Rihan

The Rihan Republic Rheilhhu Rihana
Flag Coat of arms
Motto: "Talla e'na Rheilhhu"
Anthem: Mehre dinam s'tivh ya
Map of the Rihan Republic
Status	Independent State
Capital and largest city	Dartha
Official languages	Rihanh
Religion	D'era
Demonym(s)	Rihannsu
Government	Aristocratic authoritarian oligarchy
• Praetor	Mathon Terix
Legislature	The Senate
Establishment
• D'Vatta	1343
Area
• Total	342,320 km2 (132,170 sq mi)
Population
• 2019 census	23,197,316
GDP (nominal)	estimate
• Total	$425.4 billion
• Per capita	$18,341
Gini (2019)	61.9 very high
HDI (2019)	.699 medium
Currency	Chak (RRC)
Time zone	UTC -6
Driving side	right
Calling code	+40
Internet TLD	.ri

The Rihan Republic is an aristocratic authoritarian oligarchy located on the continent of Aurelia along the coast of the Apnex Sea. Rihan is a coastal state 342,320 km² in area, located between latitudes 19º and 22.5ºS and between longitudes 97º and 93ºW. The Republic is home to 23.1 million Rihannsu free citizens and hundreds of thousands of enslaved people. The capital of the Republic is Dartha, the first and largest city. The land of Rihan is home to a range of unique flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world including the Mogai, the Hatham, and Ter'ak. The Rihannsu people were originally a client people of the Tagmatine Empire before they were forced into self-exile for philosophical differences. They are known to be a xenophobic, clan-based people who are known for their aggressive, devious nature. This has proliferated into the core of the Republican government system, making it a dangerous game of intrigue, constantly shifting alliances, and even death. It has also been reflected in their recreational activities including fights in the arena and highly intellectual games of strategy and logic.

The Republic has stood for over 675 years and over that timeframe, it has expanded along the coast and inland, increasing its territory, and gained the slave population it has utilized to maintain segments of its agricultural and mining-dominant economy. Expansionist policies eventually led to a devastating war with the Enolians that left the Rihannsu economy impacted and over twenty-thousand deaths. In the aftermath of the conflict, Rihan went into a period of self-isolation as it attempted to rebuild the damage done. The war had exposed many issues that had plagued the Republic for several generations prior. For a decade, the Republic struggled with political instability and economic stagnation. Tensions between the commoners and the aristocracy had reached a critical mass and the majority undertook a general strike. Praetor Aratenik averted a disaster and found a compromise that gave the lower classes a greater role in the Republican government by the establishment of the Assembly. He also emancipated but did not grant citizenship to over a hundred thousand slaves, earning him ire from his fellow aristocrats. He and several other proceeding Praetors were assassinated in short order following the longest period of stability prior to the Enolian War, bringing Rihan to another brink of political disaster. To avoid this, the Continuing Committee appointed the well-respected Admiral Terix as Praetor. There may be momentary peace, but there are already power-hungry senators plotting in the shadows, seeking the Praetorship for themselves.

History

Origins and Client of the Tagmatine Empire

The Rihannsu originated as a nomadic people, residing in the Europan East. They migrated west after being pushed from their initial lands by other such tribes. Their leaders would spur the people to cross the plains and across the steppes before appearing on the shores of the Raga Sea on Akiiyru's coast. Over this time, they had fought dozens of other tribes, taking their resources to keep the horde moving. While many would label these people as nightmarish people, they were eager learners and observers, taking what would benefit them in the long run as a people with them in their onward journey, a theme that would be replicated later on in their history. It was in the early 1100s when the Rihannsu had gained an understanding of basic naval construction from a seafaring tribe on the sea's edge. After constructing a rudimentary fleet, the horde would sail across the Raga and landed opposite the steppes in the lands of the Tagmatine Empire.

Kristoforos V (1128-1145) was the first to have a Rihannsu bodyguard (Tagmatine: Optimatoi, Rihanh: D'klamorairi Rhiyrh), due to the fact that his own hold on the throne was questionable after he had inherited the Tagmatine throne through his uncle from the Kommenoi dynasty. Seeing as he could not trust other natives or any established family who might assert its superior, he chose the Rihannsu to back up his claim. The Rihannsu gained settled status in the Empire upon his rise to power. The existence of the bodyguard would carry over to his successors, Kommodus I and Honorios II over three generations. As a settled people, the Rihannsu lived in isolated communities in the southern reaches of the Tagmatine Empire. Many Rihannsu were farmers and craftsman. They eagerly involved themselves in absorbing as much of the Aroman culture, language, and knowledge as they could. This led to a small, but well-versed, group of philosophers and intellectuals, the most important of whom was Tellus. The Tagmatine-Rihannsu relationship would soon sour.

The Departure

For many years, the Rihannsu Bodyguard protected the Emperors, their positions unassailable. The high point in Rihannsu-Tagmatine relations occurred during the reign of Honorios II (1197-1199) who was supportive of the Rihannsu people. But there was a ticking time bomb: both the current Emperor and their predecessors knew their bodyguards were largely non-religious and they argued with their advisors and members of the clergy that such disconnect allowed them to fulfill their duties without getting involved in court intrigue. However, despite predictions in 1199, Honorios II dies and a scramble for the throne occurs. It is also at this time that Tellus publishes his treatise that calls out the state Iconclastic Church: saying that praising a single being over the greater strength and duty of the people was a means of oppression.

The work itself was considered seditious and one of the claimants to the throne, Ioannes, uses his writing to whip up religious differences, uniting the various other factions behind him, resulting in him taking the throne. Within 2 years, Ioannes IV would dissolve the bodyguard unit, and with backing from the Church patriarchs, takes steps to remove the Rihannsu from the Empire altogether. The heads of the various Rihannsu clans gather and unanimously agree that they must leave the Empire. They immediately begin constructing a vast flotilla of ships along the Raga coastline. As the fleet is being hastily built, Tellus composes an expansive vision of what would become D'era, the guiding principles of the Rihannsu people. His vision spreads quickly throughout the people. Six months into Ioannes IV's reign, he orders the Imperial forces to remove them. As the Imperial Army marched south to confront their once-client people, the Rihannsu board their fleet, departing the Empire forever. Tellus, onboard the last vessel to leave the shore, stares at the fading horizon and is said to have played a tune of rage on his string instrument. The Rihannsu departure is marked to have occurred in 1202.

Geography and Climate

The land of Rihan is lush, humid, and full of abundant vegetation. The capital, Dartha, lies at the mouth of the Sherdek River and the Apnex Sea. The river valleys are fertile for agriculture. The Aihai, the flat plain dominated by Dartha and its surrounding communities, is considered the 'breadbasket of the Republic'. The Sherdek River has two tributaries, the Relgath and Garenak. The Ganser River, with its tributaries: the Balsanra and Nelrek; is the longest river in the country; and the Terelix are two other important river systems. While much of the land is made up either humid forest, small rolling hills or pleasant flatlands, there is a single mountain chain that crosses the land from northeast to west: the D'Kalla. The highest peak is Mount Al'kathel. Rihan's average temperature sits around 23 to 27 °C (73 to 81 °F) though it can drop to as low as 13 °C (55 °F) or as high as mid-30's °C. The Rihannsu measure of temperature is the Ankhian (ex 12 units = 35 °F). During the hot summer months, the Praetor retreats to his residence in the cooler Valley of Chula. The Valley has some of the best vistas in the entire country. Rihan is a coastal state 342,320 km² in area and located between latitudes 19º and 22.5ºS and between longitudes 97º and 93ºW.

Flora and Fauna

Rihan is home to a rich ecosystem that is largely hostile and predatory. The land is known for its renowned avian species: the predatory raptor or Ra'tar and the Mogai Eagle, the symbol of the Republic. In the Forests of Allerash, one can find the Raal, a type of bear; the Akaana, a type of boar; and the Thrai, a member of the wolf family. But its the vast jungle of Rihan where some of the most vicious of animals lurk. A predatory feline, the Ter'ak, is native to the areas outside Vendras. This animal possesses unusually large ears and eyes, with fur ranging from chocolate brown to fawn. It is fearless and can attack entirely unprovoked on passers-by who stray too far from protected trails. The Ter'ak weighs 50 kilograms and is about a meter long. Another animal similar to the Ter'ak is the Syrinx, which is far more widespread across the land. Aristocrats across the land demand the furs of both animals to both wear and hang on the walls of their villas. Those not captured for their pelts are put into the arena to be used in blood sports. The jungles are also home to venomous snakes including the Moliok and the Trelka.

Even though the land is home to many vicious wild animals, the Rihannsu have managed to domesticate several animals. The predominant animal of labor and food are the Hlai, the Travit, the Kerosh, and the Drabhik. These are found on farms across the fertile plans. Many nobles and wealthy landholders maintain stables of fine stoic Fvai. For pets, many have set'leths or Seldraks, the latter both as loyal friends and fierce guardians. Some Seldraks have been trained by slave assessors to keep the slaves in line in the ore mines or upon the wheat fields. For those wanting something graceful, there is always the Scavandra swan who populate many a pond in the gardens of elite individuals.

In the waters of the Apnex Sea, both Veruul and Osol fish can be found in abundance. Giant Mollusks are netted and eaten as a delicacy by the nobility. Other shellfish are consumed. Some enjoy caviar from the Fressenor. Rihan's rivers are home to piranha-like fish called Kharah. The Praetor has a school of such fish in a deep pond within the Palace complex and some leaders in the past have not hesitated to throw insubordinate staff members into it to make a point.

Much of the flora is widespread across Aurelia but some cultivable plants including oliva, kheh, tivish, and vareet have been domesticated for consumption or for textiles. Some fruits have been altered for eating. One type of tree, the urukan, can be found across Rihan, particularly in the Forest of Allerash. In the humid forests, plants such as the Vadaso, the Pirek, and the poisonous Melanth can be found in considerable quanities. There is also the Lagga flower and the Wagi bush.

Government

Rihan's government is structured upon the quintessential concept of a Republic, though not in the sense generally recognized around the world. The powers and responsibilities for each level of government lies within the Constitution (D'Vatta). What is written on paper does not exactly play out in reality.

The Senate

All power lies within the Senate (Deihuit), made up of 300 Senators (Deihu), all of whom are either well-versed in military skill, in possession of vast wealth, or come from aristocratic families. The most powerful assignment for a senator is a coveted seat on the Continuing Committee. It is made up of ten individuals with only the Praetor being guaranteed a seat. They are empowered to regulate elevation to the various levels of government and military. It is the members of the Committee who are responsible for confirming the ascent of an individual to the position of Praetor and have the sole authority to expel senators.

There are numerous political coalitions that exist within the chamber representing the spectrum of political opinion in the country including:

• Jardian (pro-military and territorial expansionism)
• Jol Tan (law and order)
• Suketh (slow expansion, involvement in international affairs and alliances)
• Nej'ahar (economic growth and domestic issues)

Membership within the coalitions are constantly in flux and a member siding with one group on a specific matter may not be with them on another. The Senate appoints a Proconsul [currently Kota] and Vice-Proconsul [currently held by Louris] to run the day-to-day affairs of the Senate. They are typically members of different coalitions as part of an arrangement within the chamber. Each coalition is led by a consul.

The Praetor

While the Constitution (D'Vatta) states that the Senate is the undisputed and sole authority of the Republic, it is the Praetor (Fvillha) who ultimately wields broad power that can be borderline dictatorial. He or she is the Republic's Head of State. The Praetor presides over all Senate sessions, the supreme military commander of the Republic's forces, the highest judicial official with the power to inflict the death penalty, and have the authority to interpret and enforce laws passed by the Senate. A Praetor is considered the very embodiment of the Rihan ideals of honor, accomplishment, and discipline. Due to the extreme danger that is Rihan politics, it is not uncommon for Praetors to suffer abbreviated terms of office in comparison to other heads of government. To guard their person, the Praetor is protected by the Praetorian Guard (Morairi ih'Fvillha). The Praetor is the only individual allowed to hold the Teral'n, the trident scepter representing the firm talon of the Eagle. A Praetor can only be legally removed by a three-fourths vote of the Senate. In the entire lifespan of the Republic, this has never happened.

The Assembly

As the ultimate power in the Republic is in the hand of a small oligarchy of wealthy and powerful aristocrats, the lower classes have very little control over the day-to-day decisions of the state. However, they do a mechanism to petition and coax the Senate into addressing their concerns through the Assembly (ætheaa), which was established after the Iumnelai. Its membership consists of all regular citizens who vote directly by secret ballot. Petitions that receive a majority are elevated to the Senate for their consideration, though more than 90% of such attempts are ignored from those above the citizenry-at-large.

The High Tribunal

The High Tribunal is the highest judicial court in the Republic consisting of twelve judges confirmed by the Senate. For those unfortunate to break the law, punishments can range from years in a dark prison cell to the death sentence or enslavement. For those condemned to death, they are publically executed but the individual is given the right to make a statement before they are killed. The system of justice assumes the individual charged is guilty of the crime unless proven otherwise. Many procure the services of well-skilled intercessors (lawyers) to represent them in the courtroom. All judgments are final, there are no appeals. Kolar Marrus is the chief magistrate who presides over the High Tribunal.

Local Government

Governments of the many cities and provinces of the Republic do not have much power no matter how close they are to the heart of the Republican government. The Senate and the bureaucracy often override orders of the local governments without notice. In turn, the local governments take their frustration out on the local people by adding to their already high taxes. This does not mean that the local governments are all well run; some of the city and provincial governments allow situations like roads and local services to reach extreme severity before actually handling the situations, and then take a longer time than necessary finishing the job. Provincial governors can be appointed and removed by the Senate. Local councils and mayors are elected by ballot.

Statement of Rights

All citizens of the Republic have the following basic honorable freedoms as outlined in the Statement of Rights:

• The right of procreation
• the right to own property and to manage it as necessary (this includes the right of slavery and the owner's right to discipline)
• the right to commit honorable suicide
• the right to commerce (subject to the needs of the Republic)
• the right to present a defense in a publicly recorded trial, aside a public defender, before the courts
• the right to apprehend and charge as a private citizen, any criminal or enemy of the Republic, and
• the right to bear arms, for defense or sign of status, in public and in private.

Citizens are not permitted to undertake any action deemed to be against the interest of the Republic and the People. The prohibitions are not outlined and this has given the Senate and the courts tremendous leverage in interpreting an action on a broad spectrum.

Foreign Relations

The Republic is formally recognized by all countries on Eurth, including the Aroman successors: the Tagmatine Empire and the Adapton Empire, though relations with both of them are tense at best. Rihan is a founder of the Aurelian League, a continental organization that is meant to bring the nations of Aurelia closer together on matters of defense, economic development, and cultural integration. It is through the League that the Republic maintains good relations with Kirvina, Shffahkia, and Kipan. The Republic and Asgeirria have had a longstanding historical relationship over the centuries concerning economic markets and political influence. Both nations have a close relationship through the Shoren Agreement.

Military

The Rihan Republican Armed Forces is responsible for defending the Republic from her enemies and fighting them when needed. The military is made up of the Army (Draao), the Navy (Galæ), the Air Force (Ralaarihsein, the Special Forces (Krannsu), and the Praetorian Guard (Morairi ih'Fvillha). The various military branches are supported by the military intelligence arm (Tal Diann), the logistics division (Talat), and the Corps of Engineers (Agheakæihk). Over 550,000 Rihannsu are active in the military at any one time. The military's weapons, vehicles, vessels, aircraft, and equipment are manufactured by the state-owned consortium, Aishkurænd Rheilhhu Rihana.

The Praetor wields supreme military command of all Rihannsu forces and is advised by senior military officials who run Central Command (Raenasa). All citizens are obligated to serve in the military upon receiving their formal citizenship (Plyanazi) at the age of 20 for a term of five years. Following their term, most enter the proper workforce though some choose to remain. Many of the nation's finest generals and admirals have risen through the ranks from lowly soldiers or seamen. Prior to their formal placement, everyone spends 12 weeks in basic training. Service in the armed forces is viewed with Rihannsu culture as a high honor and fulfilling one's duty as dictated by the virtues of D'era. The Shining Star (Ranam Valassa) medal is the highest award a soldier can attain. An awardee is well-respected both within their family and throughout their community. Another prestigious award is the Sotarek Citation, given to a soldier who fights in the face of adversity against the Republic's enemies.

Phi'Tlaru

The Phi'Tlaru is the intelligence agency of the Rihan Republic. It is a highly respected and feared force throughout Eurth. It is their main objective to protect the Republic from both external and internal threats using whatever covert (or overt) means necessary. The agency is led by a Chairman, who is appointed by the Praetor and confirmed by the Senate. The Chairman is only answerable to the Praetor. Currently, the position is held by Koval. There is a level of distrust between the Arianofv and the agency because the Phi'Tlaru has the ability to commandeer the services of the other branches of the military either directly or on orders from the Praetor. The Var'Theldun Citadel in the Old City district of Dartha is their dreaded headquarters. The facility is rumored to have numerous prison cells and torture chambers deep below the foundations and even below the utility systems. Individuals taken by the Phi'Tlaru are known to 'disappear.'

Economy

The Rihan economy has never been as productive as others in the world due to the use of slaves in place of freemen, though this has changed somewhat since the implementation of the Iumnelai compromise under Praetor Aratenik. Over 60% of the economy is heavily controlled by the aristocratic and mercantile families, both its wealth and means of production. The main segments of the economy consist of agriculture and fishing, mining and metallurgy, consumer and industrial goods manufacturing, arms manufacturing, and financial services. There is a slew of small businesses and farms run by commoners but these are at a major disadvantage against those own by the aristocrats. All trade between the Republic and the wider world is only sanctioned by order of the Senate and operated through the RTC. The Chak is the national currency.

Transport and Infrastructure

All public transportation (including buses, river ferries, and Dartha's metro) is operated by the state-controlled entity, Yhfillain while Talasagam Rheilhhu Rihana operates all freight and both intercity and high-speed passenger trains. Road infrastructure is maintained by Eyhon Rheilhhu. Nearly 85% of all roads are paved. Most major highways in the Republic are tolled. The national airline, Havrær, is based at Dartha Cliperian International Airport, enabling Rihannsu to fly to many corners of the world. While the capital is a major seaport in its own right, the Port of Mirek handles the majority of all goods passing in and out of the country. Energy is largely provided by fossil-fuel plants from imported oil and natural gas sources, though the Senate is preparing to revolutionize energy generation by investing billions into alternative energy sources, predominantly solar. Power distribution is handled by state-controlled Cælis'cæri. Every settled area of the Republic has access to clean water either by wells or through sophisticated aqueducts, reservoirs, and plumbing maintained by Aekhhwi'rhoi. All telecommunications and information distribution is handled through the Communications Ministry.

Natural Resources

Silicon, Iron, Tungsten, Titanium, Cobalt, Clay, Gold, Silver, Timber, Arable land, Fishing grounds, Hydropower, Geothermal Power

Society and Culture

The Rihannsu are highly xenophobic and see themselves as superior to others. They were not originally like this but following their forced departure from the Tagmatine Empire due to religious differences. They can come to trust, but only after a very long period of time. However, they do have a high curiosity for other peoples. Rihannsu are very emotional, war-like, and absolutely dedicated to the virtues that define the way of D'era, a strict code of discipline, duty, and honor. Their culture follows a hard line of social and physical Darwinism. They have a spartan regard toward those that are not physically able or are mentally deficient. They will kill children that do not match the physical model of perfection. In spite of their cold outer shell, they are ardent supporters of family. The first virtue, devotion, is primarily one of family. Citizens of all class levels are given many incentives both economical and social to produce and cherish large families. Rihannsu indeed cherish their families. They are as capable of love as any other people.

Recreation

For recreation, most play games such as D'elo, a game of sticks and stones that can be traced back to days prior to the Departure from the Tagmatine Empire. The people are fond of arena games where athletes of both genders show their prowess with weapons and fighting techniques. Nobles engage in honorable Vrelnec dueling (Vrelnecrek) both on their estates and in arenas of all sizes. Blood sports, like Ke'veshrek (a form of boxing) or Tyr’llryanniha (football) are extremely popular and are often broadcasted across the Republic. The Orventis Arena is the grandest of them all, located in Dartha; it can seat nearly 100,000 people. Toldak and Sildelo (kickboxers), and Delon Vekek (football) are some of the most notable athletes today.

The Rihannsu are major players of tactical and logic-based games including Latrunculo, Masaharis, Yelbrek, Parmen Chess, Voraant, Trayatik (dice game), Villrillu (cards), or Khariat (like Jenga). In the same vein, solving puzzles of all forms are popular. Though people may engage in simulated chess and similar games, people desire real opponents, and thus simulation is far less popular in Rihan. S'darha is one of the most important recreational activities the aristocracy partake in. It is an extremely intellectual game that involved the recitation of stanzas from great literature in order to support a given argument or statement. It is a combination of debating, rhetoric, declamation and trivia games. Many of the best S'darha masters have become the most influential Praetors in the Republic as it has helped them in dealing with the dangerous politics of the Senate. Additionally, many like to play a game of whits and riddles called Lhi. Rihannsu also relish nature and enjoy the beauty of it — most are avid hikers, riders, or mountaineers, spending their time exploring the Forest of Allerash or the Valley of Chula.

There are numerous festivals and events throughout the year but there are major four festivals that are state-recognized and are considered official holidays from work. Each of these festivals last five days.

Art

Artistic abilities of the Rihannsu show the softer side of their personality, balancing a fierce warrior ethic with the sensitivity of an artist. Sculpting (traditional and more avant-garde Tillion), pottery (Satul), and carvings are the most popular mediums. Rihannsu painters perform to paint in three-dimensions. Notable artists include Raban Parthok, Dorin Zhagan, and Azeraik. While less common, scroll painting (a mix of calligraphic writing and light painting) has a long tradition in the Rihannsu culture.

Music

Music in Rihan is diverse from military marches espousing loyalty to classical compositions. The Rihannsu are known to play several unique instruments. The eolh iarr'voi is a form of clarinet, the Ryrill is a string instrument that has been featured in Rihannsu music long before the people's stay in the Tagmatine Empire. A Levroc is a three-leveled piano. Tevar Setek is known for his classic symphony entitled 'Passion.'

Literature and Theatre

Literatary and theatrical writings are centered around the importance to the state, the people, their history, and the guiding principles of D'era. Many of the most important pieces written are historical epic poems and dramas depicting the Departure and the Arrival in Rihan. These are composed by Japell and Dezrai. Some of the most important literary works include Amarcan's Axioms, the Contemplations of Landar the Elder, the Taer'thaiemenh by V. Raiuhes Ahaefvthe, Na Temhsah'urri by Reanas, Na Temyytæra, and D'hwæl. Rihannsu philosophical works are also respected, including those written by Vorkan Trov.

Architecture

Rihannsu architecture is centered around the use of high arched ceilings, domes, and fashioned concrete. City planning places importance on broad, sweeping colonnades, tall buildings, and a unified geometric design with civic buildings at the geometric center of every city. Roads and buildings are designed to be imposing. The use of Kedossian marble can be found in the building of many important structures including the Hall of State. One of the most notable architects is Kundarak. It is rare to find a civic building, whether a Septum or a government office building, without awe-inspiring statues of past Praetors or legendary war heroes.

Food and Drink

Rihannsu cuisine is centered around the exotic, the sweet, and the bitter. They are notable for their elaborate bread (Vix Vivax) and pastries baked from grains cultivated on the Great Plains. The other notable grain they grow is vareet for kali-fal, a strong ale. Bread is served with every meal. Farmers grow an array of fruits and vegetables, including aiyeh lettuce, gresh, Ihor berries, caral fruit, Ihiet fruit, sali, tehirla mushrooms, telhlke peppers, and tolekrya. Vineyards across the Republic tend the grapes which are made into wine. Ranchers rear travit and hlai, both of which form the crux of meats consumed. Due to Rihan's extensive rivers and coastline, fish like Osol, and oysters like iyhori also form a major block of the national diet. Many meals consumed revolve around stews like Checca, Oshi, or viinerine which predominately eaten in the military. Ihul, a pot roast consisting of Hlai is popular. The aristocracy indulges on delicacies like Aafvun'in'hhui (mollusk soup), aged travit steaks, kheia caviar, a fuschia-colored cheese called dubyhl, and brandies. Eggs are a common breakfast food for all people. Nobles also eat a dish called feiiha (a stuffed mixed meat and cheese pastry dish). For sweets, the big desert is sesketh but no one will say no to decedent chocolate (soah). Beyond the beverages listed, some others drank include carallun, tarka, tork, and iyo tea.

The Emblem

The emblem of the Republic is 'the Mogai Eagle.' It is a symbol of military might and honor, displayed everywhere, symbolizes civilian pride in the state. All Rihannsu swear oaths upon the Eagle, and defacing the symbol is a serious offense. The inspiration for the emblem comes from the predator avian that flies over the Rihannsu' adopted homeland. This bird is known to carry its eggs in its talons, which artists represented as the Senate and the People. The bird itself is spread in an aggressive posture, representing the glory and majesty of the Republic.

D'era

The Way of D'era is the official 'religion' of the Republic. It's not as much a spiritual calling - it's a unifying political ideology of duty to the Whole. The Way was formulated during the final days of the Rihannsu living the Tagmatine Empire when its founder, Tellus, seditiously condemned the Iconoclastic Orthodox Church and said that adherence to a single being over the greater strength and duty of the people was a means of oppression. D'era calls upon all Rihannsu to follow the teachings of obedience, discipline, and loyalty to each other. The center of D'era is in Dartha's Central Septum where a statue of Tellus stands for all to reflect upon his words. The Way is led by the Pontix, Lucian Tamok. D'era priests are paid by the state. Septums of D'era are located in every Rihannsu community.

Praxani: Rites of Passage

Rihannsu progress through their lives under a structure of rites that related to the four virtues of D'era. These are:

• D'navassa - The Great Beginning
• Nimaz - Naming
• D'sora - 5th Birthday
• Phi'lasasam - The Education
• Plyanazi - Formal Citizenship
• Serona - Mandatory Military Service (5 years)
• So'rdaz - Marriage Union
• Charozzah - Passing
• Latta - Death (upper class individuals are buried in family tombs in the Rikolet [the Great Graveyard] while lower-class individuals are mostly cremated)

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