Alia

Appearance

The Alia are impressive to see, sometimes even terrifying to some, with beast-like features and a generally muscular form that towers over many. These people have inherited the ears and tails of their feline and canine ancestors, and some still bear fur or markings on their skin.

200-220cm in height.

Lifespan 

The Alia tend to live lives of much violence due to their crusade against the threat from beyond the Veil, However those that reach a venerable age can live up to 120 years.

Religion & Beliefs

Their temples to Ahaka are usually hidden within the jungle, but any traveller, or those seeking refuge who comes across them will find them well guarded and safe, as long as they remain respectful or even bring offerings. Very little trouble comes to the places where the Alia guard, as their wrath is something few wish to witness and none wish to invite on themselves. Sacrifices are never made from the unwilling, as every life taken on the Altar of Ahaka is another warrior sent to aid the goddess in her eternal war against Utroghu, and as such, the Alia consider this to be the greatest honour Ahaka can bestow on them.

Geography

The Zakaran Jungle is dense, crossed by many rivers and streams, which makes for water travel across some parts of the Alia Homeland. Surrounded by mountains on almost all sides, the main access is through the northwestern edge of Zubei to reach the jungle itself. However, it lacks any sort of formal road system, and visitors to the Zakaran Jungle require an experienced guide if they are to make it to any of the Alia cities.

Society

While the Alia have a matriarchal society, the men are able to rise amongst their ranks and afford the same respect as the women. These men are as dedicated, if not more so than their female kin, just as willing to throw themselves at the feet of their goddess if she calls on them for sacrifice as the women. Those that are sacrificed or fall in battle are remembered by their kin, with festivities to honour them and give praise to their goddess; and even small shrines may be found in hidden places with trinkets left in memory of the fallen.

Architecture

While huts made of wood and thatched with palm leaves are common for personal dwellings of some Alia in small villages and the outskirts of the jungle, Alia cities are a marvel in their own right. The great pyramid temples of Ahaka rise from the jungle, with many faces of its stone carved and painted to form accounts of history and tell the story of Ahaka. Many homes within these cities are made from stone and adobe, often painted white with inner courtyards that the living space surrounds.

Wealth & Trade

While there is no formal currency used by the Alia, bartering is the most commonly used system. However, Alia traders that travel far from their home have quickly adapted to the currencies of the land and ply their wares of pottery as well as unique foods native to their land.

Slavery

To the Alia, slaves are an important contributor to the labour forces of their land, and owners are required to provide food, water, and shelter. To be a slave in the Zakaran Jungle does not mean one is born into such a status; it tends to be made up of criminals, those in debt, or even those that have willingly given up their freedom to serve. When not working, slaves are considered to have their time to themselves and enjoy far more freedom as slaves under Alia than in some other lands.