Masat

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Masat is a predominantly human nation located in the northeastern sub-tropical forests of the Western Continent. No doubt the most noteworthy thing about the Masati is that they’re perpetually silent.  As a consequence of an ancient transgression against the Gods, all born within the land of Masat are cursed to be mute.  Lacking the ability to speak, the Masati wear a percussive instrument on their forearms known as the Bahn to communicate in their non-verbal knock-based language.

The closest neighbors of the Masati are the lands of Othenia to the north and Menaskor to the southeast. Masat is an Elector within the United Nations of Oestia.

Basic Statistics

Other Statistics

## History

To see Masat's history, please visit the Masati History page.

## Geography

The current territory of Masat primarily consists of the tropical forest lands surrounding Lake Vente, the source of the Rasi River. It is located in the North East Region of the Western Continent. Due to the God-Curse, the wildlife of Masat are distinctly silent and the Masati wildlands are among the quietest places in the world. A majority of Masati settlements exist in the forested lowlands, hidden away from the eyes of the Horrible Gods.

Masat is notable among the western nations for its large number of distinct urban centers. It currently has 12 cities.

### Fauna

\*Note all domesticated fauna born within the land of Masat also have the God-Curse and thus have silver teeth. Birds have silver beaks.

/;:: :; :; ;;;-/ (NEESH - Fish) - A species of colorful red minnow which live in the Rasi River, most notable for a pair of vestigial legs. They are too small to be of any nutritional value, but they make effective bait for larger fish.

/;;: :; :; :;; :./;;: :: :: ::;/ (DEETI DUUR - Babbbling Frog) - This species was created by the Horrible Gods after a purposeful and direct observation of the Great Green Above by a Masati villager. They live in the trees and speak gibberish with the stolen voices of the Masati. On occasion they have been known to repeat phrases spoken a millennia ago by the ancients which has resulted in captured specimens being studied extensively. As infernal as these creatures are, they have nonetheless offered great insights into the lost history of the Masati.

### Flora

/;:: :: :::/:;;- :;; ::/ (MUY ThTU - Blue Reed) - A semi-domesticated species of river reeds with a distinct blue pigment. Crushed for use in dyes and paints.

## Languages

Due to their curse from gods, all who live within the land of Masat are born permanently mute.  The Bahn language stems from this limitation and is a non-verbal language utilizing taps, knocks, clicks, and extensive body language.  The language derives its name from the Bahn, a traditional wooden or metal plate worn on the forearm.  When struck, the Bahn produces the necessary tones used for communication.  The written script is based on the three tones which can resonate from a Bahn ( : ; and - ).  All letters in the alphabet are formed from a combination of these tones.  Vowels are composed of 2 tones and consonants are 3-4 tones. A majority of words are between 3-5 letters, with very few exceptions, the first letter of every word is always a consonant.  Because each word contains spaces, a "/" is used to separate complete words.  There is no punctuation in the written script.

**Alphabet**

**Common Words**

## Politics

#### Tribal Structure

The Masati abandoned the idea of a monarchy after the Last King caused their disgrace.  As a tribal system, the current leadership is a Council of Elders, the leader of the Council is determined by a vote from its members. It often takes a heroic deed to become Grand Elder.  Elders are prominent figures from society and can join the Council from a variety of means whether it be bribery, public support, or combat.  The government of the Masati is in its nascent stages.  A vote to decide a new Grand Elder can be called at any time by another Elder.

As a tribal society, the Masati lack a distinct legal code, penal system, or a professional military.  They are a fairly harmonious people with a small population, therefore crime is rare.  Particularly troubling individuals are exiled.  Tribe members which pose a serious perpetual threat are executed.  Duels to the death are permitted by tribal law.  Foreign trespassers are usually banished, but will be killed if they return.  The Masati generally have a two strike system of punishment, both in legal and in social situations.  First transgressions for most crimes are forgiven easily, but after the second time, punishment is extensive. Social punishments are often more harsh than legal ones. Reputation is highly important in Masati society, and to have one's reputation disrupted is considered worse than detainment.

#### Emergence of Urban Tradition

The country of Masat is highly urbanized but relatively underdeveloped politically. As a result, Masati cities tend to rely on collective mob rule and local councils to enact policy. The Masati disdain for the concept of nobility has limited the formation of an noteworthy dynasties or distinct ruling class. The nation could best be described as a proto direct democracy concentrated around urban centers. The central government, the Council of Elders, primarily resides in Veruv, but maintains a wandering court to ensure national cohesion. Growing communication with foreign nations has further reinforced the need for a stronger central government.

**Current Structure**

### Notable Figures

* /;;; ;: :; ;:: ;:/0/:;; :: :: ;;:/ Saena the Younger (b.204E - d.275E) - Largely remembered as the great unifier of the Masati. In life he was the greatest drummer of his time and employed his influence among the tribes to unify them under a central council. His government would not last after his death as Masat became a decentralized nation of competing cities.
* /:::- ;: ;:: ;:/ Vana (b.311E - d.401E) - An elderly woman who, along with three other drummers, ventured across the Western Continent to attend the first West Fest hosted by Kjeropan. At the conclusion of the festival she was too weak to attempt a journey home and spent the rest of her days managing a music academy in the city of Sunsleep. Vana was venerated in Kjeropan's pantheon of heroes upon her death.
* General Tha (b.959E) - A failed merchant for most of his life, Tha of Shai

*Portraits created via Crusader Kings 3 Character Editor.*

## Diplomacy

The nation of Masat is a prominent part of the Western Continent's interconnected cultural sphere, and trades with numerous other nations. Despite this, there is a very low population of foreigners living in Masat due to the difficulties of day-to-day communication. Much of Masat's communications must be delivered as written letters since foreigners have trouble comprehending the rapidness of the Bahn. During the Serene Period, Masat fell under international scrutiny when it invaded Blackcliff. It is currently the wealthiest nation in UNO and the tenth most populous country in the world.

### United Nations of Oestia

Masat is an Elector within the United Nations of Oestia therefore it shares a research and defensive pact with:

* Menaskor
* Alendora
* Hoedr
* Kapamir
* HBMJM
* Hyec Fen
* The Touched
* Teltuorus Saurus

### Other

* Mimbibl - Established contact, conquered by the Sikerananists, Masat resurrected the lost Mimbibl
* Kjeropan - Established contact, Masat attended the West Fest hosted by Kjeropan.
* Medeina - Signatory of the Treaty of Silver Harbor, Masat and Medeina work together to secure the continued independence of Blackcliff.
* Gwanoi - The Prophet Sikerana, one of the most influential figures in Masati histroy, was of Gwanoi origin.
* Calai of Three Lakes - Close associate of UNO, responsible for numerous educational and administrative reforms in Masat.

## Religion and culture

### Moral values and principles

All Masati wear a Bahn on their forearm to communicate in their knock-based language.  The appearance of a Bahn varies, but it is almost always disk shaped and strapped to the forearm.  The lower classes wear Bahns made of bone or wood.  The wealthier classes fashion Bahns from iron, silver, or gold plates.  The material difference in tonality can lead to different “accents” between the upper and lower class.  The Masati are the definition of a high-context culture, communication is indirect, silence is nuanced, and much time is spent contemplating information during conversation.  The Bahn language has over a dozen words for silence.

As a people, Masati are usually very open and trusting of one another due to the common solidarity of the God-Curse.  They are also very physically affectionate, as they lack the extensive verbal vocabulary to express love.  It is not unusual for mere acquaintances to greet each other with a deep embrace.  A “Bahn Bump” is considered an expression of friendship.  Emotions are displayed on faces to an often exaggerated degree.  It is considered strange to be stoic, introverted, or withdrawn.  Gossip and wasted language are the capital sins of Masati society.

The fashion of the Masati is relatively simple, they tend to favor blue and white fabrics in order to stand out against amongst the forests. Silver teeth collected from animals is the most common form of jewelry.  Fashion is roughly the same for men and women.  Commoners typically wear a knee length wrapping belted at the waist and little else.  The most distinct item of Masati fashion is the Bahn.  Men in positions of power wear turbans. Because of the curse, the Masati have naturally silver teeth but otherwise are completely normal humans.  Men are genetically predisposed towards thick facial hair.  Tattoos in Bahn script telling one’s life story are also common.

The Masati are not particularly warlike, though most learn basic fighting at a young age due to the many threats, both real and unreal, present in the forests.  Spearfighting is the most common experience people have with combat.  Slavery is not practiced, however Eunuchs are utilized in some state capacities, captives of war are either muted and inducted into society or killed.  The spiritual practices of the Masati have fostered an underlying paranoia of impending retribution to the gods.  The people of Masat attempt to utilize their limited leisure time to the fullest, especially during festivals.  The culture of Masat highly values horsemanship and hunting.

Drummers are counted among the most famous members of society and its pursuit is considered a worthy calling.  It was drummers who reunited the Masati people.

Masati have difficulty communicating with foreigners and are generally put off by their presence, especially those who speak excessively.  Foreigners have been known to be banished for shouting within Masati lands.  Outside the country, Masati are considered equally strange and unnerving by the speaking peoples.  Trade delegations sent to other nations are often sent back as soon as business is concluded.  Due to the communication difficulties of administering speaking peoples, the Masati lack imperial ambitions and instead prefer to use the army solely for defensive means.  Soldiers are respected but not honored.  Many of the more devout members of the Masati Faith believe that it is their people’s duty to one day save all mortals by killing the gods.  Most believe there is little that can be done to kill the gods and prefer other pursuits, such as promoting trade or focusing on art.  With the emergence of a unified culture, the younger members of Masati culture are experiencing a wave of wanderlust.

In terms of gender, the Masati are a feminine leaning society.  People value success more so on their relationships and growth they can offer to the community over personal wealth or achievement.  Leadership among the Masati constantly flips between women and men.  It is believed that men largely bear the blame for the downfall of the ancients due to the ambitions of the Last King. The elderly hold a high degree of respect in Masati society, and a majority of the Council's Elders are over the age of 50, Saena is a notable exception.

Madness is held in high esteem and those who hear voices are encouraged to be friendly with them since the voices may be ancestral spirits.

### Traditions

* Bahns are removed during formal meal times and are supplemented with a wooden stick used to bash against the table.  A table setting consists of a plate, spoon, knife, and a bash.
* Newborns are not named.  A Masati chooses their own name when they are given their first Bahn at the age of 4.  Names are typically a short rhythmic melody and many have immature childish meanings.  In smaller towns, the ceremony is conducted with all eligible children at once.
* Masati generally have a very low alcohol tolerance.  As such beverages have lower percentages of alcohol by volume. Alcohol is generally only consumed during special occasions.
* Rich households are encouraged to leave out food for wandering spirits.  It is a poorly kept secret that the impoverished collect the food.
* Figs are a large part of the Masati diet.  Most Masati food consists of saucy meats, thick curries, jams, and flatbreads.  Broccoli is considered a delicacy.  Breads are cooked in a pit similar to the *Armenian Tonir* used in the real world.
* Tea and coffee have not been cultivated yet.  But the Masati would prefer coffee if they had it.
* Meals are considered the most formal venue for meeting new people.
* Swimming is an activity only reserved for special occasions because of the relative scarcity of water.

### Religion

**Creation Myth** - This is interchangeable with Masati history. Ancient kings built a tower all the way up to the Great Green Above, the ancestors witness cosmic horrors created by the Gods and are cursed to be muted. They are banished back to the world and the tower collapses, creating the world's mountains. The contemporary Masati culture emerged approximately 1000 years later.

**Afterlife** -  It is believed by Masati that they are barred from returning to the heavens due to their ancestors' transgressions, upon death they must forever wander the world as a spirit.  To avoid the watchful eyes of the gods, spirits are always on the move.  Many festivals involve celebrating the transient presence of these ancient spirits.  Gathering places will typically be accessible all night to accommodate for the spirits.  It is not uncommon for households to create hidden spaces sequestered away from the sky, so that the spirits may rest before traveling onward, away from the gods.

**Doctrines -** The religion of the Masati is not organized, nor are there any overarching traditions.  A majority of Masati religious practices manifest as local festivals to celebrate and protect the wandering dead from the Gods.  All forms of deity are hated by the Masati.  Seers and the mentally ill occupy important religious roles due to their ability to track and interpret for the spirits.  All mountains are considered cursed since they are supposedly formed from ruins of the Moon Pedestal. It is prophesized that one day the Masati will return to the Great Green Above and steal their voices back from the gods.

### Art

Due to the usage of the Bahn language, Masati are natural born drummers.  Percussion instruments can be heard booming in the streets of any settlement.  Drums are used to facilitate rhythm in nearly every industry whether it be mining, logging, sailing, or war.  Drumming is one of the highest callings among the Masati.  Each town has naturally formulated its own rhythm and the Masati tend to move in the pattern of their childhood rhythms.  Dancing in Masat is coarse and powerful, Spirit Festivals are known to have drumming circles that essentially amount to mosh pits.  The current leader of Masat, /;;; ;: :; ;:: ;:/0/:;; :: :: ;;:/ (Saena the Younger), was once a famous drummer before his induction into the Council.

Since their punishment by the gods, the Masati have an innate revulsion to heights and tall buildings.  It is considered bad luck to live in a building greater than 3 stories, as such Masati settlements tend to be sprawling clusters of single story homes built in the plains.  Most buildings contain little nooks and crawl spaces designed to hide the wandering spirits of the dead from the malevolent eyes of the gods.  Buildings are built partially underground with adobe-like materials.  Skylights are unheard of. Streets are often narrow and covered by awnings so that the people may remain hidden from the Gods.

Masati favor blue pigments as a natural contrast to the plains, blue is considered the color of the human soul since it is a flowing entity like water.  Towns will use blue ribbons to decorate for Spirit Festivals.  The spirit nooks of buildings are also marked with blue paint.  The blue dishware of the Masati are among their greatest wares.

As a people, the Masati lack a distinguished painting tradition, but the recent emergence of the written Bahn script has led to a prototype form of music notation and the script is often used as a form of word art.  Because of the impossibility of an oral tradition, most of the ancient stories have been lost to time.  Only the fundamentals of Masati history have been preserved.  It is generally taught to children that they should fear the mountains since it is where the ancestors fell from the heavens.

Puppets are the primary form of theatre, but shadow puppetry is exclusively used for Spirit Festivals.  The Masati also practice a form of comedy akin to real world mimes.

Ever wary of the return of the Gods, the Masati watch the heavens frequently for any sign of unnatural movement.  It is considered bad luck to look at the Great Green Above.

## META Rituals / Expeditions

### Week of 17/1/22

"It was by decree of the Elders that none are to observe the Great Green Above while it hangs in the night sky, this is because the emerald gas giant remains within the domain of the Horrible Gods.  When the ancestors of the Masati first climbed to the heavens a thousand years ago, their voices were stolen by the horrors that awaited them there. As punishment for their transgressions, all of the interlopers' descendants were cursed to remain mute.  Even now it is considered sacrilegious to closely observe the Great Green Above, lest the ancient horrors of the divine appear and further punish the Masati. The presence of the Great Green Above sits like a weight on the back of your head, and the ghostly green glow of the night makes your hair stand on end, like the Horrible Gods are still watching your people and their every move.  It's the dead of night, your village is quiet and there is no one around.  You need to know.  No one will notice. You decide to look up at the heavens, just for a moment..."

*"As you look up, a single frog falls onto your face. Seeing this as a sign from the horrible gods, you go to warn the others. The people of Masat take offensive to this action, being sent creatures with a voice. Masat is soon overrun with a frog infestation..." - KissedFrogCrab*

"These frog creatures, infernal though they may be, do occasionally repeat the lost words spoken a millennia ago with the voices of uncursed ancestors. Further observation of the barking frogs has allowed for great insights into the lost histories of our people. They also taste wonderful in kebabs. The frog species has been named /;;: :; :; :;; :./;;: :: :: ::;/ (Babbling Frog)."

**LORE EFFECT - The /;;: :; :; :;; :./;;: :: :: ::;/ species now lives within the land of Masat.**