Banong

Tucked away in the northern district of Bong'aa on Jobaykal, the Banong people cultivate a way of life rich in tradition, adaptation, and community solidarity. They make up a smaller portion of the population, speaking their own unique language, Nabongbong, characterized by its soft, rhythmical syllables that mirror the gentle, rolling hills of their homeland.
The Banong's culture is built around a strong sense of community and mutual aid, known as Sama-Sama in their tongue. This principle dictates that every member of their society should contribute to the community's well-being, resulting in a culture that values cooperation and mutual respect. Work, such as farming and fishing, is often communal, with the day's catch or harvest being shared among the villagers.
Their spiritual beliefs follow the Green Mountain Chapter of the Ascended faith, introduced through trading relations with Albra. This faith pays reverence to the natural world, much like the Neʻā Woi̯ faith of their Jobay neighbours, but with a focus on the spiritual ascendancy of individuals. Their faith represents the journey of the soul towards enlightenment, a path taken through contemplation, ethical living, and communal harmony.
Food practices among the Banong also reflect their deep bond with the land and sea. They have a largely pescatarian diet, with seafood dishes such as Tobong Stew, a hearty broth filled with freshly caught fish and sea vegetables, being a staple. They also partake in Laba Feasts, where the entire community gathers to share a meal, reinforcing their ties to one another and their collective identity.
Their relationship with the land and environment is one of reverence and sustainable use. The Banong practice a form of shifting cultivation known as Talong farming, where plots of land are used for a few years and then left fallow to rejuvenate. This practice allows them to maintain the fertility of their soil while minimizing their impact on the environment.
Unique to the Banong are their Story Weavings. Intricate patterns woven into fabric, these visual narratives tell tales of their history, beliefs, and daily life. An important aspect of their culture, every Banong learns the art of Story Weaving, a practice that combines creativity, storytelling, and a reverence for their past.