West Grinvel Society

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Part 1- Smoke

Life in Grinvel is characterized by widespread fog, smog, and cloud-cover over bustling industrial cities, hardworking tundra towns, and historic mountain villages. When the sun does come out, the air can still turn grey by the sheer amount of Grivan smokers. And motor commuters. But mostly smokers.

Smoking plays an important part in society, with the majority of people taking part. The type of smoke also comes into play, with civilians usually using cigarettes or chew, government/military officials and the upper class using cigars, and soldiers using both (because they are issued some of both as part of rations, more cigarettes than cigars, and some get used to this after coming out of the service). In most parts of the country, refusing a cigarette or an offer to light your own is met with an 'Oh really?', and refusing a cigar is seen as outright rude due to especially some brands costing a pretty penny. Luckily, it is possible to accept a cigar without smoking it yourself with a simple 'Hey, I know someone who really likes these (more than I would)'. It is worse to waste something than to indirectly re-gift it.

Due to a mixture of societal norms, tobacco company interests, and current medical technology/research, it is widely believed that not only are there little to no bad effects come from smoking, but it is a good way to relieve stress, a good excuse to take a break, and a good way to connect with other people.

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Part 2- Neon

Vibrant colouring and lighting have always been attractive to the Grivans. Used to the dull mountain greys and blinding white tundra that try to nullify the greens of Grivan valleys, many have sought out various dyes throughout the ages to add colour to an otherwise often dreary world, and some of the most colourful paintings and clothes originate from Grinvel. Neon is just the newest addition to this trend.
Neon lighting itself goes back decades, when its discovery around the turn of the century very quickly evolved into commercial development and use.

These neon lights are placed on everything from the highest skyscrapers to the local market sign, illuminating through rain, smog, or clear skies just like brake lights turn car exhaust smoke bright red. But unlike brake lights, these neon signs come in multiple colours, and have the potential to develop even further. Some people even think there'll be over a dozen colours one day, imagine that!