Citizen’s Republic of Xa Hoi
Overview
Xa Hoi, or the Citizen's Republic of Xa Hoi, is a military-focused and disciplined nation formed from the ruins of the Shou Empire's demise. It is ruled by Tao Xieren, also known as "The Unifier," who has established a regime based on unity, strength, and national restoration. Nestled between the mist-shrouded jungles to the south, the mountains to the west, and the sprawling, inhospitable Parched Wastes to the north, Xa Hoi’s geography mirrors its isolationist and self-contained philosophy. The nation’s rigid hierarchies and authoritarian systems are designed to shield it from external chaos while fostering a sense of unyielding purpose among its citizens. Unlike its neighbors, Xa Hoi rejects diversity and experimentation, embracing a uniform cultural identity steeped in martial tradition and loyalty to the state. Tao Xieren’s vision of a restored empire revolves around strict social control, the centralization of power, and the creation of an elite military force capable of defending its borders and projecting its influence. The Unifier’s propaganda machine emphasizes a return to the glory of Shou Lang’s imperial era, reimagined as a disciplined utopia free of the corruption and decadence that led to the empire’s fall.Citizenship
The core tenet of Xa Hoi society is devotion to the state and service, which is reflected in its strict "Citizenship" system. Being a citizen in Xa Hoi is both an honor and a responsibility, and active military service is a requirement. Those who earn the title of Citizen are granted the right to participate in governance, own significant property, and enjoy elevated social status. This system reinforces the state’s ethos of discipline, unity, and sacrifice while maintaining tight control over political power. The military and the governmental bureaucracy are crucial to Xa Hoi's social structure, and they are closely intertwined. Military service is not confined to combat positions; citizens-to-be can serve as logistical support, engineers, medics, or researchers, depending on their skills and abilities. Individuals who have completed their compulsory term of duty are evaluated on their loyalty, competence, and services to the state. Those who excel are granted citizenship and may advance to positions of power in Xa Hoi's highly stratified society. The great bulk of the population lives underneath the Citizens—residents who do not have the same rights as full Citizens. Residents of Xa Hoi can live and work there, but they have restricted political rights, are barred from holding high office, and are frequently subject to property ownership restrictions. Despite this, the possibility to obtain citizenship through military duty serves as a potent motivator, fostering a culture in which ambition and loyalty to the state are valued. Propaganda exalts the Citizen as the ideal Xa Hoi subject: disciplined, loyal, and committed to the state's vision of unity and strength. This societal structure not only consolidates power within the military elite but also guarantees a steady influx of people willing to contribute to Xa Hoi's militaristic ambitions. Tao Xieren, the Unifier, uses this system to foster national cohesion, portraying military service as both a sacred duty and a gateway to honor and respect.Culture
Cultural Traditions and Community Life
Xa Hoi’s culture places a strong emphasis on communal responsibility. Villages, neighborhoods, and urban districts function as tight-knit communities where cultural diversity is rare. Festivals and ceremonies rooted in pre-imperial traditions remain vital parts of life, serving as moments of joy and connection in an otherwise disciplined society. Celebrations often revolve around seasonal cycles, honoring ancestors, and marking rites of passage. These gatherings blend austere rituals with colorful displays of music, dance, and food, offering a rare contrast to the everyday regimentation.Family and Education
Family units are strongly cherished, and reverence for elders is a Shou virtue that has stayed strong in Xa Hoi. Parents frequently develop a feeling of duty and strict discipline in their children from an early age, preparing them for military service or other societal duties. Education is rigorous and practical, with history, mathematics, and physical training taught alongside teachings on honor and loyalty. The arts are not disregarded, however they frequently represent themes of endurance, national pride, and moral rectitude.Work and Craftsmanship
Most Xa Hoians consider employment to be vital to their lives. While industrialization has increased the number of factories and urban labor forces, rural populations continue to rely on traditional crafts and agriculture. Farmers in the fertile southern regions cultivate rice, tea, and medicinal plants, while artists in towns create excellent fabrics, ceramics, and metalwork. Even in urban areas, traditional guilds help to preserve and pass down artisan practices, providing a sense of continuity in an otherwise quickly modernizing culture.Social Stratification and Aspiration
For non-Citizens, daily existence is defined by the continual reminder of their station in the hierarchy. However, the pathway to Citizenship through military service serves as both a goal and a cause of societal tension. This dynamic promotes a culture of striving, in which people strive to prove themselves by hard effort and loyalty. Success stories of residents who go on to become Citizens are praised and frequently mythologized, promoting the concept that anybody may achieve greatness through devotion and sacrifice.Demography and Population
Total Population : 3,627,820 citizens in 1200 AC
Races (Citizen) -
94% Human (Majority Shou, Minority Rashemi, Turami, Bedine, Calishite, etc)
3% Dwarves (Majority Mountain Dwarf, Minority Wild Dwarf)
1% Beastfolk (Majority Kitsune and Nekojin, minority all others)
1% Elves and Half Elves.
1% All others
Founding Date
1056 AC
Type
Geopolitical, State
Capital
Demonym
Xa Hoian
Leader
Government System
Dictatorship
Power Structure
Unitary state
Economic System
Command/Planned economy
Major Exports
Weapons, Armor, Processed Material (Steel, etc), Ceramics, Textiles, Educational Texts
Major Imports
Coal, Ore, Lumber, Livestock, Books, Engineers and Scholars
Official State Religion
Neighboring Nations
Related Ethnicities
