An Introduction to Virú

[resurectionist 138]

 

Virúvians are not one distinct ethnicity, but are rather made up of several groups coming together under one banner. They are a people born of strife and struggle, refugees uniting under the protection of Idunia to forge a brighter future. The founding group was composed of Hyspian refugees, abandoned by their monarchs upon the conclusion of the Coalition War. New leaders, of old Hyspia and foreign lands, rose to guide these people. The cultures hybridized and turned away from the treacherous legacy of Hyspia, and these Virúvians embarked on a new path under the high Kingdom of Idunians. Their formative years were filled with strain, danger littering each day, yet such adversity only made these unique people one of strength. Through steady service to the Idunian crown, they eventually formed the High Lordship of Virú, and continue to prosper to this day.

 

 

 

The Many Cultures of Virú

 

The Tawantinsuyin: The Panaka of Pachakutiq heralded this culture by way of their founder, Apu Kay Kusikancha Leomonte, when he first sailed to Aevos. The Tawantinsuyin are a proud folk who follow a strict dogma. They do not lie, they do not wallow in lethargy, they remain steady in the face of adversity, and refrain from the imbibement of alcohol. The Tawantinsuyin are a bellicose people, numbering fierce warriors, skilled physicians, and diligent leaders. Though the Pachakutiq family was the main group of Tawantinsuyin for a while, new families are making the journey to Azuras and solidifying the culture in Virú. 

 

The Hypsians: Though Virú turned its back on Hyspia, many of its people are of Hyspian descent, including some former Hyspian noble families. Hyspians do not have strict cultural norms, but rather encompass a large group of people who speak in a familiar tongue. These vibrant folk tend to be more artistically and socially minded, though they do produce their own fierce warriors and brilliant scholars.

 

Others: Virú is open to people of all different ways of life, and is proud to carry on that tradition. People from all over Azuras are welcome and encouraged to carry on their traditions in their own manner, while still upholding the Virúvian pillars.

 

 

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CULTURAL PILLARS 

Though Virú welcomes all people, it is founded on five pillars which every citizen must respect. 

 

Family

 

Familial loyalty and respect is one of the founding values of Virú. Loyalty to one’s elders, parents, and to the head of their family is paramount. Bringing shame and discord to one’s family is always a punishable offence, as is abandoning it. Virú has a very strong wardship culture, with many children spending years living with other families. Childcare is communal, though the final authority on the upbringing of children lies with their parents and the head of the family. 

 

Growth

 

The constant betterment of oneself. Stagnation and laziness should be avoided at all cost, and people should hone themselves like a blade against a wet stone. All Virúvian citizens are expected to be active members of the community, and try to better themselves. Children are placed in apprenticeships and wardships early on, so that they may learn a trade and hone their skills.

 

Nature

 

Nature - One should strive to live in harmony with nature, to protect and shape it so it might then provide for us. Plants and animals should be respected and treated with care as they provide for us. Virú’s architects take great care to master the environment around their cities, and make sure to introduce nature back into the city. Gardens are present on most roofs, trees are carefully upheld to produce fruit, and terrace farms adorn the cliffs and walls of the city. 

 

Community

 

A community is only as strong as its weakest link. Resources and knowledge should be shared, and neighbours should always offer a helping hand, a free meal, or a wise lesson. Blatant arrogance or aggression towards other members of the community is not tolerated. Strength is shown by the ability to help and protect others. Noble families are only elevated when they have shown themselves to contribute to the community, and are then held to a high standard to keep helping those around them.

 

Pride

 

Not the selfish pride one has in oneself, but rather pride in the collective lands and culture. Virúvians celebrate the different cultures its people come from, treat every craft with the utmost care, and ensure they always present their best selves to the world. Though this can be misused to justify arrogance and judgment of other cultures, a true Virúvians pride shines through their actions and achievements.  

 

 

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VIRÚVIAN LIFE AND CULTURE

 

The Faith of Virú

 

The Virúvian ruling class are known to be profound followers of the True Faith; however, thanks to the protection of Idunia, there is a clause for freedom of religion for all who reside within good faith in Virú. The people of Virú are seen to be of a spiritual inclination, focusing on the study of saints, the Tawantinsuyin bringing forth a concept that there are two parts of what makes one whole in our reality, physical and metaphysical.

 

The study of saints is a common practice, though Virú tends to favour three. Saint Francisco, the patron saint of Hyspians; Saint Amyas, the patron saint of medicine; and Saint Julia, the patron saint of motherhood.

 

The Warriors of Virú

 

Virú’s culture of personal excellence leads to the formation of formidable warriors. Whether it be by blade or by magic, battle prowess is encouraged from a young age. The community is heavily encouraged to join the guard, as there is no greater honour than defending one’s  community. Lessons on self-defense are held regularly - mandatory for children- to ensure everyone is able to defend themselves in battles large and small. 

Children are trained more than to hone their blade, but also their demeanour and temper - a warrior's strength comes from more than their prowess but also their dignity. 

Within Virú one would commonly see spars or duels as frequent entertainment. Both as a refinement of one's craft, and as a method of settling disputes. This tradition of resolving conflict with violence can lead Virúvians to come off as aggressive or belligerent, especially when combined with Tawatinsuyin's honesty.

 

The Healers of Virú

 

Virú holds itself to a high medical standard. Children are taught first aid in school, and adults are encouraged to learn medicine. Free lessons are regularly held, and there is a strict training regimen for doctors. First aid and field surgery are taught in simulated battles to ensure medics can work in the most dire of situations. Emphasis is placed on resourcefulness, a wide understanding of afflictions and maladies, and rigorous adherence to medical standards.

Though most born and raised Virúvians know combat medicine, surgeons train for years under physicians. To call oneself a physician in Virú, one must have complete knowledge of anatomy, herbalism, alchemy, illnesses- as well as a basic understanding of the effects of curses and healing magics. 

 

 

Health of the body and soul is at the forefront of medical philosophy. There is great emphasis on hygienic work and patient environments. Careful care is given to keep patients well cared for, and to aid them after the fact. Architecture is designed to aid the injured, sick and old, incorporating lifts and slopes to provide ample accommodation for those in wheelchairs or crutches. Medicine is always free for everyone, and citizens regularly donate herbs and remedies to Saint Amyas.

 

Love in Virú

 

Courting varies wildly between couples, depending on their respective cultures, positions, and if the couple is old enough to marry. Either party may ask to court the other, offering a pearl to their love. One may court as many partners as they wish, though they may be wary of playing with the hearts of those from more protective families. 

During the courtship process, the families of both parties will meet and discuss expectations. When one marries a Virúvian, one marries their family. Marriage contracts are usually elaborate things approved by both families, and can take years to finalize. 

A common tradition among families is the fighting of the prospect. This is usually done when someone is taking on the family name, and can result in multiple duels, though never to the death. It is important to note that to get married in Virú, one must be 18, and members of peerage families must get approval from the head of their house. Failure to do so will result in legal consequences. 

After approval has been given by both families, the engagement is finalized with the weaving of the chumpis. These intricate belts made of alpaca wool are woven to represent both families. Each strand is dyed, spun  and woven with care and intention. The offering of the belt is finalized with a blessing ceremony, usually done by an elder in the community. 

Weddings often take multiple days, with separate events held for traditional ceremonies, church weddings, and receptions. 

 

 

The Fashion of Virú

 

Virúvian fashion blends the practical with the beautiful. The wealth of one’s wardrobe is demonstrated with expensive dyes, careful embroidery, and ornate jewelry and armor. Weaving and smithing are the two most prized crafts in Virú, with families often developing their unique style for both.

The intricacy of garments comes in the fabric itself or the drape, rather than the cut of the garment. Simple dresses and tunics are draped and belted with care, and armor is adorned with scarves and ponchos. Most clothes are made of vibrantly dyed wool and cotton, as well as ornate leather and metal. 

Ornamentation is especially prized, with weapons being shown off as much as jewelry. Feathers, beads, tassels and gems are all incorporated, though the gold remains the dominant decoration for most. 

Hair is one of the few areas with a distinction between masculine and feminine styles. Men tend to wear their hair longer, though short styles are often seen, as well as partially shorn heads. Women, however, do not cut their hair. They only do so during times of deep mourning, such as the death of their husbands. Both genders frequently sport ornate braids, decorated with beads or ribbons. 

 

Mourning in Virú

 

Like with most aspects of life, mourning is done communally. Family and friends come together, and the life of the deceased is celebrated. They are honoured with memorials called offrendas, placed in homes and in communal areas. The deceased is represented by paintings or drawings of them, and items that mattered to them in life. It is a way to keep those who have passed close to the community.

Virú is not one for extravagant funerals. The corpse of the deceased is carefully prepared by trained individuals, and laid out for visitors to say goodbye. Religious customs are followed for most, though Tawantinsuyins do not burn their dead. The bodies are instead preserved in salt, gold and herbs, and kept in sanctified crypts.

In mourning, normally vibrant clothing is dulled to black, brown, yellow, and cream palettes with much simpler and unadorned clothing. Some may veil their face, and this is the only time when Tawantinsuyin women will cut their hair.

 

The Food and Agriculture of Virú

 

In accordance with their pragmatic nature, Virú is very practical when it comes to agriculture. Every garden grows medicinal or edible plants, and every tree serves a specific ecological niche. Free space is dedicated to community gardens, which prioritize high producing crops over ease of harvest.  Meat is varied, coming from farms, hunting and fishing. Alpaca, llama and beef are especially common, as well as freshly caught fish. Staple crops include potatoes, maize, quinoa, amaranth and squash, as well as fresh fruits. Peppers are highly prized, as food tends to be on the spicier side.  Virú has few baked and leavened pastries, preferring to fry or fire grill dishes, or to slow roast them in embers. The preparation of food is an important ritual to day to day life, as is the tending to crops and animals. There are multiple citizens whose entire lives are dedicated to maintaining tropical fruit trees in the colder climate, and hunters and fishermen work carefully to bring home game without endangering the local fauna. Meals are often prepared communally, over large open fires, with days being dedicated to preparing grains and preserving ingredients.

 

Her Ladyship, Lady Anacleta Paqar Pachakutiq, Mother of Virú 

 

Edited February 20 by resurectionist

[Eliseth 134]

Para el Cóndor Rojo, para Virú!!!!

[Vertigo_Round 329]

As the local horde person fae I love this and think it should get more upvotes!

[KeiaTypeBeat 3277]

Absolutely brilliant, thank you for your work 

[Smoketheknight 285]

As a spaniard player, I love Viru and to play as a Tawantinyunsin

 

OS QUIERO HERMANOS PERUANOS 💖