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Chapter 19 - Amaterasu: Information Sheet

Information sheet of all the information you need to know and notable characters, events and locations not including yet to be mentioned ones.

Overview: Amaterasu is a land of stark contrasts, where ancient traditions intersect with modern innovation. This vast and diverse country is known for its rich history, a ruling class of powerful families, and a royal lineage that traces back to the sun goddess Amaterasu herself. The country's political intrigue is matched only by its natural beauty, which ranges from towering mountains to tranquil lakes, all surrounded by dense forests.

Capital Shengzhou

Shengzhou is the heart of Amaterasu, a sprawling metropolis where the old and new blend seamlessly. Towering spires of glass and steel rise alongside ancient, elegant temples, and the streets are alive with the hustle of both merchant stalls and mechanical innovation. It's a place of contrasts, with the scent of incense mixing with the hum of machinery. The capital is also known for its vast markets, where one can find rare artifacts, mechanical inventions, and everything in between.

Geography

Terrain: Amaterasu's land varies dramatically, from snow-capped northern mountains to the lush, verdant central and southern regions. Expansive forests and shimmering lakes dot the countryside, while the weather shifts dramatically, making the landscape both unpredictable and awe-inspiring.

Notable Locations

The Celestial Peaks: A formidable mountain range to the north, home to ancient and powerful creatures. Few dare to venture too high into these dangerous territories, as the peaks are shrouded in mystery and myth.

Society

Noble Families: Amaterasu's society is governed by powerful families who hold political influence, though only the royal family possesses true magical abilities. These families often manipulate the royal family and each other in a web of power plays and secret alliances.

Royalty: The Empress, a direct descendant of the sun goddess Amaterasu. Despite her title, her true influence is limited by the nobles who control much of the kingdom's affairs.

Common Folk: The majority of Amaterasu's population is made up of farmers, artisans, and merchants. While their lives are less glamorous than those of the nobility, they still feel the weight of the political unrest that stirs beneath the surface.

Culture

Magic and Technology: The common folk rely on technology, particularly steam powered inventions, for their day-to-day needs. Airships, mechanical devices, and other innovations.

Traditions and Festivals: The Festival of the Rising Sun is the most celebrated occasion in Amaterasu, marking the anniversary of the royal family's reign with grand festivities, including parades, feasts, and cultural performances.

Art and Music: Traditional art often depicts celestial themes and the kingdom's landscapes, while music is a blend of classical instruments and mechanical rhythms, creating a unique cultural soundscape.

Government

Type: Constitutional Monarchy, though the royal family's influence is limited by the political maneuvering of the noble families.

Ruler: The Empress of Amaterasu, whose lineage is tied to the sun goddess. Despite her divine ancestry, her powers are constrained by the nobles who control much of the kingdom's daily operations.

Key Factions

The Zhou Family: A prestigious and powerful family known for their political maneuvering and significant influence over the royal court. Their wealth and political cunning make them a force to be reckoned with.

Economy

Key Industries: Agriculture, particularly rice and tea production; mechanical inventions; trade in rare minerals and metals.

Trade: Amaterasu is a key player in the continent's trade routes, exchanging goods ranging from mechanical creations to rare minerals. Its bustling ports and thriving markets are an important source of wealth and influence.

Currency: The Amaterasu Silver Coin, a coin infused with magical properties tied to the royal bloodline, is the country's standard currency.

Military

Army: Amaterasu's military is a blend of traditional forces and steampunk technology. The army is well-equipped with mechanical weapons and airships, and it is known for its impressive strategic use of both technology and human forces.

Naval Forces: The kingdom's naval fleet is formidable, equipped with a mix of technological advancements and powerful mechanical vessels to patrol the coastlines.

Aerial Forces: The Griffin Knights are among the most prestigious military units in Amaterasu. These elite soldiers ride griffins, powerful lion-eagle hybrids, in combat. Their bond with these majestic creatures allows them to excel in aerial warfare. Though not magical themselves, the knights undergo rigorous training and utilize advanced mechanical gadgets to aid them in their missions.

Notable Figures

Chang'e Zhou – The Duchess of the Zhou Family, known for her political acumen and ruthless maneuvering within the court of Amaterasu. Although she lacks physical prowess, she has the power of hydrokinesis. Her influence is vast as she is the acting head of the Zhou family.