Government and Politics

Government Structure and Organisation

The Republic of Alexia, natively Kunitomo no Alexia [ku.ni.to.mo no a.le.k͡si.a], is a democracy led by a publicly elected President, and a publicly elected Republic Senate. Elections are held every five years, and all citizens over the age of eighteen are required to vote. Officially, there are no political parties.

The President of the Republic of Alexia is the official head of state and government. The position is open to any Alexian citizen aged between eighteen and sixty-five. They can serve for a maximum of three terms, each term being five years. The powers of the President are controlled by the Alexian Constitution; however, they have the ultimate say in all matters of state and government, and they will often hold the deciding vote in matters brought to the Senate.

The Republic Senate consists of thirty representatives, one from each system, as well as the heads of the twelve governmental ministries. Senators must be between the ages of eighteen and sixty-five, and must have served at least one term within the smaller system senates, planetary senate, as a governor, or as a mayor. A Senator can serve up-to three terms in the Republic Senate, and an unlimited number of terms within the smaller planetary senates.

The twelve ministers are nominated by the President and elected by the Republic Senate from within the twelve ministries, and normally held a higher managerial position within their ministry. Ministers can serve up-to four terms. The twelve Ministers and their required qualifications are:

• Minister of Science and Technology: Must have a degree in science and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Education: Must have a degree in education and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Environment and Water: Must have a degree in science, environmental management, or similar, and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Law and Justice: Must have a law degree and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Defence: Must be a civilian with a degree in logistics, strategy, or similar, have worked within the ministry for ten or more years, and have no more than three years of military training. 

• Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Mining, and Natural Resources: Must have a degree in agriculture, fisheries, natural resource management, or similar, and have worked within the industry and ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Health and Medicine: Must have a medical degree and have worked within the industry and the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Trade, Economy, and Industry: Must have a finance degree or similar, and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism: Must have a degree in foreign relations or tourism and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Infrastructure, Transport, and Communications: Must have a degree in communication, engineering, or similar, and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Internal Affairs and Social Services: Must have a degree in communications, law, social services, or similar, and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

• Minister of Recreation, Culture, and Sports: Must have a degree in cultural studies, sports management, or similar, and have worked in the industry and within the ministry for ten or more years.

Each system is governed by a System Senate, consisting of the Republic Senator as the head of state and government, a Planetary Senator from each planetary body, and a local representative from each of the twelve ministries. Each planetary body in turn is governed by a planetary senate with the Planetary Senator as the head of state and government, and a Governor from each province. Each Province is governed by their elected Governor, and the Council of Mayors. Each city and their surrounding towns and villages are governed by their elected Mayor. The positions of Mayor and Governor are open to any resident of the province or city, aged between eighteen and sixty-five. They can serve an unlimited number of terms, until they are voted out or reach sixty-five in office.

Although officially there are no political parties, there are series of alliances within the senate dependent on the region e.g., the Republic Senators from Parimosu, Nekohoshi, Tanso, Ginganeko, and Minayamahoshi tend to all vote the same way and support each other’s bills as they are all from the ‘Frontier’ region of the Republic of Alexia.

As of the 299 AGW elections, the current President is Buraian Sirā Ose [bu.ɹai̯.an si.ɹaː o.se]. He is the first human president in four decades. 

For the Full Senate as of 299 AGW, see here.

Laws and Justice

The Alexian Ministry of Law and Justice is responsible for the Republic of Alexia Judicial system. All lawyers working within Alexia must be registered with the Ministry of Law and Justice. The ministry is also for ensuring the Republic Senate are acting within the laws set out in the Alexian Constitution. They also represent the Republic of Alexia in all legal matters.

All Alexian citizens are entitled to a fair and free trial for any and all instances of supposed law-breaking. All individuals are treated as innocent until proven guilty. They have the right to choose their own legal representative, and will be tried in front of a jury of their peers. This jury will consist of twelve individuals older than eighteen from the province the trial is held in, all randomly selected.

The Alexian Judicial system and Constitution do not believe in incarceration of individuals found guilty of crimes. Rehabilitation or community service are the preferred forms of punishment. The Republic of Alexia reasons that most people turn to crime out of desperation from mental health or economic reasons, and simply need some assistance. For serious offenders, such as mass murderers, they do however hand these individuals over to the Galactic Department of Law and Justice (DLJ), as per Galactic Law. As per Galactic Law, pirate captains and heads of terrorist groups are also handed in to the Galactic DLJ. However, the Republic of Alexia is staunchly against the death penalty applied within the Galactic DLJ for some crimes. Rapists, paedophiles, and those found guilty of abuse are made to attend therapy sessions, have community service, and are housed in heavily controlled environments until the state believes they have ‘paid their dues’. These individuals are put on a watchlist, with their current address made public. They are also made to pay for any and all treatments their victims require.

The Republic of Alexia are one of the original signers of the Ikria Accords in 258 BGW, and outlawed slavery within the Republic of Alexia. The Republic of Alexia arrests any slave traders found within their territories, and dependent on extradition treaties, will either hold onto them indefinitely, or return them to their home nation. Any slaves found within their territory are freed and offered the opportunity to become a citizen of the Republic of Alexia, and asylum is offered to any slave that escapes and makes it to their territory. The enslavement of any Alexian citizen is met with harsh retaliation.

Alexian Laws are similar to the Galactic Laws, albeit the inclusions set forth by the Ikria Accords and the Buntai Union Membership. Within the Republic of Alexia, due to their almost sacred like status, the wilful harming of a cat is met with the same punishments as the harming of a citizen, and many who have been found guilty of harming cats are often ostracised by the community, and many eventually seek refuge elsewhere in the galaxy.

Alexian Law Enforcement is jointly governed by the Ministry of Law and Justice and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Social Services. Law Enforcement Officers are required to have a degree in law or social services, and have training in mental health management, crises management, and de-escalation. They, along with the general public, are not allowed to own or carry weapons. The exception to this includes low voltage tasers and stunners, and deterrent sprays, and all citizens are required to have training in the safe usage of these weapons, and in the case of stunners, must be registered with their local government.

Diplomacy and Trade

The Republic of Alexia is a member of the Buntai Union, and has close ties with the Triadic Republic of Baxan, the Empire of Jessa, the Republic of Ēvē, and the Republic of Owenós. The Republic is also a member nation of the Galactic Government, and many Alexian nationals work within the Department of Education, and the Department of Science and Technology. The Republic of Alexia has a negative relationship with the Triarchy of Jeonchae, due to the latter’s refusal to sign the Ikria Accords. Citizens from Jeonchae are unwelcome in Alexia, excluding those escaping slavery. The Republic of Alexia has separate Scientific Advancement Agreements and Commercial Trade Pacts with the Republic of Kaihoñ, the Empire of Aan, the Republic of Nipau, the Republic of Yukari, and the Republic of Soaria.

The Republic of Alexia is an active member of the Silk Trade Federation, and silk and silk products are a major export. Other major exports include education (chemistry, cooking, language, and mathematics), feline products, agricultural products (rice, avocadoes, soybeans), and personnel (chemists, chefs, educators, translators, and entertainment). Major imports of the Republic of Alexia include precious stones and metals, scientific instruments and equipment, and feline products.

War and Combat

The Ministry of Defence is the bureaucratic and executive branch of the Alexian Defence Force (Vañ Dzeifem no Alexia) [vaŋ ʣei̯.fem no a.le.k͡si.a].  The Alexian Defence Force is divided into four more branches, the Alexian Land Forces (Vauñ no Alexia) [vaʊ̯.ŋ no a.le.k͡si.a], Alexian Naval Forces (Ofe no Alexia) [o.fe no a.le.k͡si.a], Alexian Air Forces (Hadzeifem no Alexia) [ha.ʣei̯.fem no a.le.k͡si.a], and Alexian Space Forces (Hoshidzeifem no Alexia) [ho.ʃi.ʣei̯.fem no a.le.k͡si.a]. The main purposes for the Alexian Defence Force are to defend and patrol the borders of the Republic of Alexia, to capture and contain pirates, to aid local law enforcement in taking down hostile or large crime syndicates, to take down terrorist organisations working within the Republic of Alexia, to respond to and aid in natural disasters, and to assist allies of the Republic of Alexia. Enlistment within the defence force is voluntary, and applicants can select which branch they would like to join. Applicants must be over the age of eighteen and be physically and mentally fit enough for the roles applied for.

The Alexian Defence Force has two standard uniforms;

• Ceremonial Dress (Hayeikai Chone) [ha.jei̯.kai̯ ʧo.ne]: Similar to business attire; a black Huñgexon/ Dzosagexon (jackets) with black Nagabesem (trousers), and white Naga-daziroñ (long-sleeved shirt). The jacket will be adorned with medals on the right side of their chest and have their name, rank and insignia stitched in Jitoka-iro green just above. Worn with black geñ and black Nawungeño.  Green, yellow, white, or blue braided cords are worn over each shoulder, signifying the branch (Green for land, yellow for space, white for sky, and blue for navy).

• Field Dress (Combat Uniform) (Hayaisa Chone) [ha.jai̯.sa ʧo.ne]: This consists of light two-piece, form-fitting uniform, made from cotton or bamboo fabric with the official hunter green (Jitoka-iro) as a base and a disruptive pattern of varying shades of brown and green. Name, rank, and other insignia are stitched onto the left side of the chest in black for Land Forces, ocean blue (Shiomithu-iro) for Naval Forces, white for Air Forces, and yellow for Space Forces. The uniform is designed to enable full body motion without hinderance. Leather boots with thick rubber soles and Karatsira [ka.ɹa.ʦi.ɹa] toes (a carbon-tungsten alloy) are worn. Full body Karatsira combat armour is worn over-top of this jumpsuit, including of a full head helmet with built-in communications and heads-up display systems, and magnetic soles attached to the bottom of the boots. Karatsira is one of the hardest metals in the galaxy, and can deflect most projectile weapons and diffuse energy-based weapons. The armour is designed to also keep the wearer alive in the instance of an explosion or hull breach, and contains a small oxygen tank with a built in CO2 convertor. Armour is black or hunter green, and most soldiers will paint their own adornments onto it. Full armour is mostly worn by the Space Forces and Naval Forces as standard uniform, and only by Land and Air Forces when actively engaged. Helmets, torso, upper leg, and lower arm pieces are more commonly worn by Land Forces instead of the full armour.

Weaponry used by Alexian soldiers consists of Kotolo [ko.to.lo], a short sword made from Karatsira; Ubukañai [u.bu.kaŋ.ai̯], projectile-based weapons that use gunpowder to fire karatsira bullets; and Wimkañai [wim.kaŋ.ai̯], energy-based weapons that fire blasts of energy that stun opponents. Soldiers are trained to safely and effectively use all three weapons, as well as a variety of hand-to-hand combat styles. They are trained to disarm and stun opponents instead of the severely injure or kill, and all for the purpose of defence. 

Society and Culture

Core Values, Ethics, and Social Etiquette

Alexian culture highly values family, with many Alexian putting the welfare of the family before themselves. Alexian rely heavily on their families for support, with care for young children often taken by retired family members while the parents are at work. 

Alexian view the endeavour to further one’s own knowledge and skills to be second to the happiness of the family and friends. Third is the happiness of oneself, followed by the needs of stranger. Guests to your home take precedent, even above your own family.

Social taboos include:

• Wearing shoes inside homes. House slippers (ie-geño) [i.e.geŋ.o] or socks are often provided and encouraged to wear inside the home. Shoes are often left outside, or in a shelf in the entranceway.

• Public displays of affection. This is seen as quite tacky and rude to other members of the public, especially overly intimate displays, and public marriage proposals. Holding hands and being physically close are, however, seen as perfectly fine.

• Touching strangers. The physical touching of a stranger without being asked or prompted is seen as a major breach of privacy and extremely unhygienic. It is viewed alongside other unhygienic behaviours, such as loudly blowing one’s nose, not covering one’s mouth when coughing or sneezing, and not washing one’s hands after using the lavatory.

Having good personal hygiene is seen as one of the most important social etiquettes in Alexian society, and it is not seen as rude to politely comment on the cleanliness (or lack of) of someone’s hair, clothes, and face. Loudly commenting is seen as rude however, and if it will take longer than five minutes to fix, most will not comment on it at all.

Bowing upon meeting someone is the politest (and viewed as the correct) way to greet someone. The depth and length of a bow can indicate the level of respect the person bowing is giving to the recipient of the bow. A simple short head nod is used for someone one is intimately close with or someone viewed as one’s equal, and a long bow where the body and head are almost perpendicular to the floor is used for someone respected deeply like the President or an individual’s grandparents. Bowing is used in lieu of handshaking in other cultures.

Nature and the protection of the natural world is a major pillar of Alexian culture. The intentional destruction of habitats and the over-harvesting of organisms are extremely taboo, and corporations and individuals found guilty of these are not only met with heavy legal repercussions, but major social repercussions also.

Stereotype

The stereotypical Alexian is characterised as an extremely friendly individual, who has a love for science, cooking, languages, and felines. A stereotypical Alexian character in media will often speak multiple (or all) languages, be obsessed with cats, and is employed as either a chemist or a chef (sometimes both).

Social Hierarchy and Equality

Alexian society views men, women, and those that do not fit a gender binary, as equal members of society, and there are no specific gender roles. All individuals will receive the same income for the same role, with any differences being based on merit and seniority. There is little to no divide amongst wealth classes. All citizens over the age of eighteen will receive social welfare payments, which is scaled based on the weekly earnings of the individual. The base rate (299 AGW Alexian Budget) is 30 Galactic Credits per hour, which is above the living wage threshold (299 AGW Galactic Income Equality Report, Galactic Department of Trade and Commerce (DTC)). Students and trainees, new parents, single parents, and individuals with physical or mental handicaps that may impact their ability to work, all receive a higher base rate.

Living Arrangements and Family Structure

The traditional Wei and Okumi household will consist of three generations all living together. This will include a two or three adult grouping, their eldest son and his partner(s), and their children. Wei and Okumi families tend to be Patrilocal, with the grouping moving into the home of the eldest male in the relationship. Groupings where there is no eldest male, or the eldest male is not the eldest son, will move into a new home. Traditional Otojō and Matsu households are similar to Wei and Okumi households, being multi-generational, but will instead consist of a two or three adult grouping, their eldest daughter and her partner(s), and their children, and are Matrilocal. Hoka households are Neolocal, and consist of a two or three adult grouping and their offspring. All children will eventually move into new homes with their partner(s). Young Alexian, especially university students, will often move out of their family homes and into student housing for the duration of their studies.

Inter-racial households have historically been uncommon, but numbers have increased in the last three decades (298 AGW Galactic Census). The structure of these households varies wildly, but most are Neolocal.

The average number of offspring per household is three, with Wei, Okumi, and Otojō households having more and Matsu households commonly only having two. It is also common for groupings to choose not to have children, and this is viewed as just as socially acceptable.

Language

The main, and native, language of the Republic of Alexia is Alexugo [a.le.k͡su.go]. Alexugo consists of twenty-five consonants, five vowels, and three diphthongs. The sentence structure is Subject-Verb-Object; the sentence “The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog” would read that way. Most Alexian pride themselves on being multilingual, and Basic and Baxanspråk are the next two most commonly spoken languages. Other minor languages include Aantaalk, Nipau, Wïkersei, Amberlañ, Martingale Estilo, Oweglós, Kozokūn, and Ēvēgo.

Alexugo Sign (Alexugo Tethei) [a.le.k͡su.go te.θei̯] is the official sign language of the Republic of Alexia, and sixty-eight percent of the population use it. Mostly used by the deaf and hard of hearing community, it is also widely spoken in fishing communities, particularly while fishing as it is believed that any noise may spook the fish. Other sign languages also taught include Baxanspråk Sign and Basic Sign.

Naming

Common male names in Alexugo include Natsu [na.ʦu], Taila [tai̯.la], Matsuta [ma.ʦu.ta], Hamishu [ha.mi.ʃu], Hikaru [hi.ka.ɹu], and Achi [a.ʧi]. Traditional male names tend to have meanings or connotations like strong (dzeifeman [ʣei̯.fe.ma.n]; Dzeifa, Zei, Dzei, Dzeifem, Zeifem), brave (kenage [ke.na.ge]; Ken, Kena, Kenage), solid (zam [zam]; Zam, Zamu, Sam, Samu), and bright (sirān [si.ɹaː.n]; Sirā, Sirān). Common female names in Alexugo include Mori [mo.ɹi], Anita [a.ni.ta], Yumi [ju.mi], Elenoa [e.le.no.a], Kita [ki.ta], and Paige [pai̯.ge]. Traditional female names tend to have meanings or connotations like sweet (amai or shim [a.mai̯ or ʃi.m]; Amai, Amaia, Shima, Shimai), wise (fasaum [fa.saʊ̯m]; Fasau, Sauma), creative (barangyo [ba.ɹan.gjo]; Barana, Rangyo), calm (chate [ʧa.te]; Cha, Hate, Chate), and patient (bebem [be.bem]; Bebe, Bema, Bebema). Modern names tend to not have too much gendered thought behind them, and is often based entirely on how the name feels to the parents. Secondary names are also commonly used such e.g., Natsu Achi, Anita Lili. Modern Alexian names tend to be transliterated versions of foreign names.

Family names are passed down from parent to child, with Wei and Okumi names being from the eldest father, Matsu and Otojō names being from eldest mother, and Hoka names come from the eldest parent. Family names are generally an ancestral occupation, locale, or sometimes a word or object the ancestor really liked. Example family names include Vuka (Guarder/Defender) [vu.ka], Daunsuruka (Tailor) [daʊ̯n.su.ɹu.ka], Sobezi (from the town Sobe) [so.be.zi], Ryuokamijizi (from the city of Ryuokamiji) [ɹju.o.ka.mi.ʤi], and Oiki (forest) [o.i.ki]. Wei and Matsu family names tend to be professions or locales, Hoka family names tend to locales, Otojō family names tend to be objects or words, and Okumi family names tend to be a mix.

Alexian names are generally in the order of first name, second name, then family name e.g., Natsu Achi Vuka, Anita Lili Sobezi.

Alexian location naming is often fairly simple, outside of Alexia. City and town names on Alexia are often based on names used in ancient Alexugo and other extinct languages (like Otoja and Hokān), and thus their meanings have been lost. Outside of Alexia, city and town names will often include geographic features or be based on the name of an earlier settler to the area e.g., Bebezaun (Bebe’s Beach) [be.be.zaʊ̯n], Kumaoiki (Bear Forest) [ku.ma.o.i.ki], and Shizuun (Quiet River) [ʃi.zu.un].

Education

Education of young Alexian begins at five years of age at state-run primary schools. At twelve years, the child will go on to secondary school. Normally this is through the Galactic School system, however most major cities will have a state-run secondary school with a heavier emphasis and focus on language, chemistry, and culinary arts learning, and enrolment is highly competitive and selective. At eighteen, they graduate from secondary school. Primary and secondary education are compulsory for all Alexian children. Some families may send their younger children (ages two to four) to kindergartens (Nainajea) [nai̯.na.ʤe.a] to improve their education further and hopefully enable them to attend one of the prestigious state-run secondary schools and universities. Education is free for all Alexian citizens.

Tertiary school is normally taken through Galactic University, with major cities having state-run universities that are linked to the state-run secondary schools.

Due to the compulsory nature of primary and secondary education, the Republic of Alexia has an adult literacy rate of 99.98%.

Agriculture

Agriculture is a major portion of the Republic of Alexian economy. Major crops include apples, avocadoes, barley, carrots, cherries, coffee, cotton, flax/linen, garlic, grapes, mushrooms/fungi, olives, potatoes, rice, soybeans, and seaweed (299 AGW Alexian Ministry of Agriculture Annual Report). The Republic of Alexia is a major exporter of rice, soybeans, and avocadoes, with these three crops consisting of almost sixty-percent of crops. 

Major livestock species include bees, cattle, chickens, goats, pigs, silk-worms, and ducks (299 AGW Alexian Ministry of Agriculture Annual Report). Meat, eggs, milk, fur/wool, leather, silk, and honey are all harvested from the plethora of livestock species. Silk is another major agricultural export of the Republic of Alexia. Aquaculture and fishing are the second most profitable portion of Alexian agriculture, after crops. Major aquaculture species include salmon, tuna, sea urchins, squid, and anchovies. Almost seventy percent of seafood comes from aquaculture farms, both on-shore and off-shore, with the remainder being wild caught. Wild caught seafood is extremely monitored to ensure stocks of wild species do not become overfished.

Common household pets and companion animals include cats, dogs, otters, foxes, kitsuneko, and sugar gliders. Most domesticated animals have breeds used solely as companion animals, but other breeds are used for hunting, guarding, transportation, and as beasts of burden, however most of these uses have been replaced with modern technologies.

Farms in the Republic of Alexia are often jointly run between the local community and a private organisation. Forty percent of the produce is kept within the community, fifty percent is sold in Alexian markets and stores, and the remaining ten percent is exported. Rice, soybean, and avocado farms are often government run, with fifty percent of the produce being sold in Alexian markets and stores, and fifty percent is exported.

A full list of species with domestic breeds in the Republic of Alexia, see here: Alexian Domestic Species.

Art and Music

Alexian music is characterised by the plethora of wind instruments. The Fuehako [fu.e.ha.ko] is the official instrument of the Republic of Alexia, and is a vessel flute-like wind instrument made from clay, wood, plastic, glass, or rarely metal. Fuehako come in a variety of shapes and colours, but is generally a hollow vessel with four to twelve finger holes, and a protruding mouthpiece. Most Alexian Fuehako music consists of lullabies and folksongs, with the most well-known being Uta tan Epona (Song of Epona) [u.ta. tan e.po.na]. This lullaby is often featured in folk stories, and is used to calm angry and wild beasts. Learning to play the Fuehako is an integral part of Alexian primary education, as it aids the children in learning breathing techniques, patience, and precision (Sobe and Kotoka 274 AGW). Another common instrument that often accompanies Fuehako is Daikimu [dai̯.ki.mu], a drum of made from hollowed tree logs or bamboo, with leather stretched over the opening. Daikimu come in a variety of sizes and styles. The playing of Daikimu often incorporates elements of performance art, with the striking of the drum with thick drumsticks timed with poses. It also adds dramatic elements to folk stories. Fithinso-xasai [fi.θin.so k͡sa.sai̯] is also a common Alexian instrument, and is a small stringed instrument played by drawing a bow (hence the name; lit. “singing bow”) across its four or five strings. It is commonly made from wood or bamboo, and the strings are commonly made from steel. Fithinso-xasai, also called Fithinsai, are typically used to add elements of mischievousness and playfulness to folk stories and songs.

Alexian visual art includes various styles of paintings, sculptures, pottery, and gardens. Alexian painting is typically done on silk sheets, thin bamboo boards, or wood panels used for doors. Alexian sculpture and pottery is generally made from clay, wood, bamboo, stone, and occasionally steel or silver, and is often painted and lacquered. Common motifs in artworks include natural scenes, mostly forest or mountains, as well as of various animals, particularly cats, foxes, dogs, and otters. Alexian public gardens are often large art installations, with an immense amount of thought and planning put into the location of plants, rocks, and water features, and may often incorporate stone sculptures. Other visual art mediums include:

• Ko-oiki [ko o.i.ki], the art of growing and pruning a tree (or small grove of trees) to recreate a miniature landscape. Common as indoor living art pieces, often featuring a single tree with pebbles and moss to simulate boulders and grass. Common trees used include pine, birch, oak, avocado, and cherry blossom.

• Hauñem [haʊ̯ŋ.em], the art of folding paper into shapes and is common amongst school children. Common shapes include a variety of animals, such as cats, frogs, and cranes.

Alexian literature is mostly dominated by science fiction and poetry, as well as technical books on various science topics and cooking. Alexian science fiction is characterised by its hopeful and optimistic outlook of the future, and often features themes of nature and people rebounding from devastation. The most popular Alexian science fiction franchise is Romo Sagurukas [ɹo.mo sa.gu.ɹu.kas], a mixed-media franchise that originated as a series of novels aimed at young adults and teenagers about a fictional Stellarcraft crew exploring a fictional galaxy. Alexian poetry is often characterised by themes of nature and wonder in the natural world, and is often in the form of only three lines, or seventeen words, in the pattern of five words-seven words-five words.

Alexian television is dominated by cooking shows, and cooking competitions. Many Alexian will argue that the act of cooking is also an artform.

Cuisine

Alexian cuisine is dominated by rice, seafood, fruits, and pickled or boiled vegetables. The official cultural dish is Tsapusube Sake [ʦa.pu.su.be sa.ke]. This is a rice-based dish with lightly grilled salmon and a mix of boiled vegetables, served with soy sauce and mayonnaise. Every family has their own recipe, mostly regarding what vegetables are used and what extra flavourings are added. Carrots, potatoes, and eggplant are the most common vegetables, and chilli powder, garlic salt, and grated cheese are the most commonly added flavouring. Matsu families will substitute the salmon for eggplant or pumpkin. 

Alexian cuisine is divided up into four distinct sections; Breakfast (Kon) [kon], Lunch (Moxam) [mo.k͡sam], Dinner (Yen) [jen], and Dessert (Kashi) [ka.ʃi].

Common Kon foods include:

• Genmai [gen.mai̯] is an Alexian omelette, made from whisked fried egg wrapped around fried rice and vegetables. Bacon is often an added ingredient.

• Kaiso Ozem [kai̯.so o.zem] is an Alexian soup made from fermented soybean paste and seaweed. 

• Mai Ozem [mai̯ o.zem] is an Alexian rice-based porridge, often flavoured with honey, maple syrup, or fruit syrups.

• Anausu Sando [a.naʊ̯.su san.do] is an Alexian sandwich made with two slices of rice or wheat bread, lettuce, grated cheese, and crumbed and deep-fried meat (typically chicken or pork; Matsu families will use eggplant or mushrooms). Typically served cut in half.

• Tsapusube Ebo [ʦa.pu.su.be e.bo] is an Alexian flat grilled cake made from flour batter (typically wheat or rice), cabbage, and meat (seafood, ham, chicken), and various vegetables (corn and peas most common). Served with mayonnaise.

Common Moxam foods include:

• Tsapusube Tori [ʦa.pu.su.be to.ɹi] is an Alexian kebab, made from grilled bird (generally chicken, but duck and turkey are also common) that has been skewered and seasoned with a soy, honey, and chilli mix sauce, and is quite popular in summer.

• Xau-Fujia-Thirojitsu Sando (XFT Sando) [k͡saʊ̯ fu.ʤi.a θi.ɹo.ʤi.ʦu] is an Alexian sandwich consisting of bacon (pig or turkey), lettuce, and tomato. Often includes mayonnaise, or chilli sauce.

• Mai Boñ [mai̯ boŋ] is Alexian sushi, made from rice rolled into a cylinder, often wrapped in dried seaweed. Common fillings include salmon, prawns, crab, egg, avocado, and various pickled vegetables. The roll is often cut into portions, and served with soy sauce to dip.

• Kasagi [ka.sa.gi] is an Alexian pie made from a baked pastry casing containing minced meat and vegetables. Popular ingredients are beef, chicken, peas, lamb, onion, and turkey. Served hot and fresh from the oven, often with tomato sauce.

• Reijei Boñ [ɹei̯.ʤei̯ boŋ] is an Alexian pastry roll, made with a sheet of pastry wrapped around a sausage and then baked. Often made from beef, chicken, or lamb meat. In Matsu communities, a spinach and cheese version is more common. Served hot and fresh from the oven, often with tomato sauce.

Common Yen foods include:

• Tsapusube Sake is a Yen food, and often served on birthdays and other special occasions. 

• Menozem [men.o.zem] is Alexian ramen or noodle soup, made from wheat noodles and a meat-based stock. Ingredients often include roasted potatoes and carrots, roasted chicken or grilled salmon, dried seaweed, and soft-boiled eggs. Matsu communities make Menozem with a vegetable-based stock and features roasted pumpkin.

• Komomo Hosom [ko.mo.mo ho.som] is an Alexian stew made from apricot nectar and onion. Vegetable or chicken stock is added, along with chicken, peas, carrots, corn, pumpkin, eggplant, or pickled apricots. It is served on top of a bowl of rice.

• Dzaukem Niku [ʣaʊ̯.kem ni.ku] is Alexian fried meat (most commonly chicken, beef, pork, or octopus) that has been marinated in a soy-honey mix, rolled in flour (wheat, rice, or corn), and then deep-fried in oil and served with a chilli sauce.

• Posaubo [po.saʊ̯.bo] is an Alexian stir-fry, consisting of noodles, onion, garlic butter, soy sauce, various leafy green vegetables, carrots, and meat. Common meats include beef, chicken, duck, and octopus.

Common Kashi foods include:

• Soka-ebo [so.ka.e.bo] is an Alexian pancake-like cake shaped as a fish and filled with either a sweet bean paste, chocolate, custard, avocado paste, fruit jam, or sweet potato paste.

• Mai-ebo [mai̯.e.bo] is an Alexian gelatinous cake made from pounded rice and stuffed with sweet bean paste, chocolate, or jam.

• Anausu Xope [a.naʊ̯.su k͡so.pe] is an Alexian ice cream dipped in chocolate, then rolled in bread crumbs and served on a stick. Common flavours of ice cream include vanilla, mint, and coffee.

• Surunethu Ebo [su.ɹu.ne.θu e.bo] is an Alexian uncooked flat cake made from chocolate and crushed biscuits. Often coated in icing and sugar sprinkles, where the dessert gets its name; the sprinkles look like the spines of a hedgehog (surunethu).

• Amai Anau [a.mai̯ a.naʊ̯] is an Alexian sweet bread roll made from dough stuffed with sweet bean paste, or chocolate.

Alexian beverages include:

• Machi [ma.ʧi] is Alexain tea, made from dried and powdered tea leaves that give it a characteristic green colouration. Common additional ingredients include powdered lemon, powdered mango, powdered peaches, and powdered strawberries. Often served warm with no milk, and with Mai-ebo.

• Shon [ʃo.n] is Alexian coffee, made from dark roasted coffee beans and cow, goat, or oat-based milk. Also often served with Mai-ebo. Coffee is the most popular drink amongst adults, and the Alexian pride themselves on having good quality coffee.

• Budochiru [bu.do.ʧi.ɹu] is an Alexian alcoholic wine made from fermented grapes. Often includes other fruit additions, mostly cherries and peaches. It is a common beverage among adults at celebrations.

• Maichiru [mai̯.ʧi.ɹu] is an Alexian alcoholic wine made from fermented rice. It’s flavour and alcoholic content is quite strong, and it is often only used to pour shots at celebrations.

• Kobenen Jitsu [ko.be.nen ʤi.ʦu] is an Alexian carbonated soft drink made from carbonated fruit juice, typically apple, mango, or orange. It often comes in aluminium cans and is popular amongst children.

Most food is eaten with hands, spoons (saji) [sa.ʤi], or chopsticks (meshibo) [me.ʃi.bo], but some dishes require knives (yeibu) [jei̯.bu] and forks (befeim) [be.fei̯m]. Alexian cuisine is extremely popular in the Triadic Republic of Baxan, the Republic of Owenós, the Diarchy of Martingale, the Republic of Wïker, the Empire of Jessa, and the Empire of Amberin. Cutlery is often made from lacquered wood or steel, and crockery (bowls, plates, mugs) are often ceramic. 

Clothing and Beauty Standards

Alexian clothing is mostly made from silk, cotton, linen, wool, and bamboo fibre. Leather, rubber, and feathers are also used, mainly for shoes and accessories. Uruwata [u.ɹu.wa.ta] is a fabric unique to the Alexian culture, and is a fabric made from the combining of goat wool and cotton. Uruwata is often teased out to resemble fur, and is used as a lining for cold-weather clothing and for accessories. 

Different clothing styles exist based on region and ethnicity, but several aspects are universal. Most clothing is generally pullover with no zips or buttons, or pull-on and either ties or buttons on the left, so that the separation of cloth goes from right collarbone to the left hip. Alexian clothing is designed to be warm and comfortable, and most items will have designs specific for each ethnic group. For example, Otojō clothing will often include space for their tail to be free or strapped to their back, and may include spaces for heatpacks. Clothing is often divided into four categories; top (Chewum) [ʧe.wum], bottom (Jabam) [ʤa.bam], feet (Ashi) [a.ʃi], and accessories (Bauni) [baʊ̯.ni].

Common items of Chewum clothing include: 

• Daziroñ [da.zi.ɹoŋ] are Alexian loose cotton shirts with sleeves that either end at the elbow (She-daziroñ) [ʃe.da.zi.ɹoŋ] or wrist (Naga-daziroñ) [na.ga.da.zi.ɹoŋ] and they come in a variety of solid colours or patterns. They are often worn by themselves in warmer regions and months, or as an undershirt in colder regions and months.

• Uruhangai [u.ɹu.han.gai̯] are Alexian loose pullover knitted jumpers, and they come in a variety of solid colours or patterns. They are worn over top of Daziroñ in colder regions and months, and are made from goat or sheep wool.

• Watahangai [wa.ta.han.gai̯] are Alexian loose pullover jumpers, similar to Uruhangai and are made from cotton. Uruhangai and Watahangai are both called Hangai (jumper) [han.gai̯].

• Huñgexon [huŋ.ge.k͡son] are thin Alexian jackets made from silk or linen. They are worn over Daziroñ in warmer months and regions as part of a formal attire. Often left loose or tied with a sash, with the sash being tied at the back. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

• Dzosagexon [ʣo.sa.ge.k͡son] are thick Alexian jackets made from wool or cotton. They are worn over Daziroñ or Hangai in cooler months and regions. They are buttoned on the left and feature a collar and cuffs of Uruwata. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns, and are worn as both formal and casual attire.

• Aucheñ [a.u.ʧeŋ] are Alexian hooded cloaks made from cotton or wool with uruwata edging. Often in solid colours, and attached to the top button of Dzosagexon or some Hangai have buttons specifically to attach to these cloaks to. The hood is often quite large, and worn to help protect the head from cold weather.

• Keran [ke.ɹan] are Alexian undergarments made from cotton or linen and designed to be comfortable and support the breasts of Wei and Okumi women. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

Common items of Jabam clothing include:

• Femdaun [fem.daʊ̯n] are Alexian undergarments that resemble short trousers, and are made from cotton or bamboo fabric. They come in a variety of lengths, with shortest being barely past the hip, to longest reaching mid-thigh. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns, and some Wei and Okumi women will match their femdaun and keran.

• Shebesem [ʃe.be.sem] are short cotton or linen trousers that reach above the knee, often fitted with an elastic waistband or cotton drawstring. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

• Nagabesem [na.ga.be.sem] are cotton or linen trousers that reach just above the ankle, often fitted with an elastic waistband or cotton drawstring, or has loops designed for a belt. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns, and are often worn as part of business or formal attire, depending on colour and pattern.

• Dzosabesem [ʣo.sa.be.sem] are thick cotton or wool trousers, similar to Nagabesem, and often worn in cooler regions and months. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

Common items of Ashi clothing include:

• Geñ [geŋ] are Alexian socks made from cotton, bamboo fibre, or wool and cover the foot and ankle, with some longer varieties reaching mid-calf or knee height. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns, and are worn underneath shoes.

• Waraji [wa.ɹa.ʤi] are wooden Alexian open-toed split-toed shoes that are slightly raised off the ground and are accompanied with spilt-toed geñ. Made from lacquered wood, they are worn during the warmer months at formal occasions.

• Ie-geño [i.e.geŋ.o] are Alexian rubber-soled cotton slippers worn inside the home. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

• Nogeño [no.geŋ.o] are Alexian rubber soled cotton shoes with cotton laces worn during sport activities. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

• Bawugeño [ba.wu.geŋ.o] are Alexian rubber soled cotton canvas shoes with cotton laces that reach to just above the ankle, and often feature a rubber toe-cover. Often in solid colours or patterns.

• Deleñ [de.leŋ] are thick Alexian rubber-soled leather boots with cotton laces. Often reaching above the ankle, and occasionally having steel or karatsira toe-covers. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

• Shegeño [ʃe.geŋ.o] are thin Alexian rubber-soled slip-on cotton canvas shoes that reach below the ankle. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns, and are typically worn as part of casual or everyday attire.

• Nawungeño [na.wun.geŋ.o] are Alexian rubber-soled leather slip-on shoes, similar to shegeño. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns, and are typically worn as part of formal or business attire.

Common items of Bauni include.

• Beshun [be.ʃun] are cotton canvas bags worn over the shoulder, used to hold items too large to fit in the pockets of jabam items. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns, and occasionally will have adornments of feathers, small plastic or metallic figurines, and metallic pins. 

• Dzadum [ʣa.dum] are woollen scarves worn around the neck and face in cooler months and regions. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

• Urupein [u.ɹu.pei̯n] are woollen gloves worn in cooler months and regions. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns, and commonly match dzadum.

• Didañ [di.daŋ] is a wide brimmed bamboo hat worn in warm regions and seasons to protect the wearer from the sun. They are decorated with fabric and feathers.

• Riauki [ɹi.aʊ̯.ki] are face masks worn over the mouth and nose and held in with elastic loops, used to help prevent the inhaling of dust and reduce the spread of infectious diseases. A common accessory in larger cities, became more widespread in the 260 AGW Flu Epidemic. They come in a variety of solid colours or patterns.

• Zuye [zu.je] are Alexian belts made from leather, worn with Nagabesem as a part of formal or business attire. Many Alexian will often match them to the colour of Nawungeño.

Common colours are often shades of brown, green, blue, black, and greys. Common patterns are often stripes, spots, tessellation patterns using squares, triangles, and other shapes, and even motif patterns using cats, otters, flowers, chemical structures, and fish.

At weddings, the individuals getting married will wear longer (ankle or mid-calf length) Huñgexon or Dzosagexon (depending on weather and region) in Jitoka-iro green or Sengisama-iro blue, with brown or black Nagabesem, and a crown (bauñau) made from wood or silver and featuring motifs of flowers, feathers, and leaves. Wei and Okumi women may also wear their hair up in elaborate buns and headdresses held in with elaborately decorated hair sticks (kamibo) [ka.mi.bo], flowers, feathers, and silk ribbons Common kamibo designs feature cats, otters, fish, leaves, conical flasks, beakers, and chemical structure diagrams. Attendees will wear similar clothing (huñgexon or dzogexon) in other shades with no adornments.

Buisness attire and uniforms are often Huñgexon or Dzosagexon (depending on weather and region) and Nagabesem or Shebesem (depending on weather and region) in black with a white, grey, or light blue daziroñ, matching geñ, and brown or black nawungeño. It is often expected that politicians wear the official colours of their constituency, with the President often wearing a Jitoka-iro green huñgexon/dzogexon and black nagabesem/shebesem. 

Alexian beauty standards differ based on ethnic group.

Wei men tend to prefer to have a clean-shaven face and have shorter hair; no longer than past their earlobes. Wei women tend to prefer their hair tied up in a simple braid or bun, or shoulder length at the longest if loose. Some Wei like to wear make-up that makes their face whiter and lips redder. Personal hygiene is a must, and most Wei will bathe at least once a day. Clean teeth and hair are often a sign of good health and personal hygiene, and most Wei will brush twice daily. Finger nails are preferred trimmed, and some Wei may paint their nails. Deodorants and perfumes are also common, and popular scents include pine, lavender, cherry blossom, and lemon.

Both Matsu bucks and does like well-kept fur and polished horns and hooves. Clean teeth are also a sign of good health and personal hygiene, and most Matsu will brush twice daily. Some Matsu may paint their horns and hooves, and reds and blues are popular colours. Fur shampoos are often scented and common scents include cherry blossom, rose, lemon, and apple.

Hako prefer well-groomed feathers, and trimmed claws. Preening is often an intimate and social activity, and a large part of bonding is allowing another to preen you and then preening them. Some Hako like to polish and paint their claws. Hako like pungent scents, as it is a good indicator of feather oil health and an active lifestyle. Deodorants are common, and common scents include fish and seaweed.

Otojō like clean and shiny scales, with no loose and off-colour scales. Most Otojō will bathe twice a day, and may spend hours ensuring all shed skin is removed. Teeth are cleaned once a day, although having food stuck in your teeth is a sign you ate well. Otojō tend not to care for scents, but some may slather their skin in mashed avocado to obtain a slight odour of the fruit, and also for the added benefit of moisturising their scales.

Okumi beauty standards are similar to Wei, although both men and women will have long hair tied up, and very little make-up is worn. Common scents include pine, rose, apple, and cinnamon.

Architecture and Urban Planning

Alexian homes vary depending on region, but certain aspects are almost universal. Homes are made from wood, typically bamboo, pine, or oak. Large wooden pillars support the main feature of Alexian homes; the large and gently curving roof. Alexian homes are often two storeys, with the ground floor being utilised for communal rooms such as the kitchen, dining, washrooms, and entertainment rooms, and the second storey being used for bedrooms. Homes are generally cantered around a courtyard that often features a small garden or water feature. Almost all windows (made from glass) in the home face towards the courtyard. Interior walls are often thin and made from bamboo panels that are then coated in clay plaster, often with bamboo or paper pulp as insulation. Exterior walls are thicker, with the ground floor being made from clay bricks and second story being made from oak or pine panels with bamboo pulp as insulation. Floors are often made from clay or marble tiles for wet areas, oak and bamboo panels for communal areas, and wool or cotton carpets for bedrooms. The roof is tiled with clay tiles, and the curve extends out past the exterior walls. It is common for Alexian homes to be painted, and blacks, browns, greens, and blues are common colours for roof tiles and wall bricks. All Alexian homes will have an entrance-way room that is segregated from the rest of the house. This is where shoes are left and ie-geño are put on. Hoka homes and homes built over water or in areas prone to flooding, are often built on thick wooden stilts to avoid flooding, and the interior courtyard is less separated from the outside.

Alexian cities and towns are often planned and designed prior to construction, and are designed to be friendlier towards pedestrians instead of vehicles. This often impacts where certain buildings and types of infrastructure can be built. Older cities, such as Matsu-kyō, Otojō-kyō, and Wei-kyō, and villages are more organic in their layout. Most Alexian towns and cities are divided into several districts, and are centred around a large public garden. Some gardens will also incorporate a zoo or wildlife park (Dobutsu chañ) [do.bu.ʦu ʧaŋ]. Alexian zoos are focused on showcasing wildlife in natural habitats, to educate the public, and conservation. Around the central garden is often the administration and business district. This district houses the main administrative buildings such as city hall, library, and other government buildings. Around this district will be the residential and light-commercial districts. These districts will be where most of the populace live, and will also include small speciality stores and restaurants, as well as schools and universities. Around these districts will be heavier commercial and industrial districts, where larger shopping complexes can be located. Inter-city train stations and airports are also located in these districts. The outer districts will mostly be focused on agriculture, with a smaller residential presence, eventually giving way to larger agricultural regions and wilderness. Most districts will also incorporate gardens and other green spaces. Commercial, residential, business, and administrative districts will have slender streets with wide footpaths, often lined with trees. Common trees include cherry blossoms, Sengisama blossoms, pines, and maples. Streets are often wide enough for two tram tracks or two buses. Main roads are wider and are often can have two tram tracks and buses. Industrial districts often have wider roads to enable trucks to transport goods between facilities. City layouts often incorporate a grid pattern.

The Republic of Alexia is powered by several energy sources. The most common are off-shore wind and solar turbines (Ha-Si Zele) [ha.si ze.le]. These account for roughly forty percent of energy production, and the largest facility is found off the coast from the Republic’s capital, Alexia-kyō, and contains an area of roughly 570 hectares and has around seven million turbines. Most Alexian homes will also incorporate solar panels (Si-zele) [si ze.le] or solar-tiles (Siheim) [si.hei̯m]. These roof tiles are engineered to create artificial photosynthesis. Wind turbines (Ha-zele) [ha ze.le], wave convertors (Gaim-zele) [gai̯m ze.le], and waterfall wheels (Mithu-zele) [mi.θu ze.le] also contribute a large source of energy. Most vehicles are powered either by electricity (trains and trams) or by using biofuel (airplanes, trucks, buses). Biofuel (Baseñ Zebaun or Baseñ-zele) [ba.seŋ ze.baʊ̯n or ba.seŋ ze.le] is created from agricultural and food waste. Large orbital solar panels (Hoshi-zele) [ho.ʃi ze.le] contribute another forty percent of energy production.

Transportation

Public transportation in the Republic of Alexia is one of the largest, most efficient, and most expansive in the galaxy. Public transport is free, and consists mainly of electric maglev trains (Van or Hi-sayo) [van or hi.sa.jo], buses (Bawu-sayo) [ba.wu sa.jo], and trams (Ina-sayo or Kovan) [i.na sa.jo or ko.van]. Most Alexian do not own a personal vehicle, and due to the design of cities, personal vehicles are difficult to manoeuvre. However, many people may ride bicycles (Aitsa) [ai̯.ʦa]. Cities are connected to their towns and villages by train, and transport between cities is also mainly by train. Within cities and towns, buses and trams are utilised. In villages and rural areas, walking and bicycles are the most common form of transportation, followed by horse-back (Uma) [u.ma], horse-carts (Uma-sayo) [u.ma sa.jo], donkey-carts (Bashizuma-sayo) [ba.ʃi.zu.ma sa.jo], goat-sleds (Tsuhitsu-sayo) [ʦu.hi.ʦu sa.jo], and dog-sleds (Inu-sayo) [i.nu sa.jo], depending on region. Between landmasses and across water, boats (Udei or Mithu-sayo) [u.dei̯ or mi.θu sa.jo] are the main source of transportation. Airplanes (Ijo or Ha-sayo) [i.ʤo or ha sa.jo] are also utilised, but flights are irregular, and most cities' airports are quite small. Transport off-world is mainly through Stellargates (Hoshitobira) [ho.ʃi.to.bi.ɹa], but spacecraft (Hoshi-sayo or Nufi-sayo) [ho.ʃi sa,jo or nu.fi sa.jo] are also used. The transportation of goods is mainly via train, ship, and spacecraft, and within industrial districts, trucks (Piñ-sayo) [piŋ sa.jo] are used. 

Healthcare and Medicine

Healthcare in the Republic of Alexia is free for all citizens. Medications are free, but many may still require a prescription. Non-citizens, such as tourists, and immigrants and refugees awaiting citizen status also receive free healthcare but will have to pay for medications. As per the Buntai Union, the Republic has an agreement with other Union members, that non-citizens that are citizens of a different Union member will also receive their medications for free. Highly addictive drugs, such as opioids and amphetamines, are heavily controlled and require a prescription to obtain. Vaccinations are mandatory, and in some regions are enforced. Most schools will not allow unvaccinated children entrance onto school grounds, and many hospitals may refuse entry to unvaccinated individuals. Tourists are advised on the list of vaccinations required for entrance in the Republic, and non-compliance will be met with a visa rejection. 

The average life expectancy in the Republic of Alexia is amongst some of the highest in the galaxy, with most citizens reaching one hundred years old. Infant mortality is amongst the lowest in the galaxy, at less than one per million (Annual Galactic Health Report 299 AGW, Galactic Department of Health and Medicine (DHM)).

Sports

Sports are viewed as a healthy past time, and most are not played competitively.  Ice hockey, the official sport and most popular, is one that is played quite competitively. The national team, the Yamiro Neko (Black Cats) are one of the most successful ice hockey teams in Potunga, having placed first in the Alatheia Cup twice in the last decade and generally will finish in the top ten in the Alatheia and Galactic Cups. The second most popular sport in the Republic of Alexia is soccer, and the Yamiro Neko Soccer team has placed first in the Galactic Cup twice in the last decade. Every town and city will have at least one Ice hockey team and one soccer team, in Junior, Amateur, and Professional leagues. Other popular, but not as competitive, sports include baseball, figure skating, rugby, various martial arts, and tennis.

Cultural Holidays and Festivals

The Republic of Alexia celebrates a variety of holidays and festivals. Most holidays will involve a full or half day of festivities, and most workplaces will include it as a paid day off from work.

• New Year (Ne Dzain Cha) [ne ʣa.in ʧa]: A celebration signifying the ending of one year and the beginning of another. Celebrations generally start in the late afternoon of the 32nd of Dodektos and will continue until late afternoon of the 1st of Protos. Often includes a countdown until midnight, lots of alcohol consumption, and the wearing of brightly coloured and weirdly shaped hats.

• Mid-Year (Lujaha Dzain Cha) [lu.ʤa.ha ʣa.in ʧa]: A celebration signifying the reaching of midway through a year. Often celebrated between the 9th to 16th of Ektos. Less festive than New Year, this holiday often includes a memorial service for individuals who have passed since New Year.

• Lover’s Day (Cha no Ains) [ʧa no ai̯ns]: A celebration for the love one has for their significant other(s). Is the only day where overtly public displays of affection are socially and culturally acceptable. Many weddings are held on this date. Held on the 14th of Tetartos.

• Gift Giving (Yaun Ñeimso Cha) [jaʊ̯n ŋe.im.so ʧa]: A celebration of friends and family with the exchanging of gifts. Held on the 28th of Dodektos, most provinces will include a week-long public holiday ending on New Year.

• Coming of Age Day (Cha no Ne-Shoms) [ʧa no ne ʃoms]: A celebration held for all individuals who have reached eighteen years old in the last year. Held on the 14th of Deftos, and involves lots of partying and (responsible) alcohol consumption. It is extremely common for groups of young adults to go camping and parties held in forests.

• Children’s Day (Cha no Nais) [ʧa no nai̯s]: A celebration of the future of the Republic of Alexia; their children. Children are spoiled with many treats and presents, and many theme parks, aquariums, zoos, and other entertainment facilities have free access and many activities for everyone under the age of eighteen. Held on the 6th of Petos.

• Election day (Cha no Ñofinam) [ʧa no ŋo.fi.nam]: This day, held every five years of the 2nd of Deftos, is when the Alexian citizens vote for their new mayors, governors, senators, and president. All non-essential personnel get the day off to go and vote, and many voting places will serve hot food such as Tsapusube Tori.

• Cherry Blossom Festival (Sengisama Bubañ or Sakuri Olain Bubañ) [sen.gi.sa.ma bu.baŋ OR sa.ku.ɹi o.la.in bu.baŋ]: This week-long celebration is a locale-specific festival. Normally held during the week when the cherry trees that line most streets bloom, it is a celebration of Spring. There is normally a fair held in a public park, or in the designated festival park, with cherry flavoured and sourced food and cherry themed rides and gifts.

• Snowflake Festival (Yukidzoga Bubañ) [ju.ki.ʣo.ga bu.baŋ]: This week-long celebration is a locale-specific festival celebrating Winter. It is normally held the week after the first permanent snowfall. There is normally a fair held in a public park, or in the designated festival park, with snow and ice-themed rides, gifts, and desserts.

Religion and Beliefs

The native religion of the Republic of Alexia is a polytheistic folklore-based animistic religion, called the Alexian Religion, Alexianism, or Alexia-tsām [a.le.k͡si.a.ʦaːm]. It is highly varied and different region will have different emphasis on specific elements and deities. One unifying aspect of Alexia-tsām is the belief that nature is sacred. Other minor religions in the Republic of Alexia include the Baxan Religion, Owenósitic, Amberinath, and Wïkerxelts.

Common and major deities include:

• The Moon Maiden, Tsukiyami [ʦu.ki.ja.mi]. She is a moon goddess, and gifted the Alexian peoples with cats to defend them from evil spirits. She is often depicted as a very pale-skinned young Wei or Okumi woman with long white hair, surrounded by a variety of cats. Her sacred symbol is a cat paw inside of a white circle.

• The Sun Scholar, Amithan [a.mi.θan]. He is a sun god and god of wisdom and knowledge. He is said to have gifted the Alexian peoples with their innate curiosity and thirst for knowledge. He is often described as the partner or brother to Tsukiyami, and is depicted as a young Wei or Okumi man with light brown skin and golden hair, holding a book or lab equipment. His sacred symbol is a conical flask.

• The Kitsun Lady, Epona or Hojitoma [e.po.na OR ho.ʤi.to.ma]. She is the goddess of wild animals and nature. She is said to guard the wilderness and will seek vengeance on wasteful hunters and destroyers of nature. She is often depicted as a young Wei or Okumi woman with wild red hair, wearing a fox mask and surrounded by foxes. Foxes are said to be her eyes and ears in the world of mortals, and will report to her of any misdeeds. Her sacred symbol is a fox tail or fox mask.

• The Old Pine, Oban [o.ban]. He is a god of plants, and is said to be the grandfather of the Matsu. He often depicted as a blind elderly Matsu buck, and uses a wooden walking stick topped with a black pinecone. His sacred symbol is a pinecone.

• The Mountain Blossom, Sengisama [sen.gi.sa.ma]. She is a goddess of flowers and springtime. She is said to have gifted the Alexian peoples with cherry blossoms. She is often described as the daughter or granddaughter of Oban, and is often depicted as a young Matsu doe, and flowers sprout from her footsteps. Her sacred symbol is the cherry blossom, specifically the blue blossoms from the Matsu mountains.

• The Singing Lady, Benzola [ben.zo.la]. She is a goddess of art, literature, music, and language. She gifted the Alexian peoples with their love of languages, and taught them how to play Fuehako. She is often depicted as a Otojō hen holding a Fuehako. Her sacred symbol is an Otojō green-breasted robin.

• The Emerald Man, Daikokun [dai̯.ko.kun]. He is a god of wealth, luck, and precious stones. He is often described as Benzola’s brother, and is often viewed with apprehension as he is often described as greedy. He is depicted as a green Otojō buck holding a bag of precious stones. His sacred symbol is a green emerald.

• The Great Ocean, Maho [ma.ho]. They are a deity of the ocean and water. Maho is often described as genderless, just as the ocean has no gender. They taught the Alexian peoples how to fish and sail, and is often depicted as a Hoka adult with a four-pronged trident made of Karatsira. Their sacred symbol is an otter and a dolphin intertwined.

• The Thunderous Mother, Futeji [fu.te.ʤi]. She is a goddess of air, wind, storms, fire, and lightning. She is said to bring rain and storms to the land, and taught the early Alexian peoples how to control fire. She is often described as very loud, the partner to Maho, and mother of the Hoka. She is often depicted as an older Hoka hen with a fishing net full of storm clouds. Her sacred symbol is a circle made of lightning.

• The Cooking Father, Inara [i.na.ɹa]. He is a god of cooking, food, agriculture, and farming. He taught the Alexian peoples how to farm and cook, and is often described as the father to all Alexian. His form is often depicted as constantly shifting between the different Alexian, but he is always holding a never-ending basket of fruit, vegetables, and grains. His sacred symbol is an ear of corn.

Other deities include various river deities, deities for various waterfalls, and even a few volcano deities. Worship of the many deities is region specific, however most major towns and cities will have a temple and several priests/priestesses (Suhi) [su.hi] who lead religious ceremonies. People may go to the temple at any time to pray to any god, for example, one may go and pray to Daikokun for good luck upon getting a new job. Regaum Suhi [ɹe.ga.um su.hi] is the head priest/ess, whose sole purpose is to corroborate all the various stories about the gods, and to ensure the other Suhi are not taking advantage of the trust of their communities.

Followers of Alexia-tsām believe that upon death, your spirit leaves your body and is reincarnated into another lifeform, dependant on if you were good or bad in your previous life. Funerals are large semi-festive events, with lots of food and the sharing of stories relating to the deceased. At the end of the funeral, the deceased body is cremated, and the ashes returned to the head of the family. All the ashes of the family are held in a special underground room, and on special occasions, such as the deceased one’s birthday, candles are lit, and offerings of small cakes or fruit are left. It is believed that this helps the deceased to move on with their new life, and may even help them in said new life.

Some families may scatter the ashes, with the vessel that once held the ashes now being used to commune and honour the individuals. Matsu families will often use the ashes to plant a cherry blossom in a community plot.

Religious festivals are region specific and may be centred around the changing of the seasons, or the birthday of a specific god. For example, Matsukyō hold a festival every year on the fifth full moon celebrating the birthday of Oban. Local Suhi and other religious clergy will parade through town with large torches, and light a huge bonfire in the city centre. Actors and musicians will then perform various performances depicting various Oban-centric stories.

Magic

Alexian magic users are called Mahoshi [ma.ho.ʃi] in Alexugo. Only around ten percent of the population of the Republic of Alexia are Mahoshi, and all are required by law to be registered with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Social Services. Mahoshi are not treated any differently to other citizens, but they are required to attend specialised schools to train and learn how to use their gifts safely. In some regions, adult Mahoshi are also required to act as first responders in the case of natural disasters and may be called upon by the local law enforcement.

Alexian magic normally consist of abilities in the Nature, Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Mind, and Light domains, with some heart and soul abilities. Common abilities include:

• Light manipulation (Photokinesis; Siramaho) [si.ɹa.ma.ho]

• Mind reading (Telepathy; Rujimaho) [ɹu.ʤi.ma.ho]

• Plant manipulation (Chlorokinesis; Kimaho) [ki.ma.ho]

• Flower manipulation (Florakinesis; Hanamaho) [ha.na.ma.ho]

• Gem manipulation (Crystallokinesis; Bihebemaho) [bi.he.be.ma.ho]

• Earth manipulation (Geokinesis; Rikumaho) [ɹi.ku.ma.ho]

• Air manipulation (Aerokinesis; Hamaho) [ha.ma.ho]

• Weather manipulation (Atmokinesis; Mofaukomaho) [mo.faʊ̯.ko.ma.ho]

• Fire manipulation (Pyrokinesis; Himaho) [hi.ma.ho]

• Electricity manipulation (Electrokinesis; Inamaho) [i.na.ma.ho]

• Water manipulation (Hydrokinesis; Mithumaho) [mi.θu.ma.ho]

Other, less common, abilities include luck manipulation (Tychokinesis; Fosheñumaho) [fo.ʃeŋ.u.ma.ho], talking to animals (specifically cats or aquatic animals), flight, breathing underwater, immunity to cold, immunity to fire, the ability to learn any language after hearing a few words once, the ability to make any food after tasting it once, and sometimes the ability to generate/create animals from thin air and control animals (specifically cats and aquatic animals).