Kremiyans
“The knyaz stood at the edge of the barren lands, flanked by his two trusted boyars, each holding a symbol of their past and their future. One boyar held a lantern, its soft glow cutting through the darkness, a beacon of hope and enlightenment. The other boyar held a sheathed sword, a testament to their strength and readiness to defend their new home.'Behold, my Knyaz,' the boyar with the lantern said, 'just as this light pierces the darkness, so too shall our people bring life to this land.' The boyar with the sword added, 'With this blade, we shall protect and nurture our fledgling settlement, ensuring its growth and prosperity.' The knyaz nodded, seeing the wisdom in their words as he pointed outwards. ‘Da, you are right,' he said, 'with light and strength, we shall transform these barren lands into a land of plenty and peace, a land that will be remembered in the stories of our descendants.'"
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- HISTORY
- PRE-REVEIA
- THE KREMIYAN DIASPORA
- AN AGE OF SETTLEMENT
- AN AGE OF STRIFE
- NAMING AND LANGUAGE
- NAMING
- LANGUAGE
- CULTURE
- INTRODUCTION
- TRADITIONAL CLOTHING
- LITERATURE
- ARTS AND CRAFT
- ARCHITECTURE
- MUSIC AND DANCE
- FOOD AND DRINK
- RELIGION
- SOCIETY
- SOCIAL CLASSES
- POLITICS
HISTORY
A dive into the history of the Kremiyan peoples, written and penned by Petr Kutznetzov, popular Boyar and Writer of his time.
- PRE-REVEIA
“In the heart of the faraway world lies the Volgran Continent, a land steeped in ancient lore and shrouded in mystery. Stretching from the soaring peaks of the Northern Mountains in the north to the sun-kissed shores of the Southern Sea, Volgran is a realm of diverse landscapes and unforgiving wilderness. Dense forests teeming with mythical beasts give way to sprawling plains dotted with ancient ruins, remnants of a bygone era. At the continent’s center, the towering Citadel of Volgrad stands as a beacon of civilisation amidst the untamed wilderness, its spires reaching towards the heavens as a testament to the enduring spirit of its people. Here, in the land of Volgran, adventure and danger await those brave enough to seek them. But do not let the initial beauty of the Volgran Continent deceive you, for beneath its picturesque facade lies a land ravaged by the relentless tide of war. As one steps into this realm, the air is thick with the acrid scent of death, and the once lush landscapes now stand twisted and scarred by the ravages of endless conflict. The twisted bark and branches of the trees stand as grim sentinels, bearing silent witness to the horrors that have befallen this land. Here, amidst the ruins of once-great civilisations, the echoes of battle still linger, a haunting reminder of the price of ambition and the cost of power.” - Expert from the Epic Story written by Talanov the poet on the matter of the Kremiyan’s origins.
- THE KREMIYAN DIASPORA
"The official and recorded history of the Kremiyan people traces back to the farthest reaches of the Reveian continent, where the land fades into mystery, uncharted and untamed. Their journey from the East, a realm veiled in the mists of time, has rendered the true nature of their origins a tantalizing enigma, preserved only in fragments of lore and whispered tales. Among these, a luminary figure emerges - an esteemed chronicler known as Talanov the poet, whose narrative threads bind the Kremiyan saga to their ancestral past. Whether these narratives are embellished truths or artful fabrications, shrouded in the mystique of storytelling, remains a subject of scholarly debate. Yet, these tales endure as a testament to the resilience and fortitude of the Kremiyan tribes, a poignant reminder of the trials overcome and the legacy forged in the crucible of their ancient homeland."
“The arrival of the Kremiyan people remains a topic of fervent debate, even among their own ranks. Within the inner sanctums of Kremiyan society, scholars and historians engage in spirited discourse, attempting to unravel the mystery of their ancestral homeland's location. Whether they descended upon the Reveian continent from the enigmatic East, the uncharted North, or the distant West is a question that continues to elude a definitive answer. What is undisputed, however, is the manner in which the Kremiyan people made their initial landings, led by 3 main figures, a Knyaz Vadim von Nikoleav alongside his entrusted boyar’s Damian and Gregori. Many accounts suggest that they first set foot upon the wintry fringes of the Reveian continent, a terrain as unforgiving and harsh as the homelands they left behind. It is here, amidst the biting cold and the howling winds, that the earliest settlements of the Kremiyan tribes took root.”
“Two major settlements, Norslavow and Ryinaritzyn, emerged as beacons of Kremiyan civilization, their foundations marking the beginning of a new chapter in the Kremiyan saga. Across the northern wastelands, smaller tribes of Kremiyan descent dispersed, seeking refuge and new beginnings in the wake of the burgeoning cities. These tribes, though fewer in number, were steadfast in their resolve, eschewing the raiding ways of their northern counterparts in favor of a life centered around rural farming and agrarian pursuits. From these humble beginnings, the two cities burgeoned into bustling hubs of Kremiyan culture and commerce. They evolved and modernized alongside their inhabitants, serving as the beating heart of a civilization that had found its foothold in the lands of the Reveian continent.”
“In the early days of the Kremiyan people's settlement, a spirit of exploration and curiosity drove them to venture beyond the confines of their burgeoning cities. One such expedition led them to the settlement of Dreskiy, a community inhabited by trolls - the first non-Kremiyan and non-human settlement encountered by the Kremiyans in their new homeland. This encounter marked the dawn of a new era of interaction and trade between the Kremiyan settlers and the indigenous inhabitants of Reveia. Dreskiy served as a testament to the nascent spirit of cooperation and exchange between the two distinct cultures. The Kremiyans, recognizing the value of the resources offered by the trolls, engaged in bartering with the local populace. The whaling village of Dreskiy became a focal point for these interactions, with the Kremiyans trading their livestock, honey, furs, and minerals from the northern regions in exchange for the prized warmth of whale skin and the sustenance of whale meats.”
“Yet not all was wonderful and without disaster. It were during these early days that the Kremiyans
“This early form of trade and adaptability to the lands around them not only enriched the lives of both peoples but also laid the foundation for future diplomatic and economic relations between the Kremiyan settlers and the diverse inhabitants of Reveia. It was through such exchanges that the Kremiyans began to integrate themselves into the fabric of their new homeland, forging bonds that would endure and shape the course of their history for generations to come.”
- AN AGE OF SETTLEMENT
“With the establishment of sizable Kremiyan settlements, the need for permanent structures to withstand the harsh realities of their environment became evident. The extreme winters and brisk summers demanded sturdy, well-insulated buildings to shelter the populace. Thus, within mere months of their arrival, the Kremiyan people embarked on an ambitious construction project, transitioning from tents to more permanent dwellings and prioritizing the creation of centralized cities over dispersed settlements. This strategic decision allowed for more efficient allocation of resources and manpower, ensuring the collective well-being of the Kremiyan populace. The young boys, who formed a crucial part of the Kremiyan retinue, were no longer burdened with unnecessary tasks of setting up and dismantling temporary shelters.”
“The result was the emergence of the iconic red cities of the Kremiyan people. Characterized by buildings constructed from a distinctive red-hued material, these cities began to take shape, reflecting the unique architectural style and cultural identity of the Kremiyan civilization. Circular domes became a common feature of important structures, symbolizing unity and harmony within the community. Color, it seemed, played a significant role in Kremiyan culture and architecture, serving not only as a practical choice for building materials but also as a symbolic expression of their identity and resilience in the face of their challenging environment. During this period, the Kremiyan people remained largely enigmatic, focusing their efforts inward rather than embarking on exploratory endeavors. The walled towns of Norslavow and Ryinaritzyn, now modern-day settlements, stood as bastions against the relentless assaults of creatures ensorcelled by northern witches. This constant threat forced the Kremiyans to adopt a defensive stance, fortifying their towns and cities to withstand the onslaught.”
“However, this defensive posture inadvertently sparked a newfound desire among the Kremiyan people - the formation of veche's. These popular assemblies quickly became a defining feature of Kremiyan society. The veche likely originated as a deliberative body among early Kremiyan tribes, serving as a forum for discussion and decision-making. As the tribes settled in permanent trading centers, which later evolved into cities, the veche retained its significance as a pillar of democratic governance, sharing power with a Knyaz (prince) and an aristocratic council of Boyars. The veche's authority varied from city to city but generally encompassed the ability to accept or reject a prince who claimed inheritance of the city. Additionally, by controlling the town's militia, the veche could veto a prince's plans for military campaigns, ensuring a balance of power and democratic representation within Kremiyan society.”
“The formation of these Kremiyan veches were largely found around modern day Norslavow and Ryinaritzyn, yet it was most prevalent within Norslavow where the veche acquired its greatest power, it was able to choose the city’s knyaz, to enter into a contract with him that specifically defined and limited his powers, and to dismiss him. It also elected the major military and civil officials subordinate to the knyaz. In most areas the veche ruled both a city and its dependent villages whilst weary boyars had ensured to keep away from the veche system yet conceded various powers to smaller assemblies, yet this caused a struggle, struggle of powers between the people and aristocracy which would give way to many feuds brought on by this type of democracy; the heads of families in the entire region were entitled to participate in its sessions, which could be convoked by the knyaz, the town officials, or the citizenry. The veche met irregularly; it had no formal procedural rules, and decisions were reached when one side gave up. Yet for the time being, the harmony between veches and the aristocracy had continued for a few centuries, albeit wearily.”
- AN AGE OF STRIFE
“Thus began an era of prosperity and relative peace for the Kremiyan people. As cities, villages, towns, and dukedoms flourished, so too did the struggle for power between the common folk and the aristocracy. This period of uneasy calm teetered on the edge, waiting for a spark to ignite the flames of conflict. That spark came in the form of Knyaz Nikolai, an ironic figure hailed as the true protector of the Kremiyan way and a hero to the people. His rule marked a turning point, ushering in an attempted era of absolute power for the rulers. This shift coincided with the first encounters of the Kremiyan people with southern Triumite missionaries, marking a significant moment of exposure to outside influences. This newfound exposure heralded a new age for the Kremiyan people, one where they were influenced by the myriad cultures already settled within the Reveian lands.”
“The arrival of southern Triumite missionaries marked a crucial juncture in Kremiyan history, bringing with them not only the teachings of the Trium but also ideas from the southern lands. Concepts such as the supremacy of a single ruler and empowerment of the people merged with Triumite teachings, resonating deeply with the Kremiyan populace. Through simple acts and the dissemination of knowledge, the missionaries achieved widespread success in converting much of the population. The diaspora quickly embraced the Triumite faith en masse, as the Kremiyans themselves had no strong religious convictions prior to the missionaries' arrival. The spread of Triumite beliefs was further facilitated by a series of unfortunate events, including the Igozi drought and subsequent plague. The harsh winter that followed led to crop failures and scarcity, as excess produce was diverted to larger cities, leaving smaller villages to suffer. During this time of crisis, the missionaries inadvertently capitalized on the Kremiyan masses' vulnerability, offering not just spiritual solace but also practical knowledge of medicine and herbs. This, coupled with Knyaz Nikolai's alignment with the Triumite faith, led to an upward trend in Triumite followers and eventual dominance of the religion in Kremiyan lands whilst also leading to the creation of an important sight and first of the eventual architectural masterpiece built by the Kremiyan people, the monastery of St. Chernov..”
“During this period, the northlands experienced a surge in raids and attacks from groups that could only be described as demonic worshippers. While these incursions were not yet a major concern and were seen as mere skirmishes, they served as an ominous foreshadowing of the trials to come for the Kremiyan people. Meanwhile, the political landscape among the Kremiyans was fraught with tension. The struggle for power between the aristocracy had reached a boiling point, with neither side willing to relinquish their grip on authority. This internal discord became a source of amusement for Reveian visitors, who whispered tales of the Kremiyans' political turmoil across the continent. The Reveians, long known for their ambitions of conquest under a single banner, watched with keen interest. They saw an opportunity to exploit the division among the Kremiyan people, perhaps seeking to bring them under Reveian rule. As tensions simmer and the specter of external threats loomed ever closer, the Kremiyans found themselves on the brink of a tumultuous chapter in their history.”
“Then came the demontide which saw the kremiyans decimated and saw the first and large masses of reveians previously settled in southern lands travel north in groves with their massive armies
Despite modernization tribalism blah blah blah
Triumite missionaries
City councils/assemblies as moderate ideals from southern missions.
NAMING AND LANGUAGE
A dive into the history of the Kremiyan peoples, written and penned by Petr Kutznetzov, popular Boyar and Writer of his time.
- NAMING
Kremiyan names are steeped in tradition and often carry deep meaning, reflecting the values and history of the individual and their family. A typical Kremiyan name consists of a given name, a patronymic (derived from the father's name), and a surname. Given names are often chosen for their meanings, with parents selecting names that they hope will bring luck, strength, or other positive qualities to their child. For example, a boy might be named Ivan, meaning "gift from God,".
Patronymics are based on the father's name and are used to distinguish individuals with the same given name. For example, if a man named Ivan has a son named Dmitriy, the son might be known as Dmitriy Ivanovich, meaning "son of Ivan." Surnames in Kremiyan culture often reflect the family's heritage, occupation, or place of origin. For example, a family that descends from a long line of blacksmiths might have the surname Kovalev, meaning "blacksmith," while a family from a village named Chernovin might have the surname Chernovinov.
- LANGUAGE
The Kremiyan language is rich and complex, with a vocabulary that reflects their environment and way of life. It is characterized by its use of guttural sounds and intricate grammar. The language has evolved over time, incorporating elements from other cultures and languages that the Kremiyans have come into contact with. Kremiyan names often have meanings that reflect the natural world, with elements such as animals, plants, and celestial bodies frequently used. For example, a boy might be named Volkov, meaning "wolf," or a girl might be named Zvezda, meaning "star."
In addition to their given names, Kremiyans often have nicknames or informal names that are used by family and close friends. These names are often affectionate and may reflect a person's personality or characteristics. For example, a man named Aleksandr might be called Sasha by his friends and family, symbolizing his soft-hearted nature.
CULTURE
A dive into the history of the Kremiyan peoples, written and penned by Petr Kutznetzov, popular Boyar and Writer of his time.
- INTRODUCTION
The Kremiyans are a hardy and resilient people, their culture shaped by the unforgiving winters and rugged landscapes of their homeland. With a deep connection to the land, they have developed a way of life that revolves around survival and community. Traditional Kremiyan clothing is practical and warm, often adorned with intricate patterns and designs that reflect their nomadic heritage. Music and dance play a significant role in Kremiyan culture, serving as a form of storytelling and celebration. Their beliefs are deeply rooted in nature, with a reverence for the spirits that inhabit the world around them. Kremiyan cuisine is hearty and flavorful, designed to sustain them through the long winters, while their social structure is hierarchical, with a strong emphasis on an aristocratic model with councils in the lower points who hold sway and influence.
- TRADITIONAL CLOTHING
Traditional Kremiyan clothing is not just a matter of style; it's a practical necessity in the harsh, snowy landscapes of their homeland. The clothing is designed to provide warmth and protection against the elements, while also reflecting the cultural heritage and identity of the wearer. The colors and patterns used in Kremiyan clothing are often symbolic, with certain designs representing aspects of nature, spirituality, or family heritage. The clothing is not just a form of protection but also a way for the Kremiyans to express their identity and connection to their homeland.
Traditional Kremiyan clothing for males often consists of a long, fur-lined coat called a "Fezaja," which is constructed of thick wool or animal skins. Usually, this coat is worn over a robust tunic and pants, which are both composed of thick, long-lasting materials like linen or wool. The feet are shielded from the cold and snow by wearing leather boots with fur linings, and for extra warmth, a heavy woollen cloak is slung over the shoulders.
Women's apparel has a similar aesthetic but is frequently more ornately adorned. Ladies dress in long, flowing gowns with elaborate beading and embroidery, frequently in vivid hues. These outfits, which come with fur-lined boots and a matching cloak, are likewise composed of heavy, warm materials.
Both men and women often wear hats to protect their heads from the cold. Men wear fur hats with ear flaps, known as "Kolpaks and mumolkas," while women wear decorated head scarves or fur hats with ornamental elements.
- LITERATURE
Even with their diaspora, the Kremiyans were not exempt. Kremiyan literature is regarded as some of the most advanced and influential in the north. It dates back to the exodus and maybe even before, to the time when Old Kremiyan epics and chronicles were written. The literary works of Oleg Stepanov, Florentiy Morozov, and Gerasim Ilin contributed to the increased prominence of literature by the Age of Settlement. Poetry, prose, and theatre all had an amazing golden period in literature beginning in the early Kremiyan settlement, known as the Golden period of Kremiyan Poetry. Poetic brilliance blossomed thanks to romanticism, with Stepan Petrov and his disciple Pushkin emerging as prominent figures.
- ARTS AND CRAFTS
The arts, crafts, and architecture of the Kremiyans are a reflection of their deep connection to nature and their nomadic past, perhaps even a homage to their lost realm. Kremiyan art is characterized by intricate designs and patterns, often inspired by the natural world around them. These designs can be found in their clothing, jewelry, and pottery, with motifs representing animals, plants, and celestial bodies. Craftsmanship is highly valued in Kremiyan culture, with skilled artisans producing a wide range of goods, from weapons and tools to furniture and decorative items. Metalwork, woodworking, and leatherworking are all highly developed crafts among the Kremiyans, with each piece crafted with care and precision.
- ARCHITECTURE
In architecture, the Kremiyans are known for their unique style of construction, which blends practicality with artistic expression. Their buildings are often made from local materials such as wood, stone, and ice, designed to withstand the harsh winters. The use of domes in their architecture is common, symbolizing unity and strength within the community alongside distinction away from the rest of the northern settlers. The history of Kremiyan architecture begins with early woodcraft buildings of ancient Kremiyans, and the temple architecture of nomadic Kremiyans. Following the Triumization of Kremiyan's, for several centuries it was influenced predominantly by the larger and wider Reveian continent. Various foreign architects brought Renaissance trends into Kremiyan lands. The later centuries saw the development of the unique tent-like churches; and the onion dome design, which is a distinctive feature of Kremiyan architecture. In the century preceding that, the "fiery style" of ornamentation flourished in Norslavow and Ryinaritzyn.
- MUSIC AND DANCE
Music and dance are integral parts of Kremiyan culture, serving as a form of storytelling, celebration, and spiritual expression. Kremiyan music is characterized by its haunting melodies and rhythmic beats, often played on traditional instruments such as drums, flutes, and stringed instruments like the balalaika. These instruments are crafted with care and passed down through generations, each one holding a special significance to the Kremiyan people.
Dance is also an important aspect of Kremiyan culture, with traditional dances performed at gatherings, festivals, and ceremonies. These dances often tell stories of the Kremiyan people's history, myths, and legends, and are performed with precision and grace. The movements are often fluid and expressive, with dancers using their bodies to convey emotion and meaning. One of the most famous Kremiyan dances is the "Snowflake Dance," which is performed to celebrate the first snowfall of the year. Dancers move in a circular pattern, mimicking the swirling motion of snowflakes, while others play music to accompany the dance.
- FOOD AND DRINK
Kremiyan cuisine is hearty and flavorful, designed to provide sustenance in the harsh winters of their homeland. The food is often rich and filling, with an emphasis on grains, root vegetables, and meats that can be preserved for long periods. Traditional Kremiyan dishes are often cooked slowly over an open flame or in a communal oven, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a comforting, aromatic meal.
One staple of Kremiyan cuisine is "borshch," a hearty soup made from beets, cabbage, and meat, often served with a dollop of sour cream. This soup is a symbol of Kremiyan hospitality and is often served to guests as a welcoming gesture. Another popular dish is "pelmeni," small dumplings filled with minced meat and spices, served with butter or sour cream.
In addition to their hearty meals, Kremiyans also have a tradition of brewing strong, flavorful beers and spirits. One popular drink is "medovukha," a sweet, honey-based mead that is often served at celebrations and festivals. Another favorite is "kvass," a fermented drink made from bread, which is refreshing and slightly tangy.
RELIGION
A dive into the history of the Kremiyan peoples, written and penned by Petr Kutznetzov, popular Boyar and Writer of his time.
SOCIETY
A dive into the history of the Kremiyan peoples, written and penned by Petr Kutznetzov, popular Boyar and Writer of his time.
- SOCIAL CLASSES
Kremiyan society is structured around a system of social classes, with each class playing a distinct role in the community. Whilst there are various other titles that continue to be used, there are some of the titles and ranks that are commonly used in Kremiyan society:
- Knyaz (Prince): The Knyaz is the highest-ranking noble in Kremiyan society, responsible for governing a territory or region. They are often chosen from among the most respected and influential noble families.
- Boyar (Noble): The Boyars are the noble class of Kremiyan society, serving as advisors to the Knyaz and holding positions of power and authority within their communities.
- Druzhina (Warrior): The Druzhina are the warrior class of Kremiyan society, responsible for defending their communities and fighting in times of war. They are highly respected for their courage and skill in battle.
- Meshchanin (Merchant): The Meshchanin are the merchant class of Kremiyan society, responsible for trade and commerce. They often hold significant wealth and influence within their communities.
- Krestyanin (Peasant): The Krestyanin are the peasant class of Kremiyan society, responsible for farming and agriculture. They form the backbone of the economy and are highly respected for their hard work and resilience.
- Batrak (Laborer): The Batraks are the laborers and workers of Kremiyan society, responsible for various tasks such as construction, mining, and other manual labor. They are essential to the functioning of society but often have lower social status.
- Smerd (Serf): The Smerds are the lowest class in Kremiyan society, often serving as indentured servants to the nobility or wealthy landowners. They have few rights and are often treated as property rather than people.
These titles and ranks are not fixed and can vary depending on the region and time period. However, they provide a general overview of the social structure of Kremiyan society and the roles and responsibilities of each class.
- POLITICS
The intricate relationship between the aristocracy, the populace, and the governing elite defines politics in Kremiyan culture. Traditional structures and changing dynamics of the lands they have populated work in tandem, to together form and define the political landscape. Some facets of Kremliyan politics are as follows:
- Feudal System: The Knyaz (Prince) remains at the top of this social hierarchy of Kremiyan society, followed by the Boyars (Nobility), Druzhina (Warriors), and the ordinary peoples. The foundation of this system is a reciprocal relationship, whereby the Knyaz offers lands and security to the populace, it is expected of them to return it with allegiance and military duty.
- Assembly of Boyars: The Boyars advise the Knyaz and take part in the administration of their lands, making them important and valuable individuals in Kremiyan politics. They are an official group turned into an assembly that counsels the Knyaz on matters pertaining to the Kremiyan lands; matters of legislation, policy and military tactics are regarded within the purview of the Boyar assembly.
- Veche: In Kremiyan society, the Veche is a popular assembly that implements democratic governance, yet this facet of Kremiyan politics has seen a steady decline and complete removal in recent decades despite a popular desire for their return. It has the authority to approve or disapprove the Knyaz and his decisions, whilst being composed of representatives from the general public. With a Veche unique to each town or city, the Veche is also involved in local administration. Nowadays, only smaller variants of Veche’s exist as opposed to the once large Veche assemblies that dominated the Kremiyan lands, their eventual fall came during the age of Velkoryn Thul and subsequent age of dictats.
Power Conflicts, with the societal and political mix within the Kremiyan societies. Power conflicts and rivalries between aristocratic families and popular assemblies are a common feature of politics within Kremiyan society, notwithstanding the official systems of government. As several groups compete for influence and dominance, these battles occasionally result in war and instability, a result that has seen come true for decades before the Kremiyans reached another era of peace.