Factbook of Daircoill
Posted: Sun Jun 06, 2010 8:43 amWork In Progress
INTRODUCTION
Country: Daircoill
Official Name: An Dairi Inasmuth ( The Republic of Daircoill)
Government: Theocratic Monarchy
Leaders: Rí Darach & Cuileann Banríon
The High Council: Consisting of the Divine Two, Cabinet, Military Advisors and locally elected officials
Religion: Cult of Nádúr
Religious Leaders: The Divine Two: Rí Darach & Cuileann Banríon
Official Flag Of Daircoill
HISTORY
The First Era of Daircoill, between 3500-2000 years ago saw Daircoill broken into two halves, the North was known for its flat plains and beautiful lakes, and it's people were known as An Duine Cóir - The Fair People, named because of their pale complexion and blonde hair. The Duine Cóir adopted the Holly Tree as the symbol of the Nature Goddess, Nádúr. The south of Daircoill was, and remains today heavily wooded. Those who lived in the south became known as Mhuintir na Coillearnaí, The People Of The Woods (Also sometimes referred to as The People of Nádúr) . They adopted the Oak Tree as their Symbol of Nádúr. The two tribes remained relatively isolated until the end of the First Era, about 1800 years ago. They began trading with each other, and peace ushered in the Second Era.
The Second Era of Daircoill was a prosperous time and the two tribes began intermingling. The inter-tribal marriages sowed seeds of loyalty with each other, and as the Second Era drew on they began seeing themselves more as a unified nation, and less as two individual tribes. However, a famine soon befell the land and the two tribes believed Nádúr was angry at them. War broke out and in the space of a year the Mhuintir na Coillearnaí had taken control of the country. Rather than becoming despotic dictators the woodsmen offered the hand of friendship. The High Priests were appalled at what they had done to their country, and so the two tribes came together at the point where the Plains met the Woods and became one, unified tribe. This is the site of the capital city, Oakwood. The Second Era ended as the First, with peace and prosperity. The Third Era began just 500 years ago. Since then the north, with its flat plains has become somewhat industrialised, however the southern woodlands remain as remote and wild as ever. In recent years following a destabilisation of global politics the country has become more inward thinking, detracting from most foreign matters to focus on growth and prosperity.
GEOGRAPHY
Daircoill has an industrialised north, with large cities and heavily regulated business, however the south has remained untamed and relatively un-modernised. Daircoill is a landlocked country with no coastline, however the north has beautiful streams and lakes, some of which lead right down into the heart of the southern forests. The summers are beautiful, with warm sunny days and cool nights. Winter, however has always been harsh and unforgiving. The winter leads to an average of 15 deaths per year, as snowstorms and sudden temperature drops are common. Apart from a few small mountains to the north-west, Daircoill is a flat nation.
To the south lies the massive Soilse Bána Woods. The largest woodland in Daircoill, it stretches over the entire lower third of the country. It is the traditional home of the Mhuintir na Coillearnaí and its inhabitants still hold belief in many of the Old Ways.
Economy
All industry in Daircoill is run by the people, who elect their bosses. In time of war, the government may take control of the workplace, but leave day to day control in the hands of the people. The government uses the cities and resources of the North to bolster the national economy, and the farms on the plains to trade in wheat and other agricultural products. Much of Daircoills wood is brought in from other countries to preserve the nations woodlands and forests, which are of great significance to the populace. Automobiles and air travel have been banned to all but Government officials on diplomatic trips, visiting dignitaries and the military. The roads are not well suited for car travel, and the majority of the population own horses and elaborately decorated wagons. With the emergence of eco-friendly vehicles the government is currently reviewing the laws on car ownership.
The currency of Daircoill is the Drúcht, and is equivalent to about 0.89 NSD.
Politics & Religion
Politics
Daircoill is run by an elected government called the High Council. The High Council consists of 30 regional officials, the elected cabinet and the two religious figureheads. The national leader is then chosen by secret ballot, much like the way the Catholic church elects a new Pope. This means that the populous votes for a particular political ideal, rather than the individual charisma of a politician.
The two major parties are: Páirtithe Sóisialta, the left leaning Social Party and Aontas Cónaidhme- the Federal Union, a more right wing party. However both of these parties are more Centrist than extremist and both had equal part in the recent economic depression. More hardline parties have since emerged, including the militant party known as The Unity. Believing that Daircoill will prevail if a strong national identity is forged and adhered to they suggest closing the borders, expelling foreign non-citizens and a departure from the World Assembly.
Military
The Military of Daircoill is relatively small, comprising less than a percent of the population. The Saighdiúir - General Infantry is the largest wing of the armed forces with a little over 20000000 personnel. They are equipped with AR-18 Assault Rifles and carry the traditional warriors blade, the Scian. The Special Forces: The FTSO (Fiann Taibhse Special Operations) Use sub machine guns and are trained in the traditional warrior arts of agility, stealth and endurance. They carry the Scian, but some also carry into battle a Fada, a bow of exceptional quality. Its uses in modern warfare are limited, but the morale raised when an enemy officer is killed by an arrow makes up for its antiquity. There are also 1500 active agents of the Gníomhaireacht Scath Intelligence Agency. They are the most secretive defense department in Daircoill, with training in stealth, QCB, weaponry, undercover operations and espionage.
THE THREE BRANCHES OF DAIRI MILITARY
Saighdiúirí: The Saighdiúirí is the term given to the main body of the Dairi Military. Every member of the military is a Saighdiúir, but are then broken up into three sub branches, the Army (Laochra Spiorad), Navy (Spiorad Aigéan) and Air Force (Eitilte Spiorad).
Laochra Spiorad: The Army is the best funded of all three main branches of Dairi Military Command. It is also the largest, with around 9 million active 'Regulars' and a little under 3 million reservists. Their main weapon of choice is the dated, but effective AR-18 Assault Rifle. Each soldier is trained in all aspects of combat, with a special emphasis on hand to hand combat skills.
Traditional Uniform consists of Forest Camouflage and a black balaclava. Dairi military strategy puts heavy emphasis on psychological warfare, and the uniforms are designed to create unease or fear in the enemy.
Spiorad Aigéan: The Navy is a relatively low-key affair in a landlocked country like Daircoill. It's role mainly consist of providing security to our oversea trade routes and maintaining a presence with our overseas allies.
Eitilte Spiorad: The Dairi Air Force is mainly concerned with mass troop deployments in hostile environments. It's largest section consists of hundreds of CH-130 Cargo Planes, which when called upon can deploy several thousand troops a day, just about anywhere in the world, as well as supplies and equipment. There are also 100 MiG 29 Fighter jets ready for deployment on combat missions.
FTSO - Fiann Taibhse Special Operations:
The FTSO is the Elite Special Forces Unit of Daircoill. It draws members from all branches of the military, men or women, and provides them the best training and equipment Daircoill possesses. The FTSO are trained in Close Quarters Combat, Traditional Combat, Sharpshooting, Demolitions and various other skills such as first aid. Each Squad consists of 16 men, broke up into 4 Units of 4. Little is known about their past combat accolades as their exploits are still a closely guarded secret.
A Traditional Fada:
A Scian:
Religion
The official religion of Daircoill is The Cult of Nádúr, with roughly 93% of the population as adherents. Nádúr is a nature deity, normally depicted as a female. With the unification of the tribes two newborns were chosen to lead the religion. The male child was called Rí Darach - The Oak King and was chosen from the southern tribe of the Mhuintir na Coillearnaí, and the female child was called Cuileann Banríon, the Holly Queen and she was chosen from the Duine Cóir. The pair rule until one dies, then the High Priests scour the land for the reincarnation of the deity. The signs they look for are a closely guarded secret. When both have died, the religion enters An Feithimh - The Waiting. The High Priests lead in a council until the new pair is of age, and it is a time for superstition as spirits are said to walk the land in the absence of a ruler.
Christianity and Islam each claim 2% of the population as adherents, and Buddhism has 1.5%. Judaism, whilst growing at a steady pace only has 0.5%, as does atheism.
With the creation of the Socialist Republic there were questions as to how religion could fit in with the ideals of a Socialist community. After nearly six months of debate it was decided that a Socialist Theocracy would be allowed, providing the Religion followed the ideals of Socialism.
The Cult of Nádúr and Nádúrism
The Three Aspects Of Nádúr:
Nádúr is portrayed as a Mother Goddess, and therefore reflects the three archetypal aspects of any Goddess affiliated with nature. She is depicted, according to the seasons as either Maiden, Mother or Crone.
Maiden: During the beautiful months of Autumn and Summer Nádúr is depicted as being a fresh young maiden, full of youthful vigour and an abundance of energy. This is a time for starting new ventures and a time of forgiveness for the last years ill deeds, as just like Nádúr we have been reborn after the winter. At this time Diaglas, the Lord of the Woodland is still presiding over his kingdom. During this period Diaglas and Nádúr fall in love and procreate
Mother: As the year progresses, through Spring, the youthful maiden ages and matures into the All Mother. In this aspect she is the giver of all life and is looked to to help with fertility. It is during this time that the harvest festivals begin on the plains and is a time of prosperity. Nádúr gives birth during this period. A baby girl, and baby boy are born.
Crone: As the wheel of the year turns, all things age. Nádúr is no exception to this, and as the year comes to an end so does she. The two lovers venture to the underworld where they spend the next months, while their children remain on the surface. In this aspect Nádúr is the Crone. A wisened old woman, this time of year is considered unlucky, as the world is not being presided over by any deity. It is a time of the supernatural and is a time of death. The two deities never return to the surface. They are doomed to fail in their attempt to make it out of the underworld, instead being destroyed by the Guardian of the Underworld Anamolbh. Their children assume the roles of Deity, to relive the cycle for the following year.
As well as belief in the All Goddess Nádúr, many Dairii also believe in Nature Spirits that inhabit all things. Such Animism is more common in the South than the North, but in the last census 89% of the population confess to believing in Nature Spirits. These are many and varied, some of which are so powerful as to be Gods. The most powerful of these beings are:
Diaglas - Lord of the Woodland and consort of Nádúr .
Other less powerful spirits and deities include:
Ithuisce - Goddess of the Oceans and Rivers
Dóithein - Lord of Fire and Craft
Marbhean - Spirit of War, Death and the Underworld
Elatha - Goddess of Knowledge, Magic and Writing
The Seven Festivals of The Paioth ia Bliana
First Day of the New Year - Nuath: The young Nádúr and Diaglas assume their roles as Deities. All things renew, and past feuds are forgotten.
Beginning of Spring - Naofai Lávaigh: Nádúr gives birth to the young Deities, thus continuing the circle of life. Babies born on this day are considered blessed and are revered.
Planting of the Crop - Landál: The date on which the first seeds are planted for the coming years crops.
Midyear - Yealár: The halfway point between the Deity being born and the Deity dying. A time of thanksgiving.
The Harvest - Fómhaille: The time of harvest, sacrifices are made to Nádúr in thanks for the food She provides to sustain life.
Last Day of Autumn -Taivseá: A day of remembrance for those dead as it is the day that Nádúr and Diaglas pass through to the underworld.
Winter - Anmhmarv:The winters of Daircoill are deathly cold, and the long dark months see a festival that begins with the first snowfall and ends with the first new bloom in spring. It is also known as The Festival of Light as hundreds of candles are lit daily to help bring about warmer, happier months.
Demographics
Approximately 44% of the Population is from the northern tribe of the Duine Cóir, whilst 45% are descended from the tribe of the woods the Mhuintir na Coillearnaí. 1% of the population is made up of foreign asyulum seekers, and the remaining 10% is migrants who have become citizens of Daircoill.
97% of the population speaks Dairii, one of two of the official languages. The other language is English with all citizens being required to be fluent in one of the two languages. People from Daircoill are referred to as Dairii, i.e The Dairii Space Program.
Tha national sport is Lámhach Éin: a mix of archery and skeet shooting in which the participants use a traditional oak bow (Fada) to hit a clay pidgeon. It is not unusual for each family to own at least one bow.
Major Cities and Towns
Oakwood: The Capital city is located where the large forests meet the plains, and is built over the site where the two tribes came together. It has a population estimate of 75 Million.
Aos Si Touen: Aos Si Touen is the largest city in the south. It is built at the heart of the Soilse Bána Woods and is notable for the great Oak planted in the city cente. It is currently the oldest living Oak in Daircoill at a little over 1500 years old.
Baile Loch: Built on the shores of Lake Dhiaga in the north, it does a brisk trade in fish and has a booming tourism industry thanks to its serene locale. During the winter months the mouth of the Lake freeze up, and it is possible to walk several hundred meters out over the water without fear of it cracking. This has led to a adoption of Ice Hockey in this region, the only place in Daircoill to have any interest in the sport.
The Four Guardians
The Four Guardians are cities, each traditionally taking on the role of guarding a sacred relic of Daircoill. Some modern scholars believe that the Four Relics are a myth, but the recent finds at Regulus and Aldebaran are forcing them to rethink their positions.
Fomalhaut: A large town on the plains from which most of Daircoills wheat is exported. It is the site of the Dairii Military Academy, and according to some the site of the Claíomh Orga - The Golden Sword. The sword was, according to myth, given to the early tribes of Daircoill by Marbhean, the Spirit of War, Death and Malice and the ruler of the underworld. The sword is said to be cursed, and should it ever leave the soil of Daircoill the curse will strike down those who took it, before plunging Daircoill into destruction.
Antares : The only settlement in the mountains of the north west. It is said to be the final resting place of Pabh Dhonlidir - the Priest who brought the two warring tribes together as one nation. His tomb is, according to ancient sources, adorned with "the wealth of the country of Daircoill". Scholars have argued for years as to the nature of this 'wealth' with some believing it is actual treasure, whilst others believing it is knowledge and teachings.
Aldebaran: The location of the Teampoll na Nádúr - the Temple of Nádúr. The focal point for the Cult of Nádúr. Recent excavations here have uncovered the fabled Ciorcail Draíochta, the Circles of Magic. The Circles are places of utmost importance to the High Priests, as they were the seat of The Divine Two and were the focal point for Divination and other magical arts. After the Fire of 1054 destroyed the Temple of Nádúr, it destroyed with it any knowledge of the whereabouts of the Circles. Since their discovery, a full reconstruction has taken place, with the Divine Two taking their rightful seats. Some progressives are dismayed at the revival of the Old Teachings, astrology, magic, divination and communication with the spirit world, seeing it as a backwards step to a less advanced time. The majority of the population, however still holds belief in the old ways and are overjoyed at the revival.
Regulus: Located right on the southern border, the villiage of Regulus is the location of the Cloch Síoraíocht, the Eternity Stone. The most important relic in Daircoill, the Eternity Stone holds 'the Spirit of Daircoill' within it. As a symbol of national identity the Stone has brought the country together in times of national crisis and most Dairi believe while ever the Stone survives, so shall Daircoill.
INTRODUCTION
Country: Daircoill
Official Name: An Dairi Inasmuth ( The Republic of Daircoill)
Government: Theocratic Monarchy
Leaders: Rí Darach & Cuileann Banríon
The High Council: Consisting of the Divine Two, Cabinet, Military Advisors and locally elected officials
Religion: Cult of Nádúr
Religious Leaders: The Divine Two: Rí Darach & Cuileann Banríon
Official Flag Of Daircoill
HISTORY
The First Era of Daircoill, between 3500-2000 years ago saw Daircoill broken into two halves, the North was known for its flat plains and beautiful lakes, and it's people were known as An Duine Cóir - The Fair People, named because of their pale complexion and blonde hair. The Duine Cóir adopted the Holly Tree as the symbol of the Nature Goddess, Nádúr. The south of Daircoill was, and remains today heavily wooded. Those who lived in the south became known as Mhuintir na Coillearnaí, The People Of The Woods (Also sometimes referred to as The People of Nádúr) . They adopted the Oak Tree as their Symbol of Nádúr. The two tribes remained relatively isolated until the end of the First Era, about 1800 years ago. They began trading with each other, and peace ushered in the Second Era.
The Second Era of Daircoill was a prosperous time and the two tribes began intermingling. The inter-tribal marriages sowed seeds of loyalty with each other, and as the Second Era drew on they began seeing themselves more as a unified nation, and less as two individual tribes. However, a famine soon befell the land and the two tribes believed Nádúr was angry at them. War broke out and in the space of a year the Mhuintir na Coillearnaí had taken control of the country. Rather than becoming despotic dictators the woodsmen offered the hand of friendship. The High Priests were appalled at what they had done to their country, and so the two tribes came together at the point where the Plains met the Woods and became one, unified tribe. This is the site of the capital city, Oakwood. The Second Era ended as the First, with peace and prosperity. The Third Era began just 500 years ago. Since then the north, with its flat plains has become somewhat industrialised, however the southern woodlands remain as remote and wild as ever. In recent years following a destabilisation of global politics the country has become more inward thinking, detracting from most foreign matters to focus on growth and prosperity.
GEOGRAPHY
Daircoill has an industrialised north, with large cities and heavily regulated business, however the south has remained untamed and relatively un-modernised. Daircoill is a landlocked country with no coastline, however the north has beautiful streams and lakes, some of which lead right down into the heart of the southern forests. The summers are beautiful, with warm sunny days and cool nights. Winter, however has always been harsh and unforgiving. The winter leads to an average of 15 deaths per year, as snowstorms and sudden temperature drops are common. Apart from a few small mountains to the north-west, Daircoill is a flat nation.
To the south lies the massive Soilse Bána Woods. The largest woodland in Daircoill, it stretches over the entire lower third of the country. It is the traditional home of the Mhuintir na Coillearnaí and its inhabitants still hold belief in many of the Old Ways.
Economy
All industry in Daircoill is run by the people, who elect their bosses. In time of war, the government may take control of the workplace, but leave day to day control in the hands of the people. The government uses the cities and resources of the North to bolster the national economy, and the farms on the plains to trade in wheat and other agricultural products. Much of Daircoills wood is brought in from other countries to preserve the nations woodlands and forests, which are of great significance to the populace. Automobiles and air travel have been banned to all but Government officials on diplomatic trips, visiting dignitaries and the military. The roads are not well suited for car travel, and the majority of the population own horses and elaborately decorated wagons. With the emergence of eco-friendly vehicles the government is currently reviewing the laws on car ownership.
The currency of Daircoill is the Drúcht, and is equivalent to about 0.89 NSD.
Politics & Religion
Politics
Daircoill is run by an elected government called the High Council. The High Council consists of 30 regional officials, the elected cabinet and the two religious figureheads. The national leader is then chosen by secret ballot, much like the way the Catholic church elects a new Pope. This means that the populous votes for a particular political ideal, rather than the individual charisma of a politician.
The two major parties are: Páirtithe Sóisialta, the left leaning Social Party and Aontas Cónaidhme- the Federal Union, a more right wing party. However both of these parties are more Centrist than extremist and both had equal part in the recent economic depression. More hardline parties have since emerged, including the militant party known as The Unity. Believing that Daircoill will prevail if a strong national identity is forged and adhered to they suggest closing the borders, expelling foreign non-citizens and a departure from the World Assembly.
Military
The Military of Daircoill is relatively small, comprising less than a percent of the population. The Saighdiúir - General Infantry is the largest wing of the armed forces with a little over 20000000 personnel. They are equipped with AR-18 Assault Rifles and carry the traditional warriors blade, the Scian. The Special Forces: The FTSO (Fiann Taibhse Special Operations) Use sub machine guns and are trained in the traditional warrior arts of agility, stealth and endurance. They carry the Scian, but some also carry into battle a Fada, a bow of exceptional quality. Its uses in modern warfare are limited, but the morale raised when an enemy officer is killed by an arrow makes up for its antiquity. There are also 1500 active agents of the Gníomhaireacht Scath Intelligence Agency. They are the most secretive defense department in Daircoill, with training in stealth, QCB, weaponry, undercover operations and espionage.
THE THREE BRANCHES OF DAIRI MILITARY
Saighdiúirí: The Saighdiúirí is the term given to the main body of the Dairi Military. Every member of the military is a Saighdiúir, but are then broken up into three sub branches, the Army (Laochra Spiorad), Navy (Spiorad Aigéan) and Air Force (Eitilte Spiorad).
Laochra Spiorad: The Army is the best funded of all three main branches of Dairi Military Command. It is also the largest, with around 9 million active 'Regulars' and a little under 3 million reservists. Their main weapon of choice is the dated, but effective AR-18 Assault Rifle. Each soldier is trained in all aspects of combat, with a special emphasis on hand to hand combat skills.
Traditional Uniform consists of Forest Camouflage and a black balaclava. Dairi military strategy puts heavy emphasis on psychological warfare, and the uniforms are designed to create unease or fear in the enemy.
Spiorad Aigéan: The Navy is a relatively low-key affair in a landlocked country like Daircoill. It's role mainly consist of providing security to our oversea trade routes and maintaining a presence with our overseas allies.
Eitilte Spiorad: The Dairi Air Force is mainly concerned with mass troop deployments in hostile environments. It's largest section consists of hundreds of CH-130 Cargo Planes, which when called upon can deploy several thousand troops a day, just about anywhere in the world, as well as supplies and equipment. There are also 100 MiG 29 Fighter jets ready for deployment on combat missions.
FTSO - Fiann Taibhse Special Operations:
The FTSO is the Elite Special Forces Unit of Daircoill. It draws members from all branches of the military, men or women, and provides them the best training and equipment Daircoill possesses. The FTSO are trained in Close Quarters Combat, Traditional Combat, Sharpshooting, Demolitions and various other skills such as first aid. Each Squad consists of 16 men, broke up into 4 Units of 4. Little is known about their past combat accolades as their exploits are still a closely guarded secret.
A Traditional Fada:
A Scian:
Religion
The official religion of Daircoill is The Cult of Nádúr, with roughly 93% of the population as adherents. Nádúr is a nature deity, normally depicted as a female. With the unification of the tribes two newborns were chosen to lead the religion. The male child was called Rí Darach - The Oak King and was chosen from the southern tribe of the Mhuintir na Coillearnaí, and the female child was called Cuileann Banríon, the Holly Queen and she was chosen from the Duine Cóir. The pair rule until one dies, then the High Priests scour the land for the reincarnation of the deity. The signs they look for are a closely guarded secret. When both have died, the religion enters An Feithimh - The Waiting. The High Priests lead in a council until the new pair is of age, and it is a time for superstition as spirits are said to walk the land in the absence of a ruler.
Christianity and Islam each claim 2% of the population as adherents, and Buddhism has 1.5%. Judaism, whilst growing at a steady pace only has 0.5%, as does atheism.
With the creation of the Socialist Republic there were questions as to how religion could fit in with the ideals of a Socialist community. After nearly six months of debate it was decided that a Socialist Theocracy would be allowed, providing the Religion followed the ideals of Socialism.
The Cult of Nádúr and Nádúrism
The Three Aspects Of Nádúr:
Nádúr is portrayed as a Mother Goddess, and therefore reflects the three archetypal aspects of any Goddess affiliated with nature. She is depicted, according to the seasons as either Maiden, Mother or Crone.
Maiden: During the beautiful months of Autumn and Summer Nádúr is depicted as being a fresh young maiden, full of youthful vigour and an abundance of energy. This is a time for starting new ventures and a time of forgiveness for the last years ill deeds, as just like Nádúr we have been reborn after the winter. At this time Diaglas, the Lord of the Woodland is still presiding over his kingdom. During this period Diaglas and Nádúr fall in love and procreate
Mother: As the year progresses, through Spring, the youthful maiden ages and matures into the All Mother. In this aspect she is the giver of all life and is looked to to help with fertility. It is during this time that the harvest festivals begin on the plains and is a time of prosperity. Nádúr gives birth during this period. A baby girl, and baby boy are born.
Crone: As the wheel of the year turns, all things age. Nádúr is no exception to this, and as the year comes to an end so does she. The two lovers venture to the underworld where they spend the next months, while their children remain on the surface. In this aspect Nádúr is the Crone. A wisened old woman, this time of year is considered unlucky, as the world is not being presided over by any deity. It is a time of the supernatural and is a time of death. The two deities never return to the surface. They are doomed to fail in their attempt to make it out of the underworld, instead being destroyed by the Guardian of the Underworld Anamolbh. Their children assume the roles of Deity, to relive the cycle for the following year.
As well as belief in the All Goddess Nádúr, many Dairii also believe in Nature Spirits that inhabit all things. Such Animism is more common in the South than the North, but in the last census 89% of the population confess to believing in Nature Spirits. These are many and varied, some of which are so powerful as to be Gods. The most powerful of these beings are:
Diaglas - Lord of the Woodland and consort of Nádúr .
Other less powerful spirits and deities include:
Ithuisce - Goddess of the Oceans and Rivers
Dóithein - Lord of Fire and Craft
Marbhean - Spirit of War, Death and the Underworld
Elatha - Goddess of Knowledge, Magic and Writing
The Seven Festivals of The Paioth ia Bliana
First Day of the New Year - Nuath: The young Nádúr and Diaglas assume their roles as Deities. All things renew, and past feuds are forgotten.
Beginning of Spring - Naofai Lávaigh: Nádúr gives birth to the young Deities, thus continuing the circle of life. Babies born on this day are considered blessed and are revered.
Planting of the Crop - Landál: The date on which the first seeds are planted for the coming years crops.
Midyear - Yealár: The halfway point between the Deity being born and the Deity dying. A time of thanksgiving.
The Harvest - Fómhaille: The time of harvest, sacrifices are made to Nádúr in thanks for the food She provides to sustain life.
Last Day of Autumn -Taivseá: A day of remembrance for those dead as it is the day that Nádúr and Diaglas pass through to the underworld.
Winter - Anmhmarv:The winters of Daircoill are deathly cold, and the long dark months see a festival that begins with the first snowfall and ends with the first new bloom in spring. It is also known as The Festival of Light as hundreds of candles are lit daily to help bring about warmer, happier months.
Demographics
Approximately 44% of the Population is from the northern tribe of the Duine Cóir, whilst 45% are descended from the tribe of the woods the Mhuintir na Coillearnaí. 1% of the population is made up of foreign asyulum seekers, and the remaining 10% is migrants who have become citizens of Daircoill.
97% of the population speaks Dairii, one of two of the official languages. The other language is English with all citizens being required to be fluent in one of the two languages. People from Daircoill are referred to as Dairii, i.e The Dairii Space Program.
Tha national sport is Lámhach Éin: a mix of archery and skeet shooting in which the participants use a traditional oak bow (Fada) to hit a clay pidgeon. It is not unusual for each family to own at least one bow.
Major Cities and Towns
Oakwood: The Capital city is located where the large forests meet the plains, and is built over the site where the two tribes came together. It has a population estimate of 75 Million.
Aos Si Touen: Aos Si Touen is the largest city in the south. It is built at the heart of the Soilse Bána Woods and is notable for the great Oak planted in the city cente. It is currently the oldest living Oak in Daircoill at a little over 1500 years old.
Baile Loch: Built on the shores of Lake Dhiaga in the north, it does a brisk trade in fish and has a booming tourism industry thanks to its serene locale. During the winter months the mouth of the Lake freeze up, and it is possible to walk several hundred meters out over the water without fear of it cracking. This has led to a adoption of Ice Hockey in this region, the only place in Daircoill to have any interest in the sport.
The Four Guardians
The Four Guardians are cities, each traditionally taking on the role of guarding a sacred relic of Daircoill. Some modern scholars believe that the Four Relics are a myth, but the recent finds at Regulus and Aldebaran are forcing them to rethink their positions.
Fomalhaut: A large town on the plains from which most of Daircoills wheat is exported. It is the site of the Dairii Military Academy, and according to some the site of the Claíomh Orga - The Golden Sword. The sword was, according to myth, given to the early tribes of Daircoill by Marbhean, the Spirit of War, Death and Malice and the ruler of the underworld. The sword is said to be cursed, and should it ever leave the soil of Daircoill the curse will strike down those who took it, before plunging Daircoill into destruction.
Antares : The only settlement in the mountains of the north west. It is said to be the final resting place of Pabh Dhonlidir - the Priest who brought the two warring tribes together as one nation. His tomb is, according to ancient sources, adorned with "the wealth of the country of Daircoill". Scholars have argued for years as to the nature of this 'wealth' with some believing it is actual treasure, whilst others believing it is knowledge and teachings.
Aldebaran: The location of the Teampoll na Nádúr - the Temple of Nádúr. The focal point for the Cult of Nádúr. Recent excavations here have uncovered the fabled Ciorcail Draíochta, the Circles of Magic. The Circles are places of utmost importance to the High Priests, as they were the seat of The Divine Two and were the focal point for Divination and other magical arts. After the Fire of 1054 destroyed the Temple of Nádúr, it destroyed with it any knowledge of the whereabouts of the Circles. Since their discovery, a full reconstruction has taken place, with the Divine Two taking their rightful seats. Some progressives are dismayed at the revival of the Old Teachings, astrology, magic, divination and communication with the spirit world, seeing it as a backwards step to a less advanced time. The majority of the population, however still holds belief in the old ways and are overjoyed at the revival.
Regulus: Located right on the southern border, the villiage of Regulus is the location of the Cloch Síoraíocht, the Eternity Stone. The most important relic in Daircoill, the Eternity Stone holds 'the Spirit of Daircoill' within it. As a symbol of national identity the Stone has brought the country together in times of national crisis and most Dairi believe while ever the Stone survives, so shall Daircoill.