Callaxian Languages

## Overview

Callax is a vast and diverse planet with a multitude of languages spoken across its countries. These are the major languages and dialects found in the continents of Tarn, Kemper, and Rayz, as well as the islands surrounding these continents.

Norvian is the lingua franca of Callax and is spoken as a first or second language by a majority of Callaxians.

## Tarnish Languages

1. Norvian: Norvian is the official language of New Bray'ed and Norvia and serves as the lingua franca of Callax. It has evolved with strong influences from Parinese and Varni due to trade and cultural exchanges, giving it a rich vocabulary and diverse grammar. Measured by number of words, it is arguably the largest language on Callax.
2. Fet: Inhabiting the two large islands of Fet Major and Fet Minor (known collectively as Fetarui) at the southern tip of Tarn, the Fet speak Fet. This language is associated with lighthearted fun, coolness, hospitality, and relaxation in many parts of Tarn.
3. Parinese: Spoken by the Parinians, Parinese has developed unique maritime vocabulary and expressions. It has borrowed words from different languages, particularly from neighboring Frostborne and Norvian languages, due to their history of trade and interaction with other coastal communities.
4. Frostborne: Inhabiting the colder, snowier regions of Tarn in the north, the Frostborne people speak the language of the same name.
5. Varni: Spoken by both Varnians and Qarnites, Varni has evolved into distinct dialects over the last two and a half centuries. It has unique phonetic features, a rich vocabulary related to desert life, and extensive use of metaphor and poetic expressions. Unfortunately in Norvia and New Bray'ed there is some prejudice among some against those who speak this language, as it may sometimes be associated with organized crime, smuggling, and the drug trade.
6. Laniscan: The language of the southern region of Tarn, Laniscan is influenced by the diverse geography of Lanisca. It has a rich vocabulary related to the natural environment, as well as influences from neighboring languages like Varni and Fet.

## Kemperian Languages

1. Velsinese: Spoken by the people of Velseria and Lyrondia, Velsinese has only minimal dialect differences between the two countries. Norvian is also an official language in both countries, with many residents being bilingual.
2. Ildarian: Spoken by the people of Ildaria, Ildarian is a distinct language that has diverged significantly from Velsinese. Norvian is an official language in Ildaria, but not everyone speaks it fluently, as many Ildarians prefer to use their native tongue.

## Rayzi Languages

1. Stratist Rayzi Norvian: Descendants of Tarnish settlers, the Stratist Rayzi primarily speak a Rayzi dialect of Norvian, the language of their ancestors.
2. Sunrunner Language: The native desert-dwelling Sunrunners have their own language, which has evolved in response to their unique environment and cultural practices. It is known simply as "Sunrunner." It was once a mix of many related tongues, but unfortunately following Tarnish colonization, much of the shades of the particular languages and dialogues have become lost, creating a more homogenous centralized lingua franca for Sunrunners in general.
3. Rayzi Creole: A creole language has developed over time, combining elements of both Norvian and Sunrunner, to facilitate communication between the Stratist Rayzi and the Sunrunners.