The Hyprovians
When I contemplated potential content for this month’s entry, I realized, after combing through all of my posts since 2017, I had not crafted one speaking specifically to the Hyprovians. Aside from an occasional mention, specificity detailing their culture in my universe was remarkably absent. It is notable due to the importance they play in the upcoming books to the series and the fact I had not mentioned them sooner is surprising even to me.
As one who likes to embrace unexpected opportunities, I feel now is a perfect time to highlight a race and culture who will be center stage in book two, The Fury of Ages. When reading this snapshot of a people I thoroughly enjoyed creating, please keep in mind it is just that very thing, a snapshot. In some cases, I purposefully leave out certain details to avoid premature revelations. Nothing worse than getting ahead of yourself and spoiling meticulously crafted plot points.
Hyprovians are a highly aggressive and intelligent race located in the Praysis Star System of the Zim galaxy who pride themselves on their physical prowess. They are bipedal, have chiseled features and a dark tan complexion in the males, while the females generally exhibit a light tan appearance. From a distance, they appear almost human except for a series of raised projections similar to small, aquatic dorsal fins on both arms.
Hyprovian society is founded on a tribal framework with a high moral, warrior code. Families live together, rarely venturing far from their primary social unit, which comprise the bulk of Hyprovian social structure. These familial communities known as Telmah’s do welcome outsiders but only after proving themselves worthy through some feat of bravery on the battlefield or a deed of high moral value. A Telmah’s main emphasis is on developing individual intellect and ability in areas of study, which in turn, helps develop the cluster as a whole. Egoism and self-centeredness are frowned upon because it hampers the evolution of the Telmah.
Hyprovians settle disputes no matter how small, one-on-one. Due to their strict warrior code, only those directly involved in a dispute can participate in the mediation process. In those situations where an entire Telmah is involved, each respective Telmah leader, usually the oldest member, will meet amongst themselves to settle a specific disagreement. If the Sovereign is called on to settle a dispute, the resolution is generally unpleasant for all parties concerned. The idea being internal strife should not be present in an honorable society. The great Telmah conflicts of 2636, which lasted 16 years illustrated how internal chaos leads to eventual ruination.
Like other organizational bodies in the universe, Hyprovians are governed by a group of five members called the Dralak Council. Even though individual Telmah’s oversee their own affairs, the council directs planetary affairs and the military. Each member comes from the five main Telmah’s, although there are more, the smaller Telmah’s will generally follow one of the larger based on who they think best represents their unique interests.
The Sovereign does have the final say in all matters. Even if the other four members unanimously agree on an issue, the Sovereign may focus on the opposing viewpoint and proceed in a direction favoring their own agenda. This does not occur very often for any good Sovereign knows it is not wise to constantly oppose the other members; doing so could be construed as egoism or self-centeredness, which are grounds for usurpation of power under the Kresnaw Doctrine.
Named after Kresnaw Craycon, the doctrine was used for the first time in Hyprovian history in 2296. Prior to 2296 much of Hyprovian social and governmental structure was based loosely on a clan structure. Essentially, the most powerful clan remained in power while weaker ones were eventually thinned out through a variety of unsavory methods. Once a Sovereign was in power, they remained so indefinitely until either sickness or assassination removed them.
Kresnaw was more spiritual in his approach to solving societal ills and had founded a religious sect known as the Lnorian Society, who held extremely fanatical beliefs about their primary god. Both spiritual and warrior codes are considered equal in the Hyprovian belief system, allowing Kresnaw’s followers greater reign to insert themselves in a variety of powerful positions. They were being monitored; it was merely covert in how it was done.
After a few unsuccessful and embarrassing military defeats, Kresnaw decided a more peaceful methodology was needed to replace the existing Sovereign. Once he garnered enough support from his followers and key clan members, he challenged the judgment of the ruling Sovereign at the time, Aranus Friskor. If Kresnaw had not rallied the support he had, Aranus would have executed him on the spot for insurrection. The process took several days where anecdotal and empirical evidence was presented. Once completed, Aranus reluctantly stepped down marking his place in Hyprovian history as one of the worst Sovereigns.
The Kresnaw incident allowed the practice to be codified in 2305 where is has remained ever since. It also shifted Hyprovian society towards a tribal system, which took hold over an extended period time. Remnants of the clan system have remained even to the present time but the influence they wield is meniscal, especially since the great Telmah conflict thinned their numbers.
The current council contains members whose areas of influence are vast, reaching into every venue of Hyprovian society are as follows:
Marus Ranex, eldest on the council next to the Sovereign. He served during the Hyprovian/Traxian war at the noticeably young age of 40. He is highly respected amongst all the Telmah’s for his forward approach and honorable actions. He is 337 years old.
Estra Nox is one of the first female Hyprovians to serve on the council and its youngest at 125 years of age. Estra represents one of the largest Telmah’s on Lotar. Her family has the most extensive weapon factories on the planet, which contributes greatly to the financial prosperity of her Telmah and those surrounding it. Estra can be exceptionally shrewd and trusts no one.
Thern Doran is a highly decorated Hyprovian military officer and brilliant tactician. At the age of 250, Thern has served on almost every class of ship in the military’s inventory. The Doran Telmah is not nearly the size of Nox’s but has produced most of the brilliant military minds in Hyprovian history. His most distinguishing trait is a patch over his left eye. He is thoughtful, precise, and patient in everything he does.
Heruth Brill is a staunch follower of the Lnorian Society, exerting said influence on the council whenever he can. His fanatical beliefs frequently put him at odds with the other council members, especially Estra. His Telmah has influences in textiles and mining. He believes the Hyprovians are on the cusp of dramatic change and only those of high moral fiber will survive what is to come. He is 130 years of age.
Zanfor Ordis is the current Sovereign at the age of 260. Zanfor has seen more conflict than any of his fellow council member aside from Marus Ranex. He is a strict military man who reacts swiftly and without mercy. He enjoys lavish living and exotic pleasures.
Lastly, I would be remiss in my content creator duties if I did not mention, the Kellorian who are the elite fighting force created from the Hyprovian main army, the Klytens to be the sole protectors of the Sovereign. Potential members are taken from the main fighting force once identified by their superiors. There have been rare occasions where exceptionally gifted fighters have been identified from the civilian populace. Training is rigorous and brutal with only a few candidates living long enough to be fully indoctrinated.
Feel free to post your questions or comments. I will respond, if need be, when I able.
