Aina
The Aina are a people made up of many different species, though they all share a similar and deep culture. Interestingly enough they do not worship the gods of the main pantheon of Tirestir, and instead worship the four elements in their primal forms. They are also a wayfinding society, responsible for building some of the best maps of ocean currents in the world, and are consider the premier ship builders on Tirestir. Due to their strong naval presence and isolated position on an island no other nations typically bother them outside of trade. They are said to have conducted a large ritual ritual that sunk the island of Cles, once inhabited by Psurlons. They believe the Psurlon people still exist in the large reef caused by the sunken remnants of Cles and conduct a ritual expedition once a year to search for any signs.
Aina is not by a family, or council, but by a single individual that has earned the rite to rule. They have a special choosing rite that the exact information of is a closely guarded secret. A current ruler will train their chosen successor in how to complete this trial, although if another individual completes the trial while the current leader is alive, they may challenge them in ritual combat to the position of Ruler of Aina. Their ruler is thus a highly respected title, and they have say in almost all matters of their island nation from warfare, to economy, to law. Despite this far reaching influence it is allowed because the people of Aina always expect their ruler to be fair and just, and will actively seek to challenge them in combat and pass the trials of leadership if they prove to become exploitive of their people.
The main exports of Aina are fish, ships, and specialized jewelry made of coral, pearl, and other sea derived finery. The Aina people are not focused on trading things away from their islands as much as they find seeking out new lands, and gathering a collection of things from all across the world to sell to far off corners of the earth. These trading merchants are called Wayfinder Merchants. and will travel the known world of Tirestir and beyond, to the unexplored continents, and back to Aina to support their people with wealth and supplies.
The ships of Aina may not be as massive as the warships of Astartii or Altin nor as heavily armored or warded as the ships Juggernauts of Earthroot or the Deathships of Vershen, but despite the fearsome reputation of these foreign ships the captains of them all fear the navy of Aina. The ships of Aina are know to change the direction of the wind with their arrival, they move at fearsome speeds and the sea and sky seem to act with them in their assault. With war chants, and pounding drums it is typical for a vessel to surrender without any violence when they are found in the path of an Aina war party. The people of Aina are not a culture known for raiding, but they will attack ships they see as threatening Aina or who they have heard has sunk merchants in the area. Thus the pirates of the Freebooter Anchorage know to avoid these waters, unless the captains of those vessels are Ainan themselves.
A lesser known fact about Aina is that they are the home of one of the largest druidic orders of the circle of stars. These star druids were drawn here by the Ainan connection to the elements and the stars, and many of the Ainan who joined this circle (which originated in the Stellar Theocracy) found themselves quickly outpacing even their Nova contemporaries. Despite their natural affinity to the stars it is seen as poor to join the circle as it goes against the ways of the Aina although foreign member's of the circle are respected member's of society, and seen as incredibly useful for their star charts and helpful navigating assistance.
Fauna & Flora
Tidebloom
The Tidebloom is a vibrant flower that grows along the shores of Aina. Its petals have a mesmerizing iridescence, shifting in color as the tides change. The Tidebloom is known for its unique ability to absorb and store energy from the ocean currents. Aina's herbalists and alchemists utilize this plant in the creation of potions and elixirs that provide enhanced vitality and resilience.
Wayfinder's Heart
This fruit is a small, round, and vibrant orange fruit with a translucent, glowing core. It is named after the intrepid Wayfinder Merchants of Aina who navigate the seas and bring wealth and supplies back to their island. Wayfinder's Heart is known for its rejuvenating properties and is believed to enhance the navigational abilities of those who consume it, granting them a temporary boost in intuition and direction-finding skills.
Tide Melon
The Tide Melon is a large, striped fruit with a thick rind that ranges in colors from deep blue to vibrant green. When cracked open, it reveals a succulent, juicy flesh that tastes sweet with a hint of saltiness, perfect for drinks and other such purposes. Known for its hydrating and revitalizing properties, the melon is a favorite among sailors who traverse the seas around Aina, providing them with nourishment during long voyages.
Lumiscale Tortoise
The Lumiscale Tortoise is a rare and majestic reptile that dwells in the lagoons and coral reefs of Aina. Its shell is adorned with bioluminescent patterns, emitting a soft, radiant glow in the darkness. The Lumiscale Tortoise is a symbol of longevity and wisdom. It is said that touching the shell of a Lumiscale Tortoise brings good fortune and protection.
Natural Resources
Gilded Sands
Gilded Sands is a rare mineral formation found in the secluded beaches and dunes of Aina. These sands are infused with trace amounts of gold and other precious metals, giving them a glistening, golden appearance. Gilded Sands are highly valued for their decorative purposes and are often used in intricate sand art and ceremonial rituals.
Included Locations
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