The Xel-Palmas

== Overview ==
The Xel-Palmas are a small archipelago in the southern sea, residing in shallow waters known as the Palmanian Bank. Nearly all the state’s residents live on Grand Xel-Palma, the largest island of the archipelago. The second largest islands are Little Xel-Palma, and Cayo Palma. West of Cayo Palma are the remaining Palmanian islands, consisting of privately owned estates and vacant sand bars. None of the islands reach five meters above sea level naturally, and are thus prone to severe storms and flooding events. Grand Xel-Palma and Cayo Palma both have nature reserves, including northern rainforests, inland freshwater rivers, brackish marshlands, mangroves, bamboo forests, and cenotes. Most of The Xel-Palmas income today is from tourism, followed by private real estate deals. Also historically important to the islands is the local fishing industry.
== History ==
Historically the islands have not held any national allegiance, instead being parceled and owned separately by many private individuals (usually as luxury getaways). With the rise of the corporate Doggerlands, the islands have gained enough permanent residents to form a local government. The rise in population also brought several missionaries from the Pontifical Church, who found great success founding Bartoleme de las Casa Cathedral, which includes a Pontifical State University Campus. The majority Christian following on Grand Xel-Palma decided in a recent public referendum to join under the Pontifical Government. As a State under the control of the Pontifical Government, a resident bishop is appointed to oversee the provincial government.