Xadir - Revision history

Count zero at 03:23, 25 September 2008

2008-09-25T03:23:55Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:23, 25 September 2008
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	===Location and Description===		====Location and Description====

	Xadir is the largest city-state of [[Caulis]], and perhaps the known world as well. It is a bustling port and important center for trade, and is at the crossroads of major land and sea trade routes. It sits on the Bay of Xaan, at the mouth of the River Caul. The waters of the bay are calm for most of the year and well-protected from pirates. The weather in and around Xadir is sunny and pleasant on average. Boats and caravans by the dozen, loaded with goods, enter and leave the city and its port every day. And adventurous souls from hundreds of miles around flock to the city in search of fame and fortune. Some find it; many find only danger and misery.		Xadir is the largest city-state of [[Caulis]], and perhaps the known world as well. It is a bustling port and important center for trade, and is at the crossroads of major land and sea trade routes. It sits on the Bay of Xaan, at the mouth of the River Caul. The waters of the bay are calm for most of the year and well-protected from pirates. The weather in and around Xadir is sunny and pleasant on average. Boats and caravans by the dozen, loaded with goods, enter and leave the city and its port every day. And adventurous souls from hundreds of miles around flock to the city in search of fame and fortune. Some find it; many find only danger and misery.
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	[[Image:Xadir_seal.png\|thumb\|200px\|right\|Seal of the Archon and City of Xadir]]		[[Image:Xadir_seal.png\|thumb\|200px\|right\|Seal of the Archon and City of Xadir]]

	===Political System===		====Political System====

	The ruling monarch of Xadir is known as the ''Archon''. The Archon is undisputed master of Xadir and the towns and villages adjacent to it. He makes all the laws and has the power of life and death over every man, woman, and child within the city and its environs. The monarchy is hereditary and can only be held by a man. The Archon rules from his stone palace atop Xado Hill, just west of the River Caul. It looks down on the waterfront and main market square, and is situated in the midst of a lush, three-acre garden. The palace and its grounds are off limits to everyone save the Archon, his family, advisors, and slaves, noblemen (and their slaves), and the army unit assigned to be the Archon's personal guard. Treasures from across the region including weapons, armor, and coffers full of coins and precious stones are housed within the palace. The Archon's scribes and their ledgers and records (primarily scrolls) are kept in buidling adjacent to the palace.		The ruling monarch of Xadir is known as the ''Archon''. The Archon is undisputed master of Xadir and the towns and villages adjacent to it. He makes all the laws and has the power of life and death over every man, woman, and child within the city and its environs. The monarchy is hereditary and can only be held by a man. The Archon rules from his stone palace atop Xado Hill, just west of the River Caul. It looks down on the waterfront and main market square, and is situated in the midst of a lush, three-acre garden. The palace and its grounds are off limits to everyone save the Archon, his family, advisors, and slaves, noblemen (and their slaves), and the army unit assigned to be the Archon's personal guard. Treasures from across the region including weapons, armor, and coffers full of coins and precious stones are housed within the palace. The Archon's scribes and their ledgers and records (primarily scrolls) are kept in buidling adjacent to the palace.
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	===Social Structure===		====Social Structure====

	The social structure of Xadir is made up of a small group of nobles (1%); a larger--but still relatively small--group of citizens (10%) consisting of landowners and wealthy merchants/traders; and commoners (approx. 90%). Commoners include tradespeople, sailors, shop owners, laborers, and so on. Soldiers, priests, bureaucrats, and scholars are generally included within the ranks of commoners, as individuals in those positions seldom possess any special rights or privileges.		The social structure of Xadir is made up of a small group of nobles (1%); a larger--but still relatively small--group of citizens (10%) consisting of landowners and wealthy merchants/traders; and commoners (approx. 90%). Commoners include tradespeople, sailors, shop owners, laborers, and so on. Soldiers, priests, bureaucrats, and scholars are generally included within the ranks of commoners, as individuals in those positions seldom possess any special rights or privileges.
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	===Military===		====Military====

	Xadir maintains a relatively small professional military (about 2,000 men) made up of men from the city and the surrounding towns and villages. Soldiers enlist for life, but can be discharged after fulfilling 20 years of service, upon which time they are granted citizenship and a small plot of land somewhere on the outskirts of the city. The vast majority of men who enlist in the army (75%) come from the lowest levels of commoners--those who have no money and no prospect of a life better than grueling labor. Men who commit crimes not punishable by death are given the option of military service or enslavement, and always choose the army. Any man over the age of 14 can enlist, but must pass a physical test to be admitted, The Xadiri army is primarily for the defense of the city and almost never engages in military conquest. If necessary, any suitable man may be drafted or pressganged into service in the army for as long as necessary; citizens and nobles are exempt from such involuntary service.		Xadir maintains a relatively small professional military (about 2,000 men) made up of men from the city and the surrounding towns and villages. Soldiers enlist for life, but can be discharged after fulfilling 20 years of service, upon which time they are granted citizenship and a small plot of land somewhere on the outskirts of the city. The vast majority of men who enlist in the army (75%) come from the lowest levels of commoners--those who have no money and no prospect of a life better than grueling labor. Men who commit crimes not punishable by death are given the option of military service or enslavement, and always choose the army. Any man over the age of 14 can enlist, but must pass a physical test to be admitted, The Xadiri army is primarily for the defense of the city and almost never engages in military conquest. If necessary, any suitable man may be drafted or pressganged into service in the army for as long as necessary; citizens and nobles are exempt from such involuntary service.
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	===Religion===		====Religion====

	The people of Xadir, like the rest of Caulis, worship Eldraad and the other gods of the Caulisian pantheon. Due to Xadir's proximity to the water, Hommut has a more prominent position in the pantheon than Zithna (who tends to have more importance in cities farther inland and more dependent on farming).		The people of Xadir, like the rest of Caulis, worship Eldraad and the other gods of the Caulisian pantheon. Due to Xadir's proximity to the water, Hommut has a more prominent position in the pantheon than Zithna (who tends to have more importance in cities farther inland and more dependent on farming).
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	===Trade===		====Trade====

	There is an old saying in and around Caulis: "If it can be found, you'll find it in Xadir." The city-state has grown to be one of the largest in the known world because of its ravenous appetite for trade. Its somewhat central location on the continent and at the crossroads of major land and maritime trade routes means boats and caravans are entering and leaving the city nearly constantly.		There is an old saying in and around Caulis: "If it can be found, you'll find it in Xadir." The city-state has grown to be one of the largest in the known world because of its ravenous appetite for trade. Its somewhat central location on the continent and at the crossroads of major land and maritime trade routes means boats and caravans are entering and leaving the city nearly constantly.
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	===Currency===		====Currency====

	The main currency of Xadir is a copper coin known as the ''tek''. Also in circulation is a smaller coin known as a ''bel'' (or ''abbel''), valued at 1/6th of a tek (i.e. 6 bels to the tek). The economy of Xadir (as with most Caulisian city-states) relies heavily on barter and the trading of goods (moreso than on minted currency), and it is not uncommon for transactions to consist entirely of goods or services. Workers may be paid for a day or week's work with a small turkey or pound of chickpeas; likewise, a shipment of lemons from Ilkara might be paid for with an agreed-upon amount of Caulisian pepper.		The main currency of Xadir is a copper coin known as the ''tek''. Also in circulation is a smaller coin known as a ''bel'' (or ''abbel''), valued at 1/6th of a tek (i.e. 6 bels to the tek). The economy of Xadir (as with most Caulisian city-states) relies heavily on barter and the trading of goods (moreso than on minted currency), and it is not uncommon for transactions to consist entirely of goods or services. Workers may be paid for a day or week's work with a small turkey or pound of chickpeas; likewise, a shipment of lemons from Ilkara might be paid for with an agreed-upon amount of Caulisian pepper.
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	===Education===		====Education====

	There is no Xadir-wide system of education. Noble houses and those citizens who can afford to do so hire tutors to instruct male children from the age of 6 or 7 until adulthood at age 14. There is no standardized set of subjects, and boys are instructed in whatever subjects their fathers believe are most important. Among the nobility, having an [[Ilkara]]n tutor for one's son(s) is considered absolutely necessary. Children of commoners receive no formal education, and literacy is very nearly unheard of outside the nobility and the upper tier of the citizenry.		There is no Xadir-wide system of education. Noble houses and those citizens who can afford to do so hire tutors to instruct male children from the age of 6 or 7 until adulthood at age 14. There is no standardized set of subjects, and boys are instructed in whatever subjects their fathers believe are most important. Among the nobility, having an [[Ilkara]]n tutor for one's son(s) is considered absolutely necessary. Children of commoners receive no formal education, and literacy is very nearly unheard of outside the nobility and the upper tier of the citizenry.
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	===Clothing===		====Clothing====

	The men of Xadir wear the traditional Caulisian light, thigh- or knee-length tunic known as the ''ona''. Sleeve length varies, usually based on occupation or social class. Tradesmen, common laborers, and slaves wear ona with no sleeves; merchants and the wealthy prefer elbow-length sleeves. Ona in general tend to be rather plain, undyed, and without any but the most basic of decoration. Those men for whom appearance is more than a rudimentary concern tend to set themselves apart through ornamentation--rings, necklaces, armbands, etc. Slaves are prohibited from wearing ornamentation of any kind. The wealthiest merchants and nobles like to wear colorful Hurkits imported from [[Ilkara]] (they are usually far too expensive an item for any but the richest men, and as such serve as a status symbol as well). Ona and Hurkits are secured around the waist by a leather or cloth belt.		The men of Xadir wear the traditional Caulisian light, thigh- or knee-length tunic known as the ''ona''. Sleeve length varies, usually based on occupation or social class. Tradesmen, common laborers, and slaves wear ona with no sleeves; merchants and the wealthy prefer elbow-length sleeves. Ona in general tend to be rather plain, undyed, and without any but the most basic of decoration. Those men for whom appearance is more than a rudimentary concern tend to set themselves apart through ornamentation--rings, necklaces, armbands, etc. Slaves are prohibited from wearing ornamentation of any kind. The wealthiest merchants and nobles like to wear colorful Hurkits imported from [[Ilkara]] (they are usually far too expensive an item for any but the richest men, and as such serve as a status symbol as well). Ona and Hurkits are secured around the waist by a leather or cloth belt.
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	===Hair Styles===		====Hair Styles====

	Xadiri men of all social classes, like other Caulisians, wear their hair cropped short (hair that hangs down past the shoulders is considered effeminate). Beards, also well trimmed and maintained, are common. Soldiers prefer to shave their heads and faces, but are not required to do so. Xadiri women wear their hair long, but do not otherwise fuss over it much. Wealthy Xadiri women with an excess of free time enjoy elaborate hairstyles and braiding techniques.		Xadiri men of all social classes, like other Caulisians, wear their hair cropped short (hair that hangs down past the shoulders is considered effeminate). Beards, also well trimmed and maintained, are common. Soldiers prefer to shave their heads and faces, but are not required to do so. Xadiri women wear their hair long, but do not otherwise fuss over it much. Wealthy Xadiri women with an excess of free time enjoy elaborate hairstyles and braiding techniques.

Count zero: /* Location and Description */

2008-09-25T01:49:59Z

Location and Description

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:49, 25 September 2008
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	According to legend, the city was founded by the mythical hero and explorer Xad. Depending on the version, he was led to the Bay of Xaan and the location where Xadir now sits by either a gigantic whale or a beautiful fish-woman. Xad found the region to be to his liking, and quite bountiful agriculturally, and so stayed and founded the city that bears his name. (Xar, third son of Xad, supposedly travelled south to the source of the River Caul and founded Xadir's sister city [[Xaros]].)		According to legend, the city was founded by the mythical hero and explorer Xad. Depending on the version, he was led to the Bay of Xaan and the location where Xadir now sits by either a gigantic whale or a beautiful fish-woman. Xad found the region to be to his liking, and quite bountiful agriculturally, and so stayed and founded the city that bears his name. (Xar, third son of Xad, supposedly travelled south to the source of the River Caul and founded Xadir's sister city [[Xaros]].)

	Residents of Xadir refer to themselves as Xadiri. The population of the city and the small towns and villages surrounding it is approximately 30,000, with 15% (4,500) of that made up by slaves, and another 10-15% (3,000-4,500) at any given time being foreigners in permanent or semi-permanent residence. Of the remainder, around 2,000 Caulisian residents of Xadir are citizens and have the appropriate rights (see ''Social Structure'' below). Though the wealth of the city and surrounding area is quite considerable, it is concentrated in the hands of the 10% of the population that are citizens.		Residents of Xadir refer to themselves as Xadiri. The population of the city and the small towns and villages surrounding it is approximately 30,000, with 15% (4,500) of that made up by slaves, and another 10-15% (3,000-4,500) at any given time being foreigners in permanent or semi-permanent residence. Of the remainder, around 2,000 Caulisian residents of Xadir are citizens and have the appropriate rights (see '''Social Structure''' below). Though the wealth of the city and surrounding area is quite considerable, it is concentrated in the hands of the 10% of the population that are citizens.


	[[Image:Xadir_seal.png\|thumb\|200px\|right\|Seal of the Archon and City of Xadir]]		[[Image:Xadir_seal.png\|thumb\|200px\|right\|Seal of the Archon and City of Xadir]]

	===Political System===		===Political System===

Count zero at 01:49, 25 September 2008

2008-09-25T01:49:24Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:49, 25 September 2008
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	~~'''~~Location and Description~~'''~~		===Location and Description===

	Xadir is the largest city-state of [[Caulis]], and perhaps the known world as well. It is a bustling port and important center for trade, and is at the crossroads of major land and sea trade routes. It sits on the Bay of Xaan, at the mouth of the River Caul. The waters of the bay are calm for most of the year and well-protected from pirates. The weather in and around Xadir is sunny and pleasant on average. Boats and caravans by the dozen, loaded with goods, enter and leave the city and its port every day. And adventurous souls from hundreds of miles around flock to the city in search of fame and fortune. Some find it; many find only danger and misery.		Xadir is the largest city-state of [[Caulis]], and perhaps the known world as well. It is a bustling port and important center for trade, and is at the crossroads of major land and sea trade routes. It sits on the Bay of Xaan, at the mouth of the River Caul. The waters of the bay are calm for most of the year and well-protected from pirates. The weather in and around Xadir is sunny and pleasant on average. Boats and caravans by the dozen, loaded with goods, enter and leave the city and its port every day. And adventurous souls from hundreds of miles around flock to the city in search of fame and fortune. Some find it; many find only danger and misery.
Line 12:		Line 12:

	[[Image:Xadir_seal.png\|thumb\|200px\|right\|Seal of the Archon and City of Xadir]]		[[Image:Xadir_seal.png\|thumb\|200px\|right\|Seal of the Archon and City of Xadir]]
	~~'''~~Political System~~'''~~		===Political System===

	The ruling monarch of Xadir is known as the ''Archon''. The Archon is undisputed master of Xadir and the towns and villages adjacent to it. He makes all the laws and has the power of life and death over every man, woman, and child within the city and its environs. The monarchy is hereditary and can only be held by a man. The Archon rules from his stone palace atop Xado Hill, just west of the River Caul. It looks down on the waterfront and main market square, and is situated in the midst of a lush, three-acre garden. The palace and its grounds are off limits to everyone save the Archon, his family, advisors, and slaves, noblemen (and their slaves), and the army unit assigned to be the Archon's personal guard. Treasures from across the region including weapons, armor, and coffers full of coins and precious stones are housed within the palace. The Archon's scribes and their ledgers and records (primarily scrolls) are kept in buidling adjacent to the palace.		The ruling monarch of Xadir is known as the ''Archon''. The Archon is undisputed master of Xadir and the towns and villages adjacent to it. He makes all the laws and has the power of life and death over every man, woman, and child within the city and its environs. The monarchy is hereditary and can only be held by a man. The Archon rules from his stone palace atop Xado Hill, just west of the River Caul. It looks down on the waterfront and main market square, and is situated in the midst of a lush, three-acre garden. The palace and its grounds are off limits to everyone save the Archon, his family, advisors, and slaves, noblemen (and their slaves), and the army unit assigned to be the Archon's personal guard. Treasures from across the region including weapons, armor, and coffers full of coins and precious stones are housed within the palace. The Archon's scribes and their ledgers and records (primarily scrolls) are kept in buidling adjacent to the palace.
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	~~'''~~Social Structure~~'''~~		===Social Structure===

	The social structure of Xadir is made up of a small group of nobles (1%); a larger--but still relatively small--group of citizens (10%) consisting of landowners and wealthy merchants/traders; and commoners (approx. 90%). Commoners include tradespeople, sailors, shop owners, laborers, and so on. Soldiers, priests, bureaucrats, and scholars are generally included within the ranks of commoners, as individuals in those positions seldom possess any special rights or privileges.		The social structure of Xadir is made up of a small group of nobles (1%); a larger--but still relatively small--group of citizens (10%) consisting of landowners and wealthy merchants/traders; and commoners (approx. 90%). Commoners include tradespeople, sailors, shop owners, laborers, and so on. Soldiers, priests, bureaucrats, and scholars are generally included within the ranks of commoners, as individuals in those positions seldom possess any special rights or privileges.
Line 51:		Line 51:


	~~'''~~Military~~'''~~		===Military===

	Xadir maintains a relatively small professional military (about 2,000 men) made up of men from the city and the surrounding towns and villages. Soldiers enlist for life, but can be discharged after fulfilling 20 years of service, upon which time they are granted citizenship and a small plot of land somewhere on the outskirts of the city. The vast majority of men who enlist in the army (75%) come from the lowest levels of commoners--those who have no money and no prospect of a life better than grueling labor. Men who commit crimes not punishable by death are given the option of military service or enslavement, and always choose the army. Any man over the age of 14 can enlist, but must pass a physical test to be admitted, The Xadiri army is primarily for the defense of the city and almost never engages in military conquest. If necessary, any suitable man may be drafted or pressganged into service in the army for as long as necessary; citizens and nobles are exempt from such involuntary service.		Xadir maintains a relatively small professional military (about 2,000 men) made up of men from the city and the surrounding towns and villages. Soldiers enlist for life, but can be discharged after fulfilling 20 years of service, upon which time they are granted citizenship and a small plot of land somewhere on the outskirts of the city. The vast majority of men who enlist in the army (75%) come from the lowest levels of commoners--those who have no money and no prospect of a life better than grueling labor. Men who commit crimes not punishable by death are given the option of military service or enslavement, and always choose the army. Any man over the age of 14 can enlist, but must pass a physical test to be admitted, The Xadiri army is primarily for the defense of the city and almost never engages in military conquest. If necessary, any suitable man may be drafted or pressganged into service in the army for as long as necessary; citizens and nobles are exempt from such involuntary service.
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	~~'''~~Religion~~'''~~		===Religion===

	The people of Xadir, like the rest of Caulis, worship Eldraad and the other gods of the Caulisian pantheon. Due to Xadir's proximity to the water, Hommut has a more prominent position in the pantheon than Zithna (who tends to have more importance in cities farther inland and more dependent on farming).		The people of Xadir, like the rest of Caulis, worship Eldraad and the other gods of the Caulisian pantheon. Due to Xadir's proximity to the water, Hommut has a more prominent position in the pantheon than Zithna (who tends to have more importance in cities farther inland and more dependent on farming).
Line 78:		Line 78:


	~~'''~~Trade~~'''~~		===Trade===

	There is an old saying in and around Caulis: "If it can be found, you'll find it in Xadir." The city-state has grown to be one of the largest in the known world because of its ravenous appetite for trade. Its somewhat central location on the continent and at the crossroads of major land and maritime trade routes means boats and caravans are entering and leaving the city nearly constantly.		There is an old saying in and around Caulis: "If it can be found, you'll find it in Xadir." The city-state has grown to be one of the largest in the known world because of its ravenous appetite for trade. Its somewhat central location on the continent and at the crossroads of major land and maritime trade routes means boats and caravans are entering and leaving the city nearly constantly.
Line 87:		Line 87:


	~~'''~~Currency~~'''~~		===Currency===

	The main currency of Xadir is a copper coin known as the ''tek''. Also in circulation is a smaller coin known as a ''bel'' (or ''abbel''), valued at 1/6th of a tek (i.e. 6 bels to the tek). The economy of Xadir (as with most Caulisian city-states) relies heavily on barter and the trading of goods (moreso than on minted currency), and it is not uncommon for transactions to consist entirely of goods or services. Workers may be paid for a day or week's work with a small turkey or pound of chickpeas; likewise, a shipment of lemons from Ilkara might be paid for with an agreed-upon amount of Caulisian pepper.		The main currency of Xadir is a copper coin known as the ''tek''. Also in circulation is a smaller coin known as a ''bel'' (or ''abbel''), valued at 1/6th of a tek (i.e. 6 bels to the tek). The economy of Xadir (as with most Caulisian city-states) relies heavily on barter and the trading of goods (moreso than on minted currency), and it is not uncommon for transactions to consist entirely of goods or services. Workers may be paid for a day or week's work with a small turkey or pound of chickpeas; likewise, a shipment of lemons from Ilkara might be paid for with an agreed-upon amount of Caulisian pepper.
Line 94:		Line 94:


	~~'''~~Education~~'''~~		===Education===

	There is no Xadir-wide system of education. Noble houses and those citizens who can afford to do so hire tutors to instruct male children from the age of 6 or 7 until adulthood at age 14. There is no standardized set of subjects, and boys are instructed in whatever subjects their fathers believe are most important. Among the nobility, having an [[Ilkara]]n tutor for one's son(s) is considered absolutely necessary. Children of commoners receive no formal education, and literacy is very nearly unheard of outside the nobility and the upper tier of the citizenry.		There is no Xadir-wide system of education. Noble houses and those citizens who can afford to do so hire tutors to instruct male children from the age of 6 or 7 until adulthood at age 14. There is no standardized set of subjects, and boys are instructed in whatever subjects their fathers believe are most important. Among the nobility, having an [[Ilkara]]n tutor for one's son(s) is considered absolutely necessary. Children of commoners receive no formal education, and literacy is very nearly unheard of outside the nobility and the upper tier of the citizenry.
Line 101:		Line 101:


	~~'''~~Clothing~~'''~~		===Clothing===

	The men of Xadir wear the traditional Caulisian light, thigh- or knee-length tunic known as the ''ona''. Sleeve length varies, usually based on occupation or social class. Tradesmen, common laborers, and slaves wear ona with no sleeves; merchants and the wealthy prefer elbow-length sleeves. Ona in general tend to be rather plain, undyed, and without any but the most basic of decoration. Those men for whom appearance is more than a rudimentary concern tend to set themselves apart through ornamentation--rings, necklaces, armbands, etc. Slaves are prohibited from wearing ornamentation of any kind. The wealthiest merchants and nobles like to wear colorful Hurkits imported from [[Ilkara]] (they are usually far too expensive an item for any but the richest men, and as such serve as a status symbol as well). Ona and Hurkits are secured around the waist by a leather or cloth belt.		The men of Xadir wear the traditional Caulisian light, thigh- or knee-length tunic known as the ''ona''. Sleeve length varies, usually based on occupation or social class. Tradesmen, common laborers, and slaves wear ona with no sleeves; merchants and the wealthy prefer elbow-length sleeves. Ona in general tend to be rather plain, undyed, and without any but the most basic of decoration. Those men for whom appearance is more than a rudimentary concern tend to set themselves apart through ornamentation--rings, necklaces, armbands, etc. Slaves are prohibited from wearing ornamentation of any kind. The wealthiest merchants and nobles like to wear colorful Hurkits imported from [[Ilkara]] (they are usually far too expensive an item for any but the richest men, and as such serve as a status symbol as well). Ona and Hurkits are secured around the waist by a leather or cloth belt.
Line 116:		Line 116:


	~~'''~~Hair Styles~~'''~~		===Hair Styles===

	Xadiri men of all social classes, like other Caulisians, wear their hair cropped short (hair that hangs down past the shoulders is considered effeminate). Beards, also well trimmed and maintained, are common. Soldiers prefer to shave their heads and faces, but are not required to do so. Xadiri women wear their hair long, but do not otherwise fuss over it much. Wealthy Xadiri women with an excess of free time enjoy elaborate hairstyles and braiding techniques.		Xadiri men of all social classes, like other Caulisians, wear their hair cropped short (hair that hangs down past the shoulders is considered effeminate). Beards, also well trimmed and maintained, are common. Soldiers prefer to shave their heads and faces, but are not required to do so. Xadiri women wear their hair long, but do not otherwise fuss over it much. Wealthy Xadiri women with an excess of free time enjoy elaborate hairstyles and braiding techniques.

Count zero at 23:16, 12 September 2008

2008-09-12T23:16:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:16, 12 September 2008
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	As elsewhere in Caulis, The major religious festival takes place at midsummer. There are great processions through the city from temple to temple and down to the waterfront. Offerings are made to Eldraad, and great feasts are enjoyed by all. The Festival of Hommut in the third month is the second most holy day of the year.		As elsewhere in Caulis, The major religious festival takes place at midsummer. There are great processions through the city from temple to temple and down to the waterfront. Offerings are made to Eldraad, and great feasts are enjoyed by all. The Festival of Hommut in the third month is the second most holy day of the year.





			'''Trade'''

			There is an old saying in and around Caulis: "If it can be found, you'll find it in Xadir." The city-state has grown to be one of the largest in the known world because of its ravenous appetite for trade. Its somewhat central location on the continent and at the crossroads of major land and maritime trade routes means boats and caravans are entering and leaving the city nearly constantly.

			Xadir is full of craftsmen who produce tools, weapons, clothing, household goods, etc.; these durable goods are made well enough, if lacking in artistry or refinement. A large portion of durable goods manufactured in the city are transported to the primarily agricultural city-states further south, or to neighboring regions.

Count zero at 17:26, 17 August 2008

2008-08-17T17:26:53Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:26, 17 August 2008
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	According to legend, the city was founded by the mythical hero and explorer Xad. Depending on the version, he was led to the Bay of Xaan and the location where Xadir now sits by either a gigantic whale or a beautiful fish-woman. Xad found the region to be to his liking, and quite bountiful agriculturally, and so stayed and founded the city that bears his name. (Xar, third son of Xad, supposedly travelled south to the source of the River Caul and founded Xadir's sister city [[Xaros]].)		According to legend, the city was founded by the mythical hero and explorer Xad. Depending on the version, he was led to the Bay of Xaan and the location where Xadir now sits by either a gigantic whale or a beautiful fish-woman. Xad found the region to be to his liking, and quite bountiful agriculturally, and so stayed and founded the city that bears his name. (Xar, third son of Xad, supposedly travelled south to the source of the River Caul and founded Xadir's sister city [[Xaros]].)

	Residents of Xadir refer to themselves as Xadiri. The population of the city and the small towns and villages surrounding it is approximately 30,000, with 15% (4,500) of that made up by slaves, and another 10-15% (3,000-4,500) at any given time being foreigners in permanent or semi-permanent residence. Of the remainder, around 2,000 Caulisian residents of Xadir are citizens and have the appropriate rights (see ~~Law~~ below). Though the wealth of the city and surrounding area is quite considerable, it is concentrated in the hands of the 10% of the population that are citizens.		Residents of Xadir refer to themselves as Xadiri. The population of the city and the small towns and villages surrounding it is approximately 30,000, with 15% (4,500) of that made up by slaves, and another 10-15% (3,000-4,500) at any given time being foreigners in permanent or semi-permanent residence. Of the remainder, around 2,000 Caulisian residents of Xadir are citizens and have the appropriate rights (see ''Social Structure'' below). Though the wealth of the city and surrounding area is quite considerable, it is concentrated in the hands of the 10% of the population that are citizens.

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	Xadiri soldiers are competent, though not particularly experienced or well trained. A typical soldier's equipment includes a short sword, spear, and medium-sized round leather shield. Armor consists of greaves, breastplate, and a helmet. The helmet of any soldier ranking higher than ''zattar'' includes a horsehair crest. About one-third of soldiers are trained as archers, and there are no significant horse-mounted units or charioteers.		Xadiri soldiers are competent, though not particularly experienced or well trained. A typical soldier's equipment includes a short sword, spear, and medium-sized round leather shield. Armor consists of greaves, breastplate, and a helmet. The helmet of any soldier ranking higher than ''zattar'' includes a horsehair crest. About one-third of soldiers are trained as archers, and there are no significant horse-mounted units or charioteers.

	The Xadiri navy (not considered a seperate entity from the army) is made up of 20 medium-sized galleys and a handful of smaller boats. The navy rarely sails out of the Bay of Xaan, but will occasionally escort an important shipment to a neighboring region, or accompany the Archon on state visits to major trade partners like [[Hellianoptis]] or [[Lutia]]. The navy may comandeer any civilian vessel at any time and use it as long as is deemed necessary.		The Xadiri navy (not considered a seperate entity from the army) is made up of 20 medium-sized galleys and a handful of smaller boats. The navy rarely sails out of the Bay of Xaan, but will occasionally escort an important shipment to a neighboring region, or accompany the Archon on state visits to major trade partners like [[Hellianoptis]] or [[Lutia]]. The navy may comandeer any civilian vessel at any time and use it as long as is deemed necessary.

			[http://www.monkey-bars.net/apfrpg/prometheus/xadir_soldier.jpg Arms and Armor of a Xadiri Soldier]





	'''Religion'''		'''Religion'''

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			[[Image:Xadir_seal.png\|thumb\|200px\|right\|Seal of the Archon and City of Xadir]]
	'''Political System'''		'''Political System'''

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	As elsewhere in Caulis, The major religious festival takes place at midsummer. There are great processions through the city from temple to temple and down to the waterfront. Offerings are made to Eldraad, and great feasts are enjoyed by all. The Festival of Hommut in the third month is the second most holy day of the year.		As elsewhere in Caulis, The major religious festival takes place at midsummer. There are great processions through the city from temple to temple and down to the waterfront. Offerings are made to Eldraad, and great feasts are enjoyed by all. The Festival of Hommut in the third month is the second most holy day of the year.





			'''Currency'''

			The main currency of Xadir is a copper coin known as the ''tek''. Also in circulation is a smaller coin known as a ''bel'' (or ''abbel''), valued at 1/6th of a tek (i.e. 6 bels to the tek). The economy of Xadir (as with most Caulisian city-states) relies heavily on barter and the trading of goods (moreso than on minted currency), and it is not uncommon for transactions to consist entirely of goods or services. Workers may be paid for a day or week's work with a small turkey or pound of chickpeas; likewise, a shipment of lemons from Ilkara might be paid for with an agreed-upon amount of Caulisian pepper.

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	'''Religion'''		'''Religion'''

	The people of Xadir, like the rest of Caulis, worship Eldraad and the other gods of the Caulisian pantheon. Due to Xadir's proximity to the water, Hommut has a more prominent position in the pantheon than Zithna (who tends to have more importance in cities farther inland and more ~~dependant~~ on farming).		The people of Xadir, like the rest of Caulis, worship Eldraad and the other gods of the Caulisian pantheon. Due to Xadir's proximity to the water, Hommut has a more prominent position in the pantheon than Zithna (who tends to have more importance in cities farther inland and more dependent on farming).

	''Eean'' have no particular social standing or privileges in Xadir. They serve the gods first, the Archon second, and the people third. The Archon is considered the Supreme Religious Authority in Xadir, though this status is largely ceremonial and everyone knows it. The largest temple is the one dedicated to Eldraad and the Head Priest of that temple is called the Eldreeanos; he is considered the wisest and most learned man in the city. There are temples and shrines dedicated to all the major gods and goddesses of Caulis throughout the city, and shrines to various foreign deities erected by expatriate merchants can be found if one looks hard enough. As in other cities of the region, the eean are given money and gifts by the populace to pray on their behalf, to bless marriages, births, business undertakings, and perform healing ceremonies. As such, the priesthood is fairly lucrative, though the Archon takes a healthy portion for himself.		''Eean'' have no particular social standing or privileges in Xadir. They serve the gods first, the Archon second, and the people third. The Archon is considered the Supreme Religious Authority in Xadir, though this status is largely ceremonial and everyone knows it. The largest temple is the one dedicated to Eldraad and the Head Priest of that temple is called the Eldreeanos; he is considered the wisest and most learned man in the city. There are temples and shrines dedicated to all the major gods and goddesses of Caulis throughout the city, and shrines to various foreign deities erected by expatriate merchants can be found if one looks hard enough. As in other cities of the region, the eean are given money and gifts by the populace to pray on their behalf, to bless marriages, births, business undertakings, and perform healing ceremonies. As such, the priesthood is fairly lucrative, though the Archon takes a healthy portion for himself.

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	'''Political System'''		'''Political System'''

	The ruling monarch of Xadir is ~~know~~ as the ''Archon''. The Archon is undisputed master of Xadir and the towns and villages adjacent to it. He makes all the laws and has the power of life and death over every man, woman, and child within the city and its environs. The monarchy is hereditary and can only be held by a man. The Archon rules from his stone palace atop Xado Hill, just west of the River Caul. It looks down on the waterfront and main market square, and is situated in the midst of a lush, three-acre garden. The palace and its grounds are off limits to everyone save the Archon, his family, advisors, and slaves, noblemen (and their slaves), and the army unit assigned to be the Archon's personal guard. Treasures from across the region including weapons, armor, and coffers full of coins and precious stones are housed within the palace. The Archon's scribes and their ledgers and records (primarily scrolls) are kept in buidling adjacent to the palace.		The ruling monarch of Xadir is known as the ''Archon''. The Archon is undisputed master of Xadir and the towns and villages adjacent to it. He makes all the laws and has the power of life and death over every man, woman, and child within the city and its environs. The monarchy is hereditary and can only be held by a man. The Archon rules from his stone palace atop Xado Hill, just west of the River Caul. It looks down on the waterfront and main market square, and is situated in the midst of a lush, three-acre garden. The palace and its grounds are off limits to everyone save the Archon, his family, advisors, and slaves, noblemen (and their slaves), and the army unit assigned to be the Archon's personal guard. Treasures from across the region including weapons, armor, and coffers full of coins and precious stones are housed within the palace. The Archon's scribes and their ledgers and records (primarily scrolls) are kept in buidling adjacent to the palace.

	The Archon has very few real duties to fulfill. He hosts visiting royalty and dignitaries from foreign lands, and holds a large banquet for his nobles and other men of importance once or twice a week, where matters of state, trade, and alliances are discussed. Some archons of the more recent past have spent most of their time in the pursuit of leisure activities such as hunting, dining, and amassing wives and concubines. Others have been more interested in amassing knowledge and exploring lands beyond the borders of Caulis.		The Archon has very few real duties to fulfill. He hosts visiting royalty and dignitaries from foreign lands, and holds a large banquet for his nobles and other men of importance once or twice a week, where matters of state, trade, and alliances are discussed. Some archons of the more recent past have spent most of their time in the pursuit of leisure activities such as hunting, dining, and amassing wives and concubines. Others have been more interested in amassing knowledge and exploring lands beyond the borders of Caulis.