Nara (ˈna.ra)

"Retaining control of the Nara nutmeg groves is crucial for the future of our kingdom."

— Malanoa, Tura of Gailo

Nara is one of the Mbaru Islands, and a part of the Mangimoi Archipelago. It is located just off the northeastrn coast of the island of Tubu, and is a part of the Kingdom of Gailo. It is one of the most valuable agricultural properties in the kingdom, and is known for the quality of the nutmeg and mace grown there. Since the disaster which depopulated Tubu, the government of Gailo has been concerned that one of the other nations of the Mangimoi Archipelago will attempt to annex Nara, and has deployed a significant amount of their remaining naval power to deter such attempts.

The largest settlement on the island is the town of Taral, located on the northern coast. This is the primary port on Nara, and has become the busiest harbor in the Mbaru Islands now that the cities of Tubu are empty. It links the Kingdom of Gailo with the rest of the archipelago, and nearly all international trade passes through here. Since shortly after the ascension of Malanoa to the throne of Gailo, Taral and the rest of the island of Nara have been under the authority of Guna Safa, a naval commander appointed to govern and protect the island from invasion.

Notable Spirits

According to local legend, the island of Nara was formed when the body of a giant was slain by the Hyang Nusataur, a folk hero from ancient times who has since become the god of the island. Nusataur is said to be sleeping beneath the hills in the northern hills, and will only awaken when there is a great need for him.

The island is also the home of the Lamanu, a group of spirits who watch over the people and enforce local customs. They will typically manifest as one of the island's glowing geckos, and they curse those who break the rules with illness and bad luck. They are said to always be watching, and the chief offenses they will punish include disrespecting elders, lying, theft, and poor hospitality.

Geography

Nara is long and thin, stretching about thirty miles from north to south, with a maximum width of about twelve miles. The coastline is irregular, with limestone cliffs interspersed with stretches of sandy beaches, and many inlets and small bays. The northern section of the island has more hills and cliffs, while the southern portion is low-lying, with coastal mangrove swamps and rainforests covering the interior.

There are many animals and plants found on the island, but the best known are the Hinawali, a species of bioluminescent giant gecko. These animals can grow to be a foot long, and radiate a bluish-violet glow. They are considered sacred because of their connection to the Lamanu, and it is considered unwise to harass or injure one of the Hinawali. They are also quite toxic due to the insects they eat, and handling one for any length of time will cause a person to suffer from muscle cramps and dizziness.

Type

Island

Location under

Mbaru Islands

Included Locations

• Taral

Geographic Details

Location: Southern Region
Latitude: 5.13 degrees South
Longitude: 13.5 degrees West
Average Elevation: 23 ft
Highest Point: 502 ft
Lowest Point: 0 ft
Area: 290 sq mi

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