OOC Important The Jian Codex

[Merciful]

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竜 Jian 竜

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Founders: The Four Seasons
Population: 5 to 7 million per Region.
Territory: Split into Five Major territories
Official Religion: N/A
Racial Distribution: 50% Jianese, 50% Other
Official Language: Jianese, Draconic
Additional languages: Common

Moderator Note

All threads within Jian are subject to Consequential Play. This means that when writing here, you are by default agreeing to the consequences of your actions, even if that is PC harm or death, without many of the safety nets that exist elsewhere on Antarok. Questions, comments, and concerns should be primarily fielded to Jian Storyteller Merciful, or else site Lorekeepers Vicissitude and Haruspex.

If you decide that this is not for you, you will be presented with an option to relocate your character out of Jian.

竜 Overview 竜
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Jian is a land steeped in rich history, an ancient continent that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the clashing of powerful factions, and the complex interplay between various races. It is a place where the echoes of the past reverberate through the present, where tales of misfortune, death, and betrayal weave the intricate fabric of society. The first empire to be ruled by humankind, Jian is now a fractured realm where the remnants of its former glory lay scattered among numerous clans and factions, each vying for power and survival in an unforgiving world.

Historical Context​

In the times of old, Jian flourished as a single, mighty empire, its lands united under a banner of peace and prosperity. However, this harmony was shattered by the relentless war between man and beast, a conflict that drained the empire's resources and shattered its unity. As the battles raged on, alliances crumbled, and the once-great empire splintered into a multitude of clans, each struggling to maintain its existence amidst the chaos.

The aftermath of this great conflict left deep scars on the land and its people. The once-bustling cities now lay in ruins, and vast stretches of land became battlegrounds where the clashing of metal and cries of desperation filled the air. The rivers ran red with blood, and the fields were littered with the remnants of war—piles of corpses, discarded weapons, and the weight of loss that hung heavily in the hearts of those who survived.

Geography and Environment​

Jian is a continent of striking contrasts, where breathtaking beauty coexists with the harsh realities of war. The geography is diverse, featuring majestic mountain ranges, dense forests, sprawling plains, and vast river systems that weave their way through the landscape. The mountains, often shrouded in mist, stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, their peaks piercing the heavens and housing ancient secrets.

The forests of Jian are thick and enigmatic, filled with towering trees that seem to whisper the stories of the ancients. Among these woods, magical flora and fauna thrive, some imbued with unique properties that are sought after by alchemists and mystics alike. The rivers, crystal clear and teeming with life, provide sustenance and transport, their banks often becoming sites of conflict as clans battle for control over vital resources.

Despite its beauty, the land is marred by the remnants of war. The scars of past battles can be seen in the form of battlefields overgrown with wildflowers, where the souls of the fallen are said to linger, seeking peace. Ruins of ancient structures dot the landscape, relics of the lost empire that once ruled with strength and unity, now serving as haunting reminders of what was.

Culture and Society​

Jian is a land rich in culture, with traditions that have been passed down through generations. Its people are deeply rooted in a sense of duty, honor, and virtue, values that shape their identities and guide their actions. The clans, though often in conflict, share a common heritage that binds them together, and many of their customs and beliefs reflect a respect for the natural world and the spirits that inhabit it.

The social structure of Jian is complex, with each clan maintaining its own customs and practices. Festivals celebrating the changing of the seasons, the harvest, and the honor of the ancestors are common, providing opportunities for the clans to come together, despite their differences. Music, dance, and storytelling play a vital role in these gatherings, as they share tales of heroism, tragedy, and the bonds that unite them as a people.

Artisans in Jian are highly regarded, skilled in crafts ranging from intricate textiles to masterful weaponry. The craftsmanship is often inspired by the natural world, with designs that reflect the beauty and ferocity of the land. The culinary traditions are also noteworthy, with meals often featuring ingredients sourced from the abundant landscapes, celebrating the bounties of nature while nourishing the warriors who fight to protect their clans.

The Ancients and Mysticism​

In the shadows of Jian, ancient dragons rule over the populace, their presence felt in every aspect of life. These majestic creatures are revered and feared, believed to hold the keys to wisdom, power, and the mysteries of the universe. Each dragon embodies specific elements or ideals, and their influence shapes the clans and their relationships with one another.

The dragons are not mere symbols of strength; they are thought to be the guardians of the realm, their ancient magic intertwining with the very fabric of Jian. Many believe that the unique abilities possessed by the Jianese people are gifts from these ancient beings, granting them strengths that are unmatched by outsiders. The bond between the dragons and their chosen clans creates a powerful connection, one that manifests in unique talents and mystical prowess.

Diverse Races of Jian​

Jian is home to a rich tapestry of races, each contributing to the continent's complexity and diversity:

Humans: The most populous race, humans in Jian are known for their adaptability and resilience. They vary in culture and customs, often influenced by the clans to which they belong. Their history is intertwined with the land, and they play a pivotal role in both the wars and the peace that exists in Jian.

Dragons and Kobolds: The ancient dragons are the most powerful beings in Jian, often ruling from the shadows. Their kin, the kobolds, serve them loyally, carrying out tasks and duties that reflect their masters' will. These small, reptilian beings are cunning and resourceful, often seen as the guardians of dragon lairs.

Half-Dragons: Offspring of humans and dragons, half-dragons possess unique abilities inherited from their draconic lineage. They often navigate the complex politics of Jian, serving as intermediaries between humans and dragons while also claiming their own place within the clans.

Vokhai: This enigmatic race is known for its deep connection to nature and mystical powers. Vokhai often serve as guardians of the land, ensuring the balance between the natural and mystical realms. Their presence in Jian adds an element of mystery, as they are often seen as outsiders even among the clans.

Inari: These fox-like beings are considered sacred in Jian, revered for their wisdom and magical abilities. Inari are often aloof and mysterious, embodying the duality of nature as both protectors and tricksters. Their enigmatic nature adds to the intrigue surrounding the diverse culture of Jian.

Additional Races: Scattered throughout the various clans, other races may be found, each contributing to the rich tapestry of life in Jian. These groups often have unique customs and abilities, further enhancing the complexity of the continent.

Jian is a continent defined by its tumultuous history, breathtaking landscapes, and the vibrant cultures of its inhabitants. It is a land where beauty coexists with chaos, where the past informs the present, and where ancient powers continue to shape the future. The ongoing war between man and beast, coupled with the influence of ancient dragons, creates a unique and intricate world that remains shrouded in mystery, waiting to be explored by those brave enough to tread its storied paths. In Jian, every corner holds a tale, and every inhabitant carries the legacy of a land steeped in honor, duty, and the relentless pursuit of power.

 

[Merciful]

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竜 The Four Seasons 竜​

Each Jianese Meridian predates humanity by thousands of years

Shēngsǐ Xuě

• Governs Imber, Seeks Death, Embodies Draugr
• Dragon of the Forbidden Clan

Shēngsǐ Xuě - Dragon Queen, is a Draugr Dracolych. An enormous white serpent with a dour, tired presence. She was the first Ascended of Grist, a Meridian, and the eldest of the ancient dragons. This made her the eldest, and most powerful of her kin.
Governs Ardor, Seeks Death, Embodies Draugr

Xie Chūntiān
Governs Aeris, Seeks Spring, Embodies Cherry Trees
A beautiful tree, and the most gorgeous of all known ancient dragons. Always in bloom the reach of her roots is the entirety of a country. A gigantic tree with an imposing 200 ft tall stature with the trunk being 50 ft in diameter. Her age is unknown as she is pre-humanic; so ancient that she predates Shengshi Xue.

Xiāng Xiàtiān
She appears almost as bright as the sun itself with rays of light reflecting from each of her scales. Surrounded by an eternal flame both ethereal, and grotesque in appearance. The fire is so hot that it is hardly visible to the naked eye of any man. She isolates herself in the confines of the highest mountain of her country; as not to kill any of her worshippers by accident. Her beauty is in a class of its own, but pales in comparison to that of Xie Chuntian.

Governs Luxium, Seeks Summer, Embodies Rats

Pàng Dōngtiān

The fattest of all dragons, Pàng pridefully cuts the roundest figure among her peers. Pang Dongtian is the most insulted ancient of them all; Simply because of her figure. Though, she has never been seen by anyone with the exception of a few generations of Daimyo. Those who worship her often partake in gluttonous behavior. Even the monasteries dedicated to her are filled with men that enjoy feasts so massive that it would disgust the majority of people.

Governs Somnis, Seeks Winter, Embodies Monkeys

Yǐng Qiūtiān

A beautiful feline with a large stature and onyx colored fur. Her irises are a gorgeous golden-brown bearing a striking iridescence. She is an aloof, mysterious beast who governs her kin; Liken to the cycles of the moon with subtle, yet vicious emotion.

She knows when you are wavering, not just in a physical sense, but in the heart of her followers. This is when she will descend with abandon, her interactions brief, demanding, and poignant. Those of the Kata Clan are disallowed true relationships, or even Dragonbound; they are assassins who revel in their anarchist tendencies and false personas cultivated even from childhood.

Governs Anathema, Seeks Fall, Embodies Cats

Anathema: A spit of sliming black bile that slowly digests what it falls upon. They might also by Master concentrate this bile to destroy magically 'invulnerable' objects such as a Liches' Phylactery, or else a breath of shadow that smothers Luxium and coats an area such as a room or a section of forest in impenetrable darkness any Gristled who governs Anathema can see clearly through.

Sameusi
A large, beautiful, ancient dragon that rules the waters surrounding Jian. The sea-serpent cares not for worship, as he could never be satisfied by humanity. Sameusi is an ascendant of fathom, and grist. He is a master of remnant, and seeks to become the Arch. He hopes to deal with Laevos, and has been cultivating influence over the Cor'Norai. Some Cor'Norai are not born with Fathom, and choose to instead worship Sameusi. He came into power by killing a former elder-dragon, and himself was not one until he ate its grist-organ.

Seeks Empire, Governs Water, Embodies Sahuagin

Rituals & Traditions

Procession of the Seasons
Each of the Four Seasons become active during their respective season, pushing agendas down to the Dragons and Clans they represent; one can expect, honorably, that conflicts and demands be pressed during these times.

Ritualistic sacrifice
Killing in the name of one's Patron Dragon is not uncommon here. Jianese often carve out the hearts of their opponents and pay tribute to their dragons. Though this tends not to earn them any favor. Whereas following the commands, and domains of each ancient, do.

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竜 Clans 竜

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The Moonflower

The Moonflower Clan are known for swordsmanship, beautiful women, and grace. They have long been considered a "Royal" Clan thanks to their rich tradition. The entirety of their territory is covered in cherry-blossom leaves, long grass, gorgeous cherry trees, and filled to the brim with fauna frolicing about the pastures. They have a powerful sense of honor, and justice. Majority of disputes in their lands are settled with "Honor Duels" wherein a fight to the death is agreed upon by the two parties. They will even duel against the members of their own clan if it means to be honored. The Daimyo position in this region tends to be highly unstable; It is the most dangerous position to exist in. Therefore they do not refer to themselves as a "Clan"; and treat one another like family.

Further, Dryad companions of Xie Chūntiān have followed the ancient, beautiful dragoness over to Antarok as her staunchest defenders. They don't associate themselves any longer with any of the other Dryad castes, but among the Moonflower Clan, they are revered for their dedication, beauty and deadly grace.

• Blossom Dominion; Draoidh Variant

The Saru Clan

They're rarely seen by those outside of the clan; they are some of the finest warriors in all of Jian. Tucked away in the confines of their monastery hidden away from view of the other clans. None of the other clans know exactly where this heavily-guarded monastery is. Their existence however, is widespread common-knowledge, and members of this clan will never reveal the monastery's location. They are the devout, unwavering worshippers of Pang Dontian. In their daily lives they practice meditation, martial arts, and ensorcelling.

• Trickery Dominion;

The Futorisugi Clan

A large, happy people that enjoy massive feasts of incredible amounts of food. No ordinary human could so much as fathom how they consume what appears to be infinite amounts of calories. The Futorisugi have large gatherings, festivals, and parties that are so loud they can be heard from other villages, and nearby clans. They often carry large gourds filled with soups in preparation for battle. As their Domain can make them lose weight just as rapidly as they gained it. The average member of the Futorisugi weighs between 250, and 350 pounds. They are the largest among the people found in Jian standing at an average height of 6 '5. The other clans see them as gluttonous savages. The "Futo" are known to be the most durable, and physically strong among all of the Jianese.



The Futorisugi are also notable for the fact that their parties are so raucous that they've managed to attract the attention of the capricious, hedonistic Satyrs– normally, mortal revelry does not pique their interest at all, but in this case? They're more than happy to join in, and over time, a few Satyrs have stuck around, having enmeshed themselves into the clan in the present day. Further, their obsession with food was passed along in Ælphyne, reaching the ears of a few Epimeliad and Napaiai Dryads and they, too, have found kinship amongst the Futorisugi ranks, happy to find a society that truly appreciates what makes them special.

Rikishi Dominion;

The Katawa Clan
Not much is known about the members of Katawa other than they are supposedly loosely-connected. They are legends among their peers. Some do not consider the Clan to exist, as no documentation provides evidence of their existence. The moment comes when one has realized Kata aren't some fictional tale; It's already too late. Their combat expertise, stealth, and cunning are what make them both formidable, and practically invisible. The Kata prefer to execute opponents dishonorably. Without giving their adversaries the opportunity to fight. Due to their tradition in ritualistic sacrifice; only 10,000 Kata exist ever at any given time. They select only the most powerful offspring, when a kata gives birth. The remainder are executed, or kept as slaves, and forbidden to breed. They often battle one another; as Kata are the only clan that cannot identify its' members through Dominion. They are devout worshippers of Yǐng Qiūtiān

Shadow Dominion;

The Shuu Clan
Forged in the flame of honor, and integrity; filled to the brim with Vokhai, and Man-kind. The most populated Clan among them all, and the most accepting. The Shuu fight with valor for the "Peace" of Jian. They believe that in conquering other clans, and taking over their territories they shall one day accomplish peace. No matter how brutal they have to be, in the process of chasing said dream. Their end goals are simple, to unite the entirety of Jian under one banner. They strike without fear, and use overwhelming force as opposed to tactical skill on the field of battle. They are renowned as the most powerful, largest clan among their peers. They are the most hated outside of their respective territory. Their Clan sigil is the perfect depiction of a lunar-eclipse. With two heavenly bodies near convergence. The most feared among all clans, as they have a pack-mentality. The moment the blood of a Shuu is spilled; No matter whether or not it is a slave, or Ronin. They will engage in large-scale warfare resulting in tens-of-thousands of deaths. They fight with a ferocity like no other; Twisting, turning, and commanding the environment to do their bidding.

Terrari

The Huo Clan
Huo was one of the earliest clans to come into existence on Jian. They established dominance with sheer force. Known for being the best gunslingers, and gunsmiths in the land. They tend to battle across long distances opting for the use of Magic against opponents. Majority of their opposing Clans see their style of combat as dishonorable, and foreign. Their Dragon-riders engage in battle like ranged cavalry; Huo has very few melee combatants in their regimen. Their clan is recognized by a simple symbol representing a dancing flame. Their preferred tactic in combat is to overwhelm opponents with a volley of arrows, and a hail of bullets. The Huo are adept practitioners of Artificing, tactics, and meditation.

The Fang Clan
They are loosely connected to one another. Majority of these people are mercenaries, and traveling between the other territories safely. They have highly-trained, specialized Wolves that are captured from the wild, domesticated, and then incorporated as members of the Fang. They identify other members of their clan through Dominion. This is the only clan that can be found among all of the territories. They have no specific enemies, nor allies in the Continent, and worship no Ancient. While the vast majority of them are excellent hunters, and trackers, few are true combatants without the aid of their Wolves.

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[Merciful]

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竜 The Caste System, and Titles 竜​

Daimyo
The leader of each of the respective clans, and some prefer to use various titles. Either earned on the field of battle, or given to them by their predecessors. They are responsible for all of the people in their villages. Daimyo are expected to be powerful leaders, even if they lack combat prowess. Their voices have the ability to turn the tides of battle, shift allegiances between clans, or bring about destruction.

• Inherited or Earned

Shogun
The Shogun often referred to as "Shogunate" are the elite guard, high ranking captains, second in command to the Daimyo. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of their respective clans. Their duties are simply to protect, and assist the general population of their clans. Shogun are typically found both on the front lines of conflict, surrounding the Daimyos home, and patrolling the border surrounding each clan's territory. One Shogun will be assigned an individual "Party" which they are in command of to assist them with said duties. The Shogun take orders directly from the Daimyo, and answer only to the leader(s) of their Clan.

• By Merit

Ashigaru
The traditional soldiers of each Clan. Their equipment is often limited to Haarate(Armor that only protects the chest, stomach and both flanks.) They have limited-pay, and are only given bonuses based upon merit earned in the field of battle. They will be the first sent to the front lines of any conflict, skirmish, or small battle. They are a poor class of people with the exception of a few. Some are adorned with traditional Gusoku, Hitatare, and Tatami armor. Typically they gain additional equipment by looting the bodies of those found dead following combat. If they are lucky enough to be one of the survivors of such large-scale warfare.

• Clan Merit

Jiating
Jiating make up the vast majority of the general population. They are often wanderers, foreigners, former ronin, craftsmen, sellswords, or fugitives. Jiating are either forced into, or adopted by a Clan. In order to become Jiating one must agree to worship whichever Patron Dragon rules that region. They will be required to wear the attire typical of each Clan. It matters not what race, religion, or background they come from.

• Family; Adopted based on merit

Oracle
One oracle per Ancient dragon, Typically elderly, and born into the role. Double major merit entailing 1000 exp points. Each clan has its own Oracle and they are the voice of each region's resident Ancient Dragon.

Artisans
They are responsible for the crafting of Jianese weaponry, armor, and other equipment.

Merchant
The business class, and entrepreneurs of Jian. They are a praised, highly respected class among all of the races, and clans.

Ronin
Exiled warriors, sellswords tend to live amongst themselves. They are viewed as more disgusting than a serf. Ronin are frequently targeted by the clans they were exiled from, and any opposing force relevant to their previous status as Clansmen.

Serfs
Servants to any and all classes above them. The Serf are the lowest of the classes, and typically live in "squalor". Although to live in a "poor" state in Jian still means they will have a home. Typically they will live with, and continue to serve their respective "masters". They are responsible for sharpening the blades of Ashigaru, refurbishing armor, building homes, working in the rice fields, and caretaking.

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竜 Sacred Arts 竜

: Rules

Sacred arts may only be learned from a member of the clan attached to the domain. Without the help of a senior member of that Clan the Domain cannot reach master-level.

Moonflower Sacred Art

Sakura-Senpu
The practitioners of Cherry Blossom Dance are an eloquent, kind folk and their dominion embodies such. They are living-breathing-bipedal fauna with the ability to exude poison from their very pores. Sustained combat is the specialty of a Cherry blossom dancer; they prefer to suffocate a target or poison them during battle. Large plants can grow from their extremities for a variety of uses to include medicines.

Cherry Blossom Binding

A variant of Draodh which may only Florabind to Cherry Trees and the roots of Xie Chūntiān. These Cherry Blossoms are sharp like a thin disc of steel, while the roots are hard and impenetrable like solid bedrock. They can create storms of the steel-grade Sakura blossoms, manipulate and move them at will.

Saru Clan Sacred Art
Dream Animism
Dream Animal Summoning (Equivalent Alkahest per CR)

Trickery Arts
Animism Dominion. Those who practice in the Monkey arts are masters of illusion. This dominion enhances the agility, dexterity, and sharpens the senses of its' users. They are capable of creating up to four solid copies of themselves that will perform any action of the character. They are solid, but with a single blow they will be reduced to ash. Spells that are used will require one additional cast per clone. The clones can only survive up to one full day.
Monkey Arts

Familiary Variant; it's a dumb Monkey that is highly trainable, and succeptable to its' master. At novice the Monkey will be incredibly defiant, and listen to none of its summoners command. At journeyman the Monkey will listen to two commands, and begin to subtly communicate with its summoner. Whether that be through pounding its chest, grooming its summoner, pointing, or throwing rocks. The monkey must be fed, groomed and cared for as though it were a member of the family. Otherwise the Monkey will simply flee from its summoner's side, and live in the wild


Katawa Sacred Art
Shadowbound
Shadowbound merge themselves into shadow, and as they progress, the state of being so becomes increasingly difficult. Shadows in their vicinity act like the inverse of a candle flame, flickering toward the users of this dominion; As though they are willing to escape from the bodies of their casters. They can flatten themselves as thin as a sheet of paper, and any sound they make would nullify their spell; they are vulnerable to physical and magical attacks even while merged with shadow. They may be detected by a Mysticist of equivalent skill.

Anathema


Futorisugi Sacred Art
Rikishi
Body manipulation. Gaining temporary endurance and strength at the cost of one's health. During the use of Rikishi various consequences are associated with each of its abilities. The first being the heart expanding, with an increased heart-rate to pump blood to expanded body parts. Bones are turned into a soft-structure and then solidified when the limbs/body is expanded. Users of Rikishi have to eat abnormal amounts of food to maintain their ability to use the Dominion. The body can only be expanded up to 4x the size, length, or weight of the individual practitioner. The user experiences varying levels of pain, depending on the amount of body-manipulation used.

Skill requirements
Progressed by Fitness,
Endurance 100

Chúshī
Caloric Compression - Caloric imbuement.
Hosting - Adding joy to food by being a host.
Food Aesthete - Making food look a certain way.
Food Alchemy - Passive; Potionmaking Equivalent
Cookbook
Ingredients

Skill requirements
Progressed by Cooking
Chemistry 100