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DeepDarkSamurai

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  1. Its mostly not finished as of yet as I am meeting with the others who are writing and refining the recently posted easterner lores.
  2. (Let it be known, I am not trying to get any lore really accepted, but mostly out there. This has been discussed between a number of easterner roleplayers, and this provides a way to roleplay someone who looks and acts much more chinese, than the japanese styled Chiyaki, and the much further travelled Xionist Yulthar, while possibly adding a reason as to why our mongol and turkish cultures already rped in-game have an unmistakably asian flare to them. Its all mostly compiled lore from when easterners were a much bigger thing, and now that people are being them again I was approached by two roleplayers that wanted to be more chinese than japanese, so we came up with this. A reminder however, the Xian is not a word for all easterners, just those that are particularly chinese styled, much like the Chiyaki are much more japanese even if they are from similar places.) The Xian An Introduction: The Xian are a numerous group of people from a distant land mass far to the east of those lands familiar to the inhabitants of Vailor and the previous lands known plainly as Xia. Or "Life" in their native tongue. The Xians are a truly ancient people, and their culture reflects that. Having been taken from many other lands they had visited or conquered, along with their status on retaining ancient traditions has kept these people from changing much over the course over their long and storied history. The Xian in their native lands are fiercely loyal to their lords, and in turn to the grand Jade Dragon Emperor. A title granted and passed down through different family lines or histories known as the dynasties. The Xian are extremely intelligent people as a whole, having their own writing and book-keeping systems since near the rise of their empire. They are skilled in navigation, astronomy, alchemy, and strange esoteric practices, along with the many exotic trades that exist in this faraway land. History and Faith: In their earliest myths and stories, it is said the greatest of gods sacrificed most of her divinity to take physical form and created the mountains, seas, valleys, and forests, but left the underground untouched. Populating it with a great array of animals and creatures, but wished for someone to talk to. So the great god then pulled from the verdant soil of the great Tienshan river the first of these people. Shu was his name as told to him by the great serpentine dragon goddess. He rode upon her back as she filled his mind with fantastic stories and tales. Excerpts of which are praised by modern people as wise life lessons, and basis for much worship. However, Shu grew tired of his long life and of his lonesomeness, so the great dragon granted him children. These would be from which all Xian and people of eastern origin descend. With the last of her divinity, the great dragon goddess bequeathed to Shu and three of his children their rights to rule. Then she fled, flying over the hills and valleys, crying over the sadness that she was not enough for this man. Her tears turning to what is known now as jade as they fell, and she retreated into an ancient cave where she continued to weep until she herself was turned to living jade. Forever asleep. The great emperor Shu ruled for over 100 years. His empire growing swiftly, owing to the hidden truths of reality granted to him by his first love. Then, as he aged, he passed his title down to his son. The two daughters of Shu and the great jade dragon had decided to go their own paths, owing to the truths given to them by their mother. The eldest, Shenshin went further east, past the sea until she came to land upon a pair of great islands, where she and her followers became the first natives and nobles. Then the youngest, Shinshen traveled north and west. Never settling in one place. Her people becoming nomads or farmers of the great mountains of the land. Rough Timeline The eldest brother Youlin had taken his father's last name as Shu, and continued the Shu dynasty. As time went on, people from other lands, a change in thinking, or other different situations gave rise to different dynasties. here are some, written in chronological order. Shu Dynasty: Agriculture, expansion, peace, and advancement. Ruled by the dragon goddess, then Shu the first emperor. Lyn Dynasty: Discovery of iron and expansion upon ancient martial arts practices as found in hidden jade dragon scrolls. Rose from the once final Shu emperor married a woman named Lyn, and his love was so great he changed his own name. Jhuxho Dynasty: Period of heavy military expansion outwards. The Jhuxho emperors decided that the wisdom granted by the jade dragon was their's alone. Chizhu Dynasty: The people of the land eventually revolted against the Jhuxho empreror Xha hou. Bringing about a period of reconstruction and restoration of culture. Ghuan Ghuan Dynasty: Seeing their chance as the empire of Xia was returning to power after hundreds of years of rebuilding, invaders descended from the Shinshen rode to conquer all of Xia. Dethroning the previous emperor and placing their own ruler atop the jade throne. Zhen Ku Dynasty(current): with allies from the eastern isles populated by Shinshen's descendants, the people of Xia were able to reinstate a new, proper emperor. This period of trade between the two people led to inventions and advancements and exchange of alchemy, marine agriculture, magics, and many other things. Religion of The East: The people of Xia and the rest of the east believe in a strange mixture of animism, ancestor worship, and spirit worship. Stemming from the earliest days when a god had given up her divinity to form these people, and the belief that those from these lands are related to the spirits of nature through a certain distant, yet still recognizable family tie. Descendants of Youlin The people of the land of Xia hold many beliefs in this day and age. Their core religion however is a belief in a rational order of nature. They worship a large number of divine spirits called the Shen, which can be nature deities, city deities, national deities, cultural heroes and demigods, ancestors and progenitors, and deities of the kinship, but none mightier than the celestial dragons. Complex rituals of worship are performed by priests within mighty cities, or by ascetic monks which follow the teachings of the great jade dragon. The oldest of these schools even house some of the original scrolls. This alternate belief is known as Xhen and has become the state religion in several parts of the large lands of Xia. Descendants of Shenshin The descendants of Shenshin are similar to their cousins in Xia due to the fact they worship many beings, however they differ in the fact that almost every one of these beings, known as the Kami, reside within parts of nature or minor works of humanity and differ in power based on the size of the object. For example, a shrine to the great goddess of the land and sun Amaterasu might be tended by a small nameless tending Kami. The descendants of Shenshin also have many different forms of worship, from radical honor, ancestor, and deed based customs, to ferver and ascetic based, and anywhere in between. A decent number of these people however have also come to follow the teachings of Xhen and follow the doctrines written in the jade dragon scrolls, though it is by no means the state religion. Descendants of Shinshen The nomads and mountain folk descended from the dragon-blooded Shinshen are very prideful and their worship defines that. They tend to trust in their elder's or tribal shamans and look to them for guidance. They mainly venerate their ancestors and great animal spirits. However, as they move around so often, their beliefs evolved to match those of the people they came into contact with, or were shaped by the passing of years.
  3. ((I am actually pretty confused for a good place to put this, but if a forum mod thinks this is not the right place, please move it to be so! None of this is new lore, it is all already implemented, I am just putting it into a sort of guide to them.)) A First Look: Forests, lakes, deserts, mountains, all these and more features of nature are often times home to numerous creatures both mundane and extraordinary. From the simple barn owl, elk, or rattlesnake to the awe-inspiring Demigryph, Nixie, Kelpie, and other such creatures. None the least of these are a number of creatures that share similar attributes that warrant a form of classification beyond and more in-depth than the simple mammal, reptile, and avian forms of classification. The beings we will be speaking of in this section all have a tie to nature. Whether or not it is in a form of direct communion with the forces of nature, to simply being a guardian or symbol of a specific section of the natural world. They are often times intelligent and capable of communication with descendants or even other natural things in the case of several of the more well-known of the creatures described. Qualities and Similarities: These creatures that will be referred from here-on-out collectively as 'Faeries or Fae' or more commonly by the descendants as the 'Fey' all share common characteristics with one another. All of them are supernatural or exemplary creatures with either an inherent ability, or a severe inability to perform many different actions that the descendant races may deem magical or supernatural in nature. Besides their common ties to the forces of nature, the Fey commonly have a set of differences that differentiate them from other common members of a race or genus of creation. Mischievous or Defining Personality: Common Fey and their kin are often described as huge pranksters to the common folk or social creatures in regard to those they know closely or are comfortable with. These are defining characteristics of many different Fey, but they are not always a huge part of all Fey's personality. In the case of Dryads, they are often on either side of a spectrum. Either very stoic, or enthusiastic. These are modified by different situations or environments that the Fey place themselves in. The Lack of a True Gender: Although not a constant between all Fey, many of the more commonly documented or reported members of the grouping have a severe lack of a gender. Although often times they have features that represent gender, such as a masculine or feminine form, they often times do not breed in the same way other members of creation do. The Creation or Birth of A Fey: A Fey creature is not always born the same way a descendant or similar creation is. In the case of many, they often are grown from the very soil or plants of nature. More often than not, these examples of the Fae are incarnations of their past lives, and therefore carry knowledge or memories with them that guides them or allows them to function with the lack of a proper parent. Although this is not the rule, many Fey do follow this way of birth or spawning. Beyond the average birth of a mammal or hatching of other creatures, many Fey can also be created over time. Either a primal spot in a descendant's mind that awakens, an exposure to some strange magic or force, or even direct transformation. A prime example of this situation is a Dryad. The result of a female wood elf answering to her 'call' to the wild, and eventual transformation to have everything needed to be considered a Fey. The Link To The Forces of Nature: All fey have some link to nature. Such as a subtle tie, or even full communion to the natural world. This link can take on many forms, but often times takes the form of being able to speak to plants and animals, being able to meld with nature in one way or another, the power to view from the 'eyes of trees', or simply being deeply apart to a system or group of natural systems. Although varied in strength and ability, if a creature is to be considered a true Faerie it must have this link in one way or another. An Ability or Inability for Magic or The Supernatural: All fey have strange forces pulling at them, most are not detrimental, but many confer strange properties to the creature in question. The most common are the complete inability to cast magics of many types. Although this is not the case 100% of the time, many of the most commonly observed Fey can't become a wielder of magic arts, divine, arcane, or otherwise. This however, is often tied to their 'birth' and is often observed in Cervitaurs, Sprites, and similar who are not born or created through other means. Those that are can often gain a measure of skill with these forces. Many Fey however naturally have some form of supernatural ability. An example of this is a Sprite's natural ability to become luminous, or a Kelpie's ability to change forms. Although rare, other supernatural abilities have been recorded on much rarer specimens and examples of the Fey. Examples of these powers are things such as a supernatural song (which is often mood altering or alluring in the case of a siren or mermaid.) The ability to bend one's actions or mind to their will, or even control over the weather. Often times Fey creatures are so indisposed to the forces of magic that it manifests as certain weaknesses or boons. Such as the extreme case of a Sprite which results in the quick and sudden destruction of the creature. The most common form of weakness however is that of cold, pure iron or forged aurum. This is because it is so different opposed to the Fae that it results in a certain anathema. This is not the case for steel as the process to create steel leads to a more 'earthy' and 'impure' true metal as described by a certain dwarven druid smith. Similar metals that the Fae remain unaffected by but tend to avoid is silver and gold. The Main Listings: We will begin our list with some of the most commonly encountered member of the Faerie (Fey) grouping. Cervitaurs: A Cervitaur (Not to be confused with Satyr or Centaur) is a creature to be described as half man, half deer. They are spirited and believe the wilds to be their homes, and their very lives breathed into being by the aspects. They are one of the most commonly encountered Fey, but they still are hardly seen and as such one can go years between sightings. They are of the Fey that are 'birthed' into this world through a plant. In this case, a tree that grows from the remains of their previous incarnation. As such, these Fey possess no real gender, and instead have male or female features to them. Often times, their heads are topped with antlers, and their lower half have the markings of deer or elk. Because of how they are brought into the world, Cervitaur can't learn magic, but they are instead gifted with the powers of Communion. Dryad: The common Dryad is a result of a primal urge in the mind of Wood Elf females. One of the most common examples of the 'transformation' feature of the Fey. The Dryad changes both in body and mind, often times abandoning all responsibility and fleeing to nature where they take their time to manage and keep their 'link to nature', in this case, a Dryad's tree, in tip-top shape and defending it with their might. A Dryad's skin changes color and texture to more closely resemble their ward, and learn to communicate closely with the forces relating to their ward. A Dryad can continue to learn and use magic, and often times will do such, similar to other Faeries. Though much calmer at heart, a Dryad retains much of her old personality from before the change. Sprite: Often the first thing that comes to mind when someone uses the word Faerie, a Sprite is a Fey of diminutive stature. Although this is not uncommon in Fae, the Sprite has many properties that make it exceptionally well known compared to other minor or less encountered Faeries. The first description of a Sprite is a small humanoid with elven features, roughly 5 to 7 inches in height, a set of translucent wings sprouting from it's back and their skin is often strange colors such as blue, red, green, and others of the spectrum. A closer look brings to light several important facts about the Sprites. Similarly to Cervitaurs, a sprite has no gender, simply gender features. Much like a Cervitaur, a sprite is born from a plant. A rare bloom that is rarely seen away from places that are unspoiled by the touch of the descendants. Once the flower blooms, the new sprite is awakened with memories of it's former self, allowing it to function and survive. Siren: A Siren is barely to be considered a Fey, but is close enough that it could be considered one by the barest of definitions. A Siren is described as a half woman, half avian creature with heavy ties to the seas or shorelines. They use their supernatural voices to lure prey, often times sailors, to their doom. Typically by their talons or death by drowning. A Siren can be considered a lesser Fey. Kelpie: Another true Fey, a Kelpie spends much of it's time in or near a body of water which acts as it's link to nature. A Kelpie is often desperate to interact with other intelligent creatures, but it's hunger often sets up a divide. Kelpies are described to have two forms that they have the power to change between. The first is an aquatic humanoid creature similar to other Fae, and when on land they garner the guise of a large fine horse or other mount. Kelpies are easy to discern by the knowledged eye, due to the fact in any of their forms they are often sopping wet. Other: Although these are some of the most common of the strange Fey, there are many more that are seldom seen in these times. Ents, Gremlins, Satyrs, Mermaids, Centaurs, Phoenixes, Boggens, Genies, and many other creatures can be considered true or lesser Fey.
  4. wtb asians wtb iron pls give iron....

  5. To apply for a tourney or any other position, be that spiritual or a scribe, or maybe you just want to run a tea shop! IGN: Time zone: Name: Age: Race: Profession: What is it you want to learn: Favored weapon if you are applying for a torney: Why should we be interested in your skills: Notes:
  6. ------------------ The heavy scent of some strong herbal tea wafts from a large, decorative porcelain and jade teapot. Bowls of stew and noodles lay half full or empty on the corner of a short wooden table. Quickly whisked away by a woman dressed in silks. A blue-clad warrior who sits on his knees places an empty teacup down upon the wooden table. His back straight and head up in a naturally commanding demeanor. A group of his companions, dressed in outfits both strange and familiar and speaking in wildly different accents have been spending the night in jolly conversation and companionship. Soon the warrior raises his hand and the room falls silent waiting for him to speak. ------------------ "My good friends. Finally the completion of our goal is on the horizon. Although we have faced many hardships and troubled times, we have held firm and weathered the storm. With the destruction of the fortress all those years ago, and the denial of our past success by much of the newer noble families, but the time for change has come. With the defeat of those who conspired and succeeded to assassinate my father and grandfather all those years ago, and by the grace of the wise Caliph Faiz who has named me Daimyo in defense and protection of his eastern territories, I can see that soon all that we have hoped for is to come to fruition. Our fortress school; Kasai is to indeed come to pass." -Post Battle Meditation Clan Yoshida is slowly being returned to it's proper state. Starting with a fortress and martial college dubbed Kasai. Taking many true warriors and masters from many different cultures and ways of thought, Clan Yoshida wishes to once again bring back honor and grace back to this once great noble house. As it was once known as a glorious sword house, it will once again. Once again will it be taking outsiders. Noble sons, and even lower born promising warriors who will be able to compete in entry tournaments. Training is started as soon as one is accepted to the school. They are given a Gi and will begin training on certain major different martial skills and mental-spiritual philosophies and teachings. Such as unique and powerful styles of Archery, Equitation, Swordsmanship, and unarmed martial arts. The spiritual lessons begin by going over ancient traditions and strategies designed to meld the student into a better person and excelle as a warrior while feeding them information that may help them deal and learn about creatures of the world along with kami, Spirits, and unnatural beings known as Yokai. Once students master certain core prospects they will be tested to see their place and how well they have retained their skills and teachings. Once a student completes his training, he will be given a set of swords and a title based on the position they have managed to achieve in training and learning. Beyond all that, there are other traditions such as tea ceremonies, proper temple and shrine tending, and many other minor bits that while small, are none the least important out of everything. For as it is tough to properly train a real priest or temple priestess, they are a valuable asset for dealing with and settling spirits and appeasing the ancestors and gods. A Way of Life Through all of time, men and mer have followed certain laws set in place by those around them. These laws are meant to make sure the barrier between man and beast remains. Some follow the laws of gods, others the laws of kings, Still other the laws of nature and the spirits that guide it. It is not often that someone may choose which they will follow, and this is true in all aspects of life. No one man can have control in every way they desire. There are those who understand that; and instead follow the code of honor. The way of the warrior. Righteousness: The truth in one's actions and the trust and faith that one is justified and the action is pure. This is a core virtue of any true warrior. Oftentimes righteousness is disguised as a blessing from a deity, but the only true faith one should have when dealing with matters of life and death is that of your own true self. Courage: Fearlessness to act when one is in need. The willingness to act in the face of any danger and fear not any form of intimidation. When a warrior is facing down an army or a rain of arrows, or even a trek across town in the snow. Courage is one of the most important aspects of any true warrior. Benevolence: Being charitable and honest. When one lives in service to higher powers, or to one's self they must be able to show benevolence even in the face of hardship such as poverty or famine. One must be able to eschew unneeded thoughts when it comes to showing it, as it is only natural to someone true of self to be able to show this. Respect: Often times mistaken for a love or certain less form of admiration, respect is on a different level from others. A warrior must always hold respect for their masters and nations they are sworn to protect. Even if there is no true love. Respect is needed for someone to truly understand another being, as if you show someone respect they will come to respect you. Sincerity: This is the virtue of being able to speak and act truly about one's beliefs, thoughts, or emotions. Not to be mistaken for righteousness. This virtue if strictly followed will show the world that you are a proper being of truth and discipline. This virtue goes hand and hand with respect, as you should be sincere, but be respectful at the same moment as it is the virtue of knowing your true place. Honour: The virtue of self-worth, respectability, self evaluation and social standing that has an effect on everything about the warrior's life. To be without honor is akin to being less than human or whatever respective race you were. A warrior who lives his life honorably is blessed with grace by his ancestors and may even be honored after death by his own descendants. A dishonored warrior can only save himself from disgrace by falling to his own blade. Loyalty: The faith and faithfulness in one's master, country, and to one's self. Loyalty is almost directly a measurement of one's worth as a warrior. Second to honor. This virtue is indeed important, as once your master or leader has commanded you to do something, it must be done, unless of course it goes as far as to dishonor you or break your own honor. Examples of this are few and far between however. Self-control: The power to control one's emotions, actions, and thoughts is very important to a warrior. Especially when in the heat of a most glorious battle. Self-control is a most powerful and needed virtue. One to be learned first virtues trained and learned, it is most often refined by meditation and practice. Those who lack the self control of a true warrior will never truly be as mighty as them. Other important virtues: Filial Piety, Wisdom, and Fraternal Respect. -A warrior clears his head before a battle For those that wish to join into the folds of the warriors within Kasai, you must seek them out RP to see if you can fit in an entry tournament! {Reserved for further edits!}
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