Esalun
The occupants of the island of Esal are known as Esalun. They are a frank and open people, who highly value the sanctity of guest-right. At first glance they might seem lazy and unconcerned to a new visitor. In reality are a very hard working culture. The reason that so few see them as lazy is because it is important to them that a visitor not feel pressured or obligated to help out if they saw work being done, but instead want them to feel encouraged to relax and enjoy the local hospitality. To them, the community is the most important thing, so if you see someone working and you are able to help out, you do so. Even if you are not able, you may feel bad for moving by without helping, or worse yet, causing the person to stop working by talking to them and taking them away from their work. For this reason, they stop working and offer rest and refreshments to a visitor. The logic would seem somewhat circular to a foreigner, and indeed it is a bit, but it makes perfect sense to one of them.
Their chief exports are their pearls, which are said to be among the finest in the world, and certainly come in the largest variety of sizes and colors, and their wool, both raw and in the form of woven fabric or articles of clothing. The wool is from a particular variety of sheep that only lives on the island. The pearls are highly prized by jewelers, and to some extent, wizards. Clothing made from the wool is as highly prized, if not more so, than the pearls. It is as warm and durable, and suited to travel as other wools, but is lighter, and far softer, especially when spun and woven by the Esalun themselves.
Culture
Common Etiquette rules
The people of Esul have very strong social bonds, and are also very open people. When greeting a stranger they will come up very close and give a hug. The will then remain less than a foot away and hold a conversation. If they are a friend, or sometimes even a frequent business associate, they will also kiss each cheek and remain less than half of a foot away while holding a conversation. Foreigner's in Esal who are used to having more social space, often find these cultural differences uncomfortable for them. They are well aware of how this makes others feel, and will give more space if asked, but otherwise will remain close, as for them, it is a show of respect. Those who make an attempt to respect and accept their customs, however, will find themselves much more successful in any dealings with the Esalun.
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