Post by Blaka on Nov 12, 2015 9:39:10 GMT -5
Created by Vio
Name
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Verdenstein
Society
-~-~-~-A person who comes from this land is typically referred to as a Verdenite, though they themselves tend not to use this name.
Size
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Very Large
Far larger than Alabasta
Location
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West Blue
Far South
Climate, Seasons & Weather
-~-~-~-In terms of climate, Verdenstein possesses a rather warm one. Typically, hot and consistent sunny days are interspersed with days of light to medium precipitation, though torrential rains have been known to take the island by storm during Summer months. The mice mix of warmth, cool, rain and light make the entire island ideal for variable forms of flora. Though it experiences the average temperatures of 27ºC (80ºF) in the typically warmer seasons, temperatures have been known to soar well towards the 35ºC (95ºF) mark during the height of Summer and sometimes breaking into 40ºC (104ºF) in particular prefectures of the south.
During Autumnal months, light rainfall becomes increasingly more common as the temperatures begin to decline. An average day on Verdenstein during this season can range between 20ºC (68ºF) and 24ºC (75ºF), but it can sometimes feel a little cooler depending on the thickness of cloud cover and level of rainfall. During this season, the island takes on a much more colourful look in general, mixing deep greens of mosses with the rich reds and golds and browns of falling leaves. Winds also tend to pick up during this time, though gales are hardly forceful. The primary difficulties of autumn include thick blankets of fog and dense mists that cling about the island, even with the passing winds.
Winter is perhaps the least typical season for this country, with temperatures barely ever dropping below 12ºC (54ºF) for most of the prefectures. However, the temperate forests of the northern regions can become as cold as 7ºC (45ºF) during daylight hours in the depths of winter. Light frosts can sometimes form, but snowfall and ice is practically unheard of in this country, making it ideal for a range of crops all year round. Even winter is good enough for growing potatoes! However, this season does hold difficulties in terms of precipitation and wind. Intense gales can easily reach up to 60 mph (96 km/h), while torrential rainfall has been known to cause heavy flooding in places, with the Jade River sometimes being known to burst its banks on its eastern branch.
Spring is the longest of the seasons for Verdenstein, lasting around five months in total. Here, the season begins in the midst of February and steadily climbs into summer during the latter days of June or early July. Temperatures range between 23ºC (73ºF) and 29ºC (84ºF) towards the later months, though the early spring is still substantially warmer than the ridiculously mild winters the island experiences. February and early March see average temperatures of around 18ºC (64ºF), and that's considered to be cold by the standards of the inhabitants! Verdenstein mostly sees days of sunshine and light showers throughout this season, with the intense gales of the preceding seasons fading quickly to light breezes that keep the air fresh.
Island Appearance
-~-~-~-Verdenstein itself has a very distinct appearance. Covered almost entirely in dense, lush greenery, the place appears as an expanse of deep and rich greens upon the horizon. The vast majority of the geological features here consist of rocks died green by various minerals, while the rich and fertile soils - the likes of which are blooming with nutrients and have low acidity - mean that plant life is extensive. Most of the landmass is flat, broken up by gentle hills and shallow valleys, though it does have some more distinct environments. Typically, one can divide the landscape into about four or five particular geographical regions.
To the north, Verdenstein's landscape is mostly dominated by dense temperate rain forest and lighter patches of woodland. Trees dominate this region almost entirely, though some areas have been cleared out to make room for farmland. Approaching from the north is not an ideal way to come to the island, for its coastline is blockaded by natural cliffs that tower above most ships. However, there is an area of mangrove trees which forms a natural port of sorts, though only smaller vessels are capable of navigating into this section safely.
The eastern regions of Verdenstein are a peculiar mix of mountainous terrain and deep marshland, with high plateaus forming the only viable areas for farming. Only one actual mountain exists on the island, and the east takes pride in hosting its towering peak that climbs high into the skies. A distinctive landmark that many can see when approaching from this side of the island, said mountain has gained notoriety among both the natives and the outsiders. The eastern shoreline is quite vast, the tides coming in a fair ways but never entirely enveloping the beach. The Jade River's point of origin is located in the rocky borders between here and the northern region.
The southern landscapes of the island are almost akin to a desert, consisting of rolling hills of various types. Some overhang, exposing walls of dark and rich soil, while others are barely noticeable. Grasses of various lengths and types cover this vast expanse, with miles worth of savanna-like landscape interspersed with regions of towering tall grasses over ten feet tall. Several parts of this region have been converted into farm land, but some sectors are home to intrusive mosses, lichens and fungi that make the otherwise rich soils practically infertile for all but the hardiest plants. Plains of rich greens can have regions of golden straw-like grasses that seem to glow in the sun's rays when viewed from afar. The eastern branch of the Jade River cuts through the landscape, winding around and breaking into numerous small streams that vanish into the earth. The river itself reaches to the farthest south coast where it meets the ocean. During harsh winters, the river has burst its banks, turning miles of grassland into thick quagmire.
Western Verdenstein is a far more neutral region. A mix of hills, fields and woodlands create a stable ecosystem for a variety of fauna and flora. Arable land makes for good crop farming, while livestock is allowed to roam across broad fields. The coastal edge of this region is rather tranquil, consisting of several beaches broken by cliffs of green rock. Considered one of the more heavily populated regions of Verdenstein, this area has numerous small villages scattered about the landscape, as well as several larger towns around the coast. The western branch of the Jade River cuts through into this region from the central areas, winding through the hills and almost entirely surrounding one of the towns. It is used as a primary inland trade route for supply ships, though it has burst its banks once or twice in past winters.
The middle areas of the island are called Central Verdenstein, though the region itself can be considered an extension of the western lands. A mix of steepened hills and forests span this smaller region, as well as a few rocky outcrops and cliffs. The primary 'purpose' of this region is the housing of the Emerald City, the largest settlement of the island and the supposed capital of the country. An expanse of caverns stretch around beneath this region, the deepest depths of which are thought to still be unexplored, though a great deal of it was once used as a form of mine. Mining still occurs in these caves, albeit in a far different sense.
Flora & Fauna
-~-~-~-Verdenstein is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, many of which are animals common to the West Blue and areas of the Red Line, but the country itself is not without its own unique species. A myriad of lifeforms, the vast majority of which experience symbiosis with plants and fungi, all call Verdenstein home. Because of the tropical climate, this land also sees a lot of reptilian and amphibian life among the mammals, insects, fish and birds.
Vine Worms are an evolved type of earthworm native to Verdenstein, reaching lengths in excess of two metres if allowed to live long enough. Their bodies are thin when compared to most earthworms, but still rather strong. While most worms are varying shades of pink and brown, the Vine Worms possess a distinct dark green colour as a result of their diet, filtering the mineral enriched soils of Epidote and Amazonite. Their colour, as well as their tendency to weave around tree roots and such like strangling vines, are their namesake. The largest recorded Vine Worm, nicknamed 'Toby', was measured at 283 cm in length and had an estimated girth of 22 mm.
Shamms are a breed of domestic cattle which, in all honesty, are not that different from regular cows. In fact, the core difference is really just the symbiosis they undergo when maturing. Born as standard cows, they grasses and shrubs upon which they feed - not to mention the contents of their mothers' milk - carry a small and otherwise harmless fungus which infuses its spores within the calf's body. By the time they mature, the cattle's usual white and black body is instead white with green blotches, giving them a unique look. This has no adverse effects and actually benefits the host; the fungal growth inside the skin protecting them from other parasites in exchange for nutrients that the symbiote would otherwise be incapable of attaining. Shamm milk has a slightly higher nutritional value than normal cow's milk. They are commonly found in Peridot's farmland.
Keelp are a species of long-bodied fish (not actually eels) that inhabit Cavansite's inland sea, possessing a deep brown-green colour and having a flattened body that tapers like some sort of ribbon. Their appearance most closely resembles seaweed or kelp, hence the name, due to numerous fleshy fronds that protrude along the dorsal fin, tail and such. They are an annoyance to fisherman, mostly due to the fact that their flesh is tough to eat, drastically lowering the appeal for them outside of Verdenstein. Also, as carnivorous fish, they prey upon the smaller more valuable species that inhabit their territories.
Wave Cushions are a species of enormous mushroom that grow on and inside of the hills of Wavellite, the fruits themselves having a cap that reaches up to 200 cm in diameter. The stalks are a typical off-white colour, but the caps themselves have a vivid blue saturation that is considered extremely rare. Parts of the mushroom cap are often harvested, not just for the fact that they are perfectly edible, but also because they contain such a rich blue pigment that is used in paints and cosmetics produced in Verdenstein. During hot summers, Wave Cushions release their spored en mass, shrouding much of the island in a phenomenal blue fog carried inland by the sea breeze.
Bananapillars are a larval insect found in the Amazonite forests, so called because they are often mistaken for the namesake fruit. Protected by a thick skin that resembles a banana peel in both texture and colour (light greens, yellows and sometimes with brown 'bruises'), the Bananapillar is actually large enough to look like a small fruit, but most quickly drop it when they realise that it squirms. They are harmless herbivores, save for the damage they cause to trees from which they use a lengthy proboscis to extract the sweet sap. The skin is purely protective and can be abandoned by the insect inside should it need to do so, but replacing the skin takes a lot of time and energy, delaying metamorphosis. Many Bananapillars that lose their peel often perish, but a lucky few see through to adulthood.
Butterpalms are the adult form of the Bananapillar, resembling large moths and feeding on flower nectar. Their bodies are black, but their large wings are a vivid lime green and resemble the leaves of a palm tree. Because of Verdenstein's climate, Butterpalms can be seen all year round, as can their larvae. They breed exclusively in the Amazonite forests, but migrate about the island once they reach adulthood.
Moss Sheep are another example of domestic farmland animal, cared for in the Peridot prefecture. Normal sheep during the early stages of their life, much like the Shamms, they develop a symbiotic relationship with a form of moss that starts to grow within the wool. As such, Moss Sheep have a coat of green, the greenery within photosynthesizing and soaking up the excess moisture that the animal sweats out. Oddly enough, this keeps the animal's temperature stable throughout the year. Moss Sheep wool is not very useful, however, but the moss itself is actually edible and is often used as a garnish. Boiling the wool separates moss and hair and, while the fibres will quickly disintegrate without the reinforcing greenery, the moss can then be used.
Crabstools are a crustacean that can be found around the coast of Verdenstein, especially in the prefectures of Malachite, Wavellite, Chrysocolla, Aquamarine. Their size can vary quite a bit, with the oldest known members of the species growing to an impressive 75 cm in body width (not counting appendages). A dull green-brown in colour, the back of the Crabstool is actually rather unique in that they have adapted to a parasitic relationship and transformed it into symbiosis. A rare 'sea mushroom' that infects that crab's shell and destroys it has instead been turned into a replacement covering that grows with the crab, drastically lessening the need to shed and thus allowing an apparent indefinite growth. While the shell may be softer than normal, the flesh is also highly toxic, indicated by the vivid red top shell and its bright yellow protuberances.
Cabbage Oysters are a mollusc which inhabit the surrounding sea, but also have found their way into the marshland waters of Chrysoprase. Known to grow to impressive sizes, some in excessive on 100 cm, the Cabbage Oysters are regarded as a delicacy in the West Blue. Their soft bodies are white and lumpy, not unlikely the innards of their namesake, and possess a rich flavour and chewy texture. The shells, which are green in colour and resemble large leaves, have been used as bowls and dishes and even jewelry for generations. Some of the largest shells have also been used as bath tubs by the richer folk of the Emerald City. The pearls produced by Cabbage Oysters are usually a deep green colour and greatly resemble polished jade, which has made perfect specimens extremely valuable.
Inhabitants
-~-~-~-As an island of the West Blue, Verdenstein's inhabitants are mostly normal human beings. Due to diet, culture and climate, the majority of people who come from this country possess darker skin tone than most, usually with a rich olive complexion. Eye colour is typically green or blue, but hazel and amber also show up from time to time. Unusual hair colour is also commonplace, the dietary habits of the people ending up influencing their usually dark hair and introducing deep shades of green. There are no other sapient races that actively inhabit this island, save for families that have migrated here.
Prominent Organizations,
Groups and Establishments
-~-~-~-Verdenstein itself is divided into numerous prefectures - regions of land governed by a small council which, as of recently, now form a growing parliament under the guidance of the World Government. There are thirteen of these prefectures in total, each with their own particular trademarks:
Malachite is a coastal prefecture on the south-western shore. The northern border connects to Wavellite, the two states separated by the last stretches of the Jade River's western branch. This prefecture is one of the most easily accessed, possessing an expansive and now thriving port town. The prefecture is otherwise covered in a mixture of rolling hills from the western regions and vast grasslands from the south. The grasslands here are mostly of lighter green vegetation, though it has distinct bands of thicker and darker grasses that swirl through it in irregular patterns. The district is most famous for the port town and Marine Outpost which resides there. The council presently in charge of Malachite Prefecture is lead by Artemis Chooke.
Peridot is an inland prefecture located in western Verdenstein, regarded as a highly prosperous location due to its advances in farming. The district itself is most famous for its perseverance during the civil war period, having sustained itself through the rich and arable lands that compose at least eighty percent of its area. It was formerly known as Olivine, but was renamed in the midst of the civil war when Dante Greene took over as head of the prefecture council. Though it is a relatively small region, it has the best farmlands in the country, keeping a thriving economy thanks to the rich soils and unique methods used by the people. The settlements here are mostly small villages that focus around particular stretches of farmland. It is met on the western border by Wavellite.
Wavellite is a larger coastal prefecture, though slightly less known for its port towns, of which it has three. Under leadership of the Laurel council, this district has a distinct expanse of rounded hills reaching inland towards Peridot on the eastern border. These hills, while possessing extremely fertile soils, are most commonly used as open ranges for livestock such as sheep, goats and cattle which enjoy the peculiar landscape. Indeed, the hills are almost dome-shaped and covered in grasses and plants that grow almost directly outwards. Massive mushrooms are also known to grow around these hills, with each hill said to house mycelia of gigantic proportions at their centre. The grasses here are a light green colour, akin to white grapes. The southern border is connected to Malachite via bridges crossing the Jade River, while the northern border starts to intrude upon the areas of North Verdenstein, meeting the wooded landscapes of Epidote.
Epidote prefecture is the north-westernmost of the thirteen districts, being the western point of North Verdenstein and connecting to the state of Wavellite in the south. It is a smaller district under leadership of the Forrest council, tending to keep to itself due to it having little overall economic significance. The region consists mostly of sparse woodland with a few open plains in which farming occurs, but most resources are brought in from Wavellite and Peridot in the south. The forests here have a light pistachio colour to their foliage, though the wood itself tends to be dark brown - almost black - which makes the leaves look lighter than they actually are. A lot of trees here are species of pine, the needles of which are often harvested for a variety of purposes. The eastern border meets Amazonite.
Amazonite is one of the largest of the prefectures of Verdenstein, and the largest of the Northern districts. It connects to the lighter forests of Epidote in the wast, Peridot in the south-west and Emerald City in the far south. The eastern border connects to Aquamarine. Amazonite itself is a large expanse of dense, temperate rain forest well known for its lumber trade, one of the best in the entire West Blue. The prefecture is run by the Wilhook council, who have monopolised the extensive diversities of lumber that the forests provide. The leaves of many plants in this prefecture are a light green with a hint of blue, and true blue flowering plants (usually very rare in nature) bloom here consistently.
Zoisite is a prefecture of Southern Verdenstein, though it is also one of the smallest of the prefectures in the country. It connects to Malachite in the west, but is sandwiched between that and the Uvarovite prefecture in the east, meaning it has no direct coastal or deep inland connections. However, the Jade River does meet this area at its northern point, which is where the only settlement is located. The Fernn council leads this prefecture and is heavily dependent on neighbouring groups for support, trading much needed food and medicines for the rich mosses and truffles that grow here. These are considered delicacies all about the West Blue, but can only be found here, which is the only reason the prefecture prospers.
Uvarovite prefecture is the largest of the prefectures in Verdenstein, closely followed by Amazonite in the north and Chrysocolla in the east. It connects to the Emerald City in the north, Malachite and Zoisite in the west, and Cavansite and Chrysoprase in the east. What makes this region so particular is the vast expanse of land that it consumes, the majority of which is grasslands with little arable land to farm. However, the prefecture itself is heavily reinforced by its historical significance, being the oldest established prefecture in Verdenstein and holding many ancient ruins from centuries past. The council in charge is the Shamstein council, a very prestigious council group and one of the few to maintain regulations imposed prior to the civil war era. While it dabbles in the old, it also invests in the new and contains one of the best universities in the West Blue. The grasses here are a rich emerald.
Chrysocolla is the third largest of the thirteen prefectures and sits on the east coast, containing an absolutely massive expanse of beach and the second largest public harbour in the country, beaten only by Malachite's port town. Under jurisdiction of the Mon Tiesse council, this particular district dominates the economy of East Verdenstein quite heavily thanks to trade routes. The sands of the shores here are typically dark and mixed with minute blue-green crystals that give it an otherworldly look, further defined by the fact that Chrysocolla also houses the island's only true mountain - Mount Chryson towering high above the landscape. The prefecture is surrounded by neighbouring districts of the Emerald City in the far west, Chrysoprase (the sister state) and Cavansite in the south, and Aquamarine in the north.
Cavansite is a prefecture of East Verdenstein that sits inland, bordered by Uvarovite, the sister states of Chrysocolla and Chrysoprase, and the Emerald City. It is a medium-sized prefecture under leadership of the Myrtle council and is most famous for its inland fishing industry. Surrounding and broken up by various plateaus, a good sixty percent of this district is actually marshland more akin to a shallow inland sea of rich green-blue waters. Numerous fish, molluscs and crustaceans make their homes here and are thus farmed by the peoples. A small inland delta connects this 'sea' to the eastern branch of the Jade River, thus keeping the water somewhat fresh and supplied.
Chrysoprase is the sister state of Chrysocolla, the prefecture itself settled just southbound of it. To the south is Dioptase, while the west connects to Cavansite. The Mosse council is currently in charge of this prefecture, and the region itself is mostly plateaus and shallow marshes of startlingly clear waters. However, light green algal blooms cover the majority of the marshland itself. The prefecture is most famous for its algae and the ecosystems it looks after, with the people making use of the blooms for local delicacies. Chrysoprase barely touches the eastern coastline, having no port town, but it does have privileges over a nice secluded beach which has been a common landing spot for pirate crews for decades.
Dioptase holds the title of the smallest prefecture of Verdenstein and is set in the far south-east of the country, isolated from most other prefectures. Surrounded almost entirely by the sea, Dioptase connects to the borders of Chrysoprase in the north and Uvarovite in the west. The terrain here is mostly rocky and steep, though it is known for having an expansive valley of grasses that opens into the wilderness of neighbouring Uvarovite prefecture. This opening serves as the only main road between the two regions and has had a stone gate built during the civil war which serves to filter traffic between them. The council in charge is the Teal council, who are renowned for strict laws regarding the shipping routes. A single port town functions as the core of business here, especially with the presence of a Marine Outpost.
Aquamarine prefecture is located in the north-east of Verdenstein, holding the third of the Marine Outposts located about the coast of the country. The Olivier council are the current charge of this region. Being in the north, the prefecture has mostly steep terrain covered in a blanket of thick forest. Tall but slender trees make up the majority of the vegetation here, though an area of mangroves exists on the northernmost coastline, close to the border of Amazonite. Aquamarine has no shore, though it is well known for a large number of waterfalls that cascade from the cliffs and enter the surrounding sea. A hidden smuggling port lies deep within a mangrove marsh, while the legal docks of the place are in the east, built into an area of cliff and crevasse that overshadows it.
Emerald City is the very centre of Verdenstein, surrounded by Peridot, Amazonite, Uvarovite, Chrysocolla and Cavansite. The city itself is built around a massive hill, with the Jade River forming a natural moat around sixty percent of the prefecture. It has no main council, but is governed by Lord Gabbro - appointed head of the Verdenstein Prefect Council due to World Government intervention. The city itself is known for housing the central Marine Base which commands the triumvirate of outposts scattered about Verdenstein's coasts. This is an area of high industry and is easily the most advanced of the settlements.
Trends
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Fashions
-~-In terms of fashion, the people of Verdenstein typically wear the more common clothing of the era. Floral and natural patterns, however, are the greatest trends of the island due to its culture. Hats with broad rims are extremely popular all across the prefectures, though the wealthier businessmen have a tendency to wear the extremely fashionable top hats. Various shades of green, blue and yellow are adored, with Southerners preferring vivid yellow and Northerners preferring pale blue.
Laws & Politics
-~-Now allied with the World Government, Verdenstein's laws are pretty strict about piracy and similar criminal activity, though the only true police force outside of the Marines is housed in the Emerald City. Otherwise, the laws of the island are typical of any land allied with the World Government. Politically, each prefecture is run as a sort of democracy under the guidance of a small council. These councils hold monthly meetings regarding the affairs of their individual prefectures, but larger meetings are held biannually at the Emerald City.
Industry
-~-Verdenstein is perhaps most famous for its produce, industry almost entirely centered around the cultivation of medicinal plants, nutritious fruits and vegetables, and a variety of other organic materials. One of the West Blue's chief suppliers of organic oils, Verdenstein has even influenced the cosmetics market thanks to the wide variety of natural dyes and pigments produced by the plant life. The Amazonite Prefecture is also home to one of the greatest lumber trades in the West Blue. Outside of this, the country has very little industrial influence, only able to support itself with whatever else the island has to offer them. Most natural resources are regulated heavily by law, but the booming organics and lumber trade means that they can afford to ship in other important necessities from abroad. Overall, the economy is one of the most stable in the West Blue, and is recovering quickly from the civil war period.
Cuisine
-~-Most people of Verdenstein are vegetarian by nature, with the consumption of meet considered close to taboo by the general population. Apparently, this stems from centuries back, where meat was something that only the rich could afford to eat. Though more and more people do make use of meats in their diets, typically in small amounts, the necessity for it is actually quite low. Many of the fruits and vegetables upon which they feast contain all the necessary nutrients, and animal byproducts - milk, cheese and the like - make up for what a green diet cannot typically offer. Fruits, vegetables, grasses, seaweed, algae, fungi and such are common in diets. Additionally, Verdenstein makes a lot of money out of rare Black Peridot Truffle, a fungus that grows only in the rich soils of Peridot Prefecture.
Non-Player Characters
-~-~-~-Lord Sean Gabbro, Head of the Verdenstein Prefect Council, is one of the most powerful men in Verdenstein. He is a man of average height, slightly portly but by no means overweight, and typically wears emerald green suits. He lives in the Emerald City, in a manor house in the highest reaches of the central district, and oversees much of the country's political and economic goings on. He is perhaps most famous for his greying mutton chops, tinged with green, and is typically considered a firm but polite man. He is just reaching into his late fifties.
Artemis Chooke, Prefect of Malachite, is a tall man in his mid thirties. He stands at a little over seven feet and is supposedly one of the most physically active of the Prefect Council members. Though he is often seen in a pressed shirt and trousers, usually of light green and navy blue respectively, he is also seen wearing a yellow raincoat from time to time. He interacts a lot with foreigners, mostly due to trade routes and business contracts, and is easily distinguished by his plume of light green-blonde hair which resembles the head of an artichoke. He's a very serious, business-focused man, living in a penthouse in Port Malaché.
Dante Greene, Prefect of Peridot, is a man of average height but appears rather sickly. Terminally ill due to chemical weapons used in the civil war, he is rarely seen outside of his quaint little home, but still gets involved with the prefecture's goings on. He has short, dark green hair and a rather gaunt and tired look - he appears very pale when compared to most Verdenites - and is typically dressed in civilian clothing when out and about. He walks with a cane, now. He's in his late forties, and is considered a very sociable and compassionate man. He always puts others before himself.
Gladys Laurel, Prefect of Wavellite, is a petite and slim woman known for her busy nature and hasty attitude. She is in her early thirties, and typically wears formal attire in public, preferring suits of light green and ivory. Her hair is a very light blonde, saturated with just enough green to make it look the colour of white grapes. Most of her interactions with the public include financial talk, typically because she likes to maintain Wavellite's economy and is not afraid to give loans to small businesses that are just setting themselves up.
Blake Forrest, Prefect of Epidote, is a very small and stocky man who often keeps to himself and is in his mid forties. Typically dressed in similar clothing to that of civilians, he is also chief of Epidote's small police force - which numbers a baker's dozen with him included - and if very proud of the exceptionally low crime rate. Usually very quiet, he quickly becomes an extremely powerful and fearsome man despite his height should criminals surface in his territory, and is regarded as one of the strongest man in Verdenstein. He's an extremely skilled martial artist, despite his odd appearance, so it's best not to underestimate him. His hair is jet black, lacking traces of green, and is usually combed back beneath his pistachio-coloured bowler hat. He is never seen without his uniform.
Amanda Wilhook, Prefect of Amazonite, is a tall and attractive lady in her late twenties, having only been instigated as Amazonite's prefect in the last year. She looks after the political side of the prefecture while her father runs the business side, and she can be considered a very domineering woman who loathes disorder. Her hair is long and straight, coloured a mix of chestnut and turquoise, and she has vivid blue eyes. Her choice of dress is usually practical attire, often adorned with a blue cloak. Her home and base of operations is in Dryapolis' tallest town tree, a house build amongst the canopy.
Garfield Fernn, Prefect of Zoisite, is a beefy man standing nearly nine feet tall. A man exceptionally fond of his food, he is actually a lot healthier than he looks and is very fussy about what he eats, but he also values chefs. As a cook himself, he lives in Zoiton and runs his own restaurant - Fernn's Riverside - amidst the chain of competing establishments. While competitive, he is also very friendly a man and often praises his rivals for their cooking skills. Never seen without his toque and apron, he has a cleanly shaven face and head, save for a small, neat goatee of dark olive hair. He is in his late thirties.
Professor Cael Shamstein, Prefect of Uvarovite, is a gentlemen in his early seventies who serves not only as the prefect, but also as the head of University. Living on the University campus the city, he is an extremely intelligent and wise individual rarely seen outside of offices or labs, save for when honouring students for their hard work, in which case he will actively go out and greet them. Paralysed from the waist down, he moves around in a wheelchair (and is very adept at doing so), and is always seen in a suit. His hair is completely white and bald on top, but conforms to the shape of his skull. He has light amber eyes and wears thick glasses, and is prone to becoming lost in a train of thought midway through conversations.
Rylan Mon Tiesse, Prefect of Chrysocolla, is a man of average height and muscular build with particularly dark skin and short deep green hair. His typical code of dress includes casual suits, though he can sometimes be seen in his formal attire for most political purposes. He lives in the inland town of the prefecture - Chryson's Hoof - in a large manor house which connects to the town hall. He is well known for his strict nature and is an aspiring artist who takes great pride in his artwork; a specialist in sculpting from beeswax and honeycomb which he imports from Amazonite. He is in his early forties.
Davis Myrtle, Prefect of Cavansite, is a tall and slender man with long light green-blond hair often tied into a ponytail that reaches down to his waist. He stands at just over seven feet tall and is typically dressed in civilian clothing, but sometimes dons formal attire for political reasons. He can often seem a rather bland and boring guy, but he is actually an extremely cool and collected fellow, even in times of upheaval. His ability to remain calm under pressure is what earned him his status, and few things get to him, save for the threat of a poor fishing season.
Lilian Mosse, Prefect of Chrysoprase, is a short and stocky woman often dressed in formal attire and is surprisingly well known for the number of necklaces she wears at once. She has dark brown hair tinted with light green. She is an extremely aggressive and domineering woman who tends to pry into numerous goings on, simply for the sake of maintaining her prefecture's status, and is often at odds with the Mon Tiesse council of Chrysocolla - Chrysoprase's sister state. Much of her time is spent tending to the business of algal bloom harvesting, a business which she has taken full control over as CEO.
Lieutenant Nathan Teal, Prefect of Dioptase, is a man of average proportions and healthy build. His dark green hair is cut short into the typical 'jar head' style, and he is rarely seen wearing anything but his Marine uniform, for he also serves as a Lieutenant in the navy as of recent years. As such, he lives in the Marine Outpost located in Dioptasia - the only town in the prefecture - and is very strict about upholding the laws. As a naval officer, he is an intelligent soul, a good leader, and a highly skilled swordsman best known for Itoryu (one sword style).
Lawrence Olivier, Prefect of Aquamarine, is a handsome man with curly hair of honey blond and lime, defined further by rich blue eyes. He is always dressed in a neat suit and is considered a firm but polite man. Not only does he lead the council of Aquamarine, stationed at the port town of the same name, but he also runs the shipbuilding industry of Verdenstein. He brings in timber from Amazonite to help construct and repair vessels, but typically charges very high prices in advance before work can be done. He does a lot of work on the ships of the Marine Outpost.
Settlements & Places of Interest
-~-~-~-Port Malaché is the coastal town situated in the Malachite Prefecture, one of the largest ports in all of Verdenstein and the base of operations for the majority of transoceanic shipping that the island's trade network undergoes. Sprawling stone piers and marinas are designed to support numerous ships of all shapes and sizes, with around a third of the town itself actually being built on the water thanks to attempts to expand the harbour district. Towards the northern end of the docks, one can see the shipyards within which vessels are repaired by Malaché's shipwright organisation, while the southern end houses a more imposing structure - a tall white tower that is the Malaché Marine Outpost.
Oliville is the prefecture capital of Peridot, situated roughly in the middle of the prefecture and connected to the various smaller villages by a network of dirt roads that cut through the farmland. Oliville is nothing special, being one of the smallest settlements in all of Verdenstein, but it resembles a medieval village with a small surrounding wall of stone. In the middle is the town hall, which is akin to a large barn in appearance, but was converted as appropriate.
The Jade River is the only river in Verdenstein, despite the size of the land, but still feeds much of the island. The name is so given because of the vivid green hue of the waters that flow through it, dyed such a colour by the minerals and algal blooms that tap into it, but despite this the waters are extremely clean and clear.
Dryapolis is the prefecture capital of Amazonite, hiding amidst the dense forests, and is perhaps one the largest towns in Verdenstein. However, while it may seem small in terms of land coverage, this city is well known for being built into the trees! A sprawling network of bridges and such bring together a massive community held above the forest floor and safe from the floods that occasionally sweep it during bouts of heavy rain. The trees that comprise this town - of which there are thirteen - are all several hundred years old, the largest of which is said to have lived for nearly two thousand years. Despite being hollowed out, these goliaths still grow slowly and surely and are treated with great respect by the people.
Zoiton is the only settlement located in the Zoisite prefecture, resting in the northernmost area of the region, upon the banks of the Jade River. A small but busy settlement, Zoiton is not known for much save for the edible moss and truffle trade. These businesses keep the town running proudly, explaining why several different restaurants locked in a healthy competition with one another all manage to prosper economically on the high street.
University City of Uvarovite is a large town located in its namesake prefecture, housing Verdenstein's largest establishment of education. The town is dedicated almost entirely to its college system, having numerous shops and such for young and old students, as well as catering for its professors. The university itself is well known in the West Blue for its Chemistry, Biology, History, Archaeology and Paleontology courses. Numerous laboratories, museums and archives litter the place, the most prominent of which develop medicines.
Chryson's Hoof is one of the two largest settlements in the prefecture of Chrysocolla, serving as the prefecture's political capital. It is seated at the foot of Mount Chryson. There is little special about this town, save for the art gallery which houses numerous works - paintings, sketches, statues; many of which are crafted from beeswax and honeycomb - the works of Rylan Mon Tiesse.
Mount Chryson holds the title of being the only true mountain in all of Verdenstein, towering above the tallest hills with a peak reaching an estimated height of 7,834 metres above sea level. Much of the mountain is covered in forest, making it a lot easier than one would believe to climb.
Port Colla is Chrysocolla's economic capital and is the second largest harbour on Verdenstein, bested only by Port Malaché. Aside from its size, this place is not too different from Malaché at all, save for the fact that it doesn't house a Marine Outpost. However, small platoons of Marines do still patrol this area, coming south from Aquamarine. Port Colla's greatest landmark is its lighthouse - the largest in Verdenstein - which nests on a small islet about a mile out to sea.
Dioptasia is the only town in the Prefecture of Dioptase, serving as its capital and housing a Marine Outpost. Despite being the smaller of the three coastal outposts, it is still well defended thanks to Lieutenant Nathan Teal - outpost commander and prefect of Dioptase. Regular dock patrols by Marines make this town a hard place for pirates to land at, the settlement itself being one of the most heavily fortified in the country.
Aquamarine (Town) is the prefect capital of Aquamarine and considerably one the most heavily defended ports in all of Verdenstein; not due to the presence of the Marine outpost built into the cliffs, however, but due to the undersea terrain that surrounds this area. A hub of shipwright activity it may be, but this port in particular is not so easily approached in the calm weathers without good knowledge of the sea currents and rocky reefs that decorate it. During rougher seas, the frothing nature of the waters reveals the channels through which ships safely pass without worry of being snagged upon the rocks. Much of the town is built into the cliffs and crevices around it, making it look quite imposing amidst the dark green stone.
Island History
-~-~-~-Little can be said for the history of Verdenstein as an island, for its position relatively close to the Red Line keeps it mostly out of harms way. However, as one of the largest lands in the West Blue, it is not surprising that it has quite the history. Much of the strange biology that forms here is said to have heralded from the secretive realms of both the Red Line and the Grand Line, with foreign plants and fungi being introduced over the centuries transforming what was once a rocky wasteland into a lush paradise.
Verdenstein's first settlers, prior to the Void Century, were said to have come down from the Red Line. Since then, and mostly due to its size, numerous explorers stumbled across the land or were otherwise shipwrecked, forcing them to try and survive. Eventually these cultures banded together to form the diversity of modern Verdenstein, its population growing just as rapidly as its plant life over the decades. Approximately two hundred and twenty years ago, Verdenstein's modern prefectures were founded, and since then it has grown and grown. Borders have shifted slightly, and industries have risen, but much of the island has changed little since then.
That was up until ten years ago. Politically and economically, the rather distant country of Verdenstein was suffering quite heavily. Though it was a neutral country, the World Government did not offer any aid to the land due to its location, and as such it often found the few trade routes it had targeted by piratical activity. Though the land was self-sufficient, the growing population was starting to impact that, and soon tensions soon rose beyond boiling point as the divided prefectures - each a separate state in its own right - started to wrestle each other for resources. Civil War had broken out.
The coming years were hard; some prefectures prospered while others suffered. Just two years into the conflict, the Prefecture of Olivine experienced a rebel uprising, installing the current prefect - Dante Greene - as head. With his installation came the renaming of this state, becoming what is now known as Peridot. However, as the years went by the conflicts worsened, dragging even the peaceful Peridot prefecture into the war. With chemical weapons developed by the researchers of the Uvarovite University, several smaller prefectures found themselves raided and spoiled, further impacting the crisis which the land suffered from.
Three years ago, the Verdenstein Civil War came to an end thanks to Marine involvement. As such, there are now a number of outposts around the posts, as well as a central Marine HQ located in the Emerald City. Over the last few years, the country has improved drastically since joining the World Government. Some tensions still exist, but the prefectures actively work as a single council under the guidance of the government. New trade routes and such have allowed the land to return to its former glory, transforming it into a politically and economically stable land despite its relative isolation from other West Blue islands.