Great Nation Norm

**Great Nation Norm**, historically Bufodia, is a country in the northwestern Opu Terrum Ocean, sharing borders to The Soon Islands to its northeast and the Nation of Great Ermentruce to its west, it is also directly west of the Old World, about a 2-4 hour flight west of the western nations of it. The population is between 500-1,000 total individuals and is one of the least densely populated nations in the world. It is also one of two (The Soon Islands being the other) nations receiving daily morning fog.

## Description

It is quite a large nation, situated at latitudes similar to Wispgarten in its northernmost point and Sakih in its southernmost point, though almost entirely concordant in climate no matter where you are in the nation with the most average and most temperate climate you can get (humid subtropical climate, to be specific) with four distinct seasons and commonplace precipitation (though snow is usually very wet and lasts on the ground no longer than a hour, leaving the country to be green grassed year round). Upon stepping on its lands, one feels as though they have stepped back in time to a period between 1995-2009, with colorful architecture that is also playful with shapes. Everything is brightly painted in pinks, blues, and yellows. The homes and businesses are clustered together along winding roads, separated by vast expanses of green grass lawns. Children are often seen playing and socializing on these lawns. At the exact center of the nation is Chimney's Puff, where bekeepers of the city's traditions and cultures remain stuck in a 2008 time warp. The citizens often dress colorfully in mismatched patterns and colors. They're often described as "childlike," being prone to spotaneity, games, and imagination. Yet they also guard Chimney's Puff and are said to possess supernatural abilities that protect its borders from outsiders who may disrupt their anachronistic way of life. Through its cheery exterior, Chimney's Puff remains a mysterious place. Visitors feel soothed by its nostalgic atmosphere yet cannot help but sense something subtly eerie or "off" lurking beneath the vivid colors and playful design. The secrets and true nature of Chimney's Puff and its residents remain intriguing enigmas. It often lies as the layover between The Big City and the western Old World countries (eg. Chartequincy, Windsooty, Andrewschgretta, The Celestial Islands).

## Culture

It is very outdated on the Great Nation Norm, but the locals don't know any better. Much of the cameras brighten colors (a dull green to a near neon green, a dull blue sky to a great blue sky) and lower the quality in photos as if the nation is stuck in a 2007 or 2008 time loop. Key values of the culture are reliving your childhood, bright colors, rainbows, pastels, neons, toys, and age regression. Across the Opu Terrum, in Chartequincy, many call it Never Land.

### Bedtime Stories

Bedtime stories are a big and important role in Nation Norm culture. For both the children and adults of Chimney's Puff, gathering each evening for communal bedtime stories is a cherished tradition. In each small hamlet is a central "storytree" - a great winding willow or maple that provides shade during the day. At night, its branches are decorated with twinkling lights. That is where the residents congregate to share tales before bed. They use extravagant gestures, sounds, and even magic tricks to bring their stories to life. Both children and adults sit enraptured for hours. As the tales span generations, certain timeless classics have arisen that are ritualistically told throughout the year. They bring comfort and excitement to both new listeners and old.

### Rabbits, squirrels, and mice

Rabbits in particular are a symbol of good fortune and childhood innocence. The citizens will often craft charming rabbit dolls, paintings, or decorations for the houses. Live rabbits are also kept as beloved pets by many families in Chimney's Puff, bringing joy to both the young and the old. Squirrels are respected as hard workers and gatherers. Their ability to collect nuts and store them for later is seen as a model behavior. Mice, while small, represent courage and resililence. They will bravely enter homes to collect crumbs when needed.

## Songs

The songs in Great Nation Norm are often stranger and more based off weirdcore or childcore than other parts of the world. Some examples include I'd Rather Sleep (most played), It's Just a Burning Memory, Goodbye to a World, Hey Kids, Mice on Venus but its Extra Nostalgic, You Not The Same, Out of Her Head, Nice Boys, Still Life, Drift Away Omincord Cover, Poison Tree, Great Mother in the Sky, and Limerence.