Tjarn Tribes

Tjarn rule by the power of the strongest member of the tribe, but strength is not solely defined by physical prowess. The chieftain, who holds the highest position of authority, must demonstrate not only physical strength but also unwavering willpower and mental fortitude. It is believed that true strength encompasses the ability to lead with wisdom, make sound decisions, and inspire others through charisma and resolve.   The chieftain's role is further supported and guided by a revered druid who acts as the spiritual advisor and conduit to the realm of spirits. This esteemed druid possesses deep knowledge of the Spirit World and the ability to communicate with the ancestral spirits that watch over the tribe. Through ancient rituals and potent herbal concoctions, the druid grants the chieftain the power to invoke the spirits' favor and wisdom, allowing them to access supernatural insights and guidance.   While the chieftain's authority is upheld, decisions are often made in consultation with the tribal council, comprising respected elders and influential members of the community. This collective approach ensures that important matters are thoroughly discussed, perspectives are considered, and the chieftain's decisions align with the best interests of the tribe as a whole.   The druid serves as the bridge between the physical and spiritual realms, acting not only as an advisor but also as a healer and protector of the tribe. They possess profound knowledge of herbalism, alchemy, and natural remedies, using their skills to mend wounds, cure ailments, and enhance the physical capabilities of the warriors. Additionally, the druid's connection to the Spirit World enables them to delve into the minds of individuals, evoking emotions and influencing their states of being through spiritual interventions.   The dynamic between the chieftain and the druid is one of mutual respect and symbiotic collaboration, as they navigate the challenges and crises that befall the Tjarn Tribes. Together, they strive to maintain the tribe's unity, uphold their traditions, and safeguard their ancestral connections, ensuring that the Tjarn thrive in both the physical and spiritual realms.

The Tjarn culture is deeply rooted in their reverence for the natural world, where animals and plants hold profound spiritual significance. They believe that these earthly beings serve as messengers from the spirit world, carrying messages and wisdom from the divine realms. Their worship extends to a pantheon of nature deities, with one figure standing out among the rest—the enigmatic Lillith, daughter of Morrigain. The tale of Lillith's rebellion against her mother is depicted through intricate paintings on stones and fine leather, meticulously passed down from one generation to another, preserving the myth for centuries. While the exact reasons behind Lillith's rebellion remain a mystery, the Tjarn hold her as a symbol of independence, free spirit, and defiance against oppressive forces. She embodies the relentless pursuit of personal sovereignty and the courage to challenge established norms. The Tjarn people view Lillith's story as a lesson in self-determination, encouraging each individual to forge their own path and stand against adversity.   To appease their deities, the Tjarn partake in rituals involving blood sacrifices, although the specifics of whether they engage in human offerings remain unknown. These ceremonies are conducted with utmost reverence, seeking to establish a connection with the divine and honor the spirits that govern their lives. The Tjarn believe that the act of sacrifice demonstrates their devotion, reinforcing their bond with the spiritual realm and seeking blessings for their endeavors.   Another notable aspect of Tjarn culture is the use of psychedelic substances in their rituals, as well as before battles and hunts. These substances, carefully prepared by the druids, are believed to heighten their senses, induce altered states of consciousness, and facilitate a closer connection with the spiritual realm. By embracing the visionary qualities of these substances, the Tjarn seek to tap into their inner strength, courage, and primal instincts, harnessing them for the challenges they face in both the physical and spiritual domains.   In addition to their spiritual practices, the Tjarn people value communal bonds, emphasizing the importance of kinship and collective welfare. They prioritize the well-being of the tribe as a whole and work together harmoniously to ensure survival and prosperity in their harsh and unforgiving environment. Through shared rituals, storytelling, and celebration of their ancestral heritage, the Tjarn forge a strong sense of identity, fostering a close-knit community that supports one another through life's trials and triumphs.   Overall, the Tjarn culture embodies a profound respect for the natural world, a rebellious spirit against oppressive forces, and a deep connection to the spiritual realm. They find solace, wisdom, and guidance in their rituals, myths, and traditions, maintaining a delicate balance between the physical and metaphysical realms that shape their existence.

The Tjarn don't have any need for gold and heavily rely on countertrade. Their weapons are made out of stone, copper and wood only a few have acquired metal weapons through raiding. For armour, they wear leather armour at best but they tend to wear animal skins to keep warm. They live in nomadic camps sometimes surrounded by wood but most of the times it is bones. Their capital city Gorbul is the only fortified city with houses out of wood and straw, some even have stone walls.

Not much is known about where the Tjarn Tribes came from. some historians believe that the Tjarns are refugees that came from a continent further in the north across the ocean. Tjarn have now and then invaded the southern kingdoms but were never able to establish themselves in these regions.

Strictly speaking, the Tjarn Tribes do not have a standing army. If you are in the tribe you are most likely a warrior anyways. The bloodthirsty hordes are undisciplined and can barely walk in formation. They tend to have scary wooden masks as helmets which resemble monster of out of the Tjarns nightmares.

They are able to produce copper weapons and leather armour. They haven't developed far from a tribal state.

Tjarn Tribes believe in the Spirit World, which is ruled by Lilith. They believe Lilith to be the goddess of humans and animals alike. In the Spirit World, their ancestors live as the animals from whom they have been chosen in life. Druids try to establish a connection with the Spirit World by drinking different herbal potions to reach a higher state of mind. In their religion human and animal sacrifices are common after battles or to calm down the Spirit World. The human sacrifices are usually burnt offerings and tend to be prisoners of war, but they can also be from their own tribe.

It is a great honour for young Tjarn to be selected by a druid to become his or her apprentice. The youth tries everything to impress the leading druid but in the end, they have to pass a trial which tests their mind. Aspirants have to show the druid if they are capable to communicate with the spirits, which can be a devastating experience for someone who comes unprepared. The spirits will test them with all kinds of riddles and try to influence them to possess their bodies.   Druids do not just work in the spiritual world, most of them are capable healers and alchemist. They create potions that either can heal or boost your physical abilities. Some potions made by them can send you in a frenzy and you won't feel any pain. Druids can enter the mind of a person through the spirit world and can spark joy or panic in the hearts of their victims.

Warriors and druids of the tribes can call upon their spirit animals and gain their unique abilities. It is said that some druids can transform into their spirit animal and even more powerful druids can enter the spirit world physically and take a spectral form. But entering the Spirit World is dangerous, some never really leave this place and others come back changed, someone could even say that they are possessed.