A large, crescent-shaped island southwest of Arcadia, ringed by warm seas and a constant mist at its edges. Its name means "Land of Light and Flowers," and warmth never truly fades there. Cherry trees root into the pale stone of the Blossom Cliffs and drop their petals into the sea; hand-carved High Terraces climb the highlands in mosaics of green and pink; the Wind Markets hum like a single instrument when the breeze moves through their bells and shells; and in the hidden Vale of Steps, the Nareenese say, the gods come to rest. Its people keep a sacred pact with the sirens of their coasts. Nareen is the setting of The Girl Beneath the Cherry Tree.
Landmarks
The Blossom Cliffs are pale stone rooted with cherry trees. In the Vale of Steps, creeks wind between stepping stones where offerings are left for resting gods. The High Terraces hold rice fields, fruit trees, and flower gardens. Bells and shells turn the seaside Wind Markets into music when the breeze passes through.
Life & belief
Nareenese traditions value patient work, remembrance, and renewal. Songs and lullabies are believed to anchor a loved one’s soul. The Four Who Rest are Sireh, the River Rest; Leonas, the Sun Weaver; Tao, the Stone Sleeper; and Mairu, the Breath of Rain. Prayers also honor Chiru, Oruen, Luralei, and Maiku.
The siren pact
People leave fish after storms in honor of Maiku’s sirens, who allow magical gifts to wash ashore. A siren found dead is buried beneath a tomb of seashells on the beach. Those whose hair turns white are regarded as blessed by Maiku and able to understand the sirens’ language.
The four festivals
Spring brings cherry-tree planting and wishes carved into bark. Summer fills terraces and doorways with chimes. Autumn brings a silent pilgrimage to the Vale of Steps. Winter celebrates exchanges of food and sacred materials with the sirens.
Language
Most people speak the common tongue, while Naru survives as the old language. Explore Naru’s dictionary, phrases, and grammar →
