Scarch

Scarch (also known as Sharish or Skarish) is an extinct language from Stoldavia, belonging to the Stoldish language group, specifically the mountain variation. It is best known as the common language of the Skara Samverkan from approximately 6800 to 7200. Scarch is directly descended from Old Stoldish, which is considered a modernization of the ancient language used in the Orkanan Realm of Stoldavia. During its heyday, Scarch served as the lingua franca of Northern Stoldavia, and even extended into parts of Thultannia and mainland Anaria.

History and Usage

Scarch was primarily in use during the period when the Skara Samverkan—a major trading and cultural alliance in Northern Stoldavia—was at its peak between 6500 and 6900. It was written using a 23-letter rune alphabet known as the Skaran version. As the Greater Stoldavic Empire expanded, Scarch was gradually replaced by Northstoldish, a predecessor to Wortsproke, as the dominant language of the region. Despite its extinction as a native language, Scarch has not disappeared entirely. It remains in use as a secret or coded language among trade guilds and as a liturgical language within the Sunna Stift and Sunna Stonds of Mellanhand Orkanan.

Linguistic Features

Scarch is characterized by its distinctive phonological and grammatical features, which set it apart from its modern-day counterparts, such as Morish and Wortsproke. It is not mutually intelligible with these modern languages, making it a challenge to understand without specific study. However, due to its historical importance and the presence of many written sources, Scarch has been maintained as a sociolinguistic reconstruction. This means that while there are no native speakers, it is preserved and taught for specific ceremonial and scholarly purposes.

Modern Significance

Today, Scarch is mainly used by initiated Sunna clergy and high-ranking educators within trading stims (community groups). It is not used in everyday conversation, which has prevented it from gaining new native speakers. Nevertheless, it holds cultural and historical significance, particularly in religious and trade contexts. Additionally, Scarch has left a notable imprint on modern languages used in Stoldavia and Thultannia, especially in terms related to seafaring (e.g., anchor, bow, keel), trade (e.g., market, law, guest), and everyday activities (e.g., make, do, eat).

Legacy and Influence

The remnants of Scarch vocabulary are still found in contemporary languages spoken in Stoldavia and Thultannia. Terms related to seafaring, trade, and religion have particularly endured, showcasing the language's rich heritage. Words like "anchor," "raft," "sail," "market," "law," and "luck" have their origins in Scarch and continue to influence regional dialects and languages.