Salinean
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
Salinean is spoken throughout the kingdom as well as Common.
Culture and cultural heritage
It is common in Salinean culture to haggle in markets.
Shared customary codes and values
Salinean culture prioritizes community and generosity.
Common Etiquette rules
Being direct while speaking is considered to be polite and important.
Excessive respect to animals is required. Treat even street animals very well.
Shoes are not worn indoors in people's houses. Take your shoes off and leave them outside.
Sharing is not just popular, but assumed. Even strangers will give you half of what they are eating as you walk by.
People usually stand when elders enter a room. They will give up their seat if someone older enters.
Art & Architecture
Salinean architecture is known for it's domed roof and colorful intricate tiles. They are also known for their beautiful patterned rugs.
Foods & Cuisine
Bread is eaten with nearly everything in Salineas. Spoons are not often used as the meal is often eaten with bread. Leftover bread is never wasted, it should be left out for the birds or thrown into the sea for fish.
Much of the food is heavily spiced.
Refusing an offer of food is considered rude. Slurping food is considered rude.
Common Customs, traditions and rituals
There is a tradition of the Wish Tree where people tie strips of cloth or ribbons with wishes on them to the branch of a tree. This is intended to bring good luck.
Birth & Baptismal Rites
A sweet, spiced red drink called Lohusa Şerbeti is served to celebrate the arrival of a new baby. The drink is made with sugar, cloves, and cinnamon to celebrate birth and wish the baby health and protection.
On the 7th day after a baby is born, their hair is shaved. The hair is weighted and that amount is donated to charity.
20 days after the baby is born, friends and family may bring gifts to the home for the child and parents.
Coming of Age Rites
When a child turns 16, they are traditionally gifted a compass. This is in line with Salineas nautical nature, as well as metaphor for guiding the child through life.
Funerary and Memorial customs
Gifts of food to the family of someone lost are traditoinal, especially börek. Communites will stand on the street as the family procession goes by to show their support of the family. People throw flowers into the water on the anniversary of death to remember their loved ones.
Families cook sweet foods like fried dough to release aroma into the air. This is done for the belief that the sweet smell will let the dead know that the family will be okay.
Common Taboos
Disrespect to Salineas is very taboo, especially speaking ill of Mermista or the crown.
Pointing is very rude.
As cameras get more popular, you should not take photos of people without asking.
Common Myths and Legends
The nazar boncuğu, or simply nazar, is a blue amulet with an eye painted on it. This eye shaped bead is is used to ward off the evil eye. It is usually made of glass and can be found as ornaments, necklaces, and bracelets. It is believed that it shields against evil and even absorbs negativity. The belief goes back before even the founding of the kingdom.
Ideals
Courtship Ideals
A Salinean tradition before marriage is the 'Coffee Test'. A partner would serve their betrothed coffee with salt in it to see if they drink the coffee without complaint. The test symbolizes love and committment.
It is traditional to propose with two rings tied together. A pearl gemstone is traditional for Salinean engagement rings.
