JTRC - Character Creation
Apr 30, 2023 1:43:40 GMT -8
Post by Daos on Apr 30, 2023 1:43:40 GMT -8
Players may make their characters native to the Radiant Citadel or one of its 15 satellite worlds. This is strongly encouraged. However, players may also have their characters be from another published setting (Forgotten Realms, Dragonlance, Greyhawk, etc.) or homebrewed setting (Lost Souls, Chronicles of Overmorrow, etc.). But it's worth pointing out that your character won't really have any ties to this setting. But if you want a quick and easy way to make a character without pouring through the massive amount of lore, you have that option, though.
If your character is from the Radiant Citadel or one of its satellite worlds, here is some character building questions and information to get you started.
The primary language is Zabaani. Although all citizens also speak Common, the lack of visitors to Akharin Sangar means they have few chances to practice it. Celestial is also commonly spoken among Atash's followers and theologians.
1.) How have you been affected by the angel Atash's rule? What changes have you or your loved ones made in response to Atash's edicts? How has this theocracy benefited or harmed you?
2.) Do you worship the Sunweaver? If not, do you make that known? How has this affected your life?
3.) Do you behave differently in private than in public? Whom do you trust? Are you part of resistance efforts, or do you actively oppose them?
Sangarian names are drawn from lineage, religion, and literature and are often suffused with symbolism and history. The following names are common in the region:
Masculine: Amir, Aghil, Ansari, Bahram, Erfan, Eskandar, Farshid, Fereydoun, Hassan, Hyare, Jamshid, Mithra, Ramin, Rashnu, Rostram, Verethragna, Zahir
Feminine: Ameretat, Ayda, Darya, Fereshteh, Forough, Jamileh, Leila, Mariam, Nazanin, Niusha, Pari, Shabnam, Shohreh, Soheila, Tahmina, Yasamin
Neutral: Azar, Delshad, Ehsan, Golzar, Keyahnosh, Khurshid, Mandana, Mehr, Niaz, Omid, Paryeen, Roshani, Safa, Shadan, Shams, Sorosh
Surnames: Abbasi, Alinejad, Araki, Attar, Avesta, Azimi, Beg, Bukhari, Charmchi, Dabiri, Darzi, Davani, Esfandiari, Farrokhzad, Farzaneth, Haji, Hakimi, Hashemi, Hooshang, Ghamsari, Ghassemi, Jamshidi, Kabiri, Kazemi, Khoroushi, Khshaeta, Kordfahimi, Kordmihani, Latifi, Mandani, Mobasseri, Nasri, Pasdar, Pahlavi, Rasul, Rostami, Rouhani, Ruzi, Sasani, Sattari, Setar, Shirazi, Shokri, Turan, Turani, Zadeh
Atagua
Ataguans are predominantly humans with tan to dark-brown complexions, along with smaller numbers of dark-skinned forest gnomes and tieflings, the latter of whom typically bear three horns. Nomadic clans of thri-keen with iridescent carapaces also wander the Llanos; they're rarely encountered in towns and cities.
Quirapu is the language of Atagua, a melded derisive of the original language of the Flood People who first settled these lands and the colonizers who came with them. All folk of Atagua also speak Common.
1.) Have you traveled far in Atagua? Are you familiar with the Grassroads? Do you have contacts among thri-keen traders?
2.) Are your dreams remarkable? Have you had visions of serpentine dream spirits or strange flowers? Do you have nightmares of terrible insects? Do you not dream at all?
3.) Have you interacted with the Green Doctors? Did they heal you, or a dear friend or family member? Have you learned about traditional magic from them?
Some Ataguan names honor the ancestral heroes of the Flood People, while others are derived by mixing those names with ones from the colonial past. In addition to given names, insightful nicknames from a person's childhood often linger into adulthood. The following are examples of such names:
Masculine: Anandkumar, Chyll, Diwa, Estwaldo, Fransico, Jagieet, Jecson, Jelvin, Jestoni, Jupiter, Kashif, Midhu, Nihal, Oru, Payaro, Ricardo, Romulo, Ryano, Sinag, Sunpreet
Feminine: Adirah, Aisa, Charina, Cruz, Dharla, Dilah, Ellithia, Inika, Jetny, Lunabeth, Naomae, Nayitha, Nitia, Philomena, Shamiya, Sofea, Tibísay, Trixia, Yamaira, Zubileth
Neutral: Ara, Riaguey, Tamí, Zamiri
Nicknames: Agave, Arrow, Barracuda, Capybara, Croc, Cutter, Gentle Moth, Lily, Little Toucan, Orchid, Needle, Palm, Quipper, Tango, Tempest, Wasp
Surnames: Apte, Badami, Blanco, Chandra, Chaudhari, Che, Dacua, Esguerra, Fernandez, Fontanilla, Galvez, Ganesh, Hidalgo, Jain, Khan, King, Lucero, Mani, Mateo, Nofeunte, Nunez, Padmanabhan, Periro, Perez, Ramirez, Raja, Secuentes, Sethi, Silonga, Táreru, Teuku, Tizon, Varela, Wan, Zapata, Záratas
Dayawlongon
Most Dayawlongos are human, with dark hair and brown skin. Eyes of yellow, green, or brown are most common. Dragonborn and tieflings are also indigenous to the archipelago; many Dayawlongo dragonborn have iridescent scales and serpentine features, and many tieflings have iridescent feathers.
Most folk in Dayawlongon speak Common and Snakesong, a dialect of Draconic that tales say was taught to the locals by bakunawa.
1.) What stories can you tell about yourself? Has a ninuno ever spoken to you? Is a particular song, poem or tale the binukots tell your favorite? What stories do you want others to tell about you after your death?
2.) What do you think of bakunawa? Does a bakunawa feature in your family's history? Do you believe bakunawa are creatures to be revered or monsters?
3.) Are you trained as a binukot? Do you collect the stories of your people? Do you want to broaden your peoples' knowledge by collecting stories from distant lands and sharing them at home?
Traditionally, Dayawlongos have a personal name followed by a clan name. Personal names are varied and often reflect a characteristic that a ninuno connected to an individual or their family found desirable. However, some personal names are relics of colonization and have foreign origins. The following names are common in Dayawlongo:
Masculine: Akmad, Amado, Bayani, Buana, Dakila, Estanislao, Gio, Joaquin, Justino, Isagani, Kidlat, Leocadio, Mirikit, Patricio, Setiawan, Sofronio
Feminine: Arlenia, Antamenia, Asterio, Cahaya, Corazon, Dionisia, Divina, Flordeliza, Genoveva, Laarni, Latifah, Mayumi, Modesta, Ratna, Sinta, Viminda
Neutral: Alon, Ananda, Bulan, Cahaya, Cruz, Dailsay, Dwi, Eka, Kusuma, Lucero, Melchor, Nurul, Purnama, Rizgi, Segara, Tirta
Clan: Andalao, Aquino, Bahaghari, Balisacan, Banaag, Banta, Belarmino, Cabangon, Campos, Caringal, Catindig, Dáyao, Dimansalang, Dimapilis, Dimaunahan, Fabion, Fontanilla, Icbán, Ílao, Labistida, Lansangan, Legaspi, Linátoc, Laxamana, Macalálad, Macaraeg, Macasaét, Madarang, Manansala, Magtibay, Malinao, Manahan, Manquiat, Maralit, Matira, Olanasang, Panganiban, Panopio, Posadas, Punzalán, Recio, Roldán, Sangalang, Sulit, Tibayan, Umali, Untalan
Djaynai
Djaynai's folk are mostly human and have tightly curled hair, which is worn in a variety of natural and ornate styles. Their lustrous skin tones range from warm ebony and mahogany to the coppery glow of the setting sun. Gnomes, dragonborn, and other Humanoid folk are common and accepted in Djaynai.
The people of Djaynai speak Djaynaian, Common, and occasionally Aquan.
1.) How do you feel about the Will of the Insurgent Tides? Do you support the quest to recover the lore of the Blackmist Way and the Blackthrone Arts, or are they relics of an unrecoverable past?
2.) Do you or anyone in your family have a connection to the Night Revelers? Do you embrace that faction's call to anarchy, or do you seek to undermine that call before it spreads further?
3.) Whether you come from Djaynai or Janya, how much do you know of the other realm? Do you consider yourself a person of two worlds? Or do you yearn for a greater understanding of your kin on the other side of the water's surface?
Djaynaians and Janyans use only single names publicly, reserving family names for close loved ones. In both realms, those family names combine Djaynaian words focused on nature, such as Pineshadow or Misthare. The following are common names:
Masculine: Abadi, Adesola, Alphiadou, Bacar, Barisua, Chidera, D'arael, Damisi, Darweshi, Edikan, Gowon, Ikemba, Jachike, Kenechi, Mayn, Yambo
Feminine: Chainay, Ekaete, Fantou, Imané, Kaoni, Kadidia, Khonjit, Lashall, Ominira, Otiko, Rokhava, Sángo, Tarimbele, Udonne, Wura, Yinah
Neutral: Adeyinka, Akkia, Chinaka, Dahama, Dekontee, Ebi, Evlyn, Funebi, Ikuno, Jayvyn, Kellar, Kioné, Lakarai, Lerabari, Maltiti, Wenikado
Family: Ashfield, Autumnblaze, Bearclaw, Bluebark, Bluemoss, Bluewood, Cherrysheen, Cloudkill, Cloverglade, Coldsun, Dryhog, Eaglemist, Earthpony, Fairlily, Fawndash, Floodrat, Fogblossom, Foxwood, Fumefir, Graycloud, Gulloak, Hushvapor, Ivyseep, Lambflood, Lilywarbler, Markplum, Mintbud, Misthare, Moorbloom, Owlbloom, Pallfir, Peakmarten, Pearwither, Petalhope, Pineshadow, Olivehound, Rainsow, Redbird, Redox, Reedspray, Rosecat, Rubyholt, Stemgrass, Stillbreeze, Twigbottom, Umbergloam, Wetbush, Youngsalvia
Godsbreath
The people of Godsbreath have skin tones ranging from the medium brown of copper to the near black of ebony, and most have tightly coiled dark-brown hair. Nonhumans and humans of other lands are rarely seen here; most who do live here dwell in Promise.
The people of Godsbreath speak their own language, known as Godstongue, as well as Common.
1.) Who in your family was memorialized in the Awakening Song? Why do you love or hate that your family is connected to this regional memory? Is the song true? Do you think you will be memorialized in the song?
2.) Have you spent a harvest season in the monster-filled Rattle? How did you respond to the threats of that region? Have you come close to losing anyone you cared about there?
3.) Do you feel close to the gods of the Covenant? Why do you feel like you have this connection? How do you honor or otherwise interact with these deities?
Most folk in Godsbreath go by a single name--often a nickname picked up in their youth instead of their given name--preceded by an honorific reflecting their age, profession, or standing in the community. Those too young to have an honorific may be addressed without one, though it's often wise for strangers to use a courtesy honorific--Miss, Mister, Cousin--as a sign of respect. The following are examples of common names in Godsbreath:
Masculine: Abram, Affee, Cato, David, Ellis, Hagar, Jimi, Kumber, Mingo, Mobe, Primus, Saffran, Scipio, Sogo, Titus, Toney
Feminine: Aba, Amarintha, Bilah, Caty, Clarinda, Diya, Elsey, Emilene, Essie, Hetty, Juno, Moll, Rhina, Selina, Sharli, Sukie
Neutral: Conscience, Crestridge, Daisybloom, Deland, Day, Fortune, Holston, June, Litha, Madel, Plenty, Robin, Sary, Silver, Starri, Temwa, Tremaine, Winter
Surnames: Aleck, Baker, Bella, Bristol, Carpenter, Caution, Corona, Cuffee, Doll, Dorcas, Driver, Ell, Godskith, Grayshore, Hap, Hilltop, Hush, Joy, Junior, Kell, Long, Longkin, Lushwood, Max, Maybank, Oaknut, Patience, Pulaski, Rider, Riveridge, Robins, Rose, Sand, Senior, Shadrach, Sill, Serenity, Smart, Stepney, Southway, Stone, Westwind, Willow, Wright
San Citlán
The inhabitants of San Citlán typically have skin of light to medium brown, black hair, and dark eyes. Humans and dwarves are the most common folk in the city. A small number of intelligent Undead known as olvidados also reside here and are fully accepted as citizens.
The language of San Citlán is Citlanés, which is related to Tletlahtolli (the language of Tletepec) and the language of previous colonizers. Most people also speak Common.
1.) Where do you stand in society? San Citlán's economic inequality shapes the lives of its people. Are you one of the privileged or one of the destitute? If you're privileged, do you have a vote? if destitute, do you live in or outside the city?
2.) Whom do you honor with your ofrenda? Most in San Citlán eagerly look forward to the Night of the Remembered so they can commune with their loved ones. Do you? What does your ofrenda look like, and who is it for?
3.) Does tradition color how you adventure? Are you familiar with the ways of an adventuring caporal or lifestyles that give you a close connection to your steed and the open road? Do you have experience as a larger-than-life luchador wrestler--maybe even wearing a signature mask?
Those native to San Citlán often have up to three names: a given name and two family surnames, inherited from their parents. The following are common names in San Citlán:
Masculine: Alejo, Cuauhtémoc, Damián, Eladio, Fortino, Francisco, Itzcoatl, Leonel, Mateo, Mauricio, Ocelotl, Pedro, Tadeo, Tenoch, Ueman, Zolin
Feminine: Aitana, Ameyalli, Citlali, Estela, Guadalupe, Juana, Malinalli, Maria, Natalia, Quintina, Sofía, Valentina, Valeria, Xóchitl, Yamileth, Zeltzin
Neutral: Ávila, Azul, Belén, Centli, Cipactli, Cruz, Elia, Izel, Lani, Odalis, Patrocino, Paz, Quetzal, Tonalli, Yolotl, Yunuen
Surnames: Adelia, Amador, Apanco, Aritza, Armando, Asis, Caloch, Cano, Carrasco, Casal, Crespo, Cuevas, Espionsa, Escárcega, Ferro, Figueroa, Fontana, Garrido, Gil, Herrera, Ibánez, Infante, Iníguez, Jiménez, León, Losa, Luna, Machado, Marino, Mingo, Moreno, Navarro, Nieves, Ochoa, Olguín, Parades, Paz, Reyes, Robles, Quintana, Salázar, Salsa, Simón, Suero, Tapia, Varela, Ventura, Xicoténcatl
Sensa Empire
Most residents of the region are dark-skinned humans with brown eyes and tightly coiled dark hair. These features are shared by dwarves and elves in the region.
Sensan is the native language of the region, and most imperial citizens also speak Common.
1.) What city-state do you originate from? Are you staunchly loyal to your home city? If you grew up in the hostile outlands, how did your family survive?
2.) Have you worked with the earth or its riches? Mining and goldsmithing are respected work in the Sensa Empire--are you experienced with such work? Do you bear scars from such labor? If you avoided it, why?
3.) How does gold impact your life? The Sensa Empire's prosperity comes at a price--have you experienced these costs personally? Have you ever been targeted by bandits? Are there any resources you want or need that can't be bought?
Sensan names are typically drawn from significant locations connected to the parents' relationship, the pregnancy, or the child's birth:
Masculine: Abdu, Adnan, Botros, Dakhil, Ehan, Fahim, Faraj, Ghalib, Haji, Hasim, Jamal, Kasim, Mahdi, Makram, Omar, Zaid
Feminine: Aisha, Ayaan, Daniya, Dina, Fadila, Fiza, Hania, Imani, Jamila, Kinza, Laila, Lamya, Sabah, Shakila, Tania, Zakia
Neutral: Akua, Atiya, Azmi, Ijal, Ikram, Jami, Karam, Maheen, Maram, Neeya, Rafi, Razan, Safa, Tabassum, Ula, Zuha
Surnames: Abadi, Abbas, Abdullah, Abiodun, Ajam, Alfarsi, Ali, Al-Niba, Amjed, Bakir, Bilal, Bousaid, Boutros, Buhle, Chamoun, Chike, Darwish, Emem, Faheem, Farrugia, Ganim, Hafeez, Hashem, Ibrahim, Iqbal, Jalal, Kader, Karim, Khalid, Murad, Mutfi, Naaji, Nadwi, Najjar, Nejem, Nnadi, Okiro, Rashid, Samara, Saqqaf, Shammas, Tawfiq, Touma, Yusuf, Zaman, Zivai
Shankhabhumi
Urban society is a mix of humans, halflings, elves, and dwarves. Skin tones in Shankhabhumi span shades of brown, and people have uniformly dark hair that ranges from wavy to very curly.
The folk of Shankhabhumi speak Common and Shankhi, the regional tongue.
1.) Which city do you come from? Were you raised in cosmopolitan Sagorpur, traditionalist Ashwad-hatu, or hardy Tippurika.
2.) Are you looking forward to the next Shankha Trials? Are the trials the best part of living in Shankhabhumi for you, or just a spectacular nuisance every twelve years? Have you participated in past trials?
3.) Have you ever encountered a riverine? Did the unpredictable spirit harm you or bless you in some way? Have you ever seen the riverine since then? Do you now have a deeper connection to it?
The given names of people in Shankhabhumi tend to be many syllables long and indicate the bearer's gender. Most folk use a last name based on their city of birth--Sagorpuri, Ashwadhatuj or Tippuri. The only exceptions are the descendants of Manivarsha (many of whom still use "Manivarshi") and majhis who take the last name "Bhatiyali." The following are common names in Shankhabhumi:
Masculine: Abhijit, Anuttom, Chakrayudh, Binayapal, Deep, Gopinatha, Indrajit, Jayanta, Manisha, Mukesha, Narayana, Prasenjit, Rabindra, Ramprasad, Rudrashekhar, Udayaditya
Feminine: Amrapali, Aparajita, Bhanumati, Farjana, Halima, Indrani, Jamdani, Kamakshi, Nazia, Nishamati, Phullora, Priyanka, Purnima, Sujata, Tahmina, Vaishnavi
Neutral: Ananta, Ashvini, Bala, Chandrana, Jyoti, Kali, Kamala, Kanta, Kheya, Kobi, Palki, Shashi, Sushila, Ulka, Uttara, Vijaya
Siabsungkoh
Siabsungkoh is a cosmopolitan area inhabited mainly by humans with dark, wavy-to-curly hair, brown eyes, and skin tones varying from medium tan to deep brown. Alongside humans, dragonborn, gnomes, kobolds, and orcs number among the land's most populous residents.
Maynah, which translates to "river tongue," is the native language of Siabsungkoh. Most locals also speak Common and Draconic.
1.) What is your family known for? Are you artisans, chefs, outcasts, or something else? What sort of reputation does your family have?
2.) What have you done or refused to do in the name of your family? Did this protect your family or yourself? Did this change your relationship with your family?
3.) What is your connection to the Dyn Singh Night Market? Does your family have the favor of the families that run the market? What do you look forward to buying whenever you visit? Do you oppose the market's expansion or welcome it?
Names in Siabsungkoh are shaped by family identity, class, and trade. The following names are among the most common in Siabsungkoh:
Masculine: Anuman, Arag, Arthit, Chai, Chon, Detch, Kiet, Kithsiri, Lav, Makok, Mongkut, Nargon, Phi, Prasong, Rune, Somboon, Somchai, Tai, Teera, Thaksin, Vyndr, Wayo
Feminine: Aom, Dara, Dasuni, Ganithage, Intira, Kanda, Kannika, Lawan, Mayuree, Natcha, Pakpao, Pathma, Ratari, Suree, Tunlaya, Ubon
Neutral: Aryn, Avani, Chamila, Detch, Fern, Indika, Kanchana, Makok, Phi, Piyapon, Rune, Saengdao, Sirinat, Thusitha, Vyndr, Wayo
Surnames: Ananada, Anong, Aromdee, Bannarasee, Bho, Bhongam, Boonya, Busarakha, Chaichana, Chaidee, Chakrii, Chongrak, Chuo, Du, Dunedow, Hiranchai, Jaikieow, Jollion, Kitti, Kul, Lert, Mah, Malee, Myahkoon, Niran, Ngam, Noi, Noknoi, Pasu, Pitak, Pham, Preedan, Rhusaang, Rochana, Rueng, Saelau, Sethi, Soikham, Suwan, Thakur, Tham-Boon, Tripuri, Trubbaya, Uan
Tayyib Empire
The Tayyib Empire is a cosmopolitan mix of the native peoples of Suristhanam, immigrants, and various invading groups. Nearly half the population are brown-skinned humans, with significant elf, hobgoblin, lizardfolk, and yuan-ti populations making up most of the remainder.
Most citizens of the empire speak Tayyibi, although Common is also well known, as well.
1.) How were you and your family affected by the civil war? Are you still affected by the aftermath? Do you support the empress' attempts to restore the land?
2.) Are you a follower of the Iwahhid faith? Do you know any of the Imperial Ulema? How do you feel about them?
3.) How do you feel about the empire's recent reconnection with the Radiant Citadel? Do you believe it is ultimately a good thing? Or do you believe Tayyib's culture may erode over time being exposed to so many other cultures?
Surnames in Tayyib are usually a reflection of where the family originated from. The following names are common in Tayyib:
Masculine: Afsoon, Azad, Bahman, Davud, Erfan, Eskandar, Gol, Hamid, Javed, Khurshid, Kian, Reza, Sadeq, Taher, Vahid, Yousef
Feminine: Amaya, Astar, Ayda, Delara, Firuzeh, Jaleh, Katayun, Kiana, Leila, Maryam, Mina, Minu, Roshanak, Yasamin, Zaynab
Neutral: Arsha, Azar, Dana, Delshad, Ehsan, Golshan, Golzar, Khursid, Mehr, Omid, Roshan, Safa, Shams, Suri, Tigran, Farvardin
Surnames: Abbasi, Ahura, Alinejad, Avesta, Bijabadi, Beg, Churapoori, Dabiri, Dehkordi, Ebrahimi, Esfandiari, Farahmand, Gul, Hashemi, Hooshang, Jahandar, Jamshidi, Jazani, Kabiri, Karimi, Kazemi, Khadem, Lajani, Madani, Mehregan, Mokri, Pahlavi, Paria, Parsi, Qaragari, Rajavi, Ranbar, Rostami, Sasani, Shamshri, Shirazi, Tayyibi, Tir
Tletepec
The population is mostly humans and dwarves with brown skin and dark hair. Tieflings are common in many settlements and often have skin tones evocative of minerals or gems. Other folk are rarer and are most commonly visitors.
The language of Tletepec is Tletlahtolli, but people also know Common.
1.) What offerings have you made to gods? Did you regret the loss of your offering? Did you receive the blessing you sought? Did you expect this or not?
2.) Have you had to flee a natural disaster? What happened? Did you lose something while fleeing? What happened to your friends and family?
3.) Have you trained with the Watchers of the Ashes? Do you seek omens in smoke or disasters? Do you seek evidence of some coming doom?
Most names in Tletepec have meanings drawn from words in the Tletlahtolli language related to nature. Many Tletepecs change their name on reaching adulthood, choosing a new name that reflects their accomplishments or aspirations. The following are examples of common names in Tletepec:
Masculine: Axolin, Coatl, Ecaton, Itzcuin, Matlahui, Mixtli, Nacxitl, Omacatl, Pantli, Poton, Quenmach, Temilo, Tequihua, Tonalli, Yaquica, Yoali
Feminine: Coaxoch, Cocoliloc, Ichpochton, Mocel, Necahual, Papanton, Ocoxochi, Teicuh, Tepi, Teyacapan, Tlacoton, Tzalanti, Xochitl, Xocoyotl, Yeyetzi, Yul
Neutral: Ameli, Awee, Chamani, Cipactli, Citlalli, Jaci, Kinti, Quetzalli, Shantii, Sinti, Tenampi, Tlalli, Tonalli, Yaxkin, Yolatl, Yoltzin
Surnames: Aca, Amaxal, Atzin, Ayotl, Caloch, Chapul, Chilaca, Coatl, Cocolo, Colex, Colomoxca, Coyac, Coyol, Cuapa, Ehecatl, Elpantli, Huepa, Itzmoyotl, Maxil, Mitzi, Mixca, Moyotl, Naxi, Nocelo, Oxotoxtle, Pale, Papaqui, Patle, Patox, Quia, Quitl, Tecaxco, Tecpa, Tecuampil, Temich, Teotl, Tepal, Tepoz, Tlacat, Tochtli, Totxtle, Xique, Xoampil, Xolo, Xopa, Zaca, Zitlal
Umizu
Umizu is a welcoming city, and many citizens hail from far-flung lands. Humans are the most numerous, with skin tones ranging from pale to medium brown, and with hair and eyes ranging from dark brown to black.
The main language spoken is Umizuri, but Common is well known among the locals, as well.
1.) Have you run afoul of the Safe Oceans Society in the past? Did you walk away unscathed? Do you believe the Daimyo is doing everything he can to keep them in check?
2.) How do you feel about the Rurapo? Do you believe they have just cause to oppose the Southwest Whaling Concern? Are you worried a war might break out?
3.) How much does luck affect your day to day routine? Do you visit an oracle often? Do you make plans based on what they say?
In Umizu, one's family name comes first, with their given name coming second. This reflects the fact that in Umizu culture, family is more important than an individual. Here are some common names found in Umizu:
Masculine: Aihito, Akira, Buichiro, Fukuya, Hanamaru, Hanzo, Hiraku, Hiro, Ichiro, Katsuro, Keiji, Makkenyu, Mikko, Ryu, Sao, Taiki
Feminine: Hifumi, Ikumi, Iro, Kumori, Makoda, Menori, Momoko, Naomi, Natsune, Reina, Renki, Sayuri, Segiko, Shion, Yoshimi, Yuna, Yuuka
Neutral: Aoi, Chihiro, Haruka, Hibiki, Kaede, Kyo, Makoto, Masami, Michi, Minato, Nao, Ren, Shun, Takara, Yoshi, Yuki
Surnames: Abe, Arima, Ashikaga, Aoyama, Chiba, Fukita, Fukuda, Furukawa, Fukuzawa, Hamada, Hattori, Honda, Ikeda, Ito, Iwasaki, Kamiya, Kaneko, Kishimoto, Kitagawa, Komatsu, Kurata, Kuroki, Inoue, Ishida, Matsomoto, Matsuda, Miura, Miyata, Moriyama, Nakajima, Nakamura, Nitta, Okumura, Oshiro, Sada, Sakamoto, Shintani, Sugita, Takenaka, Tanaka, Tao, Takashima, Toyoda, Tsukudu, Uchiyama, Wada, Yamashita, Yoshida
Yeonido
Humans and dragonborn are the most populous folk in Yeonido. Humans from Yeonido are primarily dark-haired and dark-eyed, and dragonborn have colorings based on their bloodlines, most commonly red or blue-green scales.
The city's official language is Halri, a language related to Draconic, though all citizens are also fluent in Common.
1.) What is your social class and clan? Is your family part of the nobility or the working class? Do you want to change your status? Are you an active member of your clan or have you left it behind?
2.) Do you have a special role in the city's hierarchies? Are you a member of the royalty? Did you or do you hope to pass the Test of Ascension and become a magistrate? Are you an arbiter who deals with spirits?
3.) How have gwishin affected you? Did a member of your family return as a gwinshin? Did your family deal with their own gwishin, call aid in dealing with it, or let it linger? Did a gwishin of another clan teach, harm, or otherwise interact with you?
Family comes first in Yeonido, and thus an individual's clan name is spoken before their given name. The royal family is an exception--they have no clan name, since it is expected that everyone should know them at first glance. Given names in Yeonido typically have two syllables. Within each clan, siblings and cousins of the same generation often share one syllable of their name. For example, a couple might have a son named Ji-Min and a daughter named Ji-Yun. The head of the clan chooses each new child's name. The following are examples of common Yeonido names:
Masculine: Byeong-Ho, Do-Wan, Do-Yun, Eun, Eun-Woo, Gang-Min, Habin, Hyeong, Iseul, Jeong-Hui, Ji-Min, Min-Su, Oh-Seung, Sang, Sung-Min, Yeong
Feminine: Bora, Chae-Young, Eun-Ji, Gyung-Won, Ha-Eun, Hana, Ji-Hye, Ji-Yu, Ji-Yun, Jun, Jung-Sook, Min-Ji, Su-Min, Yeong-Suk, Yun-Hi
Neutral: Duri, Hae-joo, Haneul, Han-Sol, Hyeon, Jae, Jeong, Ji-Su, Kyung, Kyung-song, Myeong, Sang, Si-Won, Yong, Yu-Min, Yun-Seo
Clan Names: Bae, Bak, Ban, Cho, Choi, Chun, Chung, Du, Gang, Gim, Gok, Gwan, Ha, Haw, Hu, I, Im, Jeon, Ju, Kang, Kim, Mun, Myeong, Nam, Namgung, Oh, Ong, Pak, Park, Pok, Rhee, Ryu, Sagong, San, Seob, Seong, Shin, Sin, Son, Song, Won, Ya, Yeon, Yi, Yoon
Yongjing
Humans and dwarves make up most of the population of Yongjing, with humans outnumbering dwarves three to one. Almost all residents have black hair, warm skin tones, and rounded faces.
Xingyu is the primary language of Yongjing, and most residents are also fluent in Common. Xingyu is written in the Dwarvish script, though scholars and upper-class citizens often also learn the language's older and more complicated pictograph representations.
1.) Do you have family connections to the emperor? Do you use those connections to make your life easier, or do you conceal them to reduce the threat of assassinations or intrigue?
2.) What personal symbol of longevity do you carry? Is it an elephant, a turtle or another long-lived animal, or perhaps ever-growing bamboo or some other ageless plant? If you don't carry a symbol, why is that?
3.) Do you serve the empire in some official means? Do you serve as a bereaucrat, having passed the Imperial Exams? Are you one of the emperor's defenders? Or have you left such service behind?
Names in Great Xing are ungendered and place an individual's family name before their personal name. Personal names are formed of two words; the first is usually determined by birth order, social status, or rank, and the second is an aspirational or lucky name representing the parents' hopes for their child. All names are gender-neutral. The following names are common in Xing:
Family: Ang, Bo, Bu, Cai, Cao, Cham, Chang, Cheong, Chin, Deng, Du, Feng, Fok, Fung, Geng, Guan, Han, Hsiao, Hsueh, Ip, Jang, Kam, Kho, Kwock, Lei, Lok, Lu, Mei, Moy, Ng, Ngai, Ping, Qi, Rao, Seto, Shan, Shieh, Shing, Song, Soong, Tan, Toh, Tong, Tsang, Tso, Tzeng, Wan, Weng, Wong, Xiang, Xiao, Yang, Yeung
Status: Bai (friendly), Bao (special), Bo (firstborn), Meng (firstborn), Xia (second-born), Zhong (second-born), Shu (third-born), Ji (fourth-born or more), Jun (noble), Si (heir), Wen (scholar)
Aspirational: Chio (unique), Chen (dawn), Da-xia (hero), Deshi (moral), Dewei (great protector), Fai (rich), Fo (brave), Gao (tall), Genjo (serene), Hong (great), Hsin (compassionate), Hua (beautiful), Jingyi (happy), Jie (heroic), Jun (talented), Lei (thunder), Liko (protected), Mei (charming), Min (clever), Ming (bright), Niao (delicate), Ping (peaceful), Qian (rising), Qiang (strong), Rong (prosperous), Ru (scholarly), Shi (honest), Shufen (virtious), Tao (true path), Ting (graceful), Tong (leader), Ushi (patient), Xiang (lucky), Xi-Wang (hope), Xun (swift), Ya (elegant), Yao (brilliant), Yi (virtous), Yin (flourshing), Zhuang (strong), Zhi (wise), Zi (gentle)
Zinda
Humans make up the majority of Zinda's population and have skin tones ranging from light brown to black. Their hair grows in spiral curls; most grow it long and wear it tucked beneath a headscarf topped by a wide-brimmed hat (if married) or set in scalp-hugging braids (if unmarried). Elves and halflings are also frequently seen in Zinda, along with other nonhumans.
All Zindanese citizens speak Common and N'warian. Many Zindanese also speak Draconic, since the power and wealth typically attributed to dragons are considered virtuous to the Kings of Coin.
1.) Are you affilliated with any of the organizations in Zinda? Do you belong to the Bloodletters or the Silent Verse? Should laborers be permitted the same rights as plutocratic rulers?
2.) How do you celebrate the March of Vice? Do you revel with friends and local laborers? Do you attend galas among the wealthy? Do you perform in sequins and feathers as a Elucidarium diva?
3.) What do you know of the forest's spirits? Have you trained as a mystical datura to hear spirits' voices and learn their ways?
Zindanese of all origins receive their given name on the tenth day after their birth. The family gathers at this time, and the elders choose an appropriate ancestor's name to bestow upon the child. The following are examples of common names:
Masculine: Adontay, Anel, Emran, Grimaldo, Isidore, Jacapo, Janjak, Josue, Kervens, Ladislao, Melo, Milko, Ramiro, Ronil, Solenn, Wilky
Feminine: Abreona, Anaíca, Calixte, Deline, Fatima, Gaelle, Inyz, Larisa, Merline, Nadége, Nadia, Natacha, Onika, Tanea
Neutral: Ahmani, Amal, Chano, Danys, Elar, Garo, Jari, Pirro, Vilsaint, Zenon
Surnames: Aadi, Aara, Acala, Ain, Aran, Arcan, Aru, Chak, Chella, Chery, Chev, Chull, Daev, Dak, Dimp, Duli, Edak, Ela, Enik, Erak, Fena, Gaya, Haim, Haro, Ikya, Jendra, Jha, Jin, Kal, Nephtalie, Nin, Nir, Raba, Rachelle, Ruki, Rul, Sha, Shar, Sur, Var, Yan, Yat
Titles: Madame, Messer, Myx
If your character is from the Radiant Citadel or one of its satellite worlds, here is some character building questions and information to get you started.
Akharin Sangar
Sangarians are predominately human with brown or black hair and fair to rich brown skin tones. Dwarves, elves, halflings, and gnomes represent a little over one-third of the populace, and some in the city claim to have a touch of Celestial ancestry.The primary language is Zabaani. Although all citizens also speak Common, the lack of visitors to Akharin Sangar means they have few chances to practice it. Celestial is also commonly spoken among Atash's followers and theologians.
1.) How have you been affected by the angel Atash's rule? What changes have you or your loved ones made in response to Atash's edicts? How has this theocracy benefited or harmed you?
2.) Do you worship the Sunweaver? If not, do you make that known? How has this affected your life?
3.) Do you behave differently in private than in public? Whom do you trust? Are you part of resistance efforts, or do you actively oppose them?
Sangarian names are drawn from lineage, religion, and literature and are often suffused with symbolism and history. The following names are common in the region:
Masculine: Amir, Aghil, Ansari, Bahram, Erfan, Eskandar, Farshid, Fereydoun, Hassan, Hyare, Jamshid, Mithra, Ramin, Rashnu, Rostram, Verethragna, Zahir
Feminine: Ameretat, Ayda, Darya, Fereshteh, Forough, Jamileh, Leila, Mariam, Nazanin, Niusha, Pari, Shabnam, Shohreh, Soheila, Tahmina, Yasamin
Neutral: Azar, Delshad, Ehsan, Golzar, Keyahnosh, Khurshid, Mandana, Mehr, Niaz, Omid, Paryeen, Roshani, Safa, Shadan, Shams, Sorosh
Surnames: Abbasi, Alinejad, Araki, Attar, Avesta, Azimi, Beg, Bukhari, Charmchi, Dabiri, Darzi, Davani, Esfandiari, Farrokhzad, Farzaneth, Haji, Hakimi, Hashemi, Hooshang, Ghamsari, Ghassemi, Jamshidi, Kabiri, Kazemi, Khoroushi, Khshaeta, Kordfahimi, Kordmihani, Latifi, Mandani, Mobasseri, Nasri, Pasdar, Pahlavi, Rasul, Rostami, Rouhani, Ruzi, Sasani, Sattari, Setar, Shirazi, Shokri, Turan, Turani, Zadeh
Atagua
Ataguans are predominantly humans with tan to dark-brown complexions, along with smaller numbers of dark-skinned forest gnomes and tieflings, the latter of whom typically bear three horns. Nomadic clans of thri-keen with iridescent carapaces also wander the Llanos; they're rarely encountered in towns and cities.
Quirapu is the language of Atagua, a melded derisive of the original language of the Flood People who first settled these lands and the colonizers who came with them. All folk of Atagua also speak Common.
1.) Have you traveled far in Atagua? Are you familiar with the Grassroads? Do you have contacts among thri-keen traders?
2.) Are your dreams remarkable? Have you had visions of serpentine dream spirits or strange flowers? Do you have nightmares of terrible insects? Do you not dream at all?
3.) Have you interacted with the Green Doctors? Did they heal you, or a dear friend or family member? Have you learned about traditional magic from them?
Some Ataguan names honor the ancestral heroes of the Flood People, while others are derived by mixing those names with ones from the colonial past. In addition to given names, insightful nicknames from a person's childhood often linger into adulthood. The following are examples of such names:
Masculine: Anandkumar, Chyll, Diwa, Estwaldo, Fransico, Jagieet, Jecson, Jelvin, Jestoni, Jupiter, Kashif, Midhu, Nihal, Oru, Payaro, Ricardo, Romulo, Ryano, Sinag, Sunpreet
Feminine: Adirah, Aisa, Charina, Cruz, Dharla, Dilah, Ellithia, Inika, Jetny, Lunabeth, Naomae, Nayitha, Nitia, Philomena, Shamiya, Sofea, Tibísay, Trixia, Yamaira, Zubileth
Neutral: Ara, Riaguey, Tamí, Zamiri
Nicknames: Agave, Arrow, Barracuda, Capybara, Croc, Cutter, Gentle Moth, Lily, Little Toucan, Orchid, Needle, Palm, Quipper, Tango, Tempest, Wasp
Surnames: Apte, Badami, Blanco, Chandra, Chaudhari, Che, Dacua, Esguerra, Fernandez, Fontanilla, Galvez, Ganesh, Hidalgo, Jain, Khan, King, Lucero, Mani, Mateo, Nofeunte, Nunez, Padmanabhan, Periro, Perez, Ramirez, Raja, Secuentes, Sethi, Silonga, Táreru, Teuku, Tizon, Varela, Wan, Zapata, Záratas
Dayawlongon
Most Dayawlongos are human, with dark hair and brown skin. Eyes of yellow, green, or brown are most common. Dragonborn and tieflings are also indigenous to the archipelago; many Dayawlongo dragonborn have iridescent scales and serpentine features, and many tieflings have iridescent feathers.
Most folk in Dayawlongon speak Common and Snakesong, a dialect of Draconic that tales say was taught to the locals by bakunawa.
1.) What stories can you tell about yourself? Has a ninuno ever spoken to you? Is a particular song, poem or tale the binukots tell your favorite? What stories do you want others to tell about you after your death?
2.) What do you think of bakunawa? Does a bakunawa feature in your family's history? Do you believe bakunawa are creatures to be revered or monsters?
3.) Are you trained as a binukot? Do you collect the stories of your people? Do you want to broaden your peoples' knowledge by collecting stories from distant lands and sharing them at home?
Traditionally, Dayawlongos have a personal name followed by a clan name. Personal names are varied and often reflect a characteristic that a ninuno connected to an individual or their family found desirable. However, some personal names are relics of colonization and have foreign origins. The following names are common in Dayawlongo:
Masculine: Akmad, Amado, Bayani, Buana, Dakila, Estanislao, Gio, Joaquin, Justino, Isagani, Kidlat, Leocadio, Mirikit, Patricio, Setiawan, Sofronio
Feminine: Arlenia, Antamenia, Asterio, Cahaya, Corazon, Dionisia, Divina, Flordeliza, Genoveva, Laarni, Latifah, Mayumi, Modesta, Ratna, Sinta, Viminda
Neutral: Alon, Ananda, Bulan, Cahaya, Cruz, Dailsay, Dwi, Eka, Kusuma, Lucero, Melchor, Nurul, Purnama, Rizgi, Segara, Tirta
Clan: Andalao, Aquino, Bahaghari, Balisacan, Banaag, Banta, Belarmino, Cabangon, Campos, Caringal, Catindig, Dáyao, Dimansalang, Dimapilis, Dimaunahan, Fabion, Fontanilla, Icbán, Ílao, Labistida, Lansangan, Legaspi, Linátoc, Laxamana, Macalálad, Macaraeg, Macasaét, Madarang, Manansala, Magtibay, Malinao, Manahan, Manquiat, Maralit, Matira, Olanasang, Panganiban, Panopio, Posadas, Punzalán, Recio, Roldán, Sangalang, Sulit, Tibayan, Umali, Untalan
Djaynai
Djaynai's folk are mostly human and have tightly curled hair, which is worn in a variety of natural and ornate styles. Their lustrous skin tones range from warm ebony and mahogany to the coppery glow of the setting sun. Gnomes, dragonborn, and other Humanoid folk are common and accepted in Djaynai.
The people of Djaynai speak Djaynaian, Common, and occasionally Aquan.
1.) How do you feel about the Will of the Insurgent Tides? Do you support the quest to recover the lore of the Blackmist Way and the Blackthrone Arts, or are they relics of an unrecoverable past?
2.) Do you or anyone in your family have a connection to the Night Revelers? Do you embrace that faction's call to anarchy, or do you seek to undermine that call before it spreads further?
3.) Whether you come from Djaynai or Janya, how much do you know of the other realm? Do you consider yourself a person of two worlds? Or do you yearn for a greater understanding of your kin on the other side of the water's surface?
Djaynaians and Janyans use only single names publicly, reserving family names for close loved ones. In both realms, those family names combine Djaynaian words focused on nature, such as Pineshadow or Misthare. The following are common names:
Masculine: Abadi, Adesola, Alphiadou, Bacar, Barisua, Chidera, D'arael, Damisi, Darweshi, Edikan, Gowon, Ikemba, Jachike, Kenechi, Mayn, Yambo
Feminine: Chainay, Ekaete, Fantou, Imané, Kaoni, Kadidia, Khonjit, Lashall, Ominira, Otiko, Rokhava, Sángo, Tarimbele, Udonne, Wura, Yinah
Neutral: Adeyinka, Akkia, Chinaka, Dahama, Dekontee, Ebi, Evlyn, Funebi, Ikuno, Jayvyn, Kellar, Kioné, Lakarai, Lerabari, Maltiti, Wenikado
Family: Ashfield, Autumnblaze, Bearclaw, Bluebark, Bluemoss, Bluewood, Cherrysheen, Cloudkill, Cloverglade, Coldsun, Dryhog, Eaglemist, Earthpony, Fairlily, Fawndash, Floodrat, Fogblossom, Foxwood, Fumefir, Graycloud, Gulloak, Hushvapor, Ivyseep, Lambflood, Lilywarbler, Markplum, Mintbud, Misthare, Moorbloom, Owlbloom, Pallfir, Peakmarten, Pearwither, Petalhope, Pineshadow, Olivehound, Rainsow, Redbird, Redox, Reedspray, Rosecat, Rubyholt, Stemgrass, Stillbreeze, Twigbottom, Umbergloam, Wetbush, Youngsalvia
Godsbreath
The people of Godsbreath have skin tones ranging from the medium brown of copper to the near black of ebony, and most have tightly coiled dark-brown hair. Nonhumans and humans of other lands are rarely seen here; most who do live here dwell in Promise.
The people of Godsbreath speak their own language, known as Godstongue, as well as Common.
1.) Who in your family was memorialized in the Awakening Song? Why do you love or hate that your family is connected to this regional memory? Is the song true? Do you think you will be memorialized in the song?
2.) Have you spent a harvest season in the monster-filled Rattle? How did you respond to the threats of that region? Have you come close to losing anyone you cared about there?
3.) Do you feel close to the gods of the Covenant? Why do you feel like you have this connection? How do you honor or otherwise interact with these deities?
Most folk in Godsbreath go by a single name--often a nickname picked up in their youth instead of their given name--preceded by an honorific reflecting their age, profession, or standing in the community. Those too young to have an honorific may be addressed without one, though it's often wise for strangers to use a courtesy honorific--Miss, Mister, Cousin--as a sign of respect. The following are examples of common names in Godsbreath:
Masculine: Abram, Affee, Cato, David, Ellis, Hagar, Jimi, Kumber, Mingo, Mobe, Primus, Saffran, Scipio, Sogo, Titus, Toney
Feminine: Aba, Amarintha, Bilah, Caty, Clarinda, Diya, Elsey, Emilene, Essie, Hetty, Juno, Moll, Rhina, Selina, Sharli, Sukie
Neutral: Conscience, Crestridge, Daisybloom, Deland, Day, Fortune, Holston, June, Litha, Madel, Plenty, Robin, Sary, Silver, Starri, Temwa, Tremaine, Winter
Surnames: Aleck, Baker, Bella, Bristol, Carpenter, Caution, Corona, Cuffee, Doll, Dorcas, Driver, Ell, Godskith, Grayshore, Hap, Hilltop, Hush, Joy, Junior, Kell, Long, Longkin, Lushwood, Max, Maybank, Oaknut, Patience, Pulaski, Rider, Riveridge, Robins, Rose, Sand, Senior, Shadrach, Sill, Serenity, Smart, Stepney, Southway, Stone, Westwind, Willow, Wright
San Citlán
The inhabitants of San Citlán typically have skin of light to medium brown, black hair, and dark eyes. Humans and dwarves are the most common folk in the city. A small number of intelligent Undead known as olvidados also reside here and are fully accepted as citizens.
The language of San Citlán is Citlanés, which is related to Tletlahtolli (the language of Tletepec) and the language of previous colonizers. Most people also speak Common.
1.) Where do you stand in society? San Citlán's economic inequality shapes the lives of its people. Are you one of the privileged or one of the destitute? If you're privileged, do you have a vote? if destitute, do you live in or outside the city?
2.) Whom do you honor with your ofrenda? Most in San Citlán eagerly look forward to the Night of the Remembered so they can commune with their loved ones. Do you? What does your ofrenda look like, and who is it for?
3.) Does tradition color how you adventure? Are you familiar with the ways of an adventuring caporal or lifestyles that give you a close connection to your steed and the open road? Do you have experience as a larger-than-life luchador wrestler--maybe even wearing a signature mask?
Those native to San Citlán often have up to three names: a given name and two family surnames, inherited from their parents. The following are common names in San Citlán:
Masculine: Alejo, Cuauhtémoc, Damián, Eladio, Fortino, Francisco, Itzcoatl, Leonel, Mateo, Mauricio, Ocelotl, Pedro, Tadeo, Tenoch, Ueman, Zolin
Feminine: Aitana, Ameyalli, Citlali, Estela, Guadalupe, Juana, Malinalli, Maria, Natalia, Quintina, Sofía, Valentina, Valeria, Xóchitl, Yamileth, Zeltzin
Neutral: Ávila, Azul, Belén, Centli, Cipactli, Cruz, Elia, Izel, Lani, Odalis, Patrocino, Paz, Quetzal, Tonalli, Yolotl, Yunuen
Surnames: Adelia, Amador, Apanco, Aritza, Armando, Asis, Caloch, Cano, Carrasco, Casal, Crespo, Cuevas, Espionsa, Escárcega, Ferro, Figueroa, Fontana, Garrido, Gil, Herrera, Ibánez, Infante, Iníguez, Jiménez, León, Losa, Luna, Machado, Marino, Mingo, Moreno, Navarro, Nieves, Ochoa, Olguín, Parades, Paz, Reyes, Robles, Quintana, Salázar, Salsa, Simón, Suero, Tapia, Varela, Ventura, Xicoténcatl
Sensa Empire
Most residents of the region are dark-skinned humans with brown eyes and tightly coiled dark hair. These features are shared by dwarves and elves in the region.
Sensan is the native language of the region, and most imperial citizens also speak Common.
1.) What city-state do you originate from? Are you staunchly loyal to your home city? If you grew up in the hostile outlands, how did your family survive?
2.) Have you worked with the earth or its riches? Mining and goldsmithing are respected work in the Sensa Empire--are you experienced with such work? Do you bear scars from such labor? If you avoided it, why?
3.) How does gold impact your life? The Sensa Empire's prosperity comes at a price--have you experienced these costs personally? Have you ever been targeted by bandits? Are there any resources you want or need that can't be bought?
Sensan names are typically drawn from significant locations connected to the parents' relationship, the pregnancy, or the child's birth:
Masculine: Abdu, Adnan, Botros, Dakhil, Ehan, Fahim, Faraj, Ghalib, Haji, Hasim, Jamal, Kasim, Mahdi, Makram, Omar, Zaid
Feminine: Aisha, Ayaan, Daniya, Dina, Fadila, Fiza, Hania, Imani, Jamila, Kinza, Laila, Lamya, Sabah, Shakila, Tania, Zakia
Neutral: Akua, Atiya, Azmi, Ijal, Ikram, Jami, Karam, Maheen, Maram, Neeya, Rafi, Razan, Safa, Tabassum, Ula, Zuha
Surnames: Abadi, Abbas, Abdullah, Abiodun, Ajam, Alfarsi, Ali, Al-Niba, Amjed, Bakir, Bilal, Bousaid, Boutros, Buhle, Chamoun, Chike, Darwish, Emem, Faheem, Farrugia, Ganim, Hafeez, Hashem, Ibrahim, Iqbal, Jalal, Kader, Karim, Khalid, Murad, Mutfi, Naaji, Nadwi, Najjar, Nejem, Nnadi, Okiro, Rashid, Samara, Saqqaf, Shammas, Tawfiq, Touma, Yusuf, Zaman, Zivai
Shankhabhumi
Urban society is a mix of humans, halflings, elves, and dwarves. Skin tones in Shankhabhumi span shades of brown, and people have uniformly dark hair that ranges from wavy to very curly.
The folk of Shankhabhumi speak Common and Shankhi, the regional tongue.
1.) Which city do you come from? Were you raised in cosmopolitan Sagorpur, traditionalist Ashwad-hatu, or hardy Tippurika.
2.) Are you looking forward to the next Shankha Trials? Are the trials the best part of living in Shankhabhumi for you, or just a spectacular nuisance every twelve years? Have you participated in past trials?
3.) Have you ever encountered a riverine? Did the unpredictable spirit harm you or bless you in some way? Have you ever seen the riverine since then? Do you now have a deeper connection to it?
The given names of people in Shankhabhumi tend to be many syllables long and indicate the bearer's gender. Most folk use a last name based on their city of birth--Sagorpuri, Ashwadhatuj or Tippuri. The only exceptions are the descendants of Manivarsha (many of whom still use "Manivarshi") and majhis who take the last name "Bhatiyali." The following are common names in Shankhabhumi:
Masculine: Abhijit, Anuttom, Chakrayudh, Binayapal, Deep, Gopinatha, Indrajit, Jayanta, Manisha, Mukesha, Narayana, Prasenjit, Rabindra, Ramprasad, Rudrashekhar, Udayaditya
Feminine: Amrapali, Aparajita, Bhanumati, Farjana, Halima, Indrani, Jamdani, Kamakshi, Nazia, Nishamati, Phullora, Priyanka, Purnima, Sujata, Tahmina, Vaishnavi
Neutral: Ananta, Ashvini, Bala, Chandrana, Jyoti, Kali, Kamala, Kanta, Kheya, Kobi, Palki, Shashi, Sushila, Ulka, Uttara, Vijaya
Siabsungkoh
Siabsungkoh is a cosmopolitan area inhabited mainly by humans with dark, wavy-to-curly hair, brown eyes, and skin tones varying from medium tan to deep brown. Alongside humans, dragonborn, gnomes, kobolds, and orcs number among the land's most populous residents.
Maynah, which translates to "river tongue," is the native language of Siabsungkoh. Most locals also speak Common and Draconic.
1.) What is your family known for? Are you artisans, chefs, outcasts, or something else? What sort of reputation does your family have?
2.) What have you done or refused to do in the name of your family? Did this protect your family or yourself? Did this change your relationship with your family?
3.) What is your connection to the Dyn Singh Night Market? Does your family have the favor of the families that run the market? What do you look forward to buying whenever you visit? Do you oppose the market's expansion or welcome it?
Names in Siabsungkoh are shaped by family identity, class, and trade. The following names are among the most common in Siabsungkoh:
Masculine: Anuman, Arag, Arthit, Chai, Chon, Detch, Kiet, Kithsiri, Lav, Makok, Mongkut, Nargon, Phi, Prasong, Rune, Somboon, Somchai, Tai, Teera, Thaksin, Vyndr, Wayo
Feminine: Aom, Dara, Dasuni, Ganithage, Intira, Kanda, Kannika, Lawan, Mayuree, Natcha, Pakpao, Pathma, Ratari, Suree, Tunlaya, Ubon
Neutral: Aryn, Avani, Chamila, Detch, Fern, Indika, Kanchana, Makok, Phi, Piyapon, Rune, Saengdao, Sirinat, Thusitha, Vyndr, Wayo
Surnames: Ananada, Anong, Aromdee, Bannarasee, Bho, Bhongam, Boonya, Busarakha, Chaichana, Chaidee, Chakrii, Chongrak, Chuo, Du, Dunedow, Hiranchai, Jaikieow, Jollion, Kitti, Kul, Lert, Mah, Malee, Myahkoon, Niran, Ngam, Noi, Noknoi, Pasu, Pitak, Pham, Preedan, Rhusaang, Rochana, Rueng, Saelau, Sethi, Soikham, Suwan, Thakur, Tham-Boon, Tripuri, Trubbaya, Uan
Tayyib Empire
The Tayyib Empire is a cosmopolitan mix of the native peoples of Suristhanam, immigrants, and various invading groups. Nearly half the population are brown-skinned humans, with significant elf, hobgoblin, lizardfolk, and yuan-ti populations making up most of the remainder.
Most citizens of the empire speak Tayyibi, although Common is also well known, as well.
1.) How were you and your family affected by the civil war? Are you still affected by the aftermath? Do you support the empress' attempts to restore the land?
2.) Are you a follower of the Iwahhid faith? Do you know any of the Imperial Ulema? How do you feel about them?
3.) How do you feel about the empire's recent reconnection with the Radiant Citadel? Do you believe it is ultimately a good thing? Or do you believe Tayyib's culture may erode over time being exposed to so many other cultures?
Surnames in Tayyib are usually a reflection of where the family originated from. The following names are common in Tayyib:
Masculine: Afsoon, Azad, Bahman, Davud, Erfan, Eskandar, Gol, Hamid, Javed, Khurshid, Kian, Reza, Sadeq, Taher, Vahid, Yousef
Feminine: Amaya, Astar, Ayda, Delara, Firuzeh, Jaleh, Katayun, Kiana, Leila, Maryam, Mina, Minu, Roshanak, Yasamin, Zaynab
Neutral: Arsha, Azar, Dana, Delshad, Ehsan, Golshan, Golzar, Khursid, Mehr, Omid, Roshan, Safa, Shams, Suri, Tigran, Farvardin
Surnames: Abbasi, Ahura, Alinejad, Avesta, Bijabadi, Beg, Churapoori, Dabiri, Dehkordi, Ebrahimi, Esfandiari, Farahmand, Gul, Hashemi, Hooshang, Jahandar, Jamshidi, Jazani, Kabiri, Karimi, Kazemi, Khadem, Lajani, Madani, Mehregan, Mokri, Pahlavi, Paria, Parsi, Qaragari, Rajavi, Ranbar, Rostami, Sasani, Shamshri, Shirazi, Tayyibi, Tir
Tletepec
The population is mostly humans and dwarves with brown skin and dark hair. Tieflings are common in many settlements and often have skin tones evocative of minerals or gems. Other folk are rarer and are most commonly visitors.
The language of Tletepec is Tletlahtolli, but people also know Common.
1.) What offerings have you made to gods? Did you regret the loss of your offering? Did you receive the blessing you sought? Did you expect this or not?
2.) Have you had to flee a natural disaster? What happened? Did you lose something while fleeing? What happened to your friends and family?
3.) Have you trained with the Watchers of the Ashes? Do you seek omens in smoke or disasters? Do you seek evidence of some coming doom?
Most names in Tletepec have meanings drawn from words in the Tletlahtolli language related to nature. Many Tletepecs change their name on reaching adulthood, choosing a new name that reflects their accomplishments or aspirations. The following are examples of common names in Tletepec:
Masculine: Axolin, Coatl, Ecaton, Itzcuin, Matlahui, Mixtli, Nacxitl, Omacatl, Pantli, Poton, Quenmach, Temilo, Tequihua, Tonalli, Yaquica, Yoali
Feminine: Coaxoch, Cocoliloc, Ichpochton, Mocel, Necahual, Papanton, Ocoxochi, Teicuh, Tepi, Teyacapan, Tlacoton, Tzalanti, Xochitl, Xocoyotl, Yeyetzi, Yul
Neutral: Ameli, Awee, Chamani, Cipactli, Citlalli, Jaci, Kinti, Quetzalli, Shantii, Sinti, Tenampi, Tlalli, Tonalli, Yaxkin, Yolatl, Yoltzin
Surnames: Aca, Amaxal, Atzin, Ayotl, Caloch, Chapul, Chilaca, Coatl, Cocolo, Colex, Colomoxca, Coyac, Coyol, Cuapa, Ehecatl, Elpantli, Huepa, Itzmoyotl, Maxil, Mitzi, Mixca, Moyotl, Naxi, Nocelo, Oxotoxtle, Pale, Papaqui, Patle, Patox, Quia, Quitl, Tecaxco, Tecpa, Tecuampil, Temich, Teotl, Tepal, Tepoz, Tlacat, Tochtli, Totxtle, Xique, Xoampil, Xolo, Xopa, Zaca, Zitlal
Umizu
Umizu is a welcoming city, and many citizens hail from far-flung lands. Humans are the most numerous, with skin tones ranging from pale to medium brown, and with hair and eyes ranging from dark brown to black.
The main language spoken is Umizuri, but Common is well known among the locals, as well.
1.) Have you run afoul of the Safe Oceans Society in the past? Did you walk away unscathed? Do you believe the Daimyo is doing everything he can to keep them in check?
2.) How do you feel about the Rurapo? Do you believe they have just cause to oppose the Southwest Whaling Concern? Are you worried a war might break out?
3.) How much does luck affect your day to day routine? Do you visit an oracle often? Do you make plans based on what they say?
In Umizu, one's family name comes first, with their given name coming second. This reflects the fact that in Umizu culture, family is more important than an individual. Here are some common names found in Umizu:
Masculine: Aihito, Akira, Buichiro, Fukuya, Hanamaru, Hanzo, Hiraku, Hiro, Ichiro, Katsuro, Keiji, Makkenyu, Mikko, Ryu, Sao, Taiki
Feminine: Hifumi, Ikumi, Iro, Kumori, Makoda, Menori, Momoko, Naomi, Natsune, Reina, Renki, Sayuri, Segiko, Shion, Yoshimi, Yuna, Yuuka
Neutral: Aoi, Chihiro, Haruka, Hibiki, Kaede, Kyo, Makoto, Masami, Michi, Minato, Nao, Ren, Shun, Takara, Yoshi, Yuki
Surnames: Abe, Arima, Ashikaga, Aoyama, Chiba, Fukita, Fukuda, Furukawa, Fukuzawa, Hamada, Hattori, Honda, Ikeda, Ito, Iwasaki, Kamiya, Kaneko, Kishimoto, Kitagawa, Komatsu, Kurata, Kuroki, Inoue, Ishida, Matsomoto, Matsuda, Miura, Miyata, Moriyama, Nakajima, Nakamura, Nitta, Okumura, Oshiro, Sada, Sakamoto, Shintani, Sugita, Takenaka, Tanaka, Tao, Takashima, Toyoda, Tsukudu, Uchiyama, Wada, Yamashita, Yoshida
Yeonido
Humans and dragonborn are the most populous folk in Yeonido. Humans from Yeonido are primarily dark-haired and dark-eyed, and dragonborn have colorings based on their bloodlines, most commonly red or blue-green scales.
The city's official language is Halri, a language related to Draconic, though all citizens are also fluent in Common.
1.) What is your social class and clan? Is your family part of the nobility or the working class? Do you want to change your status? Are you an active member of your clan or have you left it behind?
2.) Do you have a special role in the city's hierarchies? Are you a member of the royalty? Did you or do you hope to pass the Test of Ascension and become a magistrate? Are you an arbiter who deals with spirits?
3.) How have gwishin affected you? Did a member of your family return as a gwinshin? Did your family deal with their own gwishin, call aid in dealing with it, or let it linger? Did a gwishin of another clan teach, harm, or otherwise interact with you?
Family comes first in Yeonido, and thus an individual's clan name is spoken before their given name. The royal family is an exception--they have no clan name, since it is expected that everyone should know them at first glance. Given names in Yeonido typically have two syllables. Within each clan, siblings and cousins of the same generation often share one syllable of their name. For example, a couple might have a son named Ji-Min and a daughter named Ji-Yun. The head of the clan chooses each new child's name. The following are examples of common Yeonido names:
Masculine: Byeong-Ho, Do-Wan, Do-Yun, Eun, Eun-Woo, Gang-Min, Habin, Hyeong, Iseul, Jeong-Hui, Ji-Min, Min-Su, Oh-Seung, Sang, Sung-Min, Yeong
Feminine: Bora, Chae-Young, Eun-Ji, Gyung-Won, Ha-Eun, Hana, Ji-Hye, Ji-Yu, Ji-Yun, Jun, Jung-Sook, Min-Ji, Su-Min, Yeong-Suk, Yun-Hi
Neutral: Duri, Hae-joo, Haneul, Han-Sol, Hyeon, Jae, Jeong, Ji-Su, Kyung, Kyung-song, Myeong, Sang, Si-Won, Yong, Yu-Min, Yun-Seo
Clan Names: Bae, Bak, Ban, Cho, Choi, Chun, Chung, Du, Gang, Gim, Gok, Gwan, Ha, Haw, Hu, I, Im, Jeon, Ju, Kang, Kim, Mun, Myeong, Nam, Namgung, Oh, Ong, Pak, Park, Pok, Rhee, Ryu, Sagong, San, Seob, Seong, Shin, Sin, Son, Song, Won, Ya, Yeon, Yi, Yoon
Yongjing
Humans and dwarves make up most of the population of Yongjing, with humans outnumbering dwarves three to one. Almost all residents have black hair, warm skin tones, and rounded faces.
Xingyu is the primary language of Yongjing, and most residents are also fluent in Common. Xingyu is written in the Dwarvish script, though scholars and upper-class citizens often also learn the language's older and more complicated pictograph representations.
1.) Do you have family connections to the emperor? Do you use those connections to make your life easier, or do you conceal them to reduce the threat of assassinations or intrigue?
2.) What personal symbol of longevity do you carry? Is it an elephant, a turtle or another long-lived animal, or perhaps ever-growing bamboo or some other ageless plant? If you don't carry a symbol, why is that?
3.) Do you serve the empire in some official means? Do you serve as a bereaucrat, having passed the Imperial Exams? Are you one of the emperor's defenders? Or have you left such service behind?
Names in Great Xing are ungendered and place an individual's family name before their personal name. Personal names are formed of two words; the first is usually determined by birth order, social status, or rank, and the second is an aspirational or lucky name representing the parents' hopes for their child. All names are gender-neutral. The following names are common in Xing:
Family: Ang, Bo, Bu, Cai, Cao, Cham, Chang, Cheong, Chin, Deng, Du, Feng, Fok, Fung, Geng, Guan, Han, Hsiao, Hsueh, Ip, Jang, Kam, Kho, Kwock, Lei, Lok, Lu, Mei, Moy, Ng, Ngai, Ping, Qi, Rao, Seto, Shan, Shieh, Shing, Song, Soong, Tan, Toh, Tong, Tsang, Tso, Tzeng, Wan, Weng, Wong, Xiang, Xiao, Yang, Yeung
Status: Bai (friendly), Bao (special), Bo (firstborn), Meng (firstborn), Xia (second-born), Zhong (second-born), Shu (third-born), Ji (fourth-born or more), Jun (noble), Si (heir), Wen (scholar)
Aspirational: Chio (unique), Chen (dawn), Da-xia (hero), Deshi (moral), Dewei (great protector), Fai (rich), Fo (brave), Gao (tall), Genjo (serene), Hong (great), Hsin (compassionate), Hua (beautiful), Jingyi (happy), Jie (heroic), Jun (talented), Lei (thunder), Liko (protected), Mei (charming), Min (clever), Ming (bright), Niao (delicate), Ping (peaceful), Qian (rising), Qiang (strong), Rong (prosperous), Ru (scholarly), Shi (honest), Shufen (virtious), Tao (true path), Ting (graceful), Tong (leader), Ushi (patient), Xiang (lucky), Xi-Wang (hope), Xun (swift), Ya (elegant), Yao (brilliant), Yi (virtous), Yin (flourshing), Zhuang (strong), Zhi (wise), Zi (gentle)
Zinda
Humans make up the majority of Zinda's population and have skin tones ranging from light brown to black. Their hair grows in spiral curls; most grow it long and wear it tucked beneath a headscarf topped by a wide-brimmed hat (if married) or set in scalp-hugging braids (if unmarried). Elves and halflings are also frequently seen in Zinda, along with other nonhumans.
All Zindanese citizens speak Common and N'warian. Many Zindanese also speak Draconic, since the power and wealth typically attributed to dragons are considered virtuous to the Kings of Coin.
1.) Are you affilliated with any of the organizations in Zinda? Do you belong to the Bloodletters or the Silent Verse? Should laborers be permitted the same rights as plutocratic rulers?
2.) How do you celebrate the March of Vice? Do you revel with friends and local laborers? Do you attend galas among the wealthy? Do you perform in sequins and feathers as a Elucidarium diva?
3.) What do you know of the forest's spirits? Have you trained as a mystical datura to hear spirits' voices and learn their ways?
Zindanese of all origins receive their given name on the tenth day after their birth. The family gathers at this time, and the elders choose an appropriate ancestor's name to bestow upon the child. The following are examples of common names:
Masculine: Adontay, Anel, Emran, Grimaldo, Isidore, Jacapo, Janjak, Josue, Kervens, Ladislao, Melo, Milko, Ramiro, Ronil, Solenn, Wilky
Feminine: Abreona, Anaíca, Calixte, Deline, Fatima, Gaelle, Inyz, Larisa, Merline, Nadége, Nadia, Natacha, Onika, Tanea
Neutral: Ahmani, Amal, Chano, Danys, Elar, Garo, Jari, Pirro, Vilsaint, Zenon
Surnames: Aadi, Aara, Acala, Ain, Aran, Arcan, Aru, Chak, Chella, Chery, Chev, Chull, Daev, Dak, Dimp, Duli, Edak, Ela, Enik, Erak, Fena, Gaya, Haim, Haro, Ikya, Jendra, Jha, Jin, Kal, Nephtalie, Nin, Nir, Raba, Rachelle, Ruki, Rul, Sha, Shar, Sur, Var, Yan, Yat
Titles: Madame, Messer, Myx