Centaurs

Thryssamar is a broad, untamed land of heavy forests and open plains where most Centaurs trace their roots. The land perfectly suits their dual nature: deep woods provide cover and tradition, while wide grasslands offer freedom to roam, speed, and vital hunting grounds. Centaur legend speaks of Astrael the First Treader, a being who ran so swiftly that the land itself learned how to grow beneath his steps. When he vanished, mighty forests rose where his hooves struck deepest, and plains spread where the wind followed longest. It is held that as long as Centaurs honor the land with motion, memory, and restraint, Thryssamar will never truly be conquered—only wounded. Whether this is theology or history is a distinction the Centaurs do not draw.

Centaurs organize themselves into large kin-groups called Strides. Loyalty is absolute to one’s Stride first, but all major decisions are made collectively through broad consensus. They are functional builders, utilizing wood, living trees, and stone only when necessary, and they actively avoid reshaping the land unless absolutely required. Most Centaurs spend part of their lives traveling the world. Many return later in life. Dying away from Thryssamar is considered deeply unlucky—a cultural misfortune significant enough that Centaurs traveling great distances make arrangements for the possibility of not returning.

Leadership is based on respect, demonstrated wisdom, and proven ability to lead a Stride or significant hunting party. Vaeloruun serves as a neutral gathering ground where all Stride leaders meet seasonally to discuss major issues, arbitrate disputes, and formalize treaties through collective agreement. The Centaurs lack a rigid centralized empire. This flexible structure ensures autonomy while allowing unified action when the land is threatened.

The Elves of Caelthryn are allied neighbors to the north, sharing interest in preserving the natural environment and maintaining a history of mutual respect. Relations with humans in the Kingdom of Tercento are cautiously diplomatic with wary awareness of expansionist tendencies. Various populations from Gorhask Plain and the Ashbound March occasionally encroach on Centaur hunting grounds to the West, leading to frequent skirmishes. Relations with dwarves are strained due to historical conflicts over resource extraction and differing philosophies on land use.

For settlements, military doctrine, and neighbor relations in detail, see The Land of Thryssamar.

See also Lands of Thrapsus and Their Peoples, Elves, Humans, Pig-Faced Orcs, Goblins and Hobgoblins, and Dwarves.