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O NDERON
When most in the galaxy think of the world of Onderon, many call to mind their resplendent architecture, extravagant aurodium statues or perhaps the elegance and grandeur of their many adorned palaces. Although a fact of the present, the word “Onderon” itself was born of two words in the archaic Onderonian language of Laithraic; “Ondór”, which meant “stone”, and was a poetically grieving way to refer a planet, and “ông”, which could mean “anguish”, “torment”, “agony” or other nouns to relay a feeling of dread or a great pain. “Ondórông” thus translated, effectively, as “[the] world of anguish”. This curse harkened back to Onderon’s earliest days, when the world was savage and utterly unforgiving to the “Laithra”, or “[the] Forgotten”.
Because of the lack of record keeping among the Laithra, who were the earliest Human Onderonian colonists, it was unknown when the first Onderonians arrived, and thus unknown when Onderonian society first began. It was known, however, that the Laithra arrived on Onderon, and its moons, thousands of years ago, well predating the advent of the Sith Lords and their Ziost armies.
The Laithra were originally refugees from a war-torn sector of the galaxy, occupying what is known as the Unknown Regions. It was a mistake in navigation and hyperspace coordination that led to the eventual arrival to the Onderonian system, as the vessels in the flotilla bringing the refugees out of the “hessamar” (literally “[the] dead worlds”) arrived without the means to plot another course back into the Unknown Regions. Although most of the worlds in the Onderonian systems were occupied during this time, the vast majority of the Laithra landed on “Nessama” (literally “[the] new world”).
Less that two days after the Laithra landed down on Nessama, almost a tenth of the refugees were slaughtered by the planet’s vicious predators, ravenous parasites and diseases, and toxic flora. Most of the youths and well-aged met their demise within the first few months of occupation on Nessama, the tragedy of which drove most of the Laithra apart from each other. In time, communities formed and began to survive after painfully-learned lessons. Nonetheless, their Laithra continued to dwindle in numbers, succumbing to failing strength to fight against the forces of nature on Nessama.
It was during this time that one of the Laithra tribes, the strongest and largest, proposed a means of survival; the unification of the many peoples to not merely survive, but to prosper. The process of unification was slow, taking almost a century of slow accumulation. However, the accord was eventually reached, with the strongest tribe that made the proposal commanding the Laithra. This tribe would eventually become the precursors of the House of Dendup. After proposing the building of the “Ellerham” (literally “sky wall” or “heaven’s wall”), another tribe, precursors to the House of Bonteri, similarly rose to prominence by designing the wall’s structure. Other tribes also rose in power and influence, most of which eventually led to the families that would become the noble Houses of Bonaga, Rash, Kira and Vaklu.
Several centuries passed before the galaxy finally took notice of Nessama, which by that time was more universally known as Ondórông, the world of anguish. Unfortunately, the suffering of the Laithra only magnified as those who took notice was not the Great Republic or the Jedi Knights, but the Sith Lords. Expanding and stripping worlds for resources and labor, the Laithra were overwhelmed almost instantly with the Sith advent. Although resistant to Sith occupation, the Laithra were dominated following a purge of 20% of the population, most of whom were children. Forced into slavery, the Laithra were reeducated in many avenues, some of which ironically laid the groundwork for Onderon’s technological modernization.
Most of the Laithra were forced to learn Basic and were educated in modern technological architecture. Other engineering and scientific skills were inculcated into the Laithra populations to make them more a more efficient slave labor force, which lasted for decades before the Jedi Knights and Great Republic’s armies drove the Sith Lords from Ondórông. With the Republic’s aid, the Laithra began extensive reconstructive efforts. The Ellerham was rebuilt larger than ever, many architectural and cultural Nabooian and Alderaanian influences were brought in, and before long, the “Onderonians”, as the Republic had come to call them, were well on their way to being ready to join the galactic community of the Republic.
Thousands of years passed and Ondórông, known in Basic as “Onderon”, had achieved a level of prosperity and technological achievements equalizing them to the vast majority of the galaxy. The most powerful of the Laithra tribes had evolved into the eight noble houses; the Royal House Dendup, House Bonteri, House Taevarion, House Oveiden, House Kira, House Bonaga, House Rash and House Vaklu.
Because of the lack of record keeping among the Laithra, who were the earliest Human Onderonian colonists, it was unknown when the first Onderonians arrived, and thus unknown when Onderonian society first began. It was known, however, that the Laithra arrived on Onderon, and its moons, thousands of years ago, well predating the advent of the Sith Lords and their Ziost armies.
The Laithra were originally refugees from a war-torn sector of the galaxy, occupying what is known as the Unknown Regions. It was a mistake in navigation and hyperspace coordination that led to the eventual arrival to the Onderonian system, as the vessels in the flotilla bringing the refugees out of the “hessamar” (literally “[the] dead worlds”) arrived without the means to plot another course back into the Unknown Regions. Although most of the worlds in the Onderonian systems were occupied during this time, the vast majority of the Laithra landed on “Nessama” (literally “[the] new world”).
Less that two days after the Laithra landed down on Nessama, almost a tenth of the refugees were slaughtered by the planet’s vicious predators, ravenous parasites and diseases, and toxic flora. Most of the youths and well-aged met their demise within the first few months of occupation on Nessama, the tragedy of which drove most of the Laithra apart from each other. In time, communities formed and began to survive after painfully-learned lessons. Nonetheless, their Laithra continued to dwindle in numbers, succumbing to failing strength to fight against the forces of nature on Nessama.
It was during this time that one of the Laithra tribes, the strongest and largest, proposed a means of survival; the unification of the many peoples to not merely survive, but to prosper. The process of unification was slow, taking almost a century of slow accumulation. However, the accord was eventually reached, with the strongest tribe that made the proposal commanding the Laithra. This tribe would eventually become the precursors of the House of Dendup. After proposing the building of the “Ellerham” (literally “sky wall” or “heaven’s wall”), another tribe, precursors to the House of Bonteri, similarly rose to prominence by designing the wall’s structure. Other tribes also rose in power and influence, most of which eventually led to the families that would become the noble Houses of Bonaga, Rash, Kira and Vaklu.
Several centuries passed before the galaxy finally took notice of Nessama, which by that time was more universally known as Ondórông, the world of anguish. Unfortunately, the suffering of the Laithra only magnified as those who took notice was not the Great Republic or the Jedi Knights, but the Sith Lords. Expanding and stripping worlds for resources and labor, the Laithra were overwhelmed almost instantly with the Sith advent. Although resistant to Sith occupation, the Laithra were dominated following a purge of 20% of the population, most of whom were children. Forced into slavery, the Laithra were reeducated in many avenues, some of which ironically laid the groundwork for Onderon’s technological modernization.
Most of the Laithra were forced to learn Basic and were educated in modern technological architecture. Other engineering and scientific skills were inculcated into the Laithra populations to make them more a more efficient slave labor force, which lasted for decades before the Jedi Knights and Great Republic’s armies drove the Sith Lords from Ondórông. With the Republic’s aid, the Laithra began extensive reconstructive efforts. The Ellerham was rebuilt larger than ever, many architectural and cultural Nabooian and Alderaanian influences were brought in, and before long, the “Onderonians”, as the Republic had come to call them, were well on their way to being ready to join the galactic community of the Republic.
Thousands of years passed and Ondórông, known in Basic as “Onderon”, had achieved a level of prosperity and technological achievements equalizing them to the vast majority of the galaxy. The most powerful of the Laithra tribes had evolved into the eight noble houses; the Royal House Dendup, House Bonteri, House Taevarion, House Oveiden, House Kira, House Bonaga, House Rash and House Vaklu.
C
ULTURE
Contemporary Onderonian culture was flamboyant, extravagant and sophisticated. A monarchical society, political, governmental, architectural, agricultural and military power almost exclusively rested among the aristocracy in some form or another. In turn, the vast majority of the aristocratic heirs spend their entire lives learning how to be effective leaders. Because of the dangerous wildlife still thriving on Onderon, Onderonians live within “artamérs” (effectively translating as “fortress towns” or “citadel cities”), which were massive, densely packed and heavily defended cities that were spread over the expanse of Onderon's surface. There were hundreds of artamérs, including the capital of Iziz, with thousands of lesser cities, towns and villages.
Patriotism is very strong among the Onderonians, with even those who indulge wasteful habits restraining themselves to the point that it does not impede their ability to effectively serve the Crown. Although most never attain the power available to the aristocracy, the vast majority of the common people can achieve exceptional authority through merit or strategic plutocratic methods. The Kingdom of Onderon is ruled by a sovereign, either from or married into House Dendup. Nevertheless, the other noble houses form an oligarchic governing body known as the Consensus. The vast majority of the Consensus’ duties handle the day to day matters of the worlds within the kingdom’s sphere of governance.
Compared to most cultures in the modern galaxy, Onderonians are spiritual and religion has a relatively prominent role among them. Although introduced to many religions through their era of reconstitution, only two religions have actually gained a foundation on Onderon. The first was known as Laithraism, Laithra Paganism or Onderonian Paganism. Most Onderonians considered Laithraism as a classical part of their people’s past, with only a small minority still engaging in Laithraic practices. The ancient Laithra worshiped a pantheon of deities known as the Paragods, which embodies concepts. Much of Laithraic paganism was lost during the Sith occupation, although a great quantity was recovered through the centuries. Force-sensitives played a particularly important role in Laithra Paganism, and were known as the Godborn, newborn Paragods that first had to complete a material existence before taking their place in the Godplane.
Following the Sith domination, Laithraic paganism was supplanted by a generalized faith in the Force as the rest of the galaxy understood it. The vast majority of Onderonians actively believe in the Force and revere it. Although Force-sensitives are not themselves revered, they are respected for their connection to the Force, and many noble families use Force-sensitivity, if occurring in their family, to their political or social advantage. Most Force-sensitive Onderonians–aware or otherwise–do not leave to the Jedi Order, although it was not unheard of, and there is no training regimen for Force-sensitives on Onderon.
Virtually all Onderonians speak Galactic Basic, which exists as their primary official language. However, most still actively know and speak Laithraic, the original language of the Onderonians’ ancestors and precursors. This is especially so among the Onderonian aristocracy, who are often prideful of their heritage and culture. Indeed, many ceremonial, official or religious events on Onderon are conducted in Laithraic, as opposed to Basic.
Patriotism is very strong among the Onderonians, with even those who indulge wasteful habits restraining themselves to the point that it does not impede their ability to effectively serve the Crown. Although most never attain the power available to the aristocracy, the vast majority of the common people can achieve exceptional authority through merit or strategic plutocratic methods. The Kingdom of Onderon is ruled by a sovereign, either from or married into House Dendup. Nevertheless, the other noble houses form an oligarchic governing body known as the Consensus. The vast majority of the Consensus’ duties handle the day to day matters of the worlds within the kingdom’s sphere of governance.
Compared to most cultures in the modern galaxy, Onderonians are spiritual and religion has a relatively prominent role among them. Although introduced to many religions through their era of reconstitution, only two religions have actually gained a foundation on Onderon. The first was known as Laithraism, Laithra Paganism or Onderonian Paganism. Most Onderonians considered Laithraism as a classical part of their people’s past, with only a small minority still engaging in Laithraic practices. The ancient Laithra worshiped a pantheon of deities known as the Paragods, which embodies concepts. Much of Laithraic paganism was lost during the Sith occupation, although a great quantity was recovered through the centuries. Force-sensitives played a particularly important role in Laithra Paganism, and were known as the Godborn, newborn Paragods that first had to complete a material existence before taking their place in the Godplane.
Following the Sith domination, Laithraic paganism was supplanted by a generalized faith in the Force as the rest of the galaxy understood it. The vast majority of Onderonians actively believe in the Force and revere it. Although Force-sensitives are not themselves revered, they are respected for their connection to the Force, and many noble families use Force-sensitivity, if occurring in their family, to their political or social advantage. Most Force-sensitive Onderonians–aware or otherwise–do not leave to the Jedi Order, although it was not unheard of, and there is no training regimen for Force-sensitives on Onderon.
Virtually all Onderonians speak Galactic Basic, which exists as their primary official language. However, most still actively know and speak Laithraic, the original language of the Onderonians’ ancestors and precursors. This is especially so among the Onderonian aristocracy, who are often prideful of their heritage and culture. Indeed, many ceremonial, official or religious events on Onderon are conducted in Laithraic, as opposed to Basic.
I
NFOBOX
Coordinates: O-9
Hyperlane: Lesser Lantillian Route
Climate: Temperate
Terrain: Plains, mountains, jungles
Rotation: 28 standard hours with a year of 405 local days
Inhabitants: 3.3 billion; Humans, with less than a 1% alien population
Resources: Precious gemstones, ores and minerals, fabrics and fragrances, technology, exotic flora
Government: Monarchy
Technology: Galaxy standard
Satellites: Orbited by moons; Dxun, Dagri, Evas and Suthre
Intent: Since canon threw the vast majority of Onderon's history out the door, decided to reinvent it. Onderon once played a prominent role with my Czerka Corporation character, Slaed Taevarion. Later, it an even more prominent role with an additional character, Erron Taevarion, who became King Praedyth of Onderon. I also thought it would be a nice reference if anyone else wanted to make characters from Onderon, since the whole planet is pretty barebone, even with Legends taken into account.
Hyperlane: Lesser Lantillian Route
Climate: Temperate
Terrain: Plains, mountains, jungles
Rotation: 28 standard hours with a year of 405 local days
Inhabitants: 3.3 billion; Humans, with less than a 1% alien population
Resources: Precious gemstones, ores and minerals, fabrics and fragrances, technology, exotic flora
Government: Monarchy
Technology: Galaxy standard
Satellites: Orbited by moons; Dxun, Dagri, Evas and Suthre
Intent: Since canon threw the vast majority of Onderon's history out the door, decided to reinvent it. Onderon once played a prominent role with my Czerka Corporation character, Slaed Taevarion. Later, it an even more prominent role with an additional character, Erron Taevarion, who became King Praedyth of Onderon. I also thought it would be a nice reference if anyone else wanted to make characters from Onderon, since the whole planet is pretty barebone, even with Legends taken into account.
A
RISTOCRACY
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/TK91Dht.png]
House Dendup
House of Kings[/fancybox4]
House Dendup, known ceremonially as the House of Kings, is the royal family of the Kingdom of Onderon. One of the oldest noble families of Onderon, it was said that the progenitors of House Dendup were the ones that commissioned and took the lead in building the great walls of Iziz.
Powerfully influential in virtually all branches of society in the Onderonian realm, House Dendup has historically produced nearly all of Onderon's kings and queens, and is highly respected among all houses. In addition, many non-nobles within the Kingdom of Onderon also highly revere House Dendup and their ability to keep the often-competing noble houses under control.
House Dendup's seat of power was known as Unifar Temple, which served as both the royal palace and the center of politics and government for the Kingdom of Onderon. Although not the center of such matters, many military and domestic security operations, as well as foreign intelligence operations, are based from within Unifar Temple.
In spite of Unifar Temple being the royal palace, the presence of many other houses exists there as well, particularly House Kira, House Oveiden and House Rash. The maxim of House Dendup is "Forged out of Fire", which constituted their belief that trials and difficulties surpassed only serve to strengthen in the end, as well as the belief that true strength can only come out of enduring adversities.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/Ttm54Gi.png] House Bonteri
House of Glass[/fancybox4]
House Bonteri, known ceremonially as the House of Glass, is one of the noble family of the Kingdom of Onderon. Like most of the noble houses, House Bonteri was ancient and well respected, and produced many of Onderon's greatest architects, designers and craters.
Whether it be the aesthetics of Onderon's buildings, the construction of their ships and shuttles, the designs of their defensive systems or even the very walls of Iziz, House Bonteri has had a hand in either leading or directing the conceptualization or fabrication. As a result, House Bonteri is one of the wealthiest noble families of Onderon, often believed to rival House Kira and House Bonaga.
Because of their manufacturing projects, many of House Bonteri's operations take them off-world, making them one of the few noble families to have a significant influence outside of the Kingdom of Onderon. As a result of their secular focus, House Bonteri is one of the lesser-motivated houses when it comes to matters of political gains or favors, with economic and commercial venues being the primary fields of focus.
Consequently, House Bonteri potentially has the least amount of allies among the other noble families, but make up for it with who they specifically are connected with. The maxim of House Bonteri is "Mind unto Matter", which referenced the house's stance that the creation of anything, arts, buildings, ships, and so forth, are limited only to willpower and creativity. What can be imagined, in time, can be created.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/IuUYJQL.png] House Taevarion
House of Wolves[/fancybox4]
House Taevarion, known ceremonially as the House of Wolves, is one of the foremost noble families of Onderon and among the few with a direct connection to the Royal House of Dendup, the House of Kings. Although old, House Taevarion is one of the 'younger' noble houses, with roots to a lesser Alderaanian noble family.
As such, for much of their early founding, House Taevarion was originally seen as an outsider family. This ostracizing mindset ultimately laid the foundation for the 'pack mentality' for which House Taevarion would become famous for. Known for their social cunning, clever political dealings, and their oneness and unity as a family, House Taevarion holds very strong, if somewhat twisted, family values.
In addition, the family was also known for their passive aggression and their pack mentality toward their family's enemies. Consequently, House Taevarion, while highly respected, is often treated cautiously, and at worst, with open suspicion. Power is the most prized currency to House Taevarion, which can take various forms, from simply currency, to secreted information, to political ties to even marriage alliances.
Gaining their family social and political power–both within and without the Onderon system and Japrael sector–in a function all members of House Taevarion are expected to uphold. Because of their networks of informants and spies, House Taevarion takes the lead in the Kingdom of Onderon's intelligence network, both domestically and beyond. The maxim of House Taevarion is "Eyes of Night", which both embodied and capitalized their penchant for attacking their opponents unseen by anyone, whether ally or enemy.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/n6AnmT5.png] House Oveiden
House of Order[/fancybox4]
House Oveiden, known ceremonially as the House of Order, was one of the eight major noble families of Onderon. Although not traditionally tied to the royal family, recent political events have brought House Oveiden a great deal of social and political prosperity in connection to House Dendup, making House Oveiden third behind House Kira, and rival to House Vaklu in overall influence.
Prior to the marriage of the heiress of House Oveiden to the crown prince of House Dendup and the Kingdom of Onderon, House Oveiden had greatly receded influence and prominence. Historically a family that excelled in diplomacy as mediators, House Oveiden had traditionally held Onderon's representation in the Galactic Senate of the Republic. Other members of House Oveiden served House Dendup directly as political advisors and governing adjutants. House Oveiden also had strong ties to House Rash, the House of Judges.
The Onderonian courts were often operated through both House Oveiden and House Rash, and House Oveiden also had regular contact with House Kira, who almost exclusively occupied the Onderonian police forces. Due to their occupation as diplomats and mediators, House Oveiden also served as ambassadors to other galactic powers, with many being employed by the committees within the Senate of the Great Republic. Due to this, many members of House Oveiden held positions that kept them off-world, similar to House Bonaga.
Due to their responsibilities, House Oveiden had many ties to several other noble houses that held deep foundations in Onderon's government. Although this has at times produces alliances, this has also fostered many more rivalries as well. The jurisdictions of House Oveiden and House Rash overlap in several aspects, which often caused political strife between the two houses when disagreements arose. Those of House Kira that handled policing matters also occasionally had antagonistic sentiments toward House Oveiden, who would often act as legal adjutants for those accused of lawbreaking. The maxim of House Oveiden is "From Peace, Prosperity", which capitalized on the house's belief that a people and civilization could only truly flourish and thrive through peace, and that strength came from alliances with others, not from standing alone.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/yNDfAPD.png] House Kira
House of Blades[/fancybox4]
House Kira, known ceremonially as the House of Blades, is one of the best known noble families of the Kingdom of Onderon, as well as one of the most powerful. Of all the Onderonian noble families, no other house so nears the overall influence and power of House Dendup, the royal House of Kings, as does House Kira.
In spite of their strong political ties, House Kira is most notable as being the dominant military influence of the Royal Armed Forces. From the Onderonian military to the police forces, to the Unifar Guard protecting House Dendup, House Kira has an especially strong, if not total, presence in most venues with regards to warfare, defense and battle strategy.
Due to their military roots and devotion, House Kira is often at odds with the more bureaucratic noble families, and generally prefer to distance themselves from the political games most of the noble houses embrace. Frequently considered to be candid and honest, with little of the cunning the other noble families are known for, House Kira is both highly respected and appreciated among the population.
Because of their limited interest in political matters, House Kira is strongly tied with House Rash, and the two frequently work closely in helping to maintain civil peace and order with regards to everyday matters. The maxim of House Kira is "Shield and Sword", which placed emphasis on their family's devotion to Onderon, whether that take the form of defending her people, or attacking her enemies.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/5iDKdP7.png] House Bonaga
House of Iron[/fancybox4]
House Bonaga, known ceremonially as the House of Iron, was historically one of the wealthiest noble families of Onderon. Traders, merchants and investors, House Bonaga's history began through the Jyrenne mines.
Onderon's ores for iron were soon discovered to have a coveted characteristic; whereas most refined irons were dull, Onderon's were luminous and reflective with a deep blue hue to them. As a consequence, once discovered en masse, Onderonian iron became a metal sought after by many other worlds, typically for decorative and ornamental purposes. From there, House Bonaga deepened their endeavors, trading anything from gemstones, minerals and crystals, to silks, fragrances and tapestries. In a relatively short period of time, almost two thirds of House Bonaga were established off-world, expanding their enterprise to corporate and medical investments and the sale of raw goods.
Although House Bonaga had fallen on difficult financial times due to the cascaded effects of the previous Sith war with the rest of the galaxy, they still retained the dignity of their names and reputation. Moreso than any other noble house, including even House Oveiden and the royal family of House Dendup, House Bonaga had more contacts and influence with the rest of the galactic community, excluding governmental powers, than any other family. Most corporations that either sought establishment on Onderon or to do business with any outlet within its sovereignty typically went first through House Bonaga.
Although known for their mercantile cunning and expansive networks of commerce, ores remained the foundation of House Bonaga and their most iconic merchandise, effectively becoming their unofficial trademark. Because of this, House Bonaga had become well know as the House of Iron. The maxim of House Bonaga is "To the Clever, To the Wise", which was founded on the idea of wealth and prominence being a product of cunning and learnedness.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/w2HtVTU.jpg] House Rash
House of Judges[/fancybox4]
House Rash, known ceremonially as the House of Judges, is one of the most powerful noble families of Onderon's aristocracy. Magistrates, holders of the office of the Grand Justice and the heads of the Onderonian courts, House Rash is deeply seeped in matters of law and order on Onderon.
Occupying positions in governance through the courts on virtually every level, from the local forums to the district conclaves, to Onderon's congress to the seat of the Grand Justice of the Consensus itself, House Rash serves as prosecutors, lawmakers and councilors for Onderon and the territories of its Kingdom. Although they do not often depart from the Kingdom of Onderon, House Rash is thoroughly spread throughout the expanse of its realm.
Because of House Rash's position in governing matters of dispute, crime and discontent, they are as respected as much as they are disliked by the rest of the noble houses. No nobles are beyond the effective reach of House Rash, and the Grand Justice even has the power, in extreme circumstances and only with the backing of the other seven noble families, including House Dendup, to hold a trial to impeach the ruling monarch of the Kingdom of Onderon.
House Rash's responsibilities often bring them into contact with the mediators of House Oveiden, the law enforcers of House Kira and the royal family of House Dendup. Much like House Oveiden, House Rash's overlapping jurisdiction have occasionally caused cool treatment between them and the other noble houses. The maxim of House Rash is "Sight of Unseeing", which served to remind both House Rash and all who deal with them, that while justice can include mercy and forgiveness, it cannot be biased, bigoted or corrupt by 'the things seen'. This can effectively mean anything that might pervert justice, from the appearance of the accused, to the temptation of bribery, and anything inbetween or beyond.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/CZWP6ZS.png] House Vaklu
House of Storms[/fancybox4]
House Vaklu, known ceremonially as the House of Storms, were the eight and last of the noble bloodlines of Onderon. Also informally known as the Outcast House and the House of Exiles, the vast majority of House Vaklu actually originated from within House Dendup, making House Vaklu the purest-blooded nobles after House Dendup, and the most influential after House Dendup and House Kira.
House Vaklu is the only noble family that does not reside on Onderon, and indeed, seldom even visits Iziz. Instead, most of House Vaklu resides at the edge of the civilized Japrael system, residing on Morvolo, the last world before the Japrael system's gas giants. House Vaklu came into being just prior to the Sith purge on Onderon, where the Laithra were subjected to a partial genocide to quell their rebellion. During this event, a division of Laithra managed to escape the purge, ultimately stealing a Sith shuttle before crash landing it two worlds deeper into the Japrael system, on Morvolo.
Upon landing, the Laithra discovered a truly frigid world of ice and cutting winds, although were quickly discovered by an unmolested group of Laithra who had managed to survive and thrive on Morvolo, which at the time was known as either "Môrvoro" or "Môrvola" (respectively meaning "ever night", probably in reference to the long periods of darkness on the ice planet, or "night waves", likely a similar reference to how encompassing the long and cold nights were). After eventually assimilating their brethren, the Laithra originally from Ondórông prepared to repair the shuttle, which the Sith assumed was entirely destroyed along with all lives onboard, and return to Ondórông to fight back the Sith once more.
Nevertheless, the next attack never came, as the Great Republic discovered the Laithra first, revealing to them that the Sith had been excised from Ondórông, known then as Onderon. Although welcoming of the aid of the Great Republic and Jedi Knights, the "Onderonians" of what was then called "Morvolo" did not fully assimilate to the influx cultures of Alderaan, Naboo, Corellia and other worlds, as the "native" Onderonians did. Although they did adapt much to the changing times, both technologically and socially, the Laithra that would become House Vaklu retained the majority of their roots and culture. As such, House Vaklu is, culturally, much more like their ancestors than the vast majority of the Onderonian nobles.
Acting as scouts for the frontier of the Kingdom of Onderon, House Vaklu are the patrollers, vanguard and outriders for Onderon's security. Because of Onderon's proximity on the edge of Republic space, and the still-deeply engraved feeling of dread and hatred toward the Sith Lords, House Vaklu guard Onderon from afar, ever watchful for that empire's eventual return. The maxim of House Vaklu is "Our Forever-Watch", which reflected their self-appointed role as guardians and watchmen for Onderon's safety and security.
House of Kings[/fancybox4]
House Dendup, known ceremonially as the House of Kings, is the royal family of the Kingdom of Onderon. One of the oldest noble families of Onderon, it was said that the progenitors of House Dendup were the ones that commissioned and took the lead in building the great walls of Iziz.
Powerfully influential in virtually all branches of society in the Onderonian realm, House Dendup has historically produced nearly all of Onderon's kings and queens, and is highly respected among all houses. In addition, many non-nobles within the Kingdom of Onderon also highly revere House Dendup and their ability to keep the often-competing noble houses under control.
House Dendup's seat of power was known as Unifar Temple, which served as both the royal palace and the center of politics and government for the Kingdom of Onderon. Although not the center of such matters, many military and domestic security operations, as well as foreign intelligence operations, are based from within Unifar Temple.
In spite of Unifar Temple being the royal palace, the presence of many other houses exists there as well, particularly House Kira, House Oveiden and House Rash. The maxim of House Dendup is "Forged out of Fire", which constituted their belief that trials and difficulties surpassed only serve to strengthen in the end, as well as the belief that true strength can only come out of enduring adversities.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/Ttm54Gi.png] House Bonteri
House of Glass[/fancybox4]
House Bonteri, known ceremonially as the House of Glass, is one of the noble family of the Kingdom of Onderon. Like most of the noble houses, House Bonteri was ancient and well respected, and produced many of Onderon's greatest architects, designers and craters.
Whether it be the aesthetics of Onderon's buildings, the construction of their ships and shuttles, the designs of their defensive systems or even the very walls of Iziz, House Bonteri has had a hand in either leading or directing the conceptualization or fabrication. As a result, House Bonteri is one of the wealthiest noble families of Onderon, often believed to rival House Kira and House Bonaga.
Because of their manufacturing projects, many of House Bonteri's operations take them off-world, making them one of the few noble families to have a significant influence outside of the Kingdom of Onderon. As a result of their secular focus, House Bonteri is one of the lesser-motivated houses when it comes to matters of political gains or favors, with economic and commercial venues being the primary fields of focus.
Consequently, House Bonteri potentially has the least amount of allies among the other noble families, but make up for it with who they specifically are connected with. The maxim of House Bonteri is "Mind unto Matter", which referenced the house's stance that the creation of anything, arts, buildings, ships, and so forth, are limited only to willpower and creativity. What can be imagined, in time, can be created.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/IuUYJQL.png] House Taevarion
House of Wolves[/fancybox4]
House Taevarion, known ceremonially as the House of Wolves, is one of the foremost noble families of Onderon and among the few with a direct connection to the Royal House of Dendup, the House of Kings. Although old, House Taevarion is one of the 'younger' noble houses, with roots to a lesser Alderaanian noble family.
As such, for much of their early founding, House Taevarion was originally seen as an outsider family. This ostracizing mindset ultimately laid the foundation for the 'pack mentality' for which House Taevarion would become famous for. Known for their social cunning, clever political dealings, and their oneness and unity as a family, House Taevarion holds very strong, if somewhat twisted, family values.
In addition, the family was also known for their passive aggression and their pack mentality toward their family's enemies. Consequently, House Taevarion, while highly respected, is often treated cautiously, and at worst, with open suspicion. Power is the most prized currency to House Taevarion, which can take various forms, from simply currency, to secreted information, to political ties to even marriage alliances.
Gaining their family social and political power–both within and without the Onderon system and Japrael sector–in a function all members of House Taevarion are expected to uphold. Because of their networks of informants and spies, House Taevarion takes the lead in the Kingdom of Onderon's intelligence network, both domestically and beyond. The maxim of House Taevarion is "Eyes of Night", which both embodied and capitalized their penchant for attacking their opponents unseen by anyone, whether ally or enemy.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/n6AnmT5.png] House Oveiden
House of Order[/fancybox4]
House Oveiden, known ceremonially as the House of Order, was one of the eight major noble families of Onderon. Although not traditionally tied to the royal family, recent political events have brought House Oveiden a great deal of social and political prosperity in connection to House Dendup, making House Oveiden third behind House Kira, and rival to House Vaklu in overall influence.
Prior to the marriage of the heiress of House Oveiden to the crown prince of House Dendup and the Kingdom of Onderon, House Oveiden had greatly receded influence and prominence. Historically a family that excelled in diplomacy as mediators, House Oveiden had traditionally held Onderon's representation in the Galactic Senate of the Republic. Other members of House Oveiden served House Dendup directly as political advisors and governing adjutants. House Oveiden also had strong ties to House Rash, the House of Judges.
The Onderonian courts were often operated through both House Oveiden and House Rash, and House Oveiden also had regular contact with House Kira, who almost exclusively occupied the Onderonian police forces. Due to their occupation as diplomats and mediators, House Oveiden also served as ambassadors to other galactic powers, with many being employed by the committees within the Senate of the Great Republic. Due to this, many members of House Oveiden held positions that kept them off-world, similar to House Bonaga.
Due to their responsibilities, House Oveiden had many ties to several other noble houses that held deep foundations in Onderon's government. Although this has at times produces alliances, this has also fostered many more rivalries as well. The jurisdictions of House Oveiden and House Rash overlap in several aspects, which often caused political strife between the two houses when disagreements arose. Those of House Kira that handled policing matters also occasionally had antagonistic sentiments toward House Oveiden, who would often act as legal adjutants for those accused of lawbreaking. The maxim of House Oveiden is "From Peace, Prosperity", which capitalized on the house's belief that a people and civilization could only truly flourish and thrive through peace, and that strength came from alliances with others, not from standing alone.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/yNDfAPD.png] House Kira
House of Blades[/fancybox4]
House Kira, known ceremonially as the House of Blades, is one of the best known noble families of the Kingdom of Onderon, as well as one of the most powerful. Of all the Onderonian noble families, no other house so nears the overall influence and power of House Dendup, the royal House of Kings, as does House Kira.
In spite of their strong political ties, House Kira is most notable as being the dominant military influence of the Royal Armed Forces. From the Onderonian military to the police forces, to the Unifar Guard protecting House Dendup, House Kira has an especially strong, if not total, presence in most venues with regards to warfare, defense and battle strategy.
Due to their military roots and devotion, House Kira is often at odds with the more bureaucratic noble families, and generally prefer to distance themselves from the political games most of the noble houses embrace. Frequently considered to be candid and honest, with little of the cunning the other noble families are known for, House Kira is both highly respected and appreciated among the population.
Because of their limited interest in political matters, House Kira is strongly tied with House Rash, and the two frequently work closely in helping to maintain civil peace and order with regards to everyday matters. The maxim of House Kira is "Shield and Sword", which placed emphasis on their family's devotion to Onderon, whether that take the form of defending her people, or attacking her enemies.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/5iDKdP7.png] House Bonaga
House of Iron[/fancybox4]
House Bonaga, known ceremonially as the House of Iron, was historically one of the wealthiest noble families of Onderon. Traders, merchants and investors, House Bonaga's history began through the Jyrenne mines.
Onderon's ores for iron were soon discovered to have a coveted characteristic; whereas most refined irons were dull, Onderon's were luminous and reflective with a deep blue hue to them. As a consequence, once discovered en masse, Onderonian iron became a metal sought after by many other worlds, typically for decorative and ornamental purposes. From there, House Bonaga deepened their endeavors, trading anything from gemstones, minerals and crystals, to silks, fragrances and tapestries. In a relatively short period of time, almost two thirds of House Bonaga were established off-world, expanding their enterprise to corporate and medical investments and the sale of raw goods.
Although House Bonaga had fallen on difficult financial times due to the cascaded effects of the previous Sith war with the rest of the galaxy, they still retained the dignity of their names and reputation. Moreso than any other noble house, including even House Oveiden and the royal family of House Dendup, House Bonaga had more contacts and influence with the rest of the galactic community, excluding governmental powers, than any other family. Most corporations that either sought establishment on Onderon or to do business with any outlet within its sovereignty typically went first through House Bonaga.
Although known for their mercantile cunning and expansive networks of commerce, ores remained the foundation of House Bonaga and their most iconic merchandise, effectively becoming their unofficial trademark. Because of this, House Bonaga had become well know as the House of Iron. The maxim of House Bonaga is "To the Clever, To the Wise", which was founded on the idea of wealth and prominence being a product of cunning and learnedness.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/w2HtVTU.jpg] House Rash
House of Judges[/fancybox4]
House Rash, known ceremonially as the House of Judges, is one of the most powerful noble families of Onderon's aristocracy. Magistrates, holders of the office of the Grand Justice and the heads of the Onderonian courts, House Rash is deeply seeped in matters of law and order on Onderon.
Occupying positions in governance through the courts on virtually every level, from the local forums to the district conclaves, to Onderon's congress to the seat of the Grand Justice of the Consensus itself, House Rash serves as prosecutors, lawmakers and councilors for Onderon and the territories of its Kingdom. Although they do not often depart from the Kingdom of Onderon, House Rash is thoroughly spread throughout the expanse of its realm.
Because of House Rash's position in governing matters of dispute, crime and discontent, they are as respected as much as they are disliked by the rest of the noble houses. No nobles are beyond the effective reach of House Rash, and the Grand Justice even has the power, in extreme circumstances and only with the backing of the other seven noble families, including House Dendup, to hold a trial to impeach the ruling monarch of the Kingdom of Onderon.
House Rash's responsibilities often bring them into contact with the mediators of House Oveiden, the law enforcers of House Kira and the royal family of House Dendup. Much like House Oveiden, House Rash's overlapping jurisdiction have occasionally caused cool treatment between them and the other noble houses. The maxim of House Rash is "Sight of Unseeing", which served to remind both House Rash and all who deal with them, that while justice can include mercy and forgiveness, it cannot be biased, bigoted or corrupt by 'the things seen'. This can effectively mean anything that might pervert justice, from the appearance of the accused, to the temptation of bribery, and anything inbetween or beyond.
[fancybox4=http://i.imgur.com/CZWP6ZS.png] House Vaklu
House of Storms[/fancybox4]
House Vaklu, known ceremonially as the House of Storms, were the eight and last of the noble bloodlines of Onderon. Also informally known as the Outcast House and the House of Exiles, the vast majority of House Vaklu actually originated from within House Dendup, making House Vaklu the purest-blooded nobles after House Dendup, and the most influential after House Dendup and House Kira.
House Vaklu is the only noble family that does not reside on Onderon, and indeed, seldom even visits Iziz. Instead, most of House Vaklu resides at the edge of the civilized Japrael system, residing on Morvolo, the last world before the Japrael system's gas giants. House Vaklu came into being just prior to the Sith purge on Onderon, where the Laithra were subjected to a partial genocide to quell their rebellion. During this event, a division of Laithra managed to escape the purge, ultimately stealing a Sith shuttle before crash landing it two worlds deeper into the Japrael system, on Morvolo.
Upon landing, the Laithra discovered a truly frigid world of ice and cutting winds, although were quickly discovered by an unmolested group of Laithra who had managed to survive and thrive on Morvolo, which at the time was known as either "Môrvoro" or "Môrvola" (respectively meaning "ever night", probably in reference to the long periods of darkness on the ice planet, or "night waves", likely a similar reference to how encompassing the long and cold nights were). After eventually assimilating their brethren, the Laithra originally from Ondórông prepared to repair the shuttle, which the Sith assumed was entirely destroyed along with all lives onboard, and return to Ondórông to fight back the Sith once more.
Nevertheless, the next attack never came, as the Great Republic discovered the Laithra first, revealing to them that the Sith had been excised from Ondórông, known then as Onderon. Although welcoming of the aid of the Great Republic and Jedi Knights, the "Onderonians" of what was then called "Morvolo" did not fully assimilate to the influx cultures of Alderaan, Naboo, Corellia and other worlds, as the "native" Onderonians did. Although they did adapt much to the changing times, both technologically and socially, the Laithra that would become House Vaklu retained the majority of their roots and culture. As such, House Vaklu is, culturally, much more like their ancestors than the vast majority of the Onderonian nobles.
Acting as scouts for the frontier of the Kingdom of Onderon, House Vaklu are the patrollers, vanguard and outriders for Onderon's security. Because of Onderon's proximity on the edge of Republic space, and the still-deeply engraved feeling of dread and hatred toward the Sith Lords, House Vaklu guard Onderon from afar, ever watchful for that empire's eventual return. The maxim of House Vaklu is "Our Forever-Watch", which reflected their self-appointed role as guardians and watchmen for Onderon's safety and security.
