Cultural Information: Gypsy Varagans

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 learn are encouraged to do so.

Lifestyle: Like the gadjhim, gypsies do not marry.  Some adopt a promiscuous approach to their intimate liaisons whereas others prefer monogamy or ménages of two or three regular partners.  They are business-orientated and always on the lookout for investment opportunities and new customers.  They maintain business contacts all over Varathusia and the more adventurous among them will take on mercantile ventures on other worlds.  In bygone eras they were mostly nomadic but in more recent times, they have become more static, establishing settlements and marketplaces on the outskirts of gadjhim conurbations.  They are cautious with their money and do not spend it on frivolous luxuries.  Some traders own slaves but most of them prefer to take on employees and train apprentices.

Beliefs: Most gypsies hold some sort of religious or spiritual belief, even if they do not attend regular organised services.  Many of them worship Varagord, the God of Wisdom, and Minestria, the Goddess of Sorcery.  Some also worship Iraevesh, the Goddess of Justice.  There are also minor cults among them who worship Sartorian or Virian deities.

Art and Culture: Gypsies have a long tradition of verbal storytelling, passing on classic tales throughout many generations.  In modern times, these tales have been turned into books for those who prefer to read.  Some have been adapted into theatrical productions or movies.  They also go in for singing, dancing and playing music.  They enjoy contests of physical strength and cerebral games of strategy.