The Arakasha, Part 3

Velo

Modern Arakasha keep no written records but they do have some ancient written lore from a time when Arakasha civilization was at its peak. These writings can only be read by sacred lore keepers, the Manikix, appointed keepers of the Velo. The records are called Nabask and they speak of the Velo. According to legend, Velo was brought to them by one known only as “Sar a’Naskara,” the one who had no Sar (guardian or protector.) Being that no Arakasha could survive without a Sar he is something of a mythical figure. The Nabask details that Sar a’Naskara gave the Arakasha their way of life. He built their civilization and introduced reading, writing, mathematics, magic and other mystical practices. Some of these practices were rejected, some were learned but soon forgotten. Sar a’Naskara became disillusioned and realizing what the Arakasha were becoming he withheld the fullness of Velo from them until they will be ready to receive it. He then disappeared but is today revered as a messianic figure. Nabask is full of his teachings and the statutes that Arakashas base their lives upon. Manikix believe that the people in their present state cannot receive the fullness of Velo, but when Sar a’Naskara returns to fulfill the Velo they will be restored to their former glory.

Velo is the term used to describe and encompass every aspect of Arakashan life. All are parts and segments of the greater Velo. Loosely translated Velo can be thought of as meaning “The Way.” It can mean The Way of Combat (Wazkinasha) which includes all form of combat, particularly ritual Styt combat; The way of Blood Sharing (Chykaar) which also includes all rituals sacred to the Arakasha and The Way of Relations (Sarakarzu) which includes all social and political relationships

The Arakasha culture is structured and based heavily upon battle and blood. The field of combat, whether for personal or familial obligations is where the destiny of the Arakasha is ultimatelydecided. Within a clan there is a strict hierarchical ranking based upon battle prowess and adherence to the etiquette of Velo. To violate the way is considered an ultimate disgrace and often merits death without honor.

Arakasha religion, also called Velo, centers largely upon the worship of ancient heroes as war gods and awaiting the return of Sar a’Naskara. Their worship includes recalling and reenactment of their hero’s victories and deaths. Most Arakasha clans claim lineage from one or more war heroes.

The Velo also sets the philosophical framework for the Arakasha world. The Arakasha understand that they reside in a cruel and unforgiving climate. They call this aspect of their lives the Trial, and it is only by passing through the Trial can an Arakasha attain glory and be reunited with his ancestors. To pass through the trial successfully Arakasha must practice the Velo.

Ultimately Velo encompasses their entire existence and contains ancient lore that an Arakasha learns in stages as it moves through the hierarchy of the Clan. The first lore is that of the Dunes. Young Arakasha's learn about the Dunes and how to survive in its harsh environment. The second lore is that of the Styt, Wazkinasha, or combat, and etiquette of honor.  The third lore is the lore of their people, their past and their origins.