Lanolin

Lanolin is an isolated mountaintop village nestled in the remote and rugged terrain of the far south of the Shire. This enigmatic village is one of the most secluded settlements, with no major nearby communities. Situated far from the nearest nation, the Lands of Gaya, which lies across the ocean to the north, Lanolin's unique geographical location and innovative solutions to its challenging landscape have shaped its character and history.

Geography and Location

Lanolin's location is truly one of its defining features. The village is perched on a mountaintop, making it challenging to access due to its steep and cliffside terrain. Navigating the treacherous landscape of Lanolin is made possible by the villagers' ingenious system of ropes and ladders, which have become an integral part of their daily lives.

The Mysterious Name: Origin Speculations

The name "Lanolin" has long been shrouded in mystery, and its true origin remains elusive. Various speculations have emerged regarding the name's source, though they are largely based on local folklore and oral traditions:

The Lost Family Name: One prevailing theory suggests that "Lanolin" is a corrupted or evolved form of the original family name of the village's founders. The true name is believed to have been lost to history, leaving "Lanolin" as a lasting but cryptic legacy.

Ancient Language Influence: There is also speculation that the name "Lanolin" might be linked to an ancient or forgotten language, possibly influenced by the culture of the village's original settlers. This theory posits that the name was adapted or mispronounced over time.

Historical Origins

While the precise founding date of Lanolin remains unrecorded, it is generally estimated to have been established around 1650. The village's early history was not documented, contributing to the uncertainty surrounding its origins. However, the unique character of Lanolin, with its cliffside dwellings and innovative means of navigation, serves as a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of its early inhabitants.

New Orange Protection

In 2022, Lanolin, like Beef Stew and Hibiscus, made the critical decision to seek the protection of the nation-state of New Orange Oranjestad. This choice was prompted by the growing threat of expansionist nations, including the fascist state of Zhensk, which posed a risk to the village's tranquility and independence. By becoming a dependency of New Orange, Lanolin could ensure its continued existence and cultural preservation.

The Way of Life

Lanolin's inhabitants have adapted to their demanding environment by specializing in raising alpacas for their wool, which is utilized to create a variety of wool products. The rugged and self-sustaining nature of the village's lifestyle has fostered a tight-knit community that values self-sufficiency and cooperation.