FOUNDED 1568 / 1957
New Hinode, formerly known as Hinode, is the 10th NetherKind City, founded in 1568 amid the lush, fertile farmlands of Japan. Originally a vibrant trade village, Hinode thrived through its agricultural exports, forming strong connections with NetherKind clans across the region. Its prosperity and ties to the natural balance of the land made it a focal point of community and commerce. The farmlands surrounding Hinode were not merely resources—they were the lifeblood of its identity, deeply respected by its inhabitants and essential to its success.
This symbiosis with nature drew The Neko No Sanshimai—The Three Cat Sisters—to make Hinode their home. Founded in 1233 by the Hojo Clan, The Neko No Sanshimai were a revered lineage of female guardians entrusted with maintaining balance in the natural world. Their mission was not about controlling people or territory, as the Hojo Clan once sought, but about ensuring that the fragile equilibrium of life remained undisturbed by chaos or greed. Through their wisdom and vigilance, they became protectors of Hinode, warding off human clans who sought to seize its fertile lands.
The Sisters, bound by familial ties and an unwavering sense of duty, were more than local guardians. Their influence extended globally, with accounts of their presence recorded in NetherKind cities and settlements far beyond Japan. Their vigilance was a cornerstone of Hinode’s identity, lending the city an aura of mysticism and strength that resonated across the NetherKind world. To this day, The Neko No Sanshimai are believed to reside in New Hinode, their enduring presence woven into the city's very fabric.
However, the peace and prosperity of Hinode came to a devastating end during the final days of World War II. In 1945, the United States dropped two atomic bombs—one on Hiroshima and the other directly on Hinode. The destruction was absolute. The once-thriving city was obliterated, its population decimated, and its fertile lands reduced to radioactive wastelands. Hinode became the second NetherKind City to fall, a tragedy that reverberated across the world. The survivors, left homeless and scattered, found refuge in other NetherKind Cities, where they were met with compassion and support. The United States, recognising its responsibility for the devastation, provided funding to aid the displaced NetherKind, though no amount of reparations could fully restore what was lost.
Among the many losses was the sacred home of The Neko No Sanshimai. Though their physical sanctuary was destroyed, their legacy endured, becoming a cherished part of Hinode’s history. Survivors recounted tales of the Sisters’ unwavering commitment, even in the face of annihilation, ensuring that their sacred mission would continue in some form.
Despite the enormity of the tragedy, the spirit of Hinode refused to be extinguished. In 1952, the city was officially reborn as New Hinode, a bold and ambitious project to rise from the ashes of its past. Unlike other NetherKind Cities, New Hinode opened its doors not only to NetherKind but to humans as well, fostering a vision of unity and cooperation. The rebirth was slow at first, but the promise of a fresh start attracted settlers from all walks of life. Over the next decade, the city transformed into a bustling metropolis, its tireless energy earning it the nickname "The Sleepless City." Day or night, its streets buzzed with activity, a testament to the determination and resilience of its people.
New Hinode’s architecture reflects its dual identity—a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese design and modern urban innovation. Serene gardens and intricate shrines coexist with towering skyscrapers and bustling markets, creating a cityscape that honours its past while embracing the future. Its markets are a sensory feast, offering everything from local delicacies to cutting-edge technology, while its cultural centers celebrate the city’s rich history and diverse population. The rebuilt farmlands surrounding New Hinode now integrate advanced agricultural methods, ensuring that the city remains self-sustaining and connected to its roots.
The legacy of The Neko No Sanshimai continues to shape New Hinode’s identity. While their physical presence may have faded, their influence is deeply felt. Their teachings of balance and harmony resonate in the city’s governance, cultural practices, and the daily lives of its inhabitants. The Sisters are honoured through festivals, shrines, and educational programs, ensuring that their mission to protect the natural order is never forgotten.
New Hinode is also a city of contrasts. It celebrates its resilience while carrying the weight of its history. The scars of its destruction serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace, while its vibrant streets and thriving community embody the potential for renewal and unity. Pilgrims and scholars alike visit New Hinode to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity, seeking inspiration in its story of survival and rebirth.
The city’s openness to human settlers has made it a unique example of integration in the NetherKind world. While other cities cautiously began accepting humans over the past century, New Hinode embraced this collaboration from the start, making it a beacon of hope for coexistence. The shared challenges and triumphs of rebuilding have fostered a community that thrives on mutual respect and understanding.
New Hinode is not just a city—it is a testament to the indomitable will to survive, rebuild, and thrive. Its history, marked by both profound loss and remarkable recovery, serves as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, the spirit of renewal and unity can prevail. As The Sleepless City continues to grow, it remains a living symbol of hope, balance, and the enduring strength of the NetherKind.