Otjel

The Otjel
The Otjel ("Silver-tongue") people are a group of coastal inhabitants across Eldham. Scholars generally believe they stem from an early Rathnir culture who adopted a marine lifestyle while fleeing from the Proto-Valdics. They are widely known as excellent sailors. Their fishing methods are also typically sustainable and ecologically sound, part of their deep respect for the ocean and the life it supports.

Religion
While they hold a number of varied traditional religions and belief systems, the majority of the Otjel follow their traditional animist system. However, a number of deities tracing back dozens of generations are also attested in the archaeological record. A few seem to be relics of Aatyel beliefs, such as Ulfengr "The Lotus Hound", Reikarr "The Corpse-Tangle", and the term "Ljonvargr" for the spirits of the honoured dead.

A universal aspect of systems across all Otjel fleets and descendant populations is the position of Tidevinnr, commonly translated in Travelers' Tongue as "Tidesage". The Tidevinnr is responsible for speaking to ancestor spirits, who the Otjel believe seep into the seas upon death. This position is highly respected and valued among Otjel communities and is considered essential for ensuring a harmonious relationship between the Otjel people and the sea.

Jelatjel
Jelatjel ("Tongue-of-tongues") is the language of the Otjel people. Many seafaring Otjel speak no other language, while most populations who have settled and intermarried have actually forgotten how to speak it.

Taralaget Fleet
The Taralaget ("Star-Made") Fleet are the most commonly known Otjel population in Eldham, as the 'ruling' family, the relatives of Tidevinnr Gwyn Frothac, have settled on the shores of Jupiters' Bay, and entered into the service of Simulami-Drakonia. The dramatic change in lifestyle was prompted by the troubled birth of Selene, and the death of her mother Theia d'Argentarie. This new settlement is known as Valtara.