Nagatsuru Bay

Nagatsuru Bay is a vast, serene body of water stretching through the Throne Region of Nagadao, its shimmering waves brushing the borders of three major protectorates: Clan Takahide, Clan Yaggard, and a smaller segment within Clan Nagikata. It is a geographical and cultural landmark, acting as the mouth for the largest river in the Nagan Empire, which carves its way inland through the heart of the Throne Region.

Geography:

The bay is flanked by steep, emerald-hued cliffs on its northern edge, where the lands of Clan Takahide reside. The western stretch, controlled by Clan Yaggard, is marked by fertile lowlands and sprawling rice terraces that benefit from the bay’s natural irrigation. To the southeast, the jagged coastline under Clan Nagikata's watch is known for its dense, mist-shrouded mangrove forests.

A series of small, mist-covered islets dot the bay's surface, serving as roosting grounds for the Sacred Cranes of Nagatsuru, whose migratory patterns have influenced local myths and seasonal celebrations.

Significance:

Nagatsuru Bay is the lifeblood of the Throne Region. The great river that spills from its mouth, known as the Kamii River, is the largest in the Nagan Empire, winding its way through fertile lands and acting as a primary artery for trade and transport. The river is also seen as a divine blessing, believed to be the lifeblood of Laaos, the Keeper of Order. Rituals are performed annually to ensure the river remains untainted, as it is said to be watched over by river spirits that can bring both fortune and disaster depending on the state of its waters.

Cultural Importance:

The bay is named after the migratory patterns of the Sacred Cranes of Nagatsuru, which are believed to be harbingers of prosperity and balance. Every spring, the skies above the bay are filled with thousands of these elegant birds, their wings shimmering like silver against the dawn light. This event, known as the Dance of the Cranes, is celebrated by the three protectorates with festivals, offerings, and ceremonial dances.

The three clans have established a fragile peace in maintaining the bay's sanctity. Pilgrimages are common during the Dance of the Cranes, with shrine barges drifting upon the bay's still waters, carrying offerings of rice, flowers, and sacred parchment inscribed with prayers.

Economy:

Fishing, pearl diving, and river trade are the primary industries surrounding Nagatsuru Bay. Unique to its waters are the Moonscale Koi, a species of fish prized for its shimmering scales that are often used in ceremonial garb. The northern cliffs are also home to wind-shell collectors who brave the heights to gather rare mollusks whose shells are believed to hold whispers of the past.

Dangers:

Nagatsuru Bay, while beautiful, is far from tame. The shores are frequently visited by Quetzals, massive pterosaurs with wingspans rivaling the largest fishing vessels. These predators land along the bay’s edges during low tide to feast upon the abundant fish that gather in the shallows. Locals know to stay far from the coast during these feeding frenzies, as the creatures are fiercely territorial and have been known to snatch up those who stray too close. Village elders often tell grim tales of entire fishing parties lost to the skies in mere moments.

Sailors navigating the bay's deeper waters speak of encounters with aquatic reptiles and sharks that roam the depths. These beasts are not only hunters but guardians of their territories. Fishermen tell stories of nets being torn apart and entire hauls of fish stolen by the slick, finned shadows that circle beneath their vessels. Some have even reported the creatures rubbing against their ships—sometimes in curiosity, other times in what is believed to be a display of dominance or defense of nearby nurseries.