Nadoki

There is something to be said of those foolish enough to latch onto life after exile, despite the shame and hatred that hangs overhead. Few would willingly subject themselves to this humiliation. Yet, in this, the Nadoki thrive. They find the merit within dishonor, beauty within the mundane, and righteousness where others see barbarism. Since their founding, they have been different. Warriors among farmers, yet unable to meet the martial expectations of their peers. Scholars, in name alone, as they follow the ancient tomes that have been discredited and renounced. Where others have found their identities within the sacred callings, working to gather influence and draw their people towards the tools needed to 'withstand the coming age,' the Nadoki pushed to uphold traditions. Yet, where they lacked in skill, their passion made up for it. Their warriors never lacked discipline, nor would they flee the fields of battle as others would. They wouldn't last. Otan was growing more wicked with each passing day, delving into those things which must not be seen.

It seemed that, no matter where the Otan stepped, divisions and conflicts sprang in their footsteps. Other magistrates balked at their backwater tendencies, yet they mocked the social changes the magistrates among the Nadoki attempted to initiate among their people. Thinly veiled insults irritated the people, for it became increasingly common, although these were tolerated, to serve their interests better. When the Blood-Assassins were introduced and became commonplace among their masters, the Nadoki had been pushed too far. Turning their backs on what was, and seeking out further possibilities, the Nadoki began their search for kindred spirits across the waters. Secrecy, magic, and those things that they despised had taken root within the very heart of Otan, and it could not be removed without endangering the head.

Ironically, the backwater traditionalists had become the most innovative among them, seemingly overnight. Grand ships, thrice the size of the largest war vessels, were crafted and furnished to hold large families. Within these massive ships, they set sail, following the dark western clouds in search of brighter skies. Honor above all had made them distinguished among the many small clans. Pride blinded them, yet their ideals demanded similar action. Upon these grand ships, they abandoned their old names.