Humans of the Iron Empire
The classic, adaptable humans. This race is by far the most adaptive and diverse of the Genesian races. Humans have proven their mettle against every kind of climate imaginable, and overcome a host of challenges and obstacles throughout history, despite being the least magically inclined race in the world. Their ingenuity is famous. There's an expression among Humankind; "If you're in a tight spot, ask a Dwarf if you need it smashed open. Ask an Elf if you want them to puzzle for hours about its nature. Ask a Human if you don't want to be in there to begin with." Humans are cunning and have the most formidable architecture--their forts and walls are the toughest in the realm. They are the most widespread race, with a large number across every inhabited continent. They're also, however, the race known for the most political infighting, rebellion, and subterfuge.
Culture
The humans have been around since the First Era, during which 'The Royal Crown' was established; A strict monarchy system with little in the way of senate or council. The crown has been claimed and reclaimed by a variety of noble houses over the ages, but one thing always remains the same: The Emperor rules with an iron fist. Despite a great deal of infighting and rebellion over the years, The Iron Empire remains perhaps the strongest nation in the realm, holding a great deal of power and influence.
The empire has a system of vassalage and serfdom; Noble houses serve the Empire, and in turn are granted land of their own. So long as they stay loyal and useful to the Emperor, they are relatively free to do as they wish within their own territories.
The exception to this rule is The Coastals--The eastern coasts of The Lands of Iron. This province is a nearly lawless place, governed by gangs of pirates--But they uphold trade routes with The Empire itself, and so a blind eye is turned, as their ports and trade routes are the most valuable in Genesia.
Subspecies
Mainland Humans
These humans are found across the entirety of the Lands of Iron, including its cold, unforgiving northern fronts. These humans are very adaptable and capable--The greatest builders in the world are found here.
Coastal Humans
These Humans are mainly found along the Swordcoast--The Coastals province of The Lands of Iron. With a strong connection to the sea, these humans are sometimes unusually gifted in the ways of water and wind magic, unlike their inland relatives. These humans often have a slightly tanned complexion. Some of the most infamous pirates and brigands in the world are Coastal Humans--But they are also some of the most hardest working people in the realm.
Gharanian Humans
Gharanian Humans, more commonly referred to as 'Eastern Humans', are descendants of a group of humans that travelled to the Orcish and Lizardfolk home continent of Gharana during the first era. They are very tolerant of heat and humidity, living in both deserts and marshes. Most of them have tan or dark skin. They are known for a particular, unique sub-style of earth magic, Sand, using which they are able to summon powerful golems and constructs. Unlike the Lands of Iron, they are not ruled under a monarchy, but rather function as a merchant republic.
Humans
Kingdom | The Lands of Iron |
Capital | The Iron Capital |
Aliases | Humankin, Harlings (Giants), Mireborn (Lizardfolk), Karnin (Dwarvish), Rynor (Elven) |
Common Languages | Elven, Common, Aelthar (Ancient Elven) |
Lifespan | 80-120 years |
Average Height | 5'4 - 6'0 |
Present Day Allegiances | Dwarves, Half-Giants, Giantkin, Elves, Lizardfolk |
Elemental Proficiencies | Earth, Light, Water & Wind (Subspecies Dependant) |