Derian

The Derians are giants, hailing from a rugged land of ice and snow. They are tribal in nature, settling in small family groups and eking out their existence. But a natural curiosity often drives them to leave the cold of their northern home, and seek purpose elsewhere. They have become a common sight in many places of the world, often championing the causes of others, and using their immense size and strength for work and battle.

Nations
Deria - Deria is the frozen north of the continent of Gardann, a harsh and unforgiving land, requiring a hardy people to survive.

The Wastes - Some areas of the Wastes have reminded Derians of their native homeland, and several tribes have taken up residence there.

History
The Derians are said to come from one of the early kingdoms of Aravin, dating back even before the uniting of the tribes by Sirian Raytha. It is unknown exactly how or why they crossed the sea to Gardann. It is assumed they were driven out by a rival tribe, and they may have been one of the first people to build ships. Some scholars speculate that the Derians are native to Gardann itself, created there by Tellenil, in contradiction to the giants’ own oral legends.

The tales tell of strong men and women who sailed across the sea to Gardann. Most didn't make it. The survivors who did were forced to eke out a perilous existence in the frozen hills and mountain ranges of Gardann's polar regions.

Now, centuries later, the Derians have grown into several large tribes, most at peace with one another. They have adapted well to their rugged life, and they are strong and proud. They have a prominent warrior tradition, though many of them are peaceful. In recent years, some Derians have looked beyond their frozen home, and have decided to see what lies out in that grand world on the horizon.

Appearance
Derians are tall, imposing figures, muscular and rugged. Males rarely stand under six feet, and some can be as tall as eight. Females are slightly shorter, but it is common to find Derian women over six feet. They have the same eye and hair shades as their Raythian cousins, but they tend to be larger-boned and of stronger build, however, and they can perform amazing feats of endurance and strength.

Personality
Derians are generally distrustful of strangers, and of new ideas. This conservatism is tempered, however, by an intense curiosity. Derians are calm, strong, and practical people, and their ambition, when roused, can be unstoppable. Despite their wariness, they make extremely loyal friends, and think nothing of laying down their lives for their allies. Friends to them eventually become part of their informal ‘tribe,’ meriting a Derian’s eternal protection and respect. Derians also place a special importance on life-debts. Save a Derian’s life, or restore his freedom, and he will insist on repaying you.

Derians feel a particular connectedness to the Mountain Dwarves, with whom they share a similar existence.

Customs and Religions
Of the gods, Derians bow first to Khalin, the god of strength, believing that it was he who blessed them and allowed them to live as they had. Malaraes also has a place among them in their traditional songs; for they looked to him for cheer when the winters were deadly. Kysor-Myr has a hand in their laws and traditions. Most other gods, they acknowledge, and some may worship, though these be few.

Use of Spectra is not as common among the Derians, and where it is, its use is utilitarian. Few Derians feel the need to plunge their minds into the mysteries of the arcane. They’re more concerned with healing wounds, augmenting their battle prowess, and creating warmth.

Leaders and Figureheads
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Groups and Societies
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