In both language and ethnicity, the Dacians share a common origin with the neighbouring Thracians. Over time however, significant cultural differences have evolved. The Dacian religion involves a novel belief in the immortality of the soul, and in a god of great importance called Zalmoxis. As a result, the high priest wielded significant political power alongside the king./n/nKing Burebista united the various Dacian tribes in an expansionist regime stretching from the shores of the Black Sea to the Pannonian basin. At the height of his power he commanded a formidable military force and was able to muster up to 200,000 fighting men. Dacian warriors wielded the brutal falx, a two-handed, scythed weapon capable of cutting through even heavy Roman armour./n/nThe Dacians aligned their newfound power with Pompey in his ill-fated struggle against Caesar. The dictator took note of this allegiance, and marked them for punishment, though he was murdered before he could enact it. While this stroke of fortune averted external war, internal intrigue led to the assassination of Burebista that same year, plunging the Dacians into turmoil./n/nNow is a time of great opportunity for Dacia. If a leader arises to unite the tribes and once again bring their military prowess to bear, Roman instability could be exploited to great effect - to further the dominance of this proud and enigmatic people.
