Yudao (island)

Yudao is an archipelago to the west of mainland Tairghol. It is dominated by Dai Yudao, and occupied by a nation named for this largest island. 
== Etymology ==
Yudao translates from the Chinese 'Yù dǎo', meaning 'Jade Islands'. This does not refer to any jade deposits on the archipelago; instead it refers to the deep green colouration of the forests on Dai Yudao ,which itself translates to 'Largest of the Jade Islands'.
== Geography ==
Dai Yudao is temperate, with summers averaging around 30 degrees and winters half that. The north of Dai Yudao is dominated by Zhen Shan, a mountain rising some 1400 metres, and to the south the hills fall away to green farmland and golden beaches. 
South of Dai Yudao are several smaller islands, most with high peaks themselves. Further south is the island of Yuyuo, which is wide and flat, one-third the size of Dai Yudao.
== History ==
Yudao was discovered by the Chinese junks Jinchang and Minjie, which later settled the islands.
The next time Yudao was of any significance was in the 1st Century CE, when the archipelago was absorbed into the Liancheng. Later, it was absorbed into the Sei Dynasty, the precursor to Tianguo.
Yudao won its independence during the reign of Governor Tan Tai, who fled the Tianguese palace after an altercation regarding the Emperor's favourite courtesan. Since then, the archipelago has been under the nominal protection of Dalfore.Category:Geography