Tukha: the Power of Eastrun
Though no longer recognized by the Manwin of Eastrun, the concept of tukha is still very much a part of Daizu and Hayao thinking. It is true that the tribes of these barbarous peoples are ruled by their chieftains (wang and kancho, respectively) but they are not the only ones in a tribe with power or influence. In fact, there often arise certain inspired, if only temporarily so, leaders who might eclipse the chieftain.
These men (shunzhang liang and kaizoku daiyu) are said to possess the tukha of one or more of the Four Winds. There is always a portent attached to gaining the tukha so that their favor can be recognized by the least sophisticated and most cynical alike.
Those blessed with the tukha might only hold it for a single raid or war party. They might hold it for an entire campaign. Generally, they are recognized until the action they promised is complete, or until they die, or until something as equally portentous befalls them. It is well known that the tukha can be withdrawn if the possessor is not bold or audacious enough with it.
Taking the Mark
The first Mark of the Lanari was given involuntarily to men, women and children who were counted the family and followers of Lan Ferona. In latter generations, the Mark was taken voluntarily by their descendants who disavowed land and titles, and who took up the peculiar lifestyle of that people bearing Lan's name.
The Mark is now only taken after coming of age. Lanari youth are encouraged to spend at least a year outside of their community sometime after reaching age 16. Only those who go out into the world and find themselves tempted by it, and yet return to their people are permitted to take the Mark. This period of voluntary exile is called the Kasata and those who leave the community are Kastanir.
Upon returning, they are greeted in the traditional manner, "You are seen upon the road."
At which point a tattoo is given upon the face, and the Kasato (or convert) is accepted among the Lanari.
Upon returning, they are greeted in the traditional manner, "You are seen upon the road."
Instead of answering, "And I will be counted," as with different clans meeting upon the road, their response is: “And I would be counted.”
At which point a Wayspeaker is called for and the three questions are asked. One, “What did the uncounted (necontato) offer you?” The expected answer is, “Everything—and none of it was mine.” Two, “What did you become among them?” The expected answer is, “I was as they were—but I was not as they are.” Three, “Why have you come?” The expected answer is, "I choose to be counted.”
At which point a Wayspeaker is called for and the three questions are asked. One, “What did the uncounted (necontato) offer you?” The expected answer is, “Everything—and none of it was mine.” Two, “What did you become among them?” The expected answer is, “I was as they were—but I was not as they are.” Three, “Why have you come?” The expected answer is, "I choose to be counted.”
At which point a tattoo is given upon the face, and the Kasato (or convert) is accepted among the Lanari.
One of those who has taken the mark and who is faithful to his community is prophesied to one day rule all of the Provinces as the Lion of Ferona. He will then restore that proud people to lands that are their own. Their sons will be princes and their daughters will be sought as prizes. Only then will the Lanari settle down and hold to lands and titles among the people.
The ultimate disgrace is for a Lanari to have been put to death and to undergo the skarna -- where the mark is flayed or abraded from his skin. This particular judgement is reserved for those who have committed irredeemable crimes. And for those who commit truly abominable acts, skarna can occur while they are still alive.
The ultimate disgrace is for a Lanari to have been put to death and to undergo the skarna -- where the mark is flayed or abraded from his skin. This particular judgement is reserved for those who have committed irredeemable crimes. And for those who commit truly abominable acts, skarna can occur while they are still alive.
Tournament of Flowers
The Tournament of Flowers is a painting by Ylarec the Bard. While painted in 5260, it shows the miracle-working of the first paladin of the Church of Westrun in 5130. The original hangs over the Seige Prominent of the Red Avengers in Rath.
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