Sujamma Addict

February 21, 2016

Been with Faiz since the Fringe. Read all, if not, most of his posts and have been impressed with his work ethic in which he has proven to be a a fast and predominantly effective writer and lore creator. Take the Qalasheen and Caliphate for example. Without a doubt, this proves his determination and dedication to this server. Anyone who can pop out a nation and brand new culture from out of the blue deserves recognition. Give him a chance, interview him personally via voice chat and see for yourself the greatness this man can do. Corniness aside, Im proud to know Faiz and will honestly be disappointed if he is not givn a chance. Make a Trial ET position because, to be honest, the ET team is lacking and many actors/builders focus their attention on the groups that their characters are affiliated with. Writing this from my phone while driving btw so I'm surprised I haven't crashed... Yet +1

February 20, 2016

6 hours ago, AGiantPie said:

(( Might it be better to term it a 'culture' instead of a 'subrace'? ))

((Title changed to 'Subculture' Thanks for the advice, friend.

February 19, 2016

The Qalasheen

Banner of House Kharadeen

“Though we may bend, we do not break.”

Introduction

(Concept Art from Runescape)

Man is known for their amazing adaptability and the Qalasheen are no exception. Made up of many desert tribes sharing a similar dialect and faith, the Qalasheen is a new collective term given to these people for there has been no recorded history of previous unification. There have been tales of grand cities of long ago in far distant lands, but this is simply folktale. The Qalasheen, despite being alike, are naturally recluse. Their knowledge of the outside world is limited and only those such as merchants typically had knowledge of outsiders until recently.

As a divided culture, those of Qalasheen descent have been known to escape the tribal warfare that plagued their lands and assimilate with other people. Such was the great unifier, Faiz Kharadeen the first Caliph. With the help of comrades from the outside, Faiz Kharadeen was able to bring peace and unification to the Qalasheen tribes through his talk of love, acceptance, potential, and Allah.

With a new following, Faiz Kharadeen got to work on the beginnings of what would become the Caliphate. Well seasoned in the knowledge of past realms’ failures, Faiz set out to ensure these same flaws did not take root in the Caliphate. Only time will tell if his teachings reach avid ears and are put to use with active hands.

Traits of the Qalasheen

(Concept Art from Runescape)

The Qalasheen are a desert dwelling people and do not differ much among the other humans they share the sands with. They are dark complected usually but range all the way from an olive skin tone to darker tones found among certain Southerners which goes to show the diversity of looks. Although not impossible, it’s rare to find a Qalasheen of “brutish” stature such as one may find among Highlanders.

The Qalasheen are typically more lean. An interesting trait that they share among other desert dwellers is their comfortability running across sand for long periods of time at an exceptional fast pace when compared to most other peoples. Sand is obviously unstable and those who are not used to running across it experience muscle fatigue and sometimes injury.

Although the strong among the Qalasheen are exceptionally fast with lots of stamina, they are not without their flaws. The Qalasheen have had little experiences with magic in their isolation. It’s therefore presumed the Qalasheen cannot harness magic.

Qalashi, The Language

(Qalashi is based off real life Arabic phrases - as best gathered as possible. The following is a sample of commonly used Qalashi phrases. Rule of thumb when using something not on the list is to explain what you are saying within your action or messaging the person in PM what you are saying. Try refraining from heavily using Arabic unless you’re actually fluent in it. Else you’re a google translate try hard.)

Hello/hi! ----- Salam!

Peace be upon you!------As-salamu alaykum!

[Return gesture] Peace be upon you too. ----- Wa-alaikum salam

Good morning!---------- Sabah el kheer

Good evening!-------------- Masaa el kheer

Welcome! (to greet someone) -----------Marhaban

Good night!-------- Tosbeho/ tosbeheena (female) ‘ala khair

Good bye! ---------------Ma’a salama

Thank you (very much)!--------------- Shokran (jazeelan)

You’re welcome ---- Afwan

Friend--------Rafiqi

Before the Caliphate

The Qalasheen people, as stated previously, are historically a divided people that fought among themselves and outsiders in their homeland - typically for limited resources. Tribes differed however with some more warlike and controlling with others more suited towards trade. Those who traded were more inclined to leave the desert lands periodically which lead to intermingling with outsiders.

After the movement of peoples to Athera, the fighting among tribes intensified. Deus Proditor, the lands they settled in, was a lifeless landscape and it was not uncommon to see many die from either war or famine.

Despite this fighting, many Qalasheen attempted to cultivate the land still. They brought over camels and seeds suited to grow in such an arid climate. It was only until recently did they manage to find stability. The inter fighting amongst the people would end however with the coming of the Caliph.

About Deus Proditor

The lands inhabited by the Qalasheen in Athera, little was known about it. What had been discovered had given rise to even more questions. Ruins of old hint at a past civilization once inhabiting the lands. However, these ruins were just crumbling away - there was a thick ash that enveloped them. A dark power appeared to have been at work there once and it could always come about again. The undead from Athera, what was left of this past civilization, was all that was left. Caliph Faiz Kharadeen had tasked his military, the Mubarizun, to purging these lands of the great evil that lurked the desert sands for both his peoples’ safety, and to put the reanimated to rest.

Little life naturally resided in these lands other than small lizards, insects, shrubs, and cacti.

After the Caliphate

Spoiler

In the year 1444, the bannermen force of House Kharadeen, The Alwahdat Alwaqi, marched forth to the castle of Ard Ghorrock where the Caliph, Arlen Kharadeen, swore fealty to another Qalasheen by the name of Nafis Yar of Al- Dirahk. By his words, Arlen had abolished the Caliphate’s government and reformed into a Sultanate.

How did these events come to pass?

Decades of events and decisions by Khalestine’s leaders and peers brought forth change. The most notable, being the Caliphate’s involvement in a bloody war between two other nations. Internal strife soon sparked within the lands of Khalestine, igniting the deadly Qali Spring, a rebellion began by a group of Qalasheen and other humans who demanded for an end to the war.

Caliph Faiz Kharadeen had relinquished his title, passing it down to his eldest son, Arlen Kharadeen who rallied his forces and allies to fight against the rebel faction. Homes were pillaged, farms were razed, and for several years there had been a constant unrest within the divided lands of Vandoria as allies of the former Vanderguan had begun to secede from the war. The Caliphate of Khalestine was one of the last nations to secede.

The Caliph, who was both the ruler over the nation and religion, had the government reformed where now the Qalasheen people live in the newly formed Sultanate of Khalestine.

Farfolk Sail Home

Spoiler

A silent day befell Al-Wakhrah this morning. The attack of the undead caused much destruction and turmoil within the Capital of Al-Wakhrah, who would have known a nether portal existed within the supposed Tomb of St.Lucien? The majority of the city stood in ruin, the only thing unscathed being the blessed Great Masjid whilst great wizards and magic users manage to temporarily seal the nether portal. During this time, the Sultan of Al-Wakhrah called for an immediate evacuation, the city and nearby land holdings deemed too unsafe to live within until the portal was officially dealt with.

The citizens and army began to pile upon the great ships of Khalestine's fleet. This was both a joyous and saddening day, as the city and lands of Al-Wakhrah was being abandoned and destroyed so that the Farfolk people might find homeage elsewhere. A place free from a tyrannical and racist rule of a false king. A place of peace, prosperity, and beauty. They were to search for the ancient lands of Haria, the great and mythical lands the farfolk would once again walk upon.

As the good people of Al Wakhrah piled onto the ship's, two great battleships appeared out of the distance, appearing to be quite a sight indeed. The Malik and The Ceto, two powerful battleships made in similarity to one another, made to utterly pulverise whatever lay within its path. Containing almost 30 ballista,2 trebs and 7 catapults, the battleships were obviously a dual force you did not wish to reckon with.

A great number of workers and soldiers worked tirelessly to strip down the Great Masjid brick by brick to rebuild it elsewhere. It had been done in Al-Dirahk and now to Al-Wakhrah. The new Masjid would grow again and again each time the Farfolk had to move. When all the supplies and citizens were officially on board all the ships, the fleet of ships began its journey out to sea. Every home was checked beforehand to ensure no one was left behind, including the dead. Their bodies would be buried elsewhere. As the battleships finally get into proper position and allow for the other ships to get further out to sea, they begin their bombardment on the city of Al-Wakhrah. Their volley of stones and arrows mask the sky as they pelted the once jeweled city of the south to utter dust, ensuring the undead had no way of returning. They continued for hours, until the great walls crumbled. The city was left to ruin, no one would be able to claim the jewel of the south now.

“Onwards, to the promised lands!”

ould be able to claThe rest of the fleet then began their trip in search for new lands to inhabit. Only a handful of Farfolk stayed behind to fulfill a personal endeavour.

The Landing of Haria

Spoiler

A small hand reached up for a railing that was just out of reach until a father hoisted his child up onto his shoulders, giving him a vision of the land before them. Not many knew how long they had been sailing for but a navigator would say it was about twenty-six years ago from when they had first set off on their journey. And oh, how they desperately desired some solid ground.

Small rafts were dispersed and a party of Marafiqs (knights), along with a few navigators, made for shore. This was a new world and one must be sure it is safe before sending people in. Families watched eagerly as the first men stepped foot on the continent. Were they making the first step for the Qalasheen on this land? It was still an exciting moment for all and once they had gathered themselves, the band of humans and elves began their exploration. This would be the bginning of The Sultanate of Haria

Arrival at Axios

Spoiler

In the year 1570, a cataclysmic event brought Vailor to its knees and forced the Descendents onto their ships which were sent through a portal to the Spirit Realm. Piling the disassembled mosque and other artifacts on board, the Sultanate of Haria and allies ventured forth through the portal and overcame the foes that awaited them.

Emerging out from the other side, a beautiful new horizon rose over the battered Harian fleet which left no time to waste. There was work to do and a population to sustain. Arriving on the isle of Asul in a cove surrounded by lush flora, the Harians stripped theirs ships down for materials and begun construction on the first settlement. Tents were planted and settlers from the fleet and afar came to watch as Haria claimed its territory.

Forerunner of Haria, 1570

The Grand architects and builders worked tirelessly to create a home for the people and the ambition of these visionaries would see the beginnings of Al-Khaleed take form. The newly founded city was a fitting successor to the splendor of its forerunners in Al-Wakrah and Al-Dirahk, it’s streets and buildings made of finely cut stone and marble and its sandstone walls thick and strong.

To signify the great wealth brought to the city via Sea faring trade of which the bay of Al-Khaleed had become an important destination for traders and merchants filling their hulls with loads of spices, the Sultan of Haria commissioned the giant statue that can be seen towering over the city today, known to the world as the Forerunner of Haria.

The capital city is divided into several districts, each with its own Ziem, or mayor as many know. Each district is unique and one would have no trouble in finding something to do which interests them. Despite past events, Haria has only envisioned a brighter and positive future for its people.

Culture

Despite being historically reclusive, the Qalasheen had grown an interest in outsiders relatively fast with the creation of the Caliphate during Athera and have enjoyed the wares outsiders bring to the city to sell. Some Qalasheen wondered what others might’ve thought of them and in turn wished to know more about outsiders. Though those not accustomed to trade may have felt more shy and hesitant to start conversation with outsiders (especially the youth), they were very social once pushed on.

Among themselves, the Qalasheen have a strong work ethic but may be viewed by some as more relaxed. It is not uncommon to see someone napping on the job. This is to rebuild energy in order to keep working at the highest efficiency as possible. Putting one’s all into a trade is highly regarded and it’s believed one cannot produce quality work when tired.

Outside of work, the Qalasheen are known to invite friends and family over to socialize and eat. Those without proper housing may choose to socialize at a ****** (tobacoo pipe) lounge and smoke among others. Cactus green was enjoyed almost universally in the Caliphate and many from other lands where cactus green is illegal come to the Caliphate to indulge in it.

Although cactus green is socially acceptable, alcohol is not. Qalasheen have long regarded alcohol as a poison to the body and something the Creator forbids them to drink else they are more prone to sickness and barbaric traits. Pork is also not consumed in the caliphate and pigs are not even raised in the city because they are considered diseased and plague riddened. To this day Qalasheen have been a very religious people but unlike those with similar beliefs, they are more accepting of those with different beliefs. They are prideful however, and do not like their faith being insulted.

Surprisingly enough, the Qalasheen people have long supported an egalitarian society where men and women typically take part in the same roles together. It’s not uncommon to see women fight alongside men in the military or for even the most capable of women to lead men. Qalasheen society, for whatever role, holds certain standards that must be met typically on personality and strength. Should either man or woman meet these standards, each would have a fair shot at getting the role they desire.

Holidays

The Day of Fasting: Once a year (OOC week, Friday), the Qalasheen people fast. It is said that God wishes for people to experience how the poor feel at least for one day of the year and to give charity to those in need. The Day of Fasting is only expected from those who are well to do. Those who are homeless, malnourished or sick are not obligated to participate. The next day (Saturday), a feast is held in the Sultan’s palace and anyone from the poor to the rich are welcomed to come and indulge in a feast with the Sultan and his family.

Menaphos: Once every four years (First Wednesday of every OOC month), The Qalasheen take a day off from work and stay home with family and friends. Those without family might go to the ****** (tobacco pipe) Lounge instead. On this day, gifts are exchanged showing the appreciation one has for the other being in their life. Gifts might be given out ahead of time if one will be away on the day of Menaphos but giving gifts late is a sign of insult.

Cuisine

The Qalasheen, despite having lived in a land where most life cannot be cultivated, have developed an interesting diet that has given them longevity. Crops wise, the Qalasheen grow grapes, chickpea, olives, wheat and an assortment of spices and herbs such as turmeric and mint.

A favorite among the Qalasheen is hummus and falafel, which are both based upon chickpea. With the introduction of other vegetables from outside lands, the diet of the Qalasheen has expanded, making dishes such as this:

Falafel and Hummus Pita

As for meat, coastal Qalasheen peoples typically eat shellfish and small fish. Lamb is also used often in Qalasheen cuisine as well as chicken and beef should one have access to it.. Swine and alcohol are both forbidden in the culture but the latter has a growing black market within the Sultanate.

Shish Kebab

A lot of food in Qalasheen cuisine can be eaten with one's hands such as kebabs and pita. To use a fork or knife for certain foods would appear odd among other Qalasheen. Of course, for those meals in obvious need of utensils, they are used.

February 18, 2016

Death of an Illatian

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-5o_LU1k-E

Mi papa told me, “Luchino! You’sa need to mastah the art of food and women lik’a me!”

I thought to myself about one day learning the secret to mi Nonna’s sauce, but the journey came to a stop by her cleaver. I was blinded by amore mio’s beauty. Oh how wrong I was. Nonna only want what’sa right for me.

Papa, mama…

Mi dispiace tanto.

Luchino De Luca was found dead next to the throne in Al-Wakrah’s palace - a cleaver embedded into his face. The eighteen year old Illatian, this time, could not be revived by the monks…

For this guido’s heart could never be repaired…

No one has seen Nonna De Luca since the trial that was held on the day of the death. It can only be suspected that she has left to find a new home for the people of Illatia.

February 11, 2016

Arlen Kharadeen frowns as he peers over the balcony ledge where he and Charles once stood, conversing. "I haven't seen Nafis anywhere but that High Elf boat on the docks since he became Lord Protector. Charles, on the other hand, seemed to spend most of his time here in Al-Wakhrah... Though... He did sit on my throne..."

February 9, 2016

Arlen kharadeen peers up at the mosque, its architect and location symbolizing what the Qali truly stand for. "I am not an unreasonable man, but I vowed to allow my people to choose. This Golden Bull was merely an attempt to stir confusion in Khalestine, but the good people know that this place of worshop and mediation will stand as it would break our agreement made with the Lord 'Protector' of Vandoria."

February 3, 2016

2 hours ago, KibagoKid said:

Query on this considering the location of the Grove. It's next to but not specifically in the Caliphate. We had to fill out an actual charter to get the region set on it. Do you want druids that live at the Oasis Grove to also fill this out since we are in the general vicinity or no?

Those who live within the Oasis Grove do not have to fill this although they are welcomed to if they want.

February 3, 2016

16 minutes ago, Mrlollytime said:

What if you live in a guild house?

That's absolutely fine. This is for everyone who lives within the borders of Khalestine (basically from the desert to the mines).

February 2, 2016

Census of The Sultanate of Khalestine - 1544

With the new leadership of Vandoria and newly formed Sultanate, all residents of the Sultanate of Khalestine are asked to fill out a census as soon as possible. This is to prevent any housing disputes, and, most importantly, to ensure that Khalestine is safe from those who would seek to do harm or neglect the laws of Khalestine. This also is to help the Lord Protector account for the population and make decisions based on the census. Failure to fill out the form could result in your home being repossessed and resold.

Census Form: http://goo.gl/forms/qGL7ON4LQM

Sultan Arlen Kharadeen

February 2, 2016

Demand of Fealty

From the quiet of the desert lands comes a distant trampling of hooves and shouts. The sand would have its rest disturbed and shaken to life as the bannermen known as the Alwahdat Alwaqi come stampeding through the realm of Vandoria, making their way towards the capital keep of Ard Ghorrock.

Meeting with Nafis Yar, the Lord Protector, the Sultan of Khalestine, along with his last remaining sibling, dismount their armored horses and make their way up the frozen cobbled steps towards the main entrance where they’d meet with the man who had bested Harold Winter in a duel to the death.

Arlen Kharadeen looks up to the man who he still had many questions and concerns with, though he’d dare not ask them here. He offers Nafis a salute, placing his fist over his heart and bowing his upper frame forward as he spoke.

“I, Arlen Kharadeen, humble subject of the Lord Protector, the Kingdom of Vandoria, and to the future king should one fitting be found, hereby swear the following oaths.

I swear to uphold the Lord Protector’s law and word.

I swear to defend the Lord Protector against his enemies.

I swear to protect all lawful citizens of Vandoria.

I swear that my family and those under me will serve the Lord Protector as well as I.

I swear to speak truth and nothing but truth to the Lord Protector, and shall not tell lies.

I swear to honor and uphold the Vander Code.

By these words I and those under me swear loyalty to the Lord Protector until the end of days or until relieved of my vows by the Lord Protector. May GOD judge my soul truthfully and punish me for my faults.”

As he lifted his head, Arlen would rise again and nod to the Protector before turning about and descending back down the steps, a faint smirk on his lips. He’d remount his horse and at the shout of a command, the bannermen begin their long trek back down the mountainside.

“Glad we had our talk about your brother, rafiqi.”

God is our Strength

January 29, 2016

The Demands of Nafis Yar to House Kharadeen

A letter finds its way to the snowy mountain keep of Ard Ghorrock addressed to Nafis Yar of the Qali Spring.

Nafis Yar,

Your demands have been heard. We will meet in person and discuss these terms as there are still concerns for them. Alai Kharadeen, Sultan of Al-Wakrah has requested for you to come to Vandoria’s capital where myself and Alai promise no harm to you. See it as a sign of trust.
-Caliph Arlen Kharadeen

January 25, 2016

Arlen stands on Nafis' balcony, shaking his fist at the fleeing Qali and his new lover, Sahar. "**** yooooou."

January 25, 2016

On his traipse along the desert sands, Arlen draws a gloved hand up to his scratched up face, wiping at the dried blood and clearing out any remnants of glass from his long black dreads. He'd stop by Nafis' homestead which had House Kharadeen's banner drooping down a pole on top of his manor. Thoughts flooded through his head and he couldn’t stop. He had many rafiqis, but after today, he’d have a lot fewer. Shaking his head, he continues on his lone journey, using the setting sun as a passage into paradise. The lower it sank, however, the more empty he felt.

His boots sunk into the sand, but constant travel through these lands had strengthened his legs, making the treck appear effortless. The Caliph reached up and pulled his glove off, revealing a charcoal black ring which rested on his finer. The once glimmering metal now fading through years of abuse. He questioned if it was the pain from the war that made him do what he did, but as he always told his “rafiqis:”

“Dwelling on the past won’t make way for a brighter future.”

And so doing the only thing he knew to do best,

Caliph Arlen Kharadeen travelled home alone, contemplating a dim one.

January 21, 2016

News would reach the capital of Khalestine of the events that had transpired. A middle-aged man would run his fingers through the pages of a book he had recently picked up in Al-Wakhrah’s library. He’d let out a discontented sigh and peer up at the pillars and ceiling within his throne room — his face stoic and stern. Hundreds of thoughts filled through his head; some with the consequences for such actions while others of a righteous anger that manifested itself in his head. Finally a clenched fist slammed onto the armrest of his throne as his face turned dark and his eyes lowered back to his book.

“Opportunity cost.”

January 20, 2016

Well written! I enjoyed reading this and it has a lot of potential to add something great to the server!

January 2, 2016

Arlen Kharadeen Approves of this message. (+1)

December 18, 2015

Arlen Kharadeen concurs.

December 7, 2015

REQUEST FORM:

1) Character's Name: Arlen Kharadeen

2) Your In Game Name: SidNasty

3) Gender: Male

4) Race: Farfolk, Qalasheen

5) Age: 40

6) Reference:

Features (eye/hair/skin colour, clothing etc.)

A natural tan, well-toned, and thin man standing at about 5’11 and weighing somewhere around 150 lb. Often, when speaking, his voice sounds honeyed and silvery albeit he has a small Waldenian accent despite his origins. His gait is relaxed and he often carries himself in a mellow manner. His hair is left relatively groomed — thick strands of black draping down loosely.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-EM1p7CcqxXqPH5Wft94HVo4_YZcbIHwGJDnrkw_kqo/edit?usp=sharing

December 5, 2015

Interesting event ideas. I'll drop a +1 :)

December 3, 2015

"Something witty" +1

December 2, 2015

Arlen does many work outs in preparation for the smash brawl. "With my earnings, I'll take my wife out somewhere nice for supper."

December 1, 2015

Good Qali values. +1

November 18, 2015

I would like to submit a request for an alteration as well as two new outfits. I will pm the info via forums.

November 16, 2015

((Sofetios standing on top of noteblocks and playing several well-known songs))

A lively tune echoed throughout the lands of Sand. No one thought such a sound could ever be heard from Khalestine, but here it was. A man by the name of Geedin Jayamen, head of The Musicians Guild, tapped his foot against the sustain pedal of his piano before carefully placing mutes on various strings. Glancing up, the man began to notice several people enter the garden. His face beamed and he struck a key firmly eliciting a sharp resonant sound.

Music to my ears

The vivacity of each note sent shivers down his spine. He would perform for any who would come and hear his powerful message through an energetic requiem compiled of notes thin and vibrant.

He was frolicking through the meadow.

((Thank you, Sofetios for a great concert! Sorry the real audio got cut out :(

November 15, 2015

A middle-aged Qali strides out onto a small feeble dock with two fishing poles rested on his shoulder. He plops himself into one of two makeshift chairs that groaned under his weight.

“I apologize for keeping you… It has been hectic this year.”

With another rasping chirr, the man leans over and rests one of the poles against the other seat before casting out his own pole into a river ahead. He stares out to the calm waters, rippling from the small current, lost in thoughts from the past.

A peaceful time.

“I was just a carefree child then — looking up to one of the few I’d call ‘mentor.’ He did well in raising you and because of that you did well in raising his kin.”

The man reclines back in his seat as keeps patient, waiting for a nibble.

“I could go on for hours reminiscing on our adventures, miss Kato, but I know you and Raigeki hear me. I only wish ‘The Crew’ was back and we could all go kill some ants again.”

The tip of the pole bends quickly as Arlen feels that tug, causing his lips to curl into a small smile. He saw it as a sign from above and glanced over to empty chair knowing that "The Crew" had heard him.

“Been waiting for that nibble.”

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