Pronunciation: (SAY-or)
Galactic Region: Perseus Arm
Galactic Branch: Sikhara Branch
Galactic Sector: N4
Star System: Sol
Planet: Terra
Continent: Saoirse
Land Area: 1,068,000 square miles
Length: 550 miles north to south
Width: 3,350 miles east to west
Coordinates: 73° N to 43° N, 57° W to 144° E
Timeline
Saor has very little in the way of government, or really of anything resembling large scale society. The oldest baumeni, aptly called the “Elder”, is responsible for presiding over the gatherings, councils which take place roughly every ten years. At these meetings, there are reports of the state of the outside world brought forward personally by the more nomadic baumeni. After this the reports and any necessary actions are discussed, though action is rarely deemed necessary. Beyond involvement in these meetings, the Elder has few duties
Very few baumeni within Saor live within cities, less than a third of the population. Most live in small family units which dwell in the forest. Some of these families are nomadic, though many will live in the same region for up to a hundred years. Even in major cities, there is very little organization necessary
Saor has very few formal laws, though foreigners find the lack of laws does not prevent them from running into trouble. The baumeni simply live out their values, which leaves little need for official rules. Foreigners can usually manage by following the simple rule: “Do no harm”
Sacred Groves
Saor's four groves are an important cultural fixture in Baumeni life. The groves are planted and supported by ancient trees which embody the spirits of extraordinary baumeni. Birken and Birnaum were the first to form, doing so naturally. The cherry trees of Kirshl were planted by baumeni after the discovery of the ki spirit quietly embodying a cherry tree in western Saor. Feigel is the youngest grove, and the only one planned in advance by the baumeni, immortalizing the previous Elder
Many baumeni travel to the groves to meditate and commune with the ancient spirit within the grove. Visiting all four of the groves in order is a rite of passage for young baumeni once they are old enough to understand the visions experienced when communing with the great trees
Values
The baumeni value a peaceful life that involves communion with nature and an active family life. Baumeni develop what resemble human families, despite a lack of direct procreation. The family bond that develops is stronger than most human families. They also cherish a stable life, often living in the same area of the great forest for many hundreds of years. Nomadic baumeni and adventuring baumeni often find travelling companions, to whom they are fiercely loyal
Dress
Baumeni do not often wear clothing within Saor. Baumeni that go abroad will sometimes wear clothing, usually preferring close fitting but flexible clothing. It is not uncommon to see baumeni embedding gemstones or crystals into their barky skin
Food
Large scale agriculture is not practiced in Saor, food is gathered through a mixture of foraging and smaller gardens, usually kept by family units near or in their dwellings. Diets usually include vegetables, fruits, roots, nuts, flowers, and some dairy. The baumeni also supplement their diet with sunlight, having the ability to photosynthesize. Visitors to Saor find the food to be simple but wholesome. Dishes are not a priority, but stews are common enough. Mead is the most widespread alcoholic drink, and less commonly wine is also produced, though the baumeni are not given to drinking in excess
Music and Arts
Music in Saor is typically played on drums, flutes, harps, and other stringed instruments. Melodies are slow, graceful, and enchanting. Dance is a common form of expression, done in private just as often as in public. Performances are usually between two or more, without choreography. The dacne develops over time as a reflection of the performer's intimacy, allowing for a synchronized improvisation which makes for very enjoyable performances
