Republic of the Harping Thistle

The Republic of the Harping Thistle is an island nation off the north coast of Island Continent of Bellflower. It prides itself in the production of fine paper, felted fabric and the exporting of education and trained physicians.

Culture

Architecture

Due to the cold breezes much of the architecture has only windows into inner courtyards, with doors having both a winter wooden door in addition to a felted fabric covering to insulate the interior of rooms. These fabric doors are often made with vibrant all over colors and patterns, and when exported are often used as rugs, blankets or small tapestries. 

Clothing

In contrast to the homes with vibrant fabrics, most people wear simpler colors with cotton and felted silkrush fabrics. With women preferring draped and tied blouses with multiple methods of tying the same blouse from day to day. The men are found with asymetrical styles of wear being preferred. This seems to be a particular custom relating to the dominant religion which prizes originality and constructive dynamism.

Traditions

In addition to the worship of Yagont, the people also venerate the sea spirit Suitin, and venerate him during calm winters and gift to him to appease storms. This is most evident during the spring storm season when the festival of renewal sees many offerings cast into the waves of the sea, and unusually bright shawls and body wrappings are seen on the revelers. The ritual bathings, gifts, and competitions of strength in the water are a highlight to those touring the region.

Demography and Population

Much of the island consists of Humans and a few halflings and half-elves. The capitol however is filled with a more diverse set of peoples, from dwarves to avians and all in-between.

Trade & Transport

The Church's education business, the associated medicinal crafts, as well as publishing houses and their paper and book manufacture creates the bulk of major exports from this nation. The silkrush harvested in the area makes for a cheap and reliable paper pulp for export. Because of the increased demand for this more rush prevalent in the area it has diverted local production of fabric and has spurred the importing of cotton. Though when cotton isn't available, the rougher fibered silkrush is used to make felted clothing as well. Metal tools and wine are also imported in large quantities.