Ani

The Ani consist of nomads that originate from a valley settlement nearby a river.

History The ancestors of the Ani had arrived to the continent at the base of a river. It has been told that as they continued up the river they found a plentiful valley leading to the formation of a settlement. As the population grew there too many people for the valley so many became nomads or started small settlements in nearby areas. Throughout the years there have been many civil wars between the people, until a group of elders were able to win the people over and promised an age of prosperity. Religion

The people of Ani believe in a simple form of paganism relating to the world around them and their ancestors.

Government

The people of Ani are decentralized, but their government is not. Their main governing body consists of a fluctuating amount of elders leading the Dol valley. These elders decide rules that all members of Ani agree to follow. To become a member of this council you must be appointed by an elder that is stepping down. The next highest governing power is the only other settlement at the base of the river Rek. This is a fishing town named Rib which has one democratically elected leader named the Bolov. The elders of Ani have an eye for an eye philosophy when it comes to crime. Most punishments are decided by them or their representatives.

Military

Ani has a small military with 5,000 active members spread across their territory. Warriors are well respected within the territories and are well trained. It is very common for boys 14-15 to be sent to either the valley or Rek to be trained for 2 years by officials. During times of crisis all able bodied men have the training to bear arms and defend their people. The most common weaponry is a large shield and spear which allows for soldiers to attack safety with their shield up. The most elite members are called Annites and consist of the few leaders of the Ani military. There are small camps where the few roads that lead into Ani territory consisting of 20-30 soldiers.

Culture

Generally people respect their elders and the ancestors which bought them to this land. Throughout the year everyone converges to the valley to celebrate their origins. These days are called Paz and are a day of feasting and dance. Women are generally considered equals to men outside of athleticism and war and are respected as great mothers. A majority of Ani consists of people with origins from the valley but outsiders are welcomed and considered equals if their worth is proven. The Ani language and writing is similar earth's very own Russian language and writing.