Noscura

### Local Features

Novaruk Desert, K'edis Valley, Iser Coastlands, Greathian Islands, Island of Zartaad, Kyrsen Lakeside

### Biomes

Arid Desert, Plains, Wetlands, Alpine forests, Mountains, Rainforest, Icefields

## Meta informations

### NID / CID

92

The Nation of Noscura is an empire hailing from the Novaruk desert and the K'edis valley of Cy'ǧetauriaz'zockistan'abulgra'der'iavichdriavillestondal'ewind-roadingt'o'n. It is known for its unique faith surrounding the Divine Realms as well as an ambition to expand it's dominion.

**Quick Info and current events (April 8th)**

Former Empress Ailn Wylnir has disappeared, the throne claimed by Emperor Gundamar Nurma.

The chaos surrounding Wylnir's succession has thrown the empire into a state of disarray. Local warlords and citylords battle each other for control of regions.

Noscura has effectively lost a war with Ha Irunah, greatly limiting it's actions in The Everchains.

## History

### Pre-History

The origins of the people that would inhabit Novaruk is a topic highly debated. A plurality of scholars point to the Kherobis kalkani, and other inhabitants of the K'edis valley as potential cousins who would share common ancestry. However, the cultures of theses peoples were greatly diverted once isolationism took root to those within Novaruk.

The Novaruk desert has been the home of numerous nomadic tribes for many ages. The origins of these people is unclear, but many tales passed down from modern day Noscuri are said to date back for thousands of years. The nomadic tribes ventured around the wastes, sustaining themselves on the sporadic appearance freshwater springs within the desert. Many of the cultural distinctions of the Noscuri date back to the individual tribal cultures. Most prominent, is the faith and worship of the Divine Realms. In the years leading up to the founding of the Noscura nation, a discovery of a permanent well in the desert led to numerous tribes forgoing their nomadic lifestyles in favor of settling together. Thus founding the city of Elaysia.

### Early years of Noscura

For decades after the founding of Elaysia, more nomadic tribes came from the outskirts of the Novaruk desert to settle. The population of the city grew rapidly, and with it the diversity of the culture exploded. However, the city and foundling nation lacked an identify. There was no centralized power, instead the people of Elaysia defaulting to their historical tendencies of rulership by the elders of family groups. Elders of powerful families would often group attempt to group together to make declarations, were often ignored or outright contradicted by other elders. An example of the lack of cohesion in Elaysia can be found in their calendar. The Noscuri calendar to this point was historically determined by the elders in tune with recent events and other superstitions. Yet in these early years groupings of elders from families each had their own calendar.

With no recognizable executive power, crime rose dramatically. Instability rose within the city, and as tensions rose, as did the threat of violent conflict. Small skirmishes were common between youths of families, including a notable conflict between the Grolvar and Avrok families. In one such brawl, Hurun Avrok was killed. His brother, Valtun Avrok then set out to take control of the city. A brief period of instability ensued, and Valtun was then established as sovereign of the city. In the first years of his rule, Valtun established many founding policies with the aim to create a national identity. These implementations included the founding of a policing force, military, legal system, as well as a national calendar system.

### The First Age of Noscura

As the policies of Sovereign Avrok began to change Noscura, this began what scholars refer to as: the First Age of the nation of Noscura. One such change was the adoption of a unified calendar, and thus the second year of Valtun's reign was established as the 1st year of Earth. With the city of Elaysia regaining stability, population growth accelerated. Organized education took root, leading to a more learned and specialized population. One of the earliest scholars of Noscura was Oragh Rhmdul. Rhmdul's discovery of groundwater. The discovery led to rapid expansion of Elaysia, and the development of more settlements throughout the Novaruk desert.

Valtun Avrok led the Noscuran nation expand across the lowlands of the Novaruk desert. Avrok made a public address where he pledged to unite all the peopls of Novaruk together under the Noscuran banner. Beginning with the west, than moving northeast. Noscura expanded until all of the tracktable lands were consolidated. In addition, the nation also claimed a northward pass through the Mons Va'narsa.

#### Succession

In 248 AS, Valtun Avrok spoke to the people gathered within Elaysia. There he announced his immediate stepping down from the office of Sovereign and the installment of Laith Talmonk for the same role. This announcement was met with confusion and anger. The people of Noscura had grown comfortable with their seemingly everlasting Sovereign, even to the point of claiming his Godhood. The following seven years were named as Years of Dark by the elders of Elaysia. The first of their kind. Avrok acted as political muscle in support of Talmonk's early rule, and after seven years, the people decided to accept their new Sovereign. A Year of Dark was not seen again until the death of Avrok, 23 years after the succession.

#### Laith Talmonk's reign as Sovereign.

Laith Talmonk proved to be an adequate successor, furthering the ambitions of Avrok. her rule was most known for increased raiding and tensions with southern neighbor Galvan. The discovery of the northern neighbor Vulrazhir led to increased awareness of the outside world beyond Novaruk, although the cities within the desert grew during her reign, notably Elasysia, who grew to rival the greatest cities in the region. Late in her rule, Noscura declared open war with the Kherobis kalkani, and invaded. Upon the capture of the capital city of K'ydris, Talmonk again spoke to the people of Noscura. here, Talmonk first announced that the nation would undergo changes necessary to declare itself an empire. One of those changes, included Laith Talmonk stepping down from her position of Sovereign, but not before naming Aldron Tayn as the first Emporer of Noscura.

### The Second Age of Noscura

The Second Age of Noscura began with the proclaiment of the Noscuran Empire, and the instalment of Aldron Tayn as the first Emperor of Noscura.

#### Aldron Tayn's reign as Emperor

Early in the Second Age, Tayn was greatly underestimated by people both at home and abroad, however in the coming decades and centuries he oversaw great expansion for the fledgling empire. Laith Talmonk led the First Imperial Host on a continuation of the war in Galvan, capturing more territory in the west before turning their attention southwards. At the same time, Tayn and a newly raised Second Imperial Host met with the Luwar of neighboring Kantamia, before the Second also marched southwards. War was fought with Iseres, ending in the capture of valuable lands in the 'Coastlands.' This allowed expansion beyond the shores of the mainland, to settle the Greathian Islands.

In addition to the Greathian Islands, the Highlands of Noscura were settled, as well as the forests beyond the Mons Va'narsa. A grand monument was constructed in theses desert highlands depicting Valtun Avrok, and similar monuments were built for Laith Talmonk.

In the late years of Aldron Tayn's rule, a plague ripped through Noscura. The devastation was widespread, even going so far as to kill the Emporer. Aldron Tayn's death was reported to the Board of Tradition by his surviving wife, who named Ailn Wylnir heir to the Empire. Tayn's son, Rykand challenged this claim, although eventually swore fealty to Wylnir without bloodshed. Wylnir was crowned Empress, and assumed control of Noscura.

#### Ailn Wylnir's reign as Empress

Wylnir's first act as empress was to officialy recognize all conqured peoples as citizens of Noscura. the term 'Noscuran' became widely used to characterize those who are members of Noscura, but without traditional Noscuri ties. The change, alhtough seemingly minor, in truth rocked the standing systems of Noscura that had persisted for centuries. Now all Kherobis, Iser, and future conquered peoples would be truly bound and assimilated within the Empire.

More expansion into The Everchains continued, with sights set on the island of Zartaad as well as former colonies of Tenol and Vara. When the Noscurans continued their sights southward, they began to but heads with Ha Irunah. Both nations had grasped great holds upon Cy'ge, however now they wished to expand over the Atili Archipelago. When Ha Irunah colonized the island of Eles, Empress Wylnir threatened the Irunahi with invasion, making demands beyond Ha Irunah's willingness to pay. Thus began the war.

The Noscurans attacked the colony at Eles, and although they inflicted heavy naval casualties, the Third Imperial Host suffered great losses upon the subsequent amphibian invasion. The attack proved a costly failure to the Noscurans, who were then forced to gear their efforts to defense. The Irunahi staged destructive counter attacks, ports were destroyed and many soldiers lost. In the end, peace was sued for. And the foreign Ambassador accepted terms that were harsh upon the Empire.

The loss in the Irunahi war

## Geography

### Location and Borders

The Empire of Noscura is primarily located within the Khebris Valley, between the Va'narsa and Maiseres mountain ranges on the continent of Cy'ǧetauriaz'zockistan'abulgra'der'iavichdriavillestondal'ewind-roadingt'o'n. The Khebris is predominantly prairie grasslands, split by the Novaruk Desert. The northern borders of Noscura lie primarily with the Va'narsa mountians, including the Hirvwey pass. To the east of Novaruk, the Empire borders the claims of Kantamia. The Maiseres mountains make up much of the southern border of Noscura, although the Yvdul and A'nedari passes are claimed as well. The lands directly south and southeast of Novaruk have also been annexed, the latter of which from the natinon of Galvan, who's remaining lands border Noscura.

#### Notable Regions

##### Novaruk

The Novaruk desert is located within the Khebris valley, and is the heartland of the Noscuran Empire. The desert is split between uninhabited highlands, and the populated lowlands.

**Highlands**

The Novaruk highlands are an area of extreme geography located within the Va'narsa mountain range. The region is considered impassable to the Noscuri, however it is home to a collection of diverse wildlife, chief among them being the Gwokk (See below.)

**Lowlands**

The Novaruk lowlands make up a majority of the geographic area within the Desert. They are characterized by large areas boasting massive sand dunes, dry plateaus, and other wasteland area. The discovery and utilization of groundwater reserves has led to the construction of massive cities, often isolated from each other, across the desert. Most notable is the city of Elaysia, largest city within the Empire, and it's capitol. These desert cities are not flanked by smaller population areas due to shortages in groundwater access. Thus, the cities grow to relatively massive sizes, many leagues apart from each other.

##### Northlands

The term 'Northlands' is a generic word used within the Noscuran Empire to describe the lands north of the Va'narsa mountains. Of these lands, the Hirvwey pass region lies directly north of Novaruk, cutting through the mountians to access the northern plains. In addition, A rout through the Highland Novaruk desert has been made to allow passage into the boreal forests bordering the large incland lake known as 'The Eye of Earth.'

##### Southlands

The term 'Southlands' is a generic word used within the Noscuran Empire to describe the lands south and southeast of the Novaruk desert. Due south of the eastern reaches of the Novaruk desert, lies the Yvdul pass, and it's surrounding areas. The apron leading to the pass is characterized by rolling hills of grass. The pass itself is a narrow route southeast through the Maiseres mountains to the border with Iseres, which lies within the Coastlands.

Southeast of the Novaruk desert, the grass plains of the Khebris valley continue. Grasslands and floodplains make up this region, with a notable landmark being Lake Lanaki. Much of the grasslands directly bordering the desert were once claimed by the Kherobris kalkani as a part of the nation of Galvan, although parts of those lands have been annexed by the Noscuran Empire. South of Lake lanaki, the A'nedari valley lies between continuations of the Maiseres mountains, and it too has been claimed and settled by the Noscuri. This valley borders the Coastlands, and the nation of Iseres.

##### Coastlands

The term 'Coastlands' is a generic term used within the Noscuran Empire to describe the lands south of the Mons Maiseres. This narrow strip of land is most notable for it's access to the southern seas, and runs from the Iseren border south to the city of Stormwatch.

##### Greathian Islands

The Greathian Islands are a small chain of Islands off the southern coast of Cy'ǧetauriaz'zockistan'abulgra'der'iavichdriavillestondal'ewind-roadingt'o'n. They are located within the 'Everchain' which spans for great distances across the northern hemisphere. The island of Puetuo is also often associated as a member of the Greathian chain.

##### Zartaad

Zartaad is an elongated island of the southern coast of Cy'ǧetauriaz'zockistan'abulgra'der'iavichdriavillestondal'ewind-roadingt'o'. It is the original home of the Taadzi people, but is now controlled by the Noscurans. Off the coast of the main island, Nochouro settlers have claimed the larger satellite islands.

##### Atali Archipelago

Noscura has recently conqured the island of Etel, the northwestern most island of the Atali Archipelago.

#### Notable Cities

##### Novaruk

**Elaysia**

Capital and largest city in Noscura. Elaysia is located in the south-central region of Noscura, upon a large aquifer that bolsters the cities growth within the desert.

**Kolgh**

A small city southeast of Novaruk and north of the Morant basin.

**Milndro**

A large city within the western reaches of Novaruk. The provincial capitol.

**Hirvwey**

A city in the northern Novaruk Desert, located within near the mountain pass under the same name.

##### Northlands

**Gliphon**

Provincinal capitol of the Hirvwey pass region.

**Frov**

Provincinal capitol on the shores of The eye of Earth.

##### Southlands

**K'ydris**

K'ydris was once the founding city and capital of the nation of Galvan. Originally inhabited by the Kherobis kalkani, The city and its surrounding area was conquered during the last years of Laith Talmonk's reign. Now it stands as a large and vital point of governance in the region.

**Kalomaka**

A city within old Galvan, most notable for the riots and subsequent massacre at the order of the occupying Noscuri Governor.

**Yvdul**

Yvdul is built near the southern border of Noscura, situated within the mountain pass that shares the same name. It acted as a forward operating base during the invasion of Iseres.

**Bast**

Bast is the easternmost major city within the Noscruran Empire. The fortified city lies on the coast of Kantamia, and mostly acts as a trade and delegation base of operations.

**Ramn**

A small provincial capitol lying in the somewhat unclear border between the A'nedari within the Southlands, and the Coastlands.

##### Coastlands

**Oridias**

Once the founding city and capitol of the nation of Iseres. Originally inhabited by the Iser, the city and its surrounding area was concurred during the reign of Emperor Aldron Tayn by genereal Rykand Tayn.

**Ostican**

Ostican is a port city along the southern coast of Cy'ge. originally a city of Iseres, it has grown to be the Empires' foremost port since it's capture at the hands of General Wylnir.

**Stormwatch**

A commune on the southwestern border of mainland Noscura. This area is home to many people who worship the Realm of Storm.

**Tarn**

The provincial capitol governing the southwestern most province of Noscura.

##### The Everchains

**Phaylee**

Largest port in the Greathinan islands

**Zartaad**

Original Port built on the island of the same name.

### Environments

The primary environments within the boundaries of Noscura are the Novaruk desert, the alpine boreal forest to the north, and the grassy plains to the south. Novaruk is split between two distinct regions, the highland region is predominantly an arid, high alpine desert, with little vegetation. The lowland regions are a scattering of rocky plateaus, wastelands, and sand dune fields. South of the desert, along the borders of grassy plains, lies an endoheric basin. Within the basin, lies Lake Morant. A saline lake boasting little life. The southern grasslands and floodplains within Noscura are the source of nearly all agriculture within the Empire. High alpine areas to the north include boreal forests, with tower pine trees covering the Hirvwey pass.

### Geology and Hydrogeology

The surface lithology of the Novaruk desert is one of soft limestone dating back to a time when the valley floor lie under an intercontinental sea. As a natural depression in the region, sediment began to gather to form the endoheric basin and desert. Fresh groundwater can be found at shallow depths both within and beneath the limestone bedrock.

### Flora and Fauna

#### Flora

**Drontar**

Native to the Novaruk desert is the plant called Drontar by the Noscuri. On the surface, this plant resembles a very short tree with long, thick pointed leaves spanning about 28 inches (71 cm) long and 3 inches in diameter (8 cm.) The 'trunk' resembles a hard wooden ball about 13 inches (33 cm) in diameter. It has been discovered that this plant's root system actualy resembles the trunk of a tall tree, pushing straight down through the sands an rock to reach groundwater reservoirs and aquifers. Noscuri scholar Oragh Rhmdul discovered the plant's root system, and with it the ability to find fresh water beneath the surface.

#### Fauna

**Gwokk**

The gwokk is a large reptile native to to the Novaruk desert and the highlands to the north. The gwokk is a quadrupedal ambush predator, with behavior greatly resembling that of a mountain leopord, or mountain cougar. The beast stands at about 4'6'' (137 cm) at the shoulder, with a body length of 9 feet (2.75 m) plus a long (11 ft/3.35 m) tail used to balance the creature as it travels across the sands at great speeds. The gwokk's scaled skin is typically muted earth colors, however periodically during a mating season, the gwokk sheds its skin to reveal brilliant colors and patterns. The gwokk has begun to be domesticated by the Noscuri as a beast for transportation.

**Tromnk**

The tromnk is a non native bird from the southern continents. The Tromnk arrived in the decades following a massive volcanic eruption, fleeing the climatic changes to it's original habitat. The birds flock in large groups, and are known to be carnivorous. During the Second Age of Noscura, many of these birds were known to attack both livestock and humans if given the opportunity.

## Government

### Executive Government

Originally, Noscura was a total dictatorship under the rule of the office of the Sovereign. Beginning in 403 AS, the nation transitioned to an Empire. The current ruler is Aldron Tayn, first Emperor of Noscura. Tayn has complete sovereignty over all aspects of Noscura, however employs a host of bureaucratic offices to run the empire' more localized affairs. The Military reports to the High General, a member of the Emperor's inner circle and currently held by former Soveriegn, the aged Laith Talmonk. Other high officials include the Traditional Liaison, a member of the Board of Elders. This board is primarily responsible for the overseeing and preservation of ancient Noscuri traditions. The Liaison is selected by and from the board members. The Board of Law selects a Central Representative to the counsel the Emperor on Legislation and current affairs.

In each of the Empires eight Provinces, a Governor is selected by the Emperor and serves at his pleasure. These Governors have total oversight of the affairs of their Province, although control is subject to the Emperor. The Governor for the Capitol Province of Elaysia is, by default, the Emperor themselves.

#### Criminal justice

Policing forces are mandatory in any state sanctioned settlements of over 200 people. Suspected criminals are detained to await a trial before a magistrate. Resisting arrest by police is a capital crime, and treated as a forfeiting of both the right to prove your innocence, and you life. Both the suspected party, and the victimized party, are expected to represent themselves before a magistrate. Failure for a victimized party to appear, without excuse, results in sentencing by the Magistrate. In this event, the Magistrate will be required to provide a 'reduced' sentence should he hold the suspected party guilty.

In the event where the victim of a crime is deemed to be the state, a representative of the Governor, or the Governor themselves will represent the state. Citizens also have the right to protest against representatives of the State, and in such an event the accused person will periodically stand judgement as a person, and not a as the state. For example, if a policing sheriff is accused of a crime, he will be removed from his position temporarily and appear before a Magistrate to defend themselves.

### Legislation

In the first year of Valtun Avrok's reign, he implemented a Board of Law. This Board has maintained it's presence to the modern day. These representatives are tasked with developing laws, and are selected as representatives of varying wealth, age, and location within Noscura. The members are selected by Governors, and approved by the Emperor. The Board of Law is tasked with the development of a book of law for Noscura, and any laws they choose to pass are subject to review and veto by the Emperor.

### Citizenship

All beings with congnizance are recognized as Noscuran citizens. Noscuran attitude treats foreigners like 'soon to be citizens' as a result of it's imperialistic culture.

All citizens of Noscura are subject to the laws of Noscura and guaranteed the protections of them no matter the citizen's location. In essence, the Empire treats all citizens as embodiments of the Empire, thus their safety is guaranteed no matter where they may be in the world. Conversely, these citizens are subject to Noscuran laws, no matter their location, and should they break them. The Noscuran government has a policy to seek extradition or, if necessary, extraction.

## Notable Members

### Rulers

#### Valtun Avrok

The first Sovereign of Noscura. Under two years before the adoption of the current Noscuri calendar. He led the nation as they conqured the Novaruk Desert. He was often rumored to be the agent of a God, or a God himself, due to his longevity and aura of presense. In 248, he named Laith Talmonk as his successor effective immediately. He lived for another 23 years before death.

#### Laith Talmonk

The second Sovereign of Noscura. She was first known for leading the raids on Galvan between the years of 100 and 150 AS. Named Sovereign in 248 AS. When she was named Sovereign, the elders of Elaysia decreed 7 straight years of Dark, the first ever Dark years since the beginning of Noscura.

#### Aldron Tayn

The first Emporer of Noscura. He was first known as the governor of Milndro. He was named Emperor by Laith Talmonk in 403 AS. He oversaw the first years of the new Empire, although Talmonk continued to act as a supreme military commander until her death.

#### Ailn Wylnir

Once a lover of Laith Talmonk, Ailn was named General of the Second Imperial Host by Talmonk at her deathbed, and confirmed by the Host's own soldiers. She is touted to be a military genius, and led the Second Host during the Invasion of Iseres. She is responsible for the capture of Ostican. After the death of Aldron Tayn, she made a bid for the throne and succeeded in becoming Empress. She led during the war with Ha Irunah, and shifted the Empire's expansion to continental rather than overseas. Wylnir disappeared on the eve of a insurrection by Grundamar Nurma, and did not return for many years. She did return, and drove a glass knife through Nurma's heart while he sat upon the Imperial Throne. Instead of retaking the throne, Wylnir named Callus as Emperor, and acted as his Knife. It is speculated that Wylnir is responsible for many assassinations across the world. After the death of Callus, Wylnir gathered a council that would name Empress Callus to the throne. She then disappeared yet again, and it is said she will return when Noscura needs her most.

#### Grundamar Nurma

A longtime member of the Board of Tradition, and dissenter of Wylnir's rule, Nurma rose up in rebellion in the 1118 Imperial Year. Upon his infiltration of the Imperial Palace, he found Wylnir to have disappeared, and named himself Emperor. Nurma never controlled much more than a section of Noscura, with many local Governors, Citylords, and Warlords holding control over various regions while they conflicted with one another. He was killed by Wylnir while seated upon the Imperial Throne.

#### **Callus**

Rose to the throne after the death of Emperor Nurma. He is known as the last of the 'Great Emperors or Empresses.' Most known for his overseeing of the annexation of most of Kantamia, and the resettling of the Kantamian refugees and their descendants.

#### Cassan

The Empress to rise after Callus. Chosen by a counsel headed by Wylnir.

### Scholars and Scientists

##### Oragh Rhmdul

Scholar responsible for discovering and harnessing groundwater resources for Noscura.

##### Lucan

Lucan is the name of a mysterious author to the 'Writings of Lucan.' These passages are written by a currently unknown man who writes as though he is from the future, and cataloguing the complete history of Noscura.

##### Entri Gurnyth

Entri was once a student to a more famous scholar named Ythirmus. However, Entri was selected to attend the the Kashi-Eram in his stead following h is death. She went on to have a very famous career centered around political and world knowlege.

### Merchants and Entrepreneurs

##### Gourag Yorun

A former guide of the Novaruk Desert, Gourag was the first merchant to establish trade with the Kantamian city states to the east.

##### Rutth Fissar

A wealthy and influential merchant from Ostican. Most notable for making first contact with The Institute at Procygis.

### Military

##### Hyld Novm

Former Company Leader within the First Host, tasked with the occupation of K'ydris immediately following it's annexation. Eventually named Governor. Her policies directly led to the Riots of Kalomaka.

##### Rykand Tayn

Son of Emperor Aldron Tayn, and General of the First Imperial Host during the invasion of Iseres. Responsible for the capture of Oridias. After the death of his father, made a bid for the throne.

### Explorers and other Expeditioners

##### Lurnk

An expedition leader who traveled to Vulrazhir and made first contact with the Sovereign Radavul.

## Language and Culture

### Language

Noscura predominantly speaks the Noscuri native language. The language, named Noscuri, is described as being slow and methodical, and droll sounding. As well as being very bass heavy. This arose in order to carry farther in the more sound absorbing sands of their desert home. Deep tones and guttural noises would remind a listener of grinding rocks, or burping. Beyond spoken language, the written language is still being developed. Notably, the Noscuri culture has an emphasis placed on nonverbal, visual based communication. From an outsiders' perspective, the people of this small nation may as well be speaking telepathically, as they have a tendency to speak more with their bodies than with their mouths. This quirk originated out of a need to communicate despite high desert winds, and through covered faces. To the Noscuri, 'talking with your hands' is more literal than anything. Their 'handspeak' has not developed to the point of a true modern sign language, but even still two close friends would be able to catch up with each other without the need for vocalizing anything.

### Culture

The people of Noscura are predominantly Noscuri, and much of the culture is rooted in their historical nomadic ancestors. The harsh conditions of the Novaruk desert have bred a close knit group of no-nonsense people who are described as very observant and mindful. The lack of resources leads to conservation, and constant observation for hints of change in the winds that may bring changes in fortune. Society here is not far from a meritocracy, however there is a large emphasis on familial ties.

The family grouping is a backbone of the Noscuri culture. In the event of marriages, traditionally the husband would leave to live within the wives family, taking her family surname. Citizens often live in very large homes made of clay and other ceramics. They are easily and often expanded to be able to house entire extended families. In addition, work life is home life to the Noscuri, who's large homes double as places of business, administration, and so forth. The Sovereign is no different, living within and overseeing the nation from the home of Avrok family.

Due to the nature of housing, Noscuran settlements do not resemble closely built cities such as those found elsewhere. Instead, the Noscuri build their cities over large expanses, with room between homes and buildings for expansion. Traditionally, all homes were single story, however recent population growth in Elaysia has seen the rise of multi level homes as the city grows more crowded. These taller structures are historically more at risk from desert wind storms, however improvements in building materials and practices have led to more sturdy homes.

## Faith, Worship, and Influences of Religion

See The Divine Realms.

The prominent faith in Noscura, is the belief in Divine Realms. This faith has been noted for being very complicated, and open for many interpretations. Faith in the Divine Realms is very common, with many members believing in and observing the influence of the Divine Realms in world around them. Cults of worship of the individual Realms are uncommon, but the realms are often celebrated throughout the Noscuri culture. Cults of worship for the Gods of the faith are often taboo.

### Devotees

People who have devoted themselves to a Realm or have worshiped a God are called devotees. Their devotion is often rewarded with magical abilities and mastery over elemental powers. Because of this, they have become a powerful resource to Noscura. Chapters of Devotees to each Realm have been established by the government, in hopes of bolstering military might with magical capabilities.

### Cults

Cults of worship for Gods is heavily taboo. Most people see worshipers of a God as a potential threat to stability, as they may be an agent of a Gods manipulation. There are still groups who participate in such worship secretly. Many hope to obtain gifts in exchange for deals with the Gods.

### Noscuran Calendar

The Noscuran calendar is based off of the Divine Realms. Traditionally, elders in the nomadic tribes, and Sovreign Avrok attempted to appease that tradition while still creating a cohesive calendar for the entire Nation. Leading up to the beginning of the year, a government board is tasked with selecting one of the Prime Realms to dedicate the year to. This decision is made in accordance with divination, superstition, and debate among the elders making up the board. If a year is predicted to be one of beneficial days, the board may select the year to be the Year of Light.

During the rule of Aldron Tayn, an Imperial calendar was also implemented. This calendar began count the year Valtun Avrok seized control of Elaysia, and counts upwards.

The Seasonal Calendar is named after the six Adjacent Divine Realms, and ordered as follows.

Life - Beast - Sun - Shadow - Storm - Death

(Spring   -   Summer   -   Autumn   -   Winter)