Terminology

Powerful feudal lords who, in 1600, were divided between the Eastern and Western armies leading up to Sekigahara.

Operatives specializing in unconventional warfare. In the 110k novel, they serve as the primary bridge between the physical and spirit realms.

A teacher, mentor, or learned master (derived from Sanskrit Acharya).

A traditional Thai lower garment wrapped between the legs, forming knickerbocker-like trousers.

Traditional Thai short swords, often used in pairs.

The "two-handed sword" style of Thai martial arts (Krabi-Krabong).

Traditional torches or braseros used for illumination in Siamese festivals.

A spicy, herb-heavy Northeast Thai (Isan) chicken soup.

Glutinous or "sticky" rice; the staple of Northern and Northeastern Thai diets.

The general term for Thai sweets, snacks, or pastries.

A traditional Thai baked custard made with mung beans, coconut milk, and palm sugar.

A traditional Thai vertical bamboo flute.

A title used for nobility or as a respectful term for a gentleman/lady.

High-ranking noble residence or palace, especially in Northern Thailand.

A versatile low platform made of bamboo or wood used as a bench, bed, or table.

The Thai word for "knife."

Spicy Thai chili dip or paste; serves as a fundamental flavoring agent in Siamese cuisine.

A diacritic circle (˚) in Thai/Pali script used to denote nasalization.

A multi-purpose chequered cotton cloth used traditionally as a loincloth, sash, or towel.

A head-cloth or turban favored by ancient Siamese and Khmer royalty.

Sacred armbands inscribed with magical protections worn by warriors on the upper arms.

A traditional lute from the Isan region of Thailand.

The ministry responsible for foreign trade and treasury during the Ayutthaya period, central to the 40k novella's plot.

Referred to in Thai as the Ramakien; the national epic detailing the struggle and spiritual journey of Rama.

A traditional Thai wooden xylophone, often the lead instrument in a piphat ensemble.

A Thai measurement (approx. 50cm); here referring to the cubit-length pestle used to crush spices.

The iconic Thai spicy green papaya salad, characterized by its rhythmic mortar-and-pestle preparation.

From the Sanskrit Suvarna; a term of endearment meaning "The Golden One."

A tribute or tax paid in kind (forest products, ivory, etc.) to the Siamese crown.

A "yantra shirt" or vest inscribed with protective sacred symbols and script.

The open space beneath the elevated floor of a traditional Thai stilt house.

The Dipterocarpus alatus tree; a giant of the Thai jungle valued for both its timber and magical associations.