Glossary | Innatraea Series

Entries are written to be safe for readers at any point in the series. Pronunciations are provided in parentheses where helpful.

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A

Aashna (Ash-nah): A Tursi woman.

Absai (Ab-eh-sigh): Bosun aboard Di Ariela.

Absolutus es (Ab-soh-LOO-tus ess): “You are forgiven.” Spoken by a Daughter of Jhoras in the rite of confession.

Adohi (Ah-DOH-hee): An older Ta’al Rinowhn farmer, fond of bawdy tales.

Adsila (Ad-SEE-lah): “Fire.” Dyani’s red-brown horse.

Aeddfedu (Ayth-veh-dee): Cathyoran coming of age.

Aedonia (Ah-doh-nee-uh): A kingdom in eastern Innatraea bordering the Mu’ul Mountains, known to conquer and absorb smaller kingdoms, charge heavy taxes, and enact strict laws. It is also home to the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Aedonian (Ah-doh-nee-uhn): The native people of Aedonia.

Aerona (eye-roh-na): A Dryad, bonded to Marged Llewellyn.

Agitsi (Ah-GEET-see): “Mother.” A Ta’al Rinowhn word.

Agnes (ag-ness): A wise woman who provides medicine to the women of the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing.

Agorwch y drws (AG-or-ookh uh DROOS): “Open the door!” The White Mare’s call at each household on Hirnos, answered with nid agorwn, “We won’t!”, before the contest of rhymes.

Ahantu y’Imana (Ah-hahn-tu e Im-mah-nah): “Place of the Goddess.” A sacred park in Dryumiri dedicated to Asherah. More commonly called Imana-hantu.

Ahavah (Ah-HAH-vah): “Beloved one.” A Rinowhn word for a chosen mate.

Ahearne Family (Ah-hear-nay): The ruling family of Cathyor before its fall. History claims they were all slain, though rumors persist of surviving heirs.

Ahearne family mark: A horse-head-shaped mark given to the firstborn sons of House Ahearne.

Ahera (Ah-hair-ah): The first Great Tree planted by Asherah. Cliodhna’s home and seat of Shedon power in Dryumiri.

Ahl (Ahl): An Isaad tribal band that travels and camps together.

Ahohako (Ah-hoh-hah-koh): Medical purser aboard Di Ariela.

Aidan (ay-dan): A Cathyoran man, and an archer.

Aife (Eye-feh): Niomh’s daughter, unusual because she has two different colored eyes, one blue and one green.

Ailbhe (al-va): A Cathyoran, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Aisling (ash-ling): A young Cathyoran girl. Best friend of Morrigan, daughter of Brighid, and niece of Elspeth.

Aisna (Eyes-nah): “Divine.” A special class of Seylan citizens, often called “Companions” by foreigners. Each is specially chosen at a young age for their beauty, intelligence, empathy, and grace.

Akua (Ah-koo-ah): Cabin boy aboard Di Ariela.

Alaina Crawley (Ah-lain-ah Craw-lee): Of the Crawley family, family friends of the Al’Shanes; daughter of Deitrich and Emilia, and sister of Robert.

Albrecht Ludheim (AL-brekt LOOD-highm): An Aedonian man, anointed of Jhoras, a knight, and Legatus of Ordini Soli Obliti.

Al-darb maktub. Al-Mashi yanzuru. Is’alni fi al-laylat ath-thalitha.: “The road is written, the Walker is watching, ask me on the third night.” An Isaad saying.

Aldric (Ahl-drick): Gertrude’s first love.

Al-Hadir (Al-HAH-deer): One of those honored in the Isaad faith.

Alice Thane (Al-iss Thayn): Of the Thane family, family friends of the Al’Shanes; wife of Jacob and mother of Rebecca.

Aliselle Falls (Al-eh-SEE-ill): A farm town near the eastern border of Aedonia, in the province of Farm Hold. It is named after the nearby river rapids and waterfalls.

Alkhalidun (Al-khah-lee-DOON): “The Immortals.” Tursim’s undefeated army, and the city’s institutional military authority.

Al-Mashi ath-Thamin (Al-MAH-shee ath-THAH-min): “The Eighth Walker.” In the Isaad faith, the one who walks the Eighth Road.

Al-Mashi yanzuru (Al-MAH-shee yan-ZOO-roo): “The Walker is watching.” An Isaad saying, spoken in the presence of something touched by the Eighth Road.

Alsiyama (Al-see-YAH-mah): “Mastery and Peace.” The dominant faith of Tursim, patriarchal in current practice. Its doctrine emphasizes modesty, obedience, control, and order, and the spiritual discipline of yenilenme aci’dan gelir, “renewal comes from pain.”

Altin Bozkirlar (All-ten boz-keer-lar): “Golden Steppes.” The flat grasslands surrounding Tursim.

Amah (Ahm-ah): A Weaver of Tursi descent, long dead. She wrote “The Morals of the Weave,” still referenced by many Weavers to this day.

Amahoro (Ah-mah-ho-ro): “Peace Stone.” A sacred stone in Imana-hantu where Asherah’s story is carved.

Amari (Ah-MAH-ree): A powder monkey aboard Di Ariela, tall and lean.

Amarok (Ahm-ah-rok): A Sacred Folk race said to resemble giant wolves. They possess the Farsight, the ability to see possible futures and the threads of destiny.

Am’Ayim (Am-EYE-eem): “People of Sea Mist.” The sea-faring people of the Ara’Ayim Isles.

Am’Ayim Mahalle: The Tursim district where the resident Am’Ayim community lives, in or near the Harbor Mahalle.

Amelia: Daughter of Gisella and Herbert, sister of Sarai.

Amng (Ahm-uhng): One of the two peoples native to Amng’Khor.

Amng’Khor (AHM-uhng-kor): The kingdom that takes up Innatraea’s entire southeastern isthmus. Almost entirely jungle. Known for hot jungles, spicy foods, ancient temples, and strange animal-based religions, and for peaceful coexistence with the Sacred Folk and animal kind who inhabit its jungles.

Andalan (AN-dah-lan): The native people of Andalus.

Andalus (AN-dah-loos): A kingdom in northwestern Innatraea.

Andrejan (on-dray-jon): A shepherd.

Anohr (Ah-norr): “Light Worshippers.” A Shedon caste with the ability to read and interpret the Dwr more deeply.

Anointed of Jhoras: Those blessed by Jhoras to carry out his Will among the sinners of Innatraea.

Anush Vishra (AH-noosh VEESH-rah): “Dragon Mother.” The fiery red and purple Great Tree that towers over Mayrik Lerr.

Aputsijuit (Ah-poot-see-joo-it): “Those Who See.” The Amarok term for themselves, referencing their ability to perceive the paths of fate.

Ara’Ayim Isles (Are-ah-EYE-eem): “Islands of Sea Mist.” Home of the Am’Ayim. The isles lie far off the western coast. Outsiders are permitted only on the few larger islands outside the central waterway.

Aralez (Ah-rah-lez): A savage winged Sacred Folk race resembling dogs, native to the high mountains around Sophene. Legend says they can see an Innatraean’s fate, and that those who bleed before one and survive are destined.

Aratohu (Ah-rah-TOH-hoo): An Am’Ayim elder, typically female, who conducts marriage ceremonies and stands in for absent family; the place of a bride’s father in Am’Ayim wedding ceremonies.

Archibald Stallwood (Arch-ih-bald Stall-wood): A Cathyoran man, former sergeant at arms, and current reeve of the river trade town Haversfjord.

Atlnemi (Ah-tl-NEH-mee): “Water Walkers.” A peaceful Amng trading tribe who navigate the great rivers of Amng’Khor.

Avetaber (Ah-veh-tah-BER): A Sophenen royal herald.

Ayla (AY-lah): A Nordrian woman of Clan Torden, and Tobias’s closest friend.

Di Ariela (Dee Are-ee-EL-ah): “Lioness of the Sea.” An Am’Ayim trade ship captained by Bez Masudo. Has a lion figurehead.

Armis (R-mis): A man in Royal Seyla.

Arslan Meydani (Ar-slahn May-DAH-nee): “Lion’s Square.” Tursim’s central plaza, where the Bahar Atesi bonfire burns and major civic gatherings are held.

Asherah (Ash-ERR-ah): “Lady of the Sea.” The mother goddess of Innatraea, mother to the Three Sisters. Once a mortal woman who loved the Shedon, saved them, planted the Great Trees, and died. Her tomb lies beneath her monument in Imana-hantu.

Asherah Tree (Ash-ERR-ah): An ancient mythological species of tree that is the symbol of Asherah. They are believed to have provided the seeds which gave birth to Innatraea.

Asherah’s Monument: The massive stone monument in Imana-hantu dedicated to Asherah, featuring her weathered face carved from stone.

Asin (Ah-SIN): The Am’Ayim native word for Innatraea’s oceans. Asin also represents sacredness among their people, symbolizing their birth, life, and eventual death upon the sea; mineral salt often represents protection in their ceremonies. The word can also refer to their various philosophies of life. Asin is the sacred (Tala ng Asin) form; the same concept in Salty Talk appears as Di Saalt.

Atawhai (Ah-TAH-fy): A sailor aboard Di Ariela.

Awen (Ah-wen): Small Sacred Folk resembling cats, known for their solitary nature, ability to teleport through swirling motes of light, and rare loyalty.

Aylin (EYE-lin): A young Tursi girl.

Ayuwasi (Ah-yoo-wah-see): “Sea of Grass.” The Rinowhn Tribes’ native name for their homeland.

B

Baako (BAH-koh): A musician aboard Di Ariela.

Babae ng Asin (Ba-ba-e nang Ah-SIN): “Woman of Salt.” A giant stone statue of an Am’Ayim mother and child rising out of the ocean outside the Ara’Ayim Isles.

Bahaghari Shell (Bah-hag-har-ee): The spiraled, spined, rainbow-colored shell of the deadly Papaka Kamatayan.

Bahar Atesi (Bah-har Ah-TEH-shee): “Festival of Spring Fire.” Tursim’s oldest celebration, older than Alsiyama itself. A renewal ritual centered on bonfires in Arslan Meydani and the proverb yenilenme aci’dan gelir.

Baklava (BAHK-lah-vah): A Tursi pastry layered with honey and nuts.

Banat as-Saqr (Bah-NAHT as-SAH-ker): “Daughters of the Falcon.” The women falconers of the Isaad.

Bangin ng Tagak (Bong-een nang Tug-ack): “Heron’s Rest.” The plateau-like balcony outside the main House Masudo stronghold on Ni’Moku, named after the large majestic birds that used to nest there.

Banque Dupris: The banque owned and operated by House Dupris throughout Innatraea’s eastern region.

Barth (Bart): A criminal on the King’s Highway.

Basaraba (bass-r-ab-uh): A shepherd band leader, husband to Stevana, and father to Nicolai.

Batok (BAH-tok): The Am’Ayim tradition of tattooing; the marks commemorate significant events, persons, and acts.

Bay of Swans: The massive bay near Royal Seyla’s capital city of Kinrai.

Bayani (Bay-AHN-ee): A sailor aboard Di Ariela.

Bekir Kadem (Beh-keer Kah-DEM): Orhan Kadem’s eldest son.

Bekymre seg mot vinden (Beh-KIM-reh say moht VIN-den): “Worrying into the wind.” A Nordrian saying for wasting one’s time or being a fool.

Benedictus sim sub Joranem Luminus: “May I be blessed under the light of Jhoras.” The response of the anointed after each penance in the rite of confession.

Bereth (BEH-reth): A small wheeled Isaad dwelling, built by a traveling bereth-sanai.

Berezira (B-air-zeer-ah): An older Tursi woman.

Bernard: Proprietor of the Feather and Quill inn in the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing.

Beshim (besh-m): A young shepherd.

Bethseda (Beth-said-ah): The capital city of Aedonia.

Bey (Bay): A Tursi honorific used after a man’s first name as a respectful form of address. Roughly equivalent to “Ser.”

Bezalel “Bez” Masudo (BEZ-zuh-lel Muh-SOO-doh): Captain of Di Ariela. Husband of Tiare Masudo. Father of Rangi Masudo.

The Bishop Family: A Cathyoran noble house.

Biume (be-ohm): A Cathyoran royal servant who assists with the birthing and caring of a family’s children.

Bjorn (Byorn): An orphaned bear cub taken in by Ayla, named after her brother lost in a raid.

Blwyddyn newydd dda (BLOO-ith-in NEH-with thah): “Happy new year.” The Cathyoran greeting at Hirnos.

Bodu (BOH-doo): A three-stringed Am’Ayim instrument.

The Bond: A lifelong magical connection between a Weaver and their personal Goddess Bound. It grants increased strength, faster healing, and slower aging, but also instills a desire to obey their Weaver in all things. A Goddess Bound can share the Bond with only one Weaver.

Bonsai (BOHN-sigh): The Shinodan art of growing and shaping miniature trees.

Borek (BUR-ek): A Tursi savory pastry.

Brennevin (BREN-neh-veen): “Spirits.” A Nordrian river that runs down past the Guddommer cliffs into the ice seas.

Briallen Bishop (bree-al-in): A baby Cathyoran girl, daughter of Ceridwen Bishop, twin sister to Eira Bishop, and heir to House Bishop.

Brianna Carlon (bree-ahn-ah CAR-lawn): An older Cathyoran woman, Edmond’s grandmother, and the last biume of House Ahearne.

Brighid (breej): A Cathyoran woman and member of Trefn Cyfiawnder. Bonded to the Dryad Nerthal and wielder of the sword Gwreichionen. Mother of Aisling and sister of Elspeth.

Brother Deniz (Den-EEZ): A Weaver of Tursi heritage; a senior Qin of the Konsey in Tursim, where he also serves as the ambassador from Sceotan.

Brother Frederick Alwin (Fred-ur-ick All-win): A Weaver of Aedonian heritage. A member of the Greater Consensus.

Brynn (brin): The capital city of Cathyor, a cultural and political heartland until its destruction by Aedonia.

Buhay ng Barko (Bah-aye nang bar-ko): “A Ship’s Life.” The Am’Ayim belief that ships have their own lives too.

Bukori (Boo-kor-ee): Shedon artificers, creators of magical apparatus and other devices.

Bundok ng Mga Reyna (Bun-dok nang mah-NGAH Rey-na): “Stone of Queens.” The large ceremonial dais on Ni’Moku belonging to House Masudo, used for important ceremonies such as the ascension of a new Reyna or marriages.

Byd Nesaf (beed ness-off): “Next World.” The Cathyoran afterlife, believed to be a spirit world where souls rest after death, often invoked in farewells. The Shedon call it Inyuma.

Bydded iddynt ddod o hyd i heddwch yn y Byd Nesaf: “May they find peace in the next world.” A Cathyoran farewell to the dead.

Byw yw marw, marw yw byw (b-yoo yoo mar-oo, mar-oo yoo b-oo): “To live is to die, to die is to have lived.” A Cathyoran soldier’s saying.

C

Caim (K-eye-m): “He who drowns the weak.” The Am’Ayim god of the underwater realm, death, and strength. Brother of the goddess Lux. Said to demand blood as the price of safe passage and a safe return.

Caitlin (kate-lyn): A mysterious woman, possibly a member of Shukar’s family.

Caleb: An Aedonian man, anointed of Jhoras, and Commander of a Jhorian Fist.

Calon (kal-on): A Dryad, bonded to Elspeth Anwyl.

Calpulli (Kahl-POOL-lee): A section of Teokahl claimed by a tribe during Tlailli Mahuizotl.

Cangen Marw (kan-in mar-oo): “Dead Branch.” A Trefn Cyfiawnder sword.

Caoimhe (kwee-va): A Cathyoran woman, and an archer.

Cariad (CAR-ee-ad): “Darling.” A Cathyoran endearment.

Cartref y Galon (CAR-trev uh GAL-on): “Home of the Heart.” The ancient hall of Trefn Cyfiawnder above Llyn Rhiannon, older than any wall in Brynn.

Cassian (kass-ee-in): A venator who works for the Jhorians.

Catena (kuh-tee-nuh): “Witch’s chain.” A special cloth band used by Jhorians to blind and deafen captured Weavers.

Cathyor (KATH-yore): One of the last ancient kingdoms. Conquered by Aedonia some years ago.

Cathyoran (Kath-yore-ahn): The people once native to Cathyor.

Cefn Glas (Kevn Ghlas): “Blue Hill.” A hilly region in northeastern Cathyor.

Ceridwen Bishop (ke-rid-wen): A Cathyoran woman, member of Trefn Cyfiawnder, and last matriarch of House Bishop. Mother to Briallen and Eira Bishop.

Cevreleme (Chev-reh-LEH-meh): “Containment.” Brother Deniz’s Weaver’s ring, holding an opal gemstone.

Ch’ari Vatsk (Shi-ar-ee vats-kuh): “The Great Rift.” A massive rift in the Devori Mountains. It borders Sophene, the Rinowhn Tribelands, and what used to be the border of Thava.

Chaya (Chai-uh): A woman of the Zimsway Rinowhn. Rescued by the Al’Shane family after being attacked. She died giving birth to Jonaas.

Chibuk (Chee-BOOK): A long, carved Zimsway pipe used for the ceremonial smoking of haze flower.

Chichil (CHEE-cheel): An Amng jungle tribe, enemies of the Yn’Tuac.

Chilatlukhu (Chee-lah-TLOO-koo): A Sceotian breakfast of fried tortilla pieces softened in red pepper sauce, topped with white cheese and cream.

Chima (CHEE-mah): An orphan raised by Mother Jimaiyo, who grows up to become Goddess Bound.

Chiyo Hasegawa (Chee-yoh Hah-seh-GAH-wah): A Weaver and author of an old text on shaping light.

Choni (Koh-nee): Rune-carved teleportation circles used by the Shedon.

Cian Ahearne (kee-an ah-hear-nay): A baby Cathyoran boy, child of Isolde and Cormac Ahearne, and last prince heir of Cathyor.

Ciklusot (TSEE-kloo-sot): “The Cycle.” Birth, life, death, and rebirth. The heart of Kievan belief.

Clan Torden (TOR-den): A Nordrian clan, Ayla’s people. They do not hunt bears with cubs.

Claudia Geisterschwert (cloud-ee-ah gaist-ur-schwurt): Petra and Leonhard Geisterschwert’s cousin.

Cliodhna (Klee-oh-nah): The Imfura (ruler) of the Shedon. One of the oldest and most powerful beings on Innatraea.

Closed Consensus: A meeting in the Great Loom of only the Greater Consensus.

Clyde (Klai-duh): A criminal on the King’s Highway.

Coeden dy Eni (KOY-den duh EN-ee): “Tree of your birth.” The tree of Llwyn y Brigau a Cathyoran is born under.

Coeden Gysegredig (kaid-en gai-seg-red-ig): “Sacred Tree.” The sacred emblem of Trefn Cyfiawnder, a tree-and-sword symbolizing the eternal bond between Cathyoran women and their Dryad allies.

Coedwig Amser (kaid-wig ahm-ser): “Forest of Time.” The abstract “forest,” eons old, representing the ongoing sacred magical bond between the Dryads and the women of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Colel (Koh-LEL): A Yn’Tuac woman and Kobaal, mother of Tonatiuh.

Colin: A Cathyoran man.

Cormac Ahearne (kor-mak ah-hear-nay): The last king of Cathyor and last patriarch of House Ahearne. Husband to Queen Isolde Ahearne, father to Prince Cian Ahearne, and son of Taran Ahearne.

Crawley Family (Craw-lee): Family friends of the Al’Shanes. Deitrich and his wife Emilia, their children Robert and Alaina, Robert’s wife Laura, and Robert and Laura’s daughter Maryanne.

Crilla Sharone (KRILL-ah shah-ROHN-ay): A retired Weaver of legendary status. Gertrude Al’Shane’s twin sister. Crilla became Rosalie Sharone’s adoptive mother after finding her abandoned as a baby.

Crogwyr (Crog-wee-ah): “Executioner.” Elspeth Anwyl’s sword.

Crows: Nickname for the Jhorian Crows (the Jhorian Inquisitors).

Cuauhnemi (Kwow-NEH-mee): “Tree Walkers.” A peaceful Amng tribe who honor the ancient Great Trees of Teokahl.

Cyfeillach Gysegredig (kev-ah-shawk gai-seg-red-ig): “Sacred Bond.” The sacred magical bond between a woman of Trefn Cyfiawnder and her Dryad.

Cymysg (Kum-isk): “Mongrel dog.” A Cathyoran insult.

Cynddaredd (kin-dar-red): “Fury.” Isolde Ahearne’s sword.

Cysgod (kas-god): “Shadow.” The spies and infiltrators of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

D

Dagat ng Panahon (Dah-gat nang pan-ah-hon): “Sea of Time.” An Am’Ayim belief referring to an abstract Asin, or “Salt,” made from the currents of destiny and fate.

Dai (Dye): A young Cathyoran soldier.

Danae (Dah-NAY): A semi-nomadic, pastoralist people who travel in wagons and keep horses, with an extended-clan family structure. They inhabit the outskirts of the vast Tanglewood, east of Tursim, and can also be found in small numbers throughout many other kingdoms.

Daphne (daf-nee): The Dryad connected to the Great Tree known as the Shepherd King.

Daphshire (DAF-shire): A coastal province of low hills in northeastern Aedonia, north of where Cathyor once was, famous for its vineyards.

Daphshire Grand Ball: A semi-annual celebration held by vineyards in Daphshire for families of wealth and influence.

Daphshire white (DAF-shire): A variety of white wine from Daphshire.

Daughters of Jhoras (jo-ras): More often referred to as Confessors; women chosen by Jhoras to hear and forgive the sins of the anointed.

Dduwies Rhyfel (du-we-es rav-el): “Goddesses of War.” The most elite warriors of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Declan Cosgrove (dek-luhn kos-grohv): A Cathyoran man, Captain of the Banque Dupris guard. Husband to Fiona Cosgrove.

Deitrich Crawley (Deet-rik Craw-lee): A Cathyoran blacksmith of the Crawley family. Old friend of Jonathan Al’Shane, husband to Emilia, and father to both Alaina and Robert.

Demir (Deh-MEER): The younger of two brothers who serve Tursim’s Mercenary Guild.

Deunaw (DAY-now): “Eighteen,” literally “two nines.” The age a Cathyoran girl becomes a woman.

Devori Mountains (Dev-oh-rye): The mountains surrounding Sophene, the eastern border of what used to be Thava, the Rinowhn Tribelands, and Ch’ari Vatsk (the Great Rift).

Diofrit (di-oh-frit): A young woman working at the Drunken Bear Inn in the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing.

Djelem’den (Gel-em-den): “Pedestal of the World” or “Garden Tower.” The giant tower home of the Weavers.

Dokuma (Doh-KOO-mah): A Tursi carpet-weaver.

Dokumalar (Doh-koo-mah-LAR): A woman Tursi carpet-weaver; also the plural, the women who weave.

Dolmas (DOHL-mahs): A Tursi mezze dish: grape leaves stuffed with meat, rice, and mint, eaten with the fingers.

Drunken Bear: An inn in the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing.

Dryad: A Sacred Folk race. Giant feminine titans, spirits of nature who appear half woman and half tree, sharing a spiritual bond with Innatraea’s Great Trees and able to traverse between Innatraea and the spirit world of Kanraphim. The Dryads of Cathyor also share a bond with the women of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Dryumiri (Dree-oo-meer-ee): The hidden city of the Shedon, built among Great Trees older than most civilizations.

The Dupris Family: A noble Aedonian House and owners of Banque Dupris.

Durme, Durme (Door-meh, Door-meh): “Sleep, Sleep.” A Zimsway Rinowhn lullaby.

Dwr (Doo-er): The network of veins visible beneath Shedon skin that glow with color reflecting their emotional state. The colors branch across the face and body like forked lightning, pulsing and shifting with every feeling. Shedon cannot hide what they feel.

Dwryn (Doo-er-in): Shedon reproduction. When two or more Shedon merge their Dwr completely, they can choose to be consumed by flame, giving birth to a single child.

Dyani (Dee-AH-nee): A Ta’al Rinowhn girl who becomes a Soqu. Daughter of Sequoyah and Inola.

Dydd dial a Marwolaeth (deez dee-al ah mar-oo lai-eth): “Day of vengeance and death.” The prophesied day when Cathyor’s fallen will rise to destroy the Jhorians and Aedonia.

Dygwr Tynged (Dye-wee-ah Tin-yed): “Fatebringer.” The Ahearne Family Sword, known to have a horse-head-shaped pommel. Unique among Trefn Cyfiawnder swords because its magic can be used by a man of the Ahearne Family.

Dylan: A Cathyoran man, and a soldier.

E

Edmond Carlon (ED-mond CAR-lawn): Childhood friend to Rosalie and Jonaas; Brianna’s grandson.

Edriel (ed-ree-el): An Aedonian man, and an anointed of Jhoras.

The Eighth Road: In the Isaad faith, a road no one living can walk, which takes things from the world and sometimes returns them.

Eira Bishop (ay-ruh): A baby Cathyoran girl, daughter of Ceridwen Bishop, twin sister to Briallen Bishop, and heir to House Bishop.

Elif (Eh-LEEF): A young Tursi woman.

Elspeth Anwyl (els-peth an-wil): A Cathyoran woman, member of Trefn Cyfiawnder, sister of Brighid, and aunt of Aisling.

Elwin (EL-win): A name used by a stranger at a Danae winter celebration.

Emilia Crawley (Em-eel-ee-ah Craw-lee): A Cathyoran field nurse of the Crawley family. Old friend of Gertrude, wife to Deitrich, and mother to both Alaina and Robert.

Emma: A woman working at the Drunken Bear Inn in the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing.

Emrys (Em-rees): A young Cathyoran soldier.

En Innatraea som har en trofast venn har et speil av sjelen deres: “An Innatraean who has a faithful friend has a mirror of their soul.” A Nordrian saying.

Enoh (ee-no): A shepherd.

Erik: An Aedonian man.

Esma (EZ-mah): A Tursi woman, proprietress of the Siren’s Rest inn.

Ethan: An Aedonian man, and an anointed of Jhoras.

Etheldreda (eth-el-dree-duh): A Cathyoran woman, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Eyduan (Eh-DOO-un): A sailor aboard Di Ariela.

Eyolf (AY-olf): A foreign trader in Teokahl.

F

Fadel (FAH-duhl): A sailor aboard Di Ariela.

Fahz (Fah-zz): A phrase in Shatranj indicating a threat on your opponent’s shah.

Fahz Nihaya (Fah-zz Nee-high-uh): A phrase in Shatranj indicating your opponent’s shah is threatened and has no escape. Game end.

Fajr-sabr (FAJ-er SAH-ber): An Isaad morning prayer.

Farisa (Far-ee-suh): A Tursi woman.

Farm Hold: A province in eastern Aedonia known for farm towns.

Farsight: The Amarok ability to see possible futures and the threads of destiny.

Farun Da’al (Far-un Dah-AL): The capital city of Farundia. Called Meroë Da’al by its own people.

Farundia (Far-un-dee-ah): The kingdom that makes up the southwest isthmus of the continent, known for its juxtaposition of rich and powerful cities around various oases and mountain borders against the nomadic tribes that wander its vast deserts. Called Meroë-Ta by its own people.

Farundian (Far-un-dee-ann): The people of Farundia. Those of its oasis cities call themselves Meroëti.

Fatima (FAH-tee-mah): A Tursi seamstress in the Silk Mahalle.

Fatiou (FAT-ee-ow): Quartermaster aboard Di Ariela.

Feather and Quill: An inn in the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing.

Feorrker (Fyor-ker): A river fortress town on the Victory, marking the western border of Aedonia; under control of the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Fergus Gwernydd (FUR-gus GWER-nith): A Cathyoran sergeant, husband of Tegwen and father of Ailbhe.

Fetu (FEH-too): A powder monkey aboard Di Ariela.

Fili Jorae (FEE-lee YOR-eye): “Son of Jhoras.” The address a Daughter of Jhoras uses for the anointed during confession.

Fiona Cosgrove (fee-ohn-uh kos-grohv): A Cathyoran woman, wife to Declan Cosgrove, and a biume.

Fist of Jhoras (jo-ras): Also Jhorian Fist. A military unit of anointed, generally consisting of twelve men and one commander.

Fletcher (Fletch-ur): The town doctor of Haversfjord.

Florian: A Cathyoran man.

Flower of Ni’Moku: An Am’Ayim honorific given to the heiress of House Masudo.

River of Flowers: The river near Aliselle Falls.

G

Gareth (Ghair-ith): A young Cathyoran soldier.

Gatanje (Gah-TAHN-yeh): A trance in which a Vesterka glimpses possible futures.

Gei’Sei’Ugi (Gay-SAY-oo-gee): The ascension of a new Tanati.

Gei’Ten’Gami (Gay-TEN-gah-mee): Those who perform the Tanati’s ritual scarring.

Geohhol (GAY-oh-hol): “Festival of Northern Lights.” Nordria’s three-night midwinter festival of feasting, drinking, music, dancing, and bonfires beneath the Nordlys.

Gertrude Al’Shane (Gur-trood Al-SHEYN): Jonaas’s adoptive mother, wife to Jonathan, and twin sister to Crilla Sharone.

Gichinga (Gee-chin-gah): Cliodhna’s personal Mara.

Gideon Ludheim (gid-ee-in lood-highm): An Aedonian man, anointed of Jhoras, and a knight.

Gisella (jee-zel-uh): Wife of Herbert, mother of Amelia and Sarai.

Glendid (glen-ded): Archibald Stallwood’s horse.

Glow Orb: A magical floating orb of light, varying in size and color, created by Weavers. They can be moved about at the creator’s will.

Goddess Bound: The elite irregular military organization that acts as personal bodyguards for individual Weavers. Known for the Bond, a lifelong magical connection granting increased strength, faster healing, and slower aging, it also instills a desire to obey the Weaver in all things. Some Goddess Bound are unbound, serving the order as a whole rather than any one Weaver.

Gogi Asherah (GOH-gee Ash-ERR-ah): “Summer of Asherah.” A longer, hotter growing season than most. The Ta’al Rinowhn count time by them.

Gorrinyu (Gor-REEN-yoo): The common sparrow, in Sceotian.

Gorrinyu llibertat ghanyva tlenva llemakhal zentzu: “The sparrow’s freedom and perseverance reminds us to seek a life of simplicity.” A saying of Mother Jimaiyo.

Grand Library: Tursim’s central library. It houses the second-largest collection of books and manuscripts on Innatraea.

Gray: The gray and black ship’s cat aboard Di Ariela.

Great Eye and Loom of Sceotan: The official insignia of the Weavers, worn on Sceotan-sanctioned robes. The Eye represents the Weaver’s perception of the magical threads that make up Innatraea; the Loom represents those threads.

The Great Loom: The vast chamber in the upper floors of Djelem’den, used for meetings of the Greater and Lesser Consensus.

The Great Rift: A massive rift in the Devori Mountains, bordering Sophene, the Rinowhn Tribelands, and what used to be the border of Thava. Natively called Ch’ari Vatsk.

Great Tree: The common moniker for any of the ancient giant trees around Innatraea. Most have specific names and tower over their surroundings, whether near cities or even mountains.

The Greater Consensus: The ruling body of the Weavers. Always composed of thirteen full Weavers, though it is rare that all of them are publicly known. It holds to a doctrine of neutrality in mortal affairs.

Gregoire D’Arganse (greg-or d-r-gance): An Aedonian man, high king of Aedonia.

Guafi (Goo-AH-fee): A sailor aboard Di Ariela.

Guddommer (GOO-dom-mer): “The Deities.” Towering sea cliffs on the Nordrian coast, visible from more than a day’s sail out at sea.

Guildmaster: The senior official presiding over a Tursi guild, such as the Merchant’s Guild.

Guilds: The various governing bodies that form the primary civic infrastructure of Tursim, each overseeing a sphere of activity. They include the Merchant’s Guild, the Mercenary Guild, and the Librarians’ Guild, among others.

Gurgen (GOOR-gen): Taline’s hetaireia.

Gwarchodlu Brenhinol (gwar-hod-lee brin-heen-ol): “Royal Guard.” A special unit within Trefn Cyfiawnder, the royal guard to the Cathyoran king.

Gwendolyn (gwen-dol-en): An older Cathyoran woman and the Rhyfelfeistr, or “Warmaster,” of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Gwr gweddw (goor gweth-oo): “Widowmaker.” The Bresling family sword.

Gwreichionen (gresh-ee-ohn-en): “Glimmer.” Brighid’s sword.

Gwydir Wood (gwidd-eer): A forest in Cathyor.

H

Hadra-layl (HAD-rah LAYL): An Isaad evening gathering held around the fire.

Hadriana (had-ree-on-ah): A Cathyoran woman, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Haitasi (Hai-tai-see): “The Stones.” A realm outside of time, whose gate, Harzigurda, is guarded by the My’yh. The stones here allow travel through time and location. Those who enter will forget everything upon leaving.

Hak Berati (Hahk Beh-RAH-tee): “Charter of Rights.” The founding legal document of Tursim.

Hakob (How-cub): A Sophenen man who died centuries ago of old age. Crilla Sharone’s first love.

Hakon (HAH-kon): Tobias’s adoptive brother, heir to their clan and known for his cruelty.

Hala (HAH-lah): An Isaad Banat as-Saqr who tends the elders’ perches.

Halici Sofiya (Hah-lee-jee Soh-FEE-yah): “Sofia’s Carpets.” The name above the door of Sofia’s first shop in Tursim. It once belonged to her father, Halil.

Halil (Hah-LEEL): Sofia’s father, a Tursi carpet-seller and restorer known for fair dealing.

Hanife (Hah-NEE-feh): A young Tursi mother.

Harbor Mahalle: The Tursim district adjacent to the quays. It runs by looser, more cosmopolitan rules than the inner mahalles: foreign women walk uncovered here, and commerce comes before propriety.

Harzigurda (Har-zee-gur-dah): “Temple of Stone.” An ancient stone temple, home of the My’yh and gateway to Haitasi.

Hasan (Hah-SAHN): A Tursi dock worker.

Haversfjord (Hav-urs-fyord): A large Aedonian river trade town on the King’s Highway.

Havni (HAHV-nee): A Tursi woman Goddess Bound.

Hayan (Hi-yan): An ancient language whose origins have been lost to time.

Haze Flower: A psychoactive plant, identifiable by its colorful, large flower buds and multipoint leaves. It is a very popular trade commodity, in many forms, across Innatraea.

Heddiw, rwy’n fenyw (HETH-ee-oo, roo-in VEN-oo): “Today, I am a woman.” The words a young Cathyoran woman speaks at her Aeddfedu.

Heimeric (hi-mer-ik): A man who works as the strongarm for the Drunken Bear Inn in the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing. Husband to Mabel.

Helygen (Heh-LUG-en): “The Willow.” The last tree of the old year in Llwyn y Brigau.

Herbert: Husband to Gisella, father to Amelia and Sarai.

Hetaireia (Heh-tie-RAY-ah): A sworn Sophenen royal retainer who guards, guides, and advises one member of the royal family for life.

Hiraya Masudo (Hee-RYE-uh Muh-SOO-doh): Current Reyna of House Masudo and ruler of Ni’Moku. Tiare’s elder sister.

Hirnos (HEER-nos): “The Long Night.” Cathyor’s midwinter night, when the year turns. Vigil fires burn at every crossroads, the names of the year’s dead are spoken into the flames, and at dawn the women of Trefn Cyfiawnder sing in the new year at Llyn Rhiannon.

The Holy Church of Jhoras (Jo-ras): The official church of Aedonia, known for its strong military, harsh judgments, political power, wealth, and hatred of those who challenge it. The Holy Church has a long history of oppressing women’s power and of violent conflict with the Weavers.

House Baghdasaryan (Bagh-dah-SAR-yan): The ruling family of Sophene.

Huareo (Hoo-ar-AY-oh): A sailor aboard Di Ariela.

Huli (Hoo-lee): A Sacred Folk race native to Imperial Shinoda, born as wild foxes but able to take Innatraean form. They live far longer than Innatraeans, though they are not immortal, and grow in power, tails, and knowledge as they age.

Hummus (HOO-mus): A Tursi mezze dish: a smooth chickpea spread, swirled with olive oil and spices, eaten with flatbread.

I

Icyayi (Ee-chai-yee): A sweet, cold tea served by the Shedon.

Ijwiterane (Eej-wee-teh-rah-neh): “Sanctuary of Voices.” The Shedon council chamber where the Imfura and Inyakun meet for official matters.

Ikaze (Ee-kah-zay): A green Shedon sauce that is both sour and bitter.

Ikiryo (Ee-keer-yo): Shedon flatbread, large and thin, used to wrap around other foods.

Ilo Thaj Jag (E-lo taj hag): “Heart and Fire.” An intimate Danae dance, performed for select small audiences.

Iman (Ee-MAHN): An Isaad Banat as-Saqr.

Imana-hantu (Im-mah-nah hahn-too): “Place of the Goddess.” The shorter, more commonly used name for Ahantu y’Imana, a sacred park in Dryumiri dedicated to Asherah.

Imboga (Im-boh-gah): Leafy greens, a common Shedon food.

Imfura (Im-fur-ah): The Shedon title for their ruler. Cliodhna holds this position.

Imperial Shinoda (Shin-oh-duh): The northern kingdom of the far eastern region. Little is known of it, as it is isolated from the rest of the continent by the treacherous Mu’ul mountain range.

Imvura (Im-voo-rah): A sweet glowing fruit, with a tangy aftertaste and pulpy, watery texture.

Inafi (In-ah-fee): Fried fish, a common Shedon food.

Indila (in-dee-lah): A Cathyoran woman, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Innatraea (Ee-nah-TRAY-uh): The known world.

Innatraean (Ee-nah-TRAY-uhn): The human folk of the known world.

Inola (Ee-NOH-lah): A Ta’al Rinowhn Shal’ifar, and mother of Dyani.

Inquisitor: A special class within the anointed of Jhoras. Investigators, holders of holy relics, and questioners for the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Inquisitor Durand (Dur-and): An inquisitor of the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Inuk (In-ook): A female Amarok.

Inyakun (In-yah-koon): The council of thirteen Shedon leaders who advise the Imfura.

Inynyri (In-yin-ree): “Star.” Sacred dancers of the Shedon, known for experiencing emotions and sensations more intensely than other Shedon. Inynyri “speak with feelings.”

Inyuma (In-yoo-mah): The Shedon name for the afterlife. The Cathyorans call it Byd Nesaf.

Inziraho (In-zeer-ah-ho): “Path Keeper.” A Shedon role meaning protector and guide.

I’okanew (Eye-oh-kan-ew): A war-like patriarchal Rinowhn tribe.

Iraia (Ee-RYE-uh): A woman powder monkey aboard Di Ariela.

Irmina (eer-meen-ah): Proprietress of the Drunken Bear Inn in the river trade town of Talberston’s Crossing. Wife to the now-deceased Nathanael.

Isaad (Ee-SAHD): A nomadic tribe that lives in Farundia’s deserts. Their symbol for sacred knowledge is an eight-pointed star.

Isagani (Ee-sah-gon-ee): Deceased husband of Hiraya Masudo.

Isaro (I-sah-roe): “Pearl.” A Shedon woman who no longer lives with her people.

Ishago (Ish-ah-go): “Forest.” Shedon sacred metal.

Ishvati (Ish-vah-tee): “Goddess.” A Sacred Folk guardian who resides within Asherah’s monument.

Ishyari (Ish-yar-ee): A sheer silk dress worn by Inynyri.

Isolde Ahearne (eh-zuld-uh ah-hear-nay): A Cathyoran woman, wife to Cormac Ahearne, mother to Cian Ahearne, a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder, and Queen of Cathyor.

Itara (Ee-tar-ah): Magical Shedon lamps that cast a soft, even glow.

Ixchel (Eesh-chel): An ancient jaguar Sacred Folk of Amng’Khor, known for her beauty, passion, savage anger, and protective loyalty. The first tribes to settle Amng’Khor befriended her rather than fight her.

Izel (Ee-SEL): A woman who keeps Nochalu’s household organized.

Iztacchichi (Ees-tahk-CHEE-chee): “Pale dog.” An Amng insult for northern foreigners.

Iztalli (Ees-TAHL-lee): “Pale One.” The Amng word for foreigners from the north.

J

Jacob Thane (Jay-kub Thayn): Of the Thane family, family friends of the Al’Shanes; husband of Alice and father of Rebecca.

Jhoras (Jo-ras): The one God of the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Jhorian Crows (Jo-ree-an): The left arm—inquisitors and exorcists—of the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Jhorian Phalanx (Jo-ree-an): The mighty right arm—the military, the knights—of the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Jimani (Him-AHN-ee): A musician aboard Di Ariela.

Jolakun (Yoh-lah-koon): A giant, savage Sacred Folk beast of Nordria’s icy forests, large enough to swallow nearly any living thing whole. Few survive an encounter with one.

Jonaas Al’Shane (JO-nus Al-SHEYN): Childhood friend of Edmond and Rosalie. Chaya’s son, adopted by Gertrude and Jonathan Al’Shane.

Jonathan Al’Shane (JAH-nuh-thn Al-SHEYN): A former Cathyoran soldier. Jonaas’s adopted father; Gertrude’s husband.

Joranem Luminus (Jor-AH-nem LOO-min-us): “Light of Jhoras.” Spoken throughout the Jhorian rite of confession, as in sub Joranem Luminus, “under the Light of Jhoras.”

Josephine (Johs-eh-feen): A Cathyoran field nurse, friend to Gertrude.

Juru (Ju-ru): One of the Inyakun. Known for his gentle and kind nature.

Jyoshna (Jyosh-nah): Shedon singers, sacred voices.

K

Kaan (Kahn): The elder of two brothers who serve the Mercenary Guild.

Kada mujer, ombre, i kriatura en Innatraea es un sembrador de algo: “Every woman, man, and child on Innatraea is a farmer of something.” A Zimsway Rinowhn saying.

Kadem Family (Kah-DEM): A Tursi merchant family of the upper mahalle, headed by Orhan Kadem and continued by his sons.

Kahve (KAH-veh): A hot, bitter Tursi drink.

Kai (K-eye): A powder monkey aboard Di Ariela.

Kajsema (KYE-seh-mah): One of the Vesterka Carici, and Sovniya’s oldest friend.

Kalani (Kal-ahn-ee): A Ta’al Rinowhn woman warrior.

Kali (Kahl-ee): “Linger.” An Am’Ayim fighting style that utilizes sticks called Sinawali sticks in combat.

Kaluluwa (Kah-loo-loo-wah): “Soul Shell.” A shell given to an Am’Ayim as a marriage proposal, meant to represent who an Innatraean is and what they want.

Kamay (Kam-aye): “Creation.” A cape off the coast of Ni’Mautuba.

Kanraphim (Kan-ruh-fim): The spirit world and/or afterlife. Actual beliefs vary drastically between different kingdoms and peoples.

K’arajin (Kah-rah-jin): The first Sacred Folk, said to be made of Innatraea’s very essence. Some say they shaped the world before Asherah, others for her or with her. They have been gone for eons.

Karakaya warehouse (Kah-rah-KYE-ah): A warehouse in the Harbor Mahalle with direct access to the quays.

Karum (Kair-uhm): An independent free trade town where the River Marnah joins the Victory, on the edge of the Rinowhn Tribelands.

Kasajra (Kah-sahj-rah): A four-armed Sacred Folk race of Farundia, famous for their beauty, agility, and strength. They dwell in one of the desert’s largest and most closely guarded oases.

Kasarena (K-ah-suh-ree-nuh): Am’Ayim word for wedding.

Kashchei (KASH-chay): “The deathless one.” The name of condemnation given to a Kievan man who practiced krovcara, also called Kashchei the Mad. Father of Noma.

Katyogei (Kat-yoh-gay): Sacred Folk resembling winged deer with the heads of owls, dwelling in the forests of Kievan. Extremely rare, their appearance is said to mark moments of great importance.

Ka’u Malihini Taumatau (Kow mal-ee-hee-nee t-ow-mah-t-ow): “Guest Right.” A mostly unspoken-of right that can be granted by request to foreign passengers on Am’Ayim ships; the receiver has an assurance of fairness and protection.

Keahi (Kee-AH-hee): A powder monkey aboard Di Ariela.

Kemal (Keh-MAHL): A young initiate Weaver of Tursi heritage, apprenticed to Brother Deniz.

Kesi (Keh-see): Erogenous zones on a Shedon’s body where the Dwr veins meet and can be directly stimulated. Unique between different Shedon.

Kesja (KESS-yah): A three-pronged Nordrian fishing spear.

Khadijah (Khah-DEE-jah): An older Tursi dokumalar.

Khalij Al’Shams (Khah-leej Al-SHAHMS): “Bay of Suns.” The bay on which Tursim sits, fed by the largest river on Innatraea. The river’s heavy silt turns the water opaque and golden, so the sun’s reflection lies on its surface like a second sun.

Khaset-Aten (KHAH-set Ah-TEN): “High Place of Aten.” The Meroëti name for the Sunwall.

Khati’ah (Kot-EE-ah): “Sin.” A Tursi word for an intentional sinful act, used in Alsiyama doctrine to justify religious correction.

Khawla (KHOW-lah): An Isaad Banat as-Saqr.

Khen’ut’yun (Ken-oot-YOON): “Madness.” House Baghdasaryan’s unfinished bridge across Ch’ari Vatsk.

Khor River (Kore): A river in Amng’Khor.

Khoran (Kore-ann): One of the two peoples native to Amng’Khor.

Khunon (Koo-NOHN): A book made by a khunoni.

Khunoni (Koo-NOH-nee): An Isaad bookbinder.

Kibbeh (KIB-beh): A Tursi mezze dish: fried meat-and-grain pastries that crackle when bitten.

Kidner (Kid-nehr): A man who works for Reeve Stallwood in Haversfjord.

Kievan (Key-vahn): A kingdom in western Innatraea that borders Sophene. Its people go by the same name as their kingdom.

River of Kings: A large river that flows through Aedonia.

The King’s Highway: The large, well maintained and guarded trade road that runs through Aedonia. It begins at the northern Jhorian coastal trade city of Porto de la Luce, passes through the kingdom’s capital city of Bethseda, follows the Victory River south to Haversfjord, and runs past Aliselle Falls to the border of Royal Seyla.

Kinrai (KIN-rye): The capital city of Royal Seyla.

Kiro (Keer-oh): “Key.” A Shedon key-like apparatus made to open specific teguro.

Kiyuwahn (Kee-yoo-wahn): “The ones Ayuwasi calls back.” Rinowhn who carry the blood of an ancient union between the People and the Sacred Folk. As they come of age they are drawn ever closer to the wild, until at last they change form.

Kobaal (Koh-BAHL): A Yn’Tuac warrior whose strength is so proven that they have earned the right to go bare without shame.

Kokoru Ista (ko-ko-roo e-stah): “Bay of Fish.” The main bay of Ni’Moku.

Kolotzi (Koh-LOHT-see): “Brave.” A sparrow in Mother Jimaiyo’s garden.

Kon sufrimiento viene también amor: “With suffering comes also love.” A Zimsway Rinowhn saying.

Konsey (KON-say): “Council.” The ruling council of Qin governing Tursim’s religious and social matters under Alsiyama.

Korowai Feathered Cloak (Ko-roh-whai): “Prestige.” A colorful feathered cloak worn by Am’Ayim for important ceremonies.

Korts’nel hetaireia (KORTS-nel heh-tie-RAY-ah): “Lose the retainer.” A game young Taline played, trying to escape Gurgen.

Krovcara (KROHV-tsah-rah): “Blood magic.” Forbidden to men among the Kievan.

Kulric (KUL-rick): A Seylan former street tough of Kinrai, and husband of Najwa.

Kura (Koo-rah): “Subtract.” The act of the Shedon Imfura naming a member of her people into a specific class, thus removing their free choice.

Kutuphane Street (Koo-too-PAH-nay): “Library Street.” The street in Tursim that houses the Grand Library.

Kuzimya Umuriro (Koo-zim-yah Oo-moor-ear-oh): “The Shadow of Fire.” The Shedon term for their extinction crisis, a fear that has paralyzed them for centuries.

Kwizera (Kwee-zeh-rah): A dark-skinned, bright-yellow-eyed member of the Inyakun.

L

La Kosecha Kadosh (Lah Koh-SEH-chah Kah-DOHSH): “The Sacred Harvest.” The Zimsway haze flower harvest, one of their most sacred rituals.

Lady Siran (See-RAHN): A fortune teller of Mayrik Lerr.

Lamashtu (Lah-mahsh-too): A woman turned to stone long ago by the My’yh.

Lani (LAH-nee): An Am’Ayim woman trader.

Laura Crawley (Lor-uh Craw-lee): Of the Crawley family, family friends of the Al’Shanes; wife of Robert and mother of Maryanne.

Layla (LAY-lah): A young Isaad girl.

Legacy: A new Weaver initiate sponsored by a current or retired Weaver. Often, they are the sponsor’s child.

Legatus (Leh-GAH-tus): A rank among the knightly orders of the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Leonhard Geisterschwert (lee-on-hard gaist-ur-schwurt): Twin brother of Petra Geisterschwert, and cousin of Claudia Geisterschwert.

Lesser Consensus: The collective body of all Weavers on Sceotan at any given time. They often have input on important matters, but the Greater Consensus makes all final decisions.

Leyja (LAY-yah): A Tangle Nymph of the Tanglewood.

Librarians’ Guild: The guild that runs the Grand Library of Tursim, proud of its collection. Both women and men serve in it.

Llwyn y Brigau (Hloo-in uh BRIG-eye): “Grove of the Branches.” The Cathyoran reckoning of the year by its trees, read in Llyn Rhiannon at Hirnos.

Llyn Rhiannon (hlin ree-AN-non): “Lake Rhiannon.” The large lake, named after the goddess Rhiannon, in Cathyor by the capital city of Brynn.

Lorna (lor-nah): A Cathyoran woman, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Luau River (Loo-ah-oo): A river in Amng’Khor.

Lucia (LOO-chee-ah): A Tursi tattoo artist who specializes in the Am’Ayim tradition. Runs Moanji Salon Di Tatuaje.

Lumresca (Loom-RES-kah): “Festival of Light and Rebirth.” Aedonia’s winter solstice festival of feasting and gift-giving, and for the anointed of Jhoras, a time of confession and penance.

Lux (Luks): “She who lights the way.” Am’Ayim goddess of the sky, light, and hope. Sister of the god Caim.

M

Mabel (may-bel): A young woman who works at the Drunken Bear Inn in the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing. Wife to Heimeric.

Mae’r nos hiraf yn esgor ar y wawr: “The longest night gives birth to the dawn.” An old Cathyoran saying.

Magistrate: A Tursi civil official with authority over criminal cases, operating separately from the Konsey and the guilds.

Magnus Kehlmar (Mag-nus kell-mar): A knight lord of Aedonia, known as a master player of the strategy game Shatranj.

Mahalle (Mah-HAL-leh): A district of Tursim.

Mahmut (Mah-MOOT): An elderly Tursi man.

Makina (Mah-KEE-nah): Tursi for “machine”; specifically, Taqim’s steam-powered device that turns a kebab spit without human labor.

Maktub (Mak-TOOB): “It is written.” An Isaad saying.

Mala (MAH-lah): A young Tursi scholar of the Textile Mahalle.

Maleko (Mah-LEE-koh): A sailor aboard Di Ariela.

Manaia (Man-EYE-ah): Helmsman aboard Di Ariela.

Manawa (Man-ah-wa): “Breathe.” An Am’Ayim phrase meaning it is time to rest.

Mannat (Mah-NAHT): Sofia’s household servant.

Mara (Mar-ah): A Shedon assassin and bodyguard.

Marged Llewellyn (Mar-ged Luh-wel-in): One of the few survivors of Trefn Cyfiawnder. She lives in Aliselle Falls with her two husbands, Brandon and Rory. She helped train Edmond Carlon.

River Marnah (Mar-nuh): A river in the Rinowhn Tribelands.

Martin: An Aedonian man, and an anointed of Jhoras.

Maryam (M-err-ee-uhm): A younger Tursi woman.

Maryanne Crawley (Mair-ee-an Craw-lee): Of the Crawley family, family friends of the Al’Shanes; daughter of Robert and Laura, and granddaughter of Deitrich and Emilia.

Masina (Mah-SEE-nah): Pirihi, or “priest,” of Caim aboard Di Ariela. Genderless; a storyteller and keeper of the crew’s spirit.

Masudo Dynasty, House Masudo (Muh-SOO-doh): A powerful matrilineal Am’Ayim family. Their home is Ni’Moku.

Mataalii (Mah-tah-AH-lee): An older Am’Ayim man living in Kinrai who teaches Kali. Often called Old Mataalii.

Mataara (Mah-TAH-rah): An Am’Ayim crew vigilance-state, declared by the captain in times of danger: every eye open, no one sleeps alone, no one wanders the streets without a partner until the all-clear.

Matilda: A woman working at the Drunken Bear Inn in the river trade town Talberston’s Crossing.

Matos (mat-os): A shepherd.

Matthias (Math-ee-us): A blind priest.

Mawr (Mowr): The Al’Shane family’s big cart horse.

Mayf (Mayf): Nocturnal, poisonous cat-like Sacred Folk found in forests across Innatraea. Notorious for their territorial cruelty, they are rarely seen and little understood.

Mayrik Lerr (MY-reek LER): The capital city of Sophene.

Maysak (MAY-sak): “Mask.” A face covering worn by Tursi women, doctrinally rooted in Qin teaching under Alsiyama.

Meabh Bresling (mayv bres-ling): A Cathyoran woman, mother of Morrigan Bresling, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Mercenary Guild: The Tursi guild governing combat-for-hire. It operates transactionally, taking coin from anyone, and staffs its administration with women as well as men.

Merchant Mahalle: The Tursim district where Tursi merchant-class commerce concentrates.

Merchant’s Guild: The Tursi institution governing commerce: trade fitness, member conduct, guardianship determinations, and trade-law enforcement. Governed by a Council of senior merchants under a Guildmaster.

Merima (mare-eem-ah): A Cathyoran woman, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Meroë Da’al (Meh-roh-EH Dah-AL): The capital city of Meroë-Ta. Called Farun Da’al by foreigners.

Meroë Da’al wine: A deep red wine from Meroë Da’al.

Meroë-Ta (Meh-roh-EH Tah): “Land of Meroë.” The kingdom that makes up Innatraea’s southwestern isthmus. Almost entirely desert; called Farundia by foreigners.

Meroëti (Meh-roh-EH-tee): The people of Meroë-Ta’s oasis cities. Called Farundians by foreigners. The nomadic desert tribes are not Meroëti.

Mezze (MEZ-zeh): The traditional Tursi method of dining: many small dishes shared across a low table to welcome guests. “Food shared is love given.”

Mihigo (Mee-hee-go): One of the Inyakun. Known for his cold, condescending demeanor.

Miniatura (min-ee-ah-tur-ah): Small figurines, representing noble houses or military units, used to plan military campaigns.

Mitari (Mee-tar-ee): A Shedon woman who no longer lives with her people.

Moanji Salon Di Tatuaje (Moh-ahn-jee Sah-lon Dee Tat-oo-AH-hey): A Tursi tattoo parlor in the Am’Ayim Mahalle, run by Lucia.

Modr (Moh-dur): A Sacred Folk who guards the forests of Nordria with savage, protective fury. She is said to consume the hearts of those who harm her forests or their creatures.

Mokupuni (Moh-koo-POO-nee): A small Ara’Ayim isle.

Morrigan Bresling (mohr-eh-gan bres-ling): A young Cathyoran girl. Best friend of Aisling, daughter of Meabh Bresling.

Morwen (MOR-wen): “Old Morwen.” A superstitious old Cathyoran woman of Brynn.

Mundukua (Moon-doo-koo-ah): “World Pool.” Ancient magical artifacts that appear as pools of water, allowing visions of different locations and forms across Innatraea.

Munira (Moo-NEE-rah): An Isaad Banat as-Saqr, and mother of Nedjima.

Muriro (Moo-reer-oh): A red, spicy Shedon sauce.

Mu’ul Mountains (Mewl): A treacherous mountain range dividing central Innatraea from the east, bordering Aedonia. A few nomadic tribes live in these harsh climates, mostly regarded as raiders and slave traders.

Mwisho (Mwee-sho): The Shedon word for lover. Unlike Innatraean concepts of marriage, mwisho is not possessive or permanent; love (Urukundo) for the Shedon is a flowing force that can exist in many forms.

Mynydd (Mun-ith): A town in Cathyor.

Myrtle (Mur-tul): A young Shedon woman.

The My’yh (Mai-yah): A Sacred Folk race and singular individual of incredible power. The guardian of Haitasi, who makes her home in Harzigurda. Her judgment can turn souls to stone.

N

Naida (Nah-ee-dah): Shape-shifting water Sacred Folk of Farundia. Legend says they seek out Innatraean men and, when rejected for their imperfect watery forms, pull them into watery graves.

Najwa (Naj-wuh): Chaya and Rahl’s daughter, Jonaas’s older half-sister.

Nana Kailani (Nah-nah Kai-LAH-nee): Aratohu of the Am’Ayim Mahalle in Tursim.

Nantzin (NAHNT-seen): “Honored mother.” A Yn’Tuac title for a mother who is also a great warrior.

Nathanael (nathan-a-el): Deceased husband of Irmina.

Nawia (Nah-WEE-ah): “Corpseheart.” A Great Tree one day’s walk outside Tursim. Tursi women whose lives have become unbearable walk to Nawia and ask its Dryad to take them into death; sometimes she does, and sometimes she sends them back with what they need to live.

Nedjima (Ned-JEE-mah): An Isaad khunoni and Banat as-Saqr. Daughter of Munira and wife of Rashan.

Neftali (Nef-TALL-ee): Ship’s gunner aboard Di Ariela.

Nehri Zengin (Nay-ree Zen-gen): “River of Wealth.” Local Tursi name for the Victory River.

Nephvri (Nef-vree): Ethereal winged Sacred Folk of Farundia, at once stunningly beautiful and deformed. They love birds and flowers and are rumored to take the form of birds.

Nerthal (neer-tal): A Dryad, bonded to Brighid.

Nesta (NES-tah): An old Cathyoran woman of Trefn Cyfiawnder who reads Llyn Rhiannon for the order.

Ngakau’to Asin (Nah-kow-toh Ah-SIN): “Heart of the Salt.” An Am’Ayim honorific given to those of true heroism, whose heart and soul are Am’Ayim.

Nicolai (nee-ko-lai): A young shepherd, son of Stevana and Basaraba.

Nikau (NEE-kow): Galley cook aboard Di Ariela.

Ni’Mautuba (Nee-MOW-too-bah): “Isle of Fruits.” An island near Ni’Moku in the Ara’Ayim Isles.

Ni’Moku (Nee-MOH-koo): “Isle of Birds.” The large home island of House Masudo in the Ara’Ayim Isles.

Nine Virtues of Jhoras: Faith, Devotion, and Righteousness; Courage, Honor, and Compassion; Discipline, Humility, and Commitment. Three virtues for each realm of Jhoras’s authority.

Nini (Nee-nee): A mixture of Shedon sauces combined together. The word means “rich” or “flavorful.”

Niomh (NEE-ohm): A Danae woman, mother of Aife.

Niyokuri (Nee-yo-kur-ee): One of the Inyakun. Known for her sharp, focused demeanor.

Noaptea este a demonilor (Noh-AHP-teh-ah ES-teh ah deh-moh-NEE-lor): “The night belongs to demons.” A Danae saying.

Nochalu (Noh-CHAH-loo): “Home.” Mother Jimaiyo’s house on Sceotan, a refuge for orphans, elders, and anyone with nowhere else to go.

Noma (NOH-mah): A Kievan Vesterka, daughter of Kashchei.

Nordlys (NORD-lees): “Northern Lights.” The brilliant lights that fill Nordria’s night sky each year at midwinter.

Nordria (Nor-dree-uh): A distant northern kingdom of harsh mountains and ice, made of different regions ruled by many different clans.

Nordrian (Nor-dree-uhn): The native people of Nordria.

Nordrian Ice Rose (Nor-dree-uhn): The rarest flower on Innatraea, a blue and purple rose that only blooms during the harshest northern winters.

Ntwali (N-twah-lee): An Anohr man, mwisho to Mihigo of the Inyakun.

Nunnwi (Nun-wee): “The People.” Tiny winged Sacred Folk native to Ayuwasi, called the Small Folk by the Rinowhn. From a distance they appear as small glowing lights dancing among the trees, fleeing anyone who comes close.

Nyira (Nee-rah): An Inynyri (sacred dancer) of the Shedon.

O

O Drom e Phirutnesko (Oh-drohm-ee-fir-uht-nes-koh): “The Way of Movement.” A Danae phrase referring to their collective knowledge of movements and dance.

Occequintin (Ok-seh-KEEN-teen): “There will be another.” A Yn’Tuac saying: let this fight go.

Ocelotl (Oh-SEH-loh-tl): A great spotted jungle cat of Amng’Khor.

Ohnasi (Oh-nah-see): “Two-blooded.” Rinowhn born with enough Sacred Folk blood to see, hear, and speak with Sacred Folk that others cannot perceive. They often serve as go-betweens for their tribes.

The Old Gods: The ancient powers of Sophene, whose blessing is said to flow down from the mountains each Vardavar.

Ollin (OH-leen): An elderly Sceotian musician who lives at Nochalu.

Ondri Swamp (On-dree): A large, treacherous swamp east of the Tanglewood and west of Royal Seyla, home to troll-like Sacred Folk. Moving bogs, changing trees, and sands that swallow unwary travelers make it deadly to outsiders.

Ondri Troll Coven (On-dree): The ruling council of the trolls of the Ondri Swamp, a troll-like Sacred Folk for whom magic and mysticism are part of daily life.

Ordini Soli Obliti (Or-DEE-nee SOH-lee Oh-BLEE-tee): “Order of the Forgotten Suns.” A knightly order of the Holy Church of Jhoras based in Porto de la Luce. Each Lumresca they give food and children’s toys to those in need.

Orev (OR-ev): A Ta’al Rinowhn healer.

Orhan Kadem (Or-hahn Kah-DEM): Patriarch of the Kadem family. Father to Bekir Kadem.

Orlaithe (Or-lah-thuh): One of the Inyakun. Brilliant and analytical, with distinctive violet eyes. Cliodhna’s mwisho.

Oryvn (or-vin): A Cathyoran man.

Osman (OSS-mahn): A Tursi criminal who works for anyone with coin.

Owain (ow-ain): A Cathyoran man, and a soldier.

P

Pabaybayin (Pah-BUY-buy-in): “Shorebound.” A derogatory Am’Ayim term for anyone born on land instead of in Di Saalt. Am’Ayim believe a shorebound soul belongs to the land rather than Di Saalt, which makes that person inherently weaker. It is used for outsiders and for Am’Ayim born ashore alike.

Paipa (PIE-puh): Am’Ayim word for a smoking pipe.

Palani (Puh-LAH-nee): Watch leader aboard Di Ariela.

Palo de Sinyales (Pah-loh deh Seen-yah-les): Sacred totem poles carved by the Zimsway Rinowhn, often using fragrant woods. The carving tradition is a community art form passed across generations.

Papaka Kamatayan (Pah-pah-kah kahm-ah-tai-yan): “Death Crab.” A deadly sea crab known for its beautifully rainbow-colored shells.

Perpetua (Per-PET-choo-ah): A Daughter of Jhoras in Porto de la Luce.

Petra Geisterschwert (pet-rah gaist-ur-schwurt): Twin sister of Leonhard Geisterschwert, cousin of Claudia Geisterschwert.

Phylip (Fil-ip): A young Cathyoran soldier.

Pikni (PEEK-nee): Am’Ayim word for child.

Pikni ng baybayin (PEEK-nee nang BUY-buy-in): “Shore Child.” A derogatory Am’Ayim term for children not born into Asin (Di Saalt), the ocean. Most Am’Ayim women give birth in the sea.

Pilutzi Ghani (Pee-LOOT-see GAH-nee): “Little Giant.” Mother Jimaiyo’s centuries-old bonsai tree.

Pirihi (Pear-EE-hee): Am’Ayim word for a priest, shaman, or spiritual advisor. The Pirihi are a genderless priestly category serving as a bridge between the mortal world and the realm of Caim.

Pitja (PEE-tya): A Tursi slur for women, used by hostile men against those they regard as having stepped out of place.

Poen (poyn): “Pain.” One of Marged Llewellyn’s twin daggers.

Porto de la Luce (Por-toe-dey-lah-loos): “Light’s Port.” Aedonia’s large northern coastal trade city, where the River of Kings meets the sea. Known as the seat of power of the Holy Church of Jhoras.

Powder Monkeys: The youngest sub-group of the Di Ariela crew. They are responsible for the ship’s cannons.

Praeus (Pray-us): An ancient Weaver of unknown descent. Though long dead, his name is still often spoken because of his book “The Linguistics of Logic and Power,” which is still respected to this day.

Praznik na Vrani (PRAZ-nik nah VRAH-nee): “Feast of Crows.” The Kievan week-long celebration of harvest, honoring the forest and Ciklusot.

Proslava (PROH-slah-vah): The great ceremonial clearing at the heart of Sumadusi, where the Kievan gather to celebrate.

Ptashka (PTAHSH-kah): “Little bird.” A Kievan endearment.

Pwerau Cysegredig (pw-air-igh sigh-seg-red-ig): “Sacred Power.” A rare magical power that a woman of Trefn Cyfiawnder from the oldest bloodlines is sometimes born with.

Pyre Wyrm (Pyre Wurm): A massive, wingless, climbing Sacred Folk with long legs and many-toed feet, said to spew burning acid from sacs beneath its throat. Believed extinct.

Pyron Orb: A small Am’Ayim throwing ball, made of thin ceramic, that catches fire when shattered.

Q

Qadrim (KAD-reem): The tent where the Banat as-Saqr gather.

Qalam (KAH-lam): A reed pen used by the Isaad.

Qaum (Kowm): An Isaad clan.

Qaum al-Bahr (Kowm al-BAH-her): An Isaad clan of the coast, known for breeding hawks.

Qaum al-Khala (Kowm al-KHAH-lah): An Isaad clan known for its horses.

Qin (Kin): “Priest.” A Tursi priest of Alsiyama. Male only. Each wears an amulet of Qin at the neck as a mark of office.

R

Rahl (Rawl): Chaya’s husband and Najwa’s father.

Ramineh (R-am-een-uh): A younger Tursi woman.

Rangi Masudo (RUNG-ee Muh-SOO-doh): Rigging monkey aboard Di Ariela. Bez and Tiare Masudo’s daughter, heiress to the Masudo Dynasty. The Flower of Ni’Moku.

Rasenna (Rah-SEN-nah): The Seylan people’s own name for themselves.

Rashan (Rah-SHAHN): A young Isaad tribal leader, and husband of Nedjima.

Rebecca Thane (Reh-bek-uh Thayn): Of the Thane family, family friends of the Al’Shanes; daughter of Jacob and Alice.

Red: The orange ship’s cat aboard Di Ariela.

Red Cedar Woman: A Ta’al Rinowhn story that builds from sorrow to triumph, ending as a cedar grove grows from her sacrifice.

Re’em (Reh-ehm): A mysterious Sacred Folk race, said to look like white horses with horns.

Reliquia de familia (Reh-LEE-kee-ah deh fah-MEE-lee-ah): “Family relic.” A Zimsway term.

Renfal Forest (Rinn-fawl): The forest by Aliselle Falls.

Reyna (Rey-na): “Queen.” The current matriarch of House Masudo and ruler of Ni’Moku.

Rheolaeth (ray-oh-lai-eth): “Death.” One of Marged Llewellyn’s twin daggers.

Rhiannon a’th gadwo (Ree-AN-non ath GAD-oh): “May Rhiannon keep you.” A Cathyoran blessing.

Rhiannon, The Great Horse Queen (Ree-AN-non): One of the Three Sisters. Goddess of the moon, wealth, power, and fertility. Goddess of the Cathyoran people.

Rhosynd (Ross-end): A Dryad.

Rhyfelfeistr (hav-vel-vay-stir): “Warmaster.” A title within Trefn Cyfiawnder, the woman responsible for training new recruits.

Rhys (rees): A Cathyoran woman, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

The Rinowhn Tribelands (Rin-OH-in): Also “Sea of Grass,” natively called Ayuwasi. The vast grassland plains, mountains, and valleys that make up most of central Innatraea. Outsiders are strongly discouraged from visiting for very long by the tribes.

Rinowhn Tribes (Rin-OH-in): The native peoples of Ayuwasi, “the Sea of Grass.”

Robert Crawley (Rob-urt Craw-lee): Of the Crawley family, family friends of the Al’Shanes; son of Deitrich and Emilia, husband of Laura, father of Maryanne, and brother of Alaina.

Röggvarafeldur (RUG-var-ah-fel-dur): A rugged Nordrian cloak of wool and ermine fur.

Roots of Destiny: A phrase referring to a powerful destiny growing within, like tree roots.

Rosalie Sharone (ROW-zuh-lee shah-ROHN-ay): Childhood friend of Jonaas and Edmond; adopted daughter and Legacy of the retired Weaver Crilla Sharone.

Royal Seyla (SAY-lah): A kingdom in southeastern Innatraea. Known as one of the richest kingdoms on Innatraea, supportive of artists and scholars, and the home of the strategy game Shatranj.

Rvachah (R-vah-CHAH): “Breathe.” A Zimsway word.

S

Di Saalt (Dee SAALT): The Salty Talk form of the Am’Ayim sacred concept Asin (the ocean as sacred).

Sa ser e tsnvel: “This is how love was born.” The opening of a Sophenen saying of Vardavar: love’s flower, her red rose, and its waters came from the sky above the mountains—her gifts to us, petals for love, water for fertility, joy for beauty.

Sacred Folk: The collective moniker for any of the ancient mythical non-Innatraean races of Innatraea, used both as plural for the races collectively and as singular for an individual member. The actual number of races, and how many still survive, is unknown. The many stories about their magical powers and origins vary greatly between regions and races.

Saffiyah (Sah-FEE-yah): A young Tursi woman of the Textile Mahalle.

Sahn (Sahn): The open central ground of an Isaad encampment.

Sakturia (Sak-TOO-ree-ah): “Festival of Water and Light.” A Seylan festival in Kinrai, when revelers run naked through the torchlit streets while their neighbors douse them with water.

Salesi (Sah-LES-ee): Galley helper aboard Di Ariela.

Salty Talk: The Am’Ayim version of Innatraea’s common tongue.

Saqr (SAH-ker): “Falcon.” An Isaad word.

Saqr Waqt (SAH-ker WAKT): “The Falcon’s Time.” The Isaad festival of falconry, held on the longest day of the year and hosted by a different ahl each year.

Sarai (sah-rye): Daughter of Gisella and Herbert, sister of Amelia.

Sarina (Sah-REE-nah): A young Zimsway girl who works the curing shed.

Scatha Cadain (Sk-ath-ah Kad-ain): A Cathyoran woman warrior, member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Sceotan (SKAY-oh-tan): Island kingdom of the Weavers, located off the southern coast of Innatraea.

Sceotian (SKAY-oh-shun): The native people of Sceotan.

Sekher-Aten (SEH-ker Ah-TEN): “The Striding of Aten.” The Meroëti name for Skywalk.

Selene, The Moon Dog (Sell-EEN): One of the Three Sisters. Goddess of transition, roads, and the night.

Seme ando Balval (S-ee-m-ee ann-d-oh b-al-vol): “Seeds in the Wind.” A Danae belief that sometimes the winds of fate and destiny must pick an Innatraean up and put them where they belong, like planting seeds—often resulting in very hard times.

Sequoyah (Seh-KWOY-ah): A Ta’al Rinowhn storyteller, and father of Dyani.

Ser (Sehr): Honorific given to an Aedonian knight and lord.

Serafina, The Fire Snake (Seh-rah-FEE-nuh): One of the Three Sisters. Goddess of fire, light, passion, and rage.

Serra (Sehr-ah): Jonaas Al’Shane’s donkey.

Sevda (SEV-dah): Sofia’s mother; Halil’s wife.

Seylan (SAY-lahn): The native people of Royal Seyla.

Shahida (Shah-HEE-dah): “Witness.” Nedjima’s falcon.

Sha-kiro (Shah-keer-oh): “Shadow Key.” A special key-like apparatus, made by Myrtle.

Shal’ifar (Shahl-ee-fahr): “Whip Masters.” Ta’al Rinowhn elite warrior caste.

Shatranj (Shuh-TRAANJ): An ancient and very popular game of strategy played on a wooden board between two opponents. It originated in Royal Seyla.

Shedon (Sheh-don): An ancient and powerful Sacred Folk race. They possess the Dwr—visible veins of light beneath their skin that reveal their emotions.

Shendari (Shen-dar-ee): The Shedon language.

Shepherd King: A Great Tree in Aedonia bordering the King’s Highway.

Shukar (Shoo-kar): An Awen who bonds with Jonaas.

Sic juramentum facio (Sik yoo-rah-MEN-tum FAH-kee-oh): “I so swear.” The oath of the anointed in the Jhorian rite of confession.

Sica (si-ka): A dual-bladed knife carried by every anointed of Jhoras.

Sidhe (Shee): Winged cat-like Sacred Folk native to Royal Seyla and Amng’Khor, often found nesting in homes, barns, towers, and fields. Generally friendly, they bring gifts in exchange for help, but turn fierce when protecting their young.

Sigridur (sig-rid-ur): A Cathyoran woman, and a member of Trefn Cyfiawnder.

Silatuniq (Sil-ah-too-nik): “Breath Turner.” An Amarok title of unknown significance.

Silk Mahalle: A long-established Tursim mahalle devoted to silk and fine fabric, famous for dye techniques known only to a few families.

Silk Wyrm (Silk Wurm): Tiny Sacred Folk native to the Sunwall and Skywalk, kept by silk makers for a silk brighter and stronger than any other, able to hold Weaving.

Sinawali (See-nah-WAH-lee): The paired wooden sticks used as weapons in the Am’Ayim fighting art of Kali.

Sinawali Sticks (See-nah-WAH-lee): The paired wooden sticks used as weapons in the Am’Ayim fighting art of Kali.

The Singing Parrot: An inn on Sceotan overlooking the main Tzipcanu procession route.

Siofra (She-fra): A Sacred Folk race known for swapping human babies for their own changeling infant children.

Sione (See-OH-nay): Ship’s carpenter aboard Di Ariela.

Siren’s Rest: An inn in Tursim, run by Esma.

Sister Aranya “Mother” Jimaiyo (Ah-RAHN-yah Jee-MY-yoh): One of the three oldest living Weavers. She holds no official position, yet all of Sceotan loves and follows her.

Sister Evelyn Atwood (Ev-vel-lyn At-wood): A Weaver of Aedonian heritage. Priestess of Initiates and a member of the Greater Consensus.

Sister Sherielle Arsenault (Sheh-ree-EL Ar-seh-NOH): A Weaver of Nordrian heritage. She is a member of the Greater Consensus.

Sister Solange Mason (Sol-aanj may-sun): A Weaver of Seylan heritage.

Sister Taia Mirzoyan (TIE-uh Mirz-OH-yan): A Weaver of Sophenen heritage. A member of the Greater Consensus and an old friend of Crilla Sharone.

Siua River (See-oo-ah): A river in Amng’Khor.

Siveydiz (See-vay-DEEZ): A traditional Tursi stew of lamb and fresh green garlic in a creamy yogurt broth.

Sizanani (See-zah-nah-nee): A proud tribal people of southern Farundia who can change into fearsome lion-like warriors, and are often hired as mercenaries. Their women fight as fiercely as their men. Whether they are Innatraean or Sacred Folk is unknown.

Skywalk: A fortress city spanning the Sunwall, guarding Farundia’s northern border and the gate of the road through the mountains. Called Sekher-Aten by the Meroëti.

Sodiba (Soh-DEE-bah): A sacred Kievan sigil, such as the owl mask worn by one of the Vesterka Carici.

Sofia (Soh-FEE-ah): A Tursi woman. Daughter of Sevda and Halil.

Sophene (So-FEEN): A mountainous kingdom in western Innatraea that borders Kievan.

Sophenen (So-FIN-inn): The native people of Sophene.

Soqu (SOH-koo): “Horse.” A Ta’al Rinowhn whose spirit embodies horses, perhaps the tribe’s most honored role. They train wild horses for the tribe and guard the wild herds of Ayuwasi.

Soqu Unesdi Uwasi Ulitsvyasdi: “A horse trusts only those with brave hearts.” A Ta’al Rinowhn saying.

The Sovereign: The title of Sophene’s rulers.

Sovniya (SOV-nee-yah): One of the Vesterka Carici.

The Sprawl: A lawless city, infamous for its slave markets.

Stanislav (Stan-es-slav): An Aedonian man, a soldier, and servant to Aedonian high king Gregoire D’Arganse.

Stevana (Stev-ahn-ah): A shepherd, wife to Basaraba, and mother to Nicolai.

Styfnig (Stahv-nig): Elspeth Anwyl’s horse.

Sule (SOO-leh): A Seylan Aisna, and sister of Armis.

Sumadusi (Soo-mah-DOO-see): “Forest of Souls.” The ancient forest of Kievan.

Sunwall: A mountain range making up the northern border of Farundia. Called Khaset-Aten by the Meroëti.

Synnwyr y Galon (Sun-weer uh gal-on): “Heart Sense.” One of the Trefn Cyfiawnder Pwerau Cysegredig: the ability to sense when a woman ascends into the order by accepting Cyfeillach Gysegredig with a Dryad.

T

Ta’al Rinowhn (Tal): A war-like matrilineal Rinowhn tribe.

Tabaan (T-ab-ahn): An older Tursi woman.

Tahira (Tah-HEE-rah): The Umm as-Saqr, and Munira’s closest friend.

Tajhir (Taj-HEER): An Isaad man of Rashan’s ahl.

Ta’juo (Tah-joo-oh): A trading tribe of the Rinowhn, known for their fine jewelry and craftsmanship.

Tala ng Asin (Tah-lah nang Ah-SIN): “Tongue of Salt.” The native language of the Am’Ayim.

Talberston’s Crossing (Tahl-burr-stuns): A river town in Aedonia.

Taline Baghdasaryan (Tah-LEEN Bagh-dah-SAR-yan): Princess of Sophene, and heir of House Baghdasaryan.

Tanati (Tah-NAH-tee): “Queen Mother.” The ruler of Royal Seyla, who speaks only through silence. Marked by ritual scars and tattoos, and changed forever by the glamour of her ascension.

Tandoori (Tan-DOO-ree): A style of Tursi cooking.

Tane (TAH-nay): A sailor aboard Di Ariela.

Tangle Nymph: Sacred Folk dwelling in the dark heart of the Tanglewood, said to embody beauty, lust, and dark desire. Few who encounter one have the will to leave.

Tangle Wraith: Souls said to be trapped within the tangled trees deep in the Tanglewood, suffering eternal torment. Whether this is truth or legend is unknown.

The Tanglewood: A vast, ancient forested territory on the border of Aedonia and the Rinowhn Tribelands, east of Tursim. Rumors abound of strange creatures, hidden cities, and magic. Many of the Danae people live on its outskirts.

Taniwha (Tah-nee-fah): In Am’Ayim belief, the Sacred Folk a Tohora becomes when it passes, its spirit rising to the sky to join Lux’s realm.

Tapperhet gjør en mann rikere enn mynter: “Valor makes a man wealthier than coins.” A Nordrian saying.

Taqim (Tah-KEEM): A Tursi inventor who operates a kebab cart in the central market square, powered by a makina, a small steam-driven mechanism for turning the spit.

Taran Ahearne (tar-ahn ah-hear-nay): A now-deceased Cathyoran man, former King of Cathyor, and father to Cormac Ahearne.

Tarik (Tah-REEK): A Tursi wool merchant.

Tata (TAH-tah): “Father.” A Kievan word.

Tavid the Traveler (Tav-eed): A book written by a man of the same name. It details his many travels throughout Innatraea as well as cultural and historical information on nearly every kingdom and people, including the Sacred Folk.

Tawney (Tawn-ee): A horse that belongs to Gisella and Herbert.

Tayanita (Tie-ah-NEE-tah): A Ta’al Rinowhn farmer.

Tecuhtli (Teh-KOO-tlee): “Emperor.” The ruler of Amng’Khor.

Tegid (Teh-gid): A Cathyoran man, military quartermaster.

Teguro (Teh-goo-roh): “Lock box.” A Shedon sacred lockbox.

Tegwen Gwernydd (TEG-wen GWER-nith): A Cathyoran woman of Trefn Cyfiawnder, mother of Ailbhe, and cousin of Isolde Ahearne.

Tekes (TEH-kess): A traditional Tursi shawl or wrap.

Tenoch (TEH-noch): “Old Tenoch.” Nochalu’s handyman.

Teocihuatl (Teh-oh-SEE-wah-tl): The High Priestess of Amng’Khor.

Teokahl (Tay-oh-kahl): Capital city of Amng’Khor.

Textile Mahalle: A Tursim mahalle where weaving, dyeing, and finishing are done.

Tezcatl (TES-kah-tl): A black jungle cat of Amng’Khor, rarer and more dangerous than the Ocelotl.

Thali-rethu zi thali-zithu (TAH-lee REH-thoo zee TAH-lee ZEE-thoo): “Your pain is my pain.” A Seylan ritual phrase between close friends, answered with thar-rethu zi thar-zithu, “your heart is my heart.”

Thane Family (Thayn): Family friends of the Al’Shanes. Jacob, his wife Alice, and their daughter Rebecca.

Thar-exi zi hoku-tham katho zi-shath: “True friends are a refuge.” A Seylan saying.

Thava (Thaw-vah): A once-great alliance of kingdoms that took up most of northwestern Innatraea. It has now been split into its original smaller kingdoms, one of which is Sophene.

Thavan Prunelle (THAH-van Proo-NEL): A wine from Thava.

Theo (Tay-oh): The town drunk of Talberston’s Crossing.

Three Sisters: The daughters of Asherah: Rhiannon, Selene, and Serafina. Innatraea’s three sister goddesses and moons.

Three Sisters Crops: Corn, beans, and squash, planted together by the Rinowhn and named for the daughters of Asherah. Each nurtures the others, and together they sustain the tribes through the long winters.

Three-Quartered Cross: The holy symbol of Jhoras: three bars and a central pillar. Each bar stands for a realm of his authority—the divine, Innatraea, and the self.

Tiare Masudo (Tee-AH-ray Muh-SOO-doh): Bez Masudo’s first wife and the mother of Rangi. Hiraya’s younger sister.

Tilva (TIL-vah): A Seylan woman who grew up on the streets of Kinrai beside Sule and Armis, and became Tanati.

Tinia (Tin-ee-ah): A small Sacred Folk race native to Royal Seyla, known for their intelligence, group tactics, friendship to the kind, and the language-like etchings they leave in alleyways.

Tlailli Mahuizotl (TLY-lee Mah-wee-ZOH-tl): “Celebration of Pain.” The Amng festival of harvest and life, pain and growth, when the tribes of Amng’Khor gather in Teokahl under Ixchel’s peace.

Tlailli tlalli. Nenepantli ithualli masali.: “Pain is the soil. Wounds are where your light shines.” A Yn’Tuac saying.

Tlalli (TLAHL-lee): The cook at Nochalu.

Tlasaqen (Tlah-SAH-ken): “Sacred Light.” The great pyramid at the center of Teokahl, whose building ended the ancient Amng war and united the tribes.

Tlatoani (Tlah-toh-AH-nee): “Speaker” or “Ruler.” Among the Yn’Tuac, an insult for one who rules with words rather than strength.

Tobias (Toh-BYE-us): A Nordrian warrior, born in Aedonia and adopted into a Nordrian clan as a child after his birth parents were slain in a raid.

Tohora (Toh-hoh-rah): “Ocean Brothers.” The Am’Ayim word for whales, which are sacred to them, honored, and never hunted.

Toman (Toh-man): A shepherd.

Tomas (Toh-moss): A Cathyoran man, servant to the Bresling family.

Tonatiuh (Toh-NAH-tee-oo): A Yn’Tuac warrior, eldest son of Colel.

Trefn Cyfiawnder (Trev-n Kuh-vyown-dehr): “Order of Justice.” Cathyor’s legendary women warriors, who wield magic in battle connected to the Dryads.

The Troll Witch: A mysterious, immortal witch said to dwell among the trolls deep in the Ondri Swamp, cursing those who travel too far into the bogs.

Tsutero (Tsoo-teh-roh): Flying Sacred Folk of legendary beauty from a mythical kingdom beyond the Ara’Ayim Isles, said to choose individual Innatraeans as lifelong friends.

Tubig ng Tadhana (Tu-big nang tad-hanah): “Tides of Doom.” The Am’Ayim end of the world, where all tides eventually lead and Caim swallows Asin.

Tuchar Kralichesi (TOO-char Krah-lee-CHEH-see): Tursi for “Merchant Queen.”

Tulant (TOO-lant): A Tursi head-wrap worn by men, distinct from the maysak. Common among librarians and scholars.

Tursi (TUR-see): The native people of Tursim.

Tursim (TUR-seem): A large city-state bordering the Tanglewood and the Rinowhn Tribelands, where the Victory River meets the sea. It is the largest and richest trade city on Innatraea.

Tytus (Ty-tus): An Aedonian man, an anointed of Jhoras, and Commander of a Jhorian Fist.

Tzelem (Tseh-lem): A male Amarok.

Tzipcanu (Tseep-KAH-noo): “Festival of Birds.” Sceotan’s spring festival welcoming the return of the migrating flocks, with costumes, parades, song, and offerings of seed and fruit.

Tzitzin (TSEET-seen): A Chichil warrior.

U

Ubuki (Oo-boo-kee): An amber-colored, sweet Shedon sauce.

Ubumanuko (Oo-boo-mah-noo-koh): A brown, savory Shedon sauce.

Ukomoka kuri Asherah (Oo-ko-mo-ka koo-ree Ash-ERR-ah): “Child of Asherah.” The title given to a descendant of Asherah.

Umm as-Saqr (Oom as-SAH-ker): “Mother of the Falcon.” The leader of the Banat as-Saqr.

Umunyu (Oo-moon-yoo): A white, salty Shedon sauce.

Umutima w’Imana (Oo-moo-tee-mah wee-mah-nah): “Heart of the Goddess.” The location of Asherah’s monument in Imana-hantu.

Umutobe (Oo-moo-toh-bay): The collective term for Shedon sauces.

Umwana (Oom-wah-nuh): Shedon word for baby.

Umwesho (Oom-weh-sho): Shedon intimacy involving the merger of consciousness through the Dwr. It creates a deep connection but makes separation painful afterward; many Shedon gave it up because the tearing apart became unbearable.

Umweshongo (Oom-weh-shon-go): The permanent merger. Within Umwesho, Shedon feel the pull to stay merged forever as one consciousness, together in bliss, and must resist it each time they choose to separate.

Uroku (Oo-roh-koo): A magical wooden platform used by the Shedon that moves up and down.

Urugendo (Oo-roo-gen-do): “Honored Journey.” A title of honor among the Shedon.

Urukundo (Oo-roo-koon-do): The Shedon word for love, considered a flowing force rather than a fixed state.

V

Vardavar (Var-dah-VAR): “Festival of Rose and Water.” Sophene’s summer festival of love, when rose petals are released on the wind and rosewater is poured into the river.

Venator (Ven-ee-tor): “Huntsman.” Woodsmen hired by various Aedonians as hunters, scouts, and trackers.

Vesterka (Ves-TER-kah): “Mistress of Death.” A Kievan woman trained to guide her people through birth, life, and dying, and to lead the spirits of the dead to Kanraphim. There are only ever eighty-one.

Vesterka Carici (Ves-TER-kah TSAH-ree-tsee): “Empresses of Death.” The nine masked Vesterka who hold the highest authority among the Kievan.

Victory River: The greatest river on Innatraea, wide and deep enough for seagoing ships. It flows south out of northern Aedonia past Haversfjord, then west and south across the Rinowhn Tribelands, swollen by the River Marnah, until it meets the sea at Tursim.

Vishapakar (Vee-shah-pah-KAR): Ancient stones carved from the living rock of Sophene’s mountains, found throughout the kingdom.

Vishra Lerrneri (VEESH-rah Lehr-neh-REE): “Dragon of the Mountains.” The Baghdasaryan family palace in Mayrik Lerr.

Völva (VUL-vah): A Nordrian seeress.

W

Wachan (WAH-chan): In Amng belief, the power of the harsh sky realm, which Tlasaqen joins to Ixchel’s jungles.

Walela (Wah-LAY-lah): “Hummingbird.” A low Ta’al Rinowhn humming, offered as comfort and hope in moments of sorrow.

Waling-waling Flowers (Wall-ing): The beautiful and delicate flowers native to the Ara’Ayim Isles. There are dozens of species in varying colors, each with its meaning.

The Weavers: An ancient organization made up of those who can Weave, drawn from all over Innatraea.

Weavers’ Rings: An often threaded and gemmed ring made from unknown elements. They are the identifying mark of a Weaver to ordinary Innatraeans. Each ring is believed to be unique to its wearer, the threads, symbols, or gems holding specific meanings, and is rumored to change over time along with its Weaver, though little else is known about them.

Weaving: The innate ability to see the threads of magical power that make up Innatraea and manipulate them at will. It is a rare trait.

Whakaute (Wha-KOW-tee): “Respect.” An Am’Ayim gesture of respect, made by touching the index and middle fingers to one’s lips.

Will of Jhoras (Jo-ras): Jhoras’s Will and power enacted, or used, by his followers on Innatraea.

X

Ximena (Hee-MEH-nah): A woman who tends Nochalu’s lower gardens.

Y

Y Gaseg Wen (Uh GAS-eg Wen): “The White Mare.” Rhiannon’s mare, a horse skull draped in white and green and carried door to door on Hirnos. Her riders challenge each household to a contest of rhymes.

Yamabiko (Yah-mah-bee-koh): Mountain Sacred Folk of Imperial Shinoda’s high passes near the Mu’ul Mountains, said to answer travelers’ voices back from the peaks.

Yamina (Yah-MEE-nah): An Isaad Banat as-Saqr who flies small, fierce birds.

Yauhan ng Tadhana (Yah-uh-han nang tad-hanah): “Crew of Destiny.” An Am’Ayim phrase for a ship’s crew that was destined to be together.

Yenilenme Aci’dan Gelir (Yeh-nee-len-meh Ah-jee-dahn Geh-LEER): “Renewal comes from pain.” The central proverb of Alsiyama doctrine, and the saying that gives the Bahar Atesi its meaning.

Yenyu (YEN-yoo): “Pretty.” A sparrow, and Kolotzi’s mate.

Yilmaz (YIL-mahz): A Tursi merchant.

Yn’Tuac (In-too-AHK): An Amng warrior tribe who honor their greatest warriors openly before all.

Yuhni (YOO-nee): A Ta’al Rinowhn word for child, also used as an endearment.

Yusef (YOO-sef): The Head Librarian of Tursim’s Librarians’ Guild.

Ywen (UH-wen): “The Yew.” A tree of Llwyn y Brigau.

Z

Z’ahkron de la Kosecha (Zah-KRON deh lah Koh-SEH-chah): “Memory of the Harvest.” The Zimsway Rinowhn fall ceremony honoring the haze flower harvest, with fire, music, dance, and the ceremonial smoking of haze flower.

Z’ahkron shel ahavah (Zah-KRON shel Ah-HAH-vah): “Memories of Love.” A Zimsway ritual of sharing memories passed down through their ancestors.

Zaniya (Zah-NEE-yah): Ollin’s late wife.

Zaynab (ZAY-nab): An elder Isaad Banat as-Saqr who taught Munira, and in time taught everyone.

Zehava (Zeh-HAH-vah): Matriarch of Sequoyah’s Ta’al Rinowhn tribe.

Zimsway Rinowhn (ZIMS-way Rin-OH-in): One of the Rinowhn tribes, known as Innatraea’s predominant experts in Haze Flower farming.

Životnata sila na Kievan e i vo korenot i vo krvta: “The life force of Kievan is in both root and blood.” A Kievan saying.

Zuniga Stone (Zuh-nee-gah): Rough stone pendants lined with veins of blue, gold, and purple. They are somehow connected to the Zimsway Rinowhn.