Ishtar

Ishtar are a mysterious race native to the Ishta Wilds to the south of the Earthenswell. Because of their demonic appearance and often nefarious actions, they are seen primarily as a people born of malice and hatred. However, there are those of their number that are kind and gentle people. They are divided at present between two clans, the Ceren and the Derven.

Origins
Legend holds that a human diviner named Serkath was seduced by the fallen goddess Ishtana, whose purpose was to protect humanity by encouraging its inherent sin. Two children were born of this coupling: Cereth and Derkath, with each represented good and evil respectively. Cereth’s love for her brother ensured that she would never abandon him to his perfidy, while Derkath’s obsession with her sister ensured he would always give her reason to correct him.

These two lines of thought became the foundations for the Ceren and Derven.

Organization
The Ishta Wilds are so difficult to traverse that even Bumi rarely venture far into them. As a result, they are uncharted by many and it is believed that during the Dread Tumult a few legions were tricked into entering them and did not return.

They are known to possess three cities: Cerkesh (Ceren), Dervar (Derven), and the City of Ishtana. Ishtana is a holy city, with a great shrine to the fallen goddess, while the other two are gathering places for the varying philosophies. Over time, they became organized into the Ceren belief that altruism guides the lost, and the Derven belief that through treachery comes strength.

The Ceren leader is Celesta, a venerated healer gaining in her years. The Derven leader is Derkan, a roguing sorcerer that tempts fate with his spellcasting and it is said Ishtana rules within the heart of her city, though none have seen her. The heads of the twin cities convene in Ishtana and hear her words within the Sacred Chamber of the Profane.

Military
Ishtar rely on the Ishta Wilds for protection, though they are known to be extremely powerful spellcasters due to their lineage. In addition, their stealthy ways make them excellent scouts.

Enemies
Ostensibly their lack of contact with others prevents them from having much in the way of enemies, though they are not particularly friendly with the Bumi.

Religion
They revere Ishtana universally, with Ceren being some of the few worshippers of Terovar and Derven Shar’negrath.

Historical Significance
If legend holds true, the creation of the Ishtar prevented a great evil from occurring. But since they and most of their lore is shrouded in mystery, it is better said that their existence has kept men from venturing too far into territories they should not pursue.

Recently, some Ceren have ventured to Volantris to study among the scholars, while a few Derven have gone to Dowei’i to learn of Drow sorcery or Moksha to study under elemental lords.