Ibex

Species

"Barhan", they call themselves, but they're the only ones to do so. Both deer and gazelles refer to the descendants of the banished Barhans by a new name: "Ibex".

Not every Barhan kneeled down before High King Isifikh after losing the war—some preferred to face the hardships of the eternal winter far beyond the Spine of Ahimaí over giving up all of their traditions. Those brave few that settled far beyond the reaches of Acazhor found protection and company in the forests of Makedar that populated the harsh lands of Aktemuisirat, for they were all children of Hirub.

These mountain goats share little resemblance to their desert-dwelling ancestors; the harsh conditions of Aktemuisirat gave place to shorter and sturdier Ibex, greatly educated warriors who are often hired as caravan guards and mercenaries in petty inside wars all over the kingdom.

History

After the anhilation of Barhan civilization in Basakserat, the Ibex clung to the language and worship of their ancestors. They continue their worship of Hirub, and pray for the day a Jasif will lead them to a new golden age.

Social Standing

Ibex find themselves in quite a unique situation in regards to deer: being that they are not perceived as being the same species as gazelles, they managed to escape the history that still haunts their closest siblings in spite of being the most ardent defendants of what they perceive as "True Barhan" culture.

Even though deer were the direct cause of their situation, the two species are an astounding example of peaceful cohabitation, going as far as to intermarry with the few tribes of deer that live so far up north. This association was most likely helped by the fact that Ibex culture at large holds a deep resentment towards gazelles, seeing them as traitors that preferred to exchange their freedom for safety.