Zaiyeve (/zaɪ.ˈjɛ.veɪ/)
For a span of nearly two thousand years, the island of Zaiyev (adjectival: Zaiyevi; demonym: Zaiyeve) was known as the place to go for a thorough education. It had its beginnings in the 9750s Oce, when the mountain watches attracted people with an interest in studying the cluster's volcanoes. Following the development of geothermal power, which ushered in the Volcanic Era, the labs expanded into further fields of study. The Zaiyeve established their first formal schools starting just before 200 Vol. Although they produced little in the way of practical exports, their knowledge and willingness to share it made them highly respected. After the catastrophic eruption in 2030 Vol that killed most of the Zaiyeve and destroyed their infrastructure, their former students have become the last holders of Zaiyevi knowledge, and are even more in demand as experts and teachers.
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
The Zaiyevi dialect of Oceantongue is associated with expertise. Those who attended school there usually made an effort to acquire a flavor of it, and many who didn't would attempt an imitation in hopes of convincing people that they did.
Common Etiquette rules
The Zaiyeve practiced a careful balance of speaking and listening. Since everyone had at least one area of particular interest, courtesy required that when they spoke on that subject, their listeners should be attentive. In turn, the speaker must be aware of imposing on others' time, and respond to body language that indicated boredom without taking offense.
Art & Architecture
Every island has its arts, but the Zaiyeve took theirs more seriously than most. For them it was another area of study more than a means of personal expression. Their schools of performance, culinary, and visual arts explored the connections between the senses; in particular, how sensory input sparks emotional response. Only the Zaiyeve were able to create portraits that captured a sense of being alive, as if the subject were present.
All Zaiyeve, whatever their primary area of interest, engaged in some form of art. Even students from other islands, regardless if they only planned for a short and focused course of study, would be drawn into an expressive medium while they were there. As a result, many art forms in other cultures today show signs of Zaiyevi influence.
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