Venici
From Wikimalia
Contents |
History
It is said by some that long ago a city existed that belonged solely to the Venici people. This city is rumored to have been founded by the legendary true Patriarch himself, Niccolo Venici. All Venici are said to be his descendents, though none carry his surname. He is honored as the ideal well-rounded male, and the founder of the lost city of the Venici. Located in southern Mitralon, this small metropolis was a haven for arts and culture. Over the years, frivolous spending on architecture and other displays of grandeur nearly emptied the coffers of the local government, and invading forces easily took over this land which had neglected to build an army. Nowadays, most Venici reside in the city of Askagard, though they dream of the legends of old and of one day founding their own Republic.
Values
The Venici are a very hierarchical society. The leadership of the group is made up of members from 10 Patrician families, each one specializing in one skill or trade. (Most player characters in this group will be members of one of these families.) Lineage is considered very important, and anyone of 'pure blood' who married outside one of the ten families would be ostracized, as would any children born from that union. There is an intense pressure on each generation of Venici to bring glory and honor to their house by earning more wealth and achievements than the previous period did. The arts are heavily valued among this circle, with Patrician families sometimes becoming patrons of nearby artists and offering financial support. The Venici believe that their families were chosen by Bellamane to bring improvement to Primordiax. Though not all Venici worship this Goddess, she is respected among all as the patroness of Art, a core part of the values of every Venici family.
Customs
Each of the 10 Patrician families of the Venici has one active head of household who represents the interest of his House at their annual meetings. The heads of household are always male, making the decisions for the family regarding business, finances, marriages and other important affairs. Venici men are also the ones who work together to keep their families cared for. They believe that women are delicate treasures to be loved and protected and work hard to shield their wives, sisters, and daughters from the dirty business of war and combat. Traditionally, Venici women tend to be tailors, jewelers, healers, and bards rather than those who would sully themselves with a blade. Despite that, no mortal who spends any time among the Venici could argue that the women are weak. It is often said that a Venici woman is more skilled at getting her way with gentle persuasion than a Venici man is at getting his through direct means. Both genders combine their loves of art and politics and feel that the highest pursuits in life are those of the mind. Well roundedness is especially valued among the Venici people, and a warrior who is not also able to play an instrument or paint a picture would be looked down upon with scorn by his peers.
Appearance
The Venici are extremely fastidious about their appearance. Clothing, jewelry, and even hairstyles all have significance among the Venici. A male head of household is signified by his black velvet clothing, the garments symbolizing that he is able to represent his House at the annual meeting. In addition, each house has its own color to wear as a sign of ancestry. Typically, a Venici man will wear a sash bearing the color of his House over any armor or other vestments, and a Venici woman will incorporate her House color somewhere on her daily garments. Venici clothing is very elaborate. Though a Venici woman would be practical in dress when taking care of daily affairs, no self respecting Venici woman would be seen without an elaborate gown after nightfall. Velvets and brocades trimmed with fur and seed pearls are typical fare for any evening outing. The Venici enjoy the art, music, and clothing of other cultures, and often appreciate learning about those with different backgrounds. However, their acute sense of pride makes them value all things Venici above anything else. Thus, when given a choice, they will always choose to buy products made from a Venici craftsman than anything made by an outsider. The most elegant and elaborate of Venici music, art and costume is seen once each year during The Carnival, a centuries old festival in which the Venici celebrate their culture.
Most Venici have olive skin and hair in varying shades of brown, black, and deep red. Eye color is usually dark as well, though it is not unheard of to meet a Venici with green or blue eyes. Oddly enough, it is lighter coloration that is thought most beautiful among the Venici people. Thus, it is not uncommon to see many a young Venici girl hiding from the sun to keep her skin paler, or putting concoctions of herbs in her hair in an attempt to lighten it.
Summary
The Venici are a proud culture, steeped in traditions of bloodline and family. Despite their somewhat standoffish behavior, they are quick to interact with others and adapt to new ideas if they believe they will suit the group as a whole. They are known for their artistic talent, their love of innovation, and their appreciation of beauty.
SEE ALSO: Races, Human, The Ten Families
