Khanate of Taruk

The Khanate of Taruk, led by Touman Khan, stands as the largest contiguous nation in this part of the world. Nestled between deadly zombie-infested territories and ambitious neighboring nations, the Khanate is constantly on guard, relying on its horse culture, trade alliances, and spiritual leadership to maintain its autonomy and strength.

Geography and Threats

To the south, the Sea of Taruk provides a natural barrier, allowing the Khanate some security in its coastal regions. However, to the southwest, Taruk borders the remnants of the fallen Kingdom of Aber and the Holy State of Tarab, both of which now serve as breeding grounds for zombie hordes. Likewise, to the northwest, the fallen Kingdom of Abebunoia threatens with its undead legions. These zombie hordes, numbering in the tens of millions, occasionally attempt incursions into Taruk, but the mountain passes that border these lands serve as a critical line of defense. Situated within these passes are dwarven strongholds—cleverly designed fortresses with engineering marvels that trap and destroy the zombies in an automated system. These fortresses allow the Tarukians to focus their attention elsewhere, knowing the dwarves maintain a watchful eye on the hordes.

To the north, the Aranthian trio of nations threatens the Khanate with expansionist ambitions. These nations constantly test the boundaries, probing for weaknesses. Though the Sultanate of Sahar, to the east, promises neutrality, the Sultan’s control over his vassal states is limited, meaning incursions or betrayals from the east are always a possibility.

Touman Khan and the United Tribes

Touman Khan is the key to the Khanate's survival. He has accomplished what few before him could—uniting over 100 tribes into a powerful confederacy that controls vast grasslands, deserts, hills, and mountains. This unity is fragile, but the spirit-worshipping people of Taruk have rallied behind their shamans, who provide spiritual guidance and reinforce the Khan's leadership. Taruk is a nation built on horse culture, with its warriors skilled in mounted combat, and its people relying heavily on horses for trade, war, and daily life.

Trade and Relations

The Khanate, though isolated by geography and constant threats, has maintained trade routes across the Sea of Taruk. These routes connect them to the Queendom of Lysar and the Sultanate of Sahar, where they exchange goods, horses, and other commodities. They steer clear of the Ravaged Sea, a region known for deadly threats and treacherous waters.

The Dwarves of Kal-Zinan

The dwarves of Kal-Zinan, located in the Zinandar Mountains, are key allies and mercenaries in the region, though their loyalty is always first and foremost to their own people. Kal-Zinan, the largest dwarven fortress-city in Phoor, serves as a center for trade, armament production, and food storage. The dwarves' ironmasters craft some of the finest weapons and armor in the world, utilizing the molten rock of nearby volcanoes to smelt their ores. The city’s 12 airship towers facilitate extensive trade and commerce, allowing Kal-Zinan to trade weapons with the world, and the Tarukians are regular customers.

Despite their mercenary nature, the dwarves of Kal-Zinan understand that a fair deal benefits them in the long run, and they work hard to maintain good relations with the Khanate of Taruk. The Council of Masters, led by High Master Bhul Drez-Kath, governs the city and ensures that it remains a neutral but vital trading partner in the region. Other important figures include Aybrel Arn, the merchant liaison, Durmuth Ursk, the High Servant of Nergal, and Tarm Orth-Nhul, a powerful dwarven sorcerer.

Threats on the Horizon

While the zombie hordes remain the most immediate and pressing threat, the growing ambitions of Aranthia and the uncertain loyalties of the Sultanate of Sahar could destabilize the region. Touman Khan must keep his tribal confederacy united, maintain good relations with the dwarves of Kal-Zinan, and continue to monitor the undead threat. Should any of these factors falter, the Khanate could face ruin.

In this dangerous land, Touman Khan and his warriors stand between destruction and survival, riding the edge of a knife that could tip the balance of power in the region.

Here are 15 trade goods representative of the Khanate of Taruk, reflecting its nomadic culture, equestrian mastery, and geographic resources:

Warhorses of Taruk: Bred for strength, endurance, and agility, these warhorses are famed across the region and are a primary export.
Tarukian Saddles and Tack: Expertly crafted saddles, bridles, and other riding equipment, prized for their comfort and intricate leatherwork.
Spiritwood Arrows: Lightweight arrows made from the sacred Spiritwood trees of the Khanate, fletched with precision for use in war and hunting.
Nomadic Tapestries: Woven by skilled artisans, these colorful and intricate tapestries tell the stories of the Taruk tribes, often used as portable home decor.
Fermented Mare’s Milk (Kumis): A traditional drink with both ceremonial and daily use, popular among neighboring cultures for its unique taste and nutritional value.
Tarukian Furs and Leathers: Pelts and hides from steppe animals, cured and treated for use in clothing, armor, and trade.
Steppe Grains: Hardy grains like millet and barley, adapted to the Khanate's semi-arid conditions, used for trade and sustenance.
Ironwork Weaponry: High-quality steppe-forged weapons such as curved sabers, spears, and horse-mounted combat gear.
Bone and Horn Carvings: Decorative and functional items made from animal bones and horns, often carrying spiritual or ancestral significance.
Shamanic Totems: Crafted by the Khanate’s spiritual leaders, these totems are believed to hold protective or guiding powers, making them valuable trade items.
Wind Instruments: Steppe-crafted flutes and horns, used in ceremonies and entertainment, renowned for their resonant sound.
Yak Butter: A staple product used in cooking, trade, and ritual, yak butter is also sought after by alchemists for its rare properties.
Tarukian Rugs: Durable and richly patterned rugs woven from camel or goat hair, perfect for nomadic lifestyles and trade.
Dried Meats: Preserved meats, including horse and goat, seasoned with steppe herbs, ideal for long journeys or military campaigns.
Medicinal Poultices: Natural remedies crafted from steppe herbs, created by Tarukian healers and used to treat wounds, fevers, and other ailments.

The Khanate’s trade networks, including sea routes and land caravans, make these goods accessible to neighboring powers like the Sultanate of Sahar, Queendom of Lysara, and the Duchy of Vorlis, ensuring the Khanate’s economic resilience and regional influence.