Hashun is one of Ryll's smaller continents. It mostly lies across the southern temperate zone, but warm currents give it some tropical zones too. Although small, Hashun has the highest habitat density on Ryll, much like the distant Shurush Mountains on Hrimroul. Hashun's true fame, though, lies in its connection to Ryll's most famous legend, a legend that persists to this day.
The Glade of Light ~ Nrassh Peaks ~ Wintermore ~ White Cove ~ Wide Run ~ Copper Rock ~ The Transient Arches ~ Nightfell ~ Vivi Cliffs ~ Dead Vault
Niwan Moor ~ Lesser Tashishi Isles ~ Feffefu Isles
The Archetypes
Long ago, goes the legend of the Archetypes, ten beings came across the young world of Ryll. Here they discovered a rich and vibrant land, full of deep woods and open plains, burning deserts and soaring mountains. They became patrons of this world, and from the animals that roamed its land, they shaped a creature that could think and reason, so as to fully know the beauty of the land. Each being created a slightly different species, so that together, no part of Ryll would be without thinking life. These beings were the Archetype Spirits, their creations the first kiarrcats.
But there was a problem. The spirits longed to roam the world of Ryll, but they were unable to take physical form without causing massive devastation. Their power was simply too great, so they were confined to speaking in dreams and visions. At last, they came to an agreement and sought out a pact with their children. Each spirit would, with permission, inhabit the body of a single kiarr and see through their eyes, sharing the world with them. The ten kiarrcats who agreed became the first Archetypes.
However much this story is true depends on who you ask, but the Archetypes still roam the world today. There are always ten, one for each species of kiarrcat, and no more. As each one dies, a new Archetype is born to become the next host, and the living Archetypes seek out the cub. Today, the Archetypes live on the continent of Hashun. Hashun is a relatively small landmass, but thanks to its location and central mountain range, it contains a large range of habitats - a perfect gathering place for representatives of all species. Archetypes are distinguished by a set of unique curling markings trailing up their forelegs and shoulders. These markings are too ornate and complex to be natural and are present at birth.
Despite their status, the Archetypes generally live normal lives - they may take mates, have families (though the powers don't pass on), pursue any hobbies they wish, etc. They do act as informal representatives of their respective species, but as kiarr, like most cats, have a limited interest in authority and hierarchy, it would be stretching things to call them leaders. The Archetype Spirits that dwell within them are likewise content to leave them be. They will not pry into their host's minds, and they don't wrest control of their hosts except in the most dire of emergencies, such as when their lives are threatened. When this happens, though, the Archetype's already formidable magical power (they are strong magic users almost by nature) is magnified many times, and they become some of the most destructive forces on Ryll. Perhaps it is a good thing, then, that the Archetype Spirits are so laid back. They don't communicate much either, as they rarely give a straight answer and speak in a dreamy, free associating style that even their hosts find difficult to interpret. It is unsure if they are purposefully witholding information or simply cannot convey their concepts in a way that mortals can understand, but on occasion they have hinted at the existance of other, similar beings to their own kind, not all of whom are as friendly - perhaps even an entire ecosystem of spirits that cannot be imagined by mortal minds.
Unlike some of these hinted-at beings, the Archetype Spirits do not place any demands on their children, nor do they require worship. They do not even care if the kiarr believe in them or not. They are content simply to watch the world through the eyes of their hosts, the only term of their ancient bargain.
Knowledge of the Archetypes
Whether or not the Archetypes and Archetype Spirits are common knowledge depends on the region. On Hashun, most kiarrcats know that they exist and the basics of how they work (reincarnation, distinctive markings, a bond with the spirits). They will likely be able to name at least some of the current Archetypes. On other parts of Ryll, the picture is more varied. Kiarrs living in well trafficked areas that get a lot of visitors - and hence news - will likely have a similar understanding, although they may not be as up to date as Hashun kiarrs and may have gaps in their knowledge. ("They're those ones with the strange markings and some sort of special power, aren't they?") In more remote areas, only rumours may be present, distorted from many tellings, if anything is known at all.