Fubuki

In addition to their distinctive silvery white hair and black-tipped tails, Fubukians were renowned among Terrosians for their bravery and formidable reputation. Skilled in scouting, many Fubukians dedicated much of their time to fishing, utilizing their expertise to navigate and survive in their environment. Their prowess in these areas further solidified their standing as a formidable force in Terrosian society.

Adaptation to Cold:

Love for the Cold: Unlike many other species or cultures in Ysanaf, the Fubuki Tribe not only survives but thrives in the extreme cold of the northern regions. They have a deep-seated love for the cold and the icy landscapes that surround them. The cold is seen as a gift from the spirits, a natural state in which they are most comfortable and connected to their environment.
Immunity to Cold: The Fubuki are biologically adapted to withstand extreme cold temperatures without suffering the negative effects that would typically impact others. Their thick fur, natural insulation, and unique physiology protect them from freezing temperatures, allowing them to navigate and live comfortably in environments where others would struggle to survive.
Cultural Practices: This immunity to cold influences many aspects of Fubuki culture. For instance, they often engage in outdoor activities, rituals, and celebrations that take place in the open air, even during the coldest winter nights. Snow baths—rolling in the snow to cleanse the body and soul—are a common practice, believed to invigorate the spirit and bring one closer to the natural elements.

Integration into Daily Life:

Winter Activities: The Fubuki Tribe celebrates the winter season with a variety of activities that highlight their love for the cold. Ice sculpting is a popular art form, with intricate statues of animals, ancestors, and spirits being carved from large blocks of ice. These sculptures are displayed during festivals and special ceremonies. Snow Games: The Fubuki enjoy a variety of snow games and sports, which are both recreational and practical, as they keep the tribe fit and agile. Sled races, snowball fights, and ice fishing contests are common during communal gatherings, fostering a sense of camaraderie and joy even in the harshest weather.
Cold as Cleansing: The cold is also viewed as a purifying force. It is believed that the icy winds and snow cleanse the land of impurities, both physical and spiritual. This belief is reflected in their rituals, where participants may stand in the snow or ice-cold water to purify themselves before important ceremonies.

Cultural Symbolism:

Winter as a Time of Renewal: Winter, with its deep cold, is seen as a time of renewal and preparation for the future. The snow covers the earth, allowing it to rest and regenerate, much like the Fubuki themselves, who use the winter months to reflect, plan, and prepare for the coming year. This period is considered sacred, with numerous rituals dedicated to the health and prosperity of the tribe in the year to come.

Impact on Relations with Others:

Perception by Other Cultures: The Fubuki's love for the cold and their immunity to it often sets them apart from other cultures, who may view them with a mix of awe and mystery. This unique trait reinforces their reputation as a hardy, resilient people who are deeply connected to the harsh northern environments of Terrosia.
Mutual Respect in Trade: When trading with other cultures, the Fubuki’s ability to operate in extreme cold conditions gives them an advantage. They can travel and conduct business in environments that would deter others, making them reliable partners for trade during the winter months when other regions might struggle.

History

The Fubukian tribe, which thrived over 1,000 years ago, exerted significant influence over Terrosia, particularly in northern Jasdpo. Their territorial control stretched from the Litter islands to the Teromimi mountain ranges. Evidence suggests they may have pioneered seafaring, with some tribes settling in Northern Malnarr, where the dominant Brakki tribe resided. Conflict possibly arose between the Fubukians and the Brakki, indicated by the discovery of Malnarrian Brakki jewelry in Jaspodian Fubuki sites and Fubukian weaponry in Malnarrese Brakki locations. Some speculate this exchange hints at a trade agreement between the two civilizations.

Sapphiro Empire

During the Sapphiro rule over Terrosia, the Fubukians were perceived as hostile Canikos, prompting the Adventurers' Guild to endorse their hunting. Many Fubukians faced capture, with some being sold into slavery or kept as pets by those who captured them. This period marked a dark chapter in Fubukian history, as they endured persecution and exploitation under the Sapphiro regime.

Nyaan Empire

The population of Dono experienced a significant increase during the early years of the Nyaan Empire, prompting many to migrate northward, where Fubukians were more prevalent. As Donos established new settlements in the north, tensions escalated with the Fubukians, leading to numerous conflicts between the two groups. This influx of Dono settlers into Fubukian territory fueled territorial disputes and strained relations between the two populations during this period of expansion and upheaval.

Mt. Koronne Massacre

Mount Korrone held deep significance for the Fubukians as a sacred site, yet the Nyaanese sought to erect a fort there under the guise of providing protection. Despite their attempts to resist, the Fubukians found themselves outmatched by the superior technology of the Nyaanese forces. Despite this power imbalance, the Fubukians refused to be perceived as weak or submissive. They demonstrated their resilience and determination to defend their heritage and sovereignty, showcasing their strength and resolve in the face of adversity, even against a formidable empire like the Nyaanese.

Culture

Culture and cultural heritage

Spiritual Connection to Nature: The Fubuki’s culture is deeply intertwined with their environment. They believe that every element of the natural world, from the smallest plant to the vast Graki Sea, is inhabited by spirits that must be respected and honored. This belief shapes their daily lives, from how they gather food to how they construct their homes.
Storytelling Tradition: Oral storytelling is a cornerstone of Fubuki culture. Elders pass down stories of the tribe’s history, myths, and legends to younger generations, ensuring that the tribe’s heritage is preserved. These stories often teach lessons about bravery, respect for nature, and the importance of community.

Common Etiquette rules

Respect for Elders: In Fubuki society, elders are highly respected and are often consulted on important decisions. It is customary to greet elders with a bow and to listen carefully when they speak, as their wisdom is considered invaluable.
Reverence for Nature: The Fubuki have a deep respect for the natural world. It is considered rude and even sacrilegious to waste resources or to harm an animal or plant unnecessarily. When hunting or foraging, they perform rituals to thank the spirits of the land and sea for their bounty.
Quiet Demeanor: The Fubuki are known for their calm and quiet demeanor. Loud, boisterous behavior is frowned upon, especially in sacred spaces or during ceremonies. Silence is seen as a sign of respect, especially during moments of reflection or when listening to the wisdom of elders or the chieftess.

Art & Architecture

Seal Skin Tents: The Fubuki Tribe traditionally lives in tents made from seal skin stretched over a frame of bones or driftwood. These tents are portable, allowing the tribe to move with the seasons or in response to environmental changes. The tents are designed to be wind-resistant and insulated, providing warmth and protection from the elements.
Artistic Expression: Fubuki art is often functional, with decorations on clothing, tools, and tents that carry spiritual significance. Common motifs include representations of the sea, ice, and the animals they rely on, such as seals and fish. The use of natural dyes and materials ties their art closely to the environment.

Foods & Cuisine

Sea-Based Diet: The Fubuki diet is heavily based on marine resources, with fish and seal meat being staples. These are often prepared in stews or smoked for preservation. Fish, particularly arctic cod and cold-water salmon, are commonly eaten fresh, while seal meat is often roasted or dried for storage.
Frost Corn: Frost corn, a hardy crop that can grow in the cold climates of Shirakami, is a vital part of their diet. It is often ground into meal and used to make flatbreads or porridge. Frost corn is also fermented to create a mildly alcoholic beverage consumed during festivals.
Foraged Foods: The Fubuki supplement their diet with foraged foods such as berries, roots, and edible mosses. These are often dried and stored for the winter months. Foraging is done with great care, as the tribe believes in taking only what is needed and leaving enough for the land to replenish.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

Seasonal Festivals: The Fubuki observe several seasonal festivals that mark important times of the year, such as the spring thaw or the start of the winter hunting season. These festivals involve feasting, dancing, and rituals to honor the spirits of the land and sea.
Ritual Offerings: Before any major activity, such as hunting, fishing, or harvesting, the Fubuki make offerings to the spirits. These offerings usually consist of food, drink, or small crafted items, which are left in sacred places or cast into the sea.

Birth & Baptismal Rites

Egg Laying and Hatching: As Annuko, the Fubuki lay eggs rather than give live birth. When an egg is laid, it is kept in a warm, secure place within the family tent, often near the communal hearth. The parents, along with the chieftess or a spiritual leader, perform a blessing over the egg, asking the spirits to protect and guide the new life within.
Hatching Ceremony: When the egg hatches, a small ceremony is held to welcome the new member into the tribe. The chieftess or spiritual leader blesses the hatchling with water from the Graki Sea, symbolizing the child’s connection to their ancestors and the natural world. The hatchling is then given a name, often inspired by the natural elements or ancestral spirits.

Coming of Age Rites

First Hunt: A significant coming-of-age rite for young Fubuki is participating in their first hunt. This event marks the transition from childhood to adulthood and is both a test of skill and a spiritual journey. The young Fubuki is accompanied by a mentor, usually an elder or a skilled hunter, who guides them through the process.
Spiritual Journey: In addition to the first hunt, many young Fubuki undertake a spiritual journey to the Litter Islands or another sacred site. This journey is meant to help them connect with their ancestors and the spirits of the land, gaining wisdom and understanding of their place in the world.

Funerary and Memorial customs

Return to the Sea: The Fubuki believe that upon death, the spirit returns to the sea, where it begins its journey to the afterlife. The body is typically wrapped in seal skin and weighted with stones before being placed in the Graki Sea during a solemn ceremony. The tribe gathers to sing traditional songs and offer prayers for the deceased’s safe passage.
Memorial Stones: In addition to the sea burial, a memorial stone is often placed at a sacred site near the family’s home or on the Litter Islands. These stones are carved with symbols representing the life of the deceased and their contributions to the tribe.

Common Taboos

Disrespecting Sacred Sites: One of the most severe taboos in Fubuki culture is showing disrespect at a sacred site, such as the Litter Islands. This includes taking resources from these areas, performing rituals without proper permission, or behaving inappropriately in the presence of the spirits.
Wastefulness: The Fubuki have a deep respect for the resources provided by the natural world, and wastefulness is considered a grave offense. Taking more than what is needed, discarding usable materials, or hunting without intention are all seen as disrespectful to the spirits and the environment.

Common Myths and Legends

The Creation of the Litter Islands: One of the most important myths among the Fubuki is the story of how the Litter Islands were created. According to legend, the islands were formed by the tears of the first chieftess, who wept for her lost people during a great flood. The tears turned to ice, forming the towering spires that now dominate the islands. These spires are believed to be sacred, housing the spirits of the tribe’s ancestors.
The Great Hunt: Another popular legend is the tale of the Great Hunt, where a young Fubuki warrior, guided by a spirit fox, hunted a massive beast that threatened the tribe. The warrior’s bravery and skill earned them the favor of the spirits, who granted the tribe protection and prosperity. This story is often told during coming-of-age ceremonies to inspire young hunters.
The Spirit of the Graki Sea: The Graki Sea is believed to be inhabited by a powerful spirit that watches over the tribe. This spirit is said to take the form of a massive, ancient fish or whale, guiding the Fubuki to abundant fishing grounds and protecting them from storms. The tribe offers prayers and sacrifices to this spirit, particularly before long sea
The Cold as a Blessing: In Fubuki mythology and spirituality, the cold is often personified as a benevolent force or deity that watches over the tribe. This entity is believed to have granted the Fubuki their unique resilience and love for the cold, as a sign of favor. They express gratitude to this deity through offerings and songs, especially during the first snowfall of the year.

Historical figures

• Viora

"The Fennikos of Seasons"

Symbolic Crop:

Corn

Main Livelihood:

Foraging, Fishing

Location:

Shirakami 

Population:

>100 (Fubuki Tribe) 200+ (diaspora)

Encompassed species

• Fenniko

Related Organizations

• Fubuki Tribe