The Elkiedai Enclaves

The **Elkiedai Enclaves**, also referred to as the **Scattered** or the **Orphans of Thentus**, are a spacefaring nomadic Abhuman species indigenous to the Proxima Borealus. Their notoriety stems from their adept ability as scavengers, pirates and raiders, quickly earning them a fearsome reputation as merciless opportunists by any who met them. Legends speak of the Elkiedai as the final vestiges of a once-great human civilization, which had once coexisted harmoniously with the flourishing United Aularite Sovereignty. Under the enlightened guidance of the Founder, this prosperous society thrived.

Alas, this era of tranquility and abundance met a sudden and jarring end amidst the cataclysmic wars of the Diverge, a series of devastating conflicts that unfolded during the early years of the 74th Millennium. These tumultuous times were part of a broader epoch in Galactic history referred to as the Long Dark, where much of the northern galaxy was ravaged, resulting in the collapse of numerous civilizations and the emergence of new ones. Amidst the chaos and destruction, the Elkiedai managed to cling to survival, although their society underwent irreversible transformations.

Despite their notorious reputation, the resilient Elkiedai have astutely adapted to the harsh realities of their newfound existence in the galaxy. They have skillfully carved out a niche for themselves, showcasing resourcefulness and unyielding determination. The ferocity they display in battle instills fear in the hearts of many. While some dismiss them as savage raiders, others acknowledge the profound historical depth woven into their fabric and the indomitable strength of their survival instincts. Regardless of the varied perspectives held, one undeniable truth prevails: the Elkiedai Enclaves stand as a formidable force, demanding recognition and evoking caution from all who encounter them.

## Overview

The Elkiedai stand as an enthralling abhuman race, their semi-nomadic lifestyle intertwined with a culture dominated by piracy and scavenging. Tracing their lineage back to a once-great scientific civilization, the indelible imprint of their ancestral society remains ingrained in their social organization. The Elkiedai, organized into distinct Houses, further divided into Clans, are governed by a meritocratic nobility. These ancient Houses proudly raise their banners and flags, emblems that symbolize the deep-seated pride the Elkiedai hold for their lineage and heritage.

Beyond their piratical inclinations, the Elkiedai possess a profound sense of history and identity. They possess an insatiable thirst for knowledge and an unyielding desire to explore the vast expanses of the cosmos in search of relics and artifacts from their lost civilization.

This relentless pursuit of understanding has led the Elkiedai to venture far and wide, encountering diverse alien races in the process. These interactions, be they cooperative or confrontational, have shaped their worldview and expanded their understanding of the galactic tapestry.

One pivotal event in the recent history of the Elkiedai was their return to the Aularite-controlled wild Systems, following the conclusion of the Aularan Age of Collapse. Arriving aboard their formidable Ketches, colossal vessels renowned for their speed and power, their intent was to pillage and plunder the worlds once inhabited by their former allies, leaving destruction and despair in their wake. This brazen act of aggression further earned the Elkiedai the enmity of the Aularite Sovereignty, further solidifying their reputation as ruthlessly inhuman pirates. Moreover, their antagonistic relationship with the Áelven Volb'narii and both factions of the autonomous robotic life forms of the Synthians has fueled ongoing conflicts over territory and coveted technologies.

Nevertheless, the Elkiedai remain a people characterized by their unwavering pride and resilience, determined to not only survive but thrive in a galaxy often hostile and unforgiving. Their culture and history are remarkably rich and complex, offering a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom to those willing to delve into the intricacies of these captivating abhumans.

## History

Long ago, the Elkiedai flourished under the watchful presence of a Machine Moon, a celestial body bestowed upon them by the Founder. This magnificent construct, known as the "Great Machine" or Ha'llumiid in the Elkiedean Lexicanum, was believed to have uplifted the Elkiedai, gifting them with advanced technology and safeguarding their early existence.

Unfortunately, the Elkiedai of the present day possess only fragmentary knowledge of their glorious past prior to a cataclysmic event they refer to as "the Diverge." This dark chapter in their history unfolded as the Aularite Sovereignty launched a devastating assault and waged a genocidal war against the Elkiedai. The ramifications of the Diverge were far-reaching, plunging the Elkiedai into a new nomadic existence, navigating the cosmos within their colossal Ketches and subsisting by scavenging from desolate ruins.

Remarkably, the now ubiquitous cloaking technology employed by the Elkiedai was originally intended as mere playthings for their children. During their Golden Age, the Elkiedai, guided by the Founder, achieved twice the progress in space exploration in less time when compared to the broader human civilization during its own Golden Age. They commanded multiple star systems, sharing dominion with their sister empire, the Aularite Sovereignty, until the fateful occurrence known as the Diverge, which precipitated internal strife between the twin empires.

Tragically, the Elkiedai's homeworld of Thentus, along with their greater civilization, fell victim to a devastating cleansing event referred to as the "Crimson Crusades," during which the Aularite Sovereignty ruthlessly razed the worlds of the Elkiedai to the ground. In the aftermath, the surviving Elkiedai found themselves embroiled in the bloody civil wars of the Whirlwind as they vied for control over the ruins of their once-proud civilization.

Eventually, a fragile peace was achieved among the fractured remnants of the Elkiedai. United by a shared desire to reclaim their former greatness, they set forth on a perilous journey into Aularite space, driven by the hope of locating the elusive Founder and restoring their civilization to its former glory. The road ahead is fraught with challenges and uncertainties, but the Elkiedai remain resolute in their quest for redemption.

### Age of Silver - The Age of the Twin Empires

Within the protected remnants of Data-Records and cherished myths safeguarded by the Elkiedai, echoes resonate of an Empire adorned with silver halls and lush garden worlds, emerging from the aftermath of the Long Dark that gripped the galaxy. Elkiedai Myths proudly recount tales of radiant cities gleaming with light and sprawling forests teeming with life.

According to Elkiedan fables, the Elkiedai themselves are descendants of a modified race, their genetic makeup intricately crafted using the native humans of Thentus as a foundational base. It is said that these newly formed Abhumans emerged from the depths of the planet's lakes, imbued with near-infinite potential, and were guided and nurtured by the enigmatic Founder.

Details regarding the Founder have become muddled and elusive over time, giving rise to a myriad of conflicting accounts. Some speak of a towering figure of steel, while others evoke a god-like engineer. There are even those who believe the Founder dwells within the very heart of the Great Machine itself. Regardless of the veracity of these tales, what remains indisputable is that the Elkiedai, under the tutelage of their revered deity, prospered. Within the span of a few centuries, they achieved unity and swiftly conquered their homeworld, and in less than a millennium, they outgrew the confines of their native star system.

Inevitably, like all thriving civilizations, the Elkiedai encountered other races and civilizations in their cosmic explorations. The names of these ancient civilizations have faded into obscurity over time, lost to the passage of years. Only a select few of these races are remembered, having earned their place in Elkiedai lore as Ward-Species, nurtured and protected by the Elkiedai themselves. These few remnants bear witness to the intermingling of cultures and the bonds forged between civilizations in the annals of the Elkiedai's vibrant history.

### The Diverge

The Elkiedai and the Sovereignty, both originating from humanity, harbor starkly contrasting perspectives regarding their ancestral species.

The Elkiedai possess a unique broad-mindedness, perceiving humanity in all its diverse abhuman sub-races and even the xenos races of the Milky Way as kindred beings. Embracing the vastness of the universe, they have historically engaged in open trade and communication with other galactic entities, driven by a pursuit of mutual benefit and understanding.

In contrast, the Sovereignty experienced a radical metamorphosis when Vycter Vohn Alexand ascended to power as the first Aularan Rei'kharch. Vycter's influence gradually but relentlessly spread throughout the Sovereignty, altering the very fabric of their belief system and forever changing the course of the universe.

Vycter firmly believed in the inherent superiority of the Aelgeist people, asserting their dominance not only over humanity but over all sentient races in the galaxy. Propagating his ideals of Aularan supremacy and advocating for genocidal reform on a galactic scale, he directed his attention towards the Elkiedai during the First Aularan Expansion Crusade.

Armed with the advanced technologies bestowed by the Kahltehk Engineering Syndicate, Vycter's forces unleashed war upon the star-systems. In their ruthless pursuit of power and dominance, they swiftly severed the once-strong alliance between the Elkiedai and the Sovereignty. Historians widely agree that the Northern Expanse of the Galaxy, including the Elkiedai themselves, was destined to be consumed by the fires of the Scarlet Crusades.

Empowered by the technological marvels provided by the Kahltehk Engineering Syndicate, Vycter's forces unleashed devastation in their wake. The formerly thriving alliance between the Elkiedai and the Sovereignty crumbled under the weight of Vycter's radical ideology. The Northern Expanse of the Galaxy, a region once known for its interstellar cooperation and unity even amidst a dark era of death and despair, descended into the chaos and bloodshed of the Scarlet Crusades.

Caught in the crossfire of this tumultuous era, the Elkiedai witnessed their empire ravaged and their future teetering on the precipice of uncertainty. The ambitions of the Sovereignty not only threatened the survival of the Elkiedai but also jeopardized the already fragile tapestry of galactic society as a whole.

The scars left by this devastating conflict would persist for countless millennia, forever altering the course of history and shaping the destiny of the Elkiedai and the galaxy itself. The memories of the Scarlet Crusades and the fracture between the Elkiedai and the Sovereignty would serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked ideologies and the fragility of unity in the face of radical beliefs.

#### The Scarlet Crusades

The Scarlet Crusades, regarded as a dark and tragic chapter in the annals of Elkiedai history, marked the downfall of a once-prosperous and technologically advanced species, crushed under the weight of the Sovereignty's insatiable ambition.

Under the influence of Vycter Vohn Alexand, a figure consumed by a fervent belief in Aularan supremacy and a vision of genocidal galactic reform, the Sovereignty underwent a radical transformation. This transformation set the stage for the initiation of the Scarlet Crusades, the climactic culmination of the First Aularan Expansion Crusade. In its relentless pursuit of dominance, the Sovereignty targeted not only the Elkiedai but also the countless sentient species dwelling within the vast expanse of the Northern Galaxy.

Fueled by the cutting-edge technologies acquired through the ascendancy of the Kahltehk Engineering Syndicate, Vycter's forces unleashed devastating waves of destruction, erasing entire civilizations from the tapestry of the cosmos. The once-thriving coalition of species, once bound by unity and cooperation, didn't just crumble—it was shattered and burned, its remnants scattered to the unforgiving currents of the void. Once again, the Northern expanse of the galaxy descended into the abyss of chaos and bloodshed.

The Elkiedai, tragically caught in the crossfire as the primary target of the Aelgeist ambition, bore witness to the relentless ravaging of their empire. Their beloved homeworld of Thentus was reduced to ruins, and their proud people were left scattered and dispossessed.

The scars inflicted by the Scarlet Crusades would forever mar the fabric of the galaxy, altering the course of history for countless generations to come. The memory of this cataclysmic conflict serves as a solemn reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition, the fragility of alliances, and the profound toll that war exacts upon civilizations and their interstellar relationships.

#### The Whirlwind

While the Scarlet Crusades scattered of the Elkiedai, the Whirlwind shattered them.

#### The Long Drift

A period in which the Elkiedai drifted aimlessly, a fractured race in an unforgiving universe.

### The Age of Crowns

Unified under the might of the House of Crowns,

## Sociology

### Biology

"*Judgment, true Judgment, required hierarchy. And Elkiedai hierarchy died with the fall of the Houses.*"
— Job Undone Lore the Elkiedai, without their armor.
Teetering on the razor edge of Abhuman and Xenos, the Elkiedai are an extremely agile race with four arms, and two legs, giving them the ability to scale walls with ease, but are also extremely hardy subset of humanity, capable of surviving in a wide and vast range of hostile environments without heavy armor or complex modifications to their own physiology due to their adaptation upon the toxic atmospheres of the terraformed world of Thentus and the biological gifts of the Founder.

The race expresses an almost innate and complex understanding of technology as they possess advanced armor, weapons, vehicles, and space-faring capabilities. The Elkiedai unlike most abhuman sub-types have two sets of eyes, with the second pair of eyes under the normal eyes, which are usually closed when unstimulated by either combat or intense emotion. The iris' of the eyes glow a bright white-blue when they are alive, and are surrounded by a darkened sclera, but once killed, the light of the iris dies out.

The Elkiedai are also capable of growing back lost limbs, as seen when docked Drelitsh are permitted to develop their lower two arms upon being granted the honor of becoming a Vudralli, after the consumption of sufficient R'akta. The Thorcenneans have four arms, whilst typically having sharp protrusions growing from their jaws indicative of maturity and rank, and typically wear a helmet with a built-in respiration apparatus. Their blood color is a purplish dark red due to their Thentusian heritage.

Elkiedai are dependent on a substance called R'akta, unable to survive without an annual intake of R'akta, which is distributed to them by their Servitors, which only the Servitors are able to produce. Servitors convert scavenged matter and energy, presented to them ritualistically by the Elkiedai, directly into R'akta via unknown processes.

If given a high enough quantity of this R'akta, Thorcenneans can begin the process of regrowing limbs in the event that they are removed from the body, with the quantity of R'akta directly related to the severity of the reaction. Their armor contains a supply of R'akta and serves as a life support system, similar to a spacesuit.

While Servitors were once revered in ancient times, they have now become a symbol of the degradation of Elkiedai society and their lost glory. Higher-ranking Elkiedai get a bigger ration of higher quality R'akta, and this higher quality allows Elkiedai to grow in size; this is why the Triyadai are taller and stronger than the more baseline human Vudralli and Drelitsh, and why Kel'mins and Archons tower over other Elkiedai the same way the Luminarchs of the Imperium tower over the common man; the Kel'min of a House controls and distributes R'akta flow using their own personal Cipher.

### Houses

Thorcennean society is divided into a number of Noble Houses, which are known to maintain often tense relations with one another, save for the House of Reason, which is meant to live among the other houses and maintain the internal peace of the factions. Each House is ruled by a Kel'min, who acts as the political leader of a House and commands their Ketch Armada.

Prime Servitors are exalted as Holy Vessels among the Elkiedai, inspiring fanatical devotion from the House to which they belong and providing a steady supply of vital R'akta and new lesser Servitors. Archons and their Acolytes serve as both the high priests and chief engineers of a House, mediating between the Kel'min and the Prime Servitor in addition to overseeing maintenance of the House's ancient machines. Houses require all three to be fully stable; for without a Kel'min, a House becomes prone to infighting, without an Archon, a House's Prime Servitor is vulnerable to attack, and without a Prime Servitor, a House cannot produce new Servitor Cores, or R'akta. As such, Elkiedai do not take the loss of their leaders lightly. If any or all of these leaders were to be killed, then members of the House would panic and scatter, weakening the House to the point of being permanently broken.

Below the upper echelon of a Houses leadership are the Kasharions and Triyadai and the individual warbands they command. Triyadai are Elkiedai who under the allowance of their Kasharion, have managed to gather a following of Vudrallis and Drelitshs, who serve as the individual Triyadai's battle crew, commanding respect through brute force.

The majority of Triyadai swear fealty to their birth House and fight under a Kasharion of their House, but some Triyadai succeed from their houses to operate independently as Roving Vaiyish or to swear fealty to a new house. A step above the Triyadai in rank are the Kasharion Commanders, whose authority are second only to the Kel'mins, Archons and Prime Servitors. They command their own Ketch as well as a number of their own battle crews.

The majority of Elkiedai Houses consist of Vudralli and Drelitsh. Vudralli serve as the seasoned infantry and skilled workers of the Houses. Often the Vudralli traditionally fill the menial roles of artisans and laborers during times of peace. The Vudralli often aspire to become Triyadai and to one day lead battle crews of their own.

Drelitshs are the lowest class in Elkiedai society, often referred to as the Untouchables of Elkiedai society. Docked of their lower pair of arms in a ritual of humiliation and obedience, Drelitshs zealously fill the roles of shock troops and menial laborers in crews. The life expectancy of a Drelitsh is notoriously short, but those few who survive to be promoted to Vudralli are permitted a greater ration of R'akta in an effort to regrow their arms.

House and Clan politics pervades all aspects of Elkiedai society, with loyalty regarded as a chief priority. Clan Camps and villages fall under the authority of their House's fiefdom, with children raised communally, cherished by all, likely to prevent them holding bias towards individuals as opposed to the House itself. The particularly fanatical are taken at an early age and raised to become the personal guard for their Kel'min known as the Ke'lissarian Guard.

## Combat Command Structure

### Kel'min

The **Kel'min**, are the political leaders of the Elkiedai Houses, and a vital component of Elkiedai society. They are typically the largest and most physically imposing members of their respective Houses, possessing a commanding presence that demands respect and obedience. It was the Kel'min who declared that all of the United Aularite Sovereignty's territories now belonged to the Elkiedai, a bold move that has earned them the ire of the northern galactic power.

In the intricate web of Elkiedai politics, the Kel'min play a central role. They are the ultimate authority within their Houses, responsible for making critical decisions and guiding their House's actions. Without a Kel'min, a House would be rudderless and vulnerable to collapse due to a lack of true leadership.

The Kel'min do not act alone, however. They rely on the support of their Archons and Prime Servitors to maintain their power and influence. The Archons are the intermediaries between the Kel'min and Prime Servitors, ensuring that both sides are able to communicate and cooperate effectively. The Prime Servitors, in turn, are responsible for producing R'akta, a vital resource that is necessary for the survival of Elkiedai society.

In many ways, the Kel'min, Archons, and Prime Servitors form a symbiotic circle. Each component relies on the others for its continued existence, creating a delicate balance of power and influence that is constantly shifting and evolving. Despite the challenges they face, the Elkiedai remain a resilient and adaptable species, capable of surviving even in the most hostile environments. Their complex social structure and intricate political system are a testament to their ingenuity and determination, and they continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the galaxy.

### Prime Servitor

The **Prime Servitors** hold a special place in Elkiedai society, revered as machine gods who provide the vital life-sustaining R'akta to the Houses. These titanic and floating, spherical Elkiedean machines are believed to be borne of the Great Founder and are revered by the Elkiedai Archons and their Acolytes. The Servitors are not just worshipped for their role in providing R'akta but also for their powerful attack capabilities, which make them a formidable force on the battlefield when the dire need is meet.

The Prime Servitors are unique in their appearance and function, built into a titanic and spherical body and armed with an eye-like structure that can launch powerful energy projectiles utilizing in-built psy-reactive metals. These projectiles are highly destructive and can inflict more damage than most of the Elkiedean combat arsenal. As a result, the Prime Servitors are reserved as Titan Class battle automata, but once released the Prime Servitors are often at the forefront of battles, their titanic forms leading the charge against the enemies of their House and striking fear into their hearts.

Despite their fearsome reputation, the Elkiedai Archons and their Acolytes treat the Prime Servitors with utmost reverence, recognizing the vital role they play in their society. The Archons are responsible for overseeing the production and distribution of R'akta, with the Prime Servitors being their primary source of the valuable resource. Without the Servitors, the Elkiedai would struggle to survive, making them one of the most important entities in their society.

The Elkiedai view the Prime Servitors not just as machines but as living beings deserving of worship and respect. They believe that the Servitors are connected to the Great Founder in a profound way and that they hold the key to unlocking the secrets of their lost civilization. As a result, the Elkiedai are fiercely protective of their Servitors and will go to great lengths to ensure their safety and well-being.

Overall, the Prime Servitors are an integral part of Elkiedai society, providing them with the resources they need to survive and thrive in a harsh and unforgiving universe. Their power, intelligence, and mystery make them one of the most fascinating aspects of Elkiedai culture and a symbol of their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

### Archon

The Archons are one of the three key components of Elkiedai society, alongside the Kel'min and the Prime Servitors. As high priests and field commanders of the Elkiedai Houses, they are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of their house and ensuring the smooth functioning of its various systems. They serve as intermediaries between the Kel'min and the Prime Servitors, acting as protectors of their house's Servitor and working to ensure that it continues to produce the vital R'akta resource upon which the Elkiedai rely.

The Archons are highly respected within Elkiedai society, with their position considered to be one of the highest honors that an Elkiedai can attain. They are seen as wise and powerful leaders who possess a deep understanding of the ways of the universe and the secrets of the Great Founder. Many Archons are also renowned for their martial prowess, leading their house's warriors into battle and inspiring them to acts of bravery and heroism.

One of the most important duties of the Archons is to protect their house's Prime Servitor. These massive Servitors are responsible for a large percentage of R'akta production within their respective houses and are considered to be some of the most important entities in Elkiedai society. The Archons work tirelessly to ensure that their house's Servitor is protected from harm, as any damage to it could have catastrophic consequences for the entire house.

In addition to their role as protectors of the Prime Servitors, the Archons are also responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of their house. They work closely with the Kel'min and other members of their house's leadership to ensure that resources are distributed fairly and that everyone is able to live in harmony. This can involve mediating disputes, making difficult decisions about resource allocation, and ensuring that all members of the house are working together towards a common goal.

Overall, the Archons are a vital part of Elkiedai society, serving as both spiritual leaders and military commanders. Their position as protectors of the Prime Servitors underscores their importance within the Elkiedai Houses, and their wisdom and martial prowess make them respected figures throughout the galaxy. The Archons are a testament to the strength and resilience of the Elkiedai people, and their leadership continues to be a driving force behind the survival and prosperity of their society.

#### Acolytes

The Acolytes of an Archon are a dedicated group of Elkiedai who serve as the Archon's personal attendants and assistants. These individuals are handpicked by the Archon for their loyalty, martial skill, and ability to work well under pressure. They are a highly respected group within Elkiedai society, seen as some of the most elite warriors and trusted advisors of the Archons.

The Acolytes are responsible for a wide range of duties, depending on the needs of their Archon. They may act as bodyguards, protecting the Archon during times of danger and ensuring their safety at all times. They may also serve as messengers, carrying important communications between the Archon and other members of the Elkiedai House. In addition, they may assist with the day-to-day operations of the house, helping to distribute resources, mediate disputes, and ensure that everyone is working together towards a common goal.

One of the most important roles of the Acolytes is to act as the eyes and ears of the Archon. They are tasked with gathering intelligence about potential threats to the house, including rival houses, outside powers, and potential saboteurs. They may also be called upon to conduct covert operations on behalf of the Archon, infiltrating enemy strongholds or gathering information about key targets.

The Acolytes are highly skilled warriors, trained in a wide range of combat techniques and armed with some of the most advanced weaponry available to the Elkiedai. They are feared and respected on the battlefield, known for their ability to take on even the most formidable foes and emerge victorious. Many Acolytes also possess a deep understanding of the ways of the universe and the secrets of the Great Founder, making them valuable advisors to their Archons.

### Kasharion

The Kasharion are an elite group of commanders within the Elkiedai society who are known for their unparalleled leadership skills and strategic expertise. They are the noble commanders who lead their respective flotilla of Elkiedean Skiishas at the head of their own Dru'valli. The Dru'valli is a grouping of multiple Skiishas under the command of a Kasharion, with each Skiisha being a warship of the Elkiedai.

The Kasharion are a highly respected and revered group of individuals within Elkiedai society, and their authority and influence extend far beyond just their respective flotillas. They are seen as symbols of power, strength, and wisdom, and their decisions are often regarded as being final and binding.

Kasharion are chosen based on a variety of factors, including their leadership skills, tactical knowledge, and martial prowess. They are typically chosen from among the ranks of the most experienced and battle-hardened Elkiedai warriors, and must go through rigorous training and testing before they can be considered for the position.

Once chosen, a Kasharion is responsible for the safety and well-being of their entire flotilla, as well as the protection of the Elkiedai people as a whole. They are expected to be able to lead their Dru'valli into battle with skill and precision, and to make quick, strategic decisions under pressure.

In addition to their military duties, Kasharions are also responsible for the political and social well-being of their respective houses. They act as mediators and negotiators between different houses, and are often called upon to settle disputes and ensure that everyone is working together towards a common goal.

Overall, the Kasharion are a vital part of Elkiedai society, and their leadership and strategic expertise are essential to the continued survival and prosperity of the Elkiedai people. Their unwavering dedication to their people and their cause make them some of the most respected and revered figures within the Elkiedai society, and they are a testament to the strength and resilience of this powerful abhuman race.

#### Triyadai

Triyadai are the highest ranking officers within an Elkiedai battle crew. They are responsible for the tactical and strategic decisions during combat and are expected to lead their crews to victory. The Triyadai are selected based on their combat prowess, leadership skills, and knowledge of Elkiedai traditions and technology.

Each Triyadai is entrusted with a powerful weapon that is passed down from generation to generation within their family. These weapons are called "Varrak" and are said to be infused with the spirits of the Triyadai's ancestors. The Varrak is not just a weapon, but a symbol of the Triyadai's lineage and honor.

The Triyadai lead their crews into battle from the front lines and are not afraid to get their hands dirty. They are trained in both hand-to-hand combat and long-range weaponry, and are experts at piloting Elkiedai war machines such as the Skiishas and Kethchas. They are also skilled in tactics such as hit-and-run attacks and guerrilla warfare.

Triyadai are respected by all Elkiedai, as they are seen as the epitome of honor, bravery, and loyalty. They are often called upon to mediate disputes between Houses or to lead joint operations between different Elkiedai factions. The Triyadai's word is law within their battle crew, and their leadership and loyalty is crucial for the success of any Elkiedai military campaign.

##### Vudralli

Vudralli are the backbone of an Elkiedai battle crew, and are the most numerous of the Elkiedai troops. They are versatile soldiers, capable of filling many different roles on the battlefield. Vudralli are trained in various forms of combat, including melee combat, ranged combat, and defensive formations. They are also skilled in piloting smaller Elkiedai vehicles such as Skiffs and Gliders.

In battle, Vudralli can be found in a variety of positions depending on the needs of the situation. They are often deployed in large numbers to form a defensive line or to provide cover fire for their more specialized comrades. They are also used as shock troops, charging into enemy lines to disrupt their formations and create chaos.

Vudralli are known for their resilience and endurance, making them ideal soldiers for extended engagements. They are able to operate in harsh environments and can survive for long periods without resupply. Their armor, while not as advanced as that of the Triyadai or the Kasharion, is still durable and provides excellent protection.

Despite their role as the most common troops, Vudralli are not looked down upon by the other Elkiedai. They are respected for their dedication and bravery, and their contributions to the battle crew are essential for its success. Vudralli are often led by experienced Triyadai or Kasharions, who provide guidance and direction during combat.

In times of peace, Vudralli are often employed as laborers and craftsmen, using their strength and dexterity to build and repair Elkiedai structures and vehicles. They are also known for their skill in hunting and scavenging, and are often called upon to provide food for the battle crew. Overall, Vudralli play a crucial role in the Elkiedai society, both in times of war and peace.

##### Drelitsh

The Drelitsh are the lowest of the low, considered untouchable and unclean by the rest of the Elkiedai. They are made up of the outcasts, the weak and those who have failed to prove their worth in battle. However, the Drelitsh are not content to remain in this lowly position. They are constantly seeking ways to prove themselves and rise through the ranks. They are often tasked with performing menial tasks such as cleaning, maintenance and cooking, but they are also given the opportunity to fight on the front lines.

Despite their lowly status, the Drelitsh are fiercely loyal to their house and will do anything to prove themselves worthy. They are known for their courage in battle and will often charge into the fray without hesitation, even if it means certain death. They see this as an opportunity to prove themselves and earn the respect of their fellow Elkiedai.

Over time, some Drelitsh have been able to prove themselves and rise through the ranks. They have become respected members of their house and have even been granted the privilege of commanding their own Vudralli squads. Others, however, remain in their lowly position for their entire lives, unable to prove themselves in battle or gain the respect of their fellow Elkiedai.

## Civilian Roles

### Von'rathi

The Von'rathi are the engineers and technicians of Elkiedai society. They are responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of the various technologies and structures that make up Elkiedai infrastructure. The Von'rathi specialize in a wide range of fields, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, and they work closely with the Kor'shara to incorporate the latest scientific discoveries and theories into their designs.

The Von'rathi are organized into guilds, each focusing on a particular area of expertise, such as transportation, energy production, or weapons systems. The guilds are led by a Master Engineer, who is responsible for overseeing the research and development within their respective fields. The Von'rathi are also responsible for the repair and upkeep of Elkiedai warships, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the technological edge of the Elkiedai in combat. While they do not have any direct involvement in the military or political affairs of the Houses, the Von'rathi are highly valued for their technical expertise and their ability to innovate in the face of new challenges.

### Mendai

The Mendai are the artisans and craftsmen/women of Elkiedai society. They are responsible for creating and maintaining the various tools, weapons, and structures needed by the Elkiedai. The Mendai are organized into guilds, each specializing in a particular craft or trade. The guilds are led by a Master Mendai, who is responsible for overseeing the production and quality of their respective crafts.

The Mendai are highly skilled and knowledgeable in their fields, and their work is greatly valued by Elkiedai society. While they do not have any direct involvement in the military or political affairs of the Houses, the Mendai often have influence in matters of trade and commerce. They also play a significant role in the cultural and aesthetic development of Elkiedai society, as their creations often reflect the values and ideals of the Houses they serve.

### Kor'shara

The Kor'shara are the scholars and intellectuals of Elkiedai society. They are responsible for the preservation and dissemination of knowledge and information, and they are highly respected for their wisdom and insight. The Kor'shara are organized into academies, each specializing in a particular field of study, such as science, history, or philosophy. The academies are led by a Chancellor, who is responsible for overseeing the research and education within their respective fields.

The Kor'shara are also responsible for the interpretation and translation of ancient texts and artifacts, which can be a valuable source of knowledge and inspiration for the Elkiedai. While they do not have any direct involvement in the military or political affairs of the Houses, the Kor'shara often have influence in matters of diplomacy and cultural exchange. They also play a significant role in the spiritual and intellectual development of Elkiedai society, as their teachings and writings often shape the beliefs and values of the Houses they serve.

### Ketharai

The Ketharai are the merchants, traders, and artisans of the Elkiedai society. They are responsible for manufacturing goods, trading with other species, and providing essential services to the Elkiedai Houses. They are considered an important part of Elkiedai society, as they provide the necessary resources and luxuries to keep the society running smoothly.

The Ketharai are organized into guilds, each specializing in a particular craft or trade. The guilds are led by a Master Ketharai, who is responsible for overseeing the production and distribution of goods. While they do not have any direct involvement in the military or political affairs of the Houses, the Ketharai are respected and valued members of Elkiedai society.

## Elkiedai Houses

Most of the Elkiedai are organized into distinct houses of nobility, and further segmented into familial units known as Inner-Clans, these House, some of which are as hostile to each other as they are to The Aularite Sovereignty, which suggests that there is brutal infighting within the abhuman race itself.

Apetris Kel'min of Crowns, Patriarch of Inner-Clan Ze'bell, Breaker of the Third Siege, the Titan Scourge

Drelik Kel'min of Retribution, Last of Clan Ahura, the Wretched Prince

Jubile

Nafas

Shapur

Ali

Hossein

## Glossary

> ***Note:** this is a Compiled glossary of simple Elkiedean Terms, to see the the expanded glossary visit The Elkiedean Compendium*
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* **Elkiedai -** The name of the abhuman race itself, characterized by their semi-nomadic lifestyle and unique culture of piracy and scavenging.
* **The Ha'llumiid -** Reverential term for the Machine Moon, also known as the "Great Machine." It's believed to have uplifted the Elkiedai with advanced technology and protection.
* **The Scattered or Orphans of Thentus -** Alternative names for the Elkiedai, stemming from their nomadic existence and the tragic loss of their homeworld, Thentus.
* **Thentus -** The ancestral homeworld of the Elkiedai, destroyed during the Crimson Crusades, symbolizing their tumultuous history.
* **The Founder -** A mysterious and revered figure in Elkiedai lore, often associated with the Great Machine and credited with guiding their civilization.
* **Northern Expanse -** The region of the galaxy where much of the conflict between the Elkiedai and the Sovereignty unfolded.
* **Ketches -** Enormous and formidable starships utilized by the Elkiedai for their nomadic way of life and piracy activities.