Bukran - Revision history

Gronk at 13:59, 24 September 2024

2024-09-24T13:59:41Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:59, 24 September 2024
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	\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems		\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems
	}}		}}
	'''Bukran''' {{Pronunciation\|BUUK-rahn}} is a ratfolk-ruled nation north of the [[Gulf of Timakal]]. Located on the frontier of the [[Sangiran\|Sangiran Empire]] before its collapse, the ratfolk tribes the empire formerly fought against are now one of the few beacons of stability in the region, as rigid and harsh as their society can be.		'''Bukran''' {{Pronunciation\|BUUK-rahn}} is a [[ratfolk]]-ruled nation north of the [[Gulf of Timakal]]. Located on the frontier of the [[Sangiran\|Sangiran Empire]] before its collapse, the ratfolk tribes the empire formerly fought against are now one of the few beacons of stability in the region, as rigid and harsh as their society can be.

	== Geography, flora, and fauna ==		== Geography, flora, and fauna ==

Gronk at 22:02, 23 September 2024

2024-09-23T22:02:07Z

Gronk at 22:37, 20 April 2024

2024-04-20T22:37:11Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:37, 20 April 2024
Line 23:		Line 23:

	=== Arrival of the Sangiran Empire ===		=== Arrival of the Sangiran Empire ===
	As the Sangiran Empire expanded north out of [[Kea Racha]], it looked to the lands around the Gulf of Timakal. While most imperial settlement was concentrated in the south, in modern-day [[~~Vothan~~]], the empire also established outposts around the northern shores of the gulf as well. By {{Year\|4600}} a handful of frontier fortresses and ports dotted the lands on either side of the mouth of the Siltstream.		As the Sangiran Empire expanded north out of [[Kea Racha]], it looked to the lands around the Gulf of Timakal. While most imperial settlement was concentrated in the south, in modern-day [[Vaothan]], the empire also established outposts around the northern shores of the gulf as well. By {{Year\|4600}} a handful of frontier fortresses and ports dotted the lands on either side of the mouth of the Siltstream.

	The arrival of imperial forces and citizens was not unnoticed by the hobgoblins of the mountains, whose trepidation of the new arrivals soon quickly way to opportunism. Organized raids by hobgoblin forces soon began against the coasts. These would last, off and on, for centuries, forcing the Sangiran Empire to devote significant parts of its military strength to defend these far-flung outposts. Peace treaties rarely lasted, as once the stipulated tributes paid by the empire stopped the hobgoblins would simply resume their raids once again.		The arrival of imperial forces and citizens was not unnoticed by the hobgoblins of the mountains, whose trepidation of the new arrivals soon quickly way to opportunism. Organized raids by hobgoblin forces soon began against the coasts. These would last, off and on, for centuries, forcing the Sangiran Empire to devote significant parts of its military strength to defend these far-flung outposts. Peace treaties rarely lasted, as once the stipulated tributes paid by the empire stopped the hobgoblins would simply resume their raids once again.

Gronk at 16:31, 29 March 2024

2024-03-29T16:31:36Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:31, 29 March 2024
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	\|demonym = Bukrani		\|demonym = Bukrani
	\|adjective = Bukrani		\|adjective = Bukrani
	\|languages = [[Timakal]], Goblin, [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], [[Common]]		\|languages = [[Timakal]], [[Goblin (language)\|Goblin]], [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], [[Common]]
	\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems		\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems
	}}		}}
Line 53:		Line 53:

	=== Languages ===		=== Languages ===
	[[Timakal]], Goblin, [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], and [[Common]] are all spoken in Bukran.		[[Timakal]], [[Goblin (language)\|Goblin]], [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], and [[Common]] are all spoken in Bukran.

	=== Architecture and urbanization ===		=== Architecture and urbanization ===

Gronk at 18:23, 16 February 2024

2024-02-16T18:23:40Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:23, 16 February 2024
Line 10:		Line 10:
	\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems		\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems
	}}		}}
	'''Bukran''' {{Pronunciation\|BUUK-rahn}} is a hobgoblin-ruled nation north of the [[Gulf of Timakal]]. Located on the frontier of the [[Sangiran Empire]] before its collapse, the hobgoblin tribes the empire formerly fought against are now one of the few beacons of stability in the region, as rigid and harsh as their society can be.		'''Bukran''' {{Pronunciation\|BUUK-rahn}} is a hobgoblin-ruled nation north of the [[Gulf of Timakal]]. Located on the frontier of the [[Sangiran\|Sangiran Empire]] before its collapse, the hobgoblin tribes the empire formerly fought against are now one of the few beacons of stability in the region, as rigid and harsh as their society can be.

	== Geography, flora, and fauna ==		== Geography, flora, and fauna ==

Gronk at 02:46, 8 February 2024

2024-02-08T02:46:31Z

Gronk at 17:40, 7 February 2024

2024-02-07T17:40:07Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:40, 7 February 2024
Line 33:		Line 33:
	{{SeeAlso\|Silk Order}}		{{SeeAlso\|Silk Order}}

	By {{Year\|6700}}, a new force had risen in Bukran, this time led by the hobgoblins themselves. Born out of a tribe that had discarded their own name, the [[Silk Order]] brought with them a new ideology fusing their ~~[[animism\|animistic]]~~ religious practices with a commandment to subjugate what they viewed as outsiders in their lands. They quickly united most of the tribes of the mountains, incorporating old tribal leaders into their ranks as they went, before sweeping south into the lowlands and conquering the Sangiran settlements.		By {{Year\|6700}}, a new force had risen in Bukran, this time led by the hobgoblins themselves. Born out of a tribe that had discarded their own name, the [[Silk Order]] brought with them a new ideology fusing their unique religious practices with a commandment to subjugate what they viewed as outsiders in their lands. They quickly united most of the tribes of the mountains, incorporating old tribal leaders into their ranks as they went, before sweeping south into the lowlands and conquering the Sangiran settlements.

	== Demographics ==		== Demographics ==
Line 41:		Line 41:

	=== Religion ===		=== Religion ===
	Traditionally [[Animism\|animistic]], today the hobgoblins of Bukran worship a unique faith that serves as both religion and part of the core political ideology of the Silk Order. Each regiment of their military constructs a battle-totem in a long and elaborate ritual, ~~using~~		Traditionally [[Animism\|animistic]], today the hobgoblins of Bukran worship a unique faith that serves as both religion and part of the core political ideology of the Silk Order. Each regiment of their military constructs a battle-totem in a long and elaborate ritual, generally out of carved wood and bone. Through this ritual they bind a spirit to the totem, who then becomes the primary subject of their veneration. Topped with flags bearing the symbols of their regiment, the battle-totem is then carried into combat, where it is believed to collect the strength of foes defeated in battle. The totems are quite large and often require four or more individuals to carry. Conflicts between the hobgoblins center heavily around the capture or destruction of the battle-totem of one's opponent, as doing so is a certain way to break their morale.

			Outside of the military, animistic beliefs still hold, generally focusing on the worship of mountain and stone spirits. In the southern settlements, worship of the [[Eternal Suzerain]] dissipated upon their last death, and today most have likewise adapted animistic practices or else follow one of the modern post-Suzerain religions like the [[Weaver of Eighty Thousand Threads]].

	=== Society ===		=== Society ===
			Society in Bukran is extremely structured and hierarchical. Military rank grants civilian privileges and status as well, or more correctly all who never served in the military are considered of a lower rung on the social ladder than those who did. Disputes are usually arbitrated by the highest ranked individual involved. Outside of joining a local regiment, there are few opportunities for social advancement.

			Bukrani engineers have long had a reputation that extended far beyond their lands. So renowned are they as masters of incorporating alchemical weapons into their artillery that even as the Sangiran Empire fought against the tribes it sought to recruit these engineers for its own military. Over the centuries some left for [[Kea Racha]], while others found themselves farther afield, including in the [[Blacksand Archipelago]] where the [[Blacksand League\|pirate factions]] were equally interested in their skills.

	As with nearby [[Matarsah]], apart from the coastal colonies and outposts Bukran was never under the meaningful influence of Sangiran culture. As a result the hobgoblin's traditions from before the influence of the empire remain largely intact, or at least changed by their own volition.		As with nearby [[Matarsah]], apart from the coastal colonies and outposts Bukran was never under the meaningful influence of Sangiran culture. As a result the hobgoblin's traditions from before the influence of the empire remain largely intact, or at least changed by their own volition.

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	=== Architecture and urbanization ===		=== Architecture and urbanization ===
	~~FINISH THIS!!!!~~		In the north, the hobgoblins live in well-fortified mountain strongholds, with tall outer stone walls protecting the homes within. These are often located near mountain peaks or otherwise in local high points, allowing for easy visibility of any approaching threats. Most buildings are [[wikipedia:Clochán\|circular with conical roofs]] , clustered in close proximity to each other.

	The coastal settlements, meanwhile, are built in traditional ~~[[Kea Racha\|~~Kea Rachan]] styles.		The coastal settlements, meanwhile, are built in traditional Kea Rachan styles.

	=== Fashion ===		=== Fashion ===

Gronk at 17:24, 7 February 2024

2024-02-07T17:24:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:24, 7 February 2024
Line 8:		Line 8:
	\|adjective = Bukrani		\|adjective = Bukrani
	\|languages = [[Timakal]], Goblin, [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], [[Common]]		\|languages = [[Timakal]], Goblin, [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], [[Common]]
	\|religions = [[Animism]]		\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems
	}}		}}
	'''Bukran''' {{Pronunciation\|BUUK-rahn}} is a hobgoblin-ruled nation north of the [[Gulf of Timakal]]. Located on the frontier of the [[Sangiran Empire]] before its collapse, the hobgoblin tribes the empire formerly fought against are now one of the few beacons of stability in the region, as rigid and harsh as their society can be.		'''Bukran''' {{Pronunciation\|BUUK-rahn}} is a hobgoblin-ruled nation north of the [[Gulf of Timakal]]. Located on the frontier of the [[Sangiran Empire]] before its collapse, the hobgoblin tribes the empire formerly fought against are now one of the few beacons of stability in the region, as rigid and harsh as their society can be.

Gronk at 17:24, 7 February 2024

2024-02-07T17:24:13Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:24, 7 February 2024
Line 23:		Line 23:

	=== Arrival of the Sangiran Empire ===		=== Arrival of the Sangiran Empire ===
	As the Sangiran Empire expanded north out of [[Kea Racha]], it looked to the lands around the Gulf of Timakal. While most imperial settlement was concentrated in the south, in modern-day [[Vothan]], the empire also established outposts around the northern ~~coast~~ of the gulf as well. By {{Year\|4600}} a handful of frontier fortresses and ports dotted the ~~coast~~ on either side of the mouth of the Siltstream.		As the Sangiran Empire expanded north out of [[Kea Racha]], it looked to the lands around the Gulf of Timakal. While most imperial settlement was concentrated in the south, in modern-day [[Vothan]], the empire also established outposts around the northern shores of the gulf as well. By {{Year\|4600}} a handful of frontier fortresses and ports dotted the a on either side of the mouth of the Siltstream.

	The arrival of imperial forces and citizens was not unnoticed by the hobgoblins of the mountains, whose trepidation of the new arrivals soon fave way to opportunism. Organized raids by hobgoblin forces soon began against the coasts. These would last, off and on, for centuries, forcing the Sangiran Empire to devote significant parts of its military strength to defend these far-flung outposts. Peace treaties rarely lasted, as once the stipulated tributes paid by the empire stopped the hobgoblins would simply resume their raids once again.		The arrival of imperial forces and citizens was not unnoticed by the hobgoblins of the mountains, whose trepidation of the new arrivals soon fave way to opportunism. Organized raids by hobgoblin forces soon began against the coasts. These would last, off and on, for centuries, forcing the Sangiran Empire to devote significant parts of its military strength to defend these far-flung outposts. Peace treaties rarely lasted, as once the stipulated tributes paid by the empire stopped the hobgoblins would simply resume their raids once again.
Line 33:		Line 33:
	{{SeeAlso\|Silk Order}}		{{SeeAlso\|Silk Order}}

	By {{Year\|6700}}, a new force had risen in Bukran, this time led by the hobgoblins themselves. Born out of a tribe that had discarded their own name, the [[Silk Order]] brought with them a new ideology fusing their [[animism\|animistic]] religious practices with a commandment to subjugate what they viewed as outsiders in their lands. They quickly united most of the tribes of the mountains, incorporating old tribal leaders into their ranks as they went, before sweeping south into the lowlands and conquering the ~~coastal~~ settlements.		By {{Year\|6700}}, a new force had risen in Bukran, this time led by the hobgoblins themselves. Born out of a tribe that had discarded their own name, the [[Silk Order]] brought with them a new ideology fusing their [[animism\|animistic]] religious practices with a commandment to subjugate what they viewed as outsiders in their lands. They quickly united most of the tribes of the mountains, incorporating old tribal leaders into their ranks as they went, before sweeping south into the lowlands and conquering the Sangiran settlements.

	== Demographics ==		== Demographics ==
Line 41:		Line 41:

	=== Religion ===		=== Religion ===
			Traditionally [[Animism\|animistic]], today the hobgoblins of Bukran worship a unique faith that serves as both religion and part of the core political ideology of the Silk Order. Each regiment of their military constructs a battle-totem in a long and elaborate ritual, using

	=== Society ===		=== Society ===
			As with nearby [[Matarsah]], apart from the coastal colonies and outposts Bukran was never under the meaningful influence of Sangiran culture. As a result the hobgoblin's traditions from before the influence of the empire remain largely intact, or at least changed by their own volition.

	=== Languages ===		=== Languages ===
Line 48:		Line 50:

	=== Architecture and urbanization ===		=== Architecture and urbanization ===
			FINISH THIS!!!!

			The coastal settlements, meanwhile, are built in traditional [[Kea Racha\|Kea Rachan]] styles.

	=== Fashion ===		=== Fashion ===
			Bukrani hobgoblins wear a unique form of [https://www.reddit.com/r/ArmsandArmor/comments/aiqnoo/mycenaean_bronze_age_greek_dendra_panoply/ plate armor], rare elsewhere around the [[Three Great Seas]]. As they rise through the ranks of their military, this armor becomes more and more elaborate and silk-laden. It is common to take pieces or decoration from the armor of defeated foes, affixing them to one's own.

	== Government ==		== Government ==

Gronk at 17:15, 7 February 2024

2024-02-07T17:15:07Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:15, 7 February 2024
Line 48:		Line 48:

	=== Architecture and urbanization ===		=== Architecture and urbanization ===

			=== Fashion ===

	== Government ==		== Government ==
Line 57:		Line 59:

	== Economy ==		== Economy ==
	The hobgoblins of the mountains rely heavily on tribute from the lowlands and coasts, which they extract through ever-present threats of force, using their garrisons to extract payment that is then carried north in well-defended caravans. The largely non-hobgoblin population of Bukran, meanwhile, make their living through farming, fishing, and cottage industries - resources from all are taken by their northern overlords. Trade connections to Kea Racha and other former imperial settlements around the Timakal still exist, but are far less active than when Sangiran still held sway in the area.		The hobgoblins of the mountains rely heavily on exorbitant tribute from the lowlands and coasts, which they extract through ever-present threats of force, using their garrisons to extract payment that is then carried north in well-defended caravans. The largely non-hobgoblin population of Bukran, meanwhile, make their living through farming, fishing, and cottage industries - resources from all are taken by their northern overlords. Trade connections to Kea Racha and other former imperial settlements around the Timakal still exist, but are far less active than when Sangiran still held sway in the area.

	{{CitiesBukran}}		{{CitiesBukran}}

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:02, 23 September 2024
Line 7:		Line 7:
	\|demonym = Bukrani		\|demonym = Bukrani
	\|adjective = Bukrani		\|adjective = Bukrani
	\|languages = [[Timakal]], [[~~Goblin~~ (language)\|~~Goblin~~]], [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], [[Common]]		\|languages = [[Timakal]], [[Ysoki (language)\|Ysoki]], [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], [[Common]]
	\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems		\|religions = [[Animism]]; battle-totems
	}}		}}
	'''Bukran''' {{Pronunciation\|BUUK-rahn}} is a ~~hobgoblin~~-ruled nation north of the [[Gulf of Timakal]]. Located on the frontier of the [[Sangiran\|Sangiran Empire]] before its collapse, the ~~hobgoblin~~ tribes the empire formerly fought against are now one of the few beacons of stability in the region, as rigid and harsh as their society can be.		'''Bukran''' {{Pronunciation\|BUUK-rahn}} is a ratfolk-ruled nation north of the [[Gulf of Timakal]]. Located on the frontier of the [[Sangiran\|Sangiran Empire]] before its collapse, the ratfolk tribes the empire formerly fought against are now one of the few beacons of stability in the region, as rigid and harsh as their society can be.

	== Geography, flora, and fauna ==		== Geography, flora, and fauna ==
Line 19:		Line 19:
	== History ==		== History ==

	=== ~~Hobgoblin~~ migrations ===		=== Ratfolk migrations ===
	The lands south of the Shields have long been home to sizable ~~hobgoblin~~ populations, yet the southernmost reaches near Bukran were historically on the margins of their territory. As [[Tarkuus]] expanded inland over thousands of years, more and more ~~hobgoblins~~ found themselves first forced into the mountains and later pushed south and east away from the undead empire. Many congregated in what is now Bukran.		The lands south of the Shields have long been home to sizable ratfolk populations, yet the southernmost reaches near Bukran were historically on the margins of their territory. As [[Tarkuus]] expanded inland over thousands of years, more and more ratfolk found themselves first forced into the mountains and later pushed south and east away from the undead empire. Many congregated in what is now Bukran.

	=== Arrival of the Sangiran Empire ===		=== Arrival of the Sangiran Empire ===
	As the Sangiran Empire expanded north out of [[Kea Racha]], it looked to the lands around the Gulf of Timakal. While most imperial settlement was concentrated in the south, in modern-day [[Vaothan]], the empire also established outposts around the northern shores of the gulf as well. By {{Year\|4600}} a handful of frontier fortresses and ports dotted the lands on either side of the mouth of the Siltstream.		As the Sangiran Empire expanded north out of [[Kea Racha]], it looked to the lands around the Gulf of Timakal. While most imperial settlement was concentrated in the south, in modern-day [[Vaothan]], the empire also established outposts around the northern shores of the gulf as well. By {{Year\|4600}} a handful of frontier fortresses and ports dotted the lands on either side of the mouth of the Siltstream.

	The arrival of imperial forces and citizens was not unnoticed by the ~~hobgoblins~~ of the mountains, whose trepidation of the new arrivals soon quickly way to opportunism. Organized raids by ~~hobgoblin~~ forces soon began against the coasts. These would last, off and on, for centuries, forcing the Sangiran Empire to devote significant parts of its military strength to defend these far-flung outposts. Peace treaties rarely lasted, as once the stipulated tributes paid by the empire stopped the ~~hobgoblins~~ would simply resume their raids once again.		The arrival of imperial forces and citizens was not unnoticed by the ratfolk of the mountains, whose trepidation of the new arrivals soon quickly way to opportunism. Organized raids by ratfolk forces soon began against the coasts. These would last, off and on, for centuries, forcing the Sangiran Empire to devote significant parts of its military strength to defend these far-flung outposts. Peace treaties rarely lasted, as once the stipulated tributes paid by the empire stopped the ratfolk would simply resume their raids once again.

	=== Collapse of imperial control ===		=== Collapse of imperial control ===
	When Sangiran began to collapse in the early ninety seventh century, Bukran was the first territory of the empire to fall. Disorganized and lacking in clear orders, many Sangiran commanders simply pulled their troops back to the mainland, where other priorities meant they never returned north. The ~~hobgoblin~~ tribes quickly overran the few imperial defenders who remained.		When Sangiran began to collapse in the early ninety seventh century, Bukran was the first territory of the empire to fall. Disorganized and lacking in clear orders, many Sangiran commanders simply pulled their troops back to the mainland, where other priorities meant they never returned north. The ratfolk tribes quickly overran the few imperial defenders who remained.

	=== Rise of the Silk Order ===		=== Rise of the Silk Order ===
	{{SeeAlso\|Silk Order}}		{{SeeAlso\|Silk Order}}

	By {{Year\|6700}}, a new force had risen in Bukran, this time led by the ~~hobgoblins~~ themselves. Born out of a tribe that had discarded their own name, the [[Silk Order]] brought with them a new ideology fusing their unique religious practices with a commandment to subjugate what they viewed as outsiders in their lands. They quickly united most of the tribes of the mountains, incorporating old tribal leaders into their ranks as they went, before sweeping south into the lowlands and conquering the Sangiran settlements.		By {{Year\|6700}}, a new force had risen in Bukran, this time led by the ratfolk themselves. Born out of a tribe that had discarded their own name, the [[Silk Order]] brought with them a new ideology fusing their unique religious practices with a commandment to subjugate what they viewed as outsiders in their lands. They quickly united most of the tribes of the mountains, incorporating old tribal leaders into their ranks as they went, before sweeping south into the lowlands and conquering the Sangiran settlements.

	== Demographics ==		== Demographics ==
	The population of Bukran is roughly evenly split between ~~hobgoblins~~, who primarily live in the north, and the descendants of Sangiran colonists in the south. These settlers are largely [[human]], though half-elves and others are included in their number as well.		The population of Bukran is roughly evenly split between ratfolk, who primarily live in the north, and the descendants of Sangiran colonists in the south. These settlers are largely [[human]], though half-elves and others are included in their number as well.

	== Culture ==		== Culture ==

	=== Religion ===		=== Religion ===
	Traditionally [[Animism\|animistic]], today the ~~hobgoblins~~ of Bukran worship a unique faith that serves as both religion and part of the core political ideology of the Silk Order. Each regiment of their military constructs a battle-totem in a long and elaborate ritual, generally out of carved wood and bone. Through this ritual they bind a spirit to the totem who then becomes the primary subject of their veneration. Topped with flags bearing the symbols of their regiment, the battle-totem is then carried into combat, where it is believed to collect the strength of foes defeated in battle. The totems are quite large and often require four or more individuals to carry. Conflicts between the ~~hobgoblins~~ center heavily around the capture or destruction of the battle-totem of one's opponent, as doing so is a certain way to break their morale.		Traditionally [[Animism\|animistic]], today the ratfolk of Bukran worship a unique faith that serves as both religion and part of the core political ideology of the Silk Order. Each regiment of their military constructs a battle-totem in a long and elaborate ritual, generally out of carved wood and bone. Through this ritual they bind a spirit to the totem who then becomes the primary subject of their veneration. Topped with flags bearing the symbols of their regiment, the battle-totem is then carried into combat, where it is believed to collect the strength of foes defeated in battle. The totems are quite large and often require four or more individuals to carry. Conflicts between the ratfolk center heavily around the capture or destruction of the battle-totem of one's opponent, as doing so is a certain way to break their morale.

	Outside of the military, animistic beliefs still hold, generally focusing on the worship of mountain and stone spirits. In the southern settlements, worship of the [[Eternal Suzerain]] dissipated upon their last death, and today most have likewise adapted animistic practices or else follow one of the modern post-Suzerain religions like the [[Weaver of Eighty Thousand Threads]].		Outside of the military, animistic beliefs still hold, generally focusing on the worship of mountain and stone spirits. In the southern settlements, worship of the [[Eternal Suzerain]] dissipated upon their last death, and today most have likewise adapted animistic practices or else follow one of the modern post-Suzerain religions like the [[Weaver of Eighty Thousand Threads]].
Line 50:		Line 50:
	Bukrani engineers have long had a reputation that extended far beyond their lands. So renowned are they as masters of incorporating alchemical weapons into their artillery that even as the Sangiran Empire fought against the tribes it sought to recruit these engineers for its own military. Over the centuries some left for [[Kea Racha]], while others found themselves farther afield, including in the [[Blacksand Archipelago]] where the [[Blacksand League\|pirate factions]] were equally interested in their skills.		Bukrani engineers have long had a reputation that extended far beyond their lands. So renowned are they as masters of incorporating alchemical weapons into their artillery that even as the Sangiran Empire fought against the tribes it sought to recruit these engineers for its own military. Over the centuries some left for [[Kea Racha]], while others found themselves farther afield, including in the [[Blacksand Archipelago]] where the [[Blacksand League\|pirate factions]] were equally interested in their skills.

	As with nearby [[Matarsah]], apart from the coastal colonies and outposts Bukran was never under the meaningful influence of Sangiran culture. As a result the ~~hobgoblin~~'s traditions from prior the influence of the empire remain largely intact, or at least changed by their own volition.		As with nearby [[Matarsah]], apart from the coastal colonies and outposts Bukran was never under the meaningful influence of Sangiran culture. As a result the ratfolk's traditions from prior the influence of the empire remain largely intact, or at least changed by their own volition.

	=== Languages ===		=== Languages ===
	[[Timakal]], [[~~Goblin~~ (language)\|~~Goblin~~]], [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], and [[Common]] are all spoken in Bukran.		[[Timakal]], [[Ysoki (language)\|Ysoki]], [[Sangiran (language)\|Sangiran]], and [[Common]] are all spoken in Bukran.

	=== Architecture and urbanization ===		=== Architecture and urbanization ===
	In the north, the ~~hobgoblins~~ live in well-fortified mountain strongholds, with tall outer stone walls protecting the homes within. These are often located near mountain peaks or otherwise in local high points, allowing for easy visibility of any approaching threats. Most buildings are [[wikipedia:Clochán\|circular with conical roofs]] , clustered in close proximity to each other.		In the north, the ratfolk live in well-fortified mountain strongholds and warrens, with tall outer stone walls protecting the homes within. These are often located near mountain peaks or otherwise in local high points, allowing for easy visibility of any approaching threats. Most buildings are [[wikipedia:Clochán\|circular with conical roofs]] , clustered in close proximity to each other.

	The coastal settlements, meanwhile, are built in traditional Kea Rachan styles.		The coastal settlements, meanwhile, are built in traditional Kea Rachan styles.

	=== Fashion ===		=== Fashion ===
	Bukrani ~~hobgoblins~~ wear a unique form of [https://www.reddit.com/r/ArmsandArmor/comments/aiqnoo/mycenaean_bronze_age_greek_dendra_panoply/ plate armor], rare elsewhere around the [[Three Great Seas]]. As they rise through the ranks of their military, this armor becomes more and more elaborate and silk-laden. It is common to take pieces or decoration from the armor of defeated foes, affixing them to one's own.		Bukrani ratfolk wear a unique form of [https://www.reddit.com/r/ArmsandArmor/comments/aiqnoo/mycenaean_bronze_age_greek_dendra_panoply/ plate armor], rare elsewhere around the [[Three Great Seas]]. As they rise through the ranks of their military, this armor becomes more and more elaborate and silk-laden. It is common to take pieces or decoration from the armor of defeated foes, affixing them to one's own.

	== Government ==		== Government ==
	The rigidly-hierarchical Silk Order rules Bukran under a strict code of laws. As both military and political leaders, they hold sway over all aspects of life in the region and tolerate little dissent. The old tribes of the ~~hobgoblins~~ still exist, yet all now fall under the control of the Silk Order, their chieftains reduced to commanders within the Order's ranks. Though multiple rebellious tribes have been dissolved and the survivors scattered across the various regiments of the Order, by and large the Order's generals prefer not to take this approach, as they continue to rely heavily on tribal and kinship ties to govern in the more remote reaches of their lands.		The rigidly-hierarchical Silk Order rules Bukran under a strict code of laws. As both military and political leaders, they hold sway over all aspects of life in the region and tolerate little dissent. The old tribes of the ratfolk still exist, yet all now fall under the control of the Silk Order, their chieftains reduced to commanders within the Order's ranks. Though multiple rebellious tribes have been dissolved and the survivors scattered across the various regiments of the Order, by and large the Order's generals prefer not to take this approach, as they continue to rely heavily on tribal and kinship ties to govern in the more remote reaches of their lands.

	Ranks within the Order carry with them a great deal of prestige and personal power. Any who prove themselves through combat can join the Order, and promotion through its ranks is likewise through virtue of strength. As a result it is very common for prospective soldiers within the Order and the power-hungry alike to constantly seek sources of conflict and strife to demonstrate their prowess.		Ranks within the Order carry with them a great deal of prestige and personal power. Any who prove themselves through combat can join the Order, and promotion through its ranks is likewise through virtue of strength. As a result it is very common for prospective soldiers within the Order and the power-hungry alike to constantly seek sources of conflict and strife to demonstrate their prowess.

	With the aid of their garrisons, ~~hobgoblin~~ commanders rule the coastal cities and villages.		With the aid of their garrisons, ratfolk commanders rule the coastal cities and villages.

	== Economy ==		== Economy ==
	The ~~hobgoblins~~ of the mountains rely heavily on exorbitant tribute from the lowlands and coasts, which they extract through ever-present threats of force, using their garrisons to collect payment that is then carried north in well-defended caravans. The non-~~hobgoblin~~ population of Bukran, meanwhile, make their living through farming, fishing, and cottage industries - resources from all are taken by their northern overlords. Trade connections to Kea Racha and other former imperial settlements around the Gulf of Timakal still exist, but are far less active than when Sangiran still held sway in the area.		The ratfolk of the mountains rely heavily on exorbitant tribute from the lowlands and coasts, which they extract through ever-present threats of force, using their garrisons to collect payment that is then carried north in well-defended caravans. The non-ratfolk population of Bukran, meanwhile, make their living through farming, fishing, and cottage industries - resources from all are taken by their northern overlords. Trade connections to Kea Racha and other former imperial settlements around the Gulf of Timakal still exist, but are far less active than when Sangiran still held sway in the area.

	{{CitiesBukran}}		{{CitiesBukran}}

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:46, 8 February 2024
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	== Geography, flora, and fauna ==		== Geography, flora, and fauna ==
	Straddling both the mountains of the [[Shields]] and the tropical forests below, the climate and ecology of Bukran varies greatly. The terrain of northern reaches is rough and craggy with a great deal of seasonality, including even snow in the highest of elevations. Below them to the south is a land of tropical forests, grasslands, and swamps, which are hot and humid for the majority of the year. Monsoons seasonally make landfall in this region.		Straddling both the mountains of the [[Shields]] and the tropical forests below, the climate and ecology of Bukran varies greatly. The terrain of the northern reaches is rough and craggy with a great deal of seasonality, including even snow in the highest of elevations. Below them to the south is a land of tropical forests, grasslands, and swamps, which are hot and humid for the majority of the year. Monsoons seasonally make landfall in this region.

	Though quite a few rivers flow south from the mountains, the largest and most significant of these is the [[Siltstream]], named for its constantly murky appearance.		Though quite a few rivers flow south from the mountains, the largest and most significant of these is the [[Siltstream]], named for its constantly murky appearance.
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	=== Arrival of the Sangiran Empire ===		=== Arrival of the Sangiran Empire ===
	As the Sangiran Empire expanded north out of [[Kea Racha]], it looked to the lands around the Gulf of Timakal. While most imperial settlement was concentrated in the south, in modern-day [[Vothan]], the empire also established outposts around the northern shores of the gulf as well. By {{Year\|4600}} a handful of frontier fortresses and ports dotted the a on either side of the mouth of the Siltstream.		As the Sangiran Empire expanded north out of [[Kea Racha]], it looked to the lands around the Gulf of Timakal. While most imperial settlement was concentrated in the south, in modern-day [[Vothan]], the empire also established outposts around the northern shores of the gulf as well. By {{Year\|4600}} a handful of frontier fortresses and ports dotted the lands on either side of the mouth of the Siltstream.

	The arrival of imperial forces and citizens was not unnoticed by the hobgoblins of the mountains, whose trepidation of the new arrivals soon ~~fave~~ way to opportunism. Organized raids by hobgoblin forces soon began against the coasts. These would last, off and on, for centuries, forcing the Sangiran Empire to devote significant parts of its military strength to defend these far-flung outposts. Peace treaties rarely lasted, as once the stipulated tributes paid by the empire stopped the hobgoblins would simply resume their raids once again.		The arrival of imperial forces and citizens was not unnoticed by the hobgoblins of the mountains, whose trepidation of the new arrivals soon quickly way to opportunism. Organized raids by hobgoblin forces soon began against the coasts. These would last, off and on, for centuries, forcing the Sangiran Empire to devote significant parts of its military strength to defend these far-flung outposts. Peace treaties rarely lasted, as once the stipulated tributes paid by the empire stopped the hobgoblins would simply resume their raids once again.

	=== Collapse of imperial control ===		=== Collapse of imperial control ===
	When Sangiran began to collapse in the early ninety seventh century, Bukran was the first territory of ~~which~~ the empire to fall. Disorganized and lacking in clear orders, many Sangiran commanders simply pulled their troops back to the mainland, where other priorities meant they never returned north. The hobgoblin tribes quickly overran the few imperial defenders who remained.		When Sangiran began to collapse in the early ninety seventh century, Bukran was the first territory of the empire to fall. Disorganized and lacking in clear orders, many Sangiran commanders simply pulled their troops back to the mainland, where other priorities meant they never returned north. The hobgoblin tribes quickly overran the few imperial defenders who remained.

	=== Rise of the Silk Order ===		=== Rise of the Silk Order ===
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	=== Religion ===		=== Religion ===
	Traditionally [[Animism\|animistic]], today the hobgoblins of Bukran worship a unique faith that serves as both religion and part of the core political ideology of the Silk Order. Each regiment of their military constructs a battle-totem in a long and elaborate ritual, generally out of carved wood and bone. Through this ritual they bind a spirit to the totem, who then becomes the primary subject of their veneration. Topped with flags bearing the symbols of their regiment, the battle-totem is then carried into combat, where it is believed to collect the strength of foes defeated in battle. The totems are quite large and often require four or more individuals to carry. Conflicts between the hobgoblins center heavily around the capture or destruction of the battle-totem of one's opponent, as doing so is a certain way to break their morale.		Traditionally [[Animism\|animistic]], today the hobgoblins of Bukran worship a unique faith that serves as both religion and part of the core political ideology of the Silk Order. Each regiment of their military constructs a battle-totem in a long and elaborate ritual, generally out of carved wood and bone. Through this ritual they bind a spirit to the totem who then becomes the primary subject of their veneration. Topped with flags bearing the symbols of their regiment, the battle-totem is then carried into combat, where it is believed to collect the strength of foes defeated in battle. The totems are quite large and often require four or more individuals to carry. Conflicts between the hobgoblins center heavily around the capture or destruction of the battle-totem of one's opponent, as doing so is a certain way to break their morale.

	Outside of the military, animistic beliefs still hold, generally focusing on the worship of mountain and stone spirits. In the southern settlements, worship of the [[Eternal Suzerain]] dissipated upon their last death, and today most have likewise adapted animistic practices or else follow one of the modern post-Suzerain religions like the [[Weaver of Eighty Thousand Threads]].		Outside of the military, animistic beliefs still hold, generally focusing on the worship of mountain and stone spirits. In the southern settlements, worship of the [[Eternal Suzerain]] dissipated upon their last death, and today most have likewise adapted animistic practices or else follow one of the modern post-Suzerain religions like the [[Weaver of Eighty Thousand Threads]].

	=== Society ===		=== Society ===
	Society in Bukran is extremely structured and hierarchical. Military rank grants civilian privileges and status as well, or more correctly all who never served in the military are considered of a lower rung on the social ladder than those who did. Disputes are usually arbitrated by the highest ranked individual involved. Outside of joining a local regiment, there are few opportunities for social advancement.		Society in Bukran is extremely structured and hierarchical. Military rank grants civilian privileges and status as well, or more correctly all who never served in the military are considered of a lower rung on the social ladder than those who did. Disputes are usually arbitrated by the highest ranked individual involved. Outside of joining a local regiment, there are few opportunities for social advancement. Tribal structures still exist but have been intentionally weakened and de-emphasized by the Silk Order.

	Bukrani engineers have long had a reputation that extended far beyond their lands. So renowned are they as masters of incorporating alchemical weapons into their artillery that even as the Sangiran Empire fought against the tribes it sought to recruit these engineers for its own military. Over the centuries some left for [[Kea Racha]], while others found themselves farther afield, including in the [[Blacksand Archipelago]] where the [[Blacksand League\|pirate factions]] were equally interested in their skills.		Bukrani engineers have long had a reputation that extended far beyond their lands. So renowned are they as masters of incorporating alchemical weapons into their artillery that even as the Sangiran Empire fought against the tribes it sought to recruit these engineers for its own military. Over the centuries some left for [[Kea Racha]], while others found themselves farther afield, including in the [[Blacksand Archipelago]] where the [[Blacksand League\|pirate factions]] were equally interested in their skills.

	As with nearby [[Matarsah]], apart from the coastal colonies and outposts Bukran was never under the meaningful influence of Sangiran culture. As a result the hobgoblin's traditions from ~~before~~ the influence of the empire remain largely intact, or at least changed by their own volition.		As with nearby [[Matarsah]], apart from the coastal colonies and outposts Bukran was never under the meaningful influence of Sangiran culture. As a result the hobgoblin's traditions from prior the influence of the empire remain largely intact, or at least changed by their own volition.

	=== Languages ===		=== Languages ===
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	== Economy ==		== Economy ==
	The hobgoblins of the mountains rely heavily on exorbitant tribute from the lowlands and coasts, which they extract through ever-present threats of force, using their garrisons to ~~extract~~ payment that is then carried north in well-defended caravans. The ~~largely~~ non-hobgoblin population of Bukran, meanwhile, make their living through farming, fishing, and cottage industries - resources from all are taken by their northern overlords. Trade connections to Kea Racha and other former imperial settlements around the Timakal still exist, but are far less active than when Sangiran still held sway in the area.		The hobgoblins of the mountains rely heavily on exorbitant tribute from the lowlands and coasts, which they extract through ever-present threats of force, using their garrisons to collect payment that is then carried north in well-defended caravans. The non-hobgoblin population of Bukran, meanwhile, make their living through farming, fishing, and cottage industries - resources from all are taken by their northern overlords. Trade connections to Kea Racha and other former imperial settlements around the Gulf of Timakal still exist, but are far less active than when Sangiran still held sway in the area.

	{{CitiesBukran}}		{{CitiesBukran}}