Stínian

Stínian refers to the ethnolinguistic group native to the highland region called Stínia in the eastern part of the continent of Alara.

The Stínian homeland spans the Stínian Highlands, a rugged area of forests, limestone ridges, and terraced farms. The climate is temperate to cool, and rivers run through narrow valleys that support farming and small settlements.

They speak Stínian, a language of the Stinic branch related to neighboring tongues, with two main dialects, Aran and Lovi. The writing system uses an adapted syllabary, and oral tradition remains strong.

Culture is organized around kin groups and village councils. Craft traditions include weaving, pottery, and ironwork. Seasonal festivals celebrate harvests and solstices, with music, dance, and storytelling accompanying communal meals.

Historically, the Stínian emerged as a distinct community by the 10th century, with regional rulers in the highlands. In contemporary terms, they are organized as autonomous communes within a federal state, preserving language and culture.

The economy relies on subsistence and small-scale markets, with agriculture (grain and tubers), pastoralism, and craft production in textiles, pottery, and metalwork. Tourism focuses on landscape, heritage, and traditional crafts.