Khaumsheħemaht (Takartum)

## Takartum

**Takartum** (/t̪ʰäkʰärt̪ʰɵ̞m/, Amkashakadidium: *"Golden city of heirs"*.) also known as **The Second Empire of Khaumsheħemaht** and informally as **The Dead Kingdom,** was a Kingdom located on the western shores of Kashar-Maht. It was founded by Ashemtet Kheos Khemotra IV Khemkhomet, the last queen of the twenty-second dynasty of Khaumsheħemaht, in the year 4591 AK (1 AS). The country was named after its capital, Takartum.

The country is ruled by an elite caste of undead nobles from earlier dynasties of Khaumsheħemaht, handpicked for their roles by Khemotra Khemkhomet who rules over both other undead as well as the nomadic tribes of Kesalea. Takartum is historically considered one of the five Kenekara, that is to say one of the kingdoms that belonged to the empire of Khaumsheħemaht, and would therefore normally be ruled by a Ka. Each Kenekara is split into nine Khasu, each ruled by a Khasu-Ka.

The Kingdom ended in 5264 AK (673 AS), when Ashemtet Kheos Khemotra IV Khemkhomet ended her century-long isolation and study of the forbidden grimoires of Menkeph-Ta, leading her people to new lands beyond the void, leaving the dunes of Khaumsheħemaht to the living tanokesh-riding nomads of the Kesalean tribes.

## History

The glaciers over Khaumsheħemaht have long been a lifeline for the people living on the western shores of Kashar-Maht. The arid climate and the rain shadow caused by the mountains means the area is exceedingly dry, and civilization would not persist without the glacial meltwater. While open water is rare, a few small rivers and oases lay the foundation necessary for civilization. Although the area rarely sees any precipitation, the glaciers above experience a wet season, and the varying quantities of meltwater over the two seasons have given rise to floodplains below, on which civilization has flourished.

Humans came to the area many thousands of years ago, adapting to the floodplains and quickly spreading over the plains and along the rivers. Small communities soon spread to the oases and civilization soon arose.

### Predynastic Period

The Predynastic period spans from the earliest signs of the six cultures of Khaumsheħemaht to the blessing of the first Khemra, Kheos I Ka of Mush.

#### Mush

The earliest signs of civilization in Mush can be found in the far west, where the desert breaks into grasslands. In the caves of Netak-Mush palaeolithic paintings and carvings depicting local fauna such as the tanokesh and geten can be found. There are also traces of flint tools and pottery. It also appears as if the wheel was invented here and spread to the rest of the region from here, as some of the paintings depict what appears to be domesticated tanokesh with early versions of the Mushite chariot.

#### Photis

Civilization came to Photis from the south, from across the dunes. The earliest traces of Photician civilization come in the form of monoliths carved from stone. Most likely markers used to navigate the dunes by nomadic proto-photicians. While many of the columns have been heavily weathered, carvings depicting what appears to be early logographic script cover the more well-preserved ones from base to tip. Tools crafted from bones have also been found in the area.

#### Tanis

The first Tanisians appear to have come from the north, settling on the outwash plains above Takartum. Traces of pottery and stone tools gradually appeared further and further south. The Proto-tanisians appear to have been in contact with the Proto-mushites fairly early on, as about halfway across the country, traces of early wheels can be found. With the appearance of the Tanisians, civilization seems to have kickstarted in the area as they invented irrigation. While the earliest Tanisian irrigation was simple ditches, the technology quickly spread through the region, allowing much larger populations to be sustained.

#### Kashamis

The Kashamians came from the south, bypassing the Photicians by traveling in the mountains. The Kashamians probably reached the area around the same time as the Sibnans, yet early Kashamian ruins are far more prevalent than the Sibnan counterparts. The early Kashamians built temples, many of which still remain as foundations. Their masonry far outpaced any of the likes at the time, making them one of the more advanced cultures in the area despite being one of the last to arrive.

#### Sibna

The Sibnans, while not as proficient as their southern neighbours, were also masters of masonry. While the Kashamians focused on building structures, the Sibnans carved rooms and tunnels into the mountainside. The technique soon spread to Mush and would lay the foundation for early Mushite rock-carved tombs. The Sibnans appear to have arrived from across the ice, even though the success of such a journey seems highly unlikely.

#### Takartum

The Takartumans were the last to arrive yet lay the foundation for the later stages of civilization in the area. The Takartumans were highly organized, often depicted as having arrived by ship from the north. The Takartumans settled the rich floodplains in the centre of the region and brought with them their rigid tribal structures, which soon spread to the other cultures through trade and interactions. The early Takartumans seem to have used obsidian for many of their tools. They soon borrowed Photician bone needles and used them to develop the braids and beads that the writing system of Khaumsheħemaht is based on.

#### The Tribal Kingdoms

The tribal kingdoms followed shortly after the arrival of the Takartumans and lasted until the blessing of Kheos. With the arrivals of the Takartuman, a much more rigorous tribal structure was brought to the region. The Takartumans were split into nine tribes, or Khasu, each Khasu ruled by a Ka. Some tribes shared the same Ka, in which case he was referred to as a Kenekara. This system quickly spread through the area, and multiple Kenekara ruled through the lands. While which Kenekara ruled what tribes was highly dynamic, groupings of tribes soon turned into identities, and the foundations of the historical Kenekara regions took shape.

### Mushite Period

The Mushite period began with the blessing of Kheos I, traditionally seen as the first king of Khaumsheħemaht. While not a blessing in the traditional sense, he was taught bronze-making by the God of the Gates. The Mushite period saw the rise and fall of two dynasties and lasted for 518 years. The Mushite period is often referred to as the first dynastic period.

#### First Dynasty

The first dynasty, or the founding kings, or the Kheosic dynasty, began with Kheos I. Kheos’ origins are relatively unknown, although the Ar tablet found in the tomb of Ar-Kheos, his son and successor, states that he was Ka of a small Mushite tribe occupying what would become the city of Mush. Kheos was not actually blessed by any deity, and could thus never claim the title of Khemra, yet in later years historians claimed he was to give a further sense of legitimacy to the legendary founder of Khaumsheħemaht. In actuality, Kheos was simply a military mastermind of the day, succeeding in conquering Mush, Tanis, and most of Takartum. Over which his dynasty ruled. Few members of his dynasty are worth mentioning, as most information has been lost. Ar-Kheos succeeded Kheos after his father’s 34-year reign. Mente, his successor, reigned for an astounding 56 years, but is often depicted as a snake. Most historians theorize that he wasn’t very well liked. The dynasty ended after 9 kings, with Kheos II who was assassinated by his best friend, and founder of the succeeding dynasty. Kheos II only reigned for 3 months.

#### Second Dynasty

The second dynasty, or the long-lived kings, reigned for a massive 322 years, living up to their name. This period saw much instability in the realm, as they attempted to expand their borders and contended with dissatisfied Kas. Their reign began with Ar-Kash, who used his newfound power to conquer the mountains of Sibna. This lasted for almost 250 years, until Khemu I, 17th in the line of kings and eighth in his dynasty, lost it to a rebellion. Notable rulers of this dynasty included the 19th kings Rametu and Armente, twins who split the nation between them only to be assassinated by Rametu’s son Shume, who reunited the kingdom. The dynasty ended with Meshet I, who fought a long and bloody war against the Sibnan warrior queen Ajah Kheos III. Rather than deign to be defeated, Meshet I and his retainers committed suicide in his palace, which Ajah Kheos III buried in her rage. Meshet I is often deified as a god of warriors, especially those facing overwhelming odds. In total, the second dynasty had 14 kings.

### Elder Kingdom

The elder kingdom immediately followed the Mushite period and can be seen as when Khaumsheħemaht truly unified. The period is also known as the age of the great gates, the age of commerce and the first golden age of Khaumsheħemaht. The elder kingdom lasted for 541 years and saw the rise and fall of four dynasties.

#### Third Dynasty

The third dynasty, or the first Khemra began with Ajah Kheos III. At the time, her name was simply Ajah, and she was the third daughter of a ruthless Sibnan warlord and direct descendant of the first dynasty, although through a female line. Fortunately for her, she was noticed by the god of war, Karash, who blessed her. She overthrew her father and seized power for herself, before waging war against Khaumsheħemaht. After her successful victory, she established her capital in Sibna, the city being constructed in her and Karash’s honour. As a female ruler, she faced much opposition, and in an attempt to quell dissent she assumed the name of a previous ruler, Kheos III. A tradition known as a throne name, and which was taken up by female rulers who ascended the throne after her. The dynasty ended after 74 years and saw 6 rulers. It ended with Ashim, who took the throne at 6 and died at 16 without any heirs. Ashim was the 28th ruler in the line of kings and was thoroughly inbred as a result of his ancestors attempting to keep the blessed blood of Karash clean. The cult of Karash saw a tremendous rise in power during this time.

#### Fourth Dynasty

The fourth dynasty, also known as the Gate builders, took over after Ashim died. They were initially a family closely tied to the third dynasty, acting as servants and retainers, but took over on the behest of Ashim. Rossi I, was the first ruler of the dynasty, having previously served as priest and teacher under Ashim. Rossi I began the gate building tradition, constructing a massive tomb in the mountain for the members of the third dynasty, and setting a curse on anyone who would enter unbidden. Rossi I ruled for 23 years, before dying of mercury poisoning. While many gates and tombs were built in the mountains during this period, a golden age is not marred by strife, and as such not much notable happened. Tshet 34th in the line of kings and 6th in his dynasty stirred up the most controversy as when he moved the capital to Takartum. The dynasty ended with Anish, 38th in the line of kings and 10th ruler of his dynasty. He died peacefully in his sleep, without any heirs, having lived as a celibate priest most of his life. The fourth dynasty lasted 228 years.

#### Fifth Dynasty

The fifth dynasty, also known as the Tanisian kings, followed. As the leader of the most powerful family in the nation, the kingdom was inherited by Ashkim, Ka of Tanis. Ashkim moved the capital to Tanis and became the first male ruler to take a throne name: Ashkim Kheos IV. This tradition was continued by his great grandson, Meshet Kha II, who made it standard for men to have as well. His son, Arim Meshet III, built on this tradition, and made it traditional to take the name of a previous ruler as Throne name. The line ended with Akaset Aroshim, 46th on the line of kings and 8th ruler of his dynasty, who was pressured into giving the crown to another dynasty. The Tanisians were patriarchal, and when a god chose a woman once more, he caved to pressure. The fifth dynasty lasted 119 years.

#### Sixth Dynasty

The sixth dynasty, or the khemra of commerce, rose to power with San Khemotra I. San was at first the daughter of a Photician merchant, but settled in Takartum after being blessed by Meħ, god of trade. Under her reign, and that of her dynasty, Khaumsheħemaht truly prospered. Unfortunately, just as with the third dynasty, their desire to keep their blood pure became their downfall. The dynasty lasted 120 years and saw 9 rulers. In the end, due to the lack of heirs, inheritance was passed along to cousins, and the capital moved with it. The line ended with Seph Sephret III, 55th in the line of kings, who ruled from Tanis. Seph Sephret III’s reign was accosted by droughts and famines, and he was ill-equipped to manage such turbulence. He died after 4 years in power, 8 years old and with all manner of health issues.

### Age of Kings

The age of kings, more commonly known as the first dark age, began with drought, famine, and civil war. It lasted only 122 years, but most agree that was 122 years too many. Most scholars would tell you the age saw 8 ruling dynasties. But depending on how you count, that could be as high as 24. Most of which existed simultaneously. As the name suggests, a lot of people claimed the title of Ka, or king, during this period. This period also saw a split in the line of kings, as the Photicians and Takartumans could not agree on which kings should count, resulting in the kings following this period being referred to with two numbers.

#### The Civil War

When the sixth dynasty ran out of heirs, the nation shattered back into the five kingdoms. As such, the first dark age is characterized by a multitude of small dynasties all existing at once. The exception to this is the seventh dynasty, which isn't as much a dynasty as it is a loose collection of kings who rose up against the old kingdoms and declared independence. The civil war also included the following dynasties: the eighth dynasty, the ninth dynasty, the tenth dynasty, the eleventh dynasty, the twelfth dynasty and the thirteenth dynasty. The civil war began in 1060, with the kingdom breaking into nine parts, with nine rulers claiming the 56th spot in the line of kings. The following years were full of strife, and to give an idea of how bloody the fighting was, 22 rulers claimed the 57th spot, 17 the 58th spot and only 15 the 59th spot. All of which occurred in a span of 26 years.

##### Seventh Dynasty

The seventh dynasty, or the false dynasty, was as stated not a dynasty per se. It only lasted for 35 years but included 38 rulers split over 15 families. Yet it contained some important people who played important roles during the war. Amat Mente was one. She claimed to have been a concubine of Seph, and that her son therefore had a rightful claim. As such she declared independence, ruling from Akrunis. Her great grandson Emesh Danek I, 59th in the line of kings by Takartuman counting, managed to conquer Takartum, beginning the 13th dynasty. Another important figure was Shalam Keshek III. Shalam claimed the 57th spot on the line of kings after revolting against the Tanisian king Ibin Sephret II in 1063, paving the way for his grandson, Porash San, to conquer Tanis itself in 1078. In a similar vein, Tute Sephret II, revolted against Tina Opho in 1064. His great grandson, Uħora Sephret III, conquering Mush in 1086 and ending the tenth dynasty.

##### Eighth Dynasty

The eighth dynasty, or the Takartuman kings, were a major player in the civil war. Tasun Amat-Kha began the dynasty. They belonged to the family of the Ka, and quickly seized local power after Seph’s death. While the dynasty lasted 31 years and had 6 rulers, interestingly enough only three of them are on the Takartuman list of kings. That is because Emesh Danek I conquered Takartum in 1075. Even so, the dynasty continued for 16 years. Seeing three more rulers. It ended with Kit-Resh Tasun, who was killed by Ajash Ashkim, third ruler of the thirteenth dynasty and nephew of Emesh Danek I in 1091. Kit-Resh Tasun was executed with her dignity intact, through decapitation. Her rule lasted 7 years, in which she managed to both conquer and lose the Khasu of Amphos, although she spent most of her rule in the Khasu of Kheħa.

##### Ninth Dynasty

The ninth dynasty, or the Tanisian dynasty, is in fact a group of three families. The leaders of which were siblings who decided to split the Tanisian kenekara between them when the chance arose. Kush Meshet IV, ka of Kusmu, only lasted 6 years. Being torn to shreds by the surrounding kingdoms of Mush. Kusmu fell in 1066, and Kush Meshet IV was executed on the orders of Eshek Sakesh, Ka of Aphetu, who seceded from Tina Opho of Mush in 1064. The line of Ibin Sephret II, ka of Tanis, lasted one generation longer. Sephret II himself fell in battle against the ka of Akħrin, Seħodor Mente, who was the father of Porash San who later conquered Tanis in 1078. While the Tanisian dynasty is said to end with the conquest of Tanis, the last brother’s descendants lasted as independent rulers longer than that. They ruled for 30 years and had 4 rulers in their dynasty. The brother’s name was Emet Opho, and he was Ka of Naphuta. In 1062, he lost most of his land to Seneph Seph who revolted against his rule. They fought until 1068, when Emet Opho fell in battle. His son, Nenes Kheos VI established a truce with Seneph Seph and lived in relative peace until he was assassinated by his nephew. While many horrible things can be said about Anit Meshet IV, the nephew in question, he did in fact manage to expand his uncle’s Ka to incorporate the Khasu of Aphetu in the year 1077, ending the line of Eshek Sakesh by executing his son Seshek Setu II. But he also lost Aphetu in a siege in 1086, where he took an arrow to the knee and died of an infection. The conqueror was Ar-Porash-Im Ashkim, ka of Tanis and son of Porash San. Anit Meshet IV’s cousin succeeded him. His name was Baset Nenes, and he reigned for 4 years until 1090, when he fell in battle against Imri Keshek IV, who was Ar-Porash-Im Ashkim’s brother. Ar-Porash-Im Ashkim was in fact captured in battle and executed by Imri Keshek IV in the year 1089, which his brother avenged. The dynasty lasted 30 years.

##### Tenth Dynasty

Or the Mushite kings, only lasted 26 years and saw three rulers on the throne. Tina Opho began the line and ruled for 10 years. In 1064, both Eshek Sakesh and Tute Sephret II, revolted against him, and his reign never saw the end of the war. Tina Opho died in 1070, having lost almost four fifths of his land. He died from mercury poisoning. His son lost half of what remained in 1082, when Phanun was conquered by Kesem Opho, ka of Hesut, whose grandfather Semnos Tarak I revolted against Ashum Keshek III in 1062. Tina Opho’s line ended with his grandson, Ar-Aħar Aħar, who was executed in 1086 by Uħora Sephret III, after losing Mush in a drawn-out siege.

##### Eleventh Dynasty

The eleventh dynasty, or the Sibna-Kashamian kings, was, just like the ninth dynasty, split between siblings. Ashum Keshek III, who became Ka of Sibna, and Eresh Seph, who became Ka of Kashamis. Ashum Keshek III’s line lasted for 30 years and saw 6 rulers. Ashum Keshek III saw two rebellions, and lost two thirds of his lands, before drinking himself to death in 1065. His granddaughter, Alihar Sephret IV, fought two wars during her 5-year reign, only to die in childbirth, resulting in her lands being split between the twins, who survived. Ishem San, the male heir, inherited the more prosperous Khasu of Sibna, only to be strangled to death at the age of seven, Sibna being inherited by Berok Samir, the Ka of Kashamis, who was a distant relative. Mahri Ishem, the female heir, inherited the less prosperous Khasu of Menket. Her story is tragic, as she died in childbirth at the age of 9, her regent deciding that an heir was needed as soon as possible. Her son, Brinor Mahri, survived for 3 years, before drowning in the blood that had slowly been filling his lungs since his birth. The Khasu was given to Shoħa Kheos VI, Berok Samir’s brother and successor. Eresh Seph’s line lasted two years longer, until 1092. While Eresh Seph lost much of his land early on, his descendants managed to expand his domain to 7 Khasu. His two great grandchildren, Berok Samir and Shoħa Kheos VI inherited the remaining holdings of the Sibnan side of the family. The line ended with Shoħa Kheos VI, who was invaded by the overwhelming forces of Roshim Belor, 64th ruler by photician count. The dynasty lasted 32 years.

##### Twelfth Dynasty

The twelfth dynasty, or the Photician kings, lasted for 70 years and began as two siblings, although the divide only lasted 14 years. Atanos Amat, the oldest son of two, inherited Photis itself, as well as the surrounding Khasu. Unfortunately, a revolt in 1061 by Min Danek, Ka of Khasu, and another revolt in 1064 by Phobis Danek, Ka of Keniphu, reduced his holdings to only the Khasu of Photis. Atanos Amat died in 1067, after attempting to drink an experimental elixir of life. His son, Sharim Runi, took over after him, but died seven years later under mysterious circumstances. Photis was inherited by Khaħir Danek, third ruler in the other half of the dynasty, and many believe that Sharim Runi was assassinated. Belor Keshet, the second brother, inherited Emphes, and its surrounding Khasu. He lost some land to the revolt in Keniphu, but overall managed to hold on to most of his land. He died the same year as his brother, taking an arrow in the eye during a battle against the Ka of Keniphu. He had three children, the eldest, his daughter, taking over after him. Shelosh Sakesh ruled for 6 years and expanded her domain with one Khasu. In 1073, she was assassinated by her brother, Khaħir Danek. Khaħir Danek reigned for 2 years, and during this time inherited Photis under suspicious circumstances, making it his capital. The third brother, Rimar Ajah, avenged his sister in 1075, leading a coup against his brother and having him executed. Rimar Ajah ruled for 3 years, during which he avenged his father, conquering Keniphu and executing Phokhesh Sephret II, Phobis Danek’s son. Rimar Ajah was murdered by a disgruntled husband after a particularly daring nightly escapade involving a plethora of married women. He was succeeded by Shelosh Sakesh’s daughter and son, Eresh Khemotra II and Heħir Shelosh I. Eresh Khemotra II reigned for 4 years, before being killed in battle against her cousin, who inherited after her brother. Heħir Shelosh I reigned for 3 years, after which his cousin took over through a coup and executed him. His cousin’s name was Iroshim Rimar I, and she reigned for 8 years. During these years she fought against Eresh Khemotra II’s two sons. Kashmir Meshet IV lasted two years, and his brother Keshe-Im Arim II 3 years after that. Both died in battle against Iroshim Rimar I, who reunited Photis and moved her capital there after conquering it in 1087. She died two years later, by falling off her mount, and was succeeded by her eldest son, Roshim Belor. Roshim Belor was the 64th ruler by Photician count and reigned for 4 years. During this time, he fought a war against the last ruler of the Sibna-Kashamian dynasty. He conquered Sibna in 1092 and executed Shoħa Kheos VI the same day. In 1093 he was killed by his own council, who had been bought by his cousin, Sher Kheos VI. Sher Kheos VI swore allegiance to Shim Emesh of the thirteenth dynasty and 63rd king by Takartuman count in 1098, ending the civil war and serving as a vassal until 1100, when he died from mercury poisoning. The following rulers of his line did not accomplish much until 24 years later, when his granddaughter Shemoth Ashkim I, 67th by Takartuman count and 69th by Photician, overthrew the thirteenth dynasty and established the fourteenth.

##### Thirteenth Dynasty

The thirteenth dynasty, or the usurpers, began in 1072 with Emesh Danek I. She is also counted as part of the seventh Dynasty, as she grew up as the Ka of Akranis, only usurping Takartum in 1075. She died from wounds she received in her conquest in 1080 and was succeeded by her 16-year-old daughter Sheħa Akresh IV. She continued the war against the 8th dynasty and died in battle at 24. With no heirs, her titles passed to her cousin Ajash Ashkim. While his reign only lasted 5 years, he spent them all at war, conquering 7 Khasu, almost doubling his kingdom. Unfortunately, he fell in battle in 1093, his daughter Umek Seph taking over and ruling for 4 years, before abdicating, giving the throne to her son Shim Emesh. It was to him that Sher Kheos VI swore allegiance in 1098, ending the civil war. Shim Emesh ruled for 14 years, dying from mercury poisoning in 1111. His two daughters ruled afterwards, Sheresh Keshek III reigning for 8 years before dying in childbirth. As her son did not survive, Kesh-Ur Keshek IV took over. She is often seen as the best ruler of the age of kings, as her reforms ended the famine that had raged for most of the civil war. She ruled for 17 years, dying peacefully in 1136. Her son Ar-Kesh-Ur Danek II took over after her, but only reigned for 2 years until Shemoth Ashkim I overthrew him and threw him into a pit of scorpions. The thirteenth dynasty ended in 1138, it saw 8 rulers and lasted 66 years.

#### Fourteenth Dynasty

The fourteenth dynasty, or the diplomats, began with Shemoth Ashkim I overthrowing the thirteenth dynasty. The reason for why it is counted as a new dynasty is that she killed her husband and disowned her son, ending his line and beginning her own. She ruled for 6 years, conquering Takartum in 1128 and dying from arsenic poisoning in 1130. Her daughter, Eresh Roshim took over and ruled for 7 years. Nothing much happened during this period, the dynasty spending most of its time mending the kingdom after the civil war. Sher Menet I, Eresh Roshim’s son, reigned for the longest, lasting 16 years. The dynasty ended with Ashemtetdamkar Meshet V, Sher Menet I’s Granddaughter. She ruled for 7 days, before abdicating as a new Khemra emerged. The dynasty lasted 58 years.

### Younger Kingdom

The younger kingdom directly followed the age of kings. The period is also known as the age of bronze, the age of pyramids, the bureaucratic period and the second golden age. It lasted 409 years and saw two dynasties in power. Khaumsheħemaht had never been stronger, the fourteenth dynasty having built a strong sense of nationality after the civil war. During this period trade flourished, and bronze became common enough for most people to afford it.

#### Fifteenth Dynasty

The fifteenth dynasty, or the lawmakers, began with Kushos Ashemtetdamkar I. He was blessed by Thrakos, the god of bronze and blacksmithing, and as such the previous ruler willingly abdicated. The dynasty lasted 126 years and saw 7 rulers. Some notable rulers were Nikosh Hamdakhar, Kushos Ashemtetdamkar I’s son, who built the first pyramid in his father’s honour. Another is Khetesh Tun-Hadamar, Nikosh Hamdakhar’s grandson, who wrote down the first nationwide lawbook. Previously the laws had been managed on a base-to-base basis, with each Kenekara having their own laws. His mother, Esha Kushos, was the longest reigning member of the dynasty, clocking in at 37 years. The dynasty ended in 1308, Snus Tunbeshas being the last ruler. He reigned for 8 years before dying from diseases brought on by the inbreeding practiced by his family.

#### Sixteenth Dynasty

The sixteenth dynasty, also known as the builder, lasted 283 years and saw 15 rulers. This is often seen as the height of the golden age. It is also during this period that the most pyramids were built. The dynasty began with Makar Tetamkhar I, who, as Ka of Takartum, was the most powerful after the previous dynasty’s collapse. She was also the widowed wife of Snus Tunbeshas. Makar Tetamkhar I ruled for 26 years managed to make Takartum the centre of civilization, by building the Golden pyramid. A grand palace centred in the city that attracted visitors from the entire nation. She died in 1334, from natural causes. The palace was not actually completed 1358, when her granddaughter Khinra Ketamtat reigned. She was the ruler with the second longest reign in the dynasty, with a massive 41 years. She was only beaten by Ashkimet Im-Khotet I who reigned for 52 years. She was the tenth ruler in the dynasty, 90th by Takartuman count, 92nd by Photician. The dynasty ended in 1591 with Shume Im-Khotet II, who only reigned for 2 years. He was assassinated, although who ordered it is unknown. At that point, the kingdom had already grown much more unstable. It began four rulers into the past, when a sick Sheha Erotet decided that her cousin Atu Menkeshet would inherit the crown, as she didn’t think she would live until her child was born. But she did, and it was instead decided that her cousin would rule until her daughter, Amutet Tetamkhar II became 18 and had a child of her own. Amutet Tetamkhar II’s reign lasted 3 years before Atu Menkeshet’s son, Ketet Dam-Menkesh, assassinated her. 7 years later, Amutet Tetamkhar II son, Shume Im-Khotet II, took revenge. He was the last ruler of the dynasty.

### Age of Heirs

The age of heirs, often referred to as the great civil war, or the second dark age, lasted 99 years and saw 3 dynasties. The period encompasses the period after Shume Im-Khotet II’s death, when the kingdom collapsed into two halves, each claiming to be the rightful rulers. While no famine existed to destabilize the kingdom this time, that only meant more soldiers could be thrown to their death, and the war was extremely bloody.

#### Seventeenth Dynasty

The seventeenth dynasty, also known as the heirs of Takartum, lasted 70 years and encompassed 7 rulers. Teten Atu “The Stalwart”, was the first ruler of the dynasty. She spent most of her 6 years in power fighting a losing battle against the 18th dynasty, who’s superior chariots repeatedly outmanoeuvred her phalanxes. She died in 1597, fighting with her army's rear-guard to allow her men a chance to escape. Only the next year she was avenged, as her son Atseptu Sheha slew Nebit Armeteos in battle. With that the tide of war turned, and the 18th dynasty was pushed back, only for it all to come crashing down with Nutati Ketet-Im, 101st king by Takartuman count. His reign, which started in 1639, began with a devastating defeat, as his predecessor, Nepu Atseptu I was slain at the siege of Sibna. Following this event, he fought tooth and nail, only to be killed 1658 after 19 years in power in the early stages of the siege of Takartum which began in 1657. His daughter, Keha Artopu, reigned for 3 years, all three of which were spent under siege in Takartum. In the end, the black walls never fell, and Keha Artopu starved to death as Amutet Ashemdamkar II blockaded the city. The gates were opened shortly after, and the 19th dynasty gained their moniker as the Peacemakers.

#### Eighteenth Dynasty

The eighteenth dynasty, or the heirs of Photis, were the initial enemy of Takartum during the civil war. They lasted 47 years and saw 6 rulers. The dynasty began with Nebit Armeteos, who’s innovation with chariot warfare saw them far into Takartuman lands. After 7 years in power he fell in battle, to Aseptu Sheha, after which the tide of war turned, and the Photician forces were pushed far into Photis. The members of the 18th dynasty began dropping like flies, the longest reigning monarch being Amunta Sephekhat II, who lasted 13 years. He was Nebit Armeteos cousin, a pattern that became all the more common as the dynasty ran out of heirs. The last ruler of the dynasty, Thotmet Kesh-Hamut, 13rd by photician count, only lasted 1 year, until 1638, when he was slain in battle against Nepu Atseptu I at the siege of Sibna. Thotmet Kesh-Hamut was the absolute last member of the dynasty, being the bastard son of a cousin twice removed. His death saw the end of the dynasty.

#### Nineteenth Dynasty

The nineteenth dynasty, or the peacemakers, began when the widowed wife of Roshim Phokeshim, the third to last ruler of the 18th dynasty, took over the throne as regent at the age of 50. Shemoth Kashmitu I “the Elder” reigned for 8 years, until she died from natural causes, and Esheti Atseptu II, her cousin’s daughter, inherited the crown. From her the crown was passed down from parent to child until it reached Amutet Ashemdamkar II, who took the throne in 1658, reigned for 13 years, and managed to conquer Takartum in 1661, after 4 years of siege. The war ended on a bitter note, as most of Takartum’s population died due to disease and famine, the ruler included. The dynasty ended with Ophiti Sarek I, 104th king by Takartuman count, 108th by Photician. She reigned for 19 years and had two children with different husbands: Tesh Ar-Sarek and Romut Sarek Ar-Kha-Tet. Just like Ophiti Sarek I and her half sibling, they married each other. The dynasty lasted 52 years and incorporated 5 rulers.

### Empire of Khaumsheħemaht

The period known as the empire of Khaumsheħemaht, the last golden age and the age of architects began in 1690 and lasted for 420 years. It began with Romut Sarek Ar-Kha-Tet, who inherited the throne from his mother. The reason it is considered a new dynasty is because he claimed to be the son of Kha-Tet, the god of agriculture. As such he picked a third name, starting a tradition known as a divine name. The empire saw both the civilization at its strongest, with massive cities and sculptures being built, but also at its weakest. and culminated with the death of a goddess.

#### Twentieth Dynasty

The twentieth dynasty, also known as the Tyrants, and sometimes informally as the inbred dynasty, lasted 114 years and saw the rise of 7 rulers. Romut Sarek Ar-Kha-Tet founded the dynasty, claiming to be the son of Kha-Tet. He moved the capital to Takartum, where he lasted 7 years, before his sister-wife took his life. They had three children, all of which sat on the throne. The first, At-Romti Amutet Enħera, is often forgotten due to how beloved his sisters were. Enħera took power at the age of 6, before dying from mercury poisoning at 15. His oldest sister, Shemoth Atseptu Sarek II, took the throne after him. Sarek II was known as the Selfless, due to how she strived to eliminate the famine that ravaged the nation in the early years of her reign. She reigned for 12 years, before dying to the many health problems she had inherited. The youngest sister took over after her, Sherot Metosit Kartak “the Just”. She reigned for 15 years, during which she passed massive reforms to the justice system, isolating the judges from the aristocracy and placing the old aristocrats below the law for the first time in history. She was assassinated in 1733, and her daughter took over. Metokoph Kheos Khemotra III followed in her mother’s footsteps and began her reign with executing those who plotted against her mother. Many aristocrats were executed during her 52-year reign, and the people began to call her the Benevolent, due to her tendency to side with the people over their lords. She died at 61, due to natural causes. Sarek II, Kartak and Khemotra III were all immortalized in the catacombs of the golden pyramid by Khemotra III’s son, Phusheth Shemet Tim, yet there his benevolence ended. Tim “the Tyrant”, ruled with an iron fist for 16 years, turning his mother’s justice against the people. A river of blood flowed down the streets each day, as those who displeased him were beheaded. Luckily, he was the son of his mother and her niece, and the health problems of such a union caught up with him in 1801, when he choked on the fluids filling his lungs. The throne was inherited by his son, Aphet Romut Tetamsheħet II. Tetamsheħet “the Disastrous”, only ruled for 3 years, during which he managed to make grain so scarce that even the aristocracy began to complain. Shemoth Ophiti Metosit-Ush began her reign by overthrowing Tetamsheħet in the year 1804, after which she banished the souls of Tim and Tetamsheħet to the void, ending the 20th dynasty.

#### Twenty-First Dynasty

The twenty-first dynasty, or the agricultural kings, lasted 244 years and saw 9 rulers. It began with Shemoth Ophiti Metosit-Ush overthrowing the previous ruler and declaring that no man would ever sit on the Takartuman throne again. Her actions were framed as ending the 19 years of tyranny, but still served her goals. First of all, it moved Takartum and Khaumsheħemaht as a whole into the hands of a Takartuman dynasty, ending 213 years of Photician rule. It also placed her outside of the reach of her brother’s, who desired the throne for themselves. Metosit-Ush ruled for 18 years, setting a precedent for long reigns within her dynasty, the average reign lasting 27 years. As the name suggests, the agricultural capabilities of Khaumsheħemaht were vastly improved during this dynasty, and the kingdom saw stability until the end. Armatiti Mirtash Sarek III, "the Great”, was the last ruler of the dynasty. She reigned for 43 years and died in 2048. She was the 120th king by Takartuman count and the 124th by photician. The dynasty ran out of female heirs, as Sarek III was infertile, and she only had brothers and nephews. She instead gave the throne to Oshim Anun Kheos VI, who was one of her courtiers of the time, and a very distant cousin through a male line that belonged to another family.

#### Twenty-Second Dynasty

The twenty-second dynasty lasted 62 years and saw 5 rulers, all of which were great enough to be immortalized under the golden pyramid. The dynasty was also known as the last dynasty. Oshim Anun Kheos VI ruled for 16 years, before succumbing to arsenic poisoning. The crown passed to her daughter, Atset-Ta Danek Meshet VI. She took the throne at 15 years old, and died from the pox when she was 23. Her reforms of the educational system lasted until the end and served to raise the living standard in most of the major cities of Khaumsheħemaht. The throne was inherited by Amutet Sephret Ashemtetdamkar II, Meshet VI’s daughter. She was hailed as a genius, despite being only 4 years old. Ashemtetdamkar II’s reforms and introduction of a proper, state funded, hospital service saw the end of the pox that ravaged the nation at the time, but only after Ashemtetdamkar II died to the same disease as her mother in 2078, six years after she took the throne. The crown passed to Shemet Helim Keshek V, her cousin. Keshek V saw the empire into a brief period of stability, she reigned for 9 years, and died in childbirth in 2087, after which her surviving daughter immediately was crowned. As such, Ashemtet Kheos Khemotra IV took the throne at age 0, reigning for her entire life. She was the last king, 125th on the Takartuman list, 129th on the photician. Her reign lasted 23 years, until she slew the goddess of life and death, dooming her nation to undeath.

### Fall of Khaumsheħemaht

Multiple generations of disease and famine were ended by human ingenuity, rather than the grace of the gods, and it seemed prayers no longer got answered. As such the faith in the gods began to falter. Ashemtet Kheos Khemotra IV was a strong believer, and often prayed to Bramesh, the goddess of life and death, yet not even the prayers of royalty would be answered. In search of answers, she delved deep into the catacombs below the golden pyramid of Takartum. Chambers containing evil secrets from beyond the void were unsealed, yet no answers could be found. Until she discovered the 16th grimoire of Menkeph-Ta the mad. Sealed in a wooden box deep within the catacombs, the texts were hidden in plain sight. Naturally, she had only found one of the 21 grimoires left behind by the necromancer, but her intrigue was piqued, and she searched for more. The text she had found was the grimoire of Omens. After reading through it she never spoke of what she read among the ever-changing pages to anyone, but it at the very least told her where to search.

Under the gate of Shkath, deep in the mountains of Sibna, she found what she searched for. Sealed behind a nightmarish creature who made her see riddles and answer with questions, she found what she was looking for. The fifth grimoire of Menkeph-Ta, the bestiary. The charred scrolls whispered secrets not meant for mortals, and it was through it she learned of the true nature of Bramesh. A parasite, ever clawing at the fabric of reality, feeding on the souls of those unlucky enough to stray into her realm, or those foolish enough to call her name in prayer. Khemotra IV was distraught, at 15 she was ill-equipped to manage the cursed knowledge implanted in her brain, yet the taste of the forbidden cannot be forgotten so easily, and she soon found herself studying the grimoire of omens once more.

The fourth grimoire, the Seekers Enchiridion, had revealed itself to her. It was always there, had always been there, she just did not know how to look. Using the guides found within she prepared a ritual to pierce the veil and enter the realm of the gods. For years she toiled to prepare, and at the age of 23 she succeeded. Armed with the 20th grimoire, the Dream journal, found in a dream within a dream, she ordered the priests to begin. Blood flowed down the sides of the pyramid as hundreds of souls were sacrificed and channelled into one point beyond existence, all to the cheers of thousands. As soon as it started it was over, and Khemotra IV found herself in Bramesh’s realm. Around her spread the ever-golden fields and the black sands of time. Coexisting, overlapping, and rejecting each other. Through it all a river of blood and mercury flowed, and in the distance, at the source of the river, a palace stood against the horizon. The golden palace of Sharesh spanned the entire horizon, with spires and towers that morphed in an organic mass of golden flesh. Stone columns and crenelations intertwined with spines and ribs, lungs, and eyes. A parasite, a goddess, an abomination. As the goddess opened her eyes, Khemotra IV began reading from the grimoire. Words intertwined, pages morphed and the sounds she uttered were not human in origin, but the rigidity of reality soon collapsed, tearing the two into a dream constructed by the Grimoire of a mad necromancer. Yet as reality unfolded and the goddess was made undone, she tore the life from Khaumsheħemaht, killing all in the kingdom and trapping Khemotra in the void, where she was doomed to drift with only the fragments of broken dreams to accompany her. As well as the heart of the broken goddess. Khaumsheħemaht fell in the year 2110, and as the goddess’ realm collapsed blood rained across the world, and unending torrents of cursed, black sand buried the city of Takartum, erasing it from history.

### Dead Kingdom of Takartum

The dead kingdom of Takartum began 4591 years after the blessing of Kheos (1 AS), when Ashemtet Kheos Khemotra IV awoke under the golden pyramid of Takartum. She had been drifting in the void for a few centuries when the God of the Gates approached her. Curious about what mortal could slay a god, he merged the heart of the fallen goddess with Khemotra, in return for reading the grimoire. After tearing out a single page, he handed it back and brought her back to her body, where she spent the rest of the time unconscious, merging with the powers of the goddess. With her newfound powers she began raising the dead. Only those properly embalmed could be raised with their minds intact, as such two distinct castes were created. The workers and soldiers, raised from the skeletons of the thousands who died when Bramesh stole their souls, and the rulers, raised from those fortunate enough to have been immortalized in the catacombs of the golden pyramid.

Khemotra IV was not interested in ruling though, only wishing to dedicate her time to research the grimoires, and as such raised a council from the greatest rulers Khaumsheħemaht had ever seen, and they began the work of rebuilding the kingdom. Soon they found that a new people inhabited the lands. Nomadic tanokesh-riders, descendants of the few lucky enough to survive the annihilation of Khaumsheħemaht. Yet the kesaleans were easily cowed, as they believed the undead to be their gods, having worshiped the creators of the ruins for centuries.

#### Turn1

While Khemotra IV, recently named Khemkhomet, or godslayer, isolated under the pyramid with ancient tomes and scrolls as company, her council began to work. Their first order of business was to expand south, along the coast of the Sheħe bay, into what once was Shepsiris. While still alive, Shepsiris had one of the largest Natron deposits in the kingdom, and with it being key in the rituals necessary to raise more sapient undead, it was the first to be restored. Undead workers from the nearby necropolis of Ulos were raised and ordered to work the quarry.

#### Turn 2

Expanding further they soon reached Mush, which fields would feed the Tanokesh, and Photis, where the mercury mines were reopened much for the same reason as the quarries in Shepsiris.

#### Turn 3

But soon they realize they spread way too thin, and expansion is focused inwards. The first city to be dug out is Kars, the city of the great flame, home to many astronomers the queen thought could help her in her study. Second was Medetu, a port city close to Shepsiris, used to send Natron to the rest of the nation. Keniphu followed, a guard tower ever vigilant against the horrors prowling the dunes to the south. Phanun follows, raising dead to help clear the black sand from Takartum.

#### Turn 4

Expansion continues, and Aksurun, the largest city in western Mush is reclaimed, home to the tanokesh tamers. Kashamis is also reclaimed. As the historic capital of Tin, bronze production begins anew. As more and more lords of old rise from the dead, cohesion in the kingdom begins to falter. Especially as the Khemkhomet remains in isolation.

While the outward expansion continues, the council expands further on the internal infrastructure of the country as well. With the recent reclamation of multiple cities, transportation of goods becomes a problem. While reed boats and rafts transfer goods on the coast and up the streams and rivers of glacial melt water, the cities further inland remain isolated. As such, the cities of Akrunis and Shepe are dug from the sands of Takartum. The two cities were famous for their vast necropolises, to which multiple cities would transfer their dead, and as such, have become a vast labor resource. The undead are put to work preparing the ancient land routes, connecting the isolated cities to a larger network of trade as well as laying the groundwork for the excavation of two new cities: Emphes, the trade capital of Photis, as well as Kheħa, the city were the roads meet at the center of the old empire.

#### Turn 5

Unfortunately, the demand for tin is rising, and as such 7 cities are dug from the sands of Kashamis. Sasipos and Hesasut, the twin cities, are first. Founded during the fourth dynasty these cities were the source of most of the tin and subsequently bronze used during the era. The third city is Unis, and with it the necropolis of Kur, the ancient burial site a prime location to awaken a workforce sizable enough to kickstart tin production once more. Menket and Hesut followed. Home to many of the priests who ruled side by side with the fifteenth dynasty, those awakened from the sprawling catacombs and tombs will surely add to the kingdom’s administrative capabilities. Lastly are the cities of Meta and Saphu. Lying on the borders of the old kingdom of Sibna-Kashamis, the two cities serve both as natural fortifications, as well as points of interest for tin merchants traveling further inland to the mines.

#### Turn 6

With the amount of undead ever expanding, so must the kingdom. In order to placate the northern lords, the council orders an expansion into the former lands of Tanis and the western frontier of Mush. On the frontier the city of Debu is excavated. Once the main exporter of mounts, the city now becomes home to the few remaining Kesalean tribes, who thrive on the grassy plains in the area. On the outwash plains of Tanis, not many ruins remain, and so a new city is constructed. Hish-Tanis, named after the ancient capital itself, is placed overlooking the kingdom below. While a small city, it controls most of the coppermines of the kingdom, and it soon flourishes.

#### Turn 7

As the kingdom nears its former glory the time to expand has comes again. But this time the expansion is social, with the raising of multiple lords and ladies of the 22nd dynasty. Unfortunately, these plans must wait, as the production of mercury is too low to sustain so many rituals. As such, the mining cities of the region known as the Cinnabar belt are rebuilt. In Kashamis, Tu, Ketek, Nektara and Shehen-Atup soon stand proud once again, each ruled by a lord loyal to the 22nd dynasty. In Photis, Nepe, Khasu, Khaum and Pulas soon follow suit. Simultaneously as the old cinnabar mines are reestablished, expansion in the newly reacquired Tanis Kenekara soon follows, as two more cities are built on the provinces outwash plains: Setek, and Nambeset, two of the largest exporters of silver in the kingdom.

#### Turn 8

The expansion of the kingdom continues, this time in the border region to the west. Demanding further control over the fertile plains the council orders many of the old towns of the region to be excavated. With this expansion comes the revival of many old Mushite lords, not all of which are happy to be subjects of a Takartuman queen. First are the cities of Aphetu and Rosh. During the time of the Mush Kenekara’s furthest expansion, they were but outposts in the vast plains, yet now they are expanded. Peth and Akoshet are founded in the ruins of Necropolises, the workers needed for the rapid expansion. Finally, as most of the plains are previously uninhabited, four new cities are founded. Many of the Kesaleans settle here, finding work as farmers, or herding the Tanokesh. First is Kashek, named after the queen's mother. Second is Kheos, named after the first king of Mush. Lastly is Khemotra, named after the queen herself.

#### Turn 9

The illusion of unity has been broken. While the rightful claim of the Khemkhomet is hard to refute, the queen has not been seen for years as she is isolated in the catacombs under the thick walls of the Bur-Hehur, also known as the Golden pyramid. Reportedly she is studying the intricate writings of Menkeph-Ta, yet her absence has inevitably been felt by the kingdom, and her appointed council can no longer keep it within their grasp.

Having conquered the mercurial powers of necromancy with the help of Menkeph-Ta’s forbidden writing, Kushos Ashemtetdamkar I, 76th ruler in the Photician line of kings and founder of the fifteenth dynasty, quickly rises to power in the southern reaches of the kingdom. With a host of undead he lays claim to Photis Kenekara and Kashamis Kenekara. In order to keep peace within the kingdom and demonstrate his goodwill, he orders the reconstruction of the walls of Amat and the two spires. To the west, the red tower of Anem-Her juts out of the sandstone cliffs like a claw aiming to grasp its namesake’s adversary: the setting sun. To the east the blue-cursed stones of the mountains have been molded into a fortress by hands inhuman in power. Seset-At, it is called, and the tower almost blends into the sky. Between them the sandstone walls stretch, protecting the people of Khaumsheħemaht from the horrors that roam the dunes.

Following the fortification of the southern border, the council cannot sit idly by. While the gesture seems like a showing of good-will to most, the council take it as a challenge, and elect to reconstruct and improve on the northern fortifications to prove themselves better. The black walls of Nambeset, which once protected the kingdom from the north, are soon rebuilt. Furthermore, a new series of smaller walls, protecting the border of Mush are erected. While the walls aren’t continuous, it serves as a foundation for future defences. They also reconstruct the walls of Kheos, which once stood on the borders of the Mushite kingdom. The walls are ancient, predating even the earliest of dynastic times.

Not to be outdone, the Kenekara-Ka of Photis reconstructs the fortress of Nektekhen. A massive wall was built across the valley of Rurekesh, the main connection between Kashamis Kenekara and the mountains of Sibna Kenekara. To finalize their building spree, the council answers by excavating the two most famous walls in Khaumsheħemaht’s history. The black walls of Takartum, surrounding the city and protecting its interests, as well as the corridor of Shepsiris. Two parallel walls that protected the bronze trade of the usurper dynasty during the age of kings.

While the construction projects have emptied large parts of the Takartuman coffers, the Kenekara-Ka of Photis seems to view the council in a different light now. If this is an improvement or not remains to be seen.

Unlike the undead, the living reproduce fast, and five new cities have blossomed on the plains of Mush. Tenet, Ar-Mente and He, are reconstructions of settlements that used to be there. Strangely enough, the city's main exports are soils. Mainly ocres of different shades that are used in both pottery and as pigments for fabric and cloth. Khunu and Sharno on the other hand, are newly built, and as most of their neighboring cities, they focus on animal husbandry. In this case the strange animal known as the Hushe-Kit, a horned beast on short stubby legs that likes to shallowly burrow into the ground as well as the main producer of wool in the kingdom.

#### Turn 10

Strife befalls the kingdom of Takartum. While the gift of immortality has been given freely to many dynasties past, few will truly accept the rule of a Takartuman when they themselves once were kings. Factions take shape throughout the kingdom, despite the council's best efforts. As some begin recruiting the living to their cause, the queen takes action. Appearing from her seclusion in the golden pyramid for the first time in decades, Khemotra Khemkhomet reclaims her throne. It is time to truly flex her god stolen powers. From the greatest Necropolises within each province, magic power unmatched can be felt. The dried bones of the dead are primed, ready to be raised as forever loyal soldiers. While the queen would have liked to avoid bringing sword and chariot down onto her own people, she will do what she must.

#### Turn 11

After crushing the opposition, trade blooms inside the kingdom, and with trade comes resources, and places to store them. In an act of unity unlike anything seen at the time, large warehouses are built to accommodate large quantities of stored goods all across the nation. Takartum may be a shattered nation, but the pieces shall flourish.

#### Turn 12

As the kingdom threatens to fall apart at the seams once more, the council and their loyal subjects decide to further their power by establishing centers of government in each province. These halls will be home to those loyal to the queen and operate as an extension of the council and a refuge for when the queen's enemies begin to move. The queen herself sets out on an expedition into the cursed mountains of Sibna, avoided by both living and dead alike. Deep under the gate of Kheos III. With the help of Rossi I, raised from his tomb by the queen herself, they find what they are searching for. Menkeph-Ta’s 21st and last grimoire, Void, is a single scroll sealed in a black box of lead. To the untrained, the scroll is enough to kill at a glance, yet with enough time even death may die, and Khemotra has nothing but time. She has felt strange fluctuations in the magic of the world. Traces of Bramesh remain, and either she must kill it, or she must leave. For the heart yearns.

#### Turn 13

While transportation through Takartum mainly occurs over sea, not all provinces are on the coast. As such, the council has decreed that the old roads shall be reconstructed. When the empire was at the height of its power, all cities were connected by an intricate system of roads and paths, while the manpower to reconstruct it all is still lacking, at least the main cities can be connected again.

#### Final turn

For over six centuries the undead dynasties ruled the shores of the Sheħe bay. Yet all eras end. As Khemotra IV, last ruler of the twenty-second dynasty,  isolated herself in the twisted catacombs beneath the golden pyramid of Takartum with the mad writings of Menkeph-Ta, her kingdom crumbled around her. Her council, consisting of three rulers from the twentieth dynasty, let corruption thrive, while the mad king of the south let the ancient trade routes dwindle and die. Yet as all undeath in Takartum seemed doomed by their own greed, Khemotra emerged, bearing a ritual steeped in madness from the forbidden grimoire itself. Through a sacrifice of blood and mercury the golden pyramid was torn from this realm, and thrown towards the dark abyss of the dead gods, carrying the lords of the tombs with it. Now the land belongs to the Kesaleans - half-nomadic tanokesh riders from the lands beyond Mush. As their gods have abandoned them, they now live alone and scattered across the dunes. Yet perhaps they will come to understand the nature of their overlords with time, as the mysteries of Takartum slowly are unearthed.

## Geography

The empire of Khaumsheħemaht spanned around the bay of Sheħe, the amkashakadidum word for mercury. Most of the south is covered in dunes, and not much lives there. To the east, hills break into mountains and glaciers, and to the north vast plains with diverse fauna stretch. Khaumsheħemaht is diverse, even if it lies in the desert.

### Geology

Each of the historical Kenekara was famous for its own terrain and geology. While the entire region was arid, with little to no rainfall, vast quantities of water came from the glaciers above, feeding underwater rivers as well as some on the surface. And it was mainly these forces that shaped the terrain.

Mush was a large and flat area, vast plains with rolling hills to the north. Sparse limestone outcrops dotted the landscape, providing nutrients and raising the CEC in the soil. The soil was mainly different types of ochres and clay, and crops flourished.

Tanis was a large outwash plain located just below the mountains. Glacial melt water brought with them large quantities of debris and rocks from the mountains above, and all of it had to go somewhere. The outwash plain was created where multiple glaciers ended, and shaped by the frequent jökulhlaups that terrorized the people living there.

Takartum was located on a large floodplain. glacial meltwater from Tanis and Sibna converge in Takartum, creating the only year-long river in the empire. As the wet season came the river would flood, bringing nutrients to the farms lining the river.

Sibna lied deep in the mountains, almost at the glaciers. The mountains are made from sedimentary sandstone, dolomite and limestone, with intrusive rocks painting blue streaks across the peaks. Erosion has carved deep ravines through the peaks, where most of Sibnan civilization can be found.

Kashamis is located in the foothills leading up to Sibna. The hills found in the area are of much the same consistency as Sibna, although large quantities of cinnabar deposits can be found in the intrusive rocks. A large such intrusive belt can be found in the eastern parts of Kashamis, where most of the cinnabar mines were located.

Photis was located in a sea of dunes. Traveling south, dry barren soil turns into sand. Not much can be said about it, other than that it made for a perfect defensive barrier, even i life there was harsh.

### Flora and Fauna

The flora and fauna of Khaumsheħemaht is fairly lacking. Most animals and plants have been brought in for agricultural purposes. Grain is the most common plant, as most places where anything can be grown have been utilized for this purpose. In the mountains, multiple shrubs and lichen can be found. The most diverse area is Mush, where flowers and grass cover the rolling hills. The deserts are inhabited by snakes, scorpions, beetles and fennec foxes. Eagles and vultures inhabit the cliffs and crags, and in Sibna, one species of parrot and two of owls can be found. In Photis, giant snakes and worms prowl the dunes.

Four types of animals are quite common to see as domesticated. Cats, naturally, are the most common. The tanokesh is used as a mount as well as to drive chariots. It can be seen as a horse substitute, although it is a species of large antelope. The geten is almost as common. The geten is a large, armored, beast of burden. It is commonly seen in farms, where its bulk is used to drive plows deep into the soil. The third most common can be found in Mush. The Hushe-Kit is a horned beast on short stubby legs that likes to shallowly burrow into the ground. It is the main producer of wool in the kingdom