Zao

Description
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The Zao people have evolved using a different technology than the rest of the world. Instead of using electronics and wires, they decided to live without machines, and instead live as farmer-like people. Most of their technology is magnetic based, and their sciences are extremely developed from the study of magnetism.

In this way, they protect themselves from the outside world by use of magnetic shields. Since the rest of the world is heavily dependent on metal machinery and electronics, most do not dare to even approach the Zao territories.

The lifestyle and philosophies of this culture are very much based off the basic principles of Eastern Philosophy. They live very simply and without much desire. It is a peaceful culture, and they do not bother anyone else.

Farming culture is largely made up of terrace farming and an extremely complex system of irrigation. Cattle is also popular, and consists of large cow-like animals that also provide fur for cloth. Fishing is also popular, and interestingly much of the fishing technology comes from Westwood.

Transportation around Zao is done either with dirt pathways and by foot or cart, or by complex Mag-Shuttles that glide across tracks spread out between the villages. Boats are used as well.

An odd assortment of animals have adapted to live here. They are treated with much respect by the Zao people, and it is considered extremely rude to treat an animal at any level other than an equal. Even when killing cattle for meat, a small ritual is taken for each animal.

Although a small sect of the Zao people do interact with the rest of the world by selling magnetic weaponry (Mag-Weapons), usually to the Pirates of Westwood, and occasionally people from Thau. These few, who have a slightly changed philosophy than that of Mainland Zao, live on the Andorra island in the Eastern area.
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Terms:

- Mag-Shuttles
Shuttles around the Mainland Zao that utilize magnetic power. The run on tracks established around the country.

- Mag-Weaponry
Powerful weapons developed on the Andorra island which is highly effective against electronics and most machinery.