Neankhar is a part of Imperium Asraniae.
Realms that are a part of Neankhar: Inactive realms that are a part of Neankhar:Head of the gouvernement.
This is the rulership position for the realm.
The Neankharii: Origin and Identity: The Neankharii trace their origins to Asrian legions sent to the Western Plains by Asran "The Light-Bearer" to pacify the region as part of the First Wave. Before their arrival, the Western Plains were ruled by despots and warbands, where blood sacrifice and dark magics were the norm. Allowed entry by Empress Sharona of the Western Confederation, the Asrian legions engaged in bloody warfare to subdue these warbands, leading to a tenuous peace. However, bandits still terrorize towns and cities from their desert holdouts.
The Neankharii are the Asrian legions left behind during Asran's Crusade East. They speak a harsher dialect of Asrian and worship Aeternum Solis, like all members of the Asrian Empire. The harsh, sun-baked environment of the Western Plains has forged a zealous people who view their land as divine.
Social Structure: The Neankharii society is hierarchical and martial, mirroring the structure of their Asrian ancestors. At the top are the warlords, descendants of the original legion commanders, who rule through strength and divine right. Below them are the warrior nobility, elite horsemen who command respect and loyalty through their prowess in battle and their ownership of prized Western Steeds. Common folk support the warriors through agriculture, herding, and craftsmanship, all essential to maintaining their martial way of life.
Religion and Beliefs: Deeply religious, the Neankharii worship Aeternum Solis with fervent zeal. They believe the harsh sun of the Western Plains is a divine test of their strength and faith. Their religious practices are intertwined with their martial culture, seeing each battle as a holy crusade. The Ecclesia, the head of the clergy, wields significant influence, with Neankharii priests leading prayers and blessings before battles and ensuring strict adherence to religious doctrines.
Martial Culture: The Neankharii's martial culture is central to their identity. Descended from Asrian warriors, they maintain a strong tradition of cavalry warfare. Their most prized possession is the Western Steed, a breed of horse known for its endurance and strength, perfectly suited to the harsh conditions of the plains, able to survive days without water. Training begins at a young age, with both men and women learning to ride and fight. Honor, loyalty, and courage are the highest virtues, and tales of the Apotheon, the one who will reunite the "Legions of Man," are passed down through generations.
The Western Steed: The Western Steed is more than just a horse; it is a symbol of Neankharii identity and martial prowess. These horses are bred for endurance, able to withstand the harsh desert climate and cover great distances without tiring. They are highly valued, and ownership of a fine steed is a mark of status and prestige. The bond between rider and horse is sacred, often likened to the bond between warrior and weapon.
Relations with Asraniae: The Neankharii maintain a strong cultural connection to Asraniae, despite their physical and temporal separation. They see themselves as the vanguard of Asrian civilization in the harsh frontier, a bulwark against the chaos and darkness that once ruled the Western Plains. While they respect the authority of the Asrian Empire, they have developed their own distinct identity, shaped by their environment and their constant state of vigilance against external threats.
Diet: The Neankharii diet is hearty and practical, reflecting their martial lifestyle and the resources of the plains. They consume large amounts of meat, particularly horse meat, which is considered a delicacy and a symbol of their strength. Grains, dairy products, and preserved foods are staples, ensuring they are well-nourished for battle.
Sun-Baked Flatbread: A simple yet sustaining bread baked in the heat of the sun, often carried by warriors on long campaigns. Desert Jerky: Dried strips of meat, heavily salted and spiced, providing a durable and energizing food source for riders. Steed's Feast: A ceremonial dish made from the finest cuts of horse meat, served during religious and martial celebrations to honor both the horse and the warrior.