Nemains: People of the Bear
The Nemains
The name originates from the Irish war goddess “Nemain” who represents the blood thirsty frenzy and chaos of war, whose battle cry alone had the power to kill.
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Racial Background:
Nemains are tribal race similar to that of Vikings or Nords with a civilization built around nature and it's elements. While they have a strong sense of family, Nemains see themselves as eternal outsiders and invaders. They are known for their tall and hardy frames, fair skin and hair, and almost unnatural strength. Nemains have a natural resistance to the cold, which was theorized to have been due to the climate of their region. Nemains are exceptionally skilled in the art of battle and warfare, and their culture centers on the quest for honor and glory, with emphasis on their family and community. Coming from a warlike culture, they believe that an honorable death in battle will grant them entrance into the afterlife.
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Environment & Culture:
They inhabit a colder, forested area that lies to the north-east of Salene. It’s often populated by harsh waterfalls and rocky cliffs, thick-barked redwood and beech trees, and snowy winters. Nemain warriors are said to value their fierce independence, are hardy in the thankless severity of their lands, and are comfortable with appalling violence as a daily occurrence. Their armor and weaponry reflects their boisterous fury, but may also be revered as part of a family's trappings. The typical Nemain holds his or her reputation in high regard and insulting one's strength, bravery, or honor in any way almost inevitably leads to violence as the offended party attempts to prove otherwise. Though they may seem rude, insults are not always meant to offend and can be used as terms of endearment.
A spiritual relationship exists between the Nemains and the Bear Goddess Artio. While being a hearty, battle-oriented culture, the Nemains also revere the idea of transformation and abundance. They believe that Atrio watches from the stars, acting as a “mother bear” to their people. While fierce and capable, Artio also represents the soft and understanding aspects hidden under the harsh exterior or the Nemains. It also is theorized that it’s this relationship that is behind what some consider to be their race’s biggest strength, or their unfortunate curse. The hidden trump card that the Nemains have under their belt is their ability to transform into that of a beast; the common folk would dub them as “werebears”. The Nemains can call upon the blood of the bear during the heat of battle if necessary, unleashing a feral force of claws and teeth upon their enemies.
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Appearance:
Each Nemain is their own, be it how they dress or their physical appearance. While they all have some sort of armor, be it light or heavy, they always add their own personal flare to it by means of adding furs or intricate carvings in the metal. Cool tones are usually their fabric choice, though at times you may see them wearing reds and oranges on occasion.