Merriyem

The Merriyem are a religious minority in the mountains of Utlia. They believe in a polytheistic religion where there are gods for all things, as opposed to the state endorsed Azztanism, which says there is one god for everything.

History

Discovery

The Merri were originally discovered by Frish explorers. The Frish took back a number of discoveries from the east and northern shores of Mountange, including 2 Merri statues and a number of animal corpses.

Oppression by Frish Kingdom

For around 20 years after the annexation of their land, the Merri enjoyed relative autonomy and equal rights with the Frish Utlians. Tensions rose after a Merriyem man burned down an Azztan church, causing the king to ban Merri from living in the cities and capitals of Frish land, this was swiftly followed by a ban that disallowed Merri citizens to own knives or fire causing implements. This was then followed by a Kingdom-wide shutdown of all Merriyem religious buildings and institutions.

Oppression by Monarchs of Unified Utlia

After the Unification with the Eutan kingdom, many Merriyem believed that they would be considered equals again under the new management of the Eutan Liamia's. Under Wynlid Liamia, the Merri were allowed religious and ownership freedom but could still not live in the cities of unified Utlia, forcing them to stay in the mountains and north shore.

Oppression by Presidents of Utlia

Under the presidency of Utlia, the Merri were once again oppressed by the governing body. Yyme Braia signed a bill that allowed the Merriyem to live anywhere in Utlia but could no longer practice their religion outside of designated Mountange villages.

Culture

The Merri put a strong emphasis on sharing and leaving no waste, the main source of animal-based resources, the Grylbos are relied on by the Merri, with everything from food to clothes being made from them.

Like Azztanists, they do not pray traditionally and instead believe religious servitude is done by the crafting and maintaining of sculptures, idols or statues to represent the god(s).