Manzia Expanse
A synonym of peace, and prosperity of the soul, the free Manzia Expanse covers a large region of the isles. It is a place where tall cliffs and grasslands are covered in a mysterious fog that, for now, has mysteriously and silently protected its inhabitants from the intrusions of the foreign invaders. Would-be conquerors over the decades have seen their forces completely decimated by unknown creatures lurking in the fog and disciplined skillful warriors who disappear without a trace. Now, the peaceful land is in danger as outside forces get closer and closer to claiming paradise for themselves.
The land has as many water bodies as there are tribes and clans. Rivers, tall waterfalls, lakes, lagoons and isolated ponds dot the land alongside the vast forests, swamps, and mountains. Fishing is a common activity and trade that provides peace and patience to the minds of Manza people. Atop the backs of hippos, large cranes, and other beasts, the tribes utilize the beauty of the land to sustain themselves. However peaceful, the land is not without its dangers. Deep within the forests, mountains, and waters, are oni, hags, and other creatures that call the land home and seek to establish control.
Music, art, poetry and philosophy reign over authority or power, and sharing these values with everyone else is an activity that most Manza monks dedicate their lives to achieve. It is thanks to their creed that the region has survived without any central authority for so long, even during the age of dragons no one claimed the entirety of the expanse. The reason for the region's prolonged independence is subject of many historians, but whether it is the heart of its people, the land’s dizzying landscapes, or the force of some unknown defender, no one can be sure.
Without any central government to answer and the liberties that an altruistic society provides, the Expanse´s culture is known for its variety, especially in art and performance. Things such as dancing, singing, and the use of musical instruments native to the islands are prominent across the expanse and each cultural subset has their own unique songs and dances. There are Art Dojos scattered across the misty mountains and passages, as well as taverns and inns for the traveler and explorer to enjoy such spectacles.
There is a notable lack of protection such as an army. To make up for this lack, dozens of clans, tribes, and townships have banded together to form the Tiger’s Claw. This band of rangers, ninjas, and warriors patrol the land and keep it safe from threats both within and external. Bards often tell stories and sing songs of righteousness and valor and compose poems that feature tales of the ranger’s guerilla warfare and adventures.
While the expanse has been mostly intact, it has lost land to both the Xia Shogunate and the Lion’s Share Confederacy. Manzia now is being pushed, but its people push back with everything they got. But unknowingly to many, also danger lurks within, scheming and planning.
Structure
The Manzia Expanse is home to dozens and dozens of small villages, thriving townships, and even prosperous cities. While no one government unites and speaks for all settlements, the manza people put in a lot of effort to live in harmony and freedom with, and from each other. Here are a few of the many different settlements within the expanse:
The City of Tranquil Waters: Located at the mouth of the Clearwater River, the City of Tranquil Waters is known for its beautiful, peaceful setting and its thriving fishing industry. The city is home to many temples and dojos, where the people of Tranquil Waters practice meditation, martial arts, and other spiritual pursuits. The city is ruled by a council of wise elders, who are chosen by the people for their wisdom and fairness.
The Township of Golden Fields: Located in the fertile plains of the Expanse, the Township of Golden Fields is known for its abundant crops and its vibrant marketplaces. The township is home to many small farms and orchards, where the people grow and trade a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains. The township is ruled by a council of farmers and merchants, who are elected by the people to make decisions on trade and commerce.
The City-State of Windward Heights: Located on a high plateau, the City-State of Windward Heights is known for its sweeping views and its strong defenses. The city is surrounded by a tall wall, which protects it from invaders and monsters. The city is home to many forges and workshops, where the people create weapons and armor for the Tiger's Claw and other defenders of the Expanse. The city is ruled by a powerful warlord, who is chosen by the people for their martial prowess and their ability to lead in battle.
The Township of Crystal Springs: Located in a lush valley, the Township of Crystal Springs is known for its sparkling rivers and its many natural hot springs. The people of Crystal Springs are known for their warm hospitality and their love of music and dance. The township is ruled by a council of healers and musicians, who are elected by the people for their knowledge and skill.
The City-State of Mountain's End: Located at the base of a towering mountain, the City-State of Mountain's End is known for its rugged beauty and its mining industry. The people of Mountain's End are skilled craftsmen and artisans, who create beautiful jewelry and other objects from the precious metals and gems found in the mountain. The city is ruled by a queen, who is chosen by the people for her wisdom and strength.
Culture
The culture of the Manzia Expanse is known for its emphasis on peace, harmony, and spiritual growth. The people of the Expanse value music, art, poetry, and philosophy, and many of them dedicate their lives to the pursuit of these disciplines. The Expanse is home to many temples, dojos, and other places of learning, where people come to study and practice their art.
One of the most interesting beliefs of the people of the Manzia Expanse is their reverence for the natural world. The Expanse is home to many diverse ecosystems, and the people believe that the land and its creatures are sacred. They believe that all living things are connected, and that they must live in harmony with the land in order to thrive. This belief is reflected in many of their customs and traditions, such as their practice of sustainable farming and their respect for the animals and plants that they rely on for food and shelter.
Another interesting tradition of the Manzia Expanse is their practice of ancestor worship. The people believe that their ancestors are still with them, watching over them and guiding them from the spirit world. They believe that their ancestors can help them in times of need, and that they must show respect and gratitude to their ancestors in order to honor their memory and keep their spirits at peace. This tradition is reflected in many of their rituals and ceremonies, such as the annual festival of the dead, where people offer food and gifts to the spirits of their ancestors.
Overall, the culture of the Manzia Expanse is rich and diverse, with many fascinating beliefs and traditions. The people of the Expanse are known for their love of peace and harmony, and their deep connection to the natural world. They are a proud and resilient people, who have maintained their independence and their way of life despite the many challenges they have faced.
Harmony with the land, peace in our hearts.
Type
Geopolitical, Province
Alternative Names
The Freelands
Demonym
Manza
Government System
Tribalism
Power Structure
Autonomous area
Economic System
Traditional
Neighboring Nations
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