Olderand

Olderand is the smallest of the major islands in The World. Relatively secluded, it sits next to Anderand, and is administered by The Assembly Of The Olderand Accord. Olderand is known for its unique characteristic of being the origin of Natural Order, also known as Ordo. This specific characteristic means Olderand is largely uninhabitable, inhospitable and difficult to administer.

Olderand is widely considered to be the origin of Human life, after the event where humans first appeared through Natural Order. Because of this, Olderand is greatly reveared by all humans, even given its inhospitable nature. Olderand is considered a sacred place in many religions, particularly by Ordanism. Due to its nature as the only known source of Natural Order, it is also a place of interest for other practices, increasingly Necromancy.

Although small, the island has had a complex history given its unique characteristics. In the present day, Olderand is administered by joint cooperation between the various kingdoms of Anderand and The Church of Ordanism, in an agreement known as The Olderand Accord. The group expends a number of resources to maintain the holding over the island, although illegal trespassing and criminal enterprise is a frequent occurance. Much of the human life present on Olderand is in one way or another related to the administration and maintenance of the island, as it is impossible to stay there for long.

The effects of the Natural Order upon a person are complex, but they greatly contribute towards Olderand's in-hospitability. Due to the effects of Sleep Sickness on the mind, Olderand's paths, forests and hills become complex labyrinths, which are difficult to navigate even for an experienced traveller. As a result of this, Olderand has a reputation for being a place of mystery and intrigue.

Population

The population of Olderand is almost entirely composed of temporary expats from Anderand. Due to the effects of Natural Order, notably Sleep Sickness, it is almost impossible for humans to live in Olderand for extended periods. The only exception to this rule is those who are born in Olderand, as they are immune to the effects of the sickness. However, due to The Curse of Birth, it is extremely difficult to conceive a child in Olderand.

These factors combine to mean that very few are actually born in Olderand, with most of the population rotating in to work in administration or perform a religious Pilgrimage.

Pilgrims

Pilgrims in Olderand come to experience the effects of Natural Order. They perform activities such as treks through the land, religious prayer, construction of shrines and large scale worship. The Pilgrims welcome the effect of Sleep Sickness, for it is believed to broaden their mind towards the Natural Order.

Rangers

Rangers are workers who help maintain the island in its natural form. They help protect it from invaders and trespassers. Many rangers are organised by a religious institution for the betterment of Olderand, and see their deployment as a ranger as a privalege and a duty-bound obligation.

Workers

Many come to Olderand for a specific kind of work. The most common industries are hospitality, services and transportation. Due to the nature of Sleep Sickness, it is impractical to stay in Olderand for a long period of time. Instead, most workers cycle through the island, staying for a few years at a time before returning to Anderand.

Trespassers

Trespassers are illegal visitors in Olderand. By law, Olderand is protected and those who travel there must receive a permit. Due to its Natural Order, Olderand is full of opportunities both for legal and illegal activity. As a result, the Assembly Of The Olderand Accord monitors immigration in and out of Olderand very closely, although activities by smugglers are often able to avoid scrutiny.

Trespassers are a regular target for Rangers, as their main job is to prevent Olderand from being damaged by unlawful activity.