributions. They deal with a great amount of stigma as those who only "sell" goods are nearly worthless in a society that focuses on creating and destroying. Most are trying to find their way in the world.Slaves & Enemies of the State
The lowest echelon of society, the lives of Slaves and Enemies of the State are marked by unrelenting oppression and suffering. Their existence is characterized by a struggle for the most basic human dignities, held captive by a system that devalues their humanity and denies them agency. Enemies of the State are determined by the Emperor and his Officials, and many have had their lives stripped of all rights and dignity by simply looking incorrectly at someone or making a simple mistake. Slaves are sometimes brought it from surrounding nations, sometimes as prisoners of war or sometimes born into captivity. The Emperor and Officials are typically the only ones who own them, while most of the Nobility and Warriors employ servants. All they want is Freedom.Current Species & Cultures
Tianxia is home to a diverse tapestry of species and cultures, each contributing to the land's rich history.
From the enigmatic tribes of the Misty Mountains, steeped in ancient lore and mystical practices, to the lineage of the Artisans who craft both art and wisdom, the inhabitants reflect a blend of tradition and adaptation.
The Peasants and Farmers, bearing the weight of agricultural heritage, form the backbone of society, while Merchants navigate economic currents that connect distant lands.
Slaves and Enemies of the State, marginalized by the ruling class, hold stories of oppression and resistance that serve as a reminder of the empire's complexities.
There are multiple minority races inside the land, while there is a majority of "Han" people that populate Tianxia.
Outsiders also sometimes wander, or are forcibly brought, to Tianxia.
Needs & Relations
Emperor Taiyang's rule, seemingly distant yet profoundly influential, shapes the lives of all castes.
Government Officials' policies enforce a system of inequality that fuels unrest.
Nobles and Warriors, with intellectual refinement and martial prowess, provide information and protection to the entire realm.
Artisans and Religious Figures contribute beauty and spiritual/mental harmony.
Peasants and Farmers, the backbone of sustenance, sustain the empire's lifeblood.
Merchants facilitate trade, connecting disparate regions and supporting economic growth.
Slaves and Enemies of the State, though oppressed, form a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked power.
While each caste has distinct roles, their interconnectedness is undeniable. Emperor Taiyang's actions impact everyone, and the Official's policies ripple through society. Nobles' intellectual contributions and Warriors' defense protect the realm. Artisans and Religious Figures shape culture, affecting every caste. Peasants and Farmers sustain life, and Merchants facilitate trade that supports all. Slaves and Enemies of the State embody the perils of unchecked authority, driving the need for change.
In this intricate dance, each caste relies on the others for survival and progress, forming a society both complex and fragile.