Nolk

Nolk is a nation that rests within the north-east islands, within the Northwestern Sea on the Two Continents. The people of Nolk are called Nolkkin, which means "People of the Island" in Nolkish. Geographically isolated, Nolk has managed to stay cultural contamination from foreigners for much of its existence, however, as an era of unprecendented exploration approaches the Nolkkin are unaware of the possible dangers that could approach their shores in the coming years.

### History

This is the history of the Nolkkin, and is approached from a more literal stance, than what the people of Nolk believe. This is an objective source of their history, and not riddled with plotholes from their stories or convictions.

#### Era of the Waning Tides

The Era of Waning Tides was the migratory period in which the Nolkkin left their ancestral homes along the western coasts of the East Continent. It was due to an anomolous period in which the tides of the Ekhaya receeded for quite some time, allowing for vast numbers of Nolkkin to migrate across to several small islands, as well as using primitive boats in areas where the tide hadn't receeded enough. There is not much else of interest during the Era of Waning Tides, besides the settling of Nolk by those leaving their ancestral homes.

### Population

#### Largest Settlements

Below is a list of the largest settlements of Nolk. **Bold** cities are regional capitals. The national capital Nolka is underlined.

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#### Species

##### Humans

Due to its geographical isolation, and lack of cultural interference from external forces, Nolk has remained untouched from non-human contamination. The island's entire population is that of humanity, with the natives of Nolk sporting a deep olive appearance, with dark-coloured hair.

## Environment

#### Environment

Nolk is covered in rainforests, experiencing year-round precipitation. It is comprised primarly of Isiqu Mde (Tall Tree), which share a similar appearance to that of evergreen trees. It is rich with biodiversity, which comes with its own series of warnings. Nolkkin that venture too far into the rainforests are often prey of the predators that lurk within the shadows.

#### Fauna

##### Inkawu

A herbivorous mammal that exists on the island of Nolk, the Inkawu exists within the tree tops of the island's jungle. There are several herds of Inkawu, each overseen by an alpha female of the species. Its lower extremeities can reach as long as 1.5m (4'9''), that has an absurd amount of force. Those that choose to invoke the ire of the Inkawu are warned to protect their heads, as a singular kick from the animal can shatter a skull.

##### Nolkish Neaera

   The Nolkish Neaera is a primate that exists along the jungle floors of Nolk, and primarily feeds on Amamdaka (or Dirt Berries), as well as insects native to its environment. Due to its small stature (with some of the largest only growing to roughly 30cm), it is rather agile and designed to flee its predators. The Nolkish Neaera is considered to be a delicasy for the Nolkkin.

##### Umhlaseli

Considered the apex predator of the Nolkish jungle, the Umhlaseli is a nocturnal reptilian predator. The Nolkkin are advised to avoid the Umhlaseli, who have begun to hunt those that stray from the villages during the evening. Able to grow to a height of 2m (or 6'5''), it stands at least a head taller than most of the Nolkkin. It feasts primarily on the Inkawu and Nolkish Neaera, however, it has been seen eating Amazambane (Hard Root) pushing many to believe that it is omnivorous, but prefers the meat of its prey.

#### Flora

##### Amandaka

Amamdaka, or Dirt Berries, are an above-ground evergreen shrub that grows sweet, starchy legumes underground in thick pods, in a huge profusion. Their nifs grow like peanuts but bear several nuts like peas in a pod, typically around 8 thumb-sized nifs in each pod. Their flavor is rich, fatty, and savory, and they are used to produce oil. Each pod when matured produces runners that grow out of the soil and extend like strawberry runners, typically around a foot or so, and are woody, hardy vines.

##### Inyatyambo

Inyatyambo, or Red Flower, is a dark red bush that grows above ground in areas around bodies of water. They are typically found along the coasts where many bushes grow together - oftentimes also grown by Shaman surrounding the village. These bushes are prolific due to their medicinal fruits which are both eaten and used in salves. Another use that is prolific among Nolkkin is to dry them out and use them for smoking.

##### Amazambane

Amazambane, or Hard Root, is a herbaceous plant native to the region. The taproot is a firm, globe-shaped blue-colored vegetable with no visible soft areas. It is highly adapted to the life of the Nolkish rainforests, and would be considered devastating to alien environments that have considerbly less precipitation that Nolk. It is often gathered by the Nolkkin to use in their dishes. It has been noted that the broth of the Amazambane, when left standing for some time, can become fermented and used as a primitive alcoholic beverage.

##### Irabha

Irabha Isiqu, or Sugar Trees, are a hardy bamboo-like plant. They are unique in that on every stem it bears a single spherical fruit at the very top, surrounded by a white rind. Short stems which end in thick-leafed fronds grow along the length of the "trunk", giving it an appearance that allows it to blend into the environment. The stalks tend to be as thick as a thigh with very hard, protective woody shells around its vulnerable interior. They grow in giant groves, oftentimes along the beaches of Nolk. It can also be used in construction, which is what the Nolkkin use for their abodes.

### Society, People and Culture

#### Religion

Uthixo and Ubi is the primary religion of the Nolkkin. It is founded on the beliefs of there being two deities, Goddess Uthixo (the Prey) and God Ubi (the Hunter). Uthixo is represented as the Sun of the Two Continents, whilst Ubi has represented as the Gas Giant that the Two Continents revolves around. It is believed that Uthixo is constantly attempting to outrun Ubi, in a cycle where she is eventually captured by Ubi (during sunset) and is released (during sunrise) to commence the hunt again. It is said to be a representation of balance and mercy, and that without one another they would not have a purpose.

##### **Clergy**

Due to the primitive nature of Nolk, there is no formal clergy. There is instead a number of Shamans that are educated on the stories of Uthixo and Ubi, who in turn give the knowledge to the Nolkkin. These Shamans are often versed in the powers of Mysticism, using a combination of animal sacrifice and rituals involving the drinking of a particular herb that unveil to them possible truths and visions. Only those close to Uthixo and Ubi (devout followers) are capable of these abilities. The Shaman have considerable influence among the Nolkkin, and it is believed this will only grow. Both men and women can be Shamans.

##### **Creation Myth**

It is said that Ubi crafted the Two Continents (or Ekhaya in Nolkish) in an attempt to capture Uthixo. Ekhaya is often represented as a spear within the stories and depictions said by Shaman. It was meant to hinder Uthixo’s escape, however, the Goddess instead used it to her own advantage. She in turn imbued her energy within Ekhaya, willing it to always be among the hunt, an observer of the cycle, and also a warning of Ubi being nearby. Now, Ekhaya remains following Ubi (in orbit) as a way to warn the Goddess that Ubi is close to capturing her.

##### **Afterlife Myth**

Uthixo and Ubi are both holders of their own afterlives, segregated based on the sexes. Men find themselves called to assist in the hunt against Uthixo, whilst women find themselves assisting Uthixo in the evasion of Ubi. There exist other responsibilities for the spirits that join Uthixo and Ubi, however, that is their primary responsibility.

##### **Tenets**

* **Balance:** There must be a harmonious balance within life. Greed is the opposite of such, and as a result, is considered an immoral act.
* **Mercy:** Where one can show compassion and kindness, it must be shown. Sadism is the opposite, and as a result, is considered an immoral act.
* **Duty:** Man and woman alike have their responsibilities within society. They also have an obligation to both Uthixo and Ubi. The opposite of this is dishonesty, irresponsibility and dishonourable actions, which are all considered immoral acts.

#### Language

The Nolkkin speak Nolkish, an ancient language that evolved without interference from others. Dissimilar to other languages within the region, Nolkish relies heavily on series of clicks and pauses to imply different meanings. It is considered quite a difficult language to both speak and understand, should one not be a native to it.

#### Morals and Principles

The Nolkkin are still incredibly primitive, so most of their morals and principles are still to be uncovered. However, their current beliefs revolve around the three tenets of Uthixo and Ubi; balance, mercy and duty. Using these three tenets, it is possible to determine what the Nolkkin will eventually deem “moral” or “immoral”. Parents are considered “obligated” to carry on the teachings of the tenets, through either teaching it themselves or bringing their children to where Shamans can lecture.

War would be undecided between moral and immoral, and likely a point of debate among the Nolkkin. It would be highly structured, however, and both “mercy” and “duty” would come into play when carrying out the strategies of war. There would also need to be a “balance” between the other two tenets, as well as expansion.

Slavery is not congruent with the teachings of Uthixo and Ubi. It goes against the tenet of “mercy”. Therefore, only those considered heretics would believe that slavery is considered congruent with Nolkkin society.

Executions and murder are considered immoral acts. It goes against the tenet of “mercy”. This does not include abortions where the life of a child would be considered at risk outside of the womb, and ending its life before its introduction to Ekhaya would be considered merciful. Neither does it include deaths as a result of war, where death is an ultimate outcome.

Homosexual relationships would be undecided between moral and immoral and would be a point of debate among the Nolkkin. Some may argue that it is the “duty” of the Nolkkin to procreate, while others argue that the tenet of “balance” would do away with the concept that relationships are based only on procreation.

#### Traditions

A common ritual for the Nolkkin is that referred to as Xhela. It is the ritualistic slaughter of an animal, which is then feasted upon. It is done every fourteen days, alternating with the other common ritual of the Nolkkin referred to as UmNyanga, which is the ritualistic social gathering involving fasting and dancing during periods of dusk and dawn.

There is a custom for both men and women to wear a symbol of Uthixo and Ubi. The Symbol of Uthixo is often a depiction of the Two Continent’s sun, whilst the symbol of Ubi is of a crescent moon to symbolize its parent orbital body.

#### Art

Due to the primitive nature of the Nolkkin, their architecture is triangular outbuildings oftentimes seen with thatch roofing. Within their abodes, they share their space with their families. Depending on the “influence” of a Nolkkin, their abode can be considerably larger than others, and capable of being constructed with makeshift rooms.Most of the Nolkkins paintings are confined to cave drawings, often depicting the stories of Uthixo and Ubi - through the use of their symbols. There are other paintings depicting the history of the Nolkkin, but not much else has been recorded besides a few tales.

    Most of the Nolkkins paintings are confined to cave drawings, often depicting the stories of Uthixo and Ubi - through the use of their symbols. There are other paintings depicting the history of the Nolkkin, but not much else has been recorded besides a few tales.

#### Prejudice

##### **Foreigners**

Due to the geographic isolation of the Nolkkin, they are quite cold to those that would be considered Foreigners, if in the future they were they to experience them. Due to the technological limitations, foreigners are not yet a concept to the Nolkkin.

##### **Neighbouring Nations**

Due to their location within the Northwestern Sea, they do not have direct neighbours. They do, however, have neighbours to their South-West. They do not know of their existence, as of yet.

##### **Biased Views on History**

The Nolkkin believe themselves to have been placed on Ekhaya by Uthixo and Ubi. They are unaware of the history outside of their geographical isolation, and therefore believe themselves to be the only people on Ekhaya. There are stories that tell of outsiders washing up on their beaches, but this is often time excused as simply a Nolkkin from another village that has somehow ended up on the other side of the island.

#### Politics

The Nolkkin Island Territories operates as a Chiefdom. The Nolkkin are led by the Ukucaca Okukhulu, shorted to Okukhulu, which is translated to “Grand Clarity”. The title is hereditary, and is typically passed down to the eldest child of the Ukucaca Okukhulu, who is then taught in the ways of the Shaman. The abilities that they gain throughout their education is primarily aimed to assist them in making decisions for the Nolkkin, with guidance from Uthixo and Ubi.

The current Ukucaca Okukhulu is Mesuli Msutu.

##### Family Tree of the Ukucaca Okukhulu

The family tree of the Ukucaca Okukhulu begins with Luyolo Msutu, considered to be the first after the unification of Nolk. It is a depiction of the Ukusahosini.

##### Social Classes

###### Ukusahosini

Ukusahosini, or Family of the Ukucaca Okuhulu, is the highest social class in Nolk. Only those who share familial connections to the Ukucaca Okuhulu hold this position, and often times have influence in the affairs of the Nolkkin Island Territories, depending on their relationship with the Ukucaca Okuhulu. If not born into the class, it is possible to marry into it.

###### Abefunahosini

Abefunahosini, or Family of the Shaman, is the middle social class in Nolk. The term family is used only to denote those that are united through the cloth of the clergy, or Shamans. Those who dabble in the arts of Mysticism, and pass the stories of Uthixo and Ubi are considered to be within this class. You cannot be born into the class, nor is it possible to marry into it. Only those who chose the path of the Shaman can enter this class.

###### Unmtuhosini

Unmtuhosini, or Family of the Man, is the lowest social class in Nolk. The term family is used to denote that the social class is united through that of the common man. It is made up of the "commoners" of Nolk, oftentimes being gatherers or hunters. Most of the Nolkkin are born into this class, are continue to remain in this class unless married to a Nolkkin within the Ukusahosini.