The Virian Chronicler

Video trailer for my collection of short stories titled "Children of the Desert"

There are four different and distinct cultures on Varathusia — Varahs, Gadjhim Varagans, Gypsy Varagans and Carpathians.   Because of this, it is more difficult to quantify and categorise them.   In bygone times, each civilisation kept to its own cultural traditions but in the modern era, the differences have become less obvious. Gypsy Varagans Physical Appearance : Gypsy Varagans look similar to Varahs.   They have the same medium brown complexion, dark hair and dark eyes.   Most of them tend to be of short stature and slim build.   They grow their hair long and often braid it.   Their typical attire consists of utilitarian tunics and trousers or long shapeless robes.   Some women wear headscarves.   Most gypsies wear sandals. Society : Gypsies take a similar libertarian approach to their gadjhim (non-gypsy) counterparts.   They have no committee and disputes are settled either by debate or physical fights.   They do not regulate the practice of sorcery.   All who wish to

There are four different and distinct cultures on Varathusia — Varahs, Gadjhim Varagans, Gypsy Varagans and Carpathians.   Because of this, it is more difficult to quantify and categorise them.   In bygone times, each civilisation kept to its own cultural traditions but in the modern era, the differences have become less obvious. Gadjhim Varagans The term gadjhi ( plural: gadjhim ) comes from the gypsy variants of Varagan language.   It means “outsider” or “foreigner”.   In this context, it is used to denote the difference between gypsy and non-gypsy Varagans. Physical Appearance : Most Varagans have medium brown complexions, dark hair and dark eyes.   They tend to be tall and heavy in build and they are fond of piercings, especially on the face.   They also go in for elaborate tattoos.   Varagans prefer very long hair in a variety of styles such as tails, braids or snakelocks.   Most males grow facial hair as soon as they are able to do so.   Long sweeping moustaches are p

 This interview was conducted by Adam Gaffen.  You can find it online at https://www.cassidychronicles.com/post/adam-interviews-xanxa-symanah 1: When did you first realise you wanted to be a writer? Xanxa: I’ve always made up stories, even before I learned to read and write.   Acquiring those skills enabled me to get my stories down in a more reliable and lasting format.   Right from early childhood, I knew writing was my passion. 2: What was an early experience where you learned that language had power? Xanxa: I was about nine or ten.   I didn’t often show my work to others but on a whim, I showed my Dad one of my poems.   He said my use of language was frightening.   I took that as a compliment.   I think he meant that he was surprised by my command of language and the concept of the poem.   He hadn’t expected me to produce something like that at such an early age. 3: What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? Xanxa: Unlike many writers, I don’t use contrac

Video trailer for my Virian Companions series of fantasy novels.  

Video trailer detailing my Virian Chronicles series of fantasy novels.