Lumban

Lumban is a vibrant and rugged country situated on the western coast of The Windy Isle. It is a land of sweeping grassy plains, where the wind dances freely and the rhythmic beat of hooves echoes across the landscape. The horse clans of Lumban are the heart and soul of the nation, nomadic groups who revere their powerful steeds and take pride in their equestrian traditions. Their way of life is deeply intertwined with the land, and their culture is one of unity through independence.

Geography

North: Lumban's northern border is defined by the majestic Daggerspine Mountains, a jagged and imposing range that serves as both a natural boundary and a source of mineral wealth. The Tek River carves its way through the mountains, creating fertile valleys and serving as a vital water source for both the clans and their herds.

South: The Pas Woka Mountains form Lumban's southern border, providing a rugged, less-traveled region that is rich in untamed beauty. These mountains separate Lumban from its southern neighbor, Charmac.

Plains: The heart of Lumban is dominated by expansive grassy plains, perfect for the horse clans who rely on the open terrain for grazing and riding. The wind-swept landscape offers a sense of freedom but can also be harsh and unforgiving during storms.

Borders

To the north, Lumban shares a border with Tarven, a region influenced by the Daggerspine's rugged terrain. Relations with Tarven are often defined by trade and occasional disputes over mountain passes.

To the east, the country of Olm lies beyond the plains, a region of chaotic winds that bring blessings and disaster, creating both opportunities and tensions between the nomadic and strife-worn Olmite people.

To the south, Charmac borders Lumban, separated by the Pas Woka Mountains. The relationship here is more distant, shaped by geographical barriers and cultural differences.

Governance

Lumban is ruled not by a central authority but by the collective leadership of the horse clans. Each clan operates autonomously, led by its own chieftain or leader. However, twice or thrice a year, the clan leaders convene for an Il-Father meeting, a gathering held at sacred sites or neutral territories. These meetings are pivotal moments for the clans, as they discuss matters of mutual interest, resolve disputes, form alliances, and coordinate defense strategies against external threats. Decisions at these gatherings are made by consensus, reinforcing the values of unity and mutual respect among the clans.

Culture

The Eight Horse Clans of Lumban are the proud and nomadic peoples who roam the vast, rolling plains of their homeland, bound together by shared ancestry, deep-rooted traditions, and an unshakable reverence for their horses. Though each clan governs itself independently, they come together two or three times a year at Il-Father, the sacred gathering ground, to settle disputes, arrange marriages, and trade livestock.

Life on the Roaming Plains

Each of the eight clans follows the great herds, moving with the seasons to ensure their horses, cattle, and sheep have fresh pastures. Their lives are deeply entwined with their steeds—horses are not just transportation but companions, symbols of status, and even spiritual guides. Clanspeople are raised in the saddle, learning to ride before they can walk, and every major life event, from birth to death, is marked with equestrian rites.

Their homes are sturdy, round yaras, portable dwellings made of felt and wood that can be packed up and transported quickly. Despite their nomadic nature, each clan claims ancestral lands within Lumban, to which they return when the herds require rest or during times of hardship.

The Eight Clans and Their Ways

Each of the eight clans has its own customs, warbands, and specialties:

The Karaj – Known as the Storm Riders, they breed the fastest warhorses in Lumban. Their warriors are feared for their lightning-fast raids and unmatched skill with the bow.

The Ulnar – The Bone Keepers, tasked with preserving the histories of Lumban through oral tradition and sacred carvings on ivory and stone.

The Galtai – Called the Great Herdlords, they control the largest horse herds and hold enormous influence over the trade of mounts.

The Veshkar – Masters of steel and leather, they are the Forgers of the Plains, crafting the best weapons, tack, and armor.

The Orzhen – Known as the Sky Walkers, they are spiritual guides who interpret omens from the stars and winds. They hold the greatest sway at the Il-Father gatherings.

The Brannai – Fierce warriors and mercenaries, they are the Shield of Lumban, hired by other clans for protection and battle.

The Selkai – Called the Riverborn, they make their camps along the great rivers, mastering fishing and boat-building, a rarity among the horse clans.

The Durnai – The Silent Watchers, experts in espionage and assassination. They are both feared and respected, ensuring balance among the clans.

Challenges

Lumban's way of life is not without its challenges. The open plains leave the clans vulnerable to raids, harsh weather, and disputes over grazing lands. Additionally, their nomadic lifestyle often clashes with the more sedentary and expansionist cultures of their neighbors, particularly Olm and Charmac. Yet the clans' unity and adaptability have allowed them to thrive in this dynamic and windswept land.

In the face of external pressures and internal rivalries, Lumban remains a proud and untamed nation, its people as steadfast as the mountains and as free as the winds that sweep their grassy homeland.

---

Return to The Windy Isle