Fasa li Nuam

The original people of Arad, the history of the Fasa li Nuam stretches back to the time of the Immortals. They claim to predate all other races, and enjoy a unique bond with the gaea. They are excellent riders and herdsmen, and are fiercely protective of their land, often arresting any outsiders without escorts on their lands and killing those who trespass on their sacred land. Because of this, not much is known of the Ancient Lands, except that it boasts a large forest. They were the first druids.

Culture

The Fasa live their lives in family groups, only breaking them apart when it is too large for the land to sustain. For the most part, these tribes are nomadic, although there are a few that have settled into cities, primarily the Ain Ealdo. Most prefer the freedom that living on the move gives, and don't want to be trapped in one location. The Fasa are a stubborn and proud people, despite their claims to go where the wind carries. They are reserved with those not of their family, but show great kindness and compassion to those who they care about.

There are currently seven clans in Fasa li Nuam, with many different tribes associate with each. Each clan has a distinct traditional role in their society, although the lines are blured in day to day life. Members are marked when they come of age with their clan's tattoo on their bicep. Boys have the inside of their bicep marked, while girls have the outside. At marriage this band is completely with their spouse's clan, afterwhich the couple will be part of the wife's clan. There are generally some tribal characteristics in the tattoo, but they all follow the same basic design. These tattoos are only shown in formal settings, Fasa wearing sleeves at almost all other times.

Clans

Below are listed the seven clans. Note: very few outsiders would know this information, as the Fasa protect their borders rather jealously.

Ain Ealdo

"Those Who Own Houses," the Ain Ealdo long ago gave up the nomadic life, instead populating the few towns in the Ancient Lands. This isn't to say that they have given up the traditions of the Fasa, however. They are as competitive at the yearly games as any other clan. These towns are generally placed in areas of natural beauty or other importance.

Their tattoo is an intricately tied knot over various lines and shapes that vary by tribe.

Ildaizi

"The Wraiths," the Ildazi are one of the warrior clans of the Fasa. Over the centuries, they have perfected the art of war both in the forest and plains, and often scout the border of the Ancient Lands, calling in the Tinejo Isdra and Untaise when necessary.

Their tattoo is a band of brambles.

Tae Skelym

Most of the druids of the Fasa come from Tae Skelym, and the name, in fact means druids or sages. The second least nomadic of the clans, Tae Skelym tend to populate the area closest to Iardemi.

Their tattoo is a twined vine with thorns. The type of vine, leaves, and flowers vary by tribe.

Untaise

Literally "Those of the Horse," the Untaise are the most nomadic of the Fasa.

Their tattoo resembles the head of the horse, with the mane flowing into the rest of the band.