Tenzolèin
The Tenzolèin are a dark-skinned Near-Valorik species native to the Seven Moons of Teres'rè'el within the Lethurèa Universe. Known for their towering stature, elemental mastery, and clan-based culture, the Tenzolèin embody a synthesis of ancestral tradition and advanced civilization. As members of the Volamin Tribe, they are renowned for their beauty, bravery, and passion, traits reflected in both their physicality and cultural spirit.
Biology and Physiology
Tenzolèin stand between 7 and 8 feet tall, with striking physiques marked by pronounced sexual dimorphism. Males tend to be muscular and toned, while females often possess curvaceous and voluptuous builds. Their features include broad noses, large expressive eyes, full lips, and long, pointed ears. Tenzolèin exhibit a rich range of skin tones, including Chocolate (Skin Color), Ebony (Skin Color), Brown (Skin Color), Chestnut (Skin Color), and Espresso (Skin Color). Their eye colors include Emerald (Eye Color), Turquoise (Eye Color), Gray (Eye Color), Brown (Eye Color), and Black (Eye Color), with hair shades such as Silver (Hair Color), Dark Blonde (Hair Color), Burgundy (Hair Color), Brown (Hair Color), and Black (Hair Color).
They are bipedal Mammaloids, reproducing via Penile-Vaginal Live-Birth. Tenzolèin are omnivorous, possessing a natural resistance to poison and extreme heat. However, they are notably lightweight in their tolerance of alcohol.
Culture and Society
Tenzolèin society is structured as a vast Tribal Empire known as the Tenzolèin Grand Empire. This empire is composed of seven distinct noble clans, each governing a unique territory and set of resources. The clans are unified under a central authority figure, the High Chieftain, who is selected from the most influential of the noble houses. This system balances inter-clan autonomy with collective governance, enabling cultural preservation alongside political unity.
They value family, honor, and the preservation of tribal tradition. Fringe tribes often maintain nomadic lifestyles, while established clans have founded fortress-cities and permanent settlements that echo their ancestral roots. Ceremonies, rituals, and storytelling are vital components of Tenzolèin life, fostering communal bonds and reinforcing spiritual values.
They speak Valorik and preserve a rich oral tradition, using music, dance, and narrative to pass down histories. Tattooing is a revered artform; each tattoo records family lineage, heroic feats, and clan heritage.
Spirituality
Unlike some Near-Valorik species who suffered under the Sherok, the Tenzolèin do not harbor animosity toward the First-Flames, whom they recognize as their divine creators. As members of the Volamin Tribe, they are celebrated for their vibrant spirit and profound connection to beauty and emotional expression. Their deep reverence for nature and its elemental spirits is expressed through their artistry, storytelling, and rituals.
Technology and Magic
Tenzolèin are masters of both technology and magic. Elemental manipulation—especially fire and earth—is their specialty, with many warriors and shamans capable of devastating magical feats. They possess starships and engage in inter-galactic travel, wielding advanced plasma weapons in both defensive and offensive operations.
Their artisans craft complex jewelry and weaponry, often enhanced with Din-infused properties. They wear naturally grown armor that rivals the hardness of metal while allowing mobility and adornment.
Clothing and Aesthetic
The Tenzolèin are known for their sun-exposed attire. Males frequently wear elaborately woven skirts and remain shirtless, while females often go topless or wear minimal chest wrappings. Adornments such as beads, shells, feathers, and stones are intricately woven into clothing, jewelry, and hair. Clan and personal history is etched into the skin through complex tribal tattoos, creating living records of identity and legacy.
Historical Origins
Originally a nomadic people scattered across the Seven Moons of Teres'rè'el, the Tenzolèin lived in scattered tribal units until the rise of the Malismorai and the Malisik threat. In response, they united to form the Tenzolèin Grand Empire, establishing massive fortress-cities while maintaining their tribal identities. The moons now lie in ruin, abandoned yet sacred, with remnants of ancient settlements that attract scholars and adventurers eager to uncover their mysteries.
The Seven Moons of Teres'rè'el
Each of the Seven Moons had its own biome, ecosystem, and cultural flavor, influencing distinct traditions and dialects among the Tenzolèin. Though they have since abandoned these moons, many Tenzolèin still honor their heritage through relics, rituals, and pilgrimages to the ruins.
Relations with Other Species
The Tenzolèin share complex ties with their ancestral cousins, the Lûdokrèin. While inter-marriage is common among nomadic tribes that border other territories, the dominant clans regard themselves as culturally and spiritually superior. Still, deep respect remains between the species, especially regarding their shared origin. Interbreeding with Valorèin is also well-documented, further blending Near-Valorik lineages.