Kiarrcats of Ryll

Lesser Tashishi Isles

The Lesser Tashishis are a collection of tiny, jungle blanketed islands off the north coast of Hashun. Despite their size the islands are a busy place, as they lie upon the southbound route to Hashun from the further north Greater Tashishis. This route is heavily travelled by both Air couriers and Water boats and the islands are a typical nexus of news, information, and tired travellers looking for rest and good food. The pleasant climate and friendly atmosphere mean that many choose to stay, especially couriers and boatkiarrs looking for a place to settle down in their older years.


The Children of Eyrah

All is not so simple on the islands, though, with a presence of kiarrcats who follow the path of a spirit named Eyrah. It is unknown where this group originates from, and the members won't say, although it's uncertain whether this is because they're sworn to secrecy or simply don't know. Whichever is true, their strongest presence is here. In most cases they would be unremarkable. Even so close to the land of the Archetypes, small religions based around the word of spirits (or entities that are believed to be spirits, or other things entirely) are not uncommon. But Eyrah, if he exists, is a little more atypical. His followers claim that he demands absolute obedience and have set up a hierarchical structure for their organisation, an unusual thing among the normally independent kiarrcats. But even this is not unknown across Ryll - not everyone fits the same mould. What is concerning is that Eyrah is said by his followers to stand opposed to the ten Archetype Spirits, that he is the one true creator of Ryll and the kiarrcats, and that the Archetypes were sent by his enemies to lead his children astray.

According to his followers, Eyrah is associated with the sun, either its personification or emissary depending on who you ask. Kiarrcats with primarily yellow, orange, or gold pelts are seen as closer to him than others, and often rise to high ranks within their ranks for this fact alone. They are typically known as "sun kiarrs".

Perhaps fortunately, the followers of Eyrah do not appear to be readying an attack any time soon, and they are few enough in number that most do not see them as a threat, but simply another unusual facet of the island life. Nevertheless, they have been slowly but steadily growing in numbers and have been around for at least fifty years, enough to establish themselves in the islands' cultural landscape. For now, at least, this rarely goes beyond jokes of being approached by kiarrs eager to spread Eyrah's word while passing through the rainforest, annoying but not violent, although they may take greater interest in visitors with gold, yellow, or orange pelts. It remains to be seen what the future holds.