Okunan (/ō-koo-non/ , "Oh-koo-non")
Okunan is a country full of beautiful landscapes, deep traditions, and thriving spirituality. This island nation has breathtaking mountain ranges, verdant forests, and enchanting lakes and rivers. The people are deeply spiritual and hold fast to traditions that often stem from both practicality and superstition. This is because, in Okunan, the spirits that people fear and venerate aren't just real but play an active role in the day to day lives of the people. Both oni and kami are extremely common types of spirits or beings that permeate the lands and culture of the Okunese.
While many of the traditions of the people stem from their everyday interactions with spiritual beings, their other traditions come from the ancient governing system that has dominated the nation for hundreds of years. Okunan functions on a variation of the feudal system wherein the titles and positions of power are, more often than not, hereditary rather than contractual (like in Kefrad). The nation's rule is split between an Emperor, a position of both leadership and religious significance, and a Shogun, a position earned through military might and prowess. Throughout history power has shifted between the Emperor and the Shogun and has always been in a precarious balance. Because of this the country has shifted constantly between a state of an absolute monarchy with the Emperor in charge or a military dictatorship with the Shogun in control.
No matter if it is the Emperor or the Shogun who is in power, the ruling caste keeps the people in check via ancient traditions and a pyramid hierarchy. Land and titles are passed down through generations and stem from close personal bonds and oaths of loyalty with patrons as opposed to contractual agreements. This makes changes in station difficult at times for those born into a lower caste. The most reliable, albeit the most dangerous, method for gaining renown or prestige for oneself or their family is through conflict. Okunan's history has always needed and honored those willing to put their lives on the line. Okunese warlords vying for more power or land fighting with each other, Chudene's numerous attempts to subjugate Okunan and bring it into their own empire, the constant threat of malevolent spirits, and now the struggle for control of Thovania are all examples of why the warrior tradition holds such sway in Okunan. A soldier in the military, a samurai sworn to the service of a lord, a yokai hunter determined to hunt evil spirits, or a spellcaster who has graduated from the famed Mahōyokon Academy of magic are all ways to change one's lot in life, or lose everything in the attempt.
Alignment:
Lawful Neutral
Cultural Inspiration:
Feudal Japan
Lawful Neutral
Cultural Inspiration:
Feudal Japan
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