Tékumel

Tékumel is a fictional universe created by M. A. R. Barker. It is the setting for the role-playing game Empire of the Petal Throne and the subsequent novels and games set in the same world. Tékumel is known for its rich and detailed world-building, complex societies, and unique languages.

History[edit | edit source]

Tékumel was first introduced to the public in 1975 with the publication of the role-playing game Empire of the Petal Throne by TSR, Inc.. The game was one of the first to be published after Dungeons & Dragons, and it featured a highly detailed setting with its own languages, cultures, and history.

Geography[edit | edit source]

The world of Tékumel is set on a planet that has been isolated from the rest of the universe by a phenomenon known as "The Time of Darkness." The planet's surface is dominated by vast continents, each with its own unique geography and climate. The most well-known continent is Tsolyánu, home to the Empire of the Petal Throne.

Cultures and Societies[edit | edit source]

Tékumel is home to a variety of cultures and societies, each with its own customs, traditions, and social structures. The most prominent of these is the Tsolyáni Empire, known for its rigid caste system and elaborate bureaucracy. Other notable cultures include the Yán Kór, the Livyáni, and the Mu'ugalavyáni.

Languages[edit | edit source]

One of the most distinctive features of Tékumel is its complex and fully developed languages. The primary language of the Tsolyáni Empire is Tsolyáni, which has its own script and grammar. Other languages include Engsvanyáli, Livyáni, and Mu'ugalavyáni.

Religion[edit | edit source]

Religion plays a central role in Tékumel's societies. The Tsolyáni worship a pantheon of gods and goddesses, each associated with different aspects of life and the universe. The most important deities include Hnálla, the god of light and stability, and Hrü'ü, the god of darkness and change.

Role-Playing Games[edit | edit source]

The world of Tékumel has been the setting for several role-playing games, starting with Empire of the Petal Throne in 1975. Other games set in Tékumel include Swords & Glory, Gardásiyal, and Tékumel: Empire of the Petal Throne.

Novels[edit | edit source]

M. A. R. Barker also wrote several novels set in the world of Tékumel. These include The Man of Gold, Flamesong, and Lords of Tsámra. The novels explore the rich history and cultures of Tékumel, providing additional depth and context to the role-playing games.