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The Bahaweng are an order formed during the early days of the Zera, with their origins rooted in the domain of Rakwah—long before it emerged from the veils of Asynidesia. The Bahaweng are associated with a distinct sense of mysticism, coupled with mistrust and protection. Their appearance is both awe-inspiring and mysterious: long, flowing robes made of band-like fabrics, wrapped at arms and legs, covered in symbols across bright, pure cloth that seems completely removed from everyday life. Yet their unmistakable hallmark is the Hratag.
The Hratag – The Bell of Protection
The Hratag is an ornate metal instrument, consisting of an open-bottom ring with a freely swinging clapper suspended between its ends. As the wearer moves, the clapper strikes the ring, producing the Hratag’s signature gong sound. The tone ring is protected on both sides by two disc-shaped guards, allowing it to resonate even while resting against a surface. Hratag come in various sizes: smaller versions (around 20cm) are worn like amulets, while larger ones (up to 80cm in diameter) are carried like backpacks.
Its sound is harmonically pure and deeply resonant. Vibrations penetrate with eerie depth, and Hratag are known for being difficult to locate by sound alone—their tone seems to echo from every direction. In the ancient tales of the Zera, the song of the Hratag is described as "mourning the countless victims of the Dramy."
Origins and Role in Rakwah
In the early days, Rakwah was cloaked in dark forests inhabited by the Dramy - also known as Nightshades - shadowy creatures who preyed on travelers after nightfall. The Zera were helpless against these beasts until they discovered that the sound of resonating metal was unbearable to the Dramy. Thus, the first Hratag were forged—tools of protection that made the nights safer.
But not everyone could own a Hratag, and so the Order of the Bahaweng was born—from the Zerati word for "wayfarer." These wandering protectors escorted nighttime travelers, equipped with large Hratag whose sounds could shield entire groups. To protect their identities - believed to be a defense against targeted attacks on their homes or families by the Dramy - the Bahaweng concealed their faces. They became faceless guardians, offering protection while also being viewed with suspicion.
Legends of Bahaweng who kidnapped animals, children, or even adults persisted. And yet, people relied on their protection, leading to the order’s growth across the land.
The Dramy
The exact nature of the mythical Dramy (pronounced: [ˈdʁaːmʏ]) is not entirely clear. However, they exist in almost all cultures, often under very similar names like Dramy, Darami, Amir, or Dram. Aside from Rakwah, they are considered purely mythical beings from long-forgotten iterations of the cosmos, long before the peoples existed.
On Rakwah, however, the situation is different.
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The Zera believe that the Dramy were entirely real and simply went extinct not too long ago. Opinions about the nature of the Dramy among the Zera, however, differ widely.
Some regarded them merely as terrifying animals, while others still attribute to them a highly developed intellect. Which version is true can no longer be determined today, as with the disappearance of the forest on Rakwah, the Dramy seem to have disappeared as well.
The Bahaweng After the Dramy
In time came war. And with war, the forests vanished - along with the Dramy. But the Bahaweng remained. Their Hratag had become symbols of protection, and their dignified presence made them sought-after companions for long journeys. Still, their mysterious aura endured.
A Bahaweng was no friend - he was a symbol. Touching a Bahaweng or looking them directly in the face was considered inappropriate, even when traveling together for days. They were especially valued in military ranks. A Bahaweng accompanying a battalion was a sign of honor and reverence for ancient traditions, cementing the order’s strong ties to the Zera military.
The Bahaweng in the Flux
After the arrival of the P'kun on Rakwah and the subsequent mass exodus of its civilian population, some Bahaweng joined the fleeing crowds - but stayed loyal to their order.
Rumors claim many have aligned themselves with powerful corporations and the CoCG, now serving as their faceless heralds. Others say the Bahaweng are still deeply entangled with the turbulence of the Flux - some whisper their ties reach as far as Kôma, where they allegedly receive whispered messages from beings like Tosakurru, the 1296 Faces, and act in their service.
What is certain is this: the metallic tones that echo with their steps, the haunting chimes of the Hratag, and their veiled presence keep the Bahaweng suspended between myth and reality.
Those who hire them seek protection - protection from threats so grave, it is worth entering a pact with the Faceless Ones of Rakwah. Because everything has its price.
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