Kerhots

Kerhots are a fictional ethnolinguistic group created for worldbuilding and speculative fiction. In the constructed setting, they inhabit the Kerhot Basin and nearby coastal regions of the continent of Veridia, where rivers and ports drive exchange with inland communities.

Etymology: The name Kerhot stems from the Kerhot language, with ker- meaning water and hot meaning people; the term is attested in early regional chronicles within the setting.

Geography and demographics: The Kerhots live in river towns, marshlands, and small ports. They maintain clan-based social networks and speak Kerhotic dialects such as Arlen and Vashi alongside the regional lingua franca.

Language and writing: Kerhot is described as an agglutinative language with a flexible word order; traditional scripts were used on clay and wood, later supplemented by a regional script.

History: The Kerhotic population formed along the Veridian river networks during the Bronze Age, developing crafts and boatbuilding. Through contact with traders and neighboring powers, they experienced periods of autonomy and political integration during medieval and early modern eras.

Culture and society: Kinship networks and craft guilds organize daily life. Notable arts include basketry, pottery, and canoe decoration; ceremonial music features percussion and reed instruments.

Economy and technology: Fishing, agriculture (rice and millet), and craft production sustained traditional livelihoods. In modern times, the Kerhots participate in regional commerce, light industry, and tourism while preserving core crafts.

Religion and belief: Kerhot spirituality blends animism with ancestor veneration, centered on river shrines and communal temples. Major festivals celebrate water, harvests, and the memory of founding ancestors.