Zipangu

An archipelagic continent on Gaea analogous to Japan, Zipangu is socially, geographically, and culturally similar to its Earth counterpart's Sengoku period. Featuring diverse biomes and climate, this long chain of volcanic islands is technically an Empire, but is functionally a series of loosely-affiliated nations headed by their own feudal lords. Those who lead individual families are known as Daimyo while those who lead multiple such groups and govern the individual provinces that make up the Empire style themselves as Shogun. These Shogun and Daimyo often war with one another for territory or over political disputes, grudges, and historical feuds; their society places great importance on familial and personal honor and public face, frequently demanding reprisal for slights and a strict adherence to societal norms and expectations. It has a rigid social hierarchy, akin to a caste system, with the expectations placed upon an individual increasing relative to their status. Those of higher status are often capable of freely exploiting and abusing those of lower status, particularly when comparing the lowest stations, the Eta (who are often not considered people within Zipanguese society) with the Buge (the culture's warrior-nobility) and Kuge (the extended imperial family). The imperial family is known to be descended from the gods Susanoo and Amaterasu through separate lineages and frequently produces Aasimar members. They and their empire are also said to be protected by a "divine wind" taking the form of a massive, multi-headed golden dragon, itself said to be a minor deity.
The Monsters of Zipangu often have divine attributes as many, particularly Dragons (particularly of the Lung and Celestial categories), are revered as gods through the animistic traditions of the native populations. While Zipangu has its own pantheon, collectively known as Kami, this includes many beings that are actually Monsters or uncorrupted Fey, Elementals, and the like, with extensive regional variations.
Zipangu is a land of pristine beaches, towering mountains, and dense forests.
Category:CanonCategory:GaeaCategory:Geography of Gaea