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Written by RogueSynapse
"It's title is sensitive to the people in which you ask. But to many of us, it was simply deemed our sanctuary."
The Alverda'Ridien System | 6XXXXX Billion Years of Age
The outskirts of the The Ooz'Merian Realm and into the Ralsheck'Va Plains.
Among the vast reaches of the interdimensional chaos responsible for spawning countless breeds of creatures and species far beyond the likes of anything on Earth, The Alverda'Ridien System was the home to the planetary landscape in which the Xenotherium subservilia (The Vortigaunts) were first spawned. The specific title of this massive planetary entity is highly dependent upon the species of creature in question. From 'The Sanctuary' to Al'Thum-Gramash (⌇⍜⋔⟒ ⌇⊑⟟⏁ ⊑⟒⍀⟒): "The Land of the Weavers", this sophisticated anomaly of life has had many names and titles over its billions of years of existence.
Information on the formation of this planetary creation is beyond hard to come by. Proving to be a difficult task for even the wises of individuals. What is more clearly known is that the dawn of the Xenotherium subservilia species occurred approximately three million years after the planets formation. During which, the species would undergo a series of evolutionary phases from pragmatic hunters to more civilized and sophisticated tribal inhabitants.
While the planet does in fact have an outer-layer atmosphere, its composition is far different than that found on Earth. Composed almost entirely out of CH4, the planet is overly abundant with a unique combination of gases which have yet to be fully explored and documented. These gases are responsible for working in conjunction with the countless species of flora and organic life to ensure the longevity of the ongoing ecosystem present on the surface. The Vortigaunts being but a small fraction of a much larger picture.
While mostly lush with green flora rounded land-masses, the home of the Xenotherium subservilia is one of a diverse nature. Depending upon the specific choice of triangulation, there is much to be discovered and explored among the planetary maze.
The Duvan'Merda Region: These Northern regions are abundant with sand and rocky terrain. Vast and dry landscapes that can become quite warm and on occasion humid. Plant life here is hard to come by which makes for the dire need to preserve very resource and make the most out of natures few precious gifts. In addition to the lack of plant life, there is little in the way of alterative species that deem this region to be native. With the exception of a series of scavenger like beast that can cause terror from the skies above (known as the Vulda'Mas: ⊑⟒⌰⌰ ⏚⟟⍀⎅) the only other species to pay mind to this region are the Vortigaunts. It's presumed that there was a massive migration to the Northern region in search of opportunity near the dawn of the species, but it seems as if there was nothing but isolation for those who marched the Northern path. Considered to be the most peaceful, isolated, and mysterious of regions from the Old World.
The Es'Penoid Rapids: The 'Wetland' Region of the Sanctuary. A vast array of swamp like landscapes with vibrant blue liquids pulsing about tall dark trees. Located towards the mid-region of the planetary surface, the rapids are abundant with edible nutritional sources of flora as well as aquatic game for the Xenotherium subservilia to thrive off of. There is shelter to be found among the tall trees that have rooted deep in the damp region. Vortigaunts native to this region tend to have far more developed skills in maneuvering in water/liquid sources. While still not perfect, these creatures adapt as they see fit. Similar to the Duvan'Merda region, this landscape is not overly saturated with the presence of the Xenotherium subservilia. The region is home only to natives and visitation for the sake of cultural practices. This is also the home of one of the largest 'Spawning Pools' of the old world.
The Ralsheck'Va Plains: Large and wide open plains that are ripe with large spices of unique creatures that graze about. The chemical composition of the soil in this region is idea for farming efforts as well as the husbandry of a wide variety of other species. This is a slightly more common area to find the like likes of the Xenotherium subservilia. The region is prone to harsher environmental events such as Gas Rifts and Realm Distortions. The nature of this region also known for housing large clusters of groundmass that float high above, specific instances of suspended gravity as a result of generations of Realm Distortions.
The Ooz'Merian Realm: Lavish forests with tall trees, a wide variety of wild-life, and shady regions for the masses to build civilizations. One of the largest regions of Old World, this region houses the most Vortigaunts and is founding location of many of the tribes/clans of the Old World. Vast collections of Vortigaunt made structures coast the region among smaller farms and hunting grounds. The realm is divided up into multiple smaller regions that are governed by a reclusive set of elders. This region is frequented by Xenotherium subservilia from the other regions previously mentioned.
Information on the formation of this planetary creation is beyond hard to come by. Proving to be a difficult task for even the wises of individuals. What is more clearly known is that the dawn of the Xenotherium subservilia species occurred approximately three million years after the planets formation. During which, the species would undergo a series of evolutionary phases from pragmatic hunters to more civilized and sophisticated tribal inhabitants.
While the planet does in fact have an outer-layer atmosphere, its composition is far different than that found on Earth. Composed almost entirely out of CH4, the planet is overly abundant with a unique combination of gases which have yet to be fully explored and documented. These gases are responsible for working in conjunction with the countless species of flora and organic life to ensure the longevity of the ongoing ecosystem present on the surface. The Vortigaunts being but a small fraction of a much larger picture.
While mostly lush with green flora rounded land-masses, the home of the Xenotherium subservilia is one of a diverse nature. Depending upon the specific choice of triangulation, there is much to be discovered and explored among the planetary maze.
The Duvan'Merda Region: These Northern regions are abundant with sand and rocky terrain. Vast and dry landscapes that can become quite warm and on occasion humid. Plant life here is hard to come by which makes for the dire need to preserve very resource and make the most out of natures few precious gifts. In addition to the lack of plant life, there is little in the way of alterative species that deem this region to be native. With the exception of a series of scavenger like beast that can cause terror from the skies above (known as the Vulda'Mas: ⊑⟒⌰⌰ ⏚⟟⍀⎅) the only other species to pay mind to this region are the Vortigaunts. It's presumed that there was a massive migration to the Northern region in search of opportunity near the dawn of the species, but it seems as if there was nothing but isolation for those who marched the Northern path. Considered to be the most peaceful, isolated, and mysterious of regions from the Old World.
The Es'Penoid Rapids: The 'Wetland' Region of the Sanctuary. A vast array of swamp like landscapes with vibrant blue liquids pulsing about tall dark trees. Located towards the mid-region of the planetary surface, the rapids are abundant with edible nutritional sources of flora as well as aquatic game for the Xenotherium subservilia to thrive off of. There is shelter to be found among the tall trees that have rooted deep in the damp region. Vortigaunts native to this region tend to have far more developed skills in maneuvering in water/liquid sources. While still not perfect, these creatures adapt as they see fit. Similar to the Duvan'Merda region, this landscape is not overly saturated with the presence of the Xenotherium subservilia. The region is home only to natives and visitation for the sake of cultural practices. This is also the home of one of the largest 'Spawning Pools' of the old world.
The Ralsheck'Va Plains: Large and wide open plains that are ripe with large spices of unique creatures that graze about. The chemical composition of the soil in this region is idea for farming efforts as well as the husbandry of a wide variety of other species. This is a slightly more common area to find the like likes of the Xenotherium subservilia. The region is prone to harsher environmental events such as Gas Rifts and Realm Distortions. The nature of this region also known for housing large clusters of groundmass that float high above, specific instances of suspended gravity as a result of generations of Realm Distortions.
The Ooz'Merian Realm: Lavish forests with tall trees, a wide variety of wild-life, and shady regions for the masses to build civilizations. One of the largest regions of Old World, this region houses the most Vortigaunts and is founding location of many of the tribes/clans of the Old World. Vast collections of Vortigaunt made structures coast the region among smaller farms and hunting grounds. The realm is divided up into multiple smaller regions that are governed by a reclusive set of elders. This region is frequented by Xenotherium subservilia from the other regions previously mentioned.
Massive organic structures rise from the ground near the Duvan'Merda Region border.
With such a massive landscape full of numerous Vortikind, the natural rise of the collective has come into existence with the passing of time. Collectives from various regions with unique agendas and hierarchies exclusive to their kind. While there are many, some are more prominent than others. These clans occupy specific territories from the old world and have even persisted from the likes of Xen and forward onto Earth.
The El'Tuk Artisans (⏚⌰⎍⟒ ⏚⎍⏁⏁⌇): This particular collection of gifted Artisans hail from the northern regions. Known about the Old World as the idea choice of proprietors for anything from weapons to elaborate tools and trinkets, generations of knowledge surrounding the humble art of forging what is needed for one's people to thrive. Often seen as a reclusive bunch that only converse with Outsiders looking to trade, they do not possess a tremendous deal of members and are far more restrictive when it comes to who exactly is accepted into their numbers. They have strict standards and means of recruitment into their various Guilds and Caravans. They are known far and wide throughout the Old World and respected by many.
The Sha'Gani Warriors of Ralsheck'Va (⏃⌇ ⟊⎅⊑⏃⟊⌇⎅ ⏃⌇⎅ ⊑): Often hailed by many as being the greatest Defenders of the old world, these brutish yet agile collection of Vortigaunts are a common element of stories of the Old World. From protecting the numerous civilizations across the land from internal conflict, to saving the Ooz'Merian realm from the Nal'Damer Antlion Hordes countless times, they are both known by many and hailed as powerful protectors. Alterative tribes from various realms would even supply them with tribute and goods as a show of gratitude as defenders of the Sanctuary. Despite being granted such titles, they are one of the smallest of the Greater Tribes that exist. It is presumed to have been this way due to the tribes brutal yet sophisticated methods of recruitment. Allowing only natives of the Ralsheck'Va Plains region that survive a strenuous amount of demanding trials that proved difficult for even the strongest of Vortigaunts. Such titles and ways of respect do not come easy.
The Alva'Sari Collective (⊬⍜⎍ ⌇⋔⟒⌰⌰ ⌰⟟☍⟒ ⎎⏃⍀⏁⌇): From the depths of the Es'Penoid Rapids, This particular collection of water guns are often deemed to be the scholars and 'wise men' of the Old World. Possessing a great deal of knowledge about not only their own kind but of the world in which they inhabit, they are comprised primarily of older Vortigaunts but the desire for the preservation of knowledge in the continued exploration of their people. They reside in uniquely constructed abodes that protect them from the neon-blue waters below. They are the protectors of the Qui'Sherek (⏁⊑⟒ ⏚⟟☌ ⏚⍜⍜☍), or simply 'Slabs of Knowing'. A series of documented findings that have been preserved in something akin to a library. This group is also responsible for the hosting of a particular event known to the Vortigaunts as The Agatoshi Spawning (⍙⟒ ⋔⏃☍⟒ ⋔⍜⍀⟒).
The Kay'Basar Kinsmen (⏁⊑⟒ ⏚⏃⌰⌰⌇⏃☊☍ ⍜⍙⋏⟒⎅): Without a doubt one of the largest Clans that has ever existed as a part of the Old World. A far more casual and expected component of life for the inhabitants of the (realm here). It's composed of Vortigaunts from an extremely diverse background of skills and abilities. From typical Shawmen, to creature headers, to just basic traders and philosophers, this collection of Kinsmen has it all. They are known to partake in occasional pilgrimages to the various regions for the sake of communicating with the other tribes and maintaining relationships at the cost of extensive travel. Being a larger Guild encompasses the fact that they are less restrictive on who is accepted into their tribe. For many who are native to the region, it is far more taboo to not be within the collective then to be a part of it. Formal acceptance is the sign of maturity during the life cycle of their people.
The El'Tuk Artisans (⏚⌰⎍⟒ ⏚⎍⏁⏁⌇): This particular collection of gifted Artisans hail from the northern regions. Known about the Old World as the idea choice of proprietors for anything from weapons to elaborate tools and trinkets, generations of knowledge surrounding the humble art of forging what is needed for one's people to thrive. Often seen as a reclusive bunch that only converse with Outsiders looking to trade, they do not possess a tremendous deal of members and are far more restrictive when it comes to who exactly is accepted into their numbers. They have strict standards and means of recruitment into their various Guilds and Caravans. They are known far and wide throughout the Old World and respected by many.
The Sha'Gani Warriors of Ralsheck'Va (⏃⌇ ⟊⎅⊑⏃⟊⌇⎅ ⏃⌇⎅ ⊑): Often hailed by many as being the greatest Defenders of the old world, these brutish yet agile collection of Vortigaunts are a common element of stories of the Old World. From protecting the numerous civilizations across the land from internal conflict, to saving the Ooz'Merian realm from the Nal'Damer Antlion Hordes countless times, they are both known by many and hailed as powerful protectors. Alterative tribes from various realms would even supply them with tribute and goods as a show of gratitude as defenders of the Sanctuary. Despite being granted such titles, they are one of the smallest of the Greater Tribes that exist. It is presumed to have been this way due to the tribes brutal yet sophisticated methods of recruitment. Allowing only natives of the Ralsheck'Va Plains region that survive a strenuous amount of demanding trials that proved difficult for even the strongest of Vortigaunts. Such titles and ways of respect do not come easy.
The Alva'Sari Collective (⊬⍜⎍ ⌇⋔⟒⌰⌰ ⌰⟟☍⟒ ⎎⏃⍀⏁⌇): From the depths of the Es'Penoid Rapids, This particular collection of water guns are often deemed to be the scholars and 'wise men' of the Old World. Possessing a great deal of knowledge about not only their own kind but of the world in which they inhabit, they are comprised primarily of older Vortigaunts but the desire for the preservation of knowledge in the continued exploration of their people. They reside in uniquely constructed abodes that protect them from the neon-blue waters below. They are the protectors of the Qui'Sherek (⏁⊑⟒ ⏚⟟☌ ⏚⍜⍜☍), or simply 'Slabs of Knowing'. A series of documented findings that have been preserved in something akin to a library. This group is also responsible for the hosting of a particular event known to the Vortigaunts as The Agatoshi Spawning (⍙⟒ ⋔⏃☍⟒ ⋔⍜⍀⟒).
The Kay'Basar Kinsmen (⏁⊑⟒ ⏚⏃⌰⌰⌇⏃☊☍ ⍜⍙⋏⟒⎅): Without a doubt one of the largest Clans that has ever existed as a part of the Old World. A far more casual and expected component of life for the inhabitants of the (realm here). It's composed of Vortigaunts from an extremely diverse background of skills and abilities. From typical Shawmen, to creature headers, to just basic traders and philosophers, this collection of Kinsmen has it all. They are known to partake in occasional pilgrimages to the various regions for the sake of communicating with the other tribes and maintaining relationships at the cost of extensive travel. Being a larger Guild encompasses the fact that they are less restrictive on who is accepted into their tribe. For many who are native to the region, it is far more taboo to not be within the collective then to be a part of it. Formal acceptance is the sign of maturity during the life cycle of their people.
The early days of The Ralsheck'Va Plains.
But interspersed among the various regions and tribal gatherings, there is much more to be discovered and documented. Other vast species of creatures, cultural practices, geographical inflictions, and even unexplainable occurrences and anomalies. Even with what is known about the Old World, there is still much that is shrouded in mystery and may even be lost forever to the sake of time following the invasion of the Combine Empire.
Nutritional Intake
Man'Gari (⋔⏃⋏☌⏃⍀⟟): A plump looking organic packet of nutrients that is heavily abundant among the Ooz'Merian Realm. Often farmed by native Vortigaunts and traded off to distant realms.
Guan'Geks (⎅⌇⎎☌⍀⟒ ⍙⟒⍀): A very durable lump of soggy plant fibers that have created a detachable source of food from the plant base. The liquids from these fibers are very valuable as a source of natural healing to treat issues related to digestion.
Ivaka'Ras (☊⏃⏁ ⏁⟟⏁ ⏚⟟⋏☌⍜): A rather fuzzy looking organic biproduct of multiple species of Flora that grows underground. Can be uprooted and quickly consumed. Lacks any major taste.
Aver'Ragadee'Mos (⟟⎎ ⊬⍜⎍⟒ ⏁⊑⟟⌇ ⌇⊑⎍⏁ ⎍⌿): Otherwise known as 'The Joy of the Ground' it is often collected to make a variety of liquid mixtures and concoctions as a more luxurious and enjoyable 'beverage' of sorts.
Aver'Ragadee'Gess (⏁⊑⟟⌇ ⌇⊑⎍⏁ ⎍): The sister fruit of the Aver'Ragadee'Mos but it grows in more dry and sandy regions like the Norther areas of Duvan'Merda.
Quakara'Frik (⟟⊬☍⌰⊑⍜⊬☍⎍⊬⟟): The fluids that are harvested from the likes of 'Antlions'. Highly dense with nutrients. Humans tend to refer to this as 'Antlion Milk'.
Cultural Practices
Spawning Pools/ The Agatoshi Spawning (⍙⟒ ⋔⏃☍⟒ ⋔⍜⍀⟒): The act of creating new Vortigaunts is just as much a cultural act as it is a biological one. In the days of the Old World, it was a common occurrence for Vortigaunts to embark on a great pilgramage to the likes of The Es'Penoid Rapids. Here, they would be graced by the presence of the Alva'Sari Collective, and be recognized as contributors to the The Agatoshi Spawning, which is the eventful utilization of Spawning Pool to create newer generations of Vortigaunts. Vortigaunts from various walks of life would gather in clusters and preform the process in the neon-blue waters of the rapids. Creating the new dawn of new blood-lines. The Agatoshi Spawning is often followed by tremendous feasting and celebration with abstract dances and storytelling to welcome the new masses.
Depiction of a Spawning Pool in which Vortigants would utilize in order to spawn new Kinsmen.
The Alagunda'Mok (⎅⌇⊑⟒⍙⎍☊⋏ ⌇): Also known as 'The trial in which the weavers walk', this right of passage is taken up by majority of Vortigaunts and is a coming of age act within the life cycle of these creatures (both culturally and biologically). It involves a state of transcendence within the Vortal planes of existence. This act is the more formal recognition of the individualization of the specific creature as an entity within creation. It's one part ritual, one part individual growth that is accomplished through a complex set of stages which involve the temporary gracing with the Vortessence upon higher planes of existence. This is done alone and cannot be stopped until it is concluded. Once complete, the Vortigaunt will have far better stronger ties to the Vortessence and a new degree of identity as one within the Vortal means of existence.
(This is still in development/being updated.)
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