Shiruba

Geography and Defenses

  The island nation of Shiruba is located within a perilous stretch of ocean known as the Dragon’s Jaws, a cluster of jagged rock formations that churn the waves into deadly white foam. These treacherous waters serve as an effective natural defense, making the main island, Hebi no Kokoro, impervious to enemy invasions. While smaller outlying islands have been briefly occupied in the past, such invasions are short-lived due to Shiruba’s formidable navy, which is highly skilled in navigating these dangerous waters.   Hebi no Kokoro is dominated by high mountains, lush valleys, and dense forests. Volcanic activity is common, shaping both the landscape and the culture. The islands are famous for their hot springs, which range from healing baths to dangerous, boiling pools. The rich volcanic soil supports thriving agriculture, producing exotic flowers and crops sought after in trade. Mud from the springs and unique edible blossoms are particularly prized exports.  

Society and Culture

 

The Yotogi Caste and Military Traditions

  Shiruba follows a strict caste system, with the ruling warrior class, the Yotogi, holding absolute authority over merchants, farmers, and artisans. While wealthy merchants can gain influence through economic power, they are never afforded the same privileges as the Yotogi.   All members of Yotogi families, regardless of gender, are trained in Seido, the art of war. This includes mastery of the sword, bow, and horseback riding. Women of the Yotogi are expected to defend their homes, and if a family lacks sons, daughters may take up arms in battle. It is not uncommon to see women in full armor, carrying the sword of their lineage.  

Capital and Architecture

  The capital city, Kami Seki (Seat of the Gods), is nestled atop a heavily forested mountain, often shrouded in mist. Its golden and white walls gleam like fire when they catch the sun. At its heart is the Imperial Palace, a towering, tiered structure with golden roof tiles that symbolizes the divine authority of the Emperor. Surrounding the palace are the walled estates of the noble Yotogi families.   Other major settlements include:  

Seishin no Ie – A spiritual center dedicated to ancestor worship and the veneration of spirits.

Jueru Nami – A prosperous port city known for its stunning coastal scenery and trade hubs.

Sangadenzu – Famous for its breathtaking gardens, filled with rare flowers and hot spring resorts.

Ringo – A rich agricultural region producing Shiruba’s famed fruits and teas.

Festivals and Traditions

  Shiruba celebrates numerous festivals, each tied to its spiritual beliefs and cultural heritage:  

Tsuki Matsuri (Moon Festival) – A celebration honoring the spirits of ancestors, featuring floating lanterns, moon-gazing, and poetry recitals.

Kaen no Odori (Flame Dance Festival) – Held in honor of the volcanic spirits, this festival includes fire dances, elaborate performances, and fireworks displays.

Kaze no Hana (Wind Flower Festival) – Marking the arrival of spring, this festival celebrates the blooming of the island’s famous exotic flowers with tea ceremonies and floral displays.

Umihebi no Hi (Day of the Sea Serpent) – A grand naval festival dedicated to Umihebi, the sea deity, where elaborately decorated ships set sail in ceremonial processions to ensure safe voyages.

Fashion and Attire

  Shiruban clothing is elegant and deeply symbolic. The Yotogi wear garments woven from silk and adorned with intricate embroidery denoting their family crests. Their battle armor consists of lacquered plates, often featuring motifs of dragons or serpents, reflecting their spiritual beliefs.  

Men’s attire: Long, flowing robes with wide sleeves, belted at the waist, often in subdued colors like deep blue, crimson, or black.

Women’s attire: Silk kimonos decorated with elaborate floral patterns, typically paired with golden hair ornaments and long sleeves signifying status.

Armor: Lamellar armor, reinforced with enchanted materials for the Yotogi elite.

Cuisine and Food

  Shiruban cuisine reflects the land’s rich agricultural and maritime resources. Meals emphasize balance, seasonal ingredients, and delicate flavors.   Staples: Rice, seafood, and exotic vegetables cultivated in the volcanic soil.  

Signature Dishes:

 

Umihebi no Nabemono – A hot pot dish infused with seaweed, fish, and spiced broth, often served during naval festivals.

Kin no Hana Cha (Golden Flower Tea) – A rare floral tea made from blossoms grown in the volcanic valleys, known for its healing properties.

Yotogi Ryori – A high-protein warrior’s meal of grilled fish, rice, pickled vegetables, and a hearty miso soup.

Jewel Cakes – Delicate sweets made from rice flour, honey, and crushed edible flowers.

The Aure’ellar and Their Legacy

  The Aure’ellar, an ancient race of star elves, once lived in harmony with the islands for centuries. However, during the period known as the Turmoil, the Shirubans enslaved them, using their knowledge of magic and craftsmanship to further the empire’s power.   Recently, the Aure’ellar have escaped across the sea, leaving behind a cultural imprint on Shiruba. Many Shiruban artistic techniques, textiles, and even magical traditions can be traced back to the Aure’ellar’s influence, though their history is often rewritten by the ruling class to diminish their contributions.