Heskarin

The Heskarin are nomadic humans who live on the large and expansive Crimson Steppes, vast region of rolling grasslands, rugged hills and the occasional scattered mesas who also tend to be the chosen places for religious places of the people who inhabit the steppes.   They are renowned for their horsemanship, often said to be able to ride a horse before being able to walk, they have a rich oral tradition and their connection to nature around them could rival that of the elves. The Heskarins have a communal culture that are built on mutual respect, adaptability and fierce independence from other people.  
Physical Characteristics
The Heskarin people have warm bronze to sun-tanned shades, reflecting their exposure to the harsh sun of the steppes. Their hair is normally black or deep brown, although the northern edges of the steppes have a higher rate of more blonde colours appearing, likewise, the hair is most commonly worn in braids to not interfere with the horseriding. When it comes to the eyes, the most common colours are a striking green, blue or a hazel colour.
Their general build is that of a lean and wiry figure, perfectly adapted for endurance and life on the steppes and their active lifestyle gives them exceptional fitness.  
Society and Culture
Being a predominantly nomadic people, they move with the seasons to ensure access to the water, grazing for their herds and good hunting grounds. Their life is tied to the rhythms of nature, their lifestyle has made them perfectly adept at reading the land, weather and animals around them. they excel in crafting ornate leatherwork and jewelry and their products are prized across the neighbouring regions.  
Social Structure
Each tripe of the Heskarin is led by a Chieftain, advised by the shamans of the tribe, known as "Skycallers". Each tribe of the Heskarin are centred around families and a group consisting of families and extended families travel together and consists of between 100-150 people at certain times of the year tribes meet up at certain places for festivals or defence.  
Relations with Other Cultures
As a pragmatic people, it comes across their interactions with other cultures and people, while they value their independence and traditions, they are not against forming alliances and trading goods when it suits them like they view the settled nations with a mix of suspicion and curiosity, they are wary of their attempts to civilize their way of life.   As a general view the Heskarin view the elves with admiration when it comes to their connection to nature but they see their tendencies as reclusive and a bit alien.
Female names
  • Beylin
  • Chesrina
  • Dastiri
  • Estilae
  • Khorina
  • Lyshari
  • Rinaya
  • Tashala
  • Velasha
  • Aishara
Male names
  • Chalorin
  • Dorrak
  • Eshtai
  • Arikhan
  • Korrin
  • Tashik
  • Bastorak
  • Velorin
  • Zhorak
  • Yaltorin


Cover image: by Dameblader

Comments

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Jan 8, 2025 22:40 by Dr Emily Vair-Turnbull

I love a good nomadic horse people. Love the 'skycallers' title, too. I really like the idea/stereotype that they are often able to ride before they can walk. :D

Emy x
Explore Etrea | Summer Camp 2025
Jan 8, 2025 22:53

Thanks :) Yeah I like it as well, it's one of those stereotypes that show their skills with a horse