The final salvageable log in Iobar's travel journal.
Travel log 41: The Seashore Nest
Queen Mairi, leader of the Seashore nest, graciously extended an open invitation to me and my research team, inviting us to explore and document the unique territory that sprawls along the coast. Her welcome carried a warmth that left me momentarily swayed by the charm of such a benevolent queen. Yet, my loyalty remains steadfast to Star and my heart lies forever with Queen Zalik who reigns over its great expanse.
Our meeting within the Summer Palace felt like a dream. Unlike other nests with histories spanning thousands of years, the Seashore Nest's design was a product of a single vision, showcasing cutting-edge architectural concepts such as stained glass windows, open skylights, and aquifer-fed fountains. During my visit, I was struck by the industriousness of Seashore caeli. Their upbeat, can-do mentality prompted them to venture into various crafts, attempting to reproduce items surpassing those of other nests. Notably, they embarked on constructing luxury sailships, employing methods inspired by the Twilight Harbour Starrian techniques albeit with more economical materials.
A prolonged era of peace and thriving trade has fostered a sense of freedom, contributing to a booming population. Though estimates suggest that approximately 40% of Seashore's residents are native-born, the remainder comprises caeli who have come from other nests seeking improved lives, better working conditions, or simply drawn to the allure of more sunlight. This influx contributes to their ability to adopt diverse technologies and methodologies.
The linguistic landscape is equally diverse. Listening to a Seashorer speak may surprise you with hints of slang from various dialects from different nests. However, this verbal mosaic is second nature to a Seashorer. The average citizen is a polyglot, proficient in several dialects and adept at understanding regional variations—a testament to the cosmopolitan nature of Seashore and its vibrant cultural amalgamation.
Venturing into the lively Daylight Markets of Seashore Nest, a myriad of caeli awaited, each peddling a cornucopia of wares – from vibrant fabrics to intricate jewellery, practical tools to delectable food. And speaking of culinary delights, let me not digress, for I could spend pages on the heavenly flavours I encountered.
Returning to the realm of attire, the clothing here is a distinct departure from the ostentation found in the Star nest. To a Seashorer garments aren't a proclamation of wealth or societal standing; rather, they become a canvas for artistic expression. Fabrics cascade in fluid arrangements, adorned with seashells, corals, and pearls of every hue imaginable, transforming mere clothing into an embodiment of the creative spirit.
Notes to Self:
Travel log 41: The Seashore Nest
Queen Mairi, leader of the Seashore nest, graciously extended an open invitation to me and my research team, inviting us to explore and document the unique territory that sprawls along the coast. Her welcome carried a warmth that left me momentarily swayed by the charm of such a benevolent queen. Yet, my loyalty remains steadfast to Star and my heart lies forever with Queen Zalik who reigns over its great expanse.
Our meeting within the Summer Palace felt like a dream. Unlike other nests with histories spanning thousands of years, the Seashore Nest's design was a product of a single vision, showcasing cutting-edge architectural concepts such as stained glass windows, open skylights, and aquifer-fed fountains. During my visit, I was struck by the industriousness of Seashore caeli. Their upbeat, can-do mentality prompted them to venture into various crafts, attempting to reproduce items surpassing those of other nests. Notably, they embarked on constructing luxury sailships, employing methods inspired by the Twilight Harbour Starrian techniques albeit with more economical materials.
A prolonged era of peace and thriving trade has fostered a sense of freedom, contributing to a booming population. Though estimates suggest that approximately 40% of Seashore's residents are native-born, the remainder comprises caeli who have come from other nests seeking improved lives, better working conditions, or simply drawn to the allure of more sunlight. This influx contributes to their ability to adopt diverse technologies and methodologies.
The linguistic landscape is equally diverse. Listening to a Seashorer speak may surprise you with hints of slang from various dialects from different nests. However, this verbal mosaic is second nature to a Seashorer. The average citizen is a polyglot, proficient in several dialects and adept at understanding regional variations—a testament to the cosmopolitan nature of Seashore and its vibrant cultural amalgamation.
Venturing into the lively Daylight Markets of Seashore Nest, a myriad of caeli awaited, each peddling a cornucopia of wares – from vibrant fabrics to intricate jewellery, practical tools to delectable food. And speaking of culinary delights, let me not digress, for I could spend pages on the heavenly flavours I encountered.
Returning to the realm of attire, the clothing here is a distinct departure from the ostentation found in the Star nest. To a Seashorer garments aren't a proclamation of wealth or societal standing; rather, they become a canvas for artistic expression. Fabrics cascade in fluid arrangements, adorned with seashells, corals, and pearls of every hue imaginable, transforming mere clothing into an embodiment of the creative spirit.
Notes to Self:
- Despite their rogue status, Seashore pirates are not outcasts. Piracy in Seashore is guided by a set of unspoken codes, unique to the azure waters they navigate. The first and foremost rule is respect for fellow pirates and chivalry towards citizens, turning the azure sea into a vast but close-knit community. You often find them holed up in Seashore taverns when not sailing, recalling tales of daring escapades (I estimate that only 1% of these stories are factual). Unlike common nestless pirates who prey on the weak, Seashore pirates focus on elusive treasures and uncharted territories, their exploits romanticized in local lore. Unspoken among the locals, I believe the nest legitimized piracy as a means for a cheap and easily deployable naval force, that uses the fire to fight fire and prevent serious crime by unlawful pirates.
- Though I, unfortunately, missed attending of one of Seashore's famed festivals, the air was filled with tales spun by the enthusiastic locals. Months of meticulous preparation precede these extravagant events, transforming the nest into a vibrant carnival that beckons caeli from every corner of Visla, which as I learnt from locals makes very good coin.
- Religious fervour takes a backseat in Seashore, replaced by a rich tapestry of superstitions. Here, caeli pay homage to goddesses of the wind, sails, and seas, along with other elemental spirits and deities. Their prayers echo desires for safe passage, abundant harvests, and the wisdom to discern the optimal time to start a family.