Nation of Ishui
Off the western shores of Tokavah, there lies the nation of Ishui. Hundreds of islands form a series of archipelagos that scatter across the Moonlit Sea. Every island is its own natural wonder, adorned with picturesque landscapes and vibrant with life. From mountainous peaks to lush rainforests to a vast series of underground caverns, Ishui is ripe for those who love adventure and exploration.
Off the coasts of these islands, the Moonlit Sea is just as alluring. Coral reefs hide vibrant life. From the Saffron Dream Lillies to the sleek Sun Rays, you can see all manner of life from just a quick swim. For the more daring, deep waters hold massive ancient denizens, mysterious creatures from a long past age. Meanwhile, cutthroat pirates and the constant threat of the Gograzhi, bring constant danger to those brave enough to sail the Moonlit Sea.
The people of Ishui are just as diverse as the isles. Curiosity drives the hearts of the Ishui. They are explorers and scholars, driven to see the world and unravel its mysteries. They carry with them in their journey, a deep appreciation and adoration of nature. They learn from a young age about the cyclical nature of life. Many Ishui are fishers, taking enough to provide for their family, but never enough to disrupt the balance of nature. For Ishui they are taught about the importance of being caretakers of the wild and their unique ecosystem. Whether they are charting the farthest reaches of a remote isle, studying the plant life of their local stream, or riding the waves of Moonlit Sea, the Ishui don’t wait for life to come to them, they set their own sails, driven by the spirit of their own adventure.
Although the Ishui seek their fortunes in the future, they diligently draw wisdom from the past. Whether passed down from one’s ancestors or gained from studying ancient texts, the Ishui seek knowledge from history. They hold in highest regard those who have prepared the way: those who have taught, those who have recorded history, those who have invented, and those who have discovered. To the Ishui, the discovery of the past is as important as the discovery of the future.
The name of the Moonlit Sea shows the reverence the Ishui have for the heavens. Since the earliest days of Ishui, stars have guided the paths of sailors. Astronomy has been at the forefront of study, but Astrology is often practiced as well. The constellations in the night sky are mirrored in the shape of the isles, further solidifying their belief that the patterns of the heavens offer answers for those who seek them.
The Tribes
The story of the creation of the Ishui tribes is sewn in the legends of old. It is said that the constellations were once the caretakers of Ishui. Each had its own values and responsibilities. In time, they passed down their roles to the people. The mantles they adopted gave them identity. They became tribes, each taking the name of their constellation and embracing the values they represented.
Tribes are often associated with the regions of the archipelagos, but a person may choose to be part of any tribe. They are united by values not location. However, not everyone joins a tribe. Many people have their own calling, and forge their own path.
Honukai
Constellation: A turtle entwined with a serpent.
Role: Defense and Protection.
The Honukai tribe embodies strength, resilience, and protection. They have taken up the responsibility of defending the islands from external threats. The Honukai tribe trains together to act as one Shell of its people. The Honukai archipelago forms the eastern side of Ishui, and separates the rest of the islands from the mainland, which allows the islands themselves act as a defensive barrier.
Arahi
Constellation: A navigator’s compass.
Role: Exploration and Navigation.
The Arahi tribe embody the spirit of exploration. They set sails toward the unknown. Sailors, astronomers, merchants, and cartographers are all common professions among the Arahi, using their deep knowledge of celestial navigation to chart new territories and establish trade routes. However, the Arahi are not just charting above land. Since many Ishui learn to breathe water at a young age, the Arahi explore the depths of the Moonlit Sea, mapping the seabed and the massive series of sunken caverns around the island.
Uta'Kani
Constellation: A pan flute.
Role: Arts and Music.
The Uta'Kani constellation embodies creativity, harmony, and cultural expression. The Uta'Kani Artisans are the keepers of Ishui’s artistic and musical traditions. They craft beautiful works of art, weave magical melodies into their music, and preserve the cultural heritage of the islands. Their tribe values creativity, skill, and the ability to evoke emotion through their creations. They use what the seas provide, fashioning musical instruments out of conch shells, incorporating bioluminescent algae and seashells in art pieces, crafting coral jewelry, and weaving sea silk garments.
Kuaqili
Constellation: The Great Tree.
Role: Preservation of Nature.
The Kuaqili tribe values life of all kinds. From the enormous denizens of the deep to the smallest flower, they see value in all life. They are stewards of the natural cycle, working tirelessly to understand and preserve the lands, the seas, and the people of Ishui. Physickers are common among the Kuaqili, as well as scholars, using their knowledge to aid all of nature.
With an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, a respect for the wonders of nature, and a deep reverence of the past, the Ishui embody a love of adventure and an appreciation of the unknown. The Ishui are explorers and scholars, astronomers and astrologers, who remember the past while carving a path for their future.
Ishui Names
Given Names
Ishui names are inspired by Japanese, Hawaiian, Maori, Cantonese and Mandarin names and words. The name you choose does not have to match exactly the sounds or meanings from any of these languages.
Ishui names often draw inspirations from nature and natural concepts, using multiple concepts within a single name. More than 4 concepts, or six syllables, within a name is uncommon, but not unheard of. For example: "Tera'ha'nami" (or Sunset-on-the-waves, inspired by Maori and Japanese), "Le'a-fetu" (Joy-of-the-star, inspired by Maori and Hawaiian), "Luo'mo-umi" (Shell-spiral-holds-the-ocean, inspired by Cantonese and Japanese).
Family Names
There are no last names in the culture, and each name is unique within the family. If a parent chooses, they may use a portion of their name as part of the child’s name, but no parent would give their child the same exact name as theirs. For example, Parent: Kaiyo'kaze, Child: Kaze'nui.
Name Examples
Kaimana
Kalea
Valu
Maru'kai
Tatsu'haru
Costuming References
Common Elements
Natural Fabrics: Clothing is typically made from natural materials like cotton and silk. These fabrics are lightweight and breathable.
Flowing Designs: Garments are designed to be loose and flowing for ease of movement and comfort.
Intricate Patterns: Many pieces feature intricate patterns and embroidery that represent the wearer’s tribe or family. These designs often incorporate symbols of water, celestial bodies, and natural elements.
Adornments: Everyday clothing is often decorated with small shells, pearls, and pieces of coral.
Colors: Typical clothing often features colors of blue, green, turquoise, and aquamarine, representing the ocean and the sky.
Everyday Wear
Tunics and Shawls: Lightweight tunics, shawls are used for many day to day activities
Cloaks: Water-resistant cloaks woven reed fibers, linen, or straw are common when fishing.
Sarongs and Wraps: People commonly wear sarongs, wraps, or hooded kimonos for beachwear
Footwear: Leather sandals are the most common footwear. When traveling they often switch to boots or other shoes suited to the terrain on which they are traveling.
Tribe-Specific Attire
Honukai: Having many warriors, the Honukai often wear durable, reinforced tunics and trousers. Leather and Brigandine armor are common. In order to be easily differentiated and located in a fight by their allies, Honukai prefer dark red fabric.
Arahi: With many explorers and traders, the Arahi favor practical, weather-resistant garments. Long, flowing robes or coats with deep hoods protect them from the elements. These are often decorated with celestial motifs and navigation symbols.
Uta'Kani: The Uta’Kani often prefer colorful attire with flowing robes, decorated with detailed embroidery and beadwork, to reflect their artistic spirit.
Kuaqili: Those who work closely with nature wear clothing that blends with their environment. Greens, browns, and blues are common, with patterns inspired by nature. Practical elements like pockets and tool belts are integrated into their attire.
Check out the Citadel Ishui Pinterest page for pictures of costuming references.
Faith & Religion
Religion in Ishui is an internal matter. It is commonly accepted that a being known as the Goddess created all people, and thus is often referred to as the Mother.
A person’s connection to the Goddess is up to them. To many people, it’s a casual relationship. They are more concerned with day to day activities. In other people, they try to understand what their role is in the design of the Mother. They form their own ideals and strive to reach them. This is often done by joining a tribe. According to tales passed down from the Ancient Era, the Mother sent Ishui four celestial messengers: Honukai, Arahi, Kuaqili, and Uta’Kani. Each was tasked with roles to nurture the isles. These tasks were passed down to the people.
Joining a Tribe is often seen as a spiritual calling, a personal journey of self discovery and purpose. For example, the Goddess created all the land, so an Arahi exploring the world sees it as a quest to learn more about the Goddess. Since each spiritual calling is personal, there are very few religious leaders in Ishui. They find their own ideals, and they improve themselves. There are stories though, of people who spoke directly to a messenger, and were handed down a task.
While their journey is personal, talking about one’s own ideal and experience is not. People learn from the past, but not necessarily their own.
Economy & International Relations
The Ishui are very conservative with their resources. Most of their local economy is based on fishing and farming. On the island of Kaiyo, trees seem to grow unnaturally fast, making lumber one of their chief exports. They also manufacture paper, both from the trees, and from the bamboo that is common to the Arahi islands. From the sea life, they are able to either obtain or manufacture both ink and oil for trade. Arts and crafts are common trade items by the Uta’Kani. Quality sand for glassblowing is one of their most common exports, and highly prized by glassmakers as far as the Raziri in Mzizimoto.
Relations with other nations
The following information is the general, cultural biases (both positive and negative) that Ishui tend to have toward those from other nations.
Kyr
The Ishui probably have more in common with the Kyr than any other nation. They both share a thirst for knowledge. However, the Ishui see the Kyrie approach as too academic, while the Ishui take a more practical approach. The Uta'Kani often find common interest with the Kyrie pursuit of Song.
While the Ishui maintain normal trade with the Kyr, they often also trade books and scrolls between the countries, sharing their collective knowledge.
Ora
The Ora always try to be neighborly and are hard workers so they tend to be welcome in Ishui. They share a love of nature and also a kind of wanderlust. However, the Orani travel the same circuit, which is odd to the Ishui, who prefer exploring new places and searching the undiscovered.
Most of the Ora that live among the Ishui stay on the isles of the Kuaqili, and are well suited to the preservation lifestyle that the Kuaqili possess.
With regards to trade, the traveling Orani always have plenty of wares, but never anything really specific. So most trade is done on an ad hoc basis, rather than any long term contracts. For the Orani who live within the isles, the Ishui appreciate their hard effort and willingness to work the land. They'll happily provide the Orani with what they need to live comfortably for this exchange.
Razir
The Raziri are both so similar and yet so different than the Ishui. The Raziri are hunters, while the Ishui are fishers. They both have great appreciation of what nature provides, and do their most to not waste any portion of what they receive. Yet the Raziri let emotion drive them too often. They're short-tempered and are prone to unnecessary confrontation. The Ishui often think the Raziri should be more independent, and not have such a heavy group mentality. They also rely too heavily on their leaders, entrenching their authority, while the Ishui believe that power should ebb and flow.
Trade with the Raziri is difficult, due to the distance and geographical barriers in between them. So what does get sent between the two nations, is often more luxury based, items of art or works of craftmanship that show each others cultural heritage. Though Inscription materials and quality sand for glassblowing do tend to offer a good trade rate.
Vonor
The Ishui find the Vonori to be a bit grave. Mostly they hear stories of how the Vonori act as caretakers of the dead. The Ishui have deep appreciation of the past, and their ancestry. However, you still need to live in the present and enjoy life, and not always be as serious as they view the people of Vonor.
The Ishui are constantly trying to trade for the metal that the Vonor exports. Mostly they trade lumber, cloth, or glass, as the Vonori are more interested in practical goods, than in the artistic goods that Ishui often export.
Trade & Magic Skills
The core of Ishui magic is centered around the element of Water. That Aspect is integral for Ishui, and most practitioners of magic tie themselves to it. However some people might choose to learn another Aspect. While rare for any person to do so, the Arahi in particular, being explorers and traders, frequent the mainland the most, and will sometimes learn magic from the people they meet there.
Within the Aspect of Water, are certain themes: Blood, depth, mystery, wisdom, and the past. These are the same themes that are present throughout Ishui society. Blood magic is the most controversial. It can be very potent, drawing upon life itself. Yet at the same time, it is the most risky and abusable. Because of this, when working with Blood magic, there are certain practices that are taboo. If using the blood of a living individual, you must seek their permission first. If using the blood of a dead person, you are only permitted to do so if you have their best interest at heart. For example: divining on the blood of an individual to find their killer. You may never store blood for later use, neither your own nor another person's. The use of blood in magic is not limited to Wizardry and Channeling, but is present in trade skills as well, particularly Alchemy and Inscription.
Although you can find masters of all the magic and trade skills in Ishui, some are more common than others, and the way the Ishui practice the skills might be different than those of other nations.
Rarity Term Definitions:
Rare: Relatively unseen, only a few experts in the entire nation
Uncommon: Not seen often and would be considered unusual among the population for someone to obtain an intermediate level or mastery of the skill.
Common: Frequently found among the population, and it would be expected for most people to at least have a basic understanding of the skill.
Wide Spread: It is normal for adults to have an intermediate level of skill, and there are masters of the skill in almost every family.
Artificing
Rarity: Rare
The Ishui have a great reluctance to mine their mountains due to the potential damage to the land. As such, metal is rare, making Artificing difficult. They do trade extensively for it with the other countries, but things like nails for ships tend to take priority over weaponry. That isn't to say it's unheard of. Every tribe has a small contingent who practice the craft. They first learn to craft items that have little to no metal in them: spears, staves, and leather armor are common. They also know how to make the most from what nature has provided them. Armor might be made from Bamboo, or shields might be made from the shells of the Iron Turtles. Understanding nature and using what it provides really showcases the resourcefulness of their artisans. Those who show talent are provided metal use. They are assigned a direct mentor so that as little metal as possible is wasted. The Ishui also have extensive notes of processes and patterns. Among the islands, Sparktech and grappling hooks are often sought after due to their usefulness in Naval combat.
Arcanatech
Rarity: Rare
While Artificing is rare in Ishui, almost every artificer takes up Arcanatech. The Ishui believe in making the most out of every resource, so if they already have a sword, they are going to do the most to make that sword as effective as possible.
Inscription
Rarity: Widespread
Paper, both made from trees and bamboo, is one of Ishui's most prevalent commodities. Dyes and ink are also common. As such, Inscription is practiced everywhere in the isles. From early childhood education to lifelong learning, the practice of Inscription is a testament to the importance of knowledge and history that define the ideals of the Ishui people. While Inscription is common throughout the islands, it is most heavily practiced by the Uta’Kani.
Sigilcraft
Rarity: Common
Sigils and Glyphs appear in even the oldest stories of Ishui. And since that time the practice of it has made its way even to the most remote islands. The Uta'Kani, who study the Arts are particularly adept at Tattoos. But even as old as it is in Ishui, Sigilcraft is still on the forefront of innovation for islands. The Arahi are finding ways to line their ships with Glyphs, while the Kuaqili are finding ways to seal poisons and diseases.
Physicker Studies
Rarity: Uncommon
The practice of healing is common in Ishui, but it's spread over multiple disciplines, so Physickers aren't as widespread as one would think. Every town will have a few Physickers, but with Water Magic being common, people who want to become healers often choose a different path. The biggest exception to this would be the isles of Kuaqili, where it is a rather common field of study. Being very in-tune with nature, they have long studied the isles' natural remedies. Continuing their studies to understand the finer points of medicine, is often seen as a highly prestigious profession.
Alchemy
Rarity: Uncommon
The natural curiosity of the Ishui and the desire to understand the fundamental aspects of the elements leads people to this profession. Yet, mastery of this art can take a lifetime, and often families can't afford the luxury to support those who are interested. Yet every tribe sees its importance, and even the smallest island tries to support at least a couple of people in pursuit of the art of Alchemy.
Gardening
Rarity: Widespread
The Ishui believe they are the stewards of nature. Gardening is a way to give back. To some it’s almost a religious rite. Because of this, they rarely try to profit from it. Some will grow plants, and replant them in the wild. Others will use their herbs to support their local Physickers. While the Ishui have traditional gardens, many will keep water gardens, specializing in plants that only grow beneath the surface of the waters.
Wizardry
Rarity: Uncommon
While most knowledge in Ishui is passed down from elder members of a tribe, to any who seek it, Wizardry is different. Inscription is so widespread that Fellowship Binding Contracts that protect the secrets of a cabal are very common. Those new to the practice have to commission an individual Cabal, and agree to terms before they can even begin to learn their secrets. Cabals are often self motivated and not under the control of any tribe. Sometimes they are limited to a specific family, and don't take in outside members. Those who do find their way into a Cabal, often find a second family. By strengthening a lone member, they are strengthening the entire Cabal. Secrets are guarded closely, but so too are a person's fellow members of a Cabal.
Channeling
Rarity: Common
The Ishui take to Channeling like a fish takes to water. Being surrounded on all sides by the bluest seas makes the people want to dive head first into the magic. It's also highly practical. From naval combat to fishing, most every aspect of living on Ishui lends itself to learning the craft. It's still a practice that takes time to learn, and there's lot of appeal to the other fields, so it isn't for everyone. Each Ishui walks their own path, but many choose the path of the Channeler.
Order Presence
Academy of the Rising Wind
The Mission of the Academy of the Rising Wind (to collect, preserve, and share knowledge for posterity; to discover lost knowledge, and to make new discoveries) is a principle that strikes true to the Ishui people. Knowledge of the past, and learning from those walked before you, is important to the isles.
The Academy of the Rising Tide is located on the isle of Kala in the Kuaqili islands. Different courses of study are all available, but the primary disciplines are History, Archiving, and Astrology. Dialectics and Arcane Studies are also common. They also maintain a catalog of the flora and fauna of the islands with all known information that can be gathered accompanied by artistic drawings for visual recognition.
Ishui who wish to obtain a more broad education are encouraged to spend at least one year in the Academy of the Rising tide and before moving on to a branch of their choice.
Kinship of Pallas Adine
The Kinship has only a small number of members in Ishui. The Kinship's goal of being a sword and shield against the threat to the five nations, falls in line with the protective nature of the Honukai. They are the most practiced warriors of the Ishui, and the Kinship often look there first for recruitment. While the Kinships numbers are small, there is enough interest to house a small chapterhouse on the island of Hoku'pono in the Honukai islands. However the rigid structure of the order often doesn't always align with the natural fluidity of the Ishui, and many choose to find their own method to fight.
Wardens of the Endless Road
The Wardens are widespread through Ishui. There are many aspects to the Wardens that the certain tribes find appealing: travel and exploration, safeguarding trade routes, and even reconnaissance into Gorgrazhi, are facets valued by the Arahi and the Honukai. It's not an easy life, and often takes members very far from home, so only the most committed take up the call. There are several outposts throughout Ishui. The largest is located on Tsubala in the Arahi islands.
Caretakers of the Heartsgrove
The ideals of the Caretakers, particularly natural conservation and compassionate aid, fall in line with many of the Ishui, particularly those from Kuaqili. The nature of the element of Water lends itself well to the Order, so you'll find people from all over the country who find interest. Though those who don't find it as a home for themselves, still see the necessity of its goals. Gardening is common throughout Ishui, and people will often donate excess herbs to Physickers. In turn, the Caretakers help those most in need. Ishui has two main chapters of the Order. One is located in Kilo'koa in the Kuaqili islands. This branch is more research based, and concerned with environmental conservation. The other is located on the island of Mahinamara in the Honukai islands. The Honukai see the most battle, so this branch is focused mainly on tending the wounds of the Ishui warriors.
The Braided Band
The Braided Band have members all throughout Ishui. Trade is essential among the Ishui due to the natural physical barriers that separate them from each other. Keeping up trade with the mainland is also a mutual benefit. So every island will have people who decide to join with group. The Uta'Kani and the Arahi specifically have several members.
The Uta'Kani, known for their artistic crafts and musical heritage, play a significant role within the Braided Band. The island’s artisans are renowned for their intricate designs, masterful craftsmanship, and the ability to weave magic into their creations. From delicate jewelry and finely crafted instruments to elaborate tapestries, the products of Uta'Kani are highly sought after in the markets of the mainland. The Braided Band take their wares even as far as Razir, helping showcase the rich heritage and creativity of the Ishui people to the wider world.
The Arahi, with their adventurous spirit and navigational prowess, complement the Braided Band’s activities through exploration and trade. The people of Arahi are master navigators, making them exceptional explorers and traders, capable of forging new trade routes and establishing connections with distant lands. The adventurous spirit of the Arahi aligns perfectly with the Braided Band’s goals of mutual benefit and growth.
The Good and the Bad
The Ishui are adventurous and curious, making them very suited to explore the Citadel and seek out its mysteries. The ever-shifting power dynamics among the tribes will create opportunities for engaging in political intrigue and strategic plotting. Their contemplative and reflective nature make them good for a reserved style of play.
On the contrary side, their desire for wisdom and to understand history might require learning more detailed information than a casual player might want to do. Their conservationist mentality and beliefs in astrology might not be suited for everyone.