The Hoitan are surely the most perplexing people of Ycairn – save perhaps the eccentric and elusive Bin'ni. Though the Bin'ni are so singular in their travels and it is almost unheard of to encounter them in groups. So let me say; the Hoitan are the most curious Nation of all those the Abheski deal with.
They are deeply welcoming and generous – within the province of their generosity, the borders of which are guarded by iron walls and which seldom expand for outsiders. Beyond this limit, they are as immovable and stoic as a mountain, more secretive than the night. Any friend or stranger may enter a Hoitan camp – but none have ever seen their towns. And an enemy will not see within their pickets, for once made, an enmity is held forever by the Hoitani, and they are as vicious and passionate in combat as any of the beasts of their wild land.
For all this, they are curiously unmanly. Their men take a commendable pride in their appearance, according to their own fashions, but it is a communal pursuit. Where an officer or a societal man tends to his own clothes, the Hoitani are dressed and adorned among friends. On the eve of battle or in the hours before a feast, the men gather in groups. One perhaps attends to his fellows' hair, combing and oiling it. One attends to the belts and jewellery, another may lend his own tunics to a fellow who owns ones less fine. Welcomed outsiders are included also, and given lavish attention to ensure they appear the equal as any native Hoitani.
Displays of great affection are commonplace. Coarse, wild men, accustomed to hunting Urselk or breaking limbs in skirmishes, when within camp readily embrace one another. Caresses that would be exchanged only between deepest intimates among the Abheski, are signs of simple honest camaraderie in a Hoitain camp, and are most often perfectly chaste. An astounding comfort to such proximity and intimacy is readily noticed, curiously contrasting their strong taboo against the naked form.
Any Scout or Licence-Prospector seeking to treat or trade among the Hoitan would be advised to familiarize themselves with these customs. Be prepared to encounter them, uncomfortable though it may be, to prevent any slight, offense, or disturbance due to unfamiliarity, from impeding their work.
Egari tsi Yarh, Scholar-Attaché to the Hoitan 1st Depot, Temar Company
