Namorian
Overview
The proud natives of Namoria, devoted to their Emperor and devout in their faith. Namorians have built up glorious kingdoms and mighty castles, in spite of the briefness of their continental hegemony. Namorian history is scarred by war, and strong martial traditions are integral to society.
The Namorians are heavily inspired by real-life Romans and the Byzantine Empire (Eastern Roman Empire). Players are recommended to choose Roman/Greek sounding names for their characters in order to keep lore/naming consistent.
History
Namorians, as a united identity, came about when Namor appeared. Namor came to save humanity from the oppression of nature. He spread great knowledge, such as how to tame wild horses, and caused great developments in culture, society and health. For the decades following his arrival, he gathered disciples who subscribed to his idea of a unified Namorian nation and people.
Those who followed Namor dubbed themselves the Namorites, emblazoning upon their breasts a bright, burning sun, to represent the great ambition of Namor and his people's will to succeed. Though it was no easy feat, the Namorites succeeded in their quest and mankind finally fought all under one banner. The pre-Namorian civilizations slowly became homogenized and centralised, with the culture and society built by Namor flourishing. It was an unprecedented golden age for the people of Namoria, who basked in the glory of Namor's calculated and benevolent reign.
But it did not last for long. Namor departed the fair realm, and with him gone a great struggle was had between his disciples for his position. Namoria was then thrust into a turbulent era of warring states; hundreds of years of ceaseless struggle that transformed the continent and its people into their modern counterparts. The great Emperor Cyrus brought the vicious civil war to an end after the longest time, reforming the Namorian Empire. From the reformation on, the more recognizable, current Namorian culture and people were shaped by this new age of economic and social prosperity.
Society
Namorians place a great emphasis on the tenets of honor, duty, and family. They are tenacious and bold; striving to strengthen themselves at every turn and never failing to back down from the challenges the world presented! Many Namorians live through subsistence farming and agriculture as farmers, herders, gatherers and shepherds, but there is a growing urban population, especially in the capital province and along the western coast. Namorian society is - by nature - patriarchal. It does not mean women are unable to be in positions of power and status, though. Caste is king; social hierarchy is generally more important than gender. Elderly women are respected as sources of wisdom within a household and command great influence in its workings. The typical Namorian is raised up according to their family’s caste and means. Many follow in the footsteps of their predecessors - nobles, with demesne to manage, or master craftsmen and artisans, who've an established and refined trade, even down to the lowly, but vital, farm-owners. The privileged send their children to the Curricula, a strict but prestigious system of schooling. Both boys and girls are sent to the Curricula at the age of 9 and continue until they reach man or woman-hood at 18.Caste System
The central pillar of Namorian society is the caste system, introduced by Namor in the process of consolidating his reign. The caste that a person belongs to determines their worth and their place in Namorian society. The caste system is organised into four layers: Sunborn, Ippites, Plebeians and Slaves.Sunborn
The privileged nobility of Namorian society. The noble houses that make up the Sunborn - or patrician class - claim their ascendance from Namor himself, thus their status is a matter of faith and their position is near irrefutable. Although they are the most free and noble of any caste, their great power comes with great responsibility. Their respect is earned, not given, and members of this class are expected to excel in their chosen field in order to be recognised as a true Namorian. Sunborn commanders, for example, are expected to lead without cowardice and hesitation; Sunborn in military service are expected to be at the front, fighting bravely by their soldiers. Sunborn houses, as befitting their status, have the ear of the Emperor, and their word in matters of state - whether it be in the recommendation of individuals to office or to influence the Emperor's hand - have weight greater than one might think. The only way to be elevated to the Sunborn caste is through marriage, but such a process is complicated by the general Namorian tradition of marrying within one's caste and not straying into the realms of others.Ippites
A distinct class of ‘low nobility’; appointed governors, military leaders and civil bureaucrats, alongside those who have rendered great service for Namoria. An individual is elevated to the ranks of the Ippites through a patent of nobility. Ippite status only extends to a patentee’s direct blood family (not relatives such as cousins, uncles etc). The status of Ippites is not strictly hereditary and varies according to the circumstances surrounding the patent. Namorian laws specify who is able to bestow the patent and on whom. Among the Ippites themselves there is a concept of quality and rank, dependant on their patron. A local sell-sword receiving a patent from the Emperor himself would be considered far higher in ranking than a wealthy merchant who received it from a local noble.Plebeians
The free commoners - the plebeians - of Namorian society. Their freedoms are afforded protection under Namorian law. The average pleb may simply be a manual labourer, but there are many who are renowned for their gilded crafts and refined arts. They may not have the pedigree of their Sunborn counterparts - or the recognition of the Ippites - but there are landowners and merchants that could rival the Sunborn in pure capital. This fact has created a self-styled 'upper-class' of plebeians.Slaves
Slaves are the lowest in society. In a sense, they are considered outside the caste system and thus do not have rights within Namorian society. A slave becomes a plebeian when they are freed by their owner. Slaves may become indentured servants, but their rights are still restricted. These servants are considered ‘free’, but are bound by a contract rather that rules their lives. Their conditions and social treatment is usually, in practice, no different from that of a slave, but some servants command respect as the 'machine' of the household. Unfortunately, the practice of entrapment - where owners bind unlucky victims into perpetual and harsh contracts - is increasingly rife.It is important to note that the caste system is not always strictly observed and that it varies between regions and peoples. For example, people of the Sunborn class and traditionalist usually place great importance in caste while others, less fortunate in social standing, may blur the lines. Some social extremists outright fight and disavow the caste system all together.
Justice
Namorians value the rule of law and defer matters of justice to a higher authority. The Herad Codex - named after Emperor Herad - is the most integral legal text and has remained practically unchanged throughout hundreds of years of practice, forming the basis of the Namorian legal system and moral belief. There is also religious law which is overseen by the Chief Inquisitor, who is appointed by the Emperor from among the clergy of the Namorian Church. The Inquisitor deals with matters of heresy and blasphemy.Culture
Festivals
Many Namorian festivals and days of celebrations are based around religious observance or commemoration of a significant historical event. There are also many regional variants of festivals with specific points that could differ from between village or town. Listed below are the most common and significant festivals for Namorians: Sunwatch (1 Janayir) New Year celebration. It is called Sunwatch as it is a tradition for people to stay up through the night in order to see the sunrise. The most devout and keen Namorians often trek to the Dragonback Mountains and climb up to the peaks in order to get the best view possible. Prayers and sacrifices are offered to Ancestral and Saintly icons to bid a year of good fortune. House cleaning is also done right before Sunwatch. An iconic part of Sunwatch is the use of fireworks, which is symbolic of the sun itself. Dragon Festival (21 Tammuz) A day commemorating the legend of Namor. Taking place traditionally in Passamere (also known as the Dragon’s Pass) where Namor slew the Elder Dragon Girdam and uplifted mankind. Elaborate dragon faced masks are worn during the celebration and many travel to Passamere to pay their respects. Dramatic reenactments of the battle alongside religious songs and dance accompany the already joyous celebration. Imperial Jubilee (15 Mayu) A celebration that only occurs every twenty years in the name of the founding of the Empire. It is a grand affair and often coincides with the Grand Tournament and the Great Pheran Boat Race. The date refers to the day of the founding of the Namorian Empire by Cyrus and is the expected date that it happens on, however, some rulers wishing to put their achievements in the spotlight would hold it during the anniversary of their own significance. Grand Tournament (Vernal - Somer) First held by Emperor Damaran, son of Namor during the period of the Old Empire as a way to allow warriors to prove their skill at arms during a period of peace. Often occurs every four years but there are no strict rules and a Grand Tournament can be called for special occasions as well. Heralds are sent around Namoria a month in advance, calling all individuals with martial skills to attend the tournament at the capital. The tournament was also a chance for many to settle a grudge that could not be resolved through the courts, especially among the nobility. Those with disputes would declare their intentions on the Imperial Roll and write their opponent’s name alongside their own. The fighting was rarely to the death, however, there was always a chance of accidents or foul play. Feros Race (Somer) A spectacular race using ancient triremes. The race is long distance, starting from the port of the capital to the Odessus Peninsular and circling back, ending at Doceo Island. The ships are decorated in very bright colours and elaborate patterns so that people watching from the shore can observe the race. The size of a team would be anywhere from 100 to upwards of 300. Many Sunborn and wealthy commoners sponsor or own the ships that are in the race. Ludus Day (Year Round) A sporting carnival. While held regionally, the one held in the capital, Feros is the largest and most famous. Namorians compete with each other in chariot/horse racing, archery, wrestling, and skill of arms among other things. The Virtiad (11 Maris) Also known as Poet’s day. Celebrated mostly in the cities. Poets, actors, playwrights, artists, and songwriters come together to share their work in the streets and theatres. The celebration originated under Emperor Herad as a way to promote ‘high culture’ among the citizenry. For many artists, it is also a day to gain patronage from nobles and the wealthy. Saint’s Feast Day (7 Athar) A simple day of prayer and feasting afterwards. Individuals and families give tribute to their own patron saint alongside Namor. Markets are a major focus, with many regional areas showcasing their specialties to travellers/pilgrims. Bread stamped with religious iconography is traditionally made during this day to be sold or shared. Synkomidi, The Harvest (Agustus - Tammuz) The Harvest Festival. Especially important in the Northern Namoria as climate is harsher for crops. Families harvest their crops and store them for the winter. This is accompanied by celebrations in the hope of a bountiful harvest in the upcoming seasons. Respite (Mid Winter) A mid winter gathering, mostly celebrated in the colder climates of Namoria. A village or small town would meet in the town square and light a massive bonfire while people would share home cooked meals with one another. Among younger Namorians, the Day of Respite is known for its romantic aspect. Lovers would elope or propose to one another.Due to Zyria's in game time system players do not necessarily follow the in game calendar in order to undertake these events. Rather it is simply to give canon dates for when these events should occur within the world.
Traditions
Dueling
A person’s honor is of great importance in Namorian society, especially for those in positions of great influence. Although Namorian law is extensive in covering most aspects of society, it does not cover libel/false rumours and other insults to honour, thus the most common way to resolve disputes outside the law would be through a trial of combat. There are many rules in regards to the conduct of dueling. The Namorians are aware of the implications if dueling was unrestricted. The main rule is that it is forbidden to challenge someone outside of your caste to a duel. This is obvious as it would be unfair for a wealthier individual to duel a peasant for example. Also, a duel is rarely to the death and most usually surrender at first blood or even before the duel itself preferring to sort it out beforehand. These are unwritten rules and the courts are not necessarily involved in the arbitration of duels; although, it is a tradition for duels to be overseen by a member of the clergy as witnesses of Namor. The duels could be of any format as long as it is agreed by both parties and their seconds. The standard and most common format would be combat on foot with a sword and shield.Patronage
One of the most important social responsibilities of the Sunborn caste is to be patrons of the lower class. Essentially, it is an informal, unwritten contract between a patron (the superior) and the client (the subordinate) in a mutually beneficial relationship. It also forms the power base of significant political figures. A typical example would be a lawyer or politician providing advice or protection in return for resources such as food, lumber, and popular support. In theory, this allows the lower classes another layer of protection and access to resources that money could not buy. However, this practice has been criticized throughout history for leading to corruption. Patronage is most common in dense urban areas - while in the countryside/rural areas it is mostly between landowners and their peasantry.House warming
When a new home is built or purchased, Namorians would invite close friends and neighbours over on the day they move in. Humble meals are prepared by the hosts, and guests often bring over household gifts such as furniture, vases, decorations, etc. In a way, this custom is the initial step in building the bond between communities as Namorians dislike unknown outsiders in their neighbourhoods or village. Before guests are allowed to enter, the owner of the house will offer prayers at the threshold - usually to one of the household saints.Martial arts
Namorians have perfected metallurgy, equipping themselves with high quality mail and for the most wealthy, heavy plate armor. Spears and swords paired with a shield are the most common weapons used by warriors. Horses are mostly reserved for the wealthy. Namorian warhorses are bred to be extremely large, being able to deliver a devastating charge. The horses are also heavily armoured. In peaceful times, many renowned fighters established schools that teach the finer arts of swordsmanship, riding, etc to be used in duels.Marriage
Marriage customs vary greatly depending on what caste people belong to. Marrying outside your own caste is considered shameful in most cases but it is not as uncommon as one might think. There are many cases of impoverished Sunborn marrying into wealthy commoner families. A wedding is usually officiated by a member of the clergy - any ordained member of the Namorian Church may do so, however, Sunborn families usually get someone of a higher rank to undertake it - the Imperial Family weddings are always officiated by the Grand Patriarch of the Namorian Church. The wedding ceremony itself would depend on individual family, regional traditions and wealth. A dowry would be expected- which can be gold or equivalent property. Marriages among the Sunborn are generally political while the commoners usually marry out of love.Ancestral Worship
Namorian family values are emphasized through the reverence of ancestors. It is believed that the fortunes of a family depended on the protection and blessing of their ancestor spirits. Graves are well maintained and often visited especially during religious festivals. Some historical figures have become Supreme Ancestors and are seen as the father/mother of all Namorian people and the same reverence is given to them.Animals
Namorians keep a wide variety of animals for many different functions and are often considered part of the family. Dogs are often used for hunting or shepherding and is a staple of any family. Cats are also popular, especially among the nobility.Hunting
Namoria’s diverse fauna makes for a rich hunting ground. The pre-Namorian tribes were primarily hunter-gatherer societies and since agriculture/husbandry now provides most of the diet of Namorians there is no real need for survival hunting unless a person is living far from civilization without the means of farming or travelling. However, it is an integral part of Namorian culture itself a callback to the legends of the Crusaders and Dragon Hunters. Game meat is a luxury and is mostly served during exquisite banquets and festivals. It is a tradition for fathers to take their son hunting when they come of age as part of their birthday. A feast would be prepared from the hunted animals.Folklore
Griffins
The griffin or gryphon is a Namorian mythological creature with the body, tail, and back legs of a lion, the head and wings of an eagle, and sometimes an eagle's talons as its front feet. This mythological beast was originated by several creative travelling folk who encountered many a big cat as they moved over the Namorian plains, and in their boredom, told stories about lions with the wings and head of an eagle, flying over certain dangerous territories. People often opt to avoid these areas because of their fear to meet such a beast. The idea of griffins presents a symbol of power and royalty due to lions being traditionally considered lords over all beasts, and eagles, the kings of the birds. In literature, griffins are frequently mentioned, and it is said they are known for guarding treasure and priceless possessions. Decorative griffins are as well popular in Namorian art, and later in bestiaries and heraldry, but most importantly the griffin is seen as the official Imperial insignia.Ghosts
Ghosts are believed to be post humane creatures who carry a rather ghostly and translucent image similar to what they looked like when they were alive. That being said, they are much more distorted and unusual, making them almost unrecognizable upon first glance. Several tales of ghosts are told throughout the continent of Namoria, and more than one claims to have witnessed one of these ghosts. The truth is, human imagination is limitless, and the fear of the unknown is a fear that grows stronger every time. Within the darkness, and the loneliness, the strong whistle of the breeze can be heard, and people often freak out, thinking it’s the shriek of a suffering soul. Namorians believe that those who have unfinished business on Earth will seek to come back as a ghost.Hospitality
Cuisine
Namorian cuisine usually has six to seven main ingredients: wheat, wine, meat and/or fish, bread, sauces, and spices. Higher class Namorians have very luxurious lives and even host feasts with a wide variety of foods. The majority of the population consumes around seventy percent of their daily calories with cereals and legumes. While there are Namorians who discourage meat eating, Namorian butchers make decent coin selling varieties of fresh meats, including pork, beef, chicken, rabbit, and mutton. Due to the lack of refrigeration, preservation for meat, fish, and dairy have been developed through means such as curing salts. Fresh milk is used for cooking and drinking while also valuable since cheese can be made out of it. Unlike most meats or fruits, cheese is easier to store and transport to the market. Wine is widely consumed across Namoria, from the cheap and questionable concoctions to the finest aged Lutetian wine.Guest rights
Having guests over is considered an honour and hosts are expected to go above and beyond to ensure that their guest(s) are safe and satisfied. When a guest receives ‘bread and wine’ they are considered to have evoked the protection of the household saints and the ancestors of the host. Guests are also expected to behave appropriately and practice a degree of moderation as not to overly burden their hosts by their presence. Breaching guest rights is considered as one of the most heinous taboos.Etiquette
Personal space is very important to Namorians and public displays of affection are looked down upon. It is frowned upon to invade the personal space of someone who is of higher caste than you or of those who are considered as an elder. The superior must initiate before it is considered appropriate. Men and women are expected to keep their physical contact to a minimum from each other unless they are close family or married. Namorians usually bow or salute with the right hand over the chest to greet a superior but a firm handshake is common among people of equal standing. Touch/personal space is indicative of how close or equal you consider a person to be.Art & Music
Music plays an important role in all aspects of Namorian life. At funerals, the tibia, a woodwind instrument, is played during sacrifices to ward off ill influences. There exists several groups of bards who walk through the street playing their aulos, bagpipes, and lyres. In festivals or taverns, these groups are hired and songs are commissioned by the hosts. Even in wars, horns and drums are played to indicate commands and/or the beginning of battles. Namorian art includes architecture, painting, sculpture, and mosaic works. Luxury objects such as metal-works, gem engravings, ivory carvings, and glass are considered minor forms of Namorian art. Sculpture is perhaps considered the highest form of Namorian art, and it is displayed in most plazas, important settlements, and monuments of its cities. Literature and dramatic plays are very popular among the Namorians. Texts on a wide variety of topics are published regularly and most cities and towns have their own news heralds who distributes pamphlets of the latest news and rumours.Entertainment
Namorians spend their free time on many different activities. The lively cities leave no citizen bored and the various festivals and events held throughout the year give Namorians many opportunities to entertained throughout the year.Gambling
There’s nothing more exciting to a Namorian than tempting fate itself. Gambling in Namoria is varied. During the Grand Tournament and The Ludus, Namorians place bets on individual fighters and chariot racers. Dice and cards games are often played in taverns/inns among the citizenry.The Tavern
Taverns are the center of Namorian urban life. It is a place for travelers to stay, meet other people, gamble, and partake in drinking. It is also where staples of Namorian cuisine are often served to hungry guests.Bathhouses
Namorians love cleanliness and socializing; and the traditional bath houses fulfill both at the same time. Namorians, both men and women, often meet at bathhouses to gossip and discuss business. There is a clear divide when it comes to different establishments to avoid the unnecessary mingling of caste. Upper scale bathhouses would bar commoners in or charge high fees. The seedier bathhouses also double as a brothel.Theatre
Watching plays/musicals is accessible to all Namorians, not just the noble and the wealthy. Theatres are packed with people; especially during the Virtiad festival, as Namorians rush to see their favourite actors and playwrights perform new material. Some playwrights have created serial plays which means that people would have to continuously attending to keep up with the story. Plays are often themed around core Namorian beliefs with many tragic elements and patriotic themes.Forums
The central plaza is often a place of commerce (markets, shops, banks, etc) but the forum is also a place for people to meet. Public speeches and debates occur at the forum daily. The intellectually inclined citizens would spend most of their time at the forum exchanging ideas with other open minded people.Death
Namorians believe when a person dies they become an ancestral spirit, joining the ranks of the ancestors. Funerals are often elaborate - accompanied by stirring elegies performed by funereal bands and animal sacrifices to please the spirits. Burial is forbidden in Namorian law and a taboo as Namorians believe that a person could not move on the next life if their body was still whole in the physical realm; thus, cremation is standard practice. Ashes are either respectfully scattered at a place of significance or placed in urns to be kept safely in the family home or tomb. The possessions of the deceased are usually burned alongside their body but more valuable items such as high quality weaponry and armor, jewelry, books, etc are usually passed down as heirlooms to their closest family.Religion
Mainstream Namorian beliefs is centered around Namorism which is named after Namor, a historical and divine figure that gave Namoria and its people a united cultural identity. In pre-Namor times, the Namorians believed in a wide variety of deities forming a pantheon - many ancient deities have become patron saints or minor deities under Namorism. In a religious context, adherents of Namorism are called Namorites. There are different sects Namorism which have existed throughout history.Faith of the Eternal Sun
Also commonly known as the Namorian Church, this is the mainstream and most commonly practiced faith in Namoria. The church was established after the founding of the New Namorian Empire by Emperor Cyrus in order to further unify the people. Namor Invictus is seen as the supreme divine figure in human form - an avatar of the gods. The role of the monarch in the church is to be Namor’s own voice and is the symbolic head of the church. The clergymen of the Eternal Sun wield considerable power with even the most powerful nobles wary of their steps around matters of belief. This sort of relationship has caused them to clash with the aristocracy over issues such as land disputes and taxation. Significant historical rulers have also been deified and considered as ‘Divine Ancestors’. The worship of any other gods/forms of Namorism is banned by the Empire, however, due to the cultural significance of some ancient deities have been implemented into the faith as patron saints and the Saint’s Feast Day is an example of a celebration that focuses on that. Namor’s Codex and the Imperial Canon are the two canon texts that the Namorian Church considers as true. Any other text referring to Namor contrary to the Church’s perception is considered as heresy.Dragon Worship
A mostly historical faith. In the time of the Dragon War, there were a few humans who betrayed mankind and joined forces with the dragons. Nowadays, it is a largely obscured belief and only interests those involved in the occult. According to religious canon, worshipers were completely wiped out by Namor during the last battle at Mount Khadun. Even if fragments of their faith have survived, its reliability is dubious at best.True Namorites
A radical sect of Namorism that denies Namor’s divinity, instead viewing him as the ‘Great Teacher’. They claim their ascendance from the original Crusaders that followed Namor during the Dragon War. The True Namorites led significant educational institutions before the era of the Empire, but their falling out and clashing of beliefs with the Namorian Church led to their systematic destruction over centuries. It is most likely that the tales of old wise men and seers in the woods originated from True Namorite followers hiding from authorities.Old Namorian Pantheon
Although officially banned by the Namorian Church many still hold strong beliefs in the pre Namorian gods.Apistos (The Profane)
Throughout history, more so during the revival of the Namorian Empire, there have been eccentric individuals who outright denied the tales of dragons and Namor himself, instead believing that the stories were simply made up by the Church and other rulers to control the people. They were considered even by True Namorites to be radical.It should be noted that although the history of Namor, the Dragons, etc. are considered religious canon and is mentioned in the historical timeline heavily, it should not be officially declared as true events of Zyria. The History of Namoria is written by the Namorian Church. As a character in the world of Zyria, you may choose in what to believe in.
Language
Common Namorian
Known colloquially as Common, it is the language of the common people and thus the most widely spoken language in the Namoria. There are different accents and dialects but they are generally intelligible to one another. Common spoken by the people of Feros and its surrounding area is considered as the standard.Old Namorian
The language of religion, the nobility. It is the language that the ancestors of Namoria spoke - including Namor himself who, according to canon, united the divided lands and taught the language of the gods to mankind.It is used mostly in religious ceremonies and in the academic field. Nobles rarely speak it informally and it is reserved for mostly formal functions such as documents, declarations, etc.Ancient Languages
Languages unknown and dated before Namor are placed under the umbrella of Ancient Languages. Scarce fragments remain and are only of interest to scholars; however, there is no doubt that these tribal/pre-Namorian languages have influenced the modern tongue. Some words and places in Namoria have no root with Old Namorian such as the Great Fortress of Esen-Tar.Naming
Naming convention varies according to a person's caste. As Namorians value family tradition many Namorians have family names with their given/first name at the front and their family name following it. Some Namorians may instead identify with their place of birth or residence instead by using ‘of’ before the name of their residence (usually the name of a city or village) in place for their last name. Slaves, however, are denied the use of a last name and many who are freed create their own. Sunborn are allowed to use the nobility particle ‘Sol’ in their name e.g Auran Sol to emphasize their noble lineage. It is not necessary to use in casual speech and is more common in written documents and formal speech.Making a name: Listed below are the most common name endings based on Roman and Greek names. For a lore friendly name simply choose a one to three syllable sound and slap on any of the name ending. Works for family/last names as well. A recommendation would be to make first names catchy or shorter than the last/family name.
| -aeus -aius -as -chos -des -eas -eius -eus -ia -ian -nos | -ris -rius -ros -tas -ton -us -ius -ka -kos -lis -nes |
Attributes
Average height: 5'4"Life expectancy: 70 years
Skin colors: olive, light tan, white
Eye colors: blue, green, brown, amber
Hair colors: brown, blond, black
Upper-class Namorian male
Two average Namorian commoners
Rowdy crowd during a festival
Grand Bazaar in Feros
Namorian Nobles
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