Aradi
"You'll find no greater riches and no greater tales spun than at an Aradi Bazaar" - Aradi Proverb
An Empire of Traders
The Aradi were once under the rule of the ancient Ante'cah thousands of years ago, but after the destruction of their golden city of Un'zebu the Aradi Empire grew into the powerful trade nation it stands as today. As their influence spread their cities became widespread and independent of each other: no two cities have the same laws, leaders, or influence on each other. Lead by powerful merchant-lords known as Sultans, these influential leaders earn their way to the top by one simple rule: only the richest can rule in the Aradi Empire. Those who carry the gold, carry the power within these Trade-Cities. Although Sultans are mostly allowed to do whatever they want within their cities, they still must follow a binding contract known as Arlak Alliance Concordat. The Arlak Alliance is a council of all Aradi Sultans who form the governing body of the Aradi Empire - those who wish to be recognized as a Sultan must join the council. They meet annually to maintain the laws and agreements of the Concordat - to ensure that business goes well for all Aradi Sultans. Enforced by the Nazjar - the military leader and admiral of the Aradi Armada (the largest naval force in Amora) - the Arlak Council and its Sultans are kept in check by their military power to ensure no corrupt behavior gets too out of hand.
Sharp Tongues and Opportunists
All Aradi have a natural gift for speechcraft, although their "gift" is what often seems gets them into trouble. Aradi can (and usually prefers to) talk their way out of almost any situation - diplomacy is in their nature due to how important it is to their politics and trade - all Aradi cities almost always rely heavily on trade with other nations to stay afloat. With so much trade and people passing through Trade-Cities, life can be tough for those who call home to them, making their denizens adept at making gold out of almost any situation. An Aradi merchant can swindle a beggar out of his last coin or convince a pirate that his ship is not worth pillaging. Although while they may seem greedy in most situations, when an Aradi has gold to spare, they are usually more than happy to share that wealth with those who are close to them.
Physical Traits
- Age - Most Aradi can live up to around 75 years.
- Speed - Aradi base walking speed is 30 feet.
- Size - At around average height, Aradi men stand at around 5 feet 10 inches, and Aradi women standing a little below at 5 feet 6 inches. Their firm frames and natural "sea-legs" allow many Aradi sailors ease of balance and movement when sailing the turbulent Arlak seas.
- Complexion - Most Aradi have a darker complexion, usually ranging from a light or dark brown hue. They usually have slightly curly black hair, with broad eyebrows, and long pointed noses similar to that of a falcon's beak.
- Eye Colors - Most Aradi have slightly larger eyes, with eye colors of usually brown or black. Although as humans, other colors are sometimes seen.
D&D Race Stats - Aradi
- +1 to all ability scores
- Sharp Tongue - Gain proficiency in the Persuasion or Deception skill.
- Languages - Aradi can speak, read and write in Common and Aradic (Aradi dialect and accent).