Egelion

[Louis]

In times of cold weather, there is often debate about what one should do to preserve warmth. some indulge in the delicacy of a hot chocolate beverage. Others turn to caffeinated beverages like espressos or cappuccinos--a simple cup of coffee. However, in the Duchy of Yadraz, a new craze for tea has overtaken the market. People demand access to high quality black, green, white, and herbal teas. This recent trend in tea culture has led to a greater conversation of the Egelian way of life. Many in Egelion have the unescapable urge for sophistication. One might even say look for a "pompous" way to live. This could in fact be a product of the sociopolitical structure of Egelion itself, but not many are convinced that the hype for tea is wrapped in politics. Many believe that the the drive to engage in tea culture is simply culture.

The City of Yadraz, full of traditional tea drinkers, is one of the most culturally diverse areas in the country. Access to exotic ingredients and food from Dovani is easily available for most, making tea from nations like Vascania and Seko ready to drink. This easy access to high quality tea has made the craze go beyond a region-level trend. Small business and mom-and-pop shops have opened up throughout the city, promoting the intoxicating and addicting culture surrounding tea. 

The intricate process, the warmth and the aromas are what make tea so appealing. While you can say the same for coffee products, tea gives us the perfect amount of caffeine to keep us aware, but not turn us into machines. Tea gives us a moment zen, an escape to peace. While the traditional camelia sinensis leaf gives us a quick boost, one cannot forget the divine calm and benefits enjoyed by herbal teas. Think of spearmint, chamomile, and ginger tea. Each has their own benefits. It helps the body, the mind, and ofc course the soul.

Shopkeepers in Yadraz, and wider Egelion, are intelligent to keep these types of tea in stock. At a reasonable price, a 6oz container of tea can cost a person an average of 16 Egelian Crowns. Making it a completely affordable and beneficial beverage. Affordability is not the attraction that tea currently possesses. Many look to tea for its sophistication, the poise, and the peace that comes with it. Cafe culture, such as those found in Canrillaise, Istalian, and Yeudi communities, is often very casual and informal. The purpose is speed, energy, and quick satisfaction. Tea promotes the opposite: calmness, precision, and ultimate satisfaction--including the body, mind, and soul. Egelians crave this detail of tea. sophistication, purpose, peace. What better culture to engage with if not tea?

While Egelians are split between espresso and tea culture, many believe that tea culture is much more suited for the country. There is no real winning side per se, but tea advocates have called for a full "cultural transition" to tea. Morning tea ceremonies, tea bars, tea shops, increased imports, and infusion of classical performances during tea preparation. There have even been reports of the royal family already engaging in tea culture. Not so much the Luthorian "add-milk-to-tea" preparation, but one similar to the matcha ceremonies practices in Seko. While many are barely introducing themselves to the tea craze, it has come to the attention of many that the infusion of tea within Egelian societal norms is not changing the culture of the nation--to the alarm of few. Tea is not limited to nations and their own cultures. Tea is a culture in itself.