Emerald Islanders

Emerald Islanders are individuals belonging to the Emerald Clan, a community that originated from the Emerald Islands. The Emerald Islands, situated to the east of Fyr, are known for their lush landscapes, vibrant trees, and the birthplace of the Emeraldi culture. The Emerald Clan was formed by a group of people who, once Feins from Afefe, decided to leave their former life behind in search of a more communal and mutual aid-focused existence. These islanders have their own distinctive language known as Emeraldi, which evolved from the Afefe language. The language and culture of Emerald Islanders are deeply intertwined with the natural beauty of the Emerald Islands and the values of their community.
Over time, members of the Emerald Clan have dispersed across the world, carrying with them the traditions, language, and cultural identity of the Emeraldi people. Notable members, such as Chi-Chi Emerald, have found a community in places like High Oak in Fyr, contributing to the global diaspora of Emerald Islanders. Despite facing challenges and changes over the years, the Emeraldi people strive to preserve their unique heritage and way of life.
The Emeraldi people, characterised by their distinctive green hair and eyes, showcase a diverse range of appearances beyond these unique traits. However, the green hair and eyes are prominent features that tie them together as a community. It is not uncommon for some individuals who wish to navigate the world with a different identity or face fewer prejudices to go to great lengths to conceal their Emeraldi heritage. The intensity of the genetic traits that give rise to green hair is often described as profound, with some even attributing a touch of magic to these distinct features. The Emeraldi gene seems to resist conventional methods of disguise, making it challenging for those who seek to conceal their heritage.
Some individuals within the Emeraldi community resort to wearing coloured contacts and diligently dyeing their hair in attempts to blend in with the general population. This task, however, is not an easy one, as the resilience of the gene may persist, and the vibrant green hue remains a persistent reminder of their Emeraldi lineage.
The choice to conceal or embrace one's Emeraldi heritage reflects the complexities and nuances of identity within the community. It also highlights the societal challenges and biases that individuals may face based on their distinct physical features. Despite these challenges, the Emeraldi people, with their green hair and eyes, contribute to the rich tapestry of diversity within the broader cultural landscape of Eristeria.

Naming Traditions

Family names

All Emeraldi individuals carry the surname "Emerald," a symbolic connection to the lush greenery and the emerald-coloured traits that define their community. This shared surname reinforces a collective identity and a sense of belonging within the Emerald Clan.

Culture

Culture and cultural heritage

Emeraldi culture, deeply rooted in the emerald-hued soil of the Isles, is a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that has thrived for centuries. The Emeraldi people, descendants of the original Feins who sought a more harmonious existence, have cultivated a way of life intricately woven with nature's rhythms. Their heritage is a vibrant mosaic, adorned with the lush greenery of the Emerald Tree, the crystal-clear waters of hidden caves, and the echoes of communal songs that resonate through the hills. Emeraldi culture cherishes mutual aid, communal bonds, and a deep connection to the land, which is evident in their customs, rituals, and the green eyes and hair that mark their unique lineage. From the mystical cave's water source, deemed the origin of life, to the Dance of Light that celebrates love, each aspect of their heritage reflects an unwavering commitment to preserving the sacred balance between humanity and nature. In the Emeraldi culture, heritage is not just a collection of traditions; it is a living, breathing testament to the resilience, unity, and enduring beauty that define the Emerald Isles.

Shared customary codes and values

Customary codes and shared values form the bedrock of Emeraldi society, fostering a tightly-knit community that thrives in harmony with nature. Mutual aid and communal support are engrained in the Emeraldi way of life, as every member contributes to the collective well-being of the clan. The sanctity of the Emerald Tree and the mystical cave's water source underscores the reverence for the life-giving elements, shaping customary codes that prohibit any harm or disrespect to these sacred sites. Sustainability and a conscientious approach to resource usage are integral shared values, reflecting a commitment to preserving the pristine beauty of the Isles for future generations. Honesty, trust, and loyalty are paramount in Emeraldi relationships, reinforcing a sense of unity that transcends individual aspirations. These shared values not only define the ethical fabric of Emeraldi culture but also serve as guiding principles that bind the community together, creating a resilient tapestry woven with the threads of mutual respect, environmental stewardship, and a deep connection to the Emerald Isles.

Common Etiquette rules

Emeraldi etiquette, deeply rooted in the cultural values of the Emerald Isles, reflects the community's commitment to mutual respect, harmony, and a close connection to nature. Here are some key aspects of Emeraldi etiquette:
1. Respect for Nature: Central to Emeraldi etiquette is a deep respect for the natural environment. Littering, harming plant life, or disrupting the ecosystem is considered highly inappropriate.
2. Communal Courtesy: The Emeraldi people prioritise communal well-being. Acts of mutual aid, support for fellow community members, and active participation in communal activities are highly valued.
3. Sacred Sites Reverence:Certain sites, such as the revered Emerald Tree and the mystical cave's water source, demand special respect. Any form of harm or disrespect to these sacred places is strictly forbidden.
4. Sustainability Practices: Emeraldi etiquette promotes sustainable living. Wastefulness is discouraged, and responsible resource usage is emphasised to ensure the preservation of the Isles' natural beauty.
5. Honesty and Integrity: Truthfulness, honesty, and integrity are fundamental in Emeraldi interactions. Deceit or betrayal is not tolerated, as trust forms the foundation of their close-knit community.
6. Modesty in Attire: Traditional clothing, reflecting the lush surroundings, is encouraged. Modesty and simplicity in attire, adorned with handmade accessories, align with the values of the Emeraldi people.
7. Celebration of Life: Etiquette during celebrations involves a joyful and communal spirit. The Dance of Light and other traditional festivities are occasions for sharing happiness, strengthening bonds, and expressing gratitude for life on the Isles.
8. Appreciation for Diversity: The Emeraldi people welcome diversity and appreciate the unique qualities of each individual. Prejudice and discrimination are strongly discouraged, fostering an inclusive and accepting community.
Emeraldi etiquette encapsulates a set of values that not only guide individual behavior but also contribute to the cohesive and thriving nature of the Emeraldi society.

Common Dress code

The Emeraldi dress code, deeply entwined with the lush ambiance of the Isles and the cultural ethos of the community, is a testament to the Emeraldi people's connection to nature. Traditional Emeraldi attire often features earthy tones mirroring the verdant landscapes, with hues of green prevalent in their clothing, paying homage to the iconic emerald-green traits associated with the Emerald Clan. Women don dresses adorned with intricate floral patterns, reflecting the vibrant flora of the Isles, while men often wear loose-fitting garments, designed for comfort and breathability in the tropical climate. Accessories, such as handmade jewelry crafted from materials found on the Isles, serve as both ornamental expressions and connections to the land. The Emeraldi people embrace clothing that not only reflects their environmental surroundings but also aligns with their values of simplicity, sustainability, and a deep-seated appreciation for the natural beauty that envelops their vibrant culture.

Art & Architecture

Emeraldi art and architecture, inspired by the timeless allure of intricate design, showcase a distinctive aesthetic on the Emerald Isles. In the heart of Emeraldi settlements, architecture captures the essence of elegance with whitewashed structures featuring arched doorways and vibrant, hand-painted tiles that tell stories of nature and Emeraldi life. Courtyards, adorned with greenery and artistic details, serve as tranquil spaces for creative inspiration. In the realm of art, Emeraldi creations burst with colour and geometric patterns, mirroring the lush landscapes of the Isles. Handwoven textiles exhibit intricate motifs inspired by the local flora and fauna, while murals depict communal narratives. The Emeraldi people, deeply connected to their surroundings, infuse their art and architecture with a unique Emeraldi touch, resulting in a visual feast that celebrates their cultural identity.

Foods & Cuisine

Emeraldi cuisine, deeply rooted in the lush landscapes of the Emerald Isles, is a tapestry of flavors, colours, and traditions. Each dish tells a story of the Emeraldi people's connection to nature, mutual aid, and the bountiful gifts bestowed upon them by the fertile land.
A beloved dish in Emeraldi cuisine, Sweet Yam with Fried Apple and Pumpkin is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory. The tender yams are slow-cooked until they reach a delightful softness, then paired with slices of caramelised apple and golden pumpkin. This dish captures the essence of autumn in every bite, making it a symbol of gratitude for the harvest season.
Blanched rice, a staple in Emeraldi meals, is prepared with meticulous care. The rice is washed and soaked before being gently cooked to achieve a perfect balance of tenderness and fluffiness.
A culinary masterpiece in Emeraldi cuisine, the Sweet and Spicy Green Pepper Stew is a celebration of the islands' rich biodiversity. Fresh green peppers, harvested at the peak of ripeness, are transformed into a stew that strikes a perfect equilibrium between sweetness and spiciness. Infused with local herbs and spices, this stew is a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate.
Emeraldi gatherings often revolve around the Community-Shared Harvest Feast, where an abundance of dishes is laid out for communal enjoyment. Families contribute their culinary creations, and the feast becomes a manifestation of mutual aid, reinforcing the bonds between the Emeraldi people.
Given the proximity of the Emerald Isles to the sea, seafood plays a significant role in Emeraldi cuisine. Grilled fish, seaweed salads, and seafood stews showcase the bounty of the ocean and the deep respect the Emeraldi people have for the natural resources that sustain them.
Desserts in Emeraldi cuisine are a celebration of natural sweetness. Fruits, honey, and nuts are often combined to create delightful treats like emerald-hued fruit tarts, nut-filled pastries, and honey-infused confections that satisfy the Emeraldi sweet tooth.
Emeraldi cuisine extends beyond solid dishes to include herbal infusions made from local plants and flowers. These infusions, enjoyed hot or cold, are believed to have medicinal properties and contribute to the overall well-being of the Emeraldi people. Emeraldi cuisine reflects a deep understanding of the land's offerings, a commitment to mutual aid, and a celebration of the interconnectedness between the Emeraldi people and their vibrant homeland. Each meal is a feast for the senses, a testament to the culinary artistry that thrives within the Emerald Isles.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

Rooted in the ancestral practices of the Emerald Clan, these customs serve as guiding principles that shape the daily lives of the Emeraldi people. From the sacred rituals performed beneath the towering canopy of the Emerald Tree to the communal gatherings that echo with laughter and shared stories, the Emeraldi customs emphasise unity, mutual aid, and a deep reverence for nature. The observed traditions, whether it be the coming-of-age ritual at the mystical cave's water source or the Dance of Light during celebrations, are a testament to the enduring spirit of a culture that thrives in the embrace of its vibrant homeland. These customs not only bind the Emeraldi people together but also reflect a commitment to preserving the unique identity of a community that finds beauty and strength in the traditions that have withstood the test of time.

Birth & Baptismal Rites

In the heart of the Emerald Isles, the birth of a new Emeraldi life is heralded by a sacred ceremony known as "Emeraldi Blossoming." This joyous and reverent rite marks the arrival of a newborn into the embrace of the Emerald Clan, weaving the threads of the individual's destiny into the vibrant tapestry of Emeraldi culture. A young sapling, carefully chosen for its vitality and strength, is planted to commemorate the birth. The elders, adorned in emerald-coloured garments, lead the community in planting the sapling, symbolising the intertwining of the newborn's life with the flourishing legacy of the Emeraldi people. In a moment of quiet reflection, the elders invoke the spirit of the Great Tree to guide them in choosing a name for the newborn. The selected name reflects the child's connection to nature, the isles, and the unique qualities destined to unfold during their lifetime. It is believed that the chosen name carries the blessing of the Emerald Tree and sets the child on a path aligned with the natural rhythms of the isles. As part of the Emeraldi Blossoming, family and community members tie colourful threads to the branches of the Blooming Tree, symbolising the interconnectedness of the Emeraldi people. Each thread represents a well-wish, a promise of support, and a shared commitment to nurturing the new life as it grows within the community. The celebration concludes with the Feast of Emerald Nectar, a communal gathering filled with laughter, music, and the sharing of traditional dishes. The new parents present the baby to the community, and each member contributes a small vial of emerald-coloured liquid, symbolising the collective essence of the Emeraldi people that will sustain and nourish the newborn throughout their life. Emeraldi Blossoming not only celebrates the arrival of a new life but also reinforces the Emeraldi belief in the eternal cycle of growth, connection, and renewal.

Coming of Age Rites

Within the heart of the Emerald Isles lies a mystical cave, its existence known to a select few. Concealed by the lush vegetation and guarded by the vibrant trees, this hidden sanctum houses a sacred water source, believed to be the origin of the power imbued in the magnificent Emerald Tree and the verdant life that flourishes across the isles. This concealed pool became the focal point of a profound and revered tradition—the Rite of Emeraldi Passage.
Generations ago, the Emeraldi people, in their quest to understand and honor the natural forces that shaped their existence, stumbled upon this mystical cave. The discovery of the hidden pool within sparked a spiritual revelation, unveiling the deep connection between the water's essence and the flourishing life of the Emerald Isles.
As time passed, bathing in the source within the sacred cave emerged as the new coming-of-age tradition for the Emeraldi youth. Symbolising a spiritual journey and a profound connection with nature, this rite became a gateway to understanding their ancestral roots. The sacred waters were believed to carry the wisdom of the Emerald Tree and the ancient spirits that watched over the Emeraldi people.
When the time for the Rite of Emeraldi Passage approached, the youth undertook a period of preparation, guided by the elders. As the community gathered, the participants entered the mystical cave with reverence and anticipation. The cave's interior, adorned with luminescent stones, created an ethereal atmosphere, enhancing the spiritual significance of the ritual.
Immersing themselves in the sacred waters, the youth underwent a transformative experience. The emerald-coloured liquid enveloped them, symbolising a union with the life force that coursed through the Emerald Isles. Each participant emerged from the cave with glistening green hair and eyes, a visible manifestation of their newfound connection to the source and the Emerald Tree.
The Rite of Emeraldi Passage continues to be a cherished tradition, passed down through generations. The mystical cave, hidden within the isles, remains a sacred space where the Emeraldis commune with nature, honor their ancestors, and embrace the unique gifts bestowed upon them. The coming-of-age ritual symbolises not only the physical growth of the individual but also the spiritual maturation that comes with understanding and embracing the intricate bond between the Emeraldi people and their verdant homeland.

Funerary and Memorial customs

When an Emeraldi breathes their last breath, the community comes together in solemn unity to bid farewell to one of their own. The funeral customs of the Emeraldi people are a harmonious blend of reverence for nature, ancestral traditions, and the profound interconnectedness they share with the Emerald Isles.
Sacred Grove Ceremony:
The departed is laid to rest within a secluded grove, a place chosen for its tranquility and proximity to the vibrant heart of the Emerald Isles. The grove is often adorned with emerald-coloured flowers, symbols of eternal life and the everlasting connection between the departed and the land they called home.
Emerald Leaf Shrouds:
Traditionally, the body is wrapped in emerald-coloured leaves harvested from the sacred trees that blanket the isles. These leaf shrouds symbolise the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth, reflecting the Emeraldi belief in the eternal flow of energy through the Emerald Tree.
Funeral Pyre by the Sea:
In a final act of farewell, the leaf-shrouded body is gently placed on a funeral pyre overlooking the emerald-hued waters that cradle the isles. Flames dance and intertwine with the sea breeze, symbolising the transition of the departed's spirit into the vast tapestry of nature.
Harmony with the Emerald Isles:
The Emeraldi believe that, in death, their loved ones return to the embrace of the Emerald Isles, becoming one with the lush landscapes and the spirit of the Emerald Tree. The funeral customs, steeped in nature's hues and the cultural essence of the Emeraldi people, honor the departed's journey to the Emerald Beyond.
As the embers of the funeral pyre flicker and the sea whispers its eternal lullaby, the Emeraldi community finds solace in the belief that the departed, now a part of the emerald tapestry, will forever watch over their vibrant homeland.

Common Taboos

Emeraldi culture, rooted in a profound respect for nature and communal harmony, holds certain taboos that guide the conduct of its people. These taboos serve as cultural markers, preserving the sanctity of the Emeraldi way of life. One significant taboo revolves around the sacred Emerald Tree—the act of harming or disrespecting this vital symbol of life is strictly forbidden. Additionally, the mystical cave's water source, deemed the origin of the Emeraldi power, is to be approached with reverence, and any misuse or contamination is considered taboo. Another cultural norm is the discouragement of wastefulness; Emeraldi people avoid excessive consumption and take great care in utilising resources sustainably. Lastly, disrupting the communal bonds through deceit or betrayal is seen as a grave taboo, as trust and mutual aid form the cornerstone of Emeraldi society. Adherence to these taboos reinforces the Emeraldi people's commitment to living in harmony with their surroundings and maintaining the delicate balance that defines their unique culture.

Common Myths and Legends

The Emerald Isles are adorned with captivating myths and legends, woven into the very fabric of Emeraldi culture. One such tale is that of the "Emerald Tree's Gift," which narrates how the first Emeraldi gained their distinctive green eyes and hair by consuming a mystical fruit from the giant emerald tree. In the myth of "The Hidden Lake," children of the clan discover a secret lake within a cave. Upon touching its waters, their hair and eyes transform into the same emerald hue as the trees, marking them as true Emeraldi. This myth became the foundation for the tradition of immersing oneself in the hidden water source during coming-of-age rituals.
The legend of "The Serpent Tamed" recounts how the original settlers domesticated snakes on the uninhabited isles, turning them from feared creatures into loyal pets and protectors. This tale symbolises the resilience and adaptability of the Emeraldi people.
Each myth and legend serves as a cultural beacon, transmitting the values, origins, and magical essence that define the Emeraldi way of life.

Historical figures

During a time of conflict, a unit of strong warriors and hunters stationed around the Isles protected sacred areas and people. Many sacrificed their lives to defend the Acia Temple, leading to the construction of a memorial in their honor.

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

Emeraldi beauty ideals prioritise natural features and minimalistic approaches to adornment. Embracing one's unique traits, from the intensity of green eyes to the texture of natural hair, is celebrated. Makeup and adornments are often subtle, allowing individual features to shine without obscuring the natural beauty beneath.
A fit and active lifestyle is highly valued in Emeraldi culture. Engaging in outdoor activities, from communal hikes to dances beneath the Emerald Tree, is not only a celebration of the body but also an expression of the interconnectedness between physical well-being and the thriving environment.
Emeraldi beauty is seen as a reflection of inner health and vitality. Nourishing the body with locally sourced, nutrient-rich foods is a common practice. Fruits, vegetables, and herbs from the Isles are believed to enhance not only physical health but also contribute to the radiant energy that defines Emeraldi beauty.
The beauty of a warm and joyful spirit is highly esteemed in Emeraldi culture. Expressing kindness, laughter, and genuine happiness is considered an essential part of one's beauty. A genuine smile is seen as an outward manifestation of an inner connection with the joyous spirit of the Emerald Isles.
Incorporating cultural tattoos and adornments is a cherished aspect of Emeraldi beauty. These markings often symbolise personal growth, familial connections, or a deep affinity with nature. Each tattoo tells a unique story, adding to the overall allure of an individual.
Emeraldi beauty ideals embrace the concept of ageless elegance, valuing the wisdom and experiences that come with time. The wrinkles that may appear with age are seen as marks of a life well-lived, contributing to the overall beauty of an individual.
Emeraldi beauty ideals prioritise a harmonious blend of natural features, physical well-being, and a vibrant spirit. The Emeraldi people find beauty in the authenticity of each individual, reflecting the cultural belief that true beauty emanates from the interconnected relationship between the people and the Emerald Isles.

Courtship Ideals

In Emeraldi culture, courtship is a nuanced and delicate dance, reflective of the profound connection Emeraldi individuals share with the vibrant surroundings of the Emerald Isles. Courtship is not just a romantic pursuit; it's a celebration of mutual respect, nature's influence, and the deep bond between potential partners.
Emeraldi courtship often begins with shared experiences in nature. Couples explore the lush landscapes, hike through emerald-hued forests, and bask in the beauty of the Isles. These encounters with nature serve as a backdrop for budding relationships, fostering a shared appreciation for the world around them.
Partners engage in communal rituals and traditions, such as participating in community festivals, shared meals, and collaborative tasks. These activities not only strengthen the bond between individuals but also integrate them further into the collective identity of the Emerald Clan.
Gift-giving plays a significant role in Emeraldi courtship. Rather than extravagant presents, symbolic gifts inspired by nature are exchanged. Flowers, handmade crafts, or items representing the vibrant colours of the Isles carry sentimental value and express the giver's understanding of the recipient's connection to the environment.
Courtship conversations are often imbued with whispers of affection inspired by nature. Declarations of love may reference the rustling leaves, the gentle lapping of waves, or the vivid hues of the Emerald Tree. This poetic language reflects the intertwining of the couple's feelings with the natural world.
During festivities and special occasions, couples partake in the "Dance of Light." This ceremonial dance, often performed under the starlit sky, symbolises the ebb and flow of life, the luminescence of the Emerald Isles, and the shared journey of two souls embracing the dance of courtship.
Before a couple solidifies their commitment, they seek the blessings of the elders. Elders offer guidance, wisdom, and approval, ensuring that the union aligns with the cultural values and traditions of the Emeraldi people.
Emeraldi courtship often culminates in nature-inspired ceremonies, such as exchanging vows beneath the shade of the Emerald Tree or in a secluded grove adorned with vibrant flowers. These ceremonies symbolise the couple's commitment to each other and the shared responsibility of nurturing their love within the embrace of the Emerald Isles.
Emeraldi courtship is a harmonious blend of nature's influence, communal connection, and poetic expressions of love. It exemplifies the Emeraldi people's belief in the interconnectedness of all things and the beauty that emerges when hearts align with the rhythm of the Emerald Isles.

Relationship Ideals

Couples in Emeraldi culture often engage in nature-inspired rituals that strengthen their bond. From sharing quiet moments beneath the Emerald Tree to partaking in the Dance of Light during special occasions, these rituals symbolise the couple's connection to the natural world and the enduring cycles of life.
Emotional intimacy is highly valued in Emeraldi relationships. Partners communicate openly and honestly, fostering a deep understanding of each other's emotions, dreams, and fears. This emotional closeness forms the bedrock of a strong and resilient connection.
In Emeraldi relationships, responsibilities are shared and distributed equitably. From household tasks to community involvement, partners collaborate to ensure a harmonious balance, allowing each individual to thrive in their respective roles within the relationship.
Emeraldi relationship ideals prioritise the holistic well-being of each partner. Physical health, mental wellness, and spiritual growth are considered interconnected facets of a fulfilling relationship. Couples actively encourage each other's self-care and personal development.
Couples engage in rituals of connection, whether it's a shared morning meditation, a sunset stroll along the shoreline, or a quiet moment of reflection beneath the sacred Emerald Tree. These rituals deepen the couple's connection and create lasting memories within the fabric of their relationship.
Emeraldi relationships are characterised by an unwavering commitment to each other's happiness and growth. The bond between partners is viewed as a lifelong journey, strengthened by shared experiences, challenges overcome together, and the enduring love that flourishes within the Emerald Isles.
Emeraldi relationship ideals reflect a profound understanding of the interconnected nature of love, community, and the vibrant landscapes that shape their culture. It is a celebration of enduring connections that echo the resilient spirit of the Emeraldi people.

“Being a dreamer outside the Emeraldi Isles is dangerous. Nations will think you’re messing about with magic.”

Emeraldi dreamers 
Emeraldi dreamers, renowned for their affliction with premonitions and intense dreams imbued with emotional depth, were a distinctive aspect of Emeraldi society. These individuals grappled with visions of an uncertain future, often filled with profound emotions and insights. It was believed that their unique condition stemmed from the consumption of the fruit that bestowed upon the original Emeraldi their characteristic green hair and eyes. These dreams, viewed as a consequence of the ancestral connection to the transformative fruit, marked the Emeraldi dreamers as bearers of insights.  Beyond the shores of the Emerald Isles, there exists a prevailing caution towards Emeraldi dreamers, often accompanied by prejudice towards the Emeraldi people as a whole. The fear stems from a perception of the dreamers' abilities as 'unnatural' and unsettling. Outsiders may perceive Emeraldi society as mysterious and potentially dangerous, harbouring abilities that challenge conventional understanding and evoke discomfort. Such prejudices serve to isolate the Emeraldi community and with growing reports of dreamers living in the diaspora experiencing meltdowns, tension between nations rises.

“Perhaps she finds it weird to talk about her love life, not everyone is as comfortable with their feelings like us Emeraldis.”

Related Locations

• Emerald Isles

Emeraldi characters

• Chi-Chi
• Ian
• Sebastian

(Emerald Isles map made in inkarnate)