Splinters of Praetoria - Panopia
Welcome to the immersive lore of the Splinterlands. In this series of articles, we present a comprehensive exploration of the major splinters of Praetoria. Each week, you’ll learn about a new splinter: its governance, economy, races, religions, culture, and more. Gain a deeper understanding of the Splinterlands and the splinters that shape it so the next time you see Eternan Brune or an Imperial Knight on the battlefield, you’ll know exactly what you’re up against.
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Panopia
“Trust in the earth.”
Overview
Panopia stands as a dynamic confederation of nomadic tribes across the Northeast Coastal Steppes of the Wild Northeast. Rooted in their Azmarean origins, they have made the steppes their home and traverse it with instinctual ease and skill.
Governance
Panopia's governance style reflects its character: fluid, flexible, and deeply respectful of tribal autonomy. It is a loose confederation, with each tribe maintaining its sovereignty and internal governance. Inter-tribal affairs and decisions affecting the whole confederation are managed by the Council of Tribes, comprising respected leaders from each tribe.
Economy
Panopia’s economy is grounded in the skills of its tribes and the natural resources of the steppes. The Panuk, Silla, and Elisapee are adept hunters and gatherers; the Toklo apply their inventiveness to craft tools for fishing and nautical navigation; the Ujurak are renowned for their leatherworking and bone carving; and the Unuksuk and Kanaaq mine the earth for stones, metals, and precious gemstones. These interdependent activities not only sustain each tribe but also foster a thriving barter system with each other and neighboring splinters.
Demographics
Races
The tribes of the confederation are composed of the following races:
- Panuk, Silla, and Elisapee: Azmarean humans
- Toklo: marine gnomes
- Ujurak: bluehair minotaurs
- Inuksuk: cobalt orcs
- Kanaaq: ironwood goblins
Religions
The tribes of Panopia primarily pay tribute to the following deities:
- Xelia, Goddess of Water, Seas, and Storms
- The Brotherhood, Gods of Wood, Earth, and Stone
Culture
Panopia’s customs, rituals, and traditions are a vibrant blend of its distinct tribal heritages. Even as each tribe cherishes its individual identity, they stand together under the Panopian banner, ready to face whatever challenges the Wild Northeast might bring.
Art and architecture vary significantly among the tribes, from the elegantly carved totem poles of the Ujurak to the ephemeral sand art of the Panuk. Azmarean humans, with their rich oral traditions, keep the history and myths of Panopia alive through storytelling and song. Gnomish inventiveness is evident in their dwellings, which are both practical and whimsical: a portable yurt of woven reeds and sea grass that is easy to setup, breakdown, and carry across the steppes using a combination of pack animals, gadgetry, and magic.
Literature and philosophy emphasize harmony with nature, the importance of community, and the wisdom of tribal ancestors. Tales are rich with fables and legends that highlight the virtues of cunning, strength, and unity.
Intertribal gatherings and shared celebrations are commonplace in Panopia, with each tribe contributing its own unique form of expression, particularly in the performing arts. For example, the Elisapee are known for their (oftentimes crude) shanties, and the Inuksuk and Kanaaq favor energetic and boisterous performances, while the dance and song of the Ujurak tribe tends toward the melodic and graceful.
The tribes' diets are rich in seafood, hearty stews, and roasted game, all seasoned with wild herbs and spices. Gnomish cooking stands out for its inventive blend of local ingredients, with dishes that are both flavorful and nourishing.
Sports and competitions are a crucial part of Panopian life and are often used to settle disputes and strengthen bonds between tribes. Traditional games include archery, wrestling, and boat racing, where skill, strength, and strategy are equally celebrated.
