alangoille

Alangoille is an archipelago off the eastern coast of Verdancia, comprised of five inhabited islands and several smaller islets. The total land area is about 140 square kilometers. The climate is tropical, with a pronounced wet season from May to October and a cooler dry season. The surrounding waters host coral reefs and extensive mangrove systems along the shorelines.

Etymology and history: The name derives from the Alango language family, spoken by the archipelago’s indigenous communities. In Verdancian usage the term is interpreted as "islands of fishers." Archaeological evidence suggests continuous human settlement since about 900 CE, with extensive trade contacts beginning in the medieval period. In the 19th century Alangoille became a semi-autonomous province within Verdancia and gained full autonomy during the mid-20th century.

Demographics and society: As of the latest census, about 12,000 residents live on Meru, Kalin, Jaro, Naga, and Tala Islands, with Korin and Luma as smaller settlements. The economy centers on artisanal fishing, aquaculture, and eco-tourism, supplemented by boat-building and small-scale agriculture. The main language is Alangoillean, a branch of the broader Verdancian language family; Verdancian serves as the lingua franca in education and commerce.

Culture and governance: The archipelago operates as an autonomous region with a regional assembly and a governor. Local customs emphasize clan-based maritime heritage, oral storytelling, and a July festival celebrating the sea. Conservation efforts focus on protecting coral reefs, mangroves, and endangered species such as sea turtles.

Protected areas and environment: Alangoille National Park, established in 1985, encompasses reef habitats and mangroves across several islands. Tourism is regulated to minimize ecological impact, with restrictions on coastal development and fishing quotas. The archipelago faces ongoing environmental pressures from climate change, coastal erosion, and overfishing.