Jade
[ Added 05/29/23 ]
Jade County, an influential country in Na
- ・Population: 8,700
- ・Located in the subtropic region
- ・Current Ruler: Count Thomas of Jade
- ・Other Notes: Capital of Jade County
[ Added 05/29/23 ]
Jade is one of the countries belonging to the Federation of Na. Before joining Na, it was the demesne surrounding the stronghold of a local clan. Jade became a vassal of the Na Empire, then gained autonomy as the County of Jade under the new Federation.
The town overlooks Ibiscus Bay and, like other countries of Na, flourishes through trade from a well-maintained port. It also serves as a major stopping point along highway networks leading to Gruegel and Wide.
Jade holds the most prominent armada of Na, making up the core of the national navy. They are known as the “Imperial Guards of the Sea” and escort merchant vessels to ward off pirates.
Ever since joining the Federation, Jade has focused on maintaining favorable relations with Na while retaining its own national power. Count Thomas of Jade has a reputation for being an intelligent leader, but with scheming undertones.
Sophie and Gustave moved to Farenheim, a quiet village in the northwest outskirts of Jade. However, residents have been worried about the monsters recently lurking in the mountains. Bandits have also been spotted in the area, prompting Jade to station guards nearby.
Jade is in a subtropic zone, but winds blowing southwest from the ocean makes even summers feel very comfortable. The region has been victim to its fair share of hurricanes, however, so many houses are surrounded by forests for protection.
The Emblem for the House of Jade looks considerably different from others. Supposedly it was first used after becoming a vassal of the Na Empire. The central design of the legendary creature soaring through the sky catches the eye, but the arrows beneath are the actual symbolic features. These represent the initial shock felt by Jade upon seeing the power of “Spells” as the Empire of Na was established. Rays of light fiercely raining down from the heavens—this is the Emblem of Jade!
The County of Jade is known as being one of the safest places in all of Sandail. Successive Counts have, for the most part, instated favorable policies, which in turn allowed the population of Jade to accumulate wealth.
The streets in Jade have a characteristic appearance, lined with trees that produce vast amounts of apricots and grapes. These trees were native to the area and systematic cultivation led to the current prosperity enjoyed by the County.
Most of the grapes are turned into wine since they cannot be eaten raw, but some industrious farmers are trying their hands at cultivating edible varieties.
Grapes are harvested in the fall and many farmers gather to make wine. What they produce is none other than the number one brand of wine, “Jade Royal”, which is personally endorsed by the Count himself. Whenever wine-making season rolls around, the aroma of grapes wafts through the entire region.
Apricots are another type of produce inseparable from the people of Jade. The trees reach full bloom in early spring, a wonderful spectacle that delights all who come to see them, then the fruits grow to maturity in summer. Apricots are not harvested in the sheer numbers as grapes, but entrepreneurs from Wide who hold market shares in the wine industry are looking into new opportunities for the fruits. They can be enjoyed raw, but are often dried or made into jams for ease of export. Thus, raw apricots are sold in the domestic market, but processed apricots are enjoyed abroad. The kernel is also eaten and used for medicinal purposes.
Jade may have deep roots with the sea, but it lacks a large fishing industry. The people do eat seafood, of course, but only catch enough to meet the demands of the domestic market. Supply does not seem to be the issue here since the fishing grounds are plentiful.
This is Gustave’s base camp on his first campaign against monsters in the nearby caves. Since he goes directly to the caves, one would have to make preparations in the preceding scenario, [Gustave and the Blacksmith].
Gustave never returns after conquering Wide, however.
The wine-making process has changed significantly after the introduction of Spells. Before then, people would stomp grapes underfoot to squeeze out the juices. With Spells, however, a large stone hammer is instead used to crush the grapes. Variations in Spell techniques completely change the flavor of the wine, which led to the introduction of many new brands. Whenever wine season rolls around, vintners eagerly seek out the best Spell Casters. Though not as popular as wine, apricots are a hidden gem known for their delicious flavor. Since they cannot be exported raw, they are either dried or made into jams.
Processed apricots are delicious, of course, but there are many who want to try them raw. There is a popular local saying: “Those who taste apricots will someday return to Jade”.
Jade corners an overwhelming share of the Sandail wine market. Perhaps this is because the grapes cannot be eaten raw and are thus all processed into wine.
