Tavastians

The Tavastians (таизтелийоита or taistelijoita in Tavastian) are a small nomadic tribe who have traditionally lived in cold taiga climates. The name Tavastians derives from chronicles written by explorers from Garkou, who named the tribe "Tavast doma" (At home everywhere).

## Living habits

After observing them for several winters, the explorers wrote about the peculiar living habits of the tribe. Typically, nomadic tribes live in tents or huts, and pack them up and take them with them when they move to a new area. However, the Tavastians build one large structure, called the йукмук or jökkmökk, in every area they decide to stay in, and for several years the structure serves as the living quarters and hub for the entire tribe. The flock of animals is shared between all members of the tribe, and the tribe acts like one big family. Not much is known about the inside of the jökkmökk, as it is considered a sacred place and the Garkovan explorers were not allowed to enter.

When the resources in an area have depleted, the tribe will move on to a new, fertile area. The old Jökkmökk, now called фикмук or vikmökk is left behind, but not before being sealed off and thoroughly cleaned and decorated, often with impractical decorations that could not have been implemented into the design when it was still in use. By doing this, the Vikmökk is attributed to their ancestors, noble animals and other spirits to live in.

## **Culture**

As a close-knit community, they are incredibly caring towards one another. This feeling does not extend towards other states or groups, however. The Tavastians are very aware how vulnerable they are towards organisations with ill intent, and have very strict rules and customs about hospitality and the defence of their tribe. Known rules and restrictions about hospitality include the following:

-Anyone who is not a descendant of the taistelijoita-ancestors is not allowed to enter the jökkmökk or any vikmökk. Trespassing in the domain of the ancestors is punishable by death.

-Lost wanderers or visitors acquainted with the Tavastian gods are welcome to stay as long as they like, but will only be given a temporary residence behind the animal pens. They are expected to surrender any mighty weapons.

-Diplomats not acquainted with Brutherdom are not welcomed.

-To prevent disgrace of traditions, all diplomatic decisions are foremost subject to judgement by the spirits of the ancestors and the gods before being decided upon by the elders.

These beliefs are enforced by several tales in Tavastian folklore, the most famous of which is the tale of the chicken and the fox.

**Origin**

It's unclear where the Tavastians originated. In their own folklore, the tale of the mushroom-cow tells that their ancestors were birthed on a purple island by a red cow after it had eaten too many mushrooms. However, their true origins are unknown. It is thought they have at least been in contact with other tribes that adhered to Brutherdom, as their culture is heavily influenced by it.

## **Politics**

The Tavastians don't have a strict hierarchy and no formal leadership. Instead, the elders of the tribe make the most important decisions, divide the resources among the tribespeople and maintain order. Warrior-men are present when the most important decisions are made, and are able to challenge any decisions they deem unwise.

**Future**

As a nomadic tribe, the Tavastians have never had a land they called their own. In the past, they were able to migrate great distances in their search for suitable taiga forests. However, with the rapid expansion and aggressive foreign policy of several states in the region where the Tavastians have historically lived, it's becoming increasingly hard for them to isolate themselves and settle unclaimed land. Perhaps this will one day lead to war with imperialist states, or maybe they will have to assimilate under another state.