Pirje

Pirje

(Surface World)

Pronounced “pair-yee”

“The sun burns away weakness. Those who walk Pirje walk the edge between life and death, and learn to thrive on both.”
— Va’nu’ian proverb

Introduction

Pirje is the Va’nu’ian name for the surface of Va’nu, a vast landscape of blistering deserts, harsh semi-deserts, and survival carved into every grain of sand. Though their people now thrive in the subterranean cities far below, the surface remains a place of tradition, spectacle, and calculated danger. It is both a mask and a proving ground, a world that tests all who dare to cross it.

Geography and Climate

Pirje is dominated by desert regions with pockets of semi-desert where hardy vegetation clings to life. Temperatures rise sharply under Va’nu’s harsh sun, making shelter and water essential for any who travel the surface.

Oases are rare and fiercely protected, claimed by wildlife, clans, and travelers alike. Natural springs hidden within cliffs are the only reason early surface cities could exist.

Flora and Fauna

Life on Pirje is adapted to kill.
Plants grow with thorns, needle-like defenses, or poisonous sap. Even the most harmless-looking shrubs can cause burns, sickness, or hallucinations if touched or eaten without knowledge.

Animals evolved with equal brutality. Many are venomous. Others carry toxins in their flesh unless prepared correctly. Predators stalk the dunes with patience learned over centuries of scarcity, and even herbivores will fight when cornered.

The ecosystem on Pirje has one rule: survive, no matter the cost.

Surface Settlements

The first Va’nu’ian settlers built cities into cliff faces close to natural springs. Later settlements rose around oases where water allowed small enclaves to grow.

These cities once served as the heart of Va’nu’ian civilization, until explorers discovered the vast networks of caverns beneath the planet. Over generations, surface cities became a façade. Va’nu’ians maintained them to hide their true population and military power, creating a misleading view for outsiders.

Even now, Va’nu’ians protect the secrecy of their underground metropolises with unwavering dedication.

Technology and Adaptation

Modern Va’nu’ian technology allows them to manipulate sunlight and heat for energy and protection. Entire surface districts are enclosed or domed so that species intolerant of extreme temperatures can survive comfortably.

Many Va’nu’ians also prefer these cooler spaces. Though Pirje is their ancestral ground, very few willingly endure the full fury of the sun unless tradition, duty, or entertainment calls them out.

Arenas and Festivals

Surface arenas are central to Va’nu’ian culture. These massive outdoor venues host a form of jousting, along with fairs that rival the largest gatherings found on other worlds, including Earth.

Food vendors line the arena grounds, selling sweets, rich snacks, and what many Va’nu’ians consider indulgent junk food. Large buildings or clusters of smaller structures provide chilled spaces for rest and recovery during events.

Neutral Ground

Arenas are neutral territory. All disagreements are suspended within their boundaries. Anyone with a grievance must leave the arena grounds and step into the designated Dueling Circle beyond the borders.

These neutral zones make arenas ideal for spies and informants. The noise, the crowds, and the tradition of ignoring conflict create the perfect cover for information exchange.

But for most Va’nu’ians, the arenas are simply a place to relax, celebrate, and forget the burdens of everyday life.