Races of Terra

CHAPTER 5 OASIS OF TERRA

TERRA: A JOURNEY

CHAPTER 4

In the 60s, while lecturing at Victorian National University, I delivered a series of lectures under the broad theme of “Terrans in Complex Societies”. At that time, some students approached me, asking if I might preserve part of the content in written form for future study and reference. The transcriptions of those lectures formed the basis for this chapter of the book.

Were we to travel back two centuries in time and present this chapter to racial studies scholars of that era, we might be met with disbelief and confusion. At that time, research on “humanity” was extremely narrow in focus, and scholars were mainly interested in measuring the heights and weights of different races. They focused on topics like “the maximum strength of the male Forte”. Topics like the material conditions of various races and their status in society and culture have only emerged as fields of study over the past century or so.

I am not suggesting that today’s researchers are superior to their predecessors. Rather, I am paying homage to the pioneers of the field. How did people’s perceptions change? What broadened our horizons? When did we come to realize that “Terrans” are both a biological organism and a social identity? Anyone who wishes to truly understand these subjects should respect the existing body of knowledge and the pioneers who built it. As such, we must first fully examine the intellectual history of racial studies.

With a comprehensive background, we can then proceed to discuss the current state of society. Therefore, in this chapter, readers will first encounter a historical introduction, followed by explorations of race. I’ve streamlined the more tedious academic discussions and attempted to present my research as objectively as possible. In addition to the content of the original lectures, I’ve also added some of my thoughts and reflections from recent years. As I write this section now, I can’t help but feel grateful that I heeded the advice of my young students. Manuscripts from thirty years ago, combined with my recent journeys and reflections, have come together to form the content of this chapter on humanity.

ANCIENT TERRAN SOCIETY AND ITS PEOPLE

To speak plainly, much of modern knowledge of ancient times is rooted in imagination. The ravages of Catastrophe and the slow expansion of Originium veins not only hindered our actions in physical space, but also limited the boundaries of our intellectual exploration. For most of recorded Terran history, our understanding of the past has relied on interpreting oral tradition and excavating ancient ruins. While modern vehicles give us quick access to remote areas and archeological digs, fieldwork remains risky due to the threat of Catastrophe. Therefore, our current approach is to unearth new information while also summarizing and analyzing existing data. With this research model, our pursuit of the truth is a slow, gradual process—today's discoveries may be revised tomorrow. However, it is this ongoing revision that brings us closer to the truth of the past.

So, what were ancient peoples really like? The earliest known humans were physically very similar to their modern counterparts. This is evidenced by two key items: 1) ancient human skeletons unearthed in Sargon and 2) ancient mural paintings that have been discovered in various locations. Analyses indicate that the skeletal structure of ancient man was almost identical to his modern descendants, height being the only difference. And ancient paintings—even the most primitive and rudimentary works—depict human features that are indistinguishable from modern mankind.

Ancient murals recently discovered on the southern border of Sami. The human figures depicted on them are almost identical to modern humans. Some believe these murals suggest that Originium worship already existed in ancient Terra.

Research shows that humans, as far back as we can trace, have already lived in organized societies. Archaeological findings show a surprising uniformity among the earliest societies within each distinct geographic region. Namely, people with similar physiological characteristics tended to live together, increasing their own chances of survival by helping one another.

Additionally, we've observed consistent patterns in the distribution of house

foundations in some ancient ruins. Larger houses typically contain only simple necessities, while smaller ones often include exquisite artifacts and excess supplies that seem disproportionate to their size. The mainstream academic view is that this phenomenon reflects the social relationships of that time: Two groups with vastly different social statuses constituted the mass society. One group had only basic resources sufficient for daily survival and lived in large communal rooms; while the other enjoyed what could be considered lives of luxury and resided in private homes. However, many remain skeptical of this view due to the lack of direct written records or other reliable evidence.

This common social dynamic can be succinctly described as a “provider-protector” relationship. This refers to the two roles of Terran people of the time, which largely persisted in extremely harsh natural environments. The “providers” were responsible for tasks such as gathering food and establishing settlements—work that was relatively safe. The “protectors” were typically the stronger individuals, tasked with maintaining security in the settlements. Because they took on more risk in daily life, they received a larger share of resources. Apparently, the protectors, known as the “Elders”, were able to accumulate more resources than the providers, or the “Ancients”. This laid the groundwork for later periods when the Elders would rule over the Ancients. In my view, this theory is quite reasonable. This social relationship formed the basis for the “minority-majority” dynamic—the simplest way to organize a society with significant power disparity. As society developed and populations migrated, this ancient social relationship gradually evolved into a “ruler-ruled” model.

Solitary dwellers outside society

In fact, not all Terrans instinctively form social groups for survival. In the Sami region, a group of Sarkaz known as the “Cyclopes” have a unique culture of solitude. Cyclopes are strong and reclusive. They live in isolated locations, a behavior that likely originated after their migration from Kazdel to Sami. In their culture, “learning to live with oneself” is a crucial concept, possibly stemming from their long lifespan, which encourages such wide-spread introspection across the entire group.

THE TRIBAL ERA AND THE ASLAN CONQUEST

Then came the era when writing began to emerge. At this time, the concept of a “nation” had not yet developed in the Sargonian Empire or the lands of Yan (two countries frequently mentioned in historical discussion), but the concepts of “ruler” and “ruled” had already taken shape. While the common Terran calendar did not yet exist, we may still classify this period as the “Tribal Era”.

As explained previously, this period is defined based on specific social concepts and forms of social organization. We broadly refer to some of these affiliations as “tribes”, although, in truth, no one can precisely define this term. Yet, we still need it, not only because it represents a form of organization in people’s minds, but also because it indicates that something important was quietly happening.

During this time, the powerful individuals in society, the “protectors”, gradually realized something: Instead of taking great risks to defend their own settlements, it was far more practical and rewarding to use their superior strength to force the weaker to band together and protect them. This epoch-making shift in thinking led to a shocking transformation in social structure, with the roles of protector and protected quickly reversing. This ironic and unexpected shift marked the beginning of the concepts of “rulers” and “ruled” in society. Unsurprisingly, a few Elders with exceptional strength often occupied the ruling positions, while the Ancients mostly made up the ruled.

It is noteworthy that during this period, tribes remained under constant, imminent threat of annihilation by Catastrophe. Mankind had not yet developed the technology to evacuate, take refuge, and then return to rebuild their homes. Living in constant fear of death, tribal leaders often resorted to extreme measures to govern their tribespeople.

As the concept of “tribes” took hold, previously isolated groups began waging wars, with some annexing and subsuming others. This led to a host of new developments. Massive tribes began to form across the lands, and with them came new notions of identity—the Aslans were one of the groups that arose from this change.

One day, perhaps on a bright and sunny afternoon, a Feline ruler of a tribe in what is now Sargon suddenly realized that one’s rulership may well be derived from a fundamental difference between the ruler and the ruled. Another thought followed: One should emphasize this difference to the greatest degree possible. And so, the term “Aslan” was born.

Initially, Aslan referred to a powerful Feline ruling clan. As they waged war and grew stronger with each battle, the Aslans became known across this great land—a process later referred to as the Aslan Conquest. As their population grew and their influence expanded, the term “Aslan” eventually came to specifically denote the dominant group within that Feline tribe. Over time, all those with similar physical traits were distinguished from other Felines and classified as Aslans.

The impact of the Aslan Conquest was profound. This centuries-long event completely reshaped humanity’s understanding of itself. Previously, people who lived in the same tribe and looked alike identified primarily as tribesfolk, members of the same tribe. For example, Perros and Reprobas who lived in the same tribe and were subject to rule wouldn’t have made any significant distinction between themselves—they viewed each other simply as fellow tribesfolk. However, during the Aslan Conquest, people began to meticulously categorize themselves based on physiological differences. This marked the beginning of the modern concept of race. Moreover, the Aslans fiercely challenged the traditional social model where the Elders ruled over Ancients, shaking the previously unquestioned order. However, the Aslan Conquest did not entirely overturn this dualistic social model. It was the Kurantas and the Ursus who did so, over a thousand years later.

THE COLLAPSE OF THE TRADITIONAL SOCIAL ORDER

Then, the era of the nations was born. Everyone living on this great land has likely heard legends about the origin of their group. These widely circulated stories convey a shared theme of past struggles, where the strong ultimately crushed the weak, whether true or not. This pattern reflects the predominant mindset during ancient society’s rapid expansion.

As tribes expanded, the ancient ruling model could no longer keep pace with rapidly changing social realities. Various organizations emerged to meet these new demands. Different tasks were assigned to different groups, leading to the emergence of specialized roles. In other words, the concept of “professions” originated during this period.

Nations rose and fell. This process spanned thousands of years, slowly shaping the Terra we know today. History appears to be locked in a constant cycle, but this is not always the case. The Kurantas shattered the cycle in the Terran Calendar (TC) 11, when they ventured from their ancestral homes in the great grasslands and swept across the continent under the Nightzmora Khagan's leadership. The Khagan's army waged war across the lands, toppling nations and sowing disorder along the way. Although the so-called "Nightzmoran Conquests" lasted only four years, it brought an upheaval to Terra unlike anything seen for a millennium. The ruling Elders suffered heavy losses and could only barely retain their control. Also, we should note that the Nightzmoran forces were infamous for their brutality and ruthlessness. While the Nightzmora did weaken the ancient ruler-ruled social model, their war brought suffering and despair to many innocents.

In 27 TC, twelve years after the Nightzmoran Conquests, the tormented Ursus rose up against their arrogant Hippogryph rulers. This massive rebellion quickly escalated into a full-scale war. In 31 TC, the rebel leader Igor founded The Empire of Ursus and crowned himself Tsar. This marked the first time in Terra's history that a well-organized, systematic uprising by Ancients successfully overthrew the rule of the Elders. From that point on, people realized that the Elders' dominance over the Ancients was not inherently justified. This idea gradually spread and evolved into a broader recognition of racial equality. From the perspective of intellectual history, the foundation of modern social awareness began to form during this period.

A NEW ERA

Traditionally, we consider the year 797, when nomadic cities first appeared, as the starting point of modern urban history. Although roughly half the population still lives outside of moving cities, the advent of the technology has indeed transformed people's lifestyles and ways of thinking. Nomadic cities have largely freed their inhabitants from the threat of Catastrophe. For city dwellers, the tradition of relocating to avoid Catastrophe has entirely vanished, along with many of the customs that revolved around the practice. In the three centuries since nomadic cities emerged, lifestyles have changed faster than ever before. Perhaps the most important question we now face is how to keep up with such rapid change.

RACE AND CULTURE

Now that we've discussed the commonalities across Terra, we shall shift our focus to the distinctive social characteristics of each region. We'll start by exploring the relationship between race and culture.

Within any given human settlement, there is usually some disparity in population size between different races. In academic circles, the more populous group is often referred to as the "dominant race", which often heavily influences the social landscape and cultural customs of each region. This is all the result of centuries of gradual change.

Archaeological data tell us that the earliest tribes were primarily divided along racial lines. People of the same race held an unshakeable sense of kinship and identity. Race was most likely the original trigger for the "us vs. them" mentality. Ancient humans first recognized the difference between "us" and "them" by encountering people who looked different from themselves.

It wasn't until the late Tribal Era that it became common for different races to live together, a condition created by tribal warfare and conquest. While we don't fully understand the initial circumstances under which different races cohabitated, it is clear that it must have been a long and conflict-ridden process. However, monoracial societies are extremely rare these days.

Racial differences have never been the most pressing issue in Terran society. Humans may look different from one another, but Catastrophe forces them to unite to survive, not to mention the growing threat of Oripathy. In fact, discrimination against those infected with Oripathy far exceeds any lingering animosity between the races.

Modern technology has greatly facilitated human migration, but many people still prefer to live in familiar environments where they have a sense of community. This tendency toward homogeneity across Terra means that modern societies are still heavily influenced by their respective dominant races, and cultural exchanges remain mere "interactions" instead of true harmony.

Terra's rich racial and geographic diversity, as well as her long history have molded the different cultures we see today. The society as a whole functions as Terra's cultural melting pot. In the following sections, I shall describe some of the distinctive cultures of the Terran races.

"Humanity"

For modern people, the concept of "humanity" is almost self-evident, encompassing many races. It is easy for us today to recognize that all races, despite their vast physiological differences, are a part of humanity. However, when ancient people first encountered other races, did they perceive these unfamiliar beings as wild beasts? Currently, there is no way to know how ancient humans reacted when they made first contact. Some theories suggest that humans may have had an innate recognition of their own kind from birth, possibly due to the influence of Originium.

Ursus

The Ursus primarily reside in the northern regions of Terra, within the borders of the Empire of Ursus, where they make up a large proportion of the population. The Ursus can also be found in many other lands, including Kazimierz, Kjerag, northern Sargon, and Yan, making them one of the more common races of Terra.

Tall, strong, and resilient—these are the traits that people commonly associate with the Ursus, and they are also the characteristics most Ursus prefer to emphasize about themselves. This impression stems from their physiological traits—they are indeed taller and stronger than the average human. Furthermore, the unforgiving natural environment of the northern regions, with their long winters, has shaped Ursine endurance.

Ursus

The Ursus have numerous subgroups, primarily distinguished by differences in hair color. In addition to the common varieties of Ursus with black, brown, or white hair, there is a group in Yan with black-and-white hair.

The concept of “Ursus” likely predates the founding of the Empire of Ursus and may even be traced back to the earliest human naming practices of races. The majority of the Ursus followed the Hippogryph Liberi on their migrations to the northern regions, where they established settlements. After the tumult of the Nightzmoran Conquests and Igor’s Rebellion, the Ursus became more or less concentrated within the borders of the current Empire of Ursus.

The “Ursus race” and “Ursus people” are two separate concepts. The former is a racial identity, while the latter is a national identity. When people of the Ursus race within the Empire refer to themselves as “Ursus people”, it has a dual meaning: Firstly, they are objectively acknowledging their race; secondly, they are embracing their identity as imperial citizens of the Empire of Ursus. Outside the empire, one may also encounter individuals of non-Ursus race who identify as Ursine people. In this context, the term refers purely to their national identity. The Empire of Ursus is one of the few nations in Terra that has successfully established the idea of “citizenship”.

Feline

The Felines, known for their pointed ears, long tails, and keen senses, are among the most populous and widely distributed races in Terra, alongside the Perros and the Liberi. There is an old Gaulish proverb that says, “Where footprints lead, Felines are found.” Victoria has a significant Feline population, of which I am a member.

The Felines’ most distinctive physical features are their pointed ears and long tails, which also serve as tools for expressing emotion. There are some Felines with rounded ears and short tails, but they are only a minority within the race. Generally speaking, Felines have highly developed senses and good physical coordination. Some Felines have a distinctive yet subtle genetic trait—their pupils change shape in different lighting conditions.

It is well known that due to their large population base and excellent adaptability, Felines have become one of the most widespread races on Terra after a long and storied history of reproduction and migration. There are also many interesting facts of Feline history which often go overlooked. For example, the majority of Felines in Victoria are actually descendants of the followers of the Aslan royal expedition, who intermarried with locals of various races during Draco rule. So, if you happen to discover a distant relative in Sargon, don’t be too surprised.

In an era when both Elders and Ancients needed names to define themselves, “Feline” became an umbrella term for almost all individuals with pointed ears, long tails, and sharp senses, despite the obvious physical differences between them. After the Aslans gained recognition as a distinct identity separate from the Feline race, many other groups attempted to replicate their success. However, we believe that all of them had failed until the modern racial taxonomy appeared, as no evidence of such “new races” remains. Today, “Feline” still refers to a large

■ Feline

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and complex race, with many peoples having found their place within the Feline identity. It seems that only the Aslans have maintained their distinct racial status to the present day.

Aslan

The Aslans primarily reside in Sargon (southwestern Terra) and Victoria (south-central Terra). They make up an extremely small portion of the overall Terran population.

The Aslans are also a highly unique race. Biologically, they are classified undoubtedly as Felines. The differences between Aslans and other Felines are even smaller than those between Feline Ancient and Elder subgroups. However, the Aslans are clearly recognized, both socially and administratively, as a separate race. Their distinct status originated from the aforementioned Aslan Conquest. As singular conquerors, the Aslans used force to compel other races to acknowledge their independence, racially, from Felines.

The emergence of the "Aslan" concept led to a significant event in the history of racial taxonomy. Although ancient races lived separately, humans of that era did not have a clear understanding of their racial identities, so people primarily relied on appearance and other physical traits to distinguish between the races. For example, in ancient times, races like the Lupo, Perro, and Reproba, which had similar appearances and physical traits, lived together and considered themselves members of the same race. The subsequent division of groups like these was directly influenced by the Aslans. The Aslans spread their unique understanding of race during their conquests, leading to the flourishing of racial taxonomy. Interestingly, research indicates that the new races emerging in this manner often displayed genuine physiological differences. This contrasts with the separation of the Aslans from the Felines, where no significant physiological distinctions were observed.

The Aslans themselves have no subgroups. Victorian and Sargonian Aslans belong to different Aslan families, but they are not separate racial branches. Although the differences between the Aslans and normal Felines are minimal, the average strength of the Aslans are extraordinary. Their formidable power was one of the assets that enabled their extensive conquests in ancient times.

Most of the Aslans are powerful and respected nobles, with deep roots in the aristocracies of both Sargon and Victoria.

Perro

The Perros are one of the most widely distributed and populous races of Terra. They can be found everywhere: from the Sargonian Empire to the Sami region, from Bolívar to Higashi. Currently, the Perros make up the largest population in Bolívar.

Many find it difficult to distinguish Perro from Lupo, Vulpo, and Reproba based on their appearance alone. The classification of these groups has been a longstanding issue throughout human history. Recent research suggests that in ancient times, before the advent of writing, all of these races were indeed collectively referred to as “Perro”. It was only later, due to the influence of the Aslans and changes in people’s understanding of races, that the other three groups consciously separated themselves from the Perro family. New concepts like “Lupo” show that the human understanding of race in that era had moved beyond simple appearances, incorporating deeper physiological insights.

The Perros have a very large population base, including many Elder and Ancient subgroups. Today, Elder subgroups like the Qirsha, Cerberus, and Uridimmu mostly live alongside the Perro Ancients, and it is difficult for outsiders to distinguish between them.

The Perros value good interpersonal relationships and always strive to treat others with kindness. Some believe this is related to their large family structures. In traditional Perro families, everyone in a single settlement is considered a member of the same family, so they do their best to maintain harmonious relationships with one another. It is worth noting that the Lupos have inherited the large family tradition, but have developed a completely opposite culture.

More than one Perro has expressed a certain inexplicable familiarity and distaste for the creatures known as “Hounds” in military use in Bolívar. This has led to rumors that cruel human experimentation is underway in some areas of Bolívar. But to date, there is no evidence to support these claims.

■ Perro

Lupo

Siracusa, east of Leithanien, is predominantly populated by the Lupos. While there are also small Lupo populations in countries like Ursus and Victoria, the Lupos are often closely associated with the “famiglia” culture of Siracusa.

Physiologically, the Lupos are very similar to the Perros, but the Lupos were the first race to be distinguished from the Perros and are the least likely to be mistaken for Perros. This is likely due to their unique cultural traditions. The Lupos of Siracusa have a strong sense of family. In some families, all members dye their tails the same color or mark the tips of their ears with the same symbol to indicate familial affiliation. However, unlike the Perros, this strong sense of family does not make the Lupos more inclined to treat others kindly; instead, it fosters a heightened sense of exclusivity. In areas where the Lupos are the dominant race, there are often very clear boundaries between families, and members of different

■ Lupo

families frequently harbor hostility toward one another. Both legend and science point to the “Wolfpacks” active in Siracusa as the cradle of Lupo culture. These fierce groups of Beast Stewards pose a serious threat to the local Lupo population, which has had to adapt to survive. Lupos seldom emote with their ears and tails as the Perros do, but they still use body language. The Lupos living in Siracusa may not wiggle their ears and tails, but they almost always employ hand gestures when speaking. It is said that high-ranking Lupos may even deliberately suppress their natural body language. A Lupo born and raised in large families may be taught to control their ears and tail to hide their emotions. Untrained Lupos may still wag their tails, but most consider large, expressive movements like the Perros’ excessive and pointless.

Vulpo

To this day, Vulpos are frequently mistaken for Perros in many regions, due to their very similar appearance. Most of the time, Vulpos are not offended when miscategorized in another race, as it is a common occurrence. These mistaken identifications make statistical data on the distribution of Vulpos across Terra unreliable. However, generally speaking, the Vulpos make up a relatively small percentage of most populations.

Vulpos are generally medium-sized, compared to other races. They are known for their quick reflexes and flexibility, and they excel at scouting and detecting danger in complex environments. Well-trained Vulpos are outstanding combatants. In ancient times, some Vulpos were described as “the more agile branch of the Perro”, making them the top choice to serve as scouts and Messengers for various tribes. In Minos, “The First Arrow”, the epic story of a young Vulpo scout, is still told to this day. Today, Vulpos can still be found serving as mercenaries, Messengers, and other similar professions.

The Vulpos have both Elder and Ancient branches. The most famous Elder Vulpo branch is the Nine-Tailed Vulpo, now mostly present in far Higashi. It is said that the Nine-Tailed Vulpos are tied to prominent Higashinese clans, but the specifics remain unknown. Of course, there are other Elder branches as well, such as the Kanayootl and the Fionnach.

Vulpo tails, with their exceptionally thick, fluffy fur, have become one of their most prominent features. The Vulpos of Siracusa uphold a time-honored tradition of “tail grooming”. At large family gatherings, presenting a well-groomed tail is considered a matter of basic etiquette. In modern times, this tradition has given rise to the “Tail Care Contest”, which welcomes participants from various races and regularly changes its theme. Contestants must demonstrate their interpretation of the theme on their tails within seventy-two hours. Clearly, participating in the “Tail Care Contest” presents a significant challenge to the Nine-Tailed Vulpos—after all, it’s nine times the work.

■ Vulpo. My thanks to this young lady from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

Reproba

The Reprobas are one of the least populous races in Terra. They primarily reside in Sargon. However, this does not mean they are unknown; according to some historical records, during the Tribal Era, the ancestors of the Reprobas maintained some traditions similar to those of the Sarkaz, which made them a controversial group within the Perro community of the time. A branch of the Reprobas that abandoned those old traditions has survived to this day. As the Aslans established a new perspective on racial boundaries, the “Reprobas” eventually separated from the Perro as a distinct identity.

Comparatively speaking, the Reprobas’ physical abilities can be described as average. Most Reprobas have furry ears and tails, and some have spots or striped patterns on their bodies. Reproba females are, in most cases, significantly stronger than males.

The Reprobas’ time in the Sargonian deserts has honed their survival skills and shaped their matriarchal family structure, which emphasizes unity and discipline more than the Perros’. A Reproba family might have up to a hundred members, and many tribes will declare a female “matriarch” as their nominal leader. In Sargon, the Reprobas have a long history of providing elite soldiers for the Empire, which has led to a strong martial culture. It is said that Reproba women (Ancients) bravely fought against the Nightzmoran invaders, becoming a key resistance force to the Khagan.

The Reprobas were one of the last groups to separate from the Perros, but they have long held many unusual and ancient traditions. This has made their ancestors the subject of many horror stories passed down in Sargon. Many Reprobas are uncomfortable with this attention and are particularly sensitive about their “similarity” to the Sarkaz, preferring that others avoid the topic altogether. Of course, there are some who do not mind how others perceive them.

Today, the lives of the Reprobas are changing. They are gradually moving away from their ancestral homes in Sargon and are utilizing their experience in the barrenlands to develop professional careers in a variety of fields. Breeding unique livestock and conducting field research are among their specialties. People in other parts of Terra who have not heard of the Reprobas often misidentify them as “slightly unusual” Perros.

■ Reproba. My thanks to this Sargonian Lord for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

Liberi

“Liberi” is a general term for both Elders and Ancients who have feathers on their bodies. This broad taxonomy has made the Liberi one of the largest and most widely distributed races of Terra. The Liberi are one of the primary races of Columbia. There are also significant Liberi populations in Iberia and Laterano.

The most distinctive feature of the Liberi is the feathers that grow on their bodies. Typically, the feathers replace the hair on parts of their heads and torsos. Liberi are generally of average height, with females being slightly shorter. They also tend to be lighter in weight. Physically, the Liberi are rather ordinary, with no particularly notable traits.

The broad term “Liberi” includes both Elders and Ancients. There are many racial subgroups, and they often observe small differences among themselves. The most well-known Liberi Elders are the Hippogryphs, who have the feathers of the Liberi and the tails of the Kurantas. They were the Elders who founded the Hippogryph Kingdom.

Since its founding, Columbia has actively absorbed immigrants from various regions. Large numbers of Liberi migrated to Columbia from across Terra. Surveys of Liberi immigrants indicate their main reasons for moving to Columbia include the opportunity to start a new life and the magnetic appeal of the enigmatic Liberi President, Mark Max. President Max, who frequently appears on television, is highly popular in the Liberi community.

Due to their vast numbers and wide distribution, it is difficult to summarize any common cultural traditions among the Liberi. Some Liberi scholars have even called for further subdivisions of the Liberi race, while others argue that we should not confuse cultural norms with racial classification.

Liberi

Cautus

The Cautus population of Terra is primarily concentrated in the autonomous counties of Rim Billiton and its surrounding areas, with smaller populations in other countries and regions. The doors of new homes are often open to everyone, whether or not the visitors appreciate canned carrots.

The Cautuses’ most distinctive physical features are their long ears and short, fluffy tails. The highly developed auditory organs and quick reflexes compensate for their relatively small size. We have reason to believe that these inherent advantages helped the Cautuses survive through the Tribal Era and eventually flourish into a large population.

To make up for individual physical shortcomings, the Cautuses of modern Rim Billiton have generally adopted a communal lifestyle. During the Tribal Era, they formed vibrant bunker settlements. They work together, cultivate root crops, mine veins, and carve out half-underground bunker homes (commonly known as “rabbit holes”). Large extended families form the core of each Cautus community. Cautus families value unity and cohesiveness, but members are also encouraged to venture

Cautus.

My thanks to this young lady from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

out and form new families elsewhere, as it helps keep the bunker communities' populations at manageable levels. Since the dawn of the Crystal Age, the Cautuses have stepped out of their bunkers and established mining unions throughout Rim Billiton. These unions are not just economic organizations; they have largely inherited the social structure, productive functions, and culture of the bunker communities. It is precisely because of these unions that the "innocent and gentle" Cautuses stood their ground during the Cage Incident, resisting the pressure and influence of a powerful empire.

Kuranta

Generations after their ancestors first settled on the Kazimierzian Plain in north-central Terra, this strong and swift race continues to live, and thrive, there. Over a thousand years ago, many Kurantas left the grasslands with the Nightzmora Khagan, which is why they can now be found all across Terra.

The Kurantas are more physically robust than the average Terran. Although not as powerful as the Ursus or Fortes, they have superior endurance. In ancient times, the Kurantas' outstanding physical fitness allowed them a nomadic lifestyle on the plains. As nomads, the Kurantas needed to quickly respond to sudden attacks. This led to the formation of a martial culture where everyone was trained in combat, an early precursor to knightly culture.

In traditional Kuranta culture, the concept of "family" was significant. The Kurantas changed homes from season to season and year to year, but their family members remained consistent and close-knit. As such, familial hierarchy was crucial, and each family of knights was led by a "Knight Primus". Even in modern Kazimierz, where knights are now a form of entertainment and most residents have moved to nomadic cities, the Knights Association still upholds the "Knight Primus" system.

The Kurantas have a modest number of subgroups, including both Elders and Ancients. The most famous Kuranta Elders are the Pegasi and the Nightzmora. The rivalry between these two forces is still a popular topic of discussion today. After the Pegasi were defeated, their leader was forced from the throne. The Pegasi, once rulers, were demoted to knightly nobility. The Nightzmora, following their failed Khagan's crusade, became wanderers. It is said that their descendants can still be found scattered across this great land.

Kuranta armies, scientifically trained and equipped with the latest technology, display astonishing mobility in battle. According to a public report by the Adeptus Sprawiedliwi Kazimierz, in a battle during the Kazimierz-Ursus War, a Knight Order known as the "Silverlance Pegasus" dominated the battlefield, reportedly even chasing down several old-model Ursine warships in the wilderness and stopping them through close-quarters boarding maneuvers. While Deity Grypherburg has not provided detailed accounts of these wartime exploits, neither have they denied the veracity of the description.

Kuranta

Forte

The Fortes are the dominant race in Minos, located in southwestern Terra. They are also widely distributed across countries with vast plains, such as Yan and Sargon, making them one of the more common races in Terra.

The once-popular Forte energy drink vividly demonstrates the stereotypes people hold about this race. Most people recognize the Fortes for their strength, yet in many regions where they are the dominant race, intelligence is the more highly valued trait. Since ancient times, many Forte settlements have been scattered across the land of Minos. It is said that the Fortes immerse themselves in artistic creation and intellectual discourse, a lifestyle that contrasts starkly with the highly martial Reproba tribes nearby.

It is generally believed that several highly respected ancient philosophers were Fortes. The most famous among them is Phainarates of Minos, who frequently engaged in philosophical discussions with an unknown Feline woman from Sargon. Together, they laid the foundation for many subsequent philosophies. Although neither of them left behind a complete theoretical system or any written work, many of the questions they raised have been debated over the subsequent millennia.

Outside of Minos, Fortes are often perceived as honest and hardworking, likely because they typically take on labor-intensive roles. The Forte population in Yan is possibly one of the earliest Terran groups to engage in agricultural production. Compared with traditional hunting and gathering lifestyles, farming is more labor-intensive, and the strong but less agile Fortes were clearly better suited to this new way of life.

However, maintaining an agricultural lifestyle in a fixed location was highly risky because of the constant threat of Catastrophe. It is said that the Yanese Fortes invented transport vehicles capable of traveling on rugged terrain, which allowed them to quickly move between different plots of farmland, giving each piece of land time to accumulate fertility while also diluting their risk in the face of Catastrophe.

Forte

Caprinae

The Caprinae are one of the more common races of Terra. They primarily reside in Leithanien and its surrounding areas, with significant populations scattered across the lands.

The Caprinae are renowned for their exceptional mastery of Originium Arts. Many people believe that every Caprinae can perform certain mysterious, esoteric Arts, but this is just a stereotype shaped by exaggerated realities and unrealistic hopes. On average, Caprinae do indeed exhibit better Originium Arts Assimilation than other races. However, there still remain Caprinae who cannot use Arts at all.

The Caprinae are quite proud of their horns and have unique aesthetic standards for them. Their love of horns extends even to other races. They show a particular interest in the horns of Fortes, Vouivres, Ceratos, and Sarkaz, as well as the antlers

Caprinae

of Elafia. The differences between these protrusions are a popular topic of discussion among Caprinae.

Leithanien is where the Caprinae population is most concentrated. It is widely believed that Leithanien's love for art and culture is closely tied to the Caprinae, who are the dominant race in the region. The Caprinae are not particularly strong physically compared to other races, and this may have contributed to their finely tuned, sensitive nature. There is a theory that this sensitivity is both a cause and an effect of their exceptional aptitude for Arts.

Elafia

Sami, in the far north of Terra, is predominantly populated by the Elafia. There are also large Elafia populations in forested countries like Ursus, Kazimierz, and Leithanien, making them one of the more common races on Terra.

Several hundred years ago, a wave of literary and artistic creation swept through Gaul and other countries, where the physiological traits of various races were given romantic interpretations through popular fables. Elafia, who mostly live in forests and have antlers that resemble branches, were often depicted as mystical "Children of the Forest". This interpretation has led subsequent generations to believe that Elafia are closely connected to nature, though this has no academic basis.

It is true that most Elafia now residing in forested countries like Ursus, Leithanien, and Kazimierz originally hail from Sami, where a deep reverence for nature is a unique cultural tradition. However, with the progress of urbanization, most Elafia have lost their connection to nature. Yet there are still a few remote, Elafia-dominated communities where people continue to lead nomadic, hunting lifestyles within the forests.

For the Caprinae and Fortes, horns are a primarily aesthetic consideration, but for many Elafia, the significance of their antlers is much deeper and more nuanced. Unlike the horns of the Caprinae or Forte, Elafia antlers are not covered in keratin. At a certain stage of growth, they are covered by skin tissue and innervated, meaning that many Elafia antlers are sensitive during certain stages of their growth. As such, touching antlers is, for many Elafia, a deeply spiritual and emotional interaction—one that can be either friendly or represent profound disagreement. It is said that the classic poem, "Withered Leaves and New Branches" was written by two quarreling Elafia poets. At the height of their debate, they touched antlers. The resulting work is a balanced fusion of opposition and harmony.

In some Elafia tribes of Sami, antlers are believed to serve as a conduit for perceiving nature. There, some Elafia antlers continue to grow slowly throughout their lives and retain their sensitivity. An Elafia from Sami described the elder priestess of his tribe to me as follows: "Between her antlers flow the sensations of a thousand living beings."

Elafia

Vouivre

The Vouivre primarily reside in Sargon, Victoria, and the disputed territories controlled by the Vouivre Alliance. In recent years, many Vouivres have chosen to settle in other countries and regions after retiring from mercenary life.

The relationship between the Vouivres and the Dracos is intriguing, as they share many similarities in appearance. However, the Dracos are generally far more skilled at Originium Arts than the Vouivres. The Vouivres were defeated during the Aslan Conquest. However, the Aslans recognized the Vouivres' formidable strength and rewarded the various Vouivre tribes with large tracts of land and allowed them to serve as Aslan guards. Later, when a branch of the Aslan royal family embarked on an expedition to Victoria, they brought some Vouivres with them. They were the ancestors of the Vouivres now living in Victoria.

The territories granted to the Vouivres by the ancient Aslans were located on the northern border of Sargon, where Vouivre tribal leaders enjoyed a high degree of autonomy. After the dawn of the modern era, the Vouivre tribes even managed to unite and build small nomadic cities. In recent decades, the Vouivre Alliance, formed of these tribes, has been seeking an opportunity to fully secede from the Sargonian Empire, but they have not yet succeeded.

Most traditional Vouivre families provide their children with rigorous combat training and specialized training as guards. The best students are sent to the Sargonian court to serve as personal bodyguards to the Aslan imperial household. Those who do not make the cut often become mercenaries. This is how the Vouivre mercenary tradition began.

Vouivre. My thanks to this young lady from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

Manticore

Manticores are a Terran race marked by wings and a segmented, chitinous tail. Almost all Manticores reside within Sargon and are very rare.

Manticores have two distinct physical features: A pair of membranous wings on either side of their heads, and an elongated, segmented tail covered with chitinous shell, usually ending in a stinger. The average height of a Manticore is roughly the same as the Terran average, with females being slightly shorter than males. They are physically strong, and some have venom on their stingers.

Manticores are known for being highly reclusive, holding cultural traditions that value discretion and secrecy. As a result, they maintain a distance from other races. When nomadic cities emerged, the Manticores chose to continue their traditional ways of life, rather than move into the cities. Today, most Manticores live in remote areas of Sargon, far from the nomadic cities.

I once visited a Manticore permanent settlement with a research team. The village headman was hesitant to receive us, but after we explained our interest in Manticore culture, the locals reluctantly opened their gates. According to the village headman, the term "Manticore" has been part of local legends for generations. "It may predate

Manticore. My thanks to this gentle girl from Sargon for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

the beginning of the history of humans on this great land," he added. To outsiders, Manticores are largely a mystery, and there are many stories about "man-eating Manticores" and "Manticore's curses". These tales stem from a fear of the unknown, and are nothing but rumors and slander. In reality, Manticores live normal lives, just like the residents of the so-called "civilized" nomadic cities.

Phidia

The Phidia are one of the less common races on Terra, but their presence is spread across the land. On the plains of Sami, in the forests of Ursus, the arid soils of Sargon, or the skyscrapers of Victoria, one may find traces of the Phidia, if one searches carefully enough.

The Phidia are characterized by a single pair of pointed ears and long, scaly tails. They are generally taller than the average Terran, but their body mass is often below average. This has led to the stereotype of them being "frail and weak"—a stereotype that is, of course, unfounded. Overall, their physical abilities fall well within the average range.

Due to their small population and dispersed living patterns, most knowledge of the Phidia comes from literary depiction. In literature, the Phidia are often depicted as sensitive and high-strung, leading some to believe they are easily startled and emotionally unstable. They are commonly called "snakes", and are one of the races more often identified by their epithet than by their actual name. Many languages have expressions like "a snake in the grass" which imbue this nickname with somewhat negative connotations. However, like the stereotype of being "frail and weak", this portrayal of the Phidia is also without factual basis.

The vast majority of Phidia are non-venomous. They do not hiss, and walk on two legs.

I do not personally know many Phidia, but I have gotten on well with the few I have met. Based on my observations, if there is one true defining characteristic of the Phidia, it is their ability to focus intensely on a single task for long periods. That is, maintaining a clear, singular goal. Many people of other races also have this quality, but when it comes to Phidia, it can be found in every Phidia I know: There is one gentleman who has spent years researching methods to use colored Orignium lamps for real-time long-distance communication. He went to Kjerag to work on railway construction and designed an entire signaling system for them. Another lady is passionate about knightly tournaments—not the sport itself, but the results. She is the author of a sprawling, 600-page tome, reportedly written over four years and still being refined, titled The Yearbook of Knight Competition 1094 Edition. I believe some readers may have heard of it (I could not finish it), and it seems that The Yearbook of Knight Competition 1095 Edition is also in the works...

Phidia. My thanks to this young lady from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

Savra

The Savra make their homes in the desert. Most of them live in Sargon, with some having migrated to Rim Billiton. They prefer sun-drenched places where they can bask in sunlight for extended periods—but then again, who doesn't?

The Savra are a race with scales covering their bodies and tails. They are agile and sharp-eyed, almost natural-born hunters. The majority of Savra are covered head to toe in scales and can change the color of them. With the right clothing, they can blend seamlessly into their surroundings, such as deserts or barrens.

Most people know two things about Savra: they hail from Sargon, and they have long lifespans. While both are true, they have unfortunately been exaggerated in popular culture. "The old Sargonian hunter, puffing on a cigar and telling cruel and cunning jokes with a crooked grin" has become a stereotype of this race in some local legends—and, as you might expect, most of these depictions are fictional.

In Sargonian folklore, elderly Savra are regarded as embodiments of wisdom—and rightly so. Savra have a habit of sunbathing while engaging in solitary contemplation. With years of deep thought and over a century of life experience, of course their advice is of the most priceless value. I know a Victorian Savra, a Mr. Angst of Caladon, who has walked these lands for over a century and a half (as a man in my nineties, still spry and clear-headed, I still find it hard to imagine living such a long life). He served as a council member until just last year. His insights into Originium industrial development strategies were incredibly enlightening. In fact, he changed my own views on the industry, forcing me to acknowledge my past mistakes. I wish him good health and good fortune. May he enjoy a happy retirement.

Savra. My thanks to this gentleman from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use his likeness in this book.

Zalak

The Zalak population is sizable, even compared to the Felines or Liberi. They are widely dispersed across Terra, from Bolivar to Rim Billiton. In recent years, there is also a significant number of Zalaks who have chosen to live in Columbia.

Zalaks are typically characterized by a pair of prominent round ears on their heads. For a small portion of Zalaks, these ears can appear pointed due to tufts of hair. These tufts grow not from the scalp but directly from the ears, so they are commonly known as "ear tufts" (a small number of Felines also share this trait). Zalaks living in the Kazimierz-Kjerag region often have thicker ear tufts and large, fluffy tails. By contrast, in warmer climes further south, the hair on their ears and tails tends to be finer.

Zalaks are relatively small in stature compared to other Terrans, but they are fairly agile. They often possess excellent hearing and quick reflexes, making them highly sensitive to vibrations in the air and changes in airflow, which is why many of them work as Messengers. Similarly, many Zalaks are found among Catastrophe Messengers.

Notably, a recent wave of Zalak celebrities has emerged in the Columbian film industry, including figures such as Bernd Gailey, Anthony Elvin, and Magda "Quick

Tongue" Molinski of Kazimierz. In the 1094 comedy, Come on! Not Again!, Gailey played the lead role of Jack Scotner, offering a subversive reinterpretation of the classic work Winged Legend. He convincingly portrayed a humble hero who, despite inner turmoil, ultimately made the right choices. The film was widely acclaimed and helped reshape the negative connotations of the term "Zalaks' Hoarding", transforming it from "hoarding useless things out of greediness" to "saving things up with foresight for family and friends". It also directly inspired a large number of Zalaks to participate in pioneering expeditions. Their wilderness survival skills have become a frequent topic of discussion in the media.

Durin

Most people see the Durins as a mysterious group. These short, pointy-eared individuals occasionally visit cities and settlements, but rarely mention where they come from. Historical records from different regions mention the Durins sporadically, but it is only in the past century that people have started piecing together details about their society and culture.

Many still believe that the Durins are sufferers of some disease, and that their generally short stature is a result of illness contracted during childhood. However, this seemingly logical assumption is entirely rumor. While it is true that Durins are shorter on average compared to other races, it has nothing to do with any malady. These baseless rumors have hindered a true understanding of the Durins.

Durin society is organized into what they call "cities", and these settlements are scattered beneath the surface of Terra. Each city is a marvel of modern science. The technology used to build and maintain these cities far surpasses that of surface dwellers. Each city has its own unique social structure and culture, but the Durins have developed their own ways of maintaining smooth communication.

A small number of Durins are willing to leave the underground and start a different life on the surface. Surprisingly, throughout Terra's long history, those Durins have rarely revealed their origins to people living on the surface. Current research suggests that the Durins mastered advanced technology long ago, but they show no interest in using their resources to interfere with the surface world. Multiple Durins have casually stated that "surface society is interesting", hinting at curiosity as their motive for visiting the world above the ground. Yet, these offhand comments leave much unanswered.

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Zalak. My thanks to this gentleman from Kjerag for allowing me to use his likeness in this book.

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Durin

Cerato

The Ceratos are one of the many tribes originally inhabiting the oases of Sargon. They are known for their strong and robust physiques. In the past century, Ceratos, tall and powerful, have begun to appear in other regions of Terra.

Like the Kurantas, the Ceratos are skilled runners, but they do not often travel long distances. A common belief, which is also widely accepted among the Ceratos, is that their large size and weight demand far more energy for extended activity compared to other races. In other words, long journeys may not be worth the effort for them.

The Ceratos place great value on their horns, but they do so in a unique way. Since the Tribal Era, horns have been an important weapon for the Ceratos. They sharpen their horns by engaging in face-to-face, short-range charges, seeing this as a way of regular maintenance. What might seem like a brutal clash to outsiders may be nothing more than a game to them. In recent years, some Ceratos have chosen to add armor to their horns to further increase their strength.

The Cerato tribes of Sargon maintain a traditional hobby of raising fowlbeasts. There is a particular species of fowlbeast in the oasis regions that seems to have a natural affinity for the Ceratos. A Cerato might have several of these fowlbeasts, and it is common to see elderly Ceratos taking their feathered companions for a walk around the neighborhood.

Cerato. My thanks to this young lady from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

Anura

The Anuras, who chiefly reside in Sargon and Bolivar, are a relatively rare presence, and most Terrans from other regions know little about them. The Anuras prefer humid, water-rich environments, and those who have moved to nomadic cities in recent years tend to choose the ones with ample greenery and well-managed waterways.

In ancient times, the Anuras were few in number and lived deep within remote rainforests; outsiders rarely encountered them. As a result, the Anuras inevitably became the subject of mythmaking. The Sargonian court has long believed that the mysterious, elegant Anuras must be very wise. For centuries, they have been inviting Anuras from the rainforest tribes to serve in key positions in Shar-Agade, a practice that continues to this day.

The Archosaurias, who also dwell in the rainforests, have maintained a good relationship with the Anuras over the years. The physically strong Archosaurias often help the Anuras build homes and other structures, while the Anuras take care of village planning and decoration. Moreover, the Archosaurias and Anuras often host joint swimming competitions as part of their festival celebrations.

Most Anuras have inherited Originium Arts related to stealth and invisibility, while a smaller number can use their naturally secreted toxins as powerful weapons against enemies. People who are somewhat familiar with this concept might worry that even brief contact with an Anura can lead to severe poisoning. However, this

Anura. My thanks to this young lady from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

worry is completely unfounded—Anuras have full control over the secretion and use of their toxins!

Archosauria

The Archosaurias, known for their worship of strength and their tails, make their home in the rainforests, primarily in the humid regions of eastern Sargon. Here, they live in tribes along riverbanks, their culture deeply rooted in the surrounding environment.

The Archosauria tribes of the eastern Sargonian rainforest engage in many tail-based competitions. Unlike most other tailed races, they prioritize function over aesthetics. While others may focus on the beauty of tails, the Archosaurias emphasize their power. For example, they prefer pure strength competitions such as log-dragging—the Archosauria who drags the most logs wins. This is just one of the many tail competitions in which the Archosaurias engage. In recent years, with the influence of foreign cultures, a new sport has become popular among local youths: Young Archosaurias use their tails to shoot a ball into the opponent's goal.

The Archosaurias often exhibit great confidence in their abilities. Many proudly refer to themselves as “Tiacauh”, meaning “brave and vigilant warriors”. This proud identity has been passed down since the golden age of Sargon. Credible records suggest that an ancient Sargonian Emperor first bestowed this recognition upon Archosauria warriors.

Archosaurias are also natural-born swimmers. This allows them to ambush enemies or prey from the water. The Archosaurias who leave the rainforest are often seen as pure warriors, yet few know of their unmatched aquatic agility.

Archosauria

Itra

The Itras primarily live in the cold highlands or near the icefields of Terra. They are often seen in parts of Yan, Kjerag, Ursus, and Sami, but are hardly found in any other regions.

The Itras closely resemble the Caprinae, Elafias, and Kurantas. The main difference between the Itras and the first two is that Itras do not grow horns. And they are not quite as physically strong as the Kurantas. It is said that the ancestors of the Itras had long, sharp teeth, but this trait has become less noticeable over time.

The cold, harsh, dangerous environment in which they live has made the Itras a cautious and wary race. In many areas, they are still fairly xenophobic. Even in modern cities, many Itras choose to lead reclusive lives, avoiding social interaction. Therefore, if an Itra opens up to you, it indicates that your relationship is truly special.

The Itras of Kjerag may have been among the first to worship Kjeragandr, and they have played a significant role in the spread of Kjeragandr worship throughout history—many scriptures and religious texts were written and compiled by Itras.

Itra. My thanks to this Messenger from Kjerag for allowing me to use his likeness in this book.

Petram

The Petrams are an extremely rare race, so much so that many people have simply never heard of them. In fact, most Petrams live in isolated regions abundant with water.

The Petrams have a highly unique physiology, lacking any prominent features like tails, horns, or scales, and they rarely appear in public. Contemporary scholarship on the Petrams is extremely limited, with some researchers even doubting their very existence.

Most Petram settlements possess advanced smelting and production techniques unknown to outsiders. Among the Petrams are many skilled craftsmen and materials experts, even though they may not have formal education in modern science. According to historical records from ancient Sargon, the metals and other materials produced by the Petrams were of exceptional quality, yet they refused to share their techniques and knowledge with the Lords Ameer.

I have visited some Petram villages along the coasts of Yan, Victoria, and Iberia. In these places, the Petrams have close relationships with the shore-dwelling Ægirs. They sometimes even refer to each other as “kin”. This phenomenon is unprecedented among other races, or at least it has never been recorded. There are many academic theories about this, but none have been universally accepted as conclusive.

Anaty

The Anaties, a race that's long been associated with the mountains, are a common presence on this land. For a long time, they lived in mountainous regions far from the plains and warmly welcomed any visitors they had.

The Anaties are nimble. They can traverse rugged mountain terrain that most people find impassable as if it were flat ground. This ability has made them the go-to professionals for trade and courier services in many places. With the rise of nomadic cities, their business has shifted from the mountains to the nomadic plates.

Some Anaty groups living in remote areas maintain a strict “coming-of-age” tradition where seniors send those about to reach adulthood into a desolate mountain area to survive on their own for a period of time. Though this trial may seem harsh to outsiders, the ancient tradition carries practical wisdom. It teaches them how to survive on a Catastrophe-prone land.

Those Anaties who still live in the mountains often carve unique cave dwellings into the mountainsides. These homes differ from the buildings we see in nomadic cities or other settlements—the entire cave system is built into the mountain, with more emphasis on excavation than construction.

Pilosa

I must admit that I have never seen a Pilosa in person, as they are easily mistaken for other races and rarely seen in public. Over the past few decades, my colleagues and I have collected very few information related to the Pilosas, making it even more difficult to draw any conclusions. I'm including this here only because there are indeed historical records of this race.

Today, we apprehended a nondescript individual who was attempting to climb over the barbed wire fence to enter the administration building. During interrogation, the suspect admitted that he intended to sneak into the management office to delete his records of previous violations against safety regulations to avoid being fined. Upon further inspection, the suspect was identified as Pilosa miner Liam McLean. He was caught stuck at the top of the barbed wire fence due to his excessive slowness in movements and reaction. Given that he has admitted his mistake and caused no property damage, we decided to reassign him to the logistics center for a different job—of course, he still has to pay the fine for not wearing a helmet.

—Excerpt I from Monthly Safety Report July 1053, Mine Safety Records

Abandoned on the battlefield due to his sluggish pace, the once slow and disgraced fighter rises to become a renowned Pilosa swordsman. Though his nature may have cost him speed, it has granted him something far more precious: a profound understanding of why he wields a sword. His slow iai slash is an unstoppable force, even against the strongest foe!

—Excerpt from Namakengou: Haikaihen, a Higashinese comic published in 1086

Anaty. My thanks to this young lady from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use her likeness in this book.

Draco

The Dracos are a race of Elders who have played a significant role in Terran history. They are few in number and scattered across Terra. Each group of Dracos exhibits distinct regional characteristics.

Dracos are often protagonists of myths and legends, frequently depicted as heroic figures or rulers in ancient stories that are usually believed to be adaptations of historical events. For example, there is one story about a Draco Hegemon from the Tribal Era who considered other horned races as a threat. He would saw off the horns of his slaves, grinding them into powder to maintain his own horns, which he believed to be his natural crown. Another story tells of an immortal red dragon tyrant who has lived to the present day, appearing every few millennia to bring harm to the people. There is also the tale of an ancient King of Victoria who hid all the Originium artifacts he had plundered in a vault (or perhaps multiple vaults), which remains a popular topic among treasure hunters. Some legends are even more fantastical, claiming that certain Dracos can fly without the use of Arts, or breathe fire at will—abilities that contradict our current understanding.

The history of Victoria's Draco monarchy seems to support the idea that they have been leaders in many regions since ancient times. Stories and ballads have traveled even further than the Dracos themselves. Most Terrans first hear these legends in childhood. The aforementioned story of the immortal red dragon tyrant is one such tale used to frighten children and make them behave. Although many people go through their entire lives without ever meeting a Draco, they certainly have imagined them at some point.

In reality, Dracos are not great in number, but they typically possess intricate horns and tails that make them quite distinctive, even in a crowd. Over the past century, increased communication between Terra's nations and races has revealed that Dracos do indeed have advantages in Originium Arts Assimilation and other physical traits. It seems that the legendary image of the Draco is not solely due to the influence of storytelling, but has some basis in reality.

On the other hand, the connection between the term “Draco” and the identity associated with it was once extremely loose, and it was only within the last thousand years that a common understanding of this powerful race began to take shape among the Core nations—this also explains why the legends surrounding them are so varied and complex. The various Draco groups share common traits, but they also have notable differences: For instance, the House of the Dragon that once shared power with the Lion Kings in Londinium, and the King Gaeil bloodline of Tara are so different that anyone familiar with Victorian history would not easily confuse the two. Therefore, many questions remain as to whether the term “Draco” as a collective designation is appropriate, and people tend to refer to them differently based on local history and custom.

Lung

The Lungs are a race of Elders unique to Yan. For thousands of years, they have lived in the East, where they forged an ancient civilization and ruled over a prosperous and enlightened empire.

Wherever the “Lungs” are mentioned, the founder of the Yanese imperial family, the “True Lung”, remains an inescapable figure. His profound influence on Yan is undeniable—the nation is named after him. The Yanese Emperors have inherited his title of True Lung, and the imperial household refer to themselves as the “House of the True Lung”. While the origins of most civilizations on Terra are clouded by mysterious ballads and legends, Yan is an outlier with her large archive of written records that detail the history of “Yan the True Lung” and his successors, who led the people as they expanded their territories and built shrines to their gods. If we consider the history of the True Lung as factual, then the Lungs might be the most ancient branch of modern humanity, and the history of Terran civilization would extend to unimaginable lengths.

In fact, many other Lungs (besides the House of the True Lung) also live in Yan. Although they are not of royal blood, they all claim Yan the True Lung as their ancestor, and they are all descendants of the House of Yan. In the term “True Lung”, the word “True” does not imply an opposing “False”. Rather, it expresses a profound respect for a common ancestor and legendary leader.

The Lungs cherish their history, with people of all ages knowing their ancestral stories and proudly treasuring these traditions. This is closely related to the Lungs’, or Yan’s, longstanding tradition of preserving history through written records. The Yanese court has established specialized institutions to collect, compile, and preserve historical documents. Works that record the origins of various Yanese clans, such as Investiture of the Lungs, Study on Hundred Family Surnames, and the Calendar of Hundred Families, are stored in archives designated by the Ministry of Rites and are considered official, reliable histories endorsed by the Yanese government. Therefore, the history of the Lungs is more detailed and credible than the orally transmitted origins of other races on Terra.

Interestingly, during the first century of contact between the Core nations and Yan, the Lungs of Yan referred to the Draco rulers as “Lungs” too. The misunderstanding arose because the Victorian translators, who had only a superficial understanding of Yanese culture, rashly used the Yanese word “Lung” to refer to the Draco Kings when introducing them to the people of Yan. This led the Lungs of Yan to believe, for a long time, that a part of their kind had been living in the distant west. This misconception persisted for nearly a century, but as interactions grew more frequent, the Yanese Lungs realized that the Dracos were entirely different from themselves. They then adopted a Yanese equivalent to “Draco” as the official term, though some names and titles had already become customary.

Kylin

The far eastern land of Yan has nurtured many unique races, with the Kylins being particularly noteworthy. Though few in number, they hold a highly esteemed position and have long been prominent in the courts and government offices of Yan.

The Kylins resemble the Elafias in appearance. However, as an Elder race, they are much more engaged in worldly affairs than the somewhat reclusive Elafias. The Kylins have traditionally enjoyed a high level of prestige in Yanese society. Long before the Hundred Clan Rebellion, the Kylins served as guards and casters within the House of Yan. According to legend, the House of Yan was once plagued by a ferocious beast, so they sent a Kylin caster (a profession historically known in Yan as “Zhu”) to suppress it. This Caster performed a ritual by a great lake, causing lightning that was supposed to descend from the sky to rise from the lake instead. The beast, fearing this power, dared not cross the lake, which became known as the “Leichi (Thunder Pool)”.

To this day, the expression “Lay not one foot into the Leichi” is still used. The exact location of the Leichi is now lost to history, but the Kylin caster’s technique of summoning lightning with Originium Arts has been passed down and is known as “Lei Fa”. This unique branch of Originium Arts was once exclusively held by the descendants of this Kylin caster, who took their ancestor’s profession as their family name, becoming “the Zhues”. When the True Lung founded the Tianshi Bureaus to attract and nurture talent, some of the first Instructor Tianshis appointed were descendants of the Zhu clan. They were tasked with teaching their ancestral Lei Fa to promising disciples. Thus, this art was no longer exclusive to the Zhues or the Kylins; it became available to any race.

Not all Kylins are casters or Instructor Tianshis like the Zhues. There are many other prominent Kylin families, such as the Lins and the Fas, who also claim close ties to the True Lung. Throughout history, Kylins have held high positions in the courts of the True Lung. The various Kylin clans have preferred roles in safeguarding justice, and they seem to have a long established, unspoken understanding with the court in this preference. This was how the Kylin gradually became a symbol of protection and peace to the people of Yan.

Ægir

The Ægirs have traveled widely across Terra, inhabiting regions from coastal areas to those near lakes, rivers, and streams. In recent years, their legends have drawn increasing attention. Perhaps their origin is more complicated than we once imagined.

The Ægirs have many branches. While these branches share some common traits, they also exhibit stark differences in their physical characteristics. For instance, while most Ægirs have an affinity for water, not all Ægirs possess the same level of aquatic abilities. I have encountered some Ægirs who can breathe underwater, but the majority of them cannot.

The Ægirs are much more dependent on water than other humans, in a variety of ways. Ægirs prefer to live near bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and even the

■ Ægir. My thanks to this gentleman from Rhodes Island for allowing me to use his likeness in this book.

seas that most Terrans fear. They also fear dehydration much more than any other race. Their respiratory systems rely heavily on the moisture in the air, and their skin, when exposed to the elements, is prone to drying and cracking, which in severe cases can even threaten their lives. The Ægirs have been working on ways to combat this for a long time. For example, they use highly effective moisturizing agents to slow the evaporation of moisture from their bodies. In more extreme conditions, such as when an Ægir must venture deep into the deserts of Sargon, they use special distillation equipment to supply themselves with water—equipment that some desert dwellers have also begun employing.

Using modern methods of analysis in cultural migration, which have been popular in racial studies in the recent years, we find that unlike most Terran races, who migrated from one place to several others, many Ægirs spread inward from Terra's outer edges. Moreover, the Ægir legends of the Iberian “islanders” and the “mitsuchifuchinohara” legend in Higashi seem to further corroborate their origins. A small, vocal minority of origin studies scholars hypothesize that these Ægirs may have come from the ocean.

Sankta

The more time you spend with the Sanktas, the more you can sense what makes them unique. I cannot help but feel compelled to dedicate more pages to them, though I worry it might seem unfair. Still, I ask for my readers' indulgence as I offer some additional thoughts, which may also help explain some of my observations regarding Laterano in the following chapter.

The halos over their heads and the wings of light behind their back symbolize the Law that has protected them for millennia, allowing them to live lives that, while far from peaceful, are still governed by order in their homeland.

The most well-known and mysterious trait of the Sankta is their “empathy” ability. Other races often speculate about this ability. Even I, after living in Laterano for several years, still find it intriguing. In truth, it is difficult for non-Sanktas to fully grasp how this empathy works, and we can only glean a partial understanding from their descriptions. What I find particularly interesting is that Sanktas rarely, if ever, consciously “engage” their empathy in daily life. To them, it's more of an involuntary act, much like how other humans naturally observe each other's facial expressions during face-to-face interactions. The difference is that while our ability to read facial expressions is developed through social experience, the Sanktas' empathy is something granted by the Law. However, from this perspective, perhaps the Sanktas' empathy is just another kind of “facial expression” that is invisible to the naked eye.

Another hallmark of the Sanktas is the guns they carry. These special devices are much more than mere weapons to the Sanktas—they are symbols of faith, endowed by the Law. As such, these lifelong companions are known as “patron firearms”, or informally “guardian guns”. Surprisingly, there is no rule that says every Sankta must keep a patron firearm. Nevertheless, in Laterano, every Sankta of sufficient age does have one (or even many). If you ask them why they carry a gun, they might respond, “Why not?” And I would agree—after all, what twelve-year-old Sankta wouldn't want to have their own patron firearm (or perhaps several)?

Sankta

Sarkaz

The Sarkaz are one of the rarer races on Terra. They have varied appearances and have always been met with hostility by other races throughout human history.

The Sarkaz have ten prominent clans, collectively known as the “Ten Kings’ Court”. According to some Sarkaz, these clans are the cornerstone of modern Kazdel. Over a thousand years of turmoil have left the Sarkaz divided, with the Ten Kings’ Court on the brink of disintegration. Most people know only the Sarkaz clans of the Court, but there are also a few non-Court clans, such as the Goliaths, the Anasa and the Oni. The majority of the Sarkaz are of mixed blood descent from different clans.

Cruel, violent, dangerous, and barbaric... These were once the only qualities people associated with the Sarkaz, as if they were the evil given human form. However, in truth, no one is born evil, and the Sarkaz are no different. Other races imagined themselves as the bearers of justice and light, using this as an excuse to wage war against the Sarkaz. Even today, this prejudice remains.

Throughout history, the Sarkaz have mostly led nomadic lives, and they seldom share their culture with outsiders. Under these circumstances, many Sarkaz traditions have quietly faded away. The modern image of the Sarkaz mercenary is actually influenced by the tribe’s long history of wandering.

The Sarkaz are highly susceptible to Oripathy, which many scholars attribute to their natural Originium Arts Assimilation. Others believe it stems from the hereditary transmission of Arts within Sarkaz bloodlines. However, the legends passed down among the Sarkaz place their ancestors, the Teekaz, in opposition to the Elders and Ancients. They viewed Oripathy as a disease and curse inflicted upon them by their enemies.

CONCLUSION

Reflecting on this chapter, I hope readers understand that modern society is the complex result of a long accumulation of history and coincidence. Many things that people take for granted in their daily lives are likewise worthy of serious discussion. Since the advent of the Crystal Age and the modern technology that comes with it, the disparities in physical ability between races have had less impact on daily life. And of course, in a multi-racial society, distinctions between members of the same race are also less significant. Although some researchers advocate for the detailed biological classification of Terra’s races, such efforts hold little practical value in everyday life.

Sarkaz