Annwfyn

> "*A story to be told, begins thus."*
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In the west, an archipelago of islands reside. **Annwfyn,** who is described as always an emerald green, is covered in prosperous farmlands that are always green. The major islands, or kingdoms, Incunabula, Meru, Delaware, and Annwn, have been part of this collection of islands since before the Divide. The native folk are called Sidhes.

## Overview

Since nearly half of the Isles were formed prior to the Divide, there wasn't a need for them to conform to the rest of the world. The islands were created by Eve, the mother of all Sidhes. She created the islands and the Fae all in her image as well as in the image of her many lovers. Though, long ago, she vanished, leaving behind her creations to fend for themselves. Now, her first love, Adam, holds the reigns on the highest mountain of Xian. There, per tradition, the leaders of Annwfyn must complete his labors in order to be the proper ruler and have their legacy in the stars.

Annwfyn were founded as a place of sanctuary and trust. There was a reason that the Isles have not fallen into civil war or any mundane war that occurred in the rest of the world. They were peaceful people, though selfish as they often hid their true resources from the rest of the world. It is often heard that when people visit the Emerald Isles, they either come back disappointed or not at all.

## Government

While the True Leader of Annwfyn is currently Adam, Adam appoints someone to lead for him, for he does not enjoy the boring activities of politics or ruling in general. He'd much rather stay on Xian, where there are not many lights that block out the stars. Through tradition, this leader is typically chosen by a trial-by-combat with Adam, himself. Though, as time went on and Adam became more scarce, some rulers forfeited the tradition and claimed the throne for themselves. If no one objected, they were ruler of the Isles. If one were to go by tradition, first, the potential leader has to find Adam on their own. They cannot be lead straight to him, but they may be directed in his direction. Since no one truly knows where he is, except Gwyn ap Nudd, it is almost impossible to find him without first searching out Gwyn himself. If Gwyn feels like the potential leader is suitable for what the country needs at the time, Gwyn will direct them towards Adam. If he does not, he will lead them on a false path. If one wishes to not go by tradition, they just need to have no contest. No one, not even Gwyn, can oppose them. If they are opposed, they either need to sway their opponent, have a duel, or go to Adam with their opponent to see which he prefers.

The current leader of the archipelago is Celaena Sardothien, first of her name. She is the first foreigner to be leader of the Isles, which the public has made sure to frown upon. Though, they cannot disagree with the True Leader, they can openly despise their new queen. While this has caused some tension between the people, nobles particularly, those who remember what the world was like before the decided to practice isolationism understand Adam's choice of leader. Celaena's rule was sanctified by Adam, which was the first ruler to be approved by him in a few centuries. Adam created a new constellation, a stag, in the skies for Celaena's rule.

## Culture

The islands' culture is unique, due to the type of people who live there. The Sidhes are one who are deadly loyal, so there is not a profit for gambling, brothels, or a black market. There is no poverty, for everyone prospers differently. Some of the more money-rich folk try to look down on the humble farmers, but truly, there is no hatred between the two classes. The rich would not do well without the farmers, and the farmers would not do well without the rich. The most common culture from the previous world is Welsh. Since many from different cultures have migrated to Annwfyn for refuge, sanctuary, or just simply a place to start over- the land has inspiration from all different types of cultures from the world before the Divide.

## Islands

### Annwn

Annwn is the most mysterious island. It is the most populated island, but no one is really sure why or how. Only those native to the Isles or are invited outsiders understand why Annwn is the most popular of the islands. It is rumored that this is Ashur's most beloved island, so it is possible that the population is either well-guarded or simply made up in his head. This is the island were Celaena Sardothien supposedly resides, though no one has ever seen her on this island.

### Meru

Meru is the second most populated island. The fortress holds a lot of businesses as well as residents. Meru is also home to 3 universities, dedicated to sciences and technologies. The fortress is open to the public, though most people who go into Meru find an opportunity and do not leave until they retire. The atmosphere is studious. There isn't much conversation in the streets, due to people having their nose's in their research. If there is conversation, it's usually business or students discussing their latest assignments.

### Incunabula

Incunabula is only populated by the Frondifera. Adam resides here, in the valleys. The Frondifera are similar to that of followers or worshipers, though he refuses to be outright worshiped as a god. They have founded several temples, where Adam can come and visit if he so pleases. They are sworn to secrecy about Adam's true whereabouts, so if a potential leader comes for advice, they cannot help them, for it is not their place to choose the new leader.