Culture and Society of the Berturracioi
Introduction
The society of Berturracioi is built upon devotion to their oracles and the creation of music, art and dance. About half of the Berturracioi are nomads who travel in caravans between the oases; the rest live in the cities and towns of the oases and the coast. They are known for their distinctive silver appearance, a result of the sun protection they wear at all times.
Societal Structure
Berturracioi hold onto a fairly rigid social structure as a result of their survival in a difficult land. At the top are the oracles, women of the tribes trained in the Path of Nulai at the House of Nulai, who read fate and guide their tribes. Below them are master artisans followed by apprentice artisans. Every aspect of Berturracioi society is considered an artform, from art itself to cooking to raising children.
Religion and Spirituality
Most Berturracioi revere Nulai, the Ascendant Spirit of fate and destiny, randomness and chaos. Their oracles are Osiari of the Path of Nulai who read fate for their tribes. Arihis is honored as the spirit of the desert and the source of the glass of Beilisia. Nāaon, the Ascendant Spirit of illusions and shadows, is regarded warily, and mirages are blamed on him. Yeparchism survives as a minority faith in the cities.
Language
Berturracioi speak Berturraci, a flowing, poetic language.
Music and Dance
Berturracioi music mimics the rhythms of the wind and sand:
- Flutes – Crafted from hollow desert reeds, mimicking the sound of shifting dunes.
- Drums – Made of vibrating metal plates, producing deep, rolling beats like distant thunder.
- Wind Chimes – Made of hollow glass, producing light airy sounds.
Berturracioi Dancer
Clothing and Adornments
Traditional clothing are simple white coverings meant to protect from the harsh desert environment.