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'''Azir''' is a kingdom in south-west [[Roshar]]. Its capital is [[Azimir]].{{map ref|Roshar}} The people and language of Azir are both called the Azish.
{{spoilers|tsm}}
{{quote
|You underestimate your importance. Azir's Oathgate will be vital, and you are the strongest kingdom of the west. With Azir at our side, many other countries will join with us.
|[[Dalinar]] to [[Yanagawn]]{{book ref|sa3|56}}
}}
 
'''Azir''' is a kingdom in southwest [[Roshar]]. Its capital is [[Azimir]].{{map ref|Roshar}} The people and language of Azir are both referred to as Azish.
 
== Geography ==
[[FILE:{{image|Azir and Client States.jpg|thumb|side=right|width=400px|Azir and the states of the Azish Empire on the world map]]}}
Azir is a land-locked state in the south-western part ofsouthwestern [[Roshar]], in the geographical region known as [[Makabak]]. The biggestlargest Makabaki state, it covers thean area of roughly 1,343,000 km<sup>2</sup>, making it the seventh largest nation on the planet.{{url ref|url=https://www.17thshard.com/forum/blogs/entry/634-roshar-physical-characteristics-and-areas/|text=Roshar Physical Characteristics And Areas|site=17th Shard}} From south-east, it's bordered by [[Emul]] on a river that serves as its only way to access the sea. To the west of it lay [[Tashikk]], [[Yezier]] and [[Desh]], while in the north, it shares a long border with [[Yulay]].{{map ref|Roshar}}
 
To the southeast, it is bordered by the nation of [[Emul]] along a river that serves as Azir's only way to access the sea. The smaller nations of [[Tashikk]], [[Yezier]] and [[Desh]] lay to the west, while in the north, it shares a long border with [[Yulay]].{{map ref|Roshar}}
Like most of Makabak, Azir is rather dry and warm compared to the rest of the continent, though it is still cooler than [[Iri]].{{book ref|sa1|i|5}}{{book ref|sa3|65}} There are broad plains there, and few, if any rivers.{{book ref|sa2|59}}{{map ref|Roshar}} A vast mountain range stretches across the country's nothern and north-eastern edge, with a wide pass due North leading to Yulay. The tower-city of [[Urithiru]] is not far from Azir, in the peaks almost exactly due East of [[Azimir]].{{map ref|Roshar}}
 
Like most of Makabak, Azir is rather dry and warm compared to the rest of the continent, though it is still cooler than [[Iri]].{{book ref|sa1|i|5}}{{book ref|sa3|65}} There are broad plains and few rivers.{{book ref|sa2|59}}{{map ref|Roshar}} A vast mountain range stretches across the country's northern and northeastern edge, with a wide pass leading due north to Yulay. The tower-city of [[Urithiru]] is not far from Azir, in the peaks directly east of [[Azimir]].{{map ref|Roshar}}
 
; Notable locations
* [[Bronze Palace]] - the seat of Azish government and home of the [[Prime Aqasix]], in Azimir.
* [[Zawfix]] - a large city on the northern border, known for having shanty towns inside old mines.
* [[Zodruf]] - a town upriver from Azimir.{{map ref|Eastern Makabak}}
* [[Owd]] - a town near the Emuli border.{{map ref|Eastern Makabak}}
* [[Mazzu]] - a town in northwestern Azir.{{map ref|Eastern Makabak}}
 
It is unclear whether the towns [[Benru]] and [[Berqq]], which lie at the border of Azir and Yulay, are under Azir's authority or Yulay's.{{map ref|Eastern Makabak}}
 
==History==
=== Pre-Human Arrival ===
Before humanity arrived on Roshar from Ashyn, the land that would come to be known as Azir was inhabited by [[Singers]].{{book ref|sa3|113}} After an uncertain period of time after human arrival and settlement in present-day Shinovar, they headed an invasion, slaughtering them and expelling them from their land; claiming it as their own.{{book ref|sa3|113}} This history was lost to time until the discovery of the [[Eila Stele]].{{book ref|sa3|113}}
 
=== OriginsHeraldic and Sadees' occupationEpochs ===
{{image|Silver Kingdoms.jpg|side=right|width=450px|Map of the Silver Kingdoms}}
Not much is known about the ancient history of Azir. During the [[Silver Kingdoms]] era, it was part of [[Makabakam]], the largest of the Silver Kingdoms, with [[Azimir]] likely being Makabakam's capital.{{map ref|Silver Kingdoms}} At some point, that country splintered into dozens of states that comprise modern [[Makabak]], among them Azir.{{map ref|Roshar}}
{{for|Makabakam}}
 
Azir was founded as [[Makabakam]] in the [[Silver Kingdoms]] Epoch, settled by Ashynite emigrants who arrived on Roshar in Shinovar circa 7000 years before the [[True Desolation]],{{book ref|sa4|14}}{{book ref|sa4|111}} before eventually expanding outward and settling all across Roshar. [[Azimir]] was likely Makabakam's capital, as it contains an [[Oathgate]].{{map ref|Silver Kingdoms}}{{book ref|sa3|65}}
[[Sadees]] the Sunmaker, the infamous [[Alethkar|Alethi]] warrior, conquered Azir as part of his bid to take over the entire continent during the reign of [[Prime Aqasix]] [[Snoxil]]. The occupation was extremely violent: up to ten percent of the country's population died, many of them due to Sadees seemingly seeking to actively eradicate the Azish. In some areas, Sadees ordered a certain number of executions a day. In others, he declared all men with hair at a certain length to be killed.{{book ref|sa3|42}} Sadees rationalized this by claiming the Azish were uncivilized for not using eye color as a basis for their social hierarchy.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
 
Due to the [[Desolation]]s, they were constantly returned back to early technological levels, often to the point to making use of stone tools. Though they advanced each time with the help of the Heralds whenever they returned, often helping them to enter into the bronze age, often receiving this assistance from [[Kalak]] and his [[Willshapers]].{{book ref|sa2|i|7}}{{book ref|sa1|part=prelude}}{{wob ref|13779}}
Following his passing, his kingdom was split between his sons, and the Azish regained their independence.
 
During the rule of [[Nohadon]], [[Alethela]] waged a war against Makabakam over trade routes, the full effects this had on both kingdoms are unknown.{{book ref|sa3|103}}
 
At some point following the collapse of the Silver Kingdoms, Makabakam splintered into dozens of states that comprise modern [[Makabak]], including Azir.{{map ref|Roshar}}
 
=== Era of Solitude ===
In the centuries since Sadees' conquest, Azir rose to the position of the cultural and political centre of [[Makabak]]. Many of its surrounding nations became client states to it, leading to the formation of the Azish Empire - a semi-formal name for the group of states led by the [[Prime Aqasix]] in all international matters.{{book ref|sa3|12}}
 
Throughout history, the Alethi attempted to conquer Azir many times, and came to be known to them as the Tagarut. Each time, they were able to fend them off. These invasions exist recorded in the form of legend, as it is from an era were historical record is slim and ambiguous.{{book ref|tsm|26}}
The peace of the empire was broken in the final year of the [[Era of Solitude]], as the [[Assassin in White]] killed two Primes in a row, leaving the country in a succession crisis as all prospective candidates attempted to avoid the position. This ended the night a group of thieves, including [[Lift]] and [[Gawx]], attempted to rob the [[Bronze Palace]]. After Gawx was seemingly killed, Lift returned him to life with [[Regrowth]]. To the assembled courtiers (unaware of Lift's involvement), this was a miracle that proved that Gawx was the Prime they were looking for, and he was crowned as [[Yanagawn]] the First.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
 
Legends exist which refer to a dynasty known as the [[Ulutu Dynasty]], which lasted for at least fifteen emperors. It is unclear if this was an actual historical entity, or if it exists only in legend.{{book ref|tsm|26}}
 
==== Sadees's Occupation ====
{{quote
|They say that when the Sunmaker rode out of the passes and into Azir, he had one unexpected problem. He conquered my people too quickly, and didn't know what to do with all of his captives.
|[[Yanagawn]]{{book ref|sa3|42}}
}}
 
[[Sadees]] the Sunmaker, the infamous [[Alethkar|Alethi]] warrior, conquered Azir as part of his bid to take over the entire continent during the reign of [[Prime Aqasix]] [[Snoxil]] in the seventh-century of the Vorin calander. The occupation was extremely violent: up to ten percent of the country's population died, many of them due to Sadees seemingly seeking to eradicate the Azish. In some areas, Sadees ordered a certain number of executions a day. In others, he declared all men with hair at a certain length to be killed.{{book ref|sa3|42}} Sadees rationalized this by claiming that the Azish were uncivilized since they did not use [[lighteyes|eye color]] as a basis for their social hierarchy.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
 
Following Sadees's passing, his kingdom was split between his sons. Without a true leader, the empire was stretched too thin,{{book ref|sa3|19}} and the Azish regained their independence.
 
==== Post-Occupation Azir ====
 
In the centuries since Sadees's conquest, Azir rose to the position of the cultural and political center of [[Makabak]]. Many of the surrounding Makabaki nations became client states to it, leading to the formation of the Azish Empire — a semi-formal name for the group of states led by the [[Prime Aqasix]] in all international matters.{{book ref|sa3|12}}
 
The peace of the empire was broken in the final year of the [[Era of Solitude]], as the [[Assassin in White]] killed two Primes in a row, leaving the country in a succession crisis as all prospective candidates attempted to avoid the position. This ended the night that a group of thieves, including [[Lift]] and [[Gawx]], attempted to rob the [[Bronze Palace]]. After Gawx was seemingly killed, Lift revived him using her nascent [[Surgebinding]] power of [[Regrowth]]. To the assembled courtiers, unaware of Lift's involvement, this was a miracle that proved that Gawx was the Prime they were looking for. Thus, he was crowned as [[Yanagawn]] the First.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
 
=== True Desolation ===
LikeAs everywherein the rest of elseRoshar, the Azish [[Parshmen]] awoke from [[slaveform]] following the arrival of the [[Everstorm]] on {{Rosharan date|1173|10|10|3}}. Initially, they followed the example of their bureaucratic former mastersmasters—instead and,of rathergoing than maketo war onwith themthe government, they sued the governmentit for back pay. The Azish began negotiations, thoughalthough they had no intention of giving in - ratherin—rather, they sought to buy enough time to fortify their cities.{{book ref|sa3|12}}
 
At the same time, theyAzimir werewas inexchanging talksmessages with [[Dalinar Kholin]]'s buddyingbudding coalition in [[Urithiru]].{{book ref|sa3|12}} With [[Sadees]]'s conquests still a sore memory, theythe Azish were initially unwilling to unlock their [[Oathgate]] or allow the Alethi armies into their city, or unlock their [[Oathgate]].{{book ref|sa3|28}} However, after the talks with the [[singer]]s fell through, they finally agreed, and ended up joining the coalition.{{book ref|sa3|64}} The failure with the singers might've have been causedinfluenced by the arrival of the [[Fused]], who organized them into an army and took them south, to [[Marat]], in preparation for the attack on [[Thaylen City]].{{book ref|sa3|107}}
 
When the coalition leaders assumed that the [[Voidbringer]]s would attack [[Jah Keved]], the Azish agreed to send five batallionsbattalions of their troops there to aid in repelling the attack.{{book ref|sa3|96}} Later, when Thaylen City was pinpointed as the sitetrue ofbattle the attacksite, they moved their fleet to the nearby shores to intercept the Voidbringer forces.{{book ref|sa3|111}} However, following the translation of the [[Eila Stele]] and the revelations that it spurred, theythe Azish backed offout, along with their ships. Their resolve to abandon the others was only strenghtenedstrengthened when they saw the Alethi attackattacking the Thaylens, -as they were not aware that the influenceAlethi offorces [[Nergaoul]]in question onwere [[Amaram]]'s forces, thoughunder the Azishinfluence didof not know that at the time[[Nergaoul]].{{book ref|sa3|116}}
 
After the [[Battle of Thaylen Field]], in {{rosharan date|1174|2}}, Dalinar explained to them via [[spanreed]] what truly happened. The Azish were willing to renegotiate their participation in the alliance, thoughon the onlycondition ifthat Dalinar was able to prove that he could control his troops.{{book ref|sa3|122}}
 
A year after the Battle of Thaylen Field, Azish armies, with the help of Alethi strategists, had recaptured some ground in northern Emul.{{book ref|sa4|17}} After Dalinar's decision to launch a major offensive in Emul several battalions of Alethi troops and some number of the troops of [[Jah Keved]] traveled to Azir via [[Oathgate]] accompanied by the [[Windrunners]] and the Alethi high command.{{book ref|sa4|27}}{{book ref|sa4|i|3}} After the defection to Odium by the troops of Jah Keved, Dalinar's army augmented by the troops of the Azish fought and eventually defeated the Veden forces.{{book ref|sa4|47}}{{book ref|sa4|50}}
 
==Politics==
{{quote
| Traditionally, the Azish Prime claimed to be emperor of all Makabak—a region that included over a half-dozen kingdoms and princedoms. In reality, he was king over only Azir, but Azir did cast a long, long shadow.
| [[Dalinar Kholin]]'s thoughts on Azir{{book ref|sa3|12}}
}}
 
=== Member states ===
The Azish Empire, despite its name, is closer in nature to a confederacy of states. It's is composed of nine member countries: [[Tashikk]], [[Yezier]], [[Emul]], [[Steen]], [[Alm]], [[Desh]], [[Marat]], [[Tukar]] and Azir itself. While all of those nations consider the Prime Aqasix to be their emperor, other than Azir, they are subject in name only. However, leaders of nations within the Empire do follow certain traditional customs; for example, they cannot marry without the Prime's permission,. andIn practice, the states themselves typically follow Azir's lead when dealing with international politics. Historically, Tashikk and Yezier are the closest to the Azish throne.{{book ref|sa3|122}}
 
=== Government ===
The Azish government is a bureaucracy, composed of several levels of scribes. One may join the public servant caste by passing a written exam;. thoughThough the test is nominally open to all citizens, theit's requirementsdifficult forand passingusually meanrequires thatexpensive formal education; most positionsgovernment officials are taken bytherefore people whose social status iswas already high, as they're the only ones capable of affording sufficient education.{{book ref|sa3|35}}
 
The highest-ranking members of the government, other than the Prime Aqasix, are the [[wikipedia: vizier|viziers]]. They serve as advisors to the Prime, with enough political pull to force their decisions on them, and are responsible for selecting a new Prime following the death of the previous through an application review process. Their high status and broad knowledge means that each Prime will often be a former vizier, as they can make their applications the most convincing.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
 
In Azir, religion, the monarchy, and certain levels of bureaucracy are deeply intertwined,{{book ref|tsm|39}} to the extent that their priests are offical government officials. They are tasked with taking care of the spiritual side of the bureaucracy's day-to-day workings — they are seen blessing formal meetings and interpreting omens and events to discern the will of the Kadasixes.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}} They also serve as clerks and scribes for the government. Scions can be found in all ranks of the bureaucracy, with the most influential ones serving as the members of the Prime's circle of advisors along with the [[vizier]]s.{{book ref|sa3|53}}{{book ref|sa3|116}}
 
{{image|Gawx Portrait by Marie Seeberger.jpg|side=right|width=200px|[[Yanagawn]] the First, the current [[Prime Aqasix]]}}
The highest-ranking members of the government, other than the Prime Aqasix, are the [[wikipedia: vizier|viziers]]. They serve as advisors to the Prime, with enough political pull to force their decisions on them, and are responsible for selecting a new Prime following the death of the previous one. Their high status and broad knowledge mean the next Prime will often be one of their number, as they can make their applications most convincing.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
 
=== The Prime Aqasix ===
The elected ruler of the Azish Empire bears the title of the Prime Aqasix. Their symbol of power is a traditional hat with sweeping sides called the [[Yuanazixin|Imperial Yuanazixin]].{{book ref|sa3|116}}
 
The Azish believe that they are never without a Prime. When a Prime dies, the election of a new one is considered as a search for the person who is, and always has been, a Prime. Any person, except for thereligious leaders known as scions, can apply for the position; however, the process requires many forms and essays, which are reviewed by viziers. The Azish pride themselves on this method, as it avoids succession wars.{{book ref|sa2|I|9}}
 
The Prime is considered to belong to the public. Citizens can enter a lottery to watch the Prime sleep, eat, and perform other daily tasks. They can also collect and keep relics from the Prime, such as a nail clipping or a strand of hair.{{book ref|sa2|I|9}}
When the Prime issues a mandate to the public, citizens have one month to make their grievances known before being forced to comply. These grievances are often displayed as logical arguments and protests.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
 
=== Military ===
The Azish Empire has access to foot soldiers, cavalry and fleet. Their army, though smaller than that of [[Alethkar]] or [[Jah Keved]], is still fairly impressive, and their fortifications are noted as difficult to breach.{{book ref|sa3|107}} Azish soldiers are equipped with bows, spears or poleaxes, and greatshields.{{book ref|sa1|46}}{{book ref|sa3|65}} They are armored with plated mail and colourful caps.{{book ref|sa3|65}} Their army is divided into battalions, which have both numbers and name designations, such as Red and Gold for the Thirteenth Battalion. A single batallion is comprised of about one thousand soldiers.{{book ref|sa3|96}}{{book ref|sa3|107}}
 
The Azish soldiers have excellent discipline, but their individual soldiers do not fight as well as Alethi.{{book ref|sa4|47}} Although their pike blocks are less mobile than Alethi, they are extremely well coordinated.{{book ref|sa4|47}}
Little is known about their cavalry. Units of it are led by officers called cavalrylords, who wear uniforms with vivid red trousers.{{book ref|sa3|i|8}}
 
The Azish decorate their tents with lots of furniture and tapestries, they also bring many servants with them on campaign.{{book ref|sa4|101}}
While Azish themselves don't have a fleet, being as they are a land-locked country, [[Tashikk]] has a number of ships, which are staffed partially by Azish troops and thus serve the Empire as a whole. There seem to be no battalions dedicated wholly to ship-side service; rather, select ones rotate some of their units in and out of the navy.{{book ref|sa3|107}}
 
Their army fights well against the singers and their disciplined infantry is a complementary addition to the Alethi's flexibility and tactics.{{book ref|sa4|47}}
In times of peace, the fleet's duty is to patrol "the grand waterway" - an unspecified body of water that may correspond to the river between Azir and [[Emul]] - but they are capable of further excursions, all the way to [[Thaylenah]].{{book ref|sa3|107}} The fleet possesses both smaller outriders, called scouts, and bigger warships, among them troop carriers.{{book ref|sa3|111}} The [[Prime Aqasix]] has his own dedicated vessel, smaller than the navy units.{{book ref|sa3|116}}
 
=== Armaments ===
Azish generals wear robes and typical Western hats. They have poor reputation in [[Alethkar]], being usually considered little more than military historians and theorists. The position requires passing a number of tests, and [[Dalinar]] theorizes that the officers with practical expertise tend to fail them on purpose so that they may retain field command. However, the generals are also noted to be highly practical people, and their advice is usually astute.{{book ref|sa3|42}}{{book ref|sa3|107}}
Azish soldiers are equipped with bows, spears or poleaxes, and greatshields.{{book ref|sa1|46}}{{book ref|sa3|65}}
 
=== Navy ===
The effectiveness of the Azish military in battle against the [[Voidbringer]]s is yet to be seen.
The Azish do not maintain a fleet of ships, as they are a land-locked country. However, [[Tashikk]] has a number of ships that are staffed partially by Azish troops and thus serve the Empire as a whole. There seem to be no battalions dedicated wholly to ship-side service; rather, select battalions rotate some of their soldiers in and out of the navy.{{book ref|sa3|107}}
 
In times of peace, the fleet's duty is to patrol "the grand waterway" — an unspecified body of water that may correspond to the river between Azir and [[Emul]] — but they are capable of further excursions, all the way to [[Thaylenah]].{{book ref|sa3|107}} The fleet possesses both smaller outriders, called scouts, and bigger warships, among them troop carriers.{{book ref|sa3|111}} The [[Prime Aqasix]] has his own dedicated vessel, smaller than the navy units.{{book ref|sa3|116}}
=== Fabrials and Shards ===
Azir is known to have very few [[Soulcaster]]s, the most famous of which has the ability to Soulcast bronze.{{book ref|sa3|65}} Many buildings in Azimir have bronze domes, and the Prime's palace even has decorative Soulcast bronze trees.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
 
=== Organization and Hierarchy ===
[[Azimir]] is the site of ancient [[Makabakam]]'s [[Oathgate]]. Presently, the gate's platform serves as the city's Grand Market, though it has been reopened by [[Lift]] during [[Dalinar Kholin]]'s visit and returned to its prior function.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
Their army is divided into battalions, which have both numbers and name designations, such as Red and Gold for the Thirteenth Battalion. A single battalion is comprised of about one thousand soldiers.{{book ref|sa3|96}}{{book ref|sa3|107}}
 
Little is known about their cavalry. Units are led by officers called cavalrylords.{{book ref|sa3|i|8}}
Azir has several [[Shardblade]]s, known as the Imperial Shardblades. It's unknown how many of them are there or who wields them, but they can be loaned out to Empire's member states for various services. The city of [[Yeddaw]] in [[Tashikk]] was created by them.{{book ref|sa2.5|2}} Though it can be presumed that [[Azish]] have [[Shardplate]], it's unknown how many sets of it are in their hands.
 
==== General ====
The position of general requires passing a number of tests, and [[Dalinar]] theorizes that the officers with practical expertise tend to fail them on purpose so that they may retain field command. Azish military leaders have a poor reputation in [[Alethkar]] and are considered little more than military historians and theorists. However, the generals are actually highly practical people, and their advice is usually astute.{{book ref|sa3|42}}{{book ref|sa3|107}}
 
=== Armour and Uniforms ===
Azish soldiers are armored with plated mail and colorful caps.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
 
Azish generals wear robes and typical Western hats.{{book ref|sa3|42}}{{book ref|sa3|107}}
 
Cavalrylords wear uniforms with vivid red trousers.{{book ref|sa3|i|8}}
 
== Fabrials and Shards ==
Azir is known to have very few [[Soulcaster]]s, the most famous of which has the ability to Soulcast bronze.{{book ref|sa3|65}} Many buildings in [[Azimir]] have bronze domes, and the Prime's palace even has decorative Soulcast bronze trees.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}} The country also has several [[Shardblade]]s, known as the Imperial Shardblades. It is unknown how many of them are there or who wields them, but they can be loaned out to the Empire's member states for various services. The city of [[Yeddaw]] in [[Tashikk]] was created using Imperial Shardblades.{{book ref|sa2.5|2}} Though it can be presumed that the Empire also possesses [[Shardplate]], it is unknown how many sets of it are in their hands.
 
Azimir is the site of ancient [[Makabakam]]'s [[Oathgate]]. Presently, the gate's platform serves as the city's Grand Market, though it has been reopened by [[Lift]] during [[Dalinar Kholin]]'s visit and returned to its prior function.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
 
== Culture ==
 
=== Social Order ===
The Azish do not divide their population into [[lighteyes]] and [[darkeyes]]. In the [[Vorin]] countries, it is speculated that this is because there aren't enough pale-eyed Azish to form a self-sustainable social caste.{{book ref|sa3|42}} Rather, the Azish social hierarchy is based on education and elevation through the bureaucratic governmental system. Viziers and scribes are among the highest -ranking members of society. Scribes are stratified by ''level'' and then ''circle.''{{book, ref|sa3|116}}with The pattern onthe oneperson's clothing indicatesparticular rank withinbeing theindicated bureaucracyby patterns on their clothing.{{book ref|sa3|116}} Regular citizens who are not members of the government are known as '''discrete.'''.{{book ref|sa2|I|9}}
 
Order in the country is kept by travelling lawkeepers called '''constables'''. Constables typically wear black uniforms with a double row of silver buttons in the front, and thick gloves with long collars. They seem to have the authority to capture, try, and even execute criminals. However, they cannot act against the viziers, and are not allowed to requisition the Imperial Shardblades.{{book ref|sa3|i|9}}
The Azish do not divide their population into [[lighteyes]] and [[darkeyes]]. In the [[Vorin]] countries, it's speculated that this is because there aren't enough pale-eyed Azish to form a self-sustainable social caste.{{book ref|sa3|42}}
 
Order in the country is kept by travelling lawkeepers called '''constables'''. Constables typically wear black uniforms, with a double row of silver buttons in the front, and thick gloves with long collars. They seem to have the authority to capture, try and even execute criminals. However, they cannot act against the viziers, and aren't allowed to requisition the Imperial [[Shardblade]]s.{{book ref|sa3|i|9}}
 
=== People ===
[[File: {{image|Azish Public Servant Designs.jpeg|thumb|side=right|width=200px|A folio page of Azish male public servant fashion from [[Liafor]] by [[Dan dos Santos]]]]}}
{{quote
| Alethi liked to joke about them—insult one of their soldiers, it was said, and he'd submit a form requesting an opportunity to swear at you.
| [[Dalinar]] on the Alethi stereotypes of the Azish{{book ref|sa3|65}}
}}
 
Azish people belong to the Makabaki ethnic group, members of which can be found across the entire [[Makabak]] region.{{book ref|sa1|53}} They are described as being short and having dark skin -— deep brown, but not true black like some [[parshmen]].{{book ref|sa1|46}}{{book ref|sa1|53}}{{book ref|sa1|40}} They have a smooth accent, like the [[Emuli]].{{book ref|sa1|14}} Very few are light-eyed.{{book ref|sa3|42}} Among the Heralds, [[Shalash]] looks like an Azish woman.{{wob ref|11325}}
 
The stereotype of the Azish is that they are peaceful, prefer education to war, and adore their bureaucracy and paperwork.{{book ref|sa2|89}}{{book ref|sa3|12}} The Azish themselves consider the latter a point of pride, as the structure of their government has for many centuries prevented any major internal crisis.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}} They are, however, focused on being respectful and polite. In Azish cultureAzir, one should not raise their voice when talking, and should always remain calm, even when angry.{{book ref|sa3|107}} Particular care is taken never to offend a guest, though this does not mean the Azish can be pushed around.{{book ref|sa3|65}} As a result, they are known for talking around the matter a lot when disagreeing with something, and never saying "no" straight upoutright.{{book ref|sa3|28}}
 
=== Language and Writing ===
{{quote
The people of Azir speak Azish, the most widespread of the Makabaki languages, though it's possible that other languages from this family are also present.{{wob ref|3977}} Azish or Azish-adjacent words can be recognized by the letters "x" (Kadasix, [[Snoxil]]) and "q" ([[Prime Aqasix]], [[Unoqua]]), which are far rarer outside of [[Makabak]].
|Azish, a funny language made of little markings that looked like cremling tracks.
|[[Dalinar]] on the Azish language.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
}}
The people of Azir speak Azish, the most widespread of the Makabaki languages, though it is possible that other languages from this family are also present.{{wob ref|3977}} Azish or Azish-adjacent words can often be recognized by the letters "x" (Kadasix, [[Snoxil]]) and "q" ([[Prime Aqasix]], [[Unoqua]]), which are far rarer outside of [[Makabak]]. These can represent the voiceless uvular, stop, or affricate, or sometimes a uvular ejective.{{wob ref|1847}}
 
The Azish have their own system orof writing, separate from the various [[Vorin]] scripts. It's is described as looking like little markings, similarthat toresemble [[cremling]] tracks to non-speakers. Additionally, the various patterns that the Azish put on their furniture, decorations, and clothing eachall have adistinct meaning of their ownmeanings, andwhich can be read likeand writingunderstood by a trained scribe.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
 
=== Religion ===
The Azish religion focuses on the worship of the [[Herald]]s, known there as the '''Kadasixes'''.{{book ref|sa1|i|7}} Chief among them is [[Jezrien]] -— Yaezir in local parlance -— who bears the title of the Kadasix of Kings. He's is the patron of the Azish government, and the [[Prime Aqasix]] is considered his emissary to the world.{{book ref|sa3|12}} The Primes themselves have some religious significance: per the Azish doctrine, a person is born a Prime, and the election process serves merely to find out who the current Prime is and give them their rightful place.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
 
The Azish priests, called '''scions''', are government officials. Both men and women can become one.{{book ref|sa3|12}} Their main duty appears to be taking care of the spiritual side of the bureaucracy's day-to-day workings -— they are seen blessing formal meetings and interpreting omens and events to discern the will of the Kadasixes.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}} They also serve as clerks and scribes. Scions can be found in all ranks of the bureaucracy, with the most influential ones serving as the members of the Prime's circle of advisors along with the [[vizier]]s.{{book ref|sa3|53}}{{book ref|sa3|116}}
 
Due to this, religion, the monarchy, and certain levels of bureaucracy are deeply intertwined and inseparable.{{book ref|tsm|39}}
Unlike [[Vorin]] [[ardent]]s, scions are free men. In fact, becoming a high-ranking scion, or a priest-minister, is one of the highest honors for the Azish.{{book ref|sa3|12}}
 
Unlike [[Vorin]] [[ardent]]s, scions are free men and women. In fact, becoming a high-ranking scion, or a priest-minister, is one of the highest honors for the Azish.{{book ref|sa3|12}}
Scions typically travel across the country, blessing settlements and towns. For this reason, a scion cannot become the Prime Aqasix, although they are intimately involved in the selection process. During the holy conclave that chooses a new Prime, they are called upon to ensure the spiritual purity of the selection, provide theological viewpoint on the process and assist the viziers in picking the best candidate.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
 
Scions typically travel across the country, blessing settlements and towns. For this reason, a scion cannot become the Prime Aqasix, although they are intimately involved in the selection process. During the holy conclave that chooses a new Prime, they are called upon to ensure the spiritual purity of the selection, provide theological viewpoint on the process, and assist the viziers in picking the best candidate.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
==== Notable scions ====
 
* [[Ethid]] - a [[Veristitalian]] and friend of [[Jasnah Kholin]], who studies the lives of powerful men and, later, the [[Knights Radiant]].{{book ref|sa3|53}} She participates in the Prime selection process, and gives the opening blessings to the meeting that results in [[Yanagawn]]'s crowning.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
=== Morality ===
* [[Unoqua]] - the religious leader of Yanagawn's court. Along with other scions and viziers, he advises against continued alliance with [[Urithiru]].{{book ref|sa3|116}}
In contrast to the Vorin countries of the East, the Azish do not seem to practice a notable division between sexes. Women do not have [[safehand]]s, and both men and women are seen holding high-level military and political positions with no indication that this is unusual.{{book ref|sa2.5|3}}{{book ref|sa2|i|9}} However, also in contrast to Vorin states, the Azish have a stricter views on relationships. In a homosexual couple, one member is expected to apply for "social reassignment", and should thereafter behave — and be treated as — a member of the opposite gender.{{wob ref|1443}}{{book ref|sa3|35}}
 
=== Clothing ===
The Azish are known for wearing vibrant, colorful clothing. They are usually seen in robes or wraps, and wear large hats, making them seem overencumberedover-encumbered.{{book ref|sa3|98}} Each article of clothing has traditional, large patterns on it. Every pattern has a meaning of its own, and a trained scribe can read a person's clothes like a language.{{book ref|sa3|65}} Their fashion is heavily influenced by civil servant outfits.{{file ref|Azish Public Servant Designs.jpeg|Azish Public Servant Designs Folio page}}
 
Despite their garish appearance, Azish fabrics seem to be quite popular even in the East. Among others, [[Dalinar Kholin]]'s childhood home was decorated with Azish rugs, and [[Alethkar|Alethi]] fashion folios feature Azish designs.{{book ref|sa2|89}}{{book ref|sa2|49}} A distinctive type of mineral dye from Azir is used to color their clothing, and is known in other nations.{{book ref|sa3|i|8}}
 
=== Morality ===
In contrast to [[Vorinism |Vorin]] countries of the East, the Azish do not seem to practice the division between sexes. Women do not wear [[safehand]]s, and men and women can be seen in both military and political positions without any indication that such is unusual.{{book ref|sa2.5|3}}{{book ref|sa2|i|9}} However, also in contrast to Vorin states, the Azish have somewhat stricter views on relationships. In a homosexual couple, one member is expected to apply for "social reassignment", and should thereafter behave - and be treated as - a member of the opposite gender.{{wob ref|1443}}{{book ref|sa3|35}}
 
=== Food ===
The best-known Azish haveproduce a legend aboutis [[truthberry]] jam, awhich preservecan be made frominto anjam. AzishAccording fruit.to Supposedlya local legend, those who consume the berries speak only the truth until the next sunset. The berriesfruits themselves are harmless, but the leaves and stalks of truthberry plants can be burned, which makes people intoxicated and euphoric. [[Shallan Davar]] remarksimplies tothat [[Kabsal]]there thatis theyalso shouldan beaphrodisiac calledeffect, birthberriesmentioning duethat tothey thecould facthave ofbeen called "birthberries" intoxicationinstead.{{book ref|sa1|42}}
 
InThe contrastversatile tograin crop [[Alethkartallew]], whereis people typically farm [[lavis]],grown in Azir.{{book theref|sa2.5|3}} mainThey cropmay isalso grow [[clema]]. It's usually baked into large rolls known as clemabread, which areis notedcommon asin being extremely unappetizing, at least fornearby [[LiftTashikk]].{{book ref|sa2.5|6}}{{book ref|sa2.5|1012}}
 
== Notable Azish ==
* [[Yanagawn|Prime Aqasix Yanagawn]] - the ruler of Azir and the Azish Empire.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
* [[Noura]] - senior vizier in Yanagawn's court.{{book ref|sa3|65}}
* [[Ethid]] - a scion, [[Veristitalian]], and friend of [[Jasnah Kholin]], who studies the lives of powerful men and, later, the [[Knights Radiant]].{{book ref|sa3|53}} She participates in the Prime selection process, and gives the opening blessings to the meeting that results in [[Yanagawn]]'s crowning.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}
* [[Unoqua]] - the religious leader of Yanagawn's court. Along with other scions and viziers, he advises against continued alliance with [[Urithiru]].{{book ref|sa3|116}}
* [[Sigzil]] - a [[Worldsinger]] serving in [[Bridge Four]], and one of [[Kaladin]]'s [[squire]]s.{{book ref|sa1|40}}
* [[Falksi]] - handmaiden to [[Alethkar|Alethi]] brightlady [[Janala Lustow]].{{book ref|sa1|18}}
* [[Warren]] - master [[Skybreaker]] under [[Nale]].{{book ref|sa3|92}}
 
 
== Trivia ==
* The Azish view of homosexuality is based on middle-agessome medieval Indian societysocieties, wherein the gay person would be "socially reassigned" and be expected to exist and act as the opposite gender.{{wob ref|1443}}
* The Azish government is partially based on the Chinese Confucian system.{{wob ref|1752}}
* The Azish script might be similar in appearance to [[wikipedia:cuneiform|cuneiform]].{{url ref|url=https://www.tor.com/2019/02/14/oathbringer-reread-chapter-sixty-five/ |text=Oathbringer Reread: Chapter Sixty-Five | site=Tor.com}}
- sa1: I-5, 71
- sa2: 2, 4, 46, 49, 59, 60, 71, 89, I-9, folio art
- edgesa2.5: 1-6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 18-20
- sa3: 1, 8, 12, 15, 24, 27, 28, 35, 38, 43, 46, 53, 56, 59, 64, 65, 88, 96,
100, 104, 111, 116, 117, 121, 122, I-8
- sa1: prologue, 5, 14, 18, 27, 40, 42, 43, 46, 43, 63, 68
- sa2: prologue, 4, 22, 31, 35, 46, 40, 44, 63, 71, I-2, I-9, folio art
- edgesa2.5: 1-4, 8, 9, 13, 14
- sa3: 4, 8, 12, 16, 35, 42, 44, 53, 56, 57, 59, 64, 65, 81, 86, 90, 92, 96, 98,
102, 107, 111, 113, 115, 116, 117, 119, 121, 122, I-8, I-13
-->
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{{demoted|sa4|exemplary=yes}}
{{Stormlight}}
[[es:Azir]]
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