SOUTHERN RIDDARI, Kingdom - Kvassi Empire

The Kingdom of Southern Riddari

Southern Riddari is one of the nomadic kingdoms within the Kvassi Empire, located in the southern plains of the Riddari region. The kingdom thrives on its distinct culture, vibrant traditions, and proud heritage as horsemen and warriors.

Geology

Southern Riddari is a region of rolling plains, fertile steppes, and scattered mesas. Its southern expanse meets the rocky badlands and sparse deserts that mark the edge of Tolesh, while its northern territory features fertile grasslands shared with the Kingdom of Riddari. The region is dotted with freshwater springs, shallow rivers, and salt flats, making water a precious resource and influencing settlement patterns. Nomadic encampments dominate the landscape, often centered around oases or seasonal grazing grounds.

The geology is rich in iron and copper, which the Southern Riddari trade with the rest of the Kvassi Empire. However, they are fiercely protective of the land’s scarce water resources and often clash over river access.

Customs and Traditions

Southern Riddari culture is steeped in oral history and ancient practices that emphasize unity with the land and respect for their nomadic way of life.

Key Customs:

• Horse Bonding Ceremonies: A sacred rite where young Southern Riddari bond with their first horse, symbolizing adulthood and independence.
• Seasonal Migrations: Their nomadic way of life involves elaborate ceremonies to mark the beginning and end of their seasonal migrations, which coincide with the lunar calendar.
• Shared Hospitality: Guests are treated as honored family, and breaking hospitality is seen as an unforgivable insult.

Rituals and Beliefs:

• They believe the wind carries the spirits of ancestors and often erect wind chimes and banners as offerings to the spirits.
• Shamans hold a revered role, interpreting dreams and the natural signs of the plains.

Rulers

The kingdom is ruled by Queen Allie Morvi, a steadfast and tactical leader known for her sharp wit and deep connection with her people. She rides into battle at the head of her cavalry and holds the respect of her warriors through her bravery and fairness.

Her court is nomadic, moving with her people, and decisions are made in an open council called the Eternal Steppe, where representatives of each nomadic tribe gather.

Demeanor

The people of Southern Riddari are:

• Proud: They hold their traditions and independence in high regard, often viewing sedentary cultures with skepticism.
• Stoic: Adversity is met with quiet resilience, born from life in a challenging landscape.
• Warm and Loyal: While wary of outsiders, they are fiercely loyal to those who earn their trust.
• Defiant: Conflicts with the Kingdom of Riddari have fostered a stubborn streak, especially in disputes over the Unity Saber.

Food

Southern Riddari cuisine reflects their nomadic lifestyle, prioritizing preservation and portability.

• Staples: Dried meat (often horse or goat), hard cheese, flatbreads, and foraged herbs.
• Signature Dishes:
• Khazrik Stew: A hearty soup of dried meat, roots, and spices.
• Fermented Mare’s Milk: A mildly alcoholic drink considered a delicacy.
• Steppe Roasts: Open-fire roasted game, seasoned with foraged herbs.
• Food preparation is communal, with large feasts marking significant events like migrations or alliances.

Pastimes

• Horse Racing: A favorite pastime, with tribes competing in grand races during festivals.
• Archery Contests: Horse swrdsmanship is both a martial skill and a revered art form, with competitions drawing great crowds.
• Storytelling: Oral history and epic tales are performed around campfires by skilled bards called Wind Singers.
• Weaving and Embroidery: Patterns often depict animals or events, with each tribe maintaining distinct motifs.

Clothing

The clothing of Southern Riddari reflects their nomadic lifestyle:

• Materials: Durable wool, leather, and felt, often dyed in earthy tones with bright accents.
• Styles:
• Men: Loose trousers, tunics, and fur-lined cloaks for cold nights.
• Women: Layered skirts, embroidered blouses, and wide-brimmed hats adorned with horsehair tassels.
• Both genders wear high leather boots designed for riding.
• Signature Pieces:
• Wind Cloaks: Long capes that symbolize status and are decorated with embroidered tribal patterns.
• Jewelry: Copper or iron necklaces, bracelets, and rings featuring horse motifs.

Southern Riddari is a land of deep traditions, where the people’s bond with the land and their horses defines their identity. Despite their clashes with the Kingdom of Riddari, they remain steadfast in their pride and independence.