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The
Jadecats series takes place in the lost land of Jalí. Legends
say that it was rooted in ancient China, specifically Penglai Island,
while others say Indonesia, or even Malaysia. The truth is, experts
have never found evidence that such a land ever existed, but stories
and tales of adventure have been passed down through the ages
with passion, awe, and curiosity.
The
ambiance of the land is somewhat medieval, although more reminiscent
of the settings in golden-age Kung Fu movies. While the culture
is highly reflective of ancient China, the setting won't depict
an entirely Chinese predominance.
There will be European influences, as well as influences from
all the major Asian countries. Ancient "Eurasia" best describes
the setting of Jalí, with the added existence of arcane
magic, mystical artifacts, fantastical creatures, mysterious legends, awesome battles
and high adventure.
Vinchi
The
trading community most frequently seen in the stories of the
Jadecats is the village of Vinchi. It's located near
their secret training fort, The Guan, and the home of their favorite human,
Tai Ni. Vinchi is a small town with a
population of less than a thousand. But it houses a port o' call and
town bazaar, as well as a variety of people and cultural influences.
Politics
The
land of Jalí consists of many cities, towns and villages.
Most agricultural and fishing communities answer to a Baron. The
cities also have magistrates. Governing over all the cities and
towns in the region is Emperor Chen. He is a young
ruler, materialistic and aristocratic. His concerns
are not the concerns of the people, but more of maintaining his position
as ruler of the realm. There has only been one ruler among rulers
in the land and that was the wise and benevolent Jade Emperor.
The
leader of Vinchi is Baron Tai Lee, or simply Baron
Lee. He is a kind and stately man, concerned equally with matters
of the people and politics. He's also Tai
Ni's father. His wife, Tai Ni's mother, died in childbirth. So he does his best to raise Tai Ni as a single father. He has
a fascination with historic collectibles and runs
a local museum of artifacts and antiquities. It's a small museum but known throughout the region. Tai Ni helps her father run the museum, working part-time after school and on weekends.
Ghosts
Ghost
legends are abundant in Chinese folklore. Some ghosts are bad,
especially when in the form of demons that can possess creatures. Such is the case with the "Great Moguai" and the Ratlord. However,
not all ghosts are bad. Many legends speak of ghosts that aid
in the quests of heroes. Ghosts are usually remnants of powerful
entities that have an unresolved mission to complete. In the case of the Bearded Ghost, he was once
the great Damo. Since his passing, he's remained in spirit form
to help Kung Fu heroes defeat the minions of evil.
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