[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Wisdom is Strength"



The Hei of Abaddi is the youngest house of nobility within Egypt. Only recently granted the status of nobles by Pharaoh Iahotep after a great victory over Bedoan raiders on the western border by General Sethtah, the family holds no special privileges or powers over any land as yet. Instead, they look to build their support and reputation in the Council, taking military campaigns wherever possible and supporting the Pharaoh and his Queen in order to win the favouritism necessary to advance and gain further glory for the Abaddi name, securing the future of its children.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Egypt
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Egyptian/Mixed Race
Dominant Traits	Large dark eyes in the women on the male side of the family. Wide mouths and Bedoan lips in the female side.
Names	Egyptian/African
Politics	The members of the Abaddi family play the game and they play it well, with a demure dignity. They do not rush, they do not fight and they offer reason where anger might rule. They present themselves as self-assured but are always aware of their youth as a noble Hei and how every step is precious.
Ideals	Do not reach further than your own arm. Assess your path and then follow it. To not doubt when you step, or else you falter.
Reputation	Dependable, courageous, considerate, balanced.

Relations

Naddar	Loyalty for the establishment of nobility. Strong ties of political trust and encouragement. Personal feelings do not come into play here.
Fakhouri	By association with Naddar there is loyalty to Fakhouri. This loyalty is compounded by a natural awe and uncertainty regarding the power of the Queen Dowager.
Moghadam	While in no way antagonistic or enemies, the path that Abaddi wishes to take in order to secure its position amongst the nobility is the same one that Moghadam try to use in order to maintain their glory despite dwindling numbers. As such, these two houses are often found vying for the same military campaigns or Council decisions and have fallen into a pattern of friendly - but serious - rivalry.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Power in Duty"



The Antonis family are the House with the most respect in Athenia. Not only are they one of the longest running royal bloodlines - second only to the Marikas family - they have been focused on the military for many generations. As such, the men of the Antonis family are considered to be courageous, disciplined and embodying the strength that true men should possess. The Antonis family almost always serve in Athenian military and always at the very top ranks of Commander and General. Some have ventured into the political side and become the Master of War at one time or another, or have worked in some form of role that aids in the military - such as being the primary trader of war horses. While they, as a House, are not focused on politics or the monarchy, this impression of the character of their family members means that they are often turned to for advice in the Senate and Court regardless.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Athenia
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Alehandros line: Dark hair, light eyes, soft features, average height. Lacides line: Light hair, light eyes, angular features, impressive height and broad shoulders.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	When the Antonis family involve themselves in politics, they see it as a military campaign - to be handled with careful consideration and blunt honesty. They don't play games and they are never deceitful.
Ideals	Do your duty. Serve your monarch and your kingdom. Glory awaits those who die in service to their king and their Gods. Fear not death; fear a lack of legacy.
Reputation	Courageous, stoic, disciplined, heroic.

Relations

Marikas	A long-standing tradition of marriage and support. Strong ties of friendship and respect for the values in dignity and legacy they both share.
Stravos	A strong dislike for the manner in which the House deceives and lies in their commercial endeavours and the way they attempt to become a part of the royal line. However; no active hatred or outstanding issues.
Xanthos	Respect for the Xanthos's ideals of blunt honesty and loyal to the current monarch and his family.

Provinces

Aetaea	Open
Attia	Sanasa of Antonis
Elierea	Open
Illoclis	Mateos of Antonis
Loclis	Open
Pholis	Open

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Peace Be To You"



The Azari Mahnheeg are responsible for the day to day lives and administration of the city province of Israel. It is within this province that their skills as diplomats and politicians are most greatly required. Closest to the military power that is Egypt and host to a Taengean unit of Greek soldiers, the people of Israel are the blockade between war and the rest of Judea. It is up to the Azari family to ensure peace reigns and war is not brought down upon their neighbours. While previous generations have done well in keeping the war at bay and the current leader of the house, Gurion, has been upheld as a great peacemaker, the tragedies in the history of the Azari family have produced a more recent generation of angry men who may be destined to upset the delicate balance within the walls of the bright city, throwing its calm and peaceful future into question.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Judea
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Jewish/Hebrew
Dominant Traits	Wide jawlines in the men, small features in the women, prominent noses that are often very straight, wide shoulders and slim builds.
Names	Hebrew
Politics	The Azari are great politicians and diplomats. With a history of violence along its borders Israel is now a land of peace and their leaders are intent on keeping it that way.
Ideals	A hand offered by an enemy does not always hold a weapon. Always seek the common ground; not the higher ground. Justice over vengeance. The peace of many over the war of one.
Reputation	Brave, intelligent, diplomatic, compassionate.

Relations

Barak	Respectful of the intelligence and diligence of the women but always aware that they are in fact women, Azari offer Barak polite detachment and no outward hostility.
Haviv	Close to Haviv in terms of trade, the Azari and Haviv families liaise almost endlessly regarding goods being transported across the dead sea between their provinces, economically joining Europe and Asia.
Jaffe	Azari respect the Meier's devout ways and strength of faith but struggle with the violence with which Meier can sometimes put down those who stray.
Meier	Azari have little time for the Jaffe or who share their ideals of peace but seem to do little in the way of helping others to achieve it, prefering to stay hidden in their mountainous retreat.
Poraz	With Poraz, Azari has a great deal of time and personal likeability, as the traders of Moab believe in tolerance and liberal peace in a similar manner to those of Israel.[td]

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"On Earth We Rule"



A Mahnheeg desperately trying to maintain its power for future generations but struggling due to the entire clan currently being female, the women of the Barak family may not have been born with great political cunning but are rapidly learning their way. Led by the sister-wives Zevah and Yonita, the Baraks each have their own skills in intellect gathering and the seduction of key male officials within the capital of Judah that they use in an effort to keep their position as a Mahnheeg in place. The least stringent in their faith of the six Mahnheegs, the Barak women choose to read the holy scripture in the meaning of - "leave the world a better place than you found it, for the sake of your children". To this end, they use as many means as they can to ensure that they will have a legacy to pass down to their next generation that will - with hope - hold male heirs.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Judea
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Jewish/Hebrew
Dominant Traits	Wide jaws and large mouths, with round or square faces and big eyes. The Barak women have bold features, are sturdy in build and are often on the tall side for women.
Names	Hebrew
Politics	The Barak Mahnheeg must be very careful in politics. With their seats on the Council of Elders filled by two stewards (one of whom is a close friend of Yonita and the other a lover of Zevah), the Barak family have to manage their business and any legacy they hope to pass on to the next generation through their male mouthpieces, without giving cause for their status as Mahnheeg to be removed and given to another family.
Ideals	Bend but never break. Seek towards a future for your children. Never allow another to define your limitations. Listening is as powerful as speaking.
Reputation	Liberal, female, dogged, past.

Relations

Azari	As the capitol, Judah is interested much by the politics in Israel meaning that the houses of Barak and Azari know each other very well. Yonita and Isaac in particular have a good relationship as friends.
Haviv	Haviv are a family that toe the expected line a little and are therefore a little more open to the idea of Barak being led by women currently - for surely a male heir will appear in due course. Marriage talks can always be had with the boys of Haviv.
Jaffe	Barak struggle with Jaffe and Meier the most at Council meetings. With Jaffe's heads firmly buried in the pages of dusty books they see not the future that could be open to the fairer gender if men would let them.
Meier	Meier is the least accepting and openly distrustful and rude to the women of Barak who often attend Council meetings alongside their stewards. Meier constantly champion petitions to have the Barak Mahnheeg replaced but so far their attempts have failed.
Poraz	Poraz are fairly benign to Barak. They do not approve of a Mahnheeg led solely by women but with the addition of level-headed stewards, they see no great danger in it and show no open dislike for the family.[td]

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Dignity in a Good Death"



The Buuchu tribe is one of warriors and military men. They are a tribe that took the toughest paths around the desert sands in the hope of venturing to find additional oases or sources of life yet unmapped. Their ancestors are the men who - as legend tells - defended the whole of the Sahara from the Egyptian hordes of the East. In more recent times, the Buuchu people have been the tribe that all young Bedoan men wished to have been born into. Male offspring in the Buuchu Gesin are trained from birth to protect themselves and those around them - particularly their women. A Buuchu warrior is said to have an impenetrable defence, to move faster than the eye can see and to be able to throw a knife five hundred yards, hard enough still to take the head of an enemy. Equally awed and feared for their real and rumoured abilities, the Buuchu tribe are smart enough to play on their reputations and have spent years continuing their militant traditions. This is needed when you have a legacy of such strength. For a clan of such power is a target for any wishing to prove their own might. The Buuchu Gesin finds themselves at war more often than any other tribe - attacked by wandering marauders or outcast tribes on a regular basis, ensuring that they continue to live up to their frightful reputation as trained killers of the desert sands.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Bedoa
Rank	Royal
Appearance	African
Dominant Traits	Dark, near Nubian, skin tone; wide mouths, heavy musculature, powerful height. Men are often stoic and the tribesmen talk little.
Names	African
Politics	The Buuchu prefer battles to diplomacy but also have strong rules on warfare and how it should be conducted with honour and dignity. War is not for the sake of bloodshed. For the Buuchu, war is a matter of politics within itself and the idea is for you to win, not for your enemy to lose.[td]
Ideals	There is no shame for dying for a good cause. The spirits will protect a warrior who fights without doubt. Weapons are for warriors, not fighters.
Reputation	Barbarous, dangerous, military-based, powerful.

Relations

Somalu

Recent travel paths have brought the two tribes into close quarters and friendships and connections seem to be being made.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Never Shall We Yield"



Condos is a name that has been in the Taengean royal registry for many generations but it has rarely found itself on the throne. As such, the family have a certain amount of power and prestige in the Taengean Senate and Court but are also thought of, by some less-favourable characters, as the "always the bridesmaid" House. Counter to this is the massive amounts of land that the Condos family has gradually come to own over the generations; adding to their legacy a field at a time. This land gives them a significant amount of wealth in the form of many vineyards and becoming the largest wine-maker in Greece, as well as the number of people they have living on that land becoming their cards to deal when war or crisis arrives for the kingdom. As for the family themselves, some generations are embittered by their position in Court, at other times they are perfectly content but they always take great pride in their position as the wine aficionados of Taengea.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Taengea
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Dark hair, dark eyes, prominent jaw in the men and voluptuous curves and heart-shaped faces in the women.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Condos family are skilled politicians and courtiers and enjoy playing games of power. They do not, however, tend to be malicious or deceitful and are loyal to the Taengean king.
Ideals	Hard work is deserving of respect - no matter the field. Fail to plan and you plan to fail. Success is something you build, season upon season.
Reputation	Enthusiastic, emotional, friendly, hard-working.

Relations

Dimitrou	Strong connection through several marriages over the generations. Friendly and kind to one another, despite Dimitrou's lowered reputation.
Leventi	In constant trade wars of land for the Condos wine and the Leventi horses. Usually on bad terms, over border disputes or use of land.
Mikaelidas	Related by blood and marriage. Incredibly loyal.

Provinces

Acaris	Open
Doralis	Nikos of Condos
Maliania	Open
Thesdiki	Open

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Unity. Strength. Victory.”



The House with the oldest and most dignified legacy in Taengea, the Dimitrou family has grown further away from the royal line as generations have passed but they do still technically have royal blood in their veins. Often keeping out of courtly politics, the House is the poorest of the royal Houses and the family members are therefore careful never to antagonise the more powerful families, for fear of losing the lands or money they still have. On the other hand, the Dimitrou family are one of fine traditions such as hunting and are experts in physical combat. A Dimitrou has never lost a duel, or a hunt and the current family walk a fine line to ensure their legacy's prestige without making it vulnerable to challenge. Another element of the family, that is different to others, is that the Dimitrou House has never been strict or arrogant in their marriage arrangements and have had more House leaders marry lower nobility, or even civilians, for the sake of love over power, leading to very tight and genuinely loving family units. This is perhaps one of the reasons that their family line has strayed so far, for they do not enter into superfluous betrothals with the other royal Houses simply to maintain their power.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Taengea
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Dark, thick hair, light eyes, prominent noses, square faces. Girls have rounded features and the men are average height and slender.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Dimitrous find it hard to make a name for themselves in the Senate due to their lack of funds and smaller lands. They have only their legacy to use as leverage and even that is slowly beginning to wear thin, as many in the Senate believe the time of Dimitrou greatness is over.
Ideals	Integrity above greed. Stay true to your family. Protect those weaker than yourself at all costs. Family is more important than name.
Reputation	Old-fashioned, savage, their time is over, brave.

Relations

Leventi	Strong dislike - the Leventi House look down on Dimitrou for their aging reputation - and Dimitrou takes serious offence at such arrogance.
Condos	Warm relations and friendly demeanour between the two Houses, due to marriages in previous generations and on-going business and trade.
Mikaelidas	Strong loyalty to their king and his family name. Many generations of inter-marrying with the House.

Provinces

Chaoedia	Iason of Dimitrou
Meganea	Gavriil of Dimitrou
Melia	Open
Oettias	Open

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Dauntless Courage"



Smaller than it once was, the Drakos family has a legacy of powerful military achievement and currently owns the mines from which so many riches are extracted. Known once to be the dragons that resided in the mountains of the Kirakles Islands, their heritage has not been lost but is, instead, supported and held by the wrong gender. Now a family of women and destined to lose the family name entirely, unless any of the family marry someone of low birth, outside the houses, the women of the Drakos family are sharp, courageous and known to be unladylike in many ways and forms. As close relations to the king, they have avoided the harsh words and gossip of the court but everyone knows that a Drakos lady is more viper than maiden.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Colchis
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Light eyes, sharp and pointed features, thin frames. Tythra has introduced light hair to the family while before they were mostly dark.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Drakos family are involved in politics due to their close relation to the monarch and it is this connection that allows them to speak in the Senate and Court with all the power and influence any man of their House would have.[td]
Ideals	Strength is not limited to a single gender. Bravery is worthy in any person. Fear is a sign of personal weakness.
Reputation	Cold, shrewish, merciless, courageous, sharp-tongued.

Relations

Eliades	Little to no relation but generally think of them as cowards, given Drakos' military history and Eliades' preference for scholarly application.
Kotas	Unbreakable family loyalty.
Thanasi	On-going irritation and family feuds descended from many generations before them. Also - enemies by association due to the disagreements between the families of Thanasi and Kotas.

Provinces

Dolomesa	Imeeya of Drakos
Laconia	Open
Magnemea	Open
Molossia	Open

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Passion and Valour.”



To be an Eliades means to have an appreciation for knowledge and the pursuit of understanding the world around you. Once a military family, the house only became one of nobility when Harith married Lady Ria - the cousin of the King of Midas. It was Harith who began the family's love of learning and the reason his wife fell in love with him. As such, the two have raised their children to believe that information can be just as powerful as a sword. The family are new to nobility but are also proud of their accomplishments and are respected in their field.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Colchis
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Light eyes, square faces, bold features. The men are often broad-shouldered and powerfully built. Women have rounder faces and softer features.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Eliades try to stay out of the more aggressive politics surrounding rule and war but they are invaluable when it comes to making decisions on population, supplies and trade agreements, given their skills in statistics and logical thinking.
Ideals	Knowledge is power. Power should be used for the good of the many. Family is the most important thing in life.
Reputation	Weak, intelligent, non-combative, non-threatening.

Relations

Kotas	Connected by blood and marriage they have strong and positive relations and respect the Kotas power and prestige and military achievements.
Thanasi	Dislike and disregard for the Thanasi way of using intellect as a manipulative tool in the Court and Senate. Also, distaste at the daughters of the House supposedly using magic when the Eliades's are a family of science.

Provinces

Almosis	Dexios of Vlahakis
Illytia	Photis of Eliades

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Ours is the Majesty"



The great Hei of Fakhouri was once a house of Kings. For nearly four hundred years, the Pharaohs of Egypt came from the Fakhouri Hei. And on the odd generation when the men of the Hei were not born to the next Pharaoh a woman of the Fakhouri bloodline would become their Queen. The history of this Hei is woven into the very tapestry of Egyptian history. No other Hei has the same legacy, power or might as Fakhouri, even though there is now only a single living member of the clan. At the time that Egypt last went to war with Greece - some ten years ago - Fakhouri, nearly all of its male heirs to war. With the female lines moving to marry into other Hei the name of Fakhouri never lost its power but it diminished significantly within the Council of Egypt. The last hold out is Queen Dowager Isetheperu. While technically H'Naddar, the Queen Dowager openly considers herself a Fakhouri above all else and clearly awaits the birth of many a grandchild that can take the name back and reinvigorate the life and light within the Hei. Despite being a woman, the Queen Dowager operates a rare place of power in the Council of Egypt as a woman more cunning than Pharaoh and more experienced than the Queen. She rules Fakhouri with a rod of iron in a manner so complete that one would think the Hei to be at the height of its power yet still.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Egypt
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Egyptian
Dominant Traits	Black hair, dark eyes, paler skin. The women have rounder faces while the men are often tall and slender in build.
Names	Egyptian
Politics	Fakhouri are heavily involved in politics and the will of the Queen Dowager seeps through the walls and floors of the Egyptian Council.[td]
Ideals	Legacy is everything. Never back down. Everyone wants to deserve something but not everyone deserves what they want.
Reputation	Mighty, powerful, intelligent, cunning, rich.

Relations

Naddar	Connected by marriage and by blood over the last few generations that Naddar has held the throne. Undeniable connection between the two.
Sheifa	Connected loosely by blood in the shared Naddar parentage of Queen Hatshepsut and Prince Sutekh (which has only recently come to public light).
Moghadam	Both families have been around for long periods of time and have been business associates for decades.

Provinces

Mirsa El Nasr

Itsmalia

Alexandria

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"As Sure as the Nile.”



Once a powerful house in the kingdom of Egypt, the death of its Head of House some fifteen years ago - at a time when the next in line was only thirteen years of age - set the Hei of Haikaddad on the path of downward fortune. Over this period, business contracts have been renounced, trade arrangements redirected and the taxes from promised lands have been all that has kept them from financial ruin. Now that the younger brother of the late Leader is old enough to take over and has been handling business matters for the last few years, the Hei of Haikaddad is finding its feet once more. Still showing signs of wear and tear around the edges; both in its lands and manors, the Hei is beaten but far from out. With their sights firmly set inward, on establishing the strength of their trade and connections once more, the Hei of Haikaddad is one of great heritage that is not being permitted the fade out.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Egypt
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Egyptian/African
Dominant Traits	The men have wide jaws and large eyes, while the women also have rounded lips to go with their own square jawlines.
Names	Egyptian
Politics	Haikaddad were once a cut-throat political adversity with the power of a large province's taxes behind them. Now, with their personal finances in turmoil and their reputation in jeopardy, the general political aim is to play things calmer. To establish a strong foundation before anything can be built upon it.
Ideals	Grow as you learn; learn as you grow. Never take anything for granted. Be strong; if you cannot be strong, be gentle.
Reputation	Devout, determined, resilient, creative.

Relations

Moghadam

With neighbouring provinces under each family's control, the two Heis have done business together for years.

Provinces

Rofah

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Together We Grow"



The city province of Ammun is home to the largest of markets and trades between Judea and other realms to the north and east; particularly Anatolia. With a few arabian-looking faces on the streets and products and goods from all over Asia and Europe being peddled at its markets, the family who lead the settlement have to be tolerant to a certain point. Focusing on the money and trade that can be accomplished from strangers and foreigners and how the taxes of such trades then go towards Judea as a whole and the service of God, the Haviv family see it as their role to continue the flourishing economy within Ammun, regardless of who it is making the deals within it. Unlike in Moab where a favour is worth a thousand gold pieces, the Judeans of Ammun work exclusively in coin and refuse to take payment in anything else. They are skilled crafters and traders and know the worth of an item at immediate glance. All appraisers by nature, it is the Haviv family's responsibility to ensure that no disagreements or fights break out within such a competitive atmosphere and to handle the aftermath of any raids or thefts that happen along its borders or in its streets. The people of Ammun are loud and boisterous and all about their goods and trade which means the Haviv must have strong personalities if they are to lead a people with such firm wills of their own. The family is one of the richest in Judea and enjoy luxuries that others might consider to be slightly materialistic but they are careful to never step too far into false idolism or shallow thinking.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Judea
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Jewish/Hebrew
Dominant Traits	Square or long faces, sharp features. The women often have lighter eyes and a high contrast to their appearance: black hair and pale skin. The male frames range from average to stocky and their facial hair grows fast causing almost a constant stubble.
Names	Hebrew
Politics	The Haviv like to work in money. They are a family who see the end goal and ambition in good trade and good economy, never losing sight of future aspirations. They are often level-headed and seek to find mutually beneficial results or common ground.[td]
Ideals	The world owes you nothing. Work for that which you seek. Good business is better than profitable business. Never cheat those upon whom you rely for your income.
Reputation	Fair, money-driven, rich, arrogant, commanding.

Relations

Azari	While not geographically close to Israel, Ammun finds a lot of its business from Europe and the West come through the coastlines of Israel and as such have good business relations with the Azari.
Barak	Not altogether accepting of the female Mahnheeg, the Haviv know that the Barak control the tax regulations for Judea (due to being in charge of the capitol) and, as such, are not a family to anger.
Jaffe	The Haviv find the Jaffe dull and frustrating in their old ways. The Haviv are all about the future whilst the Jaffe keep their noses buried in the past. They tend to stay out of each other’s business aside from Ammun supplying most of the common necessities to Damascus on a weekly/bi-weekly basis.
Meier	The Haviv have no time for the Meier's God-fearing ways and tend to give them a wide berth, though they show them no outward dislike or mistrust and have never given the Meier a reason to turn their angry eye upon them.
Poraz	With the family of Poraz, the Haviv have the most in common. Traders like them and more tolerant of those around them the Haviv and the Poraz have a fantastic relationship and Moshehh and Elhanen consider each other great friends.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"The Future Has Come.”



A Hei famous for the beautiful woman of its lineage and province, the three daughters of the current generation are widely recognised to be the most beautiful and sought after women in Egypt, with many men vying for their hand. The original financial backing for such the hose came from merchants and traders, while they have progressed up the social ladder to now become skilled politicians and courtiers. Hei Isazari has been working within these circles for generations and, while they may not be the eldest of Hei houses, their experience shows in the way they handle their social obligations. Always wanting to be at the centre of things, the Isazari family home resides in Cairo.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Egypt
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Egyptian
Dominant Traits	Wide jawlines, dominant noses in the men and exceptionally beautiful women - widely considered to have the best genes in Egypt.
Names	Egyptian
Politics	The Isazari family conduct their business (including politics) with an air of arrogance and aloofness. Beauty, it would seem to them, makes the world bend their knee to your every whim. When image and beauty don't work - money is the best motivator.
Ideals	Image is everything. Never forget your lineage. Act as if you are what you wish to some day be. Never sit upon your laurels; always move forwards.
Reputation	Shallow, experienced, shrewd, calculating.

Provinces

Mansa

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Within Sacred Walls"



The Jaffe family have long since failed to leave Damascus for any reasons baring the monthly meet of the Council of Elders. And even then often only the Head or his Deputy will attend - rarely both. A secluded people in the spine of mountains that spear through the Damascus desert plains, the citizens of Damascus like the peace and quiet that their life affords them. Due to their piousness and their faith, many within Damascus are harsh in their judgements of those who follow different paths and are not known for their welcoming presence. Instead, the smallest piece of gossip is reacted to with the greatest of scandalised expressions and the merchants who deliver the goods the city needs to survive every week are treated with suspicion and slanted gazes. The Jaffe family are known for their scholarly and quiet ways and they lead their city province more by example than by a firm hand. They are continuously voted back into their position of leadership through the people's belief that they are the most fairminded because of their wisdom and their faith.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Judea
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Jewish/Hebrew
Dominant Traits	Slim faces, larger noses, wide mouths, dark curly hair.
Names	Hebrew
Politics	The Jaffe family are one of the most democratically decided families in Judea. They do not vie for power, nor seek it but their quiet sanctity and scholarly wisdom, plus the Damascus desire for a quiet life sees that they are continually renewed in office with each generation, without conflict.[td]
Ideals	There is sanctity in silence. What is written can never be undone. Learn from the past. Never be fooled by appearances.
Reputation	Scholarly, quiet, secluded, arrogant, dry, dull.

Relations

Azari	While not geographically close to Israel, Ammun finds a lot of its business from Europe and the West come through the coastlines of Israel and as such have good business relations with the Azari.
Azari	The Jaffe struggle to connect with the Azari in Israel in recent years due to their province being more "cosmopolitan" than the Jaffe are comfortable with.
Barak	Firmly distrusting of a house run entirely by women and stewards, the Jaffe are difficult and argumentative if the Barak women have anything to bring to the Council.
Haviv	Their neighbours to the south, the Jaffe are more tolerant of Haviv and rely on them greatly for their weekly and fortnightly deliveries of necessary goods into Damascus.
Meier	There are strong lines of connection here as the Jaffe's orderly and quiet way of life fits perfectly with the Meier belief in a sinless existence. The Jaffe often bow down to the Meier's strong-will and devout determination.
Poraz	The Poraz Mahnheeg feel rather alien to the Jaffe given their desire to communicate and accommodate. There is general lack of understanding here but no outright distrust or hatred.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Blood Above All"



The Kotas family is one of strength, courage and family loyalty. Believing in blood connections above everything else, they are a strong family unit who rule Colchis with an iron fist. Male-dominated, their family is unlikely to be shifted from its position as rulers for several generations yet they do not rest on their laurels. A military family at heart, they produce so many sons for fear of them being killed in action and have, in recent generations, spread their interests into the commercial, as they oversee the weapon forges and armour-makers of Midas. Their honour and glory on the battlefields gives them power in the senate but they are otherwise ignorant of the cruel tricks politicians can play and find any deceit or tricks of intelligence to be distasteful. They are not, however, in any way abhorrent to ridding the senate of a disruptive representative if it is required, just as they have no issues committing murder in war for the sake of their kingdom.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Colchis
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Dark, thick hair, tan skin, tall and lean figures and a lack of curves in their women. The men of the family often wear stubbled facial hair.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Kotas family are brutally honest and almost arrogant in their power of speech and beliefs. Few politicians stand against the monarch due to the power of his position and his personal skills as a warrior. There is, therefore, no need to play political games of deceit.[td]
Ideals	Family above everything. Glory is found on the battlefield. To rule is a responsibility, not a right. Emotions are weakness.
Reputation	Harsh but fair, powerful, aggressive in their values.

Relations

Drakos	Unshakeable family loyalty.
Eliades	Respect for their intellectual pursuits and their aid in running the kingdom successfully; particularly in their civil economy skills.
Thanasi	Long-standing hatred and suspicion of Thanasi's attempts to work their way into the royal family.

Provinces

Chaossis	Vangelis of Kotas
Elimea	Open
Eubocris	Open
Lyncaea	Open
Oreboea	Zanon of Kotas

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"The Worthy Shall Inherit.”



The House of Leventi is one of wealth and power. The owners of vast amounts of land on the island of Serenn, they use their land predominantly for the breeding and training of Taengea's proudest business and export - horses. A Leventi stallion is considered to be the finest in all of Greece and the House takes great pride in their work when producing the finest creatures for the noble Houses of the world and the Taengean military. With this power and wealth, however, comes ambition and greed. The Leventi family have attempted to work their way into the royal line for many years and as the House is currently limited in their male offspring, the way to do that now is through marriage. The Leventi House treats its daughters as it does its horses, ensuring only the finest unions and breeding available - often within their own family with cousins or second-cousins. The end result is that the Leventi women are generally considered to be the most beautiful in the Greek kingdoms and their fathers are likely to be making good use of that reputation.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Taengea
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Sharp features and defiant noses in the men, startlingly beautiful women, often considered to be blessed by the Gods.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Leventi men are cunning and intelligent in their handling of politics, while the women of the family are taught from a young age just how beauty can be used to get one's way - with either gender - in the Court and Senate.
Ideals	If you want something - take it. Humans are like animals; sometimes they need to be trained. If you believe yourself to be worthy, you are.
Reputation	Untrustworthy, intelligent, powerful, rich.

Relations

Condos	Constant battles over land have led to difficult interpersonal relations and blood feuds with border disputes and political rivalries.
Mikaelidas	Jealousy of their royal standard is obvious and apparent but so is their simpering to marry into the House, in order to achieve such a standard for themselves.
Dimitrou	Leventi consider the Dimitrou's to be an old and savage House no longer deserving of appearing at Court.

Provinces

Acharist	Konstanos of Leventi
Argothia	Diogenes of Kassotis
Elopia	Open
Macendia	Georgios of Leventi

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Sons of Kings"



Next to the Antonis House, the Marikas family line is one of the oldest and most respected royal bloodlines in Athenia. More ruling monarchs in the history of Athenia have been from the Marikas House than any other noble family. Because of this, the Marikas family are one of distinction, pride and elegance. Each generation has always been raised with the intent that they may one day marry back into the royal line or be the next monarch themselves. To this end, the children of the Marikas House are always highly-educated, well-accomplished and have their childhood's focused on them becoming powerful adults in the Court and Senate of Athenia. For the males of the family specifically, politics are discussed at the dining table and in the games of strategy they play as children. With a decent amount of wealth but a far greater area of lands to their name, the Marikas family are not only powerful because of their legacy but because of the sheer number of people and goods they can provide to the crown.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Athenia
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Dark hair, distinctive features, thin faces, sharp chins and light eyes. Girls are often petite and men are often tall and slim.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Marikas family is the most experienced family in the matter of politics but they also tend to be by the book. Powerful and cunning they may be but they're greatest skill is how they know exactly how to bend the rules, rather than break them, meaning that they have yet to be caught in any duplicity.[td]
Ideals	Family honour and royal prestige is the goal. Knowledge is power. Emotional outbursts are a sign of weakness.
Reputation	Proud, cunning, powerful.

Relations

Antonis	Related by marriages for generations and a long-standing history of respect and friendship between the two Houses.
Stravos	Commercial rivalry due to Stravos' power and wealth but also personal hatred as the Stravos family have tried to buy their way into the royal line for so long.
Xanthos	Distrust and distaste in their sudden rise to the throne of Athenia but respectful and loyal to the current king.

Provinces

Arcasis	Open
Carinth	Open
Chacris	Open
Epistis	Open
Eubois	Open
Haephtys	Open
Mesnia	Open
Messaly	Open
Thesnia	Rafail of Marikas

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"God Is Mighty.”



Leading the great city of Jerusalem, there is no surprise or doubt that the Meier family is most devout. Believing the power of the great God Almighty - specifically his ability to smite the wicked and bring hell to the damned - the Meier Mahnheeg lead their people (they believe) with the backing of divine provenance. To go against the word of the Mahnheeg is to go against God. Jerusalem is a place of faith and worship but it is a place of little mercy and even less forgiveness. The Meier family are firm in their convictions and ensure that the people follow them too, with a guard of city protectors patrolling the streets to ensure sinless behaviour on the part of their flock.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Judea
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Jewish/Hebrew
Dominant Traits	Strong features, impressive height, higher contrast in appearance: black hair and lighter skin. Willowy builds and large eyes.
Names	Hebrew
Politics	The Meier rule with a will of iron, using the word of God as their weapon against all who might contradict them. The Meier Mahnheeg are strong-willed and powerful in their alliances and charisma among the prominent figures in the community and have rarely been challenged in their management of Jerusalem.
Ideals	The word of God is the law of man. The wicked shall be punished. Live your life in the service of others. Despair for those of heathen ways. Spread the Word.
Reputation	Defiant, religious, absolute thinking, justice-driven.

Relations

Azari	The Meier respect the Azari's handling of the foreigners within their territory and respect the Mahnheeg in how they have been able to make difficult choices.
Barak	With firm beliefs on gender and the role of women, the Meier struggle to connect with the Barak family and often due business solely with their stewards, even if the women are in the room themselves.
Haviv	The Haviv are a family of industry and the Meier respect this. They both share a strong work ethic and they both have large settlements to take care of. They operate on separate sides of a coin - one taking care of the spiritual wellbeing and the other the practical needs of Judea.
Jaffe	The Meier have a strong connection to the Jaffe. Both highly devout and the Jaffe of a weaker-will than the Meier, the Jaffe useful in their support of the ideas Meier bring to the Council.
Poraz	Meier and Poraz don't exactly see eye to eye - especially as Meier believes Moab to be full of pirates and heathens - but there is no open hostility between the two.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Power is Not Spoken"



A tribe known to be cunning in strategy, powerful in combat and large in number, the Mekaki are a tribe with strong lines of power. There are no falters in the inheritance of leadership as each generation produces multiple marriages with healthy children. While most tribes within Bedoa travel all regions of the Sahara sands, the Mekaki much prefer to spend a majority of their time in the north of the desert and are one of the more reclusive tribes in the areas leading to a stereotype and reputation of them being aloof and arrogant. Famed for their keen eye for horses and their knack for organising their large tribe across the deserts; no mere feat with the food and supplies required for so many. The Mekaki tribe are an inspiration to many and have long lines of heritage going all the way back to the tale of Oorsprong.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Bedoa
Rank	Royal
Appearance	African
Dominant Traits	Darker skin tone, oval shaped faces, shapely lips.
Names	African
Politics	The Mekaki are skilled intellectuals and negotiators. It is a common belief among the people of the Bedoan tribes that if you go in to do business with a Mekaki, you are going to lose, whilst their gain from the exchange will be maddening.[td]
Ideals	If not considered three times over do not let the words leave your lips. Duty over personal passion. Be brave, not bold.
Reputation	Cold, callous, arrogant, calculating, awe-inspiring.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Death Before Dishonour"



The Mikaelidas family are a proud and arrogant one. One of the oldest noble Houses in the Taengean registry, they have been born and bred over the generations to be more rulers than anything else. While their wealth comes from owning over 40% of the Taengean lands they have little input in the running of them and, instead, lease them to the other Houses for their purposes, leaving them free to study the required fields for ruling a kingdom with power and class. Skilled in politics, Court relations and trained to be the best in their kingdom's greatest sport - charioteering - they are the golden family of Taengea. Not only are the children of each generation raised with the skills, personal dignity and strength to be rulers, they also grow up handsome and beautiful after years of fine breeding. Such qualities have naturally made the family arrogant and proud and a little naive that anyone could ever knock them from their position of power.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Taengea
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Good-looks, firm features, impressive height, good muscle tone. Zenon's line: blonde hair. Irakles' line: dark hair.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	Power and prestige are the Mikaelidas family's go-to weapons in politics. They are often right due to excessive education in how to be leaders or, when wrong, can convince the Senate of the opposite, through sheer will power and confidence of speech.[td]
Ideals	People follow those who hold themselves to be leaders. Rule with power and control. Second place holds no glory.
Reputation	Bold, courageous, determined, decisive.

Relations

Condos	Close friendship through their family ties but no concerns that they will ever be a threat - they do not believe that the Condos family has it in them to fight a political (or any other kind of) battle.
Dimitrou	Zero concerns regarding the House being a threat. Considers the day of the Dimitrou family to be over and only gives begrudging respect for their legacy.
Leventi	Closer concern and a watchful eye - the Leventi family is full of too many ambitious men and beautifully tempting women to not be considered with caution.

Provinces

Aetotis	Open
Euttica	Open
Aetotis	Open
Messenis	Xene of Mikaelidas
Thessmea	Open

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Live Your Legacy.”



A family of military strength and a history of decorated Generals, the Moghadam Hei is known for breeding men who are very decisive and firm when it comes to political decisions and courageous and valiant in war. As one of the longest-running Hei's in Egypt, Moghadam have connections and associations with nearly every Hei in the kingdom. A strongly male-dominated family for many years, the last few generations have been less lucky. No great plague or strife has struck the family but numbers to the Moghadam name have dwindled; nothing destructive has decimated the family, simply a natural growth that has happened after few children and general life span. The Moghadam Hei has never lost the glory and reputation attached to its history; they have always been considered with great respect in the Council of Egypt. But current times call for a change and the current Head of the Moghadam House has made waves as a powerful General abroad. Now is the time to ensure that the future of this Hei shines as brightly as its past.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Egypt
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Egyptian
Dominant Traits	Wide foreheads, square heads, wide mouths. Impressive height and breadth of the shoulder in the men creating a strong triangular body shape.
Names	Egyptian
Politics	The Moghadam Hei are decisive thinkers and articulate speakers. They believe that political power is linked directly to implied strength. No-one respects another if they think them weak. Image (not shallowness) and power is, therefore, everything.
Ideals	Strength is power. Never underestimate your enemy. Never do twice what can be completed properly the first time.
Reputation	Courageous, decisive, unyielding, heroic.

Relations

Haikaddad	The two Hei promised lands share a border and, as such, the houses do business together regularly. Haikaddad's recent decline, however, has begun to make the alliance shaky.
Fakhouri	As the two longest running Heis in the kingdom there is much trade and political alliance between Fakhouri and Moghadam.
Abaddi	As both houses are led by ambitious Generals seeking the same military campaigns and Pharaoh's attention, a natural, friendly - but serious - rivalry has formed between these Heis.

Provinces

Elminya

Obsor

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Be Unique"



A House of great power but also great limitations, the Hei of Naddar is the current Royal Hei of Egypt. Having been in possession of the Pharaohdom for several generations. Prior to being a noble Hei at all, they were charged with the record keeping of government, providing the scribe services to the Council and being given a place of trust, if not power, by the Hei of Fakhouri who had ruled as Royal Hei for nearly four hundred years. Now, the royal crown rests on the shoulders of Fakhouri blood born to the Naddar name. They are the ruling Hei and despite being currently near indistinguishable from their Fakhouri lineage, the Naddar have their own identity to seek and build...


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Egypt
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Egyptian
Dominant Traits	Large dark eyes and soft features.
Names	Egyptian
Politics	The Naddar are the current ruling Hei of Egypt and, therefore, their word is law. However, many believe that their word is not, in fact, their own but that the Hei of Naddar is a puppet for Fakhouri.[td]
Ideals	Follow the law. Lead where you must, inspire where you can. To be agile one must be switch of both foot and mind. Knowledge is power.
Reputation	Calm, resourceful, defiant, courageous.

Relations

Fakhouri	With the current Queen born to the Queen Dowager and her choice of husband being selected, deliberately from common blood (breaking with tradition), the power of Egypt has remained strongly with the Fakhouri despite the throne bearing the Naddar name.
Sheifa	Like Naddar and their skills in political services, Sheifa were part of the political system before they were noble; as high powered merchants. Naddar and Sheifa have handled business together for many years.

Provinces

Wad El Talke

Sotte

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Strength. Wisdom. Harmony.”



The House of Nikolaos is often considered to be strong and dependable. They don't often make waves, they don't often cause political stirs but they are widely recognised as a strong and powerful pillar upon which many other Houses and provinces rely. Led with the belief in careful thought, efficient dedication and the importance of inner strength and integrity, the House and its members are considered to be both intelligent administrators and skilled mediators or negotiators. Always calm and rarely seen out of sorts, the current baron Dastros is a clear and obvious example of this mentality. Originally a family of legal administrators at the Magnestis docks, the Nikolaos are skilled people-pleasers and efficient politicians whose sole aim is to help build a strong and supportive base for the Athenian political circle. Whilst the baron's side of the family has so far lived up to every expectation (with perhaps the single exception of the adventure-hearted eldest son), the subsidiary branch of the Nikolaos family has been plagued with tragedy. It remains to be seen if such cursed relatives can be brought back into the light of good reputation or will ensnare the well-respected main Nikolaos branch in the capitol...


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Athenia
Rank	Noble
Fiefdom Of	House Xanthos
Appearance	Greek
Dominant Traits	Mix; mothers side has fair features, blonde hair and blue eyes, fathers features are dark hair with hazel eyes. Physically they enjoy impressive height and athletic builds.
Names	Greek
Politics	The Nikolaos are heavily involved in politics and have been for generations. While fair, they tend to be driven more towards a show of strength and being dominant in their kingdom but they are not a recalcitrant house. They work well with others and attempt to keep a cohesive peace as mediators.
Ideals	Strength cannot function without wisdom. Find harmony in the balance between thought and action. Never limit your own ambition.
Reputation	Strong-willed, determined, multi-skilled, well-educated.

Relations

Xanthos

Long-standing alliance with the Xanthos monarchy. Originally made noble by the Xanthos family, there is great respect between the two Houses.

Provinces

Magnestis

Dastros of Nikolaos

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Strength Is Drawn from Roots; Not Branches"



The people of the Nubi Gesin are made from sturdy clay. Built stocky and stoic in appearance, their nature seems to follow suit, for the Nubi people are known to be hard to move; be it in politics or debate. Once a Nubi mind is set, it takes great effect that it might sway. This is not to say that the Nubi are closed-minded. They are an open and thoughtful people who consider all sides of an argument. But they admire commitment, valour and self-discipline. Meaning that, once such ideas are considered and a choice made, it is near impossible to change the mind of they who have found their conclusion. Whether talking with a member of the tribe or fighting a Nubi warrior, in equal measure you are pushing against a stone wall. While preferring peace, they are valiant warriors and often promote their experienced military leaders to Leier status. Not because they honour muscle and power but because they admire the discipline and state of mind one needs to be victorious in combat. While they have been known to be an adventurous tribe, a natural shrinking in their numbers has resulted in the Nubi tribe ceasing their more dangerous routes in order to try and focus inwards and protect what they still have; walking the safer, known path.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Bedoa
Rank	Royal
Appearance	African
Dominant Traits	Deep skin tones, square faces in the men and round ones in the women. Stoicism and defiant postures and stances.
Names	African
Politics	The Nubi are a people who listen, decide and then stick with their choice. They are not closed minded but they are a people of conviction and once something has been established as right or wrong there is no changing their minds. A strong and courageous people who believe that true strength comes from the heart.[td]
Ideals	Think upon all courses of action. Consider all knowledge yet unknown. Fight for what is right. Stand by your convictions.
Reputation	Stoic, immovable, defiant, courageous.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Let Life Flow"



The Poraz family is one of great spirit. Ruling Moab with a hand as gentle as it is firm, the family are known for their wisdom, their understanding and their tolerance of others. Being a city province at the centre of trade for most of Judea, Moab and its ruling Mahnheeg are those with the least frozen identity of their own; fluid and changing as those who do business in their city come and go. The people of the city province of Moab are barterers, hagglers and traders - looking for the next best deal and trustworthy merchants or financiers to do business with. As such, the word and favour of a man is highly valued and sometimes money is not the true purpose of an agreement. The Moab Judeans believe in the sanctity of a promise made and the Poraz family are the epitome of this social grace and understanding.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Judea
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Jewish/Hebrew
Dominant Traits	Oval/square faces, straight noses, square jaws, dark eyes, slight builds and big hands. They often have rounded, almost effeminate lips and are susceptible to hair loss in old age.
Names	Hebrew
Politics	The Poraz work on good nature and trust but not naivete. They work strongly in favours and bargains and understanding. Their deals aren't underhanded or under the table but they are often based on mutual understanding over monetary exchange. They rule Moab with a "firm but fair" mentality.[td]
Ideals	It is better to trust than to suspect. Never be taken for a fool. A man slighted is a man to avoid business with. Life comes and life goes - learn to ride the waves.
Reputation	Calm, communicative, fair-minded, easy-going.

Relations

Azari	In past generations they have shared a level of tolerance for others. Now, Poraz distance themselves to avoid the anger and hostility the new generation of Azari bring to the table.
Barak	Good mutual friendship - Poraz try to help Barak where they can but at the end of the day what can be done is limited due to them all being women.
Haviv	Very strong connections and understanding here. Both families run provinces of great trade and industry - they often work together and have a history of marrying their children into each others Houses.
Jaffe	Poraz admire Jaffe's devout faith but struggle to understand their desire for seclusion, prefering the energy of lively debate and social interaction.
Meier	Meier are strong in their faith but take it to a level that Poraz do not agree with. Meier's belief that man will fail if not coralled is in direct contraction to Poraz'a desire to trust first.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Words are Power"



A Bedoan tribe enjoying a period of peace and prosperity, the Rwandi's skills as speakers, philosophers and diplomats have led to several generations now of calm contentedness. The only fleck of concern for their future as a tribe is a lack of male heir for their Leier. With a tribe of women at his disposal and the option of a third wife, however, this is too small a concern to disturb peaceful times. The people of the Rwandi tribe are a highly skilled set of individuals. Known for being more educated in the world outside their tribe than other Bedoan clans, the Rwandi are fair-minded, cautious and love to talk in mature debate rather than gossip. Skilled mediators and one of the few clans that speak dialects and languages beyond their own, the Rwandi use their negotiation skills in trade, securing profitable agreements for their crafts. Skilled in stitching and fabrics, the Rwandi are an industrious people and, where necessary, can turn their talented hands to food as well as textiles. If you ever want a hearty meal in the middle of the desert, the Rwandi at the clan to stay with.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Bedoa
Rank	Royal
Appearance	African
Dominant Traits	Oval shaped faces, proud features and large, seductive lips in the women that are balanced by impressive, dark and wide-set eyes.
Names	African
Politics	The Rwandi are skilled negotiations and level-headed diplomats. They are skilled in debate and mediation and enjoy talking and seeking resolutions that are beneficial for all parties involved.[td]
Ideals	Think before you speak. Winning a battle without grace only leads to war. Words are more powerful than fists. Bravery is in why you stand, not the act itself.
Reputation	Cool, aloof, arrogant, intelligent, industrious.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Seek Harmony, Find Peace.”



The family that, since gaining their nobility, has been known as Sheifa, have actually been involved in politics far longer than they have the upper circles of society. Having paid for their seat on the Egyptian Council for many years, it is only within the lifespan of the current head's father that the name Sheifa has been added the chronicles of Egyptian nobility. During the years they paid the annual fee to be a part of the ruling classes, the Hei of Sheifa were avid and powerful merchants, achieving connections and trade agreements both at home and in faraway lands. As such, they were one of the richest families in the Egyptian nobility, despite their youth as a part of their class. Due to their background - and their current industry of trade - the Hei of Sheifa dislike the "winner takes all" attitude of politics and prefer to seek out solutions and resolutions that are beneficial for all parties involved; exchange and value in equal measure. Preferring trades, bargains, favours and debates, Hei Sheifa enjoy the fine art of being fair and for many years have remained out of central politics, despite recent events pulling their family directly into the fires of the upper echelons of society.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Egypt
Rank	Noble
Appearance	Egyptian/Persian
Dominant Traits	Soft and rounded features. Wide mouths and dark eyes.
Names	Egyptian
Politics	Sheifa have worked for years in order to remain outside of the darker and dirtier side of politics, preferring trade and fair exchange. They are skilled negotiators and hagglers but somehow manage to conduct their business without offence or opposition. Aspirations wise, they aim to attempt to push the Sheifa name as far as it can go, without dragging down anyone else's in the process.
Ideals	Fair does not mean the same. Exchange is always better than taking. What life gives is never without lesson. Brave the storm if you wish to sail the sea.
Reputation	Peaceful, compassionate, engaging, fair-minded.

Relations

Naddar

Recently revealed to be connected through the bloodline of Prince Sutekh of Naddar, these households have always handled good business between them due to them both being a part of the Council before they were noble. Several of their promised lands also share borders with each other.

Provinces

Shedet

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Follow Your Passions"



The Somalu are great traders. Spending most of their time travelling between Egypt's western border and the coastline port in the west, the Somalu make it their business to know the value of all goods to every race of people. Skill negotiators and hagglers and with reasonable skill in languages, the Somalu are less xenophobic and more liberal in their outstretched hands of trade but are far from inclusive of those outside the tribe. As intolerant of strangers as any other Bedoan tribe, the Somalu are simply better at hiding it and have better social graces when it comes to exchanging goods and taking stock of what they, as a people, need. Within Bedoa, however, they do tend to be a little more open and trade more often with other tribes than some of their counterparts.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Bedoa
Rank	Royal
Appearance	African/Mixed Race
Dominant Traits	Lighter in skin tone than other tribes and with a spattering of Egyptian blood in their Leier's heritage. They have smooth skin, tight and pointed features and oval or heart shaped faces.
Names	African
Politics	The Somalu are all about finding peaceful negotiation conclusions that benefit themselves. They have a warrior force who are particularly skilled in the eastern forms of combat with curved blades.[td]
Ideals	Worth and value are not the same. A deal in fairness is no deal at all. Be smarter than your enemies; not stronger.
Reputation	Cold-blooded, efficient traders, sneaky, cunning.

Relations

Buuchu

Having recently crossed trading paths with the tribe, the two have been camping together and doing business.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Bound For Glory.”



It is no secret in the Athenian Court and Senate that the Dynasteía Stravos is ambitious, cunning and possesses more wealth than any other Athenian family by a wide margin. Their commercial business rests in nearly every sector of Athenian life, beginning once in ship-building and now extending to cargo transport, grain and fruit production, housing and land ownership and - most recently - in people as they have purchased from other noble families vast areas of land in the Athenian countryside. This means that, in times of war or distress, the Stravos family are the ones who hold ownership over the largest number of potential soldiers. The power of the Stravos House is immeasurable and many in the Senate are becoming nervous that they are perhaps gaining too much leverage over the crown and the Court - especially as they have, in the most recent generation, secured royal blood into their family line.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Athenia
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Dark hair, dark eyes, tall statuesque beauty, olive skin and sharp features. The women often have large eyes and shapely lips.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Stravos family are wily and cunning in politics just as they are in business. They have no issues regarding deceit, blackmail and payouts and have managed to win over significant members of the Senate.
Ideals	Money is power. Everyone has a weakness. Never be ashamed to go after what you want. All's fair in love and war.
Reputation	Conniving, deceitful, intelligent, wealthy.

Relations

Antonis	Little to no relation but the Stravos family do build the ships for their military units so there is some business connection there.
Marikas	Open dislike at the Marikas' arrogant assumption that the throne should always return to their House, plus personal feuds between the current generation.
Xanthos	Respect and kinship in how the Xanthos family have instigated their place on the throne. The Stravos family are trying to build serious relations and friendship with the king and his daughters.

Provinces

Aetola	Open
Attictris	Open
Bortris	Open
Chaopia	Open
Doloria	Open
Elisaea	Open
Lyncestia	@elias
Piessis	Open

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Forging Victory"



Cunning, innovative and, at times, cruel, the Thanasi Dynasteía may be small in its living members but it is one to be wary of. Brought up alone, the patriarch of the family Dionysios grew into a greedy, ambitious and conniving man who has passed his political skills and personal beliefs down to all of his children. Known to be formidable in court relations and deadly in senate politics, the entire family has a reputation for being hungry for power. Now that Dionysios is in his old age, it is rumoured that the man is slowly losing his mind, becoming prone to insane ramblings and violent outbursts of aggression towards both family and foe. He is, however, still officially the leader of his house. This is widely considered to be the decision of Nethis, his eldest daughter, who does not believe either of her younger brothers are capable of the mantle of leadership. It is rumoured that Nethis, instead, runs the house through the puppet of her father. A puppet-master is not the worst and her sisters have been called either. The subtle and malicious ways in which the enemies of the Thanasi house disappear and the ease with which the beautiful Thanasi women claim their male prizes has led to many whispers of witchcraft. Such actions would be blasphemous to the gods and, as such, if it is ever proven that the sisters were behind the disappearances and the evil that befalls their enemies, they would likely be put to death. As gossip does, the rumours have grown and spread until no-one is entirely sure what is true and what is not - most recently regarding the Lady Evras' marriage to Prince Zanon; a union that the prince claims to be love. But many are considering it the effects of a potion or love spell cast by the Thanasi witches.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Colchis
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Dark hair, pale skin, sharp features, thin frames.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	Cruel, cunning and conniving. The Thanasi House get what they want through any means necessary; no method or depth is unthinkable.[td]
Ideals	Power and glory are for those that create it for themselves. Victory is a craft to be forged. The ends always justify the means.
Reputation	Dark and deadly, cold and unemotional, calculating and cruel.

Relations

Drakos	Enemies by association due to the disagreements between Thanasi and Kotas. Otherwise there is little open disdain between the Houses.
Eliades	Consider them to be weaklings and cowards, hiding behind their books. Thanasi are also angered that it was their lands absolved in order to grant Eliades nobility.
Kotas	The enemy to be fought - if victory is to be attained for the House of Thanasi, the House of Kotas must perish. But this must be done carefully - no populace follows a king who murdered the last.

Provinces

Arcanaes	Open
Megaris	Dysius of Thanasi
Nethisa	Open
Pieria	Open

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Take Heart.”



More a large family than a tribe, Ubuntu take their name both as a binding agent and a life's purpose. Driven by a love of family and a desire for good and joyous loves, the Ubuntu believe that a life well led is of far greater importance than a death well met. The Ubuntu are lovers of life in all creatures and as such are skilled handlers of horseflesh, rear their animals with great skill and enjoy the common connection that great hunts and chases bring to their family. With the belief that all beings can create and contribute to the greater good of the tribe and its future, the Ubuntu are traditional in their gender beliefs but also consider women to hold a certain level of importance in their domestic roles. The Ubuntu believe that the man of the have is lord and master but that there is dignity and honour in being the female who supports him.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Bedoa
Rank	Royal
Appearance	African
Dominant Traits	Diverse and mixed features to which the tribesman pay little attention; focusing on everyone's similarities over their differences.
Names	Egyptian
Politics	The Ubuntu are good listeners and empathetic but they are also skilled horsemen, hunters and archers. If negotiations fail, an Ubuntu warrior is not a man to take lightly when facing.
Ideals	A united tribe of peacemakers stands stronger than any one fighter. You must be dedicated to achieve mastery of anything. Respect is greater than value.
Reputation	Powerful, personable, skilled archers, joyous.

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Be the Wave, Not the Rock.”



The family that would grow to become the House of Vlahakis were originally seamen. Experts in the crafting of ship equipment and fishing provisions (specifically that for large nautical game such as whales and sharks) the family were specialists in a niche market. Slowly growing in fortune but unlikely to become much more than the experts they were establishing themselves as, the third son of the family a few generations back broke tradition and joined the military. The first of his family line to do so, Crixius sort glory and adventure. What he found was the opportunity to save the life of King Silas I. Being gifted with the title of nobility in return, the power and might behind military endeavours were the upbringing for Dexios and his offspring. Now, the Vlahakis line look to their single male heir, Lord Lazaros, to reignite their achievements in warfare after his sickly father was unable to break passed the level of Captain. The Vlahakis family are a strong and dependable breed of people with many secrets, but they are a strong pillar on which other families can rely. They have a particularly strong connection with the House of Eliades being a supportive vassal of their lands and the women of both families considering one another friends, and with the House of Kotas as Lord Lazaros continues up the ranks in the military to Commander and now rubs shoulders with the Colchian princes. The Vlahakis way of life is one of sturdy and dogged determination; the belief that glory awaits those who strive forward with all the strength they process.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Colchis
Rank	Noble
Fiefdom Of	Dynasteía Eliades
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian
Dominant Traits	Lighter eyes, hair and bold features. Men are broadly and powerfully built. The women are slender and beautiful.
Names	Greek/Mediterranaean
Politics	New to the world of the nobility, the Vlahakis have a reputation as heroic military men but this reputation is solely founded on one man - the father of the current baron. As such, the Vlahakis now work to secure that reputation.
Ideals	Only the strong survive. One life does not mean more than many. Respect the seas and their master. Glory is found in smart victory.
Reputation	Strong willed, stubborn, easy to please, military minded.

Relations

Eliades	Strong ties of friendship to their fiefdom house. The women within each House are good friends and visit upon each other with great regularity, allowing Vlahakis a stronger access to the Court in the capitol.
Kotas	Both houses being strong, courageous and based with family loyalty with military links also helps. Gives them complete loyal to the royal house.
Thanasi	Stays out of most of the drama however due to the rivalries of the other houses, Vlahakis keeps their distance.
Valaoritis	As Valaoritis' connection with the Kotas starts to fray and the young House of Vlahakis appears to be building their own, tensions can be felt between the two noble families.

Provinces

Almosis

Dexios of Vlahakis Rhene of Vlahakis

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Worthy of Honour"



The Xanthos family is a long-standing noble house of courage and integrity. In their earliest generations, the family were brigands and privateers in the Aegean Sea, shipping weaponry and metal goods from Colchis to the other kingdoms. Once rich enough, however, the family settled in Athenia and have since run a fleet of cargo ships between the Greek islands. Now, they are one of the richer families in the kingdom (second only to the house of Stravos). This money and influence - and their loyalty to the monarchy of Athenia had them granted a state of nobility. Many generations later and Omiros of Xanthos was able to buy his way into the royal line with a marriage to a Marikas princess. Since then, suspicious circumstances - most likely concocted at the hands of lord Omiros - have led to the current ruler of Athenia being Minas of Xanthos. While the route to ruling the kingdom is darkened by possible criminal acts on behalf of his father, King Minas believes in the ideals of the marikas family and the ideals of his Xanthos ancestors - that to gain anything in the world, you have to work hard, work well and not hurt your fellow man; that the best way to live one's life and do one's duty is to believe yourself and all others to be worthy of honour.


Heritage

Realm	Greece
Kingdom	Athenia
Rank	Royal
Appearance	Greek/Caucasian/Hispanic
Dominant Traits	Black hair, dark eyes, tan skin. Soft features in the women, Strong jaws in the men. Olive complexions come from very distant hispanic roots.
Names	Greek/Mediterranean
Politics	The Xanthos family are a little new to the politics game and while they lack the subtlety and calculating moves of some of the other Houses, they do have the courage and confidence of presence and speech to get things done in the Senate: a skill developed from many years of captaining ships of men.[td]
Ideals	Hard work. Praise and punishment in appropriate measure. If you want respect and power, you have to be worthy of it.
Reputation	Politically naive, too idealistic, courageous.

Relations

Antonis	Respect at the family's discipline and military skills.
Marikas	Married into the family but with tense relations.
Stravos	Dislike for their cunning, calculated and sometimes heartless commercial ethics.

Provinces

Arcana	Persephone of Xanthos
Laconis	Open
Magnestis	Dastros of Nikolaos

Genealogy

[attr="class","enc_content"]


"Spirits Guide Us.”



A tribe of peacemakers and thoughtful philosophers, the Zaire are contemplative and empathetic. While they ruminate on perspective and consideration, they are not weak. With strength of character and strong beliefs in right and wrong, the Zaire prefer peace to war and champion mercy over victory. Following their spiritual shaman strongly with as much conviction as they are guided by their Leier, it is believed that the last Leier was a great prophet and conduit to the ancestral spirits of their homelands; that his wisdom was a gift from their forebears. Heralded as skilled in frugality, fairness and self-sacrifice, the Zaire are open and kindly, taking in those who seek shelter and opening their doors to those who might lead them to a brighter future. Due to their faith and spirituality, the Zaire are skilled herbalists, have a good knowledge of the physical body and are skilled healers.


Heritage

Realm	Africa
Kingdom	Bedoa
Rank	Royal
Appearance	African
Dominant Traits	Long faces, dominant noses, fine features.
Names	African
Politics	Zaire prefer diplomacy and peace talks to great acts of courage or war and will often be found seeking mutually beneficial paths. If they are forced to take up the sword they do so with great regret but are skilled in particular techniques and tactics of fighting, designed to end combat quickly and save lives where possible.
Ideals	Trust the wisdom of those who come before. All have the potential for kindness in their hearts. Love makes us strong, not weak. Protecting others creates a stronger defence than protecting oneself.
Reputation	Spiritual, gentle, weak, wise, committed.

Genealogy