Skarna
Skarna is a secluded nation comprising several islands in the North East of Aesox. Its geography is marked by a supernatural dead zone that shields its waters, creating a barrier that keeps outsiders at bay. The country boasts towering cities that sparkle with the lights of numerous Necropolises spread throughout the islands. The heart of Skarna lies in its highly centralized and rigidly hierarchical political structure. Its society values loyalty, skill, and knowledge above all else, and its citizens are deeply devoted to serving the greater cause of their nation. Skarna's distinctive perspective on gender eliminates the significance placed on reproductive organs, focusing solely on merit and magical abilities. Its religion is deeply intertwined with its political structure, and the fashion reflects a harmonious blend of functionality and elegance. Within its Grand Necropolis is the central authority on Thanotic Sorcery, known as the Thanotic Sanctum.
Geography
Skarna is a mysterious country comprising a chain of islands near the northeast of Aesox. The islands are protected by an enchanted dead zone, making it nearly impossible for the uninitiated to navigate its waters. The sun never fully rises on the "blind eye" due to its proximity to the Polar region, leaving behind extended periods of darkness. However, the darkness is not everlasting as the skies are adorned with mesmerizing stars and the common Aurora Borealis that dance above the Grand Necropolis. Vast salt flats mark the Skarnae shores, and the frigid waters of the fast oceans separate them from the larger continents of Pannotia. The crashing waves of the ocean endlessly pound against the rugged terrain, and the lights of Skarna's many Necropolises illuminate the way for the native wayfarers who enter and exit the country's borders. The vibrant aura of Skarna is a sight to behold, and its natural beauty is outstanding.
As you travel inland, the natural world gradually gives way to the concrete jungle of ever-expanding cities. The once lush greenery of the countryside has been replaced by towering structures, with no single plant in sight. Skarna's immense size means no room for outward expansion, so they have turned to building up instead. The result is a seemingly never-ending skyline of towering residential buildings and offices that stretch for miles. Narrow streets gleam with artificial light, and the need for sunlight is no longer a concern. However, there are still pockets of greenery amidst the steel and concrete. The Grand Necropolis has set aside vast swaths of land to cultivate experimental hybrids and preserve native fauna and flora.
Many necropolises within Skarna contain vast underground gardens, only accessible through interconnected tunnels within the grand monuments. These areas are highly restricted and only accessible to citizens of the country. These subterranean gardens display abundant bioluminescent plants, fungi, and mosses, emitting a soft, ethereal glow. These plants have adapted to thrive underground by using limited light for photosynthesis. The petrified remains of ancient creatures are scattered throughout the garden, resembling creatures from a bygone era or fantastical beings. Despite the underground environment, a delicate ecological balance exists. Microorganisms might thrive in the ice, contributing to the overall preservation and creating a self-sustaining ecosystem within the underground gardens.
Flora
to be added as lore expands
Fauna
to be added as lore expands
History
All records of the Cult of Skarna and its founding have been lost to time. Still, it is generally understood that when the Cult was first founded and began recruiting members, they were immediately rejected by other inhabitants of Skarna and the rest of the world, and their base, resources and documents were burned. Those who did not escape, including the original leader, were hunted by zealots and executed. In the aftermath, the surviving members escaped and went into exile. Bruxia de Fass, being the top among them, took hold of the remaining cult and founded the first city of Skarna, Triestograd.
Triestograd, the newly established city, faced numerous challenges as it struggled to survive in secrecy. Its early years were characterized by a delicate balance between keeping hidden and establishing a place for itself. With Bruxia de Fass, also known as The Mortiferous, at the helm, the city gradually expanded its reach, keeping its activities shrouded in secrecy. The Cult of Skarna, once condemned and persecuted, emerged as a haven for those who sought solace and acceptance in a world that rejected their dark practices.
As the Cult of Skarna grew stronger, adept necromancers who had mastered the dark arts alongside The Mortiferous rose to become the first Vicromente. These individuals played a crucial role in shaping the cult's operations, using their knowledge of death magic to operate covertly. During the Great Equilibrium, a period of intense conflict, Skarna's necromancers chose to remain neutral, preferring to stay hidden while extending their aid to refugees. To address the massive death toll of the Great Equilibrium, Skarna's necromancers reanimated the corpses of fallen soldiers. These undead guardians served as protectors for the refugees seeking shelter within Skarna. The necromancers' efforts safeguarded the vulnerable from the ravages of war and established a complex network of covert support, cementing the Cult of Skarna's reputation.
The most exceptional Necromancers of Skarna, under the guidance of the Mortiferous and her Vicromente, became the first Mortali Magistrates, tasked with governing the growing population. However, remaining in the shadows became harder and harder as The once-effective dead zone, which concealed the nation in an aura of mystique, struggled to hide the expanding territories and the influx of people seeking refuge. The Mortiferous and her necromantic council recognized the urgent need for a powerful enchantment to safeguard Skarna's clandestine existence. Faced with the risk of discovery as more souls sought sanctuary, the Mortiferous and her Mortali delved into the arcane arts to create the Skarnox spell. This development was met with mixed feelings from Skarna's residents; however, if they wished to continue enjoying the security, Skarna ensured they had to accept the pact binding themselves to Mortiferous.
After the people of Skarna embraced the Skarnox, the Mortiferous was empowered, causing the dead zone around Skarna to expand. This expansion led to the once-hidden islands of Skarna being further obscured by a magical veil, making it nearly impossible to locate them. The dead zone extended beyond the borders of Skarna, making it even harder to find the scattered islands. The vast sea surrounding Skarna was now within this mystical boundary, creating an even more impenetrable barrier against outsiders. The people's unwavering commitment to the Skarnox strengthened the secrecy of Skarna's existence, making it hidden from the outside world.
With the arrival of the age 300 AE, humans had long recovered from The Great Equilibrium and began building large cities and stronger governments, which resulted in large-scale bloody wars. Many humans fled these cities to avoid conscription and bloody, intense wars, which Skarna took advantage of welcoming into their city those who fled from conscription. This saw the Skarna population soar and was of great benefit as it allowed them to form a much stronger infrastructure and security for the people. By 318 AE, the Mortiferous had ordered the creation of the Thanotic Sanctum within the Grand Necropolis, to act as a central collection of all knowledge of Thanotic Sorcery and became the authority on all Thanotic practices.
In the early 1500s AE, Skarna faced a considerable challenge in the form of Kaymer's Pox after discovering that the land's soil was rich with contrite. As more and more people became affected by the disease, they faced increasing discrimination and social isolation. Recognizing the need for a cohesive and comprehensive strategy to combat the escalating health crisis, the Mortiferous took decisive action. She commanded the Mortali to establish a Medical Accord, which tasked the Vicromente with researching and addressing the disease. Those who worked on this accord were trailblazers for Skarna's later medical advancements by legalizing experimental procedures to alleviate the pain and delay the spread of the disease across the victims' bodies. This pivotal move began a concerted effort to mitigate Kaymer's Pox's social and health consequences within the nation.
With the Eiruk Rebellion of 1537 AE, Skarna began taking in refugees and again began bolstering their numbers. The nation of Ellawen took issue with this sudden uptick in population in a nation they already saw as unholy due to its practice of dark magic, seeing it as a perversion of their craft and saw it as an attempt to bolster their forces and wage war with their former oppressors, the elves, humans and especially the dwarves and intervened by petitioning Skarna to take part in a trade and alliance treaty in which they agreed. This act saw the diversion of a war between Skarna and Ellawen.
Skarna saw a significant increase in its population as large numbers of humans sought refuge within its secretive borders to escape conscription and the brutal wars plaguing the mainland. The Mortiferous welcomed the refugees, recognizing the opportunity to strengthen Skarna's infrastructure. This influx marked a turning point for Skarna, reshaping its demographics and capabilities. As the population swelled, Skarna faced the intricate task of integrating diverse groups of refugees into its unique society. The Mortali Magistrate implemented policies to facilitate assimilation, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and adherence to the Skarnox pact.
Additionally, Sienomark was settled to house the influx of people. Fueled by the inpouring of various talents and skills brought by the refugees, Skarna emerged as a formidable force in the region. With the newfound strength and stability derived from the refugee influx, Skarna undertook ambitious expansion projects. Necropolises grew in size and number, especially the Necropolis in Altograd. These grand structures became not only the final resting places for the deceased but also vibrant hubs of activity, housing both the living and the undead.
Politics
The Mortiferous, also known as The Lich Queen of Skarna, is a distinguished and influential figure of ancient lineage, predating the Equilibrium, at the helm of Skarna's political hierarchy. As a practitioner of the Mortali’s necromancy, she wields unmatched authority over the nation, governing with resolute power and influence. The Mortiferous’ enduring rule has become so intertwined with the nation's identity that her presence is synonymous with Skarna itself.
Beneath The Mortiferous lies a council of learned representatives known as the Vicromente. This council is comprised of individuals who possess an extensive knowledge of state affairs. The primary responsibility of this council is to provide valuable counsel to The Mortiferous on her rulings while actively participating in formulating policies and laws that align with the welfare and interests of the nation. Their expertise and insights are vital in shaping the nation's political landscape.
Skarna's Legeslative body, the Mortali Magistrate, is under the control of the Mortiferous. While the Vicromente influence the country's policies, the Mortali Magistrate is responsible for enforcing these policies. Skarna's society is highly centralized, with a few individuals holding significant decision-making power. This centralized decision-making process prioritizes the strategic interests and survival of Skarna, ensuring that they receive top priority.
Skarna's interactions are often characterized by diplomatic ambiguity and strategic alliances. The Mortiferous, guided by the Vicromente, engages in carefully orchestrated negotiations to advance Skarna's interests, interests that are enforced by the Mortali Magistrate. The country strategically aligns itself with factions and nations that share common goals, leveraging its unique resources and magical expertise. Skarna's role as a refuge for those fleeing conflicts in neighbouring lands, combined with its military alliances and control over undead troops, gives it a distinctive and formidable presence in the geopolitical landscape. The Mortali's commitment to secrecy ensures that Skarna's true motives remain veiled, adding an element of uncertainty to its relationships with other nations.
Skarna's citizens are the foundation on which Skarna are built, holding up Skarna’s society with their loyalty. In Skarnae society, individual achievements and magical abilities are highly valued, and one's success and social status are determined by factors such as loyalty, skills, knowledge, and connections. Although it is said there are no class distinctions in Skarna, there are subtle differences in opportunities and inequalities in achieving success and social status. In this competitive environment, politicians must navigate a complex web of power dynamics and utilize ruthless tactics to secure their positions and advance their agendas.
Skarna's society promises its citizens a long, healthy, and disease-free life. In return, the Mortali pledge to serve as undead thralls after their demise. This pledge is considered a just and advantageous exchange, fostering a deep sense of duty and obligation among the citizens. Undead thralls are provided with benefits critical for maintaining discipline, loyalty, and effectiveness within the ranks.
The Grand Necropolis is a significant landmark in Skarna, symbolizing the nation's emphasis on secrecy. Its location is shrouded in mystery, and revealing it is considered a grave act of treason with severe punishment. Traitors face execution, and their bodies are transformed into undead soldiers. Skarna's commitment to secrecy reflects its desire to maintain its unique way of life and protect its strategic interests. Skarna's political structure is highly hierarchical, with the Mortiferous at the top, above the Vicromante. The society values loyalty, skill, and knowledge, and citizens are deeply committed to serving the greater cause of Skarna. Undead thralls play a significant role in the society's functioning, and secrecy is of utmost importance to safeguard Skarna's way of life.
Society and Culture
Skarna portrays itself as a classless society, emphasizing equality. However, beneath this façade lie subtle divisions based on loyalty, skills, and connections that significantly impact success and social status. The Mortiferous holds the highest authority, overseeing the Mortali with a structured system of ranks and titles, ensuring stability in the political hierarchy.
Skarna's society may appear mobile on the surface, but proper movement between social classes is a complex and challenging endeavour. Success is not solely determined by merit but also by navigating the complex power dynamics ingrained in the social fabric. Those in higher social classes enjoy privileges such as better education and access to more resources, while success in Mortali society is associated with specific perks and benefits. Skarna highly values magic, potentia, and death magic skills. Medical professionals enjoy an elevated status in society, particularly those utilizing undead labour. Despite the competitive nature of society, engaging in unconventional occupations may be frowned upon, emphasizing duty and specialization.
The Grand Necropolis serves three primary functions. It is a towering structure that acts as the final resting place for the deceased, the main headquarters for the Mortali, and the capital of Skarna. According to the Skarnae belief, it is their responsibility to contribute to the greater good of their society, even after their souls have passed on, by lending their bodies to the Grand Necropolis. They believe that their mortal flesh would go to waste otherwise. The Necropolis is a place of immense reverence and honour among the people of Skarna.
However, anyone who wishes to become a citizen of Skarna must willingly submit to the authority of the Cardinal Laws of Skarna and pledge to keep the nation's affairs confidential. Skarna's immigration process is shrouded in secrecy, and the whereabouts of the country are not marked on any known maps. By becoming a citizen of Skarna, individuals demonstrate their unwavering commitment to the culture and its principles by binding themselves to the Mortiferous in a magical pact known as the Skarnox to ensure they do not reveal Skarna’s location. This pact is a solemn vow that, if broken, would result in the individual's silent undeath, leaving them to wander the world as lifeless beings.
The Skarnae are known for their unwavering commitment to a code of ethics governing the undead's treatment. This dedication stems from their profound respect for the bodies that once housed souls, reflecting a deep-seated reverence for the deceased. This commitment is reflected in their provision of undead workers for demanding tasks, contributing to the flourishing high-end labour trade and fortifying Skarna's influence. Having any relationship with the undead outside of their practical uses and servitude is considered a cultural taboo, creating a clear divide between the living and the dead. Any debaucherous treatment of the undead is not only socially unacceptable but also punishable by excommunication or, in most cases, execution. The Mortali's unique approach extends beyond borders, showcasing the deployment of undead troops in frontline combat and the establishment of military alliances, further solidifying Skarna's global reach.
Skarna's society has a distinctive perspective on gender. According to their belief system, an individual's physical body serves merely as a vessel for their Potentia. Consequently, Skarna's society places no significance on reproductive organs. This perspective has cultivated a society where social status and authority hinge solely on merit and magical abilities. As a result, Skarna's societal landscape is characterized by an unwavering commitment to individual achievement rather than being influenced by external factors such as gender or biological characteristics.
For centuries, the Mortali society has been struggling to deal with the issue of Kaymer's pox. This disease causes severe facial disfigurement and other mutations in individuals. Unfortunately, those who suffer from this condition have long been subjected to discrimination and ostracism, making it almost impossible for them to lead a normal life. To avoid such discrimination, many afflicted individuals have resorted to concealing their faces with masks and covering any visible mutations. However, in recent times, this practice has gained unforeseen popularity among non-afflicted Mortali.
Masks have become a symbol of social status within the Magistrate, leading many to adopt them as a fashion statement rather than a necessity. This has caused a great deal of controversy among the Mortali, with some arguing that the trend trivializes the struggles of those who are genuinely affected by Kaymer's pox. Despite the debate, the use of masks continues to be a prevalent trend within the Magistrate, with no signs of diminishing anytime soon.
Fashion
Skarna's fashion scene is a unique combination of functionality and elegance, focusing on materials that are exceptionally resistant to the region's harsh climate. The fashion in Skarna is characterized by sharp and flowing silhouettes, cold metals, and geometric shapes, which create a sense of strength and sophistication.
The upper classes in Skarna prefer darker and richer colours, adding an element of opulence and refinement to their high fashion. The Mortiferous, Skarna's religious and political leader, sets the fashion standard. Her attire represents her role, combining elements that symbolize life and death. The predominant colour in her ensemble is a dark, rich blue, signifying her connection to the Mortali and the solemnity of her position.
The Mortiferous wears a long, flowing robe made of luxurious, heavy fabric. The robe is meticulously tailored to fit her perfectly, creating a striking silhouette that exudes power and authority. Intricate patterns and raven imagery adorn the fabric, adding depth and symbolism to her attire. Cold metal accents such as silver or platinum enhance her appearance, adding sophistication and strength.
The Vicromonte, dress in a manner that suits their essential role. They wear flowing robes with sharp silhouettes. Although simple, their backs and hems are decorated with extensive embroidery to signify their importance. Their attire exudes authority and elegance, with rich-coloured garments and geometric shapes. They incorporate cold metals like silver or bronze into their accessories, which symbolizes their connection to the Mortali.
The Mortali, the governing body of Skarna, have distinct yet cohesive attire. They wear garments in darker shades of the colours embraced by the Vicromonte, representing their affiliation with the upper classes. The Mortali's outfits are more understated but maintain an air of sophistication with clean lines and minimal embellishments. They also wear opulent masks made of precious metals and adorned with intricate designs during official ceremonies and events.
The working class in Skarna values durability and resilience to the harsh climate when selecting their clothing. They prefer robust materials such as wool, leather, and thick cotton; layering techniques are commonly used to combat the cold. cold tones such as blacks, greys, and deep greens are popular choices, blending well with Skarna's natural surroundings. Practical accessories like warm scarves, gloves, and hats are crucial for protection against the cold.
Religion
Skarna's society greatly emphasizes religion as a fundamental component of its belief system and cultural values. The Mortiferous, who serves as the religious leader and an influential figure, holds a central position in the religious practices of the citizens. As the embodiment of divine authority, the Mortiferous is responsible for guiding and nurturing the spiritual well-being of the people.
Under the Mortiferous' guidance, various religious rituals and ceremonies are performed, each with its unique significance and meaning. These ceremonies honour the deceased, paying tribute to ancestors and seeking their blessings. The citizens hold these rituals in the highest regard, considering them sacred and vital aspects of their religious practices. Moreover, the Mortiferous serves as a mediator between the living and the dead, ensuring that the souls of the departed find peace and rest. Through their ability to communicate with the spirits, the Mortiferous provide comfort and guidance to both the living and the dead.
Skarna's religion primarily focuses on the afterlife and preserving the soul. Its teachings emphasize honouring the deceased and maintaining a connection with the spiritual realm. The citizens believe this connection is vital to the spiritual well-being of the living and the dead.
Notable Locations
- Triestograd (Largest City and Captial, home of the Grand Necropolis)
- Sienomark (2nd Largest City housing a Necropolis)
- Outis (Out-post housing a Necropolis)
- Sichilia (Ellawen Embassy, Located beside Riskarc)
- Altograd (3rd Largest City, housing a Necropolis)
- Venetsk (Smallest city, housing a Necropolis)
- Riskarc (Trade Hub, a collection of islands located just outside of the Dead Zone)
Trivia
- The Skarnae people have a unique tradition of taking ice baths to cleanse themselves and start anew. The ritual is believed to wash away the negativity and dirt of the previous year, leaving them feeling rejuvenated. Although some outsiders may find this practice unusual, it is essential to the Skarnae.
- Skarna has become a leader in medical advancement due to its unique approach towards the study of cadavers. The country actively promotes the dissection and examination of cadavers to advance medical research and understanding. This approach has allowed Skarna to make remarkable strides in comprehending the intricacies of different races' bodies and developing innovative medical treatments.
- Skarna maintains a policy of strict neutrality in international conflicts, refraining from taking sides and avoiding involvement in disputes between other nations. However, the country provides foreign aid to allied governments, such as Ellawen, which is currently in conflict with the Dwarves.
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