Nervak[edit]

Nervak is an imperial civilization spanning multiple spheres along the Sëriq̃in River. Governed by a Malik chosen through inter-clan lineage rather than simple inheritance, it is structured around ritual unity and the doctrine that "seven flames make one." Its ceremonial capital is Ju’kov, a neutral sphere belonging to no single clan.

Overview[edit]

Nervak is the dominant political and cultural power of the central River system. Its identity is defined by the balance of the Six Living Clans of Nerva, shared labor among rulers, and sacred concepts such as Kelûn-Zûrak and Ezbarun Keth. The empire rejects hereditary absolutism in favor of cross-clan legitimacy.

History[edit]

Origins[edit]

The early Nervak clans unified under a single sovereign during the first great Kelûn-Zûrak, when the “seven flames” were said to answer one voice. This period established the symbolic framework that still governs the empire.

Major Events[edit]

The establishment of Ezbarun Keth under Malik Zathen Ezarûn
The destruction of Cevran and the Erasure of the Athyrn
The consolidation of the six remaining clans following The Encounter at Cevran

Geography / Structure[edit]

Nervak spans multiple spheres, each governed by one of the great clans:

The capital sphere, Ju’kov, is administered collectively and serves as the ritual and administrative center of the empire.

Culture / Society[edit]

Nervak culture emphasizes discipline, martial competence, ritual humility, and balance between clans. Leadership is expected to share in physical labor and ceremonial obligation. Key social distinctions include:

Vekir — formally knighted warriors
Zaneth — veteran champions proven in lethal combat
Unbound warriors (see Errant Zaneth)

Central philosophical concepts include Kelûn-Zûrak (“The Calling of the Flame”) and the belief that no single clan may dominate another.

Politics[edit]

The empire is ruled by a Malik, whose legitimacy depends on cross-clan lineage and ritual recognition. Each clan governs its own sphere while maintaining oath-bound unity through shared rites such as the Talûth and oversight of strategic infrastructure like Sterfs.

Political stability was permanently altered following The Encounter at Cevran, when the Athyrn clan was erased and the empire was reduced from seven to six living flames.

Notable Figures[edit]

Technology / Magic / Unique Traits[edit]

Nervak society relies on ancient infrastructure known as Sterfs, landing sites for Wains that connect spheres along the Sëriq̃in River. Though widely used, their mechanisms remain poorly understood.

The empire also maintains sacred technological traditions tied to the comet-forge of Ezzenvalûn on Almashi.

Timeline[edit]

Date	Event
Age of Seven Flames	Unified under first recorded Kelûn-Zûrak
Reign of Malik Zathen Ezarûn	Institution of Ezbarun Keth
The Silent Hour	The Encounter at Cevran and Erasure of the Athyrn

References[edit]