Chakchi

The Chakchi are the natives of the Kuzanti Steppes of Neria. They are known for their expert horsemanship. In the past, they were disorganized into various tribal confederations, however since the rise of Pelegon the tribes of the Chakchi have been hesitant vassals of House Scelza of Neria.

The Chakchi are known as a democratic people. They frequently balk under the rule of Pelegon, and while the Empire has granted them special privileges to prevent uprising, many of the Chakchi nonetheless want to return to their old ways. The tribes of the Chakchi elect chieftains who legally hold the same status as the Empire’s Houses Minor (though, of course, discrimination and prejudice sees the Chakchi often looked down upon by the rest of the Empire). Though their tribes have the trappings and status of noble houses, they elect their lords, an act which grants them much ire from the other houses of the Empire, though they do not care.

Two major facets of Chakchi life are falcon husbandry and horsemanship. Chakchi have close relationships with their falcons, who are lifelong companions and smarter than ordinary falcons. Chakchi falcons can grow to incredibly large sizes, some even becoming large enough to ride. It is theorized that Pelegon I may have been a Chakchi, as he had a giant falcon which he rode into battle.

The Chakchi are known for their distinctive eyes, which are often likened to the eyes of their falcons.

The Chakchi worship the Falcon Mother, a god said to have been the mother of all falcons.